Spain Trip Details

Introduction

Welcome to Spain!

Spain is a must-go destination in Europe with incredible sights, delicious cuisine and rich history.

Explore Spain differently and get fully immersed in the Andalusian culture. You’ll visit the beautiful city of Sevilla, internationally known for its flamenco, and Granada where the beautiful palace of the Alhambra was built back in the 13th century.

Your trip will take you to Cadiz for some Spanish beach time. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the streets of Madrid and the incredible vibe of Barcelona.

Duration: 8 days, 7 nights

Start: Be ready to go at Barcelona El Prat International Airport (BCN) at 11:00 a.m.

Finish: Trip ends in Madrid City Center -- Madrid, Spain
Plan to depart at anytime on Day 8. Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to Madrid Barajas International Airport.

Airfare booking details will be sent after registration – please wait to book your flight until you receive further instructions

What's Included

  • 8 days / 7 nights shared accommodations in boutique hotels
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
  • Domestic flight from Barcelona to Granada
  • Walking tours of Barcelona, Granada, Seville, Cadiz, and Madrid
  • Delicious authentic Spanish meals
  • Explore Barcelona's world famous Gothic architecture
  • Night adventure hike in Granada
  • Traditional Flamenco show in Seville
  • Entrance to Real Alcazar Royal Palace
  • Lounge on beautiful beaches in Cadiz
  • High speed train from Seville to Madrid
  • Private ground transportation throughout Spain
  • Airport pick-up upon arrival
  • Under30Experiences Trip Leader
  • Personal recommendations for optional activities
  • The chance to meet some kick-ass people
  • Access to the Under30Experiences Community
  • Taxes always included, never hidden fees, & NO blackout dates

Travelers are responsible for international airfare to and from Spain
Cabs & public transportation, entrance fees to museums, or any optional activities are not included.
If you’d like to visit the Sagrada Familia or Alhambra, you must purchase your ticket in advance.

Highlights

  • Visit Southern Spain and learn about Andalusian culture
  • Experience a real Flamenco performance in Seville
  • Explore Granada differently on an off the beaten path night adventure hike
  • Enjoy delicious and traditional tapas at restaurants and wine bars
  • Visit Gaudi’s masterpieces in the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona or relax at the beach
  • Explore the best of Madrid and its famous museums

Is this Trip for You?

If you're interested in immersing yourself in some of Spain's most magnificent cities while soaking up the Spanish culture like a local, this trip is for you!

There will be a lot of walking as we immerse ourselves in multiple Spanish cities. You'll also eat like a Spaniard which means you should expect early breakfasts and late dinners at approximately 9:00 p.m.

Get a glimpse of everyday Spanish life as you learn about the rich, and diverse history of Spain. You will even get the opportunity to hang out on a beautiful Spanish beach (weather permitting).

Customize your experience with incredible optional activities that will further immerse you in Spanish culture.

-Age requirement: 21+
-Group size: 12-14
-Physical rating: Moderate. There will be some long walking days while we exploring multiple Spanish cities throughout the trip.

Travel Community

Travel connects us. Community keeps us connected.

Before your trip you'll have the opportunity to join a custom WhatsApp Group and connect with others members of your group. Many travelers meet in the airport, or for pre-trip drinks if they are from the same city. Others coordinate plans to stay in a country after their trip.

During your adventure, our Trip Leaders do their best to foster an open,supportive environment, where people feel safe to truly be themselves.

After your trip, you'll be an official U30X Alumni, and part of our large online Travel Community where you'll have access to our network of thousands of past travelers. We are constantly hosting meetups that range from simple happy hours, to hikes, to outdoor movie nights.

More than 70% of our travelers come solo, but they all leave with friends.

Itinerary Disclaimer

Travel can be unpredictable. Our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.

While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into it and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Meals

Breakfasts will be served at your hotel. Dinners are enjoyed in local Spanish restaurants a short walk away.

Please note that the Spanish diet is mostly meat and fish based. Vegetarian choices can be limited.

Sample Breakfast Menu:

  • Bread, pastries, tortilla, ham, cheese, pan con tomate, coffee, tea, orange juice.

Sample Dinner Menu:

  • Tapas, paella, oxtail, pork, fish, seafood.

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Some meals can be modified for special requests and food allergies.

Transportation

You will be traveling by private, locally-owned, ground transportation, public high-speed passenger train, and an included domestic flight throughout your trip. There will be early departures on some days in order to optimize time.

  • Private ground transportation to and from the airport (Included)
  • Private ground transportation to and from your hotels around the country (Included)
  • Public high speed passenger train from Seville to Madrid (Included)
  • Domestic flight from Barcelona to Granada (Included)
    Your trip includes (1) checked bag and 1 carry-on/personal item. The weight allowance for the checked bag is 23kg.
    The weight allowance for a carry-on bag is 10kg. You will not be allowed to pay extra to keep heavier luggage as a carry-on.
    Each traveler is responsible for any fees associated with bags being overweight when checking in at the airport.

Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to the airport on Day 8.
Cabs and other public transportation are not included unless specified on the itinerary.

Accommodation

You will be staying in shared boutique hotel rooms for the duration of your trip.

Please be aware that rooms in Europe can be smaller and don’t always provide a minibar, air-conditioning or a safe.

Laundry is available at some hotels for an additional fee. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

Accommodations may vary but will be the same quality.
Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same gender.
Private room options are available upon request subject to hotel availability (for an extra charge).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance with at least $200,000 USD in medical coverage is required to participate on our trips. This must include coverage for repatriation.

Please note that travel insurance covers trip related issues such as trip interruption, lost luggage, theft, etc. Travel medical insurance covers things like repatriation, medicine, ambulance rides, and hospital visits/stays. 

We strongly suggest that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure that all of the activities you plan on participating in are covered by your travel insurance.

Here are a few options for travel insurance that meet our minimum medical coverage requirements: Wanderwell, SafetyWing, and World Nomads. Some plans do not cover certain “high-risk” activities. Please make sure to read your plans coverage and make a selection based on your planned trip.

Wanderwell donates at least one percent of your insurance purchase to Explore Austin, a sustainable youth outdoor education program, via 1% for the Planet, selected by Under30Experiences.

We receive a fee if you purchase products through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Cancellation Policy

Flexible

Give us at least 60 days notice and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

If you have an emergency cancellation that is less than 60 days before your trip, please refer to your travel insurance company as they may cover you for some expenses. We are not able to transfer trips or hold experience credits within 60 days of the trip because we have already secured reservations on your behalf.

Trip Leader Expectations

All Under30Experiences trips are accompanied by experienced Trip Leaders.

The goal of the Trip Leader is to facilitate an awesome experience and help our travelers have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see,recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.

You can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.


Packing List

Please be eco-friendly!
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to refill where clean water is available.
  • Bring a reusable straw to limit the amount of single-use plastic waste.
  • Use as little plastic as possible by declining straws and plastic bags at restaurants and when shopping.
  • Please avoid aerosol bug sprays as they negatively affect the environment.

We recommend using a travel backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. 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. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

For the Alhambra in Garden, there is no specific dress code and travelers can wear clothes that don’t cover the shoulders or knees if they like. We would only recommend wearing breathable comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of walking. Travelers should also consider wearing a hat or a cap as well as sunglasses to protect themselves from the sun.

As for the Sagrada Familia, it is a Catholic church so decent dress is required, and the following limitations are established:

  • It is not allowed to enter with transparent clothes.
  • It is not allowed to enter with trousers and skirts that do not cover at least mid-thigh.
  • Swimwear is not allowed.
  • Entry is not permitted with clothing designed for celebrations of any kind or with ornaments designed to distract or attract attention for artistic, religious, promotional or any other kind of purpose.

