Santander, Spain - Calais, France 22 days trip

Completely rebuilt following a fire in 1941, Santander is somewhat modern yet still offers a tranquil beach spirit.

The medieval town center was mostly destroyed by 1941 in fire, but today you will find cafes and shopping among the busy locals.

A popular beach comprised of four separate stretches, each with relaxing sand and many amenities.

Many urban and just-out-of-town beaches await you for swimming, beach-combing, and much-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy a stroll on the seafront that used to entertain the Spanish royalty in the 19C, and soak up the fresh sea breeze.

This mountain range is a popular road trip destination for its scenery, boasting popular viewpoints attracting many hikers.

These famous caves are a must-see, with paintings dating as far back as 18,500 BC.

From this lighthouse you are treated to incredible panoramic views of the sea and the nearby island.

Get out of the center and enjoy this lovely park of green underfoot and blue on the horizon, with a side trip to the zoo.

This comprehensive collection focuses primarily on the Prehistory and Paleolithic periods of Cantabria.

Explore this remarkably rich 20km gorge, with stops at some tiny villages along the way, as well as the 10C Mozarabic church.

Bilbao is an interesting city with a strong culture of art and architecture, as well as numerous museums on a variety of themes.

Bilbao is an interesting city with a strong culture of art and architecture, as well as numerous museums on a variety of themes.

Housed in perhaps the most important Gehry-designed structure, this museum is a treasure of 20C art spread among 20 galleries.

While exploring the historic sites, take time to also relax in a cafe and browse shops in the historic center.

This museum is a must-see to admire the work of numerous renowned artists, not least of which are Goya, Le Greco, and Ribeira.

This iron "hanging bridge" is Spain's only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Industrial Heritage category for its "beauty and functionality."

Take a private tour of this cave, whose artifacts and cave drawings date back nearly 13,000 years.

An off-the-beaten-path fishing village worth a visit for its great beaches, as well as its unbeatable sense of peacefulness.

This museum traces Bilbao's long naval history, from the wreck of the 15C "Urbiets" all the way to contemporary activities.

Housed in a 16C convent, this collection is notable for its Basque objects and wood sculptures depicting the "Virgin and Child."

The collection at this museum provides a comprehensive picture of the everyday lives, traditions, and customs of the Basques.

This picturesque viewpoint is worth the small walk, especially with the alluring 11C hermitage perched on the tip of the headland.

If energized, climb this 927m summit for a peaceful landscape that covers immense woods, the Urenderra River, and unending views.

Set on the Bay of Biscay, this town and its history is only rivaled by the sunny beaches and superb local cuisine.

This road runs along the coast in the Basque country, offering stops at numerous beautiful views and several fishing ports.

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a lively city filled with restaurants, shops, buzzing nightlife, and historical sites.

These winding cobbled streets are where you’ll find the city's trendiest restaurants, bars and shops.

Wander through the lively streets of Lisbon and discover beautiful architecture, historical sites, and stunning viewpoints.

A 5C hillside castle that has been modified throughout the centuries. It boasts beautiful scenic views of the surrounding area.

A 16C architectural gem of Manueline art, the UNESCO World Heritage Site monastery features an ornate facade and a peaceful courtyard.

The highest mountain range in Continental Portugal, it is popular for its great ski resort, beautiful nature park and delicious cheese.

A majestic 19C Romanticist hilltop palace, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

An art museum displaying a vast collection of ancient Oriental and Classical art, as well as 11C-20C European art.

A 17C palace, formerly used as hunting pavilion, it boasts a 16C chapel and beautiful artwork decorating the different rooms.

A 16C Romanesque-Gothic tower, originally built to serve as a lighthouse. It offers beautiful views of the river and the city.

A wide pedestrian avenue, lined with architectural gems, it is the perfect spot for enjoying a shopping trip and a pleasant meal.

Surrounded by lush gardens, this 19C villa is famed for a superb mixture of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish architectural elements.

A scenic viewpoint at 500m above sea level in a natural park, home to a large cross and spectacular panoramic views.

Lisbon’s oldest church was built in the 12C. Its continuous reconstruction resulted in an intriguing mix of architectural styles.

This 16C garden is the ideal spot for enjoying a peaceful afternoon in the sun or a short walk in the woods.

Climb to the top of this historical stone monument to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the old town, castle and river.

Set in a charming garden, this is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful belvederes, offering spectacular views of the city and the river.

A 200ha splendid natural park, set on a mountain range near Sintra, home to several plant species, picnic grounds and viewpoints.

An impressive and majestic 17C Baroque palace and monastery, containing a basilica, two main towers, a convent and a library.

The capital of Andalucia, Seville is steeped in its history yet fully embraces the modern-day, providing a full experience.

This palatial complex boasts fine Mudejar architecture, elaborate gardens, superb interior, exquisite decor, and rich history.

Exploring the historic center is a fun and satisfying activity, given the historical and modern-day atmosphere of the area.

Boasting a rich Jewish past, this quarter is a charming area full of with quaint streets, decorated houses, and a nice atmosphere.

As the third largest cathedral in the world, this one is a perfect example of Spanish Gothic, featuring an elaborate interior.

One of the largest national parks in Europe, these 50,000ha span wetlands, dunes, and forests, all with a wide array of wildlife.

Visit Setenil for its fascinating houses built entirely into the cliffs, to the extent that one street is entirely in a tunnel.

This Mudejar-style palace is a beautiful structure to tour, with architectural details and artworks spanning several centuries.

Allegedly the largest wooden structure in the world, and is nicknamed "unicorn's mushrooms."

This majestic plaza incorporates a canal within its semicircular shape and offers 58 benches, one for each Spanish province.

Once a stately minaret, this cathedral tower dates to the 12C, boasting a height of over 100m and spectacular views of the area.

With so much to see in this park, choose at least one visitor center to decide: Aracena, Almonaster la Real, Cotegana, or Aroche.

Dating to 760, this fortress offers a good walk among its towers and walls, with evidence of its Muslim, Roman, and Berber past.

This 16C palace combines Mudejar, Renaissance, and Gothic styles, featuring fabulous decor and a lovely courtyard.

Housed in a 16C convent, this museum displays a grand array of Spanish artists from the Middle Ages to the 20C.

Created in the 20C by KIng Alfonso, this award winning walkway offers breathtaking views, stunning nature, and a thrilling experience.

Walk along the walls of this narrow gorge to enjoy breathtaking views and a truly unique experience. Children must be at least eight years old.

An ancient city located on the gorgeous southern coast, this city is full of historic landmarks and offers marvelous beaches.

Home to a collection of vehicles from the late 19C up to WWI, this excellent museum depicts the evolution of the automobile.

The historic center is an "open-air museum," with Phoenician, Roman, Arabic, and Christian artifacts visible throughout the area.

An immense 11C Moorish fortress, superbly preserved with its courtyards, gardens, fortifications, and an adjacent museum.

Relaxing on the Malaga beach is a must-do, especially with its soothing sands and expansive promenades.

Created in the 20C by KIng Alfonso, this award winning walkway offers breathtaking views, stunning nature, and a thrilling experience.

Walk along the walls of this narrow gorge to enjoy breathtaking views and a truly unique experience. Children must be at least eight years old.

Dating to the 16C, this cathedral fuses Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architectures, presenting an awe-striking cultural gem.

Make your way to the old lighthouse for a spectacular view of the city, the sprawling sea, and the nearby mountains.

Extensively reconstructed in the 17C, this basilica features Baroque architecture, fine ornaments, and a small ecclesiastical museum.

A short walk from the El Chorro campsite leads to a suspension bridge stretching over one of the most stunning gorges there are.

This immense cave is a show of natural wonder and a testament to the Paleolithic Era with findings of weapons, bones, and more.

