Spanish Capitals

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

Arrive in Madrid, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain, meet your ACIS Tour Manager and begin exploring. You may want to start by sampling tapas at the little mesones in the Plaza Mayor.

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. In the afternoon participate in a legendary part of Spain's culture with a visit to a local bull ranch, where you will get a first-hand look at how famed Spanish bulls are bred. Explore the ranch, participate in a bullfighting lesson and then enjoy a demonstration of Matador skills with a real bull (no animals are harmed throughout our lesson). Lunch at the ranch is included today instead of dinner. Spend the latter part of the day rambling the Barrio des las Letras, home to the writers of Spain's literary Golden Age.

Day 4: Madrid

In the morning journey to the palace monastery of El Escorial for guided visit. Built by King Philip II to honor San Lorenzo after he defeated the French in 1557, its immense size and elaborate decoration emphasize its importance to Spanish history. Then drive on to ancient Segovia, where a walking tour with your tour manager will show you its impressive 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct and dreamlike Alcázar. Back in Madrid this evening you can enjoy the traditional Spanish meal of paella—a spicy tango of rice, seafood and vegetables considered by many as Spain's national dish.

Day 5: Madrid

Experience the essence of medieval Spain on your excursion to Toledo. With a local guide providing commentary, walk the winding streets to the Gothic Cathedral, the Medieval Synagogue and El Greco's great painting in the Church of Santo Tomé. Lunch is included today instead of dinner—served with a side of stunning panoramic views over the city. Return to Madrid for the evening and perhaps shop in the Mercado San Miguel or stroll past the illuminated Royal Palace.

Day 6: Barcelona

Whiz through the Spanish countryside aboard the high-speed AVE train to Catalonia's capital city, Barcelona. Founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BC, it’s known for its artistic treasures and fine architecture from Gothic to Modernist. Upon arrival, explore Ciutadella Park and the Olympic Port on a guided Barcelona by bike tour. Take a walk down La Rambla this evening and experience the brightly lit, bustling atmosphere of Plaça de Catalunya.

Day 7: 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. We have the afternoon to wander the narrow cobbled streets, peaceful squares and towering old buildings that characterize Barri Gòtic (the city's Gothic Quarter) which was at times home to both Picasso and Joan Miró. In the afternoon, you may also opt to learn about Barcelona's famed football club with a tour of Nou Camp Stadium.

Day 8: Barcelona

Take an optional full-day excursion along the Costa Brava featuring a visit to the Salvador Dalí museum in Figueres. Alternatively, enjoy a day to explore more of the sights in Barcelona—perhaps discovering your favorite piece at the Picasso Museum or practicing your Spanish while mingling with locals in the popular city square of Plaça Reial or engaging all your senses at the world famous La Boqueria food market. Whatever you decide, memories of your time in Spain will travel home with you.

Day 9: Departure

Depart for the USA.