NB: Prices correct on 28-Mar-2025 but subject to change.
This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating self-drive journey through Spain's historic heartlands with the "Madrid & World Heritage Cities" tour. Begin in the vibrant capital, Madrid, exploring its grand palaces and renowned art galleries. Venture to Segovia to marvel at the Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale Alcazar, then continue to Avila, a city encircled by medieval walls. Discover Salamanca's ancient university and architectural wonders before heading to the UNESCO-listed old town of Caceres. Conclude your adventure in Toledo, where the spirit of El Greco lingers in its historic streets. Enjoy superior 4-star accommodations and the freedom of unlimited mileage car hire, ensuring a seamless exploration of Spain's cultural treasures.
Highlights
Madrid: Visit Europe’s largest palace and the Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso’s Guernica.
Segovia: Admire the Roman aqueduct and visit the fairy-tale Alcazar and Gothic cathedral.
Avila: Explore the walled city with its fortified Gothic cathedral and the Convent of St Teresa.
Salamanca: Stroll the historic streets and visit the oldest university in Spain.
Caceres: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 50 historic buildings.
Toledo: Experience the spirit of El Greco while exploring ancient streets and historic churches.
Itinerary
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Accommodation Name: Silken Puerta de Madrid or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive at Madrid Airport, pick up your rental car and head towards the beautiful city of Madrid to check in and explore the city. The Spanish capital is one of Europe’s liveliest and most elegant cities, boasting beautiful boulevards, vast parks, bustling plazas, and numerous historic churches and palaces. Madrid is also home to the legendary ‘golden triangle’ of art galleries, which house some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces.
Overnight in Madrid.
Day 2
:
MADRID – SEGOVIA – AVILA (170km – 2hrs)
Location: Segovia, Ávila
Accommodation Name: Palacio de los Velada or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, head towards sensational Segovia. Visit the Gothic cathedral and the Alcazar, which was one of the inspirations for Disney’s Cinderella castle. See also the awe-inspiring Roman aqueduct, which dates from the reign of Emperor Domitian in the first century and cuts through the city centre. Continue to Avila and stroll the beautiful streets of its old town, surrounded by uninterrupted medieval walls. The perimeter of more than 2.5 kilometres is dotted with 88 towers and nine gates. Behind the ramparts is a city of immense beauty and heritage. Visit the fortified Gothic cathedral and the Romanesque Basilica of St Vincent.Stroll through its ancient streets, with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles evident, and take in the splendour of the Plaza de Santa Teresa.
Overnight in Avila.
Day 3
:
AVILA – SALAMANCA (110km – 1.5hrs)
Location: Salamanca
Accommodation Name: Altheus Carmelitas or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, discover Spain’s most venerable seat of learning, visiting theUniversity of Salamanca, as well as the old and new cathedrals. Salamanca University is the third-oldest in the world and the college gives the city a lively buzz, unlike the rest of Castile. At the time of the university’s founding in 1134, Salamanca was in the Kingdom of Leon. Head to the heart of the action at the magnificent Plaza Mayor and savour the inspiring atmosphere. Every corner of Salamanca exudes history! Visit the Irish College, the Casa de las Conchas Palace, the Monterrey Palace, the Art Noveau and the Art Deco Museum at the Casa Lis.
Overnight in Salamanca.
Day 4
:
SALAMANCA
Location: Salamanca, Clavero Tower, Salamanca, Convent of Las Dueñas, Salamanca, Convent of St. Stephen, Salamanca, Baroque Clergy Church, Salamanca
Accommodation Name: Altheus Carmelitas or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, after breakfast, dive into Salamanca’s architectural treasures, starting with the striking Clavero Tower. This unique 15th-century fortress-like structure rises above the city with its octagonal shape, a reminder of Salamanca’s medieval past. Next, explore the Convent of Las Dueñas, a stunning example of Mudéjar architecture with intricate cloisters and beautiful courtyard arches. Continue to the Convent of St. Stephen, renowned for its magnificent Plateresque façade and golden stone that glows in the sunlight, revealing Salamanca’s mastery of ornate Gothic design. Finally, visit the Baroque Clergy Church, a grand masterpiece adorned with elaborate decorations, embodying the rich religious heritage of the city.
