Majestic Journey through Madrid to Zurich
Kick off your eight-day adventure in the vibrant city of Madrid, soaking up the nightlife and tapas in La Latina. The next day, dive into Madrid's culture with a city tour, including the Paseo del Prado and Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. From there, journey through Spain’s heartland to Zaragoza and the serene Poblet Abbey. Barcelona awaits with Gaudí’s masterpieces before you head to the historic streets of Girona. Cross into picturesque France, exploring Arles and the stunning Carrières des Lumières. In Switzerland, experience Geneva’s grandeur, Gruyères’ famous cheese, and Alpine adventures at Glacier 3000. Conclude in Zurich, cherishing spectacular landscapes and vibrant cities.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
8 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
MadridEnds
ZurichMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Spain that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Countries
Spain, France, SwitzerlandPassengers
$2,532.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Madrid
Zaragoza
Poblet
Barcelona
Girona
Careers of Lights
Chambéry
Geneva
Gruyeres
Leysin
Interlaken
Lucerne
Zurich
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Madrid
Welcome to Madrid! Upon your arrival at the airport, we’ll be ready to transfer you to your hotel. You'll have some free time to settle in until the tour officially begins. Be sure to check the information signs in the hotel reception area for details about the welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travellers. In the evening, we’ll provide a transfer to Plaza Mayor and La Latina, Madrid's vibrant hub famous for bustling nightlife and delightful tapas restaurants. You're free to choose where to dine, with a variety of cuisines available, including Indian, Chinese, Spanish, and Middle Eastern. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - Madrid
Today, we begin our morning with an extensive tour of central Madrid. We will explore the city's iconic landmarks including the Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, Puerta de Alcalá, Plaza de Colón, and the historic Plaza Mayor. Continuing our journey, we will wander through Retiro Park, a lovely green retreat in the heart of the city, where we will visit the picturesque lake and admire the stunning Palacio de Cristal. Your visit also includes admission to the famous Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid – a must-see for any football enthusiast. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, offering a perfect opportunity to delve into Madrid's vibrant culture at your own pace. As evening falls, we will provide a return transfer to your hotel, allowing you to rest and reflect on a day well spent in this magnificent city.
Day 3 - Madrid - Zaragoza - Poblet - Barcelona
Today, we depart from Madrid, venturing into the region of Aragon through the scenic landscapes of Castile. Our first stop is Zaragoza, where we'll marvel at the magnificent Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Following this, we continue to the tranquil Poblet Abbey, renowned for being one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries worldwide – entrance tickets are included. As our day concludes, we make our way to Barcelona, arriving in the evening to wrap up an eventful day.
Day 4 - Barcelona - Girona
In the morning, we will begin our exploration of Barcelona, famously known as the City of Counts. Nestled along the Mediterranean Sea, this vibrant city is celebrated for its stunning modernist architecture by Antoni Gaudí, the lively atmosphere of Las Ramblas, and its rich historical legacy, highlighted by hosting the Universal Exposition and the Olympics. Barcelona stands out as one of Europe’s most captivating capitals. In the evening, we will depart Barcelona and head north into Catalonia. Before settling in at our hotel, we'll take a stroll through Girona's charming historic centre, renowned for its colourful houses, the evocative Jewish quarter, and its magnificent cathedral.
Day 5 - Girona - Carrieres des Lumieres - Chambery
We will journey into France today, passing through the scenic Provence region. Our first stop is the charming city of Arles, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site and celebrated for its connection to Van Gogh. Take the opportunity to explore its ancient Roman theatre and the delightful Romanesque churches, and enjoy lunch in this picturesque setting. Our adventure continues to Carrières des Lumières, an extraordinary underground art exhibit set within an old quarry, where art, imagery, and sound come together in a captivating display. We then make our way to Chambéry, the enchanting capital of Savoy. Expect to be charmed by its medieval style, a beautiful historic centre, and a large castle. In the event of high demand for Carrières des Lumières tickets, we will alternatively visit the renowned Pont du Gard, a testament to Roman engineering and an iconic aqueduct.
Day 6 - Chambery - Geneva - Gruyeres - Leysin
Today, we'll set off towards Switzerland, starting our adventure in Geneva. Accompanied by our guide, we'll visit the Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations, and stroll through the charming English Garden, admired for its floral clock and the impressive Jet d'Eau, the tallest fountain in Europe. Our journey continues to the enchanting village of Gruyères, famed for its world-renowned cheese. Nearby, you'll find some of Switzerland's major chocolate factories, including the iconic Nestlé. We've arranged a visit to the Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory, where you'll indulge in a delightful tasting experience. As we press on, we'll meander through scenic roads, taking in the breathtaking mountain vistas and quaint wooden villages. Our next stop is Chillon Castle, magnificently poised on the shore of Lake Geneva, where admission is included. By the afternoon, we'll arrive in Leysin, a delightful holiday village offering stunning views of the Rhône Valley and Mont Blanc. Known for its winter sports and hiking opportunities, Leysin is a splendid place to unwind. Tonight, dinner is included. Please note that accommodation may occasionally be in another picturesque Swiss town nestled in the Alps, like Martigny, depending on availability.
Day 7 - Leysin - Interlaken - Lucerne - Zurich
Today, we embark on a journey that promises breathtaking mountain vistas – don’t forget to pack your winter attire. Our adventure begins with a cable car ride to Glacier 3000, one of the most magnificent high-altitude spots in Switzerland, where ice and snow persist throughout the year. Here, you have the opportunity to traverse the suspended bridge connecting two mountain peaks, explore the intriguing Ice Cathedral, or enjoy the Fun Park. After this awe-inspiring experience, we'll pause in Interlaken for a leisurely lunch amid stunning surroundings. Our next destination is Lucerne, a city renowned for its beauty and charm, where you'll have some time to soak up the enchanting atmosphere. As evening falls, we will continue to Zurich, where you'll have a chance to discover the vibrant centre before retiring to the hotel. Please note that if weather conditions hinder the Glacier 3000 cable car operation, we will ensure an alternative alpine experience is provided.
Day 8 - Zurich
Following breakfast, our tour concludes in Zurich, leaving you with delightful memories of your travels.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Zurich
Triple
Double
Twin
Single
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Madrid
Triple
Double
Twin
Single
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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