Spain
The Best of Spain: Barcelona and Madrid
Program No. 21336RJ
Find out what makes Barcelona and Madrid two of Europe’s most unique cities as you discover bold architecture, world-renowned museums, ancient monuments and celebrated cuisine. Olé!
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DATES
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PRICES
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Mar 14 - Mar 23, 2025
Starting at
4,329Mar 21 - Mar 30, 2025
Starting at
4,379Apr 4 - Apr 13, 2025
Starting at
4,379May 2 - May 11, 2025
Starting at
4,379May 9 - May 18, 2025
Starting at
4,379May 16 - May 25, 2025
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4,379May 30 - Jun 8, 2025
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
10 days
9 nights
16 meals
8B 1L 7D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
4
Monastery & Museum of Montserrat
Barcelona
5
The Picasso Museum, La Pedrera
Barcelona
9
Madrid, Reina Sofia Museum
Madrid
10
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
Gaudí and Picasso. Paella and Tapas. Mediterranean chic and capital-city grandeur. There are no other cities in the world like Barcelona and Madrid. Join us to learn about what’s new in these two dynamic cities and reflect on what’s been around since antiquity, from fanciful architecture to wind-swept Roman ruins. With special insight from our local experts and plenty of time to discover on your own, you’ll get the most of these two bold European cities.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking around 3-4 miles per day; cobblestones and many unavoidable stairs. Public transportation and subway with no elevators used throughout the program.
Looking for the same great program but at a slightly more leisurely pace? Check out "Spain at a Slower Pace: The Best of Barcelona and Madrid" (#22311).
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Learn about the incredible fairy tale-like curved roofs and bright colors of one of the world's most intriguing parks and heritage sites: Parc Guëll.
- Attend expert-led lectures and gain insight into Spain's fascinating historical and artistic roots.
- Explore two of Europe’s most renowned art museums in Madrid with top-notch instructors.
General Notes
Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials. You may be interested in a more leisurely version of this program, "Spain at a Slower Pace: The Best of Barcelona and Madrid" (#22311).
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Gracia Gonzalez del Rio
Gracia Gonzalez del Rio was born in Lima, Peru and moved to Spain in 2001 after earning her master’s degree in corporate communication. Three years later, she began working as an educational group leader, introducing Spanish groups around Central Europe and educating groups from North America around Spain and Portugal. She greatly enjoys interacting with travelers and introducing them to European and Iberian cultures. Gracia currently resides in Sitges, near Barcelona, with her husband and children.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Gracia Gonzalez del Rio
View biography
Gracia Gonzalez del Rio was born in Lima, Peru and moved to Spain in 2001 after earning her master’s degree in corporate communication. Three years later, she began working as an educational group leader, introducing Spanish groups around Central Europe and educating groups from North America around Spain and Portugal. She greatly enjoys interacting with travelers and introducing them to European and Iberian cultures. Gracia currently resides in Sitges, near Barcelona, with her husband and children.
Ulises Diaz-Ropero
View biography
Ulises Diaz-Ropero is originally from Toledo and is fluent in Spanish, English, and an intermediate level of French. He is an avid traveler and has visited many countries on four different continents. Ulises completed a Master’s degree in ethnomusicology at the School of Oriental Studies in London before becoming a world music artist in the thriving music scene in London. For the last five years, Ulises has been pursuing a career in education, leading educational travels as well as teaching Spanish to adults.
Sonia Formoso
View biography
Sonia Formoso is of Swiss-Spanish heritage and is fluent in English, Spanish, French and Italian. She has 14 years of experience leading education travel programs under her belt. Sonia studied at the Universities of Lausanne, Switzerland and Madrid Complutense, where she earned degrees in politics, social sciences and communication. She brings her signature energy, enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge to every Road Scholar program she leads.
Paola Camusso
View biography
Paola Camusso was born in Lima, Peru but moved to Europe when she was 19 years old; she has lived in both Paris and Madrid. She has a master's in marketing and multimedia communications. For the past ten years, she has led students and adults from the USA, Canada, Australia and Latin America throughout Europe. In addition, Paola has led groups in Machu Picchu and the Andes last year. She is fluent in Spanish, English and French, and runs a successful clothing company.
Elena Lomban
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Elena Lombán was born on the Atlantic coast of Galicia, Spain. After living in the U.S. for several years, she began leading educational programs in 2006. She is an English teacher and licensed Galicia expert, passionate about education and travel while sharing her knowledge of linguistics, literature, history, and art. Fluent in Spanish, Galician, English, Italian, and French, Elena has traveled throughout Europe and North America. She loves the thrill of meeting Road Scholars for each new learning adventure and living life to the fullest.
Silvia Riera
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Silvia Riera was born and raised in Barcelona, where she developed her passion for arts and the Catalan culture. In addition to Spanish and her native tongue, Catalan, Silvia is fluent in French, Italian, English and Portuguese. Silvia has lectured about modernism and Gaudi since 1988. Beyond arts, Silvia is — like most Barcelonians — a big fan of FC Barcelona, the world-renowned soccer team.
