North Spain Discovery
Experience Overview
Journey through northern Spain and get to know the people, landscapes, customs and cuisines that make this part of the country so captivating. Sip rioja (wine) in Logrono, visit the seaside town of Barcelona and indulge in pintox (the Basque version of tapas) in San Sebastian. Explore the medieval city of Pamplona and wander the Art Walk and historic museums in Madrid on an eight-day adventure that packs all the essential highlights of Spain into a week.
Highlights
- Explore Barcelona, known for its fabulous food and coastline. In your free time, maybe visit Gaudi's modern basilica, La Sagrada Familia – a Gothic masterpiece that embodies the city’s lively art scene.
- Visit the fortified medieval city of Pamplona. Weave through the city's winding alleyways to the Gothic Cathedral and walk down the street of the famous running of the bulls.
- Indulge in local produce and wine in Logrono, set out on a pinxtos crawl and winery tour in Laguardia and enjoy tapas at every stop along the way.
- Relax on the golden beaches of San Sebastian – one of Spain's most scenic coastal destinations. As the sun goes down, join the crowds as they come out to play and explore the city's exciting nightlife.
- Discover Madrid’s art scene along the Art Walk. In one small stretch you can browse the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofia and the Prado – one of the world's most celebrated galleries.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3251
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Public bus,Metro,Cable Car
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMSN
Starts: Barcelona, Spain
Finishes: Madrid, Spain
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7),Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,306 ($288 /day)
Itinerary
Hola! Welcome to Spain. Your adventure begins in Barcelona, known for its delicious Catalan cuisine, Gothic architecture and lively art scene. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 7 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe visit Gaudi's modern basilica, La Sagrada Familia, walk along the waterfront and enjoy a bowl of traditional paella or catch the funicular to Montjuic for sweeping views of the city. After the meeting, maybe find a local restaurant for dinner and get to know your fellow travellers.
Optional Activities:
- Barcelona - Barcelona Cathedral (11 EUR)
- Barcelona - Guell Palace (12 EUR)
- Barcelona - Ethnological and World Cultures (5 EUR)
- Barcelona - Casa Batllo (advance booking required) (29 EUR)
- Barcelona - Museum of City History (7 EUR)
- Barcelona - National Art Museum of Catalonia (12 EUR)
- Barcelona - Old Santa Creu Hospital (16 EUR)
- Barcelona - Picasso Museum (14 EUR)
- Barcelona - Museum of Gaudi (6 EUR)
- Barcelona - Cable car to Montjuic (one way) (10 EUR)
- Barcelona - Contemporary Art Museum (12 EUR)
- Barcelona - Tapas Tour in El Raval Urban Adventure (99 EUR)
- Barcelona - Walking tour: Explore Gaudi and Modernist Architecture Urban Adventure (45 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Barcelona behind and travel by train to Pamplona. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk and discover this well-preserved fortified medieval town. Pamplona, (named after its founder, Pompey the Great) has served for centuries as both a military stronghold and an important point along the Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage Trail. Walk down winding alleys and step inside ornate buildings like Pamplona's Gothic Cathedral – one of the most important religious structures in Spain. The rest of today is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the recently opened Museum of Modern Art, inspired by the cultural renaissance achieved by Bilbao and its Guggenheim, or find a local restaurant and tuck into some pintxos (Basque tapas).
Included Activities:
- Pamplona - Leader led walk
Optional Activities:
- Pamplona - Gothic Cathedral (5 EUR)
- Pamplona - Ciudadella Fortress - Free
- Pamplona - Taconera Park - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, take a bus to the seaside city of San Sebastian – a jewel of the Basque country. With its family friendly beaches and vibrant old city, San Sebastian is a fantastic place to stroll along the promenade, shop or simply relax and soak up the sun. When you arrive, take a cable car to Monte Igueldo and take in the panoramic views over La Concha Beach. The rest of today is free – maybe wander around the Parte Vieja (Old Town), a mix of alleyways wedged between the bay and the Urumea River, or head to Playa de Gros and watch the surfers riding the waves of Biscay Bay.
Included Activities:
- San Sebastian - Monte Igueldo Funicular (Igeldo Funikularra)
- San Sebastian - Orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day for you to explore San Sebastian. Maybe catch the local bus to Bilbao – a port city known for its surrounding green mountains. When you arrive, maybe explore the Guggenheim Museum or walk through Casco Viejo (Old Town). You could also visit the Vizcaya Bridge. This afternoon, maybe head back to San Sebastian to see the history, art and photography displays at the San Telmo Museum. San Sebastian is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, most experimental chefs and a distinct food culture – so it won’t be hard to find something delicious for dinner.
Optional Activities:
- San Sebastian - Catedral del Buen Pastor - Free
- Bilbao - Guggenheim Museum (16 EUR)
- San Sebastian - San Telmo Museum (10 EUR)
- San Sebastian - Catamaran Boat Trip (10 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a public bus to the prized vineyards of the Rioja wine region and Logrono. After checking into your accommodation for the night, the rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe stroll the streets and explore the city’s medieval fortifications – a favourite stop for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela. This evening, head out on an included txikiteo of pintxos – a Basque-style tapas crawl that will fill your senses (and stomach) with the taste of the region. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of txakoli (fizzy white wine).
Included Activities:
- Logrono - Txikiteo of Pintxos (Tapas Crawl)
- Logrono - Orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, travel to Laguardia, where you’ll join your leader for a walking tour of the town. This medieval settlement was founded in the 10th century and remains virtually unchanged. Enter the walled city through one of four grand stone gates and stroll the streets of the village – known to be one of the country’s most beautiful. After you’ve explored the town, enjoy a wine tasting at one of the underground cellars. You'll sample wines made from the indigenous grapes of La Rioja, Garnacha, Tempranillo, Viura and Malvasia. If the weather is nice, stroll through the vineyards and learn what goes on behind the scenes.
Included Activities:
- Laguardia - Winery Visit & Wine Tasting
- Laguardia - leader led town visit
Optional Activities:
- Logrono - Museo de la Rioja - Free
- Logrono - San Bartolome Church - Free
- Logrono - Cathedral - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, travel to Madrid – the capital of Spain known for its elegant boulevards, manicured parks and art scene. When you arrive, check into your hotel before setting off on an orientation walk. Then, the rest of today is free for you to explore Madrid at your own pace. Maybe walk the Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) and learn about western art history, explore the gardens of Real Jardin Botanico or visit Museo Reina Sofia and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. If you're lucky enough for your trip to fall on match day, you could buy a white t-shirt and head to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to watch the mighty Real Madrid. Tonight, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner.
Optional Activities:
- Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (13 EUR)
- Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico (6 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo del Prado (15 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia (12 EUR)
- Madrid - Royal Palace (14 EUR)
- Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure (99 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo Taurino (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for the final day, you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you’d like to stay longer in Madrid, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Sandra - Traveled, October 2023
I recently traveled for the first time with Intrepid. I was interested to know that intrepid had taken the step of being involved as to the substantial level with the environment. It showed that you can enjoy traveling on public transport, with perhaps less impact on the planet. Well done, intrepid, I will certainly be traveling with you again in the not too distant future.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Katie - Traveled, September 2023
We had a great trip. The architecture, culture, history, scenery and food were all amazing. Sergi was an incredible guide. Highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Sandra - Traveled, October 2023
I was really surprised at the ease at which this trip took. Using public transport, trains, local buses, distance buses, was much easier than I anticipated, and therefore thinking of the sustainability that comes with it. There was a lot of walking which made it a bit harder than expected but as the oldest in the group 77, I still could manage it quite easily. Chiara was the best guide and she made this trip to remember. Thank you Chiara
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Madelon - Traveled, August 2023
Desire was a brilliant host on this trip she kept the energy high and gave us amazing food and wine recommendations. The highlight of the trip was the beautiful Sans Sebastian.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/16/2023
Georgia - Traveled, August 2023
This was an great overview of a few places in Northern Spain. The old towns of Pamplona and Logroño were favourites, as was spending time in San Sebastian at the beach. If free time in each location is what you are after, then this is the trip for you - make sure you plan activities to fill this time. Desirè was an excellent tour leader!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
Mari - Traveled, June 2023
This was my first Intrepid trip and it was amazing! Everything was well-organized and I met some new life long friends from around the world. Our trip leader, Ainhoa, was very knowledgable of the cities we visited in Spain so it made the experience that much more authentic!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2023
Allan - Traveled, June 2023
This is a great 'shorter' trip with each destination offering something new and different. The food was great as was the scenery. I enjoyed the use of public transport but be aware there is a lot of walking and many stairs. Pack lightly! The Tapas Crawl in Logrono is a must.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2023
Carl - Traveled, October 2022
Before I arrived on this tour I thought my highlights would be Barcelona and San Sebastian but honestly, I enjoyed every moment of the holiday! The food and drink in this region is excellent and relatively cheap compared to the UK.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/24/2022
Jefferson - Traveled, September 2022
A great trip, well balanced with lots of interesting things to do in each place, and a great way to see north Spain for the first time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2022
Brenda - Traveled, September 2022
N Spain is a wonderful destination for friendly people, fantastic food and wine and a great cultural experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/08/2022
Marlene - Traveled, August 2022
The trip was excellent and the best part was how our leader and group came together to create a truly authentic and memorable trip of a lifetime.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2022
Nicola - Traveled, June 2022
This wonderful trip (Northern Spain Discovery) was my first to this country. It was visually, culturally and emotionally stimulating with historic sights and spectacular countryside to behold. The public transport use ensured I had time to enjoy the terrain and both the fabulous guide (Maria-Christina) and my fellow travellers were perfect travelling companions. Can't wait to return to Spain.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/17/2022
Nicholas - Traveled, September 2023
Come for the food and culture, stay for the adventure. The guides know what they are doing, the accommodation comfortable, the transits reasonable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Megan - Traveled, August 2023
Really enjoyed the tour and especially liked the time spent in Logrono. Please read the trip notes so you do not overpack or become surprised by travel on buses and trains.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023
Alison - Traveled, May 2023
This was a fab short trip. Each location was a standout for different reasons. Well worth doing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/19/2023
PETER - Traveled, April 2023
I discovered a part of Spain that suprised me . The scenery was beautiful and the food great . I will return .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/01/2023
Kristin - Traveled, April 2023
Not the best trip. A lot of hauling luggage around and too much time in little places at the expense of any time in the big cities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/22/2023
Ashley - Traveled, September 2022
I have mixed feelings about the North of Spain, having travelled a few weeks through the South prior to this trip, the North just can’t compete as there is no wow factor in this journey - I loved San Sebastian but I can’t say much for the rest of the trip. Saying that the food was amazing – can beat a Pintxos crawl! If your deciding on travel to either the North or South of Spain - go South!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2022
Stephanie - Traveled, September 2022
The Classic Spain Portugal tour is a great way to see these two fascinating and very diverse countries. An experience of a lifetime!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/07/2022
Dawn - Traveled, September 2022
I traveled with Intrepid Travel twice, to Vietnam/Camodia and to Spain and both trips have exceeded my expectations. The accomdations are clean and comfortable, there is a good mix of guided tours and free time, and I love meeting fellow travelers from different countries. But the highlight for me has been the guides. The three I've had have been fun, friendly, organized and so knowledgeable. A good guide could make or break a trip and they certainly made our trips.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2022
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