Small group tour of Spain

Odyssey’s curated small group tours in Spain promise an enriching travel experience, blending must-see landmarks with hidden gems. Your Spanish odyssey encompasses iconic Barcelona, a tapestry of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces like the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, whimsical Park Guell, and the vibrant labyrinth of Las Ramblas. Venture further into the historical tapestry of Spain with a journey to Toledo, where El Greco’s artistic legacy unfolds before your eyes. Delve deeper into Spain’s cultural tapestry with a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Alhambra Palace, in Granada.

As the Spanish landscape unfolds, travellers can immerse themselves in the nation’s rich history on a captivating pilgrimage along the Camino from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela in Northern Spain, tracing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims. For those eager to delve into Spain’s historical depths before embarking on our small group tours, a selection of recommended books awaits, offering a deeper understanding of Spain’s vibrant past.

Embark on Odyssey’s small group tour of Spain, meticulously designed for the discerning mature traveller seeking a harmonious blend of insight and leisure. Embrace the journey ahead as Spain’s captivating history and cultural tapestry unfold to create lasting memories for the avid explorer.

Spain tours to be enjoyed.

Your tour manager will greet you in Spain’s vibrant capital, Madrid, for an immersive city tour that includes visits to the magnificent Royal Palace and the renowned Prado Museum. After spending 2-3 nights exploring the bustling city, your journey will continue either up to Northern Spain or down to the charming city of Cordoba in Southern Spain. In Cordoba, a guided city tour will take you through the historic walled city, where local guides will explain the intricate features of Moorish Architecture before you move on to spend another 2-3 nights in the enchanting city of Seville.

Seville, famous for its lively flamenco music and stunning Moorish architecture, is also home to the grand Cathedral, where Christopher Columbus finds his final resting place. From the breath-taking Pyrenees mountains to the idyllic beaches, and from ancient Roman ruins to modern architectural marvels including the works of Antoni Gaudi, Spain offers a plethora of diverse experiences waiting to be discovered. Beyond its extraordinary landscapes and art, Spain exudes a unique warmth and charm, making visitors feel at home wherever they go, whether it’s strolling down Barcelona’s bustling Las Ramblas, exploring Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, or indulging in tapas and wine in a local Basque country hotel.

During your trip, make sure to savour the local cuisine at authentic restaurants, hop between tapas bars, indulge in a glass of La Rioja wine, relish the soul-stirring flamenco music, and fully immerse yourself in the Spanish culture and lifestyle. Odyssey’s Spain tours are often combined with a visit to Portugal, including the captivating city of Lisbon.

Ideal for mature or senior travellers, solo explorers, or couples seeking intimate experiences, small group tours in Spain led by expert tour managers and local guides offer a genuine insight into the country’s rich heritage for like-minded individuals. Odyssey Traveller meticulously crafts itineraries that not only cover the popular cities but also venture off the beaten path, providing a holistic experience of Spain. Whether it’s exploring the regal attractions in Madrid, the architectural wonders in Barcelona, or delving into the history of Islamic Spain at Alhambra Palace, each tour is designed to offer a blend of cultural enrichment and discovery.

Your journey through Spain with Odyssey Traveller may lead you to the Basque Country, where you can delve into its unique history, or on a historical exploration of Islamic Spain and Portugal at the UNESCO-listed Alhambra Palace. You’ll also witness Gaudi’s architectural legacy in Barcelona, taking in iconic sites like Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia cathedral. From a royal tour in Madrid to a pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago, following the paths of medieval pilgrims, each itinerary promises a deep dive into Spain’s past and present.

If you’re considering embarking on an Odyssey small group tour to Spain, take some time to plan your itinerary, deciding on the places you wish to visit, the best time to travel, and the mode of transport. Whether you opt for a comprehensive countrywide tour or prefer to focus on a single city, Odyssey Traveller ensures you have ample opportunities to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of Spanish culture, history, and people, whether traveling solo or with a companion. Further enrich your travel experience with recommended books about Spain provided by Odyssey.

Affordable Ways to Tour Spain

Odyssey’s small group tours of Spain offer inclusive package holidays led by experienced tour directors for groups ranging from 6 to 16 travellers, whether as couples or solo adventurers. These meticulously planned tours encompass accommodations, entry fees to UNESCO World Heritage sites, gratuities, most meals, expert local guides, and a dedicated tour manager. A key advantage of this all-inclusive approach is its transparency; there are no hidden costs or optional add-ons, allowing travellers to budget effectively and enjoy an affordable holiday. Typically spanning two to three weeks, the tours involve staying 2 to 3 nights in well-selected 3 or 4-star hotels at each destination. Additionally, Odyssey provides the flexibility to tailor parts of the itinerary to suit individual travel dates and preferences within the overall tour framework, with cost adjustments made accordingly.

Each tour also incorporates free time, enabling participants to explore destinations independently and visit sites beyond the scheduled itinerary. To make your Spanish tour more cost-effective, here are some practical tips:

1. Optimize flight bookings: While flights are not part of Odyssey’s tours, securing flights at the right time can significantly impact your budget. Booking in advance and as soon as travel dates are confirmed is advisable. For long-haul or transatlantic flights, it is generally recommended to book between three months and seven weeks prior to departure.

