From royal palaces to coastal pinxtos, this itinerary explores the heart and soul of Spain across its capital and the vibrant Basque Country.

Board your overnight flight to Madrid, the cultural and political capital of Spain.

• Arrive in Madrid and meet your local tour liaison

• Hotel check-in and time to refresh

• Light walking tour:
  • Puerta del Sol
  • Plaza Mayor
  • Royal Palace (exterior)

• Welcome dinner in a local restaurant

Overnight in Madrid

• Visit the Prado Museum with a licensed guide

• Walk through Retiro Park, stop at the Crystal Palace

• Optional: Visit Reina Sofía Museum to see Guernica

• Dinner and free time along Gran Vía

Overnight in Madrid

• Travel to Toledo (~1 hr) for a guided tour:
  • Toledo Cathedral
  • Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca
  • Mosque of Cristo de la Luz

• Enjoy views of the Tagus River and browse artisan shops

• Return to Madrid for dinner

Overnight in Madrid

• Travel to Bilbao by train (~5 hrs) or private coach (6 hrs), with scenic countryside views

• Upon arrival: short walking tour of Bilbao’s Old Town (Casco Viejo)

• Dinner featuring Basque regional cuisine

Overnight in Bilbao

• Morning visit to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

• Walk along the Ría de Bilbao, explore Zubizuri Bridge and Plaza Nueva

• Optional: Funicular ride up Mount Artxanda for panoramic views

• Visit to the Museum of Basque Culture or local artisan markets

Overnight in Bilbao

• Morning drive to San Sebastián (~1.5 hrs)

• Orientation walk through the Old Town (Parte Vieja)

• Relax on La Concha Beach or hike to Monte Urgull

• Evening pinxtos crawl – traditional Basque small plates

Overnight in San Sebastián

• Morning bike tour

• Visit San Telmo Museum (Basque history & identity)

• Walk the scenic Paseo Nuevo along the waterfront

• Optional cable car to Monte Igueldo for coastal views

• Group dinner and local dessert (try the Basque cheesecake!)

Overnight in San Sebastián

• Morning excursion to the Basque coastline:

• Travel to Playa de Sopelana or Playa de Plentzia for time to enjoy the Atlantic views

• Beach walk, group time by the water, or supervised free time (weather permitting)

• Discussion of Basque maritime culture and coastal geography

• Return to Bilbao for the afternoon:

  • Funicular ride to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views over the city

  • Free time in Plaza Nueva to explore cafés and local shops

  • Visit to a Basque culture museum or artisan market

• Dinner and overnight in Bilbao

Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the U.S.