Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Madrid!

Arrival in Madrid: Upon disembarking in the lively capital of Spain, your private driver will greet you and whisk you away to your luxury hotel. Enjoy a warm welcome and take some time to relax.

Evening at Leisure: Ease into your trip with a leisurely evening exploring Madrid’s vibrant streets. Enjoy a stroll through Plaza Mayor or savor a glass of sangria on a charming terrace.

Day 2: Discover Madrid’s Royal Treasures

Private Walking Tour of Madrid with Royal Palace: Today, your licensed English-speaking guide will lead you on a captivating tour of Madrid’s rich history. Visit the stunning Royal Palace, with its opulent rooms and grand halls, and stroll through the charming old town.

Tapas Tasting Lunch: Stop at a traditional tapas bar to sample some of Madrid’s best small bites.

Evening at Leisure: Embrace Madrid’s lively nightlife or enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your guide.

Day 3: Wine and Dine in La Rioja

Transfer to La Rioja: Depart Madrid with your private car and driver for a scenic transfer to La Rioja, Spain’s renowned wine country.

Winery Visits and Tastings: Spend the afternoon visiting exclusive wineries, where you’ll sample exceptional wines and learn about the winemaking process in the setting of this beautiful region.

Overnight in La Rioja: Settle into your luxurious hotel nestled among the vineyards and enjoy an evening of relaxation.

Day 4: Onward to Pamplona – Let the Festivities Begin!

Transfer to Pamplona: Continue your journey to Pamplona, just in time for the San Fermín Festival!

*Opening Ceremony (Chupinazo): Be part of the electrifying start of the festival on July 6th. Watch as the mayor lights the rocket to mark the beginning of San Fermín and join in the celebrations with locals and visitors alike.

Check-In and Relax: Arrive at your choice of luxury accommodation in Pamplona, ideally located to soak in all the festival fun.

*Please note that the opening ceremony can get very crowded, thus if you would like experience all the glory of the San Fermín Festival while avoiding said excess crowds, our Spain travel experts suggest joining the festivities after the 10^th of July.

Day 5: Pamplona – Experience the Thrill of San Fermín

VIP Balcony for the Running of the Bulls: Wake up early for the iconic Running of the Bulls! Watch from the comfort and safety of a VIP balcony, which will offer the best views of this thrilling spectacle. Remember, booking early with our Travelive specialists is key to securing the perfect spot!

Giants and Big-Heads Parade: In the afternoon, enjoy the delightful Giants and Big-Heads Parade, a colorful and fun procession that is a hit with families and visitors of all ages.

Evening Fireworks: Conclude your day with a magical fireworks display that lights up the Pamplona sky every night of the festival.

Day 6: Immerse Yourself in Pamplona’s Festivities

Morning at Leisure: Spend your morning wandering the charming streets of Pamplona at your own pace or enjoy a coffee in one of the local cafes as the city comes alive with the energy of the festival.

Tour of Pamplona with an Official Guide: Discover the hidden gems and rich history of Pamplona with a private guide, who will lead you through the city’s historic sites that include the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria and the picturesque Plaza del Castillo.

Evening Celebrations: Enjoy more of Pamplona’s vibrant festival atmosphere with street performances, live music, and more fireworks!

Day 7: Head to San Sebastian – Coastal Charm Awaits

Transfer to San Sebastian: Say goodbye to Pamplona and head to the stunning coastal city of San Sebastian.

Check-In to your Luxury Accommodation: Arrive at your luxury hotel overlooking the famous La Concha Beach.

Evening at Leisure: Explore the charming old town, dine on pintxos at local bars, or simply relax with a glass of wine by the sea.

Day 8: Explore San Sebastian

Private Walking Tour of San Sebastian: Enjoy a private guided tour through the city’s highlights, including the beautiful promenade, historic sites, and local markets.

Basque Gastronomy Experience: Savor a delightful meal at one of San Sebastian’s renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, known for their innovative Basque cuisine.

Day 9: Journey to Bilbao – The Cultural Hub of the Basque Country

Transfer to Bilbao: Depart San Sebastian for Bilbao, a city celebrated for its unique mix of modern architecture and Basque culture.

Check-In to your Luxury Accommodation: Arrive at your luxury hotel in the heart of Bilbao, ready for your explorations.

Evening at Leisure: Take a leisurely stroll along the Nervión River or enjoy a Basque dinner in one of Bilbao’s old-town restaurants.

Day 10: Discover Bilbao’s Artistic Side

Private Walking Tour of Bilbao with Guggenheim Museum: Discover Bilbao’s rich history and vibrant culture with a private guided tour, which includes a visit to the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece filled with contemporary art.

Casco Viejo Exploration: Wander through the atmospheric Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s old quarter, where you can enjoy pintxos, local shops, and charming squares.

Day 11: Departure from Bilbao

Departure Day: Your private driver will transfer you to Bilbao Airport for your departure flight as you leave with the memories of an extraordinary Spanish journey filled with festivals, fine wine, and unforgettable moments.

Why This Itinerary is Special

This itinerary offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines Spain’s rich history, world-class cuisine, and the exhilarating San Fermín Festival in Pamplona. Whether it’s watching the Running of the Bulls from the comfort of a VIP balcony, tasting exceptional wines in La Rioja, or exploring the cultural gems of the Basque Country, you’ll enjoy the very best of Spain in comfort and style.

The post Fiestas, Bulls, Wine, and Wonders: A San Fermín Adventure in Spain appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Let’s dive into the excitement that Spain offers to the curious traveler: Soccer Thrills, Festive Lights, and Sunny Escapes. From the frenzy of La Liga’s soccer matches to the charm of Madrid’s Christmas festivities, and the sunny retreats in the Canary Islands there’s something here for everyone who wants to see the most of this side of the Mediterranean.

La Liga: The World’s Top Soccer League

Spain is home to some of the most famous soccer clubs in the world, making it an ideal destination for any soccer enthusiast. The energy in the stadiums is palpable, with fans cheering passionately for their teams. Attending a La Liga match is a thrilling way to start your journey.

Begin your adventure in Madrid, the heart of Spanish soccer. Catch a Real Madrid game at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This stadium is more than just a venue; it’s a symbol of the club’s rich history. A tour of the stadium and its museum offers a deeper dive into the legacy of one of the world’s most successful soccer teams.

A trip to Spain wouldn’t be complete without visiting Barcelona and its legendary Camp Nou stadium. Here, you can watch FC Barcelona in action and explore the FC Barcelona Museum, which tells the story of this iconic club. The atmosphere in the stands is nothing short of electric, especially during a match against a rival team.

For a more local experience, head to Seville and enjoy a game at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium. Sevilla FC’s passionate fanbase creates an unforgettable matchday atmosphere. After the game, take some time to explore Seville’s rich history and architecture, including the stunning Alcázar Palace. Planning your travels around these matches gives you a unique way to experience different cities while enjoying top-tier soccer.

Christmas Lights and Markets in Madrid

Madrid during December is truly special. The city comes alive with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a joyful atmosphere that’s hard to resist. The streets, plazas, and historic buildings are all dressed up for the holidays, creating a magical experience for visitors.

The entire city is adorned with beautiful light displays. Strolling down Gran Vía, you’ll find yourself surrounded by bright lights that highlight the city’s historic charm. The Puerta del Sol and Plaza de Cibeles are particularly stunning, with lights that capture the festive spirit of the season.

Plaza Mayor transforms into a bustling Christmas market, where you can browse stalls selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to traditional Spanish treats. The market is a great place to pick up unique gifts and enjoy some holiday snacks like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate.

Madrid also offers a variety of holiday-themed activities. Ice skating rinks pop up around the city, and the Royal Palace becomes a backdrop for beautiful Christmas lights. Live performances, nativity scenes, and holiday concerts add to the festive cheer, making Madrid an ideal destination to embrace the holiday season.

The Spanish Sun is not Enough?

Well, in winter the sun is never enough. If you’re looking to avoid the chills, consider visiting the sunny warmth of Spain and Portugal’s beautiful islands. The Canary Islands, part of Spain, alongside Portugal’s Azores and Madeira, offer a blend of breathtaking landscapes, mild temperatures, and endless activities. Combining the Spanish flair with the Portuguese spice, you can never lose.

Located just off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are known for their diverse natural beauty. Tenerife, the largest of the islands, offers everything from golden beaches to the towering Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. Gran Canaria is famous for its dramatic dunes at Maspalomas, while Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes are otherworldly.

The Azores, an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic, are part of Portugal and offer a stunning natural retreat. These nine islands are known for their lush landscapes, crater lakes, and hot springs. São Miguel, the largest island, is home to Lagoa das Sete Cidades, a breathtaking twin-lake that sits in the caldera of a dormant volcano. The Azores are also renowned for their marine life, making them a top spot for whale watching and diving.

Known as the Pearl of the Atlantic, Madeira is another Portuguese gem that shines year-round. Funchal, the island’s capital, is a vibrant city with a charming mix of old-world charm and modernity. The island’s mild climate and lush landscapes make it ideal for exploring the famous Levada trails, which wind through mountains and valleys, offering stunning views of the coastline.

By combining the Canary Islands with the Azores and Madeira, you get to experience the best of both Spain and Portugal in one unforgettable getaway. Each destination offers its own unique charm, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience under the warm sun.

A Year-round Destination

A rich blend of experiences, from the excitement of soccer matches to the festive atmosphere of Madrid’s Christmas season, and the relaxing warmth of the Canary Islands, Azores, and Madeira. Each destination provides its own unique charm, ensuring that your journey through Spain will be full of diverse and memorable moments. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite soccer team, enjoying the holiday lights, or soaking up the sun, Spain has something truly special in store. Check out our itineraries for Spain and Portugal; your adventure awaits!

The post Spain for the Win! All Year Round Experiences appeared first on Blog | Travelive.