Overnight in Salamanca.
Day 5
:
SALAMANCA – CACERES (200km – 2hrs)
Location: Cáceres
Accommodation Name: Hospedería Parque de Monfrague or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel and head towards Caceres to explore its magnificent historic centre. Not to be outdone by its provincial neighbour, the medieval walled old town of Caceres is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with fortified homes, Renaissance palaces, and historic churches. The walled area is compact and there are two main clusters of monuments. In the Santa Maria-Golfines area, you can find the Renaissance Toledo-Moctezuma Palace, as well as the Co-cathedral of St Mary while the area around the Plaza de las Veletas-Plaza San Mateo is dominated by the 15th century Cigüeñas Palace.
Overnight in Caceres.
Day 6
:
CACERES – TOLEDO – MADRID (330km – 3.5hrs)
Location: Caceres, Toledo, Madrid
Accommodation Name: Silken Puerta de Madrid or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel. Then, drive to Toledo and wander through ancient streets dominated by the stunning cathedral and the legendary Alcazar overlooking the River Tagus. The old town boasts buildings from almost all periods of the Spanish history. Visit the cathedral and admire the Gothic vaulting and the elaborate altarpiece. Admire the numerous works of art such as frescoes, stained glass, altarpieces, and paintings signed by artists like El Greco, Caravaggio, Van Dyck, Rubens, and Goya. Continue to Santo Tome Church where El Greco’s epic canvas ‘The Burial of the Count of Orgaz’ is displayed or just stroll the beautiful streets of Toledo. Then, enjoy a scenic drive back to Madrid, where you'll spend the final night of your tour.
Overnight in Madrid.
Day 7
:
DEPARTURE MADRID
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your last day in Madrid with a tasty breakfast. Then, at the agreed time, head towards the rental company to return the vehicle.
What's Included
Car Hire
This self-drive tour includes car hire options with unlimited mileage, featuring vehicles like the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, ensuring a comfortable journey through Spain's historic cities.
Car Hire Insurance
The tour includes Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCWD) and Vehicle Theft Protection (STP) for the rented car.
Local Taxes
Applicable local taxes (VAT) are included in the tour package.
Airport/City Surcharge
The tour package includes airport/city surcharge for the car hire.
What's Not Included
Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, laundry, drinks and meals not stated explicitly in the programme are not included.
Flights
National or International flights are not included in the tour package.
Insurance
All types of insurance except for the mentioned rent-a-car insurance are not included.
Entry Visas
Entry visas to Spain and Gibraltar (if applicable) are not included.
Entrance Tickets
Entrance tickets to any venue, museum or activity are not included.
Car Hire Exclusions
Damage to a third party or the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to vehicle components, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, fines due to breaking traffic laws, additional driver fee, young driver surcharge, one way fees, petrol refueling charge, any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat etc), and no insurance coverage in Gibraltar are not included.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain though a warm jumper and jacket are advisable in the cooler months. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
Drivers age from 26 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s licence for a minimum of one year)
Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver’s licence together with the original from their country of origin
Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, from 08:00 to 21:59. Pick-ups and returns outside these hours (if available) may incur a surcharge
If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days
Deposit credit card Visa or MasterCard only
Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 48hours of the incident
In cases where, following the return of the vehicle, additional cleaning is required due to the car being dirty beyond the level expected from normal vehicle use, an additional charge shall apply, against evidence of the cost of the service provided.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1,6 Madrid
Superior Hotel Category = Soho Boutique Opera or similar 4*
Day 2 Avila
Superior Hotel Category = Palacio de los Velada or similar 4*
Day 3 Salamanca
Superior Hotel Category = Altheus Carmelita or similar 4*
Day 4 Caceres
Superior Hotel Category = Boutique Casa Don Fernando or similar 4*
Day 5 Toledo
Superior Hotel Category = Alfonso VI or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
VEHICLE CAR GROUP
VW Polo or similar B
VW Golf or similar D
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 6 Madrid
Superior Hotel Category = Silken Puerta de Madrid or similar 4*
Day 2 Avila
Superior Hotel Category = Palacio de los Velada or similar 4*
Day 3-4 Salamanca
Superior Hotel Category = Altheus Carmelitas or similar 4*
Day 5 Caceres
Superior Hotel Category = Hospedería Parque de Monfrague or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
Car Group B = Opel Corsa or similar
Car Group C = Ford Focus or similar
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes car hire options with unlimited mileage, featuring vehicles like the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, ensuring a comfortable journey through Spain's historic cities.
