North Spain Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty of North Spain with a road trip from Barcelona to Barcelona. This 1817km route takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes, beaches and historical sites in the region. Along the way, you’ll see the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Lleida, Bilbao, San Sebastián and Pamplona. You’ll also pass through Andorra la Vella, Figueres and Mataró, each offering their own unique beauty and experiences.
The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, when the roads are in excellent condition and the weather is warm and sunny. You can expect to complete this journey in around 10 days, allowing you to take your time and really appreciate the stunning sights and sounds of North Spain.
This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can easily be managed on a budget. You’ll get to experience a high level of culture, history and beauty, creating memories that will stay with you forever. So, get ready to hit the road and explore the wonders of North Spain.
10
number of days
1,817 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
Barcelona/Casa Batlló/Photo by benedicl on Pixabay
❯
❮
START
Barcelona
Distance 1,817 km
Driving time 29.6 h
Pace: modest
472.3 kWh
Airports
BCN
[detailsContainer]
Barcelona is the gateway to the incredible sights and experiences of North Spain. As the first stop of the North Spain Road Trip, it promises an unforgettable journey. Barcelona is a vibrant city filled with culture, art, and history. From the iconic Sagrada Familia to the cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter, there is something to explore around every corner.
For those looking to get the most out of their visit to Barcelona, a visit to the Picasso Museum is a must. Here, visitors can explore the entire collection of Picasso’s works, from his early sketches to his later masterpieces. Additionally, the Barcelona Cathedral and the Palau de la Música Catalana offer a glimpse into the city’s rich religious and musical heritage.
For those traveling to Barcelona by air, the closest international airport is Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN). At the airport, there are a variety of car rental companies to choose from. From here, visitors can begin their North Spain Road Trip in the comfort of their own car.
Barcelona is the perfect starting point for a North Spain Road Trip. With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and plethora of activities, visitors can experience the best of what North Spain has to offer.
Barcelona
❯
❮
1
Barcelona
- Lleida
Distance 202 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
60.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to embark on a 202 km road trip from Barcelona to Lleida? This journey will take you less than 3 hours, so you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about the time.
Your first stop is Montserrat, where you can visit the Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the breathtaking mountain views. You can also take a cable car up to the peak of Montserrat and take in the stunning panoramic views.
As you continue your journey, you will be enchanted by the picturesque landscapes and historical sites you will encounter. So make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey.
Finally, you will reach Lleida, the end of your road trip. Here you can visit the Seu Vella, a fortified cathedral that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to experience the best of Catalonia on this amazing road trip!
Lleida - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
❯
❮
2
Lleida
- Zaragoza
Distance 150 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
45.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your journey in Lleida, Spain and experience the best of the Catalan culture and scenery as you make your way to Zaragoza. This 150 km road trip will take you through Fraga and take no more than 3 hours. Along the way, you'll be able to visit some of the most interesting places in the area. Make sure to stop in Lleida to see the remains of the ancient Roman walls, and take a walk around the old town. As you make your way to Fraga, you'll come across the Santa María de Mequinenza Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And when you arrive in Zaragoza, you'll be able to explore the city's stunning architecture, including the Basílica del Pilar and La Seo Cathedral. With so much to see and do, you'll be sure to have a memorable experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Zaragoza - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Zaragoza - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - - Wikipedia
Zaragoza - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
3
Zaragoza
- Bilbao
Distance 327 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: fast
98.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Zaragoza to Bilbao, a 327km journey that can be completed in less than 4 hours. Start your trip in Zaragoza, a vibrant city full of history and culture, with its iconic Basilica del Pilar, the Aljafería Palace and the modernist buildings of La Seo Cathedral. Then, take the road to Haro, a small town surrounded by vineyards, where you can enjoy a glass of its famous Rioja wine. Finally, reach Bilbao, a lively city with a unique architecture, and explore its emblematic Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town and the iconic Zubizuri Bridge. Along the way, be sure to admire the stunning landscapes and take the time to visit the historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bilbao - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Bilbao - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Bilbao
- San Sebastián
Distance 164 km
Driving time 4.8 h
Pace: slow
37.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip through Northern Spain? Starting in Bilbao, you'll traverse the breathtaking Basque Country, heading east to Bermeo, Getaria, and finally ending in San Sebastián. This 164 km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy all the sights and attractions along the way.
Bermeo is a picturesque fishing port with a beautiful harbor and a colorful history. Getaria is a small coastal town known for its seafood restaurants and its traditional Basque architecture. San Sebastián is a vibrant city with stunning beaches, great nightlife, and plenty of cultural attractions.
During your journey, take some time to admire the stunning views of the Basque Country, as well as the historical sites along the way. You'll also be able to find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a memorable road trip adventure through Northern Spain! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
San Sebastián - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
❯
❮
5
San Sebastián
- Pamplona
Distance 101 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
30.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in the beautiful San Sebastián, Spain and ends in Pamplona, 101 km away and a journey of fewer than two hours. The route is full of interesting places to explore, so make sure to pay attention to the historical sites you'll pass along the way.
In San Sebastián, you can explore the old town and see the Gothic-style Church of Saint Vincent, the Santa Maria Cathedral, or the San Telmo Museum. Then, you can take a break and relax on La Concha Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
On your way to Pamplona, you'll pass through many charming small towns, including Zarautz, which is known for its surfing culture. Once you reach Pamplona, make sure to visit the Citadel, the Plaza del Castillo, and the Church of San Saturnino.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Pamplona - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Википедия
Pamplona - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Pamplona - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
6
Pamplona
- Campo Real
Distance 237 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
71.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your road trip with a visit to Pamplona, a vibrant city in northern Spain. Enjoy its lively atmosphere and explore the historical sites, like the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Citadel of Pamplona and the Church of San Nicolas. From Pamplona, head to Jaca, a city located in the Pyrenees. Here, you can visit the Castle of Jaca and the Cathedral of Jaca. After that, continue your journey to Campo Real, a small town located in the Madrid region. On your way, you will pass through many beautiful landscapes. The total distance of this route is 237km and it will take you less than 4 hours. Along the way, you can stop at some of the most interesting places, like the castle of La Mota and the Natural Park of La Alberca. Once you arrive in Campo Real, you can explore the city’s historical sites, such as the Church of Santa Maria and the Castle of Campo Real. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Campo Real - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
7
Campo Real
- Andorra la Vella
Distance 231 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: modest
60.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome, road-trippers! Let us embark on a journey from Campo Real, Spain, to Andorra la Vella. This 231km route takes less than 5 hours to drive, and is part of a larger tour.
We will start our journey in Campo Real, a small town in the Madrid region. Here you can find the ancient Church of San Miguel Arcángel, built in the 16th century.
Next, we will drive to Sort, a charming mountain village in the Pyrenees. Its main attraction is the Romanesque church of Santa Maria de Sort, with its impressive bell tower.
Our next stop is Adrall, a small village in the province of Huesca. Here you can visit the Church of San Esteban, a beautiful building built in the 16th century.
Finally, we will arrive in Andorra la Vella, the capital of the Principality of Andorra. Here you can find the old town of Andorra la Vella, a beautiful and picturesque place with many shops, restaurants and monuments.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Andorra la Vella - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
8
Andorra la Vella
- Figueres
Distance 201 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: modest
52.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your journey in Andorra la Vella, the capital of the tiny principality of Andorra. This small city has a lot to offer, from its old churches to its modern shopping malls. From here, you will take a route through the Pyrenees, passing through the city of Ripoll. This historic city is home to some of the most beautiful Romanesque architecture in Spain. Make sure to take a break to explore its cobblestone streets and admire its ancient buildings. After Ripoll, the journey continues to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. Here, you will find the Dalí Museum, a must-see destination for any art lover. Make sure to explore the city and take in its unique charm. The whole route is 201km and can be done in under 4 hours. Along the way, you will find many interesting sights and attractions, so be sure to keep your eyes open for any historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Figueres - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Figueres - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Figueres - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
9
Figueres
- Mataró
Distance 152 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
39.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the exciting road trip stage from Figueres to Mataró! This 152 km journey will take you through three fascinating places in Spain - Palamós, Blanes, and Mataró - and will take no more than 3 hours to complete.
Begin your journey in Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and take in the beautiful sights of the city before heading to Palamós. Here you will find a lovely beach, as well as historical sites such as the Castle of Palamós and the Church of Santa María.
Continue your journey to the coastal town of Blanes, where you can explore the promenade and the botanical gardens. If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous, take a boat trip to the nearby islands.
Finally, your journey will take you to Mataró, where you can visit the old town and the nearby beaches. You can also take a cable car up to the nearby mountain for some stunning views.
