Classic Spain – Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona

After breakfast, we’ll head to Madrid’s historic center for a stroll through the Spanish capital. We’ll visit the city’s most historic square, Plaza Mayor, an architectural gem steeped in history. Next, we’ll visit the city’s most famous square, Puerta del Sol, and the covered San Miguel Market, a must-visit for anyone who loves good food. Free time for a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the old town or for a meal of tapas. For art lovers, we recommend a visit to the "Golden Triangle of Art," home to the Prado, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

Those who wish may join us on an optional excursion to Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During our visit, we will see the imposing Roman Aqueduct from the 1st century AD, the famous Alcázar of Segovia, one of Spain’s best-preserved castle-palaces, the historic Jewish quarter, and the impressive Cathedral. At the end of the visit, we’ll have free time in the old town for a stroll or lunch, where you can try the traditional roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado). Overnight stay in Madrid.

Breakfast, followed by a departure for Spain’s most historic city, medieval Toledo. The city of three cultures, where El Greco lived and created his masterpieces. We will wander through the narrow streets of the medieval city and visit the Cathedral, where we will see priceless paintings by El Greco, Titian, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Next, we will visit the Church of St. Thomas, where we will admire El Greco’s most significant work, “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.” Descending toward the Jewish quarter, we will come across the great painter’s house. We will then depart for the Mediterranean coast, where we will visit Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia, the birthplace of the famous “paella.” Arrival in the afternoon, transfer to the hotel, check-in, and overnight stay in Valencia.

After breakfast, we’ll set out for a guided tour of Valencia. We’ll pass through the old town, where we’ll see City Hall, the Lonja de la Seda silk exchange (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Palace of the Marquess of Dos Aguas. We’ll walk through the market and end up at the Valencia Cathedral, which is believed to house the authentic Holy Chalice. Next to the Cathedral, we’ll see the Miguelet Tower, a symbol of the city. During our walk, we’ll also see the vast Arenas Beach and the City of Arts and Sciences, the impressive complex designed by Santiago Calatrava. We will then depart for Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia. Transfer to the hotel, check-in, and overnight stay in Barcelona.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a panoramic tour of Barcelona. We will head to Montjuïc Hill, where we will admire the panoramic view. We will see the Olympic Stadium, the Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol), and Plaza de España with its Magic Fountain. Crossing Passeig de Gracia, we’ll admire Antonio Gaudí’s two most famous houses, the Batlló and Milà apartment buildings. We’ll continue to the imposing Sagrada Família, which we’ll view from the outside. Next, we’ll visit the famous Park Güell with its iconic mosaic salamander (El Drac).

On our way to the old town, we will pass by the Arc de Triomphe, the Olympic Village, and La Barceloneta. The tour will conclude with a walking tour of the El Born district and the Gothic Quarter. Passing through the famous Rambla, we will see the renowned La Boqueria market and the Cathedral. Our tour will end at Plaza Real. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Barcelona.