Spain
Spanish Art: From the Golden Age to Gaudi and Beyond
Program No. 3328RJ
Revel in traditions of art as you enjoy lectures on the Spanish Masters and Gaudi, visit iconic museums and set out on expert-led walks to the cathedrals and monuments of Spain today.
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DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Mar 19 - Apr 4, 2025
Starting at
6,659May 7 - May 23, 2025
Starting at
6,659Sep 24 - Oct 10, 2025
Starting at
6,659Not seeing the date you're looking for?
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
17 days
16 nights
34 meals
15B 8L 11D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
12
Barcelona via La Rioja Region
Barcelona
17
Program Concludes
Barcelona
At a Glance
From creative giants such as Velázquez, El Greco and Goya in the “Golden Age” to the 20th-century masters Picasso, Miró, Dalí and, more recently, Tàpies and Barcelo -- the vitality and diversity of Spanish artists have influenced artistic expression the world over. Journey from the Prado in Madrid to the Guggenheim in Bilbao to experience the full spectrum and rich heritage of Spain’s master artists.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Participants should be able to walk approximately two to three miles a day and stand for at least 60-90 minutes at a time over the course of a 16 day program. Many cobblestones, steep slopes and other uneven ground.
Stairs without railings.
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…
- Connect the lives, works and schools of Velázquez, Goya and El Greco to modern masters Picasso, Miró and Dalí.
- Visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry.
- Enjoy a private performance with members of a Catalonian medieval folklore group in Barcelona.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Cecilia Ceriani
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.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
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.
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.
Ulises Diaz-Ropero
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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.
Fran Valle
View biography
With a degree in archaeology from the University of Oxford, Fran combines his work as a research archaeologist with education on and off the university campus. Fran loves to share his passion for everything historical, his love of food and his enthusiasm for his native Spain, as well as his travels throughout Europe, and he is always ready to share some laughs and recipes. Fran considers the world his favorite classroom, one he is never tired of attending.
Mayra Noguerales
View biography
Mayra Noguerales was born on the Canary Islands and moved to mainland Spain as a teenager. At 16, she moved to the US, and after four years in several states, headed to the UK to finish her university degree. Returning home, she moved to beautiful, historic El Escorial and became an educational Group Leader. Mayra enjoys time in her workshop creating all types of arts and crafts. Her passion and most rewarding experiences come from meeting people and sharing her knowledge of Spain and Portugal.
Suggested Reading List
(29 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.
Spanish Art: From the Golden Age to Gaudi and Beyond
Program Number: 3328
Barcelona
This big, thoroughly enjoyable cultural history of the city touches on architecture, art, religion and literature from Roman outpost to today.
Dali
A nice overview of Dali's life and important works, this Phaidon art book explains how Dali infused his work with the surreal. Includes plenty of color photographs.
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.
Hotel Florida
Madrid, 1936. In a city blasted by civil war, six people meet and find their lives changed forever...
The New Spaniards
John Hooper's fascinating study brings to life the new Spain of the 21st century
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 interviews, anecdotes and observation.
Old Man Goya
Taking 1792--the year that Goya went deaf--as her starting point, Blackburn chronicles the painter's fruitful last 35 years in captivating, imaginative detail.
The Jews of Spain: A History of the Sephardic Experience
For more than a thousand years, Sepharad (the Hebrew word for Spain) was home to a large Jewish community noted for its richness and virtuosity. Summarily expelled in 1492 and forced into exile, their tragedy of expulsion marked the end of one critical phase of their history and the beginning of another.
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.
Spain & Portugal Adventure Map
A double-sided full color map of Spain and Portugal at a scale of 1:1,000,000 with good shaded relief, topographic detail, roads and waterways.
A Traveller's History of Spain
This survey of Spanish history features a useful chronology, historical gazetteer and a long section on contemporary life. It covers early settlements through the Romans, Goths and Moors to the present.
