Slowfoxes
Slow travel route·🇪🇸 Spain

FEVE Green Coast: Route Map, Stops & Best Time

Scenic Train Trip from Bilbao to Santiago de Compostella

Duration14 days
Stops7 stops
Best timeLate spring to early autumn — dry Atlantic coast, warm beach days, fully operating FEVE schedule
CategoriesPanoramic Trains
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BilbaoBilbao

Photo: “Bilbao - Zubizuri 07” by Basotxerri, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Resized; cropped to fit the layout. Shared under the same licence.

The itinerary

The stops.

7 stops07
01Stop · Start
Camper Van Rentals·Spain

Bilbao

Dynamic city known for modern architecture, vibrant arts scene, and Basque cuisine.

⌬Guggenheim Museum⌬Old town⌬Basque Cuisine⌬Ribera Market
03Stop · Midway
Panoramic Trains·Spain

Llanes

Coastal town with medieval walls, beaches, and Picos de Europa backdrop.

⌬Medieval old town and walls⌬Over 30 beaches and coves⌬Picos de Europa mountain backdrop⌬Cubes of Memory harbor sculpture
The shape of it

Route map.

7 stops · 6 legs
Why this route

Highlights of this route.

01

Bilbao Guggenheim and Basque pintxos tours

Titanium curves reflect the Nervión river while nearby bars serve anchovy pintxos.

02

Santander beaches and maritime old town

Golden beaches curve around the bay below Santander's maritime quarter.

03

Llanes medieval walls with Picos de Europa backdrop

Medieval stone walls frame the Picos de Europa peaks rising inland.

04

Gijón's seafront and cider houses

Seafront promenades lead to traditional sidrerías pouring Asturian cider.

Book your experience

What's actually available to you.

7 stops
01.BilbaoSpain
Camper Van Rentals
La Robla Express
Panoramic Trains
Costa Verde Express
Panoramic Trains
Hiking trails
Hiking
Los Fueros
Local Cuisine
Las Lías Bilbao
Local Cuisine
AL Margen
Local Cuisine
Txirene
Local Cuisine
02.SantanderSpain
Panoramic Trains
Hiking trails
Hiking
Bodega del Riojano
Local Cuisine
03.LlanesSpain
Panoramic Trains
Hiking trails
Hiking
Le Bistró
Local Cuisine
04.GijónSpain
Panoramic Trains
Hiking trails
Hiking
05.OviedoSpain
Panoramic Trains
Hiking trails
Hiking
06.LuarcaSpain
Panoramic Trains
Panoramic Trains
Hiking trails
Hiking
Abastos 2.0 - Mesas
Local Cuisine
A Horta d'Obradoiro
Local Cuisine
Café de Altamira
Local Cuisine
Pampín Bar
Local Cuisine
Zoom out

Regions on this route.

4 regions
Asturias

Photo: HombreDHojalata · CC BY-SA 3.0

Spain6 destinations

Asturias

Asturias, bordered by the Cantabrian Sea to the north, is known for its rugged coastline and lush green landscapes. This region is the only one in Spain with both mountains and the sea, presenting a unique blend of natural beauty. Oviedo, the capital, is famed for its pre-Romanesque architecture and vibrant cultural scene, while Gijón offers beaches and a lively harbor. The Picos de Europa National Park attracts hikers with its dramatic peaks and diverse wildlife. Asturias is also recognized for its cider production, with traditional sidrerías dotting the landscape. With its rich history, including the medieval kingdom of Asturias, this region offers a deep dive into local culture, making it a fascinating destination for exploration.

Panoramic TrainsHikingLocal Cuisine
Galicia
Spain8 destinations

Galicia

This region is the largest in Spain, featuring a stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its rich Celtic heritage, Galicia boasts historical towns like Santiago de Compostela, famous for its pilgrimage routes and the impressive cathedral. The Rías Baixas area is celebrated for its Albariño wine, while the rugged shores offer scenic beauty, including the dramatic cliffs of the Costa da Morte. Traditional crafts, such as pottery and weaving, reflect the local culture. Visitors can explore lesser-known villages like Combarro and O Cebreiro, which showcase ancient architecture and regional gastronomy. Unique festivals, such as the Romería de San Juan, highlight local traditions and community spirit, making this region a treasure trove for those seeking depth in their travels.

Panoramic TrainsHikingWine TastingLocal Cuisine
Basque Country

Photo: Basotxerri · CC BY-SA 4.0

Spain1 destination

Basque Country

Basque Country is a unique region known for its distinct culture and language, Euskara. It's the only Spanish region with a coastline along the Bay of Biscay, featuring beautiful beaches and rugged cliffs. The largest city, Bilbao, is home to the modern Guggenheim Museum, but the true essence of Basque life can be found in smaller towns like Getaria, famous for its grilled fish and Txakoli wine. San Sebastián offers culinary delights and stunning beaches, while the historic town of Hondarribia showcases medieval architecture. The region is also rich in festivals, such as the Fiestas de la Virgen Blanca, celebrating local traditions. Its lush landscapes include the Picos de Europa mountains, perfect for hiking. Discovering local gastronomy, including pintxos and Basque cider, adds to the immersive experience.

Camper Van RentalsPanoramic TrainsHikingLocal Cuisine
Cantabria

Photo: Noreenlam · CC BY-SA 3.0

Spain3 destinations

Cantabria

Cantabria, located on Spain's northern coast, is the only region in the country with a coastline along the Bay of Biscay. Known for its dramatic landscapes, it features the Picos de Europa mountains, offering numerous hiking trails and stunning vistas. The region's capital, Santander, is renowned for its beaches and cultural institutions like the Centro Botín. Explore the prehistoric caves of Altamira, which house some of the world's most important cave paintings. Off the beaten path, towns like Comillas showcase unique architecture, including the Gaudí-designed El Capricho. With a rich maritime history, Cantabria is famous for its seafood and traditional dishes such as sobao pasiego and quesada. The local festivals celebrate both culture and gastronomy, highlighting the region's vibrant traditions.

Panoramic TrainsHikingLocal Cuisine
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