Best of Spain
Best of Spain
Best of Spain
15 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Santander, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Costa del Sol, Gibraltar, Seville, Córdoba
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SBESZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Spain and Gibraltar with the "Best of Spain" tour. This cultural adventure takes you from the vibrant streets of Madrid to the architectural wonders of Barcelona, the historic charm of Seville, and the sun-drenched beaches of Costa del Sol. Discover iconic landmarks such as La Sagrada FamÃlia, the Alhambra Palace, and the Rock of Gibraltar. Enjoy authentic experiences like tasting Valencian horchata and a traditional Andalusian dinner with the Morillo family. Travel in comfort aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach, stay in cherry-picked hotels, and savor daily breakfasts and select evening meals. With expert guidance and flexible sightseeing options, this tour offers a perfect blend of must-see highlights and local culture, ensuring a memorable exploration of Spain's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Hola Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Rafael Atocha
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the fiery Spanish capital that is Madrid. Take in the vibrant essence of Madrid before meeting up with your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a memorable Welcome Reception and orientation drive to see some of the city's most iconic sights.
Day 2: Journey To Burgos And On To Santander
Location: Santander
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Silken Coliseum
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey over the pine-clad Guadarrama Mountains to Burgos, the historic capital of Castile, where we will admire the exterior of the cathedral during an orientation tour with your tour leader. We cross the Ebro River and the Cantabrian Cordillera Mountains, traveling to the coast and the sophisticated capital of the Cantabrian region, Santander.
Day 3: Onwards To Culinary San Sebastián And Pamplona Make Travel Matter
Location: Pamplona
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tres Reyes Pamplona
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We depart Santander and travel to Bilbao to view the striking Guggenheim Museum. Continuing on to San Sebastián, we find the gourmet capital of Spain with a rich maritime history. Your Travel Director will take you on an orientation of the city. Our overnight stay is in the vibrant city of Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls fiesta. Follow in the footsteps of Hemingway and enjoy a drink at Café Iruña, ramble along the brilliantly lit city ramparts or delight in the local pintxos before enjoying dinner at your hotel this evening.
Day 4: Continue To Gaudi Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barceló Sants, Hotel Barcelona Condal Mar, Affiliated By Meliá
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our journey continues through the Ebro Valley to Zaragoza where we’ll view the Basilica of El Pilar and Cathedral of La Seo. Later, we arrive in Barcelona to soak up the charm of a city that professes two great loves – Gaudà and football. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Perhaps amble through the aromatic La Bouqeria, or join us for an evening of discovery capped off with a traditional Catalonian style dinner and the best crema Catalana in town.
Day 5: Discover Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barceló Sants, Hotel Barcelona Condal Mar, Affiliated By Meliá
Meals Included: Breakfast
The whimsical fantasy world of Gaudà is on display this morning as we embark on a sightseeing tour to visit the inspiring, but as yet unfinished, La Sagrada FamÃlia in the company of a Local Specialist. Consider joining an Optional Experience to the mountain-top monastery of Montserrat to see the shrine of the Black Madonna, the patron saint of Catalonia.
Day 6: Off To Coastal PeñÃscola And Valencia Make Travel Matter
Location: Valencia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Valencia Lavant
Meals Included: Breakfast
The sweet scent of oranges accompanies us on our journey along the Costa Dorada to fortified PeñÃscola, where we'll see the ancient castle used in the film 'El Cid'. Continuing through fertile huertas, we arrive in sunny Valencia where we will stay the night. Our orientation of this cultural city includes views of the modernist style Mercado de Colón, the Bullring, the Towers of Serrano and Quart, and the Art Nouveau Estación del Norte. Witness the modern verve of Valencia and view the City of Arts and Sciences, a large-scale urban recreation center for culture and science, designed by Santiago Calatrava. During one of our iconic MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, we will also enjoy horchata, the celebrated drink of Valencia.
Day 7: Venture To Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Occidental
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey by the dramatic Sierra Nevada Mountain range to the city of Granada where we meet our Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of the spectacular UNESCO-listed Alhambra. Its golden façades and extraordinary Moorish architecture reflect centuries of multi-cultural history, which you will have a rare opportunity to explore as you wander through its palaces and exotic water gardens. Check in to your hotel later, where we will dine tonight.
Day 8: On The Road To Sunny Costa Del Sol
Location: Costa del Sol
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Meliá
Meals Included: Breakfast
Set your watch to Spanish time and enjoy a leisurely morning on your terms, or consider taking an Optional Experience to explore the medieval Moorish Quarter of Granada - the AlbaicÃn - with its narrow winding lanes, churches, minarets and palaces. We then leave Granada behind for the sun-kissed shores of the Costa del Sol, where we'll spend the next two nights. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Stroll along the beachside promenade, relax at one of the nearby beach cafes or visit the picture-perfect whitewashed Andalusian village of Mijas - the choice is yours.
