9 Days – Discover Madrid, Barcelona & Surroundings

Arrive at Madrid Barajas airport. Spend the next 2 days exploring the key sights of Madrid, the capital of Spain – the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, Gran Via, Santiago Bernabeu Stadium and shopping on the Golden Mile. Overnight in Madrid.

Take the high speed AVE/AVANT train from Madrid-Chamartin station to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Segovia (27 mins). Explore this medieval city including a visit to the Roman Aqueduct and the Alcazar, stroll along its medieval streets and shop for local souvenirs. Post lunch, if you wish, take a taxi or public bus to visit the famous Palace and Gardens and blow-glass factory in neighbouring La Granja. Overnight in Madrid.

Toledo – Take the high speed AVANT train from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha station to another UNESCO World Heritage city, Toledo (33 mins). Called the city of 3 cultures, explore this charming city on foot renowned for it’s Islamic, Christian and Jewish past. Toledo is also a great place to indulge in shopping for local handicrafts.

Cuenca - Take the high speed AVE/AVANT train from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha station to another UNESCO World Heritage city, Cuenca (54 mins), perched on the cliffs of the Huécar river gorge, and famous for its ‘Hanging Houses’ or Casas Colgadas. Don’t forget to snap a memorable picture on the suspended bridge, Puente de San Pablo!

Overnight in Madrid.

Take the high speed AVE train from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Barcelona Sants station (2.5 hours). In the evening, head out to the Port Olympic area for some exciting nightlife. Overnight in Barcelona.

Spend the day exploring this cosmopolitan city – the Gaudi architecture at the famous Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera or even Park Guell, strolling along the Las Ramblas, shopping on Paseo de Gracia or visiting Camp Nou stadium. Overnight in Barcelona.

Today, head out to the craggy heights of Montserrat mountain known for its unique pink formations, awe-inspiring views and a 1000-year old Bendectine monastery. You can either take a guided tour to Montserrat or take a train from Plaza Espanya. There are two ways to get to the top of Montserrat from Plaza Espanya - the most scenic and quickest way is to get off at the Aeri di Montserrat station from where you can take the cable car to to the top. The other option is to get off further ahead at Monistrol de Montserrat station and take the rack railway, to to the top. Overnight in Barcelona.

Travel through the scenic countryside to visit the colorful Roman city of Girona and discover its atmospheric Old Town. Continue to the coastal region of Costa Brava surrounded by unspoiled beauty. Enroute, visit the charming town of Pals as the well as the typical Spanish coastal village of Calella de Palafrugell. Enjoy the beaches, explore the quaint streets or just take in some Mediterranean sun! Overnight in Barcelona.

Take your return flight back home from Barcelona El Prat airport.