Bilbao to Santander: Camino del Norte

Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala — the Cathedral of Santiago — is the traditional starting point for the Camino del Norte through Bilbao. Sitting in the Casco Viejo on Done Jakue Plazatxoa, it is a Gothic structure that has served pilgrims heading west for centuries. Its dedication to Saint James makes it the natural spiritual threshold for this journey: you begin here, collect your first stamp, and step out into a route that will take you along the Cantabrian coast for the next five days. Allow around 45 minutes to visit the interior, orient yourself, and gather your bearings before the route begins in earnest. The cathedral can be reached on +34 944 15 36 27, and its website catedralbilbao.com carries opening times and visit information.

Antxon Deunaren Eliza — the Church of San Antón — stands at Erribera Kalea, 24, close to the river in central Bilbao. It is a significant stop on the Camino's exit from the city, historically linked to the pilgrimage route and rated 4.4/5 across over a thousand reviews. The church marks the point where the Camino begins to leave urban Bilbao behind, and spending 20 minutes here — whether for a moment of reflection, a stamp, or simply to note the architecture — is worthwhile before the long stage ahead. From here, the route stretches approximately 32 km to the first overnight stop in Santullán, making this the last pause before the most demanding day's walk on this entire itinerary.

Albergue de Peregrinos de Santullán, in the barrio of Santullán on the edge of Castro-Urdiales, is the overnight stop at the end of Day 1. After more than 32 kilometres on foot from Bilbao, this albergue — rated an impressive 4.7/5 — offers the rest and recovery every pilgrim needs before continuing. It is a dedicated pilgrim hostel, not a hotel, and carries the communal spirit that defines the Camino experience. Arriving here, you are already into Cantabria, having crossed out of Bizkaia. The suggested stay is 12 hours, reflecting a full overnight. Phone +34 670 04 30 04 is your best tool for confirming availability.