Spain is one of the most highly regarded travel destinations in the world, rivaling its European counterparts with its rich historical offerings and a fresh modern flair. From passionate flamenco performances to sweet sangria cocktails to some of the most awe-inspiring art and architecture in the world, Spain is a melting pot of beauty, history, culture, and romance. It’s the ideal European destination for travelers of all ages and interests. Now, with Friendly Planet Travel’s newest Spain packages, travelers can experience the country’s most popular sights and sounds from $1,499 including airfare.
“With world-class cities like Madrid and Barcelona, year after year, Spain continues to be one of the most popular European destinations we offer,” says Friendly Planet Travel President Peggy Goldman. “Given its popularity among American travelers and the great diversity the country has to offer visitors, we’ve developed these Spain itineraries so that travelers can have a more complete experience through fun and affordable group travel.”
The new eight-day Discover Spain tour starts with a city-wide tour of Madrid, where travelers drive through the main avenues of Alcala Street and Puerta del Sol, a lively hub of street life, and then pass by Plaza de España, Parliament, and Teatro Real, the city’s main opera house that was remodeled to replicate how the Queen of Spain once enjoyed music. Travelers then visit the Palacio Real, the Royal Palace of Madrid, which is still used by the King of Spain for state ceremonial activities.
After Madrid, it’s off to Córdoba, the literary land of Don Quixote, where travelers explore a 10th century mosque now transformed into a Catholic cathedral, then stroll the streets of the old Jewish quarter. The tour continues in Seville, the capital of Andalucia and the cultural and financial center of southern Spain. The tour includes a visit to the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, the Giralda Cathedra, where travelers can snap photos of the casket believed to hold the remains of Christopher Columbus. The next stop is Granada, home to the awe-inspiring architectural palace and fortress complex of the Alhambra. This old Moorish fort lures in visitors with its massive and imposing exterior and it’s lavishly decorated interiors, resplendent with mosaic tiles, arches, and reflecting pools. Last stop on the tour is the city of Toledo, the forgotten capital of Spain and a center of Spain’s growing cultural splendor. Then head back to Madrid for one final night.
Another new travel offering, fashioned for the more independent vacationer, is Friendly Planet’s six-day Breathtaking Barcelona tour. This tour is designed for travelers who seek the cost-effective and hassle-free benefits of prearranged flights, transfers, and hotel accommodations, but desire maximum schedule flexibility and boundless leisure time for independent exploration or additional optional tours. Travelers can choose to visit La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi’s architectural wonder that’s been under construction for more than 100 years, or stroll along La Rambla, a street where travelers can sample local cuisines while enjoying street performances by local artists. From beautiful beaches to the renowned Dalí Museum, the possibilities are endless for travelers who embark on this bucket-list-worthy vacation.
“Travelers who are interested in the Breathtaking Barcelona tour should book fast,” says Goldman. “The demand for this program has been so great that only a few travel dates remain available.”
The eight-day Discover Spain tour starts at $1,999, and includes round-trip airfare from Newark (EWR) (or other cities at a supplement in cost) via scheduled carriers, including fuel surcharges, taxes, and fees; all ground transportation and transfers; nine meals, with wine and mineral water served with all dinners; first-class accommodations; comprehensive touring with entrance fees; professional, English-speaking local tour guides; and headsets for enhanced sightseeing.
The Breathtaking Barcelona tour, starting from $1,499, includes round-trip airfare from New York (JFK) or Newark (EWR) (or other cities at a supplement in cost) via scheduled carriers, including fuel surcharges, taxes, and fees; an arrival transfer; four nights of accommodations in a first class hotel; breakfast daily; and a one-day Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour pass.
Optional post-tour extensions are available for both programs at an additional cost.
Friendly Planet Travel, www.FriendlyPlanet.com