GRAND TOUR OF SPAIN: CULTURE, HISTORY AND GASTRONOMY

GRAND TOUR OF SPAIN: CULTURE, HISTORY AND GASTRONOMY

12 days / 11 nights. Departure from Barcelona

Explore Spain on a 12-day trip that will take you from vibrant Barcelona to historic Madrid, touring some of the country’s most fascinating regions. Through this private vehicle tour, you will discover the cultural and gastronomic richness of La Rioja, the coastal charm of San Sebastian, the modernity of Bilbao, the wine tradition of Ribera del Duero and the Andalusian heritage in Seville, Granada and Ronda. With guided tours of iconic monuments, authentic gastronomic experiences and carefully selected accommodations, this trip is designed to immerse you in the essence of Spain in the most comfortable and enriching way possible.

Day 1: Barcelona – Gaudí Art and Catalan Flavors

Our trip begins in Barcelona, ​​a vibrant city where art, history and gastronomy intertwine in every corner. We’ll start the day exploring two of Antoni Gaudí’s most iconic works, discovering his architectural genius and legacy in the city.

The first stop takes us to Park Güell, a space that seems straight out of a fairy tale, with its colorful mosaics, organic shapes and structures that blend perfectly with nature. From its terraces, we’ll enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the city while learning about the symbolism and inspiration behind each element of this modernist park.

Next, we’ll visit the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s most representative monument and Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. As we enter the basilica, we’ll be amazed by the multicolored light that passes through its stained glass windows and creates an almost mystical atmosphere. Every detail of its design tells a story, from its imposing facades to the complexity of its towers under construction.

After this architectural tour, we will immerse ourselves in the Catalan gastronomic tradition with a tapas experience at a local restaurant. Here, we will taste specialties such as escalivada, pan con tomate, homemade croquettes and a selection of Iberian cured meats, accompanied by a glass of wine or cava, the typical sparkling wine of the region.

In the afternoon, we will go to our accommodation with the option of enjoying the night free to continue exploring Barcelona or rest before the next stage of our trip.

Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 2: From Barcelona to La Rioja – History and rest in the land of wines

After an early breakfast in Barcelona, ​​we will begin our journey by private vehicle towards La Rioja, enjoying the changing landscapes and stopping at one of the most impressive historical sites in Catalonia.

Our first stop will be the Poblet Monastery, one of the largest Cistercian monasteries in Europe and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Founded in the 12th century, this monastic complex houses the tombs of several kings of the Crown of Aragon. During our visit, we will explore its cloisters, church and other outbuildings, immersing ourselves in monastic life and the medieval history of Catalonia.

After the visit, we will continue our journey to La Rioja, one of the most prestigious wine regions in Spain.

Upon arrival, we will enjoy lunch at a fine dining restaurant, where local cuisine is combined with the region’s wines to offer a unique culinary experience.

After lunch, we will head to Laguardia, a charming medieval town surrounded by vineyards, where we will check-in at an exclusive boutique hotel. You will have the rest of the afternoon free to rest at the hotel, stroll through the cobbled streets of Laguardia or relax with a glass of wine while enjoying the Riojan landscape.

Overnight in Laguardia.

Day 3: La Rioja – San Sebastián: From vineyards to Basque gastronomy

The sunrise in Laguardia welcomes us with a landscape of vineyards that stretches to the horizon. After a gourmet breakfast at the hotel, we will head to a renowned winery in La Rioja, where we will discover the secrets of viticulture and the process of making the most prestigious wines in the region.

During the visit, we will explore how young wines, crianzas, reservas and gran reservas are produced, understanding the differences in their aging and the characteristics that make them unique. We will enjoy a guided tasting, where we will learn to identify the aromas and nuances of these wines, appreciating their balance, structure and ability to evolve over time.

To complete the experience, we will enjoy lunch at the same winery, where the flavors of Rioja cuisine will be paired with the house wines, in an unbeatable setting surrounded by vineyards.

In the afternoon, we will say goodbye to La Rioja and depart by private car towards San Sebastian, travelling through the green landscapes of northern Spain until we reach the jewel of the Cantabrian Sea.

