• La Pedrera (Casa Milà) rooftop, Barcelona, Spain
    La Pedrera in Barcelona
  • Plaza Mayor in Madrid
  • Toledo, Spain
    Toledo
  • Granada
  • Bullring in Ronda
  • Flamenco Dancer in Sevilla

Tour Questions? See our FAQ | Email tour@ricksteves.com

My Way® Spain in 11 Days

from $2,795 per person + air

Single Supplement $625

See Dates & Prices

Your vacation to Spain begins in beautiful Barcelona and ends in sensual Sevilla — with the cultural delights of Madrid, Ronda, and Granada laced together in between. Rick Steves' money-saving My Way vacation package gives you the freedom to decide your own daily sightseeing priorities and pace. We cut the stress by providing comfortable rooms in centrally located hotels, private bus transportation from city to city, and a travel-savvy tour manager to advise you along the way. Join us for My Way® Spain in 11 Days!

Dates & Prices

2023

2024

What's Included

  • This is an "un-guided" tour — giving you the freedom (and responsibility) to manage your daily sightseeing schedule and meals
  • A small, friendly group of 24–28 people will share our big, comfy bus during the trip, but not do organized sightseeing together
  • A Rick Steves tour manager will coordinate the group's transportation and hotels and provide advice for sightseeing, meals, etc.
  • All group transportation from Barcelona to Sevilla
  • 10 nights' accommodations in memorable, centrally located hotels
  • All breakfasts are included
  • All tips for tour manager and driver
  • Free Audio Europe™ app for Apple and Android (or get free podcast/mp3 files) featuring Rick's audio walking tours of neighborhoods in Barcelona and Madrid. Also includes radio interviews with experts on destinations covered in this itinerary
  • A tour kit including a guidebook (when available) and a moneybelt
  • Guaranteed tour price, locked in the moment you make your deposit
  • Tour alum discount of $50 for each tour you've taken with us
  • Flexibility should you need to transfer or cancel your tour

Costs not covered: As this is not a guided tour, you will be responsible for the cost of all your lunches, dinners, drinks, admissions, sightseeing, and non-group transportation. Be sure to plan and budget accordingly.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Spain

Welcome to Barcelona, one of Europe's most dynamic and diverse cities. Depending on when you arrive, today is a great day to wander through the maze-like Gothic Quarter, medieval cathedral, and refurbished harbor area. We'll rendezvous at our Barcelona hotel at 5 p.m. for a group get-together. Your tour manager will give an overview of the days ahead, answer your questions, and offer a quick orientation to our neighborhood and Barcelona's public transportation system. Then you're free for dinner on your own, and maybe an evening stroll up and down the Ramblas.

No bus. Sleep in Barcelona.

Day 2: Lively, Artistic Barcelona

You have the entire day and evening free to explore this remarkable city. Armed with a guidebook and Rick's Barcelona City Walk audio tour*, you could hop the subway to see Gaudí's towering, dizzying Sagrada Família (r) and his colorful, playful Park Güell (r). Closer to the center, you can check out the Modernisme-themed Block of Discord and a museum dedicated to another artistic visionary: Pablo Picasso (r).

No bus. Sleep in Barcelona.

Day 3: Speedy Train to Madrid

All aboard! After breakfast we'll take one of Europe's speediest trains (the AVE) to Madrid. By mid-afternoon, you'll be settled in your Madrid hotel and free for the rest of the afternoon and evening, maybe to explore the lively streets around the Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor or the majestic Retiro Gardens.

Train: 3 hours. Bus: 1½ hours. Sleep in Madrid.

Day 4: Masterpieces of Madrid

Today is entirely free to cover the best of Madrid with Rick's Madrid City Walk audio tour*. For many, that means the masterpiece-packed Prado (r) — featuring paintings by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and others. The Royal Palace (r) is another great place to wander and soak up the opulence of Spain's capital city. Tonight, use your guidebook to put together a tapas crawl and use your phrase book to connect with the locals (and to figure out what you're eating)!

No bus. Sleep in Madrid.

Day 5: Day Trip from Madrid

Your day is free. It's cheap and easy to hop on a Spanish bus for a day trip to the old capital city of Toledo for its magnificent cathedral, the Synagogue Santa Maria la Blanca, and Santo Tomé Chapel — or to Segovia for its thrilling Roman aqueduct, Gothic cathedral, and imposing Alcázar (r).

No bus. Sleep in Madrid.

Day 6: La Mancha and Granada

Today we'll drive through windswept "Don Quixote country" on the way to our destination of Granada, arriving at about 4 p.m. Once you've checked into the hotel, you might head up the Albayzín hill, find an interesting place for dinner, and enjoy a sunset view of the Alhambra.

Bus: 5 hours. Sleep in Granada.

Day 7: Moorish Treasures of Granada

Your entire day is on your own, and there's no better way to start than with a visit to the sprawling palace and garden complex of the Alhambra (r) — the last and greatest of Europe's Moorish palaces. Afterward, you might explore the colorful streets and alleyways of Granada's Old Town and ponder the course of history at the ornate tombs of world-changing Ferdinand and Isabel, who reigned over a new age of religious zeal at home and exploration of the "new" Americas.

No bus. Sleep in Granada.

Day 8: Ronda

This morning we'll drive to the hill town of Ronda, home to Spain's oldest bullring and its most breathtaking gorge. The afternoon and evening are yours to explore Ronda's Moorish and Mercadillo Quarters, linked together by the famous gravity-defying stone bridge (towering over the rubble of an earlier one that wasn't).

Bus: 3 hours. Sleep in Ronda.

Day 9: Sevilla's Barrio Santa Cruz

Today we'll wind our way between olive groves and pueblos blancos on our way to the flamboyant and atmospheric city of Sevilla. Our hotel's central location makes it easy to spend this afternoon and evening marveling at the world's largest Gothic cathedral — and window-shopping along the narrow, whitewashed lanes of Sevilla's Barrio Santa Cruz. Tonight, you might enjoy a performance of sultry, swirling flamenco.

Bus: 2½ hours. Sleep in Sevilla.

Day 10: Sevilla's Royal Alcázar

Your entire day is free to do as you please. You could start with a visit to the beautifully Moorish-style Alcázar palace (r), the Sevilla home of the Spanish Royal Family for the past 500 years. Afterward, you can walk in the footsteps of Carmen and Don Juan, linger in Sevilla's charming squares, or stroll along the romantic Guadalquivir River. This evening, consider capping off your My Way Spain adventure with a carriage ride through the streets of Sevilla. Salud!

No bus. Sleep in Sevilla.

Day 11: Tour Over After Breakfast

Sevilla's airport is a bus or taxi ride away with easy connections throughout Europe. Alternatively, you can hop on the AVE train to Madrid to continue your Iberian adventures on your own. Hasta luego!

Itinerary specifics subject to change.

Sightseeing notes

(r) = reserve a time before you leave the US
* = included in Rick's Audio Europe™ app

Physical Demands

Our tours are physically active! It's an essential part of the Rick Steves tour experience. On our My Way® Spain in 11 Days tour — among other things — you'll need to happily…

  1. Carry/roll your luggage over uneven pavement (possibly several blocks) and up stairways to reach your hotel, then up several flights of stairs to reach your room.
  2. Sleep with street noise and no (or weak) air conditioning.
  3. Be able to navigate towns and cities on your own.
  4. Be responsible for your own daily sightseeing, admissions, meals (except breakfasts), and non-group transportation.
  5. Travel on a bus without a toilet (rest stops every two hours).
  6. Eat dinners as late as 9 p.m.

Reviews

I-wei

Tour: 05/04/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

From the beginning with registering for the tour to the last day of the tour, I felt well informed, cared for, and respected. The tour cities were representative of many interesting cultural regions of Spain, hotels were outstanding. Guides were so wonderful. The whole trip was very smooth and fun.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the Alhambra from the view point at night"

Karen

Tour: 05/04/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide David was attentive, approachable, knowledgeable and always available via WhatsApp if we were out and about on our own. As the only solo traveler in the group and my first Rick Steve’s tour, David exceeded my expectations. I’m addition we had an apprentice tour guide Tim who was also very helpful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Maybe not the same for others in my group however, my favorite wow moment was as a solo traveler I had the safety net of the tour group and tour guide David. I say this because I travel globally for work however have never travelled solo with a tour group. I enjoyed seeing all the sites I wanted as well as meet some wonderful travellers in our group. If you are on the fence of whether to travel solo with a Rick Steves group - do it!!!"

Michael

Tour: 05/04/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

First ever tour after traveling on our own for 40 years and it was outstanding. The My Way tour took away all the stress of finding hotels and transportation but let us plan our days on our own. Our guides, David and Tim were great, providing all the guidance we needed and even throwing in a couple of special events!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Tossup between the special dinner our guide David arranged in Granada, overlooking the Alhambra or the suprise guest at our Happy Hour in Ronda."

Kathleen

Tour: 05/04/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 6th Rick Steves tour, but our first My Way. Even though most RS tours have lots of free time, this was an exciting and action-packed time of our own doing!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Eating on a terrace overlooking the Alhambra in the evening watching the sun change its colors was breathtaking! And...what a pleasure to meet Rick in Ronda!"

Kathy

Tour: 05/04/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

From the knowledgeable guides to the wonderful hotels centrally located made the trip magical

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our tour guide David arranged a group dinner at wonderful restaurant across from Alhambra. The views were amazing"

Richard

Tour: 04/27/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I enjoyed this tour very much. At first I was concerned because our previous Rick Steves tour was a guided Best of England. By studying the Rick's book and going on the city tours (narrated by Rick) we had no trouble seeing the highlights of each city and using our time wisely.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Group dinner in Grenada, overlooking the Alhambra. At sunset the Alhambra turned gold."

Nancy L

Tour: 04/27/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I chose the My Way Tour of Spain because I didn't think I would be able to keep up with a regular tour. The My Way Tour was great! I especially liked the few optional group activities—the dinner overlooking the Alhambra, the Paco Seco Concert in Ronda, and the flamenco show in Sevilla (which unfortunately I could not attend although I heard it was excellent)—that were arranged by Brian, our tour manager.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many WOW moments, but if I have to choose just one, it would be that night in Granada when we met as a group for a many-course meal on the terrace overlooking the Alhambra at sunset. The food and wine were wonderful, and the view was spectacular!"

Beverley

Tour: 04/27/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

First Rick Steves tour. We took My Way tour to Spain. Loved having the ease of hotel and transportation bookings and our tour guide to help make the trip a success.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner overlooking the Alhambra in Granada"

Vicki

Tour: 04/27/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Hotels in wonderful locations, great to have our guide available for pointers, information, this unguided tour took all the stress out if choosing hotels, traveling between locations, etc.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several but top three were dinner overlooking the Alhambra, the Alhambra, and the night in Ronda."

Pamela

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The 'My Way' travel model was perfect for me. I am a solo, older woman who wants to travel but appreciates having back up while on the road. RS took the 'business' of planning and organizing the itinerary and let me plan the fun parts of what to do once in a city. Coupled with the RS books and the excellent 'Tour Managers' who were available each morning, I was well prepared with online tickets in hand and ready to explore on my own or with someone in our group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Tour Managers suggested venues for meals at a few spots if we wanted to get together as a group. The dinner on the terrace across from the Alhambra was spectacular. An appetizer to what we would see the next full day in Granada. Being able to enjoy the sunset as the colors changed and spilled across the snow capped mountains down to the Alhambra while we lingered over a fantastic meal will always be a hightlight of my travels."

Andrea

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved the Spain My Way... best of both worlds, independent travel and organized transportation and hotels.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Very hard to choose, we had a great group and David and Louis were amazing"

Ken

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was an absolutely brilliant tour. David and Luis were so helpful and had everything perfectly and smoothly organized.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the Sagrada Familia was awe inspiring."

William

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first Rick Steves' Experience and we were totally satisfied. Our guides were very responsive and made excellent recommendations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our guide David planned a dinner for the group which was absolutely perfect. Having a group that were all very kind and generous was a big plus."

Jean

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Right from the first meeting with our guides and fellow travellers, our impression was very positive. The group was friendly and welcoming and things were organized and efficient. Communication with our guides was clear and needed information was easily accessible.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner overlooking the Alhambra."

Jim

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Spain is a beautiful and friendly country. The tour stops were great choices and well planned. Hotels were centrally located and very comfortable. The tour guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. Overall the trip was very enjoyable and stress free. Each stop was unique with many sightseeing and experience to explore including architecture, museums, art history, local culture and food. The “my way” tour had a good balance of organization, local travel and accommodation with lots of free time

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many. One evening we had dinner over looking the Alhambra it was a spectacular view, great food and beautiful weather."

Rick

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great schedule to see some of the varied regions of friendly and fun Spain. My Way Tour made it easy to explorer on our own without worrying about transportation or lodging. Fantastic travel guides and friendly travelers to share experiences with when we wanted to.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner outside at Restaurante las Tomasas in Granada"

Pamela

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was a fantastic ‘My Way’ tour of Spain due in large part to our experienced and enthusiastic guides, David and Luis, who provided invaluable insight and knowledge. They kept everyone on time and focused and we were fortunate to have a great group of fellow travelers with whom we were very compatible. We felt very well taken care of under David and Luis’ expertise guidance, and their genuine enthusiasm in sharing their love of this beautiful country, greatly enhanced our trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many “wow” moments on this trip… the gorgeous architecture of Barcelona, the amazing food throughout Spain, the Prado museum, and magnificent Alhambra, to name a few. However the dinner organized by David and Luis overlooking the Alhambra was definitely a highlight and magical moment with the achingly beautiful views and fun company of our guides and fellow travelers."

Thomas

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a great tour. Our terrific group leaders were knowledgeable and friendly. The members of the tour were all really nice. Your tours attract a certain kind of traveler who is open and wants to learn from the traveling experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Having dinner together in Granada with the Alhambra in our view."

Bandana

Tour: 04/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Visiting different places, eating food, meeting with people and enjoying nature was amazing.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Natural beauty and historical architects."

Steven

Tour: 10/13/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first Rick Steves tour. The My Way option was perfect for us. I was extremely impressed with our tour guide Javier. He was incredibly knowledgeable and always gave us great suggestions for places to see as well as places to eat and drink. Our trip far exceeded our expectations thanks to all of Javier's hard work.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Alhambra was more breathtaking than I could have ever imagined."

Lori

Tour: 10/13/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Walking into the Alhambra when it first opened."

Daniel

Tour: 10/13/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was a perfect blend of taking care of the most challenging part of trip (travel) while providing us the independence to go "My Way."

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Every city had special "wow" moments. The Alhambra in Granada was most impressive. We thoroughly enjoyed the extra special Rick Steve's arranged dinner overlooking the Alhambra."

Maggie

Tour: 10/13/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My way tours are perfect for us. It takes the stress out of hotel and transportation planning and we’re free to do as we wish upon arrival.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The guided tour at the Alhambra."

Dana

Tour: 10/13/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Spain was a wonderful destination. Enjoyed the sites as well as emersion into the culture and cuisine. The friendly people really made the trip enjoyable. COVID was a concern and three people in the tour were infected and had to leave. We felt safe wearing masks indoors and in high-risk situations. Enjoyed the plentiful outdoor dining options.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Romantic walk through Ronda at sunrise. Views were amazing!"

Laura

Tour: 10/06/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was flawless, wonderful tour guide…. She was so passionate about Spain and it showed, the cities we saw, the hotels…..saw so much more than I expected.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The group dinner that Asa set up in Granada was spectacular…. The view took my breath away"

Julie

Tour: 10/06/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great time, great group!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably the private dinner we had overlooking the Alahambra on 10/11."

Cathy

Tour: 10/06/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide was a joy. She was well prepared and went above and beyond.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"An amazing extra dinner our tour guide arranged."

Dianne

Tour: 10/06/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first MY WAY TOUR, although we have been on seven regular RS tours. The experience was wonderful, more than we could have imagined. Our guide Asa, was incredible. Added so much to our tour sharing her knowledge, helpfulness and insights. One of the surprising things about this tour was how close the tour group became even though we all went our separate ways and didn't share group meals.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I don't feel I had one WOW moment on this tour. There were many moments visiting historical sites that I felt so lucky to have been able to experience, other than watch or read about. Gaudi's architecture and history was one of the most interesting."

Sally

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This was our first My Way tour, after four other RS tours. We had a great time, but missed the guides’ commentaries on the bus rides. The RS guides we have had on tours have been so informative and entertaining I think we will go back to group tours.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner in a lovely restaurant overlooking the Alhambra. No, wait…Ronda, that gorgeous cliff-hanger of a town we visited. Or maybe the Flamenco show we went to. Heck, it was all one “wow” after another."

Richard

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great tour guide and tour members.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Touring the Alhambra. Churros and chocolate in Madrid."

Anne

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great intro to Spain, its cities and rich history. The hotels varied in quality but all were centrally located. Margaret was available to help with tickets, suggestions, and help.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hmmm… so many"

Natalie

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a great experience from start to finish!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The farewell dinner was really fun!"

Linda

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We enjoyed the flexibility of doing what we wanted to do at each location but not having to worry about how to get from A to B, as well as the help in delivering us right to our hotel. The arrival and getting our room was arranged in advance so we were able to get to our room very quickly.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Impossible to just name one! First, everything about The Alhambra in Granada, from the picturesque moon lit dinner with a view of The Alhambra the night before, to the inspiring tiles and numerous arched windows and scrolled walls and ceilings. Second is the eye candy of The Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid because of the overwhelming variety of beautifully displayed tapas all in one place. Third, best bite were the mushrooms, including the restaurant vibe, at Meson del Champinon, in Madrid."

John

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our My Way tour in Spain was very good; all it was promised.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably the Alhambra in Granada"

Stephen

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

excellent hotel locations everywhere

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Spain"

Katherine

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Fabulous cities/sites, an outstanding tour manager and amazing new friends from this wonderful trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Alhambra at sunset"

Vickie

Tour: 10/04/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Everything was beautifully executed. Margaret always had her tips and recommendations that were on point. She was awesome!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many to chose from but I would have to say the Royal Palace in Madrid was amazing."

Mary

Tour: 09/29/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Pal was a magnificent tour manager… so knowledgeable, personable and dependable! As a retired teacher, I give him an A +

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It is impossible to give one WOW moment. Each city on the tour provided fantastic memorable moments!"

Joyce

Tour: 09/29/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Spain my way was the perfect way to take a tour. The other people on the tour were lovely but we had a very nice trip, just us.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Barcelona and the Guadi locations"

Thomas

Tour: 09/29/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first Rick Steves tour. I had good expectations based on the programs, Monday night, shows and other information I have reviewed over the years. Overall this was a great trip. It checked all the expectations and offered more than I expected. Except for the fatigue, I would be ready to go on another one soon. I expected to see the sights, monuments, cathedrals, museums I had planned for and we did it all. And I feel like my traveling skills have been improved.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but I think the Segrada Familia was a WOW, OVERWHELMING. This is a modern work of art, architecture dedicated to honor the Holy Family. The concept, design, and creativity of Gaudi is amazing. it has to be seen in person. I plan to return after it is completed, hopefully in 2027. I think a lesser WOW of a different type is the experiences of so many aspects of Spanish culture. We had a professional guide who was so knowledgeable and approachable. He exceeded my expectations."

James

Tour: 09/29/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well-paced experience with excellent tour manager, Pal, and unique accommodations located in the heart of key sites in each city/town. Loved the exciting big cities of Madrid and Barcelona but small towns like Ronda and day trip sites of Toledo and Cordoba provided the opportunity to slow down and enjoy people-watching and unexpected conversations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Ronda provided great sites like the "new" bridge and bull ring but the highlights were the views and vistas available everywhere you turned."

Mary

Tour: 09/29/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had never done group travel internationally and My Way touring appealed in that we wanted to plan our trip with experiences unique to us and the friends we were traveling with. It had been 8 years since we'd traveled to Europe and it was nice to have the transportation and lodging piece already secured. The other aspect about this trip that made it memorable and fun was our tour manager, Pal. He was great--fun, personable, and informative.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many "WOW" moments but one that impressed me was the Alhambra in Granada--we spent 5 hours there! The time went by so fast--we could have stayed longer!"

Mary Kay

Tour: 09/29/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our group was the right size and with interesting people. Our guide was wonderful. We especially liked his orientation sessions at some of the cities. The city choices were a nice mix of big city and smaller but very special places. Pal's "office hours" were very helpful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our little group of 6 had reserved tickets for Zambra dancing in Granada. I loved that."

Juanita

Tour: 09/22/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The entire group was so kind and friendly. Rich and Brian were the best tour leaders and very knowledgeable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner with Rich and Brian at the Alhambra was a beautiful setting for a beautiful evening."

Jane

Tour: 09/22/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was my first Rick Steves Tour and was a terrific experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many! One highlight was the dinner we had in Granada in the restaurant where we had a fabulous view of the Alhambra as the sunset. The food was fantastic, and the view was incredible. We also had a chance to get to know our fellow travelers better."

Beth

Tour: 09/22/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was informative and fun.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner in Grenada looking out at the Alhambra all lit up at night."

Major

Tour: 09/15/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Pal was an excellent and knowledgeable tour manager.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the ancient fortress wall in Sevilla."

Jacqueline

Tour: 09/15/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We are active travellers and we were slightly apprehensive about a tour. My Way was perfect for us. The logistics were arranged for us. We had a brief orientation and access to thoughtful suggestions and the guide’s experiences in each location. Then we went off and had our own adventures.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Ronda was enchanting."

Christine

Tour: 09/15/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our group, led by Pal, was a friendly bunch, made up of people from across the U.S., and us, the two Canadians. Everyone was congenial and we travelled harmoniously together. Pal shared lots of information about the places we were visiting, and set up a Flamenco experience in Sevilla, as well as a fabulous rooftop dinner on our last evening. He was an awesome leader, offering suggestions, answering questions, and helping to solve any issues that arose. (Few did.) We enjoyed meeting everyone!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Turning a corner as we walked down the hill in Segovia and seeing the amazing Roman aqueduct that stands 100 feet high, and has done so for over 2000 years, built without the use of mortar, and still able to be functional today. It was awe-inspiring. Segovia is an optional day-trip from Madrid, but we highly recommend it!"