Accommodation
Enjoy 6 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels, including Silken Puerta de Madrid in Madrid, Palacio de los Velada in Avila, Altheus Carmelitas in Salamanca, and Hospedería Parque de Monfrague in Caceres.
Check out our Q&As
What type of vehicle is included in the self-drive tour?
The self-drive tour includes car hire options with vehicles like the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, featuring unlimited mileage for a comfortable journey through Spain's historic cities.
What kind of insurance is included with the car hire?
The tour includes Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCWD) and Vehicle Theft Protection (STP) for the rented car.
Are entrance tickets to attractions included in the tour package?
No, entrance tickets to any venue, museum, or activity are not included in the tour package.
What are the accommodation options during the tour?
The tour includes 6 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels, such as Silken Puerta de Madrid in Madrid, Palacio de los Velada in Avila, Altheus Carmelitas in Salamanca, and Hospedería Parque de Monfrague in Caceres.
What should I wear when visiting religious or official buildings in Spain?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings.
What are the age requirements for drivers on this tour?
Drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and must have had their driver's license for a minimum of one year.
What should non-EU drivers present when renting a car?
Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver's license together with the original from their country of origin.
What happens if I return the rental car earlier than the agreed date?
If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days.
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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Reviews of this operator
Maria R
Very informative tour
05-Dec-2022
Very informative, creative and charming guide Sol made the experience one to remember. Highly recommend to give you an overview of the area.
Andrew W
Great Scenery
08-Aug-2022
Spectacular scenery. Lovely lunch. The two villages were lovely to see. The stops were short. Best to pre-plan a walk through the villages beforehand to make the most of the time there. The guide was very informative and helpful
Sandra F.
Great tour! Northern of Spain, Galicia & Portugal (Multi country)
15-Nov-2022
We took an 16-day tour with this firm, and everything exceeded our expectations. The sights we saw were breathtaking, and our tour guides were outstanding. We went on an English/Spanish tour, and the majority of our group was from South America and spoke Spanish. The extra package that includes lunch and select entertainment is highly recommended. Thank you very much for this opportunity!
Grace B
Down South, Self-drive, couldn't be better
16-Oct-2022
Loved the self-drive tour, gave us the ability to stay on our own schedule. Locations were great with lots to explore in each town as well as along the drive. Ronda and Seville were our favorite! We had the ability to stop while on the road to wine and olive oil taste too, as well as explore Castillo de Almodovar, a beautifully restored castle near Seville where they shot several scenes of Game of Thrones. Location of hotels were good too, easy to get to so you didn't have to drive through some of those difficult narrow one way streets. Only issue was having to pay for parking at some of the hotels, this should have been part of the package. Other than that, it was a great tour!
Steve G
Excellent Volcano and Village Tour
17-Nov-2022
Amazing volcanic scenery, beautiful village set in deep valleys. Ivan was a very knowledgeable local guide who was great with our toddler!
Destination Services Spain requires a minimum deposit of
25%
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 destination services spain charges.
Up to 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 17 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 9 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
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