Epstein Spain Trip 2024

Day 1: Travel to Spain

Day 2: Toledo

¡ברוך הבא to Spain! Wander through the quaint streets of Toledo, known as the city of three cultures for its influence from Jewish, Muslim and Christian inhabitants for centuries. Visit the medieval Jewish quarter, including the Santa Maria la Blanca and el Transito synagogues, as you learn about Samuel ha-Levi, a famous Spanish Jew from Toledo.

Day 3: Úbeda / Jaén

Head south through a sea of olive trees to Úbeda, a UNESCO World Heritage city and visit the Synagogue of Water which dates back to the 14th century. Later, continue on to Jaén, the olive oil capital of the world, where there are records of a strong Jewish community dating back to the 7th century. Learn how to cook authentic Spanish cuisine in a fun, hands-on cooking class. 

Day 4: Jaén

Hike up a mountain and have a Saturday morning Shabbat service in an ancient castle. Enjoy a picnic in the woods and continue to explore the city of Jaén, which has records of a strong Jewish community dating back to the 7th century. Visit a bullring and learn the technique of the “matadores” while practicing on a pretend bull.

Day 5: Granada

Travel to Granada, a picturesque city at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Tour the city climbing to the Mirador de San Nicolas to take in the magical views of the Alhambra Palace tucked into the hillside.

Day 6: Granada

Explore Granada, the capital of the last standing Moorish kingdom in Spain. Tour the impressive Alhambra Palace built by a Moorish king in the 13th century. Finish the evening at a unique and authentic Flamenco performance in a cave.

Day 7: Nerja / Fuengirola

Visit the majestic underground caves and beautiful beaches of Nerja, a coastal village located on the Mediterranean Sea at the foothills of the mountains. Continue on to Fuengirola, a quaint beach town on the Costa del Sol.

Day 8: Fuengirola

Soak up the sun by the pool or dip your toes into the Mediterranean while enjoying the day at your beachside hotel. Head into town and explore the charm of this little village and its local shops.

Day 9: Málaga / Sevilla

Discover the historical center of Málaga, the birthplace of Picasso, during a fun, interactive scavenger hunt. Later, head inland to Sevilla, the capital of Andalucía.

Day 10: Sevilla

Wind through the narrow streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, the old Jewish quarter of the city dotted with orange trees and paved by the narratives of those who lived there before. Visit the immense gothic cathedral and climb up the Giralda tower for impressive views of the city. Explore the Alcázar, one of the oldest European palaces still in use today.

Day 11: Sevilla

Attend Saturday morning service at a local synagogue. After, relive the history and culture of Spain’s fascinating past as you explore this magical city. Later, meander through the Plaza de España and María Luísa Park.

Day 12: Córdoba / Madrid

Travel to Córdoba to see the Mezquita (ancient mosque turned cathedral) and stroll through the courtyards of the city, home to Maimonides, one of the most influential Jewish thinkers of his time. Enjoy a fun market lunch at Mercado de Victoria and then continue on to Madrid.

Day 13: Madrid

Start the day at a service alongside the Spanish Jewish community at the IBN Gabirol Jewish school. Experience the hustle and bustle of Spain’s capital city with a stroll through the city center. Visit the Palacio Royal, one of the largest palaces in all of Europe. Finish the day enjoying Spain’s favorite past time-FÚTBOL! Watch the people’s team, Atlético de Madrid, in their impressive Civitas Stadium. Soccer schedule will be released 2-3 weeks prior to game day, so we can go if the game is the 13th or 14th.

Day 14: Madrid

See some of the most iconic Spanish artwork at the Museo del Prado. Spend the afternoon in Retiro Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Have the opportunity to glide on a Segway through the trees and go out on a rowboat in the middle of the park. Have dinner at La Hummusería, a restaurant owned by an Israeli couple.

Day 15: ¡Adios España! Travel Home