NEWSmall Groups
Spain · Mediterranean
Trip code: XNSEA Taste of Northern Spain - Catalonia and the Basque Country and Eclipse
8 daysEclipseTrip pace: ModerateMinimum age 16Max group size 16
From
£3,590
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A Taste of Northern Spain - Catalonia and the Basque Country and Eclipse
Embark on a journey through Northern Spain, savouring Catalonia and the Basque region's rich cuisine, from San Sebastian's pintxos to Rioja's vineyards and Barcelona's markets. Moreover, witness the unique solar eclipse from our chosen Sierra de Prades location, dining al fresco as we await this spectacle.
Trip highlights
Why we love this trip
Solar eclipseExperience the totality of the eclipse over northern Spain.
Basque GastronomyIndulge in world-renowned pintxos in San Sebastian, experiencing the pinnacle of Basque culinary artistry
Rioja Wine ExperiencesEnjoy exceptional wines amidst the vineyards of Rioja, discovering the secrets of this celebrated wine region
Two itinerariesWe offer the chance to travel east to west or west to east to experience it all.
Day by day
Itinerary
Select an option to view its itinerary. Contact us to confirm which itinerary applies to your departure.
Your journey begins in Barcelona, a city famed for its unique architecture, vibrant culture, and bustling atmosphere. Upon arrival, you'll have time to settle in and explore at your own pace, as there are no activities scheduled until the evening.
There are no activities planned for today, so you're free to arrive at any time. Our tour leader will meet us in the reception area of the hotel at 6pm for a welcome meeting. If you arrive later, they'll catch you up as soon as possible.
For those requiring an airport transfer, please note that the most convenient airport is Barcelona-El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport (BCN), located approximately 30-45 minutes from the hotel. If you are unable to attend the welcome meeting, our tour leader will ensure you receive all the essential information.
Amrey Sant Pau (or similar) · Barcelona, SpainComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available
This morning we'll embark on a walking tour through the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and La Barceloneta, with the chance to explore historical food markets. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, with an options including Park Guell or the Sagrada Familia (pre-booking recommended, details can be found in the optional activity section of your trip notes). After a free afternoon we have a truly hands-on and delicious experience: a paella making class! We'll learn the secrets behind creating this iconic Spanish dish, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the perfect socarrat - the crispy, slightly caramelized layer of rice that forms on the bottom of the pan as the paella cooks.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Amrey Sant Pau (or similar) · Barcelona, SpainComfortable · HotelSingle-room option available
Our journey takes us to Monistrol, where we'll ascend via rack railway to the Benedictine monastery atop Montserrat. After exploring this spiritual sanctuary and its surroundings, we continue our journey to Valls, just outside Tarragona. The afternoon is free to relax by the pool before an introduction to the constellations and stargazing by a local astronomer, who will be with us for the eclipse tomorrow. This preview of the cosmos will enhance our appreciation for the extraordinary experience to come.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Hotel Felix (or similar) · Valls, SpainPremium · HotelSingle-room option available
Today we'll make our way to the Sierra de Prades, just outside the village of the same name, to witness the anticipated solar eclipse. Here, we take a short walk to a prime spot where we'll enjoy a specially prepared picnic dinner featuring local culinary delights, perfectly timed as the partial phase of the eclipse begins around 7:30 pm. We'll have our protective eclipse glasses ready as we await the main event: the totality, starting at approximately 8:25 pm and lasting for a remarkable two minutes. Following the conclusion of the partial eclipse around 8:46 pm, we will transfer back to our accommodation in Valls, near Tarragona.
Given the popularity of today's event, a level of flexibility is required to allow us the best viewing experience.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Hotel Felix (or similar) · Valls, SpainPremium · HotelSingle-room option available
Heading west, we begin the long drive to Pamplona. En route we will stop for lunch. The historic city of Zaragoza is a good mid point, however at this time of year it can be extremely hot so your tour leader will assess the best options closer to the time.
We'll arrive in Pamplona in the late afternoon where we are joined by a local guide for a food tour. We'll experience the authentic flavours of Navarre as we explore bustling markets and traditional tabernas, tasting regional specialties like hearty stews and strong local cheeses.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Hotel Maissonave (or similar) · Pamplona, SpainPremium · HotelSingle-room option available
Our day begins with a visit to the historic Church of Santa Maria de Eunate. From here, we'll step onto the ancient Camino de Santiago, embarking on a 3km walk along this renowned pilgrimage route to the charming town of Puente la Reina. In Puente la Reina, we'll take time to stroll around the village, seeing the famous five-arched bridge, crossed by religious travellers since the 14th century.
Continuing our journey, we arrive in the village of Laguardia around 1 pm, with time for lunch in the village centre.
In the afternoon, we'll visit one of the other main wineries in the region, the Marques de Caceres, where a tour and tasting session will showcase three of their wines. Finally, we'll continue our drive to Bilbao, where we'll settle in for the evening.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Hotel Barcelo Nervion (or similar) · Bilbao, SpainPremium · HotelSingle-room option available
This morning, we'll drive to the charming coastal town of Getaria, where we'll immerse ourselves in the local anchovy tradition with a tasting experience. From Getaria, we continue to San Sebastian, arriving just before midday.
Upon arrival, our Tour Leader will take us on a walking tour of the old town. This will include a walk up Monte Urgull, where we'll see the remains of the castle and enjoy wonderful mirador viewpoints. We'll then descend into the old town itself, where we'll indulge in a delicious pinxos lunch, accompanied by the region's crisp txakoli wine.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You might choose to explore the beautiful La Concha Bay, or perhaps take a trip up Monte Igueldo for panoramic views before we head back to Bilbao for our final evening.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Hotel Barcelo Nervion (or similar) · Bilbao, SpainPremium · HotelSingle-room option available
Our tour concludes after breakfast at our hotel in Bilbao. As there are no planned activities today, you are welcome to depart at any time. For those requiring an airport transfer, please note that the most convenient airport is Bilbao Airport (BIO), located approximately 20 minutes from the hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Route overview
Trip map
![xnse-25-v3[1]](https://pims.explore.co.uk/storage/assets/10801/derived/a7f436e75f0f48edb3df92a8238d73e3.webp)
Activity information
Trip pace
Trip pace
Trip pace: Moderate
Included in your trip
What's included
Meals
- 7 breakfasts
- 1 lunches
- 2 dinners
Staff
- Driver(s), Explore Tour Leader
Transport
- Train
- Taxi
- Bus
Accommodation
- 2 nights Comfortable Hotel
- 5 nights Premium Hotel
On our Bilbao to Barcelona tour we spend four nights in comfortable-grade hotels and three nights in premium-grade hotels.
On our Barcelona to Bilbao tour we spend five nights in premium-grade hotels and three nights in comfortable- grade hotels.
Accommodation in Spain is generally good and you can expect to have all of the usual amenities. We stay in single and twin rooms equipped with air conditioning, WiFi and en suite bathrooms. Some hotels will have extra amenities such as a restaurant or bar or a swimming pool.Please see your final documents for your departure's confirmed accommodation.
On our Barcelona to Bilbao tour we spend five nights in premium-grade hotels and three nights in comfortable- grade hotels.
Accommodation in Spain is generally good and you can expect to have all of the usual amenities. We stay in single and twin rooms equipped with air conditioning, WiFi and en suite bathrooms. Some hotels will have extra amenities such as a restaurant or bar or a swimming pool.Please see your final documents for your departure's confirmed accommodation.
Suitability
Is this the trip for you?
- We've graded our tour of Spain as moderate and we'll be moving at a fast pace to pack in the highlights. Expect a busy itinerary and a few long drives, balanced with downtime to explore solo or relax.
- We will be travelling between destinations by private coach. From the inspiring Guggenheim to the Gothic architecture of Barcelona, we'll be doing a considerable amount of walking so comfortable shoes are key, as is carrying water at all times.
- We offer this itinerary from Bilbao to Barcelona and Barcelona to Bilbao, with only the accommodation on the two nights around the eclipse differing.
- While we have selected a good viewing location for the eclipse, clear skies and good weather are required for the best experience. Like any natural event, these elements cannot be guaranteed.
- You should also be aware that the Spanish authorities are expecting people to turn out in huge numbers to view the ecipse. As such many viewing areas will be busy, and some flexibility is required during this day.
Plan your departure
Dates & prices
Choose a date below, then contact our team to confirm the latest price, availability and booking details.
No departures are currently available for this selection. Please contact our team for the latest information.
Practical information
Your questions answered
Information for: 2026 Barcelona to Bilbao
San Sebastian - Funicular 3 Euros
Barcelona - Gaudi, Sagrada Familia. The official site is www.sagradafamilia-tickets.org. To ensure you are finished in time for the paella cooking class, we recommend a slot no later than 3pm.
If over 65 years of age, it is worth carrying a colour photocopy of your passport as many sites give reduced entrance fees.
Barcelona - Gaudi, Sagrada Familia. The official site is www.sagradafamilia-tickets.org. To ensure you are finished in time for the paella cooking class, we recommend a slot no later than 3pm.
If over 65 years of age, it is worth carrying a colour photocopy of your passport as many sites give reduced entrance fees.
Local crew
Although voluntary, tipping is a recognised part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. Accordingly, you should allow approximately £20 of local currency for tipping. In order to make things easier for you, the Explore Leader may organise a group's tips kitty and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the trip.
Tour leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that has done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It is a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we would recommend £25 to £30 per person per week as a guideline.
Spain
Currency: Euro (EUR)
We recommend you take the majority of your spending money in Euros cash.
Where to change: We recommend that you change any currency into Euros prior to arrival. Currency Exchange locations are generally only found in major cities and large airports.
ATMs: In cities and most major towns.
Card notes: Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted in larger restaurants and some shops.
Credit cards accepted: No
Temperatures drop at night and it can be cold at any time from November through April. Summer temperatures in Spain usually reach their peak between June and August. Lightweight cotton clothing is best from June to September, light rainwear may be needed at any time of year, and a warm fleece/light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings and nights especially at the beginning and end of the season.
Something you find comfortable for the walks around each of the towns and sights - good comfortable trainers or lightweight walking shoes. Sandals or similar for relaxing.
Eclipse glasses will be provided.
Luggage on tour
One main piece of luggage and a daypack. Remember you are expected to carry your own baggage - so don't overload yourself. Also bags will be required to fit into taxis and train compartments on a few occassions.
Luggage limit: 20KG
Spain
Overall, spring, early summer and autumn are ideal times for a Spanish trip - though the weather varies enormously from region to region. The high central plains suffer from fierce extremes, stiflingly hot in summer, bitterly cold and swept by freezing winds in winter. The Atlantic coast, in contrast, has a tendency to damp and mist, and a relatively brief, humid summer. The Mediterranean south is warm virtually all year round. Spain's Islands, the Canaries and Balaerics, experience very mild winters and warm summers, making them ideal year round destinations.
A single-room option is available for every night of this itinerary. Subject to availability for your departure. A single-room supplement applies.
Spain: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens.
Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
Spain
Nothing compulsory but Tetanus is usually recommended as a precaution. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before traveling.
Spain
Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.