Compare Grand Tour of Spain by EF College Break (EF Ultimate Break) vs Premium Spain by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Board your overnight flight, bound for Europe.

Day 2: Introduction to Barcelona

Your tour director will take you on a quick walk so you can get to know the area.

Welcome Dinner

Get to know your fellow travelers at an authentic local spot over dinner with the group.

Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Barcelona (local guide)

A local guide will introduce you to Barcelona. See the impressive facade of Sagrada Familia, an unfinished church designed by Antoni Gaudí. Gaudí’s architecture is all over the city, and people love its dream-like style. See his amazing influence in Parque Guell, with its bright colors and candy-like sculptures. You’ll also go to the top of Montjuïc; many of the 1992 Olympic events took place here, and it has amazing views of the harbor below.

Day 4

Excursion:

Dali & Costa Brava Beaches Extra Cost & Pre-book only

Drive to the town of Figueres for a guided tour of the bizarre and beautiful Museo Teatro Dalí (Dalí Theatre Museum) and see the vision and wackiness of this famous artist in a very playful, hands on museum. Stroll around Dali's home town to see where he was born and what his daily life in the town was like. Grab a lunch and head to the village of Tossa De Mar on the Costa Brava. Here you'll have time to explore the beautiful village and soak up some sun on its beautiful beach.

Day 5: Train to Madrid

Hop on a train to Madrid this morning. Spain’s capitol is famous for its world-class art museums, its live music scene, and especially its nightlife (it seems people never sleep here). Rich in Spanish tradition, Madrid is a city that definitely knows how to have fun.

Introduction to Madrid

Your tour director will take you on a quick walk so you can get to know the area.

Day 6: Highlights of Madrid

A local guide will bring Madrid into focus. You’ll pass through the Puerta del Sol, the geographical center of the city (and all of Spain) and a popular meeting point. Head into the Plaza Mayor, the Renaissance hub that witnessed everything from bullfights to weddings to public executions. Plus you’ll check out Plaza de Oriente, Madrid's largest square.

Excursion:

Medieval Toledo Extra Cost

Toledo is a stunning cliff top medieval fortified city. It is often referred to as La Ciudad Imperial (Imperial City) since it once was the capital of Spain. Check out the city's massive Gothic cathedral, which is home to 750 medieval stained glass windows and a treasure trove of golden artifacts. Explore the labyrinth of medieval alleyways at the heart of the city, and then visit the Santo Tome Church and one of Europe’s oldest synagogues, Santa Maria la Blanca.

Day 7: Travel to Granada via Córdoba

Known mostly for its Alhambra palace, Granada is a city full of young people, with all the buzz and nightlife you’d expect. En route, stop in Córdoba for views of the historic architecture and the second-largest Old Town in Europe.

Day 8: Highlights of Granada

A local guide will introduce you to the sights of Granada. There’s a heavy Moorish influence here (North African and Middle Eastern culture), and you’ll see it all around you in the city’s winding streets. The highlight is the world-famous Alhambra, one of Europe's most impressive palaces. Over the centuries, the Alhambra has been home to many princes and their harems.

Travel to Seville

Continue on to Seville, the capital of Spain’s Andalucia region, and its biggest city. Seville is known as having the region’s best tapas bars, best nightlife, and best narrow winding streets to get lost in. The city is full of students and has a fun, friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

Excursion:

Flamenco Evening  Extra Cost

The Flamenco is a quintessential Spanish experience, something you just can't appreciate until you see it. In this completely unique art form evolved from Indian, Moorish, Arabian and gypsy influences, passionate performers evoke strong emotions through guitar playing, singing, chanting, dancing, and hand clapping. Sit back and experience the soul of Spain. One drink is included.

Day 9: Highlights of Seville

See the highlights of Seville with a local guide. Pass some impressive sights, including the Old Tobacco Factory and the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain's most famous bullrings. Visit the Moorish Alcazar, which was built in the 14th century for a king named Pedro the Cruel. Also go inside the Seville Cathedral, home of Christopher Columbus's grave. You can climb the tower for amazing city views.

