5-day Private Tour Northern Spain (from Bilbao or Santiago)

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the scenic beauty and cultural richness of northern Spain, this 5-day private tour from Santiago de Compostela or Bilbao might just tick all your boxes. Offering a tailored journey through “Green Spain,” it combines guided city visits, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking coastal scenery—all with the convenience of private transportation and expert guides.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the blend of structured sightseeing with free time for personal exploration, giving you a genuine feel for these vibrant towns. However, keep in mind that the price point—around $5,600 for just two people—is a significant investment, so it’s best suited for travelers who value curated experiences and comfort.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, personalized introduction to northern Spain’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. If you love scenic drives, cultural sights, and authentic local experiences, you’ll probably find this tour worth every penny.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: The private nature of the tour means flexibility and personalized attention from guides and your driver.
Cultural Highlights: Visits to the Santiago Cathedral, El Capricho de Gaudí, and the Guggenheim Bilbao showcase top cultural and architectural sights.
Stunning Coastal Views: Stops at Costa da Morte, As Catedrais beach, and scenic drives along the coast provide eye-catching scenery.
Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door service, private vehicle, and guided city tours make for a smooth, hassle-free trip.
Value for Money: While costly, the package includes entrance fees to major museums and landmarks, plus expert guides—making it a thorough experience.
Travel Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, plus cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour begins, adding peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers

This 5-day adventure captures the essence of northern Spain, focusing on its lush landscapes, historic towns, and iconic sights. It’s designed for travelers who want a curated, relaxed pace with insightful guided visits, balanced by free time to absorb the atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a leisurely meal or explore at your own pace.

Day 1: Santiago de Compostela & Costa da Morte

Your journey begins in Santiago de Compostela, famous for its stunning cathedral and pilgrimage history. With a local guide, you’ll spend around four hours exploring the old town’s winding streets and the majestic Cathedral of Santiago, home to the revered Botafumeiro. The tour’s focus on these historic sites helps you appreciate the spiritual and architectural significance, which many reviews highlight as a moving experience.

Post-lunch, your driver takes you along the scenic Galician coast to Costa da Morte (“Death Coast”). This rugged stretch is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and lighthouse views. The visit offers spectacular photo opportunities and insight into local legends about shipwrecks and maritime history. Staying overnight in Santiago allows you to soak in the city’s evening ambiance—an underrated aspect that makes this tour appealing.

Day 2: From Santiago to Oviedo

Setting out in the morning, your private driver takes you through Galicia’s lush countryside and into Asturias, with several noteworthy stops along the way. First up is the famous As Catedrais beach, renowned for its natural arches and caves carved by the Atlantic surf. Discover why this site is a top must-see for nature lovers, though note that access may depend on tides and weather conditions.

Next, you’ll visit Ribadeo and the Mirador La Regalina, offering sweeping views of the coastline, followed by a quick stop at the Lighthouse Cabo Vidi, both perfect for panoramic photos. Then, a leisurely lunch in Cudillero, a charming fishing village with brightly colored houses lining its slopes, which many reviewers mention as a highlight.

Arriving in Oviedo in the evening, your guide will take you on a tour of its charming old town, home to medieval streets, quaint plazas, and impressive architecture. The city’s relaxed vibe and historic charm make it a perfect place to unwind after a day of travel.

Day 3: Oviedo to Santander via Covadonga and Comillas

The day kicks off with a visit to the Holy Cave of Covadonga, a sacred site nestled in the Picos de Europa. Many travelers appreciate this stop for its spiritual significance and scenic mountain setting. The nearby basilica is worth a visit too, combining natural beauty with religious history.

On the way to Santander, you’ll enjoy a lunch break in Llanes, a coastal town with a lively harbor and scenic streets. Your route continues through San Vicente de la Barquera, a picturesque fishing village with a harbor backed by cliffs. The highlight of the day is a guided visit to El Capricho de Gaudí in Comillas—an architectural gem designed by the famous Antoni Gaudí, often praised for its whimsical details and intricate craftsmanship.

Arriving in Santander, you’ll settle into your hotel for the night, ready for more exploration.

Day 4: Santander & Santillana del Mar

Santander’s bay and cityscape are best appreciated on a three-hour guided tour. You’ll see the main sights, including the elegant promenades and lively plazas, with many reviewers noting the city’s vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. After a relaxed lunch, the tour takes you to Santillana del Mar, widely regarded as one of Spain’s prettiest villages.

This medieval town, with its cobbled streets and well-preserved architecture, feels like stepping back in time. You’ll also visit the Neo-Cave of Altamira in the Altamira Museum, home to replicas of prehistoric cave paintings. The site provides fascinating insights into early human life—a favorite among history enthusiasts.

Day 5: Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum

Your final day begins with a scenic drive to Bilbao. The city’s famous Guggenheim Museum is a highlight—its avant-garde architecture and impressive collection make it a must-see. The four-hour guided visit allows you to appreciate the museum’s innovative design and some of the key artworks.

In addition, you’ll enjoy a guided city tour that reveals Bilbao’s transformation from an industrial hub to a vibrant cultural center. The “Hanging Bridge” (Puente de Vizcaya) linking Portugalete and Las Arenas is another notable stop, offering fantastic views and photographic opportunities.

Wrapping up the tour, you’ll have free time for lunch and last-minute sightseeing or shopping before being dropped off at your hotel.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This itinerary balances the must-see sights with hidden gems, giving you a genuine feel for northern Spain’s diversity. The private transportation means flexibility and comfort, especially when moving between towns and scenic spots. The guides’ insights, drawn from local knowledge and reviews, add depth—something that group tours often lack.

Reviewers praise the tour’s detailed planning, highlighting stops like El Capricho de Gaudí and Costa da Morte as memorable highlights. The inclusion of entrance fees to major landmarks ensures you won’t face unexpected costs, and the driver’s professionalism is consistently appreciated.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite packed, with long days and a good deal of driving—something to consider if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time at each site. Also, the price might seem steep for solo travelers or those on a tight budget, but for couples or small groups seeking a comprehensive, guided experience, it offers excellent value.

Transportation and Comfort

The use of private sedans or minivans means you can enjoy the scenic drives in comfort. The vehicle’s size is suitable for small groups, ensuring a more intimate experience. Having a dedicated driver means no worries about navigation or parking, leaving you free to relax and soak in the views.

Guides and Local Expertise

The guides in Santiago, Oviedo, and Bilbao are well-versed in local history and culture, often sharing stories that bring each site to life. Their knowledge about the sites, from the religious significance of Santiago’s cathedral to the architectural genius of Gaudí, enriches the experience.

Flexibility and Booking

The ability to reserve now and pay later, along with flexible cancellation policies, makes this tour accessible for travelers hesitant to commit far in advance. It’s a good way to secure your spot while keeping plans flexible—especially useful given the variable nature of travel.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, curated experience of northern Spain with minimal planning and maximum comfort. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a blend of cultural sights, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences. If you’re interested in architecture, history, and stunning coastal views—yet prefer the convenience of private transport and guided insights—this tour offers great value.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who don’t mind long days on the road and appreciate a mix of planned sightseeing with optional free time. Budget-wise, it’s best for travelers who see the value in a premium, all-inclusive package, rather than DIY travel or larger group tours.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers private transportation for 5 days, a Spanish- and English-speaking driver, four guided city tours, and entrance fees to specified landmarks such as cathedrals and museums.

Are accommodations included?
No, accommodations are not included. Tour organizers recommend that travelers book their own hotels, and they can offer advice on where to stay.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is required for identification. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are also recommended, especially for outdoor stops.

How flexible is the schedule?
While the itinerary is structured, the private nature of the tour allows some flexibility. You can discuss with your guides about spending more or less time at certain sites.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
The tour is designed for groups up to two people per booking, but solo travelers can arrange a private experience as well, though the cost may be higher.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day private tour of northern Spain offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated experience perfect for those who want to explore major cultural and scenic highlights comfortably and in-depth. The blend of guided visits, scenic drives, and free time makes it versatile and engaging, especially if you value expert insights and the convenience of private transport.

While the cost might be a consideration, the inclusion of entrance fees, expert guides, and tailored experiences justifies the investment for many travelers seeking a hassle-free, immersive look at the region's beauty and history.

It's best suited for couples, small groups, or travelers who prioritize comfort, authenticity, and detailed planning. If you're ready to explore Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country in style, this tour could be your ideal northern Spain adventure.