Iberian Overture: Spain's Historical Harmony

• Day 1: Discover the Treasures of Madrid

Begin your Spanish adventure in the elegant capital city of Madrid. Immerse yourself in centuries of art at the Golden Triangle of Art, featuring the renowned Museo del Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. Stroll through manicured parks like the Parque del Retiro and sample Madrid's famous tapas on a culinary walking tour. Don't miss the opulent Royal Palace, official residence of Spain's royal family.

• Day 2: Step Back in Time in Toledo

Journey to the ancient city of Toledo, dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop above the Tagus River. This former Spanish capital is an architectural treasure trove, with stunning examples of Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance and Baroque monuments. Taste Toledo's signature marzipan, a sweet treat made for generations with Marcona almonds, local honey and sugar. Toledo's UNESCO-listed old town is a living museum of Spanish history.

• Day 3: Flamenco and Flair in Seville

Travel by high-speed train to Seville, the passionate heart of southern Spain. Stay in a charming historic hotel in the vibrant Alameda de Hércules neighborhood. In the evening, experience the emotional power and colorful allure of an authentic Andalusian flamenco performance. Seville is the birthplace of this UNESCO-recognized art form, and watching a live show here is unforgettable.

• Day 4: Royal Grandeur at the Alcázar

Explore Seville's winding medieval lanes and sun-dappled squares on a guided walking tour. Visit the spectacular Royal Alcázar, one of Europe's oldest palaces and still used by Spain's royal family. Originally a Moorish fort, the Alcázar is renowned for its ornate Mudéjar architecture, lush gardens, and lavish salons. Climb the Giralda bell tower for sweeping views over Seville's old town.

• Day 5: Mezquita Marvel in Córdoba

Continue to Córdoba, a city shaped by its unique interplay of Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences over centuries. Tour the Mezquita, Córdoba's defining monument and one of the world's greatest Islamic buildings. Marvel at the breathtaking arcaded hall with 856 graceful columns of jasper, onyx, marble, and granite. The Mezquita also incorporates a 16th-century cathedral, a remarkable example of the complex multi-faith history here.

• Day 6: Andalusian Olive Groves

Travel through the sun-soaked hills of Andalusia, stopping at a family-run olive mill. Andalusia is the world's top olive oil producing region, and here you'll learn about the process from tree to table. Sample fragrant oils, olives, and tapenades paired with local wine while admiring the endless groves that stretch to the horizon. Arrive in Granada, the former Nasrid capital in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

• Day 7: Sunset Splendor at the Alhambra

Spend the morning discovering Granada's Islamic architecture and tetería culture on an orientation walk. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the incredible Alhambra palace, one of Europe's most sensual and romantic monuments. Explore the ornate Nasrid Palaces and serene Generalife gardens. Return at night for an intimate visit to the Nasrid Palaces, seeing them illuminated under the stars without the crowds - a magical experience.

• Day 8: Paella and Palaces in Valencia

Journey up the Mediterranean coast to the vibrant port city of Valencia. Stop en route in Elche to stroll through Europe's largest palmeral, a date palm grove established by the Phoenicians and expanded under Moorish rule. In Valencia's historic center, see how Roman, Moorish and Christian monuments intertwine. Dine on paella, valenciana, the saffron-scented rice and seafood dish that originated here.

• Day 9: Albufera Natural Park Boat Trip

Just south of Valencia lies Albufera Natural Park, a protected wetland and lagoon ecosystem. Take a boat trip through the reed-fringed waterways, watching for birds like herons, flamingos and kingfishers. Learn about the park's traditional thatched barraca houses and rice farming culture. Back in Valencia, marvel at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences museum complex and sample horchata, a refreshing tigermut milk drink.

• Day 10: Markets and Modernism in Barcelona

The Catalan capital of Barcelona welcomes you with its whimsical architecture, world-class cuisine and palpable creative spirit. On a guided walking tour, see how the fanciful modernist buildings of Gaudí and contemporaries have shaped the cityscape. Browse the bustling La Boquería market and get lost in the atmospheric Gothic Quarter. Celebrate with a farewell dinner of classic Catalan dishes like pa amb tomàquet, escalivada and crema catalana.

From Madrid's majestic palaces and world-renowned art to Seville's flamenco flair, Córdoba's Mezquita and Granada's Alhambra, this 11-day itinerary distills the essence of Spain. Add in Valencia's coastal charms, olive oil estates and Barcelona's inimitable style, and you have an unforgettable Spanish immersion. With bespoke experiences like a night visit to the Alhambra, olive mill tasting, and wetland boat trip, this trip reveals the soul of Spain.

• Day 11: Farewell to Barcelona

As your Spanish odyssey draws to a close, Barcelona beckons with countless opportunities for further exploration. Delve deeper into Gaudí's whimsical masterpieces, lose yourself in the narrow alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, or simply bask in the Mediterranean sun on the city's iconic beaches. Whichever path you choose, the vibrant tapestry of Spain is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.