Spanish Escape
Day 1ARRIVE IN MADRID, SPAINWelcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your tour director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Day 2MADRIDMasterpieces in Madrid Discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.
Day 3MADRID–CORDOBA–SEVILLETreasures of Cordoba Enjoy a scenic drive south into the region of Andalusia. This afternoon, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba and join an orientation walk. Enjoy free time to browse the streets of the Jewish Quarter, see the remains of the Alcazar, and visit independently the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Later, continue to the vibrant city of Seville. (B,D)
336 mi / 540 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM Cordoba is a glorious cultural hub which proudly showcases its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish influences. The remains of its city walls, the spectacular Roman bridge, and stunning Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba), are testaments to its historic importance and cultural wealth. Explore the Old Town, take a stroll through the Old Jewish Quarter with its labyrinth of streets, browse the local stores displaying the traditional leather goods and silverware, and treat your tastebuds to some of the local specialties.
Day 4SEVILLEThe Squares of Seville This morning, discover what makes Seville so special! Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Then, join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing tour comprising a panoramic drive, a visit to the Casa de Pilatos, and a stroll through the charming Santa Cruz Quarter. Enjoy free time to explore more. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Walk through Seville’s picturesque Plaza de España, originally built for Seville's Ibero-American Expo at the 1929 World's Fair. The 540,000-square-foot plaza features a sprawling mosaic patio. Explore the historic Santa Cruz quarter and its magical maze of tapas, flamenco, and cafés.
Day 5SEVILLE–GRANADASplendid Spain Drive to Granada for today’s highlight, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Alhambra Complex*, an Islamic architectural masterpiece. Visit the breathtaking complex with your Local Guide and discover what makes it so special. Later, enjoy some free time getting acquainted with this captivating city, shaped by its blend of cultural influences. (B)
199mi/320 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada’s Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife, at the once summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers.
Day 6GRANADA–VALENCIAViews of Valencia Enjoy a scenic drive past the mountains towards the coast and the vibrant city of Valencia. On arrival an orientation drive will get you acquainted with the city. Enjoy free time to explore the charming historic center, browse the stores, and perhaps try some of the local specialties, such as the horchata drink. (B,D)
360mi/580 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Marvel at the architecture of La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (The City of Arts and Sciences) in Valencia. This gleaming, ultra-modern complex is the largest of its kind in Europe, with its strikingly futuristic design mirroring the surrounding water park, and a stunning symbol of the Spanish city, which houses a planetarium, an oceanarium, and an interactive museum.
Day 7VALENCIA–BARCELONAThe Boulevards of Barcelona Enjoy the changing panorama during a scenic drive along the coast past some of Spain’s most famous seaside resorts to Barcelona. Free time this afternoon and evening to get acquainted with this flamboyant city, its lively atmosphere, amazing architecture, and tasty local dishes. (B)
211mi/340 km
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Barcelona in the footsteps of Picasso through the historic heart of the old city. Indulge in the tradition and tastes of 2,000 years in the Gothic Quarter. Take in the charm and captivating history with a walk down the tree-lined avenue of La Rambla amid the terraces and street performers on Barcelona’s famous thoroughfare.
Day 8BARCELONAGaudi’s Masterpiece This morning, follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Grcia. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Continue the tour with a drive to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. This evening [LF] enjoy Sangria and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia stands in Barcelona as a monument to the Holy Family and a testament to the masterwork of Antoni Gaudi. Built on the reliance of donations since the first stone was laid more than 130 years ago, the iconic church remains an unfinished masterpiece and the world’s longest-running construction project—slated for completion in 2026 on the 100th anniversary of the architect’s death.
Day 9BARCELONASafe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Barcelona
Barcelona, the self-confident and progressive capital of Spain, is a tremendous place to be. Though it boasts outstanding Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, and some great museums – most notably those dedicated to Picasso and Catalan art – it is above all a place where there's enjoyment simply in walking the streets, stopping in at bars and cafés, drinking in the atmosphere. A thriving port and the most prosperous commercial centre in Spain, it has a sophistication and cultural dynamism way ahead of the rest of the country. In part this reflects the city's proximity to France, whose influence is apparent in the elegant boulevards and imaginative cooking. But Barcelona has also evolved an individual and eclectic cultural identity, most perfectly and eccentrically expressed in the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. Scattered as Barcelona's main sights may be, the greatest concentration of interest is around the old town (La Ciutat Vella). These cramped streets above the harbor are easily manageable, and far more enjoyable, on foot. Start, as everyone else does, with the Ramblas.
Excursions
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Your chauffeur and your guide will
be waiting for you at the port. They will be at disposal for 8 hours. Your chauffeur will drive you to the city center of Barcelona.
A Walk Through Barcelona
You will start your day by an exciting 2-hour walking tour of the oldest parts of Barcelona: the Barri Gothic and Born neighborhoods. You will follow your guide as he/she leads you into the small, narrow streets to discover the vibrant, trendy ambiance of Born and the historical atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter. You will see the Santa Maria Del Mar church, the Royal Palace and the world famous “Las Ramblas” avenue. The fun facts and stories
told by our guide will keep your children highly engaged. The children will each get a game booklet to keep them engaged and entertained. After this tour, you will enjoy a
lunch break. Your guide will be there to give recommendations depending on your taste.
Included:
- A Walk Through Barcelona:
- Private certified guide
- 2 hour walking tour
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 2-hour experience
The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a 3-hour tour inside the two iconic Gaudi sites in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia and the Park Güell. You will follow your guide inside the
jaw-dropping and daring church and listen to the stories about its architecture, construction and future. After 1,5 hours spent in the Sagrada Familia, you will head out to
Park Güell. There you will witness the beauty of Gaudí’s mosaics as well as enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Barcelona. To keep the children entertained during this 3-hour tour, they will all get their own fun-filled game booklet. A perfect way to combine both educational discovery and fun!
The Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell:
- Private certified guide
- Skip-the-line tickets to
- Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell
- Transfer in a private
- mini van
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 3-hour experience
At the end of the tour, depending on your cruise departure time, your chauffeur will drive you back to the port.
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Highlights:
An architectural delight awaits you today in Barcelona, one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Receive a warm greeting at the port by your private guide and driver and commence your full-day tour with a visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be complete until 2028!
Next, visit Parc Guell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi's most colourful creations. Continue along Passeig de Gracia, to view Gaudi's Casa Batlló and Casa Mila from the outside, with its brilliant wave-like façade.
After lunch, lose yourself in the narrow streets of the true heart of the city - the medieval Gothic Quarter. Here you will visit the magnificent 13th-century Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum, where some of the painter's earliest works are housed. At the end of your tour you are transferred back to the port.
- Walk the labyrinthine alleys of the medieval Gothic Quarter to find architectural gems like the Church of Santa Maria del Mar
- Admire the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum, where some of the artist's earliest works are housed.
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)
Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)
Highlights:
Receive a warm greeting at the port from your private guide and driver and commence your half-day tour with a visit to Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece; the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be completed until 2028!
Continue on to Parc Guell, a beautiful municipal garden with a superb panoramic view over the city; the focal point is a colourful sea-serpent-shaped central terrace. Visit the gatehouse where Gaudi lived during his later years which is now a museum dedicated to him. Transfer back to the port at the end of your tour.
- Visit the impressive, but still unfinished Sagrada Familia, masterpiece of the Catalan architect
- Wander through Parc Guell, the UNESCO World Heritage Site considered Gaudi's most colourful creation
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Ampordan Secluded Paella Cooking Class
Ampordan Secluded Paella Cooking Class
Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at a secluded rural house. Wander through the historical and artistic complex while learning about its rich gastronomy based on rice. At home, dare to partake in the Paella cooking process and uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine collected from straight connections with the top Spanish chefs.
Duration: 5 Hours
Authentic Barcelona by Bike
Authentic Barcelona by Bike
Overview: Uncover the most authentic side of Barcelona riding the world's best folding bike, a Brompton. Be led by an expert bike guide and venture into a unique and exclusive experience. Connect with your local guide by sharing and listening to trivia stories about Barcelona. Embark on a ride to explore the least touristy Eixample and Gracia districts. Glimpse the Plaça d'Espanya, the Hospital de la Santa Creu, Sant Pau, and modernist estates.
Duration: 3 Hours
Barcelona Sailing Journey
Barcelona Sailing Journey
Overview: Experience the thrill of sailing the Barcelona Coastline. Glimpse the Barcelona skyline from a different perspective and spot some landmarks, including Frank Gehry Golf Fish Sculpture and the Twin Towers", Torres Venecianas. Immerse yourself in the serene deep blue while seeping your glass of wine. Weather permitting, anchor and venture in a short swim.
Duration: 4 Hours
Barcelona - Exploring Cavas' Origin
Barcelona - Exploring Cavas' Origin
Overview: Uncover the dedication of a biodynamic winegrowers family committed to excellence in long-aged wines. Venture on a stroll around the winery's iconic vineyards to discover the distinctive features of a unique spot in the Penedès region. Sheltered by the woods, taste a base wine paired with a light snack. Elevate your experience by savoring three long-aged sparkling wines, a limited-edition white wine, and an extra-virgin olive oil.
Duration: 4 Hours
Barcelona - From Market to Home with a Top Chef
Barcelona - From Market to Home with a Top Chef
Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at her private penthouse. Head to a 19th-century local market and thoroughly select the finest ingredients for your recipe. Dare to partake in the cooking process while you uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine. Savor the combination of flavors paired with a premium selection of Spanish Wines.
Duration: 4 Hours
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Overview: Step away from the bustling Barcelona and embrace Catalonia's unique landscape with La Garrotxa and Fageda d'en jordà. Venture into an exciting 7,5 miles hike through the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. Engage in a circular route through La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Ascend to the inside of Santa Margarita volcano and discover a chapel lying on its crater. Dive into Fageda d'en Jordà, a unique beech forest that grows on the lava flow of Croscat Volcano. Finalize your trail with a stop at the Croscat Volcano grederes.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Overview: Ancient Wonders and hidden gems await you on the famous needles of Montserrat Mountain. Venture into an exciting and intimate hike connecting you to Montserrat's outlandish and most authentic elements. Uncover the region of Agulles and the north face of Montserrat, passing between the needles, having to take some steps climbing ropes, and ending up visiting emblematic places such as Cadireta or Foradada.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat from the Skies
Montserrat from the Skies
Overview: Marvel at Montserrat Mountain's impressive scenic views. With a bird' s-eye view, witness these massive conglomerates, which form unexpectedly imposing sculptures due to their geological evolution. They all have names related to their shapes, and we find caves, chasms, and torrents in their shelter.
Flying over the Montserrat mountain, the spiritual Center of Catalonia is undoubtedly one of the most surprising and impressive experiences.
Duration: 1 Hour
The Secrets of Michelin Dine
The Secrets of Michelin Dine
Overview: Enjoy an exclusive journey into the World of Michelin stars. Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, uncover the secrets of top-notch restaurants. Meet the providers of Michelin-starred restaurants such as Rocco or El Bulli. Find the most highly-rated gourmet products and a trend-setting porcelain manufacturer. Head towards your Chef's Masía, a secluded rural house to savor an authentic El Bulli meal.
Duration: 4H30