“I joined the “Grand Tour of Northern Spain” with Indus Travels to see a very different side of Spain beyond the usual Madrid–Barcelona route, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding itineraries I’ve done in Europe. Starting in Madrid with its elegant boulevards and royal squares, the journey then moved north through historic cities and coastal towns—Santiago de Compostela, Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastián—showcasing everything from pilgrim routes and Gothic cathedrals to green cliffs, fishing ports, and Basque pintxos bars. The pacing felt well judged: guided touring in the mornings, then free time to wander old quarters, linger over seafood lunches, or sit with a glass of Rioja watching local life unfold. Hotels were comfortable, transportation between regions was smooth, and having a structured route through such a varied area made it easy to experience Northern Spain’s landscapes, food, and regional cultures without the headache of planning it all myself.”
