Overview
Itinerary
Trace the treasures of the north on this grand expedition from Barcelona to Madrid, easing yourself into la buena vida as only the Spaniards can. Take the day to delve into centuries of history and the cosmopolitan culture of Barcelona, rambling up Las Ramblas, people-watching in Plaça de Catalunya and admiring the whimsical architecture of Gaudí.
This evening, you'll meet with your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience at Mescladis, enjoy a dinner of local flavours and produce, followed by an evening drive to see the city's iconic sights. (D) Stay: Abba Sants Barcelona Hotel
Consider joining a morning Optional Experience to Montserrat, where you can visit the mountaintop monastery and the shrine of the Black Madonna, known in Catalonia as La Moreneta. Return to Barcelona for a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Admire Gaudí's stunning architecture along Passeig de Gràcia and take in the exterior of his unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Família. See the seaside monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus before taking time to explore Barcelona's barrios at your own pace. (B)
The feisty former capital of Navarre takes centre stage. Follow in the footsteps of thousands of exhilarated runners and hot-blooded bulls today. See Pamplona's ancient city walls and Plaza del Castillo, the heart of the city where markets, tournaments and even bullfighting have taken place. (B) Stay: Tres Reyes Pamplona
Today, journey to the sophisticated culinary capital of San Sebastián. See the beautiful Bahía de la Concha beach or stroll along la calle 31 de Agosto in the Old Town. (B) Stay: Tres Reyes San Sebastián
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 during an Optional Experience. Maybe stroll the promenade of the famous La Concha bay or enjoy the boutiques of the Old Town? (B/D)
Begin your day in Bilbao to see the facade of the Guggenheim Museum, one of the most celebrated examples of modern architecture in Europe. From here, travel through the foothills of the Picos de Europa, passing green valleys and small market towns that reflect the region's rural traditions.
Later, join the Castañón family for your Be My Guest experience at their cider mill. Share stories over a late lunch and sample their traditional Asturian cider, made on-site using time-honoured methods. Arrive in Oviedo, where the evening is yours to explore the old town, find a local sidrería or simply take it easy. (B/L) Stay: Exe Oviedo Centro
The Asturian fishing village of Luarca is our first stop today. Soak up its seafaring atmosphere en route to the pilgrim city of Santiago de Compostela, renowned as the end of the 'camino' pilgrimage route that has its origins dating as far back as the 9th century. (B) Stay: Santiago Plaza by Melia
Join a Local Specialist who will share insights into the 'Way of Saint James' and explain why thousands of people attempt the life-changing pilgrimage annually. Visit the vast Cathedral, reputed to be the final resting place of Saint James the Great, and the Plaza do Obradoiro, a square dominated by four architectural styles. Consider an Optional Experience to the Rías Baixas for soul-stirring views of the Galician coast. The region has long waterways stretching inland that are said to be the mark left by God's hand when he cleansed himself after creating the world. (B)
Journey through the lush Galician landscape and Castile-Leon to Zamora, a veritable open-air museum of Romanesque art. Continue to Salamanca – its golden-hued façades providing an air of mystery and majesty. Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour including views of Spain's oldest university and the Cathedral, as well as a walk through the imposing Plaza Mayor, built in the Spanish Baroque style. (B) Stay: Gran Corona Sol
Travelling east, arrive in the fiery Spanish capital, Madrid, for an afternoon of sightseeing with a Local Specialist. Dive Into Culture and visit the Prado Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of European art in the world. Then, see the Royal Palace, Gran Vía and the neoclassical Cibeles Fountain that has become an iconic symbol for the city of Madrid.
Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow companions for a memorable Dinner with wine, toasting to a magnificent journey through northern Spain. (B/D) Stay: Rafael Atocha
For now, it's a fond hasta luego to your newfound friends as our Spanish adventure comes to an end. (B)
Trace the treasures of the north on this grand expedition from Barcelona to Madrid, easing yourself into la buena vida as only the Spaniards can. Take the day to delve into centuries of history and the cosmopolitan culture of Barcelona, rambling up Las Ramblas, people-watching in Plaça de Catalunya and admiring the whimsical architecture of Gaudí.