The Illustrated biography of Antoni Gaudí
This book describes in detail the life of a man whose pursuit of perfection was his driving force.
Gaudi: The Life of a Visionary
A chronological journey covering the life and works of Gaudi
¡Guerra!
Jason Webster journeys across Spain, this time to explore the lasting effects of the Spanish Civil War. Could the divisions that led to the conflict still be simmering under the surface, and is it possible they could erupt again?
The Basque History of the World
Kurlansky's engaging portrait of the seven provinces of Basque lands takes in everything from language to culinary heritage, role in the Spanish Civil War and seafaring traditions.
Winter in Madrid
A vivid and haunting depiction of wartime Spain, Winter in Madrid offers an intimate and riveting tale that offers a remarkable sense of history unfolding
Culture Smart! Spain
This concise, no-nonsense guide to local customs, etiquette and culture provides a short overview of the land and people along with practical travel advice.
Two Catalonias
A must see documentary on the divisions in Catalan Politics and the independence movement
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
A classic collection of 400 recipes, interwoven with cultural commentary and the culinary history of Spain
Basque, Delicious Recipes from Spain's Stunning Northern Coast
Designed to demystify the cuisine of northern Spain, this mouth-watering cookbook features 80 recipes from the Basque region (which has more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than any other area in the world). Dishes are accompanied by evocative full-color photos.
Antonio Gaudi, Master Architect
This pocket-sized collection of Gaudi's work captures the evolution, imagination and exuberance of one of the most influential architects of the 20th century.
Spain, The Root and the Flower
Take this book with you to Spain: it's an absorbing, well-written account of Spanish cultural history from prehistory to the Romans, Jews, Moors, Golden Age and on to Franco and his legacy in Spain.
Goya
A brief, illustrated introduction to the work of Francisco Goya that includes a lengthy essay as well as 48 full-page color plates and 30 black-and-white reproductions. Perfect for museum-goers.
Painting in Spain 1500-1700
Velazquez and El Greco are but a few of the Spanish artists discussed in this in-depth study of the art produced during Spain's Golden Age.
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)
Goya
A biography of the great Spanish painter, by historian and art critic Robert Hughes (Barcelona).
Surrealism
The history of the Surrealist movement featuring Magritte, Ernst, Dali and others. Includes many color illustrations.
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.
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
17 days
16 nights
What's Included
34 meals (
15B, 8L, 11D
)
8 expert-led lectures
23 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
15 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Madrid, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel Catalonia Gran Via
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After checking in at the hotel, we’ll take some time to unpack and settle in before setting out for an introductory walk around the hotel with our Group Leader as we get our first taste of Spain's capital. Orientation: 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. Periods in the 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. Dinners in Spain generally take place much later than in North America, meaning that there is little or no leisure time in the evenings. 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 enjoy a welcome dinner with wine, coffee, tea, water included; 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
Spanish Painting, San Antonio’s Chapel, Prado Museum, Tapas
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Catalonia Gran Via
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles in Madrid throughout the day; about 1.5 hours total; periods of standing during field trips. Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 3 miles throughout the day; about 2 hours total around the city, with breaks.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet includes a variety of hot and cold items to choose from, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We will begin with a lecture at the hotel given by a local expert speaker who will focus on the Spanish Golden Age of painting, from the early 16th century through the late 17th century, and the great masters. Afterward, we will board a motorcoach and go on a drive through Madrid with expert commentary. We will also include a field trip to the Real Ermita de San Antonio de La Florida – Francisco Goya's final resting place. A hidden gem within the city, this church contains magnificent frescoes painted by Goya himself.
