Originally chanted at the toreros during bullfights, “Olé!” is now a term used to congratulate anyone’s exceptional performance in sunny and live-in-the-moment Spain. Prepare for those two happy syllables to roll off your tongue as you discover the past and modern-day feats of everyone from artists and architects to chefs and winemakers throughout this lively tour of Spain. Our most in-depth look at the land of the nonstop fiesta, this 14-day tour leads you from city to city and coast to coast for Picasso and paella, fortresses and flamenco, and Gaudi and the great Rioja wines. Equally satisfying is seeing the legendary backdrops used for some of classic literature’s finest prose—from Granada’s Moorish Alhambra complex to Pamplona’s famous Calle Estafeta, the famous street where the annual “running of the bulls” takes place. Olé!PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Bilbao and Málaga so you can plan your day your way.
Globus Choice excursions in Bilbao – included in your tour with your choice of a guided visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum or guided walk in Bilbao's Casco Viejo (Old Town) with pintxos tasting (Basque tapas)
Globus Choice Excursions in Malaga – included in your tour with your choice of a guided walking tour in the Old Town, or a Picasso-themed guided walking tour
Madrid guided sightseeing tour with a visit to the Prado Museum
Guided sightseeing tour of Barcelona with visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica
Guided visit to Granada’s Alhambra Complex
Orientation walk along the [LF] Calle Estafeta in Pamplona, followed by a Rioja wine-pairing dinner
Guided sightseeing in Valencia, includes a traditional Horchata tasting
Visit to Gibraltar with guided sightseeing featuring St. Michael’s Caves
Guided sightseeing in Seville with visit to [LF] the royal bull ring, the Casa de Pilatos, Plaza de España, and a walk through the Santa Cruz quarter
Guided walking tour in Cordoba, featuring the Mosque of the Caliphs
Visit to the historic towns of Burgos, San Sebastian, Saragossa, Segovia, and Burgos
Notes: The Alhambra complex: Entrance to the Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed. The Alhambra complex is wheelchair accessible, but the entrance and route differ from those of the included guided visit.We encourage all guests to prebook their preferred included Globus Choice excursions to ensure your selection is available. If your preference is not selected 35 days prior to departure, we will select a Choice excursion on your behalf based on availability.
Welcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel Dinner
Day 2 MADRID
Masterpieces in Madrid This morning your guided sightseeing tour takes you to the Latina District to see the Plaza de España, the Parliament, Cibeles Fountain, Calle Alcala, and Paseo de Castellana. Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues Breakfast
Day 3 MADRID–SEGOVIA–BURGOS–VITORIA
Spanish Treasures Depart Madrid and drive to the historic town of Segovia, enjoy an orientation and free time to browse and see the incredible Roman Aqueduct. Continue to Burgos, one of the main stops of the Camino de Santiago, and join an orientation walk to see the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria. Arrive in Vitoria late afternoon and take a stroll around this medieval Basque city. (B,D)
255 mi / 410 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The Cathedral of Santa Maria is a wonderful example of the flamboyant Gothic- style which gives her an unmistakable profile. This revered stop along the Camino de Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route is also the final resting place of the legendary Castilian folk-hero El Cid BreakfastDinner
Day 4 VITORIA–BILBAO–SAN SEBASTIAN–PAMPLONA
Spend Your Day Your Way in Bilbao Explore more of Bilbao with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Later, continue to the beautiful coastal city of San Sebastian, for free time to browse and lunch. Arrive at the charismatic city of Pamplona and take an [LF] orientation walk through the Calle Estafeta, followed by a Rioja wine-pairing dinner at Basaburua restaurant. (B,D)
165 mi / 265 km BreakfastDinner
Day 5 PAMPLONA–SARAGOSSA–BARCELONA
Going for Baroque in Aragon Visit Saragossa and enjoy an orientation walk which includes the stunning Plaza of Our Lady of the Pillar. Continue to Barcelona and enjoy some leisure time this evening to get acquainted with this flamboyant city. (B)
317 mi / 510 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Loved for its folklore, fantastic food, and fascinating landmarks such as the Basílica del Pilar, Saragossa delights with brilliant Baroque architecture that have earned the capital of Spain's Aragon region the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site Breakfast
Day 6 BARCELONA
Gaudí’s Masterpiece This morning, follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Gràcia. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Continue the tour with a drive to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CUTURAL GEM The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia stands in Barcelona as a monument to the Holy Family and a testament to the masterwork of Antoni Gaudí. Built on the reliance of donations since the first stone was laid more than 130 years ago, the iconic church remains an unfinished masterpiece and the world’s longest-running construction project – slated for completion in 2026 on the 100th anniversary of the architect’s death Breakfast
Day 7 BARCELONA–VALENCIA
Vibrant Views of Valencia This morning, depart Barcelona and follow the coastal route south to Valencia. Meet your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to see the Torres de Serranos and Plaza de Toros, a photo stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, plus a walking tour of Old Valencia. Later visit a Horchateria to try the traditional Valencian horchata drink. (B,D)
236 mi / 380 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Marvel at the architecture of La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (The City of Arts and Sciences) in Valencia. This gleaming, ultra-modern complex is the largest of its kind in Europe, with its strikingly futuristic design mirroring the surrounding water park, and a stunning symbol of the Spanish city, which houses a planetarium, an oceanarium, and an interactive museum BreakfastDinner
Day 8 VALENCIA–GRANADA
Grand Granada Today sit back and relax for a scenic drive toward the mountains and into Andalusia, passing the cave dwellings of Guadix and Purullena, some of which are still inhabited. Arrive in Granada this afternoon and enjoy some free time getting acquainted with this captivating city, shaped by its blend of cultural influences. Later, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
329 mi / 530 km
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Granada to take in the Renaissance architecture and unmistakable Moorish influence mixed with modern style in Granada, one of eastern Andalusia’s most fascinating cities. Poised at the foot of the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada lies between the Darro and Genil rivers with a wealth of grand Islamic architecture, endless tapas, cold beer, and lively streets BreakfastDinner
Day 9 GRANADA–COSTA DEL SOL
Splendid Spain One of Granada’s most iconic landmarks is the Alhambra Complex, an Islamic architectural masterpiece. Today visit the breathtaking complex with your Local Guide and discover what makes it so special. Later, continue to the Costa del Sol, one of Spain’s most famous seaside rivieras and enjoy some leisure time to browse, try local specialties, or take a walk on the beach. (B)
137 mi / 220 km
NOTE:
Day 9 Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada’s Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife at the once summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers Breakfast
Day 10 COSTA DEL SOL. EXCURSION TO MÁLAGA
Spend Your Day Your Way in Málaga Explore more of Málaga with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Enjoy free time this evening to explore more. (B)
22 mi / 35 km Breakfast
Day 11 COSTA DEL SOL–GIBRALTAR–SEVILLE
La Plaza de Toros This morning, leave Spain briefly behind as you cross the border into Gibraltar. Join your Local Guide on an explorative sightseeing tour, see Europa Point with the iconic lighthouse and visit the impressive St. Michael’s Cave. Continue to Seville and delve into the local history and tradition with a [LF] guided visit of the famous Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla, the royal bull ring. (B,D)
180 mi / 290 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURE & TRADITION Step into the ring of Spanish history and heritage, the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla (Royal Bullring), where over the centuries matadors have confronted bulls in a show of pageantry and pride BreakfastDinner
Day 12 SEVILLE
The Squares of Seville This morning, discover what makes Seville so special! Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Then, join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing tour comprising a panoramic drive, a visit to the Casa de Pilatos, and a stroll through the charming Santa Cruz Quarter. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Walk through Seville’s picturesque Plaza de España, originally built for Seville's Ibero-American Expo at the 1929 World's Fair, the 540,000-square-foot plaza features a sprawling mosaic patio – an architectural tour de force. Explore the historic Santa Cruz quarter in a magical maze of tapas, flamenco, and cafés Breakfast
Day 13 SEVILLE–CORDOBA–MADRID
Treasures of Cordoba This morning, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to see the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge, and the remains of the Alcazar. The tour highlight is a visit of the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Enjoy some free time to browse the narrow streets before continuing on a scenic drive back to Madrid. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
336 mi / 540 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque’s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city BreakfastDinner
Day 14 MADRID
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Accommodations
Madrid
Vitoria
Pamplona
Barcelona
Valencia
Granada
Costa del Sol
Costa del Sol
Seville
Rafaelhoteles Atocha First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Mendez Alvaro 30 Madrid Spain
This contemporary 4-star hotel is ideally located in the heart of Madrid's Arganzuela district, just a short walk from Atocha train station and the city¿s famed art museums, including Reina Sofia, del Prado and Parque del Retiro. The hotel offers 245 guest rooms featuring wooden floors, flat screen TV's and Free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy access to a fully equipped fitness center, while the on-site restaurant, serves Mediterranean cuisine throughout the day and boasts a charming garden terrace.
