Spain Signature
12 Days
from
$4,620
to
$5,988
per person*
Highlights:
Spain
(Barcelona, Madrid)
,
Andalusia
(Granada, Cordoba, Seville)
Trip Start/End:
Barcelona
/
Madrid
Start your tour in Barcelona. Strategically located on the Mediterranean, Barcelona enjoys a temperate climate, a magnificent historical center, is the epicenter of all things gastronomic, and an architect's dream with the many art deco buildings scattered throughout the city. Famous for its shopping and infamous for its nightlife! Fly to Granada and the spectacular Alhambra Palace perched on a cliff top overlooking this historic ancient city. Combining centuries of architecture and three major religions, it is a fascinating city to explore in the company of your expert guide. Continue by train to Cordoba to see the "Mezquita de Cordoba" a grand cathedral built inside one of the world's largest mosques. Onward by train to Seville and a downtown packed with superlatives and built with the money of the New World. The world's largest cathedral, twin mosque towers as in Marrakech, and tapas laden bars ready for exploration. Take the high speed train to Madrid, home of the Royals, the enormous city center public garden known as El Retiro, the Prado museum and the Plaza Major. Your private expert guide will introduce you to the city, and you'll continue on a tour to the stunning UNESCO world heritage site of nearby Toledo. Enjoy a flamenco show before you leave - and reflect on a spectacular visit to Spain! Que bueno!
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Barcelona
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Spain - Welcome Package
- Lunch (not included)
- Articket (7 Museums & Galleries) - Articket
- Dinner (not included)
| Barcelona Center (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Barcelona
| - Private - 1/2 Day Walking Tour: City Centre Highlights - Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Barcelona Center (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Barcelona
| - At Leisure
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 Day Culinary Walking Tour (4 hrs) - Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Barcelona Center (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Barcelona - Granada
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Barcelona - Granada [Direct, 1 hr] - Economy
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 Day Albaicin Quarter (3 hrs) - Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| AC Palacio de Santa Paula (5*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Granada
| - Private - 1/2 Day Alhambra Palace (2.5 hrs) Guide only - Guide (no transfers to/from palace)
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| AC Palacio de Santa Paula (5*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Granada - Cordoba
| - Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Train - Granada - Cordoba [2.5 hrs] - 1st Class Train Ticket
- Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 Day Walking Tour (2.5 hrs) - Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Las Casas De La Juderia (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Cordoba - Seville
| - Private - Medina Azahara (4 hrs) - Guide only (no transfers to/from)
- Lunch (not included)
- Transfer - Private - Cordoba - Seville [2 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Seville
| - Private - 1/2 Day Walking Tour (2.5 hrs) - Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Unescorted: Dinner & Flamenco Show El Arenal (2.5 hrs) - Show & Dinner
| Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Seville - Madrid
| - Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Train - Seville - Madrid [3 hrs] - 1st Class Train Ticket
- Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 Day Walking Tour (3 hrs) - Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Hotel Atlantico (4*) Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Madrid
| - Self-Guided - 24hr Madrid Card (40 Museums) - 24 hr Card
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Hotel Atlantico (4*) Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 11
- Madrid - Toledo
| - Train - Madrid - Toledo [33 mins] - 2nd Class Train Ticket
- Private - 1/2 Day Walking Tour (3hrs) - Guide/Taxi
- Lunch (not included)
- Train - Toledo - Madrid [33 mins] - 2nd Class Train Ticket
- Dinner (not included)
| Hotel Atlantico (4*) Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 12
- Madrid
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Barcelona
Barcelona Center Hotel
Day 1: Barcelona
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.
Visit the art galleries and/or museums of your choice in Barcelona with this Articket which entitles you to free admission to seven of the most important and remarkable museums and art centres in Barcelona: Picasso Museum, Fundacion Joan Miro, Casa Mila, Fundacion Antonio Tapies, Museo Nacional de Arte de Catalunya (MNAC), Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Barcelona (MACBA) and Centro de Cultura Contemporanea de Barcelona (CCCB). The Articket can be used once at each museum and at any time during a period of six months, so you can use it whenever you like throughout your stay in the city. Exchange your voucher for the Articket at any of the included museums during their opening hours.
