Spain Tour Packages

Classic trips combine Barcelona and Madrid with the Moorish south — Seville, Cordoba and Granada's Alhambra — and perhaps the beaches of the coast or the pilgrim north.

A few practical notes make any Spain trip smoother. The currency is the Euro (EUR), and Spanish (Castilian), plus regional languages; English spoken in tourist areas. Spain's high-speed AVE trains link the major cities quickly; a hire car suits Andalusia and the countryside. Pack for the season and carry a little local cash for markets, tips and small vendors.

Spain fills most of the Iberian Peninsula in south-western Europe, a large and geographically diverse country of high central plains, green northern coasts, Mediterranean beaches and the Pyrenees, plus the Balearic and Canary Islands.

Spain's climate varies from Mediterranean on the coasts to continental in the interior and cooler, wetter conditions in the north.

The best times to visit Spain are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), with warm, pleasant weather across most of the country. Summer is hot, especially inland in Madrid and Seville, though the coasts and north stay more comfortable.

Spain is a country of strong regional identities — Catalan, Basque, Andalusian and more — each with its own character, and often language. Flamenco, football, festivals, late dinners and the social ritual of tapas define a culture that lives outdoors and late.

Classic trips combine Barcelona and Madrid with the Moorish south — Seville, Cordoba and Granada's Alhambra — and perhaps the beaches of the coast or the pilgrim north.

Whether you are after culture, scenery, food or simply time to relax, Spain rewards travellers who give it a little time. Our packages combine the signature sights with quieter corners most visitors miss.

Some of the best things to do in Spain:

• Marvel at Gaudi's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
• Tour the Alhambra in Granada
• See a flamenco performance in Seville
• Graze on tapas and pintxos city by city
• Explore the art museums of Madrid
• Relax on the Mediterranean or Atlantic coast

The best times to visit Spain are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), with warm, pleasant weather across most of the country. Summer is hot, especially inland in Madrid and Seville, though the coasts and north stay more comfortable.

Because the seasons shape the experience so much, tell us when you can travel and we will tell you honestly what Spain will be like on those dates — and shape the route accordingly.

The places most worth your time in Spain:

• Barcelona — Gaudi's Sagrada Familia and Park Guell
• Madrid — world-class art at the Prado and lively plazas
• Granada — the breathtaking Alhambra palace
• Seville — flamenco, cathedral and Moorish Alcazar
• Cordoba — the extraordinary Mezquita
• San Sebastian — beaches and the best pintxos in the north

Spanish food is built for sharing — tapas crawls, seafood paella, cured jamon and regional specialities enjoyed with wine and good company.

Dishes to seek out: paella, tapas, jamon iberico, gazpacho, tortilla espanola, churros. On our tours we are happy to steer you toward the best local food and to cater for any dietary needs — just let us know in advance.

Spain's festival calendar is legendary: Seville's Feria, Valencia's fiery Las Fallas, the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, La Tomatina and countless local celebrations bring the country to life.

Spain is in the Schengen Area; many nationalities enter visa-free for short stays, while others need a Schengen visa in advance. Visa rules vary by nationality and change from time to time, so always confirm the current requirement for your own passport before booking. If you travel with us, we will guide you through exactly what you need.

A little courtesy goes a long way in Spain. Adjust to late meal times (lunch after 2pm, dinner after 9pm), cover up to enter churches, and learn a few Spanish phrases — they are always appreciated.

Do dress respectfully at religious and cultural sites, ask before photographing people, carry small change for tips and markets, and stay hydrated. Don't drink tap water unless it is confirmed safe, flash valuables in crowded areas, or rush — the best trips here are unhurried ones.