9 days
Explore two of Spain’s major cities and the surrounding areas on this nine-day adventure. While traveling through the Spanish countryside, visit significant sites, landmarks and monuments to learn about the region’s extensive history. Discover the intricacies of the architectural styles throughout Spain at cathedrals, palaces, churches and more. Gain a deeper understanding of European art at two national art museums. Throughout the trip, participate in cultural experiences, such as watching a flamenco show, eating local cuisine and viewing traditional jewelry- and sword-making practices.
As Spain’s capital city, Madrid is full of wonderful sites, including the popular Plaza Mayor, the Palacio Real, Gran Vía and the Puerta de Alcalá. While staying in Madrid, venture to Toledo and Segovia, two ancient cities that are known for their cultural and monumental heritage. Zipline over the city of Toledo for a unique viewpoint of the architecture and interact with locals during free time. In Segovia, learn about the complexity and grandeur of Roman engineering while observing the Segovia Aqueduct. The rest of the journey is spent in Barcelona, a coastal city in the Catalonia region that’s full of historic and modern-day landmarks. On a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, students explore the oldests parts of the city, including the remains of a Roman wall, medieval structures and the Barcelona Cathedral. Immerse in Barcelona’s local culture and discover many architectural wonders in the Eixample district, from the Basílica de la Sagrada Família to the Casa Batlló.
Depart from home and fly overnight to Madrid.
Meet up with the Tour Director on arrival in Madrid and transfer to the hotel. Visit the Templo de Debod, one of the few pieces of ancient Egyptian architecture that can be seen outside of Egypt. Stroll down Madrid’s signature street, Gran Vía, to see famous buildings and various styles of 20th-century architecture. Walk through two of Madrid’s historic public squares, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, where students view famous landmarks and statues.
Spend time Plaza de España, a large public square and home to the iconic Cervantes Monument, before taking a guided tour of the Palacio Real. Explore the official residence of the Spanish royal family while learning about the renowned works of art, incredible architecture and interior decorations of the palace’s ceremonial rooms. While there, take time to see the Royal Pharmacy and relax in the Plaza de la Armería. See the Puerta de Alcalá, an 18th-century monumental gate, and walk along the Calle de Alcalá to the Plaza de Cibeles, where students enjoy the beautiful marble fountain of the Roman goddess Cybele. Wander down the historic Paseo del Prado to admire the architecture of the luxurious Hotel Ritz. Dive into European art history with a guided tour of the Museo del Prado, Spain’s national art museum. Time permitting, visit El Retiro Park.
Journey into Castilla-La Mancha for a visit to Toledo, a city rich in history and charm. Start the trip at the Iglesia de Santo Tomé, an example of 12th-century Mudéjar architecture, and view the Renaissance painting by El Greco, “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.” Explore the Toledo Cathedral and learn about the Gothic and Mudéjar styles of architecture. Enjoy free time to watch the traditional jewelry- and sword-making practices of Toledo, followed by a zipline adventure through the city. End the day with a flamenco show after dinner and return to Madrid in the evening.
Travel to Segovia and take in the views of the Spanish countryside along the way. Upon arrival, marvel at one of the best preserved works of Roman engineering with a stop to see the Segovia Aqueduct. Discover the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain during the mid-16th century on a visit to the Segovia Cathedral. Explore the Alcázar, the medieval castle fortress for the monarchs of Castile and now a World Heritage Site. While there, walk the battlements and ascend the stairs of the tower that was once a prison. Return to Madrid in the afternoon for a brief visit to the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Spain’s national museum of 20th-century art.
In the morning, take the AVE high-speed train to travel from Madrid to Barcelona. Spend the afternoon sightseeing with a walking tour of Las Ramblas, a historic street in central Barcelona. While on the popular tree-lined street, admire the unique architecture, lively squares, interesting shops and magnificent fountains. Stop by the Columbus Monument to see the spot where Christopher Columbus returned to Spain after his voyage to the Americas.
Go on a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, an area filled with centuries of history. While on the tour, visit the Barcelona Cathedral, one of the most impressive cathedrals in Spain that’s renowned for its Gothic architecture. Journey by cable car to the top of Montjuïc hill and venture around the Montjuïc castle walls. Walk through the Poble Espanyol, a village that features full-scale buildings from different Spanish regions. In the evening, watch a spectacular sound and light show at the Montjuïc Magic Fountain.
Start the day at the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, a Roman Catholic minor basilica that’s been under construction since 1882. Learn about the architect Antoni Gaudí and how the structure embodies the essence of Gaudí’s style. After, take a walking tour of the Eixample district and see architectural sites such as Casa Batlló, La Manzana de la Discordia and Casa Milà, where students ascend to the rooftop for an overlook of the city. Enjoy time at Park Güell, which is known for its gardens, wonderful views and vibrant artwork.
Students depart from Barcelona to fly home, ready to share their wonderful experiences with family and friends.
During these nine days in Spain, students are introduced to centuries of Spanish history and cultural experiences. Visit a multitude of significant sites such as the Iglesia de Santo Tomé, Segovia Cathedral, Alcázar of Segovia and Barcelona Cathedral, to learn about Mudéjar and Gothic architectural styles. Explore the Museo del Prado and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía to gain a deeper understanding of European art and the influence of some of Spain’s most famous artists. Experience Spanish culture while walking down Las Ramblas, spending time at Park Güell and watching an authentic flamenco show. Students are encouraged to think critically about Spain’s historical development as a country and its cultural impact on the world. With a curated curriculum for educators to apply with the program, students are empowered to put their learning into practice before, during and after the trip.
Quality, safe hotels with twin or triple occupancy corresponding to the destination.
All transportation is provided throughout the program.
Airfare covers round-trip flights from major airports.
Two meals are provided daily, breakfast and dinner, featuring local cuisine.
Interactive learning experiences designed to expand educational and career goals.
Scheduled activities, experiences and guided tours are all included.
Customized experiences developed by travel experts to promote learning and engagement.
Full-time Tour Directors are on site for the duration of the trip, for an all-inclusive experience.
Tips for bus drivers, guides, Tour Directors and meals.
International travel insurance is provided for protection in case of accidents, illness, flight interruptions or baggage loss.
Advanced student security software that integrates geofencing, logistics, communication and more optimized safety features.
Dedicated 24/7 staff availability, supporting students every step of the way.