Cecilia Ceriani
View biography
Cecilia Ceriani has been an art teacher and critic for nearly three decades. She holds degrees in art history and English philology from the Complutense University of Madrid. Cecilia spent four years in South America as an art critic and book reviewer for newspapers in Montevideo and Buenos Aires before returning to her native Spain in 1986. Since then she has been lecturing on Road Scholar programs and at the U.S. Cultural Center in Madrid and writing for respected Spanish publications.
Clarisa Gonzalez Ortiz
View biography
Clarisa Gonzalez Ortiz believes educational travel as therapy and change is a fundamental part of life. She works for personal wellbeing through travel via the study of languages, Gestalt therapy, and animal assisted therapy. Clarisa is a tourism and travel expert, official guide of the Balearic islands, therapist, and pet therapist. Her hobbies include reading, sailing, and music.
Natalia Garcia-Huidobro
View biography
Natalia Garcia-Huidobro, a Madrid-based program leader, dancer and choreographer has been leading educational programs in Spain and across Europe since 2018. Originally from Chile, she occasionally lectures for Road Scholar groups on the Art of Flamenco. As a professional performer and event producer, she brings a unique perspective to every program that she leads; offering participants an enriching experience through her love of the arts, culture, and local traditions.
Suggested Reading List
(23 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Best of Spain: Barcelona and Madrid
Program Number: 21336
Duende
Duende is Webster’s captivating memoir of the years he spent in Spain pursuing his obsession. Studying flamenco guitar until his fingers bleed, he becomes involved in a passionate yet doomed affair with Lola, a flamenco dancer....
Barcelona
This big, thoroughly enjoyable cultural history of the city touches on architecture, art, religion and literature from Roman outpost to the present.
An Englishman in Madrid
Anthony Whitelands, an English art historian, is invited to Madrid to value an aristocrat's collection. At a welcome lunch he encounters Jose Antonio Primo de Rivera, founder and leader of the Falange, a nationalist party whose antics are bringing the country ever closer to civil war.....
Food and Wines of Spain
This classic collection of 400 recipes, interwoven with cultural commentary and culinary history, is a pleasure to read, but prepare to become hungry.
Goya
Hughes brings us the story of an artist whose life and work bridged the transition from the eighteenth-century reign of the old masters to the early days of the nineteenth-century moderns.
España - A Brief History of Spain
Bestselling author and journalist, Giles Tremlett delves into the rich and varied history of Spain, from prehistoric times to today, in a brief, accessible and enjoyable account.
Homage to Catalonia
Orwell's portrait of the Barcelona uprising and the spirit of a city at war is a classic, an observant and heartfelt report from the streets.
The New Spaniards
John Hooper's fascinating study brings to life the new Spain of the 21st century
Love and Revolutionary Greetings: An Ohio Boy in the Spanish Civil War
Follow the story of a boy name Sam Levinger who travels to Spain in 1937 to join the Abraham Lincoln Brigade. Based off of letters home to his mother, this story will captivate and educate it's readers of the American involvement during the Spanish Civil War.
Hotel Florida
Madrid, 1936. In a city blasted by civil war, six people meet and find their lives changed forever...
Ghosts of Spain
Tremlett captures the Spanish character, history and modern politics in this masterful portrait, interweaving the story of his love for the country (where he has lived for 20 years) with interview, anecdote and observation.
Barcelona Map
A detailed city map, laminated and folded for easy reference.
The Arts in Spain: From Prehistory to Postmodernism
A representative anthology of examples of painting, architecture and sculpture providing a critical overview of Spain. From Iberian and Roman beginnings, the book traces the development of the arts in Spain, examining the magnificent Islamic and Christian foundations at Cordoba and the Escorial, the idiosyncratic masterworks of El Greco, the Golden Age of Zurbaran and Velazquez, the art of Goya, and the innovative works of Picasso, Dali and Miro, and revealing that many of the most characteristic Spanish artistic currents had their origins at the dawn of history.
Two Catalonias
A must see documentary on the divisions in Catalan Politics and the independence movement
Gaudi: The Life of a Visionary
A chronological journey covering the life and works of Gaudi
The Shadow of the Wind
Barcelona, 1945: A city slowly heals from its war wounds, and Daniel, an antiquarian book dealer's son who mourns the loss of his mother, finds solace in a mysterious book entitled The Shadow of the Wind, by one Julian Carax. But when he sets out to find the author's other works, he makes a shocking discovery: someone has been systematically destroying every copy of every book Carax has written. ...
Cadogan Guide Barcelona & Catalonia
This savvy guide combines practical details and maps with illuminating background on history, culture and sightseeing.
The Shadow of the Wind
Set in the brooding atmosphere of post-WW II Barcelona, this gripping story-within-a-story has it all: murder, doomed love and a mysterious book which draws the young hero, Daniel Sempere, into the city’s dangerous underworld.
