Barcelona, Madrid and Seville

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: Barcelona

Your ACIS Tour Manager offers a warm Bienvenidos to Barcelona, capital of Catalonia and Spain's second largest city. Founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BC, it's known for its artistic treasures and fine architecture from Gothic to Modernist. Take time to wander the old town and acquaint yourself with this vibrant culture, including an evening stroll through the narrow cobbled streets and peaceful squares.

Day 3: Barcelona

Begin your day with a panoramic sightseeing tour. Your local guide will point out the major highlights of Barcelona, from the Gothic Quarter to the unique Gaudí designs along the Passeig de Gràcia, and will make a stop outside his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. Later, stroll through his whimsical Parc Güell for a sweeping view over the city, and also enjoy a visit inside one of the city's unique Gaudí-designed houses, either Casa Batlló or La Pedrera. Later discover the Gothic Quarter by foot including entrance to the Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia. After dinner perhaps walk from your hotel to take in the sights and sounds of the famous La Rambla.

Day 4: Madrid

Depart Barcelona for Zaragoza, noted for its traditions of folklore and gastronomy as well as the Basílica del Pilar and the grand Moorish Aljafería Palace, built during the 11th century. Continue to Madrid where you'll enjoy a stroll around the lively Puerta del Sol area. Come back hungry; tonight's feast is a traditional Spanish paella dinner—a spicy tango of rice, seafood and vegetables considered by many as Spain's national dish.

Day 5: 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. In your free afternoon, perhaps visit the Retiro Park or explore the Barrio de las Letras. Your cultural immersion continues later today as a master teacher shows you how to channel your inner bailaor/bailaora with a lesson in the passionate art of flamenco dancing, an important tradition in Spanish culture. After the lesson, enjoy a dramatic and fiery professional flamenco show starring your own instructor.

Day 6: Seville

Head south today to the Roman town of Mérida and explore the extensive Roman ruins including the Roman Theater, Amphitheater, Circus Maximus and Puente Romano. Continue on to Seville, the capital of Andalucía. Enjoy an evening paseo along the river to see the Torre de Oro and colorful Barrio de Triana.

Day 7: Seville

Today's guided sightseeing tour shows you Seville's massive Gothic Cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus, and the grand Giralda Tower. The afternoon is free to explore Santa Cruz, the old section of the city noted for its picturesque winding streets, whitewashed houses and Seville's oldest churches.

Day 8: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Further immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Spanish Mediterranean coast with an extra night in Costa del Sol, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager .