Northern Spain is stunning. Filled with adorable coastal towns and abundant natural beauty. Since this region has so much to offer, it is impossible to fit everything into just 2 weeks in northern Spain. Due to the time constraint, I chose to focus specifically on the communidades of Galicia and Asturias.
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Is 2 weeks in Spain too long?
I would argue that two weeks in Spain is not nearly enough time.
However, that depends highly on your priorities. If you are looking only to see Barcelona and maybe Madrid, then yes two weeks is enough time.
On the other hand, if you want to explore more of the country, admire nature and explore out-of-the-way villages then you will certainly need more time.
Is northern Spain worth a visit?
Absolutely. I believe that northern Spain is the most underrated part of the country. This region has so much natural beauty and so much history, you really shouldn’t miss it!
Is southern or northern Spain better?
It is hard to choose since the south and north are incredibly different. If you are looking to explore the grandeur of Spain, Flamenco, tapas, and the Mediterranean sea then you would probably prefer Southern Spain.
However, if you are intrigued by the country’s natural beauty, the rocky northern coast, and the quaint beautiful towns that are void of tourist crowds, then you would prefer the North.
Personally, I am northern Spain’s biggest fan!
When should I go to northern Spain?
The best time to visit northern Spain is in the summer months, this way you can enjoy the beaches, sunshine, and nature. Autumn is also a wonderful time to visit, as the fall foliage is breathtaking.
Is northern Spain expensive?
Prices in northern Spain are comparable to the rest of the country and are lower than they are in the major cities of Madrid and Barcelona.
At a Glance: Itinerary for 2 Weeks in northern Spain
| Day 1: Travel to Vigo & Explore the City of Vigo | |
| Day 2: Islas Cies & Evening Train to Santiago de Compostela | |
| Day 3: Santiago de Compostela | |
| Day 4: Santiago de Compostela to A Coruña | |
| Day 5: A Coruña’s Ruta de Faros | |
| Day 6: Playa de las Catedrales , Ribadeo, Cudiellero, Gijón | |
| Day 7: Gijón and Ribadesella | |
| Day 8: Ribadesella to Cangas de Onís | |
| Day 9: Covadonga | |
| Day 10: Picos de Europa | |
| Day 11: Picos de Europa | |
| Day 12: Picos de Europa to Oviedo | |
| Day 13: Oviedo | |
| Day 14: Oviedo to home |
Detailed Itinerary for 2 weeks in Northern Spain
Day 1: Travel to Vigo, Galicia
Vigo is a large metropolitan area in Galicia, making it easy to access. Vigo is accessible by train, car, and airplane.
While Vigo has its own airport, the cheaper option is usually by train. I took the roughly 6-hour train ride from my home in Madrid to the city of Vigo.
I chose the earliest train possible, which allowed me to arrive in Vigo at around 3 pm. The train cost was 55 euros. Check Omio for the best prices.
Where to stay in Vigo, Galicia
I avidly searched for hostels with no success. So, Hotel Sol Por was the next best option.
Now if you are searching for a luxury stay, this is not the place for you.
However, for the cheapest option in Vigo, I found my stay quite comfortable. The staff was also very accommodating.
Hotel Sol Por was located within a good walking distance to the train stations, ferry docs, and the historical city center.
Things to do in Vigo, Galicia
- Vigo historic city center
- Porto de Vigo
- Dinoseto
- Colexiata de Santa María de Vigo
- Plaza de la constitución
For more insight into where to eat, things to do, and the history of Vigo please read my article dedicated to Vigo and the Cies Islands.
Day 2: Islas Cíes & Evening Train to Santiago de Compostela
Booking your trip to the Islas Cíes
In order to visit the Islas Cies nature preserve, you need to make 2 reservations in advance. I recommend booking the earliest ferry to the islands and the last ferry back to Vigo for maximum time on the island.
- Permit to enter the nature preserve: Reservation can be made here.
