Discover Northern Spain’s Living Traditions ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/1%20Meals%20%28red%29.png) 30 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/2%20Small%20Group%20%28red%29.png) Small Group ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29.png) CT Rating 3.5/5 - Challenging ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/4%20Leader%20%28red%29.png) Led by Mary Taylor **Historic Cities, Northern Coastlines** Discover Northern Spain, where the green Atlantic coast meets the golden plains of Castile. This journey explores the traditions of the Basque, Galician, and Castilian regions, from the soaring Sagrada Família to the serene Picos de Europa and the storied Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy stays in historic Parador properties, experience an Asturian cider house, and learn the art of paella as you immerse yourself in the region’s diverse cultures, flavours, and artistic spirit. **This journey is now available on request.** .button { display: inline-block; padding: 10px 20px; margin: 5px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; background-color: gray; /* default color */ color: white; } .button:hover { opacity: 0.9; } [Submit Booking Request](< mailto:sbahadur@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Northern%20Spain%20September%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2CI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Northern%20Spain%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**September%202026.**I%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20(sometimes%20longer)%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.I%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.**My%20contact%20details%3A**First%20name%3ALast%20name%3APhone%20number%3AEmail%20address%3APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20(single%20supplement%20applies).Thank%20you%20for%20submitting%20my%20online%20booking%20request.I%20look%20forward%20to%20hearing%20back%20once%20you%20have%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.>) [Download Brochure](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/sBCnffU/SpainSep2026) [![Map of Northern Spain](/sites/default/files/2025-12/Northern%20Spain.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/Northern%20Spain.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Explore Madrid, Pamplona, Zaragoza, and Barcelona through guided sightseeing - Discover the historic quarters of Segovia, Salamanca, Zamora, and Santillana del Mar - Admire the iconic landmarks including the Sagrada Família, Alcázar of Segovia, Basilica del Pilar, and Palacio de la Aljafería - Visit the magnificent cathedrals of Toledo, Salamanca, and Santiago de Compostela (including its museum) - Enjoy world-renowned art at the Guggenheim Museum and Altamira Museum - Savour regional cuisine with a cider-tasting lunch, a paella cooking class, and a wine, ham, and cheese tasting - Witness the artistry and fiery spirit of Flamenco - Enjoy overnight stays at heritage properties in Santiago de Compostela and Cangas de Onís ### Inclusive Features - Return economy group airfare from Canada to Spain with Air Canada - First-class accommodation as indicated or similar - 30 meals included as noted in the itinerary (B - 14 breakfasts, L - 3 lunches, D - 13 dinners) - All gratuities, surcharges, taxes and fees for inclusions - Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with purchase of group airfare - Services of your journey leader and local driver/guides - All sightseeing and entrance fees as described ### Itinerary Overview Full View DEPART CANADA September 7, 2026 Travellers gather in Toronto for our direct flight to Madrid. ARRIVE MADRID September 8, 2026 Welcome to Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, we are greeted by our local guide. On our way to the hotel, an introductory drive provides a perfect first look at this energetic city, a place of grand royal avenues and palaces, alongside lively tapas bars and markets. The afternoon is free to relax before we gather for dinner at the hotel. **Catalonia Gran Via Madrid** (3 nights) Dinner MADRID September 9, 2026 Our day starts with a walking tour of Madrid’s historic heart. We begin at the Puerta del Sol, the famous starting point for all of Spain's national roads. Then, we make our way to the nearby Plaza Mayor, the city’s magnificent 17th-century central square. Our walk continues through the charming Austrias quarter, the old neighbourhood built during the Habsburg dynasty. A highlight of our morning is a visit to the Royal Palace, a Baroque masterpiece and the largest royal palace in Europe. We also admire the Almudena Cathedral, the impressive church where royal events are held. The afternoon is yours to explore. You might choose to stroll through the beautiful El Retiro Park or visit one of the city's famed art museums. This evening, we gather for dinner at a traditional tablao to witness the passionate music and dance of flamenco. Dinner TOLEDO September 10, 2026 We journey south to Toledo, a stunning imperial city perched on a hill above the Tagus River. Its golden walls protect a priceless artistic legacy shaped by the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities that left their mark here over the centuries. On a walking tour, we pass through its medieval gates, the winding lanes of its Jewish Quarter, and step inside the magnificent Cathedral of Toledo, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. We also soak up the lively atmosphere of Zocodover Square, the city’s main plaza. We enjoy lunch before returning to Madrid. Breakfast, Lunch MADRID / SEGOVIA / SALAMANCA September 11, 2026 Depart Madrid and drive to Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fairy-tale skyline. A walking tour leads us through the city's Old Town to the bustling Plaza Mayor. We will admire the impressive Gothic cathedral and the ancient Roman aqueduct, a staggering feat of engineering. We will tour the Alcázar of Segovia, a fortress that once served as the palace for the royal family of Castile. Following free time for lunch, we continue to the historic university city of Salamanca and our hotel, where we gather for dinner this evening. **Catalonia Plaza Mayor Salamanca** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner SALAMANCA September 12, 2026 Today, we explore the Old City of Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site defined for centuries by its prestigious university, the oldest in Spain. It was once a global centre of thought: scholars debated the impact of Spain’s expansion into the Americas, created the first Spanish grammar book, and helped propose the Gregorian calendar we use today. Our walking tour reveals this legacy as we visit the magnificent Plaza Mayor, the famed university façade, the impressive twin cathedrals, and the unique Casa de las Conchas, a palace adorned with more than 300 shells. For lunch, we enjoy a special tasting of local wine, ham, and cheese. After a free afternoon, we have dinner together at a local restaurant. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ZAMORA / SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA September 13, 2026 Leaving Salamanca, we travel to Zamora, a quiet gem on the Duero River. This city’s history is among the oldest in Spain, founded in the Bronze Age and later settled by the Celtic Vacceos people. Still known as the “Romanesque capital,” it boasts more than twenty Romanesque churches. A brief walking tour leads us through the city’s ancient castle walls. After a break for lunch, we drive to Santiago de Compostela and our spectacular heritage hotel. Once a royal hospital built by the Catholic Monarchs, it is now regarded as one of the oldest and most exclusive hotels in Spain. **Hotel Parador Santiago** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA September 14, 2026 Santiago de Compostela is defined by its role as one of Christianity’s most important sites in Spain. Founded in the 9th century upon the discovery of the tomb of St. James the Apostle, it soon became the celebrated destination of the Camino de Santiago. This pilgrimage network, travelled since the Middle Ages, brought a rich mix of European cultures to the city. Our walk leads us through the Old Town to the Praza do Obradoiro, its grand, iconic square. A highlight is our visit to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the traditional burial place of St. James, along with its museum. We then continue to Praza das Praterías and Praza da Quintana, before wandering the bustling Market of Abastos for a taste of local life. Breakfast, Dinner LUARCA / PARADOR DE ONIS September 15, 2026 A scenic drive along Spain's "Green Coast" brings us into the region of Asturias. We make a stop in the picturesque fishing village of Luarca, with time to explore its charming harbour. We then pause for a light lunch, featuring a true Asturian tradition: a cider tasting. “Sidra” is a tart, still cider that defines this region. Our day concludes as we settle into our parador, a historic treasure housed within the walls of the 8th-century San Pedro de Villanueva monastery. **Parador de Cangas de Onís** (1 night) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SANTILLANA DEL MAR / BILBAO September 16, 2026 Today we take a short drive to Covadonga, a place of great historical importance in Spain. After strolling through this picturesque area in the Picos de Europa mountains, we continue to Santillana del Mar, a village of cobblestone streets and medieval houses often called “the most beautiful town in Spain.” We explore its charming historic centre before visiting the Altamira Museum, home to a state-of-the-art replica of the prehistoric Altamira cave. Later, we arrive in Bilbao and settle in for the night. **Catalonia Gran Vía Bilbao** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner BILBAO September 17, 2026 Bilbao reinvented itself from an industrial port into a beacon of modern architecture. Our morning is dedicated to touring the Casco Viejo, the city’s medieval heart. We explore the 'Siete Calles' (Seven Streets), discovering its traditional taverns and lively markets. We then visit the undisputed icon of the city's renewal: the Guggenheim Museum. Enjoy its groundbreaking collection and the titanium-clad building itself before gathering for dinner this evening. Breakfast, Dinner PAMPLONA / ZARAGOZA September 18, 2026 We depart for Pamplona, a city famed for the Running of the Bulls and Ernest Hemingway’s legacy. A panoramic tour introduces us to its historic heart. We will walk along its ancient ramparts and visit the Plaza del Castillo, the city's lively main square. After some free time, we continue to Zaragoza. **Eurostars Rey Fernando** (1 night) Breakfast, Dinner ZARAGOZA / BARCELONA September 19, 2026 Zaragoza, set on the banks of the River Ebro, reveals a striking 2,000-year history. A panoramic drive explores its layers of Roman ruins, Moorish palaces, and grand basilicas. We visit the Plaza del Pilar, the city's main square, and see the ancient Roman Forum and La Seo de Zaragoza. Our tour features a visit to the magnificent Basilica del Pilar, and the Palacio de la Aljafería. After our visits, we continue our drive to Barcelona. **Catalonia Atenas Barcelona** (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner BARCELONA September 20, 2026 We devote the day to Barcelona, a captivating city known for its artistic genius and Mediterranean flair. Our tour begins with a walk through the winding medieval alleys of the Gothic Quarter. We then admire the elegance of Passeig de Gràcia, including Gaudí’s fantastic facades at Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. Our tour ends with a visit to his ultimate masterpiece: the iconic Sagrada Família. This evening, we immerse ourselves in Spanish cuisine with a hands-on paella cooking class. We join a chef at a local market to select fresh ingredients and learn the secrets to preparing this classic dish. Our day concludes as we enjoy our homemade paella together. Breakfast, Dinner BARCELONA September 21, 2026 Make the most of a free day to discover Barcelona at your own pace. You may wish to explore the colourful Park Güell or simply relax by the Mediterranean. Tonight, we gather one last time to share a farewell dinner. Breakfast, Dinner DEPART BARCELONA September 22, 2026 All too soon, our journey must draw to a close as we say farewell to Spain and fly home to Canada. Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/brx_TME070926_Northern_Spain.pdf) [![Luarca](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/Luarca_iStock-2239826577_1.jpg?h=c4b0858b&itok=DuUGgxI6)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/Luarca_iStock-2239826577_1.jpg) [![Flamenco dancer](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/flamenco-dance-3533494.jpg?h=61f7eb5a&itok=74CZM-4v "Dine at a traditional tablao and see a lively flamenco show")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/flamenco-dance-3533494.jpg) [![Replica of Altamira prehistoric cave](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/Altamira_Altamira_Cave_AdobeStock_233824222.jpeg?h=94b28deb&itok=pSIqR3pO "Visit the Altamira Museum, home to a replica of the Altamira prehistoric cave ")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/Altamira_Altamira_Cave_AdobeStock_233824222.jpeg) [![La Sagrada Familia](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/AdobeStock_521013170.jpeg?h=f52e7eb6&itok=3fR19MN2)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/AdobeStock_521013170.jpeg) [![Basilica of Santa María la Real de Covadonga](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/AdobeStock_314754964.jpeg?h=8eae3f9b&itok=q-vBUYsl "Strolling through Covadonga in the foothills of Picos de Europa")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/AdobeStock_314754964.jpeg) [![Paella](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/AdobeStock_257649395.jpeg?h=38606293&itok=ucXRLl-c)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/AdobeStock_257649395.jpeg) [![Catedral de Santiago Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-12/AdobeStock_572516031_0.jpeg?h=beb7837c&itok=Hd2gFB8h)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-12/AdobeStock_572516031_0.jpeg) ### Have any questions? Contact Sharon at sbahadur \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ![Book early and save](/sites/default/files/2025-12/2026_NEW_EBB_Banner_800x753_Northern_Spain.png) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land Only (Join Madrid hotel / Leave Barcelona hotel) $10,445 Toronto $11,895 Ottawa / Montreal $11,995 St. John’s / Halifax $12,095 Winnipeg $12,075 Saskatoon / Regina / Victoria $12,195 Calgary / Edmonton / Vancouver $12,145 Single Supplement (on request) $2,345 [Submit Booking Request](mailto:sbahadur@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Northern%20Spain%20September%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2CI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Northern%20Spain%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**September%202026.**I%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20(sometimes%20longer)%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.I%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.**My%20contact%20details%3A**First%20name%3ALast%20name%3APhone%20number%3AEmail%20address%3APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20(single%20supplement%20applies).Thank%20you%20for%20submitting%20my%20online%20booking%20request.I%20look%20forward%20to%20hearing%20back%20once%20you%20have%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.) #### [Join our CT Match Program](https://www.craigtravel.com/craig-travel-match) Find a like-minded traveller to share your cabin and enhance your journey with shared experiences, fostering the potential for future travel companionship. ### **Payment and Booking Terms** Deposit is **$800 per person** Final payment is due **June 2, 2026** Land only members join at the hotel in Madrid and leave at the hotel in Barcelona. Tour prices are based on sharing a twin-bedded room and on a minimum of 15 participants for the tour to operate with a group escort. Prices are based on rates, taxes, and fees effective November 2025 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Airfare from other gateways is available on request. Airfares and air carriers are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to inclusive features for more details. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to the enrollment form for [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions). #### CT Rating **3.5/5 - CHALLENGING** This coach tour covers a wide stretch of Northern Spain. Some travel days will be long, with up to eight hours of touring and travel time combined. Walking tours may involve uneven terrain (cobblestones, stairs, etc.) and last a few hours. Porterage is not guaranteed, and members should be willing and able to manage their own luggage. Passengers should be aware of the local custom of siesta, which may mean some businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon and dinner is typically enjoyed later in the evening. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us](mailto:sbahadur@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Northern%20Spain%202026) #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Mary Taylor](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-05/mary%20taylor.jpg?h=37168138&itok=pk2UBiwb) Mary Taylor - has dedicated nearly four decades to the field of education. She has coordinated university travel exchange programs and volunteered at schools abroad. Her travel experiences have brought her to places such as Australia, Africa, the Solomon Islands, the Maldives, India, and Peru, with many in-depth visits to Europe and the Caribbean. Mary loves to explore different cultures and is keen to use technology to share her travel experiences with others. ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points ](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/2%20Pay%20By%20Cheque.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/3%20Refer%20a%20Friend.png) [Refer a Friend ](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/4%20About%20CT%20Ratings.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-12/5%20Travel%20Insurance.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)