Returning international students now eligible for discounted grad studies tuition
Country(s)
Spain
Dates
05/30/2026 - 06/10/2026
Registration Deadline
April 15, 2026
Apply before February 10, 2026 to secure peak season accommodation
Walking History: Toledo and the Camino de Santiago is more than a travel experience—it’s a transformative journey through the heart of Spain, blending cultural immersion, historical exploration, and spiritual reflection.
We begin in Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, where art, history, and culinary delights set the stage. From there, we travel to Toledo—the legendary “City of Three Cultures”—where Christians, Muslims, and Jews once coexisted. Over three days, you’ll explore its winding streets, majestic cathedrals, mosques, and synagogues, all while learning basic Spanish and getting a taste of local life
Next, we journey north to walk a five-day section of the Camino de Santiago, the ancient pilgrimage route traveled by seekers over a millennium. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll walk through the lush landscapes of Galicia, past quiet villages, rolling hills, and centuries-old churches. Each day offers both a physical challenge and a chance to reconnect—with nature, with others, and with yourself.
To keep your focus on the experience, your main luggage will be transported for you each day, you'll only need to carry a light daypack. Along the way enjoy:
- Delicious regional cuisine, including pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and local wines
- Comfortable, pilgrim-friendly accommodations in historic towns
- Fascinating cultural insights from your guide and locals
- Scenic, peaceful trails ideal for reflection and renewal
Your journey culminates in Santiago de Compostela, where the awe-inspiring cathedral awaits. Whether or not your pilgrimage is spiritual, standing before Saint James’s resting place is often a deeply emotional moment. You’ll receive your Compostela certificate—marking not just the distance traveled, but the personal journey within.
This is more than a trip, it’s a walk toward deeper connection, meaning, and discovery.
Course Abroad Details
Cost & Scholarship Information
Travel Cost
$3,495 (Land Only)
$5,095 (w/ Airfare)
Courses
Non-Credit Program
Program Director(s)
Prof. Lourdes Casas
World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
860.832.2889
casasmal@ccsu.eduProf. Christa Sterling
Professional Education
860.832.2277
csterling@ccsu.eduProf. Zongxiang Mei
Global Engagement
860.832.2043
zongxiang.mei@ccsu.eduSpain Toledo Q&A
Central Discover Abroad: Walking History: Toledo and the Camino de Santiago 2026
1. What is the itinerary difference between the land only and with airfare?
Tentative Itinerary Comparison
Date Day Lodging Package (with flights) $5,095 Land Only (no flights) $3,495 May 30, 2026
Saturday
Departure from CCSU campus by bus, Delta 62, 6:40pm from Boston
May 31, 2026
Sunday
Toledo
3:10pm Madrid arrival: airport pickup, orientation, tourist train, dinner
Meet in Toledo or Madrid
Jun 1, 2026
Monday
Toledo
Mini class; Gothic Cathedral; tourist train
Jun 2, 2026
Tuesday
Toledo
Mini class; Three Cultures tour (synagogues); excursion to Consuegra (windmills &castle)
Jun 3, 2026
Wednesday
Sarria
Mini class; train to Sarria
Jun 4, 2026
Thursday
Portomarin
Sarria → Portomarin (22.2 km hike)
Jun 5, 2026
Friday
Palas de Rei
Portomarin → Palas de Rei (24.8 km hike)
Jun 6, 2026
Saturday
Aruza
Palas de Rei → Arzua (28.5 km hike)
Jun 7, 2026
Sunday
Pino
Arzua → Pino (22km hike)
Jun 8, 2026
Monday
Santiago
Pino → Santiago (22km hike)
Jun 9, 2026
Tuesday
Free time/ Arrange your own travel
Goodbye
Jun 10, 2026
Wednesday
Flight Delta 63; 3:10pm Madrid → 5:05pm Boston; bus return to CCSU
2. What is included in the $5,095 price
- Included: Round-trip Delta airfare, bus transportation between Central and Boston Logan Airport, and program costs, lodging, breakfast and most dinners, from May 30th through the morning of June 9th.
- The Experience: A comprehensive 12-day journey featuring the historical wonders of Toledo and a guided 5-day, 115km hike along the Camino de Santiago (complete with daily luggage transport).
Important Exclusion: Participants are responsible for their own hotel and transportation during the free day on June 9th. Group travel back to CCSU is provided on June 10th.
3. What is included in the $3,495 land-only option price?
- Included: All ground itinerary costs, lodging, breakfast and most dinners in Spain starting from the group meeting on May 31st through the morning of June 9th.
- The Experience: A comprehensive 12-day journey featuring the historical wonders of Toledo and a guided 5-day, 115km hike along the Camino de Santiago (complete with daily luggage transport).
- Important note: This rate does not include flights, the CCSU bus, or any lodging/arrangements for the free day on June 9th.
- Logistics: The program officially begins with a group meet-up in Toledo on May 31st and concludes with dismissal in Santiago on the morning of June 9th.
4. How much is the deposit?
- $500 non-refundable deposit
5. When do I pay?
- The $500 non-refundable deposit will be charged shortly after you register for the program.
- The remaining balance will be charged around April 15, 2026.
6. How do I pay for the travel cost?
- Central faculty, staff, and students: Charges will appear in Central Pipeline, and payment is made directly through the Bursar. Paying by check is recommended to avoid credit card fees.
- Participants without a Central ID number: An online payment link will be provided.
7. What is the lodging arrangement?
- Participants will share a room (two people per room) with a private bathroom.
8. What happens to my luggage during the Camino de Santiago hike?
- Daily luggage transport is provided, allowing you to hike with just a daypack.
9. Will there be a tour guide on the Camino de Santiago?
- Yes. A professional tour guide and bilingual assistant will accompany the group.
10. What if I'm not able to hike full distance?
- Taxi and Uber services are widely available. Any transportation cists are the participant's responsibility.
11. Do we have to hike as a group?
- No. Participants typically begin hiking around 8:00 am and walk at their own pace. Hiking with a buddy is strongly recommended.
12. What meals are included in the Camino?
- Breakfast and dinner are included almost each day. Lunch options are available along the route.
13. What happens on June 9 if I choose the package option?
- June 9 is a free day. Participants are responsible fir arranging their own lodging and transportation back to Madrid.
14. Is insurance included in the program fee?
- Medical Insurance: Yes. International medical insurance is provided through CISI.
- Travel Insurance: No. While not included in the price, we strongly recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy to cover trip cancellations or personal property.
15. Can students earn academic credit?
- Yes. Students should work with the program's faculty leader to explore independent study options. Summer tuition applies.
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