Highlights of Northern Spain
Highlights of Northern Spain
$2049
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Highlights of Northern Spain" tour, a captivating journey through Spain's rich cultural tapestry. Begin in the vibrant city of Barcelona before venturing into the heart of La Rioja wine country in Logroño, where you'll savor exquisite wines and indulge in a pintxos experience. Traverse the scenic Camino de Santiago trail and explore the majestic Royal Palace of Olite. Discover the charm of Pamplona and immerse yourself in the Basque way of life in San Sebastian, renowned for its culinary delights. Conclude your adventure in Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. With a mix of public and private transport, this small group tour offers a perfect blend of walking, wine tasting, and cultural exploration, ensuring an unforgettable Spanish experience. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Arrive at any time. We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this vibrant city.
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
Additional Information: 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 La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà.
ACTIVITY: 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.
Day 2: Barcelona/Logroño
Location: Barcelona, Logroño
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: 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.
ACTIVITY: 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.
Day 3: Logroño
Location: Logroño
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
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: FULL DAY Enjoy a full free day in La Rioja wine country to do as much or as little as you please.
Day 4: Logroño/San Sebastian
Location: Logroño, Obanos, Olite, Pamplona, San Sebastian
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: 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.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: 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.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: San Sebastian
Location: San Sebastian
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 or join a cooking class.
ACTIVITY: 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: FULL DAY Set off to discover San Sebastian as you please and choose from a variety of different optional activities.
Day 6: San Sebastian/Bilbao
Location: San Sebastian, Bilbao
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: 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: AFTERNOON Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Bilbao's sights and museums.
Day 7: Bilbao
Location: Bilbao
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts). -
Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group upon arrival.
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Foodie Moment: Pintxos Experience
Enjoy a Pintxos (Tapas) Experience in Logroño.
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Foodie Moment: Wine Tasting
Participate in a Wine Tasting at a Local Winery in Logroño.
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Camino de Santiago Hike
Hike a portion of the Camino de Santiago from Obanos to Puente la Reina.
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Royal Palace of Olite
Entrance and visit to the royal palace of Olite.
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Visit Pamplona
Explore the city of Pamplona.
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Orientation Walks
Orientation walks in San Sebastian and Bilbao.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What's Not Included
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Meals
Meals are generally not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you maximum flexibility.
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Luggage Handling
You are responsible for carrying your own luggage throughout the trip.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and entrance fees are not included in the tour price.
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay in hotels for 6 nights, providing a cozy and convenient base for your exploration of Northern Spain.
Transport
Public bus, private vehicle, train, taxi, walking.
Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel through Northern Spain using a mix of public buses, private vehicles, trains, taxis, and walking, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. LOCAL GUIDES
It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.
2. LUGGAGE
In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times. We highly recommend travelling with a backpack or duffel bag over any wheeled luggage options.
3. RESERVE TICKETS IN ADVANCE
Please note that if you wish to visit popular museums we strongly advise reserving tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially during the high season from May-September, where this can take several hours).
4. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
5. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE:
During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.
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Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations.
Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.
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What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.) ...more ...less
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a variety of transportation methods including public buses, private vehicles, trains, taxis, and walking.
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What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?
The tour includes hotel accommodations for 6 nights.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner. Other meals are not included to provide flexibility in dining options.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a welcome moment with your CEO and group, a pintxos experience in Logroño, a wine tasting at a local winery, a hike on the Camino de Santiago, a visit to the Royal Palace of Olite, and orientation walks in San Sebastian and Bilbao.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can travel if accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.
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What should I know about luggage for this tour?
It is recommended to pack light and use a backpack or duffel bag, as you will need to carry your luggage on public transport and possibly up stairs. Wheeled luggage is not recommended.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size is 16, with an average of 12 participants.
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What is the role of the group leader on this tour?
The group leader, or CEO, will help take the hassle out of your travels, provide information on destinations, suggest activities, and recommend local dining options. They are not traditional guides but have broad knowledge of the areas visited.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Highlights of Northern Spain
7 Days Starting in Barcelona, Spain and ending in Bilbao, Spain
Visiting: Barcelona, Logroño, Obanos, Olite, Pamplona, San Sebastian, Bilbao
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26247
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans