DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Spain
Depart for Spain
DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Bilbao
Arrive in Bilbao situated in the heart of Spain's Basque Country, and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM. We recommend you select flights that arrive no later than 5 PM
Overnight: Bilbao
DAY 3, Thursday - Bilbao Walking Tour
Embark on a morning city tour of Bilbao, to discover its rich history and architectural beauty. Begin at the heart of the Casco Viejo, the city's charming Old Quarter. View Plaza Nueva, a grand Neoclassical square surrounded by arcaded structures, and the 14th century Gothic Cathedral de Santiago with its impressive Renaissance entryway. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Seven Streets area, dating back to the early 1400s, lined with traditional pinxto bars, and historic buildings. Explore the bustling Ribera Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, offering fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Spend the remainder of the day discovering the city independently
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Friday - Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian & Biarritz
Today's journey takes you to the enchanting Bay of Biscay, where you will explore the coastal gems of Biarritz and San Sebastian. Begin in San Sebastian, a vibrant city in Spain's Basque Country, known as the Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea. The city is renowned for its culinary excellence and beautiful beaches. View the gorgeous architecture and the lovely plaza and flower-filled parks that dot the city. Continue to Biarritz, a glamorous seaside town in southwestern France, known for its beautiful beaches, and elegant promenades. Once a fishing town, it was transformed into a resort for royalty in the 1800s. Later, head back to Bilbao
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Bilbao or Optional Full Day Bermeo, Guernica & Lekeitio Tour
Today is free to explore Bilbao at your own pace. Perhaps, participate in the optional Full Day Bermeo, Guernica & Lekeitio Tour. Embark on a delightful tour of Spain's Basque Country. Begin with a walking tour of Bermeo, a fishing village known for its colorful houses, historic harbor, and maritime heritage. View landmarks such as the Church of Santa Maria, and the Fisherman's Museum. Continue to Mundaka, a coastal town located in the stunning Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. The town is famous for its beaches that are home to some of the best surfing in the world. Next, head to Guernica to visit the Peace Museum, where you'll learn about the town's bombing during the Spanish Civil War. Conclude the tour with a visit to Lekeitio. View the Basilica of Santa María la Antigua, an imposing 14th century Gothic temple. Free time before returning to Bilbao late afternoon
Optional: Full Day Bermeo, Guernica & Lekeitio Tour
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Sunday - Guggenheim Museum, Optional Home Hosted Dinner in Bilbao
Your day of exploration begins with a visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture designed by architect Frank O. Gehry. The structure is dominated by his inspired use of flowing canopies, ship shapes, towers and flying fins, all gleaming with titanium tiles. It is considered one of the 20th century's most influential buildings. View an extensive collection of contemporary and avant-garde art, featuring works from acclaimed artists such as Jeff Koons, Richard Serra, Yves Klein, and Mark Rothko. Balance of the day is at leisure. Tonight, experience the warmth of Basque hospitality with an optional Home hosted dinner in Bilbao. Join a local family in their home and savor a delicious meal of traditional Basque dishes, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Interact with the family and learn about their culture and traditions
Optional: Home Hosted Dinner in Bilbao (PM)
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Monday - Full Day in Bilbao or Optional Full Day La Rioja Region with Wine Tasting & Lunch
Spend the day at leisure or choose the optional Full Day La Rioja Region with Wine Tasting & Lunch. Take a captivating tour to the famous Rioja wine region, celebrated for its exceptional viticulture. Marvel at the scenery of green fertile valleys, dramatic mountains, and picturesque villages as you approach the beautiful wine region of Rioja. Stop to visit Laguardia, a medieval town encircled by ancient stone walls. Perched on a hilltop, the town offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and the Sierra de Cantabria. Stroll through the labyrinth of narrow alleys and view the impressive Santa Maria de los Reyes Church. Next, head to a traditional Spanish winery (bodega) and walk through the lush vineyards. Learn about the art of winemaking and explore the cellar, where some of Spain's finest wines are aged. Sample a selection of Rioja wines and discover the distinctive flavors that set apart this wine region. Afterward, savor lunch featuring regional dishes. Arrive at your hotel in late afternoon
Optional: Full Day La Rioja Region with Wine Tasting & Lunch
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Tuesday - Full Day in Bilbao or Optional Full Day Santander Tour
On your last day, spend at leisure in Bilbao or join the optional Full Day Santander Tour. Journey to the coastal city of Pedreña, where you'll board a ferry boat for a scenic ride across the Bay of Santander.* On arrival, stroll along the elegant Paseo de Perada, with its famous gardens. Here, you'll find the Centro Botín de Arte, and the headquarters of historic Banco de Santander. View the Town Hall, Porticada Square, and the stunning Santander Cathedral of Santa María de la Asunción, a Gothic church from the 13th century. Next, explore the magnificent Magdalena Peninsula, home to Palacio de la Magdalena, a historic palace set amidst verdant gardens. Enjoy a ride on the tourist train that circles the peninsula, offering great views and easy access to its highlights. Return to Bilbao. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Weather permitting.
Optional: Full Day Santander Tour
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9, Wednesday - Depart Spain
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability and are quoted in U.S. Dollars. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour
operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material
provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates
are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators.
Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices
on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors,
omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to
confirm availability and pricing.
