Moving to Northern Spain: relocation and lifestyle explained

Moving to Northern Spain is an exciting adventure that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether you're dreaming of settling in the bustling city of Bilbao, embracing the serene beaches of San Sebastián, or exploring the historical charm of Santiago de Compostela, Northern Spain promises a unique and rewarding living experience.

Moving to this region means indulging in its fabulous cuisine, vibrant festivals, and stunning landscapes. The north of Spain, notably less touched by mass tourism compared to the south, presents a unique opportunity to dive into authentic Spanish life. However, relocating to a new country or region comes with its own set of challenges and joys. Whether it's navigating the real estate market, understanding the local customs, or simply learning the language, each aspect of moving to Northern Spain requires thoughtful consideration.



1. Why Choose Northern Spain?

Northern Spain, with its vast and diverse geography, offers something for everyone. From the rugged coastline of the Atlantic to the lush greenery of the Basque Country and the rolling hills of Galicia, this region brims with natural wonder.


  • Stunning Landscapes: The dramatic cliffs and peaceful beaches provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
  • Rich Culture: Northern Spain boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, from the Basque Country's unique language and cuisine to Galicia's Celtic roots.
  • Quality of Life: With a slower pace of life, less crowded tourist spots, and a reputation for excellent food and wine, Northern Spain embodies a high quality of life.


These factors make moving to northern Spain an attractive option for those seeking a life less ordinary.

2. The Practicalities of Moving to North Spain

👉 Securing Accommodation

Finding the perfect place to live can be one of the biggest hurdles when moving internationally. Northern Spain offers a variety of living options, whether you're looking for a city apartment or a countryside villa.


  • Research and Visit: Before making a move, it's crucial to conduct thorough research on potential areas. Visiting beforehand can give you a tangible sense of each location.


  • Property Market: Understanding the local property market is essential. Prices can vary significantly depending on whether you opt for a bustling city environment or a tranquil rural setting.


  • Rental vs. Purchase: Consider whether renting or purchasing suits your lifestyle better. Renting might offer more flexibility if you're unsure about a long-term stay.


👉Navigating Bureaucracy

Once you've found your new home, tackling the bureaucratic side of relocation is next on the list.

  • Residency: Ensure that you know the requirements for obtaining residency. Depending on your nationality, the process may differ.


  • Healthcare: Spain offers an excellent public healthcare system. Familiarize yourself with how to access these services once you move.


  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but understanding regional languages like Basque or Galician might be beneficial depending on where you choose to settle.


Relocating involves lots of paperwork, but understanding these aspects upfront can smooth your transition to your new life.

👉 Embracing the Lifestyle

Living in Northern Spain means fully immersing yourself in the local culture and community.


  • Culinary Delights: Enjoy local specialties such as pintxos in the Basque Country or fresh seafood in Galicia.


  • Socializing: Spaniards are known for their warm hospitality. Participating in local festivals and community events can help you integrate.


  • Work-life Balance: Spain is famed for its relaxed approach to life, valuing time spent with family and friends.


  • Get a rain jacket: The north of Spain has an average of 120 to 180 rainy days per year. This keeps the region evergreen!


Understanding these lifestyle specifics not only facilitates a smoother transition but enriches your experience of moving to north spain.

3. Living the Dream: Life After Moving to Northern Spain

👉 A Thriving Community

After making the move to Northern Spain, it's time to settle into your new life. One of the most rewarding aspects of relocating to this region is becoming part of its vibrant communities.

  • Active Expat Networks: Northern Spain has a growing number of expat communities. These networks can offer support, friendship, and advice as you adjust to your new surroundings.

  • Local Engagement: Engaging with locals can enrich your experience. Learning the language, even just the basics, is a great way to break the ice and show your willingness to integrate. Apart from Spanish, some regions have their own traditional language, such as Euskera in the Basque country.


Building a community around you helps create a home away from home and enriches your living experience.

