• Epicurean Spain

  • Epicurean Spain

  • Epicurean Spain

  • Epicurean Spain

Taste Your Way Through Madrid And The Very Best Of Basque Country

Days: 12 | From: $10,565/per person

  • Accommodations at best in class boutique hotels with a focus on culinary delights
  • Curated tours with superb private guides. You’ll have an instant local friend with insider access!
  • Experience Spain’s culinary delights with regional wines along the way

With a Mediterranean influence, including fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, nuts, seafood, and—of course—wine, the iconic Spanish dishes are a must while visiting Spain. Jamon, patatas bravas, manchego, coquetas, tapas, and wine are all on the menu on this culinary adventure through Spain. Begin your journey in Madrid, where you'll explore the city's vibrant tapas scene. Experience the country's rich culture with a visit to the Prado and an evening of Flamenco. Head north, to the gateway of the Basque Country- Bilbao. In Bilbao, discover the fusion of tradition and modernity as you tour the Guggenheim Museum and savor local tapas. Your exploration continues with a visit to the stunning vineyards and countryside of La Rioja. Sample Idiazabal cheese and take in the historic town of Laguardia with a visit to its ancient subterranean wine cellars. Continue back towards the coast with a stop in Earnest Hemmingway's favorite Spanish town, Pamplona. San Sebastian awaits with its renowned pintxos and a hands-on cooking class. Delve into the world of Basque coastal wines and the unique fishing traditions in Getaria. Finally, enjoy time to relax and explore on your own in this picturesque city.

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Talk to a Vaya Europe Specialist
+1 (510) 954-3224

We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting hotels, excursions and length as desired.

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At a glance

  • Madrid
    3 nights: Savor local tapas and experience the rich culture of Spain with a visit to the Prado and an evening of Flamenco
  • Bilbao
    2 nights: Discover the fusion of tradition and modernity while touring the Guggenheim Museum and savoring local tapas
  • La Rioja
    2 nights: Visit the heart of La Rioja, savor Idiazabal cheeses and local wines, and explore ancient wine cellars
  • San Sebastian
    4 nights: Cook, sip and taste your way through the culinary paradise of San Sebastian

  • All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.

Customize this trip
+1 (510) 954-3224

Sample itinerary

Day 1:

Bienvenidos!

Welcome to the vibrant city of Madrid, where your culinary adventure begins! Upon arrival, your private guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel, located in the heart of Gran Vía. Take some time to rest and freshen up. This evening, set out with your guide on a private tapas tasting tour of the city. Try dishes such as classic patatas bravas, Manchego cheese, deep fried squid sandwich and other local delights.

Accommodations: Totem, 3 nights

The Tótem is a lovely, sophisticated hotel located in the prestigious Salamanca neighborhood of Madrid. The balance of modern and vintage is just right, and the theme carries throughout the hotel. The rooms are spacious and well appointed. The bar and restaurant are buzzy and consistently full of locals, which is always a great sign.

*Includes: Breakfast

Upgrades and alternatives: Hotel Urso, Only You, Hotel Orfila, Vincci The Mint, AND OTEHRS.
Day 2:

Discover Madrid

Cibeles Fountain located downtown Madrid, Spain

Discover Madrid today, as your morning unfolds with a half-day tour that unveils the city’s rich history. From its grand plazas to its intricate labyrinth of narrow streets, along with countless off-the-beaten-path gems, your private, expert guide will be able to tailor this tour to your specific interests. After the tour, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace, be it indulging in leisurely strolls through charming neighborhoods, savoring local delicacies at a hidden café, or delving into the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Accommodations: Totem, 3 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 3:

Prado and Flameco

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Enjoy a day of cultural immersion and culinary delights in Madrid. After being met at your hotel, your private guide, and knowledgeable art expert, will lead you on a captivating morning exploration of the Prado Museum. Here, countless masterpieces by renowned Spanish and European artists await your discovery. The afternoon is yours to wander Madrid’s charming streets, perhaps exploring local markets or enjoying a leisurely café con leche. As the sun sets, prepare for a mesmerizing evening of passionate rhythm and soul-stirring melodies at a traditional tablao, where a Flamenco show will captivate your senses. Accompanied by a delicious dinner, this experience promises to be an unforgettable blend of Spanish artistry and flavor.

Accommodations: Totem, 3 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 4:

Bilbao

Picturesque apartments in Bilbao streets, Spain

Today, hop on the fast train to Bilbao, the de facto capital of the Basque region and home to the famed Guggenheim Museum. Your private guide will be waiting to transfer to your chic hotel, situated in the heart of Bilbao in walking distance of many of the top sites. Your hotel offers fabulous dining onsite: one restaurant has a Michelin star and the other has the cellar in the city. Once you’ve had a chance to check in and get settled, set out with your guide for a private tour of the Guggenheim and Old Town Bilbao.

Accommodations: Tayko Bilbao, 2 nights

This industrial chic boutique hotel with 54 rooms is the ideal base for exploring Bilbao. Located in the heart of Old Town and overlooking the Bilbao estuary, this hotel is steeped in history as well as on the forefront of architecture and design. Tayko boasts two gastronomic options on property: one has a Michelin star and the other has the best cellar in town.

*Includes: Breakfast

Upgrades and alternatives: Gran Hotel Domine, AND OTHERS.
Day 5:

Gernika and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

Discover Gernika and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe today as your journey takes you beyond the bustling cityscapes. In Gernika, witness the cultural tapestry of the Monday market, where the air is filled with the aroma of local delicacies, and select tastings provide a glimpse into the flavors of the Basque Country. A delectable, traditional lunch fuels the next part of the day’s adventure. This afternoon, set off for the captivating San Juan de Gaztelugatxe and enjoy a hike, matched your skill level, to unveil breathtaking coastal vistas.

Accommodations: Tayko Bilbao, 2 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 6:

La Rioja

La Rioja is an autonomous community and a province in Spain, located in the north of the Iberian Peninsula. Its capital is Logroño. Other cities and towns in the province include Calahorra, Arnedo, Alfaro, Haro, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, and Nájera. 

It covers part of the Ebro valley towards its north and the Iberian Range in the south. 

The region is well known for its wines under the brand Denominación de Origen Calificada Rioja.

Venture to the picturesque region of La Rioja. The morning begins with a refreshing stroll through the enchanting countryside, followed by a visit to a local Idiazabal producer where you’ll savor the rich, authentic flavors of this delightful, Basque cheese. After a hearty lunch in a quaint, local restaurant, explore the charming town of Laguardia on a walking tour. Uncover hidden treasures, including a journey deep below the city’s surface to the mysterious caves and wine cellars, where history and tradition meld in each bottle of wine. Your day culminates with an overnight stay in the stunning vineyards.

Accommodations: Hotel Viura, 2 nights

Hotel Viura is a captivating boutique hotel nestled in the heart of La Rioja, Spain's renowned wine country. Its unique and contemporary design seamlessly blends with the traditional architecture of the surrounding village, offering guests a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Each of its 33 rooms and suites is exquisitely decorated, and the hotel boasts a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the vineyards and Sierra de Cantabria mountains. The on-site restaurant, featuring a sumptuous selection of local wines, complements the unforgettable gastronomic experiences available in this wine lover's paradise. Hotel Viura is an ideal retreat for those seeking a sophisticated and immersive escape in the heart of Spanish wine culture.

*Includes: Breakfast

Upgrades and alternatives: Marques de Riscal, AND OTHERS.
Day 7:

Wines of La Rioja

Vineyard with Davaillo castle as background, La Rioja (Spain)

With over 600 wineries, the Rioja Valley is Spain’s most prestigious wine region. Set out to explore three of those wineries with your local guide: Learn about the varietals of the area as well as the different aging processes of the Rioja wines. Local meats, cheese and olive will accompany your tastings, and you’ll be served a traditional Riojano lunch as well. End the day relaxing or exploring the picturesque villages.

Accommodations: Hotel Viura, 2 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 8:

Pamplona and San Sebastian

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Set off for Pamplona and San Sebastian today, as your culinary journey leads you from one Spanish gem to another. The day commences as you are whisked away towards the picturesque San Sebastian. En route, a charming detour brings you to Pamplona, where you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, learning about its traditions and history. A delightful pause follows, treating your taste buds to churros and hot chocolate- a local favorite and delicacy! As you arrive in San Sebastian, a city renowned for its culinary prowess, a walking tour takes you through its rich history and iconic sites. Your day concludes with the highlight of San Sebastian’s culinary scene – pintxos and local drinks, a vibrant tapestry of flavors and memorable kick-off to your time in this gastronomic mecca!

Accommodations: Lasala Plaza, 4 nights

The Lasala Plaza Hotel in San Sebastian is a luxurious and contemporary boutique hotel nestled in the heart of this picturesque coastal city in Spain's Basque Country. With its prime location overlooking La Concha Bay and just steps away from the city's vibrant Old Town, the hotel offers guests a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm. The hotel's stylish rooms and suites feature elegant design, while its rooftop terrace boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. Guests can savor exquisite Basque cuisine at the on-site restaurant, unwind in the spa, or explore the city's cultural and culinary delights, all within easy reach. Lasala Plaza Hotel provides a refined and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both luxury and immersion in San Sebastian's rich culture and natural beauty.

*Includes: Breakfast

Upgrades and alternatives: Villa Favorita, Villa Soro, Hotel Maria Cristina, AND OTHERS.
Day 9:

Markets and Txokos

Ordizia Gipuzkoa Spain on June 21, 2023 The traditional fair in Ordizia every Wednesday is a meeting place for buyers and sellers of agricultural produce from the area. Cheeses display.

Set off to a bustling local market, this morning, with a skilled chef as your guide. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to meet local producers and select the freshest and top ingredients. After this immersive market experience, you’ll head to a traditional Txoko, a Basque gastronomic society, for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn the secrets of crafting authentic Spanish dishes. Enjoy regional wine and cider pairings with your delicious dishes. The afternoon is yours to explore the charming surroundings of San Sebastian.

Accommodations: Lasala Plaza, 4 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 10:

Txakoli Wine and Getaria

Vineyards by the sea in Getaria, Basque Country coast

Sip txakoli wines and explore Getaria while indulging in a day of Basque coastal charm and exquisite flavors. Your morning begins with a visit to a Txakoli vineyard, where you’ll uncover the secrets of this crisp, effervescent wine, sipping and savoring the essence of the region. Afterward, embark on a leisurely walking tour of Getaria, a picturesque seaside town. Your journey culminates with a delightful seaside lunch featuring freshly grilled fish perfectly paired with more delightful Txakoli wine. As the sun glistens on the water, you’ll have the option to return to San Sebastian via a scenic boat transfer, or opt for a car transfer. Take the rest of the day to explore the city at your own pace.

Accommodations: Lasala Plaza, 4 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 11:

San Sebastian at leisure

Picturesque aerial view of turquois water of La Concha Bay of San Sebastian with Santa Clara Island and moored pleasure yachts, Spain

Enjoy a leisurely day in San Sebastian. You may choose to relax on the beach, take a surf lesson, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, stroll the streets of Old Town, take a bike tour of the city, or simply enjoy your hotel. This evening could be a great night for dinner at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants in San Sebastian!

Accommodations: Lasala Plaza, 4 nights

*Includes: Breakfast

Day 12:

Adios

Ancient street. Pamplona, Navarre, Spain.

This morning you will say goodbye to your private guide as you are transferred to the airport for your flight home or to your next destination.

*Includes: Breakfast

Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary

  • Continue your exploration into art and Spanish cuisine with a stop in Barcelona.

  • Customize your city touring to suit your interests; whether it’s food and wine, cooking and creating, or history and art, there is something for everyone in Basque Country.

  • Add a few days to explore the French side of Basque Country or hike part of the Camino de Santiago.

  • Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip.

Call us to start planning your journey today:

+1 (510) 954-3224

Request more information

Why Travel with Vaya?

We're TRUE specialists

We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.

Uplifting service

From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.

Thoughtful travel

Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.