The Best of Spain

Welcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Masterpieces in Madrid This morning, discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT ART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.

Treasures of Cordoba Enjoy a scenic drive south into the region of Andalusia. This afternoon, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to see the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge, and the remains of the Alcazar. The tour highlight is a visit of the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Enjoy some free time to browse the narrow streets before continuing to the vibrant city of Seville. (B,D) 336 mi / 540 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque’s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city.

Spend Your Day Your Way in Seville This morning, discover what makes Seville so special. Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, then explore more of Seville with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. Spectacular Seville A guided walking tour in historic Seville stuns with a visit to Casa de Pilatos. Explore the palace's fusion of architectural styles adorned with a collection of Roman sculptures. Continue with a stroll through Seville's Barrio de Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of charming, narrow streets in the heart of historic Seville. Parks & Pavillions The cool, peaceful oases of Seville are calling with a guided walk through two of the city¿s verdant parks. Admire the colorful flora and ornamental fountains in the vibrant Prado de San Sebastián. Stroll the Parque de Maria Luisa, where striking monuments and over 140 species of trees grace the site of the 1929 Hispano-American Exhibition. Conclude your walk outside Seville Cathedral. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to discover more of Seville. (B)

Splendid Spain Drive to Granada for today’s highlight, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Alhambra Complex*, an Islamic architectural masterpiece. Visit the breathtaking complex with your Local Guide and discover what makes it so special. Later, enjoy some free time getting acquainted with this captivating city, shaped by its blend of cultural influences. (B) 158 mi / 255 km *Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed TOUR HIGHLIGHT ARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada’s Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife, once the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers.

Spanish Specialties Enjoy a scenic drive past the mountains towards the coast and the vibrant city of Valencia. Meet your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to see the Torres de Serranos and Plaza de Toros, a photo stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, plus a walking tour of Old Valencia. Visit a Horchateria to try the traditional Valencian horchata drink. This evening, get a real taste for Valencia with [LOCAL FAVORITE] a mouthwatering traditional Paella dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) 329 mi / 530 km LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Enjoy an authentic Spanish paella dinner in Valencia. Traditional Paella Valenciana is made with chicken and sweet paprika and golden saffron in a slow simmered broth for a sumptuous, heart-warming hallmark of traditional Spanish cuisine.

The Boulevards of Barcelona Enjoy the changing panorama during a scenic drive along the coast past some of Spain’s most famous seaside resorts to Barcelona. Free time this afternoon and evening to get acquainted with this flamboyant city, its lively atmosphere, amazing architecture, and tasty local dishes. (B) 217 mi / 350 km ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Barcelona in the footsteps of Picasso through the historic heart of the old city. Indulge in the tradition and tastes of 2,000 years in the Gothic Quarter. Take in the charm and captivating history with a walk down the tree-lined avenue of La Rambla amid the terraces and street performers on Barcelona’s famous thoroughfare.

Adiós, Barcelona! This morning, follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Gràcia. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Continue the tour with a drive to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. This evening [LOCAL FAVORITE] enjoy Sangria and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Say farewell to Spain with Sangria and culinary specialties at a local city center restaurant. Often considered the signature drink of Spain and taking its name from its “blood red color,” Sangria’s origins are thought to go back to Roman times, when it was simply wine added to water. Since then, the recipe has been revisited many times and there are many delicious local variations. Tonight, lift your glass for a toast to your Best of Spain tour.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)