Compare Spain by Train Singles Vacations by Best Single Travel vs Premium Spain by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: Barcelona, Spain

Land at the Barcelona airport and take the provided shuttle to the group's hotel, located right in the very heart of Las Ramblas. Throughout history, theaters, music cafes and flamenco bars have opened up in this area. It brings together the bustling and cosmopolitan culture, leisure, traditional gastronomy, popular places and all types of shops.

Tonight meet and greet with your tour leader and your fellow single travelers then walk to a local restaurant for an optional dinner.

Day 2: Barcelona

Discover the ancient, medieval and modern sights of Barcelona on our full day guided tour of this marvelous city. Stroll along the district's streets, squares and old buildings, learn about the quarter's history and people. Our morning will start will with a tour of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, the center of the old town. Alongside the medieval buildings are remains of an ancient Roman city, and the Temple d'August, the best preserved Roman relic in Barcelona. One of the main attractions, right in the heart of the district is the huge Cathedral, Santa Spain Making PaellaMaria del Mar. This Gothic church was built in the 14th Century in only 55 years. Then we board our bus for a panoramic tour of the city. Enjoy spectacular views over Barcelona including the Waterfront, with the Old Port and Montjuic Hill where we will see the Olympic Ring.

Then it is time to hit the local market with our private Spanish chef. It is all about Paella and Sangria. Enjoy hands on cooking of the famous Spanish dish, paella and learn how to make the fruity Sangria. Then we get to eat and drink what we made.

Day 3: Barcelona

After breakfast we will hop on the hop-on hop-off bus and travel to the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece and Barcelona's most popular attraction. Visit the crypt were Gaudí is buried and central nave with its giant, tree-like pillars and spectacular vaulting. We can also visit the towers. An elevator and a long walk leads us to the top of a tower where a magnificent view over Barcelona awaits.

After our tour of the Sagrada Família your afternoon is at leisure. Use the hop-on bus to finish your day in Barcelona.

Day 4: Barcelona to Seville

This morning we transfer to the Barcelona train station for our train to Seville, where Flamenco dancing originates an its rich tradition continues today in the city's 'tablaos'. It is 620 miles to Seville, so sit back and enjoy the leisurely high-speed train ride and beautiful countryside as we speed towards our next destination. Time to relax after we transfer to our hotel, before tonight's entertainment and dinner at the Tablao Flamenco El Palacio Andaluz Restaurant. The sound of the guitarists frantically plucking their guitars, the rhythmic clapping and the sound of pounding heels on stage will fully grab your attention as do the colorful swirling flamenco dresses and the beautiful dancers who wear them. Palacio Andaluz has a large cast of flamenco dancers, musicians, singers and clappers and many of them are award-winning artists in the flamenco world. During the show, the dancers will perform many different styles of flamenco, from the bulerias to the soleares, fandangos, sevillanas and more.

Day 5: Seville

Put on your walking shoes for our morning guided tour of Seville. Enter the Maestanza Bullring, built in 1761, a landmark in Spanish bullfighting, Visit the Alcázar of Seville, a royal palace built by Moorish Muslim kings and  renowned as one of the most beautiful in Spain. The upper levels of the Alcázar are still used by the royal family as the official Seville residence. We will climb the ramp to the top of Giralda Tower for spectacular views of Seville Cathedral and visit Seville Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral.

Time to relax as we cruise along the Guadalquivir River. The former capital of Spain hugs the east bank of the river and a cruise offers wonderful views of  Seville's wonderful landmarks. From our vantage point on the Guadalquivir view the magnificent Tower of Gold, Maestranza Bullring and the Saint Telmo Palace. After our cruise the rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 6: Seville to Cordoba

A short morning train ride takes us to a thousand-year-old city, Cordoba, a living legacy of different cultures that settled there throughout its history. From the Carthaginians to the Romans and 10th century Arabs, Cordoba achieved world renown as a center of learning, governance and culture. The historic quarter of Cordoba, once home to the Jewish community consists of a beautiful network of small streets and squares all arranged around the city’s impressive Mesquita, one of the largest mosques in the world. Our local guide will show us the incredible Great Mosque and the Spain Cordoba Horse Showruins of Medina Azahara. Other sites we will see include El Puente Romano, the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, with its remarkable Arabian baths and Roman mosaics, and an ancient Jewish synagogue, one of the few synagogues left in Spain today.

Tonight we enjoy a Cordoba special show, the unique Passion and "Duende" Equestrian show is the historic 15th century Royal Stables, which reveals the beauty, intelligence and nobleness of the native Andalusian Horse, as well as the skill of the riders.

