Our best itineraries in Spain

Spain is a country of endless layers and joyous discoveries; with Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals and Moorish courtyards; art-filled cities, shimmering coastal scenery, rugged mountains and quiet, inland villages. From the Basque country and Galicia in the north, to inner Salamanca and Cordoba, to Andalucía and Valencia in the south, not forgetting the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands – whatever route you pick in Spain is sure to inspire you. Here, we run through some of our top trip ideas, to help you plan your itinerary in Spain and unlock a world of possibilities…

Explore the best of Spain, from highlights to hidden gems

Whether you want to visit Spain’s golden hot spots or seek out local secrets, these ‘best of’ tours have something for everyone:

Barcelona, Valencia and more: the best of Spain in 13 days

On this comprehensive 13-day tour of Spain you’ll experience the country’s heavy hitters; from Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid through to Seville, Cordoba, Ronda and Granada. Beginning in the gilded city of Barcelona, prepare to be awe-struck by Gaudí’s famed works, such as La Sagrada Família; then move through to immersive Valencia, the ‘City of 100 Bell Towers’. Next, to the capital Madrid, to take in its cosmopolitan energy and ever-intriguing mix of the modern and ancient.

In Seville, the passion of flamenco performances and the grandeur of the Alcázar will captivate you, while Córdoba’s ancient Mezquita (Mosque) presents fascinating insight into Spain’s Islamic past. On to cliff-perched Ronda, for historic sights and dramatic views, while in Granada, at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, you can wander the majestic Alhambra palace complex.

This is a great, all-encompassing tour of Spain, with optional experiences that include olive oil tastings and exploring the Alpujarras.

Spain for seniors: a relaxed journey from Madrid to Barcelona

This is a slowed-down tour of Spain, with fewer stops and a laid-back vibe for those who’d prefer to take it slow (our local travel experts had seniors in mind when they curated it). The journey starts with three days to see Madrid, with a guided sightseeing tour of the iconic sights: Plaza Mayor, Plaza de Oriente, the Palacio Real and more.

A scenic train journey takes you to Seville, where flamenco shows at the Alcazar await, as well as more time to absorb the city at leisure. On the way to Granada, you’ll stop at Ronda, perched atop the cliffs with incredible views below. The historic sights here include an ancient bull ring. Finally, unlock Granada’s Moorish history and visit the Arab baths, before ending in Barcelona for its bustling streets, food markets, architecture and art. This is the best of Spain, at a comfortable and relaxed pace.

Read more: Our guide to the top regions of Spain

Spain’s Basque Country: a foodie paradise

Foodies rejoice, as this immersive itinerary in Spain’s Basque Country has culinary treats at every turn. This distinctive region of Spain is oft-considered a foodie paradise, and this trip takes you on a journey of local, homegrown flavors. Begin on the Basque coast in San Sebastian to enjoy grilled fish by the sea, then onto a culinary food tour in the Old Town.

Heading into the Basque hills, learn about the production of Idiazabal cheese and stay on a family farm, before heading back to the city for a chef’s masterclass! The tour includes a day on the French Basque coast, a day-long hike on the renowned Camino de Santiago, and finishes with wine-tasting in the region of La Rioja. Your taste buds simply won’t find better than these culinary experiences in Spain.

The villages, vineyards and landscapes of Catalonia

Catalonia is a distinctive region of Spain with its own culture, history and language – and you’ll really get into its local heritage on this classic seven-day Catalonia tour. Start by finding your bearings in stunning Barcelona, savoring local food, admiring Gaudí’s masterpieces, and relaxing in abundant green spaces.

Next, head to the Penedès region for a day of cava tasting in the vineyards and estate, followed by a visit to the mountaintop monastery of Montserrat. End the week on the glittering Costa Brava, beaching, kayaking, and foraging for wild herbs. In the seaside village of Pals, you’ll also encounter a local project promoting the sustainable fishing of cuttlefish and squid.

Experience-led journeys: plan a special interest itinerary in Spain

For those who have a specific reason to visit Spain, or a special interest they’d like to pursue, these tours cover everything from wild adventure activities and historical treasures, to romantic date nights for honeymooners.

