Soul of Spain, Self-drive

Soul of Spain, Self-drive

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8 Days From

$846

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Tour Overview

Embark on the "Soul of Spain, Self-drive" tour and explore the rich cultural tapestry of Spain at your own pace. This self-drive adventure begins and ends in the vibrant city of Madrid, where you can marvel at Europe's largest palace and the renowned Reina Sofia Museum. Journey through the architectural wonders of Aranjuez, the medieval charm of Toledo, and the lively university city of Salamanca. Discover the UNESCO-listed medieval walls of Avila and the fairy-tale allure of Segovia's Alcazar. Conclude your journey in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, home to Philip II's grand monastery. Enjoy superior 4-star accommodations and the freedom of unlimited mileage with comprehensive car hire options, ensuring a seamless and enriching exploration of Spain's historical and artistic treasures. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Madrid: Visit Europe's largest palace and the Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso's Guernica.

  • Aranjuez: Explore the architectural masterpieces of this former royal getaway.

  • Toledo: Discover the "City of Three Cultures" with its rich medieval history and landmarks.

  • Salamanca: Experience the vibrant university city with its stunning Plaza Mayor and historic cathedrals.

  • Avila: Walk along the impressive medieval walls surrounding the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Segovia: Admire the Roman aqueduct and visit the fairy-tale Alcazar and Gothic cathedral.

  • San Lorenzo de El Escorial: Explore Philip II's massive monastery, a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : ARRIVAL MADRID

Location: Madrid

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

Location: Madrid

Accommodation Name: Silken Puerta de Madrid or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Discover all the main sights and attractions by driving through famous locations like the Paseo de la Castellana, the Plaza de Los Cibeles, and the Gran Via. Visit the Royal Palace - Europe’s largest - and the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. The Royal Palace has more than 3,000 rooms and the appearance of those seen during the guided tour is an eclectic mix, ranging from cluttered Victorian to exotic oriental décors. Works of art by great masters such as Caravaggio, Velazquez and Goya adorn the walls while period furniture graces every room. The lavishness and opulence of the interiors stand in contrast to the sober baroque and neo-classical exterior, which faces the Almudena Cathedral and overlooks the Campo del Moro gardens. The Reina Sofia Museum boasts one of the greatest collections of modern art in the world. Admire works by Spanish masters such as Joan Miro, Salvador Dali, Juan Gris, and Pablo Picasso, whose vast and haunting Guernica is complemented by an exhibition of other works and resources, which help put the iconic painting in context. 

Overnight in Madrid. 

Day 3 : MADRID – ARANJUEZ – TOLEDO – SALAMANCA (380km – 4.5hrs)

Location: Aranjuez, Toledo, Salamanca

Accommodation Name: Altheus Carmelitas or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


Depart after breakfast at the hotel, heading to charming Aranjuez. Visit the Royal Palace and gardens. Find the inspiration for Joaquin Rodrigo’s famous ‘Concierto de Aranjuez’ classical Spanish guitar piece, based on his experiences at the palace gardens. Then, continue to Toledo. Discover this living museum, which evokes the mix of Jewish, Muslim and Christian cultures of medieval Castile. 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 Santo Tome Church – where El Greco’s epic canvas ‘The Burial of the Count of Orgaz’ is displayed – and the former synagogue, with an interior that presents one of the best-preserved examples of Mudejar architecture in Castile. Then bid farewell to Toledo and drive to Salamanca.

Overnight in Salamanca.

Day 4 : SALAMANCA

Location: Salamanca

Accommodation Name: Altheus Carmelitas or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


Discover Spain’s most venerable seat of learning after having breakfast at the hotel. 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. If time permits, also catch a glimpse of the Clavero Tower, the convents of Las Dueñas and St Stephen and the Baroque Clergy Church. 

Overnight in Salamanca.

Day 5 : SALAMANCA – AVILA (130km – 2hrs)

Location: Avila

Accommodation Name: Palacio de los Velada or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


Depart after breakfast at the hotel, heading to Avila. Stroll the streets of the city´s old town, a place still 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, and take in the splendour of the Plaza de Santa Teresa. 

Overnight in Avila.

Day 6 : AVILA – SEGOVIA (65km – 1hr)

Location: Segovia

Accommodation Name: Hotel Candido 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.

Overnight in Segovia.

