Best of Spain
The energetic capital of Madrid, then Toledo, the "City of Three Cultures"; Seville, the famed Andalusian capital; historic Córdoba; Granada, Spain’s most magical city & iconic Barcelona
Overview
Style | Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages
Dedicated tour escorts & guides throughout |
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Departures | March – November 2026 | Group Size | 16 travelers max |
Themes | History & Culture, Grand Tours, Bucket List | ||
Activity Level | Moderate | ||
What to Expect | This moderately-paced, escorted tour includes a reasonable amount of walking up and down stairs, on uneven terrain and requires an average level of physical fitness. This tour also includes a rail journey were you will be required to manage your luggage while in the train terminal and onboard. This tour also includes long scenic drives between destinations and may have limited rest stops. Travel safely and confidently with our new health & safety protocols. | ||
Already booked? | Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more. |
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Set on Europe’s sun-soaked Iberian Peninsula, Spain continues to shine as one of the world’s most captivating travel destinations—and it’s easy to see why. This dynamic country offers something for every traveler: vibrant cities pulsing with life, storybook hilltop villages, centuries-old landmarks, and a coastline lined with golden beaches. World-class museums showcase masterpieces by Picasso, Velázquez, and Dalí, while the streets themselves are a canvas of ornate architecture and historic charm. Stroll beneath the grand archways of Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, take in the modernist elegance of Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia, and marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s surreal creations. In Granada, step into a fairytale as you explore the Alhambra Palace, a captivating example of Moorish architecture set against the Sierra Nevada mountains. And of course, no visit to Spain is complete without savoring unique tapas and local sangria along the way. On our 11-day escorted tour, you’ll experience the very best of Spain—from the capital city of Madrid and medieval Toledo to flamenco-filled Seville, majestic Granada, historic Córdoba, and the artistic heartbeat of Barcelona, with plenty of magical stops throughout.
Package includes
- Flights
- Coach
- Transfers
- Hotel
- Meals
- Guides
- Round-trip flights from New York (JFK) or Newark (EWR) on scheduled carriers, including taxes & fees
- All ground transportation and transfers
- 9 nights accommodations in First Class hotels
- 15 meals: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 4 dinners; plus olive oil and vermouth tastings
- Comprehensive tour program including entrance fees
- Professional, English-speaking tour director and local guides
Optional add-ons
- Flights from other cities are available. Upgrades to Business Class may also be available. Request the gateway or the upgrade during the booking process in the Special Requests section, and we will provide a price based on availability.
Why you'll love it
- Explore the highlights of Madrid, one of the world's most exciting cities.
- Tour Toledo's iconic sites, including its old town and the Church of Santo Tomé.
- Taste locally produced olive oil amongst a grove of ancient olive trees.
- Wander through the Real Alcázar of Seville, one of Europe’s oldest royal palaces still in use.
- Embark on a relaxing evening cruise along the Guadalquivir River.
- See the impressive Mezquita-Catedral during a tour of Córdoba.
- Experience an authentic Flamenco performance.
- Enjoy a tasting of local Iberian ham in Antequera.
- Visit the Alhambra Palace, one of Spain's most treasured World Heritage Sites.
- See the highlights of Barcelona during a panoramic city tour.
- Savor a traditional vermouth tasting, a unique, exclusive experience.
- Explore two of Antoni Gaudí’s creations: the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
Itinerary at a Glance
Dates & Prices
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Depart USA
- Your journey begins this evening as you depart from the USA on your overnight flight to Madrid
Day 2 Arrive Madrid
- Upon arrival, meet your guide and enjoy a panoramic city tour en route to your hotel
- Get to know your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner
Hotel Mayorazgo or similar Dinner
Full Day ItineraryDay 3 Madrid
- See the highlights of Madrid on a walking tour, including Puerta del Sol, the Almudena Cathedral, and Gran Vía
- Explore the Royal Palace, one of Europe's largest and most impressive palaces
- Enjoy traditional tapas alongside a glass of sangria in a bodega
- Spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure
Hotel Mayorazgo or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, set out on a guided walking tour to see the highlights of Madrid, starting at Plaza Mayor, a storied square at the city’s core. Marvel at the ornate facades and intricate balconies that frame the plaza as you walk to Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s beating heart and a popular meeting point for both locals and travelers. Here, stand at Kilómetro Cero—the symbolic center of Spain’s road network—and spot the beloved statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, a proud emblem of the capital. Continue on to the Royal Palace, an architectural marvel whose sheer scale and classical detail reflect Spain’s regal past. Next, head to the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s largest and most impressive palaces, where the grand baroque architecture reflects Spain’s regal past. Adjacent to the palace stands the Almudena Cathedral, a striking structure known for its harmonious blend of neoclassical and neo-Gothic styles. Wrap up your walking tour with a leisurely stroll down Gran Vía, Madrid’s iconic boulevard known for its elaborate theaters, upscale boutiques, and early 20th-century charm. After soaking up the urban buzz, unwind over a traditional tapas lunch paired with sangria in a bodega, then enjoy the rest of your afternoon exploring the city at your own pace.
Day 4 Madrid & Toledo
- Explore Toledo on a walking tour
- Savor locally produced olive oil during a tasting
- Enjoy the evening at leisure
Hotel Mayorazgo or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryToday's journey takes you to Toledo, known as the "City of Three Cultures" for its remarkable history of coexistence among Christians, Jews, and Muslims during the Middle Ages. As you wander its beautifully preserved old town—designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site—you’ll step into a living tapestry of diverse architectural styles and centuries-old traditions. Among the city’s highlights is the Church of Santo Tomé, home to El Greco’s celebrated masterpiece, The Burial of Count Orgaz. This iconic work of art continues to leave visitors spellbound with its dramatic composition and spiritual depth. Later, venture into the scenic countryside surrounding Toledo for a visit to a grove of ancient olive trees, where you’ll savor the flavors of locally produced olive oil during a guided tasting. Often referred to by the Spanish as “oro líquido” or “liquid gold,” olive oil holds a treasured place in the heart of Spanish cuisine and culture. Its rich, smooth flavor and healthful properties make it a staple in kitchens across the country.
After, return to Madrid and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 5 Madrid & Seville
- Transfer to Madrid to board a train to Seville, the capital and largest city of the Andalusia
- Embark on a walking tour of Seville, including Plaza de España
- Explore the Royal Alcázar of Seville, one of Europe’s oldest royal palaces still in use
- Cruise along the Guadalquivir River
Hotel Bécquer or similar Breakfast & lunch
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, transfer to the Madrid train station, Madrid Puerta de Atocha. Board the high-speed AVE train and glide through the Spanish countryside to Seville, a city where Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance influences blend seamlessly into one of Andalusia’s most captivating destinations. After lunch, embark on a guided tour led by a local expert who brings Seville’s history to life through stories and insights. Stop at Plaza del Triunfo to see the Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, and learn how the Cathedral became the world’s largest Gothic church and how the Giralda evolved from a mosque’s minaret to a bell tower.
Next, visit the Alcázar of Seville, one of Europe’s oldest royal palaces still in use. Explore key areas like the Patio de las Doncellas, the Hall of Ambassadors, and several palace gardens, while your guide shares the site's architectural and cultural history. Your tour ends at Plaza de España, a sweeping semicircular masterpiece adorned with colorful tiles and elegant bridges, set against the backdrop of Maria Luisa Park. More than just a square, it’s a celebration of Spanish craftsmanship and identity. After exploring on foot, unwind with an evening cruise along the Guadalquivir River.
Return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 6 Córdoba & Seville
- Travel to Córdoba and enjoy a walking tour, including the Mezquita-Catedral
- Spend time exploring Córdoba at leisure
- Experience a traditional live Flamenco show paired with a tapas dinner.
Hotel Bécquer or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, journey to Córdoba, a city steeped in history and known for its remarkable architectural heritage. Upon arrival, delve into its most iconic monument—the Mezquita-Catedral. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a captivating fusion of Islamic artistry and Christian influence, showcasing centuries of cultural transformation. As you step into the vast prayer hall, your guide will lead you through a mesmerizing forest of striped arches and ancient columns, while sharing the story of the mosque’s conversion into a cathedral after the Reconquista. From the intricately carved mihrab to the soaring Renaissance nave, every detail reflects Córdoba’s unique past. Afterward, return to Seville to unwind before an unforgettable evening of Andalusian tradition. As night falls, immerse yourself in the soul-stirring rhythms of a live Flamenco show, complete with drinks and a tapas dinner.
