I loved my Back Roads tour to Northern Spain. Everyday was fabulous!
Julia was the most wonderful tour guide. She was knowledgeable, enthusiastic & such fun!! The best tour guide ever!
The accomodation was better than I imagined.
Very disappointed in our meal at Monasterio de Boltaña. It was inedible! I hate to think what we’d paid for it!!!!!
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Barcelona, Bilbao, San Sebastian
Barcelona, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Laguardia, Boltaña, Cardona, El Port de la Selva
Embark on a culinary journey from Bilbao to Barcelona, savouring the rich flavours of northern Spain. From the pintxos bars of San Sebastian to the vineyards of Rioja and the bustling markets of Barcelona, this tour offers an immersive look at the diverse cuisine of this captivating region.
Basque Gastronomy - Indulge in world-renowned pintxos in San Sebastian, experiencing the pinnacle of Basque culinary artistry
Rioja Wine Experiences - Enjoy exceptional wines in the vineyards of Rioja, discovering the secrets of this celebrated region
Catalan Culinary Delights - Explore Barcelona's vibrant food scene, from traditional tapas to modern culinary innovations
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Barcelona, Bilbao, San Sebastian
Barcelona, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, Zaragoza, Montserrat
Go deeper into the Picos de Europa than ever before, hiking rugged mountains watched over by golden eagles and griffon vultures and staying in the heart of an authentic mountain town. Guided by an expert tour leader, we trek through limestone peaks and lush valleys, summiting mountains to gaze over the oldest national park in Spain. Our hotel in Arenas de Cabrales is in the perfect spot to explore the town, while our friendly hosts and tour leader can show us the local people’s favourite restaurants and bars.
Most departures of this adventure are rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). However, if you want to test yourself, join one of our Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures. See the Itinerary and Dates & Prices tab for more details.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Arenas De Cabrales, Demues, Cain
Arenas De Cabrales, Demues, Cain, Collado De Pandebano
If you’re craving a deep dive into Spanish and Portuguese culture on a fast-paced, fun-filled adventure, this nine-day journey is calling your name. Kick things off in Madrid before heading to Porto and winding your way down Portugal’s stunning coast. Picture yourself sipping Port wine in a historic cellar, feeling the raw emotion of a Fado performance, and getting swept up in the fiery passion of Flamenco. But that’s just the beginning — think breathtaking architecture, fascinating history, and mouthwatering cuisine at every turn. With a crew of like-minded travellers by your side, you’ll soak up every moment, heading home already plotting your next European escape.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Seville, Madrid, Porto, Lisbon
Seville, Madrid, Porto, Lisbon, Evora
22% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
The trip could be improved by giving longer in some places (Madrid & Zaragoza) and less time to others (chocolate factory)
The trip got to places which would not have been possible in a similar time on one's own.
Having been on so many Explore holidays in the past, walking and camping, we were surprised by the time imperative and a constant feeling that we were clock-watching.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Barcelona, Bilbao, San Sebastian
Barcelona, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, Zaragoza, Montserrat, La Rambla
Walk the entire length of one of the original Camino routes followed by pilgrims walking to Santiago. 'El Camino del Norte' originates from the 9th Century and was one of the original Camino routes for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela. Sheltered from the rest of the Muslim dominated Iberian Peninsula by the Picos de Europa and Cordillera Cantabrica, it was considered the safest route for Christian pilgrims making their way to the tomb of St James. The full route starts in Irun near the French border and joins the French route at Arzua. This walk begins in the vibrant city of Bilbao with the iconic Guggenheim museum, before continuing along the dramatic coastline through Cantabria and the Asturias region. From Ribadeo, gateway to Galicia the route veers south passing through historic villages enroute to Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy a variety of landscapes and architecture, both ancient and modern, while staying in small hotels with local character. The dramatic coastline of the Bay of Biscay and mountain paths make the northern way both challenging and rewarding, whilst the quieter trails offer a great alternative to the more popular French route.
Walking toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela
Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela, Bustio, Llanes, Ribadesella, Colunga, Villaviciosa, Gijón, Aviles, Soto Del Barco, Cadavedo, Luarca, Navia, Ribadeo, Mondonedo, Abadín, Vilalba, Reguela, Sobrado Dos Monxes, Arzúa, Liendo, O Pedrouzo, Noja, Galizano, Santander, Santillana Del Mar, Comillas, San Vicente De La Barquera
Explore the heart of Spain on this 9-day small group journey, where you’ll discover iconic cities and hidden gems. Begin in vibrant Madrid with a tapas dinner, and then dive into centuries of history from Córdoba’s majestic Mosque to the Alhambra’s splendor in Granada. Savor local delicacies, witness Andalusian horse art in Jerez, and immerse yourself in flamenco culture. With personalized attention and an intimate group setting, this tour blends culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable Spanish adventure
Take a captivating 9-day small group adventure through Spain’s most iconic cities, from the vibrant streets of Barcelona and its modernist wonders to the Moorish splendor of Granada’s Alhambra. Sail the Mediterranean, savor horchata in Valencia, and immerse yourself in the flamenco rhythms of Andalusia. Explore Seville’s grand Cathedral, stroll through Córdoba’s ancient Mosque, and cap off your journey with chocolate and churros in Madrid, where history and modern life blend seamlessly. This is Spain, experienced in style
In Spain, a land bursting with flavour, artistry, and passion, there's no such thing as going halfway. Start in Madrid, then travel south where the Andalucian capital of Seville will ignite your soul with the heart-pounding rhythms of flamenco. Then head north to explore the vibrant Basque and Catalan regions: soak up the energy of Barcelona, sip your way through Logroño’s wine country, indulge in San Sebastián’s legendary cuisine, and marvel at Bilbao’s striking architecture. With each region offering its own unique character, style, and language, this adventure through Spain's diverse landscapes and cultures is the full package.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Madrid, Bilbao, Logrono, San Seb
Madrid, Bilbao, Logrono, San Sebastian, Granada, Seville, Barcelona
Spain is often described as a collection of small nations, each with its own unique flair, and this seven-day adventure takes you through two of its most vibrant regions: Basque and Catalonia. From the colourful streets of Barcelona to the laid-back vibes of San Sebastián, you’ll get an authentic taste of Spain’s food, art, and culture. Capture unforgettable photos of the stunning countryside and centuries-old cathedrals, unwind with a glass of wine in Logroño’s lush vineyards, and dive into the legendary cuisine of San Sebastián. Immerse yourself in the Basque way of life before wrapping up in the port city of Bilbao. All in just a week? Oh yeah, we made it happen.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Barcelona, Bilbao, Logrono, San Sebastian
Barcelona, Bilbao, Logrono, San Sebastian
27% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Prepare to travel the Atlantic Coast from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, in Spain. Experience ocean landscapes and fishing ports that supply some of Europe's finest seafoods. Recently approved by the Cathedral of Santiago as an official Camino de Santiago, although it might be the oldest of all pilgrimage routes to the sanctuary where, according to legend, the remains of St James lie at rest. The route takes in seaside villages, sandy beaches, estuaries, country lanes, vineyards and historic towns. Expect to savour seafood menus, fine wines and charming accommodation, including Spain's Paradores - luxury hotels in castles, stately homes and historic sites, renowned for their excellent hospitality and traditional cuisine. The Camino's history of devotion inspires awe, whether religious or not. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, you'll feel the excitement of entering one of the great holy cities of Christianity, following a path forged by centuries of faith and perseverance.
For more detailed information, please take a look at our itinerary.
Mountain biking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Porto, Santiago De Compostela, B
Porto, Santiago De Compostela, Baiona, Baiona, Pontevedra, Cambados, Bici Carril
This captivating tour takes you on a journey through Spain and Morocco, blending rich history, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes. Begin in Madrid, where you'll explore historic landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and the famous Gran Vía. Continue through Salamanca, Porto, and Coimbra, with stops in Aveiro and Batalha, before reaching Lisbon for a sightseeing tour of its iconic monuments — all part of our exclusive Portugal tour packages. Travel to Spain's Andalusia region, visiting the ancient cities of Córdoba, Seville, and Ronda, where you can experience Andalusian wine, horses, and olive oil production. Cross into Morocco, where you'll explore the vibrant cities of Tetouan, Chefchaouen, and Fez, savoring Moroccan cuisine and learning to prepare traditional dishes. End your journey in Marrakech, where you'll visit the Menara Gardens, Jamaa el Fnaa square, and enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony. With visits to Casablanca, Rabat, and Malaga, this tour immerses you in the rich cultural heritage and vibrant sights of both countries, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience. It’s one of our most enriching Morocco tours, seamlessly combined with the charm of Spain and Portugal for an extraordinary adventure.