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Madrid & Salamanca

Spain

Experience the romance of the Spanish Golden Age

With glowing medieval cities emerging from the vast Castilian plain, truly enviable collections of art, and a sense of sophistication that has been refined over centuries, central Spain is a feast for the senses. The city of Madrid has an energy and vibrancy like no other, which hums amongst some of the world’s finest art museums, most innovative gastronomic experiences and a wonderful architectural backdrop. Beyond the capital, ancient Toledo is surely one of Spain’s most glorious cities – dramatically situated and studded with historic gems from an amalgamation of cultures, it entered the popular imagination via the paintings of its adopted son, El Greco. Dreamy Ávila embodies Golden Age romance, and stunning Salamanca is a graceful city which evokes Spain’s grand and prestigious past.

JEWELS OF MADRID, TOLEDO & SALAMANCA

Art & history in central Spain


From £1,199 per person

based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 35 passengers travelling in a specific month


Best time to go

March, April, May, September, October, November


Suggested Hotel

Hotel Emperador, Madrid

  • A classic & historic 4-star hotel
  • Situated on Gran Vía, in the heart of Madrid
  • Bedrooms are elegant & comfortable with modern amenities
  • Close to Madrid’s top attractions
  • Features its own restaurant, a rooftop swimming pool and a terrace

Not the hotel for your group? Other hotels are available, contact us.

Suggested Hotel

Hotel Palacio de los Velada, Ávila

  • A wonderful 4-star hotel within a grand 16th century palace
  • Located in the heart of Ávila, opposite the cathedral
  • Cosy & elegant bedrooms with all modern facilities
  • The hotel has its own restaurant and two different style bars

Not the hotel for your group? Other hotels are available, contact us.


Attractions:

Museo del Prado

The Prado is not just the jewel in the crown of Madrid’s art museums; it is also one of the finest collections of western art in the world. The astounding works of the Spanish masters Goya and Velázquez form the essence of the Prado, but the pieces it holds number in the thousands and it displays thousands of dazzling masterpieces from the Spanish Golden Age as well as the Italian and Flemish schools.

Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

The contemporary Reina Sofía is a bright and graceful building, which holds Spain’s national 20th century art collection. With over 22,000 pieces in its collection, the exhibitions here are dynamic and fascinating. Works by Dalí and Miró are a highlight, but it’s Picasso’s Guernica which is the Reina Sofía’s undisputed centrepiece.

Toledo Cathedral

The mighty Toledo Cathedral is one of Spain’s grandest, and an interesting example of Spanish Gothic style. The current enormous structure dates back to the 13th century, but the site was a place of worship for centuries before this. The flamboyant architecture shows Mudéjar and Renaissance influences, and inside its illustrious alterpiece is complemented by the works of El Greco, Goya and Velázquez.

Museo del Greco

Toledo was immortalised by the Golden Age painter El Greco, and this 16th century house in the town's Jewish Quarter holds an extensive collection of works by the artist, as well as pieces by his followers. The museum also has a pretty courtyard and garden.

Ávila

With 11th century walls, 88 watchtowers, turrets twisting high out of the Castilian plain, and a mountainous backdrop, Ávila truly is a sight to behold. Evoking the romance of Old Spain, this fascinating medieval city harbours stunning churches and mysterious palaces.

Salamanca Cathedral

Salamanca’s cathedral is in fact two conjoined churches. The Romanesque Old Cathedral dates back to the 12th century; its interior is exquisitely adorned and features an extravagant alterpiece. The New Cathedral is a Gothic construction with an imposing baroque dome and exceptional ceilings.

Salamanca University

Founded in 1218, this ancient centre for learning encompassed the burgeoning intellect of Golden Age Spain during the 15th and 16th centuries. A feast for the eyes, this historic institution has an astonishing façade, and inside a magnificent collection of antiquarian books hints at the university’s academic splendours.

Museo Casa Lis

Situated within a stunning Modernista house, this unique museum hosts a wonderful collection of decorative arts in the art deco and art nouveau styles. With stunning stained glass features throughout, the museum’s interior is bathed in tranquil, aqua light.


Alternatives

El Escorial

The Royal Monastery of El Escorial is an immense palace complex, historically the residence of the King of Spain. This vast monument dates back to the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conceived by King Felipe II, today it is a unification of stunning architecture, splendid interiors and exquisite artworks.


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We love to talk travel! If our site has inspired you, please do get in touch to discuss your group's specific requirements on the phone number below. Alternatively, drop us an email and we'll get back to you.

Our office hours are 09:00 – 17:00 (UK time), Monday to Friday. If you are on tour and need to contact us outside of office hours, please call the 24hr on tour assistance number.

(If calling from abroad, please remember to add 0044 and drop the first 0 from the below numbers.)

Call: 01225 764205
Email: enquiries@successtours.com

24hr On Tour Assistance Number:
07957 838280