Best of Spain | Winter | 2024/2025
Best of Spain | Winter | 2024/2025
$2176
Best of Spain | Winter | 2024/2025
10 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada
Tour Overview
There's no better chance to live your best Spanish life than 10 days drifting around Spain. Together we'll explore Spain's most iconic cities - think Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia & Granada ?? along with the smaller cobbled-street towns of Burgos, Zaragoza, San Sebastian, Pamplona & Toledo. Between paella-making classes, evening flamenco, locally guided tours of Albaicin & Alhambra, plus plenty of tapas, we'll feel like Spanish locals in no time.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel Praga (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first group dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you'll be thankful for your hotel sleep.
Day 2: Madrid To Pamplona Via Burgos
Location: Pamplona
Accommodation: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)
Accommodation Name: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Pamplona. We couldn't race to our night's stop-off point without letting you marvel at the pretty medieval town of Burgos first. For real, just wait till you see the gorgeous town square. Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We’ll start with a brief orientation tour of this well-preserved town, and then you'll have some free time to explore in your own way.
Day 3: Pamplona (Including Bilbao And San Sebastián)
Location: Pamplona
Accommodation: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)
Accommodation Name: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two new cities await us today, but not until we’ve had breakfast. Bilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn't diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you're free to use your morning to play art critique and absorb Bilbao's pretty surrounds and architecture. Next stop, San Sebastián! This is a pretty postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a walk, do some shopping or just sit and chill in a bar, enjoying endless plates of pintxos (the Basque version of tapas). Our day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you’ll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams.
Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona Via Zaragoza
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona. A colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki. With 2-nights in Barcelona, you'll be pronouncing Barcelona's C with a "tthh" like a true local by the time we make tracks. We'll kick things off with an orientation tour, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’ll have the chance to join a guided bike tour of the city. Afterwards, you could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi's iconic Parc Güell or beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 6: Barcelona To Valencia
Location: Valencia
Accommodation: NH Valencia Las Ciencias (or similar)
Accommodation Name: NH Valencia Las Ciencias (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we're ready for a change of scene - the port city of Valencia is calling, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. It’s hard not to be enchanted by Valencia as we explore the city during our orientation walk. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who's in?
Day 7: Valencia To Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Macia Condor (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Macia Condor (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It's been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won't forget you. Today, we're seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country? Granada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave! We'll join up tonight for an included dinner with the crew.
Day 8: Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Macia Condor (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Macia Condor (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you're at it, fill up on some of Granada's incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain's number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We'll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven't been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!
Day 9: Granada To Madrid Via Toledo
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel Praga (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid. Synagogues, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We'll uncover the city's gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain. Here we are, back where the party started. You're free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid's nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.
Day 10: End Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.
What's Included
-
Meals
The tour includes 3 dinners and 9 breakfasts.
-
Orientation Tour in Pamplona
Your Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of Pamplona and give a brief orientation talk.
-
Exploration Time in Bilbao
You will have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, home to world-famous art museums and grand architecture.
-
Sunset in San Sebastián
Admire the sunset on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián, known for its fantastic food.
-
Visit to Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
Check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece.
-
Dinner at Mescladis in Barcelona
Enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis, a non-profit focused on social cohesion.
-
Tour of Alhambra Palace in Granada
Tour the Moorish marvel of Alhambra Palace with an expert.
-
Visit to Toledo
Explore Toledo, a cultural melting pot with Spanish, Arabic, and Jewish influences.
What's Not Included
-
Refrigeration for Medication
Refrigeration on the coach is available but turned off overnight.
Guests are responsible for storing their medication with care. -
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a guided bike tour in Barcelona and a paella-making class in Valencia are not included.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 9 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- Madrid: Do the included meals have a set menu? Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
- Madrid: I need to refrigerate my medication. Can I do that on the coach? Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.
Included Experience
- Pamplona: Your Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of the city and give a brief orientation talk. After that, you're free to explore this quirky and colourful city in your own way.
- Bilbao: Home to world famous art museums and architecture that’s grander than grand. Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, taking in the mountains and the skyscrapers.
- San Sebastián: Where better to admire the sunset than on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián? This resort town is known for its fantastic food too – so make sure you’re hungry!
- Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.
- Barcelona: Enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis – a non-profit that’s all about social cohesion, doing their bit to enrich coexistence, with rights and opportunities for all.
- Granada: Probably the most Instagrammable palace that’s ever existed. Tour this Moorish marvel with an expert.
- Toledo: This medieval city is a cultural melting pot, with a mix of Spanish, Arabic and Jewish influences. Get some pics of the Alcázar Fortress and the gothic Cathedral.
Mode of Transport
Travel across Spain in comfort with coach transportation, allowing you to explore cities like Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, and Granada with ease, while enjoying scenic views and convenient stops along the way.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable hotels such as Hotel Praga in Madrid, AZZ Pamplona Norte in Pamplona, Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet in Barcelona, NH Valencia Las Ciencias in Valencia, and Macia Condor in Granada, ensuring a restful night's sleep throughout your Spanish adventure.
Check out our Q&As
-
Are vegetarian meal options available during the tour?
Yes, vegetarian meal options are available. You should inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they will arrange it for you.
-
Can I refrigerate my medication on the coach?
Yes, you can refrigerate your medication on the coach. However, the fridge is turned off overnight, so you will need to take your medication with you into your accommodation. It is recommended to bring a cooler bag as a backup.
-
What can I expect during the visit to Pamplona?
In Pamplona, your Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of the city and provide a brief orientation talk. After that, you are free to explore the city on your own.
-
What is special about the visit to Bilbao?
Bilbao is home to world-famous art museums and grand architecture. You will have plenty of time to explore the city, taking in the mountains and skyscrapers.
-
What activities are available in San Sebastián?
In San Sebastián, you can admire the sunset on the beautiful beaches and enjoy the fantastic local food, as the town is known for its culinary delights.
-
What will I see in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, you will visit the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's world-renowned masterpiece. You will also enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis, a non-profit focused on social cohesion.
-
What is the highlight of the visit to Granada?
The highlight of Granada is a tour of the Alhambra Palace, a Moorish marvel known for its intricate patterns and detailed architecture. It offers breathtaking views of the city.
-
What cultural influences can be found in Toledo?
Toledo is a cultural melting pot with Spanish, Arabic, and Jewish influences. You can see the Alcázar Fortress and the gothic Cathedral during your visit.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Tuesday
Jan 05, 2025 - Jan 14, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 18, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 21, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 23, 2025Sunday - Tuesday
Jan 11, 2026 - Jan 20, 2026Sunday - Tuesday
Mar 15, 2026 - Mar 24, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions