Best of Northern Spain

There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. Stay: Hotel AA Viladomat Barcelona

Explore a bit of Barcelona before an afternoon departure north. Travel to the Pyrenees by local bus and van to reach a 'casa rural', or converted farmhouse, near the town of Ainsa. Indulge in delicious local meals and time to explore the beautiful landscape. Stay: Casa Rural Ruben (B/D)

Enjoy the day in the scenic Pyrenees. Opt for some hikes in the area or head to Ainsa to explore. Spend another night in the 'casa rural'. Stay: Casa Rural Ruben (B/D)

Travel to Bilbao, the first stop in the unique Basque region of Spain. Arrive in the early afternoon. Opt to visit the stunning Guggenheim Museum, or climb the Mallona Stairs to Parque Etxebarria for beautiful views over the city. Stay: Hotel Bilbao Plaza (B)

The real treat in this part of the country is the eating. Basque cuisine is famous in Spain and around the world, with many believing this is the best food in the country. While San Sebastián didn't invent tapas, they are well-acknowledged to have perfected them. Wander through the streets before lunchtime or in the evening and check out what each bar has on offer. Stop in each place for some wine or beer and sample their tapas (pintxos in Basque) selection. Move on to the next bar and repeat! Delicious seafood abounds here as well. Looking for more than just pintxos? Head to the harbour and hole up in a traditional simple tavern. Don't leave San Sebastián without trying the famous jamon iberico. The specialty drink in this area is called the Kalimotxo — half wine (usually red table wine) and half Coca Cola. Take some time to wander through the plazas, marvel at the buildings, and spot the art sprinkled throughout the city. And, as always, try the pintxos. Stay: Hotel Bilbao Plaza (B)

With tons of churches, roman bridges, parks, plazas, and ancient buildings, there's no shortage of sights to be seen when wandering around this city. Stay: Hotel Condes de Haro (B)

Travel to Madrid and enjoy free time in this capital city. Stay: Hotel Europa (B)

We recommend staying an extra day or two to fully experience all this lively city has to offer. (B)