Day 7 Seville & Granada
- En route to Granada, stop in Antequera and enjoy a walking tour
- Enjoy a tasting of locally produced Iberian ham
- Spend the evening at leisure
Barceló Carmen Granada or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, set off for Granada. En route, stop in Antequera, nestled in the heart of Andalusia. Often overlooked, this hidden gem offers a striking mix of ancient history, dramatic scenery, and cultural depth. On a guided walk, explore its historic streets lined with whitewashed buildings, Roman ruins, and age-old churches, all set against the backdrop of the nearby limestone formations of El Torcal. Your visit includes a tasting of locally produced Iberian ham—an artisanal delicacy deeply rooted in Spanish tradition—accompanied by a light lunch that showcases the flavors of the region. Afterward, continue on to Granada, where you’ll settle in and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Note: The order of activities in Granada is subject to change based on the availability and timing of Alhambra tickets.
Day 8 Alhambra
- Visit the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Enjoy the evening at leisure
Barceló Carmen Granada or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryToday, visit the Alhambra, Granada’s crown jewel and one of Spain’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Perched above the city against the Sierra Nevada mountains, this palace-fortress complex offers a vivid glimpse into the grandeur of Moorish Spain. Explore the intricate halls, tranquil courtyards, and ornate gardens that make the Alhambra a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. As you move through its chambers and admire the delicate stucco work and poetic inscriptions, your guide will bring the stories of sultans, scholars, and centuries-old dynasties to life.
After, return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Note: The order of activities in Granada is subject to change based on the availability and timing of Alhambra tickets.
Day 9 Granada & Barcelona
- Board a short flight to Barcelona
- Enjoy a guided city tour, including the Gothic Quarter, Passeig de Gràcia, and La Rambla
- Savor a traditional vermouth tasting
- Join your fellow travelers for a paella dinner
Gallery Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryToday, take a short flight from Granada to Barcelona and head straight to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Then, dive into the heart of Catalonia with a guided tour. Wander through the lanes of the Gothic Quarter and El Born, marvel at the Passeig de Gràcia, and soak in the lively buzz of La Rambla. Along the way, stop for a traditional vermouth tasting—a beloved Catalan ritual—where you’ll sip this aromatic aperitif and learn about its place in local life.
As the day winds down, gather with your fellow travelers for a paella dinner—a traditional Spanish dish made with saffron-infused rice, fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables. Originally from Valencia, paella is one of Spain’s most iconic and beloved culinary traditions, often enjoyed during festivals and family gatherings.
Day 10 Barcelona
- Explore two of Antoni Gaudí’s creations: the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
- Enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers
Gallery Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItineraryToday, dive deeper into the artistic soul of Barcelona with a guided tour of two of Antoni Gaudí’s most extraordinary creations: the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Begin at the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s magnum opus and a symbol of the city. Still under construction more than a century after it began, the basilica is a masterpiece of spiritual vision and architectural innovation. With the insight of your expert guide, uncover the layers of meaning behind its intricate façades, towering spires, and nature-inspired motifs. Step inside to witness the breathtaking interior, where soaring columns mimic tree trunks and vibrant stained-glass windows bathe the space in kaleidoscopic light.
From there, continue to the whimsical world of Park Güell, perched high on Carmel Hill. This imaginative park is a brilliant fusion of architecture and nature, where Gaudí’s creative genius comes to life through serpentine benches, mosaic-covered sculptures, and playful structural forms. Stroll past the iconic ceramic dragon, explore the columned Hypostyle Hall, and take in sweeping views of the city and coastline from the park’s terraces.
Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner alongside your fellow travelers.
Day 11 Depart Barcelona/Arrive USA
- Transfer to the airport for your return flight to USA
Breakfast
Hotels
In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.
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Trip Details
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What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
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Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
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Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
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Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 8 or older. Your traveling companions must be 18 or older at time of travel.
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Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
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What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
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What should I know about Spain? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.