This vacation covers the heart of Andalusia, a region known for its vibrant colors, passionate flamenco, good food, and friendly people. From Madrid, travel to the old walled city of Toledo, then into the heart of Don Quixote’s La Mancha to Cordoba, where the Moors left an impressive mark with its fabulous Mezquita. Carry on to Seville, laid back and bustling at the same time, with its Roman and Moorish heritage, elegant squares, and many gardens. Next on the agenda is Ronda, with its typical white-washed houses, before reaching Marbella and the Costa del Sol, a popular Spanish vacation destination. The highlight of your tour awaits in the historical city of Granada as you visit the legendary Alhambra complex. Pass by olive and orange groves on your return to Madrid for a final overnight and the conclusion of your Spanish getaway.
Itinerary:
Day #1 Arrive in Madrid, Spain. Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to start exploring lively Madrid. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers. (D)
Day #2 Madrid. Not only is it the capital of Spain, but because it is situated 2,180 feet above sea level, the Spaniards rightly say Madrid is the nearest thing to heaven. Guided sightseeing today includes a full panoramic drive by way of the Avenida Mayor, Puerta del Sol (Gate of the Sun), Parliament Square, and a picture stop outside the Royal Palace. Afternoon at leisure. Maybe join one of the optional excursions available. (B)
Day #3 Madrid–Toledo–Cordoba. Leave the capital and head towards Toledo. The splendid setting of this old walled city above the Tagus was made famous in El Greco’s painting, and even now it’s like a great open-air museum of Spanish history and art. Later, continue into the very heart of La Mancha, known for its castle and windmills, as you travel to Cordoba on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. (B,D)
Day #4 Cordoba–Seville. This morning, included sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to Spain’s most Moorish city with the Mezquita, one of Islam’s most important pieces of architecture outside the Arab world that was converted to a Catholic cathedral. See small, white-washed houses, winding streets, and colorful squares. Enjoy more Andalusian landscapes before reaching Seville, one of Spain’s most colorful cities. (B)
Day #5 Seville. The wonderful Andalusian city of Seville is the epitome of Spain with its fiery flamenco, Moorish splendor, fragrant gardens, and elegant plazas. Admire the city’s many highlights this morning during your sightseeing tour with a Local Guide. Afternoon at leisure. Perhaps tonight you’d like to join an optional flamenco show? (B,D)
Day #6 Seville–Ronda–Marbella–Costa del Sol. Today, take the scenic inland route to Ronda, the emblem of all Andalusian white-washed villages. Once you reach the mediterranean shores, stop for a stroll in the traditional quarters of celebrated Marbella. Continue to your hotel and later, enjoy the sandy beaches, browse through the trendy boutiques, or sample the many seafood restaurants for which the resort is famous. Don’t miss out on the optional excursion to Mijas, a typical Andalusian market town with enchanting views of the coast from its upper terraces. (B)
Day #7 Costa del Sol–Granada. In the morning, drive to history-steeped Granada at the foot of the Sierra Nevada. Enjoy included sightseeing with a Local Guide that features the Alhambra, a summer complex built by Moorish kings. You’ll marvel at its architectural beauty and magnificent gardens. (B)
Day #8 Granada–Madrid. The olive and orange groves of the rolling Andalusian hills as well as the barren landscapes of Don Quixote’s La Mancha unfold before your eyes as you head north to Madrid. Time for some shopping, exploring on your own, or the chance to join an excursion. (B)
Day #9 Madrid. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Hotels:
MADRID Holiday Inn Piramides (F)
CORDOBA Selu (ST)
SEVILLE Don Paco (ST)
COSTA DEL SOL Las Piramides (F) at Fuengirola
GRANADA Abba (F)
MADRID Abba (F)