COMPLETE UNITED KINGDOM FROM MADRID

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

Greca Tip: As in any other large city, the center of Madrid offers a diverse variety of gastronomic venues to suit all tastes, where you can taste the traditional local tapas.

After breakfast, we can comfortably explore the city aboard a double-decker tourist bus. We will discover every detail of the city with a single ticket. We can hop on and off the bus as many times as we wish to enjoy Madrid at our own pace.

Route 1 (blue) will take us to discover Historic Madrid. This circular route covers a comprehensive historical, artistic, and monumental circuit where we will visit the city's landmarks.

We will stroll through the beautiful tree-lined Paseo del Prado and admire the magnificent architectural gems of the Habsburg legacy. We will approach Madrid's Art Triangle and take the opportunity to explore some of its museums in depth. Furthermore, we will enjoy the views from the Royal Palace to the Temple of Debod.

Route 2 (green) covers Modern Madrid. We will discover the city beyond the historical points of interest and royal monuments.

From Atocha Station to Nuevos Ministerios and from the iconic Puerta de Alcalá to Puerta del Sol, we will admire the most contemporary architectural works in the capital of Spain on a tourist itinerary that will bring us closer to the imposing KIO Towers, allow us to contemplate the modern sculptures of the Public Art Museum, and visit the Real Madrid stadium, Santiago Bernabéu. On this route, we can discover the life, art, and new customs of Madrid.

Depending on the time of year, the frequency of stops ranges from 30 to 40 minutes. Each route lasts approximately 70 to 90 minutes.

Greca Tip: Take advantage of the Plaza Mayor stop and enjoy the gastronomy at the San Miguel Market.

We will enjoy breakfast and, at the specified time, we will be transferred to Madrid-Barajas Airport to board our flight destined for the city of London.

Upon our arrival, they will be waiting to transfer us to the hotel, thus beginning our exploration of this incredible city.

The city of London is renowned as one of the most significant tourist destinations on the planet, where its monuments, buildings, and attractions played a role in shaping the world as we know it today.

From the neo-Gothic grandeur of the United Kingdom's Parliament to the sleek lines of the skyscraper The Shard, the expansive green spaces like Hyde Park, and the array of cultural, artistic, and gastronomic offerings, London provides options to suit all preferences.

Greca Tip: London is the largest city in Europe and one of the largest in the world. It boasts a population of 8.1 million inhabitants in the urban area and over 14 million in the metropolitan area.

After a tasty breakfast, you will have a locally guided tour featuring style, cul­ture, and history. You will see the Houses of Parliament, the River Thames, the Tower of Lon­don, and Buckingham Palace, where you can watch the famous “Changing of the Guard” (depending on the season).

The afternoon will be free to enjoy at your leisure.

London is a captivating and diverse city, steeped in history, culture, and an incredible blend of tradition and modernity, you can take a walk through Leicester Square, Chinatown, and Soho, with a lively atmosphere, theatres, and entertainment.

Greca Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to go to Picadilly Circus at night to enjoy one of the most popular London destinations.

You will start the day with an entire breakfast before leaving London towards northern England.

The first stop is Cambridge to admire its beautiful residential colleges. The city is most famous as the home of the University of Cambridge, which was founded in 1209 and consistently ranks among the best universities in the world.

Cambridge was not always a university city, it became an important trading center during the Roman and Viking ages, and there is archaeological evidence of settlement in the area as early as the Bronze Age. The first town charters were granted in the 12th century, although modern city.

After lunch, you will continue to York where its cathedral, Roman walls, and lively shopping streets will create a charming memory. Here you will have some free time to stroll around.

Afterward, you will continue north to Durham where you can explore this charming medieval town full of life. It has a wonderful cathedral right in front of the castle.

Greca Tip: In York, you can visit Clifford’s Tower, a magnificent large stone tower overlooking the spectacular city of York. Once part of York Castle, this one-thousand-year-old four-lobed monument was used to house a gaol, a mint, law courts, and a site of royal power.

Today after breakfast you will travel to Scotland, stopping in Alnwick, a picturesque town with lovely gardens and a large medieval castle, used in the Harry Potter films.

You will continue to Edinburgh, arriving at midday. This is Scotland’s capital city and one of the most active cities in Northern Europe. Its monumental center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its castle overlooks the city’s steep streets and parks.

Once there, you will enjoy a sightseeing tour with a local guide.

Edinburgh is a city rich in history and culture, blending a fascinating tapestry of ancient traditions with modern influences

Greca Tip: J. K. Rowling wrote some fragments of Harry Potter in an Edinburgh café (The Elephant) and took inspiration from the landscape for her characters and locations.

After a delightful breakfast, you will have the day off to continue exploring this magnificent city.

Edinburgh is brimming with history, and you will be able to observe it in every corner.

The earliest known settlements in the area of Edinburgh date back to Roman times. Metal objects and ceramics from the late 1st century have been found.

In the Middle Ages, Edinburgh started as a small fort that the English captured in the 7th century, giving it the name Eiden's Burgh (burgh meaning fort). It wasn't until the 10th century that the Scots reclaimed this area of Scotland.

By the late 12th century, Malcolm III had built the castle on Castle Rock, and a small village began to flourish around it.

Today, Edinburgh is the second-most visited city in the United Kingdom after London, and that is due to the charm of its streets and buildings, many of them in medieval style, which give the city a special magic.

Greca Tip: Strolling along the Royal Mile, you will come across dozens of narrow alleyways known as "closes." These are narrow lanes filled with stories that often lead to a courtyard known as a "court."

After breakfast, you will depart from Edinburgh, making your first stop to photograph The Kelpies, enormous sculptures of horses' heads from Scottish mythology. These figures symbolize the strength and beauty of horses, as well as their connection to water and land. You will have a brief moment to admire and photograph them.

Next, you will head to Stirling, famous for its impressive historic center dominated by Stirling Castle, one of the most important castles in Scotland. This castle has witnessed numerous historical events, including legendary battles and the coronation of several kings. Admission to the castle is included.

You will continue your journey north, stopping in Pitlochry, a picturesque town in the heart of the Scottish region known for whisky production. You will have free time to enjoy lunch and stroll through its charming streets.

Afterward, you will visit Culloden, the site of a pivotal battle in Scottish history against British forces, which ended in a decisive English victory. The battle had profound consequences for Scotland, leading to laws and policies aimed at suppressing its culture and traditions.

In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Inverness, known as the "Capital of the Highlands," where its castle stands out. We suggest taking a stroll along the banks of the River Ness and crossing the iconic suspension bridge.

Note: Depending on the time of year and daylight hours, the stop at Culloden may take place on Monday.

Greca Tip: Don’t forget to bring a raincoat, as Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable.

After a tasty breakfast, you will have a day full of excitement as you travel along the hauntingly beautiful landscapes, forests, lochs, and plains of northern Scotland.

You will visit the fascinating Eilean Donan Castle probably the most photographed fortress in the entire country (entrance included).

Next, you will travel to Fort Augustus where you will visit the sluice gate system. There will be time to have lunch and a stroll.

In the afternoon, you will then travel to Loch Ness and go on a boat tour of the lake’s dark and mysterious waters.

Loch Ness is a large, deep, freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands known for the mythical creature supposedly residing in its depths, famously called the Loch Ness Monster or "Nessie." The loch itself is striking, surrounded by scenic landscapes and historic sites. It's one of Scotland's most famous attractions, drawing visitors from around the world who hope to catch a glimpse of the legendary creature.

Beyond the legend, Loch Ness offers more than just the search for Nessie. Its serene beauty, with misty hills and forests around its shores, makes it a popular spot for various outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. Nearby, you'll find the ruins of Urquhart Castle, providing a glimpse into Scotland's history and offering stunning views of the loch.

After that, you will visit the medieval castle of Urquhart (entrance included). The castle's ruins stand as a powerful symbol of Scotland's medieval history and have witnessed centuries of conflicts and power struggles.

You will be back in Inverness in the afternoon.

Greca Tip: You will find out why Inverness is officially Scoltand's Happiest City and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster if you're lucky!

After breakfast, you’ll head towards Glasgow. You’ll make a brief stop at Spean Bridge to visit a monument commemorating the Second World War. Later, you’ll stop in Fort William, a tourist center at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.

Passing by Kilchurn Castle, you’ll admire its beautiful ruins by a dark lake. Continuing, you’ll reach Inveraray, a picturesque historic village by Loch Fyne, with its large castle and quiet streets. There will be free time for lunch.

In the afternoon, you’ll travel along the shores of Loch Lomond before arriving in Glasgow in the evening, where you’ll have time to explore the center of this lively city.

Greca Tip: Did you know the raincoat was invented in Scotland by Charles Macintosh, born in Glasgow?

After breakfast, you will leave Glasgow heading towards southern Scotland. You will board a ferry in Cairnryan.

The journey will take you towards Northern Ireland, arriving in Belfast, the capital city. This monumental city is overcoming its religious conflicts.

Belfast is the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, with a history deeply rooted in industry, culture, and turbulent political events. Your last stop will be Dublin, arriving at the end of the day. 

Dublin is the capital and the largest city of Ireland. It is located on the eastern coast. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. The city offers a mix of historic landmarks, lively pubs, and beautiful parks.

Greca Tip: The RMS Titanic, one of the most famous ships in history, was built in Belfast's Harland and Wolff shipyard. The tragic ocean liner, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1912, was constructed in Belfast between 1909 and 1911.

You will start the day with a great breakfast and continue with a sightseeing tour of Dublin, the peaceful capital city of Ireland.

You will also enjoy a stroll on the banks of River Liffey, visiting its parks, old university, and its lively downtown streets. One of the highlights you will visit is Trinity College (depending on the duration of sunlight, this visit may take place the afternoon before, upon arrival in Dublin). 

The Old Library at Trinity College houses the famous Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript Gospel book created by Celtic monks around 800 AD. It is one of Ireland's greatest national treasures.

Then, you will have free time during the afternoon.

Dublin is a literary city, home to famous writers like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett. The city houses the National Library and the Dublin Writer's Museum

Greca Tip: Dublin has one of the oldest continuously operating train stations in the world. The Pearse Street train station (previously known as Westland Row Station) has been in operation since 1834.