Day 9: Costa Del Sol Your Way
Location: Costa del Sol
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Meliá
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day in paradise for you to kick back, worship the Spanish sunshine and taste la buena vida. Enjoy fresh seafood in Torremolinos, relax on the bleached beaches and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere or consider an Optional Experience to the effervescent Andalusian capital of Málaga to explore centuries of history.
Day 10: Explore Gibraltar And On To Seville Connect With Locals
Location: Gibraltar
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A scenic drive takes you past the millionaires' resort of Marbella and on to La Linea. Cross to the Rock of Gibraltar for free time to explore or consider joining an Optional Experience to St. Michael's Cave to see the Barbary Macaques (Rock Apes). This afternoon, continue through the Andalusian countryside past Jerez - famous for its sherry production - to Seville. This evening, we Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience with the Morillo family at their olive oil farm.
Day 11: See The Sights Of Seville
Location: Seville
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Specialist this morning for a tour of Seville's leafy avenues. See the iconic Giralda Bell Tower and visit the Seville Cathedral, the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Stroll through Maria Luisa Park, with its tiled fountains, pavilions, palms and orange trees, and explore the architectural gems of Seville's 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. Explore the Jewish history of Spain in Seville's former Jewish Quarter, where a wall separated the Jewish community from the rest of the city during medieval times. Tonight, consider soaking up the fiery flamenco atmosphere in the city that made this passionate dance famous.
Day 12: Journey To Córdoba And Toledo
Location: Córdoba
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Toledo
Meals Included: Breakfast
We journey to Córdoba to meet a Local Specialist for a visit to the astounding Mosque of the Caliphs, a jewel of Hispano-Islamic art featuring striking arches and Byzantine mosaics. Then visit the remains of the 14th-century Mudéjar-style synagogue in the old Jewish neighborhood. Continue to Toledo for an evening in Spain's former capital.
Day 13: Admire Ancient Toledo Then On To Madrid Dive Into Culture
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Rafael Atocha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Local Specialist takes you on a walking tour of Toledo where you’ll Dive Into Culture as you explore this ancient hilltop city. Visit the Church of Santo Tomé, home to El Greco's masterpiece – 'The Burial of the Count of Orgaz', and the synagogue, the oldest one still standing in Europe. Later, we arrive in feisty Madrid, where we'll spend the next two nights. The grand plazas of Madrid welcome you as we join our Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of Spain's capital city. See Gran VÃa and the Cibeles Fountain before we Dive Into Culture and visit the world-famous Prado Museum, featuring one of the world's finest collections of European art, including masterpieces by Velazquez.
Day 14: Discover Stylish Madrid Dive Into Culture
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Rafael Atocha
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Spend today at leisure exploring the city. Visit the Royal Palace with its spectacular Goya artworks, relax in the leafy Buen Retiro Park or enjoy the flavors and aromas of jamon in the Market of San Miguel. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for an unforgettable dinner to celebrate an epic adventure through Spain.
Day 15: Farewell Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our time together has come to an end. For now it's a fond adiós to Spain and newfound friends.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, is included.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are included.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) is included.
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Optional Experiences and free time
Optional experiences and free time are included.
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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International airfare is not included.
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included unless otherwise specified.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 14 Breakfast (B)
Dive Into Culture
- Barcelona: During a visit to Barcelona's La Sagrada FamÃlia, you'll have time to admire Gaudi's fairy-tale architecture and creative genius.
- Toledo: Embark on a walking tour in the ancient hill-top city of Toledo, renowned for its medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian Monuments.
- Madrid: Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, where you'll have time to admire its extraordinary collection of European art dating from the 12th to early 20th centuries.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a 'Be My Guest' dinner with the Morillo family in Seville, where you can enjoy a traditional Andalusian meal and learn about olive oil production. Additionally, in Valencia, you will taste authentic Valencian horchata from a local vendor, supporting sustainable practices and social inclusion.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries. Alternative transportation, such as rail journeys, may also be used.
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional experiences available, such as visiting the mountain-top monastery of Montserrat in Barcelona and exploring the medieval Moorish Quarter of Granada.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. Additionally, there are six dinners included as part of the dining summary.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include exploring cities like Barcelona, Seville, Córdoba, Toledo, and Madrid, visiting iconic sites such as La Sagrada FamÃlia, the Alhambra Palace, and the Prado Museum, and viewing the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions