Independent Barcelona & Madrid City Stay

Independent Barcelona & Madrid City Stay

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Independent Barcelona & Madrid City Stay

7 Days Starting in Barcelona, Spain and ending in Madrid, Spain

Visiting: Barcelona, Madrid

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

M5A-2025

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

They say good things come in twos. This is doubly true on a Globus Independent City Stay featuring two of Spain’s most iconic and loved cities—Barcelona and Madrid. From the magnificent “work in progress”, the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, to the dazzling beaches and dizzying passion of the Flamenco, Barcelona is alive with inspiration. You’ll also find no shortage of captivating reasons to love Madrid; as greats like Goya, El Greco, Dalí, and Picasso himself illustrated. What original masterpiece of memories will you create during your I-Time to make this Independent City Stay of Spain uniquely yours?

Highlights

  • Welcome to Barcelona! Stunning architecture, dazzling beaches, vibrant markets, and delicious dishes.

  • Discover the main attractions of the Gothic Quarter, including Guell Palace, the Gothic Cathedral, Boqueria Market, La Rambla, and Placa del la Catalunya.

  • Experience the powerful expressions of Flamenco with a traditional Spanish buffet dinner.

  • Visit the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, an unfinished masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi.

  • Take a panoramic view from the top of Arena de Barcelona, a converted bull ring.

  • Explore Madrid's iconic sights including San Miguel market, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Cibeles fountain.

  • Stroll through Toledo, the former Spanish capital known as the "City of Three Cultures."

  • Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, housing masterpieces by Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco.

Places You'll See

Melia Barcelona Sarria

Voco Madrid Retiro

Crowne Plaza Madrid Centre Retiro

Melia Barcelona Sarria

Voco Madrid Retiro

Crowne Plaza Madrid Centre Retiro

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive In Barcelona,Spain

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation Name: Innside by Melia Barcelon Apolo

ARRIVE IN BARCELONA, SPAIN Welcome to Barcelona! A Globus local Host will be waiting to welcome you at the hotel between 5pm and 7pm. Free time this afternoon.Today's I-Time TipsYour first encounter with this captivating city will reveal to you why the motto, “Barcelona Inspires,” is true. Stunning architecture, dazzling beaches, vibrant markets and delicious dishes, this city has so much to offer. For your first taste of the city, take a seat in a sidewalk cafè and soak up the lively atmosphere. Your GlobusGO mobile app has all the dining tips you need.

Day 2: Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation Name: Innside by Melia Barcelon Apolo

Meals Included: Breakfast

BARCELONA Follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to discover the main attractions of the Gothic Quarter. Admire Güell Palace, the Gothic Cathedral, Boqueria Market, La Rambla, and Placa del la Catalunya. (B)Today's I-Time Tips This evening, join an optional excursion to experience one of Spain’s cultural treasures – the Flamenco! Enjoy a traditional Spanish buffet dinner with drinks and lose yourself in the powerful expressions of love, joy, and pain as professional performers tell their tales through rhythm, lyrics, guitar, and dance. Olé! More free time and entertainment tips can be found on your GlobusGO app.

Day 3: Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation Name: Innside by Melia Barcelon Apolo

Meals Included: Breakfast

BARCELONA The day is yours to explore as you please. (B)Today's I-Time TipsOne of Barcelona’s “must-sees” is the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, a testament to the masterwork of Antoni Gaudi. Built on the reliance of donations since the first stone was laid more than 130 years ago, the iconic church remains an unfinished masterpiece and the world’s longest-running construction project. Other examples of Gaudi’s work can be found around the city, one of the most famous being the Casa Batlló on the elegant boulevard Passeig de Gràcia. Take a ride to the top of Arena de Barcelona, a converted bull ring that now houses shops and restaurants for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. More must-see sights are all at your fingertips with your GlobusGO mobile app.