Visit Setenil for its fascinating houses built entirely into the cliffs, to the extent that one street is entirely in a tunnel.

Once a home to bandits on its lofty cliffs, the city now offers an array of historic buildings and monuments, as well as great views.

While Valencia retains a pride and tight connection to its past, it also is extremely modernized in its demeanor and culture.

Begin exploring Old Valencia by having breakfast or lunch in the friendly and bustling Mare de Deu Plaza.

This expansive complex includes an opera hall, an interactive science museum, and the largest aquarium in Europe.

The Valencia beach is popular for its sand, sun, and surf, with some areas offering amenities and others more tranquil.

Housed in a 17C palace, this museum hosts a wealth of medieval artworks, as well as sculptures, archaeological findings, and more.

Book in advance if you want to visit this amazing winery, sampling Spanish wines and enjoying the views of the surrounding vineyards.

Trace the history of this castle by the artifacts left by its former inhabitants, from Romans, to Arabs, to Christians.

Dating to the 13C, this Gothic church as built on the site of a mosque. It is renowned for its unique mixture of architectural styles.

Part of the City of Arts and Sciences, this must-see aquarium, the largest in Europe, is home to more than 500 aquatic species.

This 15C Gothic building was once the heart of Valencia's trade, and now retains ornate exterior and elaborate decor.

Housed in a 15C Baroque palace with lavish exterior, the museum displays over 5,000 ceramic artworks dating as far back as the 13C.

Learn about Spanish wine production and sample some delicious wines at this excellent winery. Make sure to book in advance.

Known for its rich history and amazing old architecture, this remarkable Spanish town hosts annual festivals to celebrate its iconic castle.

If not traveling by train, you should visit this modern early 20C station, with murals throughout complimenting its uniqueness.

Built in the 14C, this Templar fort guarantees a lengthy visit as you explore its ramparts and views of the surroundings.

A beautiful mountain town, Teruel shows off an interesting landscape of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences from its past.

A vibrant metropolis set on the Mediterranean Sea, famed for its brilliant architecture, rich culture, and captivating history.

Recognized as the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, this incomplete church is an exquisite blend of Gothicism and Art Nouveau.

In the heart of the city center, this historic quarter is full of Gothic architectural gems, as well as artifacts dating to the 4C.

The center remains the heart of Barcelona, combining historic sites and cultural monuments with cafes, shops, and fun activities.

Once the city's infamous Chinatown, today the neighborhood is best known for its nightlife and a myriad of diverse eateries.

The intensity of this mountain's facade has influenced Wagner and other artists, as well those worshiping the Virgin Mary.

Dating to the 11C, this cliffside monastery boasts Romanesque features and is surrounded by the breathtaking nature of the Cingles de Berti.

Located centrally in the Gothic Quarter, this cultural square is surrounded by some of Barcelona's most grand medieval buildings.

Walk down this major avenue, admiring fantastic architectural gems, browsing the various shops, and enjoying the local cafes.

Established in the 15C, this famous avenue is lively, colorful, and manic, with ever-changing commerce, nature, and celebrations.

This immense square is a nice spot for some shopping, and turns into a nightlife and cuisine hub in the evenings.

A beautiful mountaintop abbey that offers breathtaking views over the whole of Catalonia, and houses a famed image of Black Madonna.

This viewpoint at 1,236m is surrounded by captivating rock formations, offering striking views of the Pyrenees and the Catalan coast.

A marvel of landscaping by Antoni Gaudi, this park blends lush gardens with architectural curios, and is full of whimsical statues.

Visit the city's marina and discover a bustling area great for eating, drinking, and enjoying the views and happenings.

Housed in a 15C Gothic palace, this superb museum hosts a wealth of historic relics, including wonderful archaeological findings.

Recognized by National Geographic as the world's best city beach, this great shoreline stretches for over 4km and fits all tastes.

Heavenly visions guided two young shepherds to this cave in the 9C, where they discovered a relic of the Virgin Mary.

