Spain
Located on Europe’s Iberian Peninsula and arguably one of the hottest travel destinations in the world, Spain impresses travelers from all over. This fascinating country has it all: from charming, colorful villages, bustling cities, and beaches that stretch on for miles to world-renowned art filling famous museums, intricate architecture, and historical monuments. Wander through the archways of the Plaza Mayor in Madrid. Admire the iconic Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia in Barcelona. Indulge in various endless tapas as you bar-hop your way through the streets. Spain will captivate you from the minute you arrive until long after you return from this unforgettable destination.
Highlights
- Madrid
Spain's significant capital overflows with authentic culture, ornate architecture, traditional cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Travelers flock to Madrid to admire its world-renowned art, including the finest collection and works of Goya that are proudly displayed in the famous Prado Museum. Located in the heart of Madrid, you will find the Plaza Mayor, where locals and tourists stroll through its iconic archways to enjoy this public space. Nearby, discover another famous plaza: Puerta del Sol. A city full of manicured parks, Madrid is home to Retiro Park, a popular park that was once a recreational area for the royal family. Bask in the elegant presence of the Royal Palace, which formally served as the residence of the King and Queen of Spain. Enjoy traditional tapas at local bars and restaurants dotting the boulevards throughout your journey through this lively city.
- Flamenco
Originating in the southern regions of Spain and influenced by numerous world cultures, flamenco is a popular form of music and dance that is still practiced centuries later. Initially, this traditional dance was not accompanied by any music at all and instead was comprised of singing and clapping (referred to as "toque de palmas"). Although some dancing still follows this movement today, it is more common to experience a flamenco performance paired with a guitar instrumental. The main element of flamenco is the dance itself, a series of choreographed steps with different flairs of style performed by the dancer. The songs that accompany the dance movements fall into three categories: Cante jondo ("deep song"), cante intermedio ("intermediate song"), and cante chico ("light song"). Of the three categories, the most common is cante jondo.
- The Alhambra
Located in southern Spain, Granada is known for illustrating great examples of medieval architecture. This style of architecture can best be seen in the Alhambra. This grand complex sits on the Darro River and was declared the royal palace of the Sultanate of Granada in 1333. It later stood as the royal court of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in 1492. Fast forward to 1984, and this impressive fortification was named a UNESCO World Heritage site! The Alhambra is magnificent, encompassing grand palaces and sprawling gardens full of colorful orchids and spouting fountains.
- Tapas
Tapas are small appetizers or snacks made up of traditional Spanish cuisine. These small-portioned plates can range from cold to hot dishes. Tapas were once used as a solution to keep flies out of drinks. In fact, the word "tapa" means "to cover." Today, tapas serve as a delicious way to enjoy light dishes, typically in the early afternoon or later at night. It is common to indulge in tapas by bar hopping and trying different plates at various unique places. In some cases, you may receive a free tapa with the purchase of your drink; however, not all tapas bars partake in this, and most do not offer them for free. Some tapas include mixed olives and cheese, cured hams, crispy calamari, paella, and a lot more!
- Barcelona
The cosmopolitan capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona is a magnificent and unique city located on the Mediterranean Sea in northern Spain. Once the location for the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona is full of decorated parks, world-renowned art galleries, museums beaming with history, and so much more. Wander down las Ramblas, a series of narrow streets lined with delicious restaurants, lively nightclubs, and bustling open-air markets. Admire the extensive works of art by Antoni Gaudí, including the famous Roman Catholic Church, La Sagrada Familia. Marvel at the classic Gothic architecture in the Gothic Quarter, especially one of the best examples of this style in the entire city, the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia. This seaside city attracts all travelers, from adventurers and artists to the romantic and culture-loving.
- La Mancha
Journey to central Spain and visit the homeland of Don Quixote – La Mancha. Miguel de Cervantes' 17th-century novel, Don Quixote, was set in this mystical land adorned with sprawling vineyards, towering mountains, and charming castles and windmills. The most famous scene of one of Don Quixote's adventures takes place by the 12 ascending windmills that are located near the 10th-century castle in Consuegra. Today, of these 12 windmills, 4 of them are still in working condition. The windmills use power from the wind to grind wheat into flour. Travelers can indulge in Manchego cheese and Spanish wine in one of these unique windmills, overlooking the sweeping land below.
Spain's significant capital overflows with authentic culture, ornate architecture, traditional cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Travelers flock to Madrid to admire its world-renowned art, including the finest collection and works of Goya that are proudly displayed in the famous Prado Museum. Located in the heart of Madrid, you will find the Plaza Mayor, where locals and tourists stroll through its iconic archways to enjoy this public space. Nearby, discover another famous plaza: Puerta del Sol. A city full of manicured parks, Madrid is home to Retiro Park, a popular park that was once a recreational area for the royal family. Bask in the elegant presence of the Royal Palace, which formally served as the residence of the King and Queen of Spain. Enjoy traditional tapas at local bars and restaurants dotting the boulevards throughout your journey through this lively city.
