Discover Northern Spain: A Traveler's Guide to the Best Places

Northern Spain, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic and bordered by the Pyrenees, offers diverse landscapes and cultural experiences for every traveler.

The vibrant city of Barcelona is a hub of art, architecture, and gastronomy, while San Sebastián combines beach resort elegance with a renowned food scene. The spiritual city of Santiago de Compostela has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries.

UNESCO World Heritage sites abound, including the stunning Burgos Cathedral, the ancient Roman ruins of Tarragona, and the natural beauty of Ordesa and Monte Perdido Natural Park. For a remote spiritual retreat, the Monastery of Montserrat is a must-visit, and for thrill-seekers, Pamplona's Running of the Bulls is an iconic event.

For planning your trip, explore the best places to visit in Northern Spain, the best beaches in Spain, the top hotels in Spain, and the top deals for renting a car in Spain.

1. Barcelona

Barcelona, the heart of Catalonia, is famous for its seaside charm, Modernist architecture, and historic quarters. Key attractions include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Picasso Museum, and Parc Güell. Gastronomy is also a highlight, with Michelin-starred restaurants like Moments.

2. San Sebastián & Hondarribia

San Sebastián is a stylish beach resort with a famous bay and beach, La Perla. The town is known for its gastronomy, including the Michelin-starred Mirador de Ulía. Nearby Hondarribia offers a medieval Old Town and a beach, with top-notch restaurants and a luxury hotel, the Parador de Hondarribia.

3. Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela, a medieval pilgrimage site, is home to the Catedral de Santiago and the revered Crypt of Saint James. The luxurious Parador Santiago de Compostela offers a historic stay, while the UNESCO-listed Old Town charms with its medieval streets.

4. Seaside Resorts on the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is known for its rugged beauty and coastal villages. Resorts like Blanes and Tossa de Mar offer beautiful beaches and historic charm. Cadaqués and Calella de Palafrugell are picturesque fishing villages with artistic heritage and scenic beaches.

5. Bilbao

Bilbao is famous for the Guggenheim Museum's modern architecture and art. The city also boasts fine dining, including the Michelin-starred Nerua, and luxury accommodations like the Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao.

6. Pamplona

Pamplona is renowned for the Fiesta de San Fermín and the Running of the Bulls. Outside festival times, the city's historic center and nature trails offer a quieter charm.

7. Tarragona

Tarragona, on the Costa Dorada, boasts Roman ruins and beautiful beaches like Playa El Milagro. The city's archaeological sites, including a 2nd-century amphitheater, are UNESCO-listed.

8. León

León is known for its historic architecture, including a Romanesque church and a Gothic cathedral. The Plaza Mayor offers atmospheric dining, and the luxurious Parador de León provides a historic stay.

9. Burgos

Burgos is home to the Spanish Gothic Catedral de Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's medieval charm and Christian heritage make it a memorable stop on the Way of Saint James.

10. Girona

Girona's medieval city is rich in history, with a Roman fortress, Gothic convent, and well-preserved Jewish Quarter.

11. Zaragoza

Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar and the Ebro River in Zaragoza

Zaragoza's multicultural heritage is evident in its Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian landmarks, including the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar.