Best of Barcelona & Madrid

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.

Just outside of Barcelona you'll find the Penedès region, known for producing Spain's signature sparkling wine, cava. 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, head to the airport for your flight home.