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Sunset in Tibidabo

A Taste Of Spain - Madrid &, Barcelona 

July 9 - 17, 2025

Join Michael Russo, Anthony LaPanta, and Defined Destinations for an unforgettable 9-day journey through Spain, highlighting the vibrant cities of Madrid and Barcelona. Engage in Madrid's rich culture and culinary delights with a tapas tour and a traditional flamenco show. Then, dive into Barcelona's dynamic nightlife and iconic landmarks. This incredible adventure includes daily breakfast, guided food tours, visits to Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, the Prado Museum, Madrid's Royal Palace, and a day trip to historic Toledo. Plus, enjoy one of Europe’s fastest train rides from Madrid to Barcelona. Seats are limited—reserve yours today and make memories to last a lifetime!

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Highlights & Inclusions:

  • Airfare included from MSP (if you choose this option)

  • 3 nights in central Madrid

  • 4 nights in central Barcelona

  • Included Daily Breakfast

  • Professional Tour Director

  • City Tours of Madrid & Barcelona

  • Welcome & Farewell Dinners

  • Royal Palace Tour, Madrid

  • Included Day trip to Toledo

  • Classic Flamenco Show

  • Tapas Tasting Tour with wine in Madrid

  • Tour Madrid's Royal Palace

  • Tour of Prado Museum in Madrid

  • High Speed Train from Madrid to Barcelona

  • Sagrada Familia tour, Barcelona

  • Park Guell in Barcelona

  • Sangria & Tapas Tasting Tour of Barcelona

  • Leisure time in Madrid & Barcelona

  • Day trip to Montserrat

  • Cava Tasting outside of Barcelona

  • And so much more

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Day 1:  July 9
Fly To Spain

Depart the United States for an overnight flight to Madrid, Spain. Included Meals: Light Dinner on Plane. For the group airfare option  - please look at the schedule at the bottom of this page).  

Day 2:  July 10
Arrive Madrid

Arrive in the capital city of Madrid, Spain. Upon arrival, a local guide and driver joins us on a scenic orientation tour of the city. Our tour takes us past it's medieval origins featuring the Arabic fortress, the Barrio de la Morería, as well as Renaissance and Baroque buildings including Calle Mayor, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa. Later, enjoy some exclusive shopping on Calle Gran Via before checking into our centrally located hotel. Our next three evenings will be at the Hotel Indigo Madrid Gran Via, just a short walk from one of the cities most important squares, Plaza Mayor. (Hotel check in is 4PM). Tonight, Michael and Anthony host a meet and greet as we mingle with fellow travelers during an included three-course dinner featuring locally produced wine.

Included Meals: Welcome Dinner

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Day 3:  July 11
Royal Palace - Flamenco Tapas Tasting Tour

This morning, we explore Madrid's Royal Palace, a symbol of prestige and opulence for over three centuries and home to Spain's royal family. With its 2,800 rooms, the palace rivals the grandeur of Versailles in Paris. From lavish halls to exquisite artworks, the palace offers a glimpse into Spain’s regal history.

This afternoon, we’ll visit the renowned Prado Museum, one of the world’s finest art galleries. Marvel at masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, including iconic works such as Las Meninas and The Third of May 1808. The Prado's vast collection provides a stunning journey through centuries of European art.

Enjoy the remainder of the day on your own to explore Madrid’s vibrant parks, bustling markets, chic shopping streets, and culinary delights.  Tonight, we gather for a special experience: a lively Sangria and tapas tasting tour in one of Madrid's most exciting neighborhoods. Tapas—bite-sized Spanish dishes—pair perfectly with your favorite drink and offer a true taste of Spanish culture.

Following the tasting tour, we’ll immerse ourselves in another Spanish treasure: a Flamenco show. Spain's most iconic style of dance and music, Flamenco is celebrated for its energy, color, and beauty. This evening’s performance is sure to be a highlight of the trip!

Included Meals: Breakfast, Sangria & Tapas Tasting Tour

Day 4:  July 12
Madrid - Toledo Day Trip

Today we depart Madrid by coach for the quaint hilltop city of Toledo. A local guide joins us as we meander the centuries old streets that the ancient Romans once walked. Hear the story of how previous Muslims, Christians, and Jews all lived in this bustling city. It doesn't matter whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or simply eager to see another side of Spain, Toledo will not disappoint. Late afternoon finds us returning to Madrid where you can enjoy an evening at leisure and an opportunity to partake in Madrid's exciting nightlife.

