8-Nights The Best Of Spain from $2,299
Globus
OFFER ID 1515292
Although you might be enthralled with the idea of the Spanish siesta-the customary post-lunch nap to escape the midday heat-you’ll want to think twice about catching any afternoon Zzzs on this dreamy introductory tour of Spain. Otherwise, you’d miss all the sunny sights this 9-day vacation to Spain has in store. From Madrid’s art-filled Prado Museum to Barcelona’s tree-lined La Rambla, we show you the country’s top must-see sights, indulging in pans of zesty paella, and pitchers of tangy sangria along the way. While you’ll treat yourself to the fresh catches from the sea, the olives from the hills, and the wine from the lush river valleys; it’s sights such as Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex, Seville’s over-the-top Plaza de España, and Barcelona’s unparalleled Sagrada Familia Basilica that are a feast for the eyes.
8 nights from $2,299 per person
Itinerary Details
The Best Of Spain
Day 1 ARRIVE IN MADRID, SPAINWelcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
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Day 2 MADRID 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.
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Day 3 MADRID–CORDOBA–SEVILLE Treasures of Cordoba CORDOBA Guided walking tour includes the Mosque of the Caliphs. Enjoy free time to browse before departing for Seville. (B,D) 354 mi / 570 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba 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.
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Day 4 SEVILLE The Squares of Seville SEVILLE Visit Plaza de España. 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 España, 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 cafés
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Day 5 SEVILLE–GRANADA Splendid Spain GRANADA Guided walking tour includes the Alhambra complex and the Water Gardens of the Generalife. (B)
155 mi / 250 km
NOTE:
Day 5 Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed
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.
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Day 6 GRANADA–VALENCIA Spanish Specialties VALENCIA Guided walking tour includes a photo stop at the science complex and a traditional Horchata (drink made from tiger nuts) tasting. [LF] Enjoy a traditional Paella dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
311 mi / 500 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Enjoy an authentic Spanish paella dinner in Valencia. Traditional Paella Valenciana is made with chicken and sweet paprika and golden saffron in a slow simmered broth for a sumptuous, heart-warming hallmark of traditional Spanish cuisine.
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Day 7 VALENCIA–BARCELONA The Boulevards of Barcelona Scenic drive along the coast en route to Barcelona.
BARCELONA Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. (B)
211 mi / 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.
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Day 8 BARCELONA Adiós, Barcelona! BARCELONA Guided sightseeing includes the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and panoramic view of the city and harbor from Montjuïc Hill. Visit the Sagrada Familia Basilica. [LF] Enjoy Sangria and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Say farewell to Spain with Sangria and culinary specialties at a local city center restaurant. Often considered the signature drink of Spain and taking its name from its “blood red color”, Sangria’s origins are thought to go back to Roman times, when it was simply wine added to water. Since then, the recipe has been revisited many times and there are many delicious local variations. Tonight, lift your glass for a toast to your Best of Spain tour.
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Day 9 BARCELONASafe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
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Excursions
Spain: Valencia Highlights Tour - 5 hours
Spain: Valencia Highlights Tour - 5 hours
Nestled along the sunny Costa Azahar the orange blossom coast lies the beautiful, city of Valencia, where ancient history meets modern innovation and everything in between.
Your private bilingual guide will pick you up and show you the secrets of the famous City of Arts and Sciences, taking you past the original, medieval city gates, among other historical and emblematic sites, before you enter the bustling, pedestrian historic city center where you’ll find ancient Roman ruins at the L’Almoina underground archeological museum. You’ll also visit La Lonja Silk Exchange, our prized UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s greatest examples of gothic architecture.
You´ll also see and hear the stories of the Basilica in the Plaza de la Virgen, as well as the Cathedral and many of our city plazas such as the main Plaza Ayuntamiento, where locals and tourists gather together for business and leisure. Your guide will help you expertly maneuver the busy Mercado Central, where locals buy and sell fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, wines and more.
After all that exploring, you’re sure to work up an appetite. it's time to stop to taste the famous Horchata drink with the sweet traditional fartons.
What's Included?
- 5-hours private guided tour
- Entrance to 2 monuments
- Snack
- Transportation during the whole tour in private taxi
- Meals or drinks not mentioned
- Souvenirs
Highlights of Valencia (4 hours)
Highlights of Valencia (4 hours)
Highlights:
Admire the remarkable riverside designs of renowned contemporary architect Calatrava en route to the 15th century Silk Exchange of the Llotja. Stop for a glass of horchata en route to the beautiful Gothic cathedral, where the supposed Holy Grail is treasured.
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Excursions
Granada with Flavors of Sturgeon (Optional Dive In)
Granada with Flavors of Sturgeon (Optional Dive In)
Overview: Immerse yourself in a private guided visit to the world's first certified Organic caviar farm, nestled in a serene village in the mountains. Experience the thrill of diving into a sturgeon pool with the utmost safety and guidance led by our expert technicians. Prepare to be enchanted by an exclusive tasting session, where you can relish the distinct flavors of the organic caviar, promising a gastronomic journey like no other.
Duration: 3 Hours
Excursions
Historic Influences of Seville (8 hours)
Historic Influences of Seville (8 hours)
Highlights:
Explore the vibrant heart of Andalucía during your full day shore excursion today. You receive a warm greeting by your driver at the port in Cádiz prior to your private transfer to Seville (a 2-hour journey approximately). Upon arrival, you will be met by your expert guide who will take you on an absorbing walking tour.
Visit the 15th-century Cathedral, one of the most breath-taking in all of Christendom. Your guide also shows you Seville's most famous monument, the Moorish tower of La Giralda. Other highlights of your tour include the Alcazar, a magnificent 14th-century Mudejar palace and the labyrinth of streets and squares of the Barrio de Santa Cruz which are delicately perfumed with orange blossom. This area is the old Jewish Quarter and every street and courtyard offers a new story that your guide will bring to life for you. After your tour, your driver transfers you back to your ship in Cádiz.
- Discover Seville's most famous monument, the Moorish tower of La Giralda
- Visit Alcazar, a 14th-century Mudejar palace
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
An Immersion into the World of Olive Oil
An Immersion into the World of Olive Oil
Overview: Enjoy a private guided visit to an Olive oil producer led by a family member. Learn the olive oil production process from the olive fields to the final product. Pamper your taste buds with a comparative tasting of extra virgin olive oils. Witness a passionate family tradition and the careful process of olive oil extraction, the “Liquid Gold” of Andalusia. Delight with a gourmet tasting and lunch served in one of the oil mill's private rooms.
Duration: 1H30
Quintessential Brave Bull Breeding Journey
Quintessential Brave Bull Breeding Journey
Overview: Embark on an exclusive journey and explore one of Spain's most prestigious bull-breeding ranches. Discover the vital role bull farming plays in Spain's ecological and cultural heritage. Experience the life and care of the noblest and majestic toro bravos. Unveil the ranch's facilities, from the pasture where the animals graze, breed, and rear their offspring to the bullring, where young bulls are assessed for fighting potential.
Duration: 1H30
Seville From The River
Overview: Discover Seville from another point of view. Indulge in a private Guadalquivir river cruise while glimpsing Seville's most beautiful panoramas, including the historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Observe Triana's picturesque 19th-century famous houses and enchanting bridges. Delight your senses with a premium selection of local tapas.
Duration: 1H30
Excursions
Flamenco Gastronomic Experience
Flamenco Gastronomic Experience
Overview: Step beyond the ordinary on your Madrid journey and experience the world's most famous and only Flamenco tablao in a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant. Featuring award-winning artists recognized in Spain and at the top flamenco festivals, immerse yourself in an exclusive and extraordinary Flamenco gastronomic Journey.
Duration: 1 Hour
Home Away from Home!
Overview: Feel at home in Madrid, hosted by a local Madrilene who will introduce you to authentic Spanish culture. With a background in haute cuisine, your Chef invites you for an intimate meal at her splendid elegant flat in the Salamanca district, one of Madrid's most elegant and glamorous neighborhoods. Relax and unwind as you savor a mouthwatering meal prepared with dedication, and love, feeling as if you were in the comfort of your own home.
Duration: 2 Hours
Excursions
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Highlights:
An architectural delight awaits you today in Barcelona, one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Receive a warm greeting at the port by your private guide and driver and commence your full-day tour with a visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be complete until 2028!
Next, visit Parc Guell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi's most colourful creations. Continue along Passeig de Gracia, to view Gaudi's Casa Batlló and Casa Mila from the outside, with its brilliant wave-like façade.
After lunch, lose yourself in the narrow streets of the true heart of the city - the medieval Gothic Quarter. Here you will visit the magnificent 13th-century Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum, where some of the painter's earliest works are housed. At the end of your tour you are transferred back to the port.
- Walk the labyrinthine alleys of the medieval Gothic Quarter to find architectural gems like the Church of Santa Maria del Mar
- Admire the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum, where some of the artist's earliest works are housed.
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)
Highlights:
Receive a warm greeting at the port from your private guide and driver and commence your half-day tour with a visit to Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece; the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be completed until 2028!
Continue on to Parc Guell, a beautiful municipal garden with a superb panoramic view over the city; the focal point is a colourful sea-serpent-shaped central terrace. Visit the gatehouse where Gaudi lived during his later years which is now a museum dedicated to him. Transfer back to the port at the end of your tour.
