Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona

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 March 29: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Monday March 30: Madrid

¡Bienvenidos a España! Welcome to Spain's modern and cosmopolitan capital. Meet your ACIS Tour Manager before you begin to explore the city's wide avenues and open plazas. (D)

Day 3, Tuesday March 31: 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. Later today visit Bernabeu Stadium for a tour, home of Real Madrid. (B,D)

Day 4, Wednesday April 1: Valencia

Today journey by train to the bustling city of Valencia. Spend the rest of the day exploring. (B,D)

Day 5, Thursday April 2: Valencia

Founded as a Roman colony, Valencia boasts one of the largest historic centers in Spain, with a wealth of ancient monuments and cultural attractions. This morning you'll start to discover Valencia's rich heritage on a guided sightseeing tour, which includes visiting the city's cathedral, seeing the old silk exchange and taking a panoramic drive along the grand boulevards to view the impressive architecture of the Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias. Next you'll continue to El Palmar, a fishing town on the edge of Albufera lagoon, part of the Parc Natural de l'Albufera de València. While in El Palmar, you'll have a lunch of Paella Valenciana. Paella has ancient roots, but its modern form originated in the mid-19th century in the Albufera area, and so what better place to enjoy this Valencian specialty. Return to Valencia for a free evening to discover more of the city's treasures. (B,L)

Day 6, Friday April 3: Barcelona

This morning take the 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. Begin to explore the city, including the neighborhoods around Ciutadella Park and the Olympic Port, on a guided Barcelona by bike tour. (B,D)

Day 7, Saturday April 4: Barcelona

Begin your day with 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, you will also visit his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia (pending availability). Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. Later, stroll through his whimsical Parc Güell for a sweeping view over the city. During your free afternoon take the tram up to Montjuic. (B,D)

Day 8, Sunday April 5: Barcelona

Free day in Barcelona. (B,D)

Day 9, Monday April 6: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)