Basque Country with Lourdes from Madrid (2026)

Day 1

We’ll set off for Castile, traveling through beautiful mountain landscapes. Our first stop will be Segovia, where we’ll take a scenic route around the city to reach Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos, a viewpoint from which you’ll enjoy the best views of the Alcazar of Segovia, the castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Maleficent’s castle in Sleeping Beauty, along with its impressive walls. We’ll then park near the Roman Aqueduct of Segovia, built in the 1st century and used until 1973, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have free time to explore the old town, have lunch, and visit the Plaza Mayor, where you can see the cathedral and the Alcazar.We’ll continue our journey on charming little roads that will allow us to appreciate the towns and landscapes on the way to Pedraza, often hailed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. This strongly fortified medieval town features cobblestone streets, historic buildings, a picturesque Plaza Mayor, and a fortress dating back to the 13th century. There will be free time for a walk. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to the Basque Country, arriving in Bilbao. Here, you’ll have free time to explore the old town, where you can visit the numerous taverns and bars to sample the famous “pintxos.”

Day 2

After breakfast, we’ll take a guided tour of BILBAO, where the standout attraction is the Guggenheim Museum, famous for its striking exterior architecture, the old town, or the city’s medieval center, with its lively streets and cathedral. After, there will be free time for a stroll and lunch. We recommend the La Ribera Market, where you can sample traditional Basque cuisine in a boat-like structure overlooking the river.After lunch, we’ll depart for GUERNICA, a town known for being the site of one of the most tragic massacres of the Spanish Civil War, famously depicted in Pablo Picasso´s painting. Here, you’ll see the Tree of Gernika, beneath which the Basque Country was granted its autonomy during the Middle Ages.We’ll continue to HONDARRIBIA (Fuenterrabía), a picturesque coastal town with beaches, ancient walls, a maritime atmosphere, and a historic center. The grid layout of its narrow, cobbled streets will charm you as you explore the old town and enjoy dinner.We’ll then head to SAN SEBASTIAN, arriving by the end of the day. Our hotel is usually located atop Mount Igueldo, offering one of the most breathtaking views of this elegant, lit city.

Day 3

In the morning, we will visit the Basque Cider Museum. Free time in SAN SEBASTIAN and a pintxos tasting. In the afternoon, we travel toward Castile, with a stop in BURGOS to admire its Gothic cathedral. Arrival in MADRID at the end of the day.In the morning, after admiring the views over the Bay of San Sebastián from Mount Igueldo, we will head to the Basque Cider Museum (entrance and tasting included) to learn about the traditions and production of this popular drink. Afterwards, free time to enjoy the city’s great beach, stroll along its boulevards, or explore the Old Town.We will also include a pintxos experience, tasting these delicious small bites so typical of Basque cuisine, accompanied by a drink.In the early afternoon, we cross into France. Arrival in BORDEAUX at the end of the day. We suggest taking a walk through the city center.

Day 4

The entire center of Bordeaux has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. Prepare to be captivated by the "Water Mirror" and explore the historic old town with its charming pedestrian streets and 11th-century cathedral. Later, you´ll have free time to stroll along the Garonne River banks, lined with quaint restaurants perfect for lunch, or if you wish, you can visit Cité du Vin, an impressive interactive museum that delves into the history and production of wine. Afterward, we continue towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. You´ll have time to visit the sanctuary (we suggest attending the candlelit procession). Dinner will be included.

Day 5

Early departure from LOURDES. Today we cross the Pyrenees mountain range among high peaks and stunning landscapes. Entering SPAIN, we stop for coffee in SALLENT DE GÁLLEGO, a historic mountain village with its Gothic church and medieval stone bridge.We continue to ZARAGOZA, the vibrant capital of Aragon. Time for lunch and to explore its historic quarter, discovering the great Plaza del Pilar with its cathedral and basilica, home to the venerated Virgin of the Pilar.We then continue to MADRID, arriving around 21:00 hrs.

Day 6

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.