Originating in the southern regions of Spain and influenced by numerous world cultures, flamenco is a popular form of music and dance that is still practiced centuries later. Initially, this traditional dance was not accompanied by any music at all and instead was comprised of singing and clapping (referred to as "toque de palmas"). Although some dancing still follows this movement today, it is more common to experience a flamenco performance paired with a guitar instrumental. The main element of flamenco is the dance itself, a series of choreographed steps with different flairs of style performed by the dancer. The songs that accompany the dance movements fall into three categories: Cante jondo ("deep song"), cante intermedio ("intermediate song"), and cante chico ("light song"). Of the three categories, the most common is cante jondo.
Located in southern Spain, Granada is known for illustrating great examples of medieval architecture. This style of architecture can best be seen in the Alhambra. This grand complex sits on the Darro River and was declared the royal palace of the Sultanate of Granada in 1333. It later stood as the royal court of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in 1492. Fast forward to 1984, and this impressive fortification was named a UNESCO World Heritage site! The Alhambra is magnificent, encompassing grand palaces and sprawling gardens full of colorful orchids and spouting fountains.
Tapas are small appetizers or snacks made up of traditional Spanish cuisine. These small-portioned plates can range from cold to hot dishes. Tapas were once used as a solution to keep flies out of drinks. In fact, the word "tapa" means "to cover." Today, tapas serve as a delicious way to enjoy light dishes, typically in the early afternoon or later at night. It is common to indulge in tapas by bar hopping and trying different plates at various unique places. In some cases, you may receive a free tapa with the purchase of your drink; however, not all tapas bars partake in this, and most do not offer them for free. Some tapas include mixed olives and cheese, cured hams, crispy calamari, paella, and a lot more!
The cosmopolitan capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona is a magnificent and unique city located on the Mediterranean Sea in northern Spain. Once the location for the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona is full of decorated parks, world-renowned art galleries, museums beaming with history, and so much more. Wander down las Ramblas, a series of narrow streets lined with delicious restaurants, lively nightclubs, and bustling open-air markets. Admire the extensive works of art by Antoni Gaudí, including the famous Roman Catholic Church, La Sagrada Familia. Marvel at the classic Gothic architecture in the Gothic Quarter, especially one of the best examples of this style in the entire city, the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia. This seaside city attracts all travelers, from adventurers and artists to the romantic and culture-loving.
Journey to central Spain and visit the homeland of Don Quixote – La Mancha. Miguel de Cervantes' 17th-century novel, Don Quixote, was set in this mystical land adorned with sprawling vineyards, towering mountains, and charming castles and windmills. The most famous scene of one of Don Quixote's adventures takes place by the 12 ascending windmills that are located near the 10th-century castle in Consuegra. Today, of these 12 windmills, 4 of them are still in working condition. The windmills use power from the wind to grind wheat into flour. Travelers can indulge in Manchego cheese and Spanish wine in one of these unique windmills, overlooking the sweeping land below.Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Spain? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Madrid |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Immunizations are currently not required for travel to Spain. However, you may wish to consult your personal physician or local public health authorities regarding other recommendations. |
| Weather | The months of April through June and September and October are ideal months to travel to Spain. July and August tend to be very hot and crowded. Take a sweater for nights and if you are traveling to higher elevations. Winter, though generally mild, can be rainy, foggy and windy. |
| What to wear | Since weather can be unpredictable and to be sure you are comfortable during your trip and prepared for all types of weather possibilities, we suggest that you carry a small folding umbrella. If you have two pairs of comfortable (broken in, not brand new) walking shoes, by all means, take both pairs. Packing to dress in layers is another way to prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Finally, remember that comfort and convenience should dictate your wardrobe for the tour, and casual clothes are in order for most every occasion as you travel. |
| Money & Credit Cards | The currency in Spain is the Euro. Hotels and some stores accept major credit cards. Credit cards are the most convenient way to pay for items you purchase as you travel. Be sure to call your credit card providers to let them know you will be traveling abroad, the places you’ll be visiting and the dates of your trip. This is important for your own protection. Some hotels will be able to exchange your cash for local currency. You may also use the ATM machines to get cash in local currency. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted. If you intend to use traveler’s checks, please verify that they are accepted in the countries visited on this tour. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | You can find a plethora of exquisite items varying in price throughout Spain. Shop for local liqueurs and wines, guitars, rugs, handmade shawls, pottery, ornamental combs and fans, copper and steel items, leather goods, embroidery, contemporary and antique paintings and sculpture, and handmade furniture. Please keep in mind that most stores will not allow you to return or exchange purchased items. Be sure to inspect the merchandise before you leave the store, and exercise the “buyer-beware” rule. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 230 volts. Plugs C & F. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
| Photography | Cameras and video recorders are allowed almost everywhere, and in fact, you will want to take plenty of pictures of the magnificent panoramas you’ll encounter as you travel. Photography is generally permitted everywhere except at airports and military installations. Memory cards for digital cameras will also be readily available, especially in major cities. |
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Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Spain
- including closed packages
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