New Rural Romania Tour
Departing 4 September 2025
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Over 60% of Travellers Return to Holiday with us Year After Year
Created for People Who Love Rail Holidays
Green Hills of Spain by Train
A City, Cultural & Coastal Journey
Tour Overview
Embark on a flight-free rail adventure through northern Spain’s lush ‘green’ coastline, where breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities, and rich Basque culture await.
- This tailored tour can be adapted if travellers prefer to include flights, but for a slow travel experience begin with a relaxing train journey through France, perhaps stopping overnight in the historic city of Poitiers, before continuing south into Spain.
- Your journey takes you through San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santander, Gijón, and A Coruña, with ample time to explore each destination. Discover San Sebastián’s world-famous cuisine, Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, and Santander’s elegant seaside charm. As you travel west, admire Gijón’s maritime heritage and A Coruña’s impressive Tower of Hercules, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of northern Spain.
- Enjoy the convenience of seamless travel that allows you to simply relax and take in the scenery. You may wish your adventure to continue to the historic pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela, before heading inland to León, home to a magnificent Gothic cathedral and a charming old town filled with lively tapas bars.
- This tour is entirely by rail, making it an eco-friendly and stress-free way to explore northern Spain’s coastal beauty. You have the option to extend your journey in France or customize your itinerary to suit your pace of touring. Sit back and enjoy superb rail routes that follow the dramatic Atlantic coastline, offering a unique perspective on one of Spain’s most picturesque regions, bursting with cultural treasures.
Travel Tips
- This tour is best taken in late spring or early autumn for a balance of good weather, manageable crowds and plenty of activities
- Northern Spain, often referred to as "Green Spain," is a stunning region with lush landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural and culinary heritage. Be sure to include stays in San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Gijón, A Coruña and León
- Book early to secure the best rates and availability at hotels, Northern Spain is a popular destination for both tourists and locals
- Similarly, be sure to book any excursions in advance as things can often book up ahead of time
- Renfe and FEVE’s services are generally reliable but not as extensive as in other parts of Spain – you may wish to consider hiring a car in some locations for flexibility, especially if you plan to explore rural areas or the stunning coastline
- Expect variable weather. Even if visiting in summer, northern Spain can be cool and rainy, so pack layers and a lightweight waterproof jacket if you can
- Shops and smaller restaurants may observe siesta hours and close in the afternoon (usually from 2-5pm), plan your shopping and meals accordingly
- If time allows between your stays at A Coruña and León, you may wish to visit Santiago de Compostela. The Old Town (Casco Histórico) is a UNESCO-listed treasure. Its narrow, winding streets are full of historic charm, stone buildings, and delightful squares like the Praza da Quintana and Praza das Praterías
- This tour may benefit from using a 15-Day Global InterRail Pass for added flexibility. If possible, upgrade to First Class for additional comfort
What Ffestiniog Travel Will Do
Transport
- Arrange all travel - rail and flights based on your preferred dates
- Arrange travel passes
- Reserve seating based on your chosen class
- Organise car hire if required
Accommodation
- Arrange all accommodation based on your budget
Planning
- Plan a bespoke day-to-day itinerary
- Arrange excursions tailored to your desired trip
Enquire Now
