Highlights
- Taste Madrid's best eats with a tapas tour and Jamón Ibérico workshop
- Explore the famous works of Gaudí during a private architecture walk
- Discover a spooky side of Barcelona with a medieval nighttime tour
- Go boating, hiking, and kayaking in the Costa Brava with a local guide
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Madrid, Flamenco & Tapas Night | Madrid |
| Day 2 | Private Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour, Explore Madrid's Local Markets | Madrid |
| Day 3 | Self-Guided Walking Tour, Jamón Ibérico Workshop | Madrid |
| Day 4 | Train to Barcelona, Dark History Night Walk | Barcelona |
| Day 5 | Local Market Visit & Cooking Class, Private Gaudí Architecture Walk | Barcelona |
| Day 6 | Self-Guided Gothic Quarter Walk, Ancient Bath Experience | Barcelona |
| Day 7 | Drive to the Costa Brava, Self-Guided Begur Walk | Costa Brava |
| Day 8 | Tossa de Mar Active Adventure | Costa Brava |
| Day 9 | Day Trip to Cadaqués, Figueres & Palafrugell | Costa Brava |
| Day 10 | Drive to Barcelona, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Madrid, Flamenco & Tapas Night
Hola! Welcome to Spain, where endless rounds of tapas and fun await. You've landed in Madrid, where a driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Drop your bags and refresh before setting out for your first taste of the nation's capital. Madrileños love to eat traditional dishes, and this evening's walking tour will combine history, tapas, and flamenco.
This evening your local foodie will lead you through three historical and foodie neighborhoods: Los Austrias, the Literary Quarter, and La Latina. Starting at San Miguel Market, you'll pause in each barrio for a drink with matching local tapas, completing what the locals call a tapear or tapeo. After feasting, switch courses from cuisine to culture and sit down to witness the power, passion, and drama of an authentic flamenco show. Now that's a memorable first night in Spain!
Day 2: Private Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour, Explore Madrid's Local Markets
Although Madrid's historic core is relatively compact, it takes loads of time to visit all the top landmarks. After breakfast this morning, you'll join a private two-hour tour of the city in an electric tuk-tuk. As you cruise the streets, your driver and guide will explain Madrid's fascinating history as you pause outside at famous sights, including the Royal Palace, Puerta de Alcalá, Retiro Park, and Temple de Debod. After, you'll thoroughly understand Madrid's history from the royal past through the communist years and to the present modern day.
Madrid counts some 46 local markets within the city limits. Embark on a self-guided gastronomic adventure through a handful of mercados this afternoon, seeing where people come to buy and sell fish, bread, and seasonal produce. Mercado de San Miguel is Madrid's most popular market turned gourmet food hall; Mercado Ildefonso has both market goods and tapas, plus a beautiful roof terrace; and Mercado San Antón is a creative food market offering three levels. Some of these markets have served the city since medieval times!
Day 3: Self-Guided Walking Tour, Jamón Ibérico Workshop
Embark on a self-guided walking tour this morning, exploring the landmarks that interest you most. Start in the Madrid de los Austrias area, the old 16th-century city center. Take your time in Plaza Mayor and pause at Chocolatería San Ginés for churros con chocolate. Then, enter the 3,418-room Royal Palace, or explore the free Sabatini Gardens. After, visit the grand Cathedral de la Almudena, then seek lunch at Mercado de San Miguel or in the hip Malasaña neighborhood. After, shop cool vintage shops and boutiques here or hit the high street designer stores of Gran Vía.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Jamón Ibérico is considered one of the world's top delicacies, and this afternoon you'll learn everything you need to know about this culinary symbol of Spain. Join a master carver for a special workshop where you'll learn about the origins of Jamón Iberico, how farmers raise the pigs, and the curing process. You'll also learn how to carve these prized ham legs using a special long and narrow knife. Of course, in the end, you'll sit down to enjoy traditional tapas of Ibérico charcuterie and Spanish cheese paired with a glass or two of wine.
Day 4: Train to Barcelona, Dark History Night Walk
This morning you'll swap the capital for the Mediterranean coast when you travel to Barcelona on a high-speed train. A private driver will drop you at the station for the 2.5-hour journey east to the vibrant and charming capital of Catalonia, with city beaches and a thriving culinary scene. On arrival, another driver will take you to your new hotel. Rest, refresh, and use the rest of the day to explore at your own pace.
This evening you'll explore the dark side of Barcelona with a chilling historical tour. Journey through the shadows of medieval punishments and delve into the dark past of the Spanish Inquisition as you discover tales of trials, interrogations, and public executions that once were common in this city. Along with a guide, you'll explore forgotten cemeteries and medieval legends that have shaped Barcelona's development over the centuries. The tour ends with a glimpse into the life of the city's most infamous executioner, with memorable stories of tragedy and triumph.Day 5: Local Market Visit & Cooking Class, Private Gaudí Architecture Walk
Discover the secrets and techniques behind traditional Spanish cuisine with this morning's cooking class. Meet your professional chef at Barcelona's biggest and most important market: Mercat de la Boqueria. They'll guide you through the stalls where you can try a few items, learn about culinary traditions, and select seasonal and local ingredients before heading to the kitchen. Roll up your sleeves and pay attention as you prepare four Spanish dishes, step-by-step, including a classic paella dish. Finally, you'll sit down to enjoy your feast with Rioja and Galician wines.
