Embark on a trip to Spain’s capital, Madrid and immerse yourself in the staples of Spanish culture: savoring the delicious food, basking in the warm weather, delving into the country’s rich history and of course, touring the Real Madrid stadium. Gain firsthand insights into how tradition meets modernity in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities and see how the Spanish economy is growing with visits to sustainable and innovative businesses. ¡Vamos a España!
* Please note that this is only a sample itinerary for an ISP Go program. While our itineraries are tailor-made and can accommodate any academic level and theme, these itineraries offer limited changes, depending on the needs of the client. All itineraries are subject to change.
Day 1: Saturday, April 26Sat April 26Day 1: Bienvenidos a Madrid!
orientation talkorientation talk by ISP Program Manager & faculty
ONE WEEK PRIOR TO DEPARTURE: Get familiar with the upcoming schedule and activities, uncover the secret ingredients for a successful trip, and learn some useful tips from where to take the best photographs to what’s happening in the city, do's & don'ts and more.
Madrid, Spain
intercity transfersarrive in Madrid
Own arrangements
own arrangements
transportationtransfer to hotel, check in / drop off luggage
bus transfer
free time to settle in and freshen up
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for welcome dinner
walk
evening
mealswelcome dinner
Spend a magical evening combining traditional gastronomy with culture. Spanish food is not only comforting and delicious, it is also a window into the history and culture of this beautiful country. Soak up some of the Spanish culture while talking about your expectations and plan what you want to take back from this experience.
restaurant
Day 2: Sunday, April 27Sun April 27Day 2: immerse yourself in Spanish culture
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for cultural immersion
public transport/walk
morning
cultural eventMadrid through the eyes of a local
Many people say that Madrid is the pulse of Spain. Discover the Spanish capital with a tour full of historical insight and city highlights. Stroll through the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, check the delicacies sold at the San Miguel Market, and view the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral as you learn about Spain's royal history. Take a peek at some Moorish ruins and visit the world's oldest restaurant.
walk
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
cultural eventRoyal Palace of Madrid: architecture & history
Explore the official residence of the Royal family, the largest royal palace in Western Europe, and learn about its fascinating history, architecture, art, and legends. Visit some of the building's most characteristic rooms such as the Royal Armoury, where shields and weapons form one of the most important collections in the world. Test how well you know the Royal Palace at the end of the tour!
rest if the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Would you like to have a relaxing afternoon with your friends? Go explore the lovely greenery Madrid has to offer. If you are a fan of trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops, you must check out the neighborhood of Chueco!
Day 3: Monday, April 28Mon April 28Day 3: get to know Spain's economy
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
public transport/walk
morning
visitunderstanding Spain's business environment through its trade, economy, and political relationsU.S. Commercial Service
Dive into the heart of Spain's dynamic business landscape. What does the business environment of Spain look like and how has it been shaped by its political and economic history? What is Spain's position in the EU and global trade relations especially with the US? And what can we learn from the main industries of the local economy? Let's find out!
management presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
free time to explore the city on your own
ISPer's recommendation: Explore Madrid from a different perspective, away from the city bustle, in the glorious gardens of El Retiro Park, located right in the heart of the city. This park was built in 1505 for the royals and now it houses beautiful sculptures and monuments, galleries, a peaceful lake, and much more!
Day 4: Tuesday, April 29Tue April 29Day 4: exploring sustainable practices
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
The bathroom industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, areas where Roca is leading the way. During this visit, Roca Group's sustainability director will share insights on how the company integrates sustainable practices across its operations and product offerings. This session will explore the challenges and strategies involved in reducing environmental impact while maintaining high-quality design. Following the presentation, take part in a guided tour of the Roca Madrid Gallery, where you will see firsthand how sustainability is reflected in Roca's cutting-edge designs and innovative products. Engage with experts to gain a deeper understanding of how Roca is shaping the future of the bathroom industry.
management presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
cultural eventexplore Santiago Bernabéu - Real Madrid's home stadium
Soccer has a great tradition in Spain and forms an unshakeable pillar of its national culture. Get behind the scenes of one of the world's most famous and prestigious soccer venues, enjoy stunning panoramic views, pass through the dressing rooms, trophy exhibition, tunnel, dugouts and pitch, and finish your visit at the Real Café Bernabéu overlooking the stadium.
rest if the day at leisure
Day 5: Wednesday, April 30Wed April 30Day 5: day trip to Toledo - the "Imperial City"
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for cultural immersion (duration approx. 1 hour)
bus full day
morning
visitSpanish liquid gold - olive oil & the genius that is the organic farming ecosystemProyecto los Aires
Would you like to find out more about the world of olives and organic olive oils? Enjoy a stroll through a centuries-old olive grove, where you'll see what olive trees look like, understand how they came to the Iberian peninsula, and hear about their important role throughout history as well as the economy of Spain all while tasting this liquid gold. Learn about the business aspect of a family farm and about its business model. Attention, you will never want to have regular supermarket olive oil ever again!
presentation, discussion, tour of olive grove, tasting
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
cultural eventguided tour of Toledo - exploring the medieval heritage of Spain
Toledo, this ancient city set on a hill above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha in central Spain, played a crucial role in the coexistence of the three major Abrahamic religions - Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, earning its nickname "City of three cultures". This spirit of tolerance is reflected in the city's architecture, where churches, synagogues, and mosques coexist. The historic center of Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is characterized by narrow, winding streets, medieval architecture, and a mix of Moorish, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. It was also the home of Mannerist painter El Greco. The artist's paintings can be found in the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo, one of the most significant landmarks in the city and an example of Spanish Gothic architecture.
transportationreturn to Madrid (approx. 1 hour)
rest of the day at leisure
Day 6: Thursday, May 1Thu May 1Day 6: fostering imaginative thinking
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
What does Spain's marketing landscape look like? What does it take to reach the local consumer here? How can we craft solutions that better connect design and technology to create valuable business transformations? Learn from Designit about how they help companies improve their brands, products, and ideas through state-of-the-art technology, creativity, design, and storytelling.
management presentation, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
free afternoon to explore the city on your own
ISPer's recommendation: If you're a foodie, then you must visit the Mercado de San Miguel. This indoor market has a wide array of food that will satisfy any craving you have. From fresh seafood to delicious tapas, there is something for everyone. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, with people from all over the world coming to enjoy the culinary delights on offer. The architecture of the market is also magnificent, with beautiful iron and glass structures that are a marvel to behold.
Day 7: Friday, May 2Fri May 2Day 7: step into service with community support
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for visit
public transport/walk
morning
volunteering experiencemaking an impact through volunteeringMensajeros de la Paz
Mensajeros de la Paz plays a crucial role in addressing social issues and promoting sustainable development in the community. This non-profit organization provides vital humanitarian assistance to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those affected by poverty. Join us for a morning of meaningful engagement with this respected Spanish NGO, supporting communities across Madrid. Volunteers will participate in activities like preparing food baskets, organizing donated clothing, or serving meals at a local family center. This experience offers a unique chance to connect with the community, gain insight into social challenges, and make a tangible impact, while fostering teamwork and empathy.
presentation, discussion, volunteering
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
afternoon
free afternoon to explore the city on your own
ISPer's recommendation: Enjoy your day in Madrid! You can check out museums such as El Prado Museum, which houses one of the largest art collections in the world, including works by Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco collection. If you prefer contemporary art, visit the Museum Reina Sofia, home to Picasso's Guernica. Or wander the park El Retiro, located in the heart of the city. This park was built in 1505 for the royals and now houses beautiful sculptures and monuments, galleries, a peaceful lake, and much more.
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for farewell dinner
walk
evening
mealsfarewell dinner and wrap-up
Savour the flavours of traditional Spanish cuisine and discuss the key takeaways and experiences throughout the trip before saying adios to this beautiful country.
restaurant
Day 8: Saturday, May 3Sat May 3Day 8: depart for US
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, check-out and depart for airport
