Northern Spain is home to four remarkable regions: Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country. In this post, we’ll give you a quick tour of the must-visit cities in Northern Spain and share the highlights you simply can’t miss in each one.
Cities in Northern Spain offer a quiet alternative to the usual tourist hotspots. And by quiet, I don’t mean boring. These cities have a vibrant, lively atmosphere and host some of the biggest, wildest festivals in Spain (and trust me, Spain plays in the big leagues when it comes to partying).
Get ready for a journey where the only thing more impressive than the landscapes is the amount of food you’ll want to eat.
Santiago de Compostela, Galicia
The crown jewel of Galicia and one of the must-visit cities in northern Spain, Santiago is the final stop of the world-famous Camino de Santiago. You’ll be amazed by its iconic cathedral, where history and spirituality come together. Then, take a stroll through its UNESCO-listed old town, and don’t forget to savor traditional Galician cuisine, from empanadas to the freshest seafood. In short, Santiago de Compostela offers a rich blend of culture, history, and gastronomy—this city absolutely must be on your bucket list when you travel to Northern Spain.
Don’t miss: Discover the Portico of Glory at the Cathedral of Santiago.
Oviedo, Asturias
Oviedo, the cider capital and home to pre-Romanesque art, is the kind of place that even caught the eye of Woody Allen. Not only does it blend elegance and tradition, but it also does so with a unique Asturian twist.
First, take a stroll down Calle Gascona, where cider flows like water, and then, if you’re up for it, explore Santa María del Naranco, a true gem of Asturian architecture. What’s more, every corner of this charming city has its own unique character and a piece of history to share.
Don’t miss: Visiting El Fontán Market to soak up the local atmosphere and sample delicious Asturian specialties.
Gijon, Asturias
Gijon doesn’t care if you’ve got a plan—it’s too busy making sure you have a great time. One minute, you’ll be soaking up the beach vibes; the next, you’ll find yourself wandering its charming streets with a cider in hand and a grin you can’t shake.
Gijon is a former Roman settlement with a striking historic quarter centered around Cimadevilla. Once an island that the tide would cut off from the mainland, Cimadevilla was later transformed into the city’s lively fishermen’s district. Today, its streets, boulevards, and squares come alive when the sun is out, buzzing with laughter, chatter, and that unmistakable northern Spanish energy.
When you’re ready for a change of pace, head to the striking Universidad Laboral, where Gijon’s creative spirit truly shines through.
This architectural marvel seamlessly blends art, culture, and bold design, offering an experience you won’t forget. No frills, no fuss—just real, unfiltered fun. Without a doubt, Gijon stands out as one of the must-see cities in northern Spain.
Don’t miss: A visit to a traditional cider house (llagar) to see how Asturias’ iconic cider is made—and taste it fresh from the barrel.
Santander, Cantabria
For the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, mix sandy toes with city strolls for the ultimate vibe. Santander, one of the coolest cities in Northern Spain, offers stunning beaches like El Sardinero and a picturesque bay that feels like stepping into a painting.
Plus, you can’t leave without snapping a photo at the Palacio de la Magdalena—it’s your royal moment, after all. And when hunger strikes, treat yourself to the famous rabas (fried squid). Trust us, they’re so good you might just consider founding a squid fan club!
Don’t miss: A boat tour of Santander Bay for breathtaking views from the water.
🌊 Discover the best beaches in Cantabria, including our absolute favorite.
Bilbao, Basque Country
The modern heART of Northern Spain. Bilbao welcomes you with its iconic Guggenheim Museum, but there’s so much more to discover. Explore the Casco Viejo and its famous “Seven Streets,” indulge in pintxos that are almost too beautiful to eat, and feel the perfect balance of innovation and tradition.
Don’t miss: Take in the view of the Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
San Sebastian, Basque Country
San Sebastian combines golden beaches like La Concha with world-renowned culinary offerings that will leave you speechless. In fact, it’s hands down one of the world’s top gastronomic destinations. Moreover, after indulging in its flavors, follow it up with a walk up Monte Igueldo, where you’ll find the most iconic views in the north.
But San Sebastian is not just about beaches and viewpoints. A delightful mix of architectural styles keeps things interesting. Stroll through the Old Town, and you’ll find medieval buildings standing proudly alongside sleek modern constructions. Narrow streets and old squares blend with elegant facades, mostly from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Back then, during the Belle Époque, Queen María Cristina chose San Sebastián as her summer residence, and where the queen went, the entire court followed. This, of course, attracted wealthy families who did what wealthy people do best: show off. They splurged on grand homes inspired by French and English designs, making sure everyone knew just how well business was going.
This golden era saw the rise of the villas and palaces that still give the city its stately charm, like the Miramar and Aiete Palaces.
Make the most of your time in this amazing city and explore everything San Sebastian has to offer.
Don’t miss: A pintxo-hopping adventure in the Old Town’s bars, sampling the best bites the Basque Country has to offer.
Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country
The European Green Capital of 2012, Vitoria combines sustainability with a stunning medieval Old Town shaped like an almond. Additionally, its Santa María Cathedral is a remarkable landmark that even inspired Ken Follett. For foodies, the city’s culinary scene also offers a constant nod to Basque traditions, making it a perfect blend of history, culture, and cuisine.
And if you’re a wine lover, your paradise is just around the corner. A little over half an hour’s drive will take you to Rioja Alavesa, where you can taste some of the world’s finest wines.
Don’t miss: Explore the Añana Salt Valley, a 6,000-year-old cultural landscape with traditional salt production.
These cities in Northern Spain don’t do ordinary—they do authentic, untouched, and full of character. Skip the tourist traps, dive into something real, and let UpNorth Spain show you the hidden gems. Get ready for something completely different.