Complete Spain: South to North Adventure
14 days, Madrid to Bilbao
Itinerary
Day 1Madrid
Arrive any time.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Reina Sofia Museum
12EUR per personThe Reina Sofia is Spain's national museum of 20th-century art, and currently boasts an art collection of over 21,000 works.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
13EUR per personThe Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum displays an overview of art from the 13th century to the late 20th century.
Museo Nacional Del Prado Visit
15EUR per personTake in some culture with a trip to the Museo del Prado, one of the greatest art galleries in the world, and a definite highlight of any Madrid trip. Be inspired by its collections and exhibitions: the museum's main emphasis is 15th to 19th century Spanish, Flemish, and Italian art, but there is plenty of Goya and a wealth of paintings by Diego Velázquez.
Plaza Mayor Visit
FreeEnjoy some spectacular people watching with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, the true heart of the city. Enjoy a coffee in one of the plaza’s many cafes and watch the world go by.
Royal Palace (Palacio Real) Visit
12EUR per personSee how kings and queens live, with a visit to the Palacio Real, the official (and uninhabited) palace of the King of Spain. Wander the rooms to take in some of the most elaborately decorated and furnished rooms you'll ever see.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Hotel Europa (or similar)
Day 2Madrid
Take a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a full day to explore this bustling capital. Discover Plaza Mayor or opt to visit the famous Royal Palace. Indulge in delicious Spanish tapas or get your art fix at the Prado Museum.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Free Time
Lively, passionate Madrid is a treasure trove of art and architecture, with its royal palaces and works by masters including Goya, Picasso, and Dalí. Be sure to take in some tapas. Madrid is one of the richest culinary capitals of Europe, and showcases food from all over Spain.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Royal Palace (Palacio Real) Visit
12EUR per personSee how kings and queens live, with a visit to the Palacio Real, the official (and uninhabited) palace of the King of Spain. Wander the rooms to take in some of the most elaborately decorated and furnished rooms you'll ever see.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
13EUR per personThe Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum displays an overview of art from the 13th century to the late 20th century.
Reina Sofia Museum
12EUR per personThe Reina Sofia is Spain's national museum of 20th-century art, and currently boasts an art collection of over 21,000 works.
Museo Nacional Del Prado Visit
15EUR per personTake in some culture with a trip to the Museo del Prado, one of the greatest art galleries in the world, and a definite highlight of any Madrid trip. Be inspired by its collections and exhibitions: the museum's main emphasis is 15th to 19th century Spanish, Flemish, and Italian art, but there is plenty of Goya and a wealth of paintings by Diego Velázquez.
Plaza Mayor Visit
FreeEnjoy some spectacular people watching with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, the true heart of the city. Enjoy a coffee in one of the plaza’s many cafes and watch the world go by.
Accommodation
Hotel Europa (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Madrid/Granada
Journey south to Granada. Upon arrival enjoy an orientation walk. Wander through the whitewashed historic quarter of the Albaicin; with its narrow lanes and fantastic views, it's a great place to watch the sunset.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Albaicín (El Albayzín) Visit
Wander through the historic quarter of the Albaicin. Try to head there for sunset. With its narrow lanes and fantastic views back to the Alhambra, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular colour-washed skyline when the sun goes down.
Accommodation
Hotel Casa Palacio Pilar del Toro (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Granada
Enjoy a guided visit to the architectural masterpiece, the Alhambra. In the evening, opt to go for a stroll and check out the local tapas and wine bars.
After visiting the Alhambra, opt to take a wander through this historic city. In the evening, opt for a night on the town. Granada is filled with trendy tapas bars and has a lively music scene.
Due to regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at the time of booking in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. See "Important notes" under Tour Details for more information.
Alhambra visit
Enjoy a guided visit of the Alhambra, one of the greatest accomplishments of Islamic art and architecture. Learn about Granada’s reign as one of the region’s most regal cities during the Muslim rule of Spain, which is captured in time within the Alhambra.
Free Time
Wander this charming city and sample their famous tapas.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Albaicín (El Albayzín) Visit
FreeWander through the historic quarter of the Albaicin. Try to head there for sunset. With its narrow lanes and fantastic views back to the Alhambra, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular colour-washed skyline when the sun goes down.
Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit
5EUR per personBe taken by the beauty of one of the largest cathedrals in Spain on this visit to the Cathedral of Granada. Tour its beautiful facades and interiors that house a grand altar and numerous chapels. Built by Queen Isabella, it is a masterpiece of Spanish-Renaissance style.
Granada City Center and Tapas Gourmet Tour
Explore Granada beyond the Alhambra on a guided walking tour of its historic city centre, where centuries of Moorish influence, incredible architecture and a lively university town await visitors today. Immerse yourself further in Andalusian culture by enjoying some tapas (light bar snacks and appetizers) at bars where the locals hang out. Sample local fare and the region's excellent wine - this is one of the world's gastronomic capitals for a reason!
Accommodation
Hotel Casa Palacio Pilar del Toro (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Granada/Cordoba/Seville
Travel to Seville via picturesque Cordoba. Go for a stroll through the historic Jewish quarter and visit the iconic Mezquita de Cordoba (mosque). In the early evening, continue towards Seville and end your day with free time to get to know the city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Jewish Quarter (Juderia) Visit
Wander among narrow winding lanes, traditional houses, and charming cafés in Cordoba's historic medieval Jewish quarter. Discover one of Spain’s three remaining synagogues.
Mezquita de Córdoba (Mosque) Visit
Be amazed by the diverse and stunning architecture of Córdoba's most famous monument, the extraordinary Mezquita. Built as a mosque in 785 by the Moors, the Mezquita was converted in the 16th century by the remarkable addition of a Christian cathedral inserted into the centre of the building.
Accommodation
Cool Sevilla Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Seville
Spend a day enjoying this city and its Moorish influence. Opt to explore the district of Santa Cruz, the Alcázar palace or the world's largest Gothic cathedral. In the early evening, end your day with a dramatic flamenco performance.
Take the time to see all this great city has to offer. Opt to explore the interiors and gardens of the Alcázar, a magnificent palace dating from Moorish times, or the true heart of Seville, the Santa Cruz quarter— a charming area with winding alleys, picturesque lime-washed houses, flowery patios, and small squares.
Seville is home to the world’s largest gothic cathedral — climb the adjoining tower for great views of the city. Other attractions include the Museo Arqueológico, the Casa de Pilates and the Parque de María Luisa, which has a maze of paths, garden beds, pretty little patios, fountains, and shaded lawns.
Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville.
Free Time
With heaps to see and do, get exploring.
Flamenco Show
Enjoy a flamenco performance in the city known for the energetic dance. Be swept away by the flamenco's passion, fire, and grit!
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Alcázar Palace Visit
13.50EUR per personExplore the wonderful interiors and gardens of the Alcázar, a royal palace that was originally a Moorish fort. Arrive during the evening in the summer months (until mid-September) and enjoy a series of concerts in the beautiful setting of the Reales Alcázares.
Santa Cruz Quarter Visit
FreeVisit the true heart of Seville, the Santa Cruz quarter. A charming area with winding alleys, picturesque lime-washed houses, flowery patios, and small squares, you can wander, shop, or just soak in the neighbourhood's quaint atmosphere while enjoying a refreshing drink (sangria, perhaps) at one of the local restaurants.
La Giralda Visit
9EUR per personClimb the tower known as La Giralda, adjacent to the world's largest Gothic cathedral, for spectacular views and a walk among historic walls. The 76m (249 ft) Giralda was constructed by the Moors as a mosque between 1184 and 1197. In 1568, after the reconquest, Christians fit the minaret with its bell tower.
The Golden Tower (Torre del Oro)
3EUR per personDating to 1220, the Golden Tower is the last major building constructed by Seville's historic Muslim population.
Casa de Pilatos
10-12EUR per personTake a visit to marvel at one of the grandest mansions in Seville. The home is still inhabited by the Medinaceli family, but remains open to visitor tours during operating hours.
Santa Paula Convent
2EUR per personTake a visit to this beautiful historic convent. Established in 1475, this convent is still home to the Jerónimas nuns. Infrequent tours in Spanish are run here, but visitors are welcome to the modest museum displaying 16th-18th century ecclesiastical art and sculpture.
Accommodation
Cool Sevilla Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Seville/Barcelona
Hop on the train and get comfortable on the journey north to Barcelona. Take an orientation walk, including visits to the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas. In the evening participate in a G Adventures supported paella cooking class, followed by a group dinner to round out the day.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Orientation Walk
Enjoy an orientation walk along Las Ramblas and stop at the famous Boqueria market.
