21 Day Ultimate Tour of Spain Itinerary

Expert Guides

Luxury Vehicles

Your 3 Week Tour of Spain

Welcome to our 21 day tour of Spain itinerary! 

This tour has been carefully crafted by our expert tour planners to showcase the best of what this beautiful country has to offer. From the vibrant cities of Madrid and Barcelona to the rich cultural heritage of Andalusia and more in between, this tour will take you on a journey of discovery and adventure. 

What’s Included?

Day 1: Welcome to Barcelona & Tapas Tour

Upon arrival at Barcelona airport, your private local driver will pick you up and drive you to your hotel.

Tapas Tasting Tour

4 bowls of Barcelona style Tapas dishes.
Tapas Barcelona, Spain

Join us for a private tapas experience in Barcelona, led by an English-speaking guide. Tapas, small Spanish savory dishes typically served with drinks at a bar, are an integral part of Spanish culture and cuisine. In Barcelona, it’s hard to find a restaurant or bar that doesn’t serve tapas, but it can be difficult to find the best ones. Our expert guide will take you to three different bars, where you will enjoy a selection of three special tapas at each location, paired with a drink.

Barcelona is known for its unique regional specialties, such as escalivada (roasted vegetables), esqueixada (salt cod salad), and suquet de peix (fish stew). Our guide will introduce you to these and other delicious dishes, ensuring that you have a truly authentic tapas experience. 

Our promise to you is that we will only offer the best of the best, ensuring that you have a truly unforgettable tapas experience for your first night in Barcelona!

Stay overnight in Barcelona

Day 2: Exploring The Center of Barcelona With Your Guide

Guided tour of Plaça del Rei in Barcelona.
Plaça del Rei, Barcelona, Spain

During your 4-hour city tour of Barcelona, you will be chauffeured in a luxury private vehicle and accompanied by a knowledgeable private guide. Your tour will take you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including:

Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, an outstanding example of 14th-century Gothic architecture, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Your private guide will take you on a captivating tour of this magnificent basilica, unraveling its fascinating history and highlighting its splendid features.

As you explore the basilica, you will be awed by its impressive central nave, which exudes an aura of serene magnificence. You will also marvel at the elegant simplicity of the basilica’s interior, which stands in stark contrast to the robustness of its exterior. Moreover, you will witness the basilica’s intricate chapels, adorned with fine sculptures and frescoes, each with its unique story to tell.

Your guide will also lead you through the basilica’s Gothic cloister, home to ancient tombs and a tranquil courtyard. As you gaze upon the beauty of the basilica’s main altar, gilded with precious gold and silver, you will appreciate the splendor and devotion that went into crafting this extraordinary work of art.

Gothic Quarter Walking Tour

The Gothic Quarter is one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in Barcelona, and it is home to a wide range of historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Highlights of your guided walking tour include the Plaça del Rei, which is home to a number of important medieval buildings, and the Gothic Quarter’s many squares and markets.

The Paseo de Gracia

This tree-lined boulevard is the most exclusive street in Spain and home to many examples of Catalan modernist architecture, including the Casa Lleó Morera, Casa Amatller, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milá (La Pedrera). Your guide will provide you with a detailed explanation of the history and significance of each of these buildings and the architects who designed them.

Colon Monument or Barceloneta Beach

You will have the option to visit either the Colon Monument, which is dedicated to Christopher Columbus and offers spectacular views of the city, or the popular Barceloneta Beach, where you can relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Montjuïc Hill

This is a popular destination for tourists visiting Barcelona, as it offers a variety of sights to see and things to do. Some of the top sights to visit on a private tour of Montjuïc hill include The 17th Century Montjuïc Castle, The illuminated fountain at the foot of the hill and The Joan Miró Foundation, dedicated to the work of Catalan artist Joan Miró.

