Best of Spain | Winter | 2025/2026
Best of Spain | Winter | 2025/2026
$2000
Best of Spain | Winter | 2025/2026
10 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WESMA20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable winter journey through Spain with the "Best of Spain" tour for 2025/2026. This coach tour takes you through the vibrant cities and stunning landscapes of Spain, starting and ending in the bustling capital, Madrid. Discover the medieval charm of Burgos, the colorful streets of Pamplona, and the cultural richness of Bilbao and San Sebastián. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Barcelona, including Gaudi's Sagrada Familia, and explore the Moorish beauty of the Alhambra Palace in Granada. Experience the unique cultural blend of Toledo and the coastal allure of Valencia. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and guided tours, with transportation between cities included. Delight in local cuisine with included breakfasts and dinners, and savor the opportunity to explore each destination at your own pace. Optional activities like a paella-making class and a flamenco night add extra flavor to this Spanish adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Madrid
Location: Madrid
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.
-
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including 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.
-
Guided Tours
Guided tours and orientation talks are included in cities like Pamplona, Barcelona, and Granada.
-
Cultural Experiences
Visits to significant cultural sites such as the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Alhambra Palace in Granada, and the medieval city of Toledo are included.
-
Transportation
Transportation between cities including Madrid, Pamplona, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, and Granada is included.
-
Comfortable Coach Travel
Travel across Spain in a comfortable coach, with stops in cities like Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, and Granada.
-
Scenic Road Trips
Enjoy scenic road trips and convenient transportation between destinations.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a paella-making class in Valencia and a traditional flamenco and tapas night in Granada are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.
-
Flights
International and domestic flights to and from Madrid are not included.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation 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.
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a comfortable coach for transportation across Spain, with stops in cities like Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, and Granada. This allows for scenic road trips and convenient travel between destinations.
-
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 3 dinners and 9 breakfasts. The included meals usually have a set menu, often arranged as a buffet. Vegetarian options are available if you inform your Trip Manager beforehand.
-
What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation is provided 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.
-
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as a paella-making class in Valencia and a traditional flamenco and tapas night in Granada, which are not included in the tour package.
-
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately by the participants.
-
What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to significant cultural sites such as the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Alhambra Palace in Granada, and the medieval city of Toledo.
-
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.
-
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
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Wednesday - Friday
Dec 18, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024Sunday - 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
-
Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
