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.
8 meals: 5 Buffet Breakfasts, 3 Dinners with local wine.
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Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to visit and enjoy one of the best-preserved palaces in Europe. King Felipe VI's ancestors lived there for 200 years. We'll see the Royal Apartments, Banqueting Hall and the Throne Room still in use today for special occasions. Marvel at the furniture, clocks, paintings and tapestries. We'll also admire the 2,200 year old Debod Temple which affords magnificent views of the city.
Adult Price: €39
This evening you'll have the chance to admire the elegance of Madrid's new city, with its wide, tree-lined avenues and decorative fountains, before experiencing the traditional flavour of the old city. We'll see where the locals come together and have a chat over their aperitifs, before enjoying a delicious dinner.
Adult Price: €61
Join us for a full-day journey to the 'Town of Stones and Saints', Ávila. The town is so named for the exquisite churches located within this UNESCO-listed fortified cities walls.
Adult Price: €43
Eatwith is the world’s leading community for authentic food experiences with locals in over 130 countries. Choose between our hand-selected hosts and dine like a local with a local. Fully immerse yourself in food and culture while meeting other travelers at your table and experience the magic of social dining. Transport is not included in this optional experience. Note: Bookings cancelled within 48 hours will not be refunded.
Adult Price: €45 - €65