Discovery of Spain - 10 days

Welcome to Madrid, one of Europe's most dynamic capital cities. After your arrival at the airport and transfer to your hotel, take some time to explore the city. In the evening, enjoy an 'Illuminated Madrid' drive through the bustling streets of the old city, culminating at the historical and impressive Plaza Mayor, home to some of the most typical restaurants and taverns serving delicious 'tapas'. Return to your hotel for overnight stay.

After a buffet breakfast, embark on an escorted sightseeing tour of Madrid's most outstanding attractions, including the Puerta del Sol, the magnificent fountains of Neptune and Cibeles, the stately Alcala Gate, the busy Gran Via, the Plaza de España, and the Plaza de Oriente. In the afternoon, you have the option to tour the Imperial capital city of Toledo, where you can soak up the medieval atmosphere, visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral and St. Tome Church, and shop for unique local artisan products. Return to Madrid for overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for the region of Extremadura, passing by Trujillo. Arrive in ancient Merida, where you'll have free time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Roman amphitheatre archaeological site before continuing to Seville for overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for Cordoba. Visit one of the world's marvels, the former Great Mosque (now a cathedral). After some free time for lunch, continue to Granada for overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy an escorted tour of the magnificent Alhambra and the verdant Gardens of the Generalife. At midday, depart for the east coast of Spain, arriving in Valencia for overnight stay.

After breakfast, enjoy a morning city tour of Valencia, including the new area of Museums. In the early afternoon, continue north to Barcelona, one of Europe's most cosmopolitan cities. In the evening, dine at the Pueblo Español, featuring architectural replicas from all of Spain's regions. Overnight stay in Barcelona.

After breakfast, enjoy an escorted tour of one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Visit the ancient Gothic Quarter with its magnificent cathedral, admire the exterior of Gaudi's masterwork, the Basilica of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia), and continue to Montjuich Hill to enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona and its port area. The afternoon is free for you to explore or shop. Overnight stay in Barcelona.

After breakfast, depart for the proud city of Zaragoza. Take a pause downtown in a main plaza where you will have free time to visit the impressive Basilica el El Pilar. Continue on to Madrid for overnight stay.