Insider's Spain and France

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, Monday May 25: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Tuesday May 26: Madrid

¡Bienvenidos a España! Arrive in Madrid and meet your ACIS Tour Manager before beginning to explore the wide avenues and open plazas of Spain’s capital city. (D)

Day 3, Wednesday May 27: 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. This evening take cues from a professional dancer, learning the steps during a flamenco lesson before watching your instructor and others take the stage to perform a traditional flamenco show. (B,D)

Day 4, Thursday May 28: Barcelona

This morning depart Madrid 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. Let the city introduce itself during 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. Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. Entrance to Gaudí's Sagrada Familia allows you study the incredible light and intricate architecture of this masterpiece inside and out. You'll also take a stroll through his whimsical Parc Güell and enjoy a sweeping view over the city all the way to the sea. (B,D)

Day 5, Friday May 29: Barcelona

The narrow cobbled streets, peaceful squares and towering old buildings of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter are perfect for exploring this morning. Then switch your mode of transport for a Barcelona by bike tour through lovely Ciutadella Park, and the nearby Olympic Port. Spend the rest of the day further exploring this beautiful city perhaps by visiting the Picasso Museum or tasting traditional foods at the bustling and colorful La Boqueria market. Or, in the afternoon you may opt to learn about Barcelona's famed football club with a tour of Camp Nou Stadium. (B,D)

Day 6, Saturday May 30: Provence

Depart Spain and cross the Pyrénées, to France and continue through the vineyards to Provence. Visit the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct preserved in almost perfect condition. A true marvel of Roman engineering, the 161-foot tall bridge aqueduct is still standing nearly 2,000 years after its construction. Our tour offers an exclusive guided visit to the third floor for a closer look at the structure's architecture and exceptional views. (B,D)

Day 7, Sunday May 31: Provence

Today visit Arles, where Vincent Van Gogh found artistic inspiration during his stay here from 1888 to 1889. This small town was also once a major Roman city, and this legacy is evident in impressively preserved Roman ruins that are still used for entertainment today. Step into the shoes of these famed legionnaires as you visit the Roman Arena for a fun gladiator games workshop that teaches you how to compete like the gladiators did, followed by a show that reenacts a gladitorial contest. (B,D)

Day 8, Monday June 1: Paris

Board the high-speed TGV train for Paris this morning. Upon arrival you’ll want to dive right in to explore one of the world’s great cultural centers, brimming with museums, art galleries and historic sights alongside an endless array of charming curbside cafés and boulangeries. During the afternoon, a sightseeing tour with a local expert guide shows you the monumental Arc de Triomphe, points out the massive Les Invalides (where Napoleon is buried) and helps decode the Gothic wonder of Notre Dame. The evening is free for discovering Montmartre’s artist-filled squares and sweeping views over Paris. (B,D)

Day 9, Tuesday June 2: Paris

Start your day with a visit to Sainte-Chapelle. Later today, channel your own inner artist with a Paint Paris painting lesson and walking tour of Île Saint-Louis. A local artist will not only explain the history behind the island's idyllic bridges and charming Parisian buildings, but also show you painting techniques important to French art history for capturing the scenery like a pro. Then ascend to the top floor of the Eiffel Tower for views over this magnificent city. Your final evening in Europe is highlighted by a scenic illuminated boat ride along the Seine. You may opt to upgrade your Seine experience with a dinner cruise, reveling in traditional French cuisine and music as you glide past some of the city's most notable landmarks. (B,D)

Day 10, Wednesday June 3: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)