Andalucia Discovery

Madrid – Toledo – Cordoba. Departing the current Spanish capital, we head south to Toledo, the former capital of the country. Perched on a hill overlooking the Tajo River, it's often called the 'City of Three Cultures.' There is free time to explore its cobbled streets and seek out the remnants of Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, and Christian cathedrals.

Next, we travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the backdrop for literary hero Don Quixote's adventures. Along the way, we stop at Despenaperros Natural Park, the gateway to Andalucia. Arriving in Cordoba, the evening is free to head out for dinner and discover some of the city's lively squares and charming architecture.

Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 8:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 8:30) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.

Cordoba – Granada. In the morning we enjoy an included visit to La Mezquita, a stunning Moorish mosque featuring rows of adorned arches, a serene interior, and even a cathedral inside. Then we journey through olive tree-covered hills, signalling our entry into the olive oil-producing province of Jaen.

We continue our trip south and pay a visit to the hilltop fortress of Fortaleza de la Mota. We arrive in Granada early in the evening, where we'll stay for the next two nights.

Granada – Guadix – Granada. This morning we take in one of Spain's most famous attractions, the UNESCO-listed Alhambra fortress and palace. Entrance is included and there will be time to explore this cavernous architectural wonder.

In the afternoon, we visit the unique Barrio de las Cuevas of Guadix and you can opt to visit the Guadix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre, nestled within original cave dwellings. If time permits, we enjoy a photo stop of the Sierra Nevada mountains before returning to Granada. The evening is free - why not head out for some mouth-watering tapas this evening?

Granada – Ronda – Seville. We begin our journey today in the El Torcal de Antequera nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal Mountains. Marvel at the incredible limestone formations sculpted over millions of years.

We continue through Andalucia's countryside, taking in the landscapes of Malaga's 'Lake District' before reaching Ronda. This town is dramatically perched on the cliffs of El Tajo Gorge and is known for its rich literary history, old city walls, and charming plazas. There's free time to explore and savour a leisurely lunch.

Next, we enjoy an included visit to an olive oil farm, to find out more about the production of Spain's 'liquid gold'. It's then time to complete our journey to Seville, where we'll spend the next two nights.

Today is at leisure to explore Seville, one of Spain's most popular cities. You could visit the iconic cathedral, enjoy a glass of wine in the buzzing Plaza de Espana or take a stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Your guide can help you with suggestions!

Alternatively, you can join an optional half day tour to Jerez, best known for flamenco, horses and sherry production. The evening is free back in Seville.

Seville – Huelva – Tavira (Portugal) – Lisbon. Departing Seville, we head west to the Costa de la Luz, known for its bright sunshine and golden sandy beaches. We make a stop in Huelva, a seaside city where Christopher Columbus once mapped his voyage to seek a western sea route to China and India. There's an included visit to the waterside exhibition of Muelle de las Carabelas, housing life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships.

We then say Adios to Spain and cross the border into neighbouring Portugal. Heading through the Algarve, we stop in Tavira, nestled along the River Gilao. There is some free time to wander its cobblestone streets, admire the ancient Roman bridge, and enjoy some delectable Portuguese cuisine.

We then complete our journey to the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, where our tour comes to an end.

Please note: This tour finishes at 19:00 - Lisbon Drop Off, Hotel Zenit, Lisbon.