Discover the Way of St James
The capital, the countryside, and Santiago de Compostela
Experience classic Spanish destinations like Madrid and La Rioja, then pay a special visit to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela! This once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage journey is a wonderful combination of faith, history, and culture. With your very own rental car, you'll see Spain's splendors at your own pace. Enjoy wine tastings, museum visits, and more on this incredible journey through the Way of St James!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Madrid (MAD)
- Manual rental car – upgrade to automatic available
- Pickup MAD on day 1, drop-off SCQ on day 7
- 2 nights in La Rioja at the Hotel Parador de Santo Domingo or similar
- Winery visit and wine tasting in La Rioja region
- Visit to a Wine Museum with gourmet lunch included
- 1 night in Burgos at Hotel Abba Burgos or similar
- 1 night in Leon at the Hotel NH Collection Plaza Mayor or similar
- 2 nights in Santiago de Compostela at the Parador de Santiago or similar
- One way economy class flight from Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) to Madrid (MAD)
- 2 nights in Madrid at Sercotel Conde Duque or similar
- Departure airport transfer
- Buffet breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Savor the flavors of La Rioja with a traditional winery visit.
- Make stops off the beaten path with your very own rental car.
-
Pay a visit to the stunning Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
-
Stand in awe of "The House of Light," also known as Catedral de León.
-
Take photos of iconic landmarks in the capital city of Madrid.
Get ready for a special journey through the Way of St James! This unforgettable vacation begins and ends in Madrid, with stays in La Rioja, Burgos, Leon, and Santiago de Compostela. Pick up your rental car and put adventure in drive!
Begin in La Rioja, where you'll become immersed in traditional country life. Enjoy included visits to a winery and a wine museum, then sip and savor as you indulge in a wine tasting and a gourmet lunch. After two wonderful nights, you'll take a scenic drive to Burgos, home to breathtaking Burgos Cathedral, Monasterio de las Huelgas, and other architectural wonders. Next stop: Leon! Another city filled with amazing architecture, Leon is known for its iconic cathedral with beautiful stained-glass windows and a museum. While in Leon, you may want to check out Casa Botines, Convento de San Marcos, and Basilica de San Isidoro!
The Way of St James will bring you to Santiago de Compostela, home to the landmark 11th-century cathedral that has served as a pilgrimage site for centuries. Stand in awe of this breathtaking cathedral, then visit the Praza do Obradoiro, the Monastery of San Martino Pinario, and other artistic museums and monuments.
Last but not least, you'll spend two nights in Spain's spectacular capital: Madrid. From tasty tapas to amazing attractions, this city is filled with life and culture. Visit the must-see sites, like the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Museo Nacional del Prado, and Retiro Park.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Madrid (MAD)
- Manual rental car – upgrade to automatic available
- Pickup MAD on day 1, drop-off SCQ on day 7
- 2 nights in La Rioja at the Hotel Parador de Santo Domingo or similar
- Winery visit and wine tasting in La Rioja region
- Visit to a Wine Museum with gourmet lunch included
- 1 night in Burgos at Hotel Abba Burgos or similar
- 1 night in Leon at the Hotel NH Collection Plaza Mayor or similar
- 2 nights in Santiago de Compostela at the Parador de Santiago or similar
- One way economy class flight from Santiago de Compostela (SCQ) to Madrid (MAD)
- 2 nights in Madrid at Sercotel Conde Duque or similar
- Departure airport transfer
- Buffet breakfast daily
-
Savor the flavors of La Rioja with a traditional winery visit.
- Make stops off the beaten path with your very own rental car.
-
Pay a visit to the stunning Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
-
Stand in awe of "The House of Light," also known as Catedral de León.
-
Take photos of iconic landmarks in the capital city of Madrid.
Get ready for a special journey through the Way of St James! This unforgettable vacation begins and ends in Madrid, with stays in La Rioja, Burgos, Leon, and Santiago de Compostela. Pick up your rental car and put adventure in drive!
Begin in La Rioja, where you'll become immersed in traditional country life. Enjoy included visits to a winery and a wine museum, then sip and savor as you indulge in a wine tasting and a gourmet lunch. After two wonderful nights, you'll take a scenic drive to Burgos, home to breathtaking Burgos Cathedral, Monasterio de las Huelgas, and other architectural wonders. Next stop: Leon! Another city filled with amazing architecture, Leon is known for its iconic cathedral with beautiful stained-glass windows and a museum. While in Leon, you may want to check out Casa Botines, Convento de San Marcos, and Basilica de San Isidoro!
The Way of St James will bring you to Santiago de Compostela, home to the landmark 11th-century cathedral that has served as a pilgrimage site for centuries. Stand in awe of this breathtaking cathedral, then visit the Praza do Obradoiro, the Monastery of San Martino Pinario, and other artistic museums and monuments.
Last but not least, you'll spend two nights in Spain's spectacular capital: Madrid. From tasty tapas to amazing attractions, this city is filled with life and culture. Visit the must-see sites, like the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Museo Nacional del Prado, and Retiro Park.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to La Rioja!
Upon arrival in Madrid, pick up your rental car and journey to the beautiful La Rioja region! As you drive, take in the area's sweeping landscapes and extensive vineyards.
Arrive at your hotel and check-in. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon of exploration, relaxation, or both!
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada has an elegant style and a welcoming environment. Formerly a 12th century hospital, this hotel is located right near the Plaza de España. Enjoy free WiFi, television, hair dryer and more in every guest room. The restaurant serves dishes featuring local La Rioja produce that pair well with La Rioja wines. You'll surely enjoy the charm and authenticity of your surroundings at Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of La Rioja in this beautiful, historic hotel. Admire the thick stone walls of this former convent that dates back to 1373, then step through its doors to find a gorgeous interior. Hotel Agustinos boasts a perfect balance of rustic, traditional Spanish decor and contemporary, modern luxuries and facilities. Enjoy stone walls, sky high ceilings, a huge central glass dome, plenty of natural light, dark wood furnishings, and charming chandeliers.
After you settle into your spacious room, take a quick walk to the main plaza or the several wineries in the area! When you work up an appetite, return to the hotel and indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine at the elegant on-site El Claustro Restaurant. Unwind with a glass of regional wine in the hotel's piano bar, or hang out in one of its many cozy sitting rooms. Head up to your fully-equipped room and relax on your large, comfortable bed. Catch up on your favorite TV shows, look through priceless photos from the day, or use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure.
Day 2. La Rioja
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then get ready to experience a wine-filled day! First, visit a traditional, family-run winery in La Rioja! Enjoy delicious tastings and take in the fascinating history of wine culture in this region.
Keep the fun going with an included lunch and visit to a local wine museum. Learn all about the process and history of Spain's grapey goodness!
Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Looking for natural beauty? Why not check out Sierra de Cebollera Natural Park!? With lush forests, wildlife, and rushing waterfalls, this stunning oasis makes for a perfect morning or afternoon.
Day 3. La Rioja - Burgos
A beautiful city on the Pilgrim's Road to Santiago de Compostela, Burgos is ripe with medieval splendor. Once the capital of the united kingdom of Castilla-Leon for five centuries, Burgos boasts incredible Spanish Gothic architecture.
After you check-in to your hotel, be sure to check out Burgos Cathedral, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Check-in - Abba Burgos Hotel
Located just steps from Burgos Cathedral, this elegant hotel boasts luxurious amenities and comfortable rooms. Step into the sophisticated lobby and check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team. Head up to your spacious room and find crisp air conditioning, free WiFi, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and much more.
Once you settle in, lace up your sneakers and work all your stresses away in the fitness center. Then, jump in the sparkling swimming pool and refresh! When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at the onsite restaurant. If it's nice out, ask to dine on the garden terrace, where you'll enjoy stunning views of the city!
Day 4. Burgos - Leon
Say "bye" to Burgos and head for Leon! On the way, you may want to make a stop in Carrion de Los Condes, where you can visit the Zoilo Monastery and the small village of Fromista.
The city of Leon is bursting with art and history, as it is linked to the Pilgrim's Route to Santiago de Compostela. Today, Leon is known as a cultural hub and a gastronomic wonderland. Check-in to your hotel, then treat yourself to a delicious meal in this historic foodie city.
Check-in - Hotel NH Collection León Plaza Mayor
Nestled in León's old town, this stylish hotel boasts contemporary comfort with traditional charm. Just steps from the Gothic Cathedral and Gaudi's Casa Botines, NH Collection Leon Plaza Mayor is located in a picturesque pedestrian area of Plaza Mayor. Check-in with the hotel's friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Find crisp air conditioning, free WiFi, flat-screen TV, luxurious bath amenities, and more. If you're feeling tired, cozy up in your plush bed and order room service!
Have some energy? Unpack your sneakers and work off all those tapas in the fitness center. Treat yourself to a tranquil massage, then unwind at the bar! Indulge in a mouthwatering meal at the onsite restaurant and take in the beauty of Leon.
Day 5. Leon - Santiago de Compostela
It's the day you've been waiting for! Hop in the car and head to Santiago de Compostela, home to the one and only Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Every year, millions of people from all over the world flock to this city to reach the end of Saint James Way pilgrimage route. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is filled with religious history.
