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First Time on a Rick Steves Tour - Barcelona and Madrid

Hello!
I am a seasoned traveler, and the 8 days in Barcelona and Madrid is the first Rick Steves tour I have ever signed up for. (We usually drive everywhere and hit a lot of small towns along the way.) I have read the itinerary, and am just wondering when they say "the afternoon/evening is left for your own exploration", are there favorite places of people on this forum that are not included in the Barcelona or Madrid scheduled events? If so, I'd like to hear some. The hotels in the itinerary look great and centrally located. I'll take restaurant ideas if people have them too!

Thanks,
Linda
Rochester Hills, MI

Posted by
71 posts

Linda your guide will be very familiar with the areas you are in. They will usually give you ideas of where you might want to visit plus restaurants, pubs, museums, places to explore. It’s is a great time to get to know your travel group and the local environment. We have experienced great memories during those periods. Sometimes your guide will offer to take you on something not on the schedule. First night we were in Barcelona we stayed up late to watched a parade. We use Google Maps and load all of our hotels in it so all we have to do is use for a walking map back. Enjoy

Posted by
894 posts

I have taken that tour, infact, it was my first RS adventure. It is amazing! Both cities are fantastic ( and very different ). There is a day trip to Toledo, so that makes three. Most afternoons are free for you to explore on your own. Your guide will provide excellent suggestions.