Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Spain's Total Solar Eclipse Experience & More

Spain is about to become the VIP lounge for sky-gazers. Mark your calendars for 2026, 2027, and 2028. For three glorious years, Spain will host the first total solar eclipses of the 21st century in continental Europe. Sun, meet moon. Spectacle, meet Spain. Featuring Barcelona, Valencia, Córdoba, Seville, Madrid, and Segovia. 

Eclipse Viewing 
Solar Eclipse in 2026 - August 12
Solar Eclipse in 2027 - August 2 
Solar Eclipse in 2028 - January 26 
 
✈️ Day 1 – Tuesday, August 4: Arrival in Barcelona.   

Welcome to Barcelona! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Barcelona! Upon arrival, you’ll be whisked away to your comfortable accommodation, where you’ll spend two unforgettable nights in the cosmopolitan heart of Catalonia. Barcelona, perched on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, is bursting with art, energy, and architectural wonders waiting to be explored. Get ready to fall in love with a city where every corner is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered! 

Day 2 – Wednesday, August 5: Day at Leisure in Barcelona (B) 

After breakfast, we'll embark on an unforgettable journey through Barcelona with our local guide. Our adventure begins in the enchanting Gothic Quarter, where winding lanes and serene plazas invite us to pause and soak in the rich history, including awe-inspiring 14th-century cathedrals. Yet, the city’s true magic unfurls as we encounter the visionary works of Antoni Gaudí. At the Sagrada Família, prepare to be captivated by a basilica in perpetual evolution—its soaring spires and intricate facades blending Gothic grandeur with the organic curves of Art Nouveau. Next, we’ll explore the whimsical world of Park Güell, where vibrant mosaics, playful sculptures, and sweeping vistas embody Gaudí’s imagination, offering a dreamlike escape from the ordinary. Our tour culminates at Casa Batlló, famously dubbed the "house of bones," where a dragon-inspired roof and fantastical shapes transform architecture into a living fairytale. Gaudí’s masterpieces are more than landmarks—they are stories carved in stone and tile, celebrating faith, nature, and the proud spirit of Catalonia. After the tour, the rest of the day and evening are yours to further explore the city's endless charms.

Day 3 – Thursday, August 6: Discovering Valencia (B) 
After breakfast, we’ll make our way to Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city. We’ll spend the next two nights soaking in its Mediterranean charm. 

This afternoon, we’re in for a treat as a local guide leads us on a walking tour exploring Valencia’s breathtaking art and architecture. We’ll start our adventure at the Torres de Serranos, the impressive old main gate of the medieval wall, where we’ll dive into a bit of Valencian history and its deep connections with the Turia River and the city’s many ancient walls. From there, we’ll stroll to the Palau de la Generalitat and unravel the stories behind the many grand buildings scattered around the lively Barrio del Carmen. Prepare to be amazed at our next stop: San Nicolás, known as the "Valencian Sistine Chapel." Here, you’ll find almost 2,000 square meters of brilliantly restored frescoes that are simply mesmerizing—twice the surface area of those in Rome's Sistine Chapel! Our journey continues at the La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spectacular example of civil Gothic architecture highlights Valencia’s rich trading past, especially its silk heritage, and is a testament to the city’s importance as a Mediterranean commercial powerhouse. To round out our tour, we’ll visit the iconic Valencia Cathedral, built atop the remains of a Roman temple and a mosque, before ending at the beautiful Plaza de la Virgen, where a basilica and cathedral share the same vibrant square.  

After our tour and checking into our hotel, the evening is on your own to enjoy. 

Day 4 – Friday, August 7: Paella Cooking Class (B) (L) 

Get ready for a true taste of Valencia! This morning, we'll meet our local guide and head to the vibrant Mercado Central de Valencia, where you'll handpick the freshest ingredients for Spain's most iconic dish—paella. Next up, it's time to tie on your apron and join a live cooking class with a professional chef, who will share all the insider tips and tricks on how to make authentic Valencia-style paella. Once your paella masterpiece is ready, it's time to relax and enjoy a feast of your very own homemade paella. The afternoon and evening are yours to explore at your own pace, whether you want to wander the charming streets or simply soak up the sun on a golden sand beach. 

Day 5 – Saturday, August 8: Journey to Córdoba (B) (D)

After breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to vibrant Valencia and set off on a scenic journey across the Sierra de Andújar to Córdoba, affectionately known as the “City of Flowers.” Once we arrive, our local guide will lead us on an unforgettable tour of the iconic Mezquita—Córdoba’s stunning 8th-century Mosque-Cathedral and one of Spain’s most visited landmarks. With its breathtaking arches and fascinating history, the Mezquita beautifully preserves its Islamic roots, having started as a mosque before becoming a grand Catholic cathedral. 

