Basque Country Exploration

About Barcelona

This lively, exciting metropolis, set on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its exceptional architecture, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and fascinating history. It is said that a secret of Barcelona's charm lies in the fact that its tourist sites are an integral part of its residents’ daily life.

This lively, exciting metropolis, set on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its exceptional architecture, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, and fascinating history. It is said that a secret of Barcelona's charm lies in the fact that its tourist sites are an integral part of its residents’ daily life.

Barcelona is not only the capital city of the autonomous community of Catalonia and the second largest city in Spain, but a leading international city, having major influence on global commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts. It is an important cultural center, blending modernity and tradition. The city’s most famous landmarks include the architectural works of Antoni Gaudi and Lluis Domenech i Montaner, which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The center of the city and its heart is Placa de Catalunya, a charming square with statues and fountains, shops and boutiques, cafes and restaurants. La Rambla, a bustling boulevard that connects Placa de Catalunya to the ocean, extends from the square. Also extending from the square is one of the city’s most prestigious boulevards, the Passeig de Gracie, where two of Gaudi’s iconic houses are located, the Casa Batllo and the Casa Mila- also known as La Padrera. One of Barcelona’s main highlights is the Church of the Holy Family - La Sagrada Familia – which was designed by Antonio Gaudi and to which he devoted much of his life. The church, which began construction in 1882 and is still not finished, is one of the city's most exciting and awe-inspiring sites. Not far from the church, at the end of Gaudi Avenue, is the Sant Pau Hospital, one of Lluis Domenech I Montaner’s most important architectural works. It is a large complex in which the buildings fit together harmoniously and are surrounded by magnificent gardens. The city’s Gothic Quarter, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is considered the historic heart of the city, and there are numerous city landmarks located within its narrow streets. The Sinagoga Major de Barcelona, which was the main synagogue in the Jewish neighborhood until the expulsion of the Jews in 1492, still remains, as does the 14th-15th century Barcelona Cathedral, an impressive Gothic cathedral and the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, Catalonia. The historic palace, Palau de la Generalitat, is also found here and continues to function as the seat of the Government of Catalonia and the Presidency of the Generalitat. The 14th century Ajuntament City Hall building is another landmark in the Quarter. The Picasso Museum is housed in one of the Gothic Quarter’s elegant mansions, and the Palau de la Musica Catalana is a magnificent concert hall designed in Catalan modernista style by Lluis Domenech I Montaner in the early 20th century. There is a mountain overlooking the city known as Montjuic, the Jewish Mountain, a name derived from the medieval Jewish cemetery that is found there. Situated on the mountain is the National Palace, an enormous Italian-style building built in 1929, which today houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia as well as the Olympic Stadium and the Pueblo Espanyol tourist complex. Also located here is the Joan Miro Museum, a museum of modern art dedicated to the famous Catalan artist who initiated its establishment of the museum and donated many of her works. Just beneath Monjuic, you’ll find Placa de Espana, Barcelona’s largest square. The square had once been used as an entrance gate to the museum and today is a center for fairs and exhibits. The Font Magica provides fun entertainment in the evening as the illuminated fountain shoots jets of water, which change shape and color, 164 feet high – all accompanied by great music. Barcelona is also home to some outstanding parks. In the center of the city is the Parc De La Ciutadella, a green oasis with a large central fountain, statues, and an artificial lake with row boats. On the park’s grounds you’ll also find the zoo, the Catalan Parliament building which today houses the Modern Art Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences, and the Cascada, a large triumphal arch. Park Guell, located in the García district atop a hill, is one of the city's most intriguing sites and a unique example of creative environmental design. Originally intended as a private residential area with 60 single-family homes, the project was unsuccessful, and it became municipal property in 1923. Though not complete, it is one of Antonio Gaudi's best-known and most imaginative works. The buildings are coated with colorful ceramic fragments whose combination throughout the garden creates a mosaic of shapes. Along the beautiful stairway at the entrance gate, you’ll see one of the park’s most famous features: the huge, mythological dragon– or salamander. At the top of the stairs is La Placa, a square with a colorful, rolling bench covered with ceramic fragments and spectacular views of the city. Tibidabo is the highest hill in the Serra de Collserola, and, at its peak, is the Sagrat Cor Church. Adjacent to it is the Tibidabo Amusement Park, a historic theme park with modern attractions, events, shows, and panoramic views. Camp Nou is the largest soccer stadium in Europe and the home field of FC Barcelona. It includes a museum and a visitor’s center. Markets are another important feature of life in Barcelona and a great place to feel the city’s vibe. The 13th century Boqueria Market, located off the famous Rambla and a popular tourist destination, is filled with the sites, smells, and sounds of a bustling city market. In addition to fresh, delicious produce, you’ll find fresh fish, cheeses, juices, Catalan sausages, and other local delicacies – as well as numerous bars and restaurants. The San Antonio Market located in the Eixampla area is one of the largest in Barcelona, combining stalls, restaurants, and bars alongside clothes, books, and stamps for collectors. The Encants flea market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 13th century, and a place to find diverse and unique art, crafts, gifts, fashion, and more. Not far from Catalonia Square is El Nacional, a charming restaurant complex where you’ll find many traditional dishes from the Iberian Peninsula. Established in 1870 as a theater, the building served other purposes before undergoing a massive renovation and opening in 2013 as a luxurious and well-designed entertainment complex in the heart of the city. And there’s more – Barcelona is also home to shopping centers, an extensive and delectable restaurant scene, and a vibrant night life. To sum up, Barcelona – an innovative, cosmopolitan city with a Mediterranean flair- shouldn’t be missed!

About Pamplona

Pamplona or Iruna is the historical capital city of Navarre, in Spain, and of the former Kingdom of Navarre. The city is famous worldwide for the San Fermin festival, from July 6 to 14, in which the running of the bulls is one of the main attractions. This festival was brought to literary renown with the 1926 publication of Ernest Hemingway's novel The Sun Also Rises. The most important religious building is the fourteenth century Gothic Cathedral, with an outstanding cloister and a Neoclassical facade.

Pamplona or Iruna is the historical capital city of Navarre, in Spain, and of the former Kingdom of Navarre. The city is famous worldwide for the San Fermin festival, from July 6 to 14, in which the running of the bulls is one of the main attractions. This festival was brought to literary renown with the 1926 publication of Ernest Hemingway's novel The Sun Also Rises. The most important religious building is the fourteenth century Gothic Cathedral, with an outstanding cloister and a Neoclassical facade.

About San Sebastian

The pearl of the Cantabrian coast in Northern Spain, San Sebastian (officially known as “Donostia- San Sebastian”) spreads out in a crescent shape around the charming Bay of Biscay La Concha, about 12.5 miles from the French border. Once just a small fishing village in the Basque Country, San Sebastian became a resort following the construction of the Miramar Palace in 1889, attracting visitors from near and far.

The pearl of the Cantabrian coast in Northern Spain, San Sebastian (officially known as “Donostia- San Sebastian”) spreads out in a crescent shape around the charming Bay of Biscay La Concha, about 12.5 miles from the French border. Once just a small fishing village in the Basque Country, San Sebastian became a resort following the construction of the Miramar Palace in 1889, attracting visitors from near and far.

San Sebastian is surrounded by the green hills of Gipuzkoa, the province of which it is the capital. The three mountains which surround it – Mount Urgull, Mount Igueldo, and Mount Ilia- are the city’s green lungs and recreation expanses. Mount Urgull is located at one end of La Concha Bay, looking over the old city, and had been the site of a 12th century military fortress and citadel. Some of the walls still remain as does the Castillo do la Mota which was instrumental in defending the city. Mount Igueldo is at another end of La Concha Bay, and the former lighthouse – the 19th century Torreon de Igeldo –offers panoramic views of the sea, the harbor, and Santa Clara Island. It is also the site of Mount Igueldo Amusement Park which blends old and modern attractions. The funicular railway brings visitors to the top of the mountain. Between the 2 hills are two of the best urban beaches in Spain, Playa de La Concha and Playa de Ondarreta. They are consistently popular, offering opportunities for adventure as well as relaxation. Mount Ilia is a natural park located in the center of the city. It had been used as a fishermen’s lookout for spotting whales, and today it is home to spectacular walking trails, picnic areas, and observation points. San Sebastian’s cobblestoned Old Town (Parte Vieja) is a historic neighborhood and a focal point of the city’s nightlife with an abundance of bars and restaurants. Don’t miss out on the pintxos – the Basque version of tapas – or the local cider. The charming narrow streets of the old town connect to the Plaza de Constitution which is surrounded by houses with high domes and numbered balconies – a reminder of the days when bullfights took place in the square. In addition to its natural beauty, San Sebastian offers varied attractions for travelers. The city’s aquarium gives a glimpse into the underwater marine world of the Bay of Biscay, and the San Telmo Museum, housed in a former 16th century Dominican monastery which has been complemented by a striking 21st century modernist expansion, tells the story of Basque history and culture. Another outstanding city landmark is the Kursaal Congress Center and Auditorium which is renowned for its distinctive architecture and cultural events. The Basilica of Santa Maria has a magnificent baroque facade from the 18th century and beautiful interiors. San Sebastian is also a cultural center that hosts one of the most important jazz film festivals in the world – the San Sebastian Jazz Festival, an important international film festival, Basque folklore events, golf and tennis tournaments, races, and sailing competitions. Last but not least, any description of San Sebastian would not be complete without extolling the gastronomic virtues of its innovative chefs. San Sebastian is the culinary capital of Spain, known for its pintxos snacks, local wines, and wonderful seafood. Whether you’re looking for culture, outstanding cuisine, history, or R&R on some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches, San Sebastian is your destination!

