Great guides, great Sights, great travel companions, "Sagrada Familia Frederico's description of Guernica". "Sagrada Famlia was just amazing during the Barcelona tours. He effectively herded 22 cats while maintaining his cool and his , colorful, passionate personality. We have done a lot of international travel on our own, rarely with a guide and group. We were very pleased especially with our Tour Guide Federico who was fantastic. Overall, my favorite wow experience was meeting remarkable people , both those who were on our tour, and the wonderful, kind, caring and friendly citizens of Spain. We enjoyed our Barcelona and Madrid tour with Federico as our guide. "Many wow moments in Barcelona, Madrid, and Toledo! Every intricate detail and the majestic tree-like spires left us in awe. Upon arrival at the nation's capital, you'll enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in the city center. Really awesome and Frederico was absolutely the best! Fellow travelers were also outstanding. My other travel experiences were more adventure. "Seeing the Sagrada Famlia was even better than expected. This 10-day itinerary offers just such an authentic experience as you'll not only visit the plazas of Madrid and Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, but you'll take foodie tours and road trips to country villages. My roommate was very pleasant. This was a great tour! Delightful, "Toledo, it was jaw dropping as a visual and the more our tour guide spoke, the history and beauty of the site came to life", The hotels and locations were excellent. "My favorite WOW moment was getting to experience Antonio Gaudis architectural wonders in Barcelona, especially the Sagrada Familia. On this 7 day Spain itinerary you'll be starting off in Barcelona before moving onto Madrid, Spain's capital city. First was in Barcelona and walking into the morning sun shining through the stained glass windows to light up the interior of La Sagrada Familia. Hotels and food were outstanding and the sites visited were exactly what I wanted to see. Wonderful mix of guided tours and free time. Augustin kept everything well organized, made everyone comfortable. The Sagrada Familia, the Prado, and Toledo.". The walking tours, the museums, all wonderful. This 10-day itinerary combines Spain's three most exciting cities with a nice mix of private tours and free time. All of Toledo. We learned so much about the art work, architecture, and history. Train: 3 hours. Rack railway to Montserrat is included. Loved it! "Sagrada Familia was breathtaking. And the hotels were outstanding. This iconic Roman Catholic basilica is an impressive mix of Gothic, Catalan-modernism, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Strenuous walking: 28 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. See our Tour Conditions for important details regarding everything listed above. Enjoyed it very much. He is very passionate about role. Our tour guide Federico was "fantastico". Booking with RSE put me at ease and I was able to thoroughly enjoy the experience. This itinerary combines the two iconic cities of Spain - Madrid & Barcelona, with day trips to the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Segovia and Toledo/Cuenca from the capital and guided tours to Montserrat mountain and the lovely Costa Brava from Barcelona. Would have liked some background on the dance before the performance though so I would know what I was seeing. Just a very special treat, thank you Federico for making that happen. It was simply wonderful!". Todd did his best but the RS head office should have checked the calendar and rescheduled our visit to Toledo that day. Our travel group was wonderful, lots of fun, everyone very compatible. The mesmerizing stained-glass windows added an ethereal touch. Great tour group to meet and share experiences. Spending 5 days in Barcelona | Itinerary | Top Things To Do - Headout What an unforgettable experience! I loved our guide Federico in Madrid. "The panoramic view of Toledo was so amazing - as well as la Sagrada Familia. Friendly, professional and organized. Wish I had him as an instructor in college.". After learning about the history of Gaudi and La Sagrada on the outside of the cathedral, we walked inside and were greeted with such vibrant light and color from the stained glass windows. Jorge gave a lot of good local recommendations for our nights off. Your guide will adapt to your speed and style, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a brisk pace to squeeze in as many sites as possible. A perfect way to begin travel again post Covid. We started with a broad vision and with Karenina's expertise she prepared an amazing 16 day det", "Helena, did an amazing job creating an active and full vacation based on what my family likes and enjoys. Trip to the hotel taking the tube or a taxi. Once again, I'd seen flamenco on TV, but seeing it in person was amazing. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less timeas few as about 5 days. Our guide, Federico Garcia Barroso, took us on walking tours of Barcelona, Madrid, and Toledo, through public squares, broad avenues, and narrow streets. Lisbon, Madrid and Barcelona - TourRadar Read more. However, the access to the important cathedrals and museums was excellent, along with the support of knowledgable guides. It was the right mix of guided bits and time on my own. The group dinners were fun, we learned a lot, and remarked on how quiet our hotel rooms were (old buildings are the best). My one criticism is that we would have liked more guided time in the Prado museum than we got. The background information and historical context for everything we saw was so helpful. "Seeing Sagrada Familia, even though I've seen it before, was awe inspiring. We had a an itinerary shuffle due to International Museum Day. This itinerary is designed to be the best way to experience two of Spain's most famous cities in just 5 short days. Dalia did a great job securing hotels, a few private tours and rail t", Traveled to Spain as a family in June, 2023, "The hotels and the activities provided were excellent. "Biographies- Going in depth about life and history of prominant figures like Picasso and Gaudi, and seeing their works up close and personal". Highlights of Spain Family Tour: Madrid, Seville & Granad Family Fun in Spain: Barcelona & Andalusia - 12 Days. I could not have scripted it better. Next, train to Madridwith a stop in Crdobaand stroll through the elegant streets and world-famous Prado Museum. I really enjoyed how well organized the tour was and the hotels we stayed were very friendly and accommodating. The tour was designed to allow for Free Time do explore the cities on our own, wish was very nice. Since we had the very best tour guide possible in Fredricko our tour was fantastic with not one negative for this tour of Barcelona and Madrid. Limiting the number to approximately 25 travelers ensures we get to truly know each other and bonding takes place almost immediately. Fredricko made the history come alive with his dramatic interpretations! I live alone and having the interaction with everyone was the best part of my adventure. It was well-organized, and Jorge did a great job! Lets start with the bustling Spanish capital, Madrid; brimming with so many things to see and do, the city is a well of endless sightseeing opportunities. Its size, its detailed and comprehensive design and our local guide explaining how and why Gaudi built what he did was impactful. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary. "Favorite "wow" was the Basilica "Familia" in Barcelona. Although the tour itself met my expectations and was exactly as described in all of the documentation, the tour guides in the various locations far exceeded my expectations. Depending on the time of your flight or train reservation, squeeze in one more walk through the city, perhaps picking up some last-minute souvenirs. One of the main visitor attractions in Madrid is undoubtedly the renowned Prado Museum, housing an exceptional collection of artwork, including but not limited to pieces by Velzquez, Ribera, and Zurbarn. I learned a lot - the local guides were very interesting. Madrids Prada and Naval Museum were outstanding. Excellent. Though the food, guide , and architecture are always fantastic, I was blown away by the tour group. Our guides were all wonderful. 14-day tour of Barcelona, Madrid and Andalusia | Spain.info GCC Upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel in Old Town. We were very impressed with our tour guide, Helen (who was endlessly informative and entertaining), the level of organization (especially given the two-year hiatus between tours, with many former businesses no longer in existence), and the flexible attitude of our fellow travelers. I learned a lot about Spanish history and art. She was very helpful, spent more than was scheduled, to guide us in not". We saw a lot of the cities we visited- Barcelona, Toledo and Madrid and stayed in very nice hotels. i really enjoyed it. The tour's focus is on "buildings," meaning cathedrals, museums and architecture. Our hotels were roomy and comfortable, the number of daily activities was deeply enriching without crossing over into exhausting, and the guides in every city knew stories about every building we passed. He brought some of the history and art to life in his presentations in a very unexpected way.". It was wonderful! No bus. "Really enjoyed the visits to the Prado Museum, the Picasso Museum (Barcelona) and the Reina Sofia Museum, where we saw Guernica, a painting Ive wanted to see. This six-day whirlwind cultural tour achieves exactly that by focusing on Madrid and Barcelona, ensuring you get the most out of each. Teaching while encouraging independent travel make Rick Steves tours a unicorn in this industry. It was a delightful travel experience for me. "Have the 1st night dinner and Rick Steves called to say hi.". We enjoyed his expertise and assistance with our plans after Barcelona and Madrid. Single Supplement $575. "Sagrada Famlia is an amazing and totally unique human achievement. From the first moment we met our vivacious, energetic and most gracious tour guide, Helen, it was obvious why she has been employed by Rick Steves for 12 years. Federico Barroso is an exceptional teacher and dynamic orator who brings art and history to life with an entertaining and engaging flourish of style. All the Restaurants, the Hotels and Planned Activities were Excellent. Then it's "all aboard" for one of Europe's speediest trains (the AVE) to Madrid. See Dates & Prices. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of Spain and Spanish history. He was hilarious, easy to listen to, and just a kind soul. Good hotel accommodations and locations. Wouldve loved to spend a night there. "The trip was fantastic. I'd seen many photos and videos, but I wasn't prepared for the immensity of the building when we emerged from the Metro. Start your trip in Madrid, Spain's capital, and make your way south to Seville, the capital of Andalusia, over the course of seven days. "Our tour leader, Federico, became our local guide in Madrid. Upon arrival, we'll meet our bus for a tour of Madrid's major monuments and classy boulevards. Such like minded, flexible travelers. Highlights. Tour guide, Helen Inman, was excellent. After enjoying it inside and out with a wonderful tour, I returned on my own early the next morning to enjoy it in solitude and with better morning light.". Our guide in the Prado and Sofia - Frederico was a