Spain's Wine Regions
From Madrid to the Rioja wine region!
This 6-night self-drive vacation package to Spain enables you to visit the vibrant city of Madrid and so much more. Stroll along the beautiful beaches of San Sebastian, navigate your way through bustling Bilbao, and sip your way through the Spanish winelands.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Madrid (MAD), out of Bilbao (BIO)
- Manual economy car rental for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- Breakfast daily
- Accommodations in the following hotels or similar:
- 1 night in Madrid at the Sercotel Conde Duque
- 2 nights in Rioja at the Hotel Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
- 1 night in Bilbao at the Hotel Silken Indatxu
- 2 nights in San Sebastian at the Hotel Silken Amara Plaza
- Tours & Excursions
- Ribera del Duero Winery visit and tasting
- Rioja winery and tasting
- Rioja wine museum visit with gourmet lunch
- Marques de Riscal winery visit
- San Sebastian tapas tour with dinner
Great Ways to Explore
-
Experience the Rioja wine region where you will get a real taste of the local flavor.
- Enjoy the perfect balance of guided tours and free time on your own in each city.
-
See a little bit of everything: lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities.
-
Discover the history and beauty that lives in Madrid from the Royal Palace to the Tapas bars!
-
Visit the Marques de Riscal Winery and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, both designed by world-famous architect Frank O. Gehry.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Madrid (MAD), out of Bilbao (BIO)
- Manual economy car rental for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- Breakfast daily
- Accommodations in the following hotels or similar:
- 1 night in Madrid at the Sercotel Conde Duque
- 2 nights in Rioja at the Hotel Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
- 1 night in Bilbao at the Hotel Silken Indatxu
- 2 nights in San Sebastian at the Hotel Silken Amara Plaza
- Tours & Excursions
- Ribera del Duero Winery visit and tasting
- Rioja winery and tasting
- Rioja wine museum visit with gourmet lunch
- Marques de Riscal winery visit
- San Sebastian tapas tour with dinner
-
Experience the Rioja wine region where you will get a real taste of the local flavor.
- Enjoy the perfect balance of guided tours and free time on your own in each city.
-
See a little bit of everything: lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities.
-
Discover the history and beauty that lives in Madrid from the Royal Palace to the Tapas bars!
-
Visit the Marques de Riscal Winery and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, both designed by world-famous architect Frank O. Gehry.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Madrid!
The capital of Spain offers the culture and appeal of a sophisticated modern city, while retaining the charm and elegance of its early years. Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and make your way to your hotel. From here, you’re free to begin exploring the city.
Stroll through the fascinating Buen Retiro Park, then treat yourself to a first-night dinner near Plaza Mayor!
Experience elegance and luxury at this exquisite hotel in the heart of enchanting Madrid. Upon arrival, be captivated by the sophisticated decor of the impressive lobby. Enjoy a seamless check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team before making your way to your stylish room.
Your accommodations feature crisp air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and plush bedding for ultimate comfort. After settling in, unwind and relieve stress in our state-of-the-art fitness center, or savor a warm beverage in the charming Tea Room.
Conveniently located just one mile from Madrid's most famous landmarks and steps from the San Bernardo Metro Station, our hotel offers the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility to the best the city has to offer.
H10 Puerta de Alcala is a 4-star hotel in the Salamanca district.
Guests can enjoy the hotel's rooftop terrace plunge pool with panoramic views of the city, as well as the chic rooftop bar. The hotel's restaurants serve breakfast, tapas, coffee, pastries and more. ]
Comfortable guest rooms have a private bathroom, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Other amenities include a TV, minibar, desk, safe, and room service.
Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport is a 12-minute drive from the hotel.
Kick off your shoes and relax at this elegant hotel, located on a quiet street in the beautiful district of Chamberi. Walk into the NH Madrid Zurbano and feel welcomed by modern decor, a sophisticated atmosphere, and a beyond-friendly reception team. After checking-in, walk through the stylish halls up to your spacious room. Open the door and fall into an instant state of peace and serenity. Sprawl out on your large comfy bed, watch some cable TV, and use the hotel's complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your day. When you're all settled, get exploring! Take a short walk to the Paseo de la Castellana, the financial district, and tons of shops and restaurants.
After a long day of excitement, return to your cozy room to freshen up. Head down to the classy restaurant and indulge in mouthwatering cuisine in a beautiful setting. Unwind with a glass of local wine at the bar, then get a good night's rest. In the morning, recharge with a bountiful breakfast buffet, then start your day with an energizing workout in the immaculate fitness center.
Hotel De las Letras is ideally located in the heart of Madrid on Gran Avenue, in an area known as "Barrio de las Letras" or the Literary Neighborhood. With a bohemian spirit it is surrounded by small restaurants, art galleries and bars, just a short walk from the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Prado Museums and a little over 150 yards from Gran Via Metro Station. Hotel De las Letras truly embodies the past, present and future. The historical brick walls and a few well-preserved sculptures, mosaic artworks and the old staircase have been skillfully integrated into an avant-garde design. The design hotel's rooms are decorated in pale colors and filled with natural light to create a cozy atmosphere, and a relaxed state is encouraged by the state-of-the-art amenities, grand windows, and renowned service. Each and every one of the 109 comfortable, chic and elegant rooms has a special personal touch, with quotes on the walls by famous writers and poets. The heart of the hotel is its library, where the hotel's theme continues and its guests can quench their thirst for literature in a cozy atmosphere where they can choose from a vast potpourri of literary works. But the Hotel De las Letras will satisfy more than just your mental cravings - the innovative creations at Al Trapo Restaurant as well as at "Bocablo Lounge" are a delight for all the senses. And in the summer, guests can enjoy a fantastic view of Madrid from the roof top terrace "Ãtico De las Letras".
Day 2. Madrid - Rioja
Drive north to Spain's world-famous Rioja region. This vastly beautiful area is home to over 500 wineries, Mediterranean forests, high-mountain areas, as well as the Sierra de la Demanda and the Sierra de Cebollera Nature Reserve.
Once you settle into your luxurious accommodation, head to Ribera del Duero Winery and enjoy your very own visit and tasting.
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada has an elegant style and a welcoming environment. Formerly a 12th century hospital, this hotel is located right near the Plaza de España. Enjoy free WiFi, television, hair dryer and more in every guest room. The restaurant serves dishes featuring local La Rioja produce that pair well with La Rioja wines. You'll surely enjoy the charm and authenticity of your surroundings at Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of La Rioja in this beautiful, historic hotel. Admire the thick stone walls of this former convent that dates back to 1373, then step through its doors to find a gorgeous interior. Hotel Agustinos boasts a perfect balance of rustic, traditional Spanish decor and contemporary, modern luxuries and facilities. Enjoy stone walls, sky high ceilings, a huge central glass dome, plenty of natural light, dark wood furnishings, and charming chandeliers.
After you settle into your spacious room, take a quick walk to the main plaza or the several wineries in the area! When you work up an appetite, return to the hotel and indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine at the elegant on-site El Claustro Restaurant. Unwind with a glass of regional wine in the hotel's piano bar, or hang out in one of its many cozy sitting rooms. Head up to your fully-equipped room and relax on your large, comfortable bed. Catch up on your favorite TV shows, look through priceless photos from the day, or use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure.
Ribera del Duero Winery Visit and Tasting
Visit Ribera del Duero wines and villages with an English-speaking driver! Taste the Ribera del Duero wines and view the landscapes of the region, which boasts testaments to its past through the various monasteries, churches, and castles.
Includes:
- Winery visit with 3 wine tastings and appetizer in the countryside
- A visit to an authentic medieval Spanish village
- A visit to underground caves that date back to the 16th century
- A visit to an actual winery located in "Golden Mile"
Day 3. Rioja
Wake up, look out your window at the beauty that surrounds you, then enjoy an energizing breakfast. Make your way to the famous Rioja winery and enjoy a complimentary tasting. Stroll through the winery's beautiful grounds, then visit its museum and learn all about the process of wine-making and the variety of the finished product. Finish your visit to Rioja Winery with a scrumptious gourmet lunch!
Continue the fun at the modern, architectural masterpiece that is the Marques de Riscal winery.
Rioja Winery and Tasting
Visit a traditional winery and taste Rioja wines!
The Rioja offers much more to visitors than excellent wine. It is a fascinating region to visit, a wonderland of stunning landscapes, and unspoiled villages full of art, culture, and history. Visit a traditional winery of 125 years that is still run by the direct descendants of its founding family. Enjoy a complimentary wine tasting at the end of the day!
