Northern Spain Explorer

8 Days Starting in Bilbao, Spain and ending in Barcelona, Spain

Visiting: Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, Zaragoza, Montserrat, Barcelona

Tour operator:

Explore!

Tour code:

MBB

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

10 - 16

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2560

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Northern Spain with the "Northern Spain Explorer" tour. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Basque culture, starting in the dynamic city of Bilbao. Discover the culinary delights of San Sebastian and the renowned wines of the Rioja region. Experience the historical charm of Pamplona and the architectural wonders of Zaragoza. Journey through the picturesque landscapes of Montserrat, where you'll explore its famous mountain-top monastery. Conclude your adventure in the bustling city of Barcelona, with a guided visit to Gaudi's iconic Sagrada Familia and a stroll through the enchanting Gothic Quarter. This fully guided tour includes comfortable accommodations, domestic transportation, and airport transfers, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience. Whether you're savoring local delicacies or marveling at stunning vistas, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Soak up the Spanish way of life on this tour through the Basque country

  • Discover the wines of the famous Rioja region

  • Spend the night in Montserrat and explore its famous mountain top monastery

  • Visit the coastal town of Getaria and learn about traditional anchovy canning

  • Explore the historic town of Olite and its luxurious royal residence

  • Take a guided tour of Gaudi's iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

  • Walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route from Obanos to Puente La Reina

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Trip Starts In Bilbao

Location: Bilbao

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Barcelo Nervion

Our journey begins in Bilbao, A port city with an industrial past, tucked into a lush corner of northeast Spain and surrounded by rolling green countryside, Bilbao is the largest and most culturally dynamic city in the Basque region. For those arriving on time our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting and an orientation walk before dinner. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Bilbao at any time, however if you would like to visit the Guggenheim, this is possible on Sundays up to 7pm If you would like an airport transfer today, you will need to arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO), which is around 20 minutes from the hotel by taxi. Should you miss the meeting, your leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.

Day 2: San Sebastian

Location: San Sebastian

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Barcelo Nervion

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we drive towards San Sebastian stopping first in the coastal town of Getaria, famous for its anchovies where we visit a fishery where we learn about the importance of this small fish to the local community and how to can anchovies in the traditional way. Continue to San Sebastian where we spend the day exploring this marvellous city. San Sebastian, known locally as Donostia, has long been one of the most famous tourist destinations in Spain, characterized by its superb cuisine. After arriving, we head first to Monte Urgull to get our bearings and stretch our legs. This hill on the headland looms above the old town and we discover the stone remains of a castle and some fine viewpoints. Back in the old town we explore a maze of grand architecture and pedestrianised alleys littered with quality bars, restaurants and smart shops. It does not take long for the famous Pintxos bars to fill with locals and you may see some of them drinking Txakoli - a popular white wine, naturally effervescent with moderate alcohol and natural acidity - in tall, flat-bottomed glasses. The tour leader will make some suggestions for lunch and you may choose a Txacoli tasting with some selected Pintxos. This afternoon, you can explore the old town some more, chill by the beach or we recommend joining the tour leader for a walking tour. Walk the promenade of the Playa de la Concha around the picturesque sweep of golden sand beach, passing surfers until you reach three of Eduardo Chillida's wonderful abstract sculptures being battered by the elements with fine views back across the bay. A nearby funicular ride up and down Monte Igueldo offers superb views of San Sebastian from a classic viewpoint. At the end of a rewarding day, we return to Bilbao for the evening.

Day 3: La Rioja, Laguardia, Finish In Pamplona

Location: Pamplona

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Maissonave

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we travel south by charter bus to La Rioja Alavesa, a Basque corner of the Ebro Valley that has a long tradition of producing quality Rioja wines. Our first stop this morning is at a local bodega to learn more about modern life as a wine producer in Rioja and a chance to try some of the famous wines. Some vineyards have chosen modern, striking architecture and we plan to make photo stops outside two of the most emblematic bodegas in the whole region - Ysios (designed by Calatrava) and Marques de Riscal (Gehry). We stay in a hotel in Pamplona, a city with a rich history dating back to the Romans. The Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Citadel and the City Walls are all well worth a visit. The afternoon is free for you to relax and take in the natural surroundings. Alternatively, you can join the Tour Leader for a walk in the local vicinity to explore the town.

Day 4: Bus To Zaragoza Via Olite

Location: Zaragoza

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Catalonia El Pilar

Meals Included: Breakfast

We have some free time this morning to explore Pamplona, before journeying through the proudly independent region of Navarra stopping at places of interest and finally into Aragon. The Camino de Santiago, or St. James Way, is an ancient Christian pilgrimage route that leads to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia and the final resting place of Saint James. We plan to join the pilgrim route this morning from Obanos village and walk a short 2 to 3km section of the camino to Puente La Reina, a town heavily influenced by the Pilgrim's route and devotees have been crossing its medieval five-arched bridge since the 14th century. Around lunchtime, we stop at Pamplona to see its medieval old quarter and grand cathedral. The capital of Navarra is most famous for the running of the bulls in its San Fermin festival in July. Our final stop this afternoon is to visit the historic town of Olite. We visit the luxurious royal residence and castle that King Carlos III of Navarre built in the 14th and 15th century. Part of the old palace is now a Parador hotel and the whole complex was restored in the 1900s after fire damage. Olite is the wine capital of Navarra and the surrounding countryside is largely dedicated to producing wine. Travelling onwards, we cross into Aragon and finally reach Zaragoza, a city that was heavily influenced by the Moors, a factor wonderfully illustrated by its numerous examples of Mudéjar architecture. We have a short walking orientation tour of the town before dinner, including the impressive El Pilar cathedral.

