Overview
Itinerary
Meet your tour director at 5 pm for a welcome drink at your hotel with your fellow travelers. Then enjoy dinner at the hotel, savoring the first tastes of Spanish cuisine. (D)
Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Spain’s capital city on a tour of Madrid. See magnificent sights such as The Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, Gran Via, and Plaza de Espana. Next explore the world-renowned Prado Museum, one of the most important art collections in Europe, with masterpieces from artists like Goya, Velazquez, and El Greco. The rest of the day is yours to discover this friendly, diverse city as you wish. Stroll the elegant shops of the Golden Mile, people-watch in El Retiro Park, or savor the gastronomic delights on offer at the Mercado San Miguel. (B)
Board a train for a scenic, relaxing ride to Córdoba, where you’ll take a walking tour to discover the city’s Roman past and its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish cultures. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the old town, admiring the fusion of Moorish and Christian influences. Visit the magnificent Mezquita Cathedral, a former mosque and a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
Continue on to Seville, where you will dine at your hotel. (B/D)
Discover the enchanting beauty of Seville on a guided city tour, exploring its charming streets and iconic landmarks. Marvel at the grandeur of Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Visit the Flamenco Museum (Museo del Baile Flamenco) to learn about flamenco culture and see a performance of this passionate, rhythmic art form. Your evening is free to dine independently in one of the Old Town’s many tapas bars and restaurants. (B)
Journey through the Andalusian countryside to Granada to discover its rich history and Moorish heritage, set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Then visit the breathtaking Alhambra Palace, a magnificent monument that showcases the artistic and cultural influences of the Moorish rulers who commissioned it in the 13th century. The exquisite details of this UNESCO World Heritage Site include intricately carved stucco, arabesque designs, reflective pools, and lush gardens.
This evening, explore Granada on your own; you might visit a tapas bar or take a walk through the historic Albaicin neighborhood, known for its winding medieval streets and picturesque views. (B)
Experience the delights of Spanish wine with a visit to Bodegas Viña Elena for a tour, tasting, and delightful lunch in the vineyards. This family vineyard grows Monastrell grapes along with olives and almonds. En route to Valencia, take a scenic photo stop at the picturesque Albufera, a lagoon known for its fields of rice, first planted by the Moors and now an essential ingredient in paella. In Valencia, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city before a traditional paella dinner. (B/L/D)
Explore Valencia’s futuristic architecture on a walking tour of its City of Arts and Sciences, a spectacular collection of modern buildings housing cultural and scientific institutions. Journey on to Barcelona, where you’ll take a panoramic tour of this exhilarating, artistic city before dining at your hotel. (B/D)
Discover the enchanting Gothic Quarter of Barcelona with a guided walking tour, wandering through its medieval streets and hidden squares. The district was home to Barcelona’s Jewish Quarter, Picasso’s art school, and Antonio Gaudi’s first art project. Visit the iconic Sagrada Familia, an architectural marvel that is Gaudi’s masterpiece. Enjoy some free time to explore Barcelona independently before gathering for a farewell dinner with your group. (B/D)
Your tour ends after breakfast. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Traditional Spanish Paella Dinner: Experience the essence of Spanish cuisine with a traditional paella dinner. Gather around the pan with family and newfound friends to sharing stories and laughter, as you enjoy this iconic dish that captures the vibrant spirit of Spain.
- Alhambra: Explore the magnificent Moorish palace and fortress complex that dominates the city of Granada, Andalusia, Spain. Built between 1238 and 1358, it stands as one of the most renowned monuments of Islamic architecture. Your guide will weave tales of love, power, and cultural exchange—stories that echo through the centuries. As you walk the same halls as sultans and poets, you’ll feel the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Córdoba Walking Tour: Embark on a fascinating walking tour through Córdoba’s historic streets to uncover its rich heritage. