Base for Northern Spain exploration
I am planning on spending an entire month exploring Northern Spain. My definition is the entire area between Porto (I know it is not Spain) and Lourdes (I also know it is not Spain)
I would prefer NOT to rent a car and use bus/rail or flights if needed
I would like to stay in one place and then do some day trips and overnight trips with minimal luggage.
I posted separately a question about an apartment in A Coruna but I am wondering about other options.
I am looking for a "smaller" city but with a "vibrant" core center where I can find markets, restaurants, bars. I also want a "nicer" 1-2 bedroom apartment with a/c and wi-fi as a must. Would like a city with reasonably good transportation options (buses and train) or very close to good transportation hubs.
Any suggestions on smaller cities I can choose from? I would like to avoid Bilbao and was thinking something more central than A Coruna.
Also would appreciate any comments about using public transport to do one or two day trips around the north of Spain. Is renting a car a must?
Thank you in advance for your suggestions