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DAY 1: WELCOME TO MADRID
Upon your arrival at the airport in Madrid, you'll be greeted by your dedicated driver who will be ready to transfer you from the airport to your hotel. Once you've checked in and freshened up, the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Madrid offers a wealth of cultural and culinary delights for you to discover. Whether you choose to visit world-class museums, savor delicious tapas, or simply wander through charming streets, the city is sure to captivate you with its vibrant energy and rich history. Enjoy your first day in Madrid to the fullest!
Accommodation at the Meliá Castilla, Princesa Plaza, Madrid, or similar
DAY 2: MADRID
After breakfast, embark on a captivating morning tour of Madrid. Explore medieval Morería, known for its ancient architecture and lively taverns. Discover courtly Austrias with highlights like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa.
Continue through Bourbon Madrid, admiring the Royal Palace, iconic fountains like Cibeles and Neptune, and Puerta de Alcalá. Marvel at 19th-century gems like Plaza de Oriente and the renowned Prado Museum (exterior). Experience modern Madrid on Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana, and in the upscale Barrio de Salamanca.
Visit the green Parque del Oeste, the academic hub of Ciudad Universitaria, and bustling commercial and financial districts. Conclude with a visit to the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The afternoon is yours to explore. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Meliá Castilla, Princesa Plaza, Madrid, or similar
DAY 3: MADRID > CORDOBA > SEVILLE
After breakfast, you'll embark on a picturesque journey through La Mancha, famously known as Don Quixote’s land. There will be a brief stop in the charming town of Puerto Lapice. As you continue, you'll cross into Andalusia, a region steeped in its own rich heritage and a glorious past.
Upon arriving in Cordoba, you'll be treated to a tour of its majestic Mosque (entrance included) along with other notable sites. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter.
Later in the afternoon, after a comfortable two-hour ride, you'll arrive in the vibrant city of Seville, ready to embark on the next leg of your adventure. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Catalonia Santa Justa, Seville, or similar
DAY 4: SEVILLE
Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, set off on a monumental and panoramic tour of the city, highlighted by an exclusive visit to the Cathedral, which stands as the second largest in the Catholic world, surpassed only by Saint Peter's in Rome.
Explore the picturesque neighborhood of Santa Cruz, a setting that inspired the legendary tale of "Carmen" and played a significant role in the development of the "Don Juan" myth. Stroll through the enchanting María Luisa Park and marvel at the grandeur of Plaza de España.
The afternoon is yours to embrace the diverse perspectives and unique flavors of this lively, luminous city. Take this time to explore at your own pace and savor the distinct charm of Seville. Rest easy in the comfort of your hotel for the night. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Catalonia Santa Justa, Seville, or similar
DAY 5: SEVILLE > GRANADA
After breakfast at the hotel, commence your journey eastward, following the historic Caliphate route. Along the way, take in the breathtaking scenery of countless olive trees that stretch to the horizon.
Upon arrival in Granada, you'll be captivated by the astonishing monumental surroundings, which served as the final bastion of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada until 1492. Embark on a visit to the world-renowned Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. These enchanting spaces, adorned with fountains, meticulously manicured gardens, and serene patios, have inspired many notable authors.
Settle into your accommodation at the hotel for a restful night. Optionally, in the evening, you may choose to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Flamenco show. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Hotel Porcel Sabica, Granada, or similar
DAY 6: GRANADA > VALENCIA
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on our journey to Alicante, the second largest city in the Valencian Community, before reaching Valencia. This city stands as one of the key capitals along the Mediterranean coast, renowned for its modern Architectural Complex of Arts and Sciences. Notably, the internationally beloved dish, "Paella," finds its roots in Valencia. Meals: B
Accommodation at the NH Las Artes Hotel, Valencia, or similar
DAY 7: VALENCIA > BARCELONA
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before immersing yourself in the luminous city. Explore its charming old town in the morning, then stroll along the ancient bed of the Turia River. Later, pay a visit to the avant-garde marvel that is the City of Arts and Sciences, where you can marvel at its iconic structures from the outside.
In the afternoon, we'll journey northward along the picturesque Mediterranean coast, passing through Tarragona, the ancient Roman city of Tarraco. Finally, we'll arrive in Barcelona, the thriving heart of the Mediterranean and the birthplace of the renowned architect Antonio Gaudí, a symbol of Catalan Modernism. Settle into your accommodation at the hotel. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Hotel Catalonia Barcelona 505, Barcelona, or similar
DAY 8: BARCELONA
In the morning, explore the city renowned worldwide for hosting the iconic 1992 Olympic Games. Stroll along its main avenues, taking in the breathtaking modernist masterpieces designed by Gaudí, and be captivated by his most emblematic creations: Casa Milá, La Pedrera, and Casa Batlló, all of which have been designated World Heritage buildings. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Montjuic Park, where you'll be treated to spectacular views of both the city and the port, as well as the Olympic Ring and the Columbus Monument.
