Icons of the Mediterranean

Discover Spain’s elegant and casual capital, adorned with graceful architecture, generous public spaces and plentiful tapas bars where you can sample the city’s finest cuisine and wines. You will be met at the airport for a transfer to your centrally located hotel. You might spend the afternoon exploring the Plaza Mayor, where locals gather for tapas and Rioja wine.

Today, set out to explore Madrid, passing by the Royal Botanical Garden and the Royal Palace, home of the Spanish royal family. Later, walk through Madrid of the Hapsburgs, rich in baroque and Renaissance buildings set along streets leading to grand churches and picturesque fountains. Visit the famous Prado Museum, a repository of Spanish art from Velázquez to Picasso. This evening, you might enjoy an optional wine tasting with tapas or a flamenco show accompanied by dinner. (B)

On your final day, you will transfer by train to Barcelona and embark your ship. (B)

Today, arrive at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to relax or begin exploring the city on your own. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Barcelona so you can make the most of your visit.

This morning, journey outside the city to explore the elevated heights of picturesque Monserrat, nestled in its namesake mountain range. Take in the majestic mountain landscape while admiring sweeping views over the Catalan countryside to Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea. You will also visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, a significant religious site that houses the revered Black Madonna statue. After lunch, return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure. (B, L)

Set out early this morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a visit to the iconic La Sagrada Família, the crowning achievement of architectural genius Antoni Gaudí. Admire views of its towering, distinctive exterior, then step inside to marvel at its breathtaking sanctuary. Later today, partake in a Catalan cooking class before enjoying a glass of cava at one of Barcelona’s stunning viewpoints. (B)

This morning, check out of your hotel and transfer to your ship to begin your cruise. Along the way, you will stop for a guided tour through the labyrinthine streets of the charming Gothic Quarter; steeped in history, its narrow warrens are home to the remains of the city’s ancient Roman wall and notable medieval landmarks, including its impressive Gothic cathedral. Afterward, continue to your awaiting ship. (B)