Get to know multi-faceted Spain on this exciting vacation. Start and end your journey in Madrid, the country’s grand capital. Next, visit the Aranjuez Royal Palace, marvel at the Cuenca “hanging houses,” and explore the ancient winding streets of Valencia. Drive along the Mediterranean coast and stop at Peniscola Castle on the way to beautiful Barcelona. Travel through Catalonia, stop in Saragossa, and continue to Pamplona, known for its running of the bulls. Carry on to Basque Country: visit the Sanctuary of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the seaport city of Bilbao, and the provincial capital of Castilla and Leon, Burgos. The heart of Spain reveals even more stunning cities, such as Segovia, Avila, and Salamanca, known for their unique historical centers and acclaimed for their wine production. Next, head south into sunny Andalusia for two overnights in spectacular Seville. Sample sherry wine in Jerez; stop in the white-washed village of Ronda; visit the exotic Alhambra complex, residence of the Moorish kings in Granada; enjoy the labyrinth of Cordoba’s old Moorish quarter surrounding the exquisite Mezquita; and retrace Don Quixote’s footsteps as you travel among the windmills and castles of La Mancha. In Madrid, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of this elegant city.Special Departure:Mar 26th Departure - Easter departure
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Day 1Fri. BOARD YOUR OVERNIGHT TRANSATLANTIC FLIGHT
Day 2Sat. ARRIVE IN MADRID, SPAIN
Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to start exploring lively Madrid. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers. (Dinner)
Day 3Sun. MADRID–ARANJUEZ–CUENCA–VALENCIA
Start the day by driving to nearby Aranjuez in the Castilian Plain, where you stop to visit the Royal Palace, originally built in the 14th century. Although burned down both in 1727 and 1728, it was splendidly rebuilt and became a favorite residence of Spanish royalty. Continue traveling southeast to the magnificently located old town of Cuenca, which stands high above the precipices of the Rivers Jucar and Huecar. It is famous for its “hanging houses” that are suspended over the Huecar ravine. Journey on to Valencia for two overnights. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 4Mon. VALENCIA
Valencia is known mainly for its wonderful climate and the quality of its light. Enjoy a drive along wide avenues lined with fig and palm trees and along the old quarter’s narrow streets with its fine gothic houses and typical patios. Time to do some shopping or more personal sightseeing and, of course, the option of joining an excursion. (Breakfast)
Day 5Tue. VALENCIA–PENISCOLA–BARCELONA
An interesting day starts with a drive north to the nearby Castellon for a visit of its Peniscola Castle, built by the Knights Templar in the 14th century. The promontory on which the castle and town are located is a fine reminder of medieval times. Continue your journey through orange groves and seaside resorts past Tarragona to Catalonia’s lively and beautiful capital, Barcelona. (Breakfast)
Day 6Wed. BARCELONA
This morning’s sightseeing with a Local Guide will include a drive around Montjuïc to see the Olympic Stadium and a great panoramic view of the port and city. The drive continues to the city center to Plaza Catalunya and Paseo de Gracia to admire the greatness and eccentricity of Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces in the Houses Batlló and Mila and the Sagrada Familia (entrance fees not included). (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 7Thu. BARCELONA–SARAGOSSA–PAMPLONA
See more of Catalonia as you drive northwest to Saragossa on the banks of the River Ebro. During your stop you’ll have time to see the Sanctuary of our Lady of the Pillar. Continue north through fertile valleys and the Rioja wine-growing region to Basque Country and on to the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Navarra, Pamplona, for an overnight stay. (Breakfast)
Day 8Fri. PAMPLONA–BILBAO–BURGOS
Start the morning by driving further into Basque Country for a visit to the Sanctuary of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. Journey northwest to the port town of Bilbao. Time for an optional visit to the spectacular Guggenheim Museum. Apart from its amazing collection of modern paintings, the building itself, by Frank Gehry, is considered one of the 20th century’s great architectural masterpieces. In the afternoon, travel south to Burgos. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 9Sat. BURGOS–SEGOVIA–AVILA–SALAMANCA
Today, head southwest into Castile. Enjoy some grand scenery as you travel to the edge of the Sierra de Guadarrama, a green oasis in the Castilian desert. Stop in Segovia, magnificently perched on a rock formation at an altitude of 3,280 feet. The cathedral, the alcazar, and the Roman aqueduct are some of its more famous sights. Next, drive west to Avila for a short visit before continuing to Salamanca in time to enjoy the extraordinary beauty of its Plaza Mayor. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 10Sun. SALAMANCA–CACERES–SEVILLE
