Madrid & Central Spain

Day 1

Toledo sits strategically atop a cliff, with the river Tagus encircling it on three sides. Established as a Roman settlement in 192 BC, it rose to prominence in the 6th century as the Visigothic capital and religious heart of the country, marking the beginning of the deep-rooted alliance between the Church and the State—a defining feature in Spain’s history.

In the early afternoon, we’ll transfer from Madrid’s airport and city center to Toledo, nestled in the region of Castilla La Mancha. Here, we’ll spend two nights in the Palacio Eugenia Montijo, a former Renaissance palace.

We’ll begin with an orientation walk, followed by a welcome dinner.

Day 2

During Moorish rule, Toledo experienced a unique period of coexistence among Arabs, Jews, and Christians, fostering a vibrant cultural exchange. When the city was reclaimed by Christians in 1085, it rose to become one of their most prominent centers, known as the “soul of Spain.”

Although Muslims and Jews were permitted to stay, Christian authorities quickly asserted control, converting mosques into churches and later establishing monasteries and convents. Their grandest project was the Gothic Cathedral, built on the site of the former Great Mosque, symbolizing Christianity’s permanent return.

Our morning tour with a local guide will lead us through the winding historic streets, the Jewish quarter, and several landmarks including a synagogue, mosque, and the Cathedral, along with the stunning El Greco painting in Santo Tomé.

El Greco, born on Crete, was a distinctive artist of the Spanish Renaissance, known for his elongated and often intense, religious figures. Nicknamed “El Greco” for his Greek origins, he moved to Toledo after training in Venice and Rome, where he spent the remainder of his life creating dramatic works. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Santa Cruz Museum to view 30 of his remarkable paintings. Evening free for leisure.

Day 3

We’ll begin our day with a guided exploration of colonial Trujillo, our first destination in Extremadura. The town’s history took a notable turn when Spanish conquistadors, like Francisco Pizarro, returned from the Americas and invested their newfound wealth into building impressive homes and enhancing their hometowns as a tribute to their achievements. Lunch is included.

Later, we’ll head to Cáceres, where we’ll stay at El Parador, a former 16th-century palace, for the next two nights. Cáceres has a complex history: it was a prominent city during the Roman era, saw decline under the Visigoths, was revitalized by the Moors, and later reclaimed by Christians in the 13th century, thriving further after the Americas were discovered. Today, it boasts Roman walls, 30 Moorish towers, and stunning Gothic and Renaissance buildings. The impeccably preserved medieval center earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1986. Evening at leisure.

Day 4

Enjoy a free morning in Cáceres before we depart midday for a traditional paella lunch.

Mérida was founded by Roman soldiers retired under Emperor Augustus, resulting in an incredible collection of Roman ruins—the largest and best-preserved in Spain. With a local guide, we’ll explore these remarkable sites, including the amphitheater (still used for concerts), the Aqueduct of Miracles, the Temple of Diana, and Spain’s longest Roman bridge.

We’ll also visit the National Museum of Roman Art, which houses stunning mosaics, sculptures, and exhibits showing daily life in a Roman settlement.

Evening is yours to relax back in Cáceres

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Madrid, Spain’s capital and largest city, serves as the heart of the country’s political, economic, and cultural life. It’s home to the monarchy, the parliament, the Royal Palace, and celebrated museums. With history stretching back to the 9th century, Madrid combines historic architecture with modern skyscrapers, a vibrant nightlife, and a dynamic culture.

Our day begins at La Catedral Almudena, then we’ll head to Plaza Oriente to tour Madrid’s Royal Palace. Once the residence of Spanish royalty, the palace showcases famous artwork, the ornate king’s dressing room, and the world’s most complete collection of Antonio Stradivarius string instruments.

We’ll wrap up the morning at Mercado de San Miguel, a historic market transformed into a culinary hub. In the afternoon, we’ll stroll through the Botanical Gardens at Retiro Park before exploring Spanish art and culture at the renowned Prado Museum, featuring masterpieces by Velázquez, El Greco, and Goya.

Our day concludes with a farewell dinner in the city center, with one more taste of Spanish gastronomy at it’s very best!

Day 10

Tour concludes.