NH Canciller Ayala First-Class
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Ramon Y Cajal, 5 Vitoria Spain
Modern hotel with meeting rooms, bar-cafeteria and restaurant; in a park and garden setting, overlooking the Cathedral.
Tres Reyes Superior First-Class
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Jardines De La Taconera Pamplona Spain
This property enjoys a unique location situated next to Taconera Park gardens, a stone's throw from Plaza de Castillo and just ten minutes from Plaza de Toros and surrounded by the city's cultural attractions. The hotel offers 160 air-conditioned modern guestrooms, which come with free Wi-Fi access and televisions with satellite channels. A lovely outdoor swimming pool is at guests' disposal during the summer, while sport lovers can find a well-equipped gym. Other amenities include a gourmet restaurant and an elegant piano bar.
Catalonia Barcelona Plaza First-Class
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Plaza De Espana 6-8 Barcelona Spain
A large modern 338 room property, located within easy access to many of the city's major sights and attractions. Facilities include a choice of two restaurants a gym and a seasonal rooftop swimming pool and sun terrace with panoramic city views.
NH Center First-Class
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Ricardo Mico' 1 Valencia Spain
The stylishly decorated NH Center hotel offers 192 spacious, modern rooms, including rooms specially designed with handicapped accessibility.
Eurostars San Anton First-Class
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Calle San Anton 74 Granada Spain
Centrally located in Granada, Eurostars San Anton overlooks the Genil River. The hotel counts 173 comfortable, bright, modern and non smoking rooms featuring minibar, flat screen with satellite TV, wooden floor and air conditioning. On site restaurant, terrace bar and 24 hour reception are at Guest's disposal.
Melia Costa Del Sol Superior First-Class
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Playa De Bajondillo Torremolinos-Malaga Spain
A contemporary 9-story hotel right on the oceanfront promenade opposite the popular El Bajondillo Beach. Leisure facilities include a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and fitness center, the Thalasso spa with saltwater relax pool, sauna and steam bath can also be enjoyed (an additional fee is payable locally for the spa). A mix of Mediterranean and international specialities are offered at both the buffet and à la carte restaurants, there is also a Central bar serving a wide variety of drinks all day and complimentary Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property.
Hotel Aly Benalmadena First-Class
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Puerto Deportivo De Benalmadena Avenida Alay N 5 Benalmadena-Malaga Spain
The Alay Hotel has 246 spacious, air-conditioned rooms, all fitted with a flat-screen TV, Free Wi-Fi, a mini-bar, and a private bathroom equipped with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. A daily breakfast buffet is offered and Mediterranean style cuisine is served in the restaurant. Leisure facilities include a Wellness area with Jacuzzi, seasonal outdoor swimming pools and sun terrace as well as a Fitness Center. Malaga airport is 15 min away and the area offers a wide range of entertainment, leisure and restaurants.
Melia Sevilla Superior First-Class
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Doctor Pedro De Castro 1 Sevilla Spain
Located in the heart of Seville opposite the Parque de Maria Luisa, this contemporary 365 room property boasts a stunning seasonal outdoor pool with large sun terrace overlooking Plaza España, a spa and fitness area. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout, unique rice dishes are served in the designer Mediterranean restaurant and cocktails and snacks can be enjoyed in the sophisticated lounge bar or at the outdoor poolside bar.