Spain
Discover Madrid & Barcelona: Royal Palaces & Gothic Quarters
Sample Itinerary - 9 Days & 8 Nights
This Customizable Journey is Available Year-Round
Best Travel Seasons: March - June & September - October
Tour is led by a Licensed English Speaking Local Guide
Tour Introduction & Journey Map
Spain is a country in southwestern Europe. The Bay of Biscay, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Northern Atlantic Ocean are among the coastlines. Spain is bordered by the Pyrenees Mountains, although much of the nation is high plateaus. It is a country with deep historical origins in Europe that has Its identity and peculiarities which were shaped by a number of events. The city of Madrid offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions. The city is filled with magnificent monuments, such as the royal palace, Plaza Mayor, and numerous statues, and for those interested in art, the museums Del Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen house some of the finest collections of works by such renowned Spanish artists as Velázquez, Goya, Picasso, and Miro. Join us on this fascinating journey of discovery and adventure to explore World Heritage sites, enjoy delicious food, and discover stunning landscapes.
Tour Itinerary
-
Welcome to Spain! Arrive in Madrid and proceed to Passport Control for immigration followed by baggage collection and clearing customs formalities. After baggage collection, walk towards the arrival lounge where you shall be met by our representative who will assist you while transferring to a Mayoral 4-star hotel or a similar for check-in. Free evening at leisure or visit Retiro Gardens on your own to feel the welcome of Madrid.
Note: The hotel is available for check-in on day 1 at 2:00 pm.
-
After the first delicious breakfast, we will begin a walking tour of Madrid. Most of the sites in the list are nearby, making it a delightful walk into the town. Our first stop will be the baroque Royal Palace, which was built in the 18th century and comprises over 3000 rooms in addition to the neighboring Plaza de Oriente, Teatro Real, and Almudena Cathedral. Our next stop is the magnificent Plaza Mayor Square. During the Inquisition, numerous heretics were burnt here. You will also enjoy the bustling Porta del Sol and the beautiful Paseo del Prado promenade, where we will the world-renowned del Prado Museum. The excursion will be completed at the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight at a Mayoral 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
Today we will continue exploring Madrid. We will meet our guide at the hotel and start our way to Prado National Museum and Reina Sofía National Museum & Art Center. We will dedicate a decent amount of time to enjoy all the stunning artifacts and paintings displayed. Even though both are known for the artwork displayed you still will notice distinctive differences. The Reina Sofia Museum contains artwork by modern painters like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. Whereas the Prado Museum contains masterpieces of traditional Spanish painters such as Diego Velázquez, Murillo, and Goya. After the sightseeing at the museums, you can explore the San Miguel indoor market or the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight at a Mayoral 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
After breakfast, meet your local guide at the hotel lobby and start your way to Toledo city's historic center. Toledo is a medieval city which is known for its cobblestones and hills so having comfy shoes during the tour is very imperative. There was a time when Toledo was the capital of Spain. Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical and cultural significance. Famed El Greco, a renowned painter, was also a notable citizen of Toledo. Today we will explore Toledo's Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world; the House & Museum of El Greco, located in the old Jewish Quarter; and the 14th-century Synagogue del Transito, and of course El Greco's “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz painting” in Santo Tomé Chapel. Enjoy your lunch in Toledo. We will return to Madrid for the evening at leisure. Overnight at a Mayoral 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
After breakfast at the hotel, you will meet your local guide for a full-day excursion and start your way to San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Upon arrival, we will start with a visit to the San Lorenzo de El Escorial's renowned monastery which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an exceptional example of Renaissance architecture. Our next stop in San Lorenzo de El Escorial will be the controversial monument known as "The Valley of the Fallen," which serves as a poignant reminder of the Spanish Civil War. After the tour of El Escorial, we will enjoy our lunch and head back to Madrid. Upon arrival to Madrid enjoy your free time at leisure. Overnight at a Mayoral 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
After breakfast, meet your guide and driver and start your drive to Avila. Upon arrival we will explore the medieval walls of Avila which were constructed in the 11th century. The Old Town's amazingly well-preserved Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces, and 11th-century cathedral are surrounded by some of the finest and best-preserved walls in all of Europe. It comes as no surprise that Avila's Old City is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the birthplace of Saint Teresa, who was born in Avila in 1515, it also has religious significance. Explore Avila on your own and then we will head to Segovia. Upon arrival we start walking sightseeing tour of Segovia which is one of the oldest in the Castile and Leon region. Today, you will explore its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town and aqueduct. The Romans completed the construction of the Aqueduct of Segovia in the second century. It is still impressively intact today. In Segovia will also see the thousand-year-old Alcazar (Royal Palace) and the Cathedral of Segovia, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture from the 16th century. Return to Madrid in the afternoon, and the rest of the day will be at leisure. Overnight at a Mayoral 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
After breakfast at the hotel, we will check out and have a transfer to the train station, where they will board a comfortable high-speed train to Barcelona, Catalonia region. We will be arriving late in the morning and our hotel rooms will not be ready for check-in so will store our bags at the hotel and start our tour of the Eixample District. Wealthy families of that time moved into this newly developed district and hired architects like Antoni Gaudi to design their homes. During your guided tour of this beautiful neighborhood, you will see some of Gaudi's architectural works like the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia (inside visit), the Casa Mila (outside visit), and the Casa Batllo (outside visit). All three buildings are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. After our sightseeing is completed, we will return to the hotel for check-in and enjoy our evening at leisure. Overnight at Espana 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
Following our breakfast we will enjoy a morning sightseeing trip to other neighborhoods of Barcelona, beginning with Pedralbes, one of the city's wealthiest areas. We will visit Monestir de Pedralbes which was built in 1326. This magnificent structure houses numerous fascinating historical relics. From Pedralbes we will continue the tour by visiting Parc Guell another creation by Gaudi. This is a popular attraction among both tourists and residents. Spend some time exploring this incredibly beautiful green environment. Our next stop is the Gracia neighborhood of Barcelona. Visiting Gracia feels like being in a charming village. Your guide will take you on a tour of Gracia and show you some of its beautiful squares. Enjoy your time at leisure in the Gracia neighborhood or return to the hotel by your comfortable transportation. Overnight at Espana 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
Following our breakfast we will enjoy a morning sightseeing trip to other neighborhoods of Barcelona, beginning with Pedralbes, one of the city's wealthiest areas. We will visit Monestir de Pedralbes which was built in 1326. This magnificent structure houses numerous fascinating historical relics. From Pedralbes we will continue the tour by visiting Parc Guell another creation by Gaudi. This is a popular attraction among both tourists and residents. Spend some time exploring this incredibly beautiful green environment. Our next stop is the Gracia neighborhood of Barcelona. Visiting Gracia feels like being in a charming village. Your guide will take you on a tour of Gracia and show you some of its beautiful squares. Enjoy your time at leisure in the Gracia neighborhood or return to the hotel by your comfortable transportation. Overnight at Espana 4-star hotel or a similar.
