Summer Tours – Page 4 – CONTINENTAL JOURNEYS

Depart:

Independent Tour-Land Only

5 Days/ 4 Nights

Daily April 1-October 31

Stockholm, “Beauty on Water,” is built on hundreds of islands. An attractive city with a true Scandinavian quality. the capital of Sweden which was once part of the Hanseatic League is today a cosmopolitan city. Stockholm has both cultural and historical places of interest as well as a wide variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and museums.

Gothenburg is known as “The Friendly City” with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Gothenburg is Sweden’s second largest city, after Stockholm. You should visit the fish market and historic center.

Price per Person:

Please Call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

4 nights superior tourist class/ first class accommodation with private facilities-Stockholm-Hotel Stockholm, Gothenburg-Hotel Europa
Breakfast daily
2nd class rail ticket from Stockholm to Gothenburg or vice versa
City tour of each city
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Additional nights in Stockholm and/or Gothenburg available

Romantic Mariefred and Gripsholm Castle

Depart:

Independent Tour-Land Only

2 Days/ 1 Night

The picturesque town of Mariefred and its 16th century castle is the romantic setting for this short tour from Stockholm. A steamboat will take you from the Swedish capital through the scenic archipelago. In Mariefred, you wll stay in Sweden’s oldest country inn Gripsholms Vardshus. Spend the day strolling around the small streets and make stops at the quaint cafes and handicraft shops. Return to Stockholm, first by historical steam train until Laggesta where you will change to the high speed train to Stockholm.

Departures:

Daily (except Sundays) Mid-May until Mid-August

Price per Person:

Please Call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

Steamboat Stockholm-Mariefred
One night double room at the Gripsholms Vardshus (Inn)
Breakfast
1 dinner-drinks not included
Entrance to Gripsholms Castle
Vintage steam train-Mariefred-Laggesta
1st class rail Laggesta-Stockholm including seat reservation
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Stockholm-Mariefred
Late morning departure by steam boat from Stockholm “Klara Malarstrand” pier which is located by the City Hall to Mariefred. The cruise takes 3.5 hours. A cafeteria and dining room are on board. Early afternoon arrival to Mariefred. After check in at the historic and elegant Gripsholms Inn you will enjoy a visit to Gripsholm Castle. Dinner is included this evening.

Day 2 Mariefred-Stockholm
After breakfast you will depart by steam train on the historical railway between Mariefred and Laggesta. From Laggesta you will take the high speed train to Stockholm. Late afternoon arrival to the Swedish capital. You can extend your stay in Stockholm or continue with one of our many other tour options.

Additional nights at the Gripsholms Vardshus Inn are available.

Pre and post tour nights in Stockholm available.

Gotland Island

Depart:

Gotland has been the main hub of the Baltic region for centuries. The medieval city of Visby was once one of the most important places in the Baltic region, and today it is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. Stroll around the medieval streets where merchants once sold their wares and discover the old town with its ring wall, cobble stoned streets, the cathedral and the beautiful monastery ruins. Naturally you are never far from the sea on Gotland, Sweden’s largest island. Gotland’s fantastic unspoiled countryside is ideal for touring on foot or bicycle and by car, and there is always something new to discover. Gotland has some magnificent sandy beaches, plenty of restaurants, and charming artist shops.

Independent Tour-Land Only

5 Days/ 4 Nights

Daily May 1-October 31

Price per Person:

Please Call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

4 nights superior tourist class and first class hotels with private facilities
Breakfast daily
Transportation as per itinerary
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Stockholm
Arrival in Stockholm Self transfer to your hotel. Day at leisure to enjoy Stockholm. Explore the cities well-preserved medieval buildings that stand alongside modern architecture. Just outside the city, the archipelago of 24 000 islands is definitely worth visiting. Sights of interest include the Vasa Museum, Skansen Open Air Museum, City Hall and of course the Old Town (Gamla Stan). Overnight at the Hellstens Malmgard or similar.