A life of Picasso
Richardson draws on his close friendship with Picasso, his own diaries, the collaboration of Picasso's widow Jacqueline, and unprecedented access to Picasso's studio and papers to arrive at a profound understanding of the artist and his work. (4 volumes)
Gaudi, A Biography
A vivid account of the architect and his work.
Winter in Madrid
A vivid and haunting depiction of wartime Spain, Winter in Madrid offers an intimate and riveting tale and a remarkable sense of history unfolding
Antonio Gaudi, Master Architect
This lavish little collection of Gaudi's work captures the evolution, imagination and exuberance of one of the most influential architects of the 20th century.
Cathedral of the Sea
Set in fourteenth-century Barcelona, Cathedral of the Sea is a thrilling historical novel of friendship and revenge, plague and hope, love and war.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
10 days
9 nights
What's Included
16 meals (
8B, 1L, 7D
)
5 expert-led lectures
9 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
8 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Barcelona, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After allowing some time to unpack and relax, our Group Leader will lead an orientation walk around the neighborhood as a way for us to get acquainted with the area. Orientation: 6:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Transportation will be primarily walking with use of public transit and occasionally by private motorcoach. Note that dinners are MUCH later in Spain than in North America and there will be little leisure time in the evenings. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll gather for a 3-course plated welcome dinner plus a complimentary glass of wine and mineral water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Introduction to Barcelona & Catalan Art, La Sagrada Familia
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestone streets. Use of public transportation; flights of stairs at stations, no escalators. Getting on/off a motorcoach; time spent aboard motorcoach about 4 hours total, including stops. Tickets to enter La Sagrada Familia are highly regulated, can only be secured shortly before the date of visit, and may be substituted for another modernist site.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.
Morning:
In the hotel meeting room, our expert lecturer will offer us an introduction to Modernist Catalan art, architecture, culture, and life. Afterwards, we’ll set out on foot and use public transportation to get to our lunch location.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we'll enjoy a light lunch of tapas.
Afternoon:
We’ll then set out by private motorcoach for an expert-led panoramic field trip through Barcelona, which will include a visit to the Basilica of the impressive but unfinished Gaudí masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia. Next, we’ll also go to Gaudí's equally exotic Parque Guell. Our local expert will lead us inside and outside at both sites with commentary provided. We’ll then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Monastery & Museum of Montserrat
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestone streets, steps, and slopes in and around the monastery. Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 35 miles, approximately 1 hour each way. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After travelling north via motorcoach, we’ll reach the mountain of Montserrat, which has long cast a mystical spell with a spiritual heritage predating Christianity. An ancient hermitage on this spot grew to become an independent abbey in 1409. The buildings and contents were destroyed by Napoleon’s troops in 1811 and were reconstructed many years later. Gothic and Renaissance architecture of the basilica contrast with architectonic spaces created for the Museum of Montserrat by modernist architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch. Among the abbey’s notable achievements are one of the world’s oldest printing presses and more recently a translation of the Bible from original Middle Eastern languages into Catalan. During an expert-led exploration, we’ll see treasures of history and culture from ancient Egypt to works by Caravaggio, El Greco, Dali, Picasso, Tapies, and many others. However, the most precious object is the 12th-century carving of a Black Madonna, Our Lady of Montserrat, Patron Saint of Catalonia.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Afternoon:
We’ll then return to Barcelona by private motorcoach for free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions on how to use your T10 card for public transport.
Dinner:
At a restaurant near the hotel, we’ll have plated 3-course meals with water and a complimentary glass of wine; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
The Picasso Museum, La Pedrera
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day; cobblestone streets. Use of public transportation; flights of stairs at stations, no escalators. Both the Picasso Museum and La Pedrera entrance tickets are strictly regulated and are subject to change or substitution for another site.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
With our Group Leader, we’ll take a walking field trip to one of Gaudí's creations, Casa Milà, popularly known as “La Pedrera” (The Quarry) for its Modernist façade. Constructed between 1906 and 1912 under the direction of Antoni Gaudi, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and now serves as the headquarters for the Catalunya-La Pedrera Foundation, which also includes a public cultural center.
Lunch:
On your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
Led by a local expert, we will take public transportation to go on a field trip to the Picasso Museum for an on-site presentation followed by time to explore on your own. The Museu Picasso is a key reference for understanding the artist’s formative years with more than 4,000 works in the permanent collection spanning his early work through the Blue Period and a large collection of prints. Afterward, we’ll return by public transport to our hotel where a local family will join us to provide insider perspectives on Catalan culture, the question of independence, and more. In addition, there will be a Q&A session before walking to dinner.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a tasty plated dinner with a complimentary glass of wine and water to bid farewell to Barcelona; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
6
To Madrid via High Speed AVE Train, Intro to Madrid
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Meliá Madrid Serrano
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and train; minimal driving; walking through 2 large train stations, up escalators and some steps. Train ride is about 386 miles, approximately 2.5 hours. IMPORTANT: Participants will be required to handle their own luggage on and off the train, up escalators and through x-ray machines, as porter service and luggage carts are not available at the station.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will transfer by motorcoach to the train station where we will board the Alta Velocidad Española. The AVE is Europe's longest high-speed rail network that can reach 190 mph. The 386 mile trip to Madrid takes only about 2.5 hours. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
Lunch:
On your own aboard the train.
Afternoon:
Upon arrival, we’ll transfer via motorcoach from the train station to the hotel where we will check in and have some time to freshen up and relax before joining our local expert lecturer for a presentation. We will learn about the art, history, culture, and people throughout the Ages of Madrid. We will also each receive a T10 travel card, allowing up to 10 journeys by bus or metro around the city.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course meal, plus a complimentary glass of wine and mineral water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
History & Culture of Madrid, El Prado, Art of Flamenco
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Meliá Madrid Serrano
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestone streets, steps without railings, additional standing at the museum. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, we’ll have a buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts, plus coffee, tea, juice, water.
Morning:
We’ll start our exploration of the city by joining a local expert on a motorcoach to see some of the most important highlights of historical Madrid while enjoying commentary focused on these places of interest. Ending the morning at El Prado Museum, our local expert will lead us as we see one of Europe's largest and finest collections of art focused on 12th to the early 19th century. It also includes the most comprehensive collection of works by Goya and Velazquez, in addition to masterpieces from the Italian, Flemish, and Dutch schools.
Lunch:
On your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
Take some time for free independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Afterwards, we’ll gather at a predetermined time and place for transfer via motorcoach to a local tablao (flamenco bar) for a welcome drink and an introductory presentation given by a performer on the art of flamenco.
Dinner:
At the tablao, we’ll enjoy a simple dinner of tapas with wine, sangria, or beer.
Evening:
While at the tablao, we’ll be treated to a traditional flamenco performance! The Universidad de Autonoma de Madrid describes flamenco as, “Voices filled with anguish and pain in cante jondo, rhythms of happiness and joy in sevillanas and rumbas. Flamenco is all that and more, full of passion and intensity.” Madrid takes pride as the hub of the recording industry, and starting place for aspiring artists performing in tablaos. We’ll revel in the sights and sounds of an evening filled with Spanish folklore, music, and dance. We will return to the hotel via motorcoach after the performance.
Day
8
Toledo & El Greco, Spain's Transition to Democracy
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Meliá Madrid Serrano
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; steep slopes, cobblestones and some steps without railings around the city. Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 50 miles, approximately 1 hour each way. Toledo is set on a steep hill and the motorcoach cannot access the old town.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Setting out by motorcoach, we’ll transfer to the "Imperial City" of Toledo, set on a hill. The former Capital of Castile, Toledo is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for both its extensive cultural and monumental heritage, as well as for the centuries of peaceful co-existence that has taken place between Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures. Upon arrival, we will drive around the surrounding hill for breathtaking panoramic views before continuing with our local expert on a walk through the old city, including a visit to see El Greco's works at the Santo Tome sacristy, and to one of the city's historic synagogues.
Lunch:
On your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
We will return to Madrid and, after some time to rest, we will enjoy a presentation followed by a Q&A session at the hotel. A local expert will enlighten us on Spain's recent history and the country’s transition to democracy following the death of Francisco Franco in 1975.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated meal with water and a complimentary glass of wine; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Madrid, Reina Sofia Museum
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Meliá Madrid Serrano
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestone streets. Use of public transportation; flights of stairs at stations, no escalators. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Arriving via public transport, we’ll enjoy a field trip led by a local expert to the Reina Sofia Museum, a contemporary structure housing over 21,000 works of modern and avant-garde art. Founded in 1990 after originally being created as an art center, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is one of the key symbols of the Spanish transition to democracy and modernity following the Franco regime. Pablo Picasso's Guernica is the museum's most renowned masterpiece.
Lunch:
On your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
Continue exploring some of Madrid's most emblematic sites on your own or join your Group Leader on a walk of the city.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll gather for a delicious farewell dinner. A glass of red or white house wine and mineral water is included; other beverages available for purchase. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
10
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet, flight times permitting. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
16 Meals
8 Breakfasts
1 Lunch
7 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 16, 2025
- Mar 14, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Mar 21, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- May 02, 2025 - May 11, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- May 09, 2025 - May 18, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- May 16, 2025 - May 25, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- May 23, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- May 30, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
- Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 16, 2025 (Barcelona to Madrid)
Participant Reviews
Based on 77 Reviews
Sort By:
I was a first time Road Scholar solo traveler. I found the program to be well planned and organized. There were minimal to no interruptions in the itinerary. All of the instructors with Road Scholar were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. All accommodations were beyond expectations; service, cleanliness, and spacious. Our Program Leader, Elena, was outstanding; friendly, positive, knowledgeable, and attentive. Her guidance as a leader went above and beyond. From take off to arriving back home, it was a great experience.
— Review left November 29, 2024
I recently returned from the Road Scholar trip, The Best of Spain, visiting Barcelona and Madrid, with a day trip to Toledo. The trip was absolutely wonderful! It was very well-organized with interesting excursions as well as plenty of free time to explore. The lecturers were well-informed and interesting, and the local guides were very knowledgeable and personable. I learned so much! The accommodations were excellent and in good locations. Our tour director, Emma Christie, was the best - so well-organized and fun and caring. This was my first Road Scholar experience, but it certainly won't be my last!
— Review left November 17, 2024
My wife and I went on our first trip with Road Scholar and would strongly recommend using them for your next vacation. We really enjoyed the leader and other participants and also learned a lot about Spain.
— Review left November 11, 2024
The Best of Spain program, visiting Barcelona, Madrid and Toledo is fantastic, especially if you have an interest in art, architecture and Spanish cuisine. You need to be able to walk 3 to 4 miles a day, sometimes on cobblestone, stairs and public transportation. Be honest with your abilities when choosing your trip. It is not fair to your fellow travelers if you can't keep up.
— Review left October 27, 2024
The Best of Spain: Barcelona and Madrid is a great program that is run by a Group Leader that is very organized and prepares her participants for each adventure. With Gracia's guidance you safely navigate the cobblestone streets of Barcelona and Madrid. You see and do more than you expect. The cities are full of Wonderfull treasures and sites that you will have forever. A very rewarding adventure.
— Review left October 23, 2024
Our tour leader Gracia was absolutely superb. The sites chosen for this tour were a wonderful mix. I was familiar with Barcelona and Madrid, but the walled city of Toledo was such a wonderful surprise. A great introduction to Spain.! As always RS curated a great mix of activities, foods, and educational experiences
— Review left October 22, 2024
The program title, "Best of Spain," is accurate. This program covers just about all you would want to know in one tour of manageable time and expense.
— Review left October 17, 2024
This was a great program and I would recommend it without hesitation. It is physically demanding but not too much so. I am 75 years old and was able to easily keep up with everything, although at the end of the day I was very tired. You will see amazing sights and learn a lot about Spain.
— Review left October 7, 2024
I greatly enjoyed our experience in Spain. Barcelona, Madrid, Montserrat and Toledo were excellent places to visit. I learned a great deal about Spanish history, art and cuisine. The Flamenco evening was my favorite part. And the trip was a complete success due mostly to our outstanding group leader, Pilar.
— Review left September 27, 2024
one of the best I've taken. Guide Paola was excellent. Well organized and executed. Highly recommend
— Review left August 21, 2024
One of my very best trips ever. Pilar Arizaga was a spectacular Group Leader. Her planning and handouts were extremely helpful and very well done. I can't say enough about her. She made the trip fun and memorable. Kudos also to Silvia Riera and Cecilia Ceriani. They knew they're subject matter inside out. I loved the pace of the trip, taking local transportation and meeting wonderful people. The museums were superb and this is coming from someone who lives in NYC and goes to the museums religiously. I would definitely go back to Barcelona and Madrid after I have gotten through my bucket list.
I love traveling with Road Scholar!
Best,
Matilde
— Review left July 19, 2024
great program
wonderful leaders and instructors
great art tour for non enthusiasts
— Review left July 6, 2024
Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are a must because Road Scholar really means it when they say, "Let's go!"
— Review left June 28, 2024
Great trip. Wonderful guide. (Uli)
Lectures could have been a bit shorter.
— Review left June 19, 2024
Great Program!
— Review left June 12, 2024
This tour is a nice blend of history and culture against the beautiful background of Barcelona and Madrid. Physically, this is a very active tour every day packed with information by local guides and lecturers. We learned about Spain’s past and present as well as being treated to great art, tapas, food and wine. Our leader, Fran personalized the tour by explaining regional cultures and etiquette, entertaining us with local anecdotes, and even stopping to point out various architectural features as we walked to dinner. Excellent tour!
— Review left May 23, 2024
A fantastic introduction to the highlights of Barcelona and Madrid. I learned so much about Spanish art and architecture.
— Review left May 18, 2024
If you want a crash course in Modern Art come on this trip! Being guided through art from the 19th century to the 20th and 21st centuries is a revelation.
— Review left April 29, 2024
Five stars.
This tour was fantastic! Our tour leader, Elena, was intelligent, witty, energetic, and knowledgeable. She made each day a delight! The instructors were all experts in their fields and were the key to our understanding of the sites we saw and the history and culture of Spain. Barcelona and Madrid are beautiful cities with rich and complex histories -- not to be missed.
— Review left April 25, 2024
I had the most wonderful experience on my "The Best of Spain: Barcelona and Madrid" trip. Elena Lombán set the tone for the trip and she was the absolute best! I got so much out of this trip due to the wonderful guides we had and the lectures that were presented. Great food, great people and great weather! I highly recommend this trip. Looking forward to my next adventure with Road Scholar. (Did I already mention how amazing Elena was? Deserves a second mention!)
— Review left April 1, 2024
This is an excellent program for people new to Spain and even for those who have been there before.
— Review left March 28, 2024
This program is as advertised - heavily focused on Art and Architecture, not much on current culture. Very well-organized and superb group leaders and tour guides. Well-paced, super convenient.
— Review left March 27, 2024
Gracia is excellent.
— Review left March 20, 2024
I thought the trip was well organized and loved the fast pace, choice of sites, and the camaraderie of the group.
I would recommend if booking travel through Road Scholar to closely review their suggested itinerary, and ask for improvements where possible.
— Review left March 20, 2024
A wonderful overview and introduction to the cities of Barcelona and Madrid.
— Review left March 18, 2024
Maravillosa! This was my third trip to Spain but the first with Road Scholar and as a solo traveler. I've been to Madrid twice before, but I love the city and enjoyed returning and seeing sites I hadn't previously. Barcelona was a new experience for me, but one I've wanted to have especially since it was the birthplace of my grandparents. It did not disappoint! The hotels in both cities were top notch exceeding my expectations. Our guide, Elena, was the best guide I've ever had on a group tour. She is personable and fun! Although I knew there would be lectures I felt like I was back in a college lecture class, something I didn't appreciate. As with other tours I've been on, there where places I would have liked to stop and visit, but because it's a group tour I wasn't able to. I linked this trip to the trip to Andalusia which started the next day. Road Scholar did a great job getting me transportation to the Malaga airport. I had to find my own transport from there to Nerja, but it was easy to find something online prior to my departure. All over I give this trip an "A".
— Review left February 26, 2024
Beautiful country, amazing history and fascinating culture. The art! The architecture! The food! A wonderful, wonderful experience.
— Review left December 1, 2023
What a wonderful and fun learning adventure--with a great itinerary, wonderful group leader, knowledgable and engaging instructors, and delightful fellow travelers.
— Review left November 28, 2023
A wonderful experience with the art and culture of Barcelona and Madrid.
— Review left November 20, 2023
My wife and I have been on 17 programs and this was one of the very best. It was exceptional not only because of the sights of Barcelona and Madrid, but also because of the group itself and our group leader Elena. The group was congenial, very friendly and included everyone in a supportive manner. Elena our group leader was knowledgeable, energetic, fun, practical, and focused on making this trip a memorable experience for us. Her English was exceptional having lived in the US. You had the feeling Elena cared about you and wanted very much that you have a wonderful experience, which we all did.
— Review left November 16, 2023
Truly a remarkable trip our guide/tour manager elena was superb..and our art historians sylvia and josexwas terrific as they presented art in a remarkable way and of course the food wine and tapas were amazing..bottom line throughly recommend this trip..for the art novices a must ..plus kudos to our group as we had a wonderful time interaction with people from all over the country....overall truly a great experience
— Review left November 13, 2023
If you ever wanted to see Barcelona and Madrid, this is the tour for you! The Best of Spain tour provided a great introduction to both Barcelona and Madrid, and was filled with interesting travel experiences.
— Review left November 6, 2023
Well organized tour that covered many important sites and interests of Barcelona and Madrid Spain
Great Value and Quality
— Review left October 29, 2023
This is an absolutely wonderful program! I'm convinced it would be impossible to see as much as I saw if i had tried to plan this trip on my own. I definitely would not have gotten to eat so much amazing food! The experts were all extremely interesting and added much appreciated context to everything we saw. Our guide, Sonia was exceptional! Knowledgeable, perpetually upbeat, and most importantly for this group, endlessly patient. She did FAR more for all of us than was required. Truly an incredible guide. I hope to cross paths with her again.
Everyone on the host side of this trip was marvelous! On the guest side however....
In every tour group, there are always one or two people who either don't read any of the provided info, don't listen the first 4 times they are told, or feel like they need to make sure everyone else understands that they personally don't like this food and it should not be part of the trip. This group easily had 8 different people who were the epitome of each of those painful personality types. Every day, all of them were repeatedly testing the patience of their fellow travelers and probably making the hosts consider not hosting again. I have never experienced anything like it and I was honestly embarrassed to be associated with my fellow Americans most of the time.
I realize Road Scholar can't control the behavior of their travelers. And I did notice the repeated language throughout all trip materials that hinted at not being awful, entitled travelers. But many members of this group proved that was not enough. Perhaps being more direct in asking travelers to not embody the stereotype of arrogant, whiney Americans. And somehow requiring them to put at least a small amount of effort into preparing themselves rather than treating our guide like a babysitter would help? I don't think that's too much to expect of people who choose to take educational trips.
In conclusion, I think my next trip will not be as part of a group.
— Review left October 23, 2023
One of the very best Scholar programs ever, and that's saying a lot. Gaudi's Sagrada Familia and other architecture in Barcelona, Picasso's "Guernica" and other artworks in Madrid's Prado museum, plus gracious people, superb food, side trips to Toledo and Montserrat, topped off by flamenco dancing, so who could ask for more?
