Day 1. (Friday) COSTA DEL SOL – GRANADA

Departure from Costa del Sol to Granada, the legendary last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdom until 1492. We’ll start our full day in Granada with a guided tour of the world-famous Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. We have included your entry and an official local guide to lead you through this monumental masterpiece of history and art. You will marvel at the mighty Alcazaba fortress, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the imposing Palace of Charles V, a striking example of Renaissance architecture, and the serene beauty of the Generalife Gardens, with their sparkling fountains and fragrant jasmine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is widely considered the most beautiful example of Islamic architecture in the Western world. Following our visit, enjoy free time to discover the soul of Granada. We highly recommend wandering through the Monumental area of ​​Granada, strolling through the origins of this city that still retains all the magic of its Arab past. There are some must-see places: the Royal Chapel of Granada, the place chosen by the Catholic Monarchs for their last rest, the Cathedral, with its impressive facade of Spanish Baroque style and also the Alcaiceria, the old Silk Market in the Nasrid era, a network of narrow streets filled with shops selling handicrafts from Granada, reminiscent of a Moroccan souk. We highly recommend a walk through the Albaicín, the ancient Moorish quarter. Wander its narrow, winding lanes, lined with whitewashed houses and hidden gardens, until you reach the famous Mirador de San Nicolás. From this iconic viewpoint, you will witness the most spectacular panoramic views of the Alhambra with the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop. Optionally, you can join us for an unforgettable night in the Sacromonte caves for an authentic Zambra Gitana. This passionate Gypsy Flamenco show, performed in a traditional cave-dwelling, is a deep immersion into the spirit of Granada. Accommodation at the hotel.

Day 2. (Saturday) GRANADA – TOLEDO – MADRID

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure north to Toledo, where, under the Castilian sky and surrounded by the Tagus River, rises the impressive Imperial City of Toledo – a World Heritage Site and cradle of civilizations – where three cultures coexisted: Christian, Muslim, and Jewish. Upon arrival, we’ll take a panoramic bus tour to enjoy the magnificent view of the city from the other side of the Tagus River, a must-see for Toledo’s most iconic photo. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy an included lunch, and then, accompanied by an expert local guide, we’ll take a walk through Toledo’s historic centre to familiarize ourselves with this imposing medieval city. We’ll visit Zocodover Square, Toledo’s most emblematic square, surrounded by buildings of different architectural styles, from Renaissance to Baroque. Next, we’ll pass by the Alcázar of Toledo, an imposing fortress that now houses the Army Museum. Wandering through the streets of Toledo, we’ll arrive at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento (City Hall Square), where we’ll admire the façade of Toledo Cathedral, officially known as the Primate Cathedral of Spain. This imposing building blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles and was built on the foundations of a former mosque. We’ll also learn about the damascening technique (inlaying precious metals into steel) at a local artisan workshop. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey to Madrid, Spain’s diplomatic and economic capital. Arrival at the hotel and accommodation. Once settled, you are free to begin exploring this magnificent cosmopolitan city at your own pace. We highly recommend a stroll through the Madrid de los Austrias (Hapsburg Madrid). This historic quarter features stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture in the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Royal Palace area at the elegant Plaza de Oriente, or admire the city’s grand landmarks including the Cibeles Fountain, Puerta de Alcalá, and the bustling Gran Vía.

Day 3. (Sunday) MADRID – ZARAGOZA – PAMPLONA

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure from Madrid towards Zaragoza, the capital of the Aragon region and a city steeped in history. Strategically situated on the banks of the Ebro River, the most voluminous river in the Iberian Peninsula, Zaragoza was known as Caesaraugusta during the Roman era and has played a pivotal role in Spanish history for centuries. You will have free time to admire the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pilar, the patroness of the Hispanic world. In the afternoon, we continue our journey toward the north. We arrive in Pamplona, the historic capital of the ancient Kingdom of Navarre. Take this opportunity to explore the city at your leisure; we highly recommend walking the world-famous path of the San Fermín Running of the Bulls and sampling the local pintxos. These exquisite, bite-sized appetizers are the quintessential hallmark of northern Spanish cuisine. Arrival at the hotel, dinner and accommodation.

Day 4. (Monday) PAMPLONA – SAN SEBASTIAN – BILBAO – SANTANDER

After breakfast, we depart for San Sebastian, one of the most sophisticated destinations on the Basque coast and world-renowned for its prestigious International Film Festival. You will have free time to stroll along the Playa de la Concha, often listed as Europe’s most beautiful urban beach, lined with elegant mansions, or wander the cobblestone labyrinth of the Old Town (Parte Vieja), where luxury boutiques share space with traditional taverns perfect for sampling local pintxos. We then continue to Bilbao, the capital of the Vizcaya province, where we make a brief stop to admire the iconic, avant-garde design of the Guggenheim Museum. Architecture and innovation define the spirit of this modern city. Finally, we arrive in Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria, which gracefully stretches along a wide, stunning bay overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. Enjoy free time to explore its historic center, including the Cathedral, a medieval landmark housing the tomb of Marcelino Menéndez Pelayo, and the lively Plaza Porticada. We conclude our day with a walk along the famous El Sardinero beach, home to sumptuous Belle Époque architecture, including the grand Casino. Arrival at the hotel, dinner and accommodation.

