Indulge in the flavours, history, and magic of Spain on this 7-day journey leading to the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse. Explore ancient castles, savour world-class wines and regional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the heart of Spanish culture. Then, as the grand finale, witness the sky darken over Spain in a breathtaking Total Solar Eclipse — an unforgettable moment set against a backdrop of heritage and beauty.
Private transfer from the airport to your hotel, arranged individually based on your flight arrival. Enjoy your first day exploring the vibrant city at your own pace. Accommodation at the Hotel Catalonia Gran Vía 4*, located in the heart of Madrid.
Buffet breakfast at hotel
Join us on an unforgettable Madrid city tour with a Chocolate & Churros in Plaza Mayor.
From your hotel to Plaza Mayor, we will take a leisurely stroll to Plaza de la Villa, one of the city’s oldest squares, uncovering hidden gems along the charming streets of Madrid de los Austrias.
Here, you’ll have the chance to explore this iconic square bustling with life, where street performers and fellow travelers create an unforgettable atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to savor a traditional Spanish breakfast of rich hot chocolate paired with delicious churros—a true delight!
From Plaza Mayor, we will take a leisurely stroll to Plaza de la Villa, one of the city’s oldest squares, uncovering hidden gems along the charming streets of Madrid de los Austrias. Each step reveals the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, offering a unique perspective on Madrid's past.
Next stop will be at the majestic Royal Palace, where our guide will provide an explanation of this magnificent monument and share insights about the kings who have lived in this historic residence. As we stroll through the palace grounds, you will feel transported back in time, with many opportunities to admire the stunning gardens. Following our historical exploration, it is time to relax aboard a comfortable bus for a scenic panoramic tour of Madrid. We’ll glide past iconic landmarks including the Paseo del Prado, the beautiful Cibeles Fountain, and the renowned Puerta de Alcalá, as our guide shares fascinating stories and anecdotes about this vibrant city.We will also pass by the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Colon square and the lively Gran Vía.
For dinner, embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Madrid with a Madrid tapas tour dinner
Experience the city’s rich gastronomic culture as you hop between charming tapas bars, each offering a unique taste of Spain.
Savor a delightful variety of authentic tapas, your knowledgeable guide will share stories about the origin of each dish and the history behind the vibrant neighborhoods you visit.
Our Tapas Tour kicks off with a visit to a traditional bodega, where you will savor delicious cured ham and cheese paired with a refreshing drink.
Next, we’ll take you to one of the oldest taverns in the Madrid de los Austrias neighborhood for a delightful tapas dinner. You will sample a variety of classic Spanish tapas, each bursting with flavor, including our famous tortilla de patata, pimientos, and other exquisite Spanish dishes, plus a surprise! Feel free to order a drink of your choice, with sangria available for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the true Spanish experience.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of local bars, meet fellow food enthusiasts, and indulge in the true spirit of Spanish dining sharing good food and lively conversation with a and great local company and mingle with locals !
Accommodation at the Hotel Catalonia Gran Vía, located in the heart of Madrid.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Buffet breakfast at hotel.
Today, we will explore the Ribera del Duero region, known for its stunning landscapes of vineyards, castles, and historic sites. Ribera del Duero is one of Spain’s nine most renowned winemaking areas, renowned for maintaining a rich sense of history alongside modern winery facilities that dot the landscape. The region also features impressive landmarks such as monasteries, churches, and castles that testify to its storied past.
Our first stop is Aranda de Duero, the heart of Ribera del Duero. Here, we will visit the underground wine caves, with over 120 tunnels dating back to the 16th century. A walking tour through the town's center will allow us to appreciate its history and charm, including a visit to the underground cellars.
Following the tour, we will visit the famous Portia winery, designed by Norman Foster. Spread over 11,300 square meters, this innovative winery can produce up to one million bottles of wine annually. Its unique star shaped architecture consists of three interconnected buildings: the west section where wine is produced, the south designated for barrel storage, and the north for aging and storage.
In the afternoon, we will arrive in Peñaranda de Duero, where we will stay overnight tonight. Peñaranda is a picturesque small town in the heart of Spain's Ribera del Duero region, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming atmosphere.
Our accommodation will be a family-run rural house hotel Sinagoga Posada Real 4*situated in a historic synagogue dating from the 13th century, offering an authentic experience immersed in local history and culture. After settling in, you will have time to relax at your lodging. We will also explore the synagogue where the hotel is located. This historical site dates back to the 13th century, making it a significant part of the city's rich cultural heritage. During the visit, you will have the opportunity to learn about the synagogue’s history, architecture, and the role it played in the local Jewish community over the centuries.
Explore the Secrets of the Solar Eclipse & perseids Meteor Shower
We will explore the secrets of the solar eclipse from the top of a castle surrounded by vineyards, guided by Astronomia Cabo de Gata. Since a meteor shower will also be visible that night, we will additionally provide an explanation of the perseid meteor shower.
