Northern Spain (Classic, End Madrid, 11 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through the heart of Spain, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the serene beauty of Santiago de Compostela, each day promises a new adventure. Discover the artistic treasures of Barcelona, the spiritual allure of Santiago, and the coastal charm of San Sebastián. With expert guides, delightful local cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, this journey offers an immersive experience into Spain's vibrant soul. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of this captivating country.
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
- More
- La Alameda's Castle
- More
Begin your Spanish adventure with a warm welcome in Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain. As the sun sets, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll savor exquisite Spanish cuisine paired with fine wine. This evening sets the tone for an unforgettable journey through Spain's rich culture and history.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Madrid's Rich Heritage
- Madrid
- More
- Naval Museum
- More
Dive into the heart of Madrid with a guided tour through its historical quarters. Discover the city's evolution from its humble beginnings to a bustling metropolis. A highlight of the day is a visit to the renowned 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 exploring the city's boutiques.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Santiago de Compostela
- Madrid
- Santiago de Compostela
- More
- Castle of Coca
- More
Travel through the scenic Guadarrama Mountains and the vast landscapes of Old Castile. En route, catch a glimpse of the majestic Castillo de la Mota. Continue your journey past the historic town of Tordesillas, arriving in the spiritual city of Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims have flocked for centuries.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering Santiago de Compostela
- Santiago de Compostela
- More
- Ponte colgante de Calvelo
- More
Choose your adventure in Santiago de Compostela. Opt for a guided city tour with a visit to the stunning cathedral, adorned with intricate architectural details. Alternatively, embark on a scenic walk along the Way of St. James, soaking in the serene parks and gardens. Enjoy free time to explore the charming streets and squares of this historic city.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Galicia to Asturias
- Santiago de Compostela
- Oviedo
- More
- Casa de los Hevia
- More
Travel through Galicia's ancient forests to the picturesque Green Coast of Asturias. Delight in a farm-to-table lunch, learning about traditional cider production. Continue to Oviedo, where a Local Expert will guide you through its 9th-century churches and the impressive Cathedral of the Holy Saviour.
Day 6 – Day 6: Covadonga and the Picos de Europa
- Oviedo
- Santander
- More
- Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis
- Sanctuary of Covadonga
- More
Visit the sacred Holy Cave of Covadonga, a symbol of Christian victory. Marvel at the Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onís before venturing into the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park. Continue to the charming village of Santillana del Mar, then on to the sophisticated beach resort of Santander for an evening of leisure.
Day 7 – Day 7: Bilbao and San Sebastián
- Santander
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
- Guggenheim Museum
- More
Explore the architectural marvel of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Journey along the Costa Vasca, pausing in the coastal city of Getaria. Arrive in San Sebastián, where a Local Expert will guide you through the Old Quarter, showcasing the vibrant Plaza de la Constitución.
Day 8 – Day 8: Leisure in San Sebastián
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
- Urgull mendiko bista
- More
Enjoy a day of relaxation in San Sebastián. Stroll along the scenic boardwalk, indulge in water sports, or explore the nearby French villages of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Biarritz. Wander through the boutiques of the Old Town or simply unwind by the picturesque La Concha Bay.
Day 9 – Day 9: From Pamplona to Barcelona
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Pamplona
- Barcelona
- More
- Iglesia de San Lorenzo
- More
Visit the legendary town of Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls festival. Explore Estafeta Street or relax at the iconic Café Iruña. Continue your journey to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, where culture and tradition blend seamlessly.
Day 10 – Day 10: Artistic Barcelona
- Barcelona
- More
- Sagrada Família
- More
Embark on a guided tour of Barcelona's artistic treasures. Drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia and admire Gaudí's masterpiece, the Sagrada Família. Spend your afternoon at leisure, exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods or relaxing at a local café. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a farewell dinner, celebrating your unforgettable journey.
Day 11 – Day 11: Farewell to Spain
- Barcelona
- Madrid - Departure day
- More
Bid adieu to your Spanish adventure as you transfer from Barcelona back to Madrid. Reflect on the memories made and the friendships forged during this extraordinary journey through Spain's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.