Madrid Explorer

Live it up in the soulful Spanish capital of Madrid—a city that truly never sleeps and whose creativity, rich traditions and vibrant lifestyle are yours to explore today. On arrival at Madrid Airport transfers will operate at 10:30 am, 1 pm and 3:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Later, meet with your fellow travelers and Travel Director for an evening orientation drive past the city's iconic sights, followed by a memorable Welcome Reception of traditional Spanish tapas to kick-start our in-depth exploration of this remarkable city and its surrounds.

Enjoy a mesmerizing encounter with centuries of history and cultural highlights as you embark on a sightseeing tour of Madrid with your Local Specialist. View Plaza de España, stroll along Gran Vía, and see the Royal Palace. After our city tour, we'll dive into culture and visit a historic chocolatería to indulge in the spicy, sugary flavors of churros. We'll visit the renowned Prado Museum, with one of the finest collections of European art dating back to the 12th century. View the likes of 'Las Meninas,' Francisco Goya's haunting collection of 'Black Paintings' and the whimsical art of Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida. The rest of the day is yours to embrace la buena vida and soak up the passionate atmosphere of Madrid's vibrant streets.

Travel to the clifftop city of Toledo today, where you'll join your Local Specialist for a guided walking tour. Visit the Church of Santo Tomé, the oldest synagogue in Europe and home to one of El Greco's most famous paintings, 'Burial of Count Orgaz.' Spend some time ambling through the city's streets and shopping for ceramics and leather before returning to Madrid. This evening, we enjoy a Regional Meal at a well-known eatery that has been a meeting place in Madrid for intellectuals, writers and artists since 1888.

Today is yours to soak up the spirit of Madrid. Indulge in local flavors and aromas at the Mercado de San Miguel or to take a stroll through Buen Retiro Park. Once a royal garden, this retreat is the green heart of the city, lined with beautiful sculptures and monuments and almost impervious to the bustle of Madrid's surrounding streets. Alternatively, consider a full-day Optional Experience to Ávila, the 'Town of Stones and Saints.' so named for its exquisite churches that lie within this UNESCO listed fortified city's walls.

Journey to the walled town of Segovia today to explore its victorious origins. Your Local Specialist will show the extraordinary Roman Aqueduct, by far the most impressive Roman structure in Spain—delivering drinking water across its 160 arches to the people of Segovia in ancient times. We'll view the Alcázar of Segovia and the medieval and Moorish architecture that has shaped this city. We return to Madrid this evening, joining our Travel Director and fellow travel companions for a memorable Spanish paella Farewell Dinner and celebration of a mesmerizing encounter with Madrid and the iconic cities that surround it.

For now, it's time to say a fond adiós to Spain and your newfound friends as your Spanish vacation comes to an end. Return transfers will arrive at Madrid Airport at 8:30 am and 11 am. Conditions apply.