 

Overnight in Barcelona

Day 3: Gaudi Architecture Tour & Sailing Excursion

To the entire world, the name ‘Gaudi’ is synonymous with Barcelona. Known as “God’s architect” he designed many of the city’s most famous landmarks. His unique style, known as “Catalan Modernism,” combined traditional Gothic and Islamic architectural elements with organic forms and bright colors. Some of his most notable works in Barcelona include the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló.

Your English-speaking private guide, an expert on Gaudi, will introduce you to all aspects of the life and work of this renowned Catalan architect. Gaudi’s buildings are more like sculptures than traditional structures, and several of his works have been designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. Your guide will take you to some of Gaudi’s most famous buildings and explain his enduring influence on architecture and design.

Sagrada Familia Private Tour

Sagrada Família in barcelona
Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain

A private tour of the Sagrada Familia is a unique and unforgettable experience. The first thing you will notice as you approach the church is the stunning facade, which is decorated with intricate carvings and stained glass windows. Your private guide will explain the symbolism and meaning behind the facade’s design, and point out some of the most interesting details.

Once inside, you will have the opportunity to explore the church at your own pace, with your guide providing interesting facts and insights about the building’s history and architecture. You will see the nave, with its towering columns and vaulted ceiling, and the chancel, which is adorned with colorful mosaics. You will also have the chance to climb one of the church’s towers, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona.

Guided Tour of Park Güell

Gaudi's Park Güell in Barcelona tour.
Gaudi's Park Güell in Barcelona Tour

Visiting Park Güell with a private guide is a great way to fully appreciate the beauty and complexity of this iconic Barcelona landmark. Your private guide will provide personalized attention and expert insights into the park’s history and significance.

As you explore the park with your guide, you will see a variety of unique and whimsical structures, including the main entrance gate with its mosaic-covered pillars and the serpentine bench with a dragon’s tail at the end. Your guide will explain the symbolism and meaning behind these and other features of the park, and point out some of the most interesting details.

In addition to the architectural elements, the park is also home to a variety of gardens and sculptures, including a number of fanciful creatures. Your guide will explain the design principles behind the park and the significance of these features, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about Gaudi’s work.

Casa Batlló & Casa Milà

Located on the fashionable Passeig de Gracia, Casa Batlló is known for its colorful, organic facade, which is decorated with tiles and sculptures. It’s a prime example of Gaudi’s use of natural forms in his architecture.

Casa Milà is also located on the Passeig de Gracia and is known for its undulating stone facade, which was inspired by the forms of flowing water. It’s another great example of Gaudi’s unique style.

Barcelona Sailing Experience

On your sailing experience in Barcelona, you can choose to learn the basics of sailing from your professional skipper, or simply relax on board with snacks and beverages as you watch the sights of Barcelona drift by. 

In the evening, the city’s glittering lights are particularly beautiful when reflected on the water. As you sail, you will pass by a number of notable landmarks, such as the Olympic Port, the Barceloneta Beach, the Monument to Columbus, and more. If the weather permits, you can even take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea!

 

Overnight in Barcelona

Day 4: Arrival in Valencia

guest on tour in Valencia city waving a spanish hand fan.
Valencia, Spain

Our chauffeur will collect you in the morning and take you and your baggage to the train station to make the 2 hours and 50 minutes journey in a first-class carriage to Valencia.

Valencia Sightseeing Tour

Experience the beauty and culture of Valencia on a private sightseeing tour of this vibrant Mediterranean city. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you will enjoy a walking tour through the streets of the old city, visiting some of its most iconic landmarks. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to learn about the history and significance of these monuments and soak up the local atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or simply exploring a new place, this private tour is a great way to discover the many charms of Valencia.

Here is an outline for a full-day walking tour of Valencia:

The Plaza del Ayuntamiento

Or, City Hall Square, is a central square located in the city of Valencia, Spain. It is a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists and is surrounded by a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

During a guided tour of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, you will start by exploring the square itself, which is home to a number of notable landmarks and features. These include the City Hall building, which is a grand neoclassical structure that serves as the seat of the local government, and the beautiful Art Deco Post Office building.