— Review left October 23, 2023
A great tour!! Paola, our tour guide, was wonderful.
Learned much about Barcelona, Madrid, and Toledo; it's art, history, architecture and culture. We also learned about Flamenco dance and attended a wonderful performance. It was a packed, active and busy program with much walking. Highly recommend it!
— Review left October 14, 2023
Excellent tour. Wonderful tour guide. Some lectures great, some not
— Review left October 7, 2023
Other participants enhanced my enjoyment of the program and were very helpful with my hearing challenges!
— Review left October 6, 2023
This trip is physically challenging but you get to see so many things and have so many great experiences. You learn so much on this trip. I highly recommend it.
— Review left October 5, 2023
One of the things we love about Road Scholar is that the only thing we have to worry about is getting to the airport. They take care of all the rest. The three programs we’ve enjoyed have been informative, delightful, and thoroughly enjoyable. We love our most recent trip to Spain.
— Review left October 3, 2023
Do you want to learn more about Spain? Ever since I was in high school, I wanted to visit Spain and this trip to Barcelona and Madrid was a really good introduction to Spanish culture and history. It made me want to visit again. Try it, you'll like it.
— Review left September 18, 2023
Great way to see two major cities in Spain; learn about their history and appreciate their art....a vast amount of each.
— Review left June 13, 2023
This was a fabulous trip, from the expert guide, Paola Camusso, to the numerous art and architectural wonders, this trip had it all. We had guided tours through several Gaudi-designed structures, including the amazing Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila and Park Guell. We experienced the narrow and winding historic streets of old town Barcelona, Madrid and Toledo. We visited the wonderful Prado, Picasso and Reina Sophia museums, with excellent lectures that provided important history and context prior to the tours. We toured the mountain top monastery at Montserrat, enjoyed a night of flamenco music and dance, and feasted on a variety of Spanish delicacies in many restaurants and cafes. I cannot say enough about Paola, whose organizational skills and kind, helpful and friendly demeanor made the entire trip a joyful experience.
— Review left June 4, 2023
My Road Scholar trip was terrific! I learned a lot and had a great time. I am looking into signing up for another trip soon.
— Review left May 29, 2023
This was an exceptional program and I'm so glad I chose it. Informative, entertaining and really opened my eyes to the unique issues facing Spain over the centuries. Let by a superb group leader
— Review left May 22, 2023
This was my first Road Scholar program and what stood out for me was the balance of education and experiences. Each component of our trip to Barcelona and Madrid was well planned and well executed. It started with Sonia’s organization, enthusiasm and energy. It extended to our amazing guides and presenters, the range of museums and historical sites visited, and the daily free time to explore the cities on our own. Add in local foods and comfortable hotels in great locations to make this tour a first class experience. I just loved it and can’t wait to book my next trip.
— Review left May 15, 2023
This program is a gem: The educational value from lectures to guided tours was exceptional and spending quality time in Barcelona and Madrid was a treat on many levels: The visual scenery, walkability of both cities, the ease of using public conveyances, and the people both in our group and locals in Espana.
— Review left May 15, 2023
Barcelona and Madrid are wonderful and exciting cities to explore. I enjoyed our visits to museums, and it was breathtaking to go inside Sagrada Família. The guides in the art museums were especially good. The trip to Montserrat Monastery was perfect to see the beauty of the countryside near Barcelona. I especially enjoyed the food and wine. We had a lot of fun meals together.
Elena, our group leader, was terrific. She made sure that the Best of Spain ran smoothly and made it the best and most fun Road Scholar trip that I have done. Her humor and comedic style kept us all laughing and increased group cohesiveness. Her quick thinking and fast action saved the day whenever the unexpected came up. With Elena at the helm, we easily navigated around the cities using the subway and bus systems. All around, it was a great trip.
— Review left April 2, 2023
This was a top notch tour from group leader, program instructors, hotel accommodations, food, museum selections, activities, and fun experiences. Everything was taken into account and done in a professional, interesting, and engaging manner. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in traveling to Spain!
— Review left March 22, 2023
What a great experience. Barcelona was on my bucket list, and Road Scholar chose the best excursions and visits to include in the tour. Experiencing Gaudi and the modernista architecture, the art museums, as well as Madrid and Toledo, seeing the diversity of both cities, and always with knowledgeable guides and presenters to give perspective--it all gave a depth of understanding that I could not have accomplished on my own. And to have Elena's enthusiasm for Spanish culture and heritage, and her dynamic leadership made the experience even more meaningful. If I were to redo the trip, I would have extended my time in Barcelona to enjoy even more of the city.
— Review left March 21, 2023
This is a wonderful look at Barcellona and Madrid. The format is just about perfect and our tour guide Elena was a gem. I would highly recommend this trip to my friends.
— Review left March 20, 2023
If you want an introduction to Barcelona and Madrid that will leave you wanting to return for more, this is the program for you!
— Review left March 20, 2023
I need my ticketing information ignorer to receive my frequent flyer credits
— Review left November 23, 2022
Excellent program!! I felt like it lived up to my expectations and more! I got a broad overview of the history, art, and culture Barcelona and Madrid.
— Review left November 3, 2022
I would highly recommend this program and if you get Paola Camusso as your group leader you will be well taken care of
— Review left October 31, 2022
What a wonder introduction to Spain! I highly recommend. My stamina was up to the challenge of walking, standing and steps up. But unfortunately my balance is a bit unpredictable and I was challenged with steps down with no railing. This was especially true of the many rustic steps near La Sagrada Familia.
— Review left October 12, 2022
This was an unforgettable trip. The history, culture, food and most of all, the people of Spain will stay in my memory. I loved the variety of places we visited. Our tour guide, Marya, was well organized and motivated the group to work together and have fun everyday.
— Review left October 11, 2022
This is an outstanding trip!
Our trip leader, Elena, was incredible. She is a wealth of information. She's very friendly and high energy - fun to be around. I'm still processing everything I learned and saw from this trip (arts, history, culture, cuisine, and local infrastructure). I experienced and learned so much on this trip it is difficult to describe it all in this review. I hope to visit Spain again and see more of the country. I'm very pleased I did this trip and I highly recommend it. It is definitely a 5 star trip.
— Review left July 14, 2022
Great value! professional and enthusiastic leader!
— Review left June 24, 2022
Breath taking experience one can experience. A must trip to take!
— Review left May 24, 2022
Our first Road Scholar trip and certainly will not be our last. It was beyond our expectations on every level, from hotels, to guides, food, education and tours. We learned so much about the people, culture, food and history of Spain, we could have never done that on our own trip.
— Review left May 23, 2022
see my first response.
— Review left May 17, 2022
An amazing trip that should be on everyone's must-do list.
— Review left May 16, 2022
Educational and a wonderful way to be introduced to Madrid and Barcelona! It makes me want to explore this colorful and beautiful country even more! Exceptional guides and lectures! Well done! Would highly recommend this to anyone who has a desire to learn about Spain!
— Review left May 6, 2022
The trip was great. I learned a lot.
— Review left March 29, 2022
I wrote lengthy partial review, thought I could “save & continue” & finish later, but it disappeared. Sandra Velazquez, our guide, was beyond competent, upbeat, personable, patient & fun!!
Other guides/lecturers Sylvia, Nanny, the 2 Joses, Theresa, who I think was art historian but gave detailed Spain history, we’re all excellent!!The Flamenco & guitar player demonstration were totally informative & wonderful. I I left anyone out, pls. know I love njoyed them, too.
— Review left March 18, 2022
I had never been to Spain, but had always wanted to go. The Best of Spain spends four nights (three days) each in Barcelona and Madrid. I loved every minute of it! We went to must-see places such as La Sagrada Familia and the Prado Museum. We went on field trips to Montserrat and Toledo, seeing some of the countryside and learning some Spanish history along the way. We had many delicious meals and were taken good care of by our guide, Gracia, who could not have been more helpful. I was definitely concerned about going during Covid, but the plus is we had a very small group and were able to get to know one other. Road Scholar and Gracia did their parts to make us feel safe, so we could just enjoy and have fun!
— Review left November 10, 2021
Saw a lot of both Barcelona and Madrid. Saw a lot of art, architecture, history and culture - good balance.
— Review left November 1, 2021
My first experience with Road Scholar exceeded expectations and I have already booked my next adventure with them!
— Review left December 26, 2019
The Best of Barcelona and Madrid was an exceptional tour, with a focus on art and architecture that met a need I didn't fully realize I had! We were fortunate to have a remarkable group leader who was welcoming, friendly, helpful, and informative. This was my third Road Scholar tour, and I will definitely be back for more.
— Review left June 21, 2019
The Best of Spain was a wonderful experience. I fell in love with Barcelona. Our guide was amazing! This is an active trip, so be honest about your abilities, some people could not keep up - but it did not slow down the rest of the group or our guides.
— Review left May 30, 2019
This is a great program and a real adventure with wonderful guides, hotels, tours, and education.
— Review left May 27, 2019
I could not have gotten this quality of an experience by myself. Exploring Spain with the other travelers and the host added so much to the trip.
— Review left May 27, 2019
A lot of walking up and down steep hills. Lot of stairs in the churches and cities don't have railings.
Terrific guide, Sonia. Great hotels.
— Review left May 20, 2019
Exceptional value! This is a "must do" adventure.
— Review left April 1, 2019
Many are familiar with some of art and architecture featured in this program, but few have the opportunity to see it in such abundance and outside the pages of the art books.
— Review left February 26, 2019
I've just returned from the The Best of Spain: Barcelona and Madrid trip!!! This is an incredible trip giving you insight, awareness and a true appreciation for Spain! Maevon is an incredible guide, very informed, organized and attentive. I strongly recommend this trip!!
— Review left February 26, 2019
