Is Northern Spain underrated?

Look no further than Northern Spain! Often overlooked by travellers, this region boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery and historic towns in all of Spain. From vibrant cities like Bilbao and Santander to rugged coastlines and mountains, Northern Spain has something for everyone.



Northern Spain (the "Green Spain" regions of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country) is widely considered highly underrated compared to the overcrowded Mediterranean coast. While 2026 is seeing a massive tourism boom in Spain, the north remains a "hidden gem" for those seeking dramatic Atlantic cliffs, emerald-green mountains, and world-class gastronomy without the "over-tourism" of Barcelona or Madrid. Destinations like San Sebastián (famous for its Michelin stars) and Santiago de Compostela (the end of the Camino) are gaining popularity, but the rugged Picos de Europa mountains and the quiet beaches of the Costa da Morte still offer an authentic, tranquil experience. The cooler, temperate climate is also becoming increasingly attractive to travelers looking to escape the extreme heatwaves of Southern Europe, making Northern Spain a top-tier choice for the "smart traveler" in 2026.

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Northern Spain is a place filled with nuance, and you need time to appreciate it and really get a feel for the culture, style of life, and regional flavor. Of course, even with only a few days, you can still visit some outstanding areas and get a taste for the region.

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It depends on the price: Northern Spain is not very touristic yet so prices, though high, are not so high (always comparing the same category hotels). For food and going out both southern and northern Spain are quite cheap.

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