Beyond Italy:
Spain
Spain is a country of fascinating diversity, visible in its people, its countryside, and its rich history. The variety of cultures that have influenced Spain are vast, including the Romans, Moors, Phoenicians, and Gypsies. With such a deep history behind the Iberian Peninsula, each region of Spain could easily be considered an independent country. The green landscapes of the north present a marked contrast to the mountainous and arid landscapes of the south. The foods of Spain are equally varied, and provide yet another exciting aspect to your experience.
Barcelona has some of the most unique and inspiring architecture in the world, so a tour of the city's parks, museums and churches is a must. Choose a private tour to see the beauties of Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Casa Batlló, La Sagrada Familia , and Park Güell. Hungry? Enjoy a visit to one of the 39 traditional food markets in Barcelona: discover their history, their role in Catalan food culture and sample many specialties on the way. And do not forget to pay a visit to La Barceloneta, closer to the city's beaches, for some of the best paella.
Flamenco is virtually unique in present-day music - a traditional form of folk music that is still as alive today as it has ever been. How about a typical dinner followed by a Flamenco show in Madrid? The Spanish capital has many treasures to explore as well: visit the Royal Palace, stroll around the Retiro Park, shop and browse the stores of La Gran Via, and do not forget to check Picasso's masterpiece El Guernica at El Prado museum. Did you know that Madrid is home to what is officially the oldest restaurant in the world? Sobrino de Botín was founded in 1725 and has been going strong ever since.
Toledo, 45 miles from Madrid is perfect for a day trip. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: perched majestically on the banks of the river Tagus, Toledo is a city of three cultures. Medieval Jewish and Muslim heritage sits side-by-side with Christian churches in this “Imperial City”.
If you are a foodie you do not want to miss visiting San Sebastian, to try some of the best Michelin star restaurants in the Basque Country. And don't forget to try pintxos, the most gourmet tapas you'll find anywhere in the country. Relax on the picture-perfect white sand beach of the Bahía de la Concha (Bay of Concha), with a wide shoreline and mesmerizing turquoise waves. Don't forget to pay a visit to the old town and stop at one of the many viewpoints of the scenery.
Visit the Alhambra Moorish fortress in the hills of Granada, in the southern heart of Spain. This fortress protected the city's inhabitants from invasion by the Christians for hundreds of years. It certainly worked - Granada was the last city to fall during the Reconquista, the Spanish leg of the Crusades.
Don't forget to pay a visit to the Mosque in Cordoba, the biggest mosque in Spain, it is the highlight of any trip to this city in Andalusia. With its location on the Costa del Sol, Málaga boasts some of the most fantastic coastal sceneries in the country.
Seville is a little jewel! With its cathedral with its Giralda tower, the neighboring Alcazar castle, and garden complex, and the Plaza de España.