Northern Spain: Madrid, Bilbao, & Galicia

Arrive in attractive Madrid and feel the electricity of the city start to flow through you. The city is yours to explore, whether it's at the legendary Prado museum with masterpieces by Picasso and Goya on display, or peaceful El Retiro park with endless greenery and nature all around. Discover royal palaces galore and give yourself the royal treatment at some of Madrid's shops and rooftop lounges. Once you've worked up an appetite, let us find you the perfect spots for tapas (once the sun has set of course).

Board Spain's fast train and head up north to the port city of Bilbao, located in what's known as the Basque Region. You'll quickly notice the dramatic language shift as the locals speak Basque, the official language of this elegant and stylish region that has stumped linguistics for hundreds of years. However, Spanish and English are readily used so chatting with the locals won't be a problem. Bilbao is home to some extraordinary architectural feats and public art, as you are sure to notice the eclectic walking bridges spread through this city as well as the iconic Guggenheim museum with its larger than life floral dog standing guard. Spend several days discovering the gems of this city or let us arrange a private winery day to the exquisite Rioja wine region, home to more than 500 wineries.

Head west and follow in the footsteps of the ancient Roman road known as El Camino de Santiago, the Way of Saint James, a walkable route connecting cities in mainland Europe, flowing along the north of Spain. Keep your eyes peeled for the telltale symbol of the route, a yellow seashell on a blue background, as you're sure to spot it as you travel. Along the way, let us introduce you to cave art dating back approximately 20,000 years in Altamira, or go to La Concha in San Sebastian, one of the best beaches in Europe.

Continue your journey westward along the coast to Galicia. The ancient region of Spain offers historical sites, local Galician dishes, and natural landscapes that differ from the rest of Spain. Galicia is special in that it has preserved its dense verdant forestlands, and many visitors enjoy the excellent hiking and camping opportunities. Explore Galicia's capital, Santiago de Compostela, to witness on of the most glorious cathedrals in Europe, and, finally, arrive at the end of the road, Fisterra. Stand at the westernmost edge of Spain, a place that the Romans named Fisterra, 'the end of the world', and see the Atlantic Ocean crash at your feet.