Lunch:
At the hotel, we’ll have a plated lunch with wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Next, we will make our way to the Prado Museum where we will enjoy an expert-led field trip. During our visit, we’ll engage with the museum’s world-famous collection, which was assembled by the Hapsburg and Bourbon Spanish monarchs from the 16th to early 19th centuries. It has since been enhanced by works received from churches and convents.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a traditional tapas meal with wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
We’ll then return to the hotel for the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Day
4
The Royal Academy of Fine Art & El Escorial Monastery
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Catalonia Gran Via
Activity Note
Walking approximately 2 miles total throughout the day, periods of standing at sites; note that El Escorial Monastery and the town have areas with many steps, cobblestones, and uneven surfaces, including some without handrails. There are no places to sit/rest inside the very large monastery. Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 40 miles; 1 hour each way to EL Escorial.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Joining our expert lecturer in our meeting place at the hotel, we will begin with a lecture that will feature the lives, works, and styles of the great 17th century Spanish masters including Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Zurbarán, and Murillo. Afterwards, we will join our lecturer for a walk to visit the Royal Academy of Fine Arts where we will see various works made by the artists we just discussed, and learn more about them through the exhibits.
Lunch:
At the hotel, we’ll have plated meals with wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Next, we will set out by motorcoach to the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site of El Escorial, the historical residence and burial place of Spanish monarchs, which we will explore with a local expert. The church has a Greek-cross base and the chapel holds the funeral monuments of Charles V of Spain and Philip II. The library deserves special mention, with around 45,000 books dating back to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.
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
5
Royal Palace, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Catalonia Gran Via
Activity Note
Walking approximately 3 miles total throughout the day including about 1.5 miles to the Royal Palace; old Madrid streets with cobblestones, uneven surfaces, some stairs and periods of standing in palace and museum. The Royal Palace is occasionally subject to closure and may be substituted for an alternative site.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
To begin, we will walk to the Royal Palace for a visit of the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family led by a local expert. Construction first began in 1738 under the direction of Philip V and the initial building commission, designed by Juan Bautista Sachetti, was completed about 17 years later. Over the years, additions have been added to the palace and decorations have been adjusted by residents to accommodate their needs. By floor area, the Royal Palace is the largest in Europe and it is filled with an immense collection of historical art including paintings, metalwork, porcelain, furniture, instruments, and the contents of the Royal Armoury, which features weapons and armor that were used by the Spanish royal family. Notable artists present through their work include Caravaggio, Velázquez, Goya, Corrado Giaquinto, Juan de Flandes, Tiepolo, and Mengs.
Lunch:
On your own to sample more of the local fare.
Afternoon:
We will then rendezvous at a predetermined time and place to board our motorcoach for transfer to the Thyssen Museum for a field trip with a local expert.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals with wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
20th Century Art, Reina Sofía Museum
Location:
Madrid
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Catalonia Gran Via
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 3 miles roundtrip; about 1/2 hour roundtrip. Walking approximately 2 miles during group activities; standing up to 1 hour at the museum. Some opportunity for more activities dependent on personal interest.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Joined by our lecturer at the hotel again this morning, we will begin with a lecture featuring an introduction to 20th century Spanish painting with a focus on Picasso’s “Guernica.” We will then transfer via motorcoach for a visit to the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, Madrid's contemporary art center, which houses 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, which depicts the widespread suffering during the Spanish Civil War, is the museum's most renowned masterpiece.
Lunch:
On your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll take some time in the early afternoon to explore Madrid independently. Gathering late this afternoon at the hotel, we’ll enjoy another lecture focusing on the Abstract Generation, a powerful artistic movement of the 1950s-1960s. During the discussion, we will review works by Tapies, Torner, Zobel, Chillida, Chirino, Oteiza, and Serrano.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals with wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
7
El Greco in Toledo, Arrive Cuenca
Location:
Cuenca
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Posada San Jose
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 170 miles; about 3.5 hours with stops. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestone streets, many steep slopes, uneven surfaces without handrails in Toledo and Cuenca. Motorcoach cannot reach the hotel in Cuenca; we will walk short distance to accommodation and luggage transferred to hotel. No elevator in the Cuenca hotel.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After checking out of the Madrid hotel, we will begin our transfer to Toledo. As we approach this historic World Heritage city, we will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views. Upon arrival, a local expert will lead us on a walk through the old walled city and discuss the melding of Christian, Jewish, and Moorish cultures in this former capital of the Spanish Empire. El Greco spent the latter half of his life in this city and throughout our walk, we will have the chance to view some of the artist's most well-known works at the cathedral, and the former "Sinagoga del Tránsito," which is now a museum.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated 3-course meal with a glass of wine and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Continuing, we will board our motorcoach and resume our journey to Cuenca. Upon arrival, our Group Leader will introduce us to this walled city during a panoramic drive overlooking the spectacular river gorges of the Júcar and Huecar rivers, as well as the famous 15th century "casas colgadas," or hanging houses. We will then check into the hotel and have some time to settle in before dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a simple plated meal with a glass of wine, coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
The History of Cuenca, Museo Antonio Pérez, Abstract Art
Location:
Cuenca
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Posada San Jose
Activity Note
Walking approximately 3 miles; about 4 hours, with breaks; cobblestone streets, very steep slopes, and uneven surfaces without hand rails.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Starting from the hotel, we will set out on an expert-led walk around Cuenca's beautiful cobblestoned old town. Our walk will include an expert-led field trip to the cathedral and the Museo de Arte Abstracto. While here, we will examine one of the most extensive collections of abstract art in Spain, which is housed in one of the city's "casas colgadas," or hanging houses. At the museum with a local expert, we will discuss the Generación Abstracta movement and study works by artists such as Millares, Tàpies, Sempere, Torner, Rueda, Zóbel and Saura.
Lunch:
At the hotel, we will have a plated meal with a glass of wine, coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Next, we will join our Group Leader and walk to the Museo Antonio Pérez, located in the old Convent of the Carmelitas Descalzas (the Barefoot Carmelites). In addition to seeing the paintings, prints, and sculptures that Antonio Pérez collected, today the museum also contains works by many contemporary artists.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and an early transfer in the morning.
Day
9
To Burgos, Burgos’s Gothic Cathedral & Old Quarter
Location:
Burgos
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Silken Gran Teatro
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 250 miles; about 5 hours, with stops. Walking approximately 2 miles in Burgos; about 2.5 hours; mainly flat ground, some cobblestones, steps without handrails.
Breakfast:
Due to the early departure, we will have boxed breakfasts to take with us.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach and travel north to Burgos, the former capital of the unified kingdom of Castile and Leon, and home to the impressive UNESCO World Heritage recognized Gothic cathedral. Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel and settle in.
Lunch:
At the hotel in Burgos, we will have a 2-course plated meal with water included.
Afternoon:
Setting out on foot, we will enjoy an expert-led sightseeing walk of the old quarters of Burgos and the Gothic cathedral, which was built over a period of 400 years and is considered one of Spain’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. During our visit through the interior, we’ll see its features including unique stained glass and sculptures, as well as the tomb of “El Cid,” the renowned Castilian knight, and his wife, Doña Jimena.
Dinner:
On your own to explore local cuisine.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
10
Transfer to Bilbao, Guggenheim Museum
Location:
Bilbao
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Silken Indautxu
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 100 miles; about 2 hours to Bilbao. Walking approximately 2 miles; about 4 hours with breaks; periods of standing at the museum; mostly flat ground, some cobblestones and steps.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the buffet breakfast will feature a variety of hot and cold items, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach for the transfer from Burgos to Bilbao.
Lunch:
On your own to explore local cuisine in Bilbao upon arrival. Your Group Leader will be able to provide suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will join a local expert on a brief walking field trip through Bilbao's historic old town, during which we will learn about the area’s 700-year-old history and the architectural importance of the city’s Old Quarter. Later, we’ll head to the Guggenheim to enjoy a field trip of Bilbao's spectacular museum, designed by renowned contemporary architect, Frank Gehry. While here viewing the eclectic works of modernist art within the museum, we will also discover the unique architectural style of the Guggenheim building and Jeff Koons’ avant-garde “puppy” flower sculpture, which overlooks the main entrance. Afterwards, we will complete our transfer to the hotel and check in.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have plated meals with wine, coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Fine Arts Museum Bilbao, Free Time
Location:
Bilbao
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Silken Indautxu
Activity Note
Walking approximately 2 miles throughout group activities; periods of standing; mostly flat terrain, some cobblestones and uneven ground. Additional activity dependent on personal interest.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Arriving on foot led by a local expert, we will visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum of 1908 and the Museum of Modern Art, which opened in 1924. Both are brought together under the umbrella of the Museum of Fine Arts, a combined center that chronologically exhibits over 6,000 works spanning from the 12th century all the way to the present. The impressive exhibitions display many works – from paintings to sculptures, engravings, drawings, etc. – by famous classical, contemporary, and regional Basque artists. After our group exploration, take some time independently to look around the museum a bit more.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant featuring a Basque tasting menu, we’ll share small plates and one glass of wine with water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Bilbao. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
12
Barcelona via La Rioja Region
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Minimal walking throughout the day during field trip. Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 400 miles; about 8.5 hours throughout the day, with stops for field trips and lunch.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Once checked out, we’ll leave the hotel via motorcoach and head to La Rioja region where we will enjoy a visit to a winery, or “bodega,” and sample some of the world-famous wines. Winery staff will teach us about the winery and the winemaking process. Afterward, we will continue the short distance to El Ciego for lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a tapas lunch with one glass of wine and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll then continue our journey to Barcelona and, upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we’ll have a light plated meal with coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Barcelona, Modernism, La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 5 miles throughout the city; about 6 hours including breaks for visits. Walking approximately 2-3 miles; periods of standing at monuments; many steps, uneven surfaces, and pedestrian-only areas. ***La Sagrada Familia entrance times are strictly regulated and subject to change or substitution for another Modernist site.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet includes a variety of hot and cold items to choose from, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
In the meeting room at the hotel, our local Catalan expert will give a lecture featuring the Modernist Movement and the concept of “total art.” The German word “Gesamtkunstwerk” was popularized by Richard Wagner in 1894 when he was fixated on the idea of creating an opera that brought together elements of music, dance, drama, and set design. With the synthesis of art forms, the result would be the creation of a uniquely complete artistic experience for the audience. As we will see later in terms of architecture, many of Gaudí’s iconic works embody this ambition.
Lunch:
At leisure
Afternoon:
We will then transfer to visit two of Gaudí's most renowned sites – firstly his unfinished masterpiece, the gigantic basilica known as La Sagrada Familia (the Sacred Family). Construction began in 1882 and continues to this day. This enthralling and magnificent undertaking has become the symbol of the city, which we will explore inside and out with our local expert as we enjoy commentary. Note that Sagrada Familia tickets cannot be secured far in advance, so there is no guarantee of entrance. There is a specific time to enter the complex and the time inside the monument is restricted. Later, we’ll drive to Parc Guell Gaudí's outdoor residential project, which is now a municipal garden boasting a wealth of unique modernist architecture. In the hotel meeting room afterward, we’ll learn about life today in Spain through a question-and-answer session with local professionals.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we will enjoy a group dinner.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
14
Pablo Picasso's Years in Barcelona, Gothic Quarter
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Walking approximately 2-3 miles throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven surfaces. Use of the Metro public transportation system; many stations do not have elevators and participants will be required to climb stairs. Picasso Museum tickets are strictly limited and subject to change or substitution for another site.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Gathering with the group, we will enjoy a lecture given by a local expert, which will focus on the works of Picasso and his influences. Afterwards, we will travel by public transportation to the Picasso Museum for an expert-led field trip to admire his works.
Lunch:
Lunch on your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
Later, we’ll set out on a walking exploration of the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) with a local expert to discover some of the area’s hidden treasures such as the Plaza Felipe Neri, the Roman Columns, and Plaza del Pi. Afterwards, we will return to the hotel via public transportation.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we will have a light dinner with a glass of wine and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
We will transfer via motorcoach to a local community center for a private performance that will introduce us to Catalan music and dances by locals from a folklore group dedicated to preserving regional traditions. We’ll then return to the hotel after the performance.
Day
15
Dalí in Figueres & Púbol, Dalí Theatre-Museum, Gala's Castle
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 200 miles roundtrip; about 4 hours total. Walking approximately 2-3 miles total throughout the day; periods of standing at sites; many steps without handrails and uneven surfaces around the Museums of Figueres and Púbol.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will set out from Barcelona via motorcoach with our local expert for a field trip to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. Upon arrival, we will explore the Dalí Theatre-Museum, the world's largest surrealist art object. Built upon the remains of the former Figueres theatre, the museum collection spans over the artist's entire career. Then we will transfer to Púbol.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have a plated meal with a glass of wine and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will arrive at the Gala Dalí Castle Museum-House for a private exploration with our local expert. Dalí dedicated himself to furnishing and decorating this medieval castle as a retreat for his wife and muse, Gala. The castle collection includes paintings and drawings that Dalí gave as presents to Gala, as well as the elephant sculptures that adorn the garden, a collection of Gala's haute-couture dresses, and the furniture and many objects with which they decorated the house. We will return to Barcelona in the late afternoon.
Dinner:
On your own to explore local cuisine in Barcelona.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
16
Catalonian Artists, Joan Miró Foundation, Free Time
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Abba Balmoral
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving approximately 5 miles around the city; about 4 hours including breaks for field trips. Walking approximately 2 miles throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven surfaces. Additional activity dependent on personal interest. Joan Miró Foundation tickets are strictly regulated and subject to change or substitution for another site.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will begin with an expert-led lecture in the hotel meeting room, which will focus on the 20th century Catalonian artists Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and Antoni Gaudí. Afterward, we will board the motorcoach for a field trip to the Joan Miró Foundation, Centre for the Study of Contemporary Art, which displays over 14,000 works, including a large collection by Miró. Led by a local expert, we’ll explore the expansive collection.
Lunch:
Lunch on your own to explore local cuisine.
Afternoon:
Free time to explore Barcelona on your own. You may also wish to pack for the journey home.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a plated farewell dinner with beverages included.
Evening:
At leisure. Share favorite experiences and say farewell to new Road Scholar friends. Prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
17
Program Concludes
Location:
Barcelona
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11am. Airport transfers beginning at approximately 4:00 a.m. See your program’s “Transportation Information” 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 another rewarding program 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
34 Meals
15 Breakfasts
8 Lunches
11 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
- Mar 19, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
- Apr 30, 2025 - May 16, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
- May 07, 2025 - May 23, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
- Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
- Sep 17, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
- Sep 24, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
- Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025 (Madrid to Barcelona)
Participant Reviews
Based on 28 Reviews
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A great program for anyone interested in Spanish art and architecture.
— Review left November 5, 2024
A magical experience. I signed up for this trip because I wanted to see the Prado in Madrid. I loved the Prado but it was only one of many superb art experiences. The highlight of the trip for me was Cuenca, a medieval town with houses that hang off the cliffs. In one of these houses is the Museum of Abstract Art, which is amazing, full of abstract artists I had never heard of. I also loved the Guggenheim Bilbao and Barcelona. It is a fast-paced trip. I skipped the field trip to the Dali museum to catch my breath, and I recommend taking a break if you want a free day or afternoon. I learned so much Spanish history that I never knew as well. In the US we hear a lot about Hitler and Mussolini but little about the fascist dictator Franco, who held power from 1939 until his death in 1975. The guides were all outstanding, especially Cecilia in Madrid. But the great surprise of the trip is how well the fourteen of us got along. We were all art lovers. Two married couples, two pairs of women traveling together, and six women traveling solo. I have new friends.
— Review left October 26, 2024
Ole!
— Review left October 15, 2024
I loved my trip to Spain ! The guides in each city we visited were extremely knowledgeable and fun, the and their lectures were top notch. The hotels and restaurants were really good and I can’t wait to go on my next trip with Road Scholar !
— Review left October 4, 2024
This tour is a fantastic journey through the art, history and culture of Spain and the lives of its greatest artists. Highly recommended for lovers of historic Spanish art and cathedrals!
— Review left June 4, 2024
The art was wonderful — I only wish we had had more time everywhere. Great itinerary! Would have loved an extra day in Bilbao. I appreciated the longer stays in Madrid and Barcelona even though I'd stayed in those cities before. The trip has a great mix of time inside museums, walking in the cities, and visits to other locations such as a few cathedrals. Our group leader, Mariola Alonso, was spectacular. She was warm and friendly, super organized, and communicated very well. We also had excellent local guides and experts for the most part. I learned so much about how art in Spain reflected the times, and how artists influenced one another. The depth of the information was more than I'd expected, and the experts and guides delivered it in a fun, engaging manner. Overall the trip was fantastic, but I really wish we had had more free time. Everywhere on the itinerary where it says "free time," we basically had like 10 or 15 minutes. Not enough. Another thing I would change is giving people a chance to sit down for 10 minutes or buy some water if they need it. The days are very full on this trip and the amount of walking is described accurately, but on several days it was a bit too "non-stop," and we all would have appreciated a couple of brief breaks. It was great to have a small-ish group (21 people), and we all got to know one another over meals.
— Review left May 25, 2024
This trip was exhilarating! I think that this is the best word to describe it. I learned so much about Spanish art and history, and we saw everything we should see--and more. The tour was very well organized, the lecturers were very knowledgeable, the hotels were super, the meals were fun and interesting, and the group members added much to my learning and enjoyment of the trip. Our guide Mayra was excellent---I think one of the best in the business. I felt safe, well-taken care of, and her enthusiasm and knowledge added much to my overall enjoyment of the trip. She gave us a real Spanish perspective on things. This trip exceeded my expectations. I have already registered for more Spanish trips! Hands-down a highlight of my retirement so far! If you like art and you like travelling in a group of like-minded people, you will love this trip. Thank you to my fellow group members and to Mayra. Very, very fun!!!
— Review left April 1, 2024
If you want to learn about the major Spanish artists and experience some of Spain's most important museums/architecture, this is the trip for you! It's a full and stimulating program, so "keep the pace" really means it.
— Review left April 1, 2024
I felt that every single day was worthwhile and exciting. The food was remarkable, the museums incredible, and the cities, towns, and countryside were more attractive and interesting than I expected.
— Review left October 7, 2023
This is a well-organized program for people with a high interest in Spanish art.The itinerary, accommodations, food selections, staff and transportation were all high quality. It is an educational and highly entertaining tour.
— Review left September 26, 2023
Educational and illuminating - thank you!
— Review left September 24, 2023
great program. leadership, lecturers and fellow travellers
— Review left September 23, 2023
This program gave me an understanding of why artists painted what they did in the Golden Age and an appreciation of their talent and their works.
— Review left May 30, 2023
This trip gave me the opportunity to learn so much about Spanish history, art and culture. The lectures helped me to understand and appreciate the paintings that we saw in the museums. My trip was in March and we enjoyed wonderful weather. The accommodations were good, the food was great and the sights were fabulous. I highly recommend this trip for people who want to learn more about Spain and Spanish artists.
— Review left April 10, 2023
I spent many weeks searching for an in-depth art tour of Spain, and the RS "Golden Age" tour seemed to be ideal -- tours of major museums enhanced by lectures. The tour was superb and did indeed exceed my expectations.
— Review left April 8, 2023
This is an absolutely wonderful trip. I've been reading about art most of my life, but I found out lots of things about Spanish art I had never dreamed of. We went to places I never would have gone on my own. The lecturers were just wonderful. I really recommend this trip highly.
— Review left February 18, 2023
For those who love art and want to learn more, this is a perfect program. The lectures were fabulous and following them with a visit to an appropriate museum was wonderful.
And the Spanish wine!
— Review left November 1, 2022
This program was outstanding. Wonderful restaurants, expert speakers, rich and varied experiences, and an excellent group leader. If you attend this program you will come away with a great appreciation for the major artists of Spain and a deep desire to return.
— Review left October 3, 2022
This is a comprehensive overview of Spanish art. It is packed with visits to important sites in the history of art in Spain. Accommodations and food are good. Be prepared to see and experience a great deal.
— Review left April 25, 2022
It is difficult to view using an iPhone. Some are overlapping
— Review left April 19, 2022
I wholeheartedly recommend this trip as a super-charged learning experience in the worlds of Spanish art, architecture and culture. Each and every day was a superbly curated blend of expert lectures and guided visits to a wealth of museums, cathedrals, palaces and public spaces. At the same time, I felt supremely cared for with good food, comfortable hotels, at-the-elbow transportation and our attentive, professional & entertaining group guide, Sandra Velasquez. Sandra was endlessly patient in answering our endless questions, created a warm & inclusive family atmosphere among our diverse group and tackled each and every unexpected challenge (missing luggage, a passport left in a hotel safe, a nasty fall experienced by one of our group members).
I came away profoundly grateful for seeing and learning about so many beautiful works of art and architecture across centuries of Spanish history; with deeper appreciation for artists I knew about prior to the trip, such as Picasso, Miro, El Greco & Velasquez; delight in encountering new artists, notably Abstract artists highlighted in the Perez museum in Cuenca; and motivated to read and learn more about Spanish history.
— Review left November 12, 2021
My brother and sister-in-law had taken this tour and highly recommended it. I enjoyed the tour tremendously--the cities, the museums, the hotels, the food, the lectures, and the local guides. Our Group Leader, Sandra, sets the standard--she has an effervescent personality, is positive, caring and conscientious. We were a group of ten and it was composed of interesting people from all over the U.S. and Canada. It was a congenial group that I'll remember with pleasure.
— Review left November 10, 2021
This was a great overview of Spanish art from the Golden Age to the present. In addition to many wonderful general museums, we went to specialized museums for Picasso, Miro, Dali and El Greco's works. I was surprised how much modern/abstract art was included and relatively unknown in the US. Our group leader Ulises was excellent, as were all the experts and all but one of the local guides. This is a great trip for anyone who loves art and architecture - RS has been running this tour for 32 years. Best of all, museums and other venues weren't as crowded as pre-Covid, so it was easier to see the art, and it felt safer to be in Spain than in the US, since mask-wearing inside is universal.
— Review left October 20, 2021
This was an excellent program--a great opportunity to learn about Spain and its great artistic tradition
— Review left October 11, 2021
If you are interested in Spanish art from the Golden Age to now, this is the trip for you! We visited the top art museums in Spain and several cathedrals with stunning art collections. The lectures provided was with context to view the art. It was a wonderful trip!
— Review left October 2, 2021
This program is like taking a graduate course in Spanish art and culture, terrific!
— Review left October 23, 2019
The Spanish Art & Architecture tour is wonderful. Not only do you get to see wonderful things, but you also get to learn about, & fall in love with, a fascinating country.
— Review left June 17, 2019
Road Scholar is a wonderful opportunity to travel and learn about almost any subject in the world! It is well organized, affordable, and fun!
— Review left May 27, 2019