Leave early this morning and cross the mighty Tagus River and the Guadarrama. Stop in Caceres, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its blend of Roman, Islamic, northern gothic, and Italian Renaissance styles. Enjoy more Spanish landscapes before reaching Seville, one of Spain’s most colorful cities. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 11Mon. SEVILLE
A full day at leisure. Perhaps you’d like to spend this morning enjoying an optional sightseeing tour including the main highlights of the vibrant city. (Breakfast)
Day 12Tue. SEVILLE–JEREZ–RONDA–GRANADA
A day to see the best of Andalusia. Head first into the Jerez region for a sherry-tasting stop. Next, journey by way of the typically white-painted villages to the town of Ronda, famous for the ravine that literally cuts it in two and, of course, its bullfighting connections. Overnight in Granada in the shadow of the mighty Sierra Nevada. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 13Wed. GRANADA–CORDOBA
Granada was the Arabs’ most treasured city; they still mourn its loss in their prayers. Learn more about it on the included visit with a Local Guide. More grand scenery this afternoon as you travel to Cordoba on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 14Thu. CORDOBA–MADRID
This is perhaps Spain’s most Moorish city with its great mosque, the Mezquita, one of Islam’s most important pieces of architecture outside the Arab world. You’ll enjoy the small, white-washed houses, the winding streets, and the colorful squares. Later, journey into the very heart of La Mancha, famed for its castles and windmills. Reach Madrid in time to enjoy a relaxed evening. (Breakfast)
Day 15Fri. MADRID
This morning the optional trip to Toledo is most rewarding. The splendid setting of this old walled city above the Tagus was made famous in El Greco’s painting, and even now it’s like a great open-air museum of Spanish history and art. Later, join the included Madrid city sightseeing. Not only because it’s the capital of Spain but also because it is situated 2,180 feet above sea level, the Spaniards say it’s the nearest thing to heaven. (Breakfast)
Day 16Sat. YOUR HOMEBOUND FLIGHT ARRIVES THE SAME DAY. (Breakfast)
BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS WITH US
Learn more about booking an air-inclusive vacation - the reasons why include, you'll receive free airport transfer on published dates and your air will be coordinated with your vacation.
AIRPORT TRANSFER TIMES
View details and pricing on airport transfer times and extra nights. Learn more about what's included with your vacation and how you can personalize it.
INCLUDED FEATURES
Visits to Royal Palace in Aranjuez; Cuenca, Valencia, Pamplona, Bilbao, Loyola Sanctuary, Peniscola Castle, Saragossa, Segovia, Avila, Salamanca, Caceres, Seville, Jerez wine tasting, Ronda, Cordoba
SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
La Mancha
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
GUIDES
Local Guides for city sightseeing in Barcelona, Granada-Alhambra, Madrid. Services of a professional Tour Director while touring.
STANDARD INCLUDED FEATURES
Learn more about transportation, hotels, and other standard included features offered.
MEALS - (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner
Buffet breakfasts (B); 8 dinners (D)
HOTELS - (F) First-Class (ST) Superior Tourist-Class (T) Tourist Class
Madrid Praga (F), Valencia Catalonia Excelsior (F), Barcelona Catalonia Aragon (ST), Pamplona** Maisonnave (ST), Burgos Corona de Castilla (F), Salamanca Catalonia Plaza (F), Seville Don Paco (ST), Granada Don Juan (ST), Cordoba Selu (ST)
TRANSPORTATION
Scheduled transatlantic flights and airport transfers in Madrid if Cosmos issues the air tickets. Touring by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach.
Here's a list of optional excursions you can enjoy during your vacation. Whether it's a special dinner, a local show or a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into an historical site, optional excursions are a wonderful way to enrich your vacation even further. Plus, they give you flexibility. We include the must-see sites and experiences, and we also understand that people take interest in different activities and may want to craft a more personal vacation by hand-picking optional excursions that appeal to them.
Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, days of operation, group interests, and general feasibility for your vacation. The approximate value listed gives you a good, general idea of what you can expect to pay but may vary once you are on your vacation. Some information provided might be in a foreign currency; you can use our online
currency converter for exchange rate information.
CITY: BarcelonaDinner & Flamenco On Ramblas Evening out in the heart of Barcelona - enjoy a buffet dinner with Spanish specialties, including wine or soft drinks. Then see the best professional flamenco dancers, singers and guitarists in town. A glass of champagne is served during the show.
Approximate value: EUR €65 per person
Montserrat Montserrat means the "sawed mountain" in Catalan. Situated at the centre of Catalonia, about 25 miles northwest of Barcelona, it rises perpendicularly out of the surrounding lowlands, and is a marvel to see. In addition to the natural beauty of Montserrat, the mountain took on religious significance at an early date. The famous Romanesque sculpture of "La Morenta" (the little dark one) presides over the XI century Benedictine Monastery.
