The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Burgos, Castilla y León and Bilbao, País Vasco

Burgos in Castilla y León and Bilbao in País Vasco are two of the most picturesque and historically rich cities of Spain. A road trip from one city to another will take you through some of the most breathtaking valleys and mountains. The halfway point, Miranda de Ebro, BU, provides ample opportunities to refuel and take a little break.

Starting from Burgos, visitors can expect to be greeted by an 800-year old Gothic cathedral and the Huelgas Monastery. The monastery serves as a burial place for the Spanish monarchy, and the cathedral is famous for the intricate details throughout its architecture. Cruising along the quiet country roads to Bilbao, visitors can see the stunning limestone cliffs carved by the Nervión River.

The Top Five Things to do on a Road Trip from Burgos, Castilla y León and Bilbao, País Vasco

1. Museo Guggenheim Bilbao

The Museo Guggenheim is a must-see attraction in Bilbao, and a perfect way to immerse oneself in the city's contemporary art scene. Opened in 1997, its strange, undulating curves reflect its location on the Nervion River, and inside, unique exhibitions from the likes of Yoko Ono and Richard Serra, adorn the floors and walls. The museum is a work of art in itself, even before you step inside.

Interesting Fact: The building was designed with titanium panels that change color throughout the day giving the impression of a shimmering waterfall.

2. Old Town (Casco Viejo) Bilbao

The historic center of the city, known as the Old Town, is home to some of the most well-preserved traditional architecture in the city. The cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and numerous bars and restaurants offer a glimpse into the city's distant past. Every corner brings a new discovery, such as the gothic Catedral de Santiago from the 14th century, or the Plaza Nueva, a popular gathering place.

Interesting Fact: The Old Town is one of the Seven Streets, each with its own specialty shops revealing the city's trading past where the Estuary meets the sea.

3. Santiago de Compostela

The UNESCO World Heritage old town in Santiago de Compostela, rebuilt in the 11th century, is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Europe. It is the destination of an ancient walking route across Northern Spain, the Camino de Santiago, which has existed for almost a thousand years. Walking around the town visitors can see the stunning 18th-century baroque facade of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and the magnificent Raxoi Palace.

Interesting Fact: In the Middle Ages, people who undertook the Camino de Santiago believed that the Scallop shell was a symbol of good luck and that wearing one made you visible to other pilgrims.

4. Rioja Vineyards

The Rioja region lies between Burgos and Bilbao, and road-trippers should make a stop to explore the vast vineyards that the area boasts. The lush, green vineyards provide visitors with an opportunity to visit some of the most famous wineries in the region. Visitors can learn about the grape types used in the production of wine, the fermentation process, the aging process, and the history of wine production in the Rioja region.

Interesting Fact: In Rioja, after months of being processed and aged, the wine is sent to cellars made up of abandoned caves and underground tunnels with a natural temperature throughout the year.

5. Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is a triumph of modern architecture and breathtaking engineering. The work of architect Frank Gehry, it is known for its curved design and titanium exterior. Inside, visitors will find a vast collection of modern and contemporary artwork, with permanent and rotating exhibitions. The museum is often cited as an inspiration for buildings of the 21st century and is a must-stop location in this route.

Interesting Fact: The museum acts as a cultural magnet for the city, and has helped put Bilbao, once a declining industrial town, back on the map.

Conclusion

The road trip from Burgos in Castilla y León to Bilbao in País Vasco offers travellers an opportunity to take in some of the most beautiful scenery in the Northern region of Spain. Stops along the way offer a glimpse into the country's rich history, with stunning vineyards, ancient monasteries, grand cathedrals, and world-class museums. The trip usually takes around three hours and is the perfect way to experience everything that Spain has to offer.