John

Tour: 09/15/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We have travelled extensively by ourselves through most of Europe, and the most difficult thing is the searching for and booking hotels and transportation. "My Way" completely took care of those two things, making the whole trip much more enjoyable. Pal is a wonderful host, and very good at his job. We would certainly jump at the chance to travel with him again.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Karen and I brought along 9 of our very good friends who have said for years, "When John and Karen go to Spain again, we want to go along." Although Karen and I were seeing many things we have seen before, we thoroughly enjoyed watching our friends experience the wonders of Spain for the first time. Not having to worry about lodging and transportation made it easy for us to concentrate on the experience of exploring Spain."

Rebecca

Tour: 09/15/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Well planned tour and good itinerary. Pal was an excellent tour manager. I appreciated his even tone and sense of humor. He provided excellent information and recommendations. I like the My Way experience which provides convenience with independence.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many wow moments but the Alhambra and Granada was especially memorable. After the palace tour we walked back to town along the river and had a leisurely lunch with a view of the Alhambra."

Lynn

Tour: 09/15/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very well planned and the hotels were great - centrally located and nice to stay in.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many it is hard to choose one "wow" moment. Seeing Alhambra from inside and outside sticks out in my mind."

Laurie

Tour: 09/08/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Really nice facilities and the transportation lined up went very smoothly. Communication between RS and us was also very helpful and prompt.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Stepping off the plane into a foreign country - realizing how nice it felt and how long it had been since I had traveled."

Gordon

Tour: 09/08/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The cities chosen provided a good first look at Spain. Most were busy which was wearing. Ronda was a lovely break. The hotels were a reasonable representation of the Rick Steves ideal and were clean, friendly and centrally located.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Gaudi's Sagrada Familia (also La Pedrera) in Barcelona. The bull ring in Ronda was fascinating in its own way."

Heidi

Tour: 09/08/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Tour was very good, felt that 1 more day was needed in Barcelona, 3 nights in Madrid was too much, would have preferred a second night in Granada or Ronda.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We took a tour to Montserrat, it was amazing. Tour then took us to see many of the sights in Barcelona; Park Güell, Olympic Stadium, beach, Sagrada Familia. Strongly recommend this when you only have one day."

Scott

Tour: 09/08/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Spain was fabulous, had never been there before. Learned so much, saw so many new and unexpected things. My way tour worked great, all travel and hotels taken care of made it so much easier, and we had the flexibility to set up our own tours.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to say as there were so many, but the cathedral is Sevilla was amazing!"

Greg

Tour: 06/23/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I enjoyed the structure of the Rick Steves tour combined with the autonomy of the My Way experience. This was my first trip to Europe and Spain didn’t disappoint. The accommodations were quaint and immersive. James, our guide, was deft at navigating post-COVID changes in the cities we visited. He infused knowledge when we were curious and stepped back when were on our own. I particularly enjoyed the city orientation walks. Our group genuinely enjoyed each other, making lasting memories.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was personally “wowed” by Spanish/European culture’s approach to work/life balance and love of life. It seemed every city we visited was making way for more bikes and pedestrians and fewer cars. The pace of the day was centered around enjoying the company of others, use of abundant green space and general zest for life. It inspires me to continue to explore more of Europe."

Letti

Tour: 06/23/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I had a great time and loved the food

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hiking down to the old bridge in Ronda"

Tarunjeet

Tour: 06/23/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It is a well curated tour. Just the right amount of driving in between the cities.and very centrally located hotels.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The beauty of small villages like LaMancha and Zahara. The location of hotels, close to good food places and Flamenco performance."

Patricia

Tour: 06/23/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Out of my seven RS tours, this was my first My Way and I thought it was great! I liked the personal time to explore with the transportation and hotels arranged for us.The pacing was perfect and the hotels were perfectly located in the cities we visited. James was helpful and knowledgeable in sharing his love of Spain with us. Our group got along very well and we regularly shared tapas with new friends!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I truly loved our tapas bar experiences in Madrid. We found ourselves in a bar drinking vermouth and navigating the tapas menu under the care and attention of a rather entertaining bartender. She was stern and we loved it! We had such a great experience we brought some friends back the next night. We laughed and had a wonderful time exploring tapas bars and bodegas!"

Maria

Tour: 06/23/22

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

I expected more from a Rick Steve's Tour. I think the quality of our tour guide made a significant impact.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our last hotel was beautiful in Seville. It was a nice way to end the tour."

Craig

Tour: 06/16/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very well run and planned! Great tour!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Royal Palace"

Tonia

Tour: 06/16/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The My Way tour was just what I wanted - the stressful details handled, leaving me to plan and execute all the experiences I wanted to have the way I wanted to have them. It was just great!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were way too many to just choose 1!!! But - the Alhambra gardens first thing in the morning without a lot of people was definitely a highlight."

Kristen

Tour: 06/16/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was wonderful having all the big things like the bus, train and hotels taken care of. I had previously been to some of the cities so it was nice to have the independence to plan what to do in each city. The guide, Amanda, was amazing! She was kind and knowledgable. She was very helpful in answering questions and offering suggestions.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved seeing La Sagrada Familia again. The last time I went I was with a guy that had a more limited amount of time. This time I was able to wander at my own pace. I had also never been to Granada so seeing Alhambra was amazing!"

Ethan

Tour: 06/16/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Can’t tell - so many"

Isabella

Tour: 06/16/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

So much information given and well though out advice in the textbook that is not found in every tour service company around

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The moments spent walking back to the hotel at noght after a group dinner listening to the sound of joyous music from local players. Magnificent memories made."

David

Tour: 06/16/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

What fun to see at our own pace. Our guide always had "office hours" for questions and lots of time for all of us.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"To many to cover. I enjoyed all the wonderful architecture."

Richard

Tour: 05/26/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The "My Way" format worked well for us - we liked that transportation and lodging were arranged for us, and our tour manager, Rich Earl, was great! He spoke Spanish fluently and gave us lots of assistance with making train reservations and tour choices. His general knowledge of the cities we visited helped orient us.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Sagrada Familia cathedral was amazing, and Barcelona is one of the loveliest cities we have ever seen! We would have liked another day in Ronda because it is quite charming and a spectacular setting. The Alhambra in Granada is impressive, but we enjoyed the Alcazar in Sevilla more because it had the same Moorish decor but took half as long to see as the Alhambra, and if one pays for the tour of the royal quarters, you can see these amazing rooms in period furnishings."

Mary Francis Carol

Tour: 05/26/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Beyond my expectations! The ease and flow of the tour schedule made the trip stress free and so enjoyable. Schedule was perfect. Rich, our tour guide was prompt and professional throughout the entire trip. His enthusiasm is describing the sights and culture of the places we visited was incredible.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The optional activities were spectacular. I signed up for all of them, and they really made the experience of being part of the culture so enjoyable. The dinner at the restaurant in Granada was perfect - the view, food, service, and location."

Brett

Tour: 05/26/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We are now fans of the My Way tour format and will recommend it to others. It was the best mix of support with the freedom to plan your days.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The people of Spain. They have a very relaxed outlook on things and are warm and generous. They made us feel welcome and glad that we visited."

Rebecca

Tour: 05/26/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Went smooth, well planned, a bit rushed but overall very positive.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner at the Carmen overlooking Alhambra. Beautiful!"

Colin

Tour: 05/26/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Overall a wonderful trip in a beautiful country. I wished we had a bit more time in each city.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Alhambra or Toledo Cathedral"

Steven

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great food, trip made easy by Rick Steve's My Way planning.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Group dinner in Granada with overlook view of the Alhambra."

Dana

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first tour ever & I couldn't have been happier with the experience! I was very impressed with how quickly the Rick Steves organization pivoted when our guide became ill - the tour seamlessly continued with a new guide quickly joining us. The information & orientation walks offered by the guides were much appreciated & the optional activities & dinners they arranged were outstanding. Travel by train & coach was a snap, & hotels were mostly excellent. Can't wait to do another tour!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We were in Ronda at Casa Museo Don Bosco, a lovely mansion with a patio that overlooks a beautiful garden and the valley below. With refreshments in hand, we settled in for a Spanish guitar concert as a gentle breeze blew threw the room and birds sang outside. It was truly a magical moment!"

Timothy

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour was great. We truly enjoyed it. The tour leaders planned all of the hotel check-ins and transportation very well. Due to COVID, our initial leader was only with the group a few days. The second tour host, Amanda was amazing. She shared her knowledge and experiences of living in Spain and was a joy to talk with.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The guitar concert that we attended at Casa del Bosco in Ronda was amazing! The outdoor space overlooking the gorge and bridge was breathtaking!"

Richard

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well our group was great and our first guide Rich Earl was fantastic until he came down with Covid and we needed another one in Madrid. Amanda took over and she was wonderful but had to leave us in Seville where Connie took over and was very caring and professional. Overall Covid put a little bit of a damper on everything as 5 other members of our group caught it and had to drop out. At which point we were weary of eating indoors (including eating breakfast with our group).

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visiting the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona was it for me. I mean WOW! Could have sat there for hours!"

Charlotte

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Another great trip, overall. The allotment of time was excellent, the tour hotels were very well located and central to all the things we wanted to do. Our replacement guide, Amanda, was helpful and friendly.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Again, its always the shortest stops and the smallest towns that are the most amazing. Ronda (on the tour) and Toledo (side trip from Madrid) were the most spectacular, and I could have stayed both places longer!"

