Spanish Pilgrimage

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Sunday April 12: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Monday April 13: Madrid

Bienvenidos a Espana! Arrive in Madrid, meet your Encore Tour Manager and settle in before exploring the wide avenues and open plazas of Spain's capital city. (B,D)

Day 3, Tuesday April 14: Madrid

Madrid's rich heritage comes alive on your guided sightseeing tour of classic Spanish boulevards, grand plazas, and the diverse architecture of modern-day Madrid. Highlights include the Plaza de Espana with its statue of Don Quixote, and the famous bullring Las Ventas. Then visit the magnificent Prado, one of the world's premier art museums. This afternoon, rehearse for your debut concert performance! Venue options include the Iglesia Santa Maria Castillo, San Manuel y San Benito Church or similar. Enjoy dinner together tonight. (B,D)

Day 4, Wednesday April 15: Granada

A journey to Spain's old capital of Toledo includes a visit to El Greco's great painting in the Church of Santo Tome, the treasures of the Gothic Cathedral and the Medieval Synagogue accompanied by a local guide. Then drive through Andalucia's sunflower fields and olive groves to Granada, the former seat of Spain's Moorish kingdom, in time for dinner. (B,D)

Day 5, Thursday April 16: Granada

A local guide provides commentary during your sightseeing tour as you visit the legendary Alhambra, the most magnificent of all the Moorish palaces in Spain, and wander through the aromatic Generalife Gardens. This afternoon, have time to explore the Albayzin district and enjoy a special flamenco show! (B,D)

Day 6, Friday April 17: Seville

Journey today to Andalucia's capital, Seville where this afternoon's sightseeing tour with a local expert includes its immense Gothic Cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus, and the grand Giralda Tower.(B,D)

Day 7, Saturday April 18: Seville

This morning is yours to explore Seville at your own pace. Perhaps stroll the whitewashed Santa Cruz quarter, and imagine the days when the Spanish explorers were bringing gold from the New World. This afternoon, come together for your next rehearsal and evening concert. Possible venues include Iglesia Omnium Sanctorum or Iglesia de la Anunciacion! (B,D)

Day 8, Sunday April 19: Barcelona

Journey by high-speed AVE train to Barcelona. 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 through the narrow cobbled streets, peaceful squares and towering old buildings that characterize the city's Gothic Quarter. 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. (B,D)

Day 9, Monday April 20: Barcelona

Begin your day with a panoramic sightseeing tour. Our local expert will point out all the major highlights of Barcelona, including the unique Gaudi-designed houses. Antoni Gaudi, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. An impromptu sing may be possible at La Sagrada Familia (pending approval). This afternoon, rehearse for tonight's final concert perforamance! Venue options include Santa Maria del Pi or the Basilica del Pilar, or similar. Enjoy a special farewell dinner together tonight to celebrate your successful tour of Spain! (B,D)

Day 10, Tuesday April 21: Departure

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart to the Airport (B)