- Ferry reservation to reach Islas Cíes: Your round-trip reservation can be purchased here. (make sure to pick up the actual tickets at the dock’s ticket counter)
Things to do on the Islas Cíes
Las Islas Cíes is an archipelago in the Atlantic ocean. Which is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world, looming seaside cliffs, and a record amount of biodiversity. Just be sure to watch out for the seagulls!
- Relax at Praia de Rodas
- Hike the Ruta do faro da porta
- Climb the Ruta de Monte Faro (7.4km hike)
- Sunbathe at Playa de Nuestra Señora
- Swim at Playa de Figueras
- Tan at the Playa de Alemanes (nudist beach)
For more detail about Las Islas Cíes be sure to read my article about this beautiful location.
Traveling from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela
The ferry ride from Las Islas de Cíes takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the weather. If you take the 5:30 ferry you should arrive back in Vigo by at least 6:30.
From this point, I would recommend purchasing a train ticket to Santiago de Compostela for that evening. The train ride is about 1 hour and typically costs around 11 euros.
Where to stay in Santiago de Compostela
Meiga Backpacker’s Hostel is just 1 km from the city center of Santiago de Compostela. Which makes it a perfect location. They offer amazing social aspects including bar crawls and comfy common spaces. Which makes the 18 euros a night well worth it.
Day 3: Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is a stunning and historical city that you absolutely must visit if you are spending 2 weeks in northern Spain.
It is the ending point of the famous pilgrimage: the Camino de Santiago.
Things to do in Santiago de Compostela
- Visit the Pazo de Fonseca
- Shop at Mercado de Abastos
- Picnic at Parque de San Domingos de Bonoval
- People watch at the Praza das Praterías
- Admire the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela
- Relax at Praza do Obradoiro
- Enjoy the sunset at Parque da Alameda
For a more in-depth guide to restaurants, and things to do here please visit my article which specifically focuses on Santiago de Compostela.
Day 4: Travel to A Coruña
The journey from Santiago de Compostela to A Coruña is quick.
Taking the Train to A Coruña only costs 8 euros and takes around 30 minutes.
Additionally, there are options for buses and the opportunity to follow the 75km, Camino Ingles, which is a hiking trail that links the two cities.
Where to stay in A Coruña
For $35 a night (for a 2-person room) you really can’t beat the Pensión Las Rías.
This budget hotel has everything you need for a safe and comfortable stay.
While void of luxury, It was extremely clean, secure, and in a perfect location.
Things to do in A Coruña
- Enjoy Parque de Mariña
- Explore the Cidade Vella
- Visit the Colegiata de Santa María do Campo
- Admire the Igrexea de Santiago
- Learn at Castelo de Santo Antón
- Walk the Paseo Marítimo
- Climb the Torre de Hercules
- Relax at Playa del Orzán
- Shop at the World’s First Zara
Day 5: A Coruña and Ruta de los Faros
Transportation around Ruta de Los Faros
At this point, I would highly recommend renting a car and beginning your northern Spain road trip.
I always rent my cars through Sixt they are reliable and I have never had any issues.
Also, keep in mind, if you are following this Itinerary you will be driving through some mountains, so be sure to rent a car that can handle the steep roads.
When driving in Spain, be aware of the speed radar cameras that will issue speeding tickets through the mail.
Ruta de Los Faros
Your new rental car will allow you to move freely along the Ruta de Los Faros: a 200km trail that follows the coastline of Galicia.
Each point on the trail is a beautiful lighthouse that offers even more stunning ocean views.
One of the things I love the most about the Ruta de Los Faros is the opportunity for solitude in these fantastic places.
During your day exploring the Ruta de Los Faros, I would recommend still using A Coruña as your home base.
It is directly in the middle of the route, and it will allow you to enjoy the culinary scene there for one more night!
Northern Spain Road trip
At this point, I found it was easier to navigate the next locations by car rather than by bus or train, so this marks the true beginning of your 2 weeks in northern Spain road trip.
