Barcelona, Madrid and Seville

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: 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. (B,D)

Day 3, Wednesday May 27: Barcelona

Begin your day with a panoramic sightseeing tour. Our local expert will point out, via personal headsets, all the major highlights of Barcelona, including the unique Gaudí-designed houses. Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia’s most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. After, you’ll be able to study the intricate design inside and out of his still-unfinished Sagrada Familia and stroll whimsical Parc Güell. 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. (B,D)

Day 4, Thursday May 28: 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. (D)

Day 5, Friday May 29: 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 España with its statue of Don Quixote, the majestic Alcalá Gate, and the famous bullring Las Ventas. Then visit the magnificent Prado (skipping the lines with a timed reservation), one of the world’s premier art museums. Here, an expert provides illuminating commentary via personal headsets on 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. Tonight, we’ll have a special tapas evening in true Spanish style: you try different local specialties as you sidle up next to the madrileños for whom this is a culturally important and typical way to spend an evening. Classic tapas dishes include items such as tortilla española, patatas bravas, bacalao, cheeses, olives or jamón. After dinner, finish the evening with a sweet culinary experience as you visit a famous churreria, for a churros y chocolate dessert. (B,D)

Day 6, Saturday May 30: Seville

Pass through the legendary plains of La Mancha, land of Don Quixote, en route to Córdoba. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the city's famous Moorish Mezquita with audio guides. Then drive to Seville. Spend your evening discovering Seville's rich history perhaps as you stroll the whitewashed Santa Cruz quarter, and imagine the days when the Spanish explorers were bringing gold from the New World. (B,D)

Day 7, Sunday May 31: Seville

Today’s guided sightseeing tour shows you Seville’s massive Gothic Cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus, and the grand Giralda Tower. Your expert local guide will provide commentary and anecdotes via personal headsets. 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. (B,D)

Day 8, Monday June 1: 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 . (B)