The ultimate family-friendly itinerary in Spain

If you’re heading to Spain with your kids in tow, our top family tour of Barcelona and Madrid is just over a week long, with not too much traveling involved – just lots of fun and cultural activities everyone can enjoy. Experience the markets, street performers and chocolate museum; the cafes, culture and celebration of Plaça de Catalunya; and the whimsy of Gaudí’s bizarre architecture in Park Güell. Visit the amusement park atop Mount Tibidabo, and take a day trip to Montserrat for more wonderful cityscape views.

Then, in the capital Madrid, explore all the iconic sights while also renting rowboats on the lake, taking a family treasure hunt around Puerta del Sol, learning about local flavors with a tapas-making class, and enjoying a sketching class at the Prado Museum. There’s tons of learning, sightseeing, playtime and creativity to be had on this Spain vacation, which both you and your kids will love.

Read more: The 10 best places to visit in Spain

A Spain honeymoon, from cities to coast

For newlyweds or even just loved-up couples, this two-week honeymoon tour of Spain covers indulgence, exploration and adventure in one perfect parcel. The first week starts in the glorious capital of Madrid for time to dine and explore at leisure, and enjoy a privately guided tour of the best sights.

You’ll then board a train to charming Seville, for two days of gazing at a stunning architectural blend of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance influences, feasting on local tapas, and watching an authentic flamenco performance. The week concludes with a sherry-tasting experience at the vineyards of Jerez, and a stay at a luxury resort in historic Granada, where you can indulge in spa treatments, local Arab baths, and high-end dining.

Week two takes you on a sailing experience in the iconic city of Barcelona, before moving to the Costa Brava for seaside relaxation, exploring fishing villages, and al fresco wining and dining. At each stop, stay in beautiful boutique accommodations to truly unwind and enjoy each other’s company.

The Jewish heritage of central and southern Spain

For history fans with an interest in Spain’s fascinating Jewish heritage, this 10-day itinerary in Spain’s southern and central regions has it all. Your journey begins in capital Madrid before continuing on to the enchanting cities of Seville, Cordoba, and Granada, with a stop in Lucena on the way. Starting in Madrid, explore the quarter of Las Letras, tour the wonderful museums of the Art Walk, and learn about the legacy of the royal Habsburg family.

Take a day trip to historic Toledo, witness Seville’s Royal Alcazar and flamenco performances, and discover Córdoba’s intriguing Sephardic heritage with a tour of its Jewish quarter. The Sephardic theme continues in the town of Lucena, known as ‘the Pearl of Sepharad’; and then onto Granada, to unpack its Jewish past with an expert guide in Jewish heritage.

Active adventures in Tenerife

Those itching to get out and about on vacation will love this active adventure itinerary in Spain’s Tenerife – one of the splendid Canary Islands. The largest of the islands, Tenerife boasts immersive volcanic landscapes, year-round sunshine, and ample cultural festivals to join, making it a top destination for those seeking to balance active endeavors with local immersion and relaxation.

For this self-drive week in Tenerife, hike the valley of Tegueste, visit a yam farm, go forest-bathing in the Anaga Biosphere Reserve, and move south to spot whales and dolphins off the coast. Hiking, swimming and beach-seeking are the main objectives on this rejuvenating Mediterranean getaway.

Read more: A summer of fiestas: the best cultural celebrations in Spain

Our top itinerary in Spain for foodies: a taste of the Mediterranean

In addition to our foodie tour of the Basque Country, this extensive two-week foodie itinerary in Spain really leans into the wine, gastronomy and food culture of this Mediterranean nation. In Barcelona, marry sightseeing with unique culinary experiences; then, join the revelers at local wineries, organic farm-to-table experiences, and sustainable seafood eateries. After you’ll head to Penedès to tour the resplendent vineyards by foot or on horseback, sampling sparkling and sweet wines along the way.

On the Costa Brava, break up beach-hopping with feasting on local tapas, wine, and cava in unique Catalan bistros; in La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, try experimental dishes of local volcanic gastronomy. In the villages of Maestrazgo and Canet lo Roig, taste authentic olive oil sourced from the local 2,000-year-old olive trees. This is just some of what’s in store – check out this flavor-packed tour of Spain for yourself!

Make it happen

If you’re tempted by these fantastic routes through diverse and experiential Spain, get in touch with our local travel experts. They’re based on the ground and ready to organize an itinerary in Spain that’s exactly as you want it.