Road trip through the Great Andalusian South: history, art and flavour in every city
The Great Green North by Car: Madrid, Burgos, La Rioja, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Santander, Picos de Europa, Oviedo and León.
- Self-drive tour: with your own or a rental car.
- 10 days / 9 nights in Hotels with Breakfast (B&B).
- 1 night in Madrid.
- 1 night in Burgos.
- 1 night in Logroño.
- 1 night in Bilbao.
- 1 night in San Sebastián.
- 1 night in Santander.
- 1 night in Picos de Europa.
- 1 night in Oviedo.
- 1 night in León.
- Guided visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao with a specialised guide.
- Guided tour in Oviedo.
- Full itinerary of the route.
- Basic travel insurance.
A self-guided journey through the greenest and most monumental part of northern Spain. Scenic roads, characterful cities and charming towns lead you through mountains, the Cantabrian coast and vineyard valleys, combining culture, nature and gastronomy at a flexible, well-planned pace.
From the elegance of Madrid and Burgos to the wines of La Rioja, the art of the Guggenheim in Bilbao and the maritime flavours of San Sebastián and Santander, the itinerary weaves together diverse experiences all within short distances.
The route embraces mountain ranges and valleys in the Picos de Europa, before continuing to the Asturian identity of Oviedo and the living history of León. Moderate drives, well-placed stops and carefully selected guided tours enhance each day and ensure restful nights in accommodation with breakfast.
A proposal to experience the freshness of the Cantabrian coast, the pulse of its cities and the tranquillity of its landscapes — behind the wheel and at your own pace.
- Day 1: Arrival in Madrid — Car pick-up and first impressions
Welcome to Madrid and car rental pick-up at the designated point if booked. Get your bearings in the historic center: Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Austrias neighborhood among boulevards, terraces, and nearby museums.
Free afternoon for city strolls and first local tastings. Review of the driving plan and departure times to optimize access and parking the following day.
Overnight in Madrid. Rest and preparations for the stage to Burgos.
- Day 2: Madrid → Burgos (2h 30) — Gothic Cathedral and walks along the Arlanzón
Drive to Burgos, a city on the Camino de Santiago. We recommend visiting the Cathedral (World Heritage Site), the Arch of Santa María, and the Paseo del Espolón; Castilian atmosphere among arcades and quaint squares.
Cultural suggestion: Museum of Human Evolution. Local cuisine with roast lamb and traditional desserts in old-town taverns.
Overnight in Burgos. Peaceful evening along the Arlanzón River.
Meeting Point and End of Route
The experience begins in Madrid, where, if booked, you will pick up the rental car at the designated location to start the journey through Castile. The reservation includes all the necessary digital documentation, with a detailed itinerary to enjoy each stage independently and comfortably.
The tour also ends in Madrid, where the vehicle is returned if applicable, marking the conclusion of the trip. From there, you can easily connect with your return or enjoy an extra night in the capital before departure.
Included
- Self-drive itinerary: with your own or a rental car.
- 10 days / 9 nights in Hotels with Breakfast (B&B).
- 1 night in Madrid.
- 1 night in Burgos.
- 1 night in Logroño.
- 1 night in Bilbao.
- 1 night in San Sebastián.
- 1 night in Santander.
- 1 night in Picos de Europa.
- 1 night in Oviedo.
- 1 night in León.
- Guided visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao with a specialized guide.
- Guided tour in Oviedo.
- Complete itinerary for the route.
- Basic travel insurance.
Not included
- Fuel, tolls, parking or personal expenses related to vehicle use.
- Rental car.
- Entry fees to monuments or activities not explicitly listed as included.
- Lunches, dinners, and drinks not specified in the “Included” section.
- Extended travel insurance, cancellation insurance or additional coverage for the car (optional).
- Optional: Extra night in Madrid. Check availability and conditions.