Classic Spain

Discover the best of Spain as you travel across the country with this classic itinerary from south to north, immersing yourself in the country's vibrant culture as you explore its highlights. From the museums of Madrid to the fishing villages of the Costa Brava, you’ll get under the skin of Spain on this cultural and culinary adventure.

1. Fly to Madrid

2. Days 1-4: Madrid

   Begin your journey in Madrid, not only the geographical centre of the country but one of Spain’s cultural heartlands. Bursting with bustling streets and a vibrant atmosphere in each of its distinct neighbourhoods, Madrid boasts a fantastic art scene and picturesque architecture.

   Culture lovers will delight in a guided tour of the nearby Prado Museum, home to a vast collection of artwork by renowned Spanish masters such as Goya and Picasso. For a dose of Spanish history, visit Madrid’s Royal Palace, constructed in the 18th century - its opulent interiors and art displays are enough to take your breath away.

   Accommodation: The Principal Madrid Hotel (3 nights)

3. Days 4-7: Seville, Andalucia

   Venture south from Madrid to the Andalucian city of Cordoba, once the largest city in western Europe. Discover the history of the Islamic rule in Spain as you enjoy a guided tour of Cordoba and its Mezquita, a vast 10th-century mosque with, unusually, a Christian cathedral right at its centre. After exploring the mosque and Cordoba's picturesque streets, continue on to Seville, the capital of Andalucia.

   A vibrant city home to impressive architecture and bustling tapas bars, Seville is the cultural hotspot of southern Spain. Get under the skin of Seville and learn about the history of the city as you explore the breathtaking Real Alcazar, a royal palace dating back to the 10th century, before taking in a flamenco performance in the birthplace of this uniquely Andalucian tradition.

   Accommodation: Hotel Alfonso XIII (3 nights)

4. Days 7-10: San Sebastian, Spain

   After soaking up the atmosphere in Seville, it's time to head north to the delights of the Basque Country. Fly to Bilbao, where you'll have the chance to admire the fantastic contemporary art on display at the Guggenheim Museum. This iconic building, designed by Frank Gehry, has revitalised Bilbao's industrial roots and the city is now a real hub for art and architecture.

   Continue east to San Sebastian, one of Spain's most celebrated culinary centres. In the city, taste your way around some of the locals' most loved pintxos bars, or try cooking Basque style for yourself with a cooking masterclass. Further afield, the vineyards of La Rioja make the perfect playground for wine lovers and connoisseurs alike. Renowned for producing some of Europe's best wines, the region boasts a huge number of wineries and these are easily visited as a guided day trip from San Sebastian.

   Accommodation: Hotel Maria Cristina (3 nights)

5. Days 10-13: Barcelona, Spain

   Next, fly east to Barcelona, where both culture vultures and foodies will delight in the city's plentiful offerings. Explore the winding alleys and towering spires of the Gothic Quarter before admiring the unique works of Antoni Gaudi. This contemporary artist has truly left his mark on Barcelona, with seven of his structures being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the surreal Park Guell to the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. For those looking to indulge, Barcelona has an impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from, or for a more traditional experience, explore one of the city's colourful markets, such as La Boqueria.

   Accommodation: Mandarin Oriental Barcelona (3 nights)

6. Days 13-15: Torrent, Catalonia

   For the final leg of your journey, head north to rural Catalonia, where hilltop towns are dotted throughout the countryside and pristine beaches line the coast. Spend two nights relaxing at Mas de Torrent, a converted 18th-century farmhouse surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful scenery. Close by is the town of Girona, where restaurants offer the very best of Catalan cuisine, and there are many picturesque fishing villages within easy reach where you can find the freshest seafood. Discover the masterpieces of Salvador Dali at the museum dedicated to his work in nearby Figueres or simply unwind by the pool, enjoying the Catalan countryside.

   Accommodation: Mas de Torrent (2 nights)

7. Fly home from Barcelona

Madrid, Seville, San Sebastian, Barcelona & Costa Brava