Vibrant Barcelona and Spain

These pre and post Barcelona conference travel options offer more adventures across Spain, Italy, Tunisia, and beyond, letting you deepen your European experience on land or sea.

Consider starting your trip with a Mediterranean cruise from Rome to Barcelona aboard Explora Journeys’ Explora II. This 7-night itinerary weaves through Italy, Tunisia, and Sardinia, allowing you to explore iconic ports like Naples, with its rich history and culinary fame, and Sicily’s medieval town of Trapani. Conclude in Barcelona, with perfect timing for the conference, having enjoyed a taste of Mediterranean life, culture, and cuisine along the way.

Alternatively, the Iberian Odyssey by Abercrombie & Kent offers a 13-day private tour through Southern Spain and Portugal. This journey delves into the essence of Iberia, from Barcelona’s iconic Gaudí architecture and Madrid’s renowned art scene to Granada’s historic Alhambra. Discover Seville, the home of flamenco, and wander through Andalusia’s charming white-washed villages. Crossing into Portugal, experience Porto’s medieval allure and scenic Douro River, giving you an enriching exploration of Iberian culture and history before the conference.

For a perfect post-conference extension, join the 5-day Spanish Symphony & Madrid Medley Tour, exploring Madrid’s art and history. Indulge in a traditional cava tasting at Codorniu wine cellar, an insider tour of the Bernabéu Stadium, and a flamenco evening at Corral de la Moreria. Or choose to unwind with an island escape to Mallorca, Sardinia, or Malta. Relax at Mallorca’s Lodge amidst lavender fields, explore Sardinia’s luxurious Falkensteiner Resort, or discover Malta’s historic Iniala Harbour House in Valletta. 

Pre-conference: 

Explora Journeys Rome to Barcelona

Head off on a pre-Barcelona conference journey with Explora Journeys’ Rome to Barcelona itinerary, a 7-night Mediterranean cruise that combines cultural exploration, coastal beauty, and a touch of luxury aboard the Explora II. 

Starting in Rome and concluding in Barcelona on the 14th of July - perfectly timed for the start of the conference - this immersive experience allows you to step into the rich histories and dynamic atmospheres of Italy, Tunisia, Sardinia, and Spain. 

Your journey begins in the city of Rome. As you embark from Civitavecchia, Explora II offers an elegant departure, whisking you away from Italy’s heart with views of Rome’s ancient monuments. The first port of call is Naples, a city that buzzes with vibrant life, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine. Wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, taste authentic Neapolitan pizza, and explore the nearby ruins of Pompeii, a hauntingly preserved city frozen in time. 

In Trapani, Sicily, you’ll experience a slower pace that invites you to immerse in the island’s Mediterranean charm. Explore the medieval town, stroll past baroque buildings, and take in views of the azure sea from the coast. Trapani is also known for its salt flats, where windmills dot the landscape.

Crossing into North Africa, La Goulette offers a gateway to Tunis, a city brimming with history and vibrant souks. Experience the ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next up on your journey is Sardinia Carloforte, located on the tiny island of Isola di San Pietro, feels like a secret slice of Sardinian paradise. Known for its white-sand beaches, pristine waters, and laid-back vibe, Carloforte offers the perfect escape into nature. Relax on pebble beaches, sample the island’s famous tuna dishes, or simply soak in the serene landscapes. With its Italian and Ligurian influences, Carloforte offers a unique cultural twist on the Sardinian experience.

Palma, the capital of Mallorca, combines historic architecture with a contemporary flair. The grand Gothic Cathedral of Palma dominates the skyline, while the city’s old town is a maze of winding streets, quaint cafés, and artisan boutiques. Concluding the journey in Barcelona, you’ll arrive on the morning of July 14, just in time for the conference. From Rome’s grandeur to Barcelona’s charm, each stop reveals a different side of the Mediterranean’s story. 

Abercrombie & Kent Private Tour Southern Spain and Portugal: 

Journey through Southern Spain and Portugal, the Iberian Odyssey offers a 13-day cultural immersion before your Barcelona conference with CPE. This tour takes you deep into the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, where Spanish passion meets Portuguese charm, creating a blend of experiences that are as soulful as they are scenic. From flamenco performances to medieval palaces and baroque cityscapes, this “odyssey” unveils the stories, art, and architecture that make Spain and Portugal two of Europe’s most captivating countries.

