Road trip through the Green North: history, mountains and sea in a single experience

The Great Green North by car: Madrid, Burgos, La Rioja, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Santander, Picos de Europa, Oviedo and León.

A self-drive journey through Spain’s greenest and most monumental north. Scenic roads, characterful cities and charming villages guide you through mountains, Cantabrian coasts and vineyard valleys, combining culture, nature and gastronomy at a flexible, well-paced rhythm.

From the elegance of Madrid and Burgos to the wines of La Rioja, the art of Guggenheim in Bilbao, and the marine flavours of San Sebastián and Santander, the itinerary weaves together diverse experiences within short driving distances.

The route embraces mountain ranges and valleys in the Picos de Europa before continuing towards the Asturian identity of Oviedo and the living history of León. Moderate driving, well-located stops and selected guided tours make each stage enjoyable, with comfort in hotels including breakfast.

A journey to feel the freshness of the Cantabrian Sea, the pulse of its cities and the calm of its landscapes — all at your own pace behind the wheel.

• Day 1: Arrival in Madrid — Car pickup and first impressions

Welcome to Madrid. Pick up your rental car at the designated point and explore the historic centre: Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and the Habsburg quarter among boulevards, terraces and nearby museums.

Afternoon free for strolls and first tastings of local cuisine. Review your driving plan and departure times to optimise access and parking for the next day.

Accommodation in Madrid. Rest and preparation for the stage towards Burgos.

• Day 2: Madrid → Burgos (2h 30) — Gothic Cathedral and riverside walks

Drive to Burgos, city of the Camino de Santiago. Visit the Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Arco de Santa María and the Espolón Promenade; a Castilian atmosphere among arcades and small squares.

Cultural suggestion: Museum of Human Evolution. Local cuisine with roast lamb and classic desserts in traditional taverns of the old town.

Accommodation in Burgos. Peaceful night by the Arlanzón River.

• Day 3: Burgos → La Rioja (1h 30) — Rolling vineyards and wine culture

Drive through vineyards to Logroño, heart of La Rioja. Winery route to learn about processes, architecture and varietals; guided tastings focused on terroir and tradition.

In town, enjoy tapas on Calle Laurel and stroll through the old quarter. Free time for boutique wineries or scenic viewpoints depending on preference.

Accommodation in Logroño or the Rioja countryside. Advance booking recommended for wineries.

• Day 4: La Rioja → Bilbao (1h 30) — Avant-garde and tradition by the estuary

Arrive in Bilbao. Included guided visit to the Guggenheim Museum to understand its architecture and collections. Walk through the Old Town and historic arcades along the estuary.

Enjoy pintxos at the Ribera Market and explore the contemporary vibe of the revitalised neighbourhoods. Central parking and well-marked pedestrian routes are available.

Accommodation in Bilbao. Urban atmosphere with Atlantic character.

• Day 5: Bilbao → San Sebastián (1h) — La Concha, viewpoints and gourmet spirit

Short drive to San Sebastián. Panoramic views from Mount Igueldo and stroll along La Concha Beach; old town with iconic pintxo bars and lively squares.

Free afternoon to blend sea, architecture and culture. Access and mobility tips for relaxed sightseeing.

Accommodation in San Sebastián. Charming night between bay and gastronomy.

• Day 6: San Sebastián → Santander (2h 30) — Bay and palaces facing the Cantabrian Sea

Arrive in Santander after a scenic coastal drive. Walk along the Bay, the Magdalena Palace and El Sardinero; a balance between sea, gardens and stately corners.

Cultural suggestion: Botín Centre and seafront promenade. Seafood cuisine with fresh catch at waterfront restaurants.

Accommodation in Santander. Night by the most iconic bay in the north.

• Day 7: Santander → Picos de Europa (2h) — Mountains, valleys and viewpoints

Enter the Picos de Europa National Park, a sanctuary of forests, gorges and stone villages. Short marked trails, scenic viewpoints and visit to Potes depending on weather conditions.

Pause for mountain cheeses and hearty dishes at local inns. Safe driving advice for mountain passes and parking logistics.

Accommodation in the Picos de Europa area. Night of clear skies and natural silence.

• Day 8: Picos de Europa → Oviedo (2h) — Pre-Romanesque art and traditional cider (guided tour)

Arrive in Oviedo. Included guided tour of the old town: San Salvador Cathedral, pedestrian squares and pre-Romanesque art references in the city and nearby hills.

Culinary experience in a traditional cider house with Asturian dishes. Free time for museums, local shopping and contemporary sculpture routes.

Accommodation in Oviedo. Evening stroll among lively streets and terraces.

• Day 9: Oviedo → León (1h 30) — Gothic stained glass and tapas in the Húmedo district

Drive to León, historic city of the medieval kingdom. The Cathedral dazzles with its stained-glass windows; stroll through the Húmedo quarter with tapas bars and lively local squares.

Suggested visits: San Isidoro or San Marcos to complete the artistic panorama. Relaxed afternoon among museums, shops and riverside walks.

Accommodation in León. Prepare for the return to Madrid.

• Day 10: León → Madrid (3h 30) — Car return and farewell

Drive back to Madrid. Final shopping or short walk through iconic areas before departure.

Return the rental car at the designated point and allow time for connections home with smooth logistics and no rush.

End of services.

• Optional night in Madrid — Unhurried farewell in the capital

Option to add an extra night in Madrid to enjoy museums, terraces and gastronomy before returning home.

We recommend requesting this extension when booking to ensure avai