Day 7 : SEGOVIA – SAN LORENZO DE EL ESCORIAL – MADRID (110km – 1.5hrs)

Location: San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid

Accommodation Name: Silken Puerta de Madrid or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


Begin your day with a tasty breakfast at the hotel. Then, head to San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This pretty and prosperous town is the location of one of Spain’s most important Renaissance monuments, the magnificent Monastery of El Escorial, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex also served as the royal palace of Philip II, one of the two dozen monarchs whose final resting place is the Pantheon of Kings. Other attractions of El Escorial include the Hall of Battles, where large frescoes depict important Spanish military triumphs, the lavish library with frescoed ceilings, and the breathtakingly beautiful basilica. After admiring this lovely city, continue to Madrid and check in at the hotel. 

Overnight in Madrid.

Day 8 : DEPART 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

    The tour includes car hire options such as the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, with unlimited mileage, emergency contact service, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

  • Insurance

    The tour provides Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCWD) and Vehicle Theft Protection (STP) as part of the car hire insurance.

  • Taxes and Surcharges

    Applicable local taxes (VAT) and airport/city surcharges are included in the tour.

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.

  • Additional Insurance

    All types of insurance except for the mentioned rent-a-car insurance are not included.

  • 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, 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. ...more ...less

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.

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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 1-2, 7 Madrid

  • Superior Hotel Category = Soho Boutique Opera or similar 4*

Day 3 Toledo

  • Superior Hotel Category =    Alfonso VI or similar4*

Day 4,5 Salamanca

  • Superior Hotel Category =    Artheus Carmelita or simila 4*

Day 6 Segovia

  • Superior Hotel Category =   Hotel Hotusa or similar 4*



CAR HIRE OPTIONS

VEHICLE                    CAR GROUP

VW Polo or similar        B

VW Golf or similar        D



Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2, 7 Madrid

  • Superior Hotel Category = Silken Puerta de Madrid or similar 4*

Day 3-4 Salamanca

  • Superior Hotel Category = Altheus Carmelitas or similar 4*

Day 5 Avila

  • Superior Hotel Category = Palacio de los Velada or similar 4*

Day 6 Segovia

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Candido or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

  • Car Group B = Opel Corsa or similar
  • Car Group C = Ford Focus or similar



Mode of Transport

Travel at your own pace with a self-drive tour, featuring car hire options like the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, complete with unlimited mileage, emergency contact service, and comprehensive insurance coverage for a worry-free exploration of Spain.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels, including Silken Puerta de Madrid in Madrid, Altheus Carmelitas in Salamanca, Palacio de los Velada in Avila, and Hotel Candido in Segovia, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of car can I expect for the self-drive tour?

    You can expect to hire a car like the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, with options including Opel Corsa or Ford Focus, complete with unlimited mileage, emergency contact service, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels such as Silken Puerta de Madrid in Madrid, Altheus Carmelitas in Salamanca, Palacio de los Velada in Avila, and Hotel Candido in Segovia.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 7 breakfasts.

  • 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 I wear when visiting religious or official buildings in Spain?

    Visitors should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings.

  • What is the policy if I return the rental car earlier than the agreed drop-off date?

    If the vehicle is returned earlier than the agreed drop-off date, 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

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! ...more ...less

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! ...more ...less

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!

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 04, 2026 - Jan 11, 2026
$846 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 05, 2026 - Jan 12, 2026
$846 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 06, 2026 - Jan 13, 2026
$846 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 07, 2026 - Jan 14, 2026
$846 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 08, 2026 - Jan 15, 2026
$846 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 09, 2026 - Jan 16, 2026
$846 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 17, 2026
$846 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 11, 2026 - Jan 18, 2026
$846 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 12, 2026 - Jan 19, 2026
$846 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 13, 2026 - Jan 20, 2026
$846 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 14, 2026 - Jan 21, 2026
$846 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 15, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026
$846 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 16, 2026 - Jan 23, 2026
$846 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 17, 2026 - Jan 24, 2026
$846 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 18, 2026 - Jan 25, 2026
$846 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 19, 2026 - Jan 26, 2026
$846 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 20, 2026 - Jan 27, 2026
$846 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 21, 2026 - Jan 28, 2026
$846 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 22, 2026 - Jan 29, 2026
$846 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 23, 2026 - Jan 30, 2026
$846 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 24, 2026 - Jan 31, 2026
$846 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Jan 25, 2026 - Feb 01, 2026
$846 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 02, 2026
$846 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Jan 27, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026
$846 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 28, 2026 - Feb 04, 2026
$846 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Jan 29, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026
$846 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Jan 30, 2026 - Feb 06, 2026
$846 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jan 31, 2026 - Feb 07, 2026
$846 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    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.

Soul of Spain, Self-drive

8 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain

Visiting: Madrid, Aranjuez, Toledo, Salamanca, Avila, Segovia, San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Tour code:

34814

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

From: $846 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 28-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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