-
After breakfast in the morning, transfer to the airport for your international flight returning home. End of the service.
Photo Gallery
We offer Tailor-Made Itineraries & Custom Quotes for Your Journey to Spain
All itineraries can be tailored to match your interests and budget for a truly personalized experience. Pricing is based on solo or double occupancy. The pricing listed below is for 2025 travel dates and may vary depending on your preferred itinerary and seasonality. Contact our travel consultant today to receive a personalized quote and begin designing your ideal Spain journey!
Land Tour Price Only (International airfare, taxes & fuel surcharges are not included)
Solo Traveler: From $6,350 (Single Room Occupancy)
Two Travelers: From $3,750 per person (Double Room Occupancy)
Single Room Supplement: $650 per person (Applies to all nights of the tour for those opting for a single room.)
Tour Includes:
One-on-one virtual tour briefing prior the tour.
The final documents packet will be mailed before the trip.
Transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants arriving & departing with the group.
Nine (9) nights of accommodation at 4* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
Madrid - Barcelona economy class highspeed train ticket.
Service of a licensed local English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are as per the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tour Does Not Include:
International air.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Personnel expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, &, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodations, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Departure/Arrival transfers between home city - USA Airport.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Porterage at the hotels.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Tour Fitness Level:
Moderate: Suitable for travelers of all ages in good health, with a moderate level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. The tour will include some long walking days and periods of standing while exploring various sites. Some attractions may involve walking on uneven terrain or navigating steep staircases. Expect a few elevation changes, a well-paced but busy schedule, and several long overland drives. If you have any questions or would like more details about the trip, we’re happy to discuss it with you.
Lodging Level:
Comfortable (3/4-stars): Stay in cozy lodges and hotels with comfortable rooms and en-suite bathrooms. While the services may be more straightforward, you’ll still enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, with essential amenities and on-site facilities that provide a comfortable, hassle-free experience, all meeting international standards.
Visa & Passport:
U.S. citizens don’t require a Schengen visa to enter France. Further details related to the visa will be sent out sixty (60) days prior to the trip. Ensuring that correct & valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the last day of the trip & include empty pages for the visas.
What to Expect on This Journey:
This immersive exploration of Spain highlights the vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and deep history of Madrid, Toledo, El Escorial, Avila, Segovia, and Barcelona. Traveling by private vehicle and high-speed train, you’ll experience Spain’s timeless elegance while enjoying a comfortable, well-paced itinerary.
Travelers should anticipate moderate walking on sightseeing days, averaging two to three miles per day, often over cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, bridges, and gently sloping terrain. Historic city centers like Toledo, Segovia, and Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter feature uneven surfaces and occasional stairs, particularly during interior visits to major monuments such as cathedrals, palaces, and heritage museums. Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are essential for navigating Spain’s historic towns and landmarks. Transportation throughout the tour includes a combination of air-conditioned private vehicles and Spain’s efficient high-speed AVE trains. All group transfers between hotels, train stations, and sightseeing locations are provided for your convenience. In Barcelona, sightseeing also includes leisurely walking tours through pedestrian-friendly districts.
This journey blends expertly guided tours with ample leisure time, allowing you to explore iconic sites such as the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Plaza Mayor, the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum, the Toledo Cathedral, the House and Museum of El Greco, the Synagogue del Transito, the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the Valley of the Fallen, the medieval Walls of Avila, the Roman Aqueduct of Segovia, the Alcazar of Segovia, the Cathedral of Segovia, the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, the Boqueria Market, the Monastery of Pedralbes, and Park Güell.
Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Spain, offering mild temperatures and pleasant sightseeing conditions. However, occasional warm days or sudden weather changes are possible; we recommend layered, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and staying hydrated. Participants should be comfortable managing their own luggage during hotel check-ins and train station transfers.
By registering for this tour, travelers confirm that they are in good physical and emotional health to fully participate in all scheduled activities. A spirit of flexibility, curiosity, and cultural openness will enhance your experience as you explore Spain’s spirited cities, historic landscapes, and legendary artistic heritage. Undiscovered Frontiers strives to deliver a seamless travel experience, but minor adjustments to the itinerary or activity order may occasionally be necessary to accommodate local conditions or unforeseen events.
Explore all Tailor-Made Private Journeys
