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Madrid and Barcelona Itinerary: 1 Week in Spain’s Iconic Cities
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertThe Ávila and Segovia day is one I always build the Madrid chapter around. Segovia's Roman aqueduct and Alcázar before the coach groups arrive, then Ávila's intact medieval walls and cathedral interior in the afternoon quiet, deliver two completely different architectural experiences in a single well-paced day that most clients don't expect to be a highlight. For the Sagrada Família, the first morning entry slot is the one that matters: the nave catching early light through the west facade stained glass is a noticeably different experience from what you get at noon in both light quality and crowd density. Park Güell's upper paths near the Turó de les Tres Creus viewpoint before 9am give you the Gaudí forest landscape and the city panorama below in near solitude, which is the version I always tell clients to prioritize over the main terrace.
The Ávila and Segovia day is one I always build the Madrid chapter around. Segovia's Roman aqueduct and Alcázar before the coach groups arrive, then Ávila's intact medieval walls and cathedral interior in the afternoon quiet, deliver two completely different architectural experiences in a single well-paced day that most clients don't expect to be a highlight. For the Sagrada Família, the first morning entry slot is the one that matters: the nave catching early light through the west facade stained glass is a noticeably different experience from what you get at noon in both light quality and crowd density. Park Güell's upper paths near the Turó de les Tres Creus viewpoint before 9am give you the Gaudí forest landscape and the city panorama below in near solitude, which is the version I always tell clients to prioritize over the main terrace.
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Madrid
Day 1 - 3
Spain’s enormous central capital, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares and is a city of contrasts. Historical monuments like the impressive Royal Palace stand in stark contrast to state-of-the-art skyscrapers; masterpieces by Picasso, Dali and Velazquez adorn the walls of the city’s world-class galleries alongside contemporary modern works; local chefs display a passion for Spanish food at traditional eateries while chic fusion restaurants operate next door. Madrid’s real attraction lies in the seductive lifestyle of its hedonistic inhabitants; indulging in tapas, hunting for treasures at the El Rastro flea market or partying the night away in one of the many lively nightclubs. Make sure to soak up the vibrant street life of the grand, historic Plaza Mayor, Madrid's central square, and spend a leisurely afternoon on the landscaped lawns at the Parque del Buen Retiro.
Hotel Villa Real, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Located in Madrid (Madrid Centro), Hotel Villa Real, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts is within a 10-minute walk of National Prado Museum and Puerta del Sol. This luxury hotel is 0.5 mi (0.7 km) from Gran Via and 0.6 mi (1 km) from Plaza Mayor.
Enjoy recreational amenities such as a fitness center and a seasonal outdoor pool. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.
Make yourself at home in one of the 115 guestrooms featuring minibars and espresso makers. LCD televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Bathrooms have jetted bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include safes and complimentary newspapers, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Your activity
Avila Tour with Walls & Segovia
Meet your local guide and driver at hotel. In a comfortable tour by car, visit the UNESCO-listed cities of Segovia and Avila on this day trip from Madrid. Avila is distinctly known by being completely encircled by 11th century walls. The city has a number of Romanesque Churches, Gothic Palaces, and a fortified Cathedral from the 12th century. The city was also the birthplace of St. Teresa de Jesus, one of the great mystics of the Catholic church. You will make a walk on the wall, having nice views of the city. Enjoy the streets, squares, nooks and crannies. Next, travel to Segovia, declared a UNESCO Heritage of Humanity site, it was a very important military nucleus for the Romans, who left behind a magnificent Aqueduct. The city was chosen for some of Castilla's kings as a summer residence and is one of the best-preserved medieval-looking areas of Spain. Its historic buildings includes three main landmarks: its midtown Roman aqueduct, its cathedral (one of the last ones to be built in Europe following a Gothic style), and the medieval castle, which served as one of the templates for Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle.
Barcelona
Day 4 - 7
Set on Spain’s gorgeous southeastern coast, the capital and largest city of the Catalonia region, Barcelona, is an exquisite, seaside metropolis. With its dizzying array of architecture and its world-class galleries and museums, artistic delights abound at every corner (most strikingly in the astonishingly whimsical structures designed by the prolific modernist architect Antoni Gaudi). Explore the winding alleys of the picturesque Gothic Quarter, take in the boisterous carnival atmosphere of the world famous, tree-lined La Rambla boulevard, or go on a gastronomical adventure through the city's restaurants. Head to one of the gorgeous white sandy beaches and when the sun sets, join the eclectic all-night party scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the phenomenal Sagrada Familia, take in an opera at the sublime Palau de la Musica Catalana, and watch a game at the famous Camp Nou stadium.
H10 Universitat Hotel
With a stay at H10 Universitat Hotel in Barcelona (Eixample), you'll be within a 5-minute walk of La Rambla and Plaça de Catalunya. This hotel is 0.5 mi (0.9 km) from Passeig de Gràcia and 0.6 mi (1 km) from Barcelona Cathedral.
Take in the views from a rooftop terrace and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services. Additional features at this hotel include a television in a common area and a banquet hall. Guests can catch a ride to nearby destinations on the area shuttle (surcharge).
Make yourself at home in one of the 94 guestrooms featuring minibars and espresso makers. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and flat-screen televisions are provided for your entertainment. Bathrooms have designer toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Your activity
City tour & Sagrada Familia
Your excursion begins with your private driver and tour guide picking you up directly from your hotel. You will enjoy a relaxed city tour of Barcelona in a comfortable vehicle. From the Montjuïc hill, you will enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean, including a photo stop at the Miramar viewpoint.
The route then takes you past the Olympic Port, through the Citadel Park and to the Arc de Triomphe - important places in the city's history. On the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, you can admire modernist masterpieces such as the Casa Batlló and La Pedrera by Antoni Gaudí.
The highlight of the tour is the guided visit to the Sagrada Familia - Barcelona's world-famous basilica and symbol of the city. During a 90-minute guided tour, your guide will immerse you in the fascinating architecture, history and symbolism of this unique building.
