Madrid, Barcelona & Costa Brava tour

Journey outside of Madrid today to visit nearby Ávila and Segovia. In Ávila, wander through the winding medieval streets and observe its remarkably intact defensive wall. In Segovia, see the impeccable remains of a soaring Roman aqueduct.

Head outside of Madrid again today to visit the grand, art-filled monastery at El Escorial, where nearly all of Spain's monarchs have been buried. Along the way, make a brief stop at the Valle de los Caídos, or Valley of the Fallen, a Civil War memorial commissioned by Francisco Franco. In the afternoon, explore Madrid on your own.

Wave goodbye to Madrid as you board a high-speed train bound for Barcelona, home to an impressive array of architecture designed by Antoni Gaudí. After dropping your bags at your hotel, head out for a half-day tour of Gaudí's many contributions to the Barcelona skyline.

Having taken in all of Gaudí's contributions to Barcelona, see the rest of what the city has to offer on a half-day walking tour. Later, the afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace.

Outside of Barcelona, you'll find the Penedès region, known for producing Spain's signature sparkling wine, cava. You'll head there this morning to visit a cava producer for a tour and tasting, followed by lunch. After lunch, explore the Montserrat monastery and the mountain that shares its name before returning to Barcelona.

Leaving Barcelona, continue northeast by car to the Costa Brava for a bit of rest and relaxation.

Explore more of Spain's artistic and architectural heritage today with a visit to Figueres and Girona. In Figueres, explore a museum dedicated to Salvador Dalí, who was born here in 1904. After visiting the museum with your guide, move on to Girona, which boasts medieval, Roman, and Gothic streets and architecture. You'll have a tour and some free time for lunch.

Spend your day at leisure on the Costa Brava. You may wish to cycle through nearby towns or simply relax beside the water.

Your journey through Spain ends today as you return to Barcelona to catch your flight home. Your return flight will arrive the same day.