< Designed Trips

The Trip

Experience the quintessential European summer on this Mediterranean island hop through the best of the Balearic islands and Spain's lively east coast. The journey kicks off on the island of Mallorca, where you'll experience two very different scenes. Start with the turquoise sea, white sand beaches, and rocky coves of the east coast, before moving on to the dramatic Tramuntana mountains, orange groves and pretty pueblos of the west coast. Next, board a short ferry to the neighboring island of Menorca, a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of Spain’s best kept secrets. Explore hidden beaches and taste artisan cheeses cured by the island's unique salt-heavy winds. Finally, swap quiet island life for the vibrant streets of Valencia, Spain’s third largest, but lesser known city. Cycle through the 6-mile riverbed-turned-park, experience a local tapeo (tapas crawl) and sit down to a real Valencian paella - the dish originated here (and only here!). This trip offers a taste of the quintessential European summer scene, with turquoise seas that rival the world’s best tropical destinations, small local villages and authentic cultural experiences in three of our favorite locations in the Spanish Mediterranean. 

The Details

Price: 
  • From $3,355 per person
Duration:
  • 10 nights, 11 days
Inclusions:
  • Highly-rated boutique hotels
  • Transportation within Spain
  • Small-group experiences
  • Curated Spain mini-guide
  • Trip preparation & support
Exclusions:
  • International flights to Spain
  • Meals & activities not listed
  • Travel insurance

The Itinerary

Mallorca
  • Day 1: Welcome to Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic islands, and one of Europe’s best summer destinations, boasting more than 300 days of sunshine per year. Pick up your rental car and drive east, through rural farmland and past ancient windmills, arriving at the resort town of Cala d’Or. This area is not historic, and in many ways, not authentically Spanish. But it is incredibly special, because of a unique geological feature - Cala d’Or sits on a stretch of coastline that’s home to seven consecutive calas (deep rocky coves) each with sandy beaches, pine tree-lined cliffs, and incredibly clear, turquoise sea. Check in and get settled before walking down to the water’s edge for your first dip (of many) in the cool Mediterranean.  
​
  • Day 2: Rise and shine to sunshine and sea breeze before hopping in the car for a short drive to Cala Figuera. This historic fisherman’s village of 577 residents is home to one of the island’ most scenic harbors, and is the jumping off point for your morning boat excursion. With a small group, you’ll cruise to secluded coves, stopping at snorkeling spots only accessible by sea, taking in the limestone cliffs from the water. After, stop for lunch in the picturesque village of Santanyí for a taste of mallorquín cuisine and to browse the specialty ceramics that are made here. The afternoon can be spent walking or swimming from one turquoise cove to the next, cliff jumping or relaxing in the sand in one of Europe’s most beautiful locations. 
 
  • Day 3: Ease deeper into vacation mode with a slow morning and a relaxed breakfast. Spend a few extra hours by the sea, or check out of your hotel and hop in the car for the journey inland toward the dramatic, UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Choose to stop for lunch in the city center of Palma, with its tree-lined avenues, trendy cafes, and monumental cathedral for a taste of city-meets-island life. Or, opt to route through Deià and Valldemossa, picturesque mountain villages famous for their steep cobblestone streets and impressive sea views. Once in Soller, check in to your boutique hotel before boarding the historic 1913 wooden train that connects the inland village to the port and was once used to transport fish to market, and oranges from the valley down to the port. Spend some time at the water's edge - the perfect spot to catch your first sunset on the island’s west coast.
 
  • Day 4: Today is all about the agricultural heritage of the rich Soller valley, often called the ‘Valley of Oranges’ due to its unique coastal microclimate. Citrus cultivation has taken place here for centuries, and after a massive 19th century export to France, the buildings and streets took on a slightly more French aesthetic. After breakfast, walk over to a nearby orchard to learn about the history and traditions of growing oranges. Drink a glass of fresh squeezed O.J. and snack on some of the farm’s homemade artisan products before walking back to town.​ Next, explore a family home and olive mill that dates back to the 16th century and has been producing extra virgin olive oil ever since. Learn about the production of oil using the ancient stone mill before sitting down to a tasting. The rest of the day is free to relax or continue to explore. Head back to the water, strap on your sneakers for a short hike, or order a round of tapas on a terrace in the sun.

