Andalusia & Morocco Uncovered

Upon arrival in Madrid, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax or explore Madrid at your own pace.

Please Note: This is a bi-lingual, large group coach tour, where a majority of travellers are Spanish, so English will be the second language. For groups of 12 or more the tour is escorted by a bilingual (Spanish & English speaking) tour leader/escort. They will provide explanations about the itinerary, coordinate accommodation services, and ensure the smooth running of the tour, making your trip an enjoyable experience. When the group size is less than 12, this service may be provided by the driver. There will be experienced bi-lingual local guides for included city sightseeing. This tour also combines different programmes, meaning some travellers may join and leave the tour part way through, and your tour escort may also change.

In the morning, we embark on a panoramic city tour that takes us through Madrid’s rich medieval origins, where we’ll discover the Arab fortress and the Barrio de la Morería, renowned for its ancient buildings and traditional taverns. We continue our journey into the district of the Hapsburgs, shaped by Philip II, where we’ll explore Renaissance and Baroque architecture at Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa.

We’ll step into the Madrid of the Bourbons, admiring the urban planning of Charles III, with iconic sights such as the Royal Palace, the Cibeles Fountain, the Neptune Fountain, and the Puerta de Alcalá. Our tour will also take us to 19th-century landmarks, including the elegant Plaza de Oriente and the world-famous Prado Museum.

As we discover contemporary Madrid, we’ll stroll along the grand avenues of Gran Vía and Paseo de la Castellana, wander through the stylish Salamanca neighbourhood, and visit Parque del Oeste. We’ll also explore the commercial and financial districts of Modern Madrid and the impressive Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Madrid - Cordoba - Seville. After breakfast, we drive through the scenic plains of La Mancha, the land of Don Quixote, passing by the iconic site of Puerto Lapice. We then cross the natural border of Despeñaperros, entering Andalusia, a region rich in heritage and steeped in history.

Our journey takes us to Córdoba, where we enjoy an impressive tour of its renowned Mosque and explore other fascinating sites. As we stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter, we find ourselves immersed in the tranquil atmosphere that eases both mind and spirit. In the afternoon, after a short two-hour drive, we reach Seville, ready to discover its charm and beauty.

Today, we embark on a panoramic city tour, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Cathedral, the second-largest in the Catholic world after St. Peter's in Rome. We continue to the enchanting Santa Cruz quarter, a natural setting for the tale of "Carmen" and the place where the myth of "Don Juan" took shape. We then explore the beautiful Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de España, both of which capture the essence of Seville's charm. In the afternoon, you’ll have leisure time to uncover your own favourite views and flavours of this vibrant, sun-drenched city. You will have the opportunity to join an optional Flamenco show later in the evening.

Seville - Ronda - Costa del Sol. We drive south, winding through the scenic Andalusian countryside, passing charming villages with whitewashed houses and rolling hills. Our route takes us to Ronda, a town of Celtic origin, where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning views of the valley and mountain range that surround this picturesque place. The drive is a journey through natural beauty, offering glimpses of Spain’s rural heart. In the afternoon, we continue our journey to the Costa del Sol, one of the most modern and renowned international tourist destinations, where we can soak in the lively atmosphere of this beautiful region.

Costa del Sol - Algeciras/Tarifa - Fes (Morocco). Today, we depart along the scenic route of the Costa del Sol, making our way to Algeciras or Tarifa. We board the ferry for a short but fascinating crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar, heading towards Africa.

Upon arrival in Morocco, we complete the necessary customs formalities before continuing by coach to Fes, passing through the coastal town of Larache. Fes, the most monumental of the Imperial Cities, welcomes us with its rich history. We explore its renowned University of Karaouyne, the largest Islamic sanctuary in Morocco, along with its ancient theological schools and more, immersing ourselves in the profound heritage of this remarkable city.

This morning, we embark on a tour of Fes, the oldest of the Imperial Cities, to explore its most captivating sights. We marvel at the seven gates of the Royal Palace, wander through the Jewish Quarter, or Mellah, and admire the grandeur of the Bab Bou Jeloud gate. Our journey takes us through the magnificent Medina, the ancient heart of the city, which has been declared a World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to further discover the vibrant culture and history of this remarkable city at your own pace.

Fes - Rabat - Marrakech. We start our day with breakfast before departing towards Rabat, the diplomatic and administrative capital of Morocco. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided tour of the city, visiting the impressive outer gates of the Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the iconic Hassan Tower. As we immerse ourselves in the rich history of Rabat, we then continue our journey to Marrakech, ready to discover the next chapter of our Moroccan adventure.

In the morning, we enjoy a guided city tour of Marrakech, known as the "Pearl of the South." Our journey begins at the magnificent Menara Gardens, where a pavilion sits amidst countless olive trees, offering a peaceful retreat. We then visit the exterior of the Koutoubia Minaret, a twin sister to Seville’s Giralda, before entering the historic old part of the city.

Here, we explore the stunning Bahia Palace, once home to a nobleman, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna Square, one of Morocco's most fascinating locations. From this bustling square, we can access the souks and the ancient medina, where we discover the artisans' guilds, including woodworkers, ceramicists, leatherworkers, and spice vendors.

After lunch at the hotel, you’ll have free time to explore the city further. You will also have the opportunity to join an optional dinner and show at “Fantasía Chez Ali” in the evening.

Today, you have a free day to continue enjoying all that Marrakech has to offer. You can wander through the vibrant souks, where the colours and scents of spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods will captivate your senses. There are optional excursions available, so please consult with our tour leader for more suggestions to make the most of your time in this captivating city.

Marrakech - Casablanca. After breakfast, we depart by coach to Casablanca, the cosmopolitan, industrial, and economic heart of Morocco. Upon arrival, we embark on a panoramic tour of the largest city in Morocco, taking in key sights such as the striking exteriors of the Hassan II Grand Mosque, the lively Boulevard de la Corniche, and the bustling United Nations Square. As we explore, we immerse ourselves in the dynamic atmosphere of this modern city, where tradition meets innovation.

Casablanca - Tangier - Algeciras/Tarifa (Spain) - Costa del Sol. Today, we transfer to the port to board the ferry and cross the Strait of Gibraltar back to Spain. As we sail, we take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean and the African coastline. Upon arrival, we continue by coach to our hotel on the Costa del Sol, ready to relax and enjoy the warmth of this beautiful region.

Costa del Sol - Granada. We begin our journey towards the city of Granada, renowned for its incredible monumental surroundings and rich history as the last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms until 1492. Upon arrival, we visit the world-famous Alhambra complex and the tranquil Generalife Gardens, which have inspired many, including authors such as Washington Irving in his "Tales of the Alhambra." As we explore, we are immersed in the beauty of the intricate architecture and lush landscapes. In the evening, you have the opportunity to enjoy an optional Flamenco Zambra show, a vibrant display of traditional Spanish dance and music.

Granada - Toledo - Madrid. Today, we drive northward towards the sky of Castilla, where the impressive Imperial city of Toledo rises, surrounded by the Tagus River. This World Heritage City is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of three cultures: Christian, Moorish, and Jewish.

As we explore Toledo, we immerse ourselves in the rich art, history, and spirituality that defines this National Monument. We take a short guided tour through the narrow streets of the historic old town, where every corner tells a story. Afterward, we continue our journey to Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain.

After our final breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.