Based on over 15 years of traveling across Spain, I’ve put together the ultimate list of the best places to visit in Northern Spain, where each region is rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique attractions. Here are my 27 must-visit places to add to your Northern Spain bucket list.

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Best Places to Visit in Northern Spain in 2025

Visiting Northern Spain

Northern Spain primarily includes four regions: the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia. However, many also consider Navarre, La Rioja, and parts of Castile-Leon as part of any Northern Spain itinerary. This post focuses on the first four coastal regions (Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia), as these are the areas most travelers search for when planning a road trip.

However, I also cover the last three regions, La Rioja, Navarre, and Castile-Leon, on the blog in detail. For Navarre, read more here; learn about La Rioja in this post; and all my trips to Castile-Leon are featured here. In addition, it is possible to include the Pyrenees mountain range in any Northern Spain itinerary. You can find all the tips and itineraries under the hashtag #Pyrenees.

In this ultimate list of the best places to visit in Northern Spain, I’ve conveniently divided the most unique landmarks by region. I often see bloggers recommending Northern Spain attractions like Santiago de Compostela’s Cathedral alongside San Sebastian, without mentioning that there’s actually a seven-hour drive between them. To avoid confusion, I’ve grouped all the must-see places by region and will also direct you to more detailed posts and itineraries for each area, which could be helpful when planning your future trip to Northern Spain.

While this is a detailed list of things to do in Northern Spain, mentioning every single landmark would turn this into a book rather than an article. My goal here is to highlight the most impressive sights in each region of Northern Spain, while also sharing my personal experiences and tips for each.

How many days to spend in Northern Spain

The most popular choice for Northern Spain is at least a 10-day road trip. However, it’s not possible to visit every landmark I mention on this list within this time frame, as there are so many must-stops. While the Northern coast is around 700 km long, there are simply too many things to do in each region. I’d say a minimum of 3-7 days would be needed for each region, depending on how fast you travel and how many places you decide to visit. I always recommend focusing on one region or combining two nearby Northern Spain regions in a single itinerary.

Best Places to Visit in Northern Spain

Top landmarks in the Basque Country

The Basque Country (known as Euskal Herria in Basque) is an autonomous community in northern Spain, located along the Atlantic coast. It is probably the most popular region to visit in Northern Spain, due to its proximity to France, Bilbao’s international airport, and iconic cities like San Sebastian. The Basque Country is also officially recognized as one of the top foodie destinations in Europe, and I must say, it truly deserves every bit of its international fame.

1. San Sebastian

San Sebastian is one of my favorite places in Spain, known for its delicious pintxos and gorgeous coastline. I have visited the city on multiple occasions, and it never ceases to surprise me. First-timers, especially, can’t miss a stroll through the Old Town, the iconic La Concha Beach, and the breathtaking views from Monte Igueldo. You can check out my 1-day itinerary here, and for 3 days in San Sebastián, read this post instead.

2. Bilbao

While the city of Bilbao is famous for its Guggenheim Museum, it has much more to offer as it is truly a cultural hub in the Basque Country. The city features a unique blend of modern art and traditional Basque architecture. You can find more details in my 1-day Bilbao itinerary or check out the 3 days in Bilbao post instead.

3. Gaztelugatxe

Gaztelugatxe is one of the most picture-perfect places in Northern Spain, known as the filming location for Game of Thrones. It’s an islet connected to the mainland by a narrow stone bridge, so it’s actually quite a hike to the top (over 200 steps to reach the chapel). But the views of the rugged coastline and the Bay of Biscay are definitely worth the effort.

4. Guernica

Guernica surprised me so much on my recent trip to the Basque Country. This small town in northern Spain is known for its tragic history and symbolic significance to the Basques. During the Spanish Civil War, Guernica was heavily bombed, resulting in widespread destruction and civilian casualties. This event inspired Pablo Picasso‘s famous painting, Guernica, which became a powerful anti-war symbol. It is also home to the “Tree of Gernika,” a symbol of Basque freedom.

5. Beautiful villages of the Basque country

Beyond its unique museums and landmarks, the Basque Country is full of charming coastal towns with colorful houses and picturesque architecture that you should include in any Northern Spain itinerary. My favorites were Bermeo and Hondarribia, but Lekeitio looked like such a charming coastal gem too. In addition, Getaria is known for its Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum, dedicated to the famous fashion designer who was born there.

6. Zumaia and the Basque Coast

Zumaia Beach (or Playa de Itzurun) is definitely one of Spain’s greatest natural wonders. Known for its dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations, it is part of the UNESCO-protected Flysch Route. Its striking rock layers make it a popular spot for geologists, filmmakers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Zumaia was also one of the Game of Thrones filming locations in Spain.

