Go on a cultural journey through the regions of Northern Spain, from the capital city of Madrid to the charming seaside towns in Basque Country. While traveling through the Spanish countryside, visit significant sites, landmarks and monuments to learn about the region’s extensive history. Discover the intricacies of the architectural styles throughout Spain at cathedrals, palaces, churches and more. Gain a deeper understanding of European art with visits to art museums. During the trip, spend time with host families and immerse in the local culture.
Start the journey in Segovia and Burgos, two historic cities that are known for their cultural and monumental heritage. In Segovia, learn about the complexity and grandeur of Roman engineering while observing the Segovia Aqueduct. Visit two cathedrals and discover how Gothic-style architecture developed over the centuries. Then travel north into Basque Country, driving along the enchanting coast to see magnificent cliffs and beautiful beaches. Spend time in Guernica, San Sebastián and Pamplona, learning more about the region’s medieval history and viewing popular landmarks. Cross the border into France for a day of sightseeing and relaxing on the beaches in Saint-Jean-de-Luz and Biarritz. Gain insight into modern and prehistoric art with visits to the Guggenheim Museum and the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira.
Before heading to Madrid, stop in Oviedo. Go on a guided tour of Oviedo’s notable architectural sites and cultural institutions before spending time with local Spanish host families. Once in Madrid, explore the city and visit many wonderful sites, including the popular Plaza Mayor, the Palacio Real, Gran Vía and the Puerta de Alcalá. End the trip with an evening enjoying authentic cuisine at a local restaurant and watching a traditional flamenco show.
Depart from home and fly overnight to Madrid.
Upon arrival in Madrid, meet up with the Tour Director and travel by motorcoach to Segovia, taking in the views of the Spanish countryside along the way. On a walking tour of the city, stop to see the Segovia Aqueduct, one of the best preserved works of Roman engineering. Visit the Segovia Cathedral to view the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain during the Renaissance. Explore the Alcázar, the medieval castle fortress for the monarchs of Castile and now a World Heritage Site. While there, walk the battlements and ascend the stairs of the tower that was once a prison. Continue on to the Burgos area to check in and have dinner at the hotel.
In the morning, visit the Burgos Cathedral and see the evolution of the Gothic style through the cathedral’s architecture, art and stained-glass windows. Begin the journey to San Sebastián, driving along the scenic Basque Coast and stopping to admire the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a 10th-century church that sits atop the islet. In the town of Guernica, spend time at the Casa de Juntas. This historic government building houses a museum and a famous oak tree that symbolizes the freedom of Basque. Check in and enjoy dinner at the hotel after arriving in San Sebastián. In the evening, take a stroll through the Old Town district.
Transfer to Pamplona and go on a walking tour to learn about the city’s history. Wander along the narrow streets of the Old Town district to the Murallas de Pamplona, the 16th-century fortification walls that are among the best-preserved city walls in Europe. Once back in San Sebastián, ride a funicular car to the top of Monte Igueldo for a panoramic view of the city and the Bay of Biscay. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the beaches of San Sebastián.
Venture across the France-Spain border to spend the day in the region of French Basque Country. Stop in the charming town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz to see the Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, where King of France Louis XIV married Infanta Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660. Continue along the coast to Biarritz, a town known for its beautiful beaches and surfing culture. Explore the city on a sightseeing tour by motorcoach before taking time to relax on one of Biarritz’s main beaches. Return to San Sebastián for the evening.
Depart from San Sebastián and travel to Bilbao, stopping to explore the collections of modern art at the Guggenheim Museum. Continue on to Santillana del Mar, where students embark on a walking tour of the village, learning about its medieval history and viewing the many significant landmarks. Visit the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira to gain insight into the prehistoric era and experience the replica of the Cave of Altamira. End the day in the Oviedo area, where we check in to the hotel and enjoy dinner in the evening.
Begin the day with a guided tour of Oviedo to discover the city’s notable architectural sites and cultural institutions. Students spend the afternoon with Spanish host families and return to the hotel for dinner in the evening.
Students spend the morning with Spanish host families. Travel to Madrid in the afternoon and arrive in time for dinner.
Spend time at the Plaza de España, a large public square and home to the iconic Cervantes Monument, before taking a guided tour of the Palacio Real. Explore the official residence of the Spanish royal family while learning about the renowned works of art, incredible architecture and interior decorations of the palace’s ceremonial rooms. Walk through two of Madrid’s historic public squares, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, where students view famous landmarks and statues. See the Puerta de Alcalá, an 18th-century monumental gate, and walk along the Calle de Alcalá to the Plaza de Cibeles, where students enjoy the beautiful marble fountain of the Roman goddess Cybele. Dive into European art history with a guided tour of the Museo del Prado, Spain’s national art museum. Visit El Retiro Park, one of Madrid’s largest public parks . After dinner at a local restaurant, watch an authentic flamenco show.
Students depart from Madrid to fly home.
Note: Activities are subject to change based on availability.
During this journey through Northern Spain, students are introduced to centuries of Spanish history and cultural experiences. Visit a multitude of significant sites, such as the Alcázar of Segovia, National Museum and Research Center of Altamira and the Palacio Real to learn about Spain’s historical development as a country. Venture into Basque Country in both Spain and France to gain a deeper understanding of this region’s unique culture, traditions and language. With a curated curriculum for educators to apply with the program, students are empowered to put their learning into practice before, during and after the trip.
At Experience, we make sure everything is covered – from housing to technology and beyond – to provide the best experience for our students.
Quality, safe hotels with twin or triple occupancy that are centrally located.
All transportation is provided throughout the program.
Airfare covers round-trip flights from major airports.
Two meals are provided daily, breakfast and dinner, featuring local cuisine.
Interactive learning experiences designed to expand educational and career goals.
Scheduled activities, experiences and guided tours are all included.
Customized experiences developed by travel experts to promote learning and engagement.
Full-time Tour Directors are on site for the duration of the trip, for an all-inclusive experience.
Tips for bus drivers, guides, Tour Directors and meals.
International travel insurance is provided for protection in case of accidents, illness, flight interruptions or baggage loss.
Advanced student security software that integrates geofencing, logistics, communication and more optimized safety features.
Dedicated 24/7 staff availability, supporting students every step of the way.