Day 7: Cordoba to Madrid

Our final train ride takes us to Madrid, once an Arabian Fortress, now a thriving cultural center bursting with monuments, galleries and museums. Upon arrival at the Madrid Atocha Train Station we take a short walk to our hotel for check-in. Our vacation continues with a guided panoramic tour of Madrid through its many historic neighborhoods, down medieval streets, across majestic squares and through 1200 years of history. We'll take the Cable Car to see Madrid from a different view, overflying parks, streets Spain Mercado de San Migueland monuments. Appearing on one side is historical Madrid and on the other side Modern Madrid, with skyscrapers and the Four Towers.

We will stop at Plaza Mayor, the center of festivities, bull fights, royal coronations and executions. Then we will stop at the Mercado de San Miguel, the last iron market hall in Madrid. as there are a number of cafés and mini-restaurants that offer specialty food, from tapas to foreign food, it will be a perfect place to eat.

Day 8: Madrid - Toledo

On our guided morning tour, see Madrid the way it should be seen by walking from the heart of the city through both twisted medieval streets and down grand boulevards. Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, including the magnificent Plaza de Armas, the main staircase, the Throne Room, the Gasparini Hall and the Royal Chapel. The rooms are filled with beautiful examples of decorative art and furniture.

This afternoon we travel 43-miles to Toledo, known as the city of three cultures, where Christians, Jews and Arabs lived together in harmony. The whole town has been declared a National Monument, including the houses, the streets, the churches and the palaces with its treasures and artisan crafts. We will explore the imperial city of Toledo, one of the oldest cities in Europe and home to works of El Greco's art, on our afternoon guided tour.  View the medieval castle, with its storybook fortified towers, and the stunning Moorish architecture of Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue, Europe’s oldest synagogue.

Day 9: Madrid

To give everyone a chance to explore all the sites of Madrid, including the many art museums at your own pace or shop till you drop, today is a day at leisure.

Tonight our Farewell Dinner is located at Gula Gula, a restaurant-cabaret and show and one of the top 10 Drag shows in the world, Enjoy a generous buffet while a DJ and the outlandish waiters... waitresses?... wait STAFF create a lively, good-humored atmosphere.

Day 10: Depart Madrid

After a final breakfast we have to say "hasta la proxima" (till we meet again) to all our new single travel friends as we are transferred to the airport and our flights home

Day 1 Madrid

Beinvenido – welcome to Spain! Your adventure begins in Madrid, a city filled with elegant boulevards, manicured parks and superb cuisine. You will be collected from the airport on arrival and transferred to your hotel, where you will meet your leader and small group for a welcome meeting this evening. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the Museo del Prado, then discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia. Finish at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which displays eight centuries of European painting. Your Spanish adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:30pm. Once the formalities are out of the way get to know your leader and group over dinner at a wonderful restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.

Day 2 Madrid

Travel to the city of Toledo this morning. The unique old town of this city sits on a high craggy rock and is encircled by the Tagus River. As a former capital of Spain, Toledo has immense historic significance and holds many architectural treasures. Examples of buildings from most architectural periods in Spain’s history can be seen here, from the Gothic to the Baroque. Today you’ll experience Toledo’s culture in the form of a marzipan tasting. While a few countries compete for the rights, the Spanish argue that marzipan was invented in Toledo. Either way, the sweet treat made from almond meal, honey and sugar has been produced in this city for generations, and is some of the world’s best. Find out how it’s made, its significance to Toledo, and taste some yourself. Return to Madrid for a free afternoon – you may like to check out the Royal Palace, or stroll around the Parque del Retiro.

Day 3 Seville

Travel from Madrid to Seville by train.The largest city in southern Spain,Seville is famous for its cultural vitality and dazzling architecture.On arrival, check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, a gorgeous family-run boutique hotel.Housed in 27 typical Sevillian cottages with patios and corridors connecting them,the hotel  celebrates its roots with its elegant décor and antique furnishings.Walking about the hotel's interior is like taking a stroll through centuries-old parts of the city: statues, floors, columns, amphorae, jugs, all create the impression that you are in a living museum.Personal touches are everywhere, from incredibly friendly service to hand painted details in the rooms and the owner’s great-grandmother’s shawl hanging in reception. Not to mention, the hotel boasts an unbeatable location on the Alameda de Hercules, lined with cafes, restaurants and music venues. This evening, join your group for a live flamenco show – a traditional Spanish style of dance with roots in Seville. This colourful, lively and rousing performance will certainly be one to remember.