About Bilbao

The city of Bilbao is the capital of the Biscay province, and, located at the mouth of the Nervion River, is one of the five largest ports in Spain. Though it is the economic center of the heavily industrial Basque Country, Bilbao has abundant natural beauty with parks, lush landscapes, and proximity to stunning coastlines. It is also known for its outstanding architecture and dining scene and, in recent years, has become a vibrant, revitalized city.

The city of Bilbao is the capital of the Biscay province, and, located at the mouth of the Nervion River, is one of the five largest ports in Spain. Though it is the economic center of the heavily industrial Basque Country, Bilbao has abundant natural beauty with parks, lush landscapes, and proximity to stunning coastlines. It is also known for its outstanding architecture and dining scene and, in recent years, has become a vibrant, revitalized city.

Bilbao is home to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao which was designed by the famed Frank Gehry and has become the architectural symbol of the city due to its unique architecture, including over 33,000 titanium plates on its exterior. Inaugurated in 1997, the museum, with its unique avant-garde and futuristic look, put Bilbao on the world tourism map, attracting about 1 million tourists a year to see its modern and contemporary works. Thanks to the museum, the shipyards were taken out, the river was cleaned, and international architects built additional spectacular projects, including the airport that looks like a bird and the white Zubizuri Bridge (“White Bridge”), designed by Santiago Calatrava, that crosses the river. Other architectural highlights in Bilbao include the subway, designed by Norman Foster, and  Alhondiga, a fascinating building that had served as a warehouse and has been transformed into an art and entertainment center with a library, cinema, auditorium, bars and restaurants- all designed by French architect Philippe Starck. The Puente de San Anton, the famous 14th century bridge, is another of the city’s icons, and Mercado de La Ribera is one of the most beautiful historic markets in Spain. The Palacio de la Diputacion (Delegation Palace), the seat of the executive branch of the government, is designed in royal baroque style and is famous for its stunning stained glass windows. Bilbao is also home to a wide variety of museums, such as the Euskal Museoa and the Arkeologi Museo which present collections from centuries past, and performing arts halls such as the Euskalduna Palace. Bilbao’s historic old city, dating back to the early 14th century, is full of narrow and interesting cobblestone alleyways with small shops and a collection of bars, restaurants, and wine bars. And be sure to partake of the dining scene in Bilbao- diverse and outstanding, you’ll find Michelin-starred restaurants alongside family-run restaurants, all offering a range of mouthwatering Basque cuisine.

About Santander

The port city of Santander is the situated on the north coast of Spain. The bars and restaurants of the old town are popular with tourists, as well as the El Sardinero beach a couple of kilometers away. Main sights include : The Cathedral of Santander; The Palacio de la Magdalena, eclectic style, English influenced, built in 1909 by public subscription as a gift for the Spanish Royal Family; Santander has a great tradition and cultural activity, with events that play an important role in cultural and social life of the city. UIMP is a major international summer university and organizes large festivals of music and dance.

The port city of Santander is the situated on the north coast of Spain. The bars and restaurants of the old town are popular with tourists, as well as the El Sardinero beach a couple of kilometers away. Main sights include : The Cathedral of Santander; The Palacio de la Magdalena, eclectic style, English influenced, built in 1909 by public subscription as a gift for the Spanish Royal Family; Santander has a great tradition and cultural activity, with events that play an important role in cultural and social life of the city. UIMP is a major international summer university and organizes large festivals of music and dance.

