Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Discover how various medieval, Moorish, and Gothic influences shaped Spanish culture on this immersive journey from Madrid to Barcelona. Your students will experience the work of Spanish artists firsthand, from the impressive collection of the Royal Palace to the iconic architecture at Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia. Your group can also look forward to learning the history and rhythms of flamenco and visiting a local sword factory.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Spain (Madrid)
Day 2
Arrive in Madrid
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Madrid city walk
Discover Madrid’s lively spirit with your Tour Director on a walk through its bustling streets. Begin at Puerta del Sol, the vibrant city center, then continue to Plaza Mayor, where centuries of history have unfolded from royal weddings to bullfights. Conclude at Plaza de España, a favorite spot for outdoor cafés and people-watching in the heart of the city.
Day 3
Madrid guided sightseeing tour
Experience Spain’s capital with a licensed guide. Visit the Royal Palace, Europe’s largest, to see lavish halls and frescoes. Stroll lively Gran Vía with its theaters, shops, and cafés. Admire the Cibeles Fountain depicting the earth goddess Cybele. See the Neoclassical Puerta de Alcalá in Plaza de la Independencia, a ceremonial gateway to the city. Conclude at Columbus Square, a hub of monuments and museums.
Traditional Spanish cooking class with dinner
Create and enjoy some of Spain's most popular and iconic dishes and discover firsthand what makes these dishes enduring classics of Spanish cuisine.
Day 4
LEAP
LEAP Spanish Civil War
Nationalist? Republican? Argue ideology in a revolutionary role-play that delves into the causes of the Spanish Civil War.
Toledo guided excursion
Often called the spiritual capital of Spain, Toledo is known for its dramatic setting and rich religious history. The city was home to El Greco, who created some of his most famous works here. Visit Toledo Cathedral, one of Spain’s greatest Gothic structures, known for its impressive interior and art treasures. The tour also includes the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, the oldest intact synagogue in Europe and a symbol of cooperation among cultures. Learn more about Toledo’s traditional sword-making during a visit to a local factory.
Day 5
Alhambra guided visit
Explore Granada’s Alhambra with a guided visit. Students examine Moorish architecture and Islamic art while touring the gardens, Summer Palace, Medina, Royal Arab Baths, and Alcazaba fortress, gaining insight into life in medieval Al-Andalus and the cultural legacy of Muslim Spain. Please note: Entry to the main palace building is subject to availability.
Flamenco class and show
Work with skilled instructors to learn about the history, rhythms, and moves of this famous gypsy dance and then admire the professionals as they put on a special show for you.
Day 6
Seville guided sightseeing tour
Explore Seville with a local guide as students discover the city’s rich history and architecture. Walk through the Old Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz and San Bartolomé, visit the impressive Seville Cathedral and ascend the Giralda Tower, and explore Casa de Pilatos, a model of Andalusian palace design. The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Plaza de España.
Day 7
Córdoba guided sightseeing tour
Wander Córdoba with a local guide, exploring the Mezquita’s forest of arches and the flower-filled courtyards of the Jewish Quarter. Discover a rich blend of Moorish and Christian history in one of Spain’s most captivating cities.
Travel to Barcelona via AVE train
Day 8
Barcelona guided sightseeing tour
Discover Barcelona with a licensed guide as you explore its mix of Gothic charm and modernist brilliance. Visit Plaza de España, then marvel at Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, the soaring church that defines the city’s skyline. Wander through Park Güell with its colorful mosaics and sweeping views, and journey to Montjuïc Hill, home to historic fortresses and the 1992 Olympic grounds.
La Pedrera - Casa Milà visit
This magnificent building is the epitome of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí’s fantastical style. See how he uses twisted pillars, curved archways and warped metal balconies to create a totally unique design all his own.
Day 9
Optional
Gerona and Figueres guided excursion (optional)
Travel through northern Catalonia to Girona, a medieval town of winding streets, pastel façades, and a charming Old Town filled with history. Visit the Baroque cathedral and Jewish quarter before continuing to Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dalí. Explore the surreal Salvador Dalí Theater-Museum, home to his imaginative masterpieces.
Day 10
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Mallorca
Fly to Palma de Mallorca and explore this vibrant Mediterranean city on a guided sightseeing tour of its historic center, including the Old Quarter and waterfront. Visit Bellver Castle for panoramic views, and see La Seu, Palma’s striking Gothic cathedral. End your stay with a hands-on paella cooking class, bringing the island’s culinary traditions to life.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theater tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program. Ask your Account Manager for details
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
High school credit for students in grades 6-12, or college credit for students in grades 9-12, upon completion of the travel program and required WorldStrides online coursework
Professional development credits (CEUs) for educators
Scenes from Spain
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
WorldStrides provides over $2.5 million in financial assistance each year to thousands of families. Families with annual adjusted gross incomes of less than $85,000 may qualify. One simple call to Customer Service and you’ll know how much may be available for your trip even before signing up. Please note: financial assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Plans
Advantage Payment Plan
At program sign-up you can opt to pay in full, or break up the cost of your trip with the Advantage Payment Plan. This plan allows you to pay a small initial deposit, then have your remaining payments spread out into affordable monthly amounts.
EZPay
We offer an EZPay option, which is a simple way to pay for your WorldStrides program by scheduling hassle-free, automatic drafts from your checking account. With EZPay, you'll never be late or miss an installment.
Fundraising Tools
Our easy-to-use tools put students in the driver's seat of their own fundraising efforts. Students can send e-cards, share links on social media, and even send out printed letters through WorldStrides' Gift of Education program. In one click friends and family members can make a direct donation to the trip - with 100% of the money raised going to offset their trip price. Thousands of students pay for their entire trip each year through the Gift of Education.
Also, WorldStrides makes program-specific scholarships available as well as other scholarship resources. Ask your Account Manager for more information about scholarships and fundraising tools.