Day 5. (Tuesday) SANTANDER – SANTILLANA – COVADONGA – OVIEDO

After breakfast, we depart for Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most significant historic towns, celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture. You can visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a masterpiece of Cantabrian Romanesque art. Our journey continues along a winding path that reveals a breathtaking landscape of tranquil waters, lush green meadows, and towering mountain peaks within reach. We arrive at Covadonga, a site of deep spiritual and historical significance, where you will have free time to visit the renowned Sanctuary of Covadonga, a major place of pilgrimage and home to the Patroness of Asturias. In the afternoon, we travel to Oviedo, a city with an undeniable medieval charm. You will have free time to explore its pedestrian-friendly streets and discover UNESCO World Heritage landmarks, including the Oviedo Cathedral, a splendid example of Asturian Gothic architecture, and the Church of Santa María del Naranco, a true jewel of pre-Romanesque design. Dinner and accommodation.

Day 6. (Wednesday) OVIEDO – SALAMANCA – MADRID

Breakfast at the hotel. We leave behind us the Green Coast of Northern Spain and drive inland to Salamanca, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage city known as the Golden City for its glowing sandstone architecture. You will have free time for a leisurely visit to Salamanca’s historic center, a place of extraordinary artistic wealth. A stroll through the city’s pedestrian-friendly streets will lead you to the breathtaking Plaza Mayor, widely considered the most beautiful square in Spain. If you are wondering what to do in Salamanca, we highly recommend exploring its architectural evolution through its two cathedrals, the 12th-century Romanesque Old Cathedral and the 16th-century New Cathedral. Don’t miss the iconic House of Shells, the Baroque Clerecía Church, and the historic University of Salamanca with its world-famous Plateresque façade. In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Madrid. Arrival at the hotel and overnight.

Day 7. (Thursday) MADRID – MERIDA – SEVILLE

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure westbound on the highway to Extremadura, homeland of various New World discoverers. We arrive in Merida, once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania, known as Augusta Emerita. You will enjoy some free time at your disposal to visit the spectacular Archaeological Ensemble of Merida, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring one of the best-preserved Roman theatres and amphitheatres in existence. Following this journey back in time, you will have free time to enjoy lunch in the shadow of ancient monuments. In the afternoon, we journey along the historic Silver Highway toward Andalusia, a region defined by the splendor of its past and a rich cultural legacy. We arrive in Seville, the vibrant Andalusian capital. Arrival at the hotel, dinner and accommodation.

Day 8. (Friday) SEVILLE

Start your day with a traditional Andalusian breakfast, perhaps sampling the local olive oil and fresh tomatoes on toasted bread, before we embark on a comprehensive guided exploration of Seville, a city that radiates passion and history. To ensure you capture every perspective of the Andalusian capital, our tour combines a comfortable coach drive, and a guided walk through its most charming quarters. We will admire the grand Plaza de España Square, a masterpiece of tiled fountains and bridges, the lush Maria Luisa Park, and the historic Torre del Oro standing guard over the riverbanks. As we wander through the narrow, flower-filled alleys of the Santa Cruz District (the old Jewish Quarter), the natural setting of Carmen as well as the place where the myth of Don Juan developed, you will feel the romantic soul of the city. We will admire also the exterior of the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and its iconic Giralda tower. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, perhaps a scenic cruise along the Guadalquivir River, the perfect way to enjoy Seville’s most iconic landmarks from a different perspective. For those wishing to delve deeper into Seville’s monumental heritage, our guide will offer an optional visit to the Seville Cathedral, and the Royal Castle (Alcázar), a stunning Mudéjar palace that served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. In the evening, don’t miss the chance to go tapa-hopping through the city’s atmospheric taverns. It is the ultimate way to taste your way through Andalusia, sharing small plates of exceptional local cuisine while soaking in the authentic charm of Seville’s night scene. To conclude your Seville experience, you will have the opportunity to attend an optional authentic Flamenco show in the evening, witnessing the raw emotion and artistry of this UNESCO-listed tradition. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 9. (Saturday) SEVILLE – RONDA – COSTA DEL SOL

After breakfast, we travel south along the iconic Route of the White Villages (Pueblos Blancos). As we journey through the dramatic Andalusian landscape, we will share fascinating local legends of the historic bandits who once roamed these hills before arriving in Ronda. Perched dramatically above the deep Guadalevin River gorge, known as the Tajo de Ronda, this town of Celtic origin is one of Andalusia’s most breathtaking sights. You will have free time to marvel at the famous New Bridge (Puente Nuevo), a masterpiece of engineering spanning the dramatic 120-metre deep gorge, that connects the two halves of the city. Stroll through the medieval Old Town, visit the historic Bullring on Ronda, one of the oldest in Spain, or simply soak in the panoramic views from the Alameda del Tajo cliffs. In the afternoon, we continue our journey to the Costa del Sol, Spain’s premier international destination, known for its vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle. Arrival at the end of the day, and the end of the tour.