Your G for Good Moment: Mescladis Paella Cooking Class and Dinner
Mescladis - Catalan for "Mixed Space" - is a migrant training kitchen and cafe in the heart of Barcelona featuring a unique feel that fuses old Catalan favourites and migrants' home recipes. With the help of migrant students, learn how to make paella with the resident chef, accompanied by a discussion that promotes social reflection - with the kitchen and food at the centre of it all. Then enjoy the fruits of your labour!
Accommodation
Hotel AA Viladomat Barcelona (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 8Barcelona
Get out and explore all that Barcelona has to offer, or choose to journey further afield to the surrounding beaches and countryside to get a true taste of Catalan life.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Barcelona, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visit to the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and the Picasso Museum. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask
Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow
Gothic Quarter Visit
FreeUncover a different side of Barcelona. Visit the old Gothic Quarter with its maze of dark streets, historic cathedral, medieval buildings, bars, and cafés.
Las Ramblas Visit
See and be seen on Las Ramblas, a large tree-lined pedestrian boulevard perfect for people watching and window shopping that ends at the harbourfront facing the Mediterranean Sea.
La Sagrada Família Visit
17-37EUR per personVisit Gaudí’s most famous life work, the cathedral of La Sagrada Familia, an inspiring, yet, bizarre testament to the artist’s unique vision.
Parque Güell Visit
10EUR per personGet away from it all with a visit to the imaginative Parque Guell. The fantastical works of Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926) are scattered throughout Barcelona, a grouping of these including Parque Guell, Casa Mila, and the Crypt of La Sagrada Familia were established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Stroll the tree-lined paths and admire Gaudi’s creative genius at play.
Casa Batlló
25-30EUR per personDeemed the crowning architectural work of Antoni Gaudí, Casa Batlló is a must-visit on anyone's trip to Barcelona.
Picasso Museum
12EUR per personThe Picasso Museum in Barcelona is a must-visit destination for art lovers, showcasing one of the most extensive collections of works by Pablo Picasso. Located in the historic El Born neighbourhood, the museum spans five medieval palaces and houses over 4,000 pieces, including paintings, drawings, and ceramics. The collection offers a comprehensive view of Picasso's formative years and his deep connection to Barcelona.
Accommodation
Hotel AA Viladomat Barcelona (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Barcelona/Logroño
Travel by train to the La Rioja wine region of Spain and the city of Logroño, visiting a local winery shortly after arriving for a tasting. In the evening, set off with your CEO on a tavern crawl to sample small plates of food, called pintxos, very delicious and typical to this part of Spain, which will serve as a light dinner.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Your Foodie Moment: Wine Tasting at a Local Winery
Head to a nearby winery for a tasting experience of some of La Rioja's finest varieties with an on-site expert. Learn a bit about what makes the region so ideal for wine-producing with the area's climate and soil as you try to pick out different flavours and notes from the various types of wines available.
Your Foodie Moment: Pintxos (Tapas) Experience
See (and taste) what all the fuss is about – Basque cuisine is famous worldwide, with many believing this is the best food in the country. Enjoy a delicious culinary experience on this pintxos (tapas) crawl from tavern to tavern, tasting and learning all about the different delicacies of the area.
Accommodation
Hotel Condes de Haro (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 10Logroño
Take advantage of a free day in Logroño to discover wine country as you please. Options include a day tour to the nearby town of Haro, visit wineries or see some of the sights in the city like the cathedral or the Museum of La Rioja.
Free Time
Enjoy a full free day in La Rioja wine country to do as much or as little as you please.
Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow
Logroño Cathedral
FreeThe Logroño Cathedral (also known as the Santa María de la Redonda) has played an important role in La Rioja culture for over 500 years. Known for its "twin" towers constructed in a classic Baroque style, the cathedral's interiors are just as stunning, with a large painting attributed to Michaelangelo gracing the main altar.
Museum of La Rioja
FreeUncover the history and culture of La Rioja (beyond its famous wines) at the Museo de la Rioja. Set in an 18th century palace, the museum's collection includes items spanning the paleolithic era to the Middle Ages, alongside contemporary religious artifacts. Admission is free with a piece of ID.