Accommodation: Barcelona Center (4*) Opened in 2006 and set on a wide avenue just one kilometre from Las Ramblas’ streetlife and the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Contemporary, air-conditioned guestrooms all include minibars, satellite television, and complimentary high-speed Internet. Guests of the Barcelona Center Hotel can relax on the hotel’s sun terrace, head for a sauna or workout at the onsite fitness centre.
Torre Agbar Barcelona
Day 2: Barcelona
Your private English-speaking guide will show you the central highlights of Barcelona. If you are interested in a certain era in history or have an interest in a particular artist, let your Sales consultant know in advance as we can tailor your tour. Roman, Gothic, Modern......Gaudi, Picasso, Miro.....or enjoy some culinary delights with a gastronomy tour.
Accommodation: Barcelona Center (4*)
La Boquería food market
Day 3: Barcelona
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
A unique opportunity to find off-the-beaten track Tapas bars with your private English-speaking guide. Enjoy a wander through the back alleys and discover a hidden side of Barcelona. You will explore the Eixample district known as the Quadrat d'Or, or Golden Square, where you’ll find some of the best samples of Modernism Architecture. Check out the Old Medieval Town (or Casa Antic) and La Boquería food market just off Las Ramblas, the best place to watch Barcelona’s bustling evening life. (Food & Drinks at own expense).
Accommodation: Barcelona Center (4*)
Granada
AC Palacio de Santa Paula
Day 4: Barcelona - Granada
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
Enjoy your flight from Barcelona to Granada. Flight duration is approximately one hour.
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
Enjoy a guided exploration of the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter of Granada with your private English-speaking guide. You will be shown how this medieval Islamic city has kept its identity into the modern age, as your guide explains its history and character in anecdotal style. As you walk through its cat’s cradle of twisting alleyways, you will come across stunning views of the city, the majestic Alhambra palaces and, beyond, the often snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. You will pass by churches built on the sites of mosques, stroll underneath the walls of the scented gardens of carmens, and stop in squares to take in the slow rhythms of daily life in this most traditional and yet singular neighborhood. A stop for refreshments in a cafe or bar is included.
Accommodation: AC Palacio de Santa Paula (5*) Restored 14th century Moresque house and convent located in the historical centre of Granada, 1 kilometre from the Alhambra. Air-conditioned rooms are stylishly decorated with high ceilings and wooden floors; all have free minibars and Internet. Enjoy complimentary refreshments in the palatial courtyard before heading to the gym or relaxing in the sauna and hammam.
Alhambra Palace
Day 5: Granada
Enjoy a private tour with a local guide as you visit the UNESCO world heritage site of the Alhambra palace and gardens. On a rocky hill, on the banks of the River Darro, protected by mountains and amongst the eldest quarter in the city, the Alhambra rises up like an imposing castle with its distinctive reddish stone in its ramparts that prevent the outside world from seeing the delicate beauty enclosed within. Originally designed as a military area, the Alhambra became the residence of royalty and the court of Granada in the middle of XIII century. The complex of monuments has also an independent palace opposite the Alhambra; The Generalife, which is surrounded by orchards and beautiful gardens which you will also visit. (Tour includes entrance into the palace).
Please note that this tour does not include transfers to or from the palace. Your guide will meet you at the Alhambra ticket office (best to take a local cab from your hotel). At the end of your tour, you can either choose to walk back down the hill to explore the city, or return by taxi (payable by you locally). If you prefer us to arrange private transfers, please let us know.