highlight. Sign Me Up! In Barcelona, you'll discover this Catalan gem via its cuisine as well as an unforgettable cruise around its port by sailboat. My friend and I flew to Barcelona 4 days early and scheduled some other activities that the RS tour was not covering. As very much independent travelers, we didn't find the group aspect overwhelming or too much/too forced. After a three-hour trip, you'll arrive at the Mediterranean coast and the beautiful capital of Catalonia. "The interior of Gaudis Basilica in Barcelona". Helen was an excellent guide. Spain Barcelona Itinerary Barcelona Itinerary: Planning Your Time The grand Catalan Art Museum on Barcelona's Montjuc hill is a world-class showcase. Made friends so quickly, enjoyed free time meals, etc with them. Amanda and the tour itinerary were great. Or, if youre there in the winter check out the ski resorts near Barcelona. Our local travel specialists have been recommended by. "I would guess the visit to Sagrada Familia.". "There are always so many on a Rick Steves tour, its always hard to choose, but for me seeing Picassos Guernica, and hearing local guide Federico tell the story that brought it to life was deeply moving. Costa Brava was exactly what we wanted. She gave everyone the personal attention they needed. Booking round-trip to one city will require a connecting flight, train trip, or additional overnight stay in Spain. Augustin is an excellent tour leader. Bus: 2 hours. I learned so much. The guides were excellent. All the tour guides were not only well informed but they were so enthusiastic! "Gaudi's masterpiece the Sagrada Familia. Maybe because of our age but I thought the trip had too many activities planned without enough time be", Traveled to Spain as a couple in June, 2023, "Helena was an outstanding partner in helping us curate a customized itinerary for our first trip to Spain. Today, we'll take a historical walking tour starting at the very center of Madrid: the bustling Puerta del Sol. "I adored Toledo after the bustle of 2large cities, the feel of Toledo was enchanting. "First look inside Sagrada Familia. And so much great food. The guides were phenomenal; hotels and staff outstanding; and the itinerary balanced between structured tour sites and free time. Four days into our Spain adventure, I felt it was time to visit a few world renowned museums and a royal palace. Gaudi's aesthetic was eccentric as all get-out, but he was truly a genius.". The local guides were outstanding and very knowledgeable. We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. It really whetted my interest in the southern Spain tour. The Barcelona/Madrid, Spain tour was fabulous. Then we'll make our way to the masterpiece-packed Prado where you'll see paintings by Velzquez, Goya, El Greco, and others. Not only will you see famous sights like the Royal Palace and El Prado Museum, but expert local guides will give you a delicious introduction to both cities on private food tours. "I have two "wow" moments. The group traveled well; and the guides were well versed in presenting the attractions. "Gaudi-esp La Sagrada Familia; also Goya and Bosch". This was our first guided tour, but I hope it will not be our last. 2023 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | CST# 2086743 | A feast for the senses. Guides offered unique history insights, enhancing understanding of sites, art, architecture. This itinerary combines the three key cities of Spain - Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid along with day trips by high speed train to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage cities of Segovia/Toledo/Cuenca from Madrid, guided excursions to Montserrat or Costa Brava and a full day out at . As such I wasn't sure exactly what to expect, but I found our tour guide Jorge to be knowledgable and authoritative, as well as a competent herder of cats. At the Riena Sofia, we spent far too long on Picasso's Guernica, leaving the museum after seeing only that piece even though there are several other important works. How to Spend 10 Days in Barcelona and Madrid - Moon Guides "The history behind the paintings, especially the Picasso paintings. Our tour guides provided experiences rich in Spanish history, food, art, culture. The experience was wonderful with an ideal mix of scheduled and free time. Madrid's airport is an easy bus or taxi ride away or you may want to continue your Iberian adventures on your own. Wander the cool neighborhoods of Poble Nou and Sant Antoni and enjoy a leisurely brunch at Federal before taking an early-afternoon train from Barcelona Sants station to Madrid. Day 4 - Museo Del Prado, Reina Sofia and the Royal Palace of Madrid. Night in Madrid. "Two actually. Made Spain come alive. Itinerary #2: Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona Over five days, you'll get to see a side of Spain's two most famous cities that many tourists never get to see. Everything went smoothly. The Gaudi and Modernista architecture was so amazing alongside the other buildings.". Its important that we focus on history, culture, context and most RS tour guides are true to that goal. Read more, With a full week, you can experience both the highlights of Spain's most famous cities like Madrid and Barcelona. "I had a few. Very well planned and wonderfully executed by Frederico, "Frederico overall. This is out 3rd trip with Rick Steves and by far the best! If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less timeas few as 6 or 7 days. Whether you start your adventure in Madrid and end in Barcelona or vice versa, one of the best ways of traveling between the two cities is by taking a train. Attend a flamenco show in Madrid. Thank you. Javier, our guide, was very knowledgeable about Barcelona and Madrid. Explore now !