Day 10: Travel to Costa Del Sol

Continue on to the aptly named ”Coast of the Sun”, a collection of Spanish resort towns on the Mediterranean. The Costa del Sol is all about seaside relaxation— the rich-and-famous and the “regular people” alike have been vacationing here for decades.

Introduction to Costa Del Sol

Your tour director will take you on a quick walk so you can get to know the area.

Day 11: Free day in Costa Del Sol

Enjoy some free time in Costa Del Sol to check out the beaches and surrounding area.

Excursion:

Gibraltar Escape  Extra Cost

Monkeys, caves and one big rock--welcome to Gibraltar!  Head to this UK territory, where you’ll zig-zag by bus up the Rock of Gibraltar, which stands 1,398 feet tall. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see Africa across the Mediterranean, but on any day, hundreds of wild monkeys adorn the rock, often posing for the Insta love. You’ll visit St. Michael’s Cave, where Neolithic-age humans once lived, then have free time to roam the rock, grab some pub grub or English tea, or just watch the monkeys being monkeys.

Did we mention monkeys?

Note: Because it is a UK territory, non-US passport holders may require a visa to enter.

Farewell Dinner

Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included farewell dinner with the group.

Day 12: Fly Home

It's time to say your goodbyes. Head to the airport for your flight back home. 

Day 1 Madrid

Beinvenido – welcome to Spain! Your adventure begins in Madrid, a city filled with elegant boulevards, manicured parks and superb cuisine. You will be collected from the airport on arrival and transferred to your hotel, where you will meet your leader and small group for a welcome meeting this evening. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the Museo del Prado, then discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia. Finish at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which displays eight centuries of European painting. Your Spanish adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:30pm. Once the formalities are out of the way get to know your leader and group over dinner at a wonderful restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.

Day 2 Madrid

Travel to the city of Toledo this morning. The unique old town of this city sits on a high craggy rock and is encircled by the Tagus River. As a former capital of Spain, Toledo has immense historic significance and holds many architectural treasures. Examples of buildings from most architectural periods in Spain’s history can be seen here, from the Gothic to the Baroque. Today you’ll experience Toledo’s culture in the form of a marzipan tasting. While a few countries compete for the rights, the Spanish argue that marzipan was invented in Toledo. Either way, the sweet treat made from almond meal, honey and sugar has been produced in this city for generations, and is some of the world’s best. Find out how it’s made, its significance to Toledo, and taste some yourself. Return to Madrid for a free afternoon – you may like to check out the Royal Palace, or stroll around the Parque del Retiro.

Day 3 Seville

Travel from Madrid to Seville by train.The largest city in southern Spain,Seville is famous for its cultural vitality and dazzling architecture.On arrival, check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, a gorgeous family-run boutique hotel.Housed in 27 typical Sevillian cottages with patios and corridors connecting them,the hotel  celebrates its roots with its elegant décor and antique furnishings.Walking about the hotel's interior is like taking a stroll through centuries-old parts of the city: statues, floors, columns, amphorae, jugs, all create the impression that you are in a living museum.Personal touches are everywhere, from incredibly friendly service to hand painted details in the rooms and the owner’s great-grandmother’s shawl hanging in reception. Not to mention, the hotel boasts an unbeatable location on the Alameda de Hercules, lined with cafes, restaurants and music venues. This evening, join your group for a live flamenco show – a traditional Spanish style of dance with roots in Seville. This colourful, lively and rousing performance will certainly be one to remember.

Day 4 Seville

This morning, meet with a local guide who’s an expert on all things Seville and get to know the city during a walking tour. Explore narrow streets, hidden squares filled with orange trees and flower-adorned patios as your guide provides local insight into the history of the city and how it’s enjoyed today. Visit the Alcazar of Seville, a grand royal palace, and uncover its secrets with your guide. Known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Spanish royal family still to this day use the Alcazar as their residence in Seville. The rest of the afternoon is yours for further discoveries - you may wish to take an optional visit to the Giralda Tower and the famous Seville Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest cathedrals and home to Christopher Columbus’ elevated tomb.

