Private Tour Northern Spain 10 days

Traveling through Northern Spain offers an intoxicating mix of vibrant cities, rugged coastlines, lush mountains, and historical sites—all wrapped into one captivating region. This 10-day private tour through Basque Country, Galicia, Asturias, and Cantabria promises a personalized journey with expert guides, cozy transportation options, and the chance to uncover lesser-known gems alongside iconic sights. Priced at $651 for a group of up to three, it’s a thoughtful investment for travelers craving an immersive, hassle-free experience.

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the carefully curated itinerary that balances city highlights like the Guggenheim Museum and San Sebastián with scenic drives through nature parks and charming villages. You’ll get a genuine taste of local culture, history, and landscapes, all tailored to your group’s pace and interests.

That said, a possible consideration is the lack of included meals or accommodations, so travelers should budget extra for food and hotels. Also, this tour is designed for those over 12, so it’s less suitable for families with young children.

This experience suits travelers who want a flexible, intimate exploration of northern Spain’s essence without the stress of planning logistics or navigating solo. If you prefer personalized attention, comfortable transport, and authentic sights, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private group, up to 3 people, with a dedicated driver and knowledgeable guide.
• Comprehensive itinerary: From city museums and villages to national parks and coastal towns.
• Value for money: At $651, it covers transportation, tickets, tolls, and driver services, making it a convenient all-in-one option.
• Authentic insights: Guides offer local recommendations for restaurants and hotels, enhancing your stay.
• Flexible starting times: Check availability for preferred departure times.
• Not suitable for children under 12: Designed for adult travelers seeking cultural and scenic immersion.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Tour

Day 1: San Sebastián and Hondarribia

The adventure kicks off with a 9:30 pickup at your hotel in San Sebastián—a city renowned for its stunning bay, world-class pintxos, and lively atmosphere. The guide will explore the city by car, giving you a quick orientation of its highlights before heading to Hondarribia in the evening. Known for its picturesque, cobblestone streets and colorful houses, Hondarribia is a painterly Basque village perfect for wandering, snapping photos, and sampling local pintxos. You’ll get a taste of Basque hospitality and culture early on.

Day 2: Gernika and Bilbao

Starting at 9:30 again, the tour takes you to Gernika to see the Casa de Juntas, the historic town hall linked to the iconic Gernika Tree—symbol of Basque independence. The guide’s commentary here offers insights into Basque history and resilience. Then, a scenic drive to San Juan de Gatzelugatxe, a dramatic island with a winding staircase leading to a hermitage perched atop a rocky outcrop; a must-see for picturesque photos and a sense of adventure.

Next, visiting the Urdabai National Park offers a chance to enjoy diverse landscapes—estuaries, beaches, and forests—that are vital for local wildlife. The day wraps up in Bilbao, where you’ll admire panoramic views from Bilbao Peak and the iconic Artxanda viewpoint, providing a sense of the city’s post-industrial revitalization.

Day 3: Bilbao to Oñati and Arantzazu

This day centres on cultural and spiritual sites. The journey from Bilbao to Oñati introduces you to a charming town with traditional Basque architecture. A visit to the Arantzazu Sanctuary, a stunning modernist church set against mountains, combines religious history with awe-inspiring architecture. The guide’s local knowledge makes this a meaningful stop, blending scenic beauty with spiritual reflection.

Day 4: Guggenheim and Downtown Bilbao

No trip to Bilbao is complete without a visit to the Guggenheim Museum. We loved how the tour prioritizes tickets in advance—saving time and avoiding queues. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and inside, contemporary art awaits. Afterwards, exploring the city’s downtown reveals a vibrant urban scene with shops, cafes, and street art, giving you a well-rounded city experience.

Day 5: Coastal Villages & Historic Sites

The focus shifts to the coast. Starting with Castrourdiales’s sailors’ beach, you get a sense of seaside life. From there, you visit Comillas, a picturesque village with notable architecture, including Gaudí-inspired buildings. The day ends in the medieval charm of Santillana del Mar, with its cobblestones and historic atmosphere—ideal for strolling and soaking in authentic local life.

Day 6: Santander, Llanes, Gijón, and Oviedo

This day involves a scenic drive along the coast, visiting Santander’s elegant city center and Llanes, a charming fishing village. Continuing east, Gijón offers a lively maritime vibe, and Oviedo—the cultural heart of Asturias—provides a chance to walk through medieval streets and explore local markets.

Day 7: Covadonga Lakes and Lastres

The highlight is the Covadonga Lakes, nestled in the Picos de Europa mountains—an absolute favorite for nature lovers. The peaks and alpine lakes create a breathtaking backdrop. The day also includes visits to Lastres and Ribadesella, coastal towns with fishing traditions and stunning cliffs. We appreciated the guide’s tips on the best spots for photos and local dining.

Day 8: Coastal Exploration

Starting from Oviedo, this day covers Cudillero, a colorful fishing village, and Luarca, famed for its maritime history. Silence Beach offers a peaceful retreat, and Vidio Cape provides panoramic views of the ocean. The itinerary balances scenic drives with relaxed exploration, perfect for those wanting to soak in the coastal atmosphere.

Day 9: Lugo and Santiago de Compostela

The journey takes you inland to Lugo, with its Roman walls and historic charm, then continues to the legendary city of Santiago de Compostela. The cathedral and lively plazas reveal centuries of pilgrimage and religious history. Expect a vibrant, bustling atmosphere—a fitting climax for the trip.

Day 10: Finishing in Santiago, Finisterre, and A Coruña

The final day offers a full exploration of Santiago’s iconic cathedral and the nearby Finisterre—a legendary endpoint for pilgrims and a place to stand on the edge of the world. The tour concludes in A Coruña, known for its medieval tower and lively port scenes. The guide will advise on local cafes and shops for a perfect farewell.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The ultimate strength of this tour is its combination of personalized attention and carefully curated stops. The driver-guides are praised for their local knowledge—many reviews mention how they go beyond standard sightseeing, offering cultural insights and restaurant tips. Tickets booked in advance, especially for attractions like the Guggenheim, ensure you spend less time waiting and more time exploring.

The comfort and flexibility of transportation—luxury cars for smaller groups and a comfort van for slightly larger parties—mean you’re not squeezed into cramped buses or forced to adhere to rigid schedules. Plus, the option to reserve now and pay later makes planning flexible, especially in unpredictable times.

On the downside, hotels and meals are not included, so travelers should plan their accommodations and budget for food separately. This can be advantageous if you prefer tailored lodging or local dining experiences but adds to overall planning.

Many travelers appreciated the pace of the 10 days—enough time to see highlights without feeling rushed. The itinerary’s mix of urban culture, coastal scenery, mountain landscapes, and historic sites offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to many interests.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love the idea of seeing a diverse region without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour provides a fantastic, stress-free solution. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who crave intimacy and personalized service. Those wanting to explore both iconic sights and hidden gems will find the itinerary satisfying.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of urban exploration, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures will appreciate the variety on offer. Since the tour is not suitable for children under 12, it’s more tailored for adult travelers seeking cultural enrichment and scenic beauty.

While it may require an additional budget for meals and accommodations, the value offered—including expert guides, tickets, tolls, and seamless transportation—makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to uncover Northern Spain’s many faces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
It’s designed for small private groups (up to 3), so solo travelers can join, but it’s best suited for those who prefer personalized, intimate experiences with a dedicated driver.

Are accommodations included in the price?
No, hotels are not included. The tour offers hotel recommendations, but travelers will need to book and pay for their accommodations separately.

What meals are included?
Meals are not included, apart from any drinks you bring in the car. You’ll have plenty of options for local cuisine at your stops, and your guide can suggest restaurants.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility for adjustments. Check availability and discuss your interests with the provider to tailor some stops or timing.

How is transportation arranged?
A luxury car for up to 3 people or a comfort van for 4 to 6 travelers ensures a comfortable ride, with the driver acting as your local guide and navigator.

Is this tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking, and some sites are hilly or involve stairs, so it’s best to discuss specific needs with the provider beforehand.

How far in advance should I book?
Availability varies; it’s recommended to reserve as early as possible. You can also reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

In The Sum Up, this 10-day private tour of Northern Spain offers an enriching mix of city, coast, and mountain explorations, all delivered with personalized care. Perfect for travelers wanting a flexible, in-depth experience without the stress of logistics, it balances iconic sights with authentic local flavor. While it requires some planning for accommodations and meals, the convenience, expert guidance, and immersive stops make it a fantastic choice for those ready to explore Spain’s northern treasures in comfort and style.