What is Green Spain?

The four cantabrian regions, in northern Spain (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and Basque Country) are also known as Green Spain thanks to its perpetual green scenery and landscape; very different from the rest of the country.

When to go?

Practically any time of year is adequate to visit green Spain, however if you want to have a higher chance of sunny weather and little rain its best to go between the months of May to the end of September or even begining of October.
It may be worth taking into account that August is a month to avoid if possible, as most accommodation and attractions are fully booked with spanish nationals on holiday who come to the north to escape from the heat of the rest of Spain.

Money

As in the rest of Spain, the euro is the currency used in green Spain. You will find currency exchange facilities in every town and airport. ATM machines are abundant almost everywhere; with the exception of remote areas. Most hotels and restaurants accept common credit cards like Visa & MasterCard. check currency exchange.

Language & Communication

Three official languages are spoken in this relatively small area; spanish, basque and galician, although virtually the whole of the population speaks spanish as well as their local language.
You will not find many signs or menus in english here, thus you will be glad that the people are friendly and willing to help.
As it is not yet a mass tourism destination and most of visitors are spaniards, many facilities and attractions don´t have information in english although you will find that in all tourist offices and hotels there will be english speaking staff. You will have a higher chance of finding an english-speaking spaniard among younger people rather than senior.

It is a good idea to learn a few words and phrases in spanish; this will make your trip easier and you will see how people appreciate at least attempting to speak spanish.

Mobile phone service in Spain covers almost all areas of the country, even some high mountain ranges. If you wish to purchase a pay as you go phone you won´t have difficulty finding one of the many mobile phone outlets in every town. Although public payphones are still around they are being slowly removed.

Check out the Spanish-English glossary

Eating

As in other parts of Spain, main meals are served generally between 1.30pm and 3.30pm. If you are planning for an evening meal you would expect to eat between 8.30pm and 11.30pm.
You will find endless number of eateries of all kinds, generally all offering good food at decent prices.

See more about eating in the Food and Drink section

Transport

Air

There are 8 Airports in Green Spain, most of them have international connections.

Ferry

Two ferry lines connect the UK with northern Spain;
- Brittany Ferries from Plymouth to Santander
- P&O Ferries from Southampton to Bilbao

Car

Many travellers opt for self driving as there is a good motorway and road network that is under constant improvement. Car hire facilities are widely available in airports and train stations.

Bus

Bus services between large towns or cities are frequent, on time and reasonably priced. Some routes have the option of a “Supra” bus which has much more leg room, a leather seat and offers snacks & beverages.
It is advisable to confirm bus timetables if you plan to travel by bus to small villages or remote areas as public transport to these areas is virtually inexistant

Train

Train service is slow and scarce in many parts of green Spain, FEVE and Renfe Cercanías are 2 railway companies that run services in northern spain. They can be the means to reach less travelled areas. They accept bicycles on board.
Certainly a unique experience is travellling along the Cantabrian area on board the Transcantabrian Train