Day 5 Cordoba

Today you will journey to the city of Cordoba, where Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences are present in the architecture, culture and cuisine, via a private transfer. Cordoba is also home to the Mezquita – a rare site which has served as both a mosque and a cathedral throughout the centuries. Today a cathedral stands within the centre of this amazing mosque – an interesting example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in Spain. Discover this supreme example of Islamic architecture on a comprehensive guided tour with your leader which continues outside of the Mezquita and explores the charming quarters and hidden corners of Cordoba.

Day 6 Granada

Depart Cordoba and travel to Granada. Along the way, you will learn more about the importance of olive oil production in the Andalucia region by visiting an oil mill. Let the passionate owner of the family-run business walk you through the process of olive oil production, and taste some different variations of the final result yourself, along with olives, olive marmalade, olive pate and wine. On arrival, check in to your hotel. This evening, perhaps head out to explore Granada’s drinking and dining scene with your group.

Day 7 Granada

This morning you will get acquainted with Granada during an orientation walk with your leader. Learn the fascinating history of the city and discover Islamic architecture and Arab influences at every turn. Enjoy some time for your own explorations of the city – perhaps head to a local teahouse to sample some Moorish pastries. In the afternoon, join an expert local guide for a tour of Alhambra and its perfectly manicured gardens. Dating back to the 11th century, Alhambra represents Muslim art in its final European stages. With ancient defensive walls, turrets and fountains set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, touring this magnificent site is an experience that will stick with you. After seeing the monumental Alhambra during the day, join your group for an included dinner at a nearby restaurant. After this break you’ll return to the Alhambra after dark and explore the famed Nasrid Palaces with your local guide. By now the crowds have dispersed and you are free to explore the site in all its glory. Your guide will bring history to life and provide expert insight as you explore the dominating red fortress towers, opulent palace decor and a multitude of architectural styles through the intricate Nasrid Palaces.

Day 8 Valencia

Depart Granada and travel to Valencia. Along the way you will travel through the distinctive countryside of the region and pass through Elche, capital of the region of Bajo Vinalopó. The historic quarter of Elche preserves part of its Muslim past and Baroque splendour. Walk around palm tree grove, one of the largest and the only one in Europe. Your leader will explain how the grove was established by the Phoenicians and expanded by the Arabs in the 8th and 9th centuries. The palmeral consists of several parts spreading across downtown. Then it's on to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, to soak up its unique cultural identity and explore the old town centre that dates back 2000 years. On arrival, you’re free to explore the city and discover the harmonious mix of Roman, Muslim and Christian influences in its buildings, monuments and magnificent gardens.

Day 9 Valencia

Start the day with a short drive south of Valencia to discover Albufera Lake, an important ecological site of the region. The lake is surrounded by beach, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest, and is home to six small islands. You will visit the island of El Palmar and discover its typical ‘barraca’ houses. Travel by boat to the middle of the lake and learn about the important agricultural crop of the area, namely the local rice. Finish off with an included lunch of the most famous Valencian dish – paella. The rest of the day is yours to explore Valencia. You may like to visit the city's major landmark – the City of Arts and Science, a large and futuristic museum complex designed by Calatrava. Or perhaps head out to a local cafe to enjoy the treats that Valencia has to offer – from horchata to artisan chocolates, the city is a gastronomical heaven.

Day 10 Barcelona

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Valencia and travel to Barcelona. We arrive into Barcelona early afternoon. Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a ground-breaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget.  After a walking tour with your leader,  you’ll get to enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant with your group. Celebrate the final night of your trip as you dine on some of the region’s most delicious foods like olives, pickled garlic, lomo Iberico de Belotta, Catalan cheeses, olive oil, and sweet desserts.

Day 11 Barcelona

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to extend your stay in Barcelona and delve deeper into this exciting city, please speak to your booking agent about arranging additional accommodation in advance (subject to availability).