Day 4 Seville

This morning, meet with a local guide who’s an expert on all things Seville and get to know the city during a walking tour. Explore narrow streets, hidden squares filled with orange trees and flower-adorned patios as your guide provides local insight into the history of the city and how it’s enjoyed today. Visit the Alcazar of Seville, a grand royal palace, and uncover its secrets with your guide. Known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Spanish royal family still to this day use the Alcazar as their residence in Seville. The rest of the afternoon is yours for further discoveries - you may wish to take an optional visit to the Giralda Tower and the famous Seville Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest cathedrals and home to Christopher Columbus’ elevated tomb.

Day 5 Cordoba

Today you will journey to the city of Cordoba, where Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences are present in the architecture, culture and cuisine, via a private transfer. Cordoba is also home to the Mezquita – a rare site which has served as both a mosque and a cathedral throughout the centuries. Today a cathedral stands within the centre of this amazing mosque – an interesting example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in Spain. Discover this supreme example of Islamic architecture on a comprehensive guided tour with your leader which continues outside of the Mezquita and explores the charming quarters and hidden corners of Cordoba.

Day 6 Granada

Depart Cordoba and travel to Granada. Along the way, you will learn more about the importance of olive oil production in the Andalucia region by visiting an oil mill. Let the passionate owner of the family-run business walk you through the process of olive oil production, and taste some different variations of the final result yourself, along with olives, olive marmalade, olive pate and wine. On arrival, check in to your hotel. This evening, perhaps head out to explore Granada’s drinking and dining scene with your group.

Day 7 Granada

This morning you will get acquainted with Granada during an orientation walk with your leader. Learn the fascinating history of the city and discover Islamic architecture and Arab influences at every turn. Enjoy some time for your own explorations of the city – perhaps head to a local teahouse to sample some Moorish pastries. In the afternoon, join an expert local guide for a tour of Alhambra and its perfectly manicured gardens. Dating back to the 11th century, Alhambra represents Muslim art in its final European stages. With ancient defensive walls, turrets and fountains set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, touring this magnificent site is an experience that will stick with you. After seeing the monumental Alhambra during the day, join your group for an included dinner at a nearby restaurant. After this break you’ll return to the Alhambra after dark and explore the famed Nasrid Palaces with your local guide. By now the crowds have dispersed and you are free to explore the site in all its glory. Your guide will bring history to life and provide expert insight as you explore the dominating red fortress towers, opulent palace decor and a multitude of architectural styles through the intricate Nasrid Palaces.

Day 8 Valencia

Depart Granada and travel to Valencia. Along the way you will travel through the distinctive countryside of the region and pass through Elche, capital of the region of Bajo Vinalopó. The historic quarter of Elche preserves part of its Muslim past and Baroque splendour. Walk around palm tree grove, one of the largest and the only one in Europe. Your leader will explain how the grove was established by the Phoenicians and expanded by the Arabs in the 8th and 9th centuries. The palmeral consists of several parts spreading across downtown. Then it's on to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, to soak up its unique cultural identity and explore the old town centre that dates back 2000 years. On arrival, you’re free to explore the city and discover the harmonious mix of Roman, Muslim and Christian influences in its buildings, monuments and magnificent gardens.

Day 9 Valencia

Start the day with a short drive south of Valencia to discover Albufera Lake, an important ecological site of the region. The lake is surrounded by beach, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest, and is home to six small islands. You will visit the island of El Palmar and discover its typical ‘barraca’ houses. Travel by boat to the middle of the lake and learn about the important agricultural crop of the area, namely the local rice. Finish off with an included lunch of the most famous Valencian dish – paella. The rest of the day is yours to explore Valencia. You may like to visit the city's major landmark – the City of Arts and Science, a large and futuristic museum complex designed by Calatrava. Or perhaps head out to a local cafe to enjoy the treats that Valencia has to offer – from horchata to artisan chocolates, the city is a gastronomical heaven.

Day 10 Barcelona

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Valencia and travel to Barcelona. We arrive into Barcelona early afternoon. Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a ground-breaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget.  After a walking tour with your leader,  you’ll get to enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant with your group. Celebrate the final night of your trip as you dine on some of the region’s most delicious foods like olives, pickled garlic, lomo Iberico de Belotta, Catalan cheeses, olive oil, and sweet desserts.

Day 11 Barcelona

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you would like to extend your stay in Barcelona and delve deeper into this exciting city, please speak to your booking agent about arranging additional accommodation in advance (subject to availability).