Day 2 Stockholm-Nynashamn-Visby
Breakfast at the hotel. Thereafter your journey continues by local train from Stockholm to Nynashamn where the ferry to Visby departs. The ferry transports you to Gotland from the Swedish mainland in approximately 3 hours. After arrival, check in at the Clarion Hotel Wisby. In the afternoon we suggest a stroll through the city to see the Ruins, 17th century wooden houses, the Cathedral of St: Mary and the famous Ring wall. The Ring wall is over 700 years old and 3.5 km long. In Visby, nothing is very far away. Overnight at the Hotel Solhem

Day 3 Visby
Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will have the opportunity not just to explore Visby but also the fantastic Island of Gotland. Your choices are many! We suggest a day excursion to the north-western parts of Gotland and the Lummelunda caves which is easily accessible by public bus. The cave is almost 4 km long and the Lummelunda creek is flowing trough the caves for approximately 1,3 km. If you donâ€Ÿt feel like going back to Visby just yet, continue by the same bus as you arrived with from Lummelunda to Lickershamn. Here you will find one of Gotlands most famous landmarks, Raukar. The Rauks, Stone stacks have been formed by the ocean for thousands of years. Donâ€Ÿt forget your camera while exploring these majestic rocks! On a sunny day we highly recommend a visit to the famous Tofta Strand (Tofta Beach), located just outside Visby town. Tofta is renowned for itâ€Ÿs long sandy white beach. Tofta is easily accessible by bus from Visby and departures several times a day. Please ask the reception staff for more details about departure points and time tables. Should you prefer beaches within walking distance we suggest Nordstrand (1 km from the city center) and Gustavsvik (3 km from the city center) overnight at the Best Western Hotel Solhem.

Day 4 Visby-Stockholm
Breakfast at the hotel. Check out from the hotel and take a short walk to the ferry terminal for departure to Nynashamn. From here you will take the train back to Stockholm. Self transfer to your hotel. Arriving in Stockholm you will have time to relax and explore the city further. Overnight at the Hellstens Malmgard or similar.

Day 5 Stockholm-End of Tour
Services end after breakfast. You can extend your stay in Stockholm or continue to Helsinki, or the Baltic States.

Additional nights available.

Car rental available.

Spitsbergen Fly and Stay

Depart:

Independent Tour

4 Days/3 Nights

Daily April 1-September 30

Longyearbyen is the gateway to the Arctic. The Norwegian administrative center is a small community with about 1,700 inhabitants. Here you can explore both the beautiful nature in the more civilized part of Svalbard as well as the exciting history by visiting historical places and the Svalbard Museum.

Price per Person:

Call or Email for prices

Package Includes:

Round trip economy class airfare to Longyearbyen from Oslo
3 nights at the first class Radisson SAS Polar Hotel with private facilities
Breakfast Daily
Choice of one day tour: Barentsburg, Pyramiden or Tempelfjord tour-depending on weather and availability.
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Additional nights in Longyearbyen available

Barentsburg Tour: Visit the Russian mining community Barentsburg where an English speaking guide will give you a briefing. You will have some time to explore on your own. You will spend approximately one hour and a half in the settlement near the Gronfjord. On the way there you will take part in a photo safari along the bird cliffs and in Coles Bay. On the return journey you will cross the Isfjord to the mighty Esmark Glacier. You will need to dress in warm, windproof clothing.

Pyramiden day tour: On this boat trip you will get to visit the close by Russian mining town of Pyramiden. The town was abandoned in the summer of 1998, however the buildings and infrastructure is still intact. Once there, an English speaking guide will tell you about the story of the once busy mining town. On your way towards Billefjorden and Pyramiden you will pass the Tempelfjorden with a view towards the magnificient cathedral like Tempelfjellet. It is difficult not to be impressed by the special layered mountain formations along the Billefjorden. Further in the Billefjorden you will visit the Nordenskiold Glacier. Bring warm and windproof clothing.

Tempelfjord tour: You will enjoy a panoramic tour to the mighty glacier face of the Tuna/Von Post Glacier at the innermost reaches of the Tempelfjorden. The tour passes Fredheim, where the famous hunter Hilmar Nois lived. Along the way pass the impressive Tempelfjellet with its vertical mountain walls. Dress in warm and windproof clothing.

Encounter Spitsbergen

Depart:

Hosted Tour-Land Only

7 Days/6 Nights

Daily June 1-August 31

High Mountain peaks pointing to the sky, azure blue glacier fronts, unspoiled scenery and a magnificent wildlife. In combination with the high level of comfort at Basecamp Isfjord Radio and exciting days in the field, you will, during a week explore the wild and beautiful Isfjorden. The trip is suitable for anyone who likes to walk in the mountains, and would like to explore Svalbard’s unique nature. Make landings to go hiking in the varied terrain, observe arctic birds, study the glacier fronts and take a closer look at the areas for flora, fauna and cultural heritage.

Price per Person:

Please call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

6 nights accommodation described in itinerary.
Breakfast each morning
4 lunches-drinks not included
3 dinners-drinks not included
English speaking guide
Transportation between areas
Excursions as per itinerary
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Spitsbergen
On arrival at Longyear airport the airport coach will take you to Basecamp Trapperâ€Ÿs Hotel, Svalbardâ€Ÿs roughest and most special hotel! In the afternoon transfer to Basecamp Trapper Station in Bolterdalen. Here meet your 80 Alaskan Huskyâ€Ÿs. The guide teaches how to harness the dogs and after assembling your own team go summer-sledding on wheels! There are several restaurants and places to dine in Longyearbyen.Overnight in double rooms at the Basecamp Trapperâ€Ÿs Hotel or similar.

Day 2 Cruise to Isfjord
Breakfast in the Travelerâ€Ÿs Club. After a solid breakfast the guide will meet you in the hotel lounge. Get warm and waterproof clothing and then transfer to the quay and your open boats. Professional guides will go through safety routines before embarking. The vast Isfjord stretches more than 100km and these waters are filled with animals in the summer time. On the way, you will have time to enjoy the fantastic fjord and animal wildlife. After arrival at Isfjord Radio you are served a 2-course warm lunch and then itâ€Ÿs time to stretch your legs. Spend the afternoon in the vicinity of the bird sanctuary to have a closer look at wildlife. Basecamp is running research study on how to discover and avoid negative impact on wild life and everyone is welcome to help gather field data. In the evening, you will be served a 3 course dinner at the station. Accommodation in double rooms at Basecamp Isfjord radio. All rooms have a wonderful view.

Day 3 Isfjord
Breakfast at Basecamp Isfjord Radio. Your first morning walk along the fantastic coastline. The guide will tell stories about hunters and their tough life up here on Svalbard. The guide lectures on the geology, flowers and animal life in the area. Return to Isfjord Radio and a 2-course lunch. After lunch you can choose either to join the guide on a 4 hour trip to Linnï¿½vatnet, or just relax at the station. Perhaps browse the polar library and settle down with a good book. 3-course dinner in the station. Accommodation in double rooms at Basecamp Isfjord radio.

Day 4 Wilderness Day
In the morning pack for the expedition nights ahead. Around noon load up the boat and cross the vast Isfjord to the west coast of the fjord where you will land and put up a base camp. Expedition lunch in camp. In the afternoon go on a trekking trip. In the evening get familiarized with the tents and sleeping bags, polar bear precautions, and camp routines in general. Enjoy a 3-course dinner in the wild and then settle in for a cozy night. Accommodation in expedition tents, 2 persons per tent.

Day 5 Hiking day-Longyearbyen
Camp breakfast. After breakfast pack down the camp and go for a walk. Enjoy expedition lunch on the sea shore. Itâ€Ÿs then time to return to Longyearbyen and back to civilization again where a warm shower and drinks are awaiting you. The boat will pick you up in the afternoon. Transfer from the harbor to Basecamp Trapperâ€Ÿs Hotel. Check-in at the hotel. Enjoy dinner in one of the restaurants in Longyearbyen. Accommodation in double rooms at Basecamp Trapperâ€Ÿs Hotel or similar.

Day 6 Longyearbyen-End of Tour
Breakfast is served from 7 am. The morning is free to explore the city center of Longyearbyen, visit the museum or do some souvenir shopping. Departure for the airport shuttle bus at 1 pm.End of services.

Additional nights available.

BASECAMP TRAPPER’S HOTEL is situated in the city center of Longyearbyen, close to pubs, restaurants, the bank and shopping. The hotel has a rustic interior design. Furnished with drift wood, slate stones and seal skins. Although the interiors look a lot like the authentic cabins, all rooms contain separate and well equipped bathrooms and excellent beds. Luxury in a rough wrapping! An afternoon rest in the Travellers Club or the cozy lounge will give you a calm and serene sensation. The authentic atmosphere gives you an opportunity to relieve stress, forget the modern society and concentrate on your emotions within. You are surrounded by books, pictures and artifacts illustrating the history and life in Svalbard and the Arctic. Through the glass ceiling at the “Cognac loft” you can enjoy the arctic light and view the mountains surrounding us.

BASECAMP ISFJORD RADIO Situated on the outermost part of the Isfjord on the beautiful Nordenskiold coast framed by majestic mountains and overlooking the open sea, you will discover Isfjord radio at Kapp Linne. The newly renovated radio station has charming and cozy rooms with fantastic views, a lounge with a fireplace and a unique and interesting history. Until a few years ago, the radio station was an important connection for telecommunication between Svalbard and the rest of the world. The area surrounding the radio station has an exceptional animal life and a bird sanctuary where we find nesting birds right up to the stationâ€Ÿs walls. Along the shoreline petrels and gulls glide on the air currents and in the sea puffins and auks dive for food together with thousands of birds of many different species.

BASECAMP TENT CAMP Surrounded by steep mountains and calving glaciers, pitch your base camp. Out here you are alone with wilderness. The west coast of Isfjord is stunningly beautiful and home to a rich animal wildlife. In the waters here, the chance of spotting seals, whales, walruses and even polar bears are good. On land reindeer’s and foxes are busy finding food to build up a fat reserve for the winter. Overhead thousands of birds are flying by, while you are enjoying a three course gourmet dinner by the camp fire. Spend the night in warm sleeping bags inside your solid expedition tents. During the night hours, the sun is still high over head and you can experience the tranquility of the arctic when everyone else is sleeping; a truly wonderful experience!

Participants should be in good health and fitness. Meaning, you should be able to walk up to 5-6 miles per day in terrain with a small backpack. The expedition is not recommended if you are suffering from back problems. Travel in open boats and all participants are equipped with survival suits, warm hats and goggles.

We recommend warm and windproof clothing. One small backpack per person (waterproof if possible), one bigger backpack or field bag for camping gear. Solid hiking boots, hats, gloves and wool socks and underwear. Remaining luggage can be stored at Basecamp Spitsbergen. Remember to bring your camera and binoculars!

Wonderful Spain

Depart:

Independent Tour-Land Only

9 Days/ 8 Nights

Daily April 1-October 31

Price per Person:

Please Call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

8 nights hotel accommodation in superior tourist class and first class hotels all with private facilities
1 night on overnight train
Breakfast each morning
Round trip airport transfers
Sightseeing tours included as follows: 24hrs card – hop on & hop off (Madrid, Seville, Granada and Barcelona) Regular walking and guided tour in Cordoba
Train tickets-2nd class seats: Madrid-Cordoba-Cordoba-Seville-Seville-Granada-Barcelona
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Madrid
Upon arrival at the Madrid airport you will be transferred to your centrally located hotel. It is suggested you take advantage of the free time to get to know one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities. Home of the most typical restaurants and taverns, which serve the delicious “tapas”. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 2 Madrid
Buffet breakfast. Enjoy a city tour and get a glimpse of some of Madrid’s most outstanding attractions, like the Puerta del Sol, the magnificent fountains of Neptune and Cibeles, the stately Alcala Gate, the busy Gran Via, the Plaza de Espana and the Plaza de Oriente. Then you will have some time for shopping at the varied shops all around the city center. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 3 Madrid-Cordoba
Breakfast at the hotel Free time for shopping and departure to Cordoba by train in the afternoon. This ancient city has one of the world’s marvels, the former Great Mosque (now a cathedral). After arrival check in and enjoy one of the most beautiful and great Spanish cities. Overnight in Cordoba.

Day 4 Cordoba-Seville
Breakfast at the hotel and join one of the marvelous guided tours through the city. It includes the entrance to the Great Mosque, among many other of the city’s old town. Departure to Seville by train in the afternoon arrival to Seville. After check in, you will have the rest of the evening free. Overnight in Seville.

Day 5 Seville-Granada
In this morning’s sightseeing tour, you will be able to explore, after having breakfast at the hotel this gracious and charming city, Spain’s third largest. See the Tower of Gold, the tranquil and extensive Maria Luisa Park, the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter, and finally the huge cathedral (one of the world’s largest) with its Giralda Tower (a former minaret). In the evening departure to Granada by train. After passing thousands of acres of olive groves, you will get to Granada. Free evening. Overnight in Granada.

Day 6 Granada-Barcelona
Buffet breakfast. Enjoy a sightseeing tour through the city. Some of the highlights you may visit are the magnificent Alhambra and the verdant Gardens of the Generalife (entrance not included. Later we suggest a visit to the quaint and typical Albaicin quarter, where Andalusian customs, music and wine join to create an enchanting atmosphere. At 9.57pm departure to Barcelona by train, on an overnight trip.

Day 7 Barcelona
Arriving to Barcelona at 9.29am you will have time to do your pre-check in, leave your luggage at the hotel and go for a sightseeing tour in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. See the ancient Gothic Quarter with its magnificent cathedral. Stop to admire the exterior of Gaudi’s masterwork, the Basilica of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia). Continue to Montjuich Hill (site of the Olympic Stadium), to enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona and its port area. Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 8 Barcelona
Buffet breakfast. Some suggestions for today’s visits are the Pueblo Espanol, featuring architectural replicas from all of Spain’s regions and the Olympic Port area. Free time for shopping. Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 9 Barcelona-End of Tour
After breakfast you will be taken to the airport. You can extend your stay in Barcelona or continue with one of our other tours.

Additional nights available

Hotels:

Madrid:Hotel Rafael Ventas or similar
Cordoba:Hotel Eurostars Ciudad de Cordoba or similar
Seville:Hotel Tryp Macarena or similar
Granada:Hotel Alhamar or similar
Barcelona:Hotel NH Numancia or similar

The North of Spain

Depart:

Escorted Tour-Land Only

10 Days/ 9 Nights

2019 Departures:

March 30
April 13 and 27
May 11 and 25
June 8 and 22
July 6 and 20
August 3, 17 and 31
September 14 and 28
October 12 and 26
November 9

Price per Person:

In a double room using superior tourist class and first class hotels $1599
Single supplement $599

In a double room using superior first class hotels $1699
Single supplement $699

Package Includes:

9 nights hotel accommodation at hotel category selected all with private facilities
Round trip airport transfers (If arriving and departing on scheduled days)
Breakfast each morning
3 lunches-drinks not included
4 dinners-drinks not included
Transportation between cities
English speaking tour escort
Sightseeing as per itinerary
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Barcelona
Upon arrival at the Barcelona airport you will be transferred to your centrally located hotel. It is suggested that you take advantage of the free time to get to know one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities. In the evening you will enjoy dinner at the Pueblo Espanol, featuring architectural replicas from all of Spain’s regions. Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 2 Barcelona
Buffet breakfast. This morning enjoy an escorted tour of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. See the ancient Gothic Quarter with its magnificent cathedral. Stop to admire the exterior of Gaudi’s masterwork, the Basilica of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia). Continue to Montjuich Hill (site of the Olympic Stadium), to enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona and its port area. Lunch included. Afternoon is at leisure. Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 3 Barcelona-Zaragoza-San Sebatian-Bilbao
Buffet breakfast. Departure into old Aragon and into the proud city of Zaragoza. Visit the main plaza where you will have free time to visit the impressive Basilica of El Pilar and have lunch on your own. Continue on to the north coast and the beautiful Basque country, arriving to San Sebastian called ï¿½the pearl of the Cantabrique seeï¿½. Free time and continue to Bilbao for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 Bilbao-Oviedo
Buffet Breakfast. Short panoramic tour of the city and free time to visit the Guggenheim Museum. entrance fee included. Departure to Cantabria and the nice and small town of Santillana del Mar, very well preserved with a unique medieval ambiance. Free time in Santillana. Lunch included. Continue to Los Picos de Europa, one of the most spectacular landscapes of Spain, to visit the shrine of Covadonga. This evening overnight in Oviedo the capital of Asturias.

Day 5 Oviedo-A Coruna-Santiago de Compostela
Buffet Breakfast. Departure along the pristine green north coast from Asturias into Galicia and the town of Ribadeo where you will stop for a unique visit to the ï¿½Playa de Catedralesï¿½, a beach famous for its amazing rock formations visible only during low tide. Afterwards continue the route via Vilalba and Betanzos, where youï¿½ll have free time to have lunch on your own. Continue and stop at A Coruï¿½a. End the day in the mystical pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to enjoy this medieval city. Overnight In Santiago de Compostela.

Day 6 Santiago de Compostela
Buffet Breakfast. Today enjoy a guided tour of the old university city of Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the majestic Cathedral on Obradoiro Square and the impressive ï¿½Mercado de abastosï¿½ (main market). Tonight enjoy a traditional dinner at your hotel. Overnight In Santiago de Compostela.

Day 7 Santiago de Compostela-Salamanca-Madrid
Buffet Breakfast and departure to Salamanca, the nice university city. lunch included. Stroll around the impressive Plaza Mayor, probably the nicest in Spain. In the afternoon continue to Madrid for overnight.

Day 8 Madrid
Buffet Breakfast. It is suggested you take advantage of the free time to get to know one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities. In the early evening, enjoy an “Illuminated Madrid” drive through the bustling streets of the old city, ending at the historical and impressive Plaza Mayor. This area is home to some of the most typical restaurants and taverns, which serve the delicious “tapas”. Dinner at a tapas restaurant is included. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 9 Madrid-Toldeo-Madrid
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s escorted sightseeing tour will allow you to get a glimpse of some of Madrid’s most outstanding attractions, like the Puerta del Sol, the magnificent fountains of Neptune and Cibeles, the stately Alcala Gate, the busy Gran Via, the Plaza de Espana and the Plaza de Oriente. Lunch included. In the afternoon you will be taken on a tour to the imperial former capital city of Toledo, where you will be escorted through its narrow cobblestone streets, soaking up the medieval atmosphere. Touring will include the interior of the magnificent Gothic cathedral and a visit to St. Tome Church, where El Greco’s masterpiece painting is displayed. There will also be some time for shopping for the unique typical local artistry. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 10 Madrid-End of Tour
After breakfast you will be taken to the airport. You can extend your stay in Madrid or continue with one of our other tours such as to the south of Spain or to Portugal.

