Spain & France: Madrid, Basque Country & Barcelona | 10 Days from Madrid

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

Greca Tip: As in any other large city, the center of Madrid offers a diverse variety of gastronomic venues to suit all tastes, where you can taste the traditional local tapas.

We will begin our journey after breakfast, leaving Madrid behind as we make our way into the landscapes of Castile, where vast grain fields, gentle hills, and historic villages will accompany us as we travel north.

Our first stop will be Burgos, one of Castile’s great historic cities and a place closely linked to the legendary figure of El Cid Campeador. We will have free time to explore its streets and discover its impressive Gothic Cathedral, one of the city’s greatest treasures.

We will continue to Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country, known for its elegant urban layout and pleasant atmosphere. We will have some free time to stroll around and enjoy lunch.

In the afternoon, we will continue towards Bilbao, but before reaching our hotel, we will stop at the picturesque Old Port of Algorta, a charming corner of narrow streets and traditional bars overlooking the sea, perfect for experiencing the maritime character of the Basque coast. We will then continue to Bilbao for our accommodation.

Greca Tip: In Burgos, take a few moments to admire the façade and interior of the Cathedral; its Gothic architecture is one of the highlights of the journey.

After breakfast, we will begin the day by discovering Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country and one of its main economic and cultural centers. During our guided tour, we will explore some of its most representative sights and admire the striking exterior of the Guggenheim Museum, whose architecture has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We will have some free time to continue exploring Bilbao or, if we wish, visit the museum independently.

After lunch, we will head to Guernica, a town deeply connected to Basque history and to one of the most tragic episodes of the Spanish Civil War, immortalized by Pablo Picasso in his famous Guernica.

Here, we will discover the Tree of Guernica, a symbol of Basque freedoms and traditions. We will then continue to San Sebastián, where upon arrival we will ascend Mount Igueldo to enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the city and its bay.

Afterwards, we will head to the city center to discover this elegant capital of Gipuzkoa, renowned for its beaches, grand boulevards, and lively Old Town. We will end the day by tasting traditional pintxos accompanied by drinks, included, a delicious way to experience the flavors of Basque cuisine.

Greca Tip: In San Sebastián, enjoy a stroll through the Old Town and take the opportunity to sample different pintxos specialties for a true taste of local gastronomy.

After breakfast, we will leave San Sebastián and head towards Hondarribia, one of the Basque Country’s most charming towns. We will have free time to stroll through its beautiful historic center, explore its ancient city walls, and enjoy the atmosphere of this picturesque coastal town, also known for its beach. We will continue with a visit to the Basque Cider Museum, where we will learn about the traditions and production process behind this popular local drink. The experience will include a tasting.

We will return to San Sebastián and have some free time for lunch and to enjoy the city at our own pace. In the early afternoon, we will cross the border into France and continue our journey to Bordeaux, arriving at the end of the day. Once settled in, we can take a leisurely walk through the city center and begin discovering the charm of this elegant French city.

Greca Tip: In Hondarribia, don’t miss a stroll through the walled historic center, where colorful façades and cobblestone streets reflect the traditional character of this Basque town.

After breakfast, you will visit the center of Bordeaux. It is known for its impressive architecture, ranging from historic buildings to modern structures. The historic center of Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features cobbled streets, charming squares, and magnificent buildings such as the Place de la Bourse and the Stone Bridge.

Here you will be surprised by the “water mirror” and we will walk through the old town with its pedestrian streets and its 11th-century cathedral.

You will have time to visit on your own La Cité Du Vin, which is an impressive interactive museum that allows you to learn about the history of wine and its production.

You will have free time later to walk and have lunch on the banks of the Garonne River, an area full of small restaurants.

After lunch time you will continue our route towards the Pyrenees.

We will arrive in Lourdes in the middle of the afternoon where we will have time to visit the sanctuary.

It is known worldwide for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary which are said to have occurred in 1858, when a young woman named Bernadette Soubirous claimed to have had visions of the Virgin in a grotto near the city.

Accommodation and dinner at the hotel.

Greca Tip: The water of Lourdes is considered by many believers to be miraculous and is believed to have healing properties.

After enjoying a carefully prepared breakfast, we will immerse ourselves in the enchanting landscapes of southern France, beginning our journey in the legendary city of Carcassonne. You will have time to explore and enjoy lunch in this medieval gem, renowned for its imposing fortified walls, majestic castle, and the picturesque historic quarter known as La Cité, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping into a different era.

We will then continue our route toward the Pyrenees Mountains, making a brief stop in Foix, a charming medieval town dominated by the impressive Castle of the Counts of Foix, standing tall as a silent guardian of its storied past. A stroll through its old town will allow you to appreciate its serene and noble atmosphere.