About Leon

Founded in the 1st century BC by the Romans, its rich historical and architectural heritage, as well as its numerous annual festivals, make it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourism. 

Founded in the 1st century BC by the Romans, its rich historical and architectural heritage, as well as its numerous annual festivals, make it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourism. 

In the Middle Ages, Leon became the capital of the Kingdom of Leon and an important stop on the pilgrims’ route to the Santiago Cathedral where the remains of St. James reputedly lie. The modern city of Leon is bustling and cosmopolitan, interwoven with spectacular promenades and squares, as well as historic landmarks.  The 13th century Cathedral of Leon, one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Spain, houses an array of stunning stained glass windows as well as elaborate sculptures and carvings. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the city and its surroundings from the tower of the cathedral. The Basilica of San Isidro de Leon, built on top of an ancient Roman temple in the 11th and 12th centuries, is a magnificent Romanesque style-structure. The Royal Pantheon, known as “the Sistine Chapel of Romanesque Art” is located here with the remains of 33 members of the royal Leonese Court. The Roman Wall, which had encircled the city, is another popular attraction. Dating back to the 1st century, this is one of the best-preserved Roman structures in Spain. By walking the trail and seeing some of the remaining Roman ruins, the city’s rich history will come alive. Santo Domingo Square stands out due to its many fountains as well as the trapezoidal building next to it- the creation of the famous Barcelona artist, Antonio Gaudi. The 12th century Antiquo Monasterio de San Marcos, originally a convent, is one of the most important Renaissance moments in Spain. Today it is home to a church, the Museo de Leon which houses important works of art, and a state-run luxury hotel. Art lovers can get an in-depth look at the art and artifacts from different time periods and cultures at the city’s museums - the Museum of Art and History of Leon and the Museum of Contemporary Art of Castilla y Leon. The MUSAC, the city’s Museum of Contemporary Art, is an example of the city’s modern architecture. Last but not least, don’t miss out on Leon’s outstanding cuisine, including its range of traditional dishes and local wines – especially the renowned wines from the nearby Bierzo region.

About Salamanca

Salamanca, located in northwestern Spain near the Tormes River, is part of the regions of Castile and Leon, close to the Portuguese border. Home to the University of Salamanca (Universidad de Salamanca), it is a small, vibrant university town that attracts students from all over the world who come here to study Spanish.

Salamanca, located in northwestern Spain near the Tormes River, is part of the regions of Castile and Leon, close to the Portuguese border. Home to the University of Salamanca (Universidad de Salamanca), it is a small, vibrant university town that attracts students from all over the world who come here to study Spanish.

In fact, the city has a long-standing tradition of being an important intellectual center as the university was founded in 1218 – the 2nd university in all of Spain and one of the oldest in the world. Its magnificent sculptured entrance, built in the 16th century, is an outstanding work of art with its fine detail, resembling delicate goldsmith's craft. With buildings made of golden stone, Salamanca has been nicknamed “the Golden City.” The city’s architecture has historical richness - narrow streets, charming buildings, decorated facades, domes, and pointed towers- earning it UNESCO World Heritage Site status The main square, Plaza Mayor, was built in baroque style in the 18th century and is considered one of the most magnificent squares in Spain. Salamanca City Hall is in the center of the square with the clock tower above it. Other city highlights include the old Romanesque church, Cathedral Vieja, which dates back to the 12th century, the “new” Cathedral Nueva from the 16th century which is built in Gothic Renaissance and Baroque style, and the bell tower which soars high above and is visible from almost anywhere in the city.  

About Madrid

Madrid, the capital of Spain and its largest city, is the seat of the government of Spain and the residence of the Spanish monarch. In short, Madrid is the political, economic, and cultural center of Spain. 

Madrid, the capital of Spain and its largest city, is the seat of the government of Spain and the residence of the Spanish monarch. In short, Madrid is the political, economic, and cultural center of Spain. 

This city which never sleeps was built in the 16th century when Philip II, who disliked the capital Valladolid, decided to turn a remote, ancient village in Castile into a capital. Lying at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, the Monzanares River flows through the city. Madrid is home to impressive architecture, leading international art museums, green parks, phenomenal food, and a lively nightlife. The Royal Palace Palacio Real serves as the official seat of the King of Spain. This huge palace, one of the largest Italian Baroque style palaces in Europe, is located on a spectacular cliff overlooking the Monzanares River. The palace contains thousands of art treasures, including paintings and wall murals, porcelain objects, musical instruments, and medieval weapons. There are breathtaking gardens surrounding the palace -the Sabatini Gardens to the north and the Campo del Moro Gardens at the foot of the hill on which the palace is located. Madrid’s large, Neo-Gothic style Santa Maria de la Almudena Cathedral is among the newest cathedrals in Europe, inaugurated in 1993 after over 100 years of construction. Madrid is a city with three famous museums. The Prado El, which began to be constructed in the 18th century, has a neo-classical façade and was intended to be a vast center for nature and science studies. It later became a museum with tens of thousands of works of art from the royal palaces of Spain. It has a huge collection of Spanish paintings, including works by Velázquez, Goya and El Greco; Italian paintings by foremost painters such as Botticelli, Veronese, Caravaggio; and Flemish masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Bruegel, Rubens, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck. The Reina Sofia Museum is housed in a building that was used as a hospital until the 18th century. It is home to an impressive collection of 20th century works, including cubism, surrealism, and realism, and a permanent collection with works by Salvador Dali, Juan Miro, and Pablo Picasso. The highlight of the museum is Picasso's famous masterpiece from 1937, "Guernica.” Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is the third famous museum in Madrid. It began in 1920 as an exhibit of the private collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen- Bornemisza, who was a well-known collector. It is considered to be one of the most impressive private collections in the world. The museum was sold to Spain and opened to the public in 1992. Much of Madrid’s charm lies in its many public squares, each with its own character and beautiful parks and gardens. The Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun) square is a focal point of the city. It was built as a half moon decorated with two fountains and the equestrian statue of Carlos III (who built most of the squares in the city). The Bear and Strawberry Tree statues are attractions, as well, and have become symbols of the city. Today, the square’s central building is used by the Autonomous Community of Madrid. The square is known for its New Year’s Eve tradition of eating twelve grapes, one for each chime at midnight. Plaza Mayor (Town Square) is in the heart of the old city. Originally used in the 15th century as the town market, it was established in the 17th century as a town square, and the 19th century equestrian sculpture of Philip III stands in the center. There are ten entrances to the square and nine gates. Plaza Mayor has historically been the scene of many events, including bullfights and soccer games, and today is the venue for the annual Christmas market. The Casa de la Panaderia, a municipal and cultural building on the north side of the plaza, has a beautiful façade and angular towers to its sides. Plaza Mayor is a thriving center of Madrid life both day and night with its cafes, restaurants, and bars. Plaza Oriente is built in the shape of a crescent with an impressive facade of the Royal Palace as its base. It is surrounded by flower beds, beautiful shrubbery, and statues of the kings of Spain. In the center, above an imposing fountain surrounded by lions, is the equestrian statue of Philip IV. In the rectangular Plaza Espania, a spacious square surrounded by trees, there is a large stone monument honoring one of Spain's greatest writers, Miguel Cervantes, and the two iconic characters, Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. The 18th century Plaza de Cibeles is one of the main squares in the city and is considered to be one of its most important symbols. The fountain in the square depicts the goddess Cybele sitting in a chariot driven by two lions. At one end of the square is the Madrid City Hall building. The Parquet del Buen Retiro is the green lung of Madrid. It was established as a royal garden with a summer palace, and its garden paths, fountains, lake, playgrounds, and cafes attract many visitors. The Casa de Campo, Madrid’s largest public park, was created in the 16th century for the royal family and nobility and became a public park in 1931. It is a popular urban park and destination for both visitors and locals, especially on the weekends. The park contains lakes as well as an amusement park and a large zoo. Madrid is also a great shopping destination with its many colorful markets. The San Miguel Market is one of the most famous in the city with a wide variety of food, wine, and tapas stalls. San Ildefonso market is a food market, which, at dark, turns into a lively entertainment area with a stunning balcony and comfortable seating. The Platea Market, which used to be a theatre, bustles with restaurants, shops, bars, and bakeries. Anton Martin Market is a food market with cafeterias, restaurants, and even a flamenco school. Last but not least, be sure to visit Calle Gran Via, the busiest thoroughfare in Madrid with cinemas, shopping malls, international chain stores, and banks. If you’re a foodie, Madrid won’t disappoint! It has its own gastronomy as well as culinary specialties from all over Spain. Madrid’s many restaurants and cafes serve the famous bean stews, roast suckling piglet, Galician octopus, and the iconic Paella.