London, Paris and Madrid

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, Thursday March 20: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Friday March 21: London

Welcome to London! Meet your ACIS Tour Manager, relax, unpack and begin to explore the city's unique neighborhoods. Perhaps check out the street markets along Portobello Road in Notting Hill; explore the paths of Hyde Park or the mansions of nearby Belgravia; visit museums in South Kensington; or stroll along the artsy South Bank. (D)

Day 3, Saturday March 22: London

This morning's panoramic sightseeing tour, led by a local guide, shows you Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Continue with a guided visit of the British Museum, home to an astounding 150 million items. You'll discover objects from around the world including the Rosetta Stone and sculptural friezes from the Parthenon. A traditional English fish and chips dinner will give you the fuel you need for an engaging evening walk through Covent Garden and the lively West End. (B,D)

Day 4, Sunday March 23: Paris

We use the Eurostar high-speed train to zip underneath the English Channel and on to Paris, known as the “City of Light” for its role as a center of education and culture during the Enlightenment. During the afternoon, a local expert brings you to the very best place to get your picture in front of the Eiffel Tower, 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. You'll have time to discover your own favorite neighborhood café before tonight's illuminated boat ride along the Seine. (B,D)

Day 5, Monday March 24: Paris

This morning 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. You'll then have a chance to try your own hand on our Paint Paris walking tour of Montmartre. An artist will show you the interesting historical highlights of this unique neighborhood, then help you bring them to life via lessons using painting techniques important to French art history. Voila! An artist is born! You may even dine with some real artists this evening at an authentic French dinner on the Place du Tertre. This square at the heart of Montmartre is known for its artists of all types and has been home to famous painters including Picasso. (B,D)

Day 6, Tuesday March 25: Madrid

In the morning board your flight to Madrid, Spain's bustling capital city in the center of the country. We introduce you to the city's elegant boulevards with an evening stroll to see the artists and street performers in the Plaza Mayor. (B,D)

Day 7, Wednesday March 26: 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. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore more of Madrid's highlights at your own pace. Perhaps roam through a bustling open market like the Mercado de Maravillas or sample churros y chocolate at Chocolateria San Gines for a sweet treat to cap off your European adventure. (B,D)

Day 8, Thursday March 27: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Enhance your European experience with a two-night extension to Barcelona via AVE, including guided sightseeing with visits to the Parc Güell and Sagrada Familia. (B)