Activity Level 2: Moderate

Expectations: One of our Classic Land Journeys, this tour features visits to many cities, iconic sites, hidden gems, and various regions. Although comprehensive, it's not rushed, but well paced and finely tuned. Expectations include longer touring days with many full-day motor coach excursions and seven different hotels. Many hotels are historic buildings that have been restored or renovated as hotels; although modern in most amenities, they can sometimes require additional walking to get to guest rooms (and several do not have an elevator).

Mostly full-day excursions from four to six hours, with seven afternoons at leisure. Standing and walking for long periods of time during city tours, museum visits, and outdoor activities. Daily walks of up to  three miles; walking over sometimes difficult terrain that includes cobblestones and city hills (especially in hilltowns), uneven pavement (especially archaeological sites), stairs without handrails, and absence of elevators; longer walks to get to city centers where coaches are prohibited. There are three longer coach rides of approximately four hours duration. 

Please note that evening dinners in Spain are typically later in the evening than we are accustomed to here in the United States. The majority of the dinners on this tour will take place at approximately 8:30 pm. 

Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit and comfortable with longer days of touring (both walking tours and coach time).

Barcelona Post-Program Option — 4 Days, 3 Nights

Enjoy this bustling seaport, Spain's cultural and commercial capital, with its medieval Gothic Quarter and popular Ramblas waterfront promenade. This optional excursion allows you the freedom to explore this exciting city on your own. Your tour price includes:

• Air transportation Madrid/Barcelona inclusive of airline taxes and departure fees
• 3 nights accommodations at Hotel Avenida Palace (Superior First Class)
• 3 meals: 3 breakfasts
• Transfers to/from airport

Hotel Avenida Palace
Built in 1952, Hotel Avenida Palace stands in the heart of Barcelona and offers a good location from which to explore. The 151-room hotel is just minutes from La Ramblas, the Picasso Museum, and the museum housing the works of modern architect Antoni Gaudi. The hotel features a restaurant and bar and laundry and dry cleaning services. Air-conditioned guest rooms offer private bath with hair dryer, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, in-room safe, mini-bar, TV, and phone. A Note about Air Conditioning: Hotels in Spain generally adhere to guidelines issued by the government regarding the availability of air conditioning. Many lodgings provide air conditioning in guest rooms only from late April or May until late September/early October.