Day 5: Bus To Montserrat Via Agramunt

Location: Montserrat

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Abad Cisneros

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we drive towards Catalonia where we first stop in the charming municipality of Agramunt famous for its chocolate making. There, we visit a traditional chocolate maker and have the opportunity to discover the artisan elaboration of stone-made chocolate and taste it. After lunch, we continue our journey by bus to one of Catalonia's most beautiful areas, Montserrat. Montserrat is renowned for its distinctive rock formations, stunning landscapes, and the famous Benedictine abbey which is nearly a 1000 years old. Located on top of the mountain, we take a short train journey to reach the monastery and our hotel for the night. The train winds its way through the mountain's unique skyline, offering spectacular views. Through the panoramic windows you can admire the great beauty of the landscape that surrounds you on the journey from Monistrol to Montserrat. Not only is Montserrat Monastery of significant religious importance but the natural beauty surrounding the monastery is simply breathtaking. The afternnon is left free to explore the monastery and its surrounding hills. If you are lucky, you might see the Escolania Choir - one of the oldest boys' choirs in Europe.

Day 6: Transfer To Barcelona, Orientation Tour.

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Amrey Sant Pau

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we continue our journey to our final destination, Barcelona. We leave Montserrat and drive for approximatively one hour. After dropping off our luggage at the hotel, we take a walking tour through the narrow and winding back streets of the Gothic Quarter, the offbeat and fashionable El Born neighbourhood and the seaside neighbourhood of La Barceloneta. We will try to take in some of the historical covered food markets so you have the chance to try some local specialties to whet your appetite before lunch. This rest of the afternoon is left free to explore the city. We recommend a visit to Gaudi's Park Guell. Park Güell is an enormous garden with stunning and distinct architectural elements designed by the renowned Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí.

Day 7: Guided Sagrada Familia Visit, Walking Tour, Funicular To Montjuic Hill, Ending In La Rambla, Free Afternoon

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Amrey Sant Pau

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's highlight for many is an included guided visit to one of Gaudi's most famous works - La Sagrada Familia. Construction on this unique and enormous Basilica started in 1882 and continues to this day. Due to the limited availability of entrance tickets we will arrange our day around our entrance slot. There will be a walking tour through the Eixample neighbourhood, home to the majority of Barcelona's Modernisme art nouveau masterpieces, until we reach the grand Placa d'Espanya. From here we take the metro up to Montjuic hill for fine views over the city, ending our walk back in the old quarter near the Rambla.

Day 8: Trip Ends Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Barcelona. There are no activities planned for today, so you are free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like an airport transfer today you need to departe from Barcelona El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN) whichi s about 30-45 minutes drive away.

What's Included

  • All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

    All domestic transportation, including internal flights, is included in the tour.

  • Meals

    Meals are included as per the detailed itinerary.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation includes 5 nights in comfortable hotels and 3 nights in premium hotels.

  • Fully Guided

    The tour is fully guided.

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Complimentary airport transfers are provided to Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) and Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN) on the first and last day of the tour.

What's Not Included

International travel is not included in the tour package.

Meals

Breakfasts: 7

Mode of Transport

Travel conveniently with all domestic transportation included, featuring charter buses and a scenic train journey to Montserrat, along with complimentary airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour.

Accommodation

Enjoy 5 nights in comfortable hotels and 3 nights in premium hotels, providing a blend of comfort and luxury throughout your journey in Northern Spain.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the starting point of the Northern Spain Explorer tour?

    The tour starts in Bilbao, a culturally dynamic city in the Basque region of Spain.

  • Will there be any guided tours during the trip?

    Yes, the tour includes a fully guided experience with a tour leader who will provide orientation walks and guided visits, such as the guided visit to La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, complimentary airport transfers are provided to Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD) and Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN) on the first and last day of the tour.

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 5 nights in comfortable hotels and 3 nights in premium hotels.

  • Is there an opportunity to taste local wines during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to a local bodega in La Rioja Alavesa where you can learn about wine production and taste some of the famous Rioja wines.

  • Will there be any opportunities to explore local cuisine?

    Yes, the tour includes opportunities to explore local cuisine, such as visiting Pintxos bars in San Sebastian and trying local specialties in Barcelona's historical covered food markets.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to Montserrat?

    The highlight of the visit to Montserrat is exploring the famous Benedictine abbey located on top of the mountain, along with the stunning landscapes and distinctive rock formations.

  • I'm going on a walking/cycling trip-do I need to train?

