Flashpacking Tour
From£2,199
Flashpacking Tour
From£2,199
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How Do I Book?

  • Book online with a 10% Deposit
  • Pay the remainder balance by 90 days before departure


How Do I Book?

  • Book online with a 10% Deposit
  • Pay the remainder balance by 90 days before departure

Departure Status
15/09/2024 Early Bird Discount
30/04/2025 Early Bird Discount
18/05/2025 Early Bird Discount
15/06/2025 Early Bird Discount
06/07/2025 Early Bird Discount
03/08/2025 Early Bird Discount
24/08/2025 Early Bird Discount
21/09/2025 Early Bird Discount

Tours with an ‘Early Bird Discount’ receive £100 off per person (already displayed). However, please hold off booking flights until it reaches minimum numbers and becomes a ‘guaranteed departure‘. We will let you know when this happens.

Best of Northern Spain Group Tour

7 nights
TRIP DETAILS
DESCRIPTION
WHAT'S INCLUDED

Route: Madrid Avila Segovia Ourense Santiago de Compostela

Nights: 7 nights

Group Size: 6-20 people

Age Range: 18+ (average 30s and 40s)

Transport: Mostly Trains with one short bus journey

Accommodation: Boutique 4 Star Hotels

Room Options: Sharing based on same-sex twin rooms in hotels or upgrade to private rooms. Double rooms available also.

Activities Included: Check out the itinerary below to see the activities in each city.

Difficulty Level: There’s nothing too exerting in our group tour programme but you should be able to walk for up to 30 minutes with your bag.

Extend Your Trip: You can also book the Best of Southern Spain Group Tour the week before and Best of Northern Portugal Group Tour the following week.

Sustainability: This trip creates 20kg of carbon emissions. Flying the same route would create 120kg ♻️

Reviews:    All independent reviews

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day rail adventure through Northern Spain, delving into the captivating culture and breathtaking landscapes of this diverse country. Your journey commences in Madrid, the vibrant capital, where you’ll meet your group and tour leader and bond over an authentic tapas meal in a local Madrid bar.

From Madrid, hop on a train to Avila, a city encircled by ancient walls and adorned with stunning medieval architecture. Explore its historic center before continuing to Segovia, home to the iconic Alcázar fortress and the awe-inspiring Roman aqueduct.

Next, journey to Ourense, nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and renowned for its thermal springs. Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters before heading to Santiago de Compostela, the culmination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Explore the majestic cathedral and wander through the charming streets steeped in history before a day trip to the coast to experience wine tasting and seafood.

Throughout your adventure, you’ll travel with a group of up to 20 fellow flashpackers, staying in boutique 4-star hotels and enjoying a perfect blend of guided activities and free time to explore independently or with newfound friends. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour leader, you’ll navigate Spain’s excellent rail network, ensuring comfortable and scenic journeys from one city center to the next.

Experience the best of Northern Spain, from the vibrant energy of Madrid to the serene beauty of Santiago de Compostela, all while creating lasting memories and forging new friendships along the way. Check out the detailed itinerary below for a comprehensive overview of the cities and activities included in this unforgettable rail holiday.

– Travel Disruption Protection – alternative travel included if there is a strike or similar disruption.

– All train tickets between cities

– Accommodation in 4 star boutique hotels

– All activities as stated in the itinerary

– 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch and 1 Dinner

– A Tour Leader to travel with you and coordinate your trip throughout

Tour Details

Route: Madrid Avila Segovia Ourense Santiago de Compostela

Nights: 7 nights

Group Size: 6-20 people

Age Range: 18+ (average 30s and 40s)

Transport:Mostly Trains with one short bus journey

Accommodation: Boutique 4 Star Hotels

Room Options: Sharing based on same-sex twin rooms in hotels or upgrade to private rooms. Double rooms available also.

Activities Included: Check out the itinerary below to see the activities in each city.

