Undiscovered Castilla, Self-drive

Journey deep into the heart of Spain during this spellbinding five-day tour exploring the historic regions of Castile. Discover ancient Roman ruins, timeless medieval towns and historic cities. Visit temples, churches, cathedrals, basilicas and monasteries, admire Spanish art from classical times to the contemporary. Spain will conquer your heart every day of this fascinating tour starting and ending in Madrid.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Madrid: Visit Europe’s largest palace and the Reina Sofia Museum, where Picasso’s harrowing Guernica is among the masterpieces on display.

Avila: A walled city that is home to a fortified Gothic cathedral and the Convent of St Teresa.

Segovia: Admire the Roman aqueduct and visit the fairy-tale Alcazar and the Gothic cathedral.

Day 1: ARRIVAL MADRID

Arrive at Madrid airport and pick up your car. The Spanish capital is one of Europe’s liveliest and most elegant cities, boasting beautiful boulevards, vast parks, bustling plazas, as well as numerous historic churches and palaces. Madrid is also home to the legendary ‘golden triangle’ of art galleries, which houses some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces.

Overnight in Madrid.

Day 2: MADRID – AVILA – SEGOVIA (175km – 2hrs)

Depart after breakfast at the hotel, heading to Avila, whose old town is still surrounded by uninterrupted medieval walls. The perimeter of more than 2.5 kilometres is dotted with 88 towers and nine gates. Behind the ramparts is a city of immense beauty and heritage. Visit the fortified Gothic cathedral and the Romanesque Basilica of St Vincent. Stroll through its ancient streets, with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles evident, and take in the splendour of the Plaza de Santa Teresa. Continue to sensational Segovia with its Alcazar, which was one of the inspirations for Disney’s Cinderella castle. See also the awe-inspiring Roman aqueduct, which dates from the reign of Emperor Domitian in the first century and cuts through the city centre. 

Overnight in Segovia.

Day 3: SEGOVIA – VALLADOLID – SEGOVIA (230km – 3hrs)

Enjoy breakfast and depart towards Valladolid. Valladolid is also in the province of Castile and León, a not too big city but with an impressive architectural scene. Among other things you will be able to contemplate the Cathedral Nuestra Señora de la Asunción built in the 16th century. Don't leave the city without eating in any of its greatest restaurants. 

Overnight in Segovia.

Day 4: SEGOVIA – SAN LORENZO DE EL ESCORIAL – MADRID (110km – 1.5hrs)

Head to San Lorenzo de El Escorial after a tasty breakfast at the hotel. This pretty and prosperous town is the location of one of Spain’s most important Renaissance monuments, the magnificent monastery of El Escorial, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex also served as the royal palace of Philip II. Other attractions of El Escorial include the Hall of Battles, where large frescoes depict important Spanish military triumphs, the lavish library with frescoed ceilings, and the breathtakingly beautiful basilica. Continue to Madrid and check-in at the hotel. 

Overnight in Madrid.

Day 5: DEPARTURE MADRID

Bid farewell to Madrid after breakfast at the hotel, driving towards the airport. Drop off the car at the rental office. Catch your departure flight back home.

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain though a warm jumper and jacket are advisable in the cooler months. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.