Less traveled places in Nothern Spain, both coasts and Pyrenees

Why? The city has plenty of events throughout the year, many with much higher attendance than the Cup Race, and life goes on, meaning those not interested in "that " event simply visit other venues. This is a "large" city -mind me!- with a thousand other things going on at the same time.

Barcelona is not really considered "north" by us locals, we call it "east" or "Mediterranean", as opposed to the Atlantic northern coast that includes Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia. So not sure if you´re referring to the Mediterranean or the Atlantic coast, so different in climate, landscapes, food, traditions, languages...

Thanks for all replies. Am considering both coasts. Basque, in general, Asturias.

I know tha Barcelona is a large city. Just thinking maybe we should reconsider. Also open to other less traveled areas, markets, etc in Barcelona. Just seems like the more traditional areas that were once nice to see are pisotón overcrowded. Know am part of the problem

The Basque area is on the Atlantic in northern central Spain. Also, there is a smaller Basque region in France. San Sebastian and Bilbao are great places to see there.
In Galacia, the NW corner of the country the people there are Celtic and do the bagpipes, etc. Santiago de Compostela is where to visit.

If you only have six days, don't try to do those places, since you need more time.

Barcelona and Girona are in NE Spain and still great to see.

Totally valid feelings, really Barcelona may be a big city but all the touristy things are packed into one small section of it. I would also be hesitant. For less overtouristed alternatives may I suggest Valencia, Zaragoza, or Bilbao.

Thank for continued input. Other regions and our cities would be instead of Barcelona, not in addition to.

In 6 days, you could easily head to Bilbao and San Sebastian to visit the Basque Country.

Thanks all. I think we’ve decided that we’re going to save all of Basque Country, including France for another trip at a different time of year. We’ll be spending some time in northern Spain and Portugal on a small guided tour of archaeological sites. After the tour, we plan on traveling by train. We’ll spend som time in Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Córdoba and Granada.

If you are in Madrid, don't miss nearby Toledo.