Kevin

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I think the trip flowed very well. Our guides were very helpful. We were glad we arrived in Barcelona one day early. There was too much to see for the time that was given. I did like the hotels being centrally located, except for Madrid. I felt it was located in time square. People on top of people. If we were not having this covid experience, I'm sure it would have felt much different. Our guide and five members of the tour tested positive early on. We were just trying to stay healthy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Sagrada Famililia was my favorite site. It was an amazing creation."

Barbara

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The accommodations were all excellent and even though we had several tour members as well as our guide contract COVID it was all handled professionally, and we never felt "unsafe". Our replacement guide, Amanda, was awesome and the tour completed without a hitch!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to say! Sagrada Familia, the Prado, the countryside itself, the food was all just amazing! Ronda however was a a delight and if anything, I would suggest a longer stay there!"

Regina

Tour: 05/12/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very content and glad I took your tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I don’t think I had a “wow” moment."

Ingrid

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was exactly what we were looking for. I have Parkinson's and I thought one of your active guided tours might be too much for me. We arrived a few days before and remained in Sevilla for a few days after the tour ended. As it turned out, we walked up to 6 miles a day. The hotels were centrally located and very nice. Hotel Jazz in particular was a great help to us. There were elevators in most places for me to use. Asa was a great tour leader.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Asa arranged a dinner in a restaurant overlooking Alhambra in Grenada. We had a room all to ourselves. The dinner was delicious. And as the daylight disappeared, Alhambra lit up. What a sight! We had a guided tour of Alhambra the next day and we were amazed at the intricate carvings from the period of Islam. My second wow moment was the New Bridge over the gorge in Ronda."

Daniel

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

First My Way tour; very pleased.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All the agriculture; never seen so much area under cultivation with trees."

Allen

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was so wonderful to be back traveling after the pandemic lock down! The Spain My Way tour was the perfect blend of freedom and having a tour guide. SO easy to have travel and lodging already arranged!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hearing a Eurasian Blackbird for the first time, and recognizing it from the Beatles song. Sounds crazy, but that really was a wow moment! Also, trying Tinto de Verano for the first time. 10/10, highly recommend."

Janice

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved the Spain My Way Tour, the itinerary was perfect and well timed transportation and hotels in the places we wanted to go. We added three days to Barcelona, to fully see Gaudi, the charming city and do an excursion to Girona and the coast. Asa, our guide, was amazing, loved the perspective she brought as someone who fell in love with Spain and flamenco. The Spanish countryside is stunning and its fascinating the way the culture changes by each region.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"As an architect, I was first introduced to Gaudi and the Alhambra 40 years ago as a student. Tremendous to see these works of genius in person. Especially the sun setting on the Alhambra from the group dinner at Restaurante Las Tomasas."

Scott

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great choices of places to visit, comfortable means of travel, and a nice pace allowed for plenty of free time and selection of things to do.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Royal Palace in Madrid was almost overwhelming in scale and beauty!"

Karen

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We spent a great deal of time planning for our My Way tour and that certainly contributed to a great trip. Our tour hostess was very helpful and made arrangements smooth and easy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It’s a toss up between the Feria in Sevilla where we booked a guide who take a few of us at night to her Caseta where we ate and drank and danced the night away and the awe inspiring work of Gaudi and his Sagrada Familia in Barcelona."

Isabel

Tour: 04/28/22

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a fabulous experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many...Dinner looking at the Alhambra; Spanish Guitar Concert in Ronda; Flamenco in Seville"

When To Go & Weather

Spring and fall are the best times to take a My Way Spain tour with good weather, lighter crowds, long days, and plenty of tourist and cultural activities.

Spain / Barcelona

Barcelona Weather

 


Spain / Madrid

Madrid Weather

 


Spain / Sevilla

Sevilla Weather

Hotels & Flights

Tour Hotels

In case you wish to book pre- or post-tour hotel accommodations, the contact information for the tour's first and last hotels is included in your tour confirmation email, as well as in the Itinerary section of your tour account. One month prior to the tour departure, you'll find the directions to your first tour hotel and a complete list of hotels where we'll be staying in the Documents section of your tour account.

Flights

Our tours don't include airfare, so your flight arrangements are completely up to you.

Most tour members arrange to fly into Barcelona (BCN) and out of Sevilla (SVQ) — choose "multicity" on flight-booking websites. Booking round-trip to one city will require a connecting flight, train trip, or additional overnight stay in Spain.

We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. For more information about transportation options for getting to and from your tour, see your Rick Steves Spain guidebook.