Bilbao is the capital of the province of Biscay and one of the main cities of the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country in northern Spain. Known for its unique combination of tradition and modernity, Bilbao has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, evolving from an industrial hub to a vibrant cultural and gastronomic capital. Famous for its Guggenheim Museum: Opened in 1997, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one of the most important examples of contemporary architecture, designed by architect Frank Gehry. With its futuristic structure, the museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art and has transformed Bilbao into an international art capital. Plaza Nueva: One of Bilbao's most emblematic squares, located in the Antiguo district. The square is surrounded by elegant arcades and traditional cafés, and is the ideal place to stop for a pintxo, the typical Basque tapas.
Car
Day 3 — Bilbao → Santander
Santander is a coastal city located in Cantabria, northern Spain, and is the capital of the region.
Playa del Sardinero: One of the city's most famous beaches, Sardinero is a wide, golden stretch of sand near the city center. It's an ideal place for seaside walks, sunbathing, and water sports. Don't miss the Palacio de la Magdalena: A magnificent palace located on La Magdalena hill, overlooking the Bay of Santander. Built in the early 20th century as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family, it now hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Rich in nature and landscapes, Santander is immersed in a stunning natural environment, surrounded by mountains, hills, and the sea, such as the Cabárceno Nature Park. Just a few kilometers from the city, this natural park is an important wildlife reserve. It offers the opportunity to see a wide range of animals, including lions, bears, elephants, and other wildlife in a natural setting. Mouro Island: An island located opposite the port of Santander, famous for its natural beauty and the lighthouse that guides it. It can be reached by boat and offers spectacular views of the city and the sea. Magdalena Peninsula: A green and scenic area, famous for its natural beauty and seaside walks. The Magdalena Palace and the famous dolphinarium are also located here. Santander's cuisine is strongly influenced by the city's coastal location and offers a variety of fish and seafood dishes.
Car
Day 4 — Santander → Oviedo
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias, a region in northern Spain renowned for its history, architecture, and gastronomy. The city is an important cultural and historical center, retaining the charm of its medieval origins while offering a vibrant cultural and modern scene. The cuisine of Oviedo and Asturias is renowned for its rich and flavorful dishes, primarily based on meat, fish, and fresh local produce. Some typical dishes include:
Cachopo: A traditional Asturian dish consisting of two slices of breaded and fried meat stuffed with ham and cheese, similar to a stuffed cutlet.
Fabada Asturiana: A rich soup made with white beans, chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and bacon. It is a comforting dish and very popular in winter.
Cider: Asturian cider (sidra) is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented apples. It is served in a distinctive way, with the glass held high and poured at an angle to allow it to breathe. Don't miss the chance to taste it in one of the city's many cider houses.