Spain
From Bilbao: San Sebastián, approximately 1-1.5 hours by bus or train, offers a coastal city with pintxos, beaches, and Belle Époque architecture. Gaztelugatxe, a 45-minute drive, is an iconic hermitage on an islet. Vitoria-Gasteiz, about 1 hour by bus or train, functions as the Basque capital, a green city with a medieval quarter. The Rioja Wine Region, approximately 1.5-2 hours drive, is renowned for its wineries.
From Santander: Santillana del Mar & Altamira Neocave, about 30 minutes by bus or car, showcases a medieval village and prehistoric cave replica. Comillas, around 45 minutes by bus or car, contains Modernista architecture, including Gaudí's "El Capricho." Potes & Fuente Dé (Picos de Europa), approximately 1.5 hours by car, acts as a gateway to the Picos, with cable car access. Cabarceno Natural Park, a 20-minute drive, presents an unique wildlife park.
Choosing the right transportation and planning approach makes your day trips smoother.
Lakes of Covadonga & Covadonga Sanctuary: Approximately 1-1.5 hours by car or bus. Iconic Picos de Europa sites. Lastres & Tazones: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour by car. Picturesque fishing villages. Cudillero: Approximately a 45-minute drive. A colorful, amphitheatrical fishing village. Picos de Europa: Various access points, 1-2 hours drive. This location shows hiking and stunning scenery.
Public transport is excellent for cities like San Sebastián or Vitoria-Gasteiz. For the Picos de Europa, or visiting multiple smaller villages like Comillas, Santillana, or Lastres, a rental car affords much more freedom.
The Costa Verde and its surroundings contain abundant opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.
National Park with diverse landscapes, high alpine areas, and lush valleys.
A unique, large naturalized animal park built into a former open-pit mine in Cantabria.
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Asturias, known for glacial lakes and bear habitat.
The region contains spectacular scenic drives and unique geological features.
Numerous stunning beaches line the entire coast, perfect for relaxation or watersports. Discover charming rural areas and serene glacial lakes.
Step back in time and explore historical and traditional sites just outside the main cities.
Discover ancient art and architectural wonders beyond the main urban centers.
Explore charming villages and significant pilgrimage destinations.
Explore unique architectural heritage and local life.
Immerse yourself in the distinct traditions and languages.
Engage with the region's rich heritage.
Check local calendars for celebrations and traditional events.
Seek out opportunities to observe or participate in traditional craft making.
Participate in food tours that explore regional culinary history.
For travelers with more time, extending your trip makes for a broader exploration of the Costa Verde and neighboring regions.
Spend 2-3 days in a mountain village like Potes or Cangas de Onís to fully explore the national park and enjoy mountain cuisine.
Extend west into Galicia to visit Santiago de Compostela, an UNESCO city and the end of Camino de Santiago, and its charming Rías Baixas.
Spend 1-2 days exploring Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Bayonne across the border in France.
Rent an apartment in Bilbao, San Sebastián, Oviedo, or Gijón as your main base.
Consider a "Casa Rural" or "Agroturismo" for an immersive local experience.
From your base, take extended day trips or weekend excursions to surrounding areas.