7. Loyola Sanctuary

The Loyola Sanctuary is the most important religious and historical site in the Basque Country and all of Northern Spain, dedicated to Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. Built on the saint’s birthplace, this impressive Baroque complex is a place of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection for the region.

8. Vitoria-Gasteiz

Vitoria-Gasteiz is one of the lesser-known cities in the Basque Country for international travelers, but it’s equally charming. Known for its medieval Old Town, you can explore the Cathedral of Santa María and enjoy its rich gastronomic scene, just like in the rest of the Basque Country.

9. Gorbeia Natural Park

While there are many unique hiking areas in the Basque Country, with special spots like Salto del Nervión, I’d love to highlight Gorbeia Natural Park, known for its lush green forests. I was especially surprised by Hayedo de Otzarreta, which truly looked like an enchanted forest (even though I visited it in August, and officially it reaches its peak beauty during the fall in Spain).

Top landmarks in Cantabria

Cantabria is another unique autonomous community in northern Spain, with the city of Santander as its regional capital. It borders the Basque Country to the east, Castile-Leon to the south, and Asturias to the west. This region is lesser-known among international travelers, despite housing some of Spain’s top landmarks, such as the Altamira and El Soplao Caves, along with some of the most beautiful villages like San Vicente de la Barquera, Potes, and Santillana del Mar.

10. Cave of Altamira

The Cave of Altamira is one of Spain’s most important landmarks and one of the most significant prehistoric sites in the world. The cave is famous for its stunning Upper Paleolithic paintings, dating back over 36,000 years. While the original cave is closed to preserve the delicate artwork, a nearby museum and replica allow visitors to experience its awe-inspiring beauty. You can also explore it on a virtual tour.

11. Santander

The capital of Cantabria, Santander, is known for its elegant architecture. As the region’s capital, it’s a great place to start any Cantabria itinerary. The city is famous for the Magdalena Palace and its vibrant seafront.

12. Cabarceno Natural Park

Cabarceno Natural Park is a must-stop for those exploring Spain with kids, as it is one of the most impressive wildlife reserves in the country. Spanning over 750 hectares, this vast park is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, and bears, all living in open, natural environments that mimic their native habitats.

13. Beautiful villages in Cantabria

Cantabria doesn’t fall behind other northern Spanish regions when it comes to beautiful villages. My personal favorites are Santillana del Mar and San Vicente de la Barquera. However, Potes and Castro Urdiales are unique too. The village of Comillas is home to Gaudí’s El Capricho and stunning Modernist architecture, while Santoña is known for having the best anchovies in Spain.

14. El Soplao Cave

El Soplao Cave is one of the most remarkable and stunning natural wonders in Spain, known for its extraordinary geological formations. Discovered in 1908, it is considered one of the most beautiful caves in the world.

15. Secuoyas Forest

One of the most unique forests in Spain is Cantabria’s Sequoias Natural Monument. While it might not be as impressive for those accustomed to sequoias in the U.S., it is a unique natural wonder in Europe. The giant sequoias in Cantabria were planted in the late 19th century, and some of them now reach 40 meters tall. It’s a distinctive landmark where you can experience the beauty of giant sequoias outside their native California habitat.

Top landmarks in Asturias

Asturias is one of the top Spanish destinations for nature lovers, as it is home to the country’s first national park, Picos de Europa, along with some of the most unique hiking trails in Spain, such as the Ruta del Cares. While Asturias isn’t as well-known internationally as Madrid or Barcelona, it belongs on any Spain bucket list due to its significant historical importance.

The famous Reconquista, when Christians reclaimed the country from the Moors, started here with the Battle of Covadonga (you can learn more via my list of Spanish documentaries). The village of Cangas de Onis was the first capital of Christian Spain. To this day, the heirs to the Spanish throne hold the honorary title of Prince or Princess of Asturias. Additionally, the region of Asturias is a fantastic destination for fans of hearty meals and is the birthplace of several staples in Spanish cuisine, such as fabada and cachopo.

16. Picos de Europa National Park

Picos de Europa National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Spain and a must-visit for nature lovers. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and stunning views of the jagged limestone peaks, with the Lakes of Covadonga being one of the first places to visit.

17. Oviedo

The charming city of Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, is one of the most popular cities in Northern Spain. It is known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, beautiful churches like the Cathedral of San Salvador, and unique museums.

18. The Covadonga Sanctuary

The Sanctuary of Covadonga is one of the most picturesque sites in Northern Spain, with immense symbolic meaning for Spaniards. This place is connected to the legendary Battle of Covadonga in 722, where the Christian forces, led by Pelayo, achieved a key victory over the Moors. Today, in Covadonga, you can visit the Basilica of Santa María la Real, an impressive Neo-Romanesque church, and the Holy Cave of Covadonga, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. The place has such an otherworldly feel and looks straight out of a storybook.

19. Gijon

Gijon is one of the most iconic towns in Asturias, known for its historical architecture of Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura, the Cimavilla neighborhood, the Church of San Pedro Apóstol, botanical garden, Cerro de Santa Catalina, and San Lorenzo Beach. It is also home to the Museum of the Asturian People, making it a must-stop to learn more about the unique history and traditions of the entire region.

20. Fishing villages of Asturias

While the entire northern coast of Spain is literally dotted with charming fishing villages, Asturias is one of the most famous regions for village-hopping and exploring Spanish rural charm. My personal favorite is Cudillero, which is one of the most colorful places in all of Spain. However, I’d also say that Luarca, Llanes, Ribadesella, and Lastres are among the top 5 most unique villages in Asturias.

21. Beaches of Asturias

The coast of Asturias is known for some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Northern Spain. While North of Spain is often seen as a rainy destination, which may not fit typical beach holiday plans, some of its beaches are truly otherworldly in their beauty.

During my last trip to Asturias, the highlights were Playa del Silencio (also called Playa del Gaviero) and Playa de Torimbia (which is a nudist beach, though I found this out later, as during my visit it wasn’t sunny, and I was literally there on my own, surrounded by its natural beauty). At Playa del Silencio, I was lucky enough to catch a rare ray of sunshine, and the views were breathtaking (even though the road leading to it was quite narrow).

Top landmarks in Galicia

Galicia is an autonomous community located in the northwest corner of Spain, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Portugal to the south, and the regions of Asturias and Castile-Leon to the east. Galicia is globally known for the world’s greatest pilgrimage route, El Camino de Santiago, and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, one of the most unique cathedrals in Spain and Europe. But beyond its religious significance, Galicia is a region rich in lush greenery, delicious seafood dishes and bread, as well as small villages that feel very authentic.

22. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most iconic places in Spain, as it is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. This northern city is famous for its stunning cathedral and historic Old Town, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can check out my Santiago de Compostela itinerary in this post.

23. Finisterre

While the whole of Northern Spain is known for some of the most beautiful cliffs in the country, Finisterre is one of the most unique spots. During the Roman era In Spain, it was literally considered the “end of the world,” which is where the name Finis Terrae comes from. Finisterre is also a pilgrimage destination for those walking the Camino de Santiago, as some pilgrims continue their journey to this coastal spot after reaching Santiago de Compostela. The area is home to a lighthouse that offers breathtaking views.

24. As Catedrais beach

As Catedrais Beach (or Playa de las Catedrales) is one of the most famous natural wonders in Northern Spain, it is known for its dramatic rock formations, which resemble cathedral-like arches and spires rising from the sand. Keep in mind that these striking rock formations are best appreciated during low tide (which, unfortunately, was not the case during my visit, but it was still worth making a stop anyway).

25. Tower of Hercules in A Coruña

A Coruña is one of the most unique port cities in Northern Spain, known for the Tower of Hercules, an ancient lighthouse that stands as one of the most iconic Roman landmarks in all of Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 1st century to guide ships along the dangerous coast of Northern Spain, full of cliffs, waves, and currents.

26. Fragas do Eume

Fragas do Eume is one of Galicia’s biggest natural gems and is considered one of the most magical forests in all of Spain. Known for its lush, dense greenery and dramatic landscapes, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to one of the best-preserved rainforests in Europe. I can’t wait to share more stunning landscapes of this natural wonder as I am currently planning to walk the lesser-known English Way of the Camino de Santiago, which passes through Fragas do Eume.

27. The Cies Islands

The Cies Islands are some of the most unique Spanish islands, forming part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. They are known for their pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic landscapes, earning them the nickname “the Caribbean of Galicia.” Access to the Cies Islands is limited, and you can only visit during the summer with permission from local authorities, as these islands are considered a protected environment due to their unique flora and fauna.

So, as you can see, Northern Spain is a treasure trove of diverse landmarks that cater to every traveler’s interests, from the artsy vibe of Bilbao to the natural beauty of Picos de Europa, the cultural richness of Santiago de Compostela, and countless charming villages with delicious foods.

With so many unique places to visit in Northern Spain, it’s extremely hard to see it all in one trip, making it a destination that travelers tend to revisit again and again.

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