Day 4: Barcelona,Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Novotel Madrid Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

BARCELONA–MADRID Travel by high-speed train to Madrid. A Globus Local Host will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon and evening. (B)Today's I-Time Tips The city of Madrid has so much to offer filled with intriguing stories and hidden secrets. Stroll around the streets and take pictures of “El Osoy y el Madrono” (The bear and the strawberry tree), the biggest symbol of the city. This evening why not join an optional dinner excursion to try typical Spanish dishes at a local restaurant. Find more gastronomic suggestions on the GlobusGO app.

Day 5: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Novotel Madrid Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

MADRID This morning’s guided walking tour features some of Madrid’s most iconic sights including San Miguel market, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and the Cibeles fountain. (B)Today's I-Time TipsJoin an optional excursion to Toledo the former Spanish capital, one of Europe’s best preserved walled medieval cities, known as the “City of Three Cultures”. Stroll along the cobblestone alleyways to experience this cultural melting pot of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian influence, evident in the city’s well-preserved synagogues, mosques, and cathedrals. Join the locals for a stroll through the Parque de el Buen Retiro, a green oasis in the city centre which was formerly only accessible to royals. More free time ideas can be found on your GlobusGO mobile app.

Day 6: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Novotel Madrid Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

MADRID The day is yours to explore as you please. (B)Today's I-Time TipsMadrid is home to some wonderful art galleries, including the Prado Museum which houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including amazing masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. If contemporary Spanish art is more to your taste, the Reina Sofia Museum has a wonderful collection including works by Dalí, Miró and Picasso. For more hints on Madrid’s museums, check out your GlobusGO app.

Day 7: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Novotel Madrid Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

MADRID Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at Innside by Melia Barcelon Apolo in Barcelona and Novotel Madrid Center in Madrid.

  • Meals

    Daily breakfast is included.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided walking tours in Barcelona and Madrid, including visits to major attractions such as the Gothic Quarter, Guell Palace, and San Miguel market.

  • Transportation

    High-speed train travel from Barcelona to Madrid.

  • Local Host

    A Globus local host will be available in both Barcelona and Madrid to assist you.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions such as the Flamenco show in Barcelona and the Toledo tour in Madrid are not included.

  • Lunch and Dinner

    Lunch and dinner are not included in the package.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and tips are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from Spain are not included.

Accommodation

Barcelona: Innside by Melia Barcelon Apolo. Madrid: Novotel Madrid Center.

Meals

6 Breakfasts

Check out our Q&As

  • What can I expect on the first day in Barcelona?

    On the first day in Barcelona, you will be welcomed by a Globus local host at the hotel between 5pm and 7pm. You will have free time in the afternoon to explore the city, perhaps by sitting in a sidewalk café and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

  • What are some of the main attractions covered in the walking tour of Barcelona?

    The walking tour of Barcelona includes the main attractions of the Gothic Quarter, such as Güell Palace, the Gothic Cathedral, Boqueria Market, La Rambla, and Placa del la Catalunya.

  • Is there an optional activity available in Barcelona?

    Yes, there is an optional excursion to experience Flamenco, which includes a traditional Spanish buffet dinner with drinks.

  • What is a must-see in Barcelona on the third day?

    A must-see in Barcelona on the third day is the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi. Other notable sites include Casa Batlló and the Arena de Barcelona for panoramic views.

  • How will I travel from Barcelona to Madrid?

    You will travel from Barcelona to Madrid by high-speed train.

  • What are some of the highlights of the guided walking tour in Madrid?

    The guided walking tour in Madrid features iconic sights such as San Miguel market, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Cibeles fountain.

  • Is there an optional excursion available in Madrid?

    Yes, there is an optional excursion to Toledo, a well-preserved medieval city known as the 'City of Three Cultures.'

  • What are some recommended art galleries to visit in Madrid?

    In Madrid, you can visit the Prado Museum, which houses one of the world's largest art collections, and the Reina Sofia Museum, which features contemporary Spanish art including works by Dalí, Miró, and Picasso.

  • What happens on the last day of the tour?

    On the last day of the tour, your vacation ends with breakfast in Madrid.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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