Arrival in San Sebastian

Our first stop will be in the Old Town, the soul of San Sebastian, where the cobbled streets transport us to the past. Here we will discover its fascinating history, marked by wars, fires and resurgences, while we immerse ourselves in the daily life of the city.

San Sebastian is synonymous with gastronomy, and there is no better way to discover its essence than through a pintxos route in some of the most emblematic bars in the city. We will taste a selection of local specialties, paired with txakoli or Basque cider, before saying goodbye to this vibrant city.

Night in San Sebastian.

Day 4: From San Sebastian to Bilbao

After breakfast in San Sebastian, we will depart by private car towards Bilbao, travelling along the impressive Basque coast.

On the way, we will stop in Getaria, a charming fishing village famous for its port, its restaurants specializing in grilled fish and for being the birthplace of the navigator Juan Sebastián Elcano, the first man to complete the circumnavigation of the world. We will have the opportunity to stroll through its cobbled streets and enjoy its seaside atmosphere before continuing our journey.

Arrival in Bilbao

Bilbao is the best example of how a city can reinvent itself without losing its essence. From being an industrial port, it has evolved to become a world reference for art and architecture, without forgetting its deep gastronomic and cultural tradition.

Our first stop will be at the Guggenheim Museum, the undisputed icon of Bilbao’s transformation. This impressive titanium building with undulating shapes, designed by Frank Gehry, defies the rules of architecture and reflects the light and water of the estuary. Inside the museum, we will explore one of the most important collections of contemporary art in Europe.

After the visit, we will enter the Old Town of Bilbao, known as “the Seven Streets”. This neighbourhood preserves the essence of the most authentic Bilbao, with historic buildings, lively squares and taverns where the hustle and bustle of local life can be felt in every corner. We will walk through its streets discovering charming corners and the history of the city.

To close the day, you will have free time for dinner, with the possibility of choosing between traditional taverns, where you can taste a selection of pintxos, or restaurants specialising in old cow steak and cod a la vizcaína, two of the gastronomic gems of the region.

Night in Bilbao.

Day 5: From Bilbao to Ribera del Duero

After breakfast in Bilbao, we will depart by private car to Ribera del Duero, one of the most prestigious wine regions in Spain, known for its structured and long-lived red wines.

Our first stop in Ribera del Duero will take us to a historic winery, where we will discover the evolution of this emblematic designation of origin. We will walk through its ancient underground galleries, where French and American oak barrels house long-aged wines, resting in optimal conditions to develop their complexity and elegance.

During the visit, we will enjoy a guided tasting, where we will explore the nuances and aromas of the Ribera del Duero Reserva and Gran Reserva. We will learn to distinguish their differences with respect to other Spanish wines, appreciating the intensity, structure and longevity that characterize the red wines of this region.

After this experience, we will continue our journey to Peñafiel Castle, an imposing 10th-century fortress that rises above the valley. Strategically built to protect the region during the Reconquista, this castle offers us unparalleled panoramic views of the vineyards of Ribera del Duero. Inside, we will visit the Wine Museum, where we will explore the history and evolution of winemaking in this land, understanding its importance throughout the centuries.

At the end of the visit, we will head to our boutique hotel, where you will have free time to rest or enjoy a free dinner, with the opportunity to taste the culinary specialty of Ribera del Duero.

Overnight in Ribera del Duero.

Day 6: From Ribera del Duero to Madrid

After breakfast in Ribera del Duero, we will depart by private car towards Madrid, leaving behind the vineyards and landscapes of Castilla y León to reach the vibrant Spanish capital.

Upon arrival in Madrid, we will head to a local restaurant, where we will enjoy a lunch with traditional options that reflect the essence of Madrid cuisine.

After lunch, you will have free time to rest at the hotel, explore the city at your own pace or simply relax before the last night of the trip.

For dinner, you can explore Madrid’s gastronomic offering, from traditional taverns to food markets with a variety of options for all tastes.

Overnight in Madrid.

Day 7: Madrid

After breakfast, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant energy of Madrid, touring some of its most iconic monuments and cultural spaces. This city, which has been the heart of the kingdom of Spain since the 16th century, combines the grandeur of its imperial past with the modernity of an ever-evolving metropolis.