Rioja Wine Museum Visit With Gourmet Lunch
Visit the wine museum and enjoy a gourmet lunch with stunning views of the surrounding landscape!
Tour the wine museum, which occupies a surface space of 9000m, wines from around the world, and extensive vineyards. Head to the restaurant an enjoy a gourmet lunch, paired with wine, of course. Look out the window and feel surrounded by the breathtaking vineyard landscape.
Day 4. Rioja - Bilbao
Next, drive to bustling Bilbao. After you settle into your comfortable accommodation, get out and explore the city! Visit the magnificent Guggenheim Museum, a Frank Gehry masterpiece, then relax in the charming Plaza Nueva.
Stroll through the Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, then treat yourself to an authentic meal of paella. Don't forget churros con chocolate for dessert!
Escape to pure luxury and elegance in the heart of Bilbao. Walk into the lobby and become immersed in sophistication as you admire the hotel's chic decor. Enjoy its floor-to-ceiling windows, abundant natural light, modern furniture, and artistic feel. Settle into your spacious room, take a nap on your cozy bed, then get exploring! Take just steps and find yourself at The Guggenheim Museum, St. James' Cathedral, Plaza Nueva, and many other noteworthy sights.
After an exciting day, head back to the hotel and relax in the comfort of your quiet room. Upload photos using the hotel's free WiFi, catch up on some TV, and treat yourself to a calming bath or shower in your luxurious marble bathroom. When it's time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering traditional Basque cuisine at the classy on-site Etxaniz Restaurant. Dine in the elegance of the indoor dining room, or enjoy your meal and sip your wine while enjoying the breeze on the outdoor garden terrace.
Step into posh sophistication at the stylish Occidental Bilbao, located just a short walk from Bilbao Old Town! Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team and admire the hotel's chic decor. Then, head up to your bright, spacious room and find flat-screen satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and more!
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the sparkling swimming pool! Looking to work off some of that paella? Keep up your workout routine in the fitness center!
In the evening, relax with a glass of Spanish wine at the bar, where you can cozy up around the fireplace. Work up an appetite? Indulge in a mouthwatering meal at the onsite restaurant!
Day 5. Bilbao - San Sebastian
Head to the breathtaking coastal city of San Sebastian! Feel the sand between your toes and take a walk along La Concha Beach. Stare out into the bright blue-green ocean, then treat yourself to an authentic meal of Spanish cuisine at a local seaside restaurant.
Check-in - Hotel Silken Amara Plaza San Sebastián
Experience the eclectic vibrancy of San Sebastian in this artsy, yet luxurious 4-star hotel! Step through its doors and admire this hotel's tasteful modern decor, unique architecture, and warm welcoming atmosphere. Take a walk to the seaside center of San Sebastian, or ask a staff member about renting a bike! Now that's a way to explore this beautiful city!
Open the door to your room and instantly fall into a state of serenity and relaxation. Take a nap on your large, comfortable bed, freshen up in the elegant marble bathroom, and check your e-mail using the hotel's WiFi.
When it's time to eat, head to the trendy on-site Plaza Restaurant and indulge in mouthwatering traditional Basque cuisine. After a delicious dinner, unwind with a cocktail or a glass of regional wine at the elegant on-site Bar La Ola.
Day 6. San Sebastian
Start your day with an exciting hike up Urgull, a lush hill that's nestled right in-between the ocean and the heart of the city. See unforgettable views of this Spanish splendor! After you make your way down, stroll over the beautiful Maria Cristina Bridge and head back into town.
In the evening, enjoy an included tapas tour that's followed by a delicious dinner. Taste local flavors, try traditional dishes, and discover new favorites.
San Sebastian Tapas Tour With Dinner
The most inescapable element of Spanish cooking is tapas - small plates that have become popular all over the world.
Enjoy a tapas tour and experience true Spanish culture while being accompanied by a local guide who will point out the country's less-known cultural details. Discover bars, taverns, and even entire neighborhoods that specialize in tapas. You'll feel like a native in no time!
The stops include:
- A traditional tasca/meson
- A pintxo bar, where you'll discover the secrets of the tapas craze
Day 7. Depart Spain
Pack your bags, say goodbye to the beautiful views, and make your way to the airport. Spend your flight home scrolling through priceless photos and dreaming about your next adventure.