Northern Spain (Classic, End Barcelona, 11 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through the heart of Spain, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. This journey takes you from the vibrant streets of Madrid to the spiritual city of Santiago de Compostela, through the lush forests of Galicia, and along the stunning coastlines of Asturias and Cantabria. Discover the architectural marvels of Barcelona and the artistic treasures of the Prado Museum. With expert guides and immersive experiences, this tour offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe's most enchanting countries.
Included
10 Breakfast (B)
3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Barcelona: At a typical Catalan restaurant, savour a delicious Celebration Dinner that incorporates classic cooking with the freshest produce.
Madrid: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant and get to know your fellow travellers over a beautiful evening of delicious food and wine.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Santiago de Compostela: Join a city tour with a Local Expert and visit Praza do Obradoiro to admire the cathedral facade festooned with architectural frills.
Santiago de Compostela: Embark on a scenic walk on part of the Way of St. James with a Local Expert, through parks and gardens that transform with the seasons.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Madrid: Witness the world's finest collection of Spanish paintings, plus an impressive international collection, as you tour the Prado Museum with an art historian.
Gijón: Meet locals for a delicious farm to table meal of locally sourced produce that has been prepared just for you. This experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Barcelona: Venture inside Gaudí's extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Família and marvel at the contrasts of architecture. Above see its giant, tree-like pillars and spectacular vaulting. Admire the wonderful rainbow of the incredible stained-glass windows.
Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerising Sagrada Família.
Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.
Oviedo: Led by your Local Expert, see 1,000-year-old wall paintings in some of Europe's oldest churches. Admire the incredible altarpiece, one of the finest in Europe, when you visit the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour.
Picos de Europa: Visit the holy cave of Covadonga and see the tomb of Pelayo who is celebrated for winning the Battle of Covadonga against the Muslim Moors in 722 and later became the first King of Asturias.
Picos de Europa: Venture into this magnificent national park to admire the stunning picturesque scenery and rocky trails.
Santillana del Mar: Step back in time when you visit this perfectly preserved and 'most beautiful village in Spain.'
Getaria: See the rock known as El Ratón or the mouse.
San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
Pamplona: The city is home to Café Iruña, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Bilbao: See the spectacular modern Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry and sites of this Basque region gem during your orientation with your Travel Director.
Madrid: Located on Madrid’s most chic avenue, the Hesperia Madrid is a centrally located, modern hotel offering comfortable and contemporary rooms.
Santiago de Compostela: The NH Collection Santiago De Compostela delivers modern luxury in a timeless setting, just minutes from the historic Plaza del Obradoiro.
Oviedo: The Barceló Oviedo Cervantes is situated in the heart of Oviedo, 10 minutes from the Old Town and cathedral. This striking and stylish designer hotel is restored from an early 20th century mansion.
Santander: The luxury 5-star Eurostars Hotel Real is at the heart and soul of Santander and is a hallmark of excellence and prestige, facing the Playa de los Peligros beach.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Madrid
- Madrid - Arrival day
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- La Alameda's Castle
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Kick off your Spanish adventure with a warm welcome in Madrid. As the sun sets, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of Spain with a selection of delicious food and wine, setting the tone for the incredible journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Madrid's Rich Heritage
- Madrid
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- Naval Museum
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Embark on a captivating journey through Madrid's historical heart. With a Local Expert, explore the city's evolution from its humble beginnings to a bustling metropolis. A highlight is the Prado Museum, where an art historian will guide you through masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and more. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying a café or boutique shopping.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Santiago de Compostela
- Madrid
- Santiago de Compostela
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- Castle of Coca
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Travel through the scenic Guadarrama Mountains and Old Castile, passing the impressive Castillo de la Mota. Continue through historic Tordesillas, arriving in the revered city of Santiago de Compostela, a spiritual and cultural landmark.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Santiago de Compostela
- Santiago de Compostela
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- Ponte colgante de Calvelo
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Choose your adventure in Santiago de Compostela. Opt for a guided city tour to visit the cathedral, adorned with intricate architecture, or take a scenic walk along the Way of St. James. Enjoy free time to explore the charming streets and squares of the old city.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Galicia to Oviedo
- Santiago de Compostela
- Oviedo
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- Casa de los Hevia
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Travel through Galicia's ancient forests to the Green Coast of Asturias. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch experience, learning about traditional cider production. Continue to Oviedo, where a Local Expert will guide you through the city's 9th-century churches and the magnificent Cathedral of the Holy Saviour.
Day 6 – Day 6: Covadonga and Santander
- Oviedo
- Santander
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- Sanctuary of Covadonga
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Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga, a significant historical site. Marvel at the Roman bridge in Cangas de Onís before heading to the Picos de Europa National Park. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Costa de Cantabria en route to the picturesque village of Santillana del Mar, and finally, the elegant beach resort of Santander.
Day 7 – Day 7: Bilbao to San Sebastián
- Santander
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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- Guggenheim Museum
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In Bilbao, admire the Guggenheim Museum's modern architecture. Travel along the Costa Vasca, pausing in Getaria to see the iconic 'El Ratón' rock. Arrive in San Sebastián, where a Local Expert will guide you through the Old Quarter and the vibrant Plaza de la Constitución.
Day 8 – Day 8: Leisure in San Sebastián
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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- Urgull mendiko bista
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Enjoy a day at leisure in San Sebastián. Stroll along the boardwalk, explore the harbor, or engage in water sports on the sandy beach. Consider visiting nearby French villages like Saint-Jean-de-Luz or Biarritz, or explore the boutiques of the Old Town.
Day 9 – Day 9: Pamplona to Barcelona
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Barcelona
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- Iglesia de San Lorenzo
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Travel to Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls festival. Explore Estafeta Street or visit the iconic Café Iruña. Continue to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, known for its unique culture and traditions.
Day 10 – Day 10: Barcelona's Artistic Splendor
- Barcelona
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- Sagrada Família
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Discover Barcelona's artistic heritage with a Local Expert. Drive along Passeig de Gràcia, marveling at its Modernist architecture. Visit Gaudí's masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, and admire its stunning interior. Spend your afternoon exploring at your own pace, and in the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions.
Day 11 – Day 11: Departure from Barcelona
- Barcelona - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey through Spain concludes, transfer to the airport for your onward travels. Reflect on the memories and friendships made during this remarkable tour.
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