2021 & 2022 Globus Guided Tours - Globus® Vacation Packages

The Best of Spain (ZV)

9 days from Madrid to Barcelona

2026 Tour Details View 2025 Tour Details » View 2027 Tour Details »

Although you might be enthralled with the idea of the Spanish siesta—the customary post-lunch nap to escape the midday heat—you’ll want to think twice about catching any afternoon Zzzs on this dreamy introductory tour of Spain. Otherwise, you’d miss all the sunny sights this 9-day vacation to Spain has in store. From Madrid’s art-filled Prado Museum to Barcelona’s tree-lined La Rambla, we show you the country’s top must-see sights, indulging in pans of zesty paella, and pitchers of tangy sangria along the way. While you’ll treat yourself to the fresh catches from the sea, the olives from the hills, and the wine from the lush river valleys; it’s sights such as Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex, Seville’s over-the-top Plaza de España, and Barcelona’s unparalleled Sagrada Familia Basilica that are a feast for the eyes.

PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Seville so you can plan your day your way.

Special Features Included in this Tour:
•Guided sightseeing in Madrid includes a panoramic drive featuring views of main landmarks and a visit to the Prado Museum
•Guided walking tour in Cordoba includes a visit to the Mosque of the Caliphs
•Visit to the Plaza de España in Seville with its magnificent mosaic patio
•Globus Choice excursions in Seville − included in your tour with your choice of a walking tour in historic Seville including a visit to Casa de Pilatos or guided walk in the Prado de San Sebastián and Parque de Maria Luisa parks
•Guided walking tour in the Alhambra complex and the Water Gardens of the Generalife
•Guided sightseeing in Valencia includes a photo stop at the science complex, a panoramic drive, and a walking tour of old Valencia, plus a complimentary traditional horchata drink
•[LF] Paella Valenciana dinner at a local restaurant
•Guided sightseeing in Barcelona includes a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica, a sightseeing drive, and a photo stop on Montjuic Hill
•[LF] Sangria and a farewell dinner

World of Wonder Sales Event: Save $400 per couple on select 2026 Globus Tours Worldwide*
The Best of Spain map

 Photo Highlights

 Meals

 Meals & Itinerary

8 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners


Notes:

The Alhambra complex: Entrance to the Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed.

The Alhambra complex is wheelchair accessible, but the entrance and route differ from those of the included guided visit.

 Itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVE IN MADRID, SPAIN

Welcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel.

MADRID-FOUNTAIN.jpg

DinnerDinner

Day 2 MADRID

Masterpieces in Madrid This morning, discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.


MADRID-PRADO.jpg

Breakfast Breakfast

Day 3 MADRID–CORDOBA–SEVILLE

Treasures of Cordoba Enjoy a scenic drive south into the region of Andalusia. This afternoon, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to see the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge, and the remains of the Alcazar. The tour highlight is a visit of the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Enjoy some free time to browse the narrow streets before continuing to the vibrant city of Seville. 336 mi / 540 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque’s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city.


CORDOBA-MOSQUE.jpg

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 4 SEVILLE

Spend Your Day Your Way in Seville This morning, discover what makes Seville so special. Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, then explore more of Seville with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.

Spectacular Seville
Spectacular Seville
A guided walking tour in historic Seville stuns with a visit to Casa de Pilatos. Explore the palace's fusion of architectural styles adorned with a collection of Roman sculptures. Continue with a stroll through Seville's Barrio de Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of charming, narrow streets in the heart of historic Seville.
Parks & Pavillions
Parks & Pavillions
The cool, peaceful oases of Seville are calling with a guided walk through two of the city¿s verdant parks. Admire the colorful flora and ornamental fountains in the vibrant Prado de San Sebastián. Stroll the Parque de Maria Luisa, where striking monuments and over 140 species of trees grace the site of the 1929 Hispano-American Exhibition. Conclude your walk outside Seville Cathedral.


Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to discover more of Seville.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 5 SEVILLE–GRANADA

Splendid Spain Drive to Granada for today’s highlight, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Alhambra Complex*, an Islamic architectural masterpiece. Visit the breathtaking complex with your Local Guide and discover what makes it so special. Later, enjoy some free time getting acquainted with this captivating city, shaped by its blend of cultural influences.
158 mi / 255 km

*Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada’s Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife, once the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 6 GRANADA–VALENCIA

Spanish Specialties Enjoy a scenic drive past the mountains towards the coast and the vibrant city of Valencia. Meet your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to see the Torres de Serranos and Plaza de Toros, a photo stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, plus a walking tour of Old Valencia. Visit a Horchateria to try the traditional Valencian horchata drink. This evening, get a real taste for Valencia with Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite a mouthwatering traditional Paella dinner at a local restaurant.
329 mi / 530 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Enjoy an authentic Spanish paella dinner in Valencia. Traditional Paella Valenciana is made with chicken and sweet paprika and golden saffron in a slow simmered broth for a sumptuous, heart-warming hallmark of traditional Spanish cuisine.


