Description
Life is a Fiesta in Spain (Europe) for Three Nights at H10 Madrid Puerta de Alcala in Madrid, Three Nights at H10 Universitat Hotel in Barcelona for Two, Including Railway Transfers, an Art Triangle Walking Tour, a Tapas Walking Tour, Walking Tour of Toledo, Gaudi Monument Tour, Gourmet Visit to La Boqueria Market and a Gothic Quarter Walking Tour (Land Only)
From medieval to modern, the bewitching energy of Madrid to the bustling seaside enchantment of Barcelona, Spain offers two phenomenal destinations with rich and varied histories, buzzing nightlife scenes, fascinating architecture and culinary adventures around every corner. Listen out for Madrileños' unique accent (exchanging their D's for Z's) as you walk with locals down narrow streets, taste the tapas on a food tour, and appreciate the outstanding artwork of the Golden Triangle! Tour the winding medieval streets of Toledo and then learn about Gaudi, tour the Gothic Quarter and visit La Boqueria in gorgeous Barcelona!
If you love all things European art, this tour of the famed Golden Triangle of Art is a must when you're in Madrid! The city is a haven for art and culture lovers, with dozens of world-class museums, galleries, theatres and libraries, and the Golden Triangle of Art includes three world-class art museums, the iconic Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Art Centre and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. From the works of Velázquez to Picasso, each of these stunning landmarks houses some of the world's best collections of Spanish and European art.
Get to know Madrid in a delicious way on a private guided tapas tour! Spain has a rich culinary tradition and Madrid its own regional delights. You will taste the most delicious specialties while enjoying and getting to know the city center of Madrid. Discover some of the best bars, taverns, restaurants and cafes the city has to offer. Your informative guide will help you to select and show you how to order tapas while providing insights into the flavors of wine, the cuisine and Spanish culture.
About an hour outside of Madrid, set on a hill above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, is the ancient city of Toledo. Its historic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still preserves its original medieval layout, making it a fascinating place to visit. Along with your guide, visit the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and discover the facade of the impressive Primate Cathedral, the old Palace of Justice and the City Hall. Continue through the old Jewish quarter with its narrow streets to visit the Church of St. Tomé, with the very famous painting of El Greco ÌÂThe Burial of Count Orgaz ÌÂ and the old Synagogue of Ste. Maria la Blanca, which remains as a symbol of the coexistence of the 'Thee Cultures'.
The H10 Puerta de Alcalá is located near El Retiro Park, in Madrid's exclusive Salamanca district, which houses the best boutiques and is the financial nerve centre of the city. The hotel features the impressive El Cielo de Alcalá Terrace with plunge pool and panoramic views of the city. The comfortable rooms at the H10 Puerta de Alcalá are soundproofed and stand out for their elegant design with large windows and wooden floors, and are equipped with all the amenities you could need for a comfortable stay.
Head East to Barcelona, and then travel in comfort with a private driver and guide as you discover the fascinating world of modernist architect Antoni Gaudí on a private tour in Barcelona. Your guide will reveal Gaudi's extraordinary achievements as you learn about Gaudi and his iconic architectural style, which have redefined and transformed the landscape of Barcelona. No less than seven of his works have been listed as World Heritage sites by UNESCO, including the immortal Sagrada Familia, a monumental masterpiece of Gaudi's architecture still under construction over 100 years after building commenced. The vibrant Catalan bourgeoisie erected a multitude of imposing buildings throughout Barcelona, and one of the bourgeois houses built along the elegant Paseo de Gracia is the Casa Batllo, whose interior is an incredible visit.
Immerse yourself in the aromas and flavors of Barcelona at La Boqueria market, famous for offering the quality and diverse products from all over the world! Since 1836, La Boqueria market has been the beating heart of Barcelona, and every day, more than 200 traders roll up their blinds to offer the choicest local and international gastronomic products. Stroll around the stalls selling fruits and vegetables, fish and meat, and taste the local products!
Take a journey back in time during a Gothic Quarter guided walking tour. You'll discover the historic city center finding Roman remains and medieval palaces in the heart of Barcelona. After visiting the Plaça de Sant Jaume, the current seat of local and regional government, you'll be able to visit unique landmarks sites, such as the Plaça del Rei, the historic powerhouse of medieval Catalonia; the Jewish Quarter, El Call; the cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Barcelona; and the Roman walls, important remains of which survive today.
Set in the heart of Barcelona, next to Plaça Catalunya and very close to the Gothic Quarter, the H10 Universitat offers full amenities for your stay in Barcelona. The recently refurbished hotel features comfortable rooms and a terrace on the top floor overlooking the city center. You'll have stylish, contemporary design, modern art, and state-of-the-art amenities at your disposal, along with easy access to many of the city's unique landmarks, thanks to a central location.
Your trip for two includes:
3 nights accommodations at H10 Puerta de Alcala in Madrid in a classic double with views
3 nights accommodations at H10 Universitat Hotel Barcelona in a superior double room
Breakfast daily
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Private half-day Art Triangle tour, including English-speaking guide and museum entrance tickets
Private Tapas walking tour, including English-speaking guide, three drinks and tapas
Roundtrip rail transfer from Madrid to Toledo rail station
Private half-day walking tour of Toledo, including private English speaking guide
First class Rail transfer from Madrid to Barcelona
Private half-day Gaudi monumental tour, including private English speaking guide, entrance fees to Sagrada Familia and Casa Battlo
Private Gourmet visit of Boqueria market, including private English speaking guide and food & drink tastings
Private half-day Gothic Quarter walking tour, including private English speaking guide
All room-related taxes (including VAT)
Free concierge reservation service
Item Special Note
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Passport required for travel outside the U.S. Tours run on specific days of the week and at specific times. Hotel may be substituted with equal or similar accommodations. Local city taxes are the responsibility of the passenger and required to be paid directly to hotel. A minimum 45 day advance reservation is required. Please email us at auction@stmaryhs.org to find out deadline to travel.