Barcelona Explorer (Winter)

Surrender to the seduction of Barcelona - Spain's sultry second city which boasts a proud Catalan culture and a boundless energy you'll get to explore over the coming days. On arrival, transfer to your hotel, then spend the rest of the day on your own exploration before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception to kick-start your week-long stay. In Barcelona, the local cava is as sparkling as the city's nightlife, so resist the urge to retire early and embrace the effervescent energy of its cosmopolitan heart. (WR) Stay: Barcelona 1882

The fanciful façades of Gaudí are among the many highlights on your morning sightseeing tour with a 'Local Specialist'. You'll walk through the intricately carved doors of La Sagrada Família and into the creative genius of Gaudí as you explore his unfinished masterpiece and learn why it has taken generations to complete his life's work. Ascend to Montjuïc, the lofty origins of Barcelona, before indulging in an afternoon at leisure to explore on your own. You could choose to soak up the sights and sounds of Las Ramblas, winding your way from the harbour to the bustling Plaça de Catalunya. Or explore more of the fairy-tale Spanish Art Nouveau architecture that line many of Barcelona's streets. Tonight, the flurry of skirts and castanet claps provide a mesmerising encounter with Catalan culture on an Optional Experience to a spectacular Flamenco show including dinner. Olé! (B)

Leave the sun-kissed shores of the Costa Daurada and head into the mountains for a visit to Montserrat. On the panorama of rocky pillars you will find Catalonia's most renowned Benedictine Monastery, Santa Maria de Montserrat, founded in the 11th century. Later, visit Sant Sadurní d'Anoia where you'll delve into the delicate art of Cava production at Freixenet Wineries. With fruity flavours lingering on your palate, you'll return to Barcelona for a free afternoon to explore on your own or consider joining an Optional Experience to explore the labyrinthine lanes of the historic Gothic Quarter, followed by dinner and drinks in a local restaurant. (B)

Gaudí's magic touch on Barcelona's skyline takes centre stage today during this morning's sightseeing your with a 'Local Specialist'. Delve into the legacy of 'God's architect' as you explore the organic shapes and architectural treasures of Park Güell and admire the ethereal façades of Casa Milà. Indulge in a free afternoon to enjoy a quiet siesta or explore more of the city on your own terms. That could mean a visit to the lively Boqueria market where your every sense will be engaged as you wander past stalls laden with cheeses, charcuterie and seafood. This evening, join your travel companions for a Regional Dinner at El Nacional Barcelona and embark on a culinary adventure showcasing the flavoursome cuisine of the Iberian Peninsula. (B/RD)

Tread in the footsteps of the ancients when you visit Tarragona today to see its UNESCO-listed Roman ruins. Your orientation tour will reveal several of the city's ancient monuments, including the Les Ferrers Aqueduct, also known as the Devil's Bridge. Explore the remaining remnants of the Roman Empire and the beautiful religious buildings that date back to the 12th century. You could choose instead to join the sun-worshipping locals on the city's Blue Flag beaches before returning to Barcelona for a free evening. Tonight, an Optional Experience could see you join a dinner and night-time city panorama tour with your travel companions. (B)

Indulge in a full free day to experience life as a local. Set your watch to the laidback pace of your barceloní hosts and enjoy a leisurely morning soaking up the café culture of Barcelona at Passeig del Born or grab your front-row seat and people watch at Plaça del Rei - the choice is yours. You could choose instead to join an Optional Experience to Figueres and visit the Dalí Museum. Embrace the 'theatrical dream' Dalí hoped his museum would create and admire the world's most diverse collection of his works, as well as curiosities from his imagination. Return to Barcelona where you're free to enjoy Barcelona's cosmopolitan nightlife. (B)

A leisurely start to your day eases you in to the sights and sounds of El Born where you'll embark on a tapas walking tour to savour local favourites like Jamón Iberico, Croquette and Montaditos. You'll be pleased to have the afternoon off to get your final fix of Barcelona, including an opportunity to finish some last-minute shopping. This evening, join your Travel Director and new friends for a rousing Farewell Dinner to toast to an epic exploration of one of Europe's most vibrant cities. (B/FD)

Treasure the memories of an extraordinary encounter with Barcelona as you bid your travel companions farewell. Airport transfers are available. Conditions apply. (B)