North of Spain Discovery

North of Spain Discovery

18 Views
10 Days From

$1946

$1751

North of Spain Discovery

10 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain

Visiting: Madrid, León, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Santander, Bilbao, Burgos, Europe

Tour operator:

Cosmos

Tour code:

6810-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1946 $1751 Operator discount: -$195

NB: Prices correct on 22-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

If you have a passion for Spain, the northern regions cannot be missed! On this affordable North Spain tour, discover the hidden treasures of Galicia, Cantabria, Castilla & León, Asturias, and the Basque Countries, starting and ending your trip in Madrid. Start and end your adventure in the capital city of Spain, elegant Madrid. In between, explore some of the smaller, nonetheless charming towns of these regions, among them: Salamanca, with its lively Plaza Mayor; Santiago de Compostela, the ending point of the Camino pilgrimage; Lugo, boasting a Roman wall with 10 gates; A Coruña and its Trajan Tower; Santander, spectacularly set between mountains and coastline; Burgos, showcasing a magnificent Cathedral; Medina del Campo with the castle of La Mota, and Segovia, known for the Roman Aqueduct and the fairy-tale castle, source of inspiration for Walt Disney’s cartoons. Discover the highlights of Madrid with a Local Guide and enjoy views, flavors, people and sounds of these undiscovered provinces of mainland Spain.

Highlights

  • Explore Madrid with a guided orientation tour.

  • Walk through centuries of history in Salamanca, including the famous University and Plaza Mayor.

  • Visit Lugo, known for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Discover Santiago de Compostela, the completion point of the Saint James’ Way, and its iconic Cathedral.

  • Explore A Coruña, home to the oldest Roman working lighthouse, Hercules Tower, and enjoy Galician seafood.

  • Visit Santander, the capital of the Cantabria region, known for its majestic buildings and royal history.

  • Spend a day at leisure in Bilbao, with a suggested visit to the Guggenheim Museum and the La Ribera Market.

  • See the impressive aqueduct and fortress in Segovia, which inspired Snow White’s Castle in Disneyland.

Places You'll See

Hotel Madrid Chamartin

Ac Hotel Leon San Antonio

Gran Hotel Los Abetos

Gran Hotel España

Occidental Bilbao

Silken Juan De Austria

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Madrid,Spain

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Hotel Madrid Chamartin

Welcome to Spain! Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Spain’s capital using your CosmosGO app. This evening, meet your Tour Director and travel companions at the welcome meeting.
ARRIVE IN MADRID, SPAIN Welcome to Spain! Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Spain’s capital using your CosmosGO app. This evening, meet your Tour Director and travel companions at the welcome meeting.

Day 2: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Hotel Madrid Chamartin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Discover Madrid on the guided orientation tour with a Local Guide who will help you discover the city with some insider information.
MADRID Discover Madrid on the guided orientation tour with a Local Guide who will help you discover the city with some insider information. (B)

Day 3: Madrid,Salamanca,León

Location: León

Accommodation Name: AC Hotel Leon San Antonio

Meals Included: Breakfast

Leave Madrid to explore the pearls of Castilla & León, Salamanca. Take a walk through centuries of history, art, knowledge, and landmarks such as the famous University, one of the oldest in Europe, and the Plaza Mayor, crowned with 88 arches. Continue to León. Perhaps tonight you may wish to try the local cuisine or taste the Duero region wines with tapas in the ancient streets of "Barrio Húmedo". Today’s Distance: 260 mi/ 419 km
MADRID–SALAMANCA–LEÓN Leave Madrid to explore the pearls of Castilla & León, Salamanca. Take a walk through centuries of history, art, knowledge, and landmarks such as the famous University, one of the oldest in Europe, and the Plaza Mayor, crowned with 88 arches. Continue to León. Perhaps tonight you may wish to try the local cuisine or taste the Duero region wines with tapas in the ancient streets of "Barrio Húmedo".
Today’s Distance: 260 mi/ 419 km (B)

Day 4: León,Lugo,Santiago De Compostela

Location: Santiago de Compostela

Accommodation Name: Gran Hotel Los Abetos

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day starts with the visit of Lugo, a town known for the Roman wall, exceptionally well preserved and continuing to be the city's most distinctive architectural feature, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight’s host city is Santiago de Compostela, the completion point of the Saint James’ Way. Thousands of pilgrims, every year walk the Camino to reach the capital of Galicia and enter the iconic Cathedral. But Santiago de Compostela is a living city, with countless restaurants and bars to enjoy delicious Galician seafood, the old town centre, contemporary art... There's plenty to do in this city which combines history and tradition with a modern, younger side.Today’s distance: 203 mi /327 km
LEÓN–LUGO–SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA The day starts with the visit of Lugo, a town known for the Roman wall, exceptionally well preserved and continuing to be the city's most distinctive architectural feature, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight’s host city is Santiago de Compostela, the completion point of the Saint James’ Way. Thousands of pilgrims, every year walk the Camino to reach the capital of Galicia and enter the iconic Cathedral. But Santiago de Compostela is a living city, with countless restaurants and bars to enjoy delicious Galician seafood, the old town centre, contemporary art... There's plenty to do in this city which combines history and tradition with a modern, younger side.
Today’s distance: 203 mi /327 km (B)

Day 5: Santiago,A Coruña,Oviedo

Location: A Coruña

Accommodation Name: Gran Hotel España

Meals Included: Breakfast

A Coruña’s distinctive landmark is the oldest Roman working lighthouse in the world, called Hercules Tower, but the town also boasts a rich historical centre and a scenic promenade along the Atlantic shores. Spend some time exploring and taking advantage of the Galician seafood dishes. The most famous one is Galician-style octopus (pulpo a la gallega). Overnight in Oviedo, closely linked to the Asturian monarchy since its foundation. Former capital of the Kingdom, it boasts a medieval historic quarter, transformed in modern times into a pleasant pedestrian area. Oviedo is famous for its natural cider production, one of Asturias’ specialities!Today’s Distance: 224 mi/ 360 km
SANTIAGO–A CORUÑA–OVIEDO A Coruña’s distinctive landmark is the oldest Roman working lighthouse in the world, called Hercules Tower, but the town also boasts a rich historical centre and a scenic promenade along the Atlantic shores. Spend some time exploring and taking advantage of the Galician seafood dishes. The most famous one is Galician-style octopus (pulpo a la gallega). Overnight in Oviedo, closely linked to the Asturian monarchy since its foundation. Former capital of the Kingdom, it boasts a medieval historic quarter, transformed in modern times into a pleasant pedestrian area. Oviedo is famous for its natural cider production, one of Asturias’ specialities!
Today’s Distance: 224 mi/ 360 km (B)

Day 6: Oviedo,Santander,Bilbao

Location: Santander

Accommodation Name: Occidental Bilbao

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit Santander, capital of the Cantabria region. Santander was the destination par excellence for royalty at the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries. A stroll through the old quarters, with its majestic buildings, takes us back to a distinguished past. Continue to Bilbao, in the Basque Countries. Today’s Distance: 180 mi/ 293 km
OVIEDO–SANTANDER–BILBAO Visit Santander, capital of the Cantabria region. Santander was the destination par excellence for royalty at the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries. A stroll through the old quarters, with its majestic buildings, takes us back to a distinguished past. Continue to Bilbao, in the Basque Countries. (B)
Today’s Distance: 180 mi/ 293 km (B)

Day 7: Bilbao

Location: Bilbao

Accommodation Name: Occidental Bilbao

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Spend the day at leisure in Bilbao. We suggest a visit to the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry and featuring an important private collection of modern and contemporary art. Discover the contrast of the avant-garde with the traditional feel of the city, with charming streets and bars offering “pintxos”, or explore the La Ribera Market, a beautiful building where you can have the produce that you purchase cooked for you.
BILBAO Spend the day at leisure in Bilbao. We suggest a visit to the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry and featuring an important private collection of modern and contemporary art. Discover the contrast of the avant-garde with the traditional feel of the city, with charming streets and bars offering “pintxos”, or explore the La Ribera Market, a beautiful building where you can have the produce that you purchase cooked for you. (B,D)

Day 8: Bilbao,Burgos,Valladolid

Location: Burgos

Accommodation Name: Silken Juan de Austria

Meals Included: Breakfast

Burgos preserves distinct signs of its medieval splendor. It was the capital city of the unified kingdom of Castile and Leon for five centuries, and boasts one of the masterpieces of Spanish Gothic, its Cathedral, declared a World Heritage Site. Castile & Leon is a region of fine wines, and a visit to a Ribera del Duero wine cellar visit is included today. Continue to Valladolid, built on the banks of the Pisuerga River.Today’s Distance: 176 mi/ 284 km
BILBAO–BURGOS–VALLADOLID Burgos preserves distinct signs of its medieval splendor. It was the capital city of the unified kingdom of Castile and Leon for five centuries, and boasts one of the masterpieces of Spanish Gothic, its Cathedral, declared a World Heritage Site. Castile & Leon is a region of fine wines, and a visit to a Ribera del Duero wine cellar visit is included today. Continue to Valladolid, built on the banks of the Pisuerga River.
Today’s Distance: 176 mi/ 284 km (B)

Day 9: Valladolid,Medina Del Campo,Segovia,Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Hotel Madrid Chamartin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Medina del Campo’s most outstanding feature is the castle of La Mota, from the 15th century, whose silhouette dominates the town's skyline. Segovia boasts an impressive aqueduct from the days of the Roman Empire and a fortress that inspired Snow White’s Castle in Disneyland.Today’s Distance: 152 mi/ 244 km
VALLADOLID–MEDINA DEL CAMPO–SEGOVIA–MADRID Medina del Campo’s most outstanding feature is the castle of La Mota, from the 15th century, whose silhouette dominates the town's skyline. Segovia boasts an impressive aqueduct from the days of the Roman Empire and a fortress that inspired Snow White’s Castle in Disneyland.
Today’s Distance: 152 mi/ 244 km (B)

Day 10: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
MADRID Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in various hotels including Hotel Madrid Chamartin in Madrid, AC Hotel Leon San Antonio in Leon, Gran Hotel Los Abetos in Santiago de Compostela, Gran Hotel España in Oviedo, Occidental Bilbao in Bilbao, and Silken Juan de Austria in Valladolid.

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast is included throughout the tour. Additionally, dinner is included on Day 7 in Bilbao.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided orientation tour in Madrid with a Local Guide.

  • Visits and Sightseeing

    Visits to various cities and landmarks including Salamanca, Lugo, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, Burgos, Valladolid, Medina del Campo, and Segovia.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites

    Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Burgos Cathedral, Old City of Salamanca, Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct, Roman Walls of Lugo, and Santiago de Compostela (Old Town).

  • Wine Cellar Visit

    Visit to a Ribera del Duero wine cellar.

  • Transportation

    The tour includes transportation between cities such as Madrid, Salamanca, Leon, Lugo, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, Burgos, Valladolid, Medina del Campo, and Segovia.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Spain are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Accommodation

Madrid:Hotel Madrid Chamartin
Leon:AC Hotel Leon San Antonio
Santiago de Compostela:Gran Hotel Los Abetos
Oviedo:Gran Hotel España
Bilbao:Occidental Bilbao
Valladolid:Silken Juan de Austria

UNESCO Sites

Burgos Cathedral (See only)|Old City of Salamanca|Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct|Roman Walls of Lugo|Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)

Mode of Transport

The tour includes transportation between cities such as Madrid, Salamanca, Leon, Lugo, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, Burgos, Valladolid, Medina del Campo, and Segovia.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes daily breakfast throughout the trip and dinner on Day 7 in Bilbao.

  • Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Burgos Cathedral, the Old City of Salamanca, the Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct, the Roman Walls of Lugo, and Santiago de Compostela (Old Town).

  • What is the significance of Santiago de Compostela in the tour?

    Santiago de Compostela is the completion point of the Saint James’ Way, a famous pilgrimage route. The city is known for its iconic Cathedral and is a vibrant place with a mix of history, tradition, and modern attractions.

  • What can I expect to see in A Coruña during the tour?

    In A Coruña, you will see the Hercules Tower, the oldest Roman working lighthouse in the world, and enjoy the rich historical center and scenic promenade along the Atlantic shores. You can also try local Galician seafood dishes.

  • Is there a wine tasting experience included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to a Ribera del Duero wine cellar, where you can experience the fine wines of the Castile & Leon region.

  • What is unique about the visit to Segovia on this tour?

    In Segovia, you will see the impressive Roman aqueduct and a fortress that inspired Snow White’s Castle in Disneyland.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1961

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this operator

Mrs Susan Hyland  

We have just returned from a Cosmos…

28-Sep-2022

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday

Trustpilot
Rick  

Excellent in every respect

08-Dec-2022

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again

Trustpilot
John Lomanno  

A wonderrful experience

09-Nov-2022

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.

Trustpilot
Bruce  

Old South &Florida tour

27-Oct-2022

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can

Trustpilot
Francine Ramos  

The tour director expertise and…

18-Dec-2022

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you

Trustpilot

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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