Scenic Spain Tour
Featuring Madrid, Toledo, and Barcelona
(11 days)
Our Scenic Spain Tour offers travelers the best of this beautiful country, including a visit to its two most popular cities, Madrid and Barcelona, with a stop in pretty Toledo in between. This tour includes several days at leisure so that you can fill your trip with the sights and activities you love best while also enjoying time to relax and enjoy the culture, food, and people of Spain.
Begin with a four-night stay in Spain’s lovely and historic capital city, Madrid. This pedestrian-friendly city is easy to explore on your own or you can choose one of many guided tours offered throughout the city. A major center for politics, education, culture, fashion, and science, it’s one of the greenest cities in Europe and considered one of the most livable as well. As you explore the city, consider visits to the world-class Prado Museum, The Royal Palace, The Royal Theater, and the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. You might also want to attend a bull fight, enjoy a soccer game, or go shopping in the city’s upscale retail districts.
Depart Madrid via private car and head for Toledo for a two-night stay. This entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lauded for its “extensive cultural and monumental heritage as one of the former capitals of the Spanish Empire and place of coexistence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures.” The birthplace of El Greco and several other notable artists, it’s also known for two culinary delights: manchego cheese and marzipan.
Upon leaving Toledo, you’ll head for colorful Barcelona. Your five-night stay includes a Best of Barcelona tour, where you’ll view some of Antoni Gaudi’s greatest works, including the La Sagrada Familia church. Also visit the site of the 1992 Olympic Games, the Catalunya National Art Museum, and some of the loveliest shopping areas in Europe. Head to the Gothic Quarter, a wonderful example of medieval Barcelona, where you’ll sip a glass of Cava (Catalan sparkling wine) and taste a selection of delicious tapas. You’ll also be treated to dinner and a fabulous flamenco show. Spend the remainder of your time in Barcelona at leisure, exploring the city or taking additional optional tours of the region.
Tour Overview
Day 1 Arrive in Madrid
Day 2 Day at leisure in Madrid
Day 3 Day at leisure in Madrid
Day 4 Day at leisure in Madrid
Day 5 Depart for Toledo; leisure time in Toled
Day 6 Day at leisure in Toledo
Day 7 Depart for Barcelona, afternoon at leisure
Day 8 Best of Barcelona guided tour
Day 9 Day at leisure in Barcelona; evening dinner and flamenco show
Day 10 Day at leisure in Barcelona
Day 11 Depart for home