Important: The included domestic flight on Day 2 from Barcelona to Granada has a luggage allowance of 23kg (50lbs) for a checked bag and 10kg (22lbs) for a carry-on bag. Please pack accordingly.

Below includes our staff picks of the best items on the market that we travel with!  All products selected are 3 ounces or less to comply with TSA carry-on size and organically inspired when possible.

Passport & Visas

Guidelines for U.S. Passport Holders:

Make sure you have an updated passport with you. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the last date of your trip. Please consult the U.S. Department of State with any more questions.

Make sure there is no damage to your passport. Conditions that may constitute damage requiring you to replace your passport include water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing or torn out visa pages, a hole punch, or other injuries.

Health & Insurance

Check out our Travel Alerts Page for up-to-date COVID requirements.

The tap water in Spain is safe to drink. Please bring a reusable water bottle and join us in our efforts to be environmentally friendly and keep Spain beautiful.

Please consult with your doctor before traveling in regards to physical activity and vaccinations.

No inoculations are required to enter Spain from the United States but the Center for Disease Control suggests routine vaccines for all travelers. Required vaccines should go through CDC, recommended vaccines should be through your doctor.

More specific Health information for Travelers to Spain can be found at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Money & Currency

The official currency in Spain is the Euro (EUR).

We suggest bringing EUR €300 (~USD $335) in cash to be used at establishments that do not accept credit cards.

This is not a total cash amount that you should expect to spend on your trip. Please consider your own spending habits for additional expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities.

ATMs are available in the cities and towns we visit. Although you can withdraw Euros from any ATM in Spain, it's a good idea to come with some local currency just in case.

Remember to call your bank and credit card company and let them know you'll be traveling overseas.

For an up-to-date exchange rate, download the app XE.

Please be advised that US Dollar notes that are slightly torn, heavily marked, or faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than $100USD.

Safety & Security

Always carry a copy of your travel insurance, health insurance, vaccination card, and passport with you. A photo of these items on your phone is also a good backup.

Keep your passport and any valuables locked in your hotel room.

Don’t leave valuables unattended.

US Citizens please consider registering with US State Department's “SMART Traveler Program” who can contact your family in case of emergency.

Although Spain is generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering around any town at night. We recommend staying in small groups when traveling at night.

Make sure you have the address of your hotel in the event that you're separated from your Trip Leader.

Weather

The average temperature in Andalusia throughout the year is 61°F and sunny days are almost always guaranteed throughout the year. Expect some rain in March.

  • During Spring (April-June), the temperatures are generally warm between 60-70°F.
  • Temperatures during the Fall (September-October) are also very nice with an average of 73°F.
  • Summers are very hot with temperatures that can reach more than 104°F.”

cultural information

Everything starts later in Spain. Breakfast is around 10:00-11:00 a.m, lunch between 2:00 to 5:00 p.m, "merienda" or an afternoon snack at around 7:00 p.m. Finally, dinner starts around 9:00 to 11:00 p.m.

People normally meet up for drinks around 10:00 p.m or later and only start going to nightlife venues at around 1:00 a.m because that's when they open.

Restaurants operate on their own schedules as well and typically wont open until very late compared to North American norms.

A lot of shops and restaurants are closed on Sunday.

Key Phrases
  • Hello -- Hola
  • How are you?-- Que tal?
  • Thank you -- Gracias
  • Please -- Por favor
  • What time is it? -- Qué hora es?
  • I understand/I don’t understand -- Entiendo/No entiendo
  • Where is…? -- ¿Dónde está…?
Tipping Customs

While tipping isn’t customary, it is certainly appreciated especially when you have received great service.  Be sure to tip in the local currency (Euro) to ensure the recipient does not have to pay additional fees when exchanging.  Here are some common guidelines to follow:

  • Dining at a sit down restaurant = Add 5%-10% of your bill 
  • Cafes & bars = there is no need to tip 
  • Taxi drivers = it is not expected but if your driver was helpful, you can round up to the nearest euro 
  • Cleaning staff at hotel =  2-5 euros per day 
  • Tour guide (non U30X activity leaders)  = Add 5-10 euros per person

Gratuities for Trip Leaders aren’t required on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to thank them. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. We suggest around $3-5 USD per person per day for Trip Leaders.