Included Meals: Breakfast

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Day 5:  July 13
High Speed Train To Barcelona

This morning, we board one of Europe’s fastest trains, reaching speeds of up to 200 mph, for a quick 2.5 to 3-hour journey to Barcelona. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our local guide for a neighborhood orientation walking tour before checking into our centrally located hotel, Catalonia Plaza Catalunya, near Plaza Catalunya. The hotel is conveniently situated near the Gothic area of Barcelona and Placa Nova, offering easy access to the historic Old Town and the renowned Mediterranean beaches.

Tonight, enjoy a leisurely evening exploring Barcelona at your own pace!

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 6:  July 14
Barcelona - Sagrada Familia

This morning we are joined by a local expert guide as we explore a few of Barcelona's most famous sights. Our first visit will be to the Sagrada Familia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece. Sagrada Familia is undoubtedly the most iconic structure in Barcelona. Construction has been ongoing for more than 135 years, and the surreal structure, with its rainbow-hued stained glass windows, is due for completion in 2026. Afternoon offers a visit to Park Güell, one of Gaudi's major works in Barcelona. Take in spectacular views of Barcelona and explore this stunning green space that's surrounded by modernist architecture. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.  Tonight, we gather once again during a foodie walking tour of one of Barcelona's exciting neighborhoods.  

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Foodie Walking tour

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Day 7: July 15
Montserrat & Cava Tasting

We are joined by a local guide during a day trip to nearby Montserrat, including the 10th century Benedictine Abbey. The name Montserrat literally means 'serrated mountain' in Catalan. For some people, a visit to Montserrat is a religious pilgrimage; for others, it's a visit to a unique mountain range offering views over Catalonia. The Benedictine monastery includes a basilica famous for the Virgin of Montserrat (Black Madonna). Following our visit to Montserrat, we will stop off at a local winery and try the famous Spanish Cava (similar to French Champagne). Late afternoon has us returning to Barcelona. Enjoy the remainder of the evening on your own.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: July 16
Barcelona At Leisure

Enjoy a full free day in Barcelona to explore this vibrant city at your own pace. Relax on the fantastic beaches of Barcelona, soak up the Mediterranean sun, or stroll along the iconic promenade of Barceloneta. History enthusiasts can wander the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter, discovering hidden squares, ancient cathedrals, and boutique shops. Art lovers may want to visit the Picasso Museum or explore Gaudí's lesser-known creations, such as Casa Batlló or Park Güell.

For a unique adventure, take a scenic train ride to the picturesque seaside town of Sitges, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene. Alternatively, consider a bike ride along the city’s many cycle paths or a leisurely boat tour to admire Barcelona's stunning coastline from the water.

Tonight, we gather with Jon and new friends for a memorable farewell dinner, sharing stories and highlights of our time together in Spain.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

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Day 8:  July 17
Fly Home From Barcelona

Today, we head for home with memories of our time in Spain or extend your stay in Europe.  The included group flight schedule can be found at the bottom of the page. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Tour Price:

LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED

$4449

PER PERSON

(Based on 2 people in a room)

LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED.  CHOOSE THIS OPTION IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO BOOK YOUR OWN FLIGHTS OR WANT TO PURCHASE ECONOMY COMFORT, BUSINESS OR PREMIUM SELECT

DELTA/KLM/AIRFRANCE - AIRFARE INCLUDED  RATE

$6399

PER PERSON

(Based on 2 people in a room)

AIRFARE INCLUDED OUT OF MSP

LAND ONLY - SINGLE RATE - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED

$5249

SINGLE RATE

(Based on 1 person in a room)

LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED.  CHOOSE THIS OPTION IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO BOOK YOUR OWN FLIGHTS OR WANT TO PURCHASE ECONOMY COMFORT, BUSINESS OR PREMIUM SELECT

DELTA/KLM/AIRFRANCE  AIRFARE INCLUDED -

SINGLE ROOMRATE

$7199

SINGLE RATE

(Based on 1 person in a room)

AIRFARE IS INCLUDED OUT OF MSP

Trip Deposit

A $300 non-refundable per person deposit is due at the time of registration. After final payment all monies are non-refundable. Travel Insurance is available and HIGHLY ENCOURAGED

GROUP FLIGHT:

​GROUP FLIGHTS ARE ON

KLM/AIR FRANCE:

(these are coach seats and seats will be assigned by KLM at check in (not before)

  • MSP to AMS: 07/09/2025 at 3:05 PM, arriving 07/10/2025 at 6:00 AM (KL656)

  • AMS to MAD: 07/10/2025 at 7:05 AM, arriving 9:35 AM (KL1501)

  • BCN to CDG: 07/17/2025 at 9:50 AM, arriving 11:45 AM (AF1149)

  • CDG to MSP: 07/17/2025 at 3:40 PM, arriving 5:40 PM (AF634)

Final Payment
March 10, 2025

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