Our day begins at the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the most impressive royal residences in Europe. Although it is not currently the official residence of the monarchs, its interior houses sumptuous halls decorated with frescoes, tapestries and period furniture, reflecting the splendor of the Spanish monarchy.

From there, we will head to the Prado Museum, the temple of Spanish art, where masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco and Rubens are exhibited. Our tour will take us to discover some of the most iconic paintings in history, such as Las Meninas, The Annunciation and The Executions of the Third of May.

Just a few steps from the Prado, we will visit the Reina Sofia Museum, home to one of the most moving works of the 20th century: Pablo Picasso’s Guernica. This visit will allow us to appreciate the evolution of contemporary art and the impact of the conflict on Spanish culture.

After a culturally enriching morning, we will head to Retiro Park, Madrid’s green lung, where we can stroll through its gardens, admire the Crystal Palace and relax by the large pond.

To finish our tour, we will approach Gran Via, the main artery of the city, known for its vibrant atmosphere, iconic shops and imposing architecture. Here, travelers can enjoy the afternoon free to stroll, shop or have a drink on one of its terraces.

Overnight in Madrid.

Day 8: From Madrid to Seville

Our trip begins early in the morning with a private car transfer from Madrid to Seville, crossing the landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha and Andalusia.

On the way, we will stop at Navas de Tolosa, a key place in the history of Spain. Here, in 1212, the famous battle that marked a turning point in the Reconquista took place, where the Christian armies defeated the Almohad forces, ensuring the advance towards the south of the peninsula.

After this brief historical visit, we will continue our tour and stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where we can taste traditional dishes from the region before continuing our way to Seville.

Upon arrival in Seville, we will go directly to our hotel to check-in. You will have the afternoon free to rest, walk around the surroundings or enjoy the Sevillian atmosphere in one of its squares and terraces.

Overnight in Seville.

Day 9: Seville

After breakfast, we set out to discover the treasures of Seville, a vibrant city where history, architecture and culture intertwine in a unique setting. From its Islamic past to its key role in colonial expansion, Seville has witnessed some of the most important moments in Spanish history.

We begin our day at Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, built on the remains of the old Almohad mosque. Inside, we will admire its imposing gilded main altarpiece, the royal chapels and the mausoleum of Christopher Columbus. We will ascend to La Giralda, the mosque’s old minaret, from where we will enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the city.

Our next stop will be the Royal Alcazar of Seville, a palace complex that fuses Islamic, Mudejar and Renaissance art in a single space. We will stroll through its majestic courtyards, such as the Patio de las Doncellas, with its arabesque arches and detailed ornamentation, and we will explore the lush gardens of the Alcázar, where fountains and vegetation create an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.

At midday, we will enter the Barrio de Santa Cruz, the old Jewish quarter of Seville. Its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and flower-filled courtyards will transport us to another era as we discover the history of this emblematic neighborhood.

In the afternoon, we will head to the Plaza de España, a masterpiece of Andalusian regionalist architecture built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. With its semicircular shape and its colorful tiled benches representing the provinces of Spain, this square is one of the most iconic images of Seville.

Our tour continues at the Torre del Oro, a 13th-century fortification that guarded the entrance to the port of Seville during the era of trade with America. From here, we can enjoy views of the Guadalquivir River, the waterway that connected Seville to the New World.

To close the day, we will visit the Metropol Parasol, known as the Setas de Sevilla, a modern wooden structure that contrasts with the historic architecture of the city. From its viewing point, we can admire a panoramic view of the old town illuminated at dusk.

After a day of exploration, we return to our hotel in Seville, where you can enjoy a free dinner and rest before continuing our tour the next day.

Overnight in Seville.

Day 10: From Seville to Granada

After enjoying breakfast in Seville, we will depart by private car to Granada, a city where Islamic and Christian heritages converge in an environment of impressive beauty. The journey will take us through the Andalusian landscapes, allowing us to appreciate the geographical diversity of the region.

