Compare Highlights of Spain by Great Value Vacations vs Highlights of Spain - Classic Group, Winter 2021 2022 Classic Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
4 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 13 days | 9 days |
| Price From | $ 2,705 | $ 2,538 |
| Price Per Day | $ 208 | $ 282 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Self-guided tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Airfare included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Spend 12 nights exploring five different cities of Spain! You'll stay in luxurious hotels, so you can unwind in comfort after a full day of exploring. Visit vibrant neighborhoods, discover whimsical buildings, get a glimpse into Spain's Moorish past, and take a stroll through a picturesque park or two. You'll snack on tapas, see some flamenco, hear Spanish guitar played on the streets, and maybe partake in a siesta or two along the way. Included with your vacation is a hop-on/hop-off bus tour in Barcelona, and private sightseeing tour in Madrid by luxury car- perfect for getting acquainted with these grand cities! |
See the beautiful world of Spain during this 9-day guided tour. Begin in Barcelona, where a Local Expert will lead you along the city’s narrow lanes to the lively Las Ramblas and the Sagrada Família, a basilica built by the architect Antoni Gaudí. Paella was created in Valencia. Later, enjoy a private cooking demonstration at a family-run restaurant while sampling the local flavors. See glorious views of the Sierra Nevada before reaching Granada, where a Local Expert will guide you through one of the most remarkable fortresses ever built: the Alhambra. In Seville, learn the art of flamenco dancing during a private lesson, then be treated to a passionate performance by professionals. Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid with an art historian, who can share the stories behind Spanish masterpieces by artists such as Francisco Goya. |
Day 1 Welcome to Barcelona!
Arrive in Barcelona and enjoy a private transfer to your accommodation! Once settled, activate your hop-on/hop-off bus pass and being exploring this vibrant city. Why not unwind after your flight by staying on the bus path for a full loop and getting acquainted with the city below? For dinner, get acquainted with the flavors of Spain by heading to a tapas bar and rubbing elbows with the locals!
Day 2 Barcelona
Continue using your hop-on/hop-off bus pass today! For your last stop of the day, considering hopping off at the whimsical Park Güell, and exploring the houses covered in vibrantly-color tiles - the perfect spot for a photo opp! In the evening, navigate through the tree-lined street of Las Ramblas, where street performers, flower stalls, and artists peddling their latest wares await. Be sure to stop at the bustling Boqueria market for a bite!
Day 3 Barcelona
Today, embark on an adventure exploring one of Barcelona's most iconic and breathtaking monuments: the Sagrada Familia. You'll need an hour or two to truly appreciate the beauty and grandeur of this eclectic masterpiece. You may also want to explore Antoni Gaudí's other famous works, including Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. At night, experience a show of color, water, and music at the Magic Fountain, which celebrates the city every evening with a dazzling water show - the perfect ending to your time in Barcelona.
Day 4 Barcelona - Valencia
After breakfast, pick up your car and make your way to the historic city of Valencia, a unique blend of tradition with futuristic buildings and quarters. Once you've settled in, head to the modern Cuidad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences), a perfect example of the city's contemporary influence. Inside you'll find a cinema, planetarium, interactive science museum, greenhouse, oceanographic park, and even an opera house!
Day 5 Valencia
Now that you've gotten a taste of the modern side, spend the day exploring the traditional side of the city. Get lost in the historic quarter, where Gothic buildings such as the Llotja de la Seda (silk exchange) await. Be sure to stop by the famous cathedral and ascent to the top of Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city below. In the evening, take a stroll along the harbor and enjoy a freshly caught bite!
Day 6 Valencia - Granada
Make your way southwest to Granada, a city whose Moorish influence can be felt at every street corner and major landmark. Start your adventure in Granada off by hiking to the Mirador de San Nicolas, where you'll enjoy sweeping views of the city and the best views of the iconic Alhambra.
Day 7 Granada
Start your day off with a visit to the Alhambra, a fairytale palace that sits on a hilltop. Then, head back to the center of the city to continue your day of exploring; pay a visit to the breathtaking Granada Cathedral, enjoy a bite at the nearby Bib Rambla plaza, then pick up some souvenirs at the bustling Alcaiceria bazaar!
Day 8 Granada - Seville
After breakfast, make your way to the picturesque city of Seville! Situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Seville enjoys a rich Moorish heritage, with many streets, squares and and historic quarters boasting UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Day 9 Seville
Spend the day exploring the postcard-worthy sights of the city. Discover the secrets of the Alcazar, get lost in the beauty of the Plaza de España, or stumble upon the hidden gems of Maria Luisa Park. Seville is the rumored birthplace of flamenco, so take advantage of Seville's many peñas, or flamenco social clubs - the grand finale includes an opportunity for audience members to hop on stage and join in on the flamenco fun!
Day 10 Seville - Madrid
After arriving in Madrid, drop off your rental car and make your way to your accommodation. Once you've checked in and settled down, head out for a night on the town! Why not start your Madrid adventure off on a sweet note by treating yourself to a serving of the city's most iconic dessert: hot chocolate and churros!
Day 11 Madrid
Start the day off with your private tour of Madrid. You'll visit the Royal Palace, the largest royal palace in Western Europe, then continue onto the Madrid Cathedral. Take a break (and do some people watching) at the Plaza Mayor square, then take the perfect photo in front of the old city gate. You can even get a taste of ancient Egypt at the Templo de Debot. In the evening, head to the city's most vibrant square, Puerta de Sol. The streets will be alive with lights, street performers, and locals heading to their favorite tapas bars for a snack before starting the evening's festivities.