In the morning, after a full breakfast, you will depart from Dublin heading to Powerscourt, which is located nearby. Here you will visit its magnificent gardens, designed in the 18th century and considered the most beautiful gardens in Ireland. Admire its fountains, Japanese Gardens, and pet cemetery.

Afterward, you will travel to Kilkenny, where you will have time for lunch and to stroll around this lively town. Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s most cosmopolitan cities, a gem in the heart of Ireland's Ancient East.

Further south, you will stop to visit the impressive Rock of Cashel, a medieval fortress that symbolizes the fight of the Irish people against England.

The Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings or St. Patrick’s Rock, is an iconic and historically significant site in County Tipperary, Ireland. Situated on a limestone outcrop, the Rock of Cashel boasts a unique and awe-inspiring skyline that has attracted visitors for centuries.

The site comprises various religious and secular buildings, highlighting the rich cultural and historical past of the area. This history can be traced back to the early centuries AD, weaving together legends, kings, and religious conversions.

You will arrive in Cork around mid-afternoon. Will be time for a stroll in the center of Ireland’s second-largest city.

Greca Tip: Kilkenny is known as the Marble City because of its distinctive black marble.

After having a complete breakfast, you will depart for Kinsale. Make a stop by Charles Fort to admire its great views of the ocean right by the 17th-century fortress. Once in the historic center of Kinsale, you will have some free time. This is a seaside town, considered by many as one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Ireland.

Afterward, you will travel to Killarney, a tourist town in the heart of Ireland. Here you have some time for lunch and a walk around, you will also enjoy a romantic horse and carriage tour of its national park. The horse and carriage tour will take you to Ross Castle which offers wonderful views of the lake. Here you will also take a short cruise to enjoy the beautiful views.

Continuing on the road will be a brief stop in Adare, a small village that preserves its picturesque traditional thatched-roof cottages and the ruins of the old abbey. The Earl of Kildare founded the Augustinian friary at Adare, County Limerick in 1315. It was known as the Black Abbey due to the color of the friars’ habit. Religious activities continued for about 200 years until the community was suppressed in the mid-16th century.

Today, it is possible to take a view of the well-preserved cloisters as well as the church, in use by the Church of Ireland since 1807.

By mid-afternoon, you will arrive in Limerick. Once there will be time to stroll around its center where you will have the opportunity to visit its castle, walk along the river, its cathedral, or discover its shopping center.

Greca Tip: English is the primary language spoken across Ireland, with Irish Gaeilge only being spoken by around 4% of the population regularly.

Once breakfast is done, you will visit Folk Park in Bunratty, a wonderful park where you can learn about how life was in Ireland in the past with its typical cottages and old markets. Its castle stands, accurately reproducing how life was in the Middle Ages.

You will continue to Caherconnell where the Poulnabrone dolmen is found. This is an unusually large dolmen or portal tomb located in Burren, County Clare, Ireland. Situated on one of the most desolate and highest points of the region, it comprises three standing portal stones supporting a heavy horizontal capstone, and dates to the Neolithic period, probably between 4200 BC and 2900 BC.

Before continuing the way to the next stop, you may get the chance to see an exhibition of how dogs shepherd sheep.

Afterwards, you will visit the impressive Cliffs of Moher which overlook the ocean, those who wish can walk to O’Brien’s Tower. The Cliffs of Moher host major colonies of nesting sea birds and are one of the country's most important bird-breeding sites.

Your route continues through Burren National Park which displays amazing landscapes. Finally, you will arrive in Galway.

Galway is a unique blend of tradition, contemporary culture, and a picturesque coastal location, making it a fascinating city to visit

Greca Tip: Ireland has the largest number of red-haired people of any country in the world. Over 10% of the Irish population is estimated to have red hair. That compares to about 1% in Southern Europe, for example.

After breakfast, you will depart for Cong, a small picturesque village located in a magnificent lake area. Here you will have the chance to visit the ruins of the Royal Abbey and walk around Ashford Castle, a gorgeous medieval castle that has been turned into a hotel.

Later, you will travel to Clonmacnoise, where after lunch, you will visit its monastic ruins. Many treasures were taken though during the numerous times that Clonmacnoise was attacked and raided. In its' 1,400 years of being an important monastic center, the monastery was attacked 8 times by the Vikings, 27 times by other forces such as Irish kings, and the Normans, and by other monasteries.

You will resume the journey back to Dublin, where you will arrive in the late afternoon.

Greca Tip: At night don't miss the de opportunity to taste the Irish traditional dish "Irish stew". With a base of root vegetables and beef, it’s the perfect dish to make in the dead of winter or on a cold and rainy spring day.

After breakfast and at the agreed time, we will transfer to the airport to board our departing flight.

Undoubtedly, after spending some fantastic days with Greca, we look forward to seeing you soon to forge new and emotional moments that will always remain in your memory.

Safe travels! Or, as you would say yourself: "Turas maith!".

Greca Tip: If you wish to extend your stay in this city, you can add an extra night in step 1 of your reservation!