Walk off your feast this afternoon on a private guided walk through the neighborhoods influenced by architect Antoni Gaudí's impressive works. Start at Casa Batlló, where you can learn how Gaudí mixed colors and shapes to craft his distinct masterpieces. Stroll down the famous Passeig de Grácia, home to the "Block of Discord," stopping to view the exterior and interior of Casa Milà. Finish the tour at the architect's most renowned project, La Sagrada Família. Your guide will lead you through this still-unfinished yet jaw-dropping masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 6: Self-Guided Gothic Quarter Walk, Ancient Bath Experience
After breakfast, lace up your sneakers and take yourself on a self-guided walk through Barcelona's oldest district—the Gothic Quarter. This hip neighborhood is filled with trendy bars, restaurants, and small boutique shops, offering a taste of where the historic and modern Catalan capital collide. Stroll narrow cobblestone streets, passing medieval architecture, hidden plazas, and the notable Barcelona Cathedral.
This afternoon, take it down a notch when you enter the Aire Ancient Baths, a relaxing spa experience inspired by Roman, Greek, and Ottoman bathing traditions. Here, you'll truly embrace holiday mode and emerge a new person after a special experience that includes soaking in various hot baths, a floral exfoliation using Himalayan pink salt and kukui oil, a white clay body mask, a head massage, and a glass of cava or fresh orange juice.Day 7: Drive to the Costa Brava, Self-Guided Begur Walk
The Costa Brava is the perfect extension for any trip to Barcelona, as this scenic stretch of coastline sits just north of the city. This morning you'll rent a car and hit the highway north, taking the fast one-hour coastal route along the C-32 and A2, which offers glimpses of the Mediterranean sea.
Nestled on the rugged coastline of the Costa Brava is the charming hilltop village of Begur. While small in size, you'll find plenty of history to explore this afternoon with a self-guided walk along its cobbled streets. Its strategic coastal position made it a sought-after territory by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Moors, and more recently, it became a summer retreat for artists and intellectuals. Here you could explore medieval structures, hike to incredible viewpoints, or simply relax at the beach and soak up the sunshine.
Day 8: Tossa de Mar Active Adventure
Today you'll set off for an epic guided adventure that combines culture, leisure, and fun at Tossa de Mar. The big day begins at the historic Recinto Amurallado, where you'll meet your guide and visit the picturesque Plaza de Ava Garner, historic Cañones, ancient Iglesia Antigua, and the mysterious Forat del Dimoni. Then, board a glass-bottomed boat, Fondo Cristal, for a captivating journey to Cala Pola. Take in the views of Costa Brava's coastline and marine life, and visit some of its enchanting caves. Upon disembarking, enjoy a small breakfast at the picturesque cove.
From here, take a leisurely 10-minute hike along the Camí de Ronda to Cala Bona. As you stroll, marvel at the native flora and fauna in the Costa Brava, enjoy more Mediterranean views, and learn about the region's distinctive characteristics. Finally, you'll kayak to Mar Menuda. Along the way, stop at a secluded cove to snorkel and observe the underwater wonders of the Costa Brava. When the day is done, wave goodbye to your new friends and guide and enjoy some free time before dinner.
Day 9: Day Trip to Cadaqués, Figueres & Palafrugell
Renowned for its picturesque medieval villages and rugged coastline with numerous idyllic coves, ports, and beaches, the Costa Brava runs from the Spanish and French Mediterranean border down to just north of Barcelona. Since you have a rental car at your disposal, make a day of exploring some of Costa Brava's most charming villages and discover what makes this region so special.
Today's self-guided adventure focuses on three special towns. Your first stop is the picturesque fishing village of Cadaqués, where narrow winding streets and whitewashed houses transport you back in time. Next, explore Palafrugell, a charming beach town known for its pristine shores and vibrant atmosphere. Finally, venture to Figueres, a town steeped in the artistic legacy of Salvador Dalí. Visit the renowned Dalí Theatre-Museum, a surreal journey into the mind of one of the 20th century's most eccentric and influential artists.
Day 10: Drive to Barcelona, Depart
Sadly it's your final day in Spain, which means it's time to return to Barcelona and head to the airport. If your departing flight isn't until the evening, make the most of today and explore one of the Costa Brava's many beaches or inland towns and villages, such as Pals or Calella de Palafrugell. You could also visit Girona and explore the Old Quarter, full of Roman, Greek, Moorish, Medieval, and Gothic architecture.
Just leave with enough time to make the 90-minute return journey, and be sure to arrive at least 2.5 hours before your flight, as Barcelona's airport can get busy during the peak travel season, and you'll need to return the car. Safe travels!
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