Day 1: Madrid
Arrival in MADRID. Transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, we include a panoramic tour of the city, where you’ll see the most iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Cibeles Fountain, and the Paseo del Prado with its renowned museums. We’ll end the tour at Plaza Mayor, where you can enjoy the vibrant nighttime atmosphere of this area.
Day 2: Madrid
Free day. We’ll offer you an optional visit to the historic city of TOLEDO.
Day 3: Madrid - Burgos - Vitoria - Bilbao
Departure from Madrid heading north into the heart of Castile, where the landscape opens into grain fields, rolling hills, and towns frozen in time. Our first stop will be in Burgos, a prominent Castilian city and the historic home of legendary medieval knights like El Cid Campeador. You´ll have free time to stroll through its charming streets and discover its magnificent Gothic cathedral. We then continue toward Vitoria-Gasteiz, the elegant Basque capital renowned for its high quality of life and harmonious urban design. Free time to explore and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we press on toward Bilbao. Before checking in to our hotel, we will stop at one of the most photogenic spots on the Basque coast: the Old Port of Algorta (Puerto Viejo), featuring narrow alleys lined with charming bars overlooking the sea. Overnight stay in Bilbao.
Day 4: Bilbao - Guernica - San Sebastián
After breakfast, we will do a guided tour of Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country and the region´s primary economic and cultural hub. It is home to the stunning Guggenheim Museum, famous for its breathtaking exterior architecture. You will have free time to stroll around or visit the museum if you wish. After lunch, we will head to Guernica, an iconic town marked by one of the most tragic events of the Spanish Civil War, immortalized in Pablo Picasso’s world-renowned painting. Here, you will find the Tree of Guernica, beneath whose branches the Basque Country was granted its autonomy during the Middle Ages. We will continue to San Sebastian. Upon arrival, we´ll go up the hill to Monte Igueldo, from where we will enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the city. Afterward, we´ll head to the city center, and you can explore the elegant capital of Gipuzkoa, known for its beautiful beaches, grand boulevards, and lively Old Town. We’ll enjoy some pintxos and drinks (included), which are typical of Basque gastronomy.
Half board dinner includes: Gilda, txistorra skewer,
Txangurro tart, pork bun and torrija dessert
1 glass of wine, 1 beer or 1 soft drink per person
Gilda without antxoa, tomato casserole, ratatouille tartlet, scrambled eggs and mushrooms, torrija dessert
Day 5: San Sebastián - Bordeaux
In the morning, we go first to Hondarribia where you will enjoy free time in one of the most beautiful towns in the Basque Country, known for its lovely beach, walls, and charming historic center. Afterward, we´ll head to the Basque Cider Museum (admission and tasting included) to learn about the traditions and production of this popular drink. Free time in SAN SEBASTIAN for lunch. In the early afternoon, we cross into France. Arrival in BORDEAUX at the end of the day. We suggest taking a walk through the city center.
Day 6: Bordeaux - Lourdes
The entire center of Bordeaux has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. Prepare to be captivated by the "Water Mirror" and explore the historic old town with its charming pedestrian streets and 11th-century cathedral. Later, you´ll have free time to stroll along the Garonne River banks, lined with quaint restaurants perfect for lunch, or if you wish, you can visit Cité du Vin, an impressive interactive museum that delves into the history and production of wine. Afterward, we continue towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. You´ll have time to visit the sanctuary (we suggest attending the candlelit procession). Dinner will be included.
Half board dinner includes: HTL ALBA:
Main course: Leek tart
Dessert: Grilled Chicken, Green Salad with Tomatoes, French Fries
Drinks: Coffee Eclair
Mediterranean HTL:
Starter: Cheese delight
Main course: Turkey escalope with mushroom cream and sautéed potatoes
Dessert: Éclair
Day 7: Lourdes - Sallent De Gallego - Zaragoza - Madrid
Early departure from LOURDES. Today we cross the Pyrenees mountain range among high peaks and stunning landscapes. Entering SPAIN, we stop for coffee in SALLENT DE GÁLLEGO, a historic mountain village with its Gothic church and medieval stone bridge.We continue to ZARAGOZA, the vibrant capital of Aragon. Time for lunch and to explore its historic quarter, discovering the great Plaza del Pilar with its cathedral and basilica, home to the venerated Virgin of the Pilar.We then continue to MADRID, arriving around 21:00 hrs.
Day 8: Madrid
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
