Sun, Sand & Sail in Northern Spain

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Barcelona

   Barcelona is a city with a big historic legacy. Its origins can be traced back to the 1st-century BC when it became the Roman colony of Barciro. Today Antoni Gaudí’s Modernist architecture has become the main attraction for visitors from all over the world. Barcelona has two UNESCO listings covering nine buildings. Seven of them are by Gaudi! Despite its age, a youthful, energetic city vibe can be felt in all Barcelona’s quarters. Embrace your hidden love of Gothic aesthetics followed by Catalan cuisine with a private chef and finish your evening with a ramble on La Rambla, the heart of social Barcelona. So whether you feel like a picnic overlooking the beach-fronted La Estrella Herida, a private tapas tour throughout the city, or a stroll through the Gaudi-inspired Park Güell, there is something for everyone!

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Barcelona's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the transfer is about 30 minutes.

   

   Ramble on La Rambla

   Embrace the authentic Catalan spirit with an evening stroll along La Rambla on your first night in Barcelona. Spanning nearly a mile, this historic street is the sole avenue in the old part of the city, running parallel to the historic city wall. Unlike the bustling downtown, La Rambla offers a broad and spacious expanse, serving as an ideal meeting place for both locals and visitors alike. Flanked by bars, bistros, boutiques, and galleries on either side, La Rambla stands as a distinctive microcosm of Barcelona's charm.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Hit the City Beach

   Within Barcelona's city limits, there's approximately 4.5km (2.8 miles) of coastline, offering visitors ample beach options for a sun-soaked getaway. La Barceloneta beach, a brief walk from the city center, remains inviting even in winter, providing a serene setting to enjoy the soothing sound of waves. In summer, arrive early to secure a prime spot for people-watching and a leisurely day away from the bustling city. Many of the city's beaches feature beach bars or chiringuitos, perfect for a shaded break with a cool snack and refreshing cocktail. As night falls, these spots transform into lively party venues, complete with fantastic music and even better vibes.
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Barcelona Old Town Small Group Walking Tour with Tapas and Flamenco Show

   In this tour, you will get a closer look at Catalan and Spanish culture. Walk through the narrow streets of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter with a local guide, discovering historic landmarks, hidden squares, and charming corners. Stop at traditional tapas bars to taste authentic dishes, from classic cured meats to local specialties, and learn a bit about how they’re prepared. The day ends with a Flamenco performance at one of the city’s well-known theaters, giving you a chance to experience this passionate Spanish art form up close.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Sagrada Familia Highlights Group Tour with Skip the Line Tickets

   It's hard to find an architectural structure as striking as La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece is counting over 140 years in the making and the artist's genius is omnipresent inside and out of this iconic church. La Sagrada Familia is the ultimate highlight of Barcelona. As such, it attracts hordes of visitors every day. However, this tour grants you skip-the-line access to the architectural wonder, thus saving you precious time. Once inside, an expert guide will guide you through the history, vision, and artistic genius of Antoni Gaudí, one of Barcelona's most prominent personalities.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Summer Vibes by the Sea

   An active summer day in Barcelona is perfect for enjoying the sun, sea, and adventure. Start your morning at Bogatell Beach, known for its clean sand and great conditions for beach volleyball or a morning swim in the Mediterranean. After working up an appetite, grab a fresh seafood paella at a beachfront chiringuito like Xiringuito Escribà. In the afternoon, head to Mar Bella Beach, where you can try paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a jet ski or take a parasailing ride for a thrilling view of Barcelona’s coastline. As the sun starts to set, take a relaxing sailing tour or a catamaran cruise from Port Olímpic, and then end the day with a cocktail at a stylish beach bar like Bambú Beach Bar.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Your Third Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Unique Sunset Sailing with Tapas and Premium Open Bar Group Experience

   Experience Barcelona's sunset from a unique perspective on our group sailing adventure. Watch as the sky transforms into a stunning canvas and stars begin to appear. Enjoy the serene sea, captivating sunset, and iconic city landmarks while sipping drinks and snacking on delicious treats. Perfect for couples, friends, and photography enthusiasts, this experience offers a memorable and relaxing escape from the city.
   

