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Madrid - Monumental Cities overview
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Destination: Madrid
Tour Duration: 7 Days and 6 Nights
Price per Person: From €399 euros
Tour Route: Toledo – Ávila – Segovia –
El Escorial – Madrid
Tour Description:
Monumental cities one thousand years old, where echoes of different cultures
abound, each one having left its mark over the passage of time. Several World
Heritage Sites, breathtaking monuments and supreme cuisine in the heart of the
Iberian Peninsula. And to finish Madrid, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain.
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Itinerary: Day 1
They say that if you only spend one day in Spain, spend it in Toledo. With more
than two thousand years history, the city has been characterized by its ability
to attract and merge the many different cultures in Spanish history, making Toledo
today a rich example of national history. The tolerance and integration of its
inhabitants has resulted in a city that is an authentic open-air museum,
reflecting the peaceful coexistence of Christians, Arabs and Jews that existed for
centuries. The visitor is immersed in unforgettable surroundings consisting of
churches, synagogues, mosques, the cathedral and the Jewish quarter. Declared a
UNESCO world heritage site, Toledo comfortably boasts the largest historic centre
in Spain.
YOUR HOTEL: Quality hotel of special charm in the historical centre.
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Itinerary: Day 2
Continue on your journey towards the walled city of Avila. Declared a UNESCO
world heritage site. Hidden behind the walls are many fine examples of Renaissance
churches and palaces, witnesses of the city’s past splendour. The medieval air
that enshrouds the province’s capital transports the visitor back to glorious
times of battles and nobility, when a city’s importance depended on its ability to
defend itself.
Walking the imposing walls is the best way to get to know Avila. The city’s oldest
and most emblematic monument stretches for two kilometres and has been carefully
restored and preserved. Soak up this medieval paradise, capable of captivating at
first sight anyone passionate about history, art or architecture.
YOUR HOTEL: Historical building with a noble atmosphere in front of the Cathedral.
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Itinerary: Day 3
Return to the wheel and make your way to Segovia. The old city and the famous
Roman aqueduct are UNESCO world heritage sites. As with the other cities on the
tour, Segovia is easy to get to know on foot. Walk the pedestrianized streets
which take you beneath the aqueduct - a jewel of Roman engineering - until
reaching the Plaza Mayor and the fantastic Cathedral. And at the other end of the
walled centre, you’ll eventually catch sight of the Alcázar, the majestic fortress
said to have inspired Walt Disney himself and his fairy tale castles. Climb to
the very top of the turreted tower and admire the landscape below.
YOUR HOTEL: Ancient palace renovated into a enchanting hotel in the historical centre.
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Itinerary: Day 4
Nearby to Segovia, is located the Real Sitio de la Granja de San Ildefonso, a
spectacular palace built in 1721. King Felipe V retreated here in 1724 and aspired
to create a residence comparable to the court of Versailles. The stunning rooms
and precious works of art leave a lasting impression on those who visit the
palace. But perhaps the most spectacular awaits outside: the gardens feature many
varied plant species and are adorned with statues and monumental fountains. The
complex is completed by the royal glass factory (La Real Fábrica de Cristales de
La Granja), an 18th century building with a permanent exhibition of the complex
art of glass making. Find your way back to Segovia and enjoy a relaxed evening.
YOUR HOTEL: Same as the previous night.
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Itinerary: Day 5
On your way, lies the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial with its famous palace
and monastery built by King Felipe II in 1563 as the royal pantheon. This complex,
also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds a valuable collection of works of art,
books, tapestries and frescos. Of particular interest are the Panteón de los
Reyes, where many of the monarchs of Spanish history are buried. The sheer scale
combined with the artistic and historic value of the complex, makes a visit to the
Monasterio de El Escorial one to remember.
Continue on your journey to the last stop which requires no introduction: Madrid.
The capital of Spain, is a cosmopolitan city that effortlessly combines its
identity as financial and administrative centre with its immense artistic and
cultural heritage. Madrid is a dynamic and open-minded city; lively and welcoming
it receives all visitors with open arms. But if anything characterises Madrid, it
must be its deep lust for life, evident in the friendly manner of its people.
Let yourself be influenced by its passion and get out and discover the streets of
Madrid, which in themselves offer a 24 hour show!
YOUR HOTEL: Quality hotel of special character in the city centre.
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Itinerary: Day 6
The day unravels with an infinity of possibilities from which to choose from.
Nearby the dazzling Palacio Real (Royal Palace), the Opera House and the modern
Catedral de la Almudena where was celebrated the wedding between Prince Felipe and
Doña Letizia. Close by is the Puerta del Sol and the Puerta de Alcalá, one of the
most photographed monuments in the capital. Here begins also the so called “Avenue
of the Arts” thanks to the spectacular museums that border it: the Reina Sofía,
the Thyssen-Bornemisza and the Prado. The Paseo del Arte also encompasses Madrid’s
Botanic Gardens, a delightful place to visit for those who enjoy the art of plants
and gardens. Football fans won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the Real
Madrid stadium.
And when the night falls, experience again the lively and friendly night of Madrid.
A good dinner and lots of fun is guaranteed!
YOUR HOTEL: Same as the previous night.
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Itinerary: Day 7
If it’s Sunday, you should head to the Rastro. The market known as "el Rastro" is
not only one of the oldest ones of Madrid, but it is also one of the most modern
market places of the city. To fully appreciate its essence, the best thing to do
is to walk its streets, blend in with the crowd, learn the art of bargaining, and
to let its ambiance enthral you! In the same area you can enjoy different drinks
and tapas in the local bars.
Another unmissable place to visit is the Retiro park, former recreation grounds of
the Spanish royals. Have fun watching a puppet show, let the future be revealed by
a fortune teller, revive yourself with a massage, listen to live music, get some
exercise, splash around in a rowing boat, or simply relax with the newspaper or a
book under a tree. An authentic open air show to end your journey!
Without a doubt, there will be more you would have liked to have done and seen.
But don’t worry, it’s best not to do everything so there will always be a reason
to return.
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