I love a centrally located hotel, and I nailed that this month at Hotel Europa. Using the hotel as a springboard, I worked with local guides to update the Madrid chapter of my Spain guidebook. The room, while basic, was perfect for me and my makeshift office — and the view wasn’t bad. My daily routine: 10:00 to 3:00 out in the streets with my guide “doing the town,” quick late lunch, a little inputting, and a short break — and then 6:00 to 11:00 with another guide to review eateries and evening

Day 2 of the Best of Barcelona and Madrid in 8 Days is...Gaudí Day! We’ll visit the greatest works of Barcelona's master builder — including the towering, dizzying Sagrada Família: www.ricksteves.com/tours/spain-portugal/barcelona-madrid (And here’s some good news: A couple of our April departures are now on sale — including one that's just been discounted by $400.) | Rick Steves' Europe

On Day 5 of the Best of Spain tour, we take a day trip from Madrid to Segovia. After a walking tour of the town and its beautifully preserved Roman aqueduct, you'll have free time to wander. Then we’ll regroup for a Segovian lunch and head back to Madrid, arriving in time for dinner on your own. Join us: www.ricksteves.com/tours/spain-portugal/spain | Rick Steves' Europe