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A jam-packed tour capturing some of Spain's true highlights

Kick off this colourful Best of Spain tour in Madrid and let your imagination unfold on a journey through the beautiful Andalucian region. Visit the cities that reflect Spain's diverse history and culture. Experience a fiery flamenco performance in Seville and explore the mysterious maze of alleyways of the old Arab quarter in Albayzin. Follow your tastebuds to a tapas bar and wander among Gaudi's handiwork in Barcelona - this Spanish adventure is as colourful and diverse as the land itself.

Start
Madrid, Spain
Finish
Barcelona, Spain
Destination
Spain
Style
Original
Theme
Explorer
Code
ZMSG
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • Experience the fiery passion and rhythm of a traditional flamenco dance performance in Seville

  • It's a pretty special thing to chill out on a beach in Andalusian Spain, knowing North Africa is just across the water Explore the scenic Costa de la Luz, and kick back with some tapas and sangria in Tarifa

  • The town of Ronda is split in two by a deep rocky chasm. Follow in the path of the Romans, as you cross from one side to the other along an ancient bridge

  • Discover Cordoba's great mosque, the Mezquita, one of the most accomplished examples of Moorish architecture in the world. The lavish gardens and opulent rooms of Granada's spectacular Alhambra Palace aren't bad either

  • Witness a spectacular Spanish sunset on a beach in Valencia, while feasting on a bowl of the world's best paella.

  • The cosmopolitan city of Barcelona pulses with culture, art and an outstanding drinking and dining scene. Discover the eccentric modernist architecture of Antonio Gaudi, who made Barcelona his artistic playground. The unfinished masterpiece of La Sagrada Familia is particularly mind-blowing

Is this trip right for you?

  • The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train and bus. European trains are comfortable and often decked out with air-conditioning. Toilets are always available. Some of the trains have snack bars (or vending machines) and power points next to the seats but that cannot be guaranteed on every journey. Train travel is a fast way to traverse long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. Public buses are also comfortable and often air-conditioned, but there aren't always toilets on board. Please note that you will have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, and also up or down few flights of stairs as unfortunately some of the stations may not have lifts. It’s recommended that you leave any wheelie bags/cases at home and bring a backpack instead, but please make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'What to Take' section of the trip notes.

  • Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please also note that not all hotels in Europe would have Air Conditioning system, but only fans. It may be uncomfortable for some in summer heat. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

  • As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, single travellers will share a room with another traveller of the same sex. If you’d prefer not to share, a single room supplement is available at an additional charge. Please ask your travel consultant for more details. Also, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together and rooms in Europe can seem rather small by American or Australian standards.

Map of Best of Spain including Spain
Detail of colourful bridge mosaic, Seville, Spain
Intrepid Travellers sitting on steps in front of mosaic wall, Granada, Spain
Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain
Paella seafood dish, Spain
Intrepid travellers and and leader in Madrid city, Spain
View of Tajo Gorge and city on cliff, Ronda, Spain
Closeup of flamenco dancers feet in traditional dress, Spain

