Best of Spain

Meet your tour director at 5 pm for a welcome drink at your hotel with your fellow travelers. Then enjoy dinner at the hotel, savoring the first tastes of Spanish cuisine. (D)

Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Spain’s capital city on a tour of Madrid. See magnificent sights such as The Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, Gran Via, and Plaza de Espana. Next explore the world-renowned Prado Museum, one of the most important art collections in Europe, with masterpieces from artists like Goya, Velazquez, and El Greco. The rest of the day is yours to discover this friendly, diverse city as you wish. Stroll the elegant shops of the Golden Mile, people-watch in El Retiro Park, or savor the gastronomic delights on offer at the Mercado San Miguel. (B)

Board a train for a scenic, relaxing ride to Córdoba, where you’ll take a walking tour to discover the city’s Roman past and its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish cultures. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the old town, admiring the fusion of Moorish and Christian influences. Visit the magnificent Mezquita Cathedral, a former mosque and a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural significance. Continue on to Seville, where you will dine at your hotel. (B, D)

Discover the enchanting beauty of Seville on a guided city tour, exploring its charming streets and iconic landmarks. Marvel at the grandeur of Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Visit the Flamenco Museum (Museo del Baile Flamenco) to learn about flamenco culture and see a performance of this passionate, rhythmic art form. Your evening is free to dine independently in one of the Old Town’s many tapas bars and restaurants. (B)

Journey through the Andalusian countryside to Granada to discover its rich history and Moorish heritage, set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Then visit the breathtaking Alhambra Palace, a magnificent monument that showcases the artistic and cultural influences of the Moorish rulers who commissioned it in the 13th century. The exquisite details of this UNESCO World Heritage Site include intricately carved stucco, arabesque designs, reflective pools, and lush gardens. This evening, explore Granada on your own; you might visit a tapas bar or take a walk through the historic Albaicin neighborhood, known for its winding medieval streets and picturesque views. (B)

Experience the delights of Spanish wine with a visit to Bodegas Viña Elena for a tour, tasting, and delightful lunch in the vineyards. This family vineyard grows Monastrell grapes along with olives and almonds. En route to Valencia, take a scenic photo stop at the picturesque Albufera, a lagoon known for its fields of rice, first planted by the Moors and now an essential ingredient in paella. In Valencia, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city before a traditional paella dinner. (B, L, D)

Explore Valencia’s futuristic architecture on a walking tour of its City of Arts and Sciences, a spectacular collection of modern buildings housing cultural and scientific institutions. Journey on to Barcelona, where you’ll take a panoramic tour of this exhilarating, artistic city before dining at your hotel. (B, D)

Discover the enchanting Gothic Quarter of Barcelona with a guided walking tour, wandering through its medieval streets and hidden squares. The district was home to Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter, Picasso’s art school, and Antonio Gaudi’s first art project. Visit the iconic Sagrada Familia, an architectural marvel that is Gaudi’s masterpiece. Enjoy some free time to explore Barcelona independently before gathering for a farewell dinner with your group. (B, D)

Your tour ends after breakfast. (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner    >