Spain Family Journey: Vibrant Cities and Artistic Icons
Spain Family Journey: Vibrant Cities and Artistic Icons
Spain Family Journey: Vibrant Cities and Artistic Icons
9 Days Starting in Barcelona and ending in Madrid
Visiting: Barcelona, Madrid
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26242
Recommended For:
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embrace your curious side and discover Spain's vibrant culture, rich history and mouthwatering culinary creations on this 9-day tour of some of the country's most iconic sites. Explore Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter on a family-friendly scavenger hunt, then marvel at Gaudi’s monumental masterpiece, Sagrada Familia basilica. Visit the elaborate and surreal house of Salvador Dalí and take a cooking class to learn how to make Spain’s famed paella. In Madrid, take a foodie walk through a bustling local market and head out on a day trip to the medieval city of Toledo where the past comes alive. Explore Real Madrid’s home stadium for a glimpse into the team’s glorious past and present. From tapas to soccer fandom, art to architecture, Spain is a feast for the senses that will have your entire family shouting, “Olé!"
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rossello Barcelona Center
Meals Included: DINNER
Welcome to Barcelona–your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
TRANSPORT: On arrival you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rossello Barcelona Center
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
After breakfast, set off to discover the city on a fun and interactive scavenger hunt through the Gothic Quarter. Beginning in Mercat del Born, families are tasked with solving puzzles and uncovering secrets related to Columbus and the city's incredibly rich heritage–an exciting way for kids to learn about history. In the afternoon, set out to discover the intricate details of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece, the iconic Basilica de la Sagrada Familia. Your guide will lead you through the awe-inspiring interiors as you marvel at the stained glass, casting colorful patterns across the stone floors. A site that National Geographic’s documentary series Megastructures described as ‘’one of Europe’s most clever and inspiring structures,’ learn of Gaudi’s unique vision and keep an eye out for symbolism embedded in every corner. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy on your own. Explore more of the city, grab some tasty local treats and have fun with your family.
ACTIVITY: Head out on an expedition through Barcelona’s Gothic quarter on an interactive scavenger hunt. “The Explorer” route has you following Christopher Columbus and his adventures. Complete puzzles designed for the location you’re visiting and learn about Columbus’ life and accomplishments, while also soaking in Barcelona’s unique history. Receive your first clue at the meeting point and let the games begin! Each clue leads you through the Gothic quarter, passing by the Mirador de Colom, a detailed statue boasting some of the best views of the harbour, the old town, Plaza Reial–a bustling Royal square popular for street artists, and Las Ramblas, the most famous street in Barcelona. Enjoy the hunt!
Day 3: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rossello Barcelona Center
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Enjoy some free time in Barcelona with your family discovering the city’s vibrant energy and iconic landmarks at your own pace. Options could include a visit to the spectacular gardens and architectural marvels of Parque Güell, another masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí. Or perhaps head down to the beach to enjoy the magnificent coastal views. Later in the day, don a chef’s hat and take part in a cooking class at a G Adventures-supported migrant training kitchen. Meet some of the students and learn from the resident chef how to make one of Spain’s most iconic dishes–paella, aptly labelled a “Spanish culinary institution” in a National Geographic article. Afterward, get a true taste of Spain as you devour your culinary creation.
Additional Information: Due to the popularity of many of Barcelona's attractions, we recommend pre-booking tickets where possible if interested in visiting sites like Parque Güell and La Pedrera. Note that our cooking class today will start at around 4pm so any pre-purchased optional tickets or visits should arranged for before this time.
ACTIVITY: Mescladis - Catalan for "Mixed Space" - is a migrant training kitchen and cafe in the heart of Barcelona featuring a unique feel that fuses old Catalan favourites and migrants' home recipes. With the help of migrant students, learn how to make paella with the resident chef, accompanied by a discussion that promotes social reflection - with the kitchen and food at the centre of it all. Then enjoy the fruits of your labour!
Day 4: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rossello Barcelona Center
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Travel to the city of Figueres, the birthplace of famed surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, and get acquainted with the important sites on a guided walking tour. Marvel at the vibrant and eclectic architecture, narrow, winding streets and traditional Catalan buildings before finishing the walk at the Dalí Theatre and Museum. Designed by Dalí himself, the building is itself a work of art and almost perfectly represents the artist’s life and work. Topped with giant eggs, the museum draws you into Dalí’s fantastical imagination as if you are wandering through a theatrical dream, surrounded by the massive collection of his intriguing works of art. Then enjoy some free time before returning to Barcelona for a free evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore the town of Figueres on a guided walking tour, wandering along the narrow, winding streets lined with beautiful buildings and learning a bit about its history. Next, be immersed in the whimsical world of Salvador Dalí, one of the most famous surrealist artists, at the Dalí Theatre and Museum. Walk through Dalí’s imagination amongst melting clocks, colourful paintings, and whimsical sculptures. Each room offers a fascinating glimpse into Dalí's unique vision, making it a captivating adventure through the wonders of art and creativity.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: Barcelona/Madrid
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Gran Hotel Conde Duque
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH
Hop on board a high-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid, taking in the beautiful Spanish countryside. After a tasty lunch, set off on a visit to the world class Prado Museum for an experience like no other. Discover the museum’s masterpieces through scavenger hunts, games and interactive activities while learning fascinating tidbits along the way. The remainder of the day and evening are free to explore on your own. Grab a bite to eat at one of the city’s many great restaurants.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: The Prado Museum is one of the world's most renowned art museums, housing a vast collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th century. It is particularly famous for its extensive holdings of masterpieces by Spanish artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, as well as works by other iconic figures such as Bosch, Titian, and Rubens. Enjoy the visit in an interactive and fun way as facilitated by the local guide through scavenger hunts, games and activities.
Day 6: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Gran Hotel Conde Duque
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH
Wake up in vibrant Madrid and set off with your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) to visit one of the city’s bustling local markets. Meander past piles of colourful vegetables, produce stands and meat vendors, brushing shoulders with locals going about their daily routine. Stop to sample some tasty products like cured meats, cheeses, pastries and the deliciously crunchy, sugar-coated churro. The rest of the day is free to discover one of Madrid’s many world-class sites such as the Reina Sofia Museum, the Royal Palace or take in a Flamenco show.
ACTIVITY: Madrid's vibrant markets showcase the city's rich cultural diversity, featuring a wide array of global flavors and culinary traditions. Join your CEO on a visit of a typical market and sample traditional Spanish dishes. You will see the international fusion cuisine, and experience the local coffee culture, reflecting the city’s lively and inclusive spirit.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy a free afternoon to discover some of the amazing things that this vibrant city has to offer.
Day 7: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Gran Hotel Conde Duque
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Set off on a day trip to the ancient city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site-set on top of a hill in the plains south of Madrid. Explore the city on foot with a local guide, wandering the labyrinth of streets lined with tall stone walls. Learn about the city’s history and hear captivating stories that will fascinate visitors of all ages. After the walk, enjoy some free time to continue exploring some of Toledo’s iconic sites like the Alcazar fortress, the Cathedral or the El Greco Museum. Return to Madrid in the afternoon for a free evening and optional dinner out with the group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating stories that will fascinate visitors of all ages.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 8: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Gran Hotel Conde Duque
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Soccer lovers unite, with an exciting visit to Real Madrid’s home stadium, Santiago Bernabéu. See the massive pitch up close and imagine all your favorite players scoring the game-winning goal. Take a journey through the club’s legendary past and vibrant present and get a glimpse into the deep passion of the team’s fans. Feel the thrill of fútbol in this iconic place and leave chanting the fan’s anthem “¡Hala Madrid!...y nada más.” This afternoon, you are free to explore Spain’s capital city on your own. Visit the amazing museums or stroll the city streets, lined with shops and cafés. Later, meet up with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner.
ACTIVITY: Dive into the rich history and glory of Real Madrid with a guided experience at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Are you ready for a journey through its legendary past and vibrant present?
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Take a free afternoon to enjoy Madrid's many historic sites and museums.
Day 9: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
-
G for Good Moment
Participate in the Mescladis Paella Cooking Class and Dinner in Barcelona.
-
Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group upon arrival.
-
Family Journeys Moment
Enjoy a Scavenger Hunt of Barcelona and a Figueres Walking tour with a visit to the Dali Museum.
-
Foodie Moment
Experience a Madrid Market Visit and Light Lunch.
-
Arrival Transfer
Your arrival transfer to the hotel is included.
-
Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner on the first day.
-
Prado Museum Visit
Visit the Prado Museum with a local guide.
-
Day Trip to Toledo
Take a guided walking tour of Toledo.
-
Visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Explore Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu stadium.
-
Farewell Dinner
Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner.
What's Not Included
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
-
International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documents are not included.
Accommodation
Hotels (8 nts).
Transport
Train, private minivan/bus, metro, taxi, walking.
