Duration: 9 Days
Say, “Hola,” to Spain on this escape to the land of Flamenco music and dance, inviting beaches, and enticing cuisine. Life is a fiesta here, and you can experience it without the crowds—and even better—without the high-season prices. From its world-class art, historical sights, and magnificent cathedrals to its sunny climate and sumptuous cuisine, this is the best way to see the highlights of Spain in a short time! On this Spain tour, you’ll stay overnight in Madrid, Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona. Guided sightseeing and walking tours present you with Spain’s must-see attractions.
History buffs will be delighted by a visit to Seville’s magnificent Casa de Pilatos with its splendid collection of Roman sculptures. In Granada, visit the Alhambra Complex and the Water Gardens of the Generalife, the oldest decorative garden in the Western world. An orientation drive in Valencia highlights Roman, Moorish, and Spanish history. If you’re interested in art and architecture, you’ll be thrilled by a visit to Madrid’s Prado Museum, which houses one of the finest collections of European art over the last 8 centuries. In Barcelona, visit the amazing Sagrada Familia Basilica, the masterpiece of architect Gaudì. But that’s not all…you’ll also enjoy a special farewell dinner with Sangria at a local restaurant in Barcelona. These are just a few of the experiences and sights included on this tour. From the historical sights and beautiful art and architecture to the delectable treats and special experiences, this Spanish Escape is sure to leave you with plenty of memories to share with loved ones back home. So pack your camera and get ready for a marvellous guided Spain holiday at a price that screams, “Let’s go!”
Please note: Itinerary is based on 2024, and is subject to change. Full details will be confirmed in 2024.
Welcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your tour director and travelling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Masterpieces in Madrid
MADRID Guided sightseeing includes the Prado Museum and sights of the Cibeles Fountain, and Calle Alcala. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world's largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.
Treasures of Cordoba
CORDOBA Free time to browse before departing for Seville.
SEVILLE Dinner at your hotel. (B,D) 354mi/570 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Cordoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Cordoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque?s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower - the tallest structure in the city.
The Squares of Seville
SEVILLE Stop at the Plaza de Espana. Guided sightseeing includes Casa de Pilatos and a walk through the Santa Cruz Quarter. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Walk through Seville's picturesque Plaza de Espana, originally built for Seville's Ibero-American Expo at the 1929 World's Fair. The 540,000-square-foot plaza features a sprawling mosaic patio. Explore the historic Santa Cruz quarter and its magical maze of tapas, flamenco, and cafes.
Splendid Spain
GRANADA Guided walking tour includes the Alhambra complex and the Water Gardens of the Generalife. (B) 199mi/320 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada's Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife, at the once summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers.
Views of Valencia
VALENCIA Orientation drive and free time. (B,D) 360mi/580 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Marvel at the architecture of La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (The City of Arts and Sciences) in Valencia. This gleaming, ultra-modern complex is the largest of its kind in Europe, with its strikingly futuristic design mirroring the surrounding water park, and a stunning symbol of the Spanish city, which houses a planetarium, an oceanarium, and an interactive museum.
The Boulevards of Barcelona
Scenic drive along the coast en route to Barcelona. (B) 211mi/340 km
FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE in Barcelona in the footsteps of Picasso through the historic heart of the old city. Indulge in the tradition and tastes of 2,000 years in the Gothic Quarter. Take in the charm and captivating history with a walk down the tree-lined avenue of La Rambla amid the terraces and street performers on Barcelona's famous thoroughfare.
Gaudi's Masterpiece
BARCELONA Guided sightseeing includes sights of the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluna, and a panoramic view of the city and harbour from Montjuic Hill. Visit the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Globus Local Favourite Sangria and farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia stands in Barcelona as a monument to the Holy Family and a testament to the masterwork of Antoni Gaudi. Built on the reliance of donations since the first stone was laid more than 130 years ago, the iconic church remains an unfinished masterpiece and the world's longest-running construction project - slated for completion in 2026 on the 100th anniversary of the architect's death.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
