Hotel Orfila, Madrid
Hotel Orfila hotel is located in a tranquil residential area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A former 14th Century Palace, ... Read more
It’s hard to think of Spain as a single entity. It’s more like an infinite jigsaw. Each region, culture and custom fitting together to create a captivating canvas of pure wanderlust.
Meet the fiercely proud Basque people in the north, discover the Celtic province of Galicia, explore the Moorish architecture of Andalucia and feel the electric energy of Madrid and Barcelona. Spain has enough cultural traditions, architectural sites, natural beauty and tasty tapas to keep travellers engrossed for aeons.
There’s a flavour for everyone in Spain, and Abercrombie & Kent will help you find your favourite. From sultry nights and flamenco in the south to lazy days by the Mediterranean to mountain adventures in the north. Wherever you go, you’ll find beauty abounds in Spain’s landscapes, buildings and, most importantly, its passionate people.
Tailor-Made Journeys
Get an intimate impression of this extraordinary country visiting its most iconic spots and discovering its warm and friendly culture, imposing palace...
Cruises
Embark on a comprehensive western European adventure and enjoy rare experiences, such as a hike on Spain’s ancient Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route...
Small Group Journeys
Join A&K Chairman’s Ambassador Fernando Barroso de Oliveira on a comprehensive adventure encompassing the best of Spain and Portugal, two countries wi...
Small Group Journeys
Explore two countries forever linked to the Moorish culture, flying between destinations via exclusive chartered flights to discover how the Moors sha...
Small Group Journeys
Explore the best of the entire Iberian peninsula on one spectacular journey, discovering how Moors, Jews and Europeans influenced the culture, cuisine...
Small Group Journeys
Discover ancient and modern wonders throughout the Mediterranean, from the art and history of Portugal and Spain to the seaside charms and delights of...
Tailor-Made Journeys
Dreamy one moment and fiery the next, proud neighbours Spain and Portugal offer a smorgasbord of cultural delights.
Contact one of our Journey Designers to start planning your itinerary.
Decades of in-country expertise means our Journey Designers can curate exceptional activities and experiences for you that are beyond the reach of the average traveller. Piece these together as a framework for your own bespoke adventure or find them in our featured journeys.
Travel back in time to the medieval grandeur of the Alhambra, the palace fortress of the Nasrid sultans and heart and soul of Granada. Let your expert guide reveal the magnificence and might of the splendid Moorish architecture as you explore the soaring Royal Palace, fortress complex and famous gardens.
In the hip coastal enclave of Valencia, home of paella, join a local chef and explore the history and preparation of this iconic regional favourite, learning how a humble dish of rice, chicken, seafood and vegetables becomes a national delicacy when simmered over a smouldering wood fire in the giant pan for which it is named.
Secluded in the fertile plains southwest of Barcelona, the Penedès wine region is the home of cava and produces some of the world’s finest. Hop aboard a bike and pedal your way through the vineyards, pausing to visit two charming bodegas for a tour of the cellars and, of course, tastings of Spain’s famous sparkling wine.
This culinary hot spot on Spain’s Basque coast is framed by golden beaches and wooded hillsides. It boasts grand architecture, a dynamic surf culture and an array of festivals and cultural events. It is also second in the world for the highest number of Michelin stars per square metre with a vibrant pintxos tradition and lively bar scene.
Experience the living heritage that is flamenco. Begin with a warm welcome at a local studio, including a glass of wine and a Spanish tapa, as you listen to an expert guitarist and a singer. Then, take to the floor with a top instructor and learn some of the dance’s simpler steps, along with tips for playing the castanets.
Discover San Sebastián’s epic pintxos tradition on a trail through the narrow streets of the old town with your guide picking out an array of these small Basque tapas from fresh prawns, cod and squid to succulent veal, pork, mushrooms and white asparagus paired with pours of cider, beer and local wines.
Hotel Orfila hotel is located in a tranquil residential area, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A former 14th Century Palace, ... Read more
The Hotel Alfonso XIII was created in unique Andalusian style for the Exhibition of the Americas in 1928 and was opened by King Alfonso X... Read more
A well-known city landmark, El Palace Hotel has been through all of the remarkable events which have affected Barcelona during the last c... Read more
Spain’s Mediterranean climate brings hot, dry summers (June to August) and cool, wet winters (December to February, making spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) the best time for exploring Spain in all its glory.