Approximate value: EUR €35 per person
CITY: MadridMadrid By Night & Tapas An authentic Spanish food experience in a tapas restaurant situated in the centre of the capital: typical gourmet food such as "pisto manchego" (vegetables) with egg, Iberian ham & cheese, Spanish omelette and many other specialities. After dinner, an orientation drive of Madrid to admire the city with its splendid avenues, illuminated fountains and beautiful promenades.
Approximate value: EUR €35 per person
The Majestic City Of Toledo The panoramic view of the city is an awesome experience, and visiting Spain's main Cathedral is truly unforgettable. See one of El Greco's most famous paintings, the "Burial of Count Orgaz", in the church of Santo Tome. Drive through Castilian landscapes to the old capital on the Tagus River. Time for a visit to a Damascene steel workshop.
Approximate value: EUR €45 per person
CITY: PamplonaThe Basque Culture This fortified city is the former capital of the Kingdom of Navarra. With a local guide, visit the outside of the Bull Ring, Running of the Bulls Street, the cathedral, walls, town hall and road to Santiago. Stop at the Cafe Iruna, made famous by Ernest Hemingway, to enjoy a glass of wine. Then proceed to the Baserri restaurant for a sit-down tapas dinner of hot and cold tapas, Navarra wine, dessert and coffee.
Approximate value: EUR €50 per person
CITY: SevilleCity Sightseeing The most Spanish of all Spanish cities enchants you with unforgettable sights. The main highlight is a visit to the magnificent Cathedral, which is the third largest Christian temple in the world and was built on the site of the original mosque. Enjoy a walk through the narrow streets and mysterious small squares of the Santa Cruz Quarter.
Approximate value: EUR €30 per person
Sevillian Evening Out Have dinner in an authentic Andalusian palace built in the 1920's. The chef will delight you with typical regional food, which will let you know more about this famous area.
Approximate value: EUR €45 per person
CITY: ValenciaBlue Lagoon & Dinner The Albufera is a unique nature area where you will see native fauna, nesting & migrating birds. Enjoy a boat trip on the lagoon and later on, dinner in a restaurant with local specialties.
Approximate value: EUR €45 per person
View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date you'll depart, the date the vacation starts and date you'll return.
Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers, flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.
The price listed does not include your airfare. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.
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$1,725.00
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6/18/2011
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9/10/2011
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10/15/2011
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Single room supplement: $700
No triple room reduction.* Indicates that this departure and vacation is available for 2011 early booking. 2010 saw the lowest prices to Europe in recent history. Get this vacation on the books and save by paying 2010 prices for your 2011 European vacation. Price protection only applies to those tours that currently offer 2011 dates and prices and only with full, per person deposit. All tours will be open for 2011 bookings in the Fall of 2010. Vacation upgrades and/or additions will not be available for early booking, as well as, any extra pre- or post-night pricing until the Fall of 2010. With the exception of Journeys Club coupons, future travel promotions are not applicable and are not retroactive on early bookings.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS & EXTRA NIGHTSView details and pricing on airport transfer times and extra nights. Learn more about what's included with your vacation and how you can personalize it.
US$ Price Details
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-We may be able to provide you with flight arrangements from your gateway city.
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Additional Information:
-Departure/arrival taxes and fares from other cities will be advised at the time of booking.
-Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
Guaranteed air-inclusive prices:
Air is only available to passengers traveling from the United States and only available when booked in conjunction with a land vacation. An additional $250 non-refundable deposit is required for air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e., air-inclusive vacation.) However, once your airfare is confirmed and Cosmos has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.
We also accept your reservation on a land-only basis:
While booking your vacation air-inclusive gives you various advantages, you can also choose the land-only option. But remember, airlines’ special fares generally apply to very brief periods. (Our low air-inclusive fares apply throughout the year.) Plus, to get these “deals” you often are required to pay full fare at the time of booking.
Taxes & fees
Taxes and fees are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full land and air deposit are received.
Applicable Taxes and Fees (Airfare & Charges Not Included in the Price)
Air-Inclusive Vacations
Air-inclusive prices provided online include a September 11th fee up to $10, passenger facility charges of up to $18, Federal domestic flight segment fees of up to $3.50 per segment and U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government imposed fees between $200-$375 depending on your itinerary. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked.
Not Included In Your Vacation Price (Air-Inclusive, Land-Only or Cruise-Only)
Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities: port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships’ crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection premiums; excess baggage fees; and all other items of a personal nature.