Additional nights in Barcelona and/or Madrid available

Superior tourist class and first class Hotels:

Barcelona: Hotel Rafael Badalona Or Hotel Exe Barbera Barcelona Gate
Bilbao:Hotel Melia Bilbao
Oviedo:Hotel Exe Oviedo
Santiago: Hotel Los Abetos G.H. or Hotel Tryp Santiago
Madrid:Hotel Weare Chamartin or Hotel Holiday Inn Piramides or Hotel Muralto or Hotel Praga

Superior first class hotels:

Barcelona:Hotel A.C. Som or Hotel Alimara or Hotel Fira
Bilbao: Hotel Melia Bilbao
Oviedo:Hotel Exe Oviedo
Santiago:Hotel NH Collection Santiago or Hotel Hesperia Vigo
Madrid: Hotel Weare Chamartin or Hotel Holiday Inn Piramides or Hotel Muralto or Hotel Praga

The Lovely Barcelona Coast

Depart:

Hosted Tour-Land Only

8 Days/ 7 Nights

Daily January 1-December 31

Put Europe back on your bucket list with this amazing package to the gorgeous Costa Maresme and Barcelona, Spain, where the weather is balmy, the people are friendly, and the sightseeing is fascinating and in abundance. From your lovely coastal hotel, explore Barcelona, one of Europe’s most splendid cities on an included day tour, enjoy excursions to fascinating sites such as the Dali Museum in Figures, the mountaintop monastery of Montserrat cross the border to France and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Carcassone, the most significant medieval fortified city in Europe. You will even visit nearby landlocked Andorra for some duty free shopping. So much to see and enjoy, and so little cost. How can you possibly resist?

Price per Person:

Please Call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

7 nights first class accommodation with private facilities
Round trip Barcelona airport or rail station transfers
Breakfast each morning
Lunch daily-water and wine included
Dinners nightly-water and wine included
Sightseeing as per itinerary
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Barcelona-Costa Maresme
Upon arrival you will be met and taken to your hotel on the Costa Maresme. Remainder of the day at leisure. .

Day 2 Costa Maresme-Barcelona-Costa Maresme
After breakfast you will be taken on a panoramic tour of cosmopolitan Barcelona.

Day 3 Costa Maresme-Andorra-Costa Maresme
After breakfast you will be taken on an excursion to one of the smallest countries in Europe, Andorra. The tiny landlocked country is nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France. Andorra was officially founded in 1278 as a result of a land dispute between the Bishop of Urgell and the Count of Foix, but legends point to Charlemagne as the country’s earliest liberator. Today, Andorra has developed into a prosperous nation thanks to its duty-free shopping and healthy tourism industry. The official language of Andorra is Catalan, but both Spanish and French are widely used. Your visit will offer you plenty of free time to explore the capital city of Andorra la Vella and take advantage of the duty-free shopping. Passport will be required to enter Andorra and return to Spain.

Day 4 Costa Maresme-Montserrat-Costa Maresme
After breakfast you will be taken on an excursion to the mountaintop monastery of Montserrat. You will take the track railway three miles (5 km) up the mountainside, enjoying fantastic views and scenery as you make your way to the monastery. Inside the church, you will see the patroness of Cataluna, the statue of the Black Madonna. Around noon, one of the oldest and most esteemed children’s choirs in Europe will sing. You can also visit the museum to see works of art by Picasso, Caravaggio, El Greco, and other Catalan artists. For the more daring there is a cable car which transports you even higher up the mountain where the views are breathtaking.

Day 5 Costa Maresme-Carcassonne-Costa Maresme
After breakfast you will be taken on an excursion to the medieval walled city of Carcassonne, France. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortified city has a rich history dating back to the first ramparts built by the Romans. Under the rule of the Visigoths, Carcassonne flourished during the Golden Age as a major economic center. The city is most recognized by its formidable crenelated walls and towers that were fully restored in 1853 by French architect Eugene Viollet-le-Duc. Carcassonne offers you spectacular examples of medieval architecture and picturesque panoramas of the surrounding countryside. You will be able to explore the city’s winding cobblestone streets and admire its marvelous plazas.

