Spain's Classics
9 nights from $2,689 per person
- Included:
- Accommodation
- Dedicated Tour Manager
- Selected excursions & meals
- In resort assistance & 24 hour contact center
Overview
An 11-day escorted tour of the most beautiful and historic sites of Spain, a truly classical tour. You will travel against a backdrop of orange groves and vineyards, of mountain ranges and sunny Mediterranean shores. You will visit the immense historic complex of the Alhambra, see the priceless treasures of the Royal Palace and see the third largest cathedral in the world – the Cathedral of Seville. You will experience Spanish culture with a flamenco show and a paella experience, you will see how precious Lladro figurines are made by hand and marvel at Gaudi’s unique architectural masterpieces (CL)
Highlights
- Explore magnificent Madrid with a locally guided tour of its historic centre and the majestic Royal Palace, Europe’s second largest palace
- Guided tour of the UNESCO site at Toledo, with its magnificent Gothic cathedral and 13th century cathedral
- In Seville enjoy a dinner of regional cuisine and reserved seating at a flamenco show featuring top performers from the region
- Visit the world-famous Alhambra the immense historical palace and stunning Generalife gardens
- Enjoy a “paella experience” including a boat ride and cooking demonstration, followed by paella lunch
- Discover the wonderful city of Barcelona with its inspiring architecture and vibrant boulevards
Details
Day 1
Madrid
Begin your tour this evening with a welcome dinner to meet your fellow travellers
Dinner included
Day 2
Madrid – Royal Palace – Toledo – Madrid
Today you will enjoy a locally guided tour of Madrid’s historic center, including the Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor where key events in the city have been held since the 17th century. You will also have a guided tour of the monumental 18th century Royal Palace where you will discover majestic halls, banquet rooms, royal armoury and throne room. In the afternoon you will travel to Toledo the capital of medieval Spain until 1560. Here you will see the 13th century synagogue and the magnificent Gothic cathedral. You will also have the opportunity to view El Greco’s masterpiece – the painting The Burial of Count Orgaz, when you visit the Church of Santo Tome.
Breakfast included
Day 3
Madrid – Cordoba - Seville
This morning you will travel to the extraordinary city of Cordoba – the seat of Europe’s first university. The centre of this historic city is a UNESCO world heritage site, and includes a well-preserved old Jewish Quarter that you will be able to explore. The highlight is the Mezquita, an architectural marvel built by the Moors in the 8th century as a magnificent Mosque and converted in the 16th century into the city’s cathedral. Later you will transfer to Seville – considered to be Spain’s cultural capital.
Breakfast included
Day 4
Seville
Today you will see the magnificent Cathedral of Seville, the impressive Giralda Bell Tower and the tomb of Columbus. You will enjoy a walking tour of the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter with its whitewashed buildings and winding streets, continuing on to breathtaking Plaza de Espana and the beautiful Maria Luisa Park. This evening you will enjoy a flamenco show along with dinner of regional specialities.
Breakfast and dinner included
Day 5
Seville - Granada
Travel through the spectacular Sierra Nevada National Park to Granada – the last great capital of the Moors before it fell to the Catholic monarchs in 1492. You will be guided by a local expert around the world-famous Alhambra – the colossal hilltop palace. Also tour the Generalife – The Architects Garden – the beautiful grounds next to the Alhambra filled with waterfalls, courtyards and secret gardens, where the Royal Family retreated to away from the official affairs of the palace.
Breakfast and dinner included
Day 6
Granada - Valencia
Travel north to the Mediterranean coast through rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Arrive in the historic city of Valencia where you will spend the next two nights, a treasure trove of Arabic and Roman architecture, surrounded by citrus groves.
Breakfast and dinner included
Day 7
Valencia – Lladro – Paella Experience - Valencia
View the impressive City of Arts and Sciences before you take a walking tour of historic Valencia featuring the elaborate 14th century Serranos Tower and striking 15th century Quart Tower. You will also see the vibrant central market and view the Gothic Cathedral dating back to 1262. Next visit Lladro City of Porcelain and discover the history and creative process of the handmade Lladro figurines. Visit the area where paella originated, and enjoy a “paella experience” featuring a boat ride on the canals surrounding rice field plantations, a visit to a traditional fisherman’s home known as barraca, a paella-making demonstration and an authentic paella lunch. The rest of the day is yours to relax in this fascinating city
Breakfast and lunch included
Day 8
Valencia - Barcelona
Today you will continue north to one of Europe’s most exciting cities – Barcelona. You have the afternoon free to explore the city’s fascinating boulevards including Las Ramblas lined with colorful bird and flower stalls.
Breakfast included
Day 9
Barcelona
Today you will experience a locally guided city tour showcasing the Columbus Monument, Parc Motjuic and several of Antonio Gaudi’s UNESCO sites such as La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell and the amazing Casa Batllo. This evening you will enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers to toast the end of your Spanish Experience.
Breakfast and dinner included
Day 10
Barcelona
Your tour ends
Breakfast included
What's Included:
- 14 meals - 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 4 dinners
- 9 nights accommodation*: Madrid 2 nights Hotel Melia Galgos; Seville 2 nights Hotel Melia Sevilla or Melia Lebreros; Granada 1 night Hotel Melia Granada; Valencia 2 nights Hotel Tryp Oceanic; Barcelona 2 nights Hotel Colon
- Dedicated Tour Manager
- Sightseeing as described in the above itinerary
* On some dates alternate hotels may be used
With offices in UK and Ireland, we have the experience and resources to provide you with the very best vacation, partnering only with the most reputable coach operators to ensure you have a truly great touring experience.