Itinerary
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Welcome to Madrid, Spain. The sassy central capital is known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks, but it also pulsates with energy, and is without doubt a vibrant city. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at either 6pm or 7pm, depending on common area availability. Please double check with reception to confirm the time and place. If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance, passport details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive early. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, we recommend arriving a few days early to explore. Perhaps while away the hours along the Paseo del Arte, or Art Walk, for an expansive history of Western art. Start with the Museo del Prado, then discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia. Finish at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which displays eight centuries of European painting. After the welcome meeting, and optional dinner, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileño with some tapas and Rioja, or head to the Gran Via hotspots to dance the night away.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Abono Paseo del Arte (3 museum combo voucher) - EUR30
  • Museo del Prado - EUR15
  • Museo Reina Sofia - EUR8
  • Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR12
  • Real Jardín Botánico - EUR4
  • Royal Palace-Madrid - EUR11
  • Museo Taurino - Free
  • Madrid Tapas Adventure - Urban Adventure - EUR82
  • Markets of Madrid - Urban Adventure - EUR47
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Take a bus to Granada today (approximately 5 hours). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Catedral and Capilla Real. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of Nasrid Palace and the Gardens. The Alhambra was first built by the Moors as a fortress during the Muslim rule of Spain. A walk through the compound's luxurious rooms and gardens gives you an idea of the decadent lifestyle of the Moorish kings. The Alhambra is made up of three parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. This evening, unearth the restaurants in the tangled streets of the Albaicin and dine with the best views of the Alhambra.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Alhambra entrance
Optional Activities
  • Jose Guerrero Centre - Free
  • Mirador de San Nicolas - Free
  • Catedral de Granada - EUR4
  • Science Park Planetarium - EUR2
  • Science Park - EUR7
  • Capilla Real - EUR4
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Travel approximately 3 hours by bus and train to the vibrant city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. To the Romans it was Hispalis, to the Moorsm Isbiliya. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today the capital of Andalucia and the largest city in southern Spain. Known for its important monuments and fascinating history, Seville is universally famous for being a joyous town. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Guided tour of Seville including Alcazar Seville - EUR13
  • Archeological Museum - EUR3
  • Art and Popular Customs Museum - EUR2
  • Catedral and Giralda Tower - EUR8
  • Museum of Fine Arts - EUR2
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for ‘Game of Thrones’. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group (included). Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Flamenco performance
Optional Activities
  • Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre - EUR3
  • Casa de Pilatos - EUR8
  • Indias Archive - Free
  • Santa Paula Convent - EUR3
  • Torre del Oro - EUR3
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Today travel south to the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) (approximately 3 hours). On the western side of Andalusia, the coast faces the Mediterranean and North Africa. Your base for the next two nights is Tarifa, a laid-back beach town endowed with spectacular rocky scenery, a sea fortress, a lighthouse and plenty of character. The afternoon is free to relax. Perhaps catch a bus to the 10 kilometre-long sands of Playa de Los Lances – a haven for kite surfers – or hole up at a beach bar on Playa de Valdevaqueros. One of the best ways to appreciate the area is simply to wander, along the promenade under the old castle, past restaurants brimming with fresh seafood, and appreciate this rare underdeveloped stretch of Spanish coastline. The surfers lend the old town a laid-back, international vibe, along with hints of the North Africa that lies just across the water. In the evening, why not grab some dinner in town and join in Tarifa's vibrant nightlife.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Today there are plenty of optional activities to choose from. Perhaps head out on a whale and dolphin watching expedition on the Iberian Peninsula. At this unique place, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean and where Europe meets Africa, you will get the chance to see seven different species of whales and dolphins. Alternatively, take a day trip to Northern Africa and the town of Tangier in Morocco, just 45 minutes away by ferry. Once a hotspot for artists, secret agents and millionaires, Tangier has been going through something of a renaissance of late. The city's medina and kasbah are well worth exploring, as are the cafes and patisseries around the Place de la France in the Ville Nouvelle. You can unwind and take in the charms of the city on the recently reconstructed beach promenade. Another interesting option is a day tour across the border to the British territory of Gibraltar, home to the famous Rock of Gibraltar. Here you can take a cable car up to the rock’s peak, explore formation-filled caves, a Moorish castle, and wander the main street, discovering the interesting blend of old British life and Spanish flavours.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Morocco day trip - EUR65
  • Whale watching - EUR35
  • Gibraltar day trip - EUR48
  • Tarifa Castle - EUR4
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Leave the coast and head inland by bus and train to the Andalucian hills and the whitewashed town of Ronda (approximately 4 hours). In a landscape of poster-paint green forests and white limestone mountains, Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting in Spain. The highlight of the town is the spectacular Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), one of the most photographed structures the country. Built in 1751, it bridges the 100-metre deep gorge that splits the town in two. You can walk across it, stopping to peer over a vertiginous drop from one of its balconies. Check out the old Moorish town on one side, home to many historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King, and the newer El Mercadillo on the other side. East of the town are well-preserved Arab Baths and of course, the famous Plaza de Toros. In the evening, find a spot from which you could enjoy a scenic sunset; this won’t be a problem in Ronda.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Santa Maria la Mayor Church - EUR4
  • Bandits Museum - EUR4
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
While bullfighting is a significant part of Spanish culture and history, its practice is contrary to our Responsible Travel philosophy. Intrepid does not support or attend bullfights, as the bulls are subject to torment and fear and are often killed inhumanely. Long a controversial issue in Spain, a landmark decision in July 2010 banned bullfighting in the state of Catalonia from January 2012