Spring is synonymous with warm weather and abundant fiestas, as well as the celebrated Semana Santa (Holy Week) festivities. It’s easy to fall in love with Spain when almond blossoms cloak terraced hillsides. The countryside is not the only thing in full swing, with cities like Madrid and Barcelona bursting to life with colour and charisma.
Pleasant temperatures, the start of wine harvest and thinning crowds make autumn sightseeing the most enjoyable. Sip a delicious local drop as you drink in the colour-changing landscapes around you.
Spanish summer heat can be overbearing, but if you pack light clothing and travel at a leisurely pace, a summer visit can be idyllic. Explore dreamy coastal towns and visit lively tapas bars, luring you in for another serving of Iberico ham, patatas bravas or sizzling garlic prawns.
Each region of Spain could be its own country. Spain is made up of seventeen semi-autonomous regions, each with a traditional culture and language. In Barcelona, the people speak Catalan; in San Sebastián, they speak Basque; and in Galicia, they speak Galician. Although everyone can speak Spanish, they’re fiercely proud of their native tongue and traditions.
Spain is not your typical European holiday
Cultural curiosities unfurl as you travel around Spain on one of our luxury small group journeys or on your own a bespoke private itinerary. Whether you’re travelling with a close friend, your life partner or a multi-generational family group, you’ll be amazed by what’s in store.
Although situated in Europe, sometimes Spain can feel more like northern Africa – and not just because of the heat. Striking Moorish architecture is a marked change from the classical architecture of Europe. The Alhambra in Granada, the Mezquita in Córdoba and the Real Alcázar in Seville are three unmissable gems.
Enjoy the contrasts of Spanish, European and African culture by combining your Spanish sojourn with a trip to Portugal, Italy or Morocco.
Enjoy a few cultural clichés
Wander into a bar in Seville or Granada, and you’ll likely witness a spontaneous flamenco show. Expertly picked guitar strings invite others to sing along. Then, of course, the dancing begins. Indulge in a Tempranillo rosé or a full-flavoured sangria while stopping in at one of the many tapas bars. Devour storied Iberico ham – a traditional delicacy that shouldn’t be missed. And the best bit, you can have a guilt-free afternoon nap. Siestas are expected between the hours of 2 pm and 4 pm. Outside of Barcelona and Madrid, you might find shops and businesses closed at this time, so you might as well join in.
Spain has lively cities and stunning countryside
Experience the culture and nightlife of Barcelona. Explore the heartland of Flamenco in Seville. And discover a world of art in Bilbao, Madrid and Valencia. But don’t just stay in the cities. Visit Ronda, the magical rocky outcrop that inspired Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway. Witness the beautiful vineyards of Rioja, the mountains of Málaga, the high cliffs of Galicia and pristine coves with not a sunbed in sight.
We pride ourselves on being able to craft immersive journeys that take you into the heart of a destination. Handpicked accommodation enriches your stay and allows you to rest your head in the lap of luxury. In Spain, that means waking up in grand palaces, chic urban establishments and atmospheric rural boltholes.
Hotel Alfonso XIII
In the heart of Seville sits one of Spain’s most prestigious hotels. Commissioned by King Alfonso XIII to give court guests the world’s most luxurious hotel, the architecture and atmosphere are palatial. More recent renovations reflect the Moorish culture of southern Spain. Decorative arches, intricate tilework, peaceful courtyards and stately rooms are enhanced by warm colours, dark wood and sumptuous fabrics.
El Palace Hotel
Opened by César Ritz – the king of hoteliers and hotelier to kings – El Palace is a luxury hotel on a grand scale. Located in the centre of Barcelona, just a short walk from Las Ramblas and the renowned shopping district, this 5-star hotel is a prestigious symbol of Spain’s tradition of exceptional hospitality. Step into a bygone era of marble columns, crystal chandeliers and gold fabrics that reflect an elegant opulence. Some rooms have the original Roman baths and antiques hand-picked by Ritz himself.