Located in the Plaza del Obradoiro, adjacent to the world-renowned Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, sits the Parador de Santiago de Compostela – a luxurious and historical hotel that has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. Initially established as a Royal Hospital by the Catholic Monarchs, this hotel now boasts a beautifully preserved Plateresque façade, four cloisters, sophisticated corridors and hallways, superb rooms, and even a museum within its walls. With over 140 works by well-known artists like Martínez Novillo, Álvaro Delgado, and Menchu Gal on display, visitors are in for a true cultural treat
The rooms and suites of the hotel exude a warm, old-world charm and are adorned with antique furnishings and unique details, including vaulted or coffered ceilings and stone walls. These accommodations offer 4-poster or half-tester beds, satellite TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi, while select rooms also include indulgent whirlpool tubs.
Guests can indulge in Galician cuisine at the hotel's two upscale restaurants, which also offer a complimentary breakfast. For relaxation, there is a coffee and cocktail bar, four cloister gardens, and a terrace that boasts stunning views of the cathedral. Additionally, luxurious communal areas add to the overall experience of the property.
Aside from its impressive accommodations, the Parador also boasts an outstanding business centre with ample, well-appointed spaces for hosting successful corporate and private events of all kinds. Moreover, beyond the renowned Camino de Santiago, the city itself offers countless opportunities for visitors to explore its charming streets, parks, and gardens. Additionally, those with extra time to spare may want to take a scenic excursion to explore the picturesque Galician estuaries.
Hotel Hesperia Peregrino is located just ten minutes on foot from the city's old quarter and beautiful cathedral. Enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, around-the-clock room service, and more! Restaurant Al Punto offers both local and international cuisine. Sip your favorite cocktail before/and or after dinner at the hotel's bar. Take advantage of the hotel's pool, fitness center, and beautiful gardens!
Day 6. Santiago de Compostela
Enjoy a delicious breakfast, then grab your camera and explore this fascinating city. Visit the amazing Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and feast your eyes on its famous botafumeiro. The botafumeiro is a large "censer," or ceremonial incense burner, that swings vigorously across the cathedral, filling it with aromatic incense.
Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Day 7. Santiago de Compostela - Madrid
Take one last look at the breathtaking Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, then take one last scenic drive to the airport and return your rental car. Hop on a plane and get ready to see Spain's majestic capital: Madrid!
Upon arrival in Madrid, make your way to your final accommodation. Once you settle in, head out and enjoy Madrid! You may want to check out the Plaza Mayor, and find a local tapas restaurant in the area.
Fly to Madrid!
Experience elegance and luxury at this exquisite hotel in the heart of enchanting Madrid. Upon arrival, be captivated by the sophisticated decor of the impressive lobby. Enjoy a seamless check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team before making your way to your stylish room.
Your accommodations feature crisp air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and plush bedding for ultimate comfort. After settling in, unwind and relieve stress in our state-of-the-art fitness center, or savor a warm beverage in the charming Tea Room.
Conveniently located just one mile from Madrid's most famous landmarks and steps from the San Bernardo Metro Station, our hotel offers the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility to the best the city has to offer.
H10 Puerta de Alcala is a 4-star hotel in the Salamanca district.
Guests can enjoy the hotel's rooftop terrace plunge pool with panoramic views of the city, as well as the chic rooftop bar. The hotel's restaurants serve breakfast, tapas, coffee, pastries and more. ]
Comfortable guest rooms have a private bathroom, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Other amenities include a TV, minibar, desk, safe, and room service.
Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport is a 12-minute drive from the hotel.
Kick off your shoes and relax at this elegant hotel, located on a quiet street in the beautiful district of Chamberi. Walk into the NH Madrid Zurbano and feel welcomed by modern decor, a sophisticated atmosphere, and a beyond-friendly reception team. After checking-in, walk through the stylish halls up to your spacious room. Open the door and fall into an instant state of peace and serenity. Sprawl out on your large comfy bed, watch some cable TV, and use the hotel's complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your day. When you're all settled, get exploring! Take a short walk to the Paseo de la Castellana, the financial district, and tons of shops and restaurants.
After a long day of excitement, return to your cozy room to freshen up. Head down to the classy restaurant and indulge in mouthwatering cuisine in a beautiful setting. Unwind with a glass of local wine at the bar, then get a good night's rest. In the morning, recharge with a bountiful breakfast buffet, then start your day with an energizing workout in the immaculate fitness center.
Day 8. Madrid
Today, enjoy the beautiful city of Madrid on your own! From the Plaza del Toros, to the Royal Palace, to Retiro Park, this capital city is bursting with art, culture, and historic charm. If you're interested, pay a visit to the world-famous Museo Nacional del Prado!
Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid, Spain
Day 9. Depart Spain
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your suitcase and pack up the car. Head for the airport, turn in your rental car, and find your departure gate. Spend your flight home dreaming about your next adventure! Adios!
Transfer to Madrid airport (MAD)
Fly home!
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