Spanish Sun, Sea, and Culture Week

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Barcelona

   Barcelona is a city with a big historic legacy. Its origins can be traced back to the 1st-century BC when it became the Roman colony of Barciro. Today Antoni Gaudí’s Modernist architecture has become the main attraction for visitors from all over the world. Barcelona has two UNESCO listings covering nine buildings. Seven of them are by Gaudi! Despite its age, a youthful, energetic city vibe can be felt in all Barcelona’s quarters. Embrace your hidden love of Gothic aesthetics followed by Catalan cuisine with a private chef and finish your evening with a ramble on La Rambla, the heart of social Barcelona. So whether you feel like a picnic overlooking the beach-fronted La Estrella Herida, a private tapas tour throughout the city, or a stroll through the Gaudi-inspired Park Güell, there is something for everyone!

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Barcelona's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the transfer is about 30 minutes.

   

   Ramble on La Rambla

   Embrace the authentic Catalan spirit with an evening stroll along La Rambla on your first night in Barcelona. Spanning nearly a mile, this historic street is the sole avenue in the old part of the city, running parallel to the historic city wall. Unlike the bustling downtown, La Rambla offers a broad and spacious expanse, serving as an ideal meeting place for both locals and visitors alike. Flanked by bars, bistros, boutiques, and galleries on either side, La Rambla stands as a distinctive microcosm of Barcelona's charm.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Get a grounding in Barcelona

   Today, you'll receive the perfect introduction to Barcelona with a private tour exploring the historic Ciutat Vella, including the charming Gothic and Born neighborhoods, led by a knowledgeable and personable guide. You will enjoy a comprehensive introduction to Barcelona and Catalunya and crown the experience with tasting tapas and wine in a traditional restaurant.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Explore Barcelona's Millennia of History

   Although you can find traces of prehistoric roots, Barcelona was officially established as a Roman city in 15 BC. It endured a militant history, serving as the capital of Hispania under the Visigoths, fighting for independence, and attracting avant-garde artists and architects who shaped its unique identity. The city hosts a century-old, globally successful soccer team. Explore Barcelona's diverse history in a plethora of museums, delving into important, well-known, and lesser-known stories. Alternatively, opt for guided excursions with local experts to uncover the city's rich past according to your interests.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Sagrada Familia Highlights Group Tour with Skip the Line Tickets

   It's hard to find an architectural structure as striking as La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece is counting over 140 years in the making and the artist's genius is omnipresent inside and out of this iconic church. La Sagrada Familia is the ultimate highlight of Barcelona. As such, it attracts hordes of visitors every day. However, this tour grants you skip-the-line access to the architectural wonder, thus saving you precious time. Once inside, an expert guide will guide you through the history, vision, and artistic genius of Antoni Gaudí, one of Barcelona's most prominent personalities.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   Gracia Neighborhood

   Explore Gracia to experience life in Catalonia's small towns. Not officially part of Barcelona until the 20th century, its layout of narrow streets and quaint squares creates a distinct atmosphere. A youthful, trendy, and cosmopolitan area, Gracia boasts numerous bars, cafes, and independent shops due to its vibrant student and artist population. Visit during the August Festa Major to witness a transformation as residents creatively decorate streets, competing for the best neighborhood display.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to Palma de Mallorca by Airplane / Arrival in Palma de Mallorca

   

   From Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca the best option will be to take a flight on one of the low cost airlines. A driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the airport for your flight. The duration of the flight is 1 hour. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:

   
   

   Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

   Welcome to the capital of Spain’s Mediterranean island paradise, the world-famous Mallorca. While it might only be about 1,400 square miles – about the same size as New York’s Long Island – you’ll find everything you could want in an island getaway, including beautiful sandy beaches, history, culture, gastronomy, and of course, lots of sunshine. The city of Palma has thousands of years of human history, starting with the Neolithic period and continuing with its occupation by Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors. Amidst the backdrop of its impressive gothic style Cathedral, you’ll find yourself wandering through ancient alleyways, discovering something new around every corner.

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Palma's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the drive is about 15 minutes.

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Palma de Mallorca

   

   Half Day Private Walking Tour of Palma

   Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Palma de Mallorca, founded by the Romans in 123 BC. Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Mallorca, a Gothic masterpiece with over 800 years of history (interior visit not on Sundays). Stroll through the city's historic heart, discovering grand manor houses, lively plazas, and elegant shopping streets. End your journey in the charming fishermen’s quarter near La Lonja, a stunning Gothic landmark.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Marvel at the Beautiful Cathedral

   No trip to Palma would be complete without a visit to its spectacular sandstone cathedral, La Seu. The majestic building took 600 years to build and is impossible to miss due to its size and location on the city walls. It boasts one of the world’s largest rose windows, and some of the 20th-century renovations were undertaken by the famous modernist architect Antoni Gaudí.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your Second Full Day in Palma de Mallorca

   

   Sailing Group Experience with Lunch

   Depart from the Port of Palma and sail to La Cueva Verde, a beautiful cove surrounded by natural caves, perfect for swimming and enjoying an aperitif. Continue to Cala Vella, a natural reserve with crystal-clear waters, where you can swim, relax, and savor a freshly prepared BBQ on board. Paddle surf is included, adding more fun to your time on the water. Enjoy cocktails, mixed drinks, and other beverages from the onboard bar, available throughout the trip (not included in the price).

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 5 hours 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   Few Colors, Many Lines

   Once in Mallorca, you should visit the house where Pilar and Joan Miró used to live in Palma. According to the painter's last testament, he wanted his house to be preserved as it was when he passed away, and it pretty much is in the same shape that an active artist would leave behind. This house is worth seeing for all ages.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Third Full Day in Palma de Mallorca

   

   Palma Group Cooking Class

   Learn to cook classic Spanish dishes with a local chef in a hands-on culinary experience. Immerse yourself in Spanish culture as you prepare and taste delicious, home-cooked recipes. Upgrade your experience with a guided market tour to explore fresh ingredients and local flavors. Enjoy a menu featuring marinated olives, sobrasada suquet, tortilla bites, authentic paella, and Catalan cream, paired with local wines, beer, or soft drinks.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Take a Break

   If you need a break from sightseeing and fancy a beach day, Palma’s city beach has everything you need. Easily walkable from the center of town, this 1km (half-mile) stretch of sand has showers, toilets, and a beach club at either end. Mostly frequented by locals, this beach is clean, the sand is fine and golden, and the water is clear and safe for swimming.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

8. Day 8 Departure Day

   The driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport for your departing flight. Duration of the drive is about 15 minutes.