Capitals and the Basque Country

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 June 7: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Monday June 8: Madrid

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

Day 3, Tuesday June 9: 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. (D)

Day 4, Wednesday June 10: 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. (B,D)

Day 5, Thursday June 11: 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. (B,D)

Day 6, Friday June 12: 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. (B,D)

Day 7, Saturday June 13: 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.. (B,D)

Day 8, Sunday June 14: Paris

The day is yours to explore with your group! Perhaps visit the Musee Marmottan-Monet, which is home the famous artist's Impression, Sunrise, from which the Impressionist artistic movement purportedly drew its name, or the Orangerie to see Monet’s water lilies. (B,D)

Day 9, Monday June 15: Toulouse

Today board the TGV for Toulouse, known as “La Ville Rose” for its warm pink architecture around Place du Capitole. It’s also home to UNESCO-listed landmarks like the Basilica of Saint-Sernin and the Canal du Midi. Start exploring this afternoon, and perhaps sample some of its famed delicacies such as cassoulet or foie gras. (B,D)

Day 10, Tuesday June 16: Toulouse

Visit Lourdes, a small market town in the Pyrenees where the Virgin Mary once appeared to a local woman, by train. Visit the Massabielle Grotto the very place where the apparitions occurred and within it is the spring that was discovered. While there you will find taps to drink the water. Those who wish can also go to the sanctuary baths to perform the water gesture. Later, you may also want to visit the three basilicas located in the town. Return to Toulouse this afternoon. (B,D)

Day 11, Wednesday June 17: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)