Foodie Experience in Barcelona & San Sebastián - 7 Days

Highlights

• Enjoy tapas and Spanish guitar as you sail along Barcelona's waterfront
• Visit the iconic Penedès Wine Region and take a cooking class
• Learn about traditional Basque "pintxos" with a professional chef
• Explore the Basque Coast and visit a traditional canning factory 

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona, Evening Tapas Walk

Welcome to Spain! Your foodie adventure starts in the gastronomic city of Barcelona. First, a private driver will transfer you from Barcelona-EL Prat Airport (BCN) to your accommodation in the city. Then, after settling in, you'll enjoy an evening tapas walk in Barcelona, often referred to as a tapear. With the help of local experts, you'll stroll the city's historic streets and neighborhoods in search of beloved tapas spots to taste a range of typical dishes.

Day 2: Private Visit to Sagrada Família, Private Sailing with Spanish Guitar & Tapas

Today is all about enjoying Barcelona, but make it a little special by letting a private guide lead the way. First, you'll visit the Sagrada Família, a stunning Roman Catholic church and UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Gain an early entrance to the monument to avoid the typical crowds, then discover the church's fascinating history, detailed facades, unique interiors with arched ceilings and stained glass, and views from atop the tower, Torre de la Pasión.

In the evening, view the city from a unique perspective with a private sunset and Spanish guitar sailing along Barcelona's beautiful coastline. You'll enjoy views of the city's port, marina, and beaches, plus the Old Town with its grand boulevards and towering spires from sites like the Barcelona Cathedral and Sagrada Família. Cap off the experience with live Spanish guitar, delicious tapas, and even a swim if you'd like. Then watch the sun melt into the Mediterranean Sea with your private crew.

Day 3: Vineyards, Wines & Tapas in Penedès, Appetizer Cooking Experience

The Penedès is a renowned wine region in Catalonia, just west of Barcelona. Join a local guide and explore the beautiful Catalan countryside and its culture of wine and gastronomy with an excursion to the vineyards of the Penedès Region. You'll visit local wineries, chat with estate owners, and learn how to taste wine with a viticulturist. Along the way, learn how the sea, sunshine, and terrain work to support Catalan viticulture, one of the oldest wine territories in Spain—and a favored area for the country's famed sparkling cava.

After returning to Barcelona, you'll discover the world of paella and Spanish cuisine in this four-course, 2.5-hour workshop at The Paella Club. Begin with a cava welcome drink and an introduction to the ingredients before teaming up with a partner at a fully-equipped cooking station. Under the guidance of professional chefs, follow the "10 secret paella steps" and create multiple varieties of this iconic dish—which you'll enjoy with other courses and Catalan wine.

Day 4: Fly to San Sebastián, Pintxos with a Chef

Say farewell to Barcelona as a private driver transfers you to the Barcelona airport, where you'll hop on a short 1.5-hour flight to San Sebastián. Another private transfer from the San Sebastián airport will take you to your hotel in the city center. After unpacking and getting settled, you'll enjoy your first city excursion: touring San Sebastián with a chef in search of pintxos, northern Spain's version of tapas.

Dive into the culinary heart of the Basque Country on this one-of-a-kind culinary experience led by a professional chef. Everything's included on this four-hour walk through San Sebastián's Old Town—the birthplace of pintxos. The word means "spike," which is fitting; the goodies piled high atop a slice of bread are secured with a skewer or toothpick. Taste your way through the city, stopping at five taverns to sample this famous snack and sip traditional drinks like sidra (cider) and Txakoli wine.

Day 5: San Sebastián History & Culture Walk, Basque Coastline Foodie Day Trip

New and old, modern and historic, San Sebastián has a bit of everything, and you can explore it all with a scenic, historical, and cultural walk through the city. Your local guide will lead you along quaint streets, stopping to admire the city's beautiful hills, beaches, parks, squares, and architecture. Learn why this is one of the most captivating cities in Europe and how the sea has impacted its history and culture. Of course, finish your walk by chatting with your guide while enjoying pintxos and drinks.

After exploring the city, head out for coastal culinary exploration and discover the rich flavors of Basque cuisine. Start by visiting the vibrant local markets to learn about the fresh ingredients of the area's signature dishes. Continue with a visit to a traditional canning factory and learn about fishing methods spanning centuries. Wrap up this gastronomic adventure by tasting local seafood dishes paired with exquisite regional wines in a warm and welcoming traditional Basque tavern in Getaria.

Day 6: Basque Countryside Foodie Day Trip

Yesterday you explored the coast, so today, you'll head inland to the countryside and visit the idyllic Basque landscapes. Your private driver will take you from San Sebastián south to the Goierri Region, where you'll learn about the area's farmland, slow food movement, and traditional dishes. Visit a farmers' market and enjoy lunch at a family-owned ranch raising native pigs. On your way back, stop in Tolosa to try the wild game and visit the Chocolate Museum.

Day 7: Depart San Sebastián

It's time to say goodbye to San Sebastián! A private driver will meet you at your accommodation in the city and transfer you in 30 minutes to the airport within plenty of time to catch your flight. 

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