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Camino del Norte: Stage 2 - Bilbao to Santander - 8 Days
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Overview
The Camino del Norte from Bilbao to Santander is a 154-kilometre coastal walk, offering one of Spain's most beautiful and culturally rich routes. Beginning in the vibrant Basque city of Bilbao, famed for its modern architecture and the iconic Guggenheim Museum, the path follows the northern coastline along the Bay of Biscay. The route takes in a mix of industrial heritage and scenic beauty, threading through small fishing towns and lush coastal landscapes.
This Camino de Santiago segment rewards pilgrims with spectacular landscapes at every turn. The region uniquely balances ancient traditions with contemporary life, creating an atmosphere distinctly its own within Spain. On the way you encounter religious sites, chapels, and medieval structures as you walk. The path leads through the noteworthy towns of Portugalete, Castro Urdiales, Laredo, and Noja, culminating in Santander, a seaside city celebrated for its stunning vistas and laid-back coastal ambience.
The final leg into Santander features more coastal paths and rural scenery, with panoramic views of the city welcoming walkers as they conclude their pilgrimage at the impressive Cathedral of Santander. The Bilbao to Santander section of the Camino combines physical challenge, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes, making it a memorable experience for any pilgrim.
Highlights
- Walk alongside fellow pilgrims on the less travelled Camino del Norte route (Northern Camino)
- Start in the dynamic Basque city, home to the renowned Guggenheim Museum.
- Explore a medieval seaside town with a striking Gothic church and scenic harbor.
- Relax at La Salvé Beach, a 5-kilometer stretch of golden sand.
- Enjoy dramatic coastal cliffs, ocean panoramas, and eucalyptus forests along the route.
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge, the world’s oldest transporter bridge.
- Finish at the Cathedral of Santander, with sweeping views of the bay and city skyline.
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Itinerary
Day 1
Your adventure starts in Bilbao, a picturesque city tucked between the sea and the mountains, offering a breathtaking setting for the beginning of your pilgrimage. Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao or the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum. Walk along the Estuary, or wander through the Casco Viejo (Old Town). There is so much to do here, it may be worth an extra pre-tour night.
Hotel in Bilbao
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotel (7 nights)
Meals
7 breakfasts, 0 lunches, and 0 dinners
Transfers
- Luggage Transfers
Guidance & Support
- Itinerary & Walk Notes
- Walking App for Navigation
- 24/7 on-trip support
How We Rate This Walk
Stroll Walking Level
Moderate
Rated by our team — we walk every route before we recommend it.
Expect some hills and longer walking days. A reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience.
View Fitness Guide6
Days on the trail
15-26 km
Average per walking day
105-441 m
Gain per day
-
Trail difficulty
Where You'll Stay
Throughout this stage, you will stay in intimate, family-run hotels and guesthouses that have been receiving walkers for generations, true to the spirit of the Camino. All rooms are en-suite, and with most guests sharing the same journey, the atmosphere here is unlike a standard hotel stay. On occasion, alternative properties of equivalent quality may be substituted for those listed.
Single Rooms
Those preferring a single room should book as early as possible. Availability can be limited on this popular stage and a single occupancy fee applies.
What You'll Eat
Seven breakfasts are included throughout the trip, helping set you up for the day’s walking ahead. Many of the properties along the route feature their own restaurants serving regional dishes, with dinners available to add as a supplement each evening if you wish. Lunches are best approached as part of the Camino experience, gathered from local shops and markets along the way, where excellent cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked breads are easy to find.
Note: Please advise us of any food allergies or intolerances at the time of booking. If you have severe allergies, bringing some of your own snacks is recommended, as specialist ingredients can be harder to source along the route.
More About This Trip
Dates & Pricing
Choose Your Start Date
Pick any available date — this is your trip, your schedule
June 2026
July 2026
Prices shown are per person, twin/double share basis.
Camino del Norte reviews
Frequently asked questions
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