Ultimate Luxury Tour of Spain: Barcelona, Madrid & Andalusia - 14 Days

Highlights

• Enjoy personalized food, wine, and city tours in Barcelona
• Visit Madrid's best museums and see its architectural landmarks
• Take a balloon ride over Segovia and see a flamenco show in Granada
• Tour the historic Alhambra and hike in the Andalusian countryside
• Laze on the golden beaches of Málaga and take a sunset cruise

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona, Catalan Food & Wine Tour

Welcome to Spain! This two-week luxury tour begins in Barcelona, a city epitomizing sun-kissed European chic. It's the capital of Spain's Catalonia region, and like all the country's 17 autonomous communities, this one has its own unique identity. Barcelona is defined by its golden beaches, medieval architecture, raucous nightlife, and a food scene to die for.

In a city as cool as Barcelona, you'll want your hotel to be equally on-brand. That's why, upon arrival at the airport, your personal driver will transfer you to the heart of the city and the 5-star Hotel Alma. Located in the Eixample district (home to famous Gaudí-designed buildings), this contemporary boutique hotel exudes sophistication and tranquility. After checking in, you can take the edge off the flight with a visit to the on-site spa for some sauna time or a dip in a heated pool inspired by the most relaxing hot springs in Japan. 

When the sun goes down, you'll embark on a culinary journey to discover the soul of Catalan cuisine. You'll stop at four of Barcelona's standout restaurants during this epic three-hour food walk. These range from humble family-run taverns serving traditional tapas to modern gastronomic powerhouses known for their artistic presentations of contemporary Spanish cuisine. Part of the experience also involves following a professional sommelier to a local wine bar to taste the hidden gems of Spain's wine regions and some local bubbly cava—the country's favorite sparkling wine. 

Day 2: Gaudí Architecture Walk

Barcelona's historic Catalan modernist architecture has one founding father: Antoni Gaudí. This morning, you'll meet a local guide for a private, half-day tour of his most famous buildings. It's a diverse list, too, as you'll visit everything from fountains to parks to apartment buildings and historic churches.

It begins on Passeig de Grácia with Casa Batlló. This modernist masterpiece of a residential building is known as Casa dels Ossos (House of Bones) due to the skeletal nature of its design. Then, you'll tour the iconic Casa Milà. Built for the aristocratic Milà family in 1906, this iconic apartment building earned the nickname La Pedrera (The Quarry) because its facade resembles a stone quarry.

Finish with a stop at the legendary Sagrada Família, the most iconic church in Barcelona. Construction of this Gothic/Art Nouveau basilica began in 1882 but technically remains unfinished to this day. It's a popular tourist draw, but you can breeze right past the line with your prearranged tickets. After the visit, you'll say goodbye to your guide and continue exploring the city on your own.

Day 3: Olive Oil Estate & Winery Tour 

Get ready for a quintessentially Mediterranean tour from Barcelona to a private winery and olive oil estate for a tasting. This full-day, private experience begins after breakfast with a transfer outside the city to the estate. Here, you'll meet the owner, a renowned expert in all things olive oil.

Upon arrival, you'll tour the farm and its olive groves as you learn about the estate's 500 years of history. This includes an overview of the types of olives grown on the property and the process of making exceptional and rare oils. Then, you'll enjoy a tasting of three of the region's most emblematic olive oils. Afterward, you'll sit down to a traditional Catalan meal prepared by a private chef with fresh ingredients sourced right from the farm. Of course, you'll pair these tasty dishes with the farm's olive oils and some of the region's finest wines.

Later in the afternoon, you'll transfer to a small organic winery known for its fantastic reds. It's a special experience as you'll enjoy a tasting led by the owner, which involves sampling wines at various stages of the aging process. These include wines from the previous harvest and those currently aging in oak barrels. Finally, you'll sample wines at the end of their aging cycle when they reach their peak potential.​ 

Day 4: Train to Madrid, Museum Visit

In the morning, your driver will take you to the Barcelona Sants station, where you'll catch a three-hour train ride (in a first-class coach) to Madrid. There's a lot of history in Spain's dynamic capital: it was founded around the ninth century by the Moors and became the nation's capital in the 16th century under the reign of King Phillip II, a member of the famous Habsburg dynasty of Europe. Much of this long and storied history remains visible in Madrid's parks, plazas, and palaces.

Upon arrival, a driver will pick you up for the transfer to the upscale Chamberí neighborhood and your accommodation: URSO Hotel & Spa. Located in the heart of Madrid, this 5-star boutique hotel in a historic neoclassical building isn't only luxurious but also within walking distance of many of the city's top attractions. These include Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol, and Parque de El Retiro. The hotel itself features several highlights and amenities, including well-appointed suites and a wellness center with personalized spa services, like citrus cleansing and anti-aging remodeling.

