Enchanting Catalonia: Medieval Villages, Cities, & Sea

From $2,235 pp

  • Duration

    6 days
  • Bookable From

    March - November
  • Trip Style

    Privately Guided
  • Country

    Sustainable Travel in Spain
  • Physical Rating

    Very Easy

Overview

Experience the best of Catalonia on this incredible journey through enchanting medieval villages and classic cities, and along the Mediterranean Sea.

Visit Catalonia's largest and capital city Barcelona, as well as Girona, L'Estartit, and Pals, where the rich history, stunning coastlines, and cultural wonders await. Indulge your senses, create lasting memories, and fall in love with the vibrant spirit of this extraordinary region. Let Catalonia's allure captivate your soul!

Highlights

  • Discover the history and secrets of the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona
  • Stroll through the fascinating city of Girona (plus an optional tapas tour)
  • Learn about a local project that promotes sustainable fishing in L'Estartit
  • Fall in love with the medieval village of Pals
  • Delight yourself with a dinner in an inclusive social project

Join us on a remarkable journey that will take you to the heart of Spain's northeasternmost region, exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the charming beauty of Girona, the coastal allure of L'Estartit, and the enchanting village of Pals.

In Barcelona, prepare to immerse yourself in a city that effortlessly blends historical grandeur with avant-garde marvels. Marvel at the Gothic Quarter's labyrinthine streets - every corner of Barcelona is bursting with cultural treasures!

Venture north to Girona, a hidden gem that will sweep you off your feet with its medieval charm. Explore the well-preserved Jewish Quarter, cross the iconic Eiffel Bridge, and lose yourself in the narrow alleys of the Old Town.

The city of Girona's rich history and medieval architectural marvels will transport you back in time with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings.

Next, head to the sun-kissed shores of L'Estartit, where pristine beaches meet crystal-clear waters. In the Natural Park Montgrí and Medes Islands, you will visit a local project to promote sustainable fishing methods.

Last but not least, discover the idyllic villages of Pals, a hidden treasure nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills. It's truly a medieval gem that will leave you awestruck.

Seasonal Notes

This trip is bookable between March and November.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the best periods to visit Catalonia. During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable, with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.

Special time to visit: From May 11-19th, 2024, there is a flower festival in Girona ("Temps de Flors"). Dates adjust each year.

In June, the temperatures start to rise, but it's still relatively less crowded compared to July and August and can also be a nice time to visit Catalonia. September offers similar advantages, with warm weather and fewer tourists.

July and August are the peak summer months in Catalonia. During these months, the temperatures can soar, especially in Barcelona and along the coast. Additionally, these months attract a large number of tourists, resulting in crowded beaches, popular attractions, and higher accommodation prices. If you prefer to avoid large crowds and extreme heat, it's advisable to plan your visit outside of these months.

Itinerary

Day 1 Barcelona [Spain] (arrival day)

Arrive at the Barcelona airport, where a private transfer will accompany you to your accommodation.

After dropping off your luggage at your accommodation, explore the city at your own pace.

Accommodation: 2* Hotel/B&B
Meals: None

Day 2 Delve into Barcelona's Culture

After breakfast, you will have a guided tour to discover Barcelona's Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), the emblem of the city, and a historic treasure trove. It will be a journey through time as you discover the atmospheric neighborhood's culture, traditions, mysteries, and secrets of medieval Barcelona.

In the afternoon, you'll have free time to discover what this enchanting city has to offer. You'll likely want to visit notable attractions such as Park Guëll, Casa Milà, Casa Batllò, the Picasso Museum, Las Ramblas, La Boqueria Market, the Camp Nou football stadium, and Tibidabo amusement park.

Accommodation: 2* Hotel/B&B
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Barcelona - Girona

In the morning, make your own way to Barcelona train station, and then take the train to Girona. Upon arrival leave your luggage at the hotel, and begin to discover the city on your own with our expert suggestions.

Girona is known for its colorful houses lining the Onyar River, its Gothic cathedral, its Jewish Quarter, and its thriving culinary scene, among other things! (It was also a filming location for Game of Thrones...)

Optional activity: An evening tapas tour. Embark on a guided walking tour through Girona to try some of its best tapas bars and dining establishments (additional cost).

Accommodation: 3* Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 L'Estartit & Sustainable Fishing; Pals

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the Natural Park Montgrí and Medes Islands, where you will visit a local project to promote sustainable fishing methods. Through the installation of natural cuttlefish beds on the beautiful seabed of the Medes Islands, they reproduce the natural ecosystems of cuttlefish and squid breeding, which are then consumed in local restaurants. You will have the opportunity to taste their products at lunch in a nearby restaurant.

