Spain
Exploring Identity through Spanish & Catalan Culture
This 14-day educational itinerary offers students an in-depth exploration of Spanish and Catalan history, identity, and culture through the lens of architecture, politics, and art. Centered in Barcelona, with enriching excursions to Girona, Figueres, and Tarragona, the program examines the dynamic interplay between regional and national identity. Through historic site visits, museum explorations, and interactive experiences—from Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces to reflections on the Spanish Civil War—students gain a nuanced understanding of how history, memory, and culture shape Catalan and Spanish identity today.
For groups of 15+
Highlights
- Walking tour of Barrio Gòtic and guided visit to the Cathedral of Barcelona
- Visits to history-rich sites like the Barcelona City History Museum and El Born Center
- Day trip to Girona to explore medieval heritage and Catalan identity
- Architectural tours of Gaudí’s works: Palau Güell, Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens, Park Güell, and La Sagrada Familia
- Insight into Spanish Civil War history at Refugi 307 and La Model Cultural Center
- Excursion to Figueres including the Dalí Theatre-Museum and Castell de Sant Ferran
- Exploration of Montjuïc Castle and Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
- Visit to the Catalan and European Parliaments to discuss civic identity
- Day trip to Roman-era Tarragona
- Interactive paella cooking class for cultural connection through cuisine
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona
Students arrive and transfer independently to the hotel. This evening, enjoy a welcome Tapas dinner in a local Spanish restaurant.
Day 2: Barcelona
Your day begins with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a walking tour of the captivating Barrio Gótic, led by your professor. The historical essence of Barcelona will unfold as you explore its narrow streets. Later, you have a guided tour of the iconic Cathedral of Barcelona, where you can appreciate its stunning architecture. The day concludes with a guided tour of the Barcelona City History Museum, enriching your experience of this magnificent city.
Day 3: Barcelona
Following another breakfast at the hotel, the morning is at your leisure to explore Citadel Park. Afterward, you will visit the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, a significant example of Catalan Gothic architecture, before taking part in a guided tour of the El Born Center for Culture and Memory, an experience that links history with contemporary Catalan culture.
Day 4: Girona
Start your day with breakfast before taking a train ride from Barcelona to Girona. This journey will offer scenic views and give you an opportunity to appreciate the landscapes of Spain. As you discover Girona, immerse yourself in its rich history and charm.
Day 5: Barcelona
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before diving into the day’s adventures with a guided tour of Palau Güell, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Antoni Gaudí. After your visit, you will have the chance to enter the Tibidabo Amusement Park, where fun and leisure await you.
Day 6: Barcelona
After breakfast, your explorations continue with an entrance to Casa Batlló, another stunning creation by Gaudí. Following this, you’ll visit the Barcelona Maritime Museum and then have a free afternoon in the enchanting Labyrinth Park, where you can relax and wander through beautiful greenery.
Day 7: Barcelona
With breakfast to start your day, you will head to the Escuela de Mosaico de Barcelona for an engaging experience. Following this, visit Park Güell, recognizing the creativity of Gaudí, and then explore Casa Vicens Gaudí, the architect's first important building in the city.
Day 8: Barcelona
After breakfast, your day will involve a visit to Refugi 307, a historical air raid shelter from the Spanish Civil War, followed by an entrance to the Centre Cultural La Model. Each of these places will provide insight into Barcelona's complex history. Next enjoy a Shadow of the Wind
Walking before ending your day with a ticket to Palau de la Musica Catalana.
Day 9: Figueres
Begin your Northern Spain adventure with breakfast at your hotel, then board a train heading north to Figueres, the birthplace of surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Upon arrival, enjoy a visit to the iconic Dalí Theatre-Museum, a fantastical and immersive experience that showcases the artist’s eccentric masterpieces. Afterward, continue to the impressive Castell de Sant Ferran, one of the largest bastion fortresses in Europe. Delve into the history of this grand site with a guided castle tour, followed by a scenic boat ride through its underground canals. Return to Barcelona in the evening.
Day 10: Barcelona
With breakfast completed, your journey takes you to the Telefèric de Montjuïc, offering breathtaking views via the Barcelona cable car. Next, visit Montjuïc Castle, a landmark of historical significance, followed by an entrance to the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, where you can immerse yourself in Catalan art.
Day 11: Barcelona
Enjoy breakfast before visiting La Sagrada Familia, where you will receive insights from a local guide during your tour of this architectural masterpiece. Later, a tour of the Catalonia Parliament and the European Parliament will broaden your understanding of the region’s political history. The day will conclude with afternoon tea, featuring coffee or tea with pastries, at a local restaurant.
Day 12: Tarragona
Begin your day with breakfast before taking a coach for a full-day visit to Tarragona. Explore the town at your leisure, including a morning visit to the impressive Aqueduct and Roman ruins, leaving you with a deep appreciation of the historical significance of this area.
Day 13: Barcelona
The day starts with breakfast. Enjoy some free time today before partaking in a paella cooking class at The Cooking Clubhouse, allowing you to engage with Spanish culture through its cuisine. This hands-on experience will be both enjoyable and informative.
Day 14: Return to the US
Your final day begins with breakfast before you check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport for your flight home.
Optional Add-Ons Available Upon Request
Customize Your Itinerary
You can adjust the number of days, choose the level of accommodations or change the sites visited. We'll create a complete package, including: flights, meals, meetings space or whatever else you may need.
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