A Culinary Journey Through Northern Spain

Inspired by the sea, mountains, gastronomy, and distinctive cultures of Northern Spain, this journey explores the remarkable regions that stretch along the Bay of Biscay, from the Basque Country and La Rioja to Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia —from the Michelin-starred restaurants of San Sebastián and the celebrated vineyards of La Rioja to the vibrant waterfront of Bilbao, the coastal elegance of Santander, the cider houses of Oviedo, and Santiago de Compostela with the incredible cathedral where millions of pilgrims have traveled for centuries.

The Basque Country

Start your Culinary Journey of northern Spain in the food capital of the Basque Lands. Set on the beautiful Bay of Biscay, Donostia – San Sebastián is the ideal place to begin exploring this Culinary Journey of Northern Spain.

Pinxto are what the Basque call Tapas, the differences you will discover during your visit. This pinxto, the Gilda, was inspired by a certain actress in a1946 film “Gilda”… do you know who this green eyed “spicy actress” was?

La Rioja

In La Rioja, Spain’s premier wine region, rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and centuries of winemaking traditions shape one of Europe’s most celebrated wine destinations. Stay two nights in Logroño, the region’s vibrant capital, exploring its historic center and the famous Calle Laurel, where traditional tapas bars serve regional specialties perfectly paired with Rioja wines.

Historic bodegas, centuries-old wine cellars, and renowned tasting experiences offer a fascinating introduction to the traditions, craftsmanship, and heritage that have made La Rioja one of the world’s great wine regions.

Your Journey Continues: Cantabria & Asturias

Continuing west along the Bay of Biscay, the journey enters Cantabria and Asturias where dramatic coastlines, green valleys, and the Cantabrian Mountains shape the landscape.

Santander

Discover the authentic taste of Cantabria on a curated food tour through Santander. We bridge the bounty of the Atlantic with the rich traditions of the highlands, starting at the bustling Mercado de la Esperanza.

From the Sea: Crispy, golden rabas (squid) and world-renowned Cantabrian anchovies.
From the Mountains: Hearty, slow-simmered cocido montañés pork and bean stew.

A short distance away is Santillana del Mar, a perfectly preserved medieval town defined by centuries-old cobblestone streets and grand Renaissance palaces, Romanesque architecture, and ancient defensive stone towers.

Oviedo

Oviedo offers an elegant introduction to Asturian heritage through its walkable old town, vibrant plazas, and rare pre-Romanesque architecture

Oviedo is an ancient and vibrant town with rare pre-Romanesque architecture where centuries of history anchor the city center.

On Calle Gascona, known globally as the Cider Boulevard, a dense concentration of traditional cider houses, or sidrerías where local experts perform the escanciar technique, pouring the liquid from high above the glass to introduce air.

Entering Galicia: Atlantic Flavors & Traditions

This journey continues into Galicia, a region shaped by the Atlantic, rich culinary traditions, and a unique cultural identity perhaps best known for Santiago de Compostela the ancient pilgrimage site of St. James the Apostle.

Santiago de Compostela

The journey concludes in Santiago de Compostela, the spiritual heart of Galicia where for centuries, pilgrims have traveled to to visit the Cathedral of Santiago.

Santiago offers a memorable introduction to Galician gastronomy. From fresh seafood and traditional markets to regional specialties, Albariño wines, and the famous tarta de Santiago, the city provides a fitting culinary finale to a journey through Northern Spain.

The itinerary presented here is designed to inspire the possibilities of travel throughout these remarkable regions and can be customized to match your interests, travel style, pace, and schedule. We create every journey from the ground up, combining luxury accommodations, private transportation, knowledgeable local guides. Contact Us to make this journey to northern Spain your dream trip.

Start Your Journey