The eclipse observation begins at 19:30 PM and concludes between 21:30 PM and midnight, depending on sky conditions. To ensure an optimal viewing experience, we’ll need a location free from light pollution. The activity lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, giving you ample time to fully immerse yourself in the universe. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy and deepen your understanding of a natural event that has amazed humanity for centuries. During this activity, you will explore:
• The astronomical mysteries behind eclipses: Why do they happen?
• The different types of eclipses and why they don’t occur every month
• The most remarkable eclipses in history and their impact on civilizations
• The zodiac constellations and their connections to eclipses
• The fundamental difference between astronomy and astrology, and how this understanding enhances your view of the sky
After the eclipse, enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars as we explore the wonders of meteor showers, with a special focus on the Perseids. You’ll learn:
• Everything about meteor showers: Why do they happen? Where do they originate?
• The exciting technique of star hopping to locate the North Star and other key stars
• The intriguing relationship between astronomy, agriculture, and wine
• Practical tips for planning your own stargazing sessions and exploring the night sky independently
• How to identify main constellations visible in summer: Scorpius, Sagittarius, the Summer Triangle, Boötes, Corona Borealis, and Hercules
In the evening, we will enjoy a local dinner.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Buffet breakfast at hotel
Free morning to explore the historic streets of the medieval village and enjoy its charming atmosphere and ancient architecture at your own pace before depart for Rioja winery area
Rioja offers more than just outstanding wines; it is a captivating region full of scenic landscapes, unspoiled villages, and rich art, culture, and history.
Upon arrival, we will visit the Vivanco Wine Museum, where we will enjoy a gourmet meal at the Vivanco Restaurant, surrounded by vineyard landscapes, while savoring the best of local cuisine.
Afternoon visit to the Vivanco Wine Museum, where you will explore one of the most comprehensive wine museums in the world. Located in Rioja, Spain, it was founded by the Vivanco family, owners of the historic Vivanco Winery. The museum offers an extensive collection that showcases over 4000 years of viticulture, including artifacts, tools, and relics related to wine production and the cultural significance of wine throughout history.
Along the way, we will take a tour through the landscapes and hidden villages of La Rioja.
These picturesque villages offer a unique glimpse into medieval Spain, with their historic walls, plazas, and centuries-old traditions that continue to delight visitors today.
Dinner and accommodation in Parador, located in a historic building dating from the 10th century in Santo Domingo de la Calzada, one of the most popular towns along the Camino de Santiago route.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Buffet breakfast at hotel
Free morning to explore the historic streets of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, a renowned medieval village with a rich history connected to the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Free time to lunch and we will depart to Zaragoza.
At arrival explore Zaragoza and visit the Basilica del Pilar, one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
During this guided tour, you'll visit a stunning baroque monument on the Ebro River noted for its impressive domes, frescoes, and sculptures. Learn about its history and enjoy panoramic views from its towers. The tour also covers Zaragoza’s charming old town, including highlights like the Roman Theatre and Aljafería Palace, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
Dinner and accommodation in Zaragoza, hotel NH 4*
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Buffet breakfast at hotel
Departure to Barcelona. At arrival Explore Barcelona city tour and indulge in one of its most authentic flavors with this itinerary that perfectly combines the city's rich history and culinary traditions.
The journey begins at Plaza Catalunya, an iconic square bustling with life in the heart of the city. As we stroll down Las Ramblas, toward the Gothic Quarter, discovering historic buildings such as the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Sant Jaume.
Following our historical exploration, it’s time to relax aboard a comfortable bus for a scenic panoramic tour of Barcelona. We'll travel to the coast, visiting Barceloneta, a lively and charming coastal neighborhood of Barcelona, renowned for its beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
We will also journey along Passeig de Gràcia, the most elegant street in Barcelona, where you can admire the remarkable works of Antoni Gaudí, including Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.
We will visit La Sagrada Familia. The highlight of Barcelona. Our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about these iconic modernist masterpieces.
The tour will continue to Plaza de España, spacious and features a large central fountain and beautiful gardens.
Finally, we’ll ascend to Montjuïc, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of all of Barcelona.
Accommodation in Barcelona in Hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza 4*.
Breakfast included.
Buffet breakfast at hotel and private transfer to the airport, scheduled according to your flight times.
Breakfast included.
| Dates | From | Additional |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026 | AUD$6061pp | Contact us |
| City | Accommodation |
|---|---|
| Madrid | Hotel Catalonia Gran Vía or similar |
| Ribera del Duero | Family-Run Rural House or similar |
| La Rioja | Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada or similar |
| Zaragoza | NH Ciudad de Zaragoza or similar |
| Barcelona | Hotel Catalonia Barcelona Plaza or similar |
Distances:
|
FROM |
TO |
DISTANCE |
|
MADRID |
PEÑARANDA DE DUERO |
200 KM |
|
PEÑARANDA DE DUERO |
RIOJA |
185 KM |
|
RIOJA |
ZARAGOZA |
200 KM |
|
ZARAGOZA |
BARCELONA |
370 KM |
At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.
Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.
Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.
Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!
