One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.
Experience Spain at its most vibrant—speed from Barcelona to Madrid by train, enjoy tapas and flamenco, then discover medieval streets and savor local wines. Conclude your adventure in sun-kissed Malaga, where history, flavor, and unforgettable views await before you rejoin your ship.
Note: This program includes walking tours which may have you traversing over uneven terrain such as cobbled streets). This program is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
DAY 1
Disembark the ship in Barcelona and meet your tour guide that will accompany you throughout this overland program.
A short transfer will take you to Sants train station where, with your guide, you will board the AVE high-speed train for a picturesque, 3.5-hour journey to Madrid.
NOTE: There is no porterage service at the train station – guests must take their own luggage from the coach through security and on to the train as well as off the train in Madrid.
At your arrival, begin your exploration following your guide on both a panoramic drive and a walking tour of the historical city center of Madrid. See the main highlights such as the Plaza Mayor and along the way taste some tapas (small Spanish savory dishes) in a traditional establishment as the locals do.
On a panoramic drive, see the area known as Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro Park, which has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list as a cultural landscape.
Check in to your hotel and have a chance to refresh prior to meeting again in the lobby for an exciting evening of Flamenco! Madrid shines at night, as you will discover at a local Tablao (Flamenco venue), where you will be treated to an authentic dinner accompanied by a passionate Flamenco performance. (Please note that Flamenco venue is not exclusive to RSSC). Afterwards, you will transfer back to your hotel for the evening.
DAY 2
After breakfast, meet your local guide in the reception area and begin the journey to Toledo. Declared a National Monument by the Spanish State, the city seems to be one large museum.
Hardly another town is so well conserved in its historical style.
The best way to explore Toledo is to have a long walk and view the buildings of various epochs: Arabian, Jewish, Muddier, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. Walking through its streets, one feels like having stepped back into the Middle-Ages.
Rejoin your coach for a leisurely drive into the countryside where you will find a 200-year-old local wine family-run winery. Enjoy a visit of the winery and explore the vineyards. Taste locally produced wine prior to indulging in a delicious meal of local specialties at the winery.
Return to Madrid in the late afternoon. The remainder of the day is at your leisure and dinner is on your own. Your guide or hotel concierge will be more than happy to make dinner or evening tour suggestions.
DAY 3
After breakfast and settling any incidentals, check out and transfer to the Madrid Train Station for a highspeed train to Malaga. Sit back and enjoy the two-hour journey with impressive scenery along the way.
NOTE: There is no porterage service at the train station – guests must take their own luggage from the coach through security and on to the train as well as off the train in Malaga.
Upon arrival in Malaga, meet your local guide and start exploring the elegant city center. This guided leisurely stroll along its pedestrian streets offers you the ability to see the city’s highlights such as the Roman Theater, Picasso’s Birth House and the Cathedral.
For impressive and enchanting views over the Alcazaba (Red Castle) enjoy a beverage on a roof top terrace. Lunch will be served at a local taverna offering the best of the local gastronomy.
After lunch, proceed to the top of Gibralfaro Castle and visit this impressive defensive fortress. You can’t miss the privileged views from this location which overlook the city. You will even see your awaiting ship in the distance!
Following this stop, proceed to the pier in Malaga where you will rejoin the ship.
Land Program Step by Step:
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details and the timings indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
8:30am Disembark the ship in Barcelona, meet your guide and drive to Sants train station
10:00am AVE high speed train to Madrid (lunch box for light lunch on the train)
1:30pm Panoramic and walking tour with tapas in local establishments
6:00pmC Check-in to your hotel
7:30pm Flamenco Madrid and dinner
Overnight at the Eurostar Madrid or similar hotel
DAY 2
AM Breakfast at the hotel and check out
8:30am Depart from Madrid for Toledo
9:30am Arrival and visit of Toledo
12:30pm Departure to winery
1:30pm Visit, tasting , lunch
5:30pm Return drive to Madrid
6:30pm Arrive to the hotel
Evening at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Eurostar Madrid or similar hotel
DAY 3
AM Breakfast at the hotel and check out
8:30am Check out and drive to train station
9:30am Highspeed train to Malaga
11:30am Walking tour of Malaga city center and rooftop drink
1:30pm Lunch
3:00pm Gibraltaro Castle visit
4:00pm Rejoin the ship
Climate:
In May, the average daytime temperature will be around24°C (75° F) and an average of 13°C (55° F) at night.
In August, the average daytime temperature will be around 30°C (86° F) with evening temperatures dropping slightly.
What to Bring:
Comfortable weather appropriate clothing and shoes for walking, any medications, small umbrella. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent in summer can be very useful during your stay.
Local Currency:
Euro and credit cards are accepted.
Electricity
22O V. We recommend having a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.
Luggage information
There is no luggage compartment on the highspeed train therefore guests should bring one small overnight bag preferably on wheels and one additional small item such as a shoulder bag or purse. Guests must carry their own luggage to / from the train and through security as there are no porters at the train stations to assist.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A valid passport is required for international travel
Accommodations:
Eurostar Madrid Tower Hotel
PO de la Castellana, 259, B, 28046 Madrid, Spain
Phone: +34 913 34 27 00
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•Two nights at the Eurostar Madrid or similar hotel - Skyline Room with View
•Three breakfasts, one packed lunch box, one tapas tour, dinner and flamenco show, wine tasting in Toledo and lunch in the wine cellar, lunch in Malaga and a drink on a rooftop
•Included at meals: water, coffee or tea, one choice between wine, beer and soft drink. Lunch Box: only water is included, additional drinks can be purchased at the train cafeteria or bar service.
•Transportation in air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle for tours and transfers as described.
•High Speed train Barcelona to Madrid and Madrid to Malaga
•Entrances to all monuments and visits as indicated
•English speaking tour guide throughout plus local guides as per local regulations
Program Excludes for guests:
•Items of a personal nature such as meals not listed above, room service, laundry, minibar
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
Journey into the cultural heart of Spain on this thoughtfully curated overland experience from Barcelona to Alicante. Travel in comfort by high-speed train to Madrid, where gracious boulevards, elegant squares and celebrated culinary traditions set the tone for an enriching stay. Discover the enduring grandeur of Segovia’s Roman aqueduct, the storybook silhouette of its Alcázar, and the monumental splendor of El Escorial, the royal monastery-palace of Philip II. The program concludes in Alicante, where a refined Mediterranean atmosphere and distinguished dining provide a memorable finale before rejoining your ship.
Special Notes:
•This program involves walking distances at times over uneven ground. It is not recommended for guests who require use of wheelchair, walker, cane or scooter.
•Please advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be sent to our local ground operators for review.
DAY 1 – July 28, 2027
Disembark in Barcelona and meet your guide for the start of your overland journey. A short transfer brings you to the train station where you will board the high-speed AVE train for a comfortable journey to Madrid.
On arrival, enjoy a panoramic introduction to the Spanish capital, passing the stately Paseo del Prado and Retiro Park, part of Madrid’s UNESCO-listed Landscape of Light. Continue on foot through the historic center to experience the city’s regal character more intimately, including Plaza Mayor and the surrounding old quarter, where arcaded squares, elegant façades and centuries of royal history evoke Madrid at its most atmospheric. Along the way, savor traditional tapas in carefully selected local establishments for an authentic taste of the city’s celebrated culinary culture.
In the evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a flamenco performance, an art form deeply rooted in Spanish tradition and renowned for its expressive music, rhythmic footwork and dramatic intensity. This evocative cultural experience offers an elegant introduction to one of the country’s most iconic artistic expressions. (Flamenco venue is not exclusive to RSSC).
Hotel Eurostars Madrid is a contemporary 5-star retreat in one of the city’s tallest towers, offering sleek interiors, panoramic views, a wellness spa and refined dining. Set in the Cuatro Torres district, it provides convenient access to the Paseo de la Castellana, Salamanca and Madrid’s leading cultural landmarks.
DAY 2 – July 29, 2027
After breakfast, travel to Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its remarkably preserved Roman aqueduct.
Explore Segovia’s remarkably preserved old town, where layers of Roman, medieval and royal heritage are revealed at every turn. Admire the soaring Roman aqueduct, one of the most impressive engineering achievements of the ancient world, then continue to the Alcázar, whose turreted profile rising above the surrounding landscape has long captured the imagination. You will also see the city’s Gothic cathedral, a luminous landmark that crowns the historic center and underscores Segovia’s status as one of Castile’s most captivating destinations.
Following lunch, continue to El Escorial, the monumental 16th-century monastery and royal complex commissioned by King Philip II. A masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture, it served as monastery, palace, basilica and royal pantheon, reflecting the power and piety of the Spanish Empire at its height. Its austere grandeur, richly layered history and extraordinary scale make it one of the country’s most important historic landmarks.
Return to Madrid in the afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure. This is an ideal opportunity to dine independently and explore Madrid’s vibrant culinary scene, from traditional taverns serving classic Castilian specialties and expertly carved jamón ibérico to contemporary restaurants that reinterpret Spanish cuisine with creativity and flair.
DAY 3 - July 30, 2027
After breakfast, settle any incidentals and check out. Transfer to the train station and travel once again by high-speed train to Alicante.
On arrival, enjoy a short panoramic orientation of this appealing Mediterranean city, known for its palm-lined promenades, elegant waterfront and relaxed coastal charm. You may glimpse highlights such as the Explanada de Espa and the city’s graceful seafront setting before lunch at the Michelin-starred Monastrell Restaurant, where contemporary Mediterranean cuisine offers a refined culinary finale.
Afterwards, transfer to the port for embarkation.
Overland Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.
•The hotels used for your overland program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the overland program start date.
DAY 1
8:30am Disembark the ship in Barcelona
You are met and transferred to the train station.
10:00am AVE high speed train to Madrid (Snack on the train operated by Renfe)
1:30pm Panoramic and walking tour of Madrid, including the historic center, followed by tapas in local
establishments
6:00pm Hotel check in
7:30pm Flamenco show and dinner at Tablao de la Villa or similar venue
9:30pm Return to your hotel
Overnight at the Hotel Eurostars Madrid Tower or similar hotel
DAY 2
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Depart for Segovia
10:00am Visit Segovia, including its Roman aqueduct, historic center and principal landmarks
12:30pm Lunch
2:00pm Depart for Escorial
3:00pm Arrive in Escorial
3:15pm Visit El Escorial, the royal monastery and palace complex of Philip II
5:30pm Return to your hotel
Remainder of the day at leisure
Dinner on your own
Overnight at the Hotel Eurostars Madrid Tower or similar hotel
DAY 3
AM Breakfast at your hotel and check out
9:00am Transfer to Madrid train station to take the AVE to Alicante
11:30am Arrival to Alicante train station
11:45am Meet your guide and coach for a panoramic tour of Alicante
1:00pm Lunch at Monastrell Restaurant or similar venue
2:30pm Drive to the pier
3:00pm Approximate arrival at the port of Alicante, reboard the ship
What to bring:
Comfortable shoes for walking, clothing that can be layered depending on the weather, foldable umbrella or rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, camera, charger.
*Some hotels do not provide distilled water. While we can certainly request this for you, we cannot guarantee that it will be available. If received in a timely manner, at least 95 days before sailing, requests will be sent on the final manifest that our ground operators and hotels receive. We highly recommend packing your own supply, especially on programs that travel to more remote locations in order to avoid not having it. Many hotels will charge for distilled water. If there is a fee, this will be added to your hotel incidental account to be paid at check-out. Fees will vary from hotel to hotel.
Local Currency:
EUR is accepted and Credit Card. USD not normally accepted
Electricity
220 V
We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required.
Please bring your passport with you on this program.
Accommodation:
Hotel Eurostars Madrid Tower
Address: Paseo de la Castellana, 259 B, 28046 Madrid
Phone: +34 91 334 27 00
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•2 nights at Eurostars Madrid Tower Hotel or similar hotel - Superior Double Room
•High Speed train- Tourista Plus Class seats
•Transportation and guides tours as per program
•Entrances per the itinerary
•Lunch on day 1, 2 and 3: Two drinks per person to choose from wine, beer, soft drink, or water
•Tablao de la Villa flamenco show and dinner: Two drinks per person to choose from wine, beer, soft drink, or water
Program Excludes for guests:
•Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service
Please note:
Overland programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All overland programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Overland Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
