Spanish Heritage (Small Groups, End Madrid, 18 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an 18-day journey through the heart of Spain, exploring its vibrant cities, rich history, and stunning landscapes. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the cultural riches of Seville, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of guided experiences and leisure time. Discover the Moorish heritage in Granada, savor traditional paella in Valencia, and immerse yourself in the artistic treasures of Madrid. Travel through the scenic landscapes of Galicia and Asturias, and enjoy the coastal beauty of San Sebastián. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and delightful culinary experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Spain's diverse regions and cultural heritage.
Included
2 nights stay at NH Collection Constanza / Hilton Barcelona
1 night stay at Barceló Valencia
1 night stay at Meliá Granada
2 nights stay at Meliá Sevilla, Seville
3 nights stay at Barceló Torre de Madrid/Melia Serrano Madrid
2 nights stay at NH Collection Santiago de Compostela
1 night stay at Barceló Oviedo Cervantes
1 night stay at Eurostars Hotel Real, Santander
2 nights stay at Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastian
2 nights stay at Kimpton Vividora Hotel, Barcelona
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 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 a Local Expert and hear how the Jewish community has shaped the city's history.
Seville: See the city's top sights on a panoramic 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.
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.
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.
Peñíscola: See the seaside 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: The city is home to Café Iruña, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway.
Córdoba: See the 2,000-year-old Roman bridge and spend some time exploring the town.
Córdoba: Visit 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.
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.
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 Barcelona
- Barcelona - Arrival day
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- Catedral de Terrassa
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Begin your Spanish adventure in the vibrant city of Barcelona. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, setting the stage for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Barcelona's Modernist Marvels
- Barcelona
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- Pasaje San Juan
- Sagrada Família
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Discover the architectural wonders of Barcelona with a Local Expert. Drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, adorned with stunning Modernist buildings, before visiting Gaudí's iconic Sagrada Família. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the city's vibrant streets and hidden gems.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Barcelona to Valencia via Peñíscola
- Valencia
- Barcelona
- Peníscola / Peñíscola
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- St Pedro's Church
- City of Arts and Sciences
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Travel along the Costa Dorada, stopping at the picturesque town of Peñíscola to admire its sea-lapped castle. Continue to Valencia, where you'll pass the City of Arts and Sciences and explore the Old City. In the evening, enjoy a cooking demonstration and savor a traditional paella dinner.
Day 4 – Day 4: Journey to Granada
- Granada
- Valencia
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- Generalife
- Alhambra
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Head south towards Granada, passing the castle at Lorca and the unique troglodyte dwellings near Guadix. In Granada, explore the magnificent Alhambra and the serene gardens of the Generalife with a Local Expert. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of this former Moorish kingdom.
Day 5 – Day 5: Leisure in Granada and Arrival in Seville
- Seville
- Granada
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Enjoy a leisurely morning in Granada, perhaps exploring the Albaicín Quarter. Later, travel through the picturesque landscapes of Andalucia to reach Seville. With the evening free, explore the charming streets and vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discovering Seville's Cultural Riches
- Seville
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- Sevilla Aquarium
- Casa de Pilatos
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Visit the majestic Seville Cathedral, the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Choose between a guided walk through the old Jewish Quarter or a panoramic drive around the city. Experience the passion of flamenco at the Cristina Heeren Foundation, where you'll enjoy a dance lesson and performance.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Córdoba to Madrid
- Seville
- Córdoba
- Madrid
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- Puente romano
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Travel to Córdoba, where you'll explore the ancient Roman Bridge and the stunning Mezquita with a local historian. After some leisure time, continue your journey through La Mancha to reach the bustling capital of Madrid.
Day 8 – Day 8: Art and Culture in Madrid
- Madrid
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- Naval Museum
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Explore Madrid's historic neighborhoods with a Local Expert, followed by a special visit to the renowned Prado Museum. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps visiting Toledo or relaxing in a café. In the evening, enjoy a Highlight Dinner with your travel companions.
Day 9 – Day 9: Leisure in Madrid
- Madrid
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Enjoy a full day at your own pace in Madrid. Consider joining an optional excursion to Segovia, known for its fairy-tale castle and Roman aqueduct, or explore the city's vibrant streets and cultural attractions.
Day 10 – Day 10: From Madrid to Santiago de Compostela
- Santiago de Compostela
- Madrid
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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 to Santiago de Compostela, a city steeped in history and legend, where the tomb of the Apostle St. James was discovered.
Day 11 – Day 11: Discovering Santiago de Compostela
- Santiago de Compostela
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- Cervantes square
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Explore Santiago de Compostela with a choice of activities. Join a city tour to admire the cathedral's ornate facade or embark on a scenic walk along the Way of St. James. Enjoy free time to wander the charming streets and squares of this historic city.
Day 12 – Day 12: From Santiago to Oviedo
- 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 and cider tasting before continuing to Oviedo. Discover the city's 9th-century churches and the impressive Cathedral of the Holy Saviour with a Local Expert.
Day 13 – Day 13: From Oviedo to Santander
- Santander
- Oviedo
- Santillana del Mar
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- Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis
- Sanctuary of Covadonga
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Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga and the Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onís. Journey through the Picos de Europa National Park to the charming village of Santillana del Mar. Continue to Santander, where you can relax and enjoy the luxurious hotel amenities.
Day 14 – Day 14: From Santander to San Sebastián
- Bilbao
- Santander
- Getaria
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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- Loretopea
- Guggenheim Museum
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Admire the modern architecture of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Travel along the Costa Vasca, stopping in Getaria to see the unique El Ratón rock formation. Arrive in San Sebastián and explore its beautiful harbor and rich Basque heritage with a Local Expert.
Day 15 – Day 15: Leisure in San Sebastián
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Enjoy a day at leisure in San Sebastián. Stroll along the boardwalk, explore the Old Town's boutiques, or visit the nearby French village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz. Relax on the sandy beach or partake in various sporting activities.
Day 16 – Day 16: From San Sebastián to Barcelona via Pamplona
- Barcelona
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Pamplona
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- Iglesia de San Lorenzo
- Citadel of Pamplona
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Visit Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls festival. Explore Estafeta Street and the iconic Café Iruña. Continue to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, where you'll have time to explore the city's unique culture and traditions.
Day 17 – Day 17: Leisure in Barcelona
- Barcelona
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- Can Planes
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Enjoy a relaxed day in Barcelona, perfect for last-minute shopping or revisiting Gaudí's masterpieces. Stroll along Las Ramblas or consider an optional excursion to the Monastery of Montserrat. In the evening, join your Travel Director and friends for a farewell dinner.
Day 18 – Day 18: Departure from Barcelona
- Barcelona - Departure day
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Bid farewell to your unforgettable journey through Spain as you transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during this remarkable tour.
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