Accommodation: AC Palacio de Santa Paula (5*)
Cordoba
Moorish Columns in the Mezquita
Las Casas de la Juderia
Day 6: Granada - Cordoba
Meet your driver for a private train station transfer.
Enjoy your train ride to Cordoba. The train ride takes approximately two and a half hours. Multiple departures, check your ticket for exact time.
Mett your driver for a private train station transfer with vehicle and driver.
The best way to see the sights in Cordoba is by foot, so spend time with a local Guide who will introduce you on your private tour to see the highlights. Tour the Mezquita, a unique work of its type, it is the representation of Caliphal art.
Then choose between the Alcazar of the Christian Kings with its sunken gardens and its magnificent Mossaics Hall or The Synagogue, the only one existing in Andalucia, and the Jewish Quarter. (Entrance fees not included).
If you wish to see all of the above, please ask us to extend your tour to our 4 hour private walking tour.
Accommodation: Las Casas De La Juderia (4*) Hotel Las Casas de la Juderia (4*) situated in a privileged setting opens its doors after undergoing a restoration to overlook the Jewish Quarter, the Xth century Caliphate’s Baths, in the garden of Campo Santo de los Mártires, right in front of the hotel; and in the same area, there are the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs), the Royal Mews and just 200 metres away, the Great Mosque of Córdoba.The history and architecture of the building have been strictly respected in its restoration into a hotel. The outcome has been an especially charming hotel with all the facilities and services demanded by today’s traveller in a really beautiful setting where to enjoy peace and quiet. They believe it’s the small things that make a difference. That is why all 64 rooms of Hotel Las Casas de la Juderia in Cordoba are filled with original and period furnishings and decorative art, specially the works of cordoban , ancient moorish leather craftsmanship. This attention to detail and elegance enhance the experience and emotions. The building was originally called “Casa Palacio de las Pavas” and was structured around several moorish courtyards of mudejar style, a garden and an orchard. However, by the end of the 16th century an important Renaissance style refurbishment took place, leaving amongst other fine examples the Crucero courtyard and the present Renaissance courtyard.
Seville
Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza
Day 7: Cordoba - Seville
Meet your guide at the Medina Azahara, 6 miles away from Cordoba. Discover the prints of its splendid past under the Umayyads of Andalusia. The Rich Chamber, The House of Yafar, the city walls, the bureaucratic area, and the Mosque. Includes entrance to the Medina Azahara, but not transportation from Cordoba. Taxis are readily available and economical.
Meet your driver for a private transfer from Cordoba to Seville.
Accommodation: Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (4*) This traditional hotel in the historic centre of Seville is 100 metres from the nearest shops and Casa Pilatos, 300 metres from Barrio de Santa Cruz and two kilometres from the city’s cathedral. The 41 guestrooms combine contemporary style with traditional touches; rooms include air conditioning, satellite television, DVD players, and complimentary high-speed Internet connections. Guests can dine on Andalucian and Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant, take a swim in the outdoor pool and relax in the rooftop wellness centre, with its spa treatments, fitness room, and sauna.
Calle Mateos Gago, Sevilla
Flamenco dancer
Day 8: Seville
Embark on a Seville walking tour with your own private guide to check out the most important landmarks of the city. You will see La Torre del Oro (The Golden Tower), a Moorish-built tower dating from 1222, which formed part of the old defensive wall that protected the old city. You will also see Triana (this Gypsy district is the home of flamenco), Santa Cruz (the Old Jewish Quarter and a labyrinth of tiny alleys with white houses with traditional Moorish courtyards), Reales Alcazares (a Moorish palace-fortress which originally dates back to 913AD and has been the residence of various kings and boasts impressive gardens and fountains) and The Cathedral and Giralda, originally a 12th Century mosque, of which only the minaret (La Giralda) and the orange tree courtyard now remain. The cathedral is also Europe's second largest. If you have a particular interest in bullfighting, we can substitute some of the above for a visit to the Real Maestranza (The Maestranza Bullring). Built between 1767 and 1880 this famous bullring houses a museum dedicated to the world of bull fighting.