This evening, you'll meet with your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience at Mescladis, enjoy a dinner of local flavours and produce, followed by an evening drive to see the city's iconic sights. (D) Stay: Abba Sants Barcelona Hotel
Consider joining a morning Optional Experience to Montserrat, where you can visit the mountaintop monastery and the shrine of the Black Madonna, known in Catalonia as La Moreneta. Return to Barcelona for a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Admire Gaudí's stunning architecture along Passeig de Gràcia and take in the exterior of his unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Família. See the seaside monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus before taking time to explore Barcelona's barrios at your own pace. (B)
The feisty former capital of Navarre takes centre stage. Follow in the footsteps of thousands of exhilarated runners and hot-blooded bulls today. See Pamplona's ancient city walls and Plaza del Castillo, the heart of the city where markets, tournaments and even bullfighting have taken place. (B) Stay: Tres Reyes Pamplona
Today, journey to the sophisticated culinary capital of San Sebastián. See the beautiful Bahía de la Concha beach or stroll along la calle 31 de Agosto in the Old Town. (B) Stay: Tres Reyes San Sebastián
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 during an Optional Experience. Maybe stroll the promenade of the famous La Concha bay or enjoy the boutiques of the Old Town? (B/D)
Begin your day in Bilbao to see the facade of the Guggenheim Museum, one of the most celebrated examples of modern architecture in Europe. From here, travel through the foothills of the Picos de Europa, passing green valleys and small market towns that reflect the region's rural traditions.
Later, join the Castañón family for your Be My Guest experience at their cider mill. Share stories over a late lunch and sample their traditional Asturian cider, made on-site using time-honoured methods. Arrive in Oviedo, where the evening is yours to explore the old town, find a local sidrería or simply take it easy. (B/L) Stay: Exe Oviedo Centro
The Asturian fishing village of Luarca is our first stop today. Soak up its seafaring atmosphere en route to the pilgrim city of Santiago de Compostela, renowned as the end of the 'camino' pilgrimage route that has its origins dating as far back as the 9th century. (B) Stay: Santiago Plaza by Melia
Join a Local Specialist who will share insights into the 'Way of Saint James' and explain why thousands of people attempt the life-changing pilgrimage annually. Visit the vast Cathedral, reputed to be the final resting place of Saint James the Great, and the Plaza do Obradoiro, a square dominated by four architectural styles. Consider an Optional Experience to the Rías Baixas for soul-stirring views of the Galician coast. The region has long waterways stretching inland that are said to be the mark left by God's hand when he cleansed himself after creating the world. (B)
Journey through the lush Galician landscape and Castile-Leon to Zamora, a veritable open-air museum of Romanesque art. Continue to Salamanca – its golden-hued façades providing an air of mystery and majesty. Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour including views of Spain's oldest university and the Cathedral, as well as a walk through the imposing Plaza Mayor, built in the Spanish Baroque style. (B) Stay: Gran Corona Sol
Travelling east, arrive in the fiery Spanish capital, Madrid, for an afternoon of sightseeing with a Local Specialist. Dive Into Culture and visit the Prado Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of European art in the world. Then, see the Royal Palace, Gran Vía and the neoclassical Cibeles Fountain that has become an iconic symbol for the city of Madrid.
Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow companions for a memorable Dinner with wine, toasting to a magnificent journey through northern Spain. (B/D) Stay: Rafael Atocha
For now, it's a fond hasta luego to your newfound friends as our Spanish adventure comes to an end. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore Barcelona, Santiago de Compostela, Salamanca and Madrid
- Discover Pamplona, San Sebastián, Bilbao and Oviedo
- Visit the fishing village of Luarca, St. James Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and the Prado Museum in Madrid
- View La Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Cathedral and University of Salamanca
Be My Guest
- Oviedo: Join the Castañón family at their working cider mill near Oviedo. Tour the cellar, learn how Asturian cider is made, and taste it poured the traditional way. Hosts Marta and Julio share their family's story over an Espicha dinner featuring local dishes like Fabada, cachopinos, and Spanish omelette.
Dive Into Culture
- Madrid: Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, where you'll have time to admire its extraordinary collection of European art dating from the 12th to early 20th centuries.
Iconic Experience
- Barcelona: With your Local Specialist, see the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to take in some of the city's finest Modernist architecture. Journey past the beautiful façades of the Eixample district to see the exterior of Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
- Pamplona: Explore the historic heart of Pamplona, a city known for its medieval walls, lively plazas and rich traditions. Best known for the Running of the Bulls, it offers much more, from quiet alleyways to vibrant local cafes.
