Best of Spain | Summer | 2025
Best of Spain | Summer | 2025
$3178
Best of Spain | Summer | 2025
12 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Ibiza, Valencia, Granada
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBESMA20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Spain with the "Best of Spain | Summer | 2025" tour. This cultural adventure takes you from the vibrant streets of Madrid to the artistic heart of Bilbao, the sun-kissed beaches of San Sebastián, and the architectural wonders of Barcelona. Experience the medieval charm of Valencia, the Moorish splendor of Granada's Alhambra Palace, and the rich cultural tapestry of Toledo. Travel comfortably by coach and ferry, staying in well-appointed hotels across the country. Enjoy included experiences like a group dinner in Madrid, a visit to the Museo Guggenheim, and a ferry ride to the party island of Ibiza. Optional activities such as a bike tour in Barcelona and a paella-making class in Valencia offer additional ways to immerse yourself in Spanish culture. This tour promises a seamless blend of history, art, and vibrant local life, making it the perfect way to explore Spain.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
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: Hotel
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’re off for an included dinner at Mescladis, a non-profit restaurant that works to foster social cohesion in Barca and beyond.
Day 5: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is up to you to explore your way. You could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi's iconic Parc Güell, beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, or those wanting to explore the city can sign up for an optional bike tour.
Day 6: Barcelona To Ibiza
Location: Ibiza
Accommodation Name: Ryans Lolas (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Switching from ancient streets to strobe lights, we’ll head south along the coast to Denia where we'll then travel to the world’s party capital of Ibiza. Worshipped worldwide as the party destination to end all party destinations, here you'll find super clubs, super DJs & super strobes like you've never seen them before, and that's just the island's 3am drawcards. For those that like to take the chilled approach, Ibiza's beaches, coves, and local markets need to be seen to be believed.
Day 7: Ibiza
Location: Ibiza
Accommodation Name: Ryans Lolas (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Although this seems to be an island that never sleeps, you're going to need to drag that head out of bed so you can see the incredible beauty of the place when drenched in daylight. Go snorkelling, explore Ibiza's cute old town and its little souvenir shops or take a trip to spiritual Es Vedra.
Day 8: Ibiza To Valencia
Location: Valencia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mas Camarena Valencia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's been a magical time on this island, but we have the rest of Spain to explore. With Ibiza ticked off our bucket list, we'll hop on a ferry back to the mainland. Touching down in Denia we'll jump on our coach, headed for Valencia. It's hard to not be enchanted by the port city of Valencia, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. 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 9: Valencia To Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation Name: Macia Condor (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won't forget you. This morning we'll take an orientation walk before 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!
Day 10: 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 11: Granada To Madrid Via Toledo
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
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 12: Depart Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tears and tissues and pinkie 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
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Group Dinner in Madrid
Enjoy your first group dinner in the metro magic of Madrid.
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Orientation Tour of Pamplona
Start with a brief orientation tour of the well-preserved town of Pamplona.
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Visit to Museo Guggenheim
Explore the world-famous Museo Guggenheim in Bilbao.
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Dinner at Mescladis in Barcelona
Enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis, a non-profit restaurant in Barcelona.
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Ferry to Ibiza
Travel to Ibiza, the world’s party capital, via ferry.
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Visit to Alhambra Palace
Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Alhambra Palace in Granada.
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Orientation Walk in Valencia
Take an orientation walk in Valencia before heading to Granada.
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Visit to Toledo
Uncover the gothic cathedral, El Greco’s house, and other historical sites in Toledo.
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Travel by Coach
Travel through Spain by coach, with ferry transfers to and from Ibiza, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey across the country.
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Accommodation
Stay in comfortable hotels such as Hotel Praga in Madrid, AZZ Pamplona Norte in Pamplona, Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet in Barcelona, Ryans Lolas in Ibiza, Hotel Mas Camarena in Valencia, and Macia Condor in Granada.
What's Not Included
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Optional Bike Tour in Barcelona
Explore Barcelona by signing up for an optional bike tour.
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Optional Paella-Making Class in Valencia
Sign up for an optional paella-making class in Valencia.
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Optional Guided Tour in Granada
Opt for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin and the Capilla Real in Granada.
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Optional Flamenco and Tapas Night
Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night in Granada.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 11 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: 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.
- Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!
- Valencia: Stand in awe of this medieval wonder. It’s said to be the home of the Holy Grail
- 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
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour travels through Spain by coach, with ferry transfers to and from Ibiza, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey across the country.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in comfortable hotels such as Hotel Praga in Madrid, AZZ Pamplona Norte in Pamplona, Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet in Barcelona, Ryans Lolas in Ibiza, Hotel Mas Camarena in Valencia, and Macia Condor in Granada.
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Are there any meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes 3 dinners and 11 breakfasts. The first group dinner is in Madrid, and there is an included dinner at Mescladis in Barcelona.
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Is there an opportunity to visit the Alhambra Palace during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Alhambra Palace in Granada, where you will discover its breathtaking beauty and history.
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Can I participate in any optional activities during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available, including a bike tour in Barcelona, a paella-making class in Valencia, a guided tour in Granada, and a flamenco and tapas night in Granada.
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What is the policy for refrigerating medication on the tour?
You can refrigerate your medication on the coach, but 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.
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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.
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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