Spain Taster - 7 Days

Your Spanish adventure begins today! This morning, meet your tour leader at our designated hotel in Madrid for group introductions and an overview of the itinerary. We will then embark on a guided tour of the Spanish capital.

We'll visit key landmarks, including the bustling Puerta del Sol, the historic Plaza Mayor, the majestic Royal Palace, and the lively Mercado de San Miguel. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your tour group, offering a chance to mingle and discuss the exciting week ahead with your tour leader.

Madrid - Segovia - San Sebastian. Our day begins with a scenic journey from Madrid to the stunning coastal city of San Sebastian. En route, we'll stop in Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable array of Romanesque churches and its impressive ancient aqueduct. After our exploration in Segovia, we continue our drive, reaching San Sebastian in the afternoon.

Once there, we'll embark on an orientation tour led by your tour leader through San Sebastian's enchanting old town, known for its vibrant atmosphere and Basque charm. This evening, enjoy the local culinary scene by sampling the renowned pintxos - the Basque Country's delightful take on tapas- as you hop between the city's lively bars.

San Sebastian - Pamplona - Zaragoza. Explore Pamplona, renowned for its San Fermin festival and the exhilarating "Running of the Bulls." This historic city boasts a charming medieval centre, ideal for exploring its ancient architecture and the impressive citadel during your free time.

En route to Zaragoza, we will savour a delightful wine tasting experience, sampling local Spanish wines.

Upon arriving in Zaragoza, we will set off on a walking tour to discover the city's rich history, shaped by Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences. Highlights include visits to the stunning Basilica del Pilar and the ancient Roman Theatre.

Zaragoza - Alquézar - Barcelona. Today, we embark on our journey to Barcelona, pausing at a couple of sites en route. Our first stop is a traditional olive oil press, where we will explore the craftsmanship behind one of Spain’s most prized products, followed by a tasting session. Next, we make our way to Alquézar, a charming hilltop village set against the stunning backdrop of the Pyrenees. Here, we will have an orientation tour before you are free to explore the quaint cobblestone streets or seek out a local lunch spot.

In the afternoon, we continue to Barcelona. We'll get acquainted with the city on a scenic driving tour, passing iconic sights such as the Sagrada Família and other masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí, illustrating his extraordinary architectural influence. We arrive at the hotel, then gather for a group dinner.

Enjoy a day of exploration in Barcelona, following your own interests. For a richly rewarding experience, consider joining our optional "Highlights of Barcelona" excursion. This tour includes visits to the mesmerising Sagrada Família, the luxurious Palau Güell, the vibrant La Boqueria market, and the historic Gothic Quarter, offering a glimpse into the city's architectural and cultural heritage.

Alternatively, you might choose to admire Park Güell's panoramic views, stroll along the lively Las Ramblas, delve into the 'Old Town', or explore some of Europe's finest shopping venues, art galleries, and museums. This evening, you have the option to attend an authentic Flamenco performance - a must-see Spanish cultural experience.

Barcelona - Peniscola - Valencia. Today, we leave Barcelona and journey south along the stunning coastline. En route, we pause in Peniscola, renowned for its breathtaking views. Here, we’ll enjoy lunch at this scenic location, under the watchful gaze of the Knights Templar castle, which commands views of the charming old town and its pristine beach.

We then proceed to Valencia, a thriving port city. We’ll embark on a guided tour to explore Valencia's unique combination of well-preserved history and cutting-edge architecture. Celebrate your last evening with a traditional Valencian meal, featuring an included paella dinner.

Valencia - Madrid. We journey through the historic region of La Mancha, made famous by the tale of Don Quixote. Our destination is the magnificent Castillo de Belmonte, where entrance fees are covered in your tour package. Inside, admire remarkable Gothic and Moorish plasterwork and explore the courtyard featuring Neo-Gothic influences.

Later, we'll return to Madrid to conclude our tour. Remember to swap contact details with your fellow travellers to stay connected after the trip.