Capitals and the Basque Country

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: Madrid

Your ACIS Tour Manager offers a warm Bienvenidos. Enjoy your first taste of Spanish cuisine tonight.

Day 3: Madrid

Madrid's rich heritage comes alive on a guided morning walking tour that showcases classic Spanish boulevards, grand plazas and the diverse architecture of modern-day Madrid. Highlights include the Teatro Real Opera House, Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and Neptune Fountain. You'll also go inside the magnificent Prado (skipping the lines with a timed reservation), one of the world's premier art museums. Here an expert will provide illuminating commentary about the artwork of Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens and Bosch. Even the 18th-century neo-classical building that houses the collection is stunning.

Day 4: San Sebastian

Travel to the Atlantic coast, to seaside San Sebastián and enjoy a walking tour of this Spanish resort town of luxurious villas, gardens, and tiny streets. Later experience an important piece of Basque sporting culture as you try your hand at one of the world's fastest ball games, pelota. Expert players will treat you to both a pelota lesson and professional demonstration match.

Day 5: Bordeaux

Today, cross the border to the French resort town of Biarritz, famed for its Basque heritage, magnificent ocean promenade and foaming breakers, and enjoy a walking tour. Then continue on to Bordeaux, the wine capital of the world and a center for arts and culture.

Day 6: Paris

Your day begins with a guided walking tour of Bordeaux. Much of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site—revitalized, graceful and a fine example of urban planning. Discover its historic center and the miroir d'eau, the world's largest reflecting pool. In the afternoon take in a breathtaking panorama of French provinces as the high-speed TGV train whisks you north to Paris.

Day 7: Paris

This morning's guided sightseeing tour takes you past some of the most famous attractions in Paris. Your expert local guide will show you the magnificent Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, Napoleon's final resting place at Les Invalides and the Gothic wonder of Notre Dame. Then, breeze by the crowds with your timed entrance to the Louvre and discover the many famous masterpieces that call it home. Insightful commentary from your local guide highlights the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo and more as you wander through the galleries. From its beginnings as a royal fortress to its current status as the world's most visited art museum, the Louvre has long been at the center of Parisian culture and home to a collection of 35,000 works of art from around the world. In the afternoon you are free to stroll the Champs-Elysées or perhaps take a walk around Montmartre. This cultural and artistic district is worth the visit for the bustling energy of the artists and hipsters as well as the stunning views of the City of Light..

Day 8: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Enhance your French experience with a two-night extension to Normandy via bus including a visit to the Bayeux tapestry and the D-Day Beaches.