DAY 1 U.S.A./Madrid
Depart for Madrid via a transatlantic flight.
Day 2 Madrid
Arrive in Madrid and transfer to your hotel.
Day 3 Madrid
Today begins with included sightseeing of Madrid, Spain's proud capital city. See the Puerta del Sol (Gateway of the Sun), and hear the bells of the medieval clock tower ring amid the lively boutiques and cafes. Visit the Plaza de Espa–a filled with stately monuments echoing the city's rich history. Discover the symbol of Madrid at the Cibeles Fountain, where the goddess Cibeles is being pulled in a chariot by two fierce lions. Admire the grand avenues of Paseo de la Castellana and Calle de
Alcal dotted with endless cultural treasures. Madrid is waiting to be explored.
Day 4 Madrid/Toledo
Day at leisure or take an optional excursion to Historic Toledo. The monumental city of Toledo is ancient, picturesque and saturated in history. Spectacularly situated on a granite hill surrounded by a loop of the Tagus River, the ancient Castilian capital attracts more sightseers from all over the world than any other Spanish town. During the middle ages, Toledo was a melting pot of religions and it was during this period that the city's greatest monument was built, its magnificent Gothic cathedral. Marvel at its splendors as you visit this massive cathedral, one of Europe's most magnificently decorated churches. Also explore the medieval town center rich with historical buildings, and see the Church of Santo Tome, that houses one of El Greco's most famous paintings, as well as other highlights.
Day 5 Madrid/El
Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen
Day at leisure or take an optional excursion to El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen. Travel northwest of Madrid to El Escorial, the imposing monastery-palace commissioned by Felipe II in the 16th century. Its unadorned architectural style became one of the most influential in Spain. See the modestly decorated royal apartments; the royal pantheon, the mausoleum of the Spanish monarchs; and the vast decorated church with its lavish altarpiece. Continue to the Valley of the Fallen, where an impressive cross stands in memory of the fallen soldiers from the 20th-century Spanish Civil War. See the towering cross that dominates the surrounding countryside, rising almost 500 feet into the sky, and the basilica that was daringly carved deep into the granite mountain by prisoners. Truly a moving sight to see!
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Day 6 Madrid/Barcelona
Travel to Barcelona via the high-speed AVE train and transfer to your hotel.
Day 7 Barcelona
Your included sightseeing today begins with a panoramic tour of spirited Barcelona. Enjoy a scenic drive past the famous tree-lined street, La Rambla, to the pulsating Plaza de Catalunya, the largest city square in Barcelona. See the waterfront, where a statue of Christopher Columbus will point you to the 'New World' and the Olympic Port buzzes with activity. Travel down the Passeig de Gracia and behold Gaudi's whimsical and extraordinary Casa Mila and on to his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. It won't take long to succumb to the cheerful magic of Barcelona.
Day 8 Barcelona/Montserrat
Day at leisure or enjoy an optional excursion to Mystical Montserrat. Travel to one of the holiest places in all of Catalonia, Montserrat, meaning 'serrated mountain.' Montserrat is set against a backdrop of dramatic undulating mountain peaks, whose unique beauty has captured the imagination of artists for years. Make your way to the Benedictine monastery amid the mountains, which offers the most spectacular panoramic views. Visit the Basilica of Montserrat where thousands travel yearly to be blessed by the 12th-century sculpture of La Moreneta (the Black Virgin). Hear the Montserrat Boys Choir, whose angelic performances are famous around the world. The beauty of this Catalonian retreat will leave you captivated!
DAY 9 Barcelona/U.S.A.
Transfer to the airport in Barcelona for your return to the U.S.A.
All local transportation and sightseeing is arranged by Global Destinations Management, Ltd. and operated by Omvesa Tour Operator & D.M.C. Omvesa Tour Operator & D.M.C. may use other suppliers or providers to render the services.
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