Menorca
  • Day 5: Rise and shine in the heart of the honey stone village to the smell of citrus in the air. After checking out of your hotel, it’s a short drive to Port d'Alcúdia on the northeast shore of the island. Drop your rental car and step aboard the 2-hour ferry to the island of Menorca. You’ll dock in Ciutadella, the island's former capital, characterized by its narrow medieval streets and palaces, and your home for the next 3 nights. After checking into your hotel, stroll around the harbor and the old town square. Menorca is by far one of Spain’s best kept secrets, with a quieter, local and more preserved atmosphere. Sit down on a stone terrace and soak up the scene as you share a round of tapas and a cold sangria. 
 
  • Day 6: After a slice of tortilla española, pick up your rental car for the short drive south to some of the island’s most beautiful coves and beaches. Menorca is substantially smaller than Mallorca, and many of its best beaches are natural and only accessible via short walks through the coastal pines to the turquoise water. Grab water and snacks and check out the incredible Cala en Turqueta, or the small resort area of Cala Galdana, where you can take a short, 30-minute hiking path to the gorgeous Cala Macarella and its epic smaller counterpart, Macarelleta. After a day of swimming and exploring, venture over to  Cova d'en Xoroi, a stunning bar built right in a natural cave, for sunset drinks overlooking the sea.
 
  • Day 7: Head inland by taxi to explore the production of Mahón-Menorca cheese, famous for its distinct salinity. This flavor comes from the "wind-salt" effect, when sea salt is carried by northern winds onto the island’s pastures. Visit a traditional finca (farmstead) where you’ll try your hand at making the local cheese, hand pressing curds into cotton cloths, before sampling local varieties alongside traditional cold cuts and oils. After the tour, choose to visit a historic estate for a guided winery tour and a tasting of signature boutique wines. Or, head back to the coast to explore the rocky coves near Ciutadella, including Cala en Brut, with its multi-tiered stone terrace platforms. Spend the rest of your evening relaxing in town, popping in to local boutiques or the historic cathedral before your final Menorcan dinner. 

Valencia
  • Day 8: Check out of your quiet boutique hotel and drive across the small island to the airport for the 45 minute flight to Valencia. After arriving, meet your private driver who will whisk you away to your boutique hotel in the city’s historic center, Ciutat Vella. Welcome to Valencia! Spain’s third largest city gets 300+ days of sunshine per year and is home to a 6-mile long riverbed-turned park, making for a vibrant, outdoor-focused energy. Rather than a standard dinner, meet a local guide and small group to experience the local ritual of la picaeta, the Valencian tradition of sharing small, flavorful plates. Navigate Valencia’s charming backstreets, sampling regional specialties and local wines as you’re introduced to the most historic districts of the city.  
 
  • Day 9: Today is completely free to explore the city at your own pace. Our recommendation? Start at  Mercado Central, the largest covered market in Europe, for a fresh squeezed juice while browsing the stalls where locals shop each day. Next, head to the Valencia Cathedral, which dates back to 1262 and is the location of (what many historians believe to be) the actual Holy Grail.  Or, pop in La Lonja, the original silk trade market that was constructed at the peak of Valencia’s wealth and opulence, or the Church of San Nicolás, with its incredible ceiling frescos. After lunch, hop on bikes and cruise through the Turia park, down to the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences, a modern architectural complex, possibly popping into the Fallas museum to learn about the city’s annual month-long festival that involves building - then burning - massive, artistic monuments. After exploring the city, grab a drink on a rooftop or at one of our favorite local spots before dinner and a good night’s sleep. 
 
  • Day 10: After breakfast, head to the historic-turned-trendy barrio of Ruzafa. The neighborhood’s name stems from the Arabic word for "garden," as it was originally built by an 8th-century prince as a private estate outside the city walls. Head over to the neighborhood Ruzafa market and meet local chefs who will introduce you to Valencian Paella. Browse the market before learning how to create the Spanish dish that originated here (and only here!), including the specific technique of creating the socarrat, the prized caramelized crust at the bottom of the pan. A paella lunch (locals never eat it for dinner!) is enjoyed alongside wine or beer, and often followed by a siesta. Spend your final evening strolling the historic streets of Ruzafa, or the city center, taking in the lively late-night atmosphere that Spain is known for and Valencia masters.
 
