Salamanca Short Break

Upon arrival in Madrid, you will be met by our local representative and transferred by coach to your hotel in Salamanca. On the way to Salamanca you will have a half day guided city tour of Madrid. Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a cosmopolitan city that combines the most modern infrastructures with a large cultural and artistic heritage, a legacy of centuries of exciting history.

(Please note: your city tour of Madrid may also take place on the departure day depending on flight times.)

The historic city centre of Salamanca has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your half day guided walking tour will take in many of its highlights, such as Plaza Mayor and the famous University of Salamanca, the oldest in Europe. A visit to the Cathedral of Salamanca is also included. After the tour, spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town at your own pace and discovering its many charms.

Depart your hotel this morning for a full day excursion to Valladolid. The city on the Pisuerga River is home to an interesting collection of Renaissance architecture comprising of houses, palaces and emblematic buildings such as the College of San Gregorio (today the site of the National Sculpture Museum) and the Church of San Pablo. You will also visit the Cathedral of Valladolid during this excursion. The city has a lively atmosphere with plenty of artistic and cultural activities. It is an ideal location for relaxing with plenty of charming cafés with terraces. You will return to your hotel in the afternoon.

Depart your hotel for a full day excursion to Avila and Alba de Tormes.  Avila is a World Heritage City, sheltered by the Sierra Gredos Mountains. Behind the city walls, there is a variety of churches and Renaissance palaces that bear witness to the past.  Of the city’s nine gates, the most spectacular is Puerta del Alcázar (Gate of the Fortress). Being the birthplace of Saint Teresa has left its mark across Avila, with numerous religious buildings linked to her life. We will also visit Alba de Tormes, where Saint Teresa died.  On a short walk, learn how important the town was to Teresa, and the role it played in her life. She is also present in the town's gastronomy, as there are popular sweets called "Yemas de Santa Teresa". Return to the hotel in the afternoon.

You will have a full day to relax and enjoy Salamanca at leisure. Your guide will be happy to offer suggestions for activities and places to see in the surrounding area.

Time to say 'adiós' to Spain. You will transfer from your hotel to Madrid for your return flight home.