Spanish Heritage (Classic, End Barcelona, 18 Days) (22 destinations)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an 18-day immersive journey through the vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes of Spain. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of guided exploration and free time to discover the country at your own pace. From the flamboyant Modernist buildings of Barcelona to the Moorish fortresses of Andalucía, the ancient forests of Galicia to the sophisticated beach resorts of Santander, every day brings a new adventure. Learn to cook traditional paella in Valencia, explore the exquisite Alhambra palace in Granada, and witness the passion of flamenco in Seville. Visit world-renowned museums, dine on local specialties, and enjoy a range of activities that bring you closer to the local culture. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, this tour offers something for everyone.
Included
6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
17 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Valencia: Learn the authentic recipe of paella when you join a local chef for a Cooking Demonstration. Savour the flavours of this classic dish for dinner, washed down with a glass of Sangria, during your Highlight Dinner.
Barcelona: At a typical Catalan restaurant, savour a delicious Celebration Dinner that incorporates classic cooking with the freshest produce.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Seville: Stroll through Barrio de Santa Cruz with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Seville.
Seville: Explore Seville's top sights on a panoramic city tour with your Local Expert.
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.
Granada: Visit the famous Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. While others wait in line, you'll be exploring accompanied by a Local Expert, keen to share insights into this Moorish landmark.
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.
Barcelona: Dine at La Pau, an acclaimed restaurant for the quality of its seasonal menu and social impact. This social initiative generates quality employment to young people and guides them through their transition to adult life.
This experience advances United Nations’ Sustainable Development 10: Reduced Inequality. La Pau gives a voice and life opportunity to young people who have been marginalised from the traditional educational and social systems.
Seville: The Cristina Heeren Foundation aims to promote the teaching and conservation of flamenco and is a beneficiary of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Meet the students of the foundation, learn some basic flamenco steps, and then feel the passion as they perform an emotional show. The school enables students access to cultural education that otherwise may not have occurred. TreadRights sponsorship has helped students to complete their studies in advanced guitar, singing and dance. As students complete their training, they will carry on and safeguard the traditional flamenco dance, contributing to the protection of Andalusia and Spain’s cultural heritage. The Cristina Heeren Foundation advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education and UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Gijon: Meet Flor, a local of Gijón, for a delicious meal of locally sourced produce that she has prepared just for you.
Pamplona: In Barcelona, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during a visit to a biodynamic farm whose secrets have been handed down through four generations. Take in the views of Catalunya and taste the flavour of the valley 'Terroir' in the form of a sparkling wine. Sample this light refreshment and follow the process from the vine to your glass, learning about the unique sustainable methods employed. Sparkling wine is essential to Catalan culture, flowing freely during celebrations it is the perfect way to start your adventure into Catalunya. This experience contributes to UN Global Goal 12: Responsible Production and Consumption.
Barcelona: Venture inside Gaudi'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 down Las Ramblas and the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture. Journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerising Sagrada Família.
Peñíscola: See the castle featured in the film 'El Cid'.
Valencia: See the ultra-modern Centre of Arts and Sciences and the huge gates of the old town, Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart.
Seville: Visit the Seville Cathedral with your Local Expert. Pass the altarpiece dripping with gold and see the Tomb of Columbus, held aloft by four kings.
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: Spend free time exploring this city, known for its annual Running with the Bulls festival.
Córdoba: See the 2,000-year-old Roman bridge and spend some time exploring the town.
Córdoba: Explore the incredible Mezquita with your Local Expert. Admire the forest of horseshoe arches and learn how this building symbolises many of Cordoba's religious changes over the centuries.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
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.
Valencia: The Barceló Valencia hotel is situated right in the centre of the City of Arts and Sciences, opposite the Queen Sofia Palace of Arts, a building designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and is situated in one of the most modern and attractive areas of the city.
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.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome Dinner
Day 1: Welcome Dinner
Kick off your Spanish adventure with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers as you enjoy a delicious meal and get ready for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Barcelona Exploration
- Barcelona
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- El Passeig de La Garriga
- Sagrada Família
- More
Join a Local Expert for a drive along the Passeig de Gràcia, known for its elegant wrought-iron street lamps and flamboyant Modernist buildings. Visit Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, and marvel at its giant, tree-like pillars, spectacular vaulting, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Barcelona at your own pace.
Day 3 – Day 3: Barcelona to Valencia
- Barcelona
- Valencia
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- Casa Canals
- City of Arts and Sciences
- Peniscola Castle
- More
Travel along the sunny Costa Dorada, stopping by Peñíscola to see the sea-lapped castle featured in the film 'El Cid'. Continue through the famous orange groves to Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences. Visit the Old City, see the city's ancient gates, and learn how to make the local specialty, paella, during a Cooking Demonstration at a family-run restaurant. Savor the delicious flavors of this classic dish with a glass of sangria at your Highlight Dinner.
Day 4 – Day 4: Valencia to Granada
- Valencia
- Granada
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- Generalife
- Castle of Lorca
- Alhambra
- Observatorio de Sierra Nevada
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Head south toward Andalucía, passing the castle at Lorca and troglodyte dwellings near Guadix. Arrive in Granada, a historic city that was a Moorish kingdom for almost 8 centuries. Explore the exquisite Alhambra palace, a 13th-century citadel built by the Moors, and stroll through the elegant exotic gardens of the Generalife, the Royal summer residence.
Day 5 – Day 5: Granada to Seville
- Granada
- Seville
- More
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Granada. You may choose to join an Optional Experience to the Albaicín Quarter with a Local Expert. Later, travel to Seville, passing gleaming white villages and olive groves. Spend the evening at your leisure in this charming capital of Andalucía.
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Seville
- Seville
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- Sevilla Aquarium
- Cueva de la Batida
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Visit the Seville Cathedral, the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Choose between a walk through the old Jewish Quarter or a panoramic drive around the city. Visit the Cristina Heeren Foundation, a dance school dedicated to promoting the conservation of flamenco. Take a dance lesson and watch a flamenco performance.
Day 7 – Day 7: Seville to Madrid via Córdoba
- Seville
- Córdoba
- Madrid
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- Royal Stables of Córdoba
- Pérez Barquero
- Puente romano
- More
Travel along the Guadalquivir Valley to the perfectly preserved Moorish city of Córdoba. Visit the famous 2,000-year-old Roman Bridge and the magnificent Mezquita, an 8th-century mosque with a Christian cathedral built inside it. Continue through La Mancha to Madrid, the capital of Spain.
Day 8 – Day 8: Exploring Madrid
- Madrid
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- Prado Puente
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Join a Local Expert for a guided tour of Madrid's most historic neighborhoods. Visit the renowned Prado Museum with an art historian and admire the works of Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens, and more. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a Highlight Dinner at a local restaurant in the heart of the city.
Day 9 – Day 9: A Day at Leisure in Madrid
- Madrid
- More
Enjoy a relaxed start and a full day at leisure to explore Spain's capital. You may choose to join the Segovia Optional Experience to visit this wonderful ancient city complete with fairy-tale castle and Roman aqueduct.
Day 10 – Day 10: Madrid to Santiago de Compostela
- Madrid
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- Castillo de Coca
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Journey through the Guadarrama Mountains to the infinite horizons of Old Castile and continue to Santiago de Compostela, where the tomb of the Apostle St. James was miraculously discovered in the Middle Ages.
Day 11 – Day 11: Exploring Santiago de Compostela
Day 11: Exploring Santiago de Compostela
- Cervantes square
- More
Choose between joining a city tour with a Local Expert and visiting Praza do Obradoiro to admire the cathedral facade festooned with architectural frills, or embarking on a scenic walk on part of the Way of St James. Enjoy free time to explore the narrow streets and old squares of this city.
Day 12 – Day 12: Santiago de Compostela to Oviedo
- Oviedo
- More
- Fine Arts Museum of Asturias
- Casa de los Hevia
- More
Travel through the ancient forests of Galicia and cross to the Green Coast of Asturias. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a local host who will invite you to join her for lunch. Continue to Oviedo, where a Local Expert will show you the 9th-century churches and the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour.
Day 13 – Day 13: Oviedo to Santander via Covadonga and Santillana del Mar
- Oviedo
- Santillana del Mar
- Santander
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- Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa
- Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis
- Sanctuary of Covadonga
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Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga and see the unique Roman bridge in Cangas de Onís. Travel to the foothills of the Picos de Europa and enjoy views of the Costa de Cantabria. Visit Santillana del Mar, arguably the most beautiful village in Spain, and continue to the sophisticated beach resort of Santander.
Day 14 – Day 14: Santander to San Sebastián via Bilbao
- Santander
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- Loretopea
- Carola garabia
- Guggenheim Museum
- More
Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and admire its striking modern architecture. Enjoy the views as you drive along the Costa Vasca, dotted with small coastal fishing villages. Pause in the seaside city of Getaria to see 'El Ratón', the mouse-shaped rock. Continue to San Sebastián and explore its beauty during a city tour with a Local Expert.
Day 15 – Day 15: A Day at Leisure in San Sebastián
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore San Sebastián. Stroll along the boardwalk, explore the harbor filled with fishing boats and pleasure crafts, or enjoy the boutiques of the Old Town. You may choose to visit the nearby French village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, also known as Little Paris.
Day 16 – Day 16: San Sebastián to Barcelona via Pamplona
- Pamplona
- Barcelona
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- Church of San Lorenzo, Pamplona
- Castillo de IRULEGUI
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Travel to the famed town of Pamplona, known for its Running of the Bulls festival. Spend some free time exploring the city before continuing to a biodynamic farm for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Learn about the sustainable methods employed and taste the flavor of the valley in the form of a sparkling wine. Continue to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia.
Day 17 – Day 17: A Day at Leisure in Barcelona
- Barcelona
- More
Enjoy a relaxed start and a day at leisure in Barcelona. You may choose to revisit some of Gaudí's unusual creations, walk along the leafy Las Ramblas, or join an Optional Experience to the ancient Monastery of Montserrat. In the evening, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 18 – Day 18: Departure from Barcelona
- Barcelona - Departure day
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Bid farewell to your journey through Spain as you transfer to the airport for your departure.
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