  • Day 11: Rise and shine to the buzz of the city center. Drink your final glass of fresh squeezed Valencian OJ before packing up and checking out of your hotel. A private driver will pick you up and take you to the airport for your flight back to the U.S. 

Spain FAQs

Where should I fly in and out for this trip?
We recommend flying into Palma de Mallorca (PMI) and out of Valencia (VLC) for this trip. Although the trip doesn't include flights, we're happy to help with recommendations of the most cost effective and efficient flights from your home airport.
When is the best time to visit the islands?
June through September is the prime window for the islands, offering long, sunny days and ideal water temperatures for swimming. However, the shoulder months of late May and early October deliver slightly milder temperatures and significantly fewer crowds.
Will I have a hard time communicating?
Not at all! While Spanish and the regional languages (Valencian and Catalan/Mallorquín) are the local tongues, English is widely spoken in  hotels, restaurants, and shops. 
HOW MUCH TRAVEL IS REQUIRED?
Although this trip includes four destinations, the travel is quite minimal, with a 1.5 hour drive from Cala D'or to Soller, a 1 hour drive followed by a 2-hour ferry from Mallorca to Menorca, and a 45 minute flight from Menorca to Valencia. 

Pricing & Inclusions

Boutique
  • 4 hotel nights in Mallorca: 
  • 3 hotel nights in Menorca: 
  • 3 hotel nights in Valencia: 
  • 4-day rental car, Mallorca
  • Direct ferry from Mallorca to Menora 
  • 3-day car rental, Menorca
  • Non-stop flight from Menorca to Valencia
  • Roundtrip private airport transfer, Valencia
  • Small-group coastal cove boat tour
  • Orange orchard visit & tasting
  • Historic olive oil mill visit & tasting
  • Farm visit & traditional cheese making
  • Valencia history and tapas tour
  • Paella workshop and market visit
  • Curated destination mini-guide
  • Trip preparation & support

​Exclusions
  • International flights to Spain
  • Meals & activities not listed above
  • Travel insurance

Boutique Pricing
  • From $3,355 per person

​*Pricing based on double occupancy and may vary depending on travel dates and total number of travelers. ​
Luxury Boutique
​Exclusions
  • International flights to Spain and home
  • Meals & activities not listed above
  • Travel insurance

Luxury Boutique Pricing
  • From $4,120 per person

*Pricing based on double occupancy and may vary depending on travel dates and total number of travelers. ​

Optional extras

  • Private half-day boat charter, Cala d’Or, Mallorca
  • Sunset cruise, Soller, Mallorca
  • Wine tasting at a historic estate, Menorca
  • Private half-day sailing trip, Menorca

​​​---
This Designed Trip was developed based on our personal travels, with local contacts, favorite hotels and authentic activities we've
​experienced first-hand.
​---

Ready to Get Started?

FAQs

​WHAT IS A DESIGNED TRIP?
A Designed Trip is a pre-designed travel plan based on our personal, first-hand travel experiences in each destination. As they are pre-designed, our Designed Trips have been created as a turnkey travel option and can be booked and delivered in as little as one week. ​
CAN I MAKE ANY CHANGES TO A DESIGNED TRIP?
Absolutely! Pre-designed doesn’t mean there isn’t any flexibility. Whether you want to shorten or lengthen your trip, switch out a destination or change an activity, let us know. If, however, you want a trip built around your specific desires, a Custom Trip might be more appropriate. We can help you decide, so get in touch.
​HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?
Once you’ve selected your Designed Trip and chosen between a Boutique, Luxury Boutique or Luxury experience, your trip can be booked and delivered in as little as one week. If you would like to make some changes to your trip, such as including an alternative activity, shortening or lengthening your trip, then this can take a bit longer.
HOW DO I KNOW HOW MUCH MY DESIGNED TRIP WILL COST?
Once you have decided on your Designed Trip, your dates, and any adjustments we will provide a personalized itinerary and pricing for your trip. We have included base pricing on each Designed Trip page to give you an idea as to what the final cost might be, but prices can fluctuate depending on time of year and any personalization. Get in touch and we can help.
If you have any other questions, check out more FAQs or send us an email.

DESIGNED TRIPS
CUSTOM TRAVEL
TRAVEL GIFT CERTIFICATES
​​TRAVEL INSPIRATION
BLOG

 CLIENT LOG IN
TRAVELER REVIEWS
PRESS
CONTACT US
​TERMS & CONDITIONS