Exploring the Basque Country: Wine, Culture, and Heritage

Day 1

Arrival in Bilbao
Stay In Carlton Bilbao 5*

Bilbao is the biggest city in the Basque Country and the perfect starting point for a tour combining the north of Spain and the southwest of France. Today, Bilbao is a modern city, but rich in history and culture and gastronomy. At its centre you will find the Guggenheim Museum, a place definitely not to miss. For foodies, you’ll find several pintxos bars and Michelin-starred establishments. 

Carlton Bilbao is an elegant 5* hotel located in the city centre. Originally built in 1926, this hotel is an iconic example of neo-classical architecture that offers guests a taste of old-world glamour with modern amenities.

Overnight: Bilbao

Day 2

Bilbao City Tour

Departing from the edge of Downtown, you will explore the winding streets of the Old Town, including the iconic Seven Streets and the churches of San Antón and Santiago, as well as the vibrant La Ribera Market. Later, you’ll discover the city’s 19th-century expansion, shaped by industrialization and the rise of banking. The tour concludes with a look at Bilbao’s modern transformation, featuring the scenic riverbank walks, the White Bridge (Zubizuri), and the renowned Guggenheim Museum.

Overnight:  Bilbao

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Day Trip to Gaztelugatxe, Mundaka and Gernika

Today, you will delve into Basque history by visiting the legendary Gernika Tree and learning about the tragic bombing of the village during the Spanish Civil War. Take in the natural beauty of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoy views of the famous world-class surf wave in Mundaka, and visit the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe viewpoint, along with several other unique landmarks.

Overnight: Bilbao

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4

Private Transfer to San Sebastian
Stay at Hotel Catalonia Donosti - San Sebastian, 4*

Crystal clear waters and golden beaches draw visitors to San Sebastian, also known as Donostia. Beyond its natural landscape, San Sebastián is a world-renowned culinary hot spot with plenty of cultural events and scenic promenades lined with Belle Époque buildings. The old town is known for the narrow streets and pintxo bars, where you can surrender yourself to the Basque Cuisine.

Hotel Catalonia Donosti 4* is housed in a beautiful restored historic building with traditional Basque and English architectural touches, with neutral but modern rooms. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool that offers a panoramic view over San Sebastian. 

Overnight:  San Sebastian

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

San Sebastian Food & Wine Tour

In a culinary haven like San Sebastian, deciding where to eat can feel overwhelming with so many options. This San Sebastian pintxos tour takes you straight to the heart of the local food scene—the Old Town—where you’ll discover what to eat, where to find it, and why it’s a must-try. Along the way, you’ll gain insider tips on pintxos bar etiquette, including what to do (and what not to do), so you can confidently navigate even the busiest pintxos spots like a seasoned local for the rest of your trip.

Overnight: San Sebastian

Meals included: Breakfast, Tapas & wine

Day 6

Transfer to Bordeaux w/stop in Biarritz.
Stay at Hotel Kanti Bordeaux 4*

Even if you haven’t been to Bordeaux, odds are you have heard of its wine. After all, this is France’s largest wine region. Besides the wine,  this incredible city has a charming historic centre, filled with elegant buildings and picturesque squares that exude a bohemian atmosphere full of life. In this city, every corner reveals a new story to tell and a unique experience to be lived.

On your way from San Sebastian to Bordeaux you will stop in Biarritz, a glamorous seaside town known for its architecture, history and luxurious beach destination.

Hotel Kanti Bordeaux 4* is a stylish-contemporary hotel, focused on comfort and convenience, as it is centrally located. The rooms are modern, yet sophisticated, and come with high-end amenities. 

Overnight: Bordeaux

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Bordeaux E-bike City Tour

Voulez-vous faire un tour en vélo? On today’s e-bike tour you will be able to uncover some of the highlights and gems of Bordeaux, like the Place de la Bourse, the Miroir d’Eau (Water Mirror), the Garrone River, Saint-Michel Basilica, Grosse Cloche and Place de Quinconces. There will be several stops and a tale to tell by your guide. 

The tour will end by Rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest pedestrian shopping street in Bordeaux. Let’s do some shopping?

Overnight: Bordeaux

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8

Transfer to Toulouse & City Walking Tour, Stay In la Cours Des Consuls Hotel & Spa 5* Toulouse

Today, you will head to a new destination in France: Toulouse, known as La Ville Rose (The Pink City) for its terracotta-coloured buildings. To discover its charms, your guide will meet you at your hotel for a half-day walking tour. Highlights of the tour include the heart of the city, Place du Capitole, the Basilique Saint-Sernin (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Canal du Midi, the Pont Neuf (the city’s oldest bridge), and other remarkable sites. Enjoy!

La Cour des Consuls Hotel & Spa is a luxurious 5-star property located in the historic heart of Toulouse. Set within two beautifully restored 18th-century mansions, the hotel captures the timeless elegance of the city. The rooms feature a soft, refined colour palette and high-end amenities, ensuring a truly indulgent stay.

Overnight: Toulouse

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Day Trip to Carcassonne

Explore this fortified city, home to a vast medieval citadel recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the towering walls encircling the city, originally designed to safeguard the legendary secrets of the Cathars. Within the city’s walls, you’ll discover the Château Comtal (Castle of Carcassonne), one of the most historic fortresses in the Occitanie region of France.

Overnight: Toulouse

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10

Languedoc: A Unique Experience at Domaine de Baronarques Winery

Today, you will enjoy a unique experience at Domaine de Baronarques.

Domaine de Baronarques is an ancient estate with a history dating back to at least the 17th century, when it was known as Domaine de Lambert. Situated in Languedoc, in the commune of Saint-Polycarpe near Limoux, the estate spans 110 hectares (272 acres), 43 hectares (106 acres) of which are dedicated to vineyards.

Wine enthusiasts will delight in discovering the secrets of the winemaking process and savoring this "nectar of the gods," perfectly paired with local delicacies.

Overnight: Toulouse

Meals included: Breakfast, Wine tasting

Day 11

Departure

After breakfast, your private chauffeur will transfer you to the airport for your departure. Take with you the unforgettable memories of Spain and France—a perfect mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Promise yourself “I’ll be back” – as we will be waiting for you for your next adventure!

Meals included: Breakfast