Best of Andalusia & Toledo

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. Your tour escort will not join you in Madrid, they will join the group when you leave the capital. Tomorrow's sightseeing tour will be led by an expert local guide.

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 morning, after breakfast, we’ll embark on a captivating panoramic city tour through Madrid, tracing the city’s rich history from its medieval roots. Our journey begins with a glimpse of the Arab fortress and a stroll through the charming Barrio de la Morería, a district steeped in history, where ancient buildings and traditional taverns evoke a sense of timelessness.

We’ll then explore the Hapsburg district, with its Renaissance and Baroque treasures, including the iconic Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa, all shaped by the reign of Philip II. Continuing our exploration, we’ll encounter the grandeur of Madrid under the Bourbons, marveling at the Royal Palace, the impressive Cibeles and Neptune Fountains, and the elegant Puerta de Alcalá, masterpieces of urban design crafted by Charles III.

We’ll pause to admire 19th-century landmarks such as the refined Plaza de Oriente and the world-renowned Prado Museum, before venturing into the heart of modern Madrid. Here, we’ll discover bustling avenues like Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana, and the Salamanca district, alongside the commercial and financial hubs of the city, not forgetting the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The afternoon is yours to explore Madrid at your own pace.

Please note: The tour escort service is not available during your stay in Madrid, but local guides will lead the guided city tours. As well as if the panoramic tour of Madrid cannot operate, it will be replaced with the Madrid Hop-on Hop-off Bus or a walking tour of the Hapsburg Quarter

Madrid - Cordoba - Seville. Today, we set off on a journey through the enchanting landscape of La Mancha, the land immortalised by Don Quixote, as we pass the picturesque site of Puerto Lápice, steeped in literary history. We then make our way through the dramatic natural border of “Despeñaperros,” a gateway into the captivating region of Andalusia, where the echoes of a glorious past resonate in every corner.

As we arrive in Córdoba, we are welcomed by the awe-inspiring beauty of its Mosque, a testament to centuries of rich history. We will then wander through the narrow, meandering streets of the Jewish Quarter, where the quiet charm of its ancient buildings offers a sense of serenity and reflection. In the afternoon, after a scenic two-hour drive, we reach the vibrant city of Seville

Today, we begin our day with a morning panoramic city tour, starting with the magnificent Cathedral, the second largest in the Catholic world after St. Peter’s in Rome. We continue to the Santa Cruz quarter, a charming setting known as the backdrop for Carmen and the birthplace of the legendary myth of Don Juan.

Our tour also takes us through the tranquil Maria Luisa Park and the stunning Plaza de España. In the afternoon, you have time at your leisure to uncover exclusive views and savour the unique flavours of this vibrant, sunlit city.

Seville - Granada. After breakfast, we journey east along the Caliphate Road, taking us into the heart of Andalusia. As we travel, we are treated to breathtaking views of endless olive groves stretching across the landscape, a serene prelude to our arrival in Granada. This city, the last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms until 1492, is steeped in history and monumental beauty.

Our exploration begins with a visit to the world-renowned Alhambra complex and the enchanting Generalife Gardens. These iconic sites, with their captivating sounds and sights, have inspired countless authors, including Washington Irving, whose Tales of the Alhambra immortalised their magic.In the evening, you may choose to enjoy an optional Flamenco Zambra show, an unforgettable celebration of Andalusian culture.

Please note: If Alhambra and Generalife tickets are unavailable, alternative compensation will be provided at our discretion.

After breakfast this morning, you will have a free day to explore the Nazari capital. Granada is more than the Alhambra; its Muslim and Christian heritage blend seamlessly, creating a uniquely captivating city. You can explore its vibrant streets, visit historic sites, soak in the atmosphere at a traditional tapas bar, or simply enjoy some relaxation.

Granada - Toledo - Madrid. Today, we drive north to the Imperial city of Toledo, rising high above Castilla and surrounded by the Tagus River. This World Heritage City, where Christian, Moorish, and Jewish cultures once coexisted, offers a rich tapestry of Spanish art, history, and spirituality, with the entire town designated as a National Monument. We will take a short, guided tour through its narrow, historic streets before continuing our journey back to Madrid.

Tuck into a final breakfast in the hotel before our tour comes to an end. There is an included transfer to the airport.