Accommodation
Hotel Condes de Haro (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Logroño/San Sebastian
Travel through the Navarre region today from Logroño to San Sebastian with many stops on the way. First, stop in the town of Obanos for a hike along a portion of the famed Camino de Santiago trail. Continue by bus to the town of Olite to visit the grand palace then stop in Pamplona for a bit of free time to explore. End the day's travels on the coast at San Sebastian and check into the hotel.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hike from Obanos to Puente la Reina
This section between Obanos and Puente la Reina is a particularly short but picturesque stretch of the Camino de Santiago. The trail follows the gentle flow of the Robo river, winding its way through green fields and orchards. The path itself is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it an easy and enjoyable walk, allowing hikers to take in the serene surroundings and absorb the tranquility of the countryside.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Palacio Real de Olite Visit
Visit the gorgeous Palace of the Kings of Navarre in Olite. The grand monument consists of 3 sections, the Old Palace, New Palace and a church named the Iglesia de Santa María la Real. Explore the many hallways, galleries and bedrooms and learn about it's royal history and military significance since it was built in the 13th century.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Casual De Las Olas (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12San Sebastian
Start the morning with an orientation walk of San Sebastian with your CEO before enjoying the rest of the day free to get the most out of the city's vibrant centre, waterfront and the incredible food. Some options to choose from could be a visit to a local cider house, take a bike, or a walking tour.
Orientation Walk of San Sebastian
Head out with your CEO on foot to get your bearings of San Sebastian's vibrant city centre. Get tips on the best places to visit, explore and eat.
Free Time
Set off to discover San Sebastian as you please and choose from a variety of different optional activities.
Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow
Cider House Visit and Tastings
55EUR per personVisit one of the many local cider houses in the area for an introduction into the world of cider-making from local apples. Sample some of the various flavours and types and learn how the different ciders are produced in this region of Spain.
San Sebastian eBike Tour
50EUR per personStrap on a helmet and set off on an eBike with a local guide to explore San Sebastian's surrounding coast and landscapes. Hear about some of the important sites as you pass and soak in the incredible views of Basque Country.
San Sebastian Walking Tour
50EUR per personSet out on foot with a local guide to discover the old and new parts of San Sebastian. Starting downtown, see the main landmarks like city. hall and the Good Shepherd Cathedral, before exploring parts of the old town, passing churches and walking along streets lined with historical buildings and taverns.
Cooking Class in San Sebastian
Dive into the Basque region's culinary world on a cooking class in San Sebastian. First visit a local market with a chef to see all of the fresh produce and ingredients before donning the apron and learning how to prepare some dishes for yourself.
Accommodation
Casual De Las Olas (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13San Sebastian/Bilbao
Catch a morning bus from San Sebastian to the city of Bilbao. Set off with your CEO on an orientation walk before enjoying the rest of the afternoon free to explore. Choose to visit the stunning Guggenheim Museum, or climb the Mallona Stairs to Parque Etxebarria for beautiful views over the city.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Orientation Walk of Bilbao
Set off with your CEO on an orientation walk of Bilbao to get your bearings and to see some of the main sights.
Free Time
Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Bilbao's sights and museums.
Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow
Parque de Etxebarría Visit
FreeClimb the Mallona Stairs to Parque Etxebarria and be rewarded with beautiful views over Bilbao.
Basilica of Begoña Visit
FreeTake in the beauty of the Basilica of Begoña. It was built in the 1500s with a mix of Gothic architecture and a number of other styles.
Guggenheim Museum Visit
13EUR per personBe sure to visit the Guggenheim Museum – it’s a must-see, even if just to marvel at the outside of the building. See Frank Gehry’s acclaimed work – he designed this titanium-clad twisting, curving, and angular building to much praise in the 1990s. Tour the building to take in its maritime theme, supposedly representing the ships along the docks of the city, with titanium squares acting as fish scales and the skylights inside designed to look like fish fins.
Casco Viejo Visit
FreeTake some time to wander through Casco Viejo (Old Town), a medieval neighbourhood also known as Las Siete Calles (Seven Streets), that's considered the most colourful in Bilbao. Discover its many churches, shops, and taverns, and take the elevators to the areas at the top of the hill for further exploration.
Accommodation
Hotel Bilbao Plaza (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Bilbao
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.