After checking in, you'll head over to Madrid's "Golden Triangle of Art" and visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. During this two-hour private tour led by an art historian guide, you'll witness one of the world's finest private art collections, which contains nearly 1,000 paintings spanning the 13th-20th century. Several of the world's most celebrated artists are on display here, from Dalí to Degas, Rembrandt to Renoir, and van Eyck to Van Gogh, among several others. The styles range from Renaissance and Baroque to Impressionism and modern art. 

Day 5: Madrid City Tour, Dinner at a Michelin Restaurant

Get to know Madrid even better today on a private history, culture, and architecture tour. Accompanied by a local guide, head to the historic Habsburg district. This is the oldest part of the city, known in Spanish as El Madrid de Los Austrias. During the walk, you'll visit the 18th-century Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and the expansive Plaza Mayor, which dates to the 15th century. Your guide will also take you to hidden gems and tell stories about Madrid's fascinating history.

Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and/or exploring the city on your own. Then, when the sun goes down, get dressed up for an evening out at a special restaurant, Paco Roncero. Located in an elegant space on the top floor of a 19th-century building in Chamberí, the eatery has earned two Michelin stars for its eponymous chef's innovative and contemporary Spanish cuisine. Sit on the expansive terrace and enjoy a sophisticated tasting menu paired with fine wines you won't soon forget.

Day 6: Day Trip to Segovia, Balloon Ride & Kayaking

It's time for a day trip to explore the region around Madrid. In the early morning, your driver will pick you up for the one-hour drive north from Madrid to Segovia. This is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the country, with no shortage of ancient history, most of it centered around its medieval Old Town. The star is the Roman Aqueduct. Dating to around 50 BCE, it runs 8 miles (14 km), stands an impressive 93 feet (28 m), and features two tiers comprised of 160 arches.

You'll get a bird's-eye view of the aqueduct plus Segovia's other historic landmarks, like its 11th-century Alcázar and 16th-century Cathedral, during a thrilling ride in a hot-air balloon. Upon arrival at the launch site, you'll witness the inflating of the balloon, hop in the basket, and then cruise at 3,000 feet (1,000 m) as you watch the early morning sun light up the city and the surrounding countryside. When you land, you'll celebrate with a light breakfast and toast the experience with a glass of bubbly cava.

Later, transfer north of the city to the Río Duratón Natural Reserve. This impressive river gorge contains immense natural beauty and is a habitat for birds of prey like griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons. Once at the river, you'll hop in a kayak and paddle down the gorge flanked by its sheer limestone walls that rise 328 feet (100 m) in places. Keep an eye out for birds as you journey to the ruins of Monasterio de la Hoz, a monastery dating to the eighth century. After the ride, you'll transfer back to your hotel in Madrid. 

Day 7: Train to Granada, Five Senses City Tour

After breakfast, you'll transfer to the station in Madrid and catch a train for 3.5 hours to the southern Andalusia region and Granada. This is a city that rivals any other in Spain for history and beauty. Granada was once the last stronghold of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain) during the 400-year reign of the Moors, which lasted from 711 to 1086 CE. You can see examples of this history at Granada's most famous landmark, the Alhambra, which receives more than two million visitors annually.

Upon arrival, your driver will transfer you to your hotel, Parador de Granada. Located within the actual Alhambra complex, this 4-star hotel is housed in a 15th-century Franciscan convent featuring beautiful gardens, courtyards, and terraces. You couldn't ask for a finer location for a luxury hotel than this option. And when you get hungry, the Parador's restaurant offers a menu that combines local Andalusian flavors with international dishes set amid fine views of the Alhambra.

First, though, you'll head out for an alternative tour of this bastion of Spanish history. Over 2.5 hours, you'll discover Granada using all of your senses. Led by an expert private guide, you'll be transported to different eras in the city's history as you visit iconic locales like the 11th-century Bañuelo hammam (Arab bath), the grand 16th-century Granada Cathedral, and the colorful Alcaicería, once a traditional Moorish bazaar now full of colorful Spanish treats, trinkets, and souvenirs.

Day 8: Alhambra Tour, Hammam & Cave Flamenco Show

In the morning, you'll head out from your hotel on a short walk up to the Alhambra, the famous 26-acre (12 ha) Muslim fortress that overlooks Granada. Dating to the ninth century, the Alhambra was rebuilt in the 14th century by the Nasrid Dynasty and served as a Moorish palace until 1492, when, after the Christian reconquest, it became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella. During a private tour, you'll walk its grand halls and stroll the Generalife Gardens, which are filled with colorful flowers and fountains and offer panoramic city views. 