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

5. Day 5 Traveling to San Sebastian by Airplane / Arrival in San Sebastian

   

   From Barcelona to San Sebastian (EAS), you can take a flight on one of the low-cost airlines. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations in Barcelona and take you to the airport for your flight. The duration of the flight is 1 hour 15 minutes. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:

   
   

   Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. If you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

   San Sebastián is rightfully known as one of the most beautiful cities in northern Spain. It flourished in the early 20th century as a holiday resort for aristocrats and to this day attracts visitors to its famed beaches. San Sebastian is also a haven for foodies. A landmark for gastronomy, San Sebastian has more Michelin Star restaurants per capita than anywhere else in Europe! But it’s not all about white table cloths and silver service. The bars in the quaint Old Town have the most delicious pintxos – the local take on tapas – which you must try while in San Sebastian. San Sebastian’s best-kept secret might be its cider houses. The cavernous sidrerias are where the locals can be found of an evening.

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at San Sebastian EAS airport and take you to your accommodation in San Sebastian.

   

   To the Ocean

   Begin your first night's adventure by heading towards the Atlantic Sea. Whether your lodging is close to La Concha Bay or the chic Gros district, embark on a discovery stroll in the direction opposite to your accommodation. Cross the river, encountering enticing bars and restaurants along the way. Take a seat, relish a couple of pintxos paired with fine wine or beer, and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of San Sebastián's nightlife.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in San Sebastian

   

   San Sebastian Small Group Bike Tour

   On this tour, you will discover San Sebastian's most spectacular corners you might otherwise miss. Departing on bikes from downtown, three beaches are covered (Ondarreta, La Concha, and Zurriola), and then San Sebastian is crossed from edge to edge: the Comb of the Wind is reached at the Western end of Ondarreta beach, and after this various buildings that the Spanish queen Maria Cristina built in the 19th century (the so-called Belle Epoque in San Sebastian) will be seen all along the way until the Eastern end of Zurriola beach, where the Pigeon of Peace is located.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Relaxing or Staying Active at the Beach

   Playa de la Concha, celebrated as one of Europe's most exquisite urban shorelines, boasts a perfect arch and earned favor with Queen Regent María Cristina, who dubbed it the summer capital of Europe. The scenic promenade along the Cantabrian Sea offers tranquility and stunning vistas. Playa de Ondarreta, the second beach, stretches west of Miramar Royal Palace, featuring a vast 100-meter-wide shoreline extending a kilometer toward Monte Igueldo. Playa de la Zurriola, the third beach, attracts global surf enthusiasts with its excellent waves and hosts a variety of sports and beach competitions, including volleyball, football, beach tennis, bodyboarding, surfing, and skateboarding.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in San Sebastian

   

   Jump on a Ferry to Santa Clara

   For a serene bathing escapade, take a ferry to Isla de Santa Clara, a petite island situated near San Sebastián in Concha Bay. Recognized as a Historical National Interest Site, this 32-meter-wide island provides tranquil bathing spots complemented by a café, restaurant, and picnic areas. Explore the natural swimming pools tucked away in secluded corners before enjoying a leisurely walk to its delightful lighthouse, offering picturesque vistas.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Sunset boat group tour in San Sebastian

   On this group boat tour, you will see different locations along the San Sebastian coastline, including the Bay of Pasaia, with picturesque landscapes and a spectacular fjord, the majestic cliffs of Jaizkibel, and the world-famous Bay of La Concha. While enjoying the scenery, the optional audio guide will give interesting facts, details, and anecdotes about the area's history.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

8. Day 8 Departure Day

   The driver will pick you up from your accommodation in San Sebastian and take you to the Bilbao airport for your departing flight. Duration of the drive is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.