Madrid & Barcelona by Rail

Day 1  Madrid    
Fly to Madrid and settle into your hotel. Spend your afternoon discovering the symbolic heart of the city, Plaza de Cibeles where the beautiful Cibeles Palace, now City Hall, and iconic fountain are situated. Meander the pathways of one of the largest parks in Europe, El Retiro Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site or perhaps watch a Flamenco show in one of the local bars.    

Day 2  Madrid    
Today, visit the Prado Museum to see its incredible collection of art on your included tour. Meander down the Paseo del Prado, referred to as the ‘Landscape of Light’ by UNESCO to honour the area’s unique blend of nature, culture and science.  If time allows, perhaps take the train to the stunning hilltop city of Toledo, the former Spanish capital, to admire its historic churches, synagogues and mosques.    

Day 3  Madrid    
This morning, unearth the historical secrets of the city by visiting the impressive Royal Palace, the largest palace in Western Europe and explore its rooms filled with national treasures. Later, amble down the famous Gran Vía, known as the Golden Mile, the capital’s lively main street show casing an array of 20th Century architecture and charming boutique stores.    

Day 4  Barcelona    
Board your train to the beautiful coastal city of Barcelona. After settling into your hotel, perhaps head to the city’s expansive beach. Stretching nearly three miles, you will be sure to find a spot to sunbathe and settle into the Spanish way of life.    

Day 5  Barcelona    
Discover the many fantastic sights of the city including the Gothic Quarter, a medieval maze of squares, shops and secret alleyways before heading to the Picasso Museum, home to creative masterpieces. Celebrated for its exquisite gastronomy, sample culinary delights on your included Barcelona Tapas Experience tour. Spend time exploring some of the city’s best hidden tapas bars before heading into the night to enjoy a drink at an old-school tavern or late night cava bar.    

Day 6  Barcelona    
Today, visit the beautiful Gaudí garden, Parc Guell, and marvel at the stunning views across the city. After a relaxing morning, meander Las Ramblas as you discover this bustling boulevard at Barcelona’s heart. Later, admire Gaudí’s awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia, an outstanding medieval cathedral that has been under construction since 1882.    

Day 7  Fly home