Northern Spain Express - 6 days
6 Days Starting in Barcelona, Spain and ending in Haro, Spain
Visiting: Barcelona, Huesca, Zaragoza, San Sebastian, La Rioja, Madrid
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
16-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 6-day journey through Northern Spain, starting in vibrant Barcelona and concluding in the historic town of Haro. This small group coach tour offers a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Discover the awe-inspiring Montserrat Monastery, hike through the lush landscapes of Monte Perdido National Park, and explore the ancient Roman heritage of Lleida. Marvel at the unique star-shaped fortress in Jaca and the architectural wonders of Zaragoza's Aljaferia Palace. Indulge in the culinary delights of San Sebastian and the renowned wines of La Rioja. The tour also includes a visit to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, often referred to as Spain's 'mini Versailles'. With comfortable accommodations and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises an unforgettable Spanish adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pedro I de Aragon
Barcelona – Montserrat – Lleida – Huesca. Leaving Barcelona this morning, we journey to the dramatic Montserrat mountain. This unique landscape is home to a Benedictine Monastery and Spain's revered Madonna and Child statue. We enjoy leisure time for lunch, and you can join an optional visit to the monastery or ride the cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic views over Catalonia.
We continue our journey, making a stop in the quiet town of Lleida, renowned for its Roman heritage. There's free time for you to discover its ancient castle and cathedral independently. As day turns to evening we reach Huesca. The evening is free to wander the hilly town's medieval streets, discovering numerous churches and picturesque facades.
Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 8:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 9:00) - Barcelona Pick Up, Abba Sants Hotel, Barcelona.
Day 2: Huesca
Location: Huesca
Accommodation Name: Hotel Pedro I de Aragon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Huesca – Monte Perdido National Park – Jaca – Huesca. Today we'll be outdoors and there will be some walking involved, so wear a good pair of shoes! Our first stop is Torla-Ordesa, the gateway to Monte Perdido National Park. Here we take in stunning cliffs, lush oak and pine forests, and stunning 1,700-meter-high views over the Pyrenees.
Journeying through the mountains to Jaca, we discover the only surviving Spanish star-shaped fortress. There is also time for you to savour some of Aragon's regional cuisine before we return to Huesca for the evening.
Day 3: Huesca
Location: Zaragoza
Accommodation Name: Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Huesca – Zaragoza – Haro. Arriving in enchanting Zaragoza in the morning, we take an included visit to the 11th-century Aljaferia Palace. After admiring its beautiful porticos, we have some free time to explore. Art lovers can search for Goya paintings, history enthusiasts can discover Roman remains, and foodies can savour chireta, a delicious local dish.
Our next stop is Tarazona, known for its stunning medieval Mudejar style architecture, blending Muslim and Christian elements. Moving on to the village of Haro, the evening is free to enjoy a glass or two of local La Rioja red wine.
Day 4: Haro
Location: San Sebastian
Accommodation Name: Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Haro – San Sebastian – Pamplona – Haro. Today we explore the Basque Country, a region of unique traditions, stunning shores, and delectable cuisine. We begin in San Sebastian, a food lover's paradise that boasts the highest Michelin star density per capita. Enjoy lunch and stroll along the picturesque La Concha beach.
We then journey inland to Pamplona, known controversially for ‘the Running of the Bulls'. There is free time for you to stroll along the impressive walls of the town fortress before we return to Haro for the evening.
Day 5: Haro
Location: La Rioja
Accommodation Name: Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Haro – La Rioja – Haro. Today we embark on a scenic morning drive through La Rioja's gentle hills to Santo Domingo de la Calzada where there is free time to wander its medieval streets or explore the cathedral. Then we travel to a family run winery to savour the local flavours of its wine and snacks with an included wine tasting.
In the afternoon we visit San Vicente de la Sonsierra. We cross the medieval Ebro River bridge for stunning valley views from the castle on the other side. We return to Haro in the afternoon, with plenty of time to relax in the hotel, or head out for a final dinner in northern Spain.
Day 6: Haro
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Haro – Burgos – Real Sitio de San Ildefonso – Madrid. Say goodbye to La Rioja and journey to the region of Castile and Leon today. Our first stop is in Burgos, where we have a few hours to explore. You'll want to check out the cathedral, one of Spain's most spectacular.
After lunch in Aranda de Duero, a haven for wine and food enthusiasts, we head south to the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, often called Spain's 'mini-Versailles.' We explore its opulent rooms and stunning grounds with an included ticket. We reach Madrid in the evening, where our tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour finishes at 18:15 - Madrid Drop Off, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 star hotels -
5 breakfasts
Enjoy 5 breakfasts during your stay.
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5 nights in 3-4 star hotels
Stay for 5 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels.
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Escorted by an English-speaking guide
The tour is escorted by an English-speaking guide.
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Transportation in an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach with a local driver
Travel in an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach with a local driver.
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Entrance to Aljafería Palace
Entrance to the Aljafería Palace is included.
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Visit and tasting at a Rioja winery
Enjoy a visit and wine tasting at a Rioja winery.
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Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso
Visit the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso.
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20kg luggage
You are allowed 20kg of luggage.
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Tourist taxes
Tourist taxes are included in the tour.
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Note on tour operation
This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included.
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Tipping
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Optional activities & additional attractions
Optional activities and additional attractions are not included unless specified.
Accommodation
Stay at the Hotel Pedro I de Aragon in Huesca, offering modern amenities and a prime location near historic sites, and the Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos in Haro, a charming retreat in a 14th-century monastery in the heart of La Rioja wine region.
Age Policy
Minimum age 16, escorted by an adult
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach, escorted by an English-speaking guide and a local driver, ensuring a seamless journey through the scenic landscapes of northern Spain.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach with a local driver for transportation.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking guide.
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Are there any meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 5 breakfasts as part of the package.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
Accommodation is provided in 3-4 star hotels, including Hotel Pedro I de Aragon in Huesca and Hotel Eurostars Los Agustinos in Haro, offering modern amenities and a comfortable stay.
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Is there a wine tasting experience included in the tour?
Yes, there is an included visit and tasting at a Rioja winery.
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What is the minimum age requirement for this tour?
The minimum age requirement for this tour is 16, and participants must be escorted by an adult.
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What are some of the key attractions visited during the tour?
Key attractions include Montserrat Monastery, Monte Perdido National Park, Aljaferia Palace, San Sebastian, and the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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