Journey through the Heart of Spain

The Cox & Kings Signature Experiences

• Visit a traditional producer to taste a selection of Iberico cured meats and cheeses.
• Stay in well-located, characterful properties.
• Visit the Monastery of Yuste, once the home of Emperor Charles V.
• Admire Mérida’s Roman ruins, arguably the most impressive outside of Italy.

What’s Included

• UK departure and overseas airport taxes.
• Accommodation, itinerary, and meal basis as described.
• Local transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Fully escorted by an English-speaking guide throughout.
• Entrance fees unless otherwise stated.
• 4-star accommodation.
• Small group size (max 18 people).
• Direct international flights with British Airways.
• 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners.
• Welcome dinner to meet your group & tour manager.

Itinerary: Superior 

DAY 1: Fly to Madrid

• Fly to Madrid:
  Fly from London (regional connections available) to Madrid with British Airways. Transfer to the historic city of Salamanca and stay at Hotel Catalonia Plaza Mayor (or similar) for 2 nights. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner. (D)

Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Plaza Mayor

DAY 2: Segovia – Ávila

• Segovia – Ávila:
  Walking tour of Segovia, including its first-century Roman aqueduct. Continue to Ávila, one of the oldest cities in Spain. Take a walking tour around the 14-meter-high walls, which date back to the 11th century. After the tour, return to Salamanca. (B)

Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Plaza Mayor

DAY 3: Salamanca & Mérida

• Salamanca & Mérida:
  Half-day walking tour of Salamanca’s historic city center, including the Plaza Mayor (one of the best examples of baroque architecture in Spain), the cathedral, and the university (founded in 1134, the oldest in the Hispanic world). Depart for Mérida, pausing en route to visit the Monastery of Yuste, once home to Emperor Charles V. Check in at the Parador de Mérida (or similar) for 3 nights. (B, D)

Accommodation: Ilunion Merida Palace

DAY 4: Cáceres

• Cáceres:
  Half-day walking tour of Cáceres, one of the most charming cities in Extremadura. Explore the maze of narrow, cobbled streets that twist and turn amongst ancient palaces, mansions, arches, and churches. From the defense walls, enjoy views of the turrets, spires, and gargoyles that have watched over the city for almost a millennium. (B, D)

Accommodation: Ilunion Merida Palace

DAY 5: Mérida – Zafra

• Mérida – Zafra:
  Half-day gastronomy tour to discover some of Spain’s best-loved delicacies. Visit a traditional Dehesa to learn about the Iberian meat curing process before enjoying a tasting of local products. Conclude with free time to explore the picturesque village of Zafra, known as Little Seville. Return to Mérida. (B)

Accommodation: Ilunion Merida Palace

DAY 6: Mérida & Toledo

• Mérida & Toledo:
  Today it is the capital of Extremadura, but Mérida was once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. See the extensive Roman ruins, including the amphitheater. Continue to Toledo, pausing en route to visit the picturesque village of Trujillo, including the home of conquistador Francisco de Pizarro. Stay 2 nights at the Hotel Maria Cristina (or similar). (B)

Accommodation: Hotel Maria Cristina

DAY 7: Toledo

• Toledo:
  Half-day tour to explore this historic city, formerly the capital of Spain and where Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexisted peacefully — as reflected by its interesting mix of historical buildings. Morning tour of the main sights, including the 13th-century Gothic Cathedral, St Tome Church, and Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue, followed by time at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a farewell drink at your hotel. (B)

Accommodation: Hotel Maria Cristina

DAY 8: Fly to London

• Fly to London:
  Morning transfer to the airport (approximately one hour from Toledo) and fly to London with British Airways. (B)

The Cox & Kings Signature Experiences

• Visit a traditional producer to taste a selection of Iberico cured meats and cheeses.
• Stay in well-located, characterful properties.
• Visit the Monastery of Yuste, once the home of Emperor Charles V.
• Admire Mérida’s Roman ruins, arguably the most impressive outside of Italy.