Madrid And Basque Country With Lourdes (2027)

Day 1: Madrid

Arrival in MADRID. Transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, we include a panoramic tour of the city, where you’ll see the most iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Cibeles Fountain, and the Paseo del Prado with its renowned museums. We’ll end the tour at Plaza Mayor, where you can enjoy the vibrant nighttime atmosphere of this area.

Day 2: Madrid

Free day. We’ll offer you an optional visit to the historic city of TOLEDO.

Day 3: Madrid - Burgos - Vitoria - Bilbao

We’ll set off for Castile, traveling through beautiful mountain landscapes. Our first stop will be Segovia, where we’ll take a scenic route around the city to reach Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos, a viewpoint from which you’ll enjoy the best views of the Alcazar of Segovia, the castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Maleficent’s castle in Sleeping Beauty, along with its impressive walls. We’ll then park near the Roman Aqueduct of Segovia, built in the 1st century and used until 1973, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have free time to explore the old town, have lunch, and visit the Plaza Mayor, where you can see the cathedral and the Alcazar.We’ll continue our journey on charming little roads that will allow us to appreciate the towns and landscapes on the way to Pedraza, often hailed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. This strongly fortified medieval town features cobblestone streets, historic buildings, a picturesque Plaza Mayor, and a fortress dating back to the 13th century. There will be free time for a walk. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to the Basque Country, arriving in Bilbao. Here, you’ll have free time to explore the old town, where you can visit the numerous taverns and bars to sample the famous “pintxos.”

Day 4: Bilbao - Guernica - San Sebastián

After breakfast, we will do a guided tour of Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country and the region´s primary economic and cultural hub. It is home to the stunning Guggenheim Museum, famous for its breathtaking exterior architecture. You will have free time to stroll around or visit the museum if you wish. After lunch, we will head to Guernica, an iconic town marked by one of the most tragic events of the Spanish Civil War, immortalized in Pablo Picasso’s world-renowned painting. Here, you will find the Tree of Guernica, beneath whose branches the Basque Country was granted its autonomy during the Middle Ages. We will continue to San Sebastian. Upon arrival, we´ll go up the hill to Monte Igueldo, from where we will enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the city. Afterward, we´ll head to the city center, and you can explore the elegant capital of Gipuzkoa, known for its beautiful beaches, grand boulevards, and lively Old Town. We’ll enjoy some pintxos and drinks (included), which are typical of Basque gastronomy.

Day 5: San Sebastián - Bordeaux

In the morning, we go first to Hondarribia where you will enjoy free time in one of the most beautiful towns in the Basque Country, known for its lovely beach, walls, and charming historic center. Afterward, we´ll head to the Basque Cider Museum (admission and tasting included) to learn about the traditions and production of this popular drink. Free time in SAN SEBASTIAN for lunch. In the early afternoon, we cross into France. Arrival in BORDEAUX at the end of the day. We suggest taking a walk through the city center.

Day 6: Bordeaux - Lourdes

The entire center of Bordeaux has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. Prepare to be captivated by the "Water Mirror" and explore the historic old town with its charming pedestrian streets and 11th-century cathedral. Later, you´ll have free time to stroll along the Garonne River banks, lined with quaint restaurants perfect for lunch, or if you wish, you can visit Cité du Vin, an impressive interactive museum that delves into the history and production of wine. Afterward, we continue towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. You´ll have time to visit the sanctuary (we suggest attending the candlelit procession). Dinner will be included.

Half board dinner includes: HTL ALBA: Main course: Leek tart Dessert: Grilled Chicken, Green Salad with Tomatoes, French Fries Drinks: Coffee Eclair Mediterranean HTL: Starter: Cheese delight Main course: Turkey escalope with mushroom cream and sautéed potatoes Dessert: Éclair

Day 7: Lourdes - Sallent De Gallego - Zaragoza - Madrid

Early departure from LOURDES. Today we cross the Pyrenees mountain range among high peaks and stunning landscapes. Entering SPAIN, we stop for coffee in SALLENT DE GÁLLEGO, a historic mountain village with its Gothic church and medieval stone bridge.We continue to ZARAGOZA, the vibrant capital of Aragon. Time for lunch and to explore its historic quarter, discovering the great Plaza del Pilar with its cathedral and basilica, home to the venerated Virgin of the Pilar.We then continue to MADRID, arriving around 21:00 hrs.

Day 8: Madrid

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.