Mercado Central (Central Market)

As you explore the market’s bustling stalls and corridors, you’ll have the chance to browse a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other goods. You might also have the opportunity to sample some of the local specialties, such as paella, a traditional rice dish made with seafood or chicken, horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and Valencian oranges, which are known for their sweet and juicy flavor.

Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Silk Exchange is an important example of Gothic architecture and has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the 15th century.

During your private tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the interior of the building, which is filled with stunning architectural details and artwork. Your tour guide will provide you with insights and information about the history of the silk trade in Valencia, and how the Silk Exchange played a key role in facilitating and regulating this important industry.

Jardines del Turia

Or Turia Gardens, take the opportunity to explore one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. The Turia Gardens are a series of parks and gardens that stretch for over nine kilometers through the center of Valencia and offer a peaceful and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Turia Gardens are home to a variety of landscapes and gardens, Sculptures, and artwork. Furthermore, The Turia Gardens are home to a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and performance spaces. 

 

Overnight in Valencia

Best Tours from Emily! Words can't express how grateful it was to be able to call on Emily for help with some excursions in Spain. Emily, thanks soo much. You're the BEST!!!
5 star review
Tisa N (US)
★★★★★

Day 5: Valencia - Fallas Explained

Decorated las fallas monument at las fallas festival in Valencia.
Las Fallas Virgin Cape in Valencia

The Fallas is a traditional celebration in Valencia, where elaborate structures are built and then burned in a grand spectacle. It may be hard to understand why people would spend so much time and money on a creation that will only last for a short time, but this ancient tradition has deep roots in the culture of Valencia. Some say it is a purification ritual, while others see it as a way to celebrate the coming of spring.

Regardless of the reason, it is clear that the Fallas is an important and beloved part of Valencia’s culture. During a private guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about this tradition and see it in action. Your guide will take you to the Fallas Museum, where you can learn about the history and basics of the celebration. You’ll also have the chance to visit a workshop where the structures for the next Fallas are being built and see firsthand the hard work and artistry that goes into these creations.

Valencia Paella Cooking Class

Welcome to the birthplace of Paella! During this private cooking class, you’ll learn how to prepare this famous Spanish dish from a local chef with years of restaurant experience. Your chef will guide you through the steps of making paella, sharing tips and secrets to help you achieve the perfect result when you try making it at home for your guests.

The class takes place in a charming local setting, and you’ll get to finish off the paella yourself in a festive atmosphere, accompanied by some of the finest wines of Valencia. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this class is a great way to learn more about this iconic dish and gain some new culinary skills.

 

Stay overnight in Valencia

Day 6: Travel to Cordoba & Monuments Tour

Today we travel to Andalucia in the South of Spain by taking the 3 hrs and 50 minutes high-speed train from Valencia.

Cordoba has a unique history, having served as the capital of Hispania Ulterior, or Further Spain, during the Roman Empire and later as the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate. Its rich cultural heritage has been recognized by UNESCO, which has designated the Mosque-Cathedral and the surrounding streets and buildings as a World Heritage Site.

Walking Tour of Cordoba

Cordoba palace in spain
Cordoba, Spain

Experience the cultural and historic richness of Cordoba on a private walking tour with a local expert guide. You’ll visit the Mosque-Cathedral and the Synagogue:

Cordoba Mosque-Cathedral

The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, also known as the Great Mosque of Córdoba, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Andalusian city of Córdoba, Spain. It is considered one of the most important architectural masterpieces in the Islamic world and is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. The mosque was built in the 8th century under the Umayyad Caliphate and expanded several times over the centuries. It is known for its stunning arches, columns, and patios, as well as its intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy.

On a private guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, you will have the opportunity to explore the history and architecture of this iconic site. You’ll learn about the mosque’s construction and its role in the city’s history, as well as its transformation into a cathedral in the 13th century after the Christian conquest of Córdoba. You’ll also have the chance to see the beautiful arches, columns, and patios up close, as well as the intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy that adorn the walls and ceilings.

