Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

You land in Madrid, and we’ll zip you to a sleek hotel in the city center—think modern vibes with a touch of Spanish charm. Tonight’s a chill start with a welcome dinner at a nearby meson, serving up classics like cocido madrileño (chickpea stew) and a glass of Rioja. Your guide runs through the week’s plan over some flan. Take a quick stroll through Plaza Mayor or rest up for the days ahead.

Day 2: Madrid’s Art and History

Morning kicks off with a strong café con leche and a guided tour of the Prado Museum. Your guide unravels stories behind Goya and Velázquez masterpieces—those paintings hit hard. Lunch is at a local spot, maybe croquetas and patatas bravas. Afternoon’s for exploring the Royal Palace, all grand rooms and chandeliers. Evening’s free—grab tapas in La Latina or chill at a café. We’ll point you to a spot for tortilla española that’s just right.

Day 3: Madrid’s Vibrant Streets

After breakfast, your guide takes you through Madrid’s Retiro Park—think rowboats and rose gardens. Then, hit the bustling Gran Vía for a taste of the city’s energy. Lunch is at a cozy tavern, maybe with some callos (tripe stew) if you’re feeling bold. Afternoon’s for the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s Guernica. Evening brings a flamenco show at a local tablao—guitar strums and foot stomps that’ll give you chills. Dinner’s included post-show, with dishes like gazpacho and grilled pork.

Day 4: AVE Train to Valencia

Hop on a high-speed AVE train to Valencia, about 2 hours, super smooth with great views. Check into a boutique hotel near the old town. Afternoon’s for a guided tour of Valencia’s historic center, including the Gothic cathedral and the Silk Exchange. Your guide shares tales of the city’s trading past. Lunch is at a local eatery—think paella valenciana, the real deal. Evening’s free; we’ll suggest a spot for tapas or a waterfront bar. Overnight in Valencia.

Day 5: Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences

Morning’s all about Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences—a futuristic wonderland of wild architecture. Your guide walks you through the planetarium, aquarium, and opera house, explaining its bold design. Lunch is nearby, maybe with fideuà (noodle paella). Afternoon’s for an organic horchata tasting at a traditional horchatería—sweet, nutty, and so refreshing. Evening’s free to wander the Turia Gardens or relax. Dinner’s on your own; we’ll point you to a spot for seafood or veggie dishes.

Day 6: AVE Train to Barcelona

Another AVE train ride, this time to Barcelona (about 3 hours). Settle into a stylish hotel in the Eixample district. Afternoon’s for a guided tour of the Gothic Quarter—narrow streets, Roman walls, and hidden squares. Your guide spills stories of Barcelona’s medieval past. Lunch is at a local tavern, think escalivada (roasted veggies) and bread with tomato. Evening’s free—explore La Rambla or grab a Cava at a bar. We’ll suggest a spot for bombas (potato croquettes).

Day 7: Barcelona’s Gaudi Gems

After breakfast, dive into Gaudi’s world with a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia—those colorful spires are unreal. Your guide shares Gaudi’s quirky vision. Then, visit Park Güell, all mosaic lizards and curvy paths. Lunch is at a nearby spot, maybe with grilled fish or butifarra sausage. Afternoon’s for Casa Batlló, Gaudi’s dragon-inspired house. Evening’s free; we’ll recommend a tapas bar in El Born for something lively.

Day 8: Barcelona’s Markets and Farewell

Morning’s for a guided visit to La Boqueria market, buzzing with stalls of olives, cheeses, and fresh produce. Your guide helps you sample local treats like manchego. Lunch is at a market-adjacent spot—think seafood paella or a veggie stew. Afternoon’s free to shop for souvenirs, visit the Picasso Museum, or chill in a plaza. Tonight’s a big farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, with a spread of Catalan dishes like suquet (fish stew) and plenty of wine to toast the trip.

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Day 9: Departure

After a lazy breakfast—maybe some churros with thick hot chocolate—we’ll get you to Barcelona’s airport. If you’ve got time, sneak in a quick coffee at a local café. You’re leaving with city vibes and maybe a few extra postcards in your bag.

What’s Included

8 nights in boutique hotels (4-star, double occupancy)

Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (including flamenco show and horchata tasting)

Guided tours of Madrid’s Prado and Royal Palace, Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences, and Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Gaudi sites

High-speed AVE train transfers (Madrid-Valencia-Barcelona)

Private transfers to/from airports

Local bilingual guides

Customization options (e.g., add a tapas crawl, bike tour, or extra day in Valencia)