Day 6: La Playa de Las Catedrales, Ribadeo, Cudiellero, Gijón
Day six consists of a scenic drive along the spectacular northern coast. Be sure to enjoy the remarkable and charming stops along the way!
La Playa de las Catedrales
La Playa de las Catedrales is one of the most stunning beaches on the Spanish Coast, and a perfect stop along your 2 weeks in northern Spain road trip.
A combination of wind and water has sculpted incredible rock formations to resemble the flying buttresses of notable gothic-style cathedrals.
Things to do before you arrive
- Check the Tide Tables: The beach is only accessible at low tide, as it becomes very dangerous with the tide coming in. Be sure to check the low tide time so you can optimize your time on the beach!
- Make a reservation: La Playa de las Catedrales only allows a certain number of visitors each day, to help conservation efforts. So be sure to reserve your entry before you arrive!
How to get to La Playa de las Catedrales
You can reach La Playa de las Catedrales in many ways. You can take a bus to Ribadeo the nearest town, and from there you can take a taxi or ride-share.
If you have chosen to rent a car, the drive from A Coruña to La Playa de las Catedrales takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The drive primarily follows the A-6 and A-8 Highways
Things to do at La Playa de las Catedrales
- Explore the caves and tide pools
- Admire the Illa de Xanga
- Photograph the Triple Arco
- Climb past the triple arco for more stunning rock formations
Ribadeo
Ribadeo is the closest town to La Playa de las Catedrales. It is charming and a great place to stop for a quick snack and walk through the city.
How to get to Ribadeo
Just 15 minutes on N634 east will bring you to the city center. From here everything you could want is within walking distance.
Things to do in Ribadeo
- Torre Dos Moreno
- O Cargadeiro
- Forte De San Damián
- Mirador Ribadeo
For more in-depth information about La Playa de las Catedrales and Ribadeo please click the link below.
Cudillero
Cudillero is one of the most charming towns that Spain has to offer. The vibrant, stacked houses in this quiet inlet make for a perfect stop on your road trip.
How to get to Cudillero
Continue driving from Ribadeo along the A-8 east for about 80 Km. In about 50 minutes you will reach the quaint town of Cudillero
Things to do in Cudillero
- Explore the town square
- Grab an Ice Cream cone
- Try some fresh seafood at one of the several restaurants on the square.
- Climb the stairs to the Mirador de la Garita
- Venture down the Tunel de Cudillero
- Visit the many Miradores
Gijón
Gijón is one of the larger cities in the Comunidad de Asturias. Located directly on the coast, it is known for great surfing, natural hard cider, and Roman ruins. It is a fantastic stop if you have 2 weeks in northern Spain.
How to get to Gijón
Continue along highway A-8 east for about 53 km. About 40 minutes from leaving Cudillero you will reach the city of Gijón.
Where to stay in Gijón
Gijón Surf Hostel costs about $27 a night which includes a free breakfast. The hostel is close to everything, including the beach!
If enjoying the beaches is your goal, this is the ideal place to stay, especially since they offer surf lessons for only 20 euros.
Things to do in Gijón
- Try the famous Sidra
- Enjoy the Cerro de Santa Catalina
- Swim in the Cantabrian Sea
- Visit Parroquia San Pedro
- See the Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés
- Relax at Playa de San Lorenzo
- Spread out at Playa de Poniente
- Visit the Gijón Marina
- Pose near Las Letronas
- Wander the Palacio de Revillagigedo
Day 7: Gijón and Ribadesella
More things to do in Gijón
- Find the Dragon of Gijón, Asturias
- Visit the Museo Casa Natal de Jovellanos
- Explore the Cimavilla neighborhood
- Visit the Muséu del Pueblu d’Asturies / Museum of the Asturian People
- Visit the Nicanor Piñole Museum
- Admire the Barjola Museum
- Visit the Asturias Railway Museum
- Wander the Atlantic Botanical Gardens of Gijón
- Enjoy the BIOPARC Acuario de Gijón
For a more in-depth look into Gijón, please read my article that focuses on Gijón explicitly
Ribadesella
Ribadesella is an adorable seaside town that is home to beautiful beaches, caves, watersports, and panoramic views.
How to get to Ribadesella
From Gijón, you can take A-8 to Ribadesella. It takes about 67 km or 50 minutes to reach this charming coastal town.
Where to stay in Ribadesella
While slightly more expensive than my typical recommendations, I would highly recommend staying at the Hotel Rural Paraje del Asturcon. The hotel is located on a farm just outside of Ribadesella. It also offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastal town.
Things to do in Ribadesella
- Visit the Ermita de la Virgen de Guia
- Relax at the Playa de Santa Marina
- Explore the Cueva de Tito Bustillo
- Climb the Torre de la Atalaya
- Swim at Playa de la Atalaya
- Admire the Iglesia Santa Maria Magdalena
- Enjoy the Mirador de Ribadesella
- Gawk at the Mirador de Ardines
- Visit the Paneles de Mingote
- Enjoy the Mirador Punta del Pozu
- Explore the Cuevona de Cuevas del Agua
- Visit the Bufones de Pria
- Sunbathe at Playa de Guadamia
To read a more detailed guide to Ribadesella, click the link below.
Day 8: Ribadesella to Cangas de Onís
Cangas de Onís is a historic Asturian city that acts as a gateway to the Picos de Europa. It is rich with stunning architecture and culture.
How to get to Cangas De Onís
From Ribadesella, Cangas de Onís is just a 30-minute drive south on N-634.
Additionally, a public bus option will take several transfers, and about an hour of travel time.
Where to Stay near Cangas de Onís
While I don’t typically love Airbnb, I found this outstanding host in a small, charming mountain village, Vís. This location makes a perfect home base for your time in the Picos de Europa.
The host, Jenny is incredible, and not to mention, this was the view from the porch.
Are you interested in staying with Jenny? Check out her Airbnb listing here!
Things to do in Cangas de Onís
- Eat at Restaurante El Palco
- Admire the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Santa María
- Visit the Capilla de Santa Cruz
- Climb the Puente Romano de Cangas de Onís
- Shop for locally made goods: leather, cheese, honey, and sídra
To read a more detailed guide for Cangas de Onís and Covadonga, click the link below
Day 9: Covadonga
Covadonga is a fairytale setting with grand buildings set high up on hills. It is also a town of religious significance and is home to many religious sites as well as incredible natural sites.
It is a must-visit location if you have 2 weeks in northern Spain.
How to get to Covadonga
Covadonga is a 12 minute drive from Cangas de Onís.
A local bus also covers this route.
Things to do in Covadonga
- Hike around the Lagos de Covadonga
- Visit the Santuario de Covadonga, Asturias
- Explore the Gruta de la Virgen de Covadonga
- Listen to the Campana de Covadonga
- Admire the Basilica de Santa María la real de Covadonga Asturias (Covadonga Church)
- Wander the Jardines del Princípe
- Find the Cascada de los Jardines del Princípe
A trip to the Lagos de Covadonga is highly dependent on the weather. Due to the altitude, fog can make the visibility by the lakes effectively zero. If you would like to visit the lakes be sure to have flexibility in your itinerary and keep checking the weather on the live-stream visibility camera.
To read a more detailed guide for Covadonga, click the link below
Day 10 & 11 : Picos de Europa
You cannot spend 2 weeks in Northern Spain without a visit to the magnificent Picos de Europa. It is a National park that is full of incredible views and countless outdoor activities.
How to get to the Picos de Europa
From your stay in Vís or Cangas de Onís, you are already located in the Picos de Europa.
However, the Picos de Europas spread out over 20km, and there is a great deal to explore.
Outdoor activities in the Picos de Europa
- Kayaking: Cangas Aventura
- White Water Rafting: reserve a spot online
- ATV Tours: Ven a Picos
Things to do in the Picos de Europa
- Hike the Beyu Pen Route
- Explore the Ruta del Cares
- Adventure on the Oridales Scenic Balcony Trail – Lagos de Covadonga
- Take the Ruta de Fuente Dé a Puertos de Aliva
Beyu Pen Route
If you are looking for a short but exciting hike, I highly recommend the Beyu Pen Route.
It is a 6km out-and-back trail that leads you on a winding path through the enchanted woods of the Picos de Europa.
Along the route, you will find mythical faces hidden in nature, waterfalls, stunning viewpoints, and historic Asturian Horreos.
The Trailhead for this route can be rather difficult to find. This car park is the trailhead. From there you will cross a small footbridge before you catch the path into the forest.
A perfect day would be starting the morning with this trail, and using the afternoon to do one of the more adventurous outdoor activities like kayaking or white water rafting.
Ruta del Cares
Ruta del Cares is the most famous route within the Picos de Europa, and rightfully so. It offers the most incredible and sweeping views of the landscapes.
This 22km long trail typically takes over six hours to complete and spans over two communidades.
However if 22km seems too long, but you don’t want to miss out on all of the views there are other options.
My favorite option is a hiking and 4×4 tour that costs 35 Euros a person which to me sounds like half the effort but double the fun!
For this excursion, you will hike the first 11km from Poncebos to Caín. When you reach the town you will then have a break. Afterward, you will meet with the guides and they will lead you back to Poncebos by a special 4×4 trail.
From your home base near Covadonga, it will take you about an hour to reach the trailhead.
In case you would like to know exactly what to expect from this hike, I have linked the detailed guide created by Kevmrc below.
Day 12: Picos de Europa to Oviedo
Your 2 weeks in northern Spain wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Asturian capital city, Oviedo.
This will be your last destination of this 2-week trip, but there is still so much to see here.
Oviedo is the booming hub of art, culture, and nightlife in Asturias, so be sure to give yourself some time here.
How to get to Oviedo
Oviedo is well-connected and has easy access to trains, planes, and buses.
If you are driving from the Covadonga area it will take a little over an hour to reach Oviedo.
Where to Stay in Oviedo
Green Hostel is a great option in the heart of historic Oviedo.
While being in the ideal location, the hostel also includes free breakfast, a rooftop terrace, and great common spaces.
Things to do in Oviedo on your first day
- Take in the View from Monte Naranco
- Visit the Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco
- Visit the Iglesía de San Miguel de Lillo
- Check into your hotel
- Return your rental car
- Explore the food scene of Oviedo
- Stroll through Campo San Francisco
- Admire the “La Maternidad” de Botero
- Nightlife in the Casco Historico
If you are looking for a more in-depth itinerary for the city of Oviedo please follow the link below
Day 13: Oviedo
Oviedo is the center of arts in this region and that is clearly reflected by its many outstanding museums.
Take your second day in Oviedo to explore these wonderful museums and the history of this city
More things to do in Oviedo
- Visit the Museo Belles Artes de Asturias
- Shop on the Calle Cimadevilla
- Stand in Plaza de la Constitution
- Admire the Catedral Metropolitina de El Salvador de Oviedo
- Enjoy the Museo Arqueológico de Asturias
- Wander the Casco Histórico
- Follow the Ruta de las estatuas
- Find the Gascona. El Bulevar de la Sidra
If you are looking for a more in-depth itinerary for the city of Oviedo please follow the link below.
Day 14: Oviedo to Home
After 2 weeks in northern Spain, your time has finally come to an end. Since, Oviedo is so well connected you will most likely be able to take a train, bus, or plane to your next destination.
Personally, I was on my way back to my home in Madrid. I chose to take a train, which was about a 4.5-hour journey. Typically the tickets cost around 45 euros.
Hi Holly! Thank you so much for your wonderful travel outline here, we love pouring through it as a resource ahead of our trip to this region of Spain!
If you need any other help, I am also a travel agent! Feel free to reach out to holly@antortravel.com!
Also have so much fun! This is a stunning area!