Day 12 Madrid
Pay a visit to Madrid's famous Museum Triangle today, a crossroads where three important art museums await exploration! Explore the Prado Museum, home to masterworks of Goya, Velazquez and El Greco; the 19th century Villahermosa Palace, now the Thyssen-Bornemizsa Museum; or fans of surrealism can visit the Reina Sofia Art Center, showcasing more than 300 modern works by Dali, Miro, and Picasso, among others. Time willing, take a walk through the city's Malasaña district, home to local artists, eclectic boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife. For your last night, get one more fill of tapas; La Latina is a bustling neighborhood known for its overabundance of tapas bars and cocktail lounges!
Day 13 Depart Spain
In accordance with your departure flight, enjoy one final transfer to Madrid Airport (MAD).
Day 1: Welcome to Barcelona
Airport transfers depart from Barcelona airport for your hotel at 09:30, 12:30 and 15:00. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers at 18:00 for your Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 2: Barcelona, the City of Gaudí Relaxed Start
With your Local Expert, see the narrow lanes and old squares behind the cathedral in the Barri Gòtic, Gothic Quarter. See the lively Las Ramblas and then head along the Passeig de Gràcia, adorned with elegant wrought-iron street lamps and some of the most flamboyant Modernist buildings. Continue through the Eixample district for a visit inside Gaudí’s extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, to see the central nave with its giant, tree-like pillars, spectacular vaulting and the beautiful rainbows flooding in through the intricate stained-glass windows. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore or perhaps join an optional experience to Montserrat & The Black Madonna.
Day 3: Along the coast to Valencia Relaxed Start
Follow the sunny Costa Dorada, past the rice fields of the Ebro Delta. Stop at the seaside resort of Peñíscola and see the hilltop castle used in the film 'El Cid'.Pass through the famous orange groves to Valencia and see the City of Arts and Sciences. Later see the Old City and take in its medieval charm.Valencia is home to one of the world's greatest dishes, paella. Meet the chef of a local family-run restaurant in the heart of the Old City and learn how to make this local specialty during a Cooking Demonstration. Later, indulge in the delicious flavours of this classic dish with a glass of sangria at your Highlight Dinner.
Day 4: Exquisite Granada and Alhambra
Travel south toward Andalucía, passing the castle at Lorca and troglodyte dwellings hollowed out of the soft rock near Guadix. Enjoy views of the Sierra Nevada mountains from a distance as you reach glorious Granada. This historic city was a Moorish kingdom for almost eight centuries and was the last stronghold to fall to the Catholic monarchs of Spain in 1492. Overlooking Granada stands the Alhambra, one of the most remarkable fortresses ever built. Led by your Local Expert, explore this exquisite palace, built as a citadel by the Moors in the 13th century. A fantasy of arabesque gardens, fountains and stone cut like lace. Later, stroll through the elegant exotic gardens of the Generalife, the Royal summer residence.
Day 5: A Scenic Drive to Seville
The morning is at your leisure to explore as you wish. Perhaps join an Optional Experience and visit the Albaicin Quarter with a Local Expert. Here, in addition to falling in love with Granada, you will also uncover its pivotal role in European history. Continue your travels to Seville, past gleaming white villages and olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Day 6: Seville, the City of Carmen Relaxed Start
Explore Seville with Insight Choice. Choose to visit Seville’s Cathedral, the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Alternatively, join a scenic drive around the city and a short walk through the narrow lanes of Santa Cruz Quarter to enjoy a refreshing beverage. This evening, visit the Cristina Heeren Foundation, a beneficiary of a TreadRight Foundation grant for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This private dance school is dedicated to promoting the conservation of flamenco and supports young enthusiasts from all over the world with a special focus on new talent from the Andalusian region. Feel the passion behind the choreography as you put your rhythm to the test during a dance lesson before witnessing emotions come to life in a flamenco performance. With some free time for dinner, wander the restaurants in Triana or try the local night market Lonja Del Barranco selling tapas made from fresh, local produce. Why not grab yourself a refreshing sangria for a cheers to your new found dancing feet?
Day 7: Moorish Córdoba and on to Madrid
Set off early along the Guadalquivir Valley, passing villages and towns studded with Moorish towers and fortresses. Stop in the perfectly preserved Moorish city of Córdoba and see the famous Roman bridge, built in the 1st century BC. Meet a local historian and visit the magnificent Mezquita, a beautiful 8th century mosque with a Christian cathedral built inside it. Make the most of your time at leisure and stroll the narrow streets of the city. Follow in the footsteps of Don Quixote as you travel through La Mancha and on to the capital - Madrid.
Day 8: Madrid of the Bourbons Relaxed Start
Enjoy sightseeing with your Local Expert, as they guide you through the most historic neighbourhoods in the Spanish capital. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter to discover the origins of the city. Enjoy a special visit to the renowned Prado Museum with an art historian who will guide you through the collective works of Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens and more. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax at a cafe, shop in the trendy boutiques or perhaps enjoy an Optional Experience and visit beautiful Toledo? In the evening, join your Travel Director and newfound friends at a local restaurant in the heart of the city. Toast to your adventures as you enjoy a delicious Celebration Dinner of regional favourites, served with wine.
Day 9: Depart Madrid
After breakfast, transfers arrive at Madrid airport at 07:00, 09:00 and 11:00.
