Enjoy the quintessential journey through the Basque country, an autonomous community in northern Spain with its own engaging personality. You will explore modern icons such as the Guggenheim Museum and delve into the region’s history in Bilbao’s atmospheric Old Town, the fishing village of Bermeo and Guernica, a city leveled in the Spanish Civil War that has become a world-recognized symbol of peace. An inspired tasting of wines paired with tapas-like pintxos and a river crossing in a unique suspended gondola will enhance your understanding of the area.

DAY 1

After disembarking the cruise ship, you will meet your guide for a relaxing drive through beautiful Spanish countryside You will enter La Rioja wine region and explore the town of Laguardia. This area is abundant in archaeological remains, with Paleolithic, Roman and medieval testimonies. It is worth taking a stroll through Laguardia since its entire center is of artistic and historical interest.

After a guided walk, you will take a short drive towards the hidden gem, Baigorri vineyard, where the harvest is grown in harmony with nature, using both traditional and modern methods. Grapes come from old vines, deeply rooted, are picked by hand and processed in the most delicate way possible, to transform the authentic flavor of nature itself into wine.

During the visit you will have a chance to taste the winery’s offerings along with regional pintxos.

Continuing on, you will be treated to a palatable lunch in the ideal setting to enjoy the finest cuisine along with the wine culture. It will be well deserved moment to rest and relax with views of the vineyards and the barrel cellar.

In the afternoon, you will check into the Artist Grand Hotel of Art. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure.

DAY 2

After breakfast at the hotel, you will enjoy the morning in the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao on a guided visit. The museum is an astonishing example of 20th-century architecture as Frank Gehry used 33,000 ultra-thin titanium plates to create its peculiar curves. Inside, the museum shares a remarkable private collection of modern and contemporary art with New York and Venice.

Afterwards, you will be served a delightful lunch of pintxos, small snacks similar to tapas. They are especially popular in the Basque country.

Continuing on, you will follow your guide towards the Seven Streets, Bilbao’s Old Town. It is one of the most well-known corners of the city with over 700 years of history. The urban core of Bilbao with its many shops, restaurants and bars, expresses the dynamism of the town and mingles well with icons such as the Cathedral and the elegant theatre inspired by the Paris Opera House.

After a full day of touring Bilbao, you will return to the hotel and enjoy an evening at your leisure.

DAY 3

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to Bermeo, a fishing town whose harbor has preserved its traditional maritime charm. Founded in 1239, Bermeo features a historic quarter, old fishermen’s houses, charming streets, squares and an old port, all well worth exploration.

Afterwards, you will drive towards Guernica along the valley of the river Oka, which flows into the Gernika estuary. Nearby is the Urdaibai Nature Reserve, which UNESCO has declared to be a Biosphere Reserve.

The town of Guernica has plenty to offer. You will pass Casa de las Juntas – the meeting hall of the gentlemen of Vizcaya – the Church of Santa María, the Museum of Euskalerria and the Park of Peace, a urban oasis with colossal sculptures by Eduardo Chillida and Henry Moore.

In 1937, during the Spanish Civil War, German aircraft destroyed the town, a horrific act that inspired Picasso’s famed anti-war painting “Guernica.” Today, the town has become a symbol of peace.

Following a lunch of regional specialties at a restaurant in town, you will drive to the nearby Puente de Vizcaya bridge. It is the world’s oldest transporter bridge, yet fully functional, a distinction that UNESCO has declared worthy of a World Heritage site designation. It spans the Nervión River between the towns of Portugalete and Getxo.

After crossing the bridge on a suspended gondola, you will return to the hotel to spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

DAY 4

Following breakfast at the hotel and check out, you will transfer to the airport. Transfers will be based on flight times. See your Welcome Letter for details. For guests with late-departing flights, luggage storage is available at the hotel.

Land Program Details Step by Step

• The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

• Itineraries with up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with updated details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

• The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

• A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

DAY 1

AM Disembark the cruise ship

8:30am Meet your guide at the pier and drive to La Rioja region

10:00am Laguardia walking tour

11:30am Drive to Bodega Baigorri

11:45am Cellar visit and wine tasting

1:00pm Lunch in Bodega Baigorri

3:00pm Return to Bilbao

4:30pm Arrive at your hotel and check in

Overnight at The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

DAY 2

AM Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Meet your guide in the lobby

10:00am Guggenheim Museum visit

1:30pm Pintxos lunch at a restaurant

3:00pm Guided walk of Old Town

4:30pm Drive to the hotel

5:00pm Arrive at the hotel and rest of the evening at your leisure

Overnight at The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

DAY 3

AM Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Meet your guide in the lobby

9:30am Drive to Bormeo

10:45am Walking tour of Bermeo

11:15am Drive to Guernica

11:45am Walking tour of Guernica

1:00pm Lunch at a restaurant in Guernica

2:15pm Visit and cross Getxo bridge

4:00pm Return to Bilbao

4:30pm Arrive at the hotel and rest of the evening at your leisure

Overnight at The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

DAY 4

AM Breakfast at the hotel

TBA Check out from the hotel

Transfer to the airport based on the time of your flight. Should you have a late flight, luggage storage is available at the hotel until your transfer time.

Extra Nights:

•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.

•When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 3:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up-to-date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a later departing flight, you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

Weather

82° F / 60° F

28° C / 16° C

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, sunscreen and a foldable umbrella.

Currency

Euro and credit cards are accepted. USD not normally accepted.

Electricity

220 volt. Adaptor is needed, not available at the hotel. Normally can be purchased in shops or the airport.

Documents and Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required.

Hotel

The Artist Grand Hotel of Art

Alameda de Mazarredo 61, 48009 Bilbao, Spain

Phone: +34 944 253 300

Program includes:

•3 nights at the Artist Grand Hotel of Art (standard room) with breakfast daily

•English-speaking guide

•Local guides for the visits of Bilbao, Laguardia, Bormeo and Guernica

•Entrance fees

•3 Lunches

•1 tasting in La Rioja

•Dinner on Days 2 and 3

Program does not include:

•Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program

•Gratuities to drivers and guides or at restaurants

•Hotel incidentals including room service and mini bar

•Any touring not listed above

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, gravel and natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their situation

Land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change.

Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.

Enjoy in-depth explorations of some of Spain’s most characteristic cities, including Madrid, Toledo, Burgos and Bilbao, where you will see glorious churches, ancient landmarks and extraordinarily beautiful scenery.

NOTE: this program ends in Madrid therefore departure flights need to be booked out of the Madrid International Airport.

DAY 1

After disembarking the ship in Bilbao, enjoy a short panoramic drive from the pier into the city. Upon arrival, you will make your way towards the Guggenheim Museum for a photo stop (outside visit). As you will clearly see, its titanium structure is built in the shape of a ship, truly a work of an art itself, designed by Canadian architect Frank Gehry.

Re-board your coach and drive towards Bilbao’s Old Quarter. This charming city is both modern and dynamic while at the same time, quite traditional with its 700 years of history adding to the ambiance. Leaving your coach behind, you'll enjoy a guided walk around the Old Quarter, the most popular area of the city. Here, you will see the Teatro Arriaga, el Arenal, the old stevedoring port and today one of the favorite promenades of the citizens of Bilbao, the San Nicholas Church, the Cathedral of Santiago along with its cloister, and Plaza Nueva.

Following this walking tour, you will enjoy a typical “Pintxos-style” lunch at a local restaurant.

Following lunch, you will drive to Burgos (2-hours) and check-in to your hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure and dinner is on your own.

DAY 2

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy an enlightening walking tour of the ancient city of Burgos.

Burgos was founded in the year 884, high on a mountain where the ruins of a castle stand today. Celebrated for its magnificent cathedral, this medieval town was an important stop on the Way of Saint James pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela and it was the capital of the Castilla-Leon region from the 10th through the 14th centuries.

Fortunately, Burgos has preserved its charm, as seen in its exquisite monuments, quaint cobblestone streets and shaded promenades. As you meander along, you will see the ruins of the castle and numerous monasteries and churches. Still, Burgos Cathedral, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the highlight.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1221 and wasn’t completed until 1567, so it is a fine example of the evolution of Gothic style, exhibited in its architecture, collection of art, choir stalls, tombs and stained-glass windows. While browsing through the inside of the cathedral, you can’t help but marvel at its many wonders.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before the two-hour drive to Madrid.

Once checked-in to your hotel you will have the remainder of the day and evening at your leisure. Dinner is on your own.

After settling in, you may wish to explore nearby. Enjoy the history and heritage of Madrid visiting emblematic locations such as Plaza de España, Puerta del Sol or the Royal Palace, all just a short walk away.

DAY 3

Following breakfast, you will begin driving toward Toledo, a city so spectacular that Spain has been declared it a national monument. The architecture throughout the city is stunning and includes styles from various epochs, such as Arabian, Jewish, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Medieval. As you walk through the streets, the guide will point out the most impressive examples of the various architectural styles.

Toledo was the hometown of the revered painter El Greco and his works adorn many of the landmarks, including the city cathedral. Finished in 1493 after more than 250 years of sporadic construction, it was inspired by the great Gothic cathedrals of France. Be sure to notice the location of the elaborate choir in the center of the nave.