Our adventure continues with a guided stroll through the enchanting Jewish Quarter, where we’ll explore the historic Synagogue, browse the lively Arabic market, and pause at the impressive bronze statue of Maimonides, the famed medieval Sephardic philosopher. Our final stop, the Zoco Artesanal de Córdoba, is a delightful market nestled in the heart of the quarter, where local artisans display their exquisite ceramics, leather goods, and intricate filigree work. After checking into our hotel, you’ll have free time to relax or discover more of Córdoba on your own.  In the evening, we’ll gather to enjoy a delicious dinner at a charming local restaurant—perfect for sharing stories and savoring the flavors of Andalucía together! 

Day 6 – Sunday, August 9: Seville Adventure (B) (D)
After breakfast, we’ll bid farewell to Córdoba and journey on to the enchanting city of Seville. Known for its rich history and lively culture, Seville is a feast for the senses—think Moorish and Christian architecture, exciting flamenco shows, and mouthwatering tapas at every corner.  Upon arrival, we’ll meet our friendly local guide who will show us two of Seville’s absolute must-sees: the breathtaking Royal Alcázar, Europe's oldest royal palace, and the awe-inspiring Seville Cathedral with its iconic Giralda tower. Afterward, you’ll have time to settle into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your own pace. To cap off this wonderful day, we’ll gather together for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant—perfect for sharing stories and new memories! 

Day 7: Monday, August 10: Journey from Seville to the Majestic Alhambra (B) 

After breakfast, we set off on a day trip to the Alhambra in Granada. Known as the backdrop for the legendary Thousand and One Nights, the Alhambra’s courtyards and rooms have inspired countless tales, including those penned by American writer Washington Irving. Prepare to be captivated by the history and intricate Moorish architecture of this iconic palace complex—a once-fortified city that housed over two thousand inhabitants and served as the royal court of the Nasrid kingdom.  Perched high on the Sabika hill, today, its lofty vantage point offers breathtaking views of the Sacromonte caves, the Albaicín district, and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.  No visit is complete without exploring the stunning contrasts between the Nasrid Palace, with its exquisite Islamic artistry, and the Renaissance grandeur of the Palace of Charles V. Each palace represents a unique chapter in the Alhambra’s history, offering a fascinating blend of cultures and architectural styles. Our tour concludes at the Generalife gardens, once the sultans’ summer retreat.  Returning to Seville, the rest of the day and evening is on your own.

Day 8 – Tuesday, August 11, 2026:  Madrid 
Get ready for an exciting journey as we head to Madrid, Spain’s stately capital! Famous for its elegant boulevards and lush, expansive parks, Madrid welcomes us with its timeless charm. Once we arrive, our adventure begins with a guided tour of the magnificent Royal Palace of Madrid. Although the palace is the official residence of the King of Spain, the royal family doesn’t actually live here—it’s reserved for grand state ceremonies and official events, making every visit feel truly special. Step inside one of the largest inhabited palaces in Europe, boasting an impressive 3,418 rooms, 870 windows, and 240 balconies! Steeped in history since Carlos III first took residence in 1764, the palace is a masterpiece of Spanish architecture. After soaking in the grandeur, we’ll check into our hotel and look forward to a delightful evening together with dinner and an authentic Flamenco show—an experience you’ll never forget!

Day 9: Wednesday, August 12: Madrid to Segovia for the Solar Eclipse 

This morning is yours to savor Madrid at your own rhythm. Whether you choose to wander through the city’s charming neighborhoods, relax with a cup of coffee at a local café, or seek out some hidden gems, you’ll find plenty of ways to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.  After lunch, we’ll head to the enchanting city of Segovia, famous for its breathtaking Roman aqueduct. Upon arrival, our local guide will lead us on a city tour, sharing fascinating stories and must-see highlights that bring Segovia’s rich history to life.  As evening approaches, we’ll gather together for a truly unforgettable experience: witnessing about one minute of totality just before sunset. Thanks to Segovia’s inland location and typically clear skies, it’s an ideal spot to admire this rare celestial event. Witnessing a total eclipse is a truly extraordinary experience—one that hasn’t occurred on the Iberian Peninsula since 1912!  After our awe-inspiring moment in Segovia, we’ll return to Madrid for a relaxing evening, leaving you with memories of one of nature’s most spectacular events.

Day 10 - Depart for Home
After breakfast, we depart for the airport for our flight home.

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