northern spain
 

I will be in Bilbao mid Sept. Other cities to go to?? Burgos? Leon? Train or auto? Hotel--moderate?

Hi Carol. My friend and I will also be travelling in northern Spain for the first two weeks of September. Our tentative itinerary is: Barcelona (4 days), Pamplona (2 days), San Sebastian (2 days), Bilbao (1 day), Burgos (1 day) and finally Madrid (2 days). We are leaving 2 days open just in case we decide to stay in one city longer. We're definitely driving to take advantage of the scenery but my uncle in Madrid said that the major cities in the Basque region are not more than 70 minutes away from each other and easily accessible by train or bus if we decide not drive. We also been advised to stay overnight in each city so we can experience the night life. Hopefully I provided some ideas for you.

Joe--thanks for your response. I can't wait to see the Guggenheim in Bilbao. I've done a lot in southern Spain years ago. Have a great trip/buen viaje. Carol

We found Logrono to be an easy-pacved city near to vineyards and on the Camino Frances. If you're contemplating going as far as Leon (great stained glass in the Cathedral) then a trip to Santiago de Compostela is not too far away. If motoring, it's about 12 to 15 hours driving time between Pamplona and Santiago. However there are many sights along the way that will grab your attention. Buen Camino.

San Sebastian would definitely be on my list.

Driving is good option but buses are very comfortable, too. Between Bilbao and San Sebastian PESA BUSES every hour (it takes 1hour), San Sebastian-burgos CONTINENTAL AUTO BUSES, every 3 hours (it takes 3-3and1/2, the same for Burgos-Madrid. From Barcelona to Pamplona VIBASA BUSES ( 3 departures per day) and it takes around 5 hours. Pamplona-San Sebastian LA RONCALESA BUSES, every hour and it takes less than 1 hour. I would choose the bus but there is also a train service among all these cities. Hope this help. BTW, I live in San Sebastian, email me if you want some information about this beautiful city (can help too with the others!)