- Bilbao: Admire the striking exterior of Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, a modern icon of curved steel and glass that has transformed the city's riverside. Designed by Frank Gehry, this bold building helped put Bilbao on the global art map.
- Picos de Europa: Admire the stunning lush scenery and distant rocky peaks of the Picos de Europa.
- Luarca: Stop along the Way of Saint James at Luarca to appreciate the natural setting and historic charm of this quaint fishing village.
- Santiago de Compostela: Join a Local Specialist on a visit to Praza do Obradoiro and admire the cathedral facade festooned with architectural frills.
- Zamora: See the cathedral of Zamora and the 12th-century Church of Mary Magdalene during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Salamanca: See the handsome arcaded Plaza Mayor, the honey-coloured cathedral and the 16th-century university buildings as you explore the city with a Local Specialist.
- Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Specialist. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the Cibeles fountain and Royal Palace.
Make Travel Matter®
- Barcelona: In Barcelona, join the talented team at Mescladis, an initiative promoting work opportunities for victims of social exclusion. You will be introduced to local and seasonal flavours during dinner. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
- 3 Dinners (D)
- 10 Breakfasts (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Explore Barcelona, Santiago de Compostela, Salamanca and Madrid
- Discover Pamplona, San Sebastián, Bilbao and Oviedo
- Visit the fishing village of Luarca, St. James Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and the Prado Museum in Madrid
- View La Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Cathedral and University of Salamanca
Be My Guest
- Oviedo: Join the Castañón family at their working cider mill near Oviedo. Tour the cellar, learn how Asturian cider is made, and taste it poured the traditional way. Hosts Marta and Julio share their family's story over an Espicha dinner featuring local dishes like Fabada, cachopinos, and Spanish omelette.
Dive Into Culture
- Madrid: Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, where you'll have time to admire its extraordinary collection of European art dating from the 12th to early 20th centuries.
Iconic Experience
- Barcelona: With your Local Specialist, see the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to take in some of the city's finest Modernist architecture. Journey past the beautiful façades of the Eixample district to see the exterior of Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
- Pamplona: Explore the historic heart of Pamplona, a city known for its medieval walls, lively plazas and rich traditions. Best known for the Running of the Bulls, it offers much more, from quiet alleyways to vibrant local cafes.
- Bilbao: Admire the striking exterior of Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, a modern icon of curved steel and glass that has transformed the city's riverside. Designed by Frank Gehry, this bold building helped put Bilbao on the global art map.
- Picos de Europa: Admire the stunning lush scenery and distant rocky peaks of the Picos de Europa.
- Luarca: Stop along the Way of Saint James at Luarca to appreciate the natural setting and historic charm of this quaint fishing village.
- Santiago de Compostela: Join a Local Specialist on a visit to Praza do Obradoiro and admire the cathedral facade festooned with architectural frills.
- Zamora: See the cathedral of Zamora and the 12th-century Church of Mary Magdalene during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Salamanca: See the handsome arcaded Plaza Mayor, the honey-coloured cathedral and the 16th-century university buildings as you explore the city with a Local Specialist.
- Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Specialist. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the Cibeles fountain and Royal Palace.
Make Travel Matter®
- Barcelona: In Barcelona, join the talented team at Mescladis, an initiative promoting work opportunities for victims of social exclusion. You will be introduced to local and seasonal flavours during dinner. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
- 3 Dinners (D)
- 10 Breakfasts (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more
With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more
Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more
You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more
With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more
Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more
Trip Reviews (4) Most Recent 'Northern Spain' Reviews
1. The pace was perfect
2. A lot of included local tours
3. Distance from town to town was relatively short
4. Cheaper food and better prices than big Spanish read more cities like Madrid and Barcelona
If someone asked us to choose between the South and Northern Spain for a one-off Spain tour, we would recommend the latter. The good thing here is that it included the 2 major cities of Madrid and Barcelona.
We did a lot of walking which we liked, but I think if you had mobility issues this could be a problem. Northern Spain is very different to the rest of Spain. It is very green and mountainous, has nice beaches, as well as the best food and wine in the country.
One of the optional tours was incorrectly worded. We visited the Prehistoric Altamira Caves to see the cave paintings, but this tour is actually a museum with a fabricated cave and the drawings are all reproduced. The real caves are at a different location nearby, but we, and everyone else on the tour, booked this tour thinking that we were seeing caves not a museum.
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Trafalgar Europe (2025-26)
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Trafalgar Worldwide Tours (2026-27)
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