TWO WEEKS IN SPAIN

About the destination: Bilbao is the capital of Biscay in the Basque Country, in northern Spain. The city is situated on the banks of the Nervión, a tidal river. Bilbao was until the 90s a large, grey industrial town, the economic heart of the Basque Country. But since the opening of a new Guggenheim Museum by the river, the city has become an arty and stylish city and is now a major tourist destination. The main attraction that put Bilbao on the map was the construction of the Guggenheim Museum by Frank Gehry, it is now one of Spain’s most visited attractions. The building is impressive and there are some very interesting sculptures outside the museum and in the atrium. Centred on the Plaza Nueva, a busy and colourful square, and the Santiago Cathedral the old quarter of Bilbao is pretty compact and a walk around its streets doesn't take long. The impressive church of San Nicolas, built in 1743 in honour of the sailors from Bilbao, stands at the entrance to the Casco Viejo. Located in the very heart of Bilbao's old centre, the cathedral of Bilbao is the oldest church in the city and the main Gothic construction in Biscay. Vital and exciting Bilbao is famous for its great food, its culture and its active nightlife.

About the destination: Bilbao is the capital of Biscay in the Basque Country, in northern Spain. The city is situated on the banks of the Nervión, a tidal river. Bilbao was until the 90s a large, grey industrial town, the economic heart of the Basque Country. But since the opening of a new Guggenheim Museum by the river, the city has become an arty and stylish city and is now a major tourist destination. The main attraction that put Bilbao on the map was the construction of the Guggenheim Museum by Frank Gehry, it is now one of Spain’s most visited attractions. The building is impressive and there are some very interesting sculptures outside the museum and in the atrium. Centred on the Plaza Nueva, a busy and colourful square, and the Santiago Cathedral the old quarter of Bilbao is pretty compact and a walk around its streets doesn't take long. The impressive church of San Nicolas, built in 1743 in honour of the sailors from Bilbao, stands at the entrance to the Casco Viejo. Located in the very heart of Bilbao's old centre, the cathedral of Bilbao is the oldest church in the city and the main Gothic construction in Biscay. Vital and exciting Bilbao is famous for its great food, its culture and its active nightlife.

About the destination: Oviedo is a cathedral city, capital of the Principality of Asturias, in Northern Spain. It is indeed an old city, but with the amenities of any modern city. The architecture of Oviedo is charming and attractive, but the city is best known for its delicious Asturian food. Oviedo is today a city with a remarkable international profile through the Prince of Asturias Awards, presented annually at the Campoamor Theatre, and the International Campus, attended by personalities of the highest global relevance. The old part of Oviedo is called the Casco Antiguo. Wander along cobbled streets admiring its beautifully restored buildings and squares. Located in the centre of Oviedo's old quarter, Plaza de la Constitución, along with Cathedral Square, is the most central and important square in the city of Oviedo. The square includes the City Hall and the Church of San Isidoro Real, located at the west end of the Plaza. Nearby we have the equally important Plaza de la Catedral, Cathedral Square. Its highlights are the Gothic Cathedral of Oviedo, the Jardín de los Reyes Caudillos with statues of the Kings of Asturias, and the baroque Palace Valdecarzana and Heredia. We can also see the statue of Ana Ozores, a main character of Clarín’s novel The Regent's Wife. Oviedo is proud of its past but it is also home to modern industry and commerce. Sleek shopping boutiques selling expensive clothing, handbags, and shoes, and other high-quality items line the city streets. Oviedo has its own stadium, as well as theatres, art galleries, and a university. Public parks and fountains also dot the city and provide the locals with a haven from the hustle and bustle of city life. Oviedo is a fine city where old and new not only coexist but flourish together.

About the destination: Since medieval times until the present day, Santiago de Compostela is considered a major destination for pilgrims. This holy city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Located in the far northwest of Spain, 100km north of the Portuguese border, Santiago is the capital of the autonomous region of Galicia. The city is home to Spain’s most famous church. La Catedral is majestic, a harmonious blend of styles and eras beneath two towering towers. Just inside the main entrance is the Pórtico de la Gloria, one of the most outstanding examples of Romanesque sculpture in Europe. Near the cathedral, there is the Museo do Pobo Galego, a museum of the Galician people, housed in the Monasterio de Santo Domingo, which contains replicas of ancient Celtic ruins. Nearly half of Santiago’s population is made up of lively students eager to have a good time. Bars and pubs can be found throughout the medieval streets of the old town and along Calle Santiago de Chile. The nights in Santiago de Compostela have a special light. The moonlight turns the town into a timeless scene where landmarks highlight the city’s most beautiful and nostalgic side. And for those looking for atmosphere, Santiago’s nights are endless.

About the destination: Welcome to Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain! As the capital city, Madrid is a mesmerizing blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone looking to experience the local lifestyle, Madrid offers a plethora of activities and sights that will undoubtedly captivate your senses. Begin your journey at the iconic Puerta del Sol, the bustling central square that serves as the perfect starting point for any exploration. From here, you'll find yourself just a short walk away from some of Madrid's most significant landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll to the Royal Palace, one of the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe, and marvel at its stunning architecture and lavish interiors. Don't forget to visit Almudena Cathedral, located right next to the palace, which offers an impressive contrast of modern and traditional architectural styles. Art lovers should not miss the "Golden Triangle of Art," which includes the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. The Prado houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, while the Reina Sofía is home to Picasso's Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró. The Thyssen-Bornemisza offers an extensive collection that spans from the Renaissance to the modern era, providing a comprehensive overview of Western art history. No visit to Madrid would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to a traditional tapas bar and savor a variety of small plates, from patatas bravas to jamón ibérico. For a more substantial meal, try a cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew that's a local favorite. Top off your gastronomic adventure with a visit to one of the city's bustling mercados, such as Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable pastries. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Madrid's dynamic spirit and endless attractions ensure an unforgettable experience.

About the destination: Seville has a unique hue, this vibrant city is brimming with enchanting traditional architecture in shades of lemons, plums and oranges. The River Guadalquivir flows roughly north-south through Seville. The majority of the city, including the old quarter of Barrio de Santa Cruz, is on the east bank, while the Barrio de Triana is on the west bank. At midnight, spontaneous singing, clapping and guitar playing fill pubs and streets. By day, the diversity of the city’s heritage becomes evident. The Romans, Moors, Catholic Spaniards, and now, throngs of tourists have all tried to claim Seville as their own. Indeed, Seville has never failed to ignite the imagination of newcomers. From the street, the cathedral seems unremarkable; you must go inside to grasp its scale. Massive pillars support the vaulted roof, and the wealth of treasure is fabulous beyond belief. Another major sight of the city is La Giralda, which was the minaret of the Almohad mosque. From the top, there’s a fantastic view of the city across the spiked spires and buttresses of the roof. La Torre del Oro, a symbol of the city, originally covered in golden tiles, watches over the town as it has always done since 1220. Seville at night is wonderful, everything takes on a mystical air capable of hypnotising and if you know how to experience it, you will fall under its spell.