    It will depend on the grade and how fit you already are. Check the trip page for details of the walking or cycling grade and how far you’ll be walking/cycling each day. For moderate or challenging trips in particular we’d recommend doing some walks or cycles before you leave to build up your fitness and prepare you for the distances being covered.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    We have a wide range of ages nationalities on our small group trips and they come from all walks of life.

  • Should I get travel insurance?

    Yes–it is a condition of booking that you are fully insured when travelling with us

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    At Explore, we're the experts in adventure travel. Our small group adventure holidays have been running since 1981. Today, Explore is one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but there are no concessions for doing so, and we must have a record in your booking advising as such before the trip departs.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Being a responsible company is a large statement, something that has to be entwined within the very fibre of a company. Discover the charities and partnerships we support as part of this at https://www.explore.co.uk/about/sustainability/charities-and-partners

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We want to be as clear as and as honest as possible about what happens if you decide to that you no longer wish to travel on your trip. Our booking conditions have details of the costs you’ll incur when you cancel-these charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure.

  • What is the accommodation like?

    We choose comfortable accommodation in the best locations possible. We opt for small, local and family-run accommodation where we can, as opposed to large chain hotels. We typically use hotels that are the equivalent of European 3-star, and you’ll usually have an en suite room. Occasionally, where we want to get off the beaten trail we may stay in more basic accommodation.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. But as we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help, and Explore has created a sustainability strategy based on the 2015 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected before and during your travels with us. Receive a full refund if your trip is cancelled, transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure minus any irrocoverable costs.

  • Do I need to be very fit to book with you?

    All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Final documents will include a comprehensive trip itinerary, climate and country information, budgeting and packing advice visa and passport information and details on optional activities available.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Yes on most of our trips. Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room, known as our single room option. On some trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided o

  • Do we have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel

    It’s now a condition of booking a trip with us that customers should have one of the following before they travel - — Be vaccinated against COVID, having received the full recommended course, and allowing enough time for immunity to take effect. Full vaccination includes any booster required to keep the vaccine valid. — Have taken a negative test (rapid antigen or PCR) within 72hrs of departure.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Explore will only offer hotels that have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with local government guidelines. We will ensure these measures include; enhanced room cleaning, ventilation, social distancing, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in public areas, food safety, staff re-training and minimising contact within the properties.

Reviews of this operator

Feefo Rated Customer  

Cycle Hadrian's Wall - Coast to Coast

02-Nov-2021

' Excellent trip with a mixture of easy riding days, mixed with great scenary ' The trip was excellently organised by the group leader. The accommodation was very good throughout the trip. The bikes were ideal for this trip.

Gemma Jackson  

Peru Encompassed - spectacular trip

02-Jan-2023

I booked for my husband and I to go on the Peru Encompassed trip with the 3 day Amazon extension trip tagged on the end, we also booked to go to Lima few days early to get over the jetlag and see something of Lima before setting off on the group trip. Everything was booked for us by Explore! with seamless ease and without any hitches. This was the first time I had booked onto an organised trip so I was a bit concerned it might not be for us. How wrong I was. We were a group of 9, ranging from 30s to 60s, and a mixture of couples and singles and different nationalities. As a group we gelled really well and chose to spend most of our free time together which made the trip great fun. As for the trip itself, it surpassed all expectations. The Peru Encompassed trip was superb. I don't think any other country offers so much culture, wildlife, specular scenery and amazing food, all of which we experienced in abundance on the trip. We had a local tour guide for the whole trip who was fantastic and then expert guides joined us on different legs of the journey. We learned so much as a result. The highlights for me were visiting the local market in Arequipa with our guide and sampling lots of different fruit and street foods, the day on Lake Titicaca and of course Machu Picchu itself. We booked an additional trip to go back ourselves the second morning which was great as we could do a different route around the ruins and get different views from the afternoon before. Our final highlight was the additional 3 day trip to the Amazon staying at the Hacienda Conception. The lodges were immersed in the jungle which was wonderful if noisy! the food was fab and the daily trips provided were excellent. It was a great relaxing way to end the trip although it did rain quite a bit. Both my husband and I said our trip to Peru was one of the best trips we have ever done.

Trustpilot
Ms D Brown  

Excellent company

07-Dec-2022

Excellent company, there are so many trips, you really get looked after. Everything is dealt with by your Tour Leader, all logistics are taken care of and usually things go smoothly, I only use explore because I know what to expect each time, that makes me happy, with a stress free holiday

Trustpilot
Stephen  

Azores Island Hopping

08-Nov-2021

Very well organised tour. Brilliant Tour Leader who went out of her way to make sure everyone was happy and enjoyed the trip. The Azores are an incredible location with amazing scenery and good food.

Barbara in Beckenham  

Iceland Northern Lights Adventure

05-Nov-2021

' Steina was a great guide - full of information made the trip so interesting ' Everything was just perfect - just as I had hoped - except the Northern lights were a no show!

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

May 04, 2025 - May 11, 2025
$2560

Sunday - Sunday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
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Sunday - Sunday

Jun 22, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
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Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
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Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$2560

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Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025
$2560

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$2560
Prices last published on 07-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Explore! allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Explore! requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of explore! charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 13 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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