Day 6 Costa Maresme-Dail’s World-Costa Maresme
After breakfast you will be taken on an excursion into the amazing world of Salvador Dali. First you’ll visit the house of Gala Dali in Pubol. This medieval castle was the residence of the painter’s wife, Gala, during the 1970’s, and the painter’s own residence in the 1980’s. Today, it is a museum housing various paintings, drawings & sculptures. Next, you’ll head to Figueres to see the theater-museum of Salvador Dali. Inaugurated in 1974, it contains a wide range of works which describe the artistic genius of Dali.

Day 7 Costa Maresme
After breakfast full day at leisure.

Day 8 Costa Maresme-End of Tour
After breakfast you will be taken to Barcelona. You can extend your stay on the Costa Maresme or continue to Barcelona or Madrid.

Additional nights available

Pre and/or post tour nights in Barcelona available.

Order of tours subject to change.

Spain In A Week

Depart:

Escorted Tour-Land Only

7 Days/ 6 Nights

2019 Departures:

March 30
April 7, 14, 21 and 28
May 5, 12, 19 and 26
June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30
July 7, 14, 21 and 28
August 4, 11, 18 and 25
September 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
October 6, 13, 20 and 27
November 3, 10 and 24
December 8, 22 and 29

Winter 2020 Tours
January 5 and 19
February 2,16 and 30
March 8, 15, 22 and 29
April 5, 12, 19 and 26

Price per Person:

In a double room using superior tourist class and first class hotels $1099
Single supplement $369

In a double room using superior first class hotels $1199
Single supplement $479

Package Includes:

6 nights hotel accommodation at hotel category selected all with private facilities
Round trip airport transfers (If arriving and departing on scheduled days)
Breakfast each morning
3 lunches-drinks not included
2 dinners-drinks not included
Transportation between cities
English speaking tour escort
Sightseeing as per itinerary
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 1 Madrid
Upon arrival at Madrid airport you will be transferred to your centrally located hotel. It is suggested you take advantage of the free time to get to know one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities. In the early evening, enjoy an ï¿½Illuminated Madridï¿½ drive through the bustling streets of the old city, ending at the historical and impressive Plaza Mayor. This area is home to some of the most typical restaurants and taverns, which serve the delicious tapas. Dinner at a tapas restaurant is included. overnight in Madrid.

Day 2 Madrid-Toldeo-Madrid
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s escorted sightseeing tour will allow you to get a glimpse of some of Madrid’s most outstanding attractions, like the Puerta del Sol, the magnificent fountains of Neptune and Cibeles, the stately Alcala Gate, the busy Gran Via, the Plaza de Espaï¿½a and the Plaza de Oriente. Lunch included. In the afternoon you will be taken on a tour to the imperial former capital city of Toledo, where you will be escorted through its narrow cobblestone streets, soaking up the medieval atmosphere. Touring will include the interior of the magnificent Gothic cathedral and a visit to St. Tome Church, where El Greco’s masterpiece painting is displayed. There will also be some time for shopping for the unique typical local artistry. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 3 Madrid-Merida-Sevilla
Buffet breakfast. Departure through the once-remote region of Extremadura, home to many of the “conquistadors”. Arrival in ancient Merida. Lunch included. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Roman amphitheater archeological site before continuing to Seville for overnight.

Day 4 Seville
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s marvelous tour will explore this gracious and charming city, Spain’s third largest. See the Tower of Gold, the tranquil and extensive Maria Luisa Park, the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter, and finally the huge cathedral (one of the world’s largest) with its Giralda Tower (a former minaret). Lunch included. The afternoon is free to continue to explore or shop. This evening you will enjoy a Flamenco Show with the enjoyment of local wine. Overnight in Seville.

Day 5 Seville-Cordoba-Granada
Buffet breakfast. Depart to Cordoba. Visit one of the world’s marvels, the former Great Mosque (now a cathedral). Free time for lunch on your own. Continue to Granada, passing thousands of acres of olive groves. This evening you will enjoy a visit to the quaint and typical Albaicin quarter, where Andalusian customs, music and wine join to create an enchanting atmosphere. Dinner and overnight in Granada.

Day 6 Granada-Madrid
Buffet breakfast. This morning, enjoy an escorted tour of the magnificent Alhambra and the verdant Gardens of the Generalife. Departure to Madrid, crossing the plains of La Mancha, land of Don Quixote. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 7 Madrid-End of Tour
After breakfast you will be taken to the airport. You can extend your stay in Madrid or continue to Barcelona or to Portugal.

