Spanish Experience
9 Days from $1,225 per person
The soulful heart of Spain from Madrid to Andalusia is yours to explore, from the tastes of tapas to the ornate Moorish architecture of Granada and Valencia's 19th-century Bullring. See Gaudí's Barcelona and medieval Toledo.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Overview
The soulful heart of Spain from Madrid to Andalusia is yours to explore, from the tastes of tapas to the ornate Moorish architecture of Granada and Valencia's 19th-century Bullring. See Gaudí's Barcelona and medieval Toledo.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
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Day 1: Arrive Madrid (2 Nights)
Welcome to Madrid, Spain's capital city. 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. Check into your hotel then relax and unwind. Later meet with your Travel Director and fellow travelers. This evening, spend free time exploring on your own or join the group for an Optional Experience walking tour of the city and the chance to savor local ‘tapas' at a café on the Plaza Mayor. Or perhaps dine in a local restaurant offering the traditional flavors of Spain.
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Day 2: Madrid Sightseeing and Free Time
Your Local Specialist shows you the sights of Madrid including the Cibeles fountain, the Gran Via, the Paseo de la Castellana and the Puerta del Sol. At Plaza de España, admire the monument to Cervantes. Afterward, consider an Optional Experience to the medieval city of Segovia—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening you might be tempted by Madrid's nightlife, where the locals dine late and enjoy the open-air cafés and vibrant atmosphere until the early hours.
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Day 3: Madrid – Toledo – Puerto Lápice – Seville (2 Nights)
In the medieval city of Toledo—the ancient capital of Castile—your Local Specialist takes you on a walking tour through the quaint streets for views of the cathedral and synagogue. Toledo has been a traditional sword making and steel working center for over 2000 years and was the standard source of weaponry for the Roman legions. Visit a steel workshop to see some fine examples of this age-old craft. Your journey continues south to Puerto Lápice where, reputedly, Don Quixote was dubbed 'a knight' by a local innkeeper. The plains of La Mancha give way to the hills of Andalucía with striking whitewashed villages and churches. Arrive in Seville, a vibrant city and the home of bullfighting and flamenco.
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Day 4: Seville Sightseeing and Free Time
Admire the great monuments and sights of Seville with your Local Specialist. View the pavilions in Maria Luisa Park, constructed for the 1929 Exposition. Marvel at the mighty cathedral and La Giralda Bell Tower. Tonight you might like to experience the fire and passion of a Spanish flamenco show.
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Day 5: Seville – Granada
Start the day with a picturesque drive through beautiful villages to the Moorish city of Granada. Enjoy free time to explore or participate in an Optional Experience suggested by your Travel Director.
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Day 6: Granada – Guadix – Valencia
Cross the Mora Pass through the superb scenery of the Sierra Nevada. Admire the cave dwellings in Guadix with time to take pictures. Continue through Murcia and the palm groves of Elche to Valencia, renowned for its orange fruit. See the Bullring, the great Cathedral and the Towers of Serrano and Quart during your orientation tour. Stop to view the City of Arts and Sciences which is a large-scale urban recreation center for culture and science, designed by Santiago Calatrava. Later arrive at your hotel where you dine tonight with your fellow travelers.
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Day 7: Valencia – Peñíscola – Barcelona Sightseeing (2 Nights)
Head north along the coast through the Levant region and stop at Peñíscola to view the ancient castle of the 'Spanish Pope,' used in the film El Cid. Continue along the Costa Dorada to Barcelona, Spain's most cosmopolitan city. Your Local Specialist takes you on a wonderful sightseeing tour, which includes views of Gaudí's Sagrada Família and the Plaça de Catalunya. See the lively Ramblas and enjoy spectacular views of the city from Montjuïc. Tonight, consider visiting a Catalan-style restaurant for a delicious dinner of local specialties.
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Day 8: Barcelona Free Time
Today is free for you to explore this fascinating city. As well as having a rich Roman and medieval heritage, Barcelona also has a reputation for fun. Why not visit the monastery in the rocky mountains of Montserrat to see the Black Madonna? This evening, dine with your companions and celebrate a memorable vacation.
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Day 9: Depart Barcelona
This morning say 'adios' to Spain, your Travel Director, and your fellow travelers at the end of your unforgettable Spanish Experience. A return transfer will arrive at Barcelona Airport at 8 am. Conditions apply.
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Apr 19 | 28 Apr 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 4 May 19 | 12 May 19 |
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$1,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 11 May 19 | 19 May 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 18 May 19 | 26 May 19 |
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$1,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 25 May 19 | 2 Jun 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 1 Jun 19 | 9 Jun 19 |
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$1,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 8 Jun 19 | 16 Jun 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 15 Jun 19 | 23 Jun 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 22 Jun 19 | 30 Jun 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 29 Jun 19 | 7 Jul 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 13 Jul 19 | 21 Jul 19 | $1,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 20 Jul 19 | 28 Jul 19 |
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$1,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 27 Jul 19 | 4 Aug 19 | $1,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 10 Aug 19 | 18 Aug 19 |
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$1,225pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 17 Aug 19 | 25 Aug 19 |
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$1,225pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 24 Aug 19 | 1 Sep 19 | $1,225pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 31 Aug 19 | 8 Sep 19 | $1,225pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||||
| 7 Sep 19 | 15 Sep 19 |
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$1,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 14 Sep 19 | 22 Sep 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 21 Sep 19 | 29 Sep 19 |
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$1,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 28 Sep 19 | 6 Oct 19 |
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$1,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Oct 19 | 13 Oct 19 |
|
$1,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 Oct 19 | 20 Oct 19 |
|
$1,350pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 19 Oct 19 | 27 Oct 19 |
|
$1,350pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $390 per person.
Triple Room Discount: $20.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $88 per person.
Airport transfers: 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. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Barcelona Airport at 8 am.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Breakfast Daily
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Personal Flight Options
Meal Summary
11 meals: 8 Buffet Breakfasts, 3 Three-course dinners.
Sightseeing Experiences
- Madrid Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes Puerta del Sol, the Cervantes Memorial and the Cibeles Fountain
- Toledo Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the Synagogue and Cathedral. Visit a steel workshop
- Puerto Lápice Visit the inn where Don Quixote is said to have been dubbed a knight
- Seville Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- Granada Enjoy a scenic drive to this Moorish city
- Guadix View the cave homes in “Barrio Troglodyte”
- Valencia See the town hall, Cathedral, Towers of Serrano and Quarte and the City of Arts and Sciences
- Peñiscola See the ancient castle overlooking the beach
- Barcelona Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of Gaudi's Sagrada Familia, the Ramblas and views from Montjuïc
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The currency in Spain is the Euro (€). While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Spain offers a delicious selection of cured hams, chorizo sausage, seafood, cheeses, and more. Try traditional dishes such as tortilla española (Spanish omelet), paella, and desserts such as flan, churros, and Catalan cream. For a quick lunch at a reasonable price, stop by a café or food cart for a bocadillo, a traditional Spanish sandwich made with baguette-style bread, ham and cheese. In the evening, try a selection of tapas – small bites served in bars and restaurants that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a meal.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase. This will also give you many options for how to dress in Spain's varying climates. It’s a good idea to bring a lightweight scarf to wear at religious sites and in the evening when temperatures cool off. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping in Spain is much less common than in the U.S. When dining out, it’s appreciated, although not required, to leave a few extra euros for your server, and up to 10 percent for particularly good service. Leave your tip on the table rather than adding it to your credit card slip to ensure that your waiter receives it.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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.
Madrid
Old Madrid with a Taste of Tapas
Join us for a walking tour through Old Madrid, taking in its monumental Plaza Mayor, atmospheric alleyways and emblematic squares. Your Local Specialist will accompany you for a drink and snack in one of its famous downtown 'tapas' bars. We’ll finish with a tour of the city.
Adult Price: €29
Segovia World Heritage Site—Its Ancient Aqueduct & Fairy-tale Castle
Enjoy a visit to Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which sits on a rocky outcrop between two rivers. With your Local Specialist, you’ll visit the 13th-century castle, reputed to have inspired Walt Disney, as well as seeing the best-preserved Roman aqueduct which has remained intact for 2,000 years.
Adult Price: €45
Seville
Flamenco: Experience the Best Show in Town
Discover the passion, rhythm and magic of an Andalusian flamenco show with us this evening. We've organized tickets to the best show in town, where you’ll experience 90 minutes of memorable entertainment with an included drink.
Adult Price: €40
The Moorish Alcazar And Plaza América
We'll begin with a visit to the elegant 14th-century Moorish Alcazar, set in its own beautiful gardens. The gardens were recently used as the setting for the Water Gardens of Dorne in the Game Of Thrones series. Then, we'll journey to the famous exhibition site of Plaza América - a must for any visitor to Seville.
Adult Price: €41
Flamenco, the best show in town with a three-course dinner
After a three-course dinner of Andalusian specialties with drinks included, you’ll discover the passion, rhythm and magic of flamenco this evening. We've organized tickets to the best show in town, where you’ll experience 90 minutes of memorable entertainment.
Adult Price: €69
Granada
Albaicín And The Royal Chapel
Enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the Albaicín World Heritage Site—a maze of narrow streets and Moorish splendor. You'll get to explore the Catholic Monarchs' tombs and some of their treasures at the Royal Chapel and stop off at the picturesque Alcaicería quarter.
Adult Price: €37
Gypsy Night Out in Old Granada
Enjoy an evening in Granada’s Sacromonte quarter, which offers the finest views over the illuminated Alhambra Palace. We’ve organized tickets for you to see the Zambra dances by members of Granada's most famous gypsy clan—a fiery, emotive performance unique to these people. And we've also included a drink, too.
Adult Price: €34
Barcelona
Catalonian Dinner And The Dancing Fountains
Join us for drinks and a Catalonian feast in the bustling city of Barcelona. After dinner, we’ll take you to see the spectacle of the famous Dancing Fountains, which were built for the 1929 World’s Fair and are one of the wonders of the modern world.
Adult Price: €59
Mystical Montserrat
Join an Optional Experience to the enchanting and mystical mountain of Montserrat, with its breathtaking views and spectacular scenery. There we will visit the Benedictine monastery where the Black Madonna can be seen.
Adult Price: €40
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
