Straddling in between the Mediterranean Sea and the southern French border, the autonomous region of Catalonia, or Catalunya, boasts of a history distinct from the rest of Spain dating back to the early Middle Ages. Northwards, the Pyrenees proudly wears its culture on its sleeve in which the Catalan language is more widely spoken than Spanish. Stream towards the coast and Costa Brava’s showy affluence speaks of the Catalans’ ability to do good in life. Then turn your attention inland to find the ancient provincial capitals of Girona and Tarragona as proud living relics of Catalonia’s formidable past. Understand these arresting differences and subtle nuances alike with a customised Catalonia tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and start discovering the captivating Catalan state of mind.
Game for Girona
Filled with a fetching mix of architectural styles from Gothic, Moorish, Jewish to Modernisme, it is no wonder why “Game of Thrones”, the popular drama series, set its heart on Girona, the largest and most vibrant city of northern Catalonia. For fans of the series, nothing can be better than to stroll through filming sites such as the gorgeous Girona Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter and reimagine all the drama. To all others, Girona has got plenty more to offer such as discovering authentic Catalan cuisine and if you have the appetite for it, indulge in a splendid meal at El Celler de Can Roca, ranked second in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2016.
Tailing the Romans in Tarragona
Tarragona, located south of Barcelona, is an intriguing collision of ancient heritage and modern effervescence. For a sampling, one needs to only start with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tarraco, a collection of Roman ruins including its 2nd-century amphitheatre by the sea, and stroll through this well-preserved testament to the city’s ancient Roman might. Thereafter, take a languid stroll away from the historic centre of town to the aptly-named Platja del Miracle beach to daze and dream with fellow beachgoers. Then whizz yourself to the old-world fishing village of El Serrallo and feast on fresh seafood prepared in the traditional Catalan way. Finally end the day listening to funky jazz and dancing to salsa in one of the city’s many charming bars.
Figuring out Dali in Figueres
Spain is home to many legendary artists throughout art’s timeline but perhaps no other artist comes close to Salvador Dali’s impact and popularity. Flamboyant and avant-garde, Dali’s enigmatic imagery and output spreads across the whole world through the widest varieties of mediums from painting, sculpture, printmaking, fashion to filmmaking. Containing the largest and most diverse collection of Dali’s creations in a single location, the Dali Theatre and Museum in Figueres is truly a pilgrimage site for all Surrealism fans and lovers of art. And speaking of paying homage, Dali is also buried in a crypt below the stage, where he is now forever truly at one with his outstanding and outlandish vision right in his own hometown.
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Find out how a customised Catalonia tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours can be your key to unlock the treasures of Catalonia and northeastern Spain. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg for more information.
Highlights
Every itinerary can be fully customised according to needs, special interests, personal preferences and defining style of just about anyone who wants to travel privately and exclusively.
Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Barcelona. Upon arrival, meet your driver and proceed for a 4-hour private tour of the city. Some of the highlights include the Eixample neighbourhood, recognised for its architecture, the narrow alleys of Gothic Quarter and Montjuic, site of the 1992 Summer Olympics. Spend the rest of the day at your own leisure to discover more of the city.
Montjuic
This morning, enjoy a 4-hour private tour to discover the brilliance of Antonio Gaudi, considered to be one of the most ingenious and innovative architects of his time. This is reflected in his impressive works such as Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, Park Guell and many more. In the evening, enjoy a tapas and wine tour, where you will get to taste both traditional tapas and modern Spanish dishes all paired with wines. During this gastro-cultural tour, you will also learn about the unique architectural, cultural and historical curiosities of the city as you hop from one tapas bar to the next.
Sagrada Familia
After breakfast, board the train to Girona. Girona is a delightful amalgamation of ancient cultures, from the Greeks and Romans to the Visigoths and Moors. Feel its history as you work your way through its historic Old Quarter, down its winding streets passing charming houses, churches and gardens. Climb the 86 steps leading you to Girona's world-famous Gothic Cathedral,an excellent example of Catalan Gothic architecture, before moving on to Centre Bonastruc ca Porta to learn more about Girona’s Jewish heritage.
Girona Gothic Cathedral
After breakfast, proceed for your full-day tour to Figueres and Emporda, popularly known as the Tuscany of Catalonia. Start the tour with a visit to Pubol, a small village where you will find the castle that Salvador Dali built for his beloved Gala. Next, head to the region of Emporda and visit the medieval villages of Pals and Peratallada. Learn more about the history of Catalonia as you stroll through the charming streets. Transfer to Costa Brava for your overnight stay.
Costa Brava
Explore the coast and its beautiful beaches as well as the inland towns, villages and Calella de Palafrugell. Stop for lunch at a beachside bar or local restaurant and take in the views over the Mediterranean, the quaint ports and the quintessentially Spanish squares.
Calella de Palafrugell
Get ready for a 4-hour culinary experience this morning. Discover gourmet shops, food markets and century-old traditional stores and learn about Barcelona’s unique and excellent quality products in Gothic Quarter. Spend the afternoon at your own leisure. In the evening, get ready for a night of feasting as you discover the best of Catalan cuisine in a walking tour.
Gothic Quarter
Enjoy a private airport transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.