Take a guided tour through the salt mines to explore the breathtaking caves and learn about salt mining in the region.

Housed in the National Palace, this museum includes excellent collections covering art and artifacts from Roman times to modern.

This flamboyant concert hall displays the best of Catalan culture both inside and out, boasting exquisite ornaments and architecture.

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Gaudi-designed masterpiece from the early 20C offers a museum and roof-top tour.

This 13C Gothic cathedral is a wonder, featuring an array of decorative elements and allowing access to the roof for great views.

This beach town is friendly and fun, with a wealth of Modernist structures, reflecting many artists who frequented here.

A 12C monastery superbly blending architectures, with a multitude of galleries devoted to Moor, Romanesque, or Gothic influences.

This town is not to be missed with its impressive and extremely well-preserved citadel, as well as its abundance of history.

Stroll through the fantastic old town of Carcassonne to enjoy this Medieval-style city.

Dedicate time to explore the narrow streets and the great restaurants of the lower town.

Following a paralyzing injury, the influental Bousquet wrote his strange and dark poems as a recluse in this house.

This eclectic museum is dedicated to classic paintings, porcelain, and regional art.

This high-perched citadel has two adjacent but separate castles, and offers a spectacular view over the Languedoc region.

Explore this 15C fortress, built by the Spanish, and accessible top visitors from the highway rest-stop.

This basilica is a perfect merge of Romanesque and Gothic styles.

The heart of Monaco, Monte Carlo embodies the luxurious spirit of the region and is known for its beaches, castle, and gardens.

Relax in the warm sun on Monte Carlo's stunning beach, which some say is the nicest of the French Riviera.

Wander through Monte Carlo and enjoy the stunning architecture and nature, steeped in 700 years of Grimaldi history.

With over 700 types of succulents, this unique garden is also home to an observatory cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Built in the 12C, sections of the Monaco's official royal residence are open to the public for tours during the summer.

Known for its famous "Promenade des Anglais", this port city boasts a rich cultural life and a profusion of modern artworks.

Cannes is a famous upscale seaside resort town in the Riviera, it offers fantastic beaches, food, and nightlife.

Escape the busy city in this lovely green park, named for Princess Antoinette of Monaco, the elder sister of Rainier III.

The museum itself is a stunning example of Baroque Revival architecture, it exhibits sea flora and fauna, and houses an aquarium.

Prince Rainer III of Monaco's personal car collection is made up of over 100 cars and exhibited across five floors.

Home to some of the coast's most luxurious boats, the harbor is also lined with a variety of high class boutiques and shops.

Admire the superb Cians River as it winds through the natural sculptures it created over the years.

Profuse with fresh greenery and the unique color of red cliffs, this gorge is a must-see in the Var region.

Enjoy the good food, stroll in the old port, and relax at the beach in this city full of life and excitement.

This is a wonderful place to relax for a day or more, with wildlife surrounding little cabins and a great restaurant.

One of the city's best known landmarks, this iconic church overlooks the city and offers beautiful views.

This cultural center houses several museums, as well as hosts ongoing events throughout the year.

The most visited site of Marseille, this castle owes its fame to Alexandre Dumas's novel "The Count of Monte Cristo".

Beautiful nature is evident all around this massif, whether admiring the landscapes or relaxing at the beaches.

This is a beautiful archipelago with many charming islands, such as Le Levant and Porquerolles.

This historic center is wonderful for walking and admiring the architecture and locales.

Although sometimes crowded in the afternoon, you will always find a good spot to relax on this beach.

A museum focused on Mediterranean culture through artifacts from Egyptian, Cypriot, Greek, and other civilizations.

The historic art in this immense collection is fantastically exhibited, making this an irresistible museum.

Youthful and progressive, this town remains charming and provincial with its monuments, facades, and architecture from the past.

From the Cap Canaille Massif you will enjoy breathtaking views and beautiful cliffs.