Seize the afternoon to continue exploring the city's attractions or indulge in its diverse and exquisite gastronomy. Afterward, rendezvous with your driver for a transfer from the hotel to the Barcelona pier to embark on the Ferry to Civitavecchia. Meals: B
Accommodation at the ferry towards Civitavecchia, Italy
DAY 9: ROME ARRIVAL
Breakfast and lunch on board the ferry. During the journey, you can enjoy the wide range of services offered by these state-of-the-art ferries, including spacious outdoor areas with a swimming pool (for adults and children), sun loungers, a bar, a party room, a discotheque, a video game room, a 24-hour cafeteria, a self-service restaurant, an à la carte restaurant, a boutique, an internet room, a health center, and a gym.
Arrive in Civitavecchia by the end of the day (the estimated time of arrival in Rome is approximately 10:00 PM), followed by disembarkation and transfer to Rome. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Meals: B, L
Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar
DAY 10: ROME > ASSISI > SIENA > FLORENCE
Departing at 7:15 am from your hotel by deluxe coach, you will arrive in Assisi, ready to explore this tiny, walled town built in the Middle Ages at your own leisure. Take your time to visit the Basilica of St. Francis, where you will see masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue. Afterward, enjoy some free time for lunch (not included).
Next, board the bus to reach Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for the Palio, the historic horse race around the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. Then, you will continue to Florence, where you will check in at your hotel before enjoying dinner and a well-earned night of rest. Meals: B, D
Accommodation at the Hotel Raffaello, Florence, or similar
DAY 11 FLORENCE
After breakfast, explore Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance, where Italian art thrived under Michelangelo's influence. Marvel at the Duomo's exterior, the Campanile Tower, and the Baptistery with its renowned bronze doors.
In the city center, visit Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Basilica of Santa Croce. Enjoy an included lunch at a traditional Tuscan restaurant in Piazza Santa Croce.
In the afternoon, stroll Florence's cobblestone streets at your own pace or take an optional trip to Pisa, one of Italy's historical Marine Republics. Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli with its iconic Duomo, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the majestic Baptistery. Meals: B, L
Accommodation at the Hotel Raffaello, Florence, or similar
DAY 12: FLORENCE > BOLOGNA > VENICE
After a delightful breakfast in Florence, depart for elegant Bologna. Upon arrival, explore the charming city center with its iconic porticos. Start your walking tour at Piazza Malpighi, leading to Piazza del Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore. Marvel at the historic Palazzo Podestà and the Basilica of San Petronio, the world's largest Gothic brick church.
Discover why Bologna is hailed as Italy's gastronomic capital with a street food experience, exploring medieval streets lined with food stalls and markets offering traditional and contemporary treats. Enjoy a light lunch at a local eatery, sampling authentic flavors that define Bologna's culinary identity. In the afternoon, continue the journey to Venice (Mestre). Meals: B, L
Accommodation at the Hotel Delfino Mestre, Venice, or similar
DAY 13: VENICE
After breakfast, jump aboard a water taxi to the famous St. Mark’s Square, where you will visit the exterior of the Doge’s Palace, a symbol of the glory and authority of Venice. Nearby, see the legendary Bridge of Sighs before tasting a Venetian spritz or a prosecco with the company of your tour leader.
As you relax in comfort and savor your drink, you'll also have the chance to indulge in the renowned "cicchetti," a Venetian take on tapas, offering a delightful light lunch option. Enjoy the afternoon at your own pace, strolling along Venice's enchanting canals, before returning to the hotel.
Your Tour Leader will provide you with all the essential information for your return journey to the hotel in Mestre, by water taxi and local bus services. Please note that tickets for public transportation are not included. Meals: B, L
Accommodation at the Hotel Delfino Mestre, Venice, or similar
DAY 14: VENICE > TUSCANY WINE REGION (MONTEPULCIANO) > ROME
After breakfast, depart for Tuscany, famous for its landscapes, churches, castles, and exquisite wines. Head to Val di Chiana with a stop in Montepulciano, a medieval town rich in history and art. Known for its Nobile wine, which you can purchase at local wine houses, Montepulciano also offers stunning panoramic views and a rich cultural heritage. Enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant.
Afterward, have some free time before continuing to Rome, where you are expected to arrive in the evening. Meals: B, L
Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar
DAY 15: ROME
After breakfast, depart from the hotel for an included tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica with skip-the-line access. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you directly into the museums. Explore one of the world’s most important art collections, stroll through the beautiful Galleries of Tapestries and Geographical Maps, and marvel at Raphael’s Rooms and the stunning Sistine Chapel. After this incredible experience, the tour concludes in St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.
Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the city at your leisure or opt for the Ancient Rome Tour with the Colosseum. Meals: B
Important: Please be aware that during the Jubilee Year, certain areas within the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica may be inaccessible due to religious ceremonies.
Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar
DAY 16: ROME DEPARTURE
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport. Arrivederci! Meals: B