👉 Adventure and Exploration

Northern Spain is a playground for those who love the outdoors and exploring new places.


  • Hiking and Nature: The region's varied landscapes are perfect for outdoor activities. Enjoy the Picos de Europa, one of the most picturesque mountain ranges in Spain, or explore the serene valleys and national parks.

  • Beach Life: The northern coast is dotted with stunning beaches. Whether it's surfing in San Sebastián or sunbathing on the Costa Verde, beach life is integral to the local way of life.


  • Cultural Exploration: Visit iconic sites such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao or Santiago de Compostela's cathedral, both of which showcase the rich cultural history of Northern Spain.


Adventure is never far away in this region, making it an ideal location for those who seek both relaxation and thrills.

👉 Economics and Lifestyle

Understanding the economic landscape and lifestyle expenses is crucial when settling in Northern Spain.


  • Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living in Northern Spain is lower than in many other European regions. However, costs can vary notably between urban and rural areas.


  • Employment Opportunities: While some industries are thriving, knowing the job market and potentially improving proficiency in Spanish could enhance career prospects.


  • Investment in Local Business: If you’re considering starting a business, Northern Spain offers unique opportunities in tourism, gastronomy, and sustainable living concepts.


By being informed about these factors, you can better manage your finances and fully enjoy the lifestyle that Northern Spain has to offer.

4. Conclusion: Embracing the Northern Spanish Way

Moving to Northern Spain is more than just a change of address; it’s a life-changing decision that opens up new horizons. This stunning region promises a blend of cultural richness, beautiful landscapes, and an enviable lifestyle that can transform your sense of living. From the bustling city vibes of Bilbao to the tranquil beaches along the coast, Northern Spain offers a unique opportunity to reinvent your everyday life.

Whether you’re seeking a new adventure, a place to retire, or simply a change in lifestyle, moving to northern Spain is an invitation to join a community that values quality of life and community. By embracing the culture, language, and scenic beauty of this remarkable region, you can forge a fulfilling life in one of Europe's most alluring destinations.

How MoveWise Can Assist You

While under tourist visa, you can apply for differentvisa types in within Spain. MoveWise is here to guide you every step of the way!

 

Applying for a Spanish visa can feel overwhelming, but MoveWise is here to simplify the process. Our mission is to make your application journey smooth and stress-free with a range of expert services:

 

  • Tailored Support: We adapt our services to fit your unique situation, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

  • Optimized Scheduling: We streamline your application timeline to ensure everything progresses on schedule.

  • End-to-End Support: From preparing documents to final submission, we take care of every detail of your application.

  • Tax Guidance: Our specialists provide clarity on the tax obligations and options associated with your DNV.

  • Thorough Documentation: We ensure every document is correctly prepared and meets all official requirements.

  • 100% money back guarantee: If your application is not approved, we offer a full money-back guarantee as a testament to our commitment.


Ready to embark on your next adventure?

 

Contact Us

While the requirements for obtaining a visa for Spain are straightforward, preparing the necessary documents and navigating the application process can be challenging. Mistakes or incomplete paperwork could put your application at risk.

If you have any doubts or questions about the process, you can book a free consultation for the following visa types, we’ll be there to help you every step of the way:

Digital Nomad Visa Spain -> BOOK TODAY a 100% Free Consultation

Non-Lucrative Visa Spain -> BOOK TODAY a 100% Free Consultation

Student Visa Spain -> BOOK TODAY a 100% Free Consultation

Hasta pronto!


How to Keep Your Digital Nomad Visa in Spain: 2025 Residency Checklist
Digital nomad visa Spain: US citizens guide
Moving to Northern Spain: relocation and lifestyle explained

More Posts

How to Keep Your Digital Nomad Visa in Spain: 2025 Residency Checklist
Digital nomad visa Spain: US citizens guide
Moving to Northern Spain: relocation and lifestyle explained