Experiencing Madrid at its fun-loving best, we're mesmerized by flamenco dancers and munch on pigs' ears. Then, for a dose of Spain's dramatic history, we side-trip to El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen. | Rick Steves' Europe

Day 2 of the Best of Barcelona and Madrid in 8 Days is...Gaudí Day! We’ll visit the greatest works of Barcelona's master builder — including the towering, dizzying Sagrada Família: www.ricksteves.com/tours/spain-portugal/barcelona-madrid (And here’s some good news: A couple of our April departures are now on sale — including one that's just been discounted by $400.) | Rick Steves' Europe

Rick combined Spain's top cities to create a sparkling, full-bodied adventure that will send you home with more memories than you ever thought possible from a week-long getaway! On our Best of Barcelona & Madrid tour, you'll start by experiencing the pride and energy of Barcelona — tapping into the tapas scene, digging into delicious seafood, and marveling at architecture and art by Gaudí and Picasso. Then you'll hop a high-speed train to Madrid for its terrific tapas, masterpiece-packed Prado M