Madrid Excursions

One of the benefits of studying abroad is the ability to venture outside your host city and explore the surrounding area. Excursions are offered for all semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered two to three excursions and summer students are typically offered one to two excursions. You will receive a calendar of the specific CEA excursions offered for your program during orientation. To give you an idea of the possibilities, we have collected typical experiences from some of the day trips and weekend tours offered to our students in the past.

Córdoba

Cordoba is as impressive and surprising to today's visitor as it was in the past. Not many know that in the 11th century it was one of the most important capitals in Europe; Jews, Muslims, and Christians were living peacefully together and important philosophers, scientists, and artists emerged from this city. Understanding Cordoba's cultural background will enrich the experience of exploring its great monuments, such as the world-famous Mezquita, the Moorish mosque, and various museums. Nothing compares to Cordoba’s Mosque, with its Cathedral right in the center of the structure. Rows and rows of arches with more than 850 columns take students’ breath away. Cordoba is also a very lively town in the Andalusian tradition, a town of flamenco and bullfighting, and is certainly one of the most attractive destinations in southern Spain. Students take a walking tour of the labyrinthine streets, admiring the balconies decorated with colorful flowers and white washed patios. The old Jewish quarter introduces the 1315 synagogue, one of the only three left in Spain. The trip is concluded with a visit to the elaborate Alcazar, both a fortress and a residence in the 1300's.

Granada

On CEA's overnight trip to Granada, students visit Spain’s most visited monument, the Alhambra, the 14th century Arab palace with its magnificent architecture and lush Generalife gardens. Students will also become aware of the Moorish influence that is present everywhere as they stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Albaicin. Tea is served in the city’s fine tea houses, accompanied by amazing views of the city. Students will visit Granada’s Cathedral in all its grandeur, as well as the Royal Chapel in which the Catholic King and Queen rest. In the 8th century Spain was conquered by the Moors and was conquered in increments by Christians until 1492, when Granada was the last city to surrender to the Catholic Kings. At this time Spain was completely Christian again. Due to seven centuries of Moorish control, Granada has all the flavor of the Arabic world in a western country.

Ávila & Salamanca

Students will visit these two old Spanish towns; Ávila is encircled by 11th century stonewalls, making it one of Spain's best-preserved medieval treasures, and Salamanca is home to many striking Baroque sandstone buildings and the oldest university in the Spanish speaking world.

Cuenca

Cuenca is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, standing out because of the harmony between Nature and History. The old part of the city preserves its medieval structure surrounded by a breathtaking landscape. Taking advantage of this incredible region, students cannot miss the guided tour of the city or the morning dedicated solely to outdoor activities like spelunking, kayaking or horse back riding, followed by a tasty barbecue lunch and a thrilling soccer game.

San Sebastian & Bilbao

Donostia, as the city is known in Euskera, is a surprisingly relaxed place with a small-town feel. The famous aristocratic beach resort of great reputation during last century still conserves its exclusive and cosmopolitan ambience. Its beautiful buildings and excellent beaches make it a popular holiday destination. Depending on availability, this trip takes place during Carnival festivities, making this excursion even more exciting. A city tour takes students on a walk to the main beaches of the city, La Concha and Ondarreta. La Concha Bay (named for its shell shape) is part of the city of San Sebastian and one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. Ondarreta beach is right next door, and adjacent to the Monte Igueldo Amusement Park, from where there is an amazing view of the city, the bay, the coast and the mountains that surround the city. Following the city tour, students can participate in the Carnival party where they can mingle with locals and enjoy the Carnival Parade. Sunday includes a visit Bilbao’s most important museum, the Guggenheim. Located in the center of Bilbao, the Guggenheim museum stands out with its amazing architecture and the Nervion River reflected on its walls. Students will also have the opportunity to try typical dishes from Basque County in a traditional Sidreria in a small village near Bilbao.

Toledo

Toledo was the capital of medieval Spain for 200 years; today it is the capital of Castilla la Mancha, the land of Don Quixote. Still referred to as La Ciudad Imperial, this medieval city bristles with monumental splendor. Students will enjoy a captivating train tour to the most beautiful locations in Toledo while listening to tales of legends mixed with history. Known as the "City of the Three Cultures," Christians, Jews, and Muslims lived together peacefully. Their legacy is a city filled with diverse and impressive architecture that can still be enjoyed today. Art lovers will appreciate Toledo for being the home of El Greco, the world famous Renaissance painter whose most important pieces of art can be appreciated in the city. The small charming church of Santo Tomé displays his masterpiece, The Burial of Count of Orgaz. Students can also meander around the city and take time to soak up some of the most distinctive architectural combinations in Spain. Toledo is particularly well-known for its quality sword craftsmen. Swords used in many contemporary films have been made in Toledo, including weapons featured in the cinematic trilogy “The Lord of the Rings.” Students are welcome to handle and photograph the swords; however, they will need to start saving early if they want to purchase one of their own with price tags of up to $600. Many people consider Toledo the most beautiful city in Spain; this trip will be a remarkable experience.

Segovia

The massive 1,900 year old aqueduct, which until a few years ago still brought water to the town, is amazing. Students also tour the Alcázar, a castle dating back to the 11th century which is rumored to be Disney's inspiration for Sleeping Beauty's castle. Trying the cuisine of this area is quite an experience; particularly noteworthy is the ‘cochinillo’ in Segovia. Students also have the chance to visit La Granja, just 10 kilometers from Segovia, where they can explore an incredible royal palace and its property, including its remarkable fountains.