- Visit the impressive, but still unfinished Sagrada Familia, masterpiece of the Catalan architect
- Wander through Parc Guell, the UNESCO World Heritage Site considered Gaudi's most colourful creation
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Authentic Barcelona by Bike
Overview: Uncover the most authentic side of Barcelona riding the world's best folding bike, a Brompton. Be led by an expert bike guide and venture into a unique and exclusive experience. Connect with your local guide by sharing and listening to trivia stories about Barcelona. Embark on a ride to explore the least touristy Eixample and Gracia districts. Glimpse the Plaça d'Espanya, the Hospital de la Santa Creu, Sant Pau, and modernist estates.
Duration: 3 Hours
Barcelona Sailing Journey
Overview: Experience the thrill of sailing the Barcelona Coastline. Glimpse the Barcelona skyline from a different perspective and spot some landmarks, including Frank Gehry Golf Fish Sculpture and the Twin Towers", Torres Venecianas. Immerse yourself in the serene deep blue while seeping your glass of wine. Weather permitting, anchor and venture in a short swim.
Duration: 4 Hours
Exploring Cavas' Origin
Overview: Uncover the dedication of a biodynamic winegrowers family committed to excellence in long-aged wines. Venture on a stroll around the winery's iconic vineyards to discover the distinctive features of a unique spot in the Penedès region. Sheltered by the woods, taste a base wine paired with a light snack. Elevate your experience by savoring three long-aged sparkling wines, a limited-edition white wine, and an extra-virgin olive oil.
Duration: 4 Hours
From Market to Home with a Top Chef
From Market to Home with a Top Chef
Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at her private penthouse. Head to a 19th-century local market and thoroughly select the finest ingredients for your recipe. Dare to partake in the cooking process while you uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine. Savor the combination of flavors paired with a premium selection of Spanish Wines.
Duration: 4 Hours
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Overview: Step away from the bustling Barcelona and embrace Catalonia's unique landscape with La Garrotxa and Fageda d'en jordà. Venture into an exciting 7,5 miles hike through the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. Engage in a circular route through La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Ascend to the inside of Santa Margarita volcano and discover a chapel lying on its crater. Dive into Fageda d'en Jordà, a unique beech forest that grows on the lava flow of Croscat Volcano. Finalize your trail with a stop at the Croscat Volcano grederes.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Overview: Ancient Wonders and hidden gems await you on the famous needles of Montserrat Mountain. Venture into an exciting and intimate hike connecting you to Montserrat's outlandish and most authentic elements. Uncover the region of Agulles and the north face of Montserrat, passing between the needles, having to take some steps climbing ropes, and ending up visiting emblematic places such as Cadireta or Foradada.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat from the Skies
Overview: Marvel at Montserrat Mountain's impressive scenic views. With a bird' s-eye view, witness these massive conglomerates, which form unexpectedly imposing sculptures due to their geological evolution. They all have names related to their shapes, and we find caves, chasms, and torrents in their shelter.
Flying over the Montserrat mountain, the spiritual Center of Catalonia is undoubtedly one of the most surprising and impressive experiences.
Duration: 1 Hour
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Your chauffeur and your guide will
be waiting for you at the port. They will be at disposal for 8 hours. Your chauffeur will drive you to the city center of Barcelona.
A Walk Through Barcelona
You will start your day by an exciting 2-hour walking tour of the oldest parts of Barcelona: the Barri Gothic and Born neighborhoods. You will follow your guide as he/she leads you into the small, narrow streets to discover the vibrant, trendy ambiance of Born and the historical atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter. You will see the Santa Maria Del Mar church, the Royal Palace and the world famous “Las Ramblas” avenue. The fun facts and stories
told by our guide will keep your children highly engaged. The children will each get a game booklet to keep them engaged and entertained. After this tour, you will enjoy a
lunch break. Your guide will be there to give recommendations depending on your taste.
Included:
- A Walk Through Barcelona:
- Private certified guide
- 2 hour walking tour
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 2-hour experience
The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a 3-hour tour inside the two iconic Gaudi sites in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia and the Park Güell. You will follow your guide inside the
jaw-dropping and daring church and listen to the stories about its architecture, construction and future. After 1,5 hours spent in the Sagrada Familia, you will head out to
Park Güell. There you will witness the beauty of Gaudí’s mosaics as well as enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Barcelona. To keep the children entertained during this 3-hour tour, they will all get their own fun-filled game booklet. A perfect way to combine both educational discovery and fun!
The Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell:
- Private certified guide
- Skip-the-line tickets to
- Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell
- Transfer in a private
- mini van
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 3-hour experience
At the end of the tour, depending on your cruise departure time, your chauffeur will drive you back to the port.
Vacation Details
* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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