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Northern Spain (Premium) - Small Group

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Northern Spain (Premium) - Small Group

11 Day Spain Tour to Madrid, Barcelona & Oveido

Northern Spain (Premium)

When do you want to travel?

Spain Barcelona Gaudi Colorful Architecture
0 Days
Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 20
Insight Small Groups Italy Alberobello

Insight - Small Groups

If you prefer to travel with a smaller group of curious fellow travelers passionate about diving into incredible experiences, Insight Vacations Small Group tours are the perfect choice. With all the premium features of Insight Vacations including 4 and 5-star hotels, one-of-a-kind inclusions, immersive local cultural experiences and superior dining, small group departures have a maximum of just 24 guests allowing for a more intimate, premium touring experience. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. These immersive impact experiences are not only a positive force for change in the destinations you visit, by advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also offer you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community.

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Reviews
21
Average group size
average 20
Tour brand
Insight - Small Groups
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Official Language in Spain: Catalonian Spanish
  • Currency used in Spain: Euro (€)
  • Capital of Spain: Madrid
  • Time Zone(s) in Spain: Central European Time Zone, Central European Summer Time

 

Passport, visa, and entry requirements for Spain for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Spain
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Spain has a diverse climate due to its size and geographical variations. In general, the country experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Coastal regions, such as Barcelona and Valencia, enjoy mild winters and hot summers with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. Inland areas, like Madrid, have a more extreme climate, with hot summers and cold winters, sometimes dropping below freezing. The northern regions, such as Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela, have a maritime climate with cooler summers and mild, rainy winters.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Cesario Gentallan
Review date: Sunday, May 28, 2023
Service
My trip to Northern Spain was amazing seeing those interesting places and tasting delicious food.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your lovely comments and pictures!
Tuesday, May 30, 2023
Vacation
Amazing , beautiful and interesting
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, November 13, 2022
Service
My first trip ever using a Tour Company. Contacting GET was very easy. Once I got established with my personal travel consultant, I received emails confirming my trip, and if I had any questions, they were dealt with in a very timely manner.
Vacation
First off, tour bus was so comfortable and spacious. Very big windows to see the beautiful countryside, and the temperatures in bus well suited for the temperatures outside. Tour guides were fabulous and very, very knowledgeable. First time in Spain, and we were given such an awesome view of this lovely country. Loved all our activities and tours that were planned. My only complaint was the first day we arrived (we arrived in the morning), and had to wait till afternoon to check into the hotel. It made for a very long day. Couldn’t something be done to insure we had immediate access to our hotel?
Ignacio Lopez Merino
Review date: Tuesday, May 31, 2022
Service
It was very easy. They were always very helpful. We did the booking nine months before the trip and we were informed all the time about any changes.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so glad you enjoyed your vacation to Northern Spain. Thank you for taking the time to write a review. Happy Travels!
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Vacation
Everything run perfectly. Our tour director (Dominick W) was excellent, always very helpful and made the rides on the coach entertaining with music, jokes etc. We were in a small group (19 people). We love all the experiences.
Sandra Orr
Review date: Sunday, May 29, 2022
Service
Booking was a little confusing as I did not understand the different pricing options at first. And it cut close to the time to leave to get the details.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are glad everything worked out with your booking and you were able to enjoy your trip to Northern Spain. We appreciate the time you took to leave us a review. Happy Travels!
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Vacation
Everything was great. The tour director, especially was fantastic. Overall, the hotels were good, with a few quirks. The coach was wonderful@
Trusted Customer
Review date: Thursday, September 30, 2021
Service
I have traveled with Insight over the past 10 years. This trip was great as have been those in the past.. in addition to beautiful sights, we had a fantastic Travel Director. Brad gave us “insight “ into Spain’s history, its people, culture. Every travel director I’ve traveled with has been wonderful. Brad is the best of the best.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We love having you as part of our travel family. Thank you for allowing us to make these trips possible for you and your repeat business.
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
Vacation
Beautiful sights, lovely hotels.
Brian Buroker
Review date: Monday, November 12, 2018
Service
First class attention to keeping us informed and knowing what to expect in the next few hours and next day.
Response from Grand European Travel:
That is so great to hear! Our Travel Directors do an amazing job and we appreciate you acknowledging that. Thank you!
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Vacation
Good value for what we paid for.
Bernadotte Loomis, 2nd
Review date: Sunday, September 23, 2018
Service
Virtually everything about this trip to Northern Spain was great. The service was wonderful and the hotels were very very nice. GET supplied four included dinners with this tour and the only one that was good was the last one, the farewell dinner. Our tour guide and the local guides were wonderful as was our driver. I would never be able to get that big bus through all those narrow streets. He drove very safely and was always on time.
Vacation
Very nice tour. Just needs better included dinners.
Ingrid Moore
Review date: Thursday, May 31, 2018
Service
The tour director was superb. The electives were great, except they started too soon in the trip. Also it would be nice to have a little down-time in the middle of the trip. I appreciate the geographic and the historical information provided by the tour director as well as the local guides, the best of them was in Barcelona.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We're so glad to hear you loved your Spain vacation! The Tour Directors and local specialists really do add so much to your experience. We'll be sure to share your comments with our team and the Quality and Planning teams for future trips. Thank you for sharing your experience. Happy travels!
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Vacation
The informaation entered above was intended for the NORTHERN TOUR ONLY.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Service
Quick and professional service.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We're so glad you enjoyed your Northern Spain trip! Thank you for sharing and happy travels. 
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Vacation
Great itinerary. Excellent tour guide.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, October 30, 2017
Service
This was my 4th trip booked through you and Generally speaking, the trip to Northern Spain booked through Grand European and led by Insight Vacations, was Good. I was surprised to receive the Travel Documents and find that only one of our 5 flights had proper flight seat assignments. We had to pay extra to the airline ahead of time to achieve the desired seats. The other issue was with our hotel in San Sebastian. The hotel was not one listed on the itinerary, rather what would seem an ideal location, the hilltop Hotel Monte Igueldo. However, upon entering our room it was clearly a smoking room, complete with ashtrays. We immediately returned to Reception only to be dismissed rudely by the only person working the desk that we had no alternative, the hotel was fully booked. To our tour director's credit, he produced the contract for our group's stay showing ALL rooms to be Smoke Free, and persisted for nearly 45 minutes with the woman who kept disappearing behind the closed door only to return saying there was nothing else available. Finally Dominic asked if there could be another room available tomorrow (as it was a 2 night stay) and she said, "No! It's even busier tomorrow!" to which I replied, "Then there IS a room available tonight". She ultimately broke down and gave us a smoke free room (for Both nights) but she was clearly unhappy about it and persevered for much longer than we should have had to deal with have had to deal with. Kudos to our Tour Director for sticking with it and supporting us !
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your detailed review and we do apologize for what you experienced in San Sebastian.  We are happy to see that it was eventually sorted out, but it should have never happened in the first place and for that we are truly sorry.
It appears you flew on American and British Airways. American is one of the many airlines who are now charging a fee for advance seat assignments. This is unfortunately out of our control as it applies to any passenger who flys with them, regardless of whether they purchase the ticket through the airline directly or through a tour operator/travel agent. 
Monday, October 30, 2017
Vacation
Tis was answered in box #1
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