spain tourist groups

Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 13 best guided group tours to explore spain (prices and itineraries).

Last Updated on February 23, 2024 by Talita

13 excellent and different guided tours around Spain. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, and adventure.

Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and renowned cuisine, the country offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.

The country is known for its historic cities such as Madrid, the country’s capital, and Barcelona, another iconic city famous for Antoni Gaudí’s unique architecture, including the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

Hispanic territory is also blessed with a stunning coastline, offering incredible beaches on both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The Costa del Sol, in the Andalusia region, is a popular destination for sun worshipers, with its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. The Balearic Islands, such as Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca, are paradisiacal destinations for those looking to relax on white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

In addition, Spain has a cultural heritage, which you can discover through its architecture or its traditional festivals, which are popular and unique events.

Spanish cuisine is an attraction in itself, with delicious tapas, paella, churros and sangria. Each region has its own gastronomic specialty, and food lovers can explore different flavors and local products at traditional markets in various cities.

For art enthusiasts, Spain is home to a wealth of masterpieces. In addition to the Prado Museum, in Madrid, there is also the Reina Sofia Museum, where Picasso’s famous painting “Guernica” is on display, and the Picasso Museum, in Barcelona, which exhibits a large collection of the artist’s works.

With its pleasant climate, diverse landscapes, fascinating history and vibrant culture, Spain is a must-see destination for travel lovers. Whether exploring its vibrant cities, relaxing on sunny beaches or savoring its rich cuisine, Spain offers a unique and memorable experience for all types of visitors.

Table of Contents

• 1 Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Spain
• 2 Is it better to travel independently or on group tours in Spain?
• 3.1 Best Tours and Itineraries in Spain for Guided Small Group Adventures
• 3.2 Best Tours and Itineraries in Spain for Groups of Young Singles (18-35 Years Old)
• 3.3 Best luxury and comfort tours and itineraries in Spain for small groups with guides
• 3.4 Tourradar’s Best Iceland Tours (Best Site to Search and Compare Iceland Tours of Different Lengths, Styles, Prices, and Operators)
• 3.5 Best Itineraries and Group Tours in Spain for Women Only
• 4 Concluding
• 5 Planning your next trip?

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Spain

Before diving into the excursions themselves, we thought it would be nice to introduce some of Spain’s most famous tourist attractions to facilitate your search for tours, itineraries, and experiences that align with your interests.

As mentioned above, the country is rich in history and culture, boasting several impressive tourist attractions. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Spain:

• Sagrada Familia in Barcelona: One of Spain’s most famous landmarks, this magnificent temple designed by architect Antoni Gaudí is a masterpiece of modernist architecture.
• Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela: A Christian pilgrimage site, this medieval cathedral is the final destination of the famous Camino de Santiago and is considered one of the country’s main sacred sites.
• Alcazar of Segovia: A fortified castle dating back to the 12th century, with imposing architecture and a privileged location on a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the city.
• Park Güell in Barcelona: Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this park is a masterpiece of Catalan modernism, featuring colorful structures, mosaics, and panoramic views of the city.
• Alhambra in Granada: A complex of Moorish palaces and fortresses dating back to the 14th century, renowned for its beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the city.
• Plaza de España in Seville: An iconic square with impressive architecture, surrounded by a canal where you can take a boat ride and admire the colorful tiles representing the Spanish provinces.
• Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: An impressive monument blending Islamic and Christian elements, famous for its Moorish-style arches and columns.
• Royal Palace in Madrid: The official residence of the Spanish royal family, this palace is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and houses a rich collection of art and historic furniture.
• Prado Museum in Madrid: One of the world’s most important art museums, with a vast collection of masterpieces by Spanish and international artists such as Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Rembrandt.
• Old City of Toledo: A well-preserved medieval city known for its churches, synagogues, historic fortifications, and being a significant center for steel production.

Is it better to travel independently or on group tours in Spain?

Regardless of whether you choose to travel independently or on a group tour in Spain, both options have their pros and cons.

Opting for independent travel offers greater flexibility in planning a personalized itinerary and choosing activities that interest you. It also allows autonomy in deciding when and how to engage in these activities, enabling you to explore the country at your own pace. Affordability can also be a positive factor, as this option can be more budget-friendly depending on the choices made.

However, independent travel requires detailed planning, including research on accommodation, transportation, and activities, which can be time-consuming and effort-intensive. Additionally, communication may become a hurdle if you are not proficient in Spanish, and there are higher safety risks , especially in more remote areas.

On the other hand, a guided group tour offers companionship and is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people. It is also easier and safer to travel in a group, especially when accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. However, this option may limit the freedom to explore the country more freely, as you will be restricted to the predetermined schedules and activities of the group.

In summary, the choice depends on personal preferences. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and it is necessary to evaluate which one is the best fit for you and your traveler profile.

If you choose to travel individually, I recommend checking our article with 7 Unmissable Things in Spain .

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Spain

Best tours and itineraries in spain for guided small group adventures.

   1. GAdventures – Classic Spain (15 Days) 

In Spain, a country full of flavor, art and passion, there is no place for half measures. Start in the south, where the Andalusian capital, Seville, will introduce you to the most ardent of dances – flamenco.

Head north and sample Spain’s Basque and Catalan provinces: vibrant Barcelona, laid-back San Sebastián, famous Logroño cuisine, cosmopolitan Madrid and the mighty Pyrenees. Each region of Spain has its own distinct character, style and language to offer. Find it all here.

   2. GAdventures – Best of Southern Spain (8 Days)  

In some destinations, you always have to give up something, whether it’s cuisine, history or simply the activities available. Fortunately, in southern Spain this is not necessary.

This tour covers the main highlights of Andalusia (southern Spain): the ornate Alhambra palace in Granada, Cordoba (an architectural pillar of Islamic culture) and the Andalusian capital of Seville, home of flamenco. Complement all this with time in Madrid and Barcelona, and you’ll never run out of fun things to do, eat or see.

   3. GAdventures – Best of Northern Spain (8 Days) 

Spain has been described as less of a country and more of a collection of small nations working together. Each region has its own distinct character, style and even language. This eight-day trip shows you the Basque and Catalan provinces of Spain at its best: through food, art, culture and face-to-face contact.

Vibrant Barcelona, relaxed San Sebastián, the fabulous architecture of Bilbao, the famous cuisine of Logroño, cosmopolitan Madrid and the mighty Pyrenees, all in just over a week.

   4. Intrepid – Premium Spain (11 Days)

Walk in the footsteps of Gaudí and Picasso, sample fine wines and tapas, and witness the whitewashed villages that bring Spain to life.

This comprehensive Premium journey from Madrid to Barcelona is a delight for the senses. See flamenco in Seville, taste paella in Valencia, feel the history of the Alhambra in Granada and discover the hidden corners of Córdoba. Let the eclectic architecture, revered cuisine and vibrant soul of Spain enchant you.

Best Tours and Itineraries in Spain for Groups of Young Singles (18-35 Years Old)

   5. Contiki – Best of Spain (10 Days) 

There is no better opportunity to live your best Spanish life than spending 10 days touring Spain. Together, we’ll explore Spain’s most iconic cities – think Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Granada – along with the small cobblestone towns of Burgos, Zaragoza, San Sebastian, Pamplona and Toledo. Between paella-making classes, evening flamenco shows, locally guided tours of the Albaicín and Alhambra, and plenty of tapas, you’ll be feeling like Spanish locals in no time.

   6. Contiki – Spain Pride (10 Days)

In love with Spain and LGBTQIA+ pride? This party will take you from Madrid to Barcelona with a visit to Sitges. Along the route, there will be a feast of cultural adventures for you to make the most of, including flamenco shows, tapas feasts, bike rides and much more.

And, of course, there will be a Pride party to remember and celebrate the end of the trip.

   7. Topdeck – Delve Deep: Spain & Portugal (10 Days)

Explore the iconic sights and go on adventures with a local guide. On this tour you will enjoy all the main highlights that Spain and Portugal have to offer, but much more.

From Lisbon to Barcelona, get lost in the cobbled streets of the vibrant cities of Portugal. Indulge in gastronomy in the hot spots of Spanish cuisine. Sail along the mighty river of Porto enjoying a sweet wine. And discover the hidden historical gems of Sintra and Zaragoza. Forget superficiality.

Best luxury and comfort tours and itineraries in Spain for small groups with guides

   8. Trafalgar – Spanish Wonder (9 Days)

Savor moments shared with locals, enjoying sangria on sunny patios, tasty paella and the sounds of the Spanish guitar. On this journey you will explore the wonders of Spain, from the ornate walls of the Alhambra to the Gothic Cathedral and Giralda Bell Tower in Seville.

   9. Trafalgar – Best of Spain (15 Days)

Don’t miss a thing as you explore the best of Spain, with all the trip highlights and a few surprises, from tasting olive oil at an Andalusian farm to learning about Toledo’s three religions, passing through the iconic cities of Madrid, Seville and Barcelona.

   10. Insight Vacations – Spanish Heritage (18 Days)

This 18-day tour takes you from Barcelona to Madrid, stopping in each charming city along the way. Walk the narrow streets of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter with a local guide, making your way to lively Las Ramblas, where street performers perform.

Paella was created in Valencia, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste this flavorful rice dish after a private demonstration by a local chef. Tap your feet in Seville during a flamenco dance class, then relax as the professionals put on a private show for you and your fellow travelers.

Cross Córdoba’s 2,000-year-old Roman bridge, then meet a local historian at the city’s 8th-century mosque, which has a Christian cathedral inside. In Madrid, walk with a Local Expert through the city’s old quarter to the Prado Museum, where an art historian will reveal the stories behind masterpieces by artists such as Goya and Titian.

Tourradar’s Best Iceland Tours (Best Site to Search and Compare Iceland Tours of Different Lengths, Styles, Prices, and Operators)

   11. Tourradar – Taste of Spain (7 Days)

Start and end in Madrid! With this in-depth cultural tour, you’ll have a 7-day package that takes you around Madrid and 8 other destinations in Spain. The tour includes hotel accommodation, as well as an expert guide, meals, transportation and more.

   12. Tourradar – San Sebastian Surf House (8 Days)

Start and end in Zarautz! On this tour you will have an 8 day package that will take you through Zarautz, Spain and San Sebastian. The tour package includes accommodation, meals and more.

Best Itineraries and Group Tours in Spain for Women Only

   13. Solo Female Travelers – Barcelona & Costa Brava  

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Barcelona and the Costa Brava through the eyes of a luxury travel expert, who crafted this itinerary featuring hidden coves, postcard-perfect villas, stunning views, culinary feasts, winemaking traditions, cultural spots and your favorite hotels.

In summary, Spain is a fascinating destination for those seeking cultural, historical and adventure experiences. With such a wide variety of tours, excursions and tours available, as exemplified here, it is essential to do some careful research before selecting the company and tour that best meets your expectations.

We recommend reading the reviews of other travelers and checking the benefits offered. This is very important to ensure a smooth and safe trip. Regardless of the chosen company, one thing is certain: Spain is an unforgettable place!

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

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Tours to Spain

Ways to explore spain, walking and trekking, rail journeys, food and drink, multi-activity, popular spain trip searches, camino de santiago, cycling in spain, walking in spain, discover our spain tours.

Looking for a trip to Spain with a difference? Our  small group tours  will take you beyond the beaten track for a once-in-a-lifetime Spanish adventure. Our walking tours in Spain cover a variety of paces, from a steady hike along the famous  Camino de Santiago  to walking the volcanic landscape of the Canary Islands of Tenerife and La Gomera. Explore the culture and history of Spain with your expert tour leader on a  fast-paced tour of Andalucia  and the sun-drenched mountains of the Sierra de Aracena National Park or, for the more active traveler, discover Spain on two wheels with our  cycling trip to Murcia . Take the kids for a  family adventure  with white-water rafting and canyoning in the Spanish Pyrenees.   Considering a trip to Spain but new to small group travel? We've answered some of the  most-asked questions . 

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Highlights of Spain

Whether you choose to explore the whitewashed towns of Andalucia, complete a pilgrimage on foot to Santiago de Compostela, cycle through valleys of blooming apricot blossom in Murcia, or take the family on a thrill-seeking adventure in the Pyrenees, our small group tours to Spain will create memories to last a lifetime. Here are just a few of the highlights of our adventure tours to Spain.

Discover Andalucia

Discover a region rich in culture, fascinating history, breathtaking mountain scenery and plenty of sunshine on our  Highlights of Andalucia Tour . Wander through the cobbled medieval back streets of Cordoba to find quaint terraced dwellings with wrought-iron balconies draped in colorful hanging baskets and sprawling veils of bougainvillaea flowers, and visit the Mosque-Cathedral to uncover exquisite Moorish architecture. Walk through wooded valleys and verdant rolling landscapes interspersed with clusters of whitewashed buildings and beautiful rural villages in the Sierra de Aracena National Park. End your trip with a visit to Seville to discover intricate Mudejar architecture and absorb yourself in the stately home of the royals at the Real Alcazar Palace.

Walk the Camino de Santiago

Make the famous pilgrimage from Leon to the shrine of Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela on our  Camino de Santiago Walking Tour . This Moderate-graded walking trip will cover over 150 km in eight days as we follow the Camino-Frances trail through verdant undulating countryside, rural farmland and medieval villages. Ascend into the mountains to take in panoramic views from the Iron Cross, the highest point on the route, and explore the pretty cobbled streets of O Cebreiro with its round stone thatched houses and vast views of the patchwork quilt of green valleys below. Feel a huge sense of achievement as you approach the brow of the hill and spot your final destination in the distance, before heading into the historic city center to claim your pilgrim’s certificate and feast on delicious Spanish tapas to celebrate. Read our blog on how to prepare for your Camino de Santiago trip .

Cycle through Murcia

For those of you wanting something a bit more active, join our  Southern Spain Cycling Tour  to pedal through the beautiful countryside and ancient villages of Murcia. Join this tour in February to get the best view of the almond and apricot blossoms bursting into bloom, creating a sea of pink and white flowers through the valleys. All of our cycling tours include the hire of a bike, or e-bikes if you prefer. 

Canyoning in the Pyrenees

Get the family set for a wild adventure in the Spanish Pyrenees on our  Family Pyrenees Multi-Activity Adventure . Embark on an exhilarating roller coaster ride down the fizzing rapids of Noguera River and take a dip in the calm waters of Collegats Canyon. Dare to abseil down the jagged cliff face of Estaron, clamber along the river banks and slide down boulders on a canyoning adventure, or cling onto a hydrospeed board as you float along the river through the whirling rapids and pools. Stay on dry land for a day of mountain biking through the Montgarri Valley or jump on horseback for a hack through the countryside, before relaxing by the pool at the family-run spa hotel.

Solo adventures in Spain

If you are planning to tour alone, rest assured that all of our trips to Spain are suitable for  solo vacations . In fact, many adventurers join us on their own. Our small group tours are a great way to meet like-minded people, make new friends and explore the beautiful scenery of Spain in a safe and hassle-free way.

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Spain Tours & Vacations

From towering cathedral spires to a shared jug of sangria, it’s passion that ties Spain together.

Passion is the constant across Spain’s diverse regions and cultures, from the twirling skirts of flamenco dancers in Seville to the tears of pilgrims arriving in   Santiago de Compostela . Despite (or perhaps because of) its complicated history, Spain has produced some of the most moving art in the world – and we’re not just talking about Gaudi’s architecture and Dali’s melting clocks. Here, art isn’t just in the grand architecture and museums around the country. It’s in the jamón expertly cured by a family who has been making it for centuries, and  vibrant festivals  that bring whole cities together. Like its art, Spain offers something for everyone.

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Culture and customs.

Spain today is made up of 17 distinct autonomous communities, a product of the region’s history as a land of diverse tribes, kingdoms, and cultures. Each has its own traditions, cuisines, and customs shaped by the extensive war, invasion, immigration, and trade that the region has seen over the past few thousand years. From the Moors to the Romans, the British to the Portuguese, modern Spain is a product of both its   geographic neighbors   and the far-flung lands it conquered as a colonial superpower.

Spaniards are known, perhaps above all else, for their passion – for food, politics, partying, and life in general. This is the home of vibrant fiestas, fierce independence movements, flashy flamenco, worker uprisings, and the grand architectural remnants of a lavish and bloated empire.

Roman Catholicism is deeply entrenched in society, and as such Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas are widely observed. Additionally, different patron saints are honored in regional areas throughout the year, with small cities and villages celebrating their saints with bonfires, feasts, and parades.

From visionary architects to painters, controversial film directors to literary greats, Spain has a strong creative tradition evident in Gothic cathedrals, abstract art, and surreal film.

History and government

There is evidence of human habitation in the area now known as Spain dating as far back as 32,000 years ago. Pre-historic cultures likely existed as disparate tribes across the region until the Iron Age, when emerging groups like Iberians, Celtiberians, and Greeks began to exercise more formal control over certain areas.

The Romans arrived in 206 BC and spent hundreds of years systematically conquering the region before ruling uninterrupted for almost 500 years.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, various Muslim and Christian conquerors spent the next 700 years struggling for full control of the region. The last Muslim city, Granada, fell under the control of the Christian Kingdoms of Castile and Aragon in 1492, ending the last period of Muslim rule in Spain to this day.     

Spain as a global empire

The Kingdom of Spain was unified under Christian rule in 1512 and began expanding at a ferocious pace. The far-reaching colonization that saw Spain conquer land on almost every continent earned it the title of the first ‘global empire’.

With access to the natural resources and human labor extracted from its colonies, Spain continued to balloon in power and influence until the 17th century. At this point, lavish construction and out-of-control spending, as well as the growing influence of other global powers, caused the empire to stall.  

By the 18th century, the Kingdom of Spain was struggling. An invasion from Napoleon’s France, royal infighting, and various successful independence movements among colonies were the final death blows delivered to the ailing empire.

20th century

The early 20th century was a tumultuous time for Spain. Between 1918 and 1920, influenza killed an estimated 250,000 people in Spain alone. The nation oscillated between monarchy and short-lived stints as a republic. Attempted coups were frequent as left-wing and right-wing struggled for power, with powerful anarchist and fascist movements emerging, often in reaction to each other.

In 1936 the right-wing Nationalists (led by military general Francisco Franco Bahamonde AKA Franco) overthrew the government in a coup. A three-year civil war began for control of the country. At least 350,000 Spaniards died during the war, which ended with Franco’s victory and ascension to the dual roles of Head of State and Commander-in-Chief. Franco controlled Spain through a rigid totalitarian regime until his death in 1975. His legacy today is mixed, notable for the brutal repression of dissenters but also for an improved economy.

After Franco’s death, Spain transitioned to a democracy, holding its first free elections in almost 40 years in 1979. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the government was controlled alternately by socialist, conservative, and populist parties.    

Though power has continued to swing between conservative and socialist governance, Spain today is relatively politically stable and home to a thriving democracy.   

Remarkably, centuries of Catholic supremacy and enforced cultural hegemony under Franco’s dictatorship haven’t been able to stamp out a spirit of counterculture and rebellion. In general, public engagement in social and political issues is high, and public protest is common.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you’re sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat, or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from in every part of the world.

An abundance of fresh seafood and produce, a long wine-making tradition and diverse culinary influences from the former colonies make for a vibrant food culture. You can find delicious delicacies everywhere from bars to restaurants, cafes, street fiestas, and markets across the country. Savor the cuisines of Northern Spain on our  10 day Northern Spain Real Food Adventure  or taste your way through two countries on our  17 day Spain & Portugal Real Food Adventure.

Plant-based dining in Spain

Vegetarians certainly won’t go hungry in Spain. And while vegans might need to do a little detective work, there’s still a lot on offer if you know where to look.

Vegetarian options can be found in the vast majority of bars, restaurants, cafes, and markets. Vegan travelers will find major cities like Madrid and Barcelona are packed with vegan-friendly (and just straight-up vegan) restaurants. Outside of the big cities, it starts to get a little trickier. The safest option is to make the local market your first port of call in each destination to stock up on fresh fruit, vegetables, and bread. In eateries, vegans should keep an eye out for gazpacho (tomato soup), crema de verduras (vegetable soup), and basic ensaladas (salads) which are likely to be vegan. To be sure they won’t come served with meat on top (which can happen even when it isn’t listed as an ingredient) order them ‘sin jamon y sin huevo’ – without ham or eggs. 

Your local leader will be able to help you navigate the menu and find plant-based dining options.

Must-try dishes and drinks in Spain

• Paella This delectable rice dish is served throughout Spain and comes in many different ways. The mixed version (with chorizo, mussels, and prawns) is the most popular internationally, but if we have to recommend just one it’s got to be the original Valencian version – with rabbit, chicken, and butter beans.
• Albondigas This tapas staple of meatballs swimming in a spicy tomato sauce is a classic. Typically made from a combination of veal and pork mince, the dish is simple to make and even easier to eat, particularly when washed down with a glass of tempranillo.
• Croquettes Another tapas favorite, this time one that vegetarians can easily get behind. These delightful little balls of fried bechamel come with a number of fillings, from beef and ham to broccoli and goat’s cheese.
• Sangria Jugs filled with chunks of apple, lemon, and orange in chilled red wine are the perfect accompaniment to a golden Spanish sunset. Sangria is a well-known ticket to extended late-night revelry, so don’t say we didn’t warn you.
• Calamares a la Romana This dish of crispy, deep-fried calamari is popular in coastal regions like Barcelona. Eat a plate of it at a beachside restaurant or head to a bar and include it in your tapas mix.
• Churros For a sugar hit, try Spain’s version of the doughnut. Churros are sticks of deep-fried dough, dipped in chocolate for good measure! Find them at open-air food stalls and cafes.
• Jamon Spain is famous for its cured ham, the legendary jamon. You’ll find salty jamon hanging in shop windows, on display at markets, and featured on menus throughout Spain.
• Gazpacho For a fresh and healthy Spanish dish, you can’t go past gazpacho. The raw, chilled tomato soup is a cool answer to Spain’s summer heat.
• Tortilla de Patatas Potato tortilla (or Spanish omelette) is a slice of authentic Spanish culinary tradition. A simple dish that’s often served as part of a tapas spread, it’s a great option for vegetarians wanting something hearty.
• Vino tinto We know what you’re thinking. Isn’t it a bit of a cop-out to call ‘red wine’ a must-try? Not when the diversity and quality of the drop are this good. There are so many must-sip varieties in Spain it’s hard to go wrong, but here’s a little list to get you started – tempranillo, rioja, priorat, and toro. Go!

Read more about what to eat in Spain

Read more about what to drink in Spain

Geography and environment

Located in southwestern   Europe , Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula and shares borders with   France ,   Andorra ,   Portugal ,   Morocco   , and Gibraltar, as well as the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The region’s topography is a blend of mountains, low-lying plains, and a long coastline.

The northern Pyrenees and the Picos de Europa are two northern mountain ranges that draw travelers from the continent and around the world in search of active adventure. The Picos de Europa is smaller and popular with hikers, while the powdery slopes of the Pyrenees attract hordes of skiers during an impressively long snow season. 

Spain’s coastline and islands are world-renowned. The Mediterranean Coast, in particular, is incredibly long and beautiful, featuring a mix of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and protected bays. Islands like Tenerife, Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca are among the most popular with tourists chasing sunshine and good times.

While many know its beaches, fewer travelers are aware that southern Spain is home to the only real desert in Europe – the Tabernas. The barren badlands were the setting for a number of Western films in the 1960s and 1970s.

However, most of the countryside in Spain’s central and northern regions offers green valleys, olive groves, rolling farmland, and rivers.

Home of cult fast fashion brand ZARA, Camper shoes, Lladro porcelain, Mango clothing, and some of the best wine and olive oil in the world, Spain’s consumer goods may not be cheap but the quality is high if you stick to authentic brands and hand-made goods. If you are chasing a bargain, flea markets are abundant in Spain and make for a great way to mingle with locals while you look for a souvenir. If you’re spending a few days in a city, ask a local (or if you’re traveling with Intrepid, ask your leader) where and when you can find the local second-hand market. Popular items to look for are leather goods like bags, belts and boots, Moorish mementos and printed fans.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have strict quarantine laws. 

Festivals and events

Valencia’s Las Fallas is a sizzling cacophony of colorful firecrackers, smoky bonfires, roaring rockets, and massive effigies. Celebrated each year in honor of Valencia’s patron saint, this is a week of fiery fun and extensive late-night partying.

Every summer the Spanish town of Haro explodes into a ‘Wine War’, known to locals as Batalla del Vino. Unforgiving residents pump red wine out of water pistols, hoses, and other vessels in this grand example of wine warfare. Be warned: no one is spared – this is not a spectator sport!

La Tomatina

A relative newcomer to the Spanish festival scene,   La Tomatina   draws in travelers, tourists, and the world’s media who come to see ripened tomatoes splattered across the city of Bunol. Thousands of people cram into the narrow town plaza to smash tomatoes into each other – a chaotic, strange, and super fun experience.

The Holy Week

As a predominantly Catholic country, Easter is a huge deal in Spain. But even if you’re not a believer, the Holy Week (Semana Santa) is a fascinating event to experience. Each region has its own unique traditions, but all involve lavish processions, incredible outfits, and torrijas (fried sweet bread). 

Fiesta de San Isidro

Fiesta de San Isidro  is Madrid’s largest festival to honor San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of Madrid who was believed to be a miracle worker in the 12th century. Over the years, the festival has evolved into an all-encompassing celebration of Madrid’s traditions and modern culture, from folk music and dancing to delicious street food. 

Read more about popular festivals in Spain.

Top places to visit in Spain

1. santiago de compostela.

Even if you don’t follow the Camino, or Way of Saint James, to get there, it’s hard not to be moved by the flocks of faithful who arrive in the courtyard of the city’s eponymous cathedral at the end of their pilgrimage. Soak up the cathedral's holy atmosphere, marvel at the impressive stone facades and soaring towers, or explore the labyrinth of cobbled streets, lively squares and perfectly manicured gardens.

Embark on Europe's greatest pilgrimage on our  7 day Walk the Camino de Santiago tour .

Welcome to the capital of Spain’s famous La Rioja wine region. Logrono is home to the must-visit Calle de Laurel – an ancient medieval street where you'll discover some of Spain's best pintxos​, small bites of food served on a skewer or piece of bread. The city is also the gateway to countless wineries, ancient castles and stunning Spanish countryside.

Combine rich culture and delicious cuisine on our  8 day North Spain Discovery tour .

The capital of Andalucia, Seville is famous for its flamenco dancing, oranges, tapas and the world's largest Gothic cathedral. Explore the city's elaborate Moorish architecture – a product of over 400 years of caliphate rule in the Middle Ages, watch a lively flamenco performance at local tapas bars, or enjoy a refreshing  rebujitos cocktail  in the bustling main street of the Triana quarter.

See the best of southern Spain on our  8 day Highlights of Andalucia tour .

4. Valencia

Sun-drenched Valencia has clean beaches, picturesque parks and a mixture of medieval architecture and creative modern design . Be sure to take a walk through the Jardin del Turia – a riverbed that was turned into a park that snakes through the city, pick up some local goodies at the market in Old Town, or try Valencian paella made with rabbit, chicken and butter beans.

Explore coastal Valencia on our  15 day Best of Spain tour.

5. Barcelona

Surreal Gothic architecture, superb dining and non-stop nightlife make Barcelona an unmissable spot. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, grab fresh juice at the colorful La Boqueria market, sample Catalan dishes on a tapas crawl through the funky El Born neighborhood, or discover Gaudi's architectural masterpieces.

Immerse yourself in Spain's rich and quirky culture on our  7 day Classic Barcelona to Madrid tour.

Come for the sprawling beauty of the 11th-century Alhambra Palace, stay for the small flamenco taverns and some of the best tapas in Spain. Whether you want to do a local produce tasting at a family-run delicatessen, explore the Moorish Albaicin quarter and traditional tea houses or marvel at the beautiful tombs at the Royal Chapel, it's impossible not to fall in love with Granada's charm.

Get a little taste of it all on our  20 day Premium Spain in Depth tour.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Spain adventure, check out these books:

• The Shadow of the Wind   – Carlos Ruiz Zafon
• Don Quixote   – Miguel de Cervantes
• Imperial Spain: 1469–1716   – John Elliott
• The Ornament of the World: How Muslims, Jews, and Christians Created a Culture of Tolerance in Medieval Spain   – Maria Rosa Menocal
• Homage to Catalonia   – George Orwell
• The Back Room   – Carmen Martin Gaite
• Iberia   – James A Michener

Similar destinations

Never want your European vacation to end? No problem! We have a variety of similar trips and routes to extend your trip and add another destination. Check out these tours departing from locations around Spain. 

• 15 day Explore Spain & Portugal tour
• 22 day Classic Spain & Portugal tour
• 15 day Madrid to Marrakech tour
• 24 day Spain, Portugal & Morocco tour
• 15 day Barcelona to Rome tour
• Italy or Spain? Which country to choose?

Spain travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Spain?

Due to its size, Spain has a varied climate, but for the most part, you can expect Mediterranean temperatures along the coast, with hot, sunny summers (and peak tourism!) and colder, rainy winters .

On the east coast of Spain, major cities like Barcelona can be very busy during summer, so if you’d prefer to share the streets with more locals and fewer tourists you might find the ‘low season’ of November to February is the best time to visit this region.

What's the weather like in Spain?

Spain is known to be one of the warmest and sunniest countries in Europe regardless of the season, but weather patterns differ depending on where you are: you can expect mild summers and cold winters in the northern regions and hot summers and mild winters in the south.

Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Citizens of the European Union and Iceland, Norway and Switzerland are not required to obtain a visa but must abide by local residency requirements if they plan to stay for more than 90 days.

Travelers from Australia, the USA, New Zealand, Brazil, Japan and more can visit Spain for 90 days in a six-month period with no visa, as long as they have no plans to work. 

Travelers visiting from Cambodia, Ecuador, India, Nepal and other countries must obtain a visa from the Spanish consulate or embassy in their region – allow at least two weeks for it to be issued. 

The information is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 14 June 2023

Is tipping customary in Spain?

Tipping in Spain is entirely optional. If you would like to tip, rounding up the bill or leaving spare change in restaurants should be sufficient. Feel free to tip more for good service, but it isn’t expected of you.

What is the internet access like in Spain?

Internet access is good in Spain. Internet cafes and wi-fi hotspots are easily found in most cities and major towns. In some very remote and rural areas, access can be patchy, but this is improving.

Can I use my cell phone while in Spain?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Spain. If you want to use your cell phone, purchase a local sim or ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur). Travelers from countries not part of a Global Mobile Systems network, like Japan, will not be able to use their cell phones in Spain.

What are the toilets like in Spain?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the standard in Spain. Be aware that public toilets aren’t as common in Spain as they are in some other countries and you often have to pay to use them. Be sure to carry change to avoid being caught short.

What will it cost for a…?

Spain's unit of currency is the euro. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Pint of beer = USD $3–5
• Basic cafe meal = USD $13-16
• Simple tapas plate = USD $6-8
• Metro ticket = USD $2.50

Can I drink the water in Spain?

Drinking water from taps is safe in Spain unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Spain?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Spain. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Spain?

ATMs are very common in Spain, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Spain?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• April or May: Maundy Thursday/Good Friday
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 15 Aug: Assumption of Mary
• 12 Oct: Fiesta Nacional de Espana
• 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day
• 6 Dec: Constitution Day
• 8 Dec: Immaculate Conception
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Spain public holidays may vary.

Is Spain safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Overall, Spain is a welcoming and safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Same-sex marriage is legal, and laws exist to protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals to live free from of discrimination (though employment discrimination laws do not yet protect transgender individuals). 

Public opinion on LGBTQIA+ individuals is relatively positive. Though LGBTQIA+ travelers may encounter more conservative views in rural areas and small towns, the risk of experiencing overt discrimination in Spain is very low for travelers.

Transgender individuals and gender non-conforming folks are widely accepted in Spain, though gender identity-based discrimination still occurs.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Spain accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Spain is a mixed bag when it comes to access for travelers with disabilities. While some regions like Catalonia are proactively working to meet the needs of travelers with disabilities, others may prove challenging for travelers with mobility and/or visual impairments.  

Barcelona is notable as one of the most wheelchair-friendly cities in Europe. All of Barcelona’s major sights are accessible for wheelchair users, and some beaches have all-terrain wheelchairs for free hire as well as boardwalks that extend to the water. The vast majority of metro stations and all buses are accessible to folks with reduced mobility. Many train stations in Barcelona have tactile strips to direct folks with vision impairments to platforms, ticket machines, and elevators. Ticket machines and elevators have speech options in a variety of languages. 

Madrid is also a city committed to accessible travel, with metro and bus systems that can be used by people with mobility and visual impairments and many accessible monuments.

Spain’s national parks are somewhat accessible, as they are commonly outfitted with accessible interpretation centers and viewpoints. The trails of the Picos de Europa are well-maintained and non-reflective, so may be accessible to people with visual impairments (depending on the severity of the impairment).

Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should familiarise themselves with the Spanish equivalent of the batteries their devices need.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What are some useful Spanish phrases to learn?

You don’t need to spend hours trying to learn Spanish before your trip... unless you want to, that is! The following phrases should help you get by:

• Good morning –  Buenos días
• Good afternoon –  Buenas tardes 
• Good evening –  Buenas noches
• How are you? –  ¿Cómo está usted?  (formal) 
• How are you? –   ¿Cómo estás?  (informal)
• What are you doing? –  ¿Qué haces?  
• Thank you –  ¡Gracias!  
• Nice to meet you –  Mucho gusto
• Please –  Por favor

Does my trip to Spain support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Spain directly support our foundation partner, Open Arms.

Open Arms protects people fleeing from their home country to reach Europe by sea. Donations from our trips help them protect immigrants abandoned in international waters fleeing war, persecution and poverty. They collaborate with healthcare and frontline research teams to support immigrants through health emergencies and work in their countries of origin to strengthen communities and build alternatives to irregular or unsafe immigration.  

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Spain tours

Discover the culture, history, and beauty of Spain! You'll see it all, from mesmerizing museums in Madrid and flamenco in Seville to amazing architecture in Barcelona. Our Spain tours have it all.

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What travelers say about their tours of Spain

Travel tips for spain trips.

From the museums of Madrid to the sands of the Costa del Sol, Spain sparkles with incredible places to visit. Whether you’re in search of incredible art and architecture, flamenco shows, delicious plates of tapas, Spanish culture, or history, you’ll find plenty of it in the cosmopolitan cities and picturesque countryside. The top places to visit on our tours of Spain are:

• Barcelona. Appealing to artists, foodies, sports fans, history buffs, beach lovers, and even mountain-goers, it is no surprise that this capital city of Catalonia is one of Europe’s most dynamic destinations. Among its many attractions are La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter. Check out our best travel tips for a trip to Barcelona .
• Madrid. Spain’s most populous city is full of energy. The elegant boulevards and parks, and rich collection of European art, make this Spanish city a must-see. From the treasures at the Prado Museum to sunsets at the Temple of Debod, Madrid is always a highlight of trips to Spain. Here’s how to spend 48 hours in Madrid .
• Seville. There’s no better place to experience flamenco than its birthplace: Seville. The charming city with a Moorish influence is also known for its tapas and festivals, including its world-famous April Fair.
• Granada.  Granada is full of historical and cultural attractions, including the Alhambra, the Nasrid Palaces, and the Albayzín district. Granada is also home to the Sacromonte district, which is famous for its flamenco shows.
• Valencia. With its rich history, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, Valencia is a traveler’s delight. If you love beaches, Valencia’s location on the Mediterranean coast offers some of Spain’s best.
• Málaga. Located on the Costa del Sol, Málaga is one of the most popular destinations in Spain. The combination of great food, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions (Alcazaba, Cathedral of Malaga, and the Picasso Museum) will make you want to return again and again.
• Costa del Sol. Dreaming of sunny days on the coast? Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun) is lined with golden beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. You’ll get your fill of Spanish food and wine, historical sites, and lively nightlife, too.

Ready to explore northern Spain? Here are eight of the best places to see  →

If a lot of sunshine is what you seek, set out to see Spain in the summer. Spring and fall are becoming more popular times to visit thanks to the comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds at landmarks and major sites. Our guided tours of Spain run every season since the country offers an amazing experience for travelers any time of the year.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Spain’s top attractions: beautiful churches, mosaic-tiled palaces, and celebrated beaches. One of the main benefits of joining our guided tours of Spain is having the opportunity to visit must-see sites with an expert leading the way. Another advantage of traveling to Spain with us? We’ll help you skip the long lines at popular landmarks. Here are some attractions to see in Spain:

• La Sagrada Família in Barcelona
• The Alhambra in Granada
• Park Güell in Barcelona
• Mezquita in Córdoba
• The Prado Museum in Madrid
• Plaza de España in Seville
• Llotja de la Seda in Valencia
• The Picasso Museum in Barcelona
• Royal Alcázar of Seville
• Royal Palace in Madrid
• Beaches of Costa del Sol

Check out bucket list-worthy things to do in Spain →

Spain is many things: cosmopolitan, historic, and laidback. You’ll find incredible art and architecture, delicious food, and captivating countryside and coastlines, all infused with Spanish flavor. In a country so diverse, there are many popular activities to experience on our guided trips to Spain. Some of the most popular include:

• Exploring the countryside. From the snow-capped Pyrenees Mountains to the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol, Spain is a beautiful country with stunning scenery. There are many opportunities to explore the countryside, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
• Visiting historical sites. With its rich history, Spain has many intriguing sites to visit, including the Roman ruins of Mérida, the medieval city of Toledo, and the Alhambra in Granada.
• Enjoying the food and wine. You’ll find many opportunities to sample Spain’s delicious food and wine. Some of the most popular dishes to try on our Spain trips include paella, tapas, and sangria.
• Attending a festival. Spaniards love to celebrate, and there are many festivals throughout the year, including the La Tomatina Festival in Buñol and the Semana Santa processions in Seville.
• Relaxing on the beach. Blessed with long coastlines and many beautiful beaches, Spain is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some of the most popular beaches are Playa de la Barceloneta in Barcelona, Playa de las Américas in Tenerife, and Playa de la Concha in San Sebastián.
• Visiting the cities. Spain is home to many beautiful and vibrant cities, each with its own unique character. Some of the most popular cities to visit include Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada.

Check out our bucket list of things to do in Spain →

Located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, Spain has a climate that varies across its different regions. Along the eastern coast, you can expect to find a Mediterranean climate, which means hot summers and mild winters. Central Spain experiences very hot summers and cold winters, while Northern Spain tends to have more mild and humid weather.

Everywhere you turn, Spain seems to offer unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else, from mesmerizing museums in Madrid to flamenco shows in Seville to amazing architecture in Barcelona. Here are a few experiences that make our guided tours to Spain extra special:

• Seeing a Flamenco show in Seville
• Exploring the fairy-tale Alcázar castle in Segovia 
• Stepping inside the Mezquita in Córdoba
• Sampling tapas or pintxos
• Hiking the Caminito del Rey
• Throwing tomatoes at the Tomatina Festival in Buñol
• Enjoying a café bombón in Tenerife
• Going cave diving in Nerja
• Visiting a finca farmhouse in Salamanca         
• Visiting the Valley of the Fallen in the Guadarrama Mountains
• Taking a cooking class in Andalusia
• Touring an olive oil farm in Córdoba
• Watching the sun set on Bakio’s Beach

Explore more unique things to do in Spain →

A visit to the country of “fiestas and siestas” isn’t complete without exploring its incredible food culture. Good food, drinks, and company are always on the menu. The combination of sampling flavorful dishes, trying delicious wines, and lingering around the table makes the dining experience in Spain quite different from what you’ll have anywhere else in the world. Spanish cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and use of olive oil.

Here are some of the best dishes to sample on our trips to Spain:

• Paella.  A quintessential rice dish that everyone visiting Spain needs to try. There are many ways to enjoy it. Traditionally it’s made with saffron, chicken, seafood, and vegetables, but locals also enjoy it with rabbit.
• Tapas and pintxos.  Many people are familiar with tapas, the small-plate meals that Spain made famous the world over. But did you know that tapas are only tapas if they’re on a plate? In the Basque region of Spain, pintxos are tiny bites served atop toasty slices of bread.
• Jamón Ibérico.  A prized delicacy in Spain, this cured ham is made from free-range pigs that are fed a diet of acorns, which gives the ham its distinctive flavor.
• Tortilla Española.  A hearty and filling breakfast option, this Spanish omelet is made with thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and eggs. If you’re on the go, the portable dish makes a great snack.
• Gazpacho.  On a hot summer day, this cold soup of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and garlic is a delicious way to cool off.
• Wine.  Spain is home to a few of the world’s top wine regions. Three of the best sips you can try on tour are rioja (a fruity red wine), cava (a sparkling wine similar to Champagne), and vermouth (a strong, fortified wine).

Know before you go: tips for eating in Spain →

We recommend you spend at least six days in Spain. While our most popular Spain tours run nine days or more, you can enjoy a shorter trip if you limit your tour to one or two cities.

To stock up on local currency, order some euros from your bank before you go, or use your debit card at an ATM once you arrive. For tips on using the euro while on a trip to Spain, check out our blog on currency exchange →

Spanish is the most widely spoken language in Spain. However, English is widely spoken in popular areas. That said, knowing some key phrases is always useful and will help you find your way around and show locals that you’re interested in learning about their culture.

Some key Spanish phrases to know before you go →

Greetings. When greeting someone in Spain, it is customary to shake hands. It’s also common to kiss someone on the cheek as a greeting, but this is more common among friends and family.

• Dining. Lunch is the largest and most important meal of the day, served at 1pm or later. It often consists of several courses and is followed by the famous siesta, or resting time. Many businesses and restaurants are closed from about 2–4p.m. Dinner is a much lighter meal and often isn’t started until 9 or 10p.m. During the long days of summer, locals might not eat dinner until around midnight!
• Tipping. Tipping is not expected in Spain, but it is appreciated. A tip of five to 10% is considered appropriate for good service.
• Dress. Spain is a relatively casual country, but it’s still important to dress appropriately for the occasion. For example, you wouldn’t want to wear shorts and a T-shirt to a nice restaurant. Or beachwear when you’re not at the beach.

We recommend packing light for a trip to Spain. One suitcase and one carry-on per person is a good guideline to follow; you should feel comfortable managing your baggage at the airport. After you’ve booked one of our Spain tours, we’ll give you information about how to prepare for your particular trip and even share a packing list in our mobile app. 

• Sun protection.  For all our trips, especially during the summer months in Spain, we recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your face and the back of your neck from the sun.
• Layers.  We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• Comfortable walking shoes.  Since you’ll be exploring new destinations with local guides while on guided tours to Spain, a comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential to have with you. Those walking shoes will come in handy while exploring the cobblestone streets that are common in Spain or hiking in the Basque Country.
• Dressier attire.  You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• Full-coverage layers for religious sites.  On our Spain tours, it is preferable not to visit churches, temples, or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders, and staff at these sites may deny entrance on this basis.
• A small day bag.  Many churches and museums will not allow you to bring in large backpacks for security purposes—you’ll need to check them at the door. However, you can wear a small day bag on your front, like a cross-body travel bag or stylish mini backpack.
• An RFID money belt or wallet.  Spain’s city streets can get busy, and like in any country with many tourists, you’ll want to be wary of pickpockets. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) can protect your credit card info from electronic theft, and a money belt will conceal your cash without ruining your outfit.

Once you’ve reserved one of our Spain tour packages, we’ll send you detailed information about what to bring with you. Don’t forget to download the  Go Ahead app  before you take off, so you’ll have all the info you need about your trip right in your pocket.

Need help narrowing down our Spain tours?

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Meet other travelers interested in Spain, hear from our expert team, and more in our exclusive Spain Travel Facebook Group

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A feast of fiestas

Spain is regional. For much of its history Spain was a collection of kingdoms, and even the language we call Spanish is not used universally – just wander around Barcelona or the Basque country. Point is, to get a real feel for Spain, you've got to do some moving around. Every region has its specialty, whether it's art in Madrid, food in Basque country, architecture in Barcelona or flamenco in Andalusia. A fascinating history stretching from Romans to Moors and beyond has left a legacy of castles, palaces, and churches equal to anywhere. Oh, and Spaniards love a party. And you don't need to dodge charging bulls to belong; just grab a wineskin and join in the fun. No fiesta? Just wait a couple of days.

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I Spy Spain

Spain Travel Tips for Groups: The Definitive Guide for a Seamless Trip 

ispyspainblogger · February 21, 2024 · Leave a Comment

Traveling with a group in Spain? It might sound challenging, but fear not! We’ve got the know-how to turn a potentially hectic vacation into a smooth and enjoyable experience. As travel itinerary planners, we’ve custom-crafted many successful small group vacations in Spain, and we’re here to simplify your trip. From the bold city of Barcelona to the scenic landscapes of Northern Spain to the wine paradise of La Rioja – we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, this blog post is your go-to guide for Spain’s top summer destinations, unique experiences, and practical travel tips tailored for you and your travel mates. Read our best Spain travel tips for groups! 

Top destinations for groups

Barcelona: gaudí’s grandeur .

Barcelona is the magnetic capital of Catalonia, where elegant modernist architecture, a dynamic gastronomic scene, and a fresh Mediterranean atmosphere attract visitors worldwide. Antoni Gaudí’s fantastical masterpieces, such as the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, enchant with colorful hues and organic forms, while the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter reveal centuries of Roman and medieval history. Bond on a group tapas tour, explore the animated food markets like the Mercat de La Boqueria or Mercat de Santa Caterina , and unwind together on the sun-kissed beaches of Barceloneta . 

Madrid: Museum Magnificence 

Madrid is Spain’s capital and the geographical heart of Spain, pulsating with culture, history, and modernity. Admire famous paintings together in the city’s international museums like El Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum , which hold exquisite works by Goya, Velazquez, or Picasso. Take a group selfie at the historic Plaza Mayor , amidst the impressive facade of this central hub, constructed in the 17th century. Share delicious tapas at the Mercado de San Miguel or stroll through Retiro Park for a relaxing afternoon. Madrid’s compact layout makes it easy for groups to get around and explore together. 

Northern Spain: Nature’s Havens

Imagine rugged cliffs, rolling green hills, rocky mountain peaks, and cute fishing villages. This is “green Spain”, or Northern Spain, the less-traveled region, comprising Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and the Basque Country. This area lets groups spread out, away from the usual crowds found in more popular Spanish destinations. 

 In Galicia, Santiago de Compostela , a UNESCO World Heritage site, has the 11th-century Cathedral de Santiago , drawing groups seeking spiritual and architectural wonders. Asturias boasts the Picos de Europa National Park , while Cantabria charms with the historic Santillana del Mar and the Altamira Cave , home to prehistoric artworks, dating back over 20,000 years. The Basque Country’s Bilbao attracts art enthusiasts with the shiny, contemporary Guggenheim Museum .

Southern Spain: Sun-Soaked Shores

Southern Spain encapsulates many Spanish stereotypes, with its Moorish influences, passionate people, and a Mediterranean beach culture. The true essence is best savored through first-hand experience! Seville , a radiant city with flamenco spirit, has the 10th-century Alcazar . In Granada , the Alhambra Palace ‘s Moorish splendor captivates, while Ronda’s dramatic gorge offers a spectacularly scenic view with small-town Andalusian culture. Costa del Sol ‘s golden beaches, white towns, and resorts make it a Mediterranean paradise. For vibrant beach destinations, Marbella and Nerja are fantastic for group-friendly activities like water sports and seaside dining.  

La Rioja: Vineyard Vistas

La Rioja is the ultimate wonderland for wine enthusiasts. Nestled between the Cantabrian Mountains and the Ebro River , this northern region has rows of vineyards, dazzling wineries, and quaint villages scattered across the picturesque landscape. The decentralized layout of La Rioja is perfect for small groups – it lets you explore the region at a leisurely pace, giving everyone a relaxing group experience. 

Wine lovers can explore family-run bodegas and immerse themselves in the art of winemaking. The Bodega Marqués de Riscal, founded in 1858, has the gorgeous City of Wine complex, designed by architect Frank Gehry. Bodegas López de Heredia Viña Tondonia has a flagship wine , Viña Tondonia with legendary status. The charming “wine towns” of Haro holds its annual Battle of Wine festival, where participants drench each other in wine, and Laguardia is a gorgeous hilltop village for exciting wine tastings.  

Group-Exclusive Bespoke Experiences 

Food unites people! Enjoy a delicious trip across Spain’s famous foodie cities, like Seville , with a delectable tapas tour through traditional taverns or the flamenco-filled Triana neighborhood. Take a paella cooking class in Valencia , creating camaraderie while learning the art of simmering short-grained rice with seafood. In San Sebastian , indulge in a pintxos crawl while bonding over Basque delicacies. In Madrid, tour and dine at the historic Casa Botín , the oldest restaurant in the world. These cities not only tantalize the taste buds but also cultivate quality time with your friends or loved ones. 

For more fine-dining experiences , try some upscale adventures. Go on a private Michelin-star restaurant tour lasting three days across San Sebastian, Bilbao, and La Rioja. Or enjoy a private luxury cava tasting tour , sampling sparkling cava across the Penedés region, eating al fresco from miravinyas , vineyard viewpoints, where you can enjoy unique panoramic vistas. 

Need more group experiences that create connections? Other group activities include enjoying a passionate flamenco show in Córdoba , a ceramics class in Valencia , a sword-forging workshop in Toledo , and many other specialized tours and off-the-beaten-path experiences. (We can help with finding the right one for you!) 

Spain Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip

• Dinner in Spain is at 9 pm or later . Some Spaniards eat as early as 8 pm or as late as 10 pm, especially in the summer. If you want to beat the crowds, head to the restaurant early! 
• The best time to visit Spain is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) seasons. The weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are not overwhelming. 
• Different regions of Spain speak different languages . While Spanish is the common language, regional languages like Catalan, Galician, and Basque are spoken in different parts of the country.
• Embrace the siesta hour when many businesses close from 2 to 5 p.m. Take advantage of this time block to unwind and enjoy a relaxing lunch, take a restful nap at your hotel, or stroll through charming streets. In bigger cities, larger businesses in the city center may stay open all day to cater to tourists.  
• When you tip, it’s common to round up the bill to the nearest euro. Forget the 10-15% like they do in North America – it’s over the top. Leaving small change, or 1 to 2 euros, is appreciated and customary. If you feel like your waiter deserves a bigger tip, feel free to leave what you want. 
• Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to make your travel experience more enriching and enjoyable. Even if you’re not fluent, making an effort to speak Spanish with locals is appreciated. Also, don’t assume that everyone in Spain speaks English well – because they don’t!
• Spain has a diverse climate, so pack accordingly . Think of layering your clothing if you’re visiting different regions of Spain. 
• Public transportation is efficient within major cities like Madrid or Barcelona. It’s easier to use the metro or buses to get around instead of driving because of traffic and parking. Spain also has an efficient national high-speed train called the AVE, which connects Seville, Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and other cities. 
• Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. While Spain is generally safe, popular cities like Barcelona or Madrid have a petty theft problem. Stay vigilant in crowded places, use secure bags, and be mindful of your belongings. For example, don’t leave your purse on the table if you have to step away for a second.  
• Master the art of “ mañana “ , which means “tomorrow”. In other words, there’s no need to rush! Spaniards value a slower pace of life, with time spent enjoying meals and socializing. Just watch how sevillanos enjoy food: eating tapas, drinking, and simply enjoying each other’s company. Embrace this laid-back attitude and adapt to the Spanish way of life! 

Spain Travel Tips Tailored for Groups 

• Set expectations. Be clear about the itineraries, off-limit tourist traps, budget, any group rules, and overall travel goals. Make sure everyone’s on the same page, and encourage everyone to be flexible! 
• Assign specific roles for group members . Designate specific responsibilities within the group, such as a navigator or money manager. Make it clear who’s doing what to avoid any mix-ups. 
• Figure out how you’ll communicate with each other when you’re separated – whether it’s using WhatsApp, Viber, or another app. Make sure members can keep everyone in the loop and sort out any changes in plans in real-time. 
• Stick together. Remind group members of the importance of staying together, especially in unfamiliar areas. Maybe pair up and have buddies to make sure no one gets left behind. 
• Get travel insurance. It’s a safety net against unexpected situations like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and more. Many insurance providers offer group rates or discounts for families or large groups traveling together. 
• Develop a simple emergency plan. Familiarize everyone with Spain’s emergency number, which is 112. It works the same way as 911 in North America. Establish meeting points at each destination in case of separation or emergency. Also, share important contact information, hotel addresses, and embassy details. 
• Build in downtime into the travel schedule. Everyone needs personal space and breathing room, some more than others! Whether it’s solo exploration, a power nap, or just low-key group activities, make sure there’s time for everyone to unwind. 
• Choose group-friendly transportation and accommodations . I Spy Spain can do it for you! We make sure that every aspect, from transportation to accommodations, is meticulously planned to provide your group with the best comfort and convenience throughout your Spanish trip. 

FAQs  

What city in Spain should I visit first?

Start with Barcelona, a major city with a nice mix of historic architecture, a rich Mediterranean culture, and beautiful beaches – but of course, it depends on your personal taste. Some might prefer the flamenco city of Seville or the museum-filled capital of Madrid. 

What is the best way to tour around Spain?

The AVE, the high-speed train system, runs efficiently between major cities in Spain. It’s fast, comfortable, and gives you diverse scenery. You can savor paella in Valencia, explore Gaudi’s wonders in Barcelona, and dance flamenco in Seville. If you like road trips, you can also rent a car and take the Spanish roads and highways, which are also well-maintained and easy to navigate. 

What should I do to prepare for a trip to Spain?

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months, and obtain a visa if necessary. Also, familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases, and research the places that look interesting to you in each Spanish city or town you’ll visit. Having a flexible schedule will help you maximize your Spanish holiday!

Ready to start planning your trip? Have any questions? Contact us if you want to know more about creating your perfect Spain vacation!  

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Spain Group Travel

Are you and a group of friends or family members considering a trip to Spain all at the same time? Then you should consider a Spain group trip. While you're soaking up the Spanish sun and exploring the country's cuisine and historic culture, you can enjoy great discounts and extras that group travelers to Spain can access.

Spain Group Trips and Tours

Airlines, hotels and tour operators often give larger groups a package discount while traveling in Spain. And often it is possible for the group organizer to travel at a larger discount or even for free.

Your Spain Group Travel plans can be prepared with as little or as much flexibility as you need. Be sure to think about you group - everyone likes a bit of independence now and then, but don't miss out on those great group experiences to make memories of a lifetime.

It can be difficult to find a great travel professional that can assist you creating the ideal Spain group travel itinerary. You should work with someone who has first-hand experience with working with group itineraries as well as knowledge of the great local destinations in Spain itself.

Spain - Malaga to Madrid - 11 Days

From the famous coastline of the Costa del Sol to the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, Spain is a land of stunning contrasts. The country's history is entwined with the Moorish culture whose influence can be particularly felt in the cities of Cordoba and Granada through their architectural elements. Spain's passion radiates from its food and its flamenco style of dancing. This journey will ignite your passion for this Mediterranean land.

• Explore Granada's extraordinary Alhambra palace
• Visit Ronda, one of Spain's renowned 'White Villages'
• Tour Cordoba's 10th century Mosque, now a Cathedral
• Carriage ride through the Plaza de Espana
• Experience a traditional flamenco show
• Explore the ancient walled city of Avila
• Guided tour of the world famous Prado Museum
• Visit to a Damescene Steel Workshop

View the complete day to day Spain - Malaga to Madrid Itinerary .

Spain & Portugal - Lisbon to Barcelona - 13 Days

Experience Europe's fiery Latin cultures on this trip through Portugal and Spain. From the plaintive Fado music of Portugal to the Flamenco dancing of Spain, visitors will delight in visiting these capitals of Latin culture. See the influence of the Moors on castles and palaces. Be amazed at the breadth and quality of the artworks in the world famous Prado Museum. In Barcelona wonder at the bizarre but mesmerizing influence Gaudi had on the city.

• Guided tour of Lisbon including Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower
• Flamenco show
• Sightseeing tour of Seville
• Visit the Prado Museum
• Guided tour of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and Sagrada Familia Cathedral

View the complete day to day Spain & Portugal - Lisbon to Barcelona Itinerary .

Ultimate Barcelona - 6 Days

Beaches, baths, artists and wine encompass this tour of Barcelona's best. Explore Spain's history of surrealism on a visit to the Sagrada Familia and the Salvador Dali Museum. Explore Roman archeological sites at Tarragona and the Arabian baths at Girona. Savor sparkling wine at the Penedes Valley wine region as you contemplate what a wonderful time you are having in Spain.

• Barcelona city sightseeing including Sagrada Familia
• Explore the Montserrat & Sant Miquel del Fai Monasteries
• Investigate the Roman ruins of Tarragona
• Wine & cava tasting in the Penedes Valley wine region
• Stroll through Girona's Arabian baths and Jewish quarter
• Experience the Salvador Dali Museum in Figueres

View the complete day to day Ultimate Barcelona Itinerary .

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Delicious tapas, authentic sangria, sandy beaches and incredible landmarks — a tour to Spain has it all! Visit Madrid , the country’s capital, for a taste of Spanish culture, art, and elegance — or head to Barcelona where you can bike tour through the many vibrant neighborhoods. For a completely different feel, take a trip through the Andalucia region and explore its unique architecture and sprawling green hills.

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Walking the Picos de Europa

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Classic Spain

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Andalusia & Mediterranean Coast With Barcelona

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Camino de Santiago Trek

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Spain Tour Reviews

Spain tours — highlights and vacation tips.

Unparalleled Roman ruins, stunning Islamic architecture, a wealth of history of great civilizations, unique culture, and edgy creativity are what define any trip to Spain. The country is full of rich and diverse landscapes. The Pyrenees are as majestic as any other mountain on the continent and are famous as one of the best-hiking destinations in Europe . Madrid and Barcelona always present a grand vibe and an incredible experience. The charming coves of the Mediterranean will truly make you fall in love and there are always quaint little villages that present an old-world European way of life to choose from.

Spain Trip Highlights

• Dodge tomatoes at the annual food fight festival, La Tomatina, in Buñol
• See all of Gaudi’s distinctive architecture, from Park Güell in Barcelona to El Capricho in Comillas
• Grab a bite to eat at Mercat de la Boqueria, just off La Rambla in Barcelona
• Discover the world-renowned art, fashion, and architecture of Madrid
• Drink traditional Spanish red sangria
• Visit the sarcophagus of Christopher Columbus at the Catedral de Sevilla

Spain Vacation Tips

• Spaniards are incredibly intimate and like to tell it as it is. Expect to be greeted with a kiss, even by strangers, and it’s not unusual to be interrupted as you speak.
• When dining out with friends, always opt for some paella . Arguably the most popular dish in Spain, it’s often cheaper to share by increasing the size of your paella than to order a separate meal.
• If you want to see the inside of the Sagrada Familia, be sure to buy your tickets online before you go. Only a certain number of people are allowed inside each day, and tickets sell out days in advance.
• Though there’s plenty to see on Spain’s mainland, its many islands are also worth visiting. Check out Ibiza for some incredible nightlife, Lanzarote for unique volcanic landscapes, or Fuerteventura for surfing.
• Promptness isn’t exactly a value in Spain. Spaniards tend to be very laid back and arrive late.

Spain has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Spain before booking your Spain tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Spain, do check out our Spain Travel Guide for more information.

Tours in Spain - Questions and Answers

The duration of your stay, the type of accommodation and services you wish to book, and the activities you want to experience play a key role in determining the costs of your Spain vacation. On average, 7 days in Spain , including accommodation and meals, can cost anywhere from USD 1,000 to USD 1,800 per person. Hotel rooms can start from USD 49 per person, per night and go upward of USD 209, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can be had for around USD 12. A meal in a decent restaurant can cost upward of USD 20 per person.

Spain is a treasure trove of beautiful destinations. While each region boasts an array of popular attractions coupled with a rich past, Barcelona, Malaga, Seville, Madrid, Valencia, Mallorca, and Tenerife are among the most-visited places in Spain .

There are so many things to do in Spain . Uncover the turbulent history of Spain in cities like Seville, Granada, and Salamanca during sightseeing tours . You can take in the picturesque landscape of rural Spain either on a driving trip (for example, through the Basque Circuit) or while hiking through its meadows and mountains. Experience the rich culinary culture of San Sebastian, considered by many to be the culinary capital of the country, and discover the dunes of Doñana National Park during a safari trip. 

Generally speaking, Spain is a safe destination to visit. It is considered among the top ten safest countries in the world. However, locals advise that you exercise the same kind of caution you would anywhere else. For example, avoid walking alone in dark alleys, be aware of scammers and follow the instructions of your tour guide. Learn more .

Spain is famous for its wines and alcoholic drinks. Be sure to enjoy your meals with Sangria, Cava, Clara, Vermouth, and Horchata wines.

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With a total of six Spain tours to choose from in a country more diverse than you could ever imagine, you'll need to bring your appetite and be prepared to experience the good life in a land that stirs the soul with diverse landscapes, unforgettable gastronomic experiences, and architectural creations like no other on land journeys or by small ship cruise.

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Welcome to Spain

When you travel to Spain with Tauck, you'll feel the passion of this sun-blessed country come to life in every destination visited – a fiesta where everyone seems to be invited.

Madrid, spain, art, history and so much more in spain's extraordinary capital city, madrid.

Founded more that a millennium ago as a Muslim fortress town, Spain's capital city, Madrid, is a cosmopolitan metropolis known for its incredible art collections, inventive cuisine, and lively nightlife. Visiting the city with Tauck, you'll discover grand avenues such as Gran Via and Castellana, and El Parque del Buen Retiro; walk with a local guide through Plaza Mayor and the Mercado de San Miguel; enjoy a guided visit to the Royal Palace (Palacio de Oriente); and tour one of the greatest museums of them all – the Museo del Prado, which opened its doors in 1819, created by King Ferdinand VII to promote Spanish art and display the Royal Collection. Today, the Prado is home to one of the finest collections of European art anywhere, including works by Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, Bosch, Rubens, Titian and others… and with Tauck, you'll explore it all with an art expert.

Cordoba, Spain

Explore the moorish influences and multicultural heritage of córdoba.

It may have begun life as a Roman settlement, but the Spanish city of Córdoba – in the southern province of Andalucia – first reached greatness as a Muslim stronghold and the capital of a Caliphate, and many of its Moorish influences remain to the day. Reclaimed by the Christian world during the 13th-century Spanish Reconquista, Cordoba has long been known as a multicultural melting pot and a center of Spanish intellectual life. Discover it with Tauck on a walking tour through its Jewish Quarter and a guided visit to the 8th-century Mezquita de Córdoba (La Mezquita) – once one of the world's largest mosques, and now a Roman Catholic cathedral. More than 1,200 years old, it's an iconic symbol of the city and its multicultural heritage.

El Palace Barcelona

A 20th-century classic reborn for the 21st.

Nearly a century after it opened in the heart of Barcelona near Las Ramblas – and soon became one of Spain's leading luxury hotels – the El Palace Barcelona emerges from an ambitious and comprehensive refurbishment designed to recapture the classic style and splendor of its greatest years. The hotel's public areas, presidential suites and standard rooms have been carefully restored with handmade carpets, restored antiques and exact replicas of objects such as lamps and curtains... and on the 7th floor, the romantic new Diana Garden sports more than fifty species of plants, fountains, pergolas and a pool, all inspired by the Barcelona of the 1920s.

Pintxos tasting tours

Sampling pintxos in bilbao and san sebastián.

Pintxos – the traditional tasty treats typically enjoyed as appetizers or snacks in bars throughout northern Spain and the Basque country – are so named for the "spike" (a skewer or a toothpick) that holds their ingredients to a slice of bread, and distinguishes them from their tapas cousins. You'll have opportunities to sample some of the best pintxos in town on tasting tours with local experts in Bilbao and San Sebastián.

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"Traveling with Tauck was an incredible experience that truly exceeded our expectations. The hotels, food, wine, tour director and local guides were all terrific and we loved all the places we visited. You were right – San Sebastían was definitely a highlight of the trip! We were very fortunate to have sunny, comfortable weather and we really enjoyed meeting the people in our group and spending time with them. I felt so pampered and indulged and hope to go on another Tauck trip sometime in the near future. It was so nice to have everything taken care of for us and to really relax and enjoy our vacation" Celia G., Dunwoody, GA

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Spain's Classics & Portugal

About this tour.

Embark on an Iberian adventure as you take in medieval architecture, idyllic landscapes and delectable cuisine. Explore Lisbon, Europe’s second oldest capital city. View Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, including La Sagrada Familia. Become part of an authentic “paella experience.” Enjoy the fascinating art form that is Flamenco. Visit the exotic and expansive Alhambra Palace. Marvel at the timeless masterpieces at the Prado Museum. Visit Belém and its many monuments. Visit the medieval walled town of Obidos. Explore Spain and Portugal’s culture and history set against a backdrop of sunny Mediterranean shores and grand mountain ranges.

Your Tour Includes

• 7 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• La Sagrada Familia
• Paella Experience

Your Tour at a Glance

13 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

$1,399.00 pp

Optional Excursions

Starting at $80.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Step back in time in Toledo, the former capital of the Spanish Empire.

Visit Antoni Gaudi’s final masterpiece, the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia.

Discover the medieval stories behind the walled town of Obidos.

Cultural Experiences:

Stop in the little-known town of Peniscola, the “City in the Sea.”

Feel the energy of Spain at a flamenco performance in Seville.

Marvel at world-renowned Spanish art at the Prado Museum.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Savor a "paella experience" including a paella-making demonstration and lunch.

Take a bite of the local culture at a tapas lunch.

• The Alhambra
• Choice on Tour: Seville Walking Tour or Guadalquivir River Boat Ride
• Flamenco Show
• The Prado Museum

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* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Start your tour early with 1 night in Barcelona and 3 nights in Costa Brava. Start in the vibrant and beautiful capital of the Catalonian region of Spain, home to artistic architecture and that unmistakable Spanish “spark” of culture. Then, set out for Costa Brava, a Catalonian cliffside paradise where azure waters meet golden beaches. With Costa Brava as your home for 3 nights, you’ll set out for trips to Girona and the Dali Museum, and the villages of Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, and Besalu. You’ll also be able to make use of your hotel’s incredible seaside views and private beach. You’ll be immersed in the charm and culture of coastal Spanish life, and you might never want to leave. Hosted You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

• Overnight Flight
• You are on your way to the start of your adventure with some extra time in Barcelona and the Costa Brava! Start in the vibrant and beautiful capital of the Catalonian region of Spain, home to artistic architecture and that unmistakable Spanish “spark” of culture. Then, set out for Costa Brava, a Catalonian cliffside paradise where azure waters meet golden beaches. With Costa Brava as your home for 3 nights, you’ll set out for trips to Girona and the Dali Museum, and the villages of Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, and Besalu. Get ready to learn about a destination less visited with so much to offer!
• Barcelona, Spain - Extension Begins
• Arrive today in the capital city of Catalonia, Barcelona. Depending on your flight arrival time, you may choose to enjoy this beautiful city with a walk to the historic Gothic Quarter at your own pace. Quaint shops and eateries, all built into the narrow medieval alleyways make this one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Barcelona. The day is yours to enjoy Barcelona any way you choose.
• Barcelona - Girona - Costa Brava
• Set out for Girona in the morning, a beautiful medieval city known for its Old Quarter. You’ll meet with a local guide and take a tour of the city before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Then, head for the Catalonian coast, where you’ll arrive at your seaside hotel and settle in for the next 3 nights. Costa Brava is an incredibly alluring place, and the perfect region to spend your days relaxing and exploring.
• Costa Brava
• Today is yours to enjoy Costa Brava how you’d like. Take advantage of this day at leisure – maybe heading down to the private beach or venturing into the local towns for some souvenir shopping.
• Costa Brava - Calella de Palafrugell - Llafranc - Besalu - Costa Brava
• Today, your local guide will meet you at your hotel for an incredible walking tour. You’ll head first to the beautiful village of Calella de Palafrugell for a coastal walk towards the quaint village of Llafranc. Then, you’ll drive to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, where the surreal outside architecture matches the legendary work inside. After taking in the mind-boggling art of Salvador Dalí, you’ll continue on to the medieval village of Besalu for free time and lunch. Arrive back at your hotel with enough time to relax before your dinner this evening.
• Costa Brava - Barcelona
• Say farewell to the Catalonian coast and join your fellow travelers back in fascinating Barcelona for the start of your Spain’s Classics & Portugal tour.

Extend your stay in Portugal with 3 nights on the island paradise of Madeira and 1 night in Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city. Considered to be the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira combines stunning nature and culture. Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak up the island’s charms however you please. Spend time in traditional villages, venture along winding mountain roads, and splash in natural volcanic swimming pools. Your mini-tour ends with a night in Lisbon, whose captivating energy and mouth-watering culinary scene will capture your heart (and stomach!). Hosted You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

• Lisbon - Funchal, Madeira
• Fly to Madeira Island, the “pearl of the Atlantic.” Madeira boasts a subtropical climate, majestic mountain ranges and volcanic caves. After some free time for lunch on your own upon arrival, discover Funchal’s downtown area with a local expert during a walking tour. Then, visit the Botanical Garden of Madeira with its collection of more than 2,500 plants from all continents.
• The day is yours. No matter how you spend the day, gather in the evening for a traditional dinner known as an espetada. Folk dancers and lively music entertain you as you feast on a favorite local dish cooked over an open fire.
• Funchal - Câmara de Lobos - Porto Moniz - Funchal
• Begin your day in Câmara de Lobos, a traditional village with a picture-perfect bay that served as a special retreat for Sir Winston Churchill. It's here where he admired Madeira’s natural beauty and became captivated by the region, painting various images of the village. Drive along mountain roads, pass banana plantations and vineyards while en route to the world’s second-highest cliff, Cabo Girão where you may choose to walk on the highest glass skywalk in Europe. Continue to an immersive and artistic themed center focused entirely on the banana. End your day at the lively fishing village of Porto Moniz and enjoy free time for a swim* (weather permitting) in the natural volcanic pools before returning to Funchal.
• Funchal - Lisbon
• Board your flight and return to the metropolitan energy of Lisbon. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
• Lisbon - Extension Ends
• Depart with Portugal in your heart as your tour draws to a close today.

Hotel-H10 Casanova

Hotel-Altis Grand Hotel

Uncover the mysteries of Valencia on a nighttime walk, delving into the area’s mystical tales. Partake in a tapas dinner paired with regional wines while enjoying the traditional sounds of local music. After dinner, join a local expert and hear stories of local ghosts and legends as you walk along old town Valencia and get to experience Valencia in a new way.

Portugal’s Riviera is known as the "playground of kings." Many historical and world leaders have chosen this resort area as their home, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. On this fascinating tour you will visit the charming village of Sintra, a UNESCO site, with its fairy-tale palaces and visit its National Palace. Later, a drive through Sintra’s mountain range brings you to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in continental Europe. Travel along the rugged coastline, passing Guincho beach, a favorite spot for wind surfers, to cosmopolitan Cascais and its captivating bay, beautifully situated overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Fado: the perfect blend of voice and guitar. A shawl, a guitar, a voice and heartfelt emotion – these are the ingredients of Fado, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Patrimony, as a celebrated form of world music that captures what it is to be Portuguese. No one knows quite how Fado first came into being, but to this day Portugal's traditional music remains at the very heart of the country's culture. In one of Lisbon’s most popular Fado restaurants, professional performers entertain you while you enjoy a three course, candlelit dinner of regional Portuguese cuisine and wine. A Fado dinner and show is an experience that you simply have to include when visiting Portugal.

Savor a "paella experience" including a paella-making demonstration and lunch.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: H10 Casanova From $140 per night

H10 Casanova

Sh valencia palace, catalonia granada, barcelo seville renacimiento, h10 puerta de alcala, vila gale collection elvas, altis grand hotel.

Nights 11-13

Stay Longer

Post Night: Altis Grand Hotel From $140 per night

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Spain's Classics

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Luxury Spain Tours made for you

Wine Regions

Visit the Duero Valley and La Rioja vineyards

Art and Architecture

Discover multiple galleries and museums

Spanish Flavours

Sample the country's best cuisine

Coastal Escape

Explore the rugged Costa Brava

Santiago de Compostela

Visit the popular pilgrimage destination

Stunning architecture, soulful people, a grand heritage and wild landscapes

As one of Europe’s largest countries, you’ll find that Spain is as enchanting as it is varied. Take a luxury journey to this southern European country and prepare to fall in love with it. From sun-kissed beaches to vibrant medieval cities to dramatic natural landscapes, Spain has it all.

A rich history stretches back to the great Mediterranean civilisations such as the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. The Romans greatly favoured ‘Hispania’ for six centuries, especially for its wine and olive oil, and later North African Arabs, known as Moors, conquered much of Iberia and brought in another golden age.

Art lovers will be in awe of the masterpieces at Madrid ’s Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen museums while further north in Figueres, the Dalí Theatre-Museum allows visitors to embark on a fascinating journey through the life of one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century. The whole of Spain is dotted with architectural wonders, from Gaudí’s modern marvels in Barcelona to the incredible Moorish architecture of Seville , Cordoba and Granada .

And then of course there’s the food. Eating in Spain is all about keeping it simple and letting the incredible flavours of its natural ingredients shine through. Each region is fiercely proud of their culinary heritage and trying the local dishes is all part of what makes travelling in Spain so rewarding.

Your luxury trip to Spain can include as much or as little as you like. We plan every step of your trip so you can enjoy the tremendous adventure knowing that we take care of the details. We’ll also pair you with incredible local guides who bring the country to life.

Discover the ancient Moorish architecture of Seville and Granada

Eat your way through San Sebastian ‘s pinxtos scene

Enjoy the beaches and glamour of Mallorca

Explore the arrestingly green coastal landscapes of Asturias

Climb to the top of Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Melania Siriu

Senior Travel Designer

Spain is a vibrant country with something new to discover at every turn. Whether you're an art lover, an avid foodie or a history buff, there's no end to what you can experience as you get to know the welcoming people and the places they call home. 

Luxury accommodation in Spain

Catalonia and the Costa Brava

La Rioja Wine Region

Duero Valley Wine Region

Trip inspiration

21 Day trip

11 Day trip

13 Day trip

10 Day trip

Whatever you want from your Spain tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

The Spanish capital is bursting with life and passion and through its well planned streets course Madrilenos, the city’s inhabitants.

Barcelona caters to every type of traveller, from honeymooners and beach lovers to art aficionados, foodies and culture hunters.

Along Catalonia’s rugged coast, the Costa Brava, secluded beaches are punctuated by fishing towns.

Seville has resurrected itself as the capital and largest city of Andalusia, full of Spanish grandeur.

Beloved by Chopin, George Sand, Joan Miro, and other such luminaries, the largest of the Balearic Islands is nothing short of inspiring.

Granada is as famous for its beautiful gardens and charming narrow streets as for its tavern-style nightlife and Flamenco-skilled gypsy artists.

Andalusia possesses the most-varied terrain in all of Spain and boasts both a Mediterranean and an Atlantic coastline.

Sophisticated, cosmopolitan, and vibrant, Bilbao is the modern face of the Basques.

Tucked away between the Basque Country, Navarre and Castilla y Leon, northern La Rioja may be small, but it’s full of spirit.

San Sebastian

The sophisticated and shimmering city of San Sebastian in the north has quickly become the Spanish city of choice for those in the know.

With more than 300 wineries, there’s no chance of going thirsty. Each and every winemaker is immensely proud of their product and have their own secrets.

Malaga and the Costa del Sol

Malaga is best known for the Costa del Sol, a stretch of sandy coastline punctuated by Marbella and Puerto Banus Marina, as well as sleepier fishing villages.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the country’s most culturally and historically significant cities.

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When to visit

The summers can get very hot in southern Spain so visiting in spring, early summer and autumn is preferable. The north is still hot during the summer but is cooler than the south, which is great for hiking. With plenty of museums and galleries in the cities, they make great year-round destinations.

June and September

Wine tasting

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November - April

When is the Best Time to Visit Spain?

Spain travel guides.

Photo Journal: Exploring Mallorca's Natural Beauty

The Best Christmas Markets from Around the World

Our Cultural Guide to Seville

Ultimate Guide to a Food and Art Vacation in Spain

Plan your trip to spain.

Whatever you want from your adventure in Spain, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Andulsia April 2023 From the first contact to the last day the trip was smooth and seamless. Our Agent Dan our concierge Alice and our very knowledgable guides and hosts made the trip so very enjoyable. Everything Jacada had arranged for us was exactly the kind of thing we were interested in. The Alhambra, Ubada/Beaza, Cordoba, Ronda, Jerez and one…

Great service, very knowledgeable guides, great locations and super transport

Jacada provided our family with two amazing European getaways. Hanna and Alice had everything set up beautifully down to every last detail. The excursions, hotels, and guides were all incredible. We definitely recommend them and hope to work with Hanna again for future travel!

This was an outstanding tour of Spain Every guide, Driver and Hotel were very good. The breakfasts were excellent. The Hotels and the locations were just beautiful You did a very good job of meeting our needs. I will definitely recommend Jacada Travel and I hope to use your services in the future. I loved Spain and the cities you…

We were really happy with our entire trip and the guides and their pride in their countries. Everything that we booked to visit was perfect and so interesting. No complaints and only compliments.

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When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

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Spring time is here! Spain is filled with plans for you

Visit fairytale castles in Spain's most beautiful towns

15 spectacular blossoms to experience up close

Route of the Monasteries in the Ribeira Sacra

Chillida, 100 years of the universal Basque artist

Start the route with the best music festivals

Discover our destinations

The capital city with a thousand options

One of Spain’s most avant-garde cities

A great city with lots to discover

A cosmopolitan vibe

The essence of the Mediterranean

The capital of the Costa del Sol is reinventing itself

An inspiring destination

The final destination of St. James’ Way

The Golden city of a thousand legends

Ideal for a getaway

A picturesque medieval setting

European sunshine capital

Idyllic coves, beautiful sunsets...

Santiago de Compostela

Canary Islands

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Choose the travel plan you like the most to make your stay in Spain unforgettable

Holiday ideas in Spain, depending on how and with whom you travel

Museum Day is coming! Here are some ideas to make the most of it

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Come for a multi-adventure outing! Do you dare?

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Cordoba: the city with four visits to places considered as World Heritage sites, packed with festivals in May

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Enjoy the best events

Exhibitions, festivals, festivities... Don't miss a thing!

16 March 2024 - 03 May 2024

Cherry Blossom Festival

22 April 2024 - 05 May 2024

Tennis: Madrid Open

03 May 2024 - 05 May 2024

International Comic Fair

02 May 2024 - 12 May 2024

Festival of the Courtyards in Cordoba

17 May 2024 - 20 May 2024

Pilgrimage of El Rocío

30 May 2024

Corpus Christi in Toledo

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'Go home': Overtourism sparks backlash in Spain

Agence france-presse.

Anti-tourism movements are multiplying in Spain, the world's second most visited country, prompting authorities to try and reconcile the interests of locals and the lucrative sector.

Rallying under the slogan "The Canaries have a limit", a collective of groups on the archipelago off northwest Africa are planning a slew of protests on Saturday.

The Canaries are known for volcanic landscapes and year-round sunshine and attracts millions of visitors from all over the world.

Groups there want authorities to halt work on two new hotels on Tenerife, the largest and most developed of the archipelago's seven islands.

They are also demanding that locals be given a greater say in the face of what they consider uncontrolled development which is harming the environment.

Several members of the collective "Canaries Sold Out" also began an "indefinite" hunger strike last week to put pressure of the authorities.

"Our islands are a treasure that must be defended," the collective said.

The Canaries received 16 million visitors last year, more than seven times its population of around 2.2 million people.

This is an unsustainable level given the archipelago's limited resources, Victor Martin, a spokesman for the collective told a recent press briefing, calling it a "suicidal growth model".

- 'Go home' -

Similar anti-tourism movements have sprung up elsewhere in Spain and are active on social media.

In the southern port of Malaga on the Costa del Sol, a centre of Spain's decades-old "soy y playa" or "sun and beach" tourism model, stickers with unfriendly slogans such as "This used to be my home" and "Go home" have appeared on the walls fn doors of tourist accommodations.

In Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, activists have put up fake signs at the entrances to some popular beaches warning in English of the risk of "falling rocks" or "dangerous jellyfish".

Locals complain a rise in listings of accommodation on short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb have worsened a housing shortage and caused rents to soar, especially in town centers.

The influx of tourists also adds to noise and environmental pollution and taxes resources such as water, they add.

In the northeastern region of Catalonia, which declared a drought emergency in February, anger is growing over the pressure exerted on depleted water reserves by hotels on the Costa Brava.

"There are tourist destinations that are at the limits of their capacity," said Jose Luis Zoreda, the vice president of tourism association Exceltur .

"It's a problem that appears occasionally in the high season and in certain parts of the country, but it's getting worse".

- Loudspeaker ban -

Before the Covid-19 pandemic brought the global travel industry to its knees in 2020, protest movements against overtourism had already emerged in Spain, especially in Barcelona.

Now that pandemic travel restrictions have been lifted, tourism is back with a vengeance -- Spain welcomed a record 85.1 million foreign visitors last year.

In response, several cities have taken measures to try to limit overcrowding.

The northern seaside city of San Sebastian last month limited the size of tourist groups in the centre to 25 people and banned the use of loudspeakers during guided tours.

The southern city of Seville is mulling charging non-residents a fee to enter its landmark Plaza de Espana while Barcelona had removed a bus route popular with tourists from Google Maps to try to make more room for locals.

Housing Minister Isabel Rodriguez said over the weekend that "action needs to be taken to limit the number of tourist flats" but stressed the government is "aware of the importance of the tourist sector", which accounts for 12.8 percent of Spain's Gross Domestic Product.

Stories Chosen For You

Should trump be allowed to run for office, 'i saw him falling asleep': insider confirms trump 'nodded off' several times during trial.

Donald Trump sleeping during trial has mostly been reported by the New York Times' Maggie Haberman, but someone else who was in the courtroom just confirmed details in the case.

During an appearance on MSNBC, columnist and longtime Washington insider Jonathan Alter explained that he, too, saw Trump dozing off in court. Earlier in the day, Alter talked about the " stunning " moment Judge Juan Merchan made the former president sit.

When asked on Ayman about reports of Trump sleeping in court, Alter said those reports are absolutely true.

ALSO READ: Revealed: What government officials privately shared about Trump not disclosing finances

"Could his image take a hit during the next couple of weeks on trial in a way that dents him?" the host asked.

Alter responded that it "very much could."

"I was in the courtroom. I saw him falling asleep. This is not reportedly, this actually happened," he said. "On more than one occasion, Monday and again on Thursday and Friday. He was nodding off."

It could even affect the nicknames Trump gives others, according to the columnist.

"It makes it hard for him to call Joe Biden Sleepy Joe. That nickname is out the window," he said. "And think about the contrast. Joe Biden has what they call kitchen table conversations going on all across the country, where he gets to highlight his record. Donald Trump is having defense table whisper conversations with his attorneys. Not a good look."

Watch the video below or click the link here.

'Oops': Ex-prosecutor flags flaw in Trump's 'latest defense' in criminal hush money case

Donald Trump's current defense to allegations in the criminal business records falsification case he's facing undermines his original arguments, a legal expert said on Sunday.

Trump is set to begin his trial in the case, in which the former president has been charged with more than 30 felonies in connection with purported "hush money" payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels and then allegedly covered up. Trump's first argument was that the $130,000 paid to his former attorney and fixer, Michael Cohen, was for regular fees in the course of representation

Now, however, the ex-president is contradicting that claim by stating the fees were legal fees because they were reimbursements to Trump's lawyer, while acknowledging they went to Daniels as opposed to for regular costs.

Andrew Weissmann, a former senior prosecutor for special counsel Robert Mueller, claims the current defense goes against what Trump wrote at the time of the actual transactions.

"Trump's latest defense, which we will see at trial I'm sure, that the 34 business records were not false because they were legal payments (reimbursing his lawyer Cohen for making the $130,000 hush money payment) is BELIED by contemporaneous notations that the payments were for ongoing legal services rendered during a certain month," he wrote . "Oops."

Law professor explains 'dynamite evidence' first witness brings to Trump criminal trial

The first witness scheduled to provide testimony in Donald Trump's historic criminal case in Manhattan will bring "dynamite evidence" that jumps to the heart of the case and shows Trump intended to conceal his affairs in order to win the presidency, a law professor said.

Raw Story   reported on Sunday that the New York Times had sources suggesting the first witness to be called in the falsification of business records case is National Enquirer publisher David Pecker. Pecker, a key figure in the hush-money scandal involving former Trump, is expected to provide crucial testimony about his role in suppressing stories detrimental to Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign.

NYU law professor Ryan Goodman analyzed the prosecution's filings to see exactly what evidence Pecker would be providing during the first official day of trial.

"Pecker could be key witness - in ways more devastating than Michael Cohen," according to Goodman's weekend analysis. "This also indicates DA is foregrounding unlawful election influence for jurors."

Goodman goes on to say that "Pecker's testimony should be strong proof of core allegation that the hush money scheme was geared toward influencing the outcome of the presidential election."

"Pecker was principal at August 2015 Trump Tower meeting with Trump and Michael Cohen setting up catch-and-kill election operation," he added on Sunday before sharing a piece of the indictment. "Here's the passage from the NY Indictment indicating the evidence the DA - including through Pecker's own testimony - can present re the August 2015 Trump Tower meeting, which set the whole scheme in motion."

"At the meeting, the AMI CEO agreed to help with the Defendant's campaign," says the highlighted part of the indictment.

"Pecker will also likely testify about his involvement in flurry of phone calls, day after the Access Hollywood tape broke, to buy-and-bury Stormy Daniels' story," Goodman added. "Pecker also likely to testify about his conversations directly with Trump and Cohen in December 2016 - on the arrangement for Trump to reimburse Cohen for the hush money payment to Daniels."

Further, according to the law professor, "David Pecker's likely dynamite evidence of nexus between hush money scheme and effort to influence election includes" Pecker's own testimony that "In the summer of 2017, the Defendant invited the AMI CEO to the White House for a dinner to thank him for his help during the campaign."

Read the full thread here.

What most assuredly happens when Trump sits down with the New York Times

House republicans increasingly sick of mtg’s performance politics, busted: paul gosar campaign consultant linked to antisemitism and white nationalism.

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'Go home': Overtourism sparks backlash in Spain

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Anti-tourism movements are multiplying in Spain, the world's second most visited country, prompting authorities to try and reconcile the interests of locals and the lucrative sector.

Spanish airlines increase capacity as they expect record summer demand

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Corina is a Madrid-based business reporter focusing on coverage of retail, infrastructure and tourism including some of Spain's biggest companies like Inditex and Ferrovial. She was previously a senior correspondent in Venezuela, where she reported the Chavez and later Maduro government's efforts to retain power and the effects on the economy.

Matteo is an Italian journalist based in Gdansk reporting on the European markets, with focus on Spain and Portugal companies. Previously, he worked at the Spanish newspaper EL PAÍS as a Business Reporter covering stocks, entrepreneurs and labour issues.

Ukraine attacked eight Russian regions with dozens of long-range strike drones, setting ablaze a fuel depot and hitting three power substations in a major attack early on Saturday, an intelligence source in Kyiv told Reuters.

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Salesforce's talks to buy Informatica fizzle, WSJ reports

Talks between customer relations software maker Salesforce and data-management software firm Informatica have failed after the companies could not agree on terms, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday citing people familiar with the matter.