An unexpected getaway to Spain in the springtime is always a good idea!

My husband and I have already visited Spain multiple times and have done all the touristy activities. So our intent for this trip was for relaxation, have a leisure time, enjoy the city, Spanish food and culture.

We flew non-stop from Miami (Miami International Airport) to Barcelona, Spain (El Prat Airport). Upon arrival, we quickly went through customs and a private chauffeur was waiting to take us to our hotel.  We stayed a the Monument Hotel, a five star luxury boutique hotel in downtown Barcelona.  I prefer the smaller hotels because there are fewer guests, you have a more intimate experience, the staff knows you by name and you received a more personalized service.  The hotel is located on Paseo de Gracia, similar to New York City's 5th Avenue. The street is famous for its high end shopping and home to all the major luxury brands. This is a shopper's dream. The hotel is well situated just a short walk to popular attractions, such as Placa Catalunya, La Pedrera and Las Ramblas. 

My favorite activity in any city is a walking tour because you can see places you normally cannot get to with a car.  We decided on the Gothic Quarter Walking tour. Our guide was great.  He was very knowledgeable as he explained the history of the old town. We also had a vermouth tasting experience, as this very popular in Barcelona. Of course we had to stop as La Boqueria for tapas and have lunch in one of the oldest restaurants, Los Caracoles.  We also had cocktails at Dry Bar, just a few blocks from where we were staying, it was a pleasant stroll back to the hotel.

A must in Barcelona, is to visit La Sagrada Familia by Gaudi, which has been in construction for over 140 years and it is still unfinished. Once we arrived at the church, our personal guide was waiting to escort us in.  We were able to see parts of the church that have been completed since our last visit. It is beautiful. 

After staying in Barcelona for 3 nights, we took the Renfe train to Madrid. We also had a driver waiting for us to take us to our hotel, the Palacio de los Duques Gran Melia Hotel. A small luxury boutique hotel, next to The Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol and Gran Via. We had the red level room, which had concierge amenities. It included a private check-in/out area, VIP services, daily breakfast, afternoon snacks and drinks, access to in room mini-bar all inclusive. The room was very spacious, with a private sitting area, and the bathroom was quite large.  

We spent our time in Madrid with friends taking a day trip to Segovia, stopping along the way at the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, where the Spanish royals would vacation. It is very similar to Versailles with long hallways, large fountains and gardens. When we arrived at Segovia, we walked the old town to the Alcazar fortress. There are cobble streets, so make sure you have comfortable shoes. From here you have 360 degree views of the countryside, have your camera ready!  Then you walk back down to visit the cathedral, a farmer's market and ultimately to the Aqueduct of Segovia.  Before leaving, you must have lunch at Jose Maria Restaurant, famous for their roasted suckling pig and Ponce Segoviano, which is a layered cake with pastry cream covered marzipan and caramelized sugar. My mouth waters just thinking about it. You have to make reservations, so plan ahead. 

Our next day in Madrid, we visited the Prado Museum taking a 1 hour self guided tour.  We wanted to see the most important works of art and not an in depth visit. El Retiro park is next to the museum so it is a quick walk for a boat ride on the lake. We strolled through the pedestrian streets, shopping for Marzapan, which are toasted marzipan treats, to take home. YUM! We also stopped at a serrano ham shop for a ham, chorizo and wine tasting for an afternoon bite. A trip to Madrid is not complete until you have churros and chocolate at San Gines, just be prepared to stand in line. 

Our trip must include food and wine as we are on a quest to experience as many Michelin starred restaurants as possible. The first in Barcelona was Lasarte, having 3 Michelin stars, which is located in our hotel. It was truly a gastronomic experience.  Food was delicious and the service was impeccable. We were gifted a bottle of the olive oil that is specifically made for the restaurant for us to take home. This was a nice touch and very unexpected. The best part is all, is when you finish dining, you just have to take the elevator to your room.  The best!!  Our second, 3 Michelin starred restaurant was ABAC by chef Jordi Cruz.  It was truly unique and the food experience was very imaginative.  Our last restaurant was Dos Cielos, also in our hotel in Madrid.  Food was exceptional and definitely a repeat, when back in Madrid.  

Spain is always welcoming and makes you feel at home! Although it was a short trip, we cannot wait to go back!

Return to Previous Page