Other El Greco paintings can be found in the Church of Santo Tomé, including his masterpiece “Burial of the Count of Orgaz.” The 14th-century church is also a magnificent structure, especially its distinct Mudéjar tower. Lord Orgaz funded the construction of the church, which is why El Greco chose him as the subject of his painting that hangs in the church’s chapel.

You will also visit Santa Maria la Blanca, a synagogue built even earlier. Completed in 1203, the synagogue features Islamic influences in its horseshoe arches with Mudéjar decorations and dark-red floor dotted with decorative tiles. Although it resembles a mosque, it was converted into a church in the early 15th century.

After visiting these religious sites and other landmarks, you will enjoy a panoramic drive back to Madrid, Spain’s capital since 1562. Located atop a plateau, Madrid has the distinction of being Europe’s highest capital.

You will gain great insight into the lifestyle as you drive along city streets such as Gran Via, which is lined with early 20th-century architecture. You will also tour the historical Austrias and Borbonnes quarters, during which you will gain an even greater insight into the city.

Reaching the city center, begin a short walking tour from Plaza Mayor (Main Square). Admire the Casa de la Panadería (Bakery House), with its colorful fresco-adorned façade and pass other important highlights such as the Mercado de San Miguel with its distinctive airy iron columns and the Royal Palace, the largest palace in Europe.

Afterwards, you will return to your hotel in Madrid, where you will spend the evening. Dinner is on your own.

DAY 4

After breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and transfer to the Madrid International Airport for your flight home in accordance with the flight details provided.

Land Program Details Step by Step:

•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.

•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.

•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.

DAY 1

9:00am Disembark the ship in Bilbao

9:45am Panoramic drive and photo stop at Guggenheim Museum (Outside visit)

10:30am Drive to Bilbao Old Quarter and walking tour

1:00pm Pintxos-style lunch at a local restaurant

2:30pm Drive to Burgos

4:30pm Check in at your hotel

The remainder of the evening and dinner are at your leisure and on own

Overnight at the Hotel Silken Gran Teatro or similar hotel

DAY 2

8:00am Breakfast at your hotel

9:00am Begin your walking tour of Burgos with local guide, including inside visit to the Cathedral

12:30pm Lunch at a local restaurant

2:00pm Drive to Madrid

4:00pm Arrival to Madrid and check in at your hotel

The remainder of the evening and dinner are at your leisure and on own

Overnight at the Madrid at Hyatt Regency Hesperia or similar hotel

DAY 3

7:00am Breakfast at your hotel

8:30am Departure to Toledo

9:30am Begin your tour of Toledo with local guide (Visits to Cathedral, Santa Maria la Blanca and Sto Tomé included)

1:00pm Lunch in Toledo at a local restaurant

2:30pm Rejoin the coach and drive to Madrid

4:00pm Panoramic drive and short walking tour of Madrid

6:00pm Arrive at the hotel

The remainder of the evening and dinner are at your leisure and on own

Overnight at the Madrid at Hyatt Regency Hesperia or similar hotel

DAY 4

AM Breakfast at your hotel

12:00pm Check out time

Transfer from hotel to the Madrid airport based on your flight schedule.

*For guests with late flights, luggage storage will be available at the hotel until your transfer time

Extra Nights: If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.

Transfers: All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.

Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.

Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.

Expected Weather:

The average daytime temperature in November is 15°C 58.9°F and can drop to 6.9°C 44.3°F in the evening.

What to Bring:

Comfortable and warm clothes as well as good walking shoes, sun protection, umbrella, camera and charger.

Local Currency:

Euro

Electricity:

220 volts. We recommend bringing a travel adaptor for electric devices

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A valid passport is required

Hotel addresses:

Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid

P.º de la Castellana, 57, Chamberí, 28046 Madrid

Phone: +34 912 10 88 00

BURGOS: Hotel Silken Gran Teatro

Avenida del Arlanzón, 8 - 09004 Burgos, España

Tel: (+34) 947 253 900

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•1 night in Burgos at the Hotel Silken Gran Teatro or similar (Comfort Room)

•2 nights in Hyatt Regency Hesperia Madrid or similar hotel (Standard Room)

•Breakfast daily

•Transfers

•English-speaking guide

•Toledo visit: local guide, entrance fees to Cathedral, Santa Maria and Santo Tomé, lunch

•Burgos visit: local guide, Cathedral entrance fee, lunch

•Bilbao visit: Pintxos-style lunch

•Drinks: half bottle of wine and water per person at lunch

Program Excludes for guests:

•Personal expenses

•Incidentals at the hotel including room service and mini bar

•Food and beverage services where not specified

•Porterage at the hotels

•Gratuities to guides and on transfers

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.