A Taste of Northern Spain

May 10
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May 19, 2027

May 10: Arrive Bilbao, private transfer to Hotel Catalonia Gran Via Bilbao

Catalonia Gran Vía Bilbao is a stylish and contemporary 4★ hotel ideally located in the heart of Bilbao, just steps from the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Combining modern design with comfort and functionality, the hotel offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and cultural visits.  With its central location, guests enjoy access to Bilboa’s main attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas all within walking distance.

Welcome meeting and dinner at a nearby restaurant

May 11: Full-Day Private Tour | Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum

Immerse yourself in the dynamic blend of art, culture, and history on this private tour of Bilbao.

Begin your journey with breathtaking panoramic views from the Artxanda viewpoint, capturing the cityʼs unique landscape. Continue to the charming Old Town (Casco Viejo), where centuries of history come alive through its narrow streets, lively plazas, and traditional Basque architecture.

The highlight of the tour is a guided visit to the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, where youʼll explore its contemporary art exhibits and iconic architecture. This personalized experience is perfect for art lovers cultural enthusiasts alike.

Free afternoon and evening to explore Bilboa on your own.

May 12: Private Transfer from Bilbao to San Sebastian

Take in the gorgeous views over La Concha beach from the Catalonia Donosti, located on the natural lookout of San Bartolomé hill. The hotel is set in a former convent and preserves its main facade of great historical value. You won't want to leave the rooftop with a terrace, pool and sun deck from where you can admire the best panoramic view over San Sebastián and the Cantabrian Sea.

Half-Day Private Tour San Sebastián - Donosti

As Guipuzcoans, we carry the vibrant and enchanting city of San Sebastián in our hearts, and weʼre confident you will too. Discover its rich history, lively culture, delectable gastronomy, and awe-inspiring landmarks on this vivid and colorful tour.

Known as Bella Easo, San Sebastián has been a summer haven for the Spanish monarchy and international aristocracy since the mid-19th century, making it a thriving political and cultural center during the summer months.

Our journey begins with a drive to the magnificent Mount Igueldo, situated at one end of the dazzling La Concha Bay. From the top, enjoy striking views of:

  • The entire cityscape
  • The stunning Guipuzcoan coastline
  • The dynamic Cantabrian Sea
  • The luminous La Concha Bay

Next, visit the cityʼs iconic landmark, the Peine del Viento, created by sculptor Eduardo Chillida. This set of three steel sculptures, each weighing over 9 tons, is anchored to the rocks where the sea and wind meet.

Continue to the Miramar Palace, an English-style palace built in 1893 for the Spanish Royal Family and once home to Queen Maria Cristina. Admire the palaceʼs elegant architecture and enjoy stunning views of the bay and Santa Clara Island (home to the Iberian lizard of San Sebastián).

Return to the city center and begin a walking tour around the Alderdi Eder gardens, the harbor, and Monte Urgull, where youʼll see the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Explore the Old Town, a perfect blend of tradition and modernity:

  • Calle 31 de Agosto, the only street that survived the 1813 destruction of the city
  • Church of Our Lady of Coro
  • Constitution Square
  • Church of San Vicente
  • Plaza de Guipúzcoa and Plaza Oquendo
  • Hotel María Cristina, a Belle Époque landmark and International Film Festival venue

Cross the Urumea River via the Zurriola Bridge to the youthful, surfer-friendly neighborhood of Gros. Admire the Kursaal Palace, a spectacular architectural work by Rafael Moneo and current venue of the Donostia-San Sebastián International Film Festival, located next to Zurriola Beach.

May 13: Evening Private Pintxo Tour 

Join us on our Pintxo Tour, a culinary journey through the enchanting streets of San Sebastiánʼs Old Town, stopping at the most iconic bars and restaurants to taste a variety of mouthwatering pintxos, specially prepared for you.

For three hours, youʼll experience the city like a true local, hopping from one bar to another and sampling the finest pintxos that Basque cuisine has to offer. Delight in the rich flavors of the region and enjoy one of its star creations: the pintxo, a miniature dish crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Many of the chefs creating these culinary treasures have been trained in prestigious culinary schools in San Sebastián, bringing their expertise to the cityʼs bars. Every pintxo is a work of art, blending modern creativity with traditional flavors.

This tour is a true culinary adventure, offering the perfect introduction to the magic of Basque cuisine. 

May 14: Free day to relax and enjoy San Sebastian

May 15: Private transfer to Logroño and Eurostar Fuerte Ruavieja with a stop at Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture

Located in the heart of Logroñoʼs historic centre, Eurostars Fuerte Ruavieja offers a unique stay where history and contemporary comfort come together seamlessly. Set within a beautifully restored complex of medieval buildings, the hotel preserves the character of the old town while introducing modern design and thoughtful amenities.

Just steps away from the famous Calle Laurel and the cityʼs main attractions, the hotel is perfectly positioned to experience the vibrant spirit of Logroño.

On our drive from San Sebastian we will take time to visit the Vivanco Museum of wine Culture, widely regarded as one of the world’s most comprehensive wine museums exploring 8000 years of winemaking history through impressive collections of ancient tools, interactive aroma displays, and wine-inspired artwork by masters like Picasso and Miro.

Lunch will be enjoyed at their tapas bar before continuing on our way to Logrono. 

May 16: Full Day Private Tour | Rioja Wineries

Embark on a journey to discover one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in Spain, the Basque Rioja region, and explore its fascinating world of wine-making with a tour of three Rioja wineries. Get ready to indulge in an unforgettable experience of wine tasting, where you will have the chance to taste some of the worldʼs most exquisite wines.

Weʼll start with a breathtaking visual feast as we take in the stunning vineyard landscape, filled with a contrast of colors ranging from ochre and yellow in the fall, to lush greens in the spring and summer.

Our carefully selected tour includes three different wineries, all family-owned and passionate about producing world-class wines. Our first stop will be at one of the oldest and most traditional wineries, where our gracious host will explain the entire wine-making process, from grape to bottle, as well as the different types and aging processes of the wine. Youʼll get to savor these incredible wines alongside some of the best local products, like chorizo, cheese, and olive oil.

When it comes to Rioja wine, quality is a guarantee. To make this wine tour unique and complete, weʼll take you to another winery to sample different wines and learn about the details of the harvest and production. Youʼll have the opportunity to compare the taste and aroma of different grape varieties used in their creation. 

Wine-making tradition

Our final winery is located in a privileged spot, with spectacular views at the foot of the Cantabrian Mountains. Throughout the tour, youʼll enjoy an incredible panoramic view of vineyards that present a landscape that is a real gift for the senses. This small family-owned winery has a rich history and tradition of wine-making, and our guide will explain their story as we savor their own wines accompanied by cheese and excellent olive oil.

And what better way to end this tour than by indulging in a typical Riojan menu at a local restaurant? Youʼll taste the famous “patatas a la Riojanaˮ and “chuletillas de corderoˮ grilled lamb chops, paired with an authentic Rioja wine, completing this fabulous menu.

May 17: Private Transfer from Logroño to Madrid with a stop in Siguenza for lunch along the way

Siguenza is a remarkably well-preserved medieval town dominated by an imposing 12th century fortress and castle and an impressive Romanesque-Gothic cathedral.  It is known for it’s excellent taverns seamlessly blending traditional, hearty Castillian flavors with sophisticated modern gastronomy.  You will have free time to explore and have lunch before continuing to Madrid.

Check in to Melia Madrid Princesa Hotel, located in one of Madridʼs most elegant and well-connected neighborhoods, the hotel combines contemporary comfort with refined Spanish hospitality. Situated near Plaza de España, the Royal Palace, and Gran Vía, the hotel offers easy access to the cityʼs main cultural landmarks, shopping districts, and vibrant dining scene. 

Evening Flamenco Show & Tapas Dinner (Optional)

Experience the vibrant heart of Spanish culture with this captivating Flamenco show and a delicious tapas dinner.

Immerse yourself in the passionate rhythms and dazzling footwork of Flamenco, performed by world-class artists. After the show, enjoy a traditional tapas dinner, offering a variety of authentic Spanish flavors. 

This unforgettable evening combines entertainment and cuisine, providing a perfect taste of Spainʼs rich cultural heritage.

May 18: Essential Madrid guided Private Tour

Discover Madridʼs unique personality and rich history, tracing its transformation from a small medieval town in the Kingdom of Castilla to the vibrant capital it is today—the third-largest city in Europe. On this tour, weʼll journey through Madridʼs evolution, from the historic heart of the old town to its sleek business districts and modern skyscrapers, showcasing the cityʼs architectural and cultural landmarks.

The tour begins with a private vehicle tour, allowing us to cover Madridʼs key sights efficiently before we arrive in the old town. Here, weʼll explore on foot, wandering through the charming pedestrian streets, experiencing firsthand the beauty and lively atmosphere that make this area so beloved by locals.

Driving Tour Highlights:

Explore Madridʼs cultural gems, including the “Art Triangleˮ with views of the Prado, Thyssen, and Reina Sofia museums. Take in the cityʼs famous monumental fountains, Cibeles Square, Puerta de Alcalá, Retiro Park, Las Ventas bullring, Real Madrid Stadium, the business district, Colón Square, and Gran Via.

Walking Tour Highlights:

Stroll past the Royal Theatre, Royal Palace, and Cathedral, visit Plaza de Oriente, Plaza de la Villa, San Miguel Market, Plaza Mayor, and end at the lively Puerta del Sol.

Final Evening Private Cooking Experience

Our Private Cooking Experience is a culinary adventure for those who seek exclusivity and refinement. For a special occasion or simply indulging in a unique experience, this private cooking class session creates unforgettable memories for our guests. This experience is an intimate and personalized event, perfect for celebrations or simply indulging in the finest Spanish gastronomy.

Accomodations:

  • Catalonia Gran Via Bilbao
  • Catalonia Donosti
  • Eurostar Fuerte Ruavieja Logrono
  • Melia Princesa Hotel Madrid

Included:

  • 4+ star accomodation
  • Private transportation
  • Meals as indicated (including water and ½ bottle of winer per person)
  • All excursions, entrance fees, tours, cooking classes, wine tasting as listed
  • Hosted by Kathleen and Troy

Excluded:

Tips for hotel staff, guides, drivers (approximately 160 euros per person), Flamenco show and tapas dinner (optional)

Pricing:

Cost per person double occupancy: 5800 euros 
Single Supplement: 1500 euros
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Optional Tour Extension 1

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Optional Tour Extension 2

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Optional Tour Extension 3

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