2. Dine economically: Embrace the Spanish dining culture by enjoying a light breakfast and a hearty lunch, which is typically more affordable than dining out in the evening. Many establishments in Spain offer a ‘menu of the day’ at lunchtime, providing a cost-effective and authentic culinary experience. Moreover, in numerous tapas bars or cafes, ordering an alcoholic beverage often comes with complimentary tapas or a small serving of traditional Spanish dishes, offering a budget-friendly way to savour local cuisine.

3. Exploit free attractions: Take advantage of free admission days or times at various museums, galleries, and UNESCO sites across Spain. While popular sites like the Prado Museum or Royal Palace may be crowded during these periods, exploring them during free hours can save money while enriching your solo exploration experiences.

What to Look for in a Spain Travel Package

When considering booking an Odyssey small group tour to Spain, several crucial aspects need attention before making your reservation:

**Inclusive Gratuities:** One key factor to contemplate is whether gratuities are encompassed in the tour cost. Calculating individual gratuities daily for various services can swiftly become a financial burden and a source of stress. Opting for a tour where tipping is already included not only saves you time and money but also ensures you avoid any cultural missteps.

**Group Size:** It’s vital to assess the number of fellow travellers on the Spain small group tour. Being part of a large crowd can diminish the experience, especially in a sought-after European destination like Spain. Odyssey tours maintain an average of eight participants per tour, with a maximum group size of 16, offering a more intimate and personalized exploration.

**Knowledgeable Guidance:** With Spain’s rich history and diverse cultural tapestry, having well-informed guides is paramount. From Moorish Architecture to iconic landmarks like La Sagrada Familia and the Prado Museum, a tour leader and local guide play a crucial role in providing insights into Spain’s past, present, and future. Odyssey Traveller ensures each Spain tour includes a dedicated tour director and engages local guides with regional expertise, enhancing the authenticity of the travel experience.

**Unique Itineraries:** Spain caters to a wide range of interests, making it essential to consider the types of locations you wish to explore when selecting a travel package. Whether traversing the country or immersing yourself in a specific city, Odyssey Traveller offers diverse tours, such as the Via de la Plata Walking Tour, which takes you through breathtaking landscapes along ancient pilgrimage routes, offering a truly remarkable journey.

**Cultural Immersion:** Delving into Spanish traditions, art, and history enriches the travel experience. Odyssey’s educational and cultural tours provide a deeper understanding of Spain’s heritage, taking you beyond conventional tourist attractions. From exploring Roman ruins to witnessing flamenco performances and visiting historic sites like the Casas Colgantes, you’ll gain a comprehensive perspective of Spain’s unique culture and history.

**Optimal Timing:** While Spain captivates visitors year-round, peak season (June to August) sees a surge in tourism, especially in popular cities like Barcelona and Madrid. To avoid overcrowding and scorching temperatures, opting for tours during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offers a more pleasant and relaxed exploration of Spain’s diverse attractions.

Articles about Spain published by Odyssey Traveller:

Questions about Spain.

Empires crossing the Mediterranean: 1130-1300. 

15 of the best places to visit in Spain.

Barcelona travel notes.

Pilgrimages of the World: Advice for mature and senior travellers.

Books to read on a trip to Spain.

Eight Amazing Rail Journeys.

Five Renaissance Women.

For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link.

External articles to assist you on your visit to Spain:

The spirit of southern Spain: Reasons to visit Andalucia.

Beyond Seville: Three ancient towns to visit in Andalucia.

Ten must see sights in Madrid.

Refreshed December 2020.

Responsible Travel Tips For Spain

1. To enhance the quality of the provided content while maintaining the original intent, consider the following revised version.
2. To immerse yourself more deeply in the local culture, learning a few local greetings can go a long way in breaking the ice. While English is widely spoken, embracing the native language can enrich your experience in the country.
3. Carrying a card from your hotel in your wallet or purse can be a lifesaver if you find yourself lost and need assistance on your way back.
4. It is essential to have travel insurance coverage for your trip. For guidance on this matter, feel free to reach out to Odyssey, and they will offer the necessary assistance.
5. When traveling independently, remember to double-check the opening hours of shops and museums to optimize your sightseeing experience. Additionally, be mindful of any public holidays occurring during your trip to plan your itinerary effectively.
6. Before setting off on your journey, notify your bank about your overseas travel plans to prevent any disruptions due to flagged transactions. Also, ensure you are aware of ATM locations and banks that are compatible with your cards to avoid excessive withdrawal fees.
7. Prior to departure, ensure you have a variety of euro denominations on hand. While carrying large sums of cash is not recommended, having enough cash for places that do not accept credit cards can be convenient. This approach can help you steer clear of additional card fees and simplify the process of tipping during your travels.
8. This revision maintains the original content’s core advice while enhancing clarity, flow, and overall quality of the writing.