Today you’ll take a walk through the beautiful valley of Los Molinos surrounding the city. From the old town you can head down the cliffside of the gorge and get a great view of the bridge and town from below. The rest of the day will be free for you to explore. The Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest bullfighting rings in the country. Adjoining the bullring is the Bullfighting Museum, which displays relics of Ronda's bullfighting history. The gardens behind offer panoramic views over the surrounding mountains, which once proved a perfect hideout for bandits and smugglers. A visit to the Museum of Bandits gives an entertaining insight into their history. Surrounding the town are prize-winning wineries and beautiful national parks – the Reservatauro walk takes you through the holm oak meadows where fighting bulls and thoroughbred horses are raised.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Walk in the Windmill Valley
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Continue north to Cordoba by train (approximately 2 hours). Discover the mesh of Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultures in the architecture and cuisine of this southern city. Visit the famous Mezquita, with its golden arches and intricate columns, once the third largest mosque in the world and one of the most beautiful. It was consecrated into a Roman Catholic cathedral in the 13th century when the Christians reconquered Cordoba. Time permitting, you might stroll through a labyrinth of cobbled laneways in the old quarter, discovering open squares and quirky cafes. The evening is free to sample more delicious Spanish cuisine. Salmorejo (a cold soup made of tomatoes, bread and olive oil served with chopped up boiled egg and cured ham) is a specialty of Cordoba, as is rabo de toro (oxtail soup). There are also plenty of good-value eateries in the Juderia (Jewish Quarter).
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Leader led tour of Cordoba & Mezquita visit
Optional Activities
  • Palacio Museo de Viana - EUR8
  • Torre de la Calahorra - EUR4
  • Museo Vivo de Al-Andalus - EUR6
  • Casa de las Cabezas - EUR5
  • Tablao el Cardenal - EUR23
  • Museum of the Inquisition - EUR3
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Take a train and head east to the coastal town of Valencia (approximately 5 hours). Known for being the Spanish gateway to the Mediterranean, Valencia has a large port, beautiful beaches, restaurants and a beach promenade along the waterfront. The old town is set back from the seafront through, and in the centre you will find the beautiful monuments and historical buildings. Busy markets, clean beaches, picturesque hills and a fascinating mix of old town and new town makes up the best of Valencia. Over the next couple of days, you have a lot of free time to wander around the city and see the sights. Perhaps rent a bike from one of the many bike stations that are dotted around the city. Cycle through the park that runs through the centre of the city to the impressively designed Museu de les Ciencies Príncipe Felipe (Arts and Science Museum). Valencia is also built with separate cycle paths, so it's really easy to get around. This evening perhaps head out to bar-hop and eat tapas in the Ciutat Vella (old town).
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Take the day to explore. You will hop on a bike today and pedal along Turia Park all the way to the iconic city of Art and Science. This activity is done in leisure pace and you certainly don’t need to be an expert to participate. After cycling, why not visit the 13th-century cathedral, which houses what's claimed to be the Holy Grail, and climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete tower for the best views of the city. For something a little quirkier, head to the Museum of the Fallas, which contains a history of the Valencia fire festival and giant papier mache figures that have been spared from the burning. The Museo de Bellas Artes has Spain's second-biggest art collection, housed in a beautiful 17th-century convent. There are also many fine parks and gardens, or you may want to head to the beach of Playa de la Malvarrosa to soak up some sun. To try the paella that Valencia is famous for (rabbit and chicken), do as the locals do and head to the restaurant area of Las Arenas for a hearty and reasonably priced lunch. Tonight, maybe head south to Ruzafa, one of the city’s coolest areas, where the locals only start to head out as the clock strikes midnight.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cycling in Valencia
  • Picnic in Valencia
Optional Activities
  • Fallas Museum - EUR2
  • Gonzalez Marti Museum - EUR3
  • Miguelete Tower - EUR2
  • Principe Filipe Science Museum - EUR8
  • The Silk Exchange - EUR2
  • Valencian Institute of Modern Art - EUR2
  • Valencian Treats and Tastes - Urban Adventures - EUR55
  • Street Art in Old Valencia - Urban Adventure - EUR35
  • Museum of Fine Arts Valencia - Free
Meals Included
  • Lunch
Special Information
Cycling around Valencia is scheduled to happen today, but it is weather dependant and during summer months it may happen the day before in the late afternoon when the air temperature is bearable. It will also depend on the group willingness to join other optional activities in Valencia. This will be discussed at the welcome meeting.

Today take the train up the coast to Barcelona (approximately 3.5 hours). Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a groundbreaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget. In the afternoon, there are plenty of options to keep you busy. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the old Gothic Quarter and navigate your way through the throngs of tourists along La Rambla, Barcelona's famous tree-lined boulevard. Maybe grab a fresh juice at the colourful La Boqueria market while you're there. Perhaps pay a visit to the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia or the Museum of City History to brush up on your local knowledge. Take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of Barcelona and the harbour. The heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre and so this evening perhaps head out to taste the reputation for yourself. You can take a tapas crawl through rustic Catalan dishes in the funky neighbourhood of El Born.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Andean-Amazonian Ethnographic Museum - Free
  • Casa Batllo - EUR24
  • Guell Palace - EUR12
  • Museum of City History - EUR7
  • Museum of Gaudi - EUR6
  • National Art Museum of Catalonia - EUR12
  • Old Santa Creu Hospital - EUR10
  • Picasso Museum - EUR14
  • Cathedral visit - EUR6
  • Barcelona Tapas Tour - EUR70
  • Snapshots of Barcelona - EUR48
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Join your leader on an orientation walk around Barcelona today. See some of the city's main sights, including a visit to Antonio Gaudi's incredible La Sagrada Familia Cathedral. The architect worked on this hugely ambitious project for decades until his death, and it remains in constant construction. Along with the Camp Nou football stadium, it is possibly the city's most iconic landmark. Gaudi was the master of the unique Catalan Modernista architecture for which Barcelona is famous, and his work is dotted all over the city. Perhaps check out the Neo-Gothic mansion of Guell Palace, or the wave-inspired structure of Casa Batlo. For more insight into the artist himself, head to the Gaudi House Museum inside Parc Guell, which is home to more colourful sculptures, including a long mosaic-covered bench overlooking the city. For something a little different, perhaps have a poke around the Old Santa Creu Hospital. For your final night, perhaps finish the day with a sip of red wine from a porro – a traditional glass pitcher.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • La Sagrada Familia - Barcelona
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today your Spanish adventure comes to an end in the morning. There are no more activities planned and you're free to leave the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to spend a few more days in Barcelona, then our reservations team can help book accommodation (subject to availability).
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Meals

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Transport

Bus, Metro, Public bus, Taxi, Train, Bicycle

Accommodation

Hotel (14 nights)

Included activities

  • Alhambra entrance
  • Flamenco performance
  • Walk in the Windmill Valley
  • Leader led tour of Cordoba & Mezquita visit
  • Cycling in Valencia
  • Picnic in Valencia
  • La Sagrada Familia - Barcelona

Dates & availability

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Important notes

A single supplement is available on this trip with the exception of the following nights:
Day 6-7 Tarifa

PASSPORT DETAILS
In order to secure Alhambra Palace entrance tickets we are required to provide authorities with full passport details of travellers (name as per passport, expiry date, date of birth, nationality). Please make sure you provide these details 40 days prior to your departure as the latest. Otherwise we may not be able to secure Alhambra Palace entrance tickets for you.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Our Best of Spain trips score an average of 4.82 out of 5 based on 66 reviews in the last year.

Best of Spain, May 2018

Lyn Holmes

Review submitted 18 Jun 2018

Best of Spain, May 2018

Sachin Agne

Review submitted 16 Jun 2018

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