Begin your adventure in Barcelona, a city that effortlessly marries history with artistic innovation. Stroll through Gaudí’s masterpieces, where tree-inspired columns, honeycomb gates, and catenary arches invite you to explore the boundary between architecture and nature. Barcelona’s vibrant cultural scene, mouthwatering tapas bars, and unique blend of Gothic and modern styles are not to be missed!

Madrid offers an unrivaled art experience, with treasures from Spain’s most famous painters: Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. Beyond the museums, Madrid’s lively plazas, boulevards, and markets are ideal for people-watching, shopping, and sampling local foos.

In Granada, you’ll step back into the era of the Nasrid Dynasty with a visit to the Alhambra, the medieval Muslim palace and fortress complex. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into a world of art and luxury, with gardens and palaces that have enchanted visitors for centuries.
Seville radiates with traditions and Andalusian charm. As the birthplace of flamenco, Seville hosts some of the finest flamenco performances in the world. The Andalusian countryside is peppered with citrus-scented squares, charming white-washed villages, and historic towns that feel untouched by time. Andalusia’s landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for walks and wine tastings, capturing the essence of Spanish rural life.

Cross into Portugal and arrive in Porto, a coastal city that brims with medieval relics, bell towers, and Baroque churches. Porto’s blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Beaux-Arts architecture creates an enchanting atmosphere, with the Douro River cutting through the city and offering stunning riverside views. This is an exceptional opportunity to deepen your European experience before the Barcelona conference, giving you extra time to fully immerse yourself in the rich cultures and histories of Spain and Portugal.

Post-conference: 

Spanish Symphony & Madrid Medley Cruise Tour: 

Extend your European adventure after the Barcelona conference with the Spanish Symphony & Madrid Medley Cruise Tour, a 5-day journey through Spain’s cultural heart. This tour offers a blend of art, history, and a touch of local tradition to provide an immersive Spanish experience. You’ll depart on the 23rd of July.

Included are nine amazing meals, comprising of four breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners - each capturing the essence of Spanish cuisine. For a perfect introduction to Spain’s rich flavours, the itinerary includes a private tour of the historic Codorniu wine cellar. Here, you’ll savour traditional cava, Spain's iconic sparkling wine, as local experts reveal the secrets of its artisanal bottling process.

Cultural experiences are a hallmark of this journey, beginning with Madrid’s most celebrated treasures. History and art enthusiasts will enjoy a guided visit to the prestigious Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Spain's renowned painters, including El Greco and Goya. No trip to Madrid would be complete without an insider tour of the Real Madrid CF Museum and the legendary Bernabéu Stadium, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most famous football clubs.

On one of the evenings, prepare for an unforgettable Flamenco performance at Corral de la Moreria, Madrid’s most famous tablao. This isn’t just any Flamenco show - it’s an immersive experience where you’ll enjoy a three-course meal crafted by a Michelin-star chef, setting the scene for a night of passion, music, and dance.

 Venture beyond Madrid to explore the UNESCO-listed city of Segovia, a gem of Spanish architecture and history. Walk along the towering ancient Roman aqueduct, one of the best-preserved in Europe, and step into the enchanting Alcazar of Segovia, a medieval fortress that has served as a royal palace and a source of inspiration for artists and architects. 

 All transfers - from your cruise yacht to the hotel, from hotel to tour sites, and back to the airport - are included, making this journey entirely stress-free.

This Spanish Symphony Cruise offers a symphony of flavours, sights, and stories that capture Spain’s essence, making it the ideal post-conference experience. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a successful conference or deepen your cultural connection to Spain, this is your chance to explore, taste, and experience the very best Spain has to offer.

Island Experiences

After your conference in Barcelona, extend your Mediterranean journey with one of these island escapes, each offering a distinct cultural experience and luxurious setting. Choose from Mallorca, Sardinia, or Malta, and unwind in breathtaking surroundings.

Each of these island getaways provides an immersion into Mediterranean culture, luxury, and relaxation. From the rustic elegance of Mallorca, and the seaside charm of Sardinia, to the historic allure of Malta, these post-conference island experiences promise the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.

Contact us to learn more about these pre and post conference options.

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