Difficulty Level: There’s nothing too exerting in our group tour programme but you should be able to walk for up to 30 minutes with your bag.

Extend Your Trip: You can also book the Best of Southern Spain Group Tour the week before and Best of Northern Portugal Group Tour the following week.

Sustainability: This trip creates 20kg of carbon emissions. Flying the same route would create 120kg ♻️

Reviews:    All independent reviews

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day rail adventure through Northern Spain, delving into the captivating culture and breathtaking landscapes of this diverse country. Your journey commences in Madrid, the vibrant capital, where you’ll meet your group and tour leader and bond over an authentic tapas meal in a local Madrid bar.

From Madrid, hop on a train to Avila, a city encircled by ancient walls and adorned with stunning medieval architecture. Explore its historic center before continuing to Segovia, home to the iconic Alcázar fortress and the awe-inspiring Roman aqueduct.

Next, journey to Ourense, nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and renowned for its thermal springs. Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters before heading to Santiago de Compostela, the culmination of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Explore the majestic cathedral and wander through the charming streets steeped in history before a day trip to the coast to experience wine tasting and seafood.

Throughout your adventure, you’ll travel with a group of up to 20 fellow flashpackers, staying in boutique 4-star hotels and enjoying a perfect blend of guided activities and free time to explore independently or with newfound friends. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour leader, you’ll navigate Spain’s excellent rail network, ensuring comfortable and scenic journeys from one city center to the next.

Experience the best of Northern Spain, from the vibrant energy of Madrid to the serene beauty of Santiago de Compostela, all while creating lasting memories and forging new friendships along the way. Check out the detailed itinerary below for a comprehensive overview of the cities and activities included in this unforgettable rail holiday.

What's Included?

Itinerary

Day 1 - Madrid


Welcome to Madrid! You can check into the hotel from mid-afternoon so the earlier you can fly in the better! We will meet for the first time as a group in the hotel and once all settled in, will head out to explore the city. Your tour leader will take you to one of the best restaurants to sample a range of tapas, beer and sangria. The night is then yours to explore. Wander through the historic neighborhoods of Malasaña and Chueca, where lively bars and trendy clubs pulse with energy. The iconic Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol become hubs of activity, with street performers and late-night revelers creating a lively ambiance. Experience the traditional Spanish custom of “sobremesa,” lingering over conversations and drinks at the countless outdoor cafes.

Inclusions:

  Tapas meal

Day 2 - Madrid/Avila


After breakfast, take a direct train to Ávila, a historic and picturesque city located in the autonomous community of Castile and León. Renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval walls, Ávila has earned a place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is characterized by its medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and a wealth of religious and historical landmarks. When you get there, you are free to explore the city at your own pace.

Inclusions:

Breakfast

Train to Avila

Day 3 - Avila


After breakfast, go on a guided walking tour of the city for a couple of hours. Learn all about the history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage city and gain tips and advice on what to do for the rest of the day. Whether it is exploring the medieval walls, visiting the cathedral and various churches or museums or relaxing and sunbathing by a swimming pool there is something for everyone.

Inclusions:

Breakfast

Walking tour of Avila

Day 4 - Avila/Segovia


Today, take a direct 50 minute bus to Segovia – another UNESCO World Heritage Site! The city’s iconic Roman aqueduct, a marvel of engineering, sets the stage for exploration. The fairy-tale-like Alcázar perched on a rocky hill offers panoramic views, while the Gothic-style Segovia Cathedral and the circular Iglesia de San Esteban showcase the city’s religious heritage. Wandering through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter reveals medieval charm, and the lively Plaza Mayor beckons for relaxation and local cuisine, including the renowned “cochinillo.”

Inclusions:

Breakfast

Bus to Segovia

Day 5 - Segovia/Ourense


This morning, take a direct train to Ourense in Galicia, famous for its natural hot springs! Once arrived and checked in to the hotel, head straight out on the thermal baths ‘train’ that whisks us away through the town to the ‘As Burgas’ hot spring. Following this you can explore the medieval Ponte Vella bridge, wander through the narrow streets of the well-preserved Old Town, and relax along the Miño River promenade.

Inclusions:

Breakfast

Train to Ourense

Thermal Baths

Day 6 - Ourense/Santiago de Compostela


Today, take a direct train to Santiago de Compostela which is renowned for its historical and religious significance as a major pilgrimage destination. The city is home to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, an architectural masterpiece that houses the relics of Saint James.
The Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route leading to the city, has attracted millions of pilgrims over the centuries. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historical old town features narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares reflecting various architectural styles. The University of Santiago de Compostela, founded in 1495, adds to the city’s cultural and intellectual richness.
Theincluded activity today is a guided tour of the city by a local, presenting a great opportunity to learn about everything this city has to offer.

Inclusions:

Breakfast

Train to Santiago de Compostela

Walking Tour

Day 7 - Santiago de Compostela


Today, go on a day trip to the Rias Baixas where we explore the wine, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes of this coastal region on a full-day guided tour.
Visit a bodega for a complimentary wine tasting experience and then take a scenic boat ride along the Ria de Arousa with unlimited mussels and wine tasting. The itinerary also includes stops at the charming La Toja island and the picturesque Albariño wine country town of Cambados.

Inclusions:

Breakfast

Rias Baixas tour with winery visit and mussels

Day 8 - Santiago de Compostela

This is the departure day. Unless you would like to seamlessly continue your tour with us to Portugal for another week!

Inclusions:

Breakfast

FAQs

Where should I fly in and out of?

It will be most convenient for you to fly into Madrid and fly out of Santiago de Compostela. You can also add a night of accommodation either side or continue your tour onto the ‘Best of Portugal‘ group tour or do the ‘Best of Southern Spain‘ group tour.

What time does the tour start?

We meet for the first time at the hotel at 1700 on the first day. However, you can check in from 2pm and if you arrive early you can always leave your baggage at reception. You can even add one night of pre-trip accommodation.

What time does the tour end?

The last planned activity will happen the night before departure so on the departure day you can leave at any time but remember there is breakfast included so try not to leave too early! You can also add a night of post-trip accommodation.

Who else will be on my tour?

Our tours are open to anyone aged over 18 however most people are in their 30s and 40s and travelling alone. We do also sometimes get groups of two or more people together. There will be between 6 and 20 people on the tour with average numbers around 10-12 people. 

Will the route or activities change?

Sometimes for operational reasons we have to alter the route or activities but if this happens it will be changed to something just as good.

I have dietary requirements. Can you cater for this?

Almost certainly yes, if you tell us in advance. Vegetarians, vegans, those with gluten intolerances and allergies can almost always be catered for. Feel free to check with us beforehand if you need. 

Do I need to take part in every activity?

Whilst we would love for you to join us in everything you absolutely do not need to!

What are the hotels like?

Really good! On all our flashpacking tours we stay in carefully selected 4 star boutique hotels that are comfortable and full of character. They are centrally located and within 30 mins walking distance of a the train station. They all have ensuites and breakfast included.

How do the room allocations work?

You will be sharing a twin room with another member of the group of the same sex. If you have booked with a friend then let us know so that we can ensure you are paired together. If you have selected a single upgrade then you will get the room to yourself in either a single or double bed.

What are the trains like?

Really good! We have carefully planned the route so that we mostly use direct trains and we include all seat reservations where available, making things as easy as possible for you.

When will I get to meet the group?

We will set up a whatsapp group the week before the trip for people to start to get to know each other if they want to but if not then it will be on the first day of the tour at the hotel.

Do I get free time?

Yes there is plenty of time between activities for you to do your own thing or hang out with the rest of the group. There is always someone around to join you on your explorations!

Are airport transfers included?

No they are not but we are happy to help you find out about public transport from the airport.