Alcazar of The Christian Monarchs

The Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, also known as the Alcazar of Cordoba, is a castle located in the Andalusian city of Córdoba, Spain. It was built in the 14th century as a royal palace for King Alfonso XI of Castile and later served as a court and prison. The castle is an excellent example of Mudéjar architecture, which combines elements of Islamic and Christian styles.

Córdoba Synagogue Tour

The Córdoba Synagogue is a historic synagogue located in the Andalusian city of Córdoba, Spain. It was built in the 14th century and is one of the oldest synagogues in Spain.

Your guide discusses the various sections of the synagogue with you, such as the main hall, the women’s gallery, and the Ark of the Covenant, and explains their significance.

 

Stay overnight in Cordoba

Day 7: Cordoba Wine Estate

Old vineyards with red wine grapes in the Alentejo wine region near Evora, Portugal Europe
Vineyards, Spain

Experience the beauty and history of the Montilla-Moriles region on a private tour that includes a visit to an outstanding historical winery. 

You’ll depart from Cordoba with a private driver and travel through the lush countryside, passing through vineyards and olive groves as you take in the stunning scenery of Andalusia. 

Upon arriving in Montilla, you’ll have the chance to explore the town at your own pace, taking in the centuries of history that can be found in its streets and white houses. You’ll see numerous palaces, churches, hermitages, convents, and castles that were built between the 16th and 17th centuries, and be mesmerized by the town’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. 

The Montilla-Moriles region is known for its prestigious wines, which are the result of a long tradition of wine production and a slow aging process. You’ll visit the oldest winery in Andalusia, a family business that has been in operation since 1729 and owns 300 hectares of vineyards where Pedro Ximenez grapes are grown. 

The winery offers an extensive tour that includes a visit to the pressing room, the fermentation room, and the bodega where the wines are aged. At the end of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the wines with an expert sommelier who will explain how to properly appreciate them.

After this, your driver will take you by our luxury vehicle to Granada for the evening. The journey will take approx 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Day 8: Granada Walking Tour & Private Alhambra Experience

Alhambra private tour in Granada.
Alhambra Tour Experience, Granada, Spain

Once the capital of the Islamic Kingdom of Granada, which ruled over the region from the 8th to the 15th centuries. Granada became a center of learning and culture, and many of the city’s famous landmarks were built, including the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Granada Historical Walking Tour

Explore the rich history and culture of Granada with a private guide.

Walk through the city’s historic neighborhoods, such as the Albaycin, an old Arab quarter with cobbled streets and small squares. From the San Nicolas viewpoint, you can admire the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada. 

Visit the hill of Sacromonte, a quarter known for its cave dwellings, gypsy community, and flamenco tradition. 

The Cathedral of Granada is a notable example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Royal Chapel features a single nave, an eight-angled presbytery, and a high choir. The Royal Pantheon contains the remains of King Ferdinand, Queen Isabella, Philip the First, Joanna the First, and Miguel, the Prince of Asturias.

Granada Alhambra Private Tour

Located on a rocky hill, on the banks of the Darro River, protected by mountains and amongst the eldest quarter in the city, the Alhambra rises up like an imposing castle with its distinctive reddish stone in its ramparts that prevent the outside world from seeing the delicate beauty enclosed within.

The Alhambra is a world-renowned example of Islamic art, featuring intricate carvings, stucco work, and stunning mosaics. Originally built as a military fortress, the Alhambra later became the royal court of Ferdinand and Isabella, where Christopher Columbus received royal endorsement for his voyage. The complex includes the stunningly ornate Moonish palaces, the Renaissance-style Palace of King Charles V within the Nasrid fortification of the Alhambra, the Alcazaba fortress, and the independent Palace of the Generalife. This palace is surrounded by lush gardens, fountains, and orchards, and is known for its beauty and cool, refreshing atmosphere.

 

Stay overnight in Granada.

Day 9: Arrival in Seville & Monuments Tour

Seville cathedral tour
Seville Cathedral, Spain

Today you leave Granada behind and make your way to Seville, the Capital of Andalucia. You can make the journey via a private transfer in our executive class vehicle, or by first class train carriage. Either method of transport takes approximately 2 and a half hours.

Accompanied by your guide, visit the two most iconic landmarks in the city: the Seville Cathedral and the Reales Alcazares.

The Alcazar

The Alcazar is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. It features palaces from different time periods and its gardens reflect its Moorish history. The complex was built in medieval times but contains a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque.

The Seville Cathedral

The Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and boasts a wooden main altar. Constructed in the 12th century and originally a mosque, only the minaret, now called “La Giralda,” remains. The bells are located in La Giralda.

Continue your discovery of Seville and its iconic landmarks on a guided panoramic tour. Your guide will show you the University, which was once home to the Royal Tobacco Factory, the Plaza de España, an impressive square in Maria Luisa’s Park built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929, the San Telmo Palace, originally a navigators school, the Tower of Gold, a former watchtower and defensive barrier on the Guadalquivir River, the Royal Maestranza Bullring, the Triana neighborhood with its unique character and numerous pottery workshops, the Isabel II’s Bridge, the Expo 1992 and its notable bridges, and the Basilica of the Macarena.

 

Stay overnight in Seville.

Day 10: Seville Cooking Class & Flamenco Experience

Today you will have the opportunity to explore 2 of the most celebrated and unique cultural dimensions that make Seville so distinctive, the famed cuisine on a private cooking lesson, and the passionate flair and colors of Flamenco performance.

Cooking Class & Market Visit

spanish food Garlic prawns in crockpot on wooden table

Experience the local cuisine today with a visit to a local market, followed by a private cooking class and a delicious lunch with views of the Seville Cathedral. 

Meet your chef and tour a local market, where you will see a wide variety of seafood, meat, fruit, and vegetables. After your market visit, head to the cooking workshop, where your chef will teach you how to prepare a delicious meal. 

Learn everything about authentic Spanish recipes by participating in a hands-on cooking class. After the class, enjoy lunch on the terrace, where you can savor your own culinary creations and share a glass of wine with your chef while taking in the views of the cathedral.

Flamenco Performance

Experience the unique art of flamenco in Seville by visiting the Museo del Baile Flamenco and attending a flamenco show. If you arrive about 30 minutes early, you can also visit the museum’s small collection and learn about the cultural significance of flamenco, which has been designated as an intangible World Heritage by UNESCO. 

After the show, complete your evening with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the illuminated streets of Seville.

 

Overnight stay in Seville

Amazing experience! My husband Douglas and I just came back from a 10 days customized guided tour to Morocco organized by Emily from Guided Spain. It was an amazing trip. Our driver Youssef met us at the Casablanca Airport and he quickly became our guide, security guard and guardian angel! When I got sick he got me medicine and he always found the best toilets when we were on the road. Also, ice cream! We feel that we got the authentic Morocco experience with the riads (hotels) that Emily chose for us and the guides in the different cities we visited. The Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp was totally amazing as well as the visit with the Nomads,and the medinas. This is our second trip with Emily and as the first one, it was excellent. Our next one will be Portugal!
5 star review
Doug (US)
★★★★★

Day 11: Ronda Day Trip

Puente Nuevo in Ronda, Andalucía
Ronda, Spain

Meet your private driver and travel to the city of Ronda, located southeast of Seville in the Andalusian region of Spain. Ronda is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. It was once a key center of trade and commerce and was known for its skilled craftsmen and artisans. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and stunning natural beauty.

Ronda is known for its breathtaking gorge that divides the medieval quarter from the modern city, which is now connected by an impressive 18th-century bridge. The view from the bottom of the gorge is truly unforgettable.

During your tour of Ronda, your guide will show you interesting landmarks such as the bullring, which is believed to be one of the oldest in Spain. Ronda is also home to some excellent restaurants, so it is recommended to stop for dinner before continuing your journey to Malaga.

Day 12: Malaga Walking Tour & Picasso Museum

Aerial view of malaga with port, town hall and cathedral
Malaga, Spain

Join your private guide for a half-day tour of lively Malaga, where you can experience the unique Andalusian flavor of the city. Explore Malaga’s most important sites, monuments, and museums, including: 

  • The Central Market (Atarazanas) 
  • The Plaza de la Constitución 
  • The Manquita (also known as the Cathedral)
  • The Alcazaba (a fortress-palace similar to the Alhambra)
  • The Roman Theatre
  • Larios street, the heart of the city and home to a wide range of bars and stores

Malaga Picasso Museum Tour

The Picasso Museum of Malaga offers a comprehensive look at the life and work of Pablo Picasso. 

You can see his early academic paintings, his experimental Cubist works, and his later mixed-style pieces from the seventies. The museum also features a collection of the artist’s ceramics and graphic art, as well as personal artifacts from the Picasso family. 

After exploring the Picasso Museum, be sure to visit the Picasso Birthplace Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Picasso’s paintings, ceramics, graphic art, and illustrated books, as well as personal artifacts from the artist’s family.

 

Stay overnight in Malaga

Day 13: Bilbao & Food Experience

external view of La Ribera Market Bilbao
La Ribera Market Bilbao, Spain

In the morning take the 1-and-a-half-hour flight from Malaga to Bilbao.

Enjoy a Bilbao´s old quarter private guided walking tour. 

The old quarter of Bilbao, also known as the “Seven Streets,” offers a blend of history and modern urban vibrancy. As you wander through its cobbled streets and charming squares, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as the Gothic Saint James Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, San Anton Church, and the Mercado de la Ribera, the largest covered market in Europe. 

This area is also a great place to sample the local cuisine at bars and restaurants and participate in the popular tradition of “txikiteo” and pintxos (tapas). The tour includes three drinks and pintxos.

 

Overnight in Bilbao.

Excellent Individualized Tour Company for People who do not want to go on Package Tours. I used Emily to arrange a tour of Southern Spain in January, 2020 for 4 people. It turned out to be great. What I do not like is being shepherded around to cheesy tourist sites and waiting in lines of tourists. Emily arranged for very competent and efficient drivers, fantastic guides, very good hotels and even recommended restaurants for each location. The best thing about using Emily is that when she arranged for (at my request) wine tastings, olive oil tastings, a flamenco show is that all of them were authentic and interesting and none of them were contrived or cheesy. While on the trip, she checked in and made sure everything went smoothly. When we went to the Alhambra or other ticketed sites, we always got to skip the line due to Emily. There was one overall price per person (depends on double/single room) that I felt was very fair for the level of service provided.
5 star review
Heide (US)
★★★★★

Day 14: Guggenheim Museum Tour

exterior of Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

The Guggenheim contemporary art museum was designed by architect Frank Gehry and opened in 1997, becoming an iconic landmark in the city. The museum is home to a diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and more. The building itself is a work of art, with its striking and unconventional design featuring curving forms covered in titanium sheets.

With a private guide, you can fully explore the Guggenheim Museum and all it has to offer. Your guide can provide insight and context for the various artworks on display, helping you to appreciate and understand them more deeply. You may also have the opportunity to visit special exhibitions or areas that are not typically open to the public.

Your guide can tailor the tour to your interests and preferences, ensuring that you get the most out of your visit.

 

Overnight in Bilbao

Day 15: Scenic Driving Tour Between Bilbao to San Sebastian

Entrance and frontal view of Castle of Butron in Bilbao.
Castle of Butron in Bilbao, Spain

Get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Basque Coast on a private full-day tour. Your journey begins in the town of Getxo, where you’ll have the chance to marvel at the views from the famous hanging bridge. From there, you’ll head to Mungia to visit the imposing Butron Castle. Nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, this castle has a rich history dating back to the 14th century.