Enjoy a breathtaking evening at El Arenal watching a fantastic performance of Flamenco. Located in the center of Seville (next door to the Bullring La Maestranza), El Arenal offers both regulars and tourists a unique and friendly atmosphere. Singers, Guitarists and Dancers share the experience to make you feel the art of "Flamenco". They will introduce you to various flamenco styles through song, guitar and dance. You will also have the opportunity to taste the Spanish and local cuisine for dinner while you enjoy a glass of wine and mineral water.
Accommodation: Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (4*)
Puerta del Sol
Hotel Atlantico (4*)
Day 9: Seville - Madrid
Meet your driver for a private train station transfer.
Enjoy your train ride from Seville to Madrid on the fast speed train. The train ride takes approximately three hours.
Meet your driver for a private train station transfer.
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you through the narrow and steep streets of the oldest part of Madrid, discovering the history and emblematic locations such as Plaza Mayor, Puerta de Sol and Plaza de la Villa. (No entrance fees included).
Accommodation: Hotel Atlantico (4*) Hotel Atlantico Madrid (4*) located on Gran Via street is perfect to offer great potential for tourism and leisure in the main street in Madrid city center. Currently decorated in a neoclassic style with tapestries, furniture, sculptures and period windows, it offers its clients top notch facilities with all the technological mod-cons. Its iconic facade in stone up to the cantilevers of the mezzanine and in artificial ornamental stone above that up to the flat roof, forms a stately impression, culminating in a French-style cupola tower from which exceptional views of Madrid can be enjoyed. In Gran Vía street that never sleeps, guests can enjoy Madrid during the day visiting the main museums and shopping, and at night, discovering the leisure in cinemas, theaters and restaurants in the area.
El Prado
Day 10: Madrid
See and do exactly what you feel like today with your 24 hour Madrid Card. The Card is an electronic smart card offering free admission to more than 40 museums in and around Madrid, including the major ones. Your ticket can be used on the 'Madrid Vision' sightseeing bus, allowing you to get on and off the bus as many times as you wish for a day. The card also entitles you to visit the Planetarium, a guided walking tour from the "Discover Madrid Program", use of a Cable Car, visit Faunia Biologic Park and Imax Cinema. You can also benefit from discounts in more than 100 establishments including shops, restaurants, shows, rent a car and leisure centres for adults and children. You will also obtain a guidebook with information on the museums and establishments that are included on the scheme and a map of the city. Exchange your voucher for a Madrid Card at: Madrid Tourist Board, Plaza Mayor 27 between 9.30am and 8.30pm or at Metro Travellers Information Centre. Your pass is valid from 9am until 7pm.
Accommodation: Hotel Atlantico (4*) Day 11: Madrid - Toledo
Enjoy your day trip to Toledo by train. The train ride takes only 33 minutes one-way.
Enjoy a half day walking tour through the streets of Toledo and learn the history of this UNESCO heritage site.
"Holy Toledo" isn't just an expression! A unique and richly diverse city, Toledo features Arab, Jewish, Christian, and even Roman and Visigothic elements. A beloved national landmark, the Toledo that so inspired El Greco in the 16th century has remained relatively unchanged since his time. Old churches and houses fill the city, where you can still stroll through streets barely wide enough for a man and his donkey, let alone an automobile. (No entrance fees included.)
Enjoy your visit to Toledo. The quick journey takes only 30 minutes one-way.
Accommodation: Hotel Atlantico (4*) Day 12: Madrid
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
Accommodation: Depart Depart Madrid (Barajas) Airport. End of itinerary.