For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Mataró - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
10
Mataró
- Barcelona
Distance 52 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
13.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you looking for an exciting road trip from Mataró to Barcelona? Then this is the perfect route for you! This 52km route will take you less than an hour to complete and offers a variety of attractions to explore. Start your journey in Mataró, a coastal town located in the Maresme region of Catalonia, and take in the sights of the historical centre and the old fishing port. As you drive, you will pass by some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Monastery of Sant Cugat, where you can explore the ancient ruins and the beautiful gardens. Further along the route, you will be able to take in the picturesque landscapes of the region, including the Montserrat mountain range. As you approach Barcelona, be sure to take a detour to the Güell Park, where you can admire the stunning architecture of Gaudi. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a memorable road trip from Mataró to Barcelona!
Barcelona - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
❯
❮
Barcelona
[detailsContainer]
Barcelona is the perfect end to any road trip through North Spain. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Barcelona has something to offer every traveler. From its world-renowned architecture, to its beautiful seaside views, and its lively nightlife, Barcelona is a must-see destination.
For architectural buffs, Barcelona is home to some of the best works of the late Antoni Gaudi, including the iconic Sagrada Família. Other fascinating architecture includes the Palau de la Musica Catalana and Casa Batlló.
Nature lovers can enjoy the beauty of the city’s many parks and beaches, including the Parc de la Ciutadella, Parc Güell and Barceloneta Beach.
Barcelona also offers great shopping, with La Boqueria market offering fresh fruits and vegetables, and the city’s many boutiques providing unique items.
For those looking for a night on the town, Barcelona is home to some of the best nightclubs in Europe, including Razzmatazz and Opium.
Barcelona is easily accessible by car from many of the other cities in North Spain. The closest international airport is Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), with frequent flights to many European destinations. Whether you’re looking for a sightseeing adventure, a beach escape or a night of fun, Barcelona is the perfect end to a North Spain road trip.
Barcelona - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Pixabay
❯
❮
North Spain Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Barcelona
-
End:
Barcelona
-
Distance:
1,817 km
-
Stay:
10 days
-
Getting there:
Barcelona International Airport (BCN)
-
When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Set off on a captivating Road Trip spanning approximately 1,817 km from the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona to the heart of North Spain's rich cultural and natural landscapes. This travel adventure offers a tapestry of experiences, from the sun-kissed Mediterranean beaches to the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time. You'll encounter a myriad of awe-inspiring views, including rugged coastlines, lush green valleys, towering mountains, and a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that each tell a story of the region's historical wealth.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Lleida: Delve into history at the Seu Vella, a monumental hilltop ensemble that includes a cathedral, castle, and the remains of the old city walls, which is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status.
- Bilbao: Be captivated by the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture by Frank Gehry, and marvel at its collection of modern and contemporary art.
- San Sebastián: Bask in the beauty of La Concha beach, a crescent-shaped urban shoreline revered as one of Spain's most picturesque beaches, or hike up to Mount Igueldo for a panoramic view of the city.
- Pamplona: Dive into the local culture best known for the San Fermín festival featuring the exhilarating Running of the Bulls, an event steeped in tradition and excitement.
- Andorra la Vella: Nestled in the Pyrenees mountains, this capital city is a haven for shoppers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with an array of duty-free stores and abundant winter sports opportunities.
- Figueres: Step inside the surreal world of Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Theatre-Museum, where the artist's extraordinary imagination is showcased in a building designed by Dalí himself.
- Mataró: Unwind on the serene Mediterranean beaches or explore the architectural heritage of the city, including works by the modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for this Road Trip is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is most favorable, offering excellent Road conditions and an array of festivals and events bringing the cities to life.
Potential Risks:
The journey is generally safe, but it's important to stay alert for any Road hazards. Adjust travel plans according to local weather forecasts and seasonal changes, such as occasional heavy rains or snow in the mountainous areas that may affect driving conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The entire route can be enjoyed over a leisurely 10 days, allowing plenty of time for exploration and relaxation.
- This Road Trip caters to drivers of varying expertise and offers options for different budgets, with an array of accommodations and dining choices along the way.
- The diverse route offers a deep dive into the cultural fabric of Spain, with opportunities to experience its history, art, and natural splendors firsthand.
A good choice for:
Gear up for a memorable expedition that encapsulates the essence of North Spain's culture, heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. This Road Trip is not just a journey through miles; it's a passage through time, flavors, and the boundless beauty of one of Europe's most enchanting regions.
-