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
Group Size
Max 20, Avg 14.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Check out our Q&As
-
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Mescladis Paella Cooking Class and Dinner, Barcelona Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Family Journeys Moment: Scavenger Hunt of Barcelona, Barcelona Your Family Journeys Moment: Figueres Walking tour and Dali Museum Visit, Figueres Your Foodie Moment: Madrid Market Visit and Light Lunch, Madrid. Arrival transfer. Welcome dinner. Prado Museum Visit with a local guide. Day trip to Toledo and guided walking tour. Visit Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Farewell dinner. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
-
Highlights
Marvel at Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia and immerse yourself in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter on an interactive scavenger hunt, Step into the surreal world of Salvador Dalí on a visit to his birthplace and museum in Figueres, Put your culinary skills to work at a hands-on paella cooking class in Barcelona, Dive into the history and glory of the Real Madrid soccer team with a tour of their iconic Bernabéu home stadium.
-
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
-
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
-
Important Notes
1. All parents/guardians are required to supervise their children at all times throughout the tour and may not leave their child under the supervision of the CEO, local guides, drivers, etc. Children are not to be left unattended. 2. YOUR CEO It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places. 3. OLYMPIC GAMES SUMMER 2024 Please note the Olympic Games will be held in Paris during the summer of 2024. All pre/post services & optional activities must be booked independently, and reserved well in advance. 4. LUGGAGE In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times. 5. RESERVE TICKETS Please note that if you wish to visit popular museums or sites such as the Louvre or Eiffel Tower, to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially in high season May-September when it could be a question of hours!), it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. Tickets can be reserved online at various websites. There may be the possibility of arranging tickets on arrival on Day 1, with the help of your CEO, but availability cannot be guaranteed at such short notice. 6. FAMILY INSURANCE Options for family travel insurance are available. Please enquire with your Family Trip Specialist for more information. 7. Please note that on all Family Adventures one adult can only accompany up to two minors. If you have over two minors planning on travelling then a second adult will be required to attend. 8. ACCOMMODATION NOTE: Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. 9. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE: During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.
-
Group Leader Description
All National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
-
Group Size Notes
Max 20, Avg 14.
-
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
-
Transport
Train, private minivan/bus, metro, taxi, walking.
-
About our Transportation
Private Vehicles will be used throughout the tour.
-
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
-
Accommodation
Hotels (8 nts).
-
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
-
About Accommodation
Rooming is based on double occupancy (2 passengers / 2 beds per room); all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will try to accommodate triples/quad requests whenever possible and it's important to note that rooming configuration can change from city to city and 2 single beds are the standard configuration in a room. It is important to note that accommodations in Europe tend to be quite different to other areas of the world you may have travelled in. Buildings and rooms are generally old and may not have been renovated or maintained to the highest standard. Downtown hotels in Europe were not built to be hotels but houses of the rich, which have been changed into hotels. Therefore unusual or small room sizes are common as large rooms have been partitioned in the past, resulting in rather "thin" walls. Reception areas, rooms and bathrooms tend to be very small as they were often added into an existing room, and may have a hand nozzle rather than a conventional shower head. On this trip you can expect to stay in hotels which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but have traditional character, and are in central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations. Staff can occasionally demonstrate less than perfect customer service, but a smile and a thank you can go a long way.
-
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
-
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Office London, United Kingdom During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5:30pm Local Time) +44 20 7243 9870 For absolute emergencies after office hours please contact: +441858378000 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
-
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags.
-
Packing List
Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Hand sanitizer (required) • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
-
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your CEO where the closest laundromat is. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
-
Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here For other nationalities, travelling in Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa. As a visitor to the Schengen area (Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Finland, Italy, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland) you will enjoy the many advantages of this unified visa system. Generally speaking with a Schengen visa, you may enter one Schengen country and travel freely throughout the Schengen region during the validity of your visa. There are limited border controls at Schengen borders, if any at all. Please note that the UK and Ireland are NOT part of the Schengen agreement. A Schengen visa is applied for at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country in which you will be spending the most nights on your trip to the Schengen space. If you are only visiting one country on your trip then you apply for your visa at the Consulate of this Schengen country.
-
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
-
Money Exchange
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work - check with your bank. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
-
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
-
Tipping
Local tipping is included on this Family trip which covers local guides, drivers and gratuity for included meals. At the end of your trip if you felt your two Chief Experience Officers did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline; per CEO €30-40 per person, per week can be used. For non-included meals in restaurant, a guideline is 5-10% of cost of bill.
-
Optional Activities
Barcelona - Parque Güell Visit (10EUR per person) - Picasso Museum (12EUR per person) - La Pedrera (25EUR per person) Figueres - Casa Natal Salvador Dalí (15EUR per person) - Toy Museum of Catalonia (8EUR per person) Madrid - Reina Sofia Museum (12EUR per person) - El Retiro Park - Flamenco Show (45EUR per person) - Royal Palace of Madrid (15EUR per person) Toledo - Toledo Cathedral Visit (12EUR per person) - Alcázar of Toledo (5EUR per person) - El Greco Museum (3EUR per person)
-
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.
-
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
-
Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
-
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
-
Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
-
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
-
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.