Our journey continues through majestic peaks and mountain scenery that remains snow-capped for much of the year. Surrounded by this untamed natural beauty, we will cross the border into Andorra, a small independent country where Catalan is the official language. Before reaching the capital, we’ll make a short stop at the Church of Sant Joan de Caselles, a 12th-century Romanesque gem harmoniously set in the mountainous landscape.

We will then arrive in Andorra la Vella, the lively capital of the Principality. You will have free time to explore its vibrant city center, famous for its dynamic shopping atmosphere and duty-free stores. Alternatively, you may choose to unwind at Caldea, the largest thermal spa in southern Europe. Dinner is included this evening in this charming city nestled in nature.

Greca Tip: If you’d like to take home a special souvenir from Andorra, we recommend purchasing perfumes or electronics, which are highly valued for their excellent quality and tax-free prices. And for a true moment of serenity, immerse yourself in Caldea’s thermal waters while watching the Pyrenean peaks glow under the sunset—a true gift for body and soul.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, you will have free time in Andorra, perfect for leisurely exploring its lively city center, discovering attractive products in its duty-free shops, or simply strolling through its mountain-lined streets while breathing in the fresh alpine air.

Following lunch, we will bid farewell to this small principality and venture into Catalan lands. As we travel, stunning mountain landscapes will accompany us to one of the most awe-inspiring sites in the region: the Monastery of Montserrat, a spiritual sanctuary nestled among unique rock formations. We will ascend to the monastery aboard the rack railway, which offers breathtaking panoramic views along the way (train ride included). You will have time to admire the beauty of this sacred place, home to the revered statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, affectionately known as La Moreneta, the patron saint of Catalonia.

After this enriching spiritual and visual experience, we continue our journey to the vibrant city of Barcelona, arriving in the late afternoon with time to begin soaking in the Mediterranean flair and cosmopolitan spirit of the Catalan capital.

Greca Tip: If you have the chance, try the herbal Licor de Montserrat, crafted by the Benedictine monks, or pick up a traditional sweet from one of the monastery’s local shops. Once in Barcelona, we recommend a first stroll along Passeig de Gràcia, where art, architecture, and style come together in perfect harmony.

After breakfast, we will continue our journey to Barcelona, one of Europe’s most fascinating and vibrant cities. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a panoramic tour to discover this Mediterranean city, closely associated with the legacy of Gaudí and Catalan Modernist architecture.

During the tour, we will also see some of its most iconic areas, including the lively Ramblas and landmarks connected to the World Expositions and Olympic Games that have shaped the city.

The tour will end at Maremagnum, a modern leisure and dining complex by the sea, near Columbus Square. We will have some free time to stroll through this lively area and enjoy its Mediterranean atmosphere.

The afternoon will be at leisure to continue exploring Barcelona at our own pace. At the end of the day, we will return to the hotel for our overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Take advantage of your free afternoon to wander through the city center and discover some of the charming corners that make Barcelona such a special destination.

After enjoying an excellent breakfast, we will begin our journey southward, following the charming path of the Mediterranean coast. Our first stop will be the picturesque town of Peñíscola, a walled medieval gem perched on a small peninsula, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and wide golden beaches. You will have time to stroll through its historic center, crowned by the Castle of Pope Luna, and be captivated by its cobbled streets and stunning sea views.

We will then continue to the vibrant city of Valencia, a major Mediterranean port and the birthplace of the world-famous paella. We’ll arrive around lunchtime, and you may wish to take this opportunity to savor this iconic Valencian dish in its place of origin.

In the afternoon, before our departure, we will make a brief photo stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, a striking complex of avant-garde architecture that embodies the city's innovative and cultural spirit. Afterwards, we will resume our journey toward Madrid, where we expect to arrive between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m., ready to immerse ourselves in the unmatched energy of the Spanish capital.

Please, keep in mind that if the number of travelers from Valencia to Madrid is limited, the journey may be completed by high-speed train, a comfortable, modern, and efficient alternative.

Greca Tip: If you’re looking for a memorable souvenir from Valencia, we recommend picking up traditional Valencian ceramics or a local variety of turrón (nougat). And if you choose to enjoy paella, make sure to try the authentic Valencian version—traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, and green beans.

After a tasty breakfast, you will be transferred to Madrid Airport for your return flight, and the tour will come to an end.

Having spent a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to help create and enjoy some more wonderful moments that you will cherish forever!

Have a nice trip! Or, as Spanish people say: "¡Buen viaje!".

Greca Tip: Extend your stay in Madrid at Step 1 of your reservation, to continue discovering this amazing city!