Chasing the Eclipse: A Journey Through Spain

Arrival
Bienvenido a Madrid – the glorious Spanish capital and one of the most beautiful cities in the world! Upon arrival, you are transferred to your downtown hotel for check-in.

This marks the beginning of a special journey through Spain, timed to experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena – the solar eclipse. Spain offers some of the best vantage points in Europe to witness this rare celestial event, and your itinerary is thoughtfully designed to make the most of it.

The rest of the day is free for you to start exploring the magnificent old town on your own, dine in one of the authentic local restaurants, or simply relax and recharge in the comfort of your hotel room.

Madrid Old Town Walking Tour

Today prepare to enjoy a fascinating sightseeing tour around the most brilliant attractions of Madrid de los Austrias - the amazing old town of the Spanish capital that treasures historical monuments dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries when Spain was ruled by the House of the Habsburg.

After breakfast you meet your private guide and set off on a journey around the city. You walk towards Plaza de Oriente, admire and then enter the gorgeous Palacio Real (the Royal Palace), see the beautiful exteriors of the Catedral Nuestra Senora de la Almudena and stroll through Major Street.

Next you proceed to Plaza de la Villa, pass through the always bustling San Miguels Market and walk down the picturesque Cava de San Miguel. Your tour finishes at iconic Plaza Mayor and breathtaking​ Puerta del Sol.

After the touring is over you return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Trip to Toledo by Trains

This day is devoted entirely to the exploration of Toledo - the former Spanish capital and one of the oldest towns in Europe. Following breakfast in your Madrid hotel you walk to the train station and enjoy a 30-minute train ride to Toledo (regular class train tickets to and from Toledo are included). Upon arrival, your local guide meets you at the train station and takes you on a city tour around the mesmerizing landmarks of the ancient Toledo. During the tour you walk through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, explore the fortified city walls and see the famous UNESCO World Heritage-listed medieval architecture, including the 13th-century Cathedral of Toledo and Synagogue (entrances included). After the tour you return to Madrid by train, walk to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Note: Only one class of tickets is available.

Departure

In the morning following breakfast, you check-out from your hotel and have a transfer to the train station. 

Arrival

Welcome to Oviedo – the charming capital of Asturias, known for its historic elegance, green landscapes, and rich cultural heritage! Oviedo is not only a gem of northern Spain but also one of the best locations to witness the upcoming solar eclipse.

Upon arrival, you are transferred to your centrally located hotel for check-in.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy: take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque old town, indulge in local Asturian cuisine, or relax and unwind in your comfortable hotel room as you prepare for the eclipse experience ahead.

Exploring Oviedo & Solar Eclipse Viewing

Explore the rich history and architectural wonders of Oviedo on this captivating tour. Begin your journey with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Oviedo's city center. Admire the picturesque squares, quaint cafes, and historic buildings that line the bustling streets. 

No visit to Oviedo is complete without indulging in the local delicacies, and what better way to experience the city's culinary delights than with a stop to taste the famous "carbayones" pastries? Delight your taste buds with these traditional treats, crafted with care and bursting with flavor.

As your tour continues, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Church of Santa Maria del Naranco. Admire its elegant design and intricate details, a true testament to the city's rich heritage and cultural significance. Learn about the historical significance of this iconic landmark as you soak in its beauty and grandeur.

As the day transitions into evening, gather in Gijón, a vibrant coastal city, for a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event: a solar eclipse viewed over the Atlantic horizon. You’ll start by driving from Oviedo to Cudillero, one of the most charming villages in Asturias. From there, follow the scenic coastal road toward Gijón, which will allow you to fully experience the charm and character of the Asturian seaside villages along the way.

Whether from the beach or a scenic viewpoint, witness the sky transform in a stunning natural spectacle.

In Gijón, the maximum eclipse occurs around 8:27 PM on August 12, with 1 min 45 s of totality.

After witnessing the solar eclipse, make your way back to your hotel.

Departure
In the morning following breakfast, you check-out from your hotel and have a private transfer to Bilbao.

Arrival

Welcome to Bilbao – the dynamic heart of the Basque Country, where cutting-edge architecture meets deep-rooted tradition. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your centrally located hotel for check-in.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy: take a relaxed stroll along the scenic Nervión River, explore the vibrant old town, or savor some authentic Basque pintxos in a local tavern.

Bilbao Walking City Tour

Meet your experienced guide for a fantastic sightseeing tour around the city's most interesting landmarks.

During the tour you see the Guggenheim-Bilbao museum (from the outside), explore the Casco Viejo - Old Town made up of the city's 7 calles - streets that are the origins of Bilbao, pass the beautiful Cathedral of Santiago, and enjoy the views of the Yohn's Palace or the Arriaga theater - named in honor of the "Spanish Mozart".

After the touring is over you return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Departure

In the morning following breakfast, you check-out from your hotel and have a transfer to the train station.

Arrival

Welcome to Barcelona – the vibrant capital of Catalonia, where Gothic history and modernist masterpieces meet the sparkling Mediterranean. From Gaudí’s architectural wonders to the lively rhythm of Las Ramblas, Barcelona is a city that ignites the senses and captures the soul. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your centrally located hotel for check-in.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy: wander through the atmospheric streets of the Gothic Quarter, take in the views from Montjuïc, or treat yourself to Catalan cuisine in a cozy local bistro. 

Barcelona Gothic Quarter and La Rambla

Take a wonderful half-day walking tour around the most outstanding attractions of Barcelona. Barcelona obtains one of the biggest and architecturally diverse Medieval districts in Europe. 

During the city tour you get to see Barcelona's Old Town called "Casc Antic" and its medieval landmarks. You walk through the maze of old narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter that was formed around the Roman forum. 

Then you see the Barcelona Cathedral both from the outside and the inside, pass the former Jewish District "Call", the Sant Jaume Square, see the Generalitat Palace and City Hall from the outside, pass the Square of the King and the former Royal Palace. 

You then proceed to the Ribera shore district where you see the Santa Maria del Mar church - the former residence of sailors, traders and craftsmen who lived and worked there in the Middle Ages. 

The tour finishes on the most vivid street in Barcelona La Rambla, where you can take a rest at one of the open air terraces. 

Gaudi Tour with Private Transport

Meet your private guide and private driver and enjoy a fantastic sightseeing tour dedicated to the world-renowned architectural works of Antonio Gaudi!

You start with a visit to the colorful Park Guell, where you spend some time strolling through its mosaic paths and enjoying the great city views.

The day is crowned with a visit to the astonishing Sagrada Familia Basilica - the most brilliant masterpiece of Gaudi that is rightfully considered the most recognizable symbol of Barcelona.

Departure

As your unforgettable journey through Spain comes to an end, it’s time to say goodbye—for now. After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your return flight home.

We hope the memories of Spain’s vibrant culture, timeless architecture, and especially the once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse experience stay with you for years to come. It has been a pleasure to accompany you on this celestial adventure, and we look forward to helping craft your next extraordinary journey.

¡Buen viaje and see you again soon!