Upon arrival in Granada, we will enter its historic center, starting with the Albaicín neighborhood. This former Moorish quarter, with its narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, offers panoramic views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada from the Mirador de San Nicolás. Walking through its labyrinthine streets is like stepping back in time, feeling the essence of medieval Granada.

We will continue our exploration by visiting the Granada Cathedral, a jewel of the Spanish Renaissance that stands majestically in the heart of the city. Next to it, the Royal Chapel houses the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, key figures in the history of Spain. The architecture and works of art that adorn these monuments reflect the transition from Gothic to Renaissance art.

In the afternoon, we will have time to lose ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Granada’s center, exploring its traditional markets and enjoying the local cuisine in the many tapas bars that dot the city. The combination of flavors and aromas will allow us to experience Granada’s rich culinary heritage.

At the end of the day, we will settle into our hotel in Granada, preparing for the exciting visit to the Alhambra the next day.

Overnight in Granada.

Day 11: The Alhambra and Trip to Ronda

Early in the morning, we will head to the Alhambra, Granada’s most iconic monument and one of the greatest expressions of Islamic art in the world. This palace complex, declared a World Heritage Site, will transport us back to the time of the Nasrid Kingdom.

During our visit, we will explore:

The Nasrid Palaces: Official residences of the sultans, where each room and courtyard, such as the famous Patio de los Leones, is richly decorated with intricate geometric designs and Arabic calligraphy.

The Alcazaba: The military fortress that offers panoramic views of Granada and its surroundings from the watchtowers.

The Generalife: The summer palace with its lush gardens, fountains and ponds that create an oasis of peace and beauty.

After immersing ourselves in the majesty of the Alhambra, we will take a private car to Ronda, one of the most picturesque cities in Andalusia. The road will take us through mountainous landscapes and white villages, offering breathtaking views at every stretch.

Upon arrival in Ronda, we will settle into our accommodation and have free time to rest and have dinner.

Overnight in Ronda.

Day 12: Ronda – History and return to Madrid

After breakfast in Ronda, we prepare to explore one of the most impressive cities in Andalusia, nestled on an imposing gorge that divides it in two. With a past marked by the presence of Celts, Romans and Arabs, Ronda has witnessed battles, legends of bandits and the splendor of its historic architecture.

We will begin the day exploring the Puente Nuevo, one of the most impressive constructions in Andalusia. At 98 meters high, this 18th-century engineering work offers spectacular views of the Tajo gorge and the valley surrounding the city.

We will continue our tour in the historic centre of Ronda, where remains of the Islamic era, stately homes from the 18th century and charming cobbled streets are still preserved. We will visit the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, surrounded by churches and historic buildings, and the Casa del Gigante, a small Nasrid palace that preserves exquisite details of Andalusian architecture.

To finish our visit, we will head to the Arab Baths of Ronda, built in the 13th century and considered the best preserved in Andalusia. Its ingenious heating system and the layout of its rooms reflect the sophistication of Islamic engineering.

After our morning of exploring Ronda, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where we can taste Andalusian specialties before beginning our journey to Madrid by private car.

End of tour in Madrid

What does the tour include?

• Accommodation: 11 nights in selected hotels and accommodations.
• Transportation: Transfers in a private vehicle throughout the tour.
• Specialized guide: Accompaniment on guided tours in each destination.
• Included tickets: Access to the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Poblet Monastery, Guggenheim Museum, Alhambra and other monuments.
• Wine experience: Visits and tastings in wineries in La Rioja and Ribera del Duero.
• Gastronomic experiences: Lunches and dinners in local restaurants, with regional specialties.
• Cultural activities: Guided walks in cities such as San Sebastián, Bilbao, Seville and Granada.
• Personalized attention: Assistance throughout the trip.

What is not included?

• Flights or trains to the tour starting point in San Sebastian
• Dinners and lunches not specified as included
• Additional drinks outside of the scheduled tastings
• Personal expenses and tips
• Optional activities outside the itinerary

Maximum capacity: 15 people.
Meeting point: Pick up at the hotel.
It is essential to have received confirmation of the reservation.

CANCELLATION CONDITIONS

One-day tours can be cancelled up to 24 hours before.