Northern treasures of Spain

Arrive in Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital, known for its atmosphere, classical architecture, and beautiful squares and parks. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.

Madrid is famous for its brilliant food scene and lively nightlife, so be sure to go out in the evening to enjoy the incredible atmosphere of the capital. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. This morning, embark on a panoramic city tour that traces Madrid’s fascinating history. Admire its Renaissance and Baroque architecture at iconic sites such as Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. Discover landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Cibeles and Neptune Fountains, and the Puerta de Alcalá. Marvel at 19th-century treasures including the elegant Plaza de Oriente.

Finally, experience contemporary Madrid as you travel along bustling avenues like Gran Vía and Paseo de la Castellana, explore the stylish Salamanca district, and pass through Parque del Oeste, the city’s modern business and commercial hubs, and the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, leave Madrid and head to Zaragoza. Upon arrival, take some free time to visit the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of Hispanity, and stroll through the charming historic streets of the city. In the afternoon, continue to San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most renowned tourist destinations and home to the prestigious International Film Festival. Overnight stay in San Sebastián.

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a panoramic tour of this elegant and refined city, one of the most beautiful in Spain, renowned for its stunning bay and the iconic La Concha Beach. Ascend Mount Igueldo for breathtaking views of the city and coastline. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. Overnight stay in San Sebastián.

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Bilbao and enjoy free time on the esplanade of the iconic Guggenheim Museum to admire its striking contemporary architecture. Continue to Castro Urdiales, a charming fishing village, for some leisure time. Next, head to Santander, a picturesque port city set between the sea and the mountains, known for its beautiful beaches, including the famous El Sardinero.

Upon arrival, take a guided tour with a local expert to fully explore this stunning city. Overnight stay in Santander.

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most historically and artistically significant towns, home to architectural treasures such as the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a Romanesque masterpiece and Cantabria’s most prized jewel.

Continue to Covadonga, where you’ll have free time to visit the Sanctuary and the grotto that houses the revered image of the Virgin. In the afternoon, proceed to Oviedo, a city renowned for its charming pedestrian streets. Its monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with the stunning Gothic Cathedral as a highlight. Overnight stay in Oviedo.

Breakfast at the hotel and departure toward the beautiful Galician region. En route to Lugo, stop in Mondoñedo for free time to visit its impressive 12th-century cathedral and taste the famous “Mondoñedo cake".

Continue to Lugo and enjoy some leisure time to admire its remarkable Roman heritage, including its ancient walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best-preserved Roman walls in the world.

Proceed to Santiago de Compostela, whose historic center is also a World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most important cultural landmarks—a major Christian pilgrimage destination and the final stop of the legendary Camino de Santiago. Overnight stay in Santiago de Compostela.

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Santiago de Compostela on a fascinating city tour, including the famous Plaza del Obradoiro and its centuries-old Romanesque Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to relax or soak in more of the unique atmosphere and sights of this historic city. Overnight stay in Santiago de Compostela.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, leave for Madrid by bus, stopping in Salamanca along the way. You’ll have free time to explore this university city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich architectural and artistic heritage, from its golden sandstone buildings to the ancient bridge over the River Tormes.

In the afternoon, continue to Madrid for your last night. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Breakfast* at the hotel. Sadly, it’s time to wrap up your trip through northern Spain. Transfer to the airport at the indicated time to catch your flight back to the US.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.