When most travelers picture Spain, they imagine flamenco in Seville, tapas in Madrid, or beach days in Barcelona. But head north and you’ll find a completely different side of the country, one that’s greener, wilder, and full of hidden treasures. Northern Spain stretches from the Basque Country to Galicia, blending dramatic coastlines, soaring mountains, and some of Europe’s most unforgettable food scenes.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, walking part of the Camino de Santiago, or just want to experience Spain beyond the clichés, here are eight incredible places that belong on your Northern Spain itinerary.

San Sebastián (Donostia) – Spain’s Gourmet Coastline

San Sebastián is a city that makes travelers fall in love at first sight. Curved around the golden sands of La Concha Bay, it’s a place where you can spend mornings strolling along the seafront, afternoons sunbathing or surfing, and evenings hopping between pintxos bars. The Old Town is a maze of narrow streets where every doorway seems to hide another buzzing tavern.

Food here isn’t just a meal, it’s a way of life. From Michelin-starred dining to rustic bites served on cocktail sticks, San Sebastián is one of the world’s true culinary capitals. And if you want to work off all that indulgence, take the short hike up Monte Urgull or Monte Igueldo for views that remind you why this city is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Bilbao – Where Industry Meets Art

Once a gritty industrial port, Bilbao has reinvented itself as a cutting-edge cultural hub. The shining titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum have become its symbol, but the city offers much more than modern art. Wander along the riverside walkways, discover the historic Casco Viejo, and sample the Basque take on tapas in lively plazas.

Bilbao feels cosmopolitan but grounded, an urban stop that pairs perfectly with the natural landscapes that surround it. Many travelers use it as a gateway to the Basque coast, but it’s worth lingering to see how tradition and innovation blend seamlessly here.

Picos de Europa – Spain’s Wild Heart

For jaw-dropping scenery, few places compare to the Picos de Europa National Park. This mountain range, older than the Pyrenees, is a dramatic landscape of jagged limestone peaks, lush valleys, and deep gorges. It’s paradise for hikers, climbers, and anyone who loves being surrounded by raw nature.

Take the Fuente Dé cable car up to soaring viewpoints, explore hidden villages like Bulnes, or taste local specialties like creamy Cabrales cheese made in mountain caves. The Picos remind travelers that Northern Spain isn’t just about culture, it’s also one of Europe’s great wildernesses.

Santiago de Compostela – The Pilgrim’s City

Few places in Europe carry the spiritual weight of Santiago de Compostela. For centuries, pilgrims have walked the Camino de Santiago, arriving in the grand square in front of the city’s cathedral to mark their journey’s end. Even if you don’t plan to walk the Camino, the atmosphere here is unforgettable.

The cobblestone streets echo with history, while the student population keeps the city lively and modern. Spend time in the Praza do Obradoiro, wander through old monasteries, and end the day in a cozy tapas bar with a glass of Galician wine. Santiago is both deeply moving and wonderfully down-to-earth.

Oviedo – Cider and Romanesque Treasures

In Asturias, the capital Oviedo feels like stepping into a perfectly polished old-world city. Its pre-Romanesque churches, some UNESCO-listed, are architectural gems. Stroll the city’s plazas, admire the elegant façades, and then head to a sidrería (cider house).

Here, cider isn’t just a drink, it’s a ritual. Watch as locals pour it from above their heads into a tilted glass to aerate the liquid, then sip it quickly before it loses its fizz. It’s an experience that feels as authentic as the city itself.

Santander – A Seaside Escape with Style

With its wide bay, sandy beaches, and lively promenades, Santander has long been a summer escape for Spaniards. Today, the city combines seaside relaxation with cultural flair. Don’t miss the Centro Botín, a striking modern art center perched right on the water, or the elegant Magdalena Peninsula, where you can stroll, picnic, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze.

Santander is ideal for travelers who want the mix of beach time and city comforts without the crowds of Spain’s southern coast.

La Rioja – Spain’s Wine Country

Northern Spain is home to La Rioja, one of the most famous wine regions in the world. Rolling hills covered in vineyards, charming medieval towns, and atmospheric wine cellars make this a dream stop for slow travelers.

Spend your days touring wineries, tasting bold reds, and pairing them with traditional tapas. Many travelers also stay in converted monasteries or historic estates, adding a touch of romance to the experience. For food and wine lovers, La Rioja is a must.

A Coruña – Coastal Energy and Ancient Light

On the far western edge of Spain, A Coruña is a vibrant port city where history meets the Atlantic. The Tower of Hercules, the oldest functioning Roman lighthouse in the world, still stands guard over the coast. Stroll along one of Europe’s longest seafront promenades, explore lively markets, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.

While often overshadowed by Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña is a destination in its own right, full of energy, history, and ocean views that stretch to infinity.

Travel Tips for Northern Spain

Best time to go: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) offers mild weather, though summers are cooler and wetter than southern Spain.

Getting around: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore coastlines, vineyards, and mountain villages at your own pace.

Food to try: Pintxos in San Sebastián, cider in Asturias, and fresh Galician seafood are musts.

Pace of travel: Northern Spain isn’t about rushing. Build in time to linger, taste, and wander.