Cities of Spain: Wine, Gaudí & Flamenco
A world of wild beauty, passion and the finest local cuisine; unlock the very soul of Spain on this immersive voyage from Madrid to Barcelona
What's included
- Accommodation in twin rooms
- Local transport
- Max 14 travellers per group
About your trip
Learn the art of flamenco in Granada, master Spanish cuisine in Valencia and see Barcelona by tuk tuk on this all-encompassing Spanish adventure.
Starting in Madrid, you’ll dine in the world’s oldest restaurant and tapas-hop your way through its top foodie spots. Your time in Granada will see you mastering flamenco steps within one of the city’s most historic schools, visiting the stunning Alhambra and exploring sea caves by kayak. In Seville, you’ll paddleboard along the Guadalquivir River past opulent Moorish architecture, while in Valencia you’ll learn how to cook an iconic Spanish paella. And how could we end this adventure anywhere but Barcelona? Take a tuk tuk tour of Gaudi’s fantastical creations before sipping crisp Cava at a family-run vineyard.
Over the course of 11 days, you’ll unlock the heart and soul of Spain’s heritage through immersive experiences led by local experts. And you’ll do it all with a group of people just like you.
- Touch down in Madrid, Spain’s cosmopolitan capital, where a private Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to whisk you to your central hotel
- Spend your first evening tapas-hopping through the buzzing bars, as you get to know your group and learn to party like a local
- Take a cycling tour of the city’s famous landmarks, including the opulent Royal Palace (Europe’s largest palace), leafy Retiro Park and pretty Plaza Mayor
- Head to Sobrino de Botín, officially the world’s oldest restaurant, for a peek at the 16th-century wine cellars and a slap-up lunch steeped in history
- Drive through the Spanish steppes to the historic city of Mérida to explore Spain’s most impressive Roman ruins on foot
- Continue south to sunny Seville, in the heart of Andalucía, with its sun-drenched plazas and orange tree-lined boulevards rich in Moorish and Renaissance architecture
- Explore Seville by SUP for an alternative perspective on the city; admire the distinctive Torre del Oro and vast Gothic cathedral with its 12th-century minaret bell tower
- Enjoy a free afternoon: don’t miss the exotic royal palace, Real Alcázar, then lose yourself in the maze of backstreets in the historic centre
- Travel to Granada to explore the Alhambra Palace, best preserved medieval Arab palace in the world, with its incredible Islamic architecture and sumptuous gardens
- Immerse yourself in the Unesco-listed music of Andalucía with a private flamenco lesson, where you’ll learn the basic choreography of this traditional art form
- Take a short drive to the Sierra Nevada mountains – a tranquil region of fertile valleys dotted with wild flowers, almond orchards and olive groves
- From the sleepy riverside village of Monachil, hike an adventurous trail through a dramatic gorge, negotiating suspension bridges and rocky overhangs
- Head to the seaside town of La Herradura and set off on a kayaking excursion along the dramatic cliffs, coves and beaches
- Travel east to the beautiful Huerto Ribera orange grove estate for a fascinating Vermouth workshop where you’ll try your hand at making the artisanal aperitif
- Learn to make traditional paella in the city where it originated, Valencia. Source ingredients from the market before sitting down for a delicious three-course dinner
- Take a tour of Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, with its charming old town juxtaposed next to futuristic buildings; visit the cutting-edge City of Arts and Sciences
- Journey to the fashionable city of Barcelona, famous for its beaches, world-class cuisine and distinctive Gaudí architecture
- See the city in style on an electric tuk-tuk tour, taking in the Art Nouveau bullring, the mind-blowing Sagrada Familia, Ciudadela Park and more
- Spend a free afternoon exploring: walk along La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous street, see the edgy street art in Raval and enjoy sundowners on Barceloneta beach
- Take a private wine tour of the Penedès region, the home of sparkling Cava; visit a family-owned winery for tastings and a traditional lunch
- Celebrate the end of your trip with a farewell dinner with your group, raising a toast to the adventures you’ve shared and sampling the city’s legendary nightlife
- Linger over one last breakfast, before making your own way to the airport; your Pack Leader will be on hand to help you arrange a taxi
- You’ll leave feeling immensely grateful and, well, a little Spanish. How could you not? You’ve feasted on authentic paella, hiked the Sierra Nevada, encountered a rich Moorish history and danced flamenco. Now it’s time to embrace Spain’s laid-back culture at home. Late-night drinks and tapas on a Monday night, anyone?
Our favourite hotels
Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.
Room Mate Macrena
You’ll be right in the heart of Madrid at this design hotel on Gran Via. The retro decor is anything but dull with geometric wall prints, bold monochrome palettes (think royal blue, flamingo pink or emerald green), patterned tile floors and undulating ceiling panels. Best of all is the rooftop terrace with cocktail bar, sundeck and pool.
Abba Sevilla Hotel
Overlooking a bustling square in Seville’s historic centre, Abba Sevilla is a polished modern hotel full of understated elegance. Most of the action takes place on the rooftop, where you’ll find an outdoor plunge pool, a Castillian restaurant and a gorgeous rooftop cocktail bar with skyline views – particularly atmospheric at sunset.
Senator Granada Spa
Your feet will thank you for staying at this indulgent spa hotel, a stone’s throw from Granada’s winding old town alleys. With various pools, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, hydrotherapy and aromatherapy treatments available, it’s the perfect place to soothe tired muscles after a busy day.
Adventure FAQs
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Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code
Fly into Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, commonly known as Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), and out of Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport, and also known as Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN).
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What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?
We recommend taking a flight that arrives before 12 pm on Day 1, to allow yourself enough time to relax and freshen up before the welcome meeting.
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What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no planned activities on Day 11, so you can depart at your own leisure after breakfast. Your final hotel will be around 45 minutes from Barcelona airport.
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Are airport transfers included?
If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.
Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.
We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. We will offer you support with finding a local taxi, which will cost approximately 40 EUR.
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Are tips included?
Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:
- Pack Leader: 7-10 EUR per day
- Drivers: 3 EUR per day
- Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.
However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.
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Do I need a visa?
Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.
You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:
- UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
- US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
- Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
- Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.
Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.
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What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Consult with a healthcare professional
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.
2. Up-to-date medical advice
- UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
- US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
- Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.
3. Government travel advice
- UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
- US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
- Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
4. Medication tips
If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.
We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.
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What sort of luggage should I bring?
It’s worth noting that Granada and Seville are cities with ancient origins and feature narrow streets, which may restrict the minibus from accessing certain areas. As a result, you may need to walk a short distance with your luggage – typically less than 10 minutes – to reach your hotel.
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Will this itinerary change?
Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.
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