Next, you’ll travel along the coast to the chapel of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a beautiful and historic religious site located on a peninsula in the middle of the sea. You’ll continue your journey to the charming fishing village of Bermeo, where you can take in the local culture and perhaps try some delicious seafood. As you make your way up the coast, you’ll also visit the town of Mundaka, known for its breathtaking views of the Biosphere Reserve of Urdaibai. 

Your tour will conclude in the emblematic town of Guernica, a place of great significance in the Spanish Civil War and home to the famous painting by Picasso.

Day 16: San Sebastian Biking & Walking Tour

beautiful waters and white boats in harbor at san sebastian, donostia.
San Sebastian, Spain

See the magnificent views, landscapes, and neighborhoods of San Sabastian by both bike and on foot with our full-day tour itinerary.

Countryside Biking Tour

Join us on a cycling tour through the breathtaking landscape of Santiagomendi and the Camino de Santiago. 

From the top of Santiagomendi, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree panorama, taking in the Concha Bay and the first mountains of Navarre and Bizkaia. We’ll also stop at the Old Hermitage, a historic site that has provided shelter for pilgrims for centuries. 

After a rest, we’ll follow the “route of the apple orchards” on a circular descent, returning to San Sebastián via a bike path. The tour covers a distance of 25km (round trip) with an elevation change of 294m. It includes a traditional appetizer and drink, which serves as lunch.

San Sebastian Walking Tour

Join a private guide for a half-day walking tour of San Sebastian and discover the city’s rich history and culture. 

You’ll explore the old Casino, now the City Hall, and take a stroll along the beautiful La Concha Beach. You’ll also visit the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and the Maria Cristina Hotel, both notable landmarks in the city. 

As you walk through the old town, you’ll see the marina and the fishermen’s district, as well as the “María Cristina Bridge,” a monumental bridge that crosses the River Urumea. Along the way, you’ll witness the blend of tradition and modernity that make San Sebastian a unique coastal leisure city with touches of the Belle Époque.

 

Overnight in San Sebastian.

Day 17: La Rioja

wine experience Grapevine fields of La Rioja, Spain
La Rioja Vineyards, Spain

Join us on a private tour of the Rioja Wine Region and discover the secrets of winemaking in one of the world’s most famous wine regions. 

You’ll travel in comfort with a private driver and private guide, both passionate about Rioja. The tour includes visits to three special wineries, each with its own unique style, history, and architecture. 

You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the charming medieval village of Laguardia and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant recommended by our expert guides. This is a day-long journey through the beauty of the Rioja region and an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts.

 

Overnight in La Rioja wine estate.

Highly recommend Emily! Emily created a personalized itinerary for us in southern Spain. She was very knowledgeable about the region, attentive, and personable. She returned emails properly, and was a pleasure to work with. Emily was flexible and did not make mind making changes in the itinerary-- Her goal is to please her customers!
5 star review
Eric S (US)
★★★★★

Day 18: La Rioja Continued

Aranda de Duero is a town known for its rich history as a strategic stronghold in the Middle Ages. It is also famous for its medieval cellars, which were used to produce the region’s famous wine from the 15th century until the second half of the 20th century. These underground rooms form a maze-like labyrinth that is a testament to the town’s rich winemaking heritage.

Join us on an exciting private tour through centuries of history and wine tradition in the region. This is a great opportunity to indulge in a memorable tasting session featuring the best wines the region has to offer.

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the production of wine at a depth of 12 meters with your expert guide. You will learn about the cultivation of vines and the process of making wine on-site. 

As part of the tour, you will also be treated to a wine-tasting session and a traditional meal featuring the local specialty of roasted milk lamb, accompanied by delicious local wine.

After your wine and food experience, your private driver will take you to Madrid in the evening.

Day 19: Discovering Madrid & Prado Museum

Madrid Gran Via walking tour
Madrid, Spain

On this private tour, your guide will introduce you to the most notable buildings and avenues of Madrid, providing historical context throughout different periods, from the reigns of the Habsburgs and Bourbons to the present day. 

You will have the chance to see the Royal Palace, the former residence of the King and Queen of Spain, the Plaza Mayor, the Puerta del Sol, the Royal Post Office (currently the headquarters of the Government of the Community of Madrid), the Grand Via with its unique buildings, and the Retiro Park, which was once a recreational area for the royal family and is now a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Prado Guided Tour

The Prado Museum is a world-renowned art gallery that boasts a world-leading collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks from the Spanish, Italian, and Flemish schools. 

Visitors to the museum can view masterpieces by some of the greatest artists in history, including Diego Velázquez, Francisco de Goya, Peter Paul Rubens, and Hieronymus Bosch. 

Some of the must-see artworks at the Prado include Velázquez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s May 3rd, 1808, Rubens’s The Three Graces, and Bosch’s The Garden of Earthly Delights. In addition to these famous works, the museum also features many other pieces by notable artists such as Titian, Raphael, and El Greco.

 

Stay overnight in Madrid.

Day 20: Day Trip Excursion to Toledo

Toledo castle tour group entering
Toledo, Spain

Meet your driver and guide in Madrid and begin the 1-hour journey to Toledo.

Arrive in Toledo and begin a guided walking tour of the city’s historic center.

Your tour will start at some of Toledo’s most famous landmarks, including the Cathedral of Toledo and the Alcázar. 

The Cathedral of Toledo is a Gothic masterpiece that dates back to the 13th century. It is home to a wealth of art and architecture, including the tombs of several Spanish kings and queens.

 The Alcázar of Toledo is a fortress and palace that was built by the Spanish monarchy in the Middle Ages. It has been used as a royal palace, a military barracks, and a state prison, and today it is a museum that displays a collection of art and artifacts. 

After visiting these iconic landmarks, you will continue your tour of Toledo with a visit to the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, which dates back to the 12th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Mudéjar architecture in Spain.

Lunch in Toledo

Take the opportunity to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Toledo. 

Toledo is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines elements of both Spanish and Mediterranean cooking. You will have the chance to sample some of the local specialties, such as Toledo’s famous marzipan, a sweet almond-based confection that is a popular treat in the region.

Museum of Santa Cruz

The museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century building that was once a hospital. It is home to a stunning collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other decorative objects, many of which were created by El Greco, a famous painter and sculptor who lived and worked in Toledo in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of El Greco’s works, which includes some of his most famous paintings, such as “The Disrobing of Christ” and “The Assumption of the Virgin.” You’ll also have the chance to see other works by El Greco, including his paintings of the Virgin Mary and various saints, as well as his portraits of important figures from Toledo’s history.

As you walk through the galleries, your guide will provide you with interesting information and insights about the artworks and their historical context, helping you to fully appreciate the beauty and significance of these works.

Return to Madrid in the evening with your private driver.

Day 21: Transfer to Airport

On the final day of your 21-day tour of Spain, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel in Madrid and take you to the airport. 

As you make your way through the city, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on all of the amazing experiences you had over the past three weeks. 

As you approach the airport, your driver will drop you off at the terminal and bid you farewell. You’ll make your way through security and onto your flight, ready to return home and share your adventures with friends and family!

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Whether you want to spend your days exploring the vibrant cities of Madrid and Barcelona, soaking up the sun on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, or discovering the rich cultural heritage of Andalusia, we can help you plan the perfect trip to Spain. 

Simply let us know your preferences and we will put together a detailed itinerary that includes all the must-see sights and activities, as well as recommendations for hotels, restaurants, and other travel arrangements. We look forward to helping you plan your dream vacation to Spain!

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