Accommodations
Barcelona Center Hotel
Barcelona Center (4*) - Barcelona
Opened in 2006 and set on a wide avenue just one kilometre from Las Ramblas’ streetlife and the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Contemporary, air-conditioned guestrooms all include minibars, satellite television, and complimentary high-speed Internet. Guests of the Barcelona Center Hotel can relax on the hotel’s sun terrace, head for a sauna or workout at the onsite fitness centre.
AC Palacio de Santa Paula
AC Palacio de Santa Paula (5*) - Granada
Restored 14th century Moresque house and convent located in the historical centre of Granada, 1 kilometre from the Alhambra. Air-conditioned rooms are stylishly decorated with high ceilings and wooden floors; all have free minibars and Internet. Enjoy complimentary refreshments in the palatial courtyard before heading to the gym or relaxing in the sauna and hammam.
Las Casas de la Juderia
Double Room
Las Casas De La Juderia (4*) - Cordoba
Hotel Las Casas de la Juderia (4*) situated in a privileged setting opens its doors after undergoing a restoration to overlook the Jewish Quarter, the Xth century Caliphate’s Baths, in the garden of Campo Santo de los Mártires, right in front of the hotel; and in the same area, there are the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs), the Royal Mews and just 200 metres away, the Great Mosque of Córdoba.The history and architecture of the building have been strictly respected in its restoration into a hotel. The outcome has been an especially charming hotel with all the facilities and services demanded by today’s traveller in a really beautiful setting where to enjoy peace and quiet. They believe it’s the small things that make a difference. That is why all 64 rooms of Hotel Las Casas de la Juderia in Cordoba are filled with original and period furnishings and decorative art, specially the works of cordoban , ancient moorish leather craftsmanship. This attention to detail and elegance enhance the experience and emotions. The building was originally called “Casa Palacio de las Pavas” and was structured around several moorish courtyards of mudejar style, a garden and an orchard. However, by the end of the 16th century an important Renaissance style refurbishment took place, leaving amongst other fine examples the Crucero courtyard and the present Renaissance courtyard.
Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza
Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (4*) - Seville
This traditional hotel in the historic centre of Seville is 100 metres from the nearest shops and Casa Pilatos, 300 metres from Barrio de Santa Cruz and two kilometres from the city’s cathedral. The 41 guestrooms combine contemporary style with traditional touches; rooms include air conditioning, satellite television, DVD players, and complimentary high-speed Internet connections. Guests can dine on Andalucian and Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant, take a swim in the outdoor pool and relax in the rooftop wellness centre, with its spa treatments, fitness room, and sauna.
Hotel Atlantico (4*)
Superior
Hotel Atlantico (4*) - Madrid
Hotel Atlantico Madrid (4*) located on Gran Via street is perfect to offer great potential for tourism and leisure in the main street in Madrid city center. Currently decorated in a neoclassic style with tapestries, furniture, sculptures and period windows, it offers its clients top notch facilities with all the technological mod-cons. Its iconic facade in stone up to the cantilevers of the mezzanine and in artificial ornamental stone above that up to the flat roof, forms a stately impression, culminating in a French-style cupola tower from which exceptional views of Madrid can be enjoyed. In Gran Vía street that never sleeps, guests can enjoy Madrid during the day visiting the main museums and shopping, and at night, discovering the leisure in cinemas, theaters and restaurants in the area.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Spain
VISA/PASSPORT
Spain is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Spain for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/spain.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Madrid.
Government: Parliamentary monarchy since 1978.
Language: The principal language is Spanish (Castilian or castillano). Catalan (in the northeast, with variations spoken in Valencia and The Balearics), Galician (in the northwest) and Basque (in the north, bordering France) are also spoken.
Religion: There is no official religion, but the majority of the population is Roman Catholic.
Time: Mainland Spain/Balearics: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October). The Canary Islands: GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 or 225 volts AC, 50Hz. Generally, round two-pin plugs and screw-type lamp fittings are in use.
Telephone: Country code +34.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good throughout most of the country.
Internet: There is a variety of Internet cafes in most urban areas.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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