In the afternoon, you will head to the beautiful medieval village of Pals. As we approach Pals from a distance, we'll see the silhouette of its walls embracing the village on the horizon. Notably, we'll see its church and the majestic Tower of the Hours, one of the few remaining vestiges of the ancient castle that has become an iconic, medieval emblem of the village.

Accommodation: Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 Pals - Barcelona

After breakfast, you will have free time to stroll through the narrow cobbled streets of the medieval village.

In the afternoon, a private transfer will take you back to Girona where you will take the train back to Barcelona. The trip is coming to an end!

Tonight, you will have dinner in a very special place. It's a unique space where, through gastronomy, a project of social inclusion and support for migrants who come to the city and need to be trained in a profession such as hospitality is being developed.

Accommodation: 2* Hotel/B&B
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 Barcelona [departure day]

At the needed time, a private transfer will take you to the Barcelona Airport for your return flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Customization

This itinerary is customizable upon request. Please contact us to adjust the length, route, or activities.

Route Map

A route map showing the way travelers will go on the Enchanting Catalonia tour in northeastern Spain, from Barcelona, to Girona, Pals, L'Estratit, and back to Barcelona.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • 5 nights in shared double rooms in 2* & 3* accommodations

  • Breakfast always included

  • Private transfer from Barcelona Airport to Hotel (Days 1 & 6)

  • Private guided visit to Barcelona's Gothic Quarter (Day 2)

  • Train tickets from Barcelona to Girona (Day 3)

  • Private transfer from Girona to L’Estartit (Day 4)

  • Lunch in L’Estartit (Day 4)

  • Private transfer to Pals (Day 4)

  • Private transfer to Girona (Day 5)

  • Train tickets from Girona to Barcelona (Day 5)

  • Dinner in the social project in Barcelona (Day 5)

  • Tour assistance during the trip

  • International flights

  • Meals and beverages not specified

  • Transport not specified (i.e. between hotel & train station on Day 3)

  • Tips

  • Personal expenses

  • Travel Insurance

  • Cancellation insurance

Pricing

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

  • Deposit per person

    30% of the trip price

  • Shared Room - sleeps 2 - price per person

    $2,235

Optional Add-ons

  • Tapas Tour in Girona: $150 pp

Sustainability

For over 14 years, we have stood at the forefront as an incoming agency specializing in responsible tourism, setting the standard for sustainable travel experiences. With our unwavering commitment to sustainability, we have obtained certification from renowned organizations such as Travelife and Biosphere, and we are diligently renewing our certifications to guarantee our ongoing dedication to responsible travel.

Now, we are also members of ATTA (Adventure Travel Trade Association). Moreover, we take immense pride in our partnership with the Ecotourism Club in Spain, positioning us as an esteemed agency in the country. Our reach spans the entire Spanish landscape, offering a diverse range of sustainable trips, ecotourism adventures, and climate-friendly experiences.

Experience Spain like never before, guided by our expertise and passion for responsible travel. Join us as we redefine the boundaries of sustainable tourism, enveloping you in an unforgettable journey that leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the people we encounter.

Environmental Initiatives

  • Lower carbon emissions by using public transportation between the bigger cities.
  • Support a sustainable fishing project. Travelers will be collaborating in making possible a unique project in the world that is benefiting the environment, artisanal fishermen, the local society, and the community.

Economic Initiatives

  • Our suppliers are all local, small companies.
  • We select small hotels and avoid hotel chains.

Sociocultural Initiatives

  • We support local communities by choosing locally owned companies.
  • We pick and support projects that have a social impact: the sustainable fishing project collaborates with local fishermen, and the solidarity gastronomic project creates opportunities for social cohesion in Barcelona.

Health & Safety

Be sure you have traveler's insurance.

FAQs

What does the Physical Rating of "Very Easy" mean?

It means that no prior physical preparation is required.

What are the hotels of the trip like?

The accommodations are small 2* hotels or B&Bs. They reduce single-use plastic, they use energy-saving light bulbs. In Pals, you will stay in a boutique hotel.

Can I get around on my own, if I don't speak Spanish?

Of course, since tourism is an important industry for the country, you'll find that locals speak English at all major hotels and most restaurants throughout the country, especially in the cities. Although, some basic Spanish could be helpful in rural areas or the countryside.

How do I get from one place to another?

On this trip, you will travel from Barcelona to Girona and return by train. Between the other destinations like Pals and L'Estartit, you will have a private transfer.

Inquire Now

Related Trips

We proudly partner with wanderwell, a B-Corp-certified travel insurance agency and 1% for the Planet member.

Request a FREE quote for Trip Protection or Travel Medical coverage.

Book Insurance Now