9-Nights Spain: Madrid, Valencia and Mallorca - Small Group Journeys from $14,495

1 Arrive Madrid, Spain

Spain’s warm, sunny climate, coastal access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, and close proximity to North Africa across the Strait of Gibraltar explain why it is one of the most fought-over countries in European history and one of Europe’s perpetually favorite destinations for travellers seeking an easygoing, culturally rich getaway. Its distinctive capital, Madrid, offers visitors an array of wonderful food, drink and connections to royal history. Settle into your hotel and enjoy a welcome drink before dinner.

This morning, set out for a panoramic review of the city, culminating with a guided visit to the new Royal Collections Gallery, a striking exhibition space displaying centuries of the Spanish Crown’s treasures. Afterward, embark on a tasty tapas tour of central Madrid’s most historic haunts. The remainder of your day is free.

Journey outside the city to El Escorial, the world’s largest Renaissance building and burial place of the Spanish royal family. Explore this palatial monument with an expert, gaining insight into the historical significance of those interred here. Follow this visit with a lunch overlooking the Castilian countryside before returning to Madrid. This evening, dine at one of the city’s finest flamenco venues and take in the magic of this definitive Spanish artform.

Drive east into the hills surrounding Madrid to the ancient fortress town of Cuenca, noted for its “hanging houses” set upon sheer stone cliffs. Join a local expert who reveals the colorful history of this hilltop settlement as you walk cobbled streets among the locals. Then visit the majestic cathedral, the first in Spain built in the then-novel Gothic style. After time for lunch and exploration, continue to coastal Valencia.

Originally famed for the flavorful oranges grown here, Valencia today holds a diverse appeal, with its mix of traditional and modern architecture and its reputation as a bastion of culinary arts. Set out on a guided excursion through Valencia, including a visit to the cathedral — which houses a chalice of reddish-brown agate that some claim is literally the Holy Grail — the ancient silk exchange and the busy central market. Relax on your own this afternoon and evening.

Explore Valencia’s strikingly modern City of Arts and Sciences with an expert who reveals the fascinating architecture of this complex. Then head just outside the city to embark across the Albufera Lagoon to a remote rice farm, where you are taught the secrets of preparing paella — the delicious Spanish dish beloved around the world that originated in the area. Afterward, return to your hotel for the evening.

Fly to beautiful Mallorca, largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Lying east of Valencia in the Mediterranean Sea, splendid Mallorca has been a favorite retreat for travellers seeking sunny beaches, verdant mountains and gourmet cuisine since at least the 1960s. Locals speak Catalan and Spanish and know their fair share of English as well. Once a summer getaway, now a year-round destination, Mallorca charms visitors with its diverse landscapes and seascapes, clear blue skies and sumptuous culinary pleasures. Once there, eat lunch and then take a walking tour of historic Palma de Mallorca, the island’s capital, seeing the cathedral, Plaza Mayor and the ancient Jewish Quarter. Later, settle into your coastal resort hotel.

Venture forth across the island to the charming village of Soller. Ride the historic tram to the sparkling port and stroll the flower-lined streets. Continue to a countryside winery, visiting its vineyards and enjoying a wine tasting accompanied with a light lunch of Mallorcan treats. Return to your resort for an afternoon and evening on your own.

This morning, choose from one of these Design Your Day activities.

• Visit the UNESCO-listed Monastery of La Cartuja, in Valldemossa.
• Partake in a Chef-Led Cooking Class, and sample Mallorcan wine and gin.
• Sea Kayak with a Guide along the scenic coastline and explore the Vell Mari, a vast rocky cave.

Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.