VALENCIA-PAELLA.jpg

Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 7 VALENCIA–BARCELONA

The Boulevards of Barcelona Enjoy the changing panorama during a scenic drive along the coast past some of Spain’s most famous seaside resorts to Barcelona. Free time this afternoon and evening to get acquainted with this flamboyant city, its lively atmosphere, amazing architecture, and tasty local dishes.
217 mi / 350 km

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Barcelona in the footsteps of Picasso through the historic heart of the old city. Indulge in the tradition and tastes of 2,000 years in the Gothic Quarter. Take in the charm and captivating history with a walk down the tree-lined avenue of La Rambla amid the terraces and street performers on Barcelona’s famous thoroughfare.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 8 BARCELONA

Adiós, Barcelona! This morning, follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Gràcia. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Continue the tour with a drive to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. This evening Globus Local FavoriteGlobus Local Favorite enjoy Sangria and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Say farewell to Spain with Sangria and culinary specialties at a local city center restaurant. Often considered the signature drink of Spain and taking its name from its “blood red color,” Sangria’s origins are thought to go back to Roman times, when it was simply wine added to water. Since then, the recipe has been revisited many times and there are many delicious local variations. Tonight, lift your glass for a toast to your Best of Spain tour.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 9 BARCELONA

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

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Breakfast Breakfast

 Tour Director

With GLOBUS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

ENRIQUE AQUINO LONGO

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

I originally came to Spain from the USA to discover the other half of my heritage. I'm still here! I just fell in love with it. The culture, never-ending rich history, breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, bright sunshine and friendly people make it fascinating. Don't be surprised if you'll be the next one to fall in love too. Nothing makes me happier than to show my guests what makes Iberia and Morocco my home.

Tour Director - ENRIQUE AQUINO LONGO

 Accommodations

Madrid
Seville
Granada
Valencia
Barcelona

Madrid

Novotel Madrid Center
Novotel Madrid Center

Novotel Madrid Center

First-Class

Hotel as shown or similar

Novotel Madrid Center C/ O'donnell 53, Madrid, Spain

C/ O'donnell 53
Madrid, Spain

Free Wifi

Free Wifi

A stylish 790 room hotel located in Madrid's elegant Salamanca District with Free Wi-Fi internet access available throughout. Amenities include a gourmet restaurant, a chic bar featuring a large video wall, a fitness room and relaxing lounge areas.

Hotel Amenities

  • Gift Shop
  • ATM
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Free WiFi
  • Laundry Available
  • Luggage Storage
  • Concierge desk
  • Restaurant On-Site
  • Elevator
  • Parking/Valet
  • Fitness Room
  • Beauty Salon

Room Amenities

  • Mini-bar
  • In-Room Safe
  • Phone
  • Disabled Access / Rooms
  • Non-smoking Rooms
  • Air Conditioning
  • Internet Access
  • Window Opens
  • Voicemail
  • Coffee Maker
  • Wake-Up Calls
  • Cable/Satellite
  • Room Service
  • Desk
  • Complimentary Toiletries
  • Climate Control
  • Hair Dryer
  • Television

 Optional Excursions

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyGlobus site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

Price Ranges

$ ($50 CAD and under)
$$ ($51 - $100 CAD)
$$$ ($101 - $150 CAD)
$$$$ (Over $150)


Madrid
Seville
Granada
Barcelona

Madrid

Discover Toledo

Discover Toledo

Discover majestic Toledo, an incredible melting pot of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian influence over the centuries, making it one of Europe's most interesting and unique walled medieval cities!

Price Range: $$$

Panoramic Drive & Dinner

Panoramic Drive & Dinner

Drive through the capital's boulevards, passing beautiful buildings and fountains and dine Spanish style!

Price Range: $$$

Seville

A Night in Seville with Flamenco and Dinner

A Night in Seville with Flamenco and Dinner

Enjoy an exciting and passionate flamenco show while savoring a mouthwatering 3-course Andalusian dinner and drinks.

Price Range: $$$

Cathedral and Columbus Tomb

Cathedral and Columbus Tomb

Seville's 15th-century gothic cathedral is the third-largest church in Europe and boasts the breathtaking La Giralda, one of the three remaining Almohad minarets in the world. The cathedral also houses the remains of explorer Christopher Columbus.

Price Range: $$

Granada

Dinner in Granada's Moorish Albaicín

Dinner in Granada's Moorish Albaicín

Discover the essence of Islamic Granada on this wonderful journey into the legendary Albaicín district, one of the city's oldest centers of medieval Moorish culture. Stop for a splendid panoramic view over the city, then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Price Range: $$$

Barcelona

Beautiful Barcelona

Beautiful Barcelona

The treasures of Barcelona await your discovery on this sightseeing excursion!

Price Range: $$

Discover Montserrat

Discover Montserrat

Experience the magical beauty surrounding Barcelona on this memorable guided excursion to the soaring mountains of Montserrat.

Price Range: $$$

 Private Touring

Private Touring: Globus European Private Touring enables you to experience all of the attractions, sights and highlights of your selected Globus tour as a private experience - delivered just for you and your traveling party. With Private Touring, you'll have your own dedicated Tour Director, your own private transportation and driver, and your own professional local guides. All with greater flexibility in pace and your experience.

For your selected tour, there will be additional per-person cost for the size of your party - from 1 to 24. This additional supplement is reduced with each traveler you add to your party.

Here's a sample of the additional cost:

6 guests in a party: $3,888*
18 guests in a party: $926*

Contact Globus or your preferred travel agent for pricing for your specific party size as well as any other information on Globus Private Touring.

* Supplement pricing is per person (CA) and will be added to the standard published price for your given departure date and is based on availability. Supplement price is valid for 2020 and 2021 travel years. Occasionally some included and optional activities & excursions may be operated with other guests. Additional restrictions may apply. Not applicable for custom groups. No Group allowances or promotions are available on Private Touring. Published itineraries only. Note that blackout dates may exist where the Private Touring option is not available.



The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.