Optional Activities

The activities below will be paid in Euros. All amounts are approximate prices in US dollars.

Barcelona
  • Sagrada Familia: USD $19-$36
    Visit the Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece. The large cathedral is a UNESCO world heritage site
    We recommend booking your tickets months in advance since tickets sell out quickly.
    We recommend to book your tickets between 3:30 and 5:00 p.m.
  • Park Guell: USD $11
    Another one of the masterpieces of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. An enchanting park that overlooks the city.
  • Picasso Museum: USD $13
    Visit one of the most expansive collections of Pablo Picasso.
Granada
  • The Palace of Alhambra: ~USD $17
    One of the highlights of Spain, this ancient Muslim palace dominates the city of Granada giving it a unique and unforgettable skyline. Enjoy Arab art and architecture and a spectacular view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the city. We recommend booking your tickets months in advance since tickets sell out quickly.
    We recommend booking your visitation during the morning hours.
Seville
  • Flamenco Dance Class: ~USD 15
    Ever dreamed of learning how to dance Flamenco? Join a local cultural centre and learn more about this beautiful dance so unique to Andalusia.
  • Cathedral of Seville & Giralda Tower: ~USD $10
    Visit the ancient Cathedral of Seville, see the tomb of Christopher Columbus and reach the top of the Giralda Bell Tower, an ancient Muslim minaret enjoying one of the best view of the city.
Cadiz
  • Tavira Tower: ~USD $8
    Enjoy a stunning view of Cadiz and the Atlantic Ocean from one of the highest tower in the city.
  • Santa Catalina & San Sebastian Castle: Free!
    Explore these beautiful ancient castles set on the Atlantic Ocean offering you gorgeous views and an insider view of the history of Cadiz.
Madrid
  • El Prado & Reina Sofia Museum: ~USD $30
    In Madrid you can enjoy world masterpieces guarded in one of the greatest museums like El Prado and Reina Sofia.
  • Real Madrid Barnabeu Stadium Tour: ~USD $20
    Visit the famous Barnabeu Stadium, home of the Real Madrid soccer team.

While your Trip Leader will assist you with optional activities available, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of the Under30Experiences itinerary. We offer no guarantees on the safety or standard of the activity.

General Rules

Respect the people around you and the environment in which you’re traveling. This includes, but is not limited tofellow travelers, Trip Leaders, the local community, nature, wildlife, and yourself.

Do your best to keep yourself and fellow travelers out of harm’s way.

It’s important to obey local laws and customs while on our trips. This includes, but is not limited to wearingappropriate clothing while visiting certain communities, refraining from taking photos of people without asking, avoiding the use of illegal drugs, havingweapons, and soliciting prostitution. If you’re not sure about something, take time to educate yourself, or ask.

Travel involves contact with new cultures. When confronted with a different way of living than you’re used to,do your best to understand that neither way is better or worse. They’re simply different ways of life.

Know your limits! This applies to physical ability, emotional space, social situations, and alcohol consumption.If you can’t participate in something, be upfront about it. If you need a break from people, take it. Stop drinking before you get too drunk.

Trip Leaders are working in the travelers’ best interest. If they say something or ask you not to do something it’s not because they’re tyrants, but because they want you to have a good time!

Lying or withholding information about any physical or mental condition that might affect your ability to participate in any of the activities may be grounds for removal from your trip with no refund.

Staying longer or arriving early?

Hotel & Hostel Recommendations in Madrid

Hotel & Hostel Recommendations in Barcelona

Still need to book your flight?

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