Day 1. (Friday) BARCELONA – MADRID

Your journey begins in the morning at Barcelona Sants Station, where you will board the AVE, Spain’s premier high-speed train, bound for the capital. Sit back and relax in total comfort as you glide across the peninsula. From your seat, you’ll enjoy a front-row view of the ever-changing Spanish landscapes, from the rugged hills of Catalonia through the dramatic plains of Aragon to the expansive plateaus of Castile. Upon arrival in Madrid, please make your own way to the hotel to check in and begin your discovery of the Spanish capital. The rest of the day is yours to discover the vibrant energy of Spain’s diplomatic and economic capital. As the official residence of the Spanish Monarchy and the seat of government, Madrid offers a unique blend of imperial history and cosmopolitan flair. If you are wondering what to do in Madrid with your free time, 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. You may also want to visit the city’s world-class museums or a visit to the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the world-famous arena, the home of Real Madrid. Accommodation in Madrid.

Day 2. (Saturday) MADRID – MERIDA – SEVILLE

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 3. (Sunday) 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 4. (Monday) SEVILLE – CÓRDOBA

After breakfast, we travel to Cordoba, the legendary capital of the Caliphate. Led by an expert English-speaking guide, we explore the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the winding, flower-lined alleys of the historic Jewish Quarter, the ancient Synagogue, and the breathtaking Great Mosque of Cordoba, an architectural masterpiece and one of the world’s greatest examples of Islamic art. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure to immerse yourself in the medieval charm of the city. We suggest a visit to the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs with its magnificent terraced gardens, a scenic walk across the iconic Roman Bridge for the best panoramic views, or a quiet stroll through the Palacio de Viana, home to twelve distinct, world-renowned Andalusian courtyards. Whether you prefer exploring local artisan workshops or relaxing in a historic café, the city’s atmosphere is sure to captivate you. Dinner and accommodation in Cordoba.

Day 5. (Tuesday) CÓRDOBA – 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. Dinner and accommodation at the hotel.

Day 6. (Wednesday) COSTA DEL SOL – GRANADA

Breakfast at the hotel and departure 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 7. (Thursday) 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. Arrival and end of services.