After all that walking, you can rest your tired legs with a one-hour session at a local hammam. These steam baths hold a significant place in Arab/Andalusian history and remain a cornerstone of the culture today. Every hammam comprises different rooms, each containing baths set at different temperatures. A hammam session is a great way to reduce stress and relax while receiving essential vitamins and minerals and increasing blood circulation.

Now that you're rejuvenated, you'll head out for another cultural touchstone of this region: flamenco. The ultimate artistic expression of Andalusia, it's said that this combined dance/singing style dates back to the 16th century when performers would entertain passing travelers in the hills above Granada, using caves as stages. Today, you'll witness a recreation of this experience on a visit to one such cave to enjoy an authentic flamenco show—an event you won't find anywhere else.

Day 9: Hiking Andalusia & White Villages Tour

Today, you'll venture south of Granada to the mountains north of Marbella. There, you'll lace up your hiking boots for a full-day trek around the region. Though technically classified as easy, this privately guided hike requires decent physical fitness as it involves ascending rocky mountains like Cruz de Juanar. Your reward for summiting this peak is you'll be treated to incredible views out over the coast.

When the hiking is done, you'll meet a driver and continue touring the region by vehicle, stopping to admire Spain's famous Pueblos Blancos (White Villages). A few dozen such villages exist in Spain, primarily in Andalusia and the Costa del Sol. They're defined by their charming whitewashed buildings and scenic locations, often near the coast. You'll get to stop at a couple of them, like Ojén and Monda, take a walk around, and sample some great tapas. Later in the day, you'll transfer back to Granada.

Day 10: Transfer to Málaga, Sunset Cruise

In the morning, you'll transfer two hours south to the coastal city of Malága. It's a scenic ride that winds around mountains, olive groves, rolling meadows, cork forests, and more. Eventually, you'll arrive in the city, a coastal gem known for its medieval landmarks and being the birthplace of Picasso.

In Malagá, you'll transfer to your hotel, Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina. This 4-star, adults-only hotel enjoys a privileged location overlooking the coast and is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century castle. The spacious rooms and suites are also fit for royalty, and once you've checked in, you can head to the hotel's terraces for prime panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Or admire the views while cooling off in the rooftop pool.

Day 11: Málaga Beach Day

Today is yours to relax on the fine beaches in and around Málaga. You'll find a few options for municipal beaches in the city's center, including the popular Playa de la Malagueta. For other nearby beaches, Málaga has a user-friendly bus line that hugs the coast to the north and a metro that covers the south.

If you like, you can travel further down or up the coast to discover even more prime stretches of sand. Some are better suited for families, whereas others are great for couples or offer more privacy. A few recommended options include Marbella's beach resorts, Nerja with its idyllic coves and inlets, and the beaches within the Cliffs of Maro, a nature preserve. 

Day 12: Transfer to Seville via Cueva de la Pileta

Meet your driver in the morning for the 2.5-hour transfer northwest from Málaga to Seville. A highlight of the journey is a stop at Cueva de la Pileta, a cave system famous for its archaeological wonders like prehistoric rock art. You'll get to venture into these caverns by torchlight. As you descend into the belly of the caves your guide will point out Stone Age rock paintings dating back 25,000 years that depict animals like horses, goats, and fish. Adding to the heady ambience are otherworldly stalactites and stalagmites.

After the cave, you'll continue through scenic mountain roads to Seville, the capital of Spain's Andalusia region. This charming city lies on the shores of the Guadalquivir River and is a mix of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish architecture, with a rich history and phenomenal gastronomy.

Once here, you'll check into the Corral del Rey. This 4-star hotel occupies a 17th-century building in the city center that perfectly encapsulates Moorish/Andalusian architectural style with its arches, courtyards, and Islamic design patterns. After checking in, you can relax in the fireplace lounge of this intimate boutique hotel, or head to the rooftop terrace for stunning views of Seville's skyline.

Day 13: Private City Bike Tour

After breakfast, meet your private guide, who will have bikes prepared and ready to go for an active tour of Seville's numerous awe-inspiring sights. These include the Plaza de España, the Guadalquivir riverfront, Setas Marketplace, Plaza de San Francisco, and some of the city's most beautiful gardens and parks.

During the excursion, your guide will share anecdotes and explain some of the mysteries and stories behind the aforementioned sights, making this a fun and educational way to get a feel for the city. Following the tour, you'll have the rest of the day to spend as you please, perhaps taking a long paseo (stroll) around Seville's historic landmarks and indulging in its world-famous tapas.

Day 14: Train to Madrid, Depart

Your two weeks of Spanish luxury come to an end today. In the morning, you'll take a private transfer to the station in Seville, where you'll board a train 3.5 hours north to Madrid. There, you'll transfer to the airport and catch your flight home. Adiós!

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