Northern Spain - End Barcelona, Classic Group
Northern Spain - End Barcelona, Classic Group
Northern Spain - End Barcelona, Classic Group
11 Days Starting in Madrid, Spain and ending in Barcelona, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Santiago de Compostela, Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Barcelona
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E931M26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Northern Spain, starting in Madrid and culminating in the vibrant city of Barcelona. This classic group tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the architectural marvels of GaudÃ's Sagrada FamÃlia in Barcelona to the historic charm of Santiago de Compostela. Explore the lush landscapes of the Costa Verde and the majestic Picos de Europa, and savor authentic dining experiences, including a farm-to-table meal in Gijón. Discover the cultural treasures of cities like Oviedo, Bilbao, and San Sebastián, with guided tours and free time to explore at your leisure. With expert local guides, enjoy insights into Spain's history and art, including a visit to the Prado Museum in Madrid. This tour promises a perfect blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and culinary delights, all while supporting sustainable travel practices.
Choice Highlights
- 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.
Top Rated Highlights
- Barcelona: Venture inside GaudÃ's extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada FamÃlia 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 Grà cia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerising Sagrada FamÃlia.
- 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.'
- 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.
- 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.
Make Travel Matter
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.
Authentic Dining
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.
Insight Choice
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.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana, Barceló Torre de Madrid
Meals Included: Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner in a local restaurant and enjoy an evening of delicious food and wine.
Day 2: Madrid Of The Bourbons
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Barceló Torre de Madrid, Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy sightseeing with your Local Expert as they take you along the main historical areas in the capital of Spain, known as Madrid of the Bourbons. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter, discovering the origins of the city. Learn about the growth of this city, from humble beginnings to a thriving European metropolis. A highlight of your escorted journey will be to visit the Prado Museum. Discover countless works by Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens and others as you are guided by a local art historian. Gain new perspective on classic artworks as your art historian shares historic anecdotes and provides new insights into the Prado's collection. The afternoon is free for you to relax at a café or shop in the boutiques.
Day 3: Through The Guadarrama Mountains To Santiago De Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Santiago de Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the Guadarrama Mountains to the infinite horizons of Old Castile and pass the impressive Castillo de la Mota. Continue past historic Tordesillas, and on to Santiago de Compostela.
Day 4: Saintly Santiago De Compostela Relaxed Start
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Santiago de Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Santiago de Compostela with Insight Choice. Choose to join a city tour with a Local Expert and visit the cathedral, festooned with architectural frills. Alternatively, embark on a scenic walk along the Way of St. James, through scenic parks and gardens. Relax during your free time, or explore the narrow streets and old city squares.
Day 5: Along The Costa Verde To Oviedo Relaxed Start
Location: Oviedo
Accommodation Name: Barceló Oviedo Cervantes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pass through the ancient forests of Galicia and cross to the Green Coast of Asturias - one of Spain's most beautiful, named after the colour of the sea and the pine and eucalyptus trees that line the shore. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience for lunch. Very popular with locals, enjoy a homemade farm to table meal and learn about traditional cider product, including a tasting. Your route reveals glorious coastal vistas before turning inland to travel through old villages and deep valleys en route to Oviedo. Continue on to Oviedo where a Local Expert will show you the 9th century churches built when the city was the capital of Christian Spain. Visit the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour in the stately square of Plaza Alfonso II. Admire the incredible altarpiece, one of the finest in Europe.
Day 6: Picturesque Santillana Del Mar And On To Santander
Location: Santander
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Real, Santander
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga, a shrine to Pelayo, who achieved the first Christian victory over the Moors in 722. See the unique Roman bridge in Cangas de OnÃs as you head into the foothills of the Picos de Europa, a national park boasting spectacular mountain and gorge scenery. Enjoy views of the Costa de Cantabria while travelling to Santillana del Mar, arguably the most beautiful village in Spain. Stroll through the rustic cobblestone streets, admiring stone houses decorated with carved, heraldic symbols and reach the delightful church square. Continue on to the sophisticated beach resort of Santander where you have free time in the evening to enjoy this luxurious hotel.
Day 7: Bilbao, Costa Vasca And San Sebastián Relaxed Start
Location: Bilbao
Accommodation Name: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián
Meals Included: Breakfast
In nearby Bilbao, admire the striking modern architecture of the Guggenheim Museum, one of the world's most spectacular buildings. Enjoy the views as you are driven along part of the Costa Vasca, dotted with small coastal fishing villages and pause in the seaside city of Getaria to see 'El Ratón', the mouse-shaped rock. Continue to San Sebastián and admire its beauty as you walk with your Local Expert through the Old Quarter to see the Plaza de la Constituction.
Day 8: San Sebastián, Pearl Of The Cantabrian Coast Relaxed Start
Location: San Sebastián
Accommodation Name: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a day at leisure to stroll along San Sebastián's boardwalk and with the city harbour filled with fishing boats and pleasure crafts, you can enjoy several sporting activities on its large sandy beach. Perhaps you'll want to explore the nearby French villages of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, also known as Little Paris, and Biarritz. You could also stroll along the promenade of the famous La Concha Bay or enjoy the boutiques of the Old Town.
Day 9: Pamplona And On To Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the famed town of Pamplona, known for its Running of the Bulls festival. With time free for you to explore, take a stroll to the famous Estafeta Street or visit Café Iruña, immortalised by Ernest Hemingway in his novel 'The Sun Also Rises.' Your travels continue to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, a land that retains its own distinctive language, culture and traditions.
Day 10: Barcelona, The City Of GaudÃ
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wake up ready to embrace the city’s artistic heritage. Join a Local Expert and drive along the Passeig de Grà cia, adorned with elegant wrought-iron street lamps and the most flamboyant Modernist buildings. Continue through the Eixample district to behold GaudÃ’s extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada FamÃlia. As you venture inside, look above to see its giant, tree-like pillars and spectacular vaulting. Admire the wonderful rainbow of the incredible stained-glass windows. With the afternoon at leisure, you are free to relax or continue your exploration on your own. In the evening, join your Travel Director and newfound friends at a local restaurant. Raise your glass and toast your travels during dinner.
Day 11: Depart Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey along Spain and Portugal as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Choice Highlights
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Santiago de Compostela, including a city tour with a Local Expert and a scenic walk on part of the Way of St. James.
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Top Rated Highlights
Visit iconic sites such as the Sagrada FamÃlia in Barcelona, the Prado Museum in Madrid, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao with expert guidance.
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Make Travel Matter
Enjoy a farm to table meal in Gijón, supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
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Authentic Dining
Experience local cuisine with a Celebration Dinner in Barcelona and a Welcome Dinner in Madrid.
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Dining Summary
Includes 10 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners with Wine, and 1 Lunch with Wine.
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Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.
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Insight Experiences
Tour the Prado Museum in Madrid with an art historian.
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Well-being
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned coach, featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and related expenses are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through the scenic landscapes of Northern Spain.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at renowned hotels such as Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana, Barceló Torre de Madrid, NH Collection Santiago de Compostela, Barceló Oviedo Cervantes, Eurostars Real Santander, Barceló Costa Vasca San Sebastián, and Hilton Barcelona, ensuring a restful stay throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Additional Included Highlights
- 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.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- 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.
Insight Experiences
- 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.
Well-being
- 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.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a visit to the Prado Museum in Madrid with an art historian, a scenic walk on part of the Way of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, and a farm-to-table meal experience in Gijón that supports sustainable practices.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, you will explore GaudÃ's extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada FamÃlia, with its giant, tree-like pillars and spectacular vaulting. You will also drive along the elegant Passeig de Grà cia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture.
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What can I expect during the visit to Santiago de Compostela?
In Santiago de Compostela, you have the option to join a city tour with a Local Expert to visit the cathedral or embark on a scenic walk along the Way of St. James through parks and gardens. You will have free time to explore the narrow streets and old city squares.
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How does the tour support sustainable tourism?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Gijón, where you will enjoy a farm-to-table meal of locally sourced produce, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
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What is the significance of the visit to Covadonga?
In Covadonga, you will visit the Holy Cave, a shrine to Pelayo, who achieved the first Christian victory over the Moors in 722. This site is significant as it marks the beginning of the Christian reconquest of Spain.
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What activities are available in San Sebastián?
In San Sebastián, you can enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter, stroll along the boardwalk, explore nearby French villages like Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Biarritz, or relax on the large sandy beach.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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