Additional nights in Madrid available

Superior tourist class and first class hotels:

Madrid:Hotel Weare Chamartin or Hotel Holiday Inn Piramides or Hotel Muralto or Hotel Praga
Seville:Hotel Hilton Garden Inn Or Hotel M.A. Sevilla Congress
Granada:Hotel Abades Nevada Palace

Superior first class hotels:

Madrid: Hotel AC Cuzco or Hotel Rafael Atocha, or Hotel Agumar or Hotel Mayorazgo
Seville:Hotel Melia Lebreros
Granada: Hotel G.H. Luna or Hotel Saray

Spain and Morocco

Depart:

Independent Tour-Land Only

10 Days/ 9 Nights

Daily April 1-October 31

Price per Person:

Please Call or Email for prices.

Package Includes:

9 nights hotel accommodation in superior tourist class and first class hotels all with private facilities
Breakfast each morning
3 dinners-drinks not included
Round trip airport transfers
Sightseeing tours included as follows: 24hrs card – hop on & hop off (Madrid, Seville and Granada) Regular walking and guided tour in Cordoba
Private guides for sightseeing and entrance fess in Morocco except for entrance fee to the Hassan II Mosque (approx. $15 per person)
Train tickets-2nd class seats: Madrid-Cordoba-Cordoba-Seville-Seville-Granada
Bus from Granada-Algeciras, Algeciras-Tarifa in tourist class
Ferry ticket from Tarifa to Tangier in tourist class
Private car and driver between cities in Morocco
Hotel taxes and service charges

Itinerary

Day 5 Seville-Granada
During this morning’s sightseeing tour, you will be able to explore, after having breakfast at the hotel this gracious and charming city, Spain’s third largest. See the Tower of Gold, the tranquil and extensive Maria Luisa Park, the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter, and finally the huge cathedral (one of the world’s largest) with its Giralda Tower (a former minaret). In the evening departure to Granada by train. After passing thousands of acres of olive groves, you will get to Granada. Free evening. Overnight in Granada.

Day 6 Granada
Buffet breakfast. Enjoy a sightseeing tour through the city. Some of the highlights you may visit are the magnificent Alhambra and the verdant Gardens of the Generalife (entrance not included). We suggest a visit to the quaint and typical Albaicin quarter, where Andalusian customs, music and wine join to create an enchanting atmosphere. Overnight in Granada.

Day 7 Granada-Algeciras-Tangier
Breakfast at the hotel and check out. Departure by bus to Algeciras (from bus station). Upon arrival, change buses to the Tarifa Ferry Station. Ferry trip to Tangiers is just 50 minutes. upon arrival, you will be privately transfered to your selected hotel. Dinner and accommodation in Tangier.

Day 8 Tangier-Fez
Breakfast. Sightseeing tour of Tangier, including the main avenues of Mohamed VI, Mohamed V, Pasteur, the residential districts of California and mountain, Cap Spartel, (extreme Northwest point of the African continent). Short stop for pictures, and continue to the Hercules caves. Visit and drive to the old town “Medina”. The tour will continue on foot thru the Kasbah, and its narrow streets full of life. Short stop at the “Zoco chico” small market. Afternoon drive to Fez. Dinner and overnight in Fez.

Day 9 Fez-Rabat-Casablanca
Breakfast. Sightseeing tour of Fez including the monumental entrance of the Royal Palace, and Bab Bujlud, Jewish quarters “Mellah”, the famous university “Medersa Buanania”, Mulay Idriss Mausoleum (from outside), markets of spices, tanneries, and the Nejjarin fountain. Afternoon drive to Rabat via highway (200 kms). Upon arrival, visit the Royal Palace main entrance, Hassan Tower, Mohamed V Mausoleum, and Udaya ruins. Continue to Casablanca (100 kms) and transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 10 Casablanca-End of Tour
After breakfast enjoy an orientation tour including Mohamed V and United Nations squares, sea front “La Corniche”, and Hassan II Mosque (outside only). Transfer to the Casablanca International Airport. You can extend your stay in cosmopolitan Casablanca.

Additional nights available

Hotels:

Madrid:Hotel Rafael Ventas or similar
Cordoba:Hotel Eurostars Ciudad de Cordoba or similar
Seville:Hotel Tryp Macarena or similar
Granada:Hotel Alhamar or similar
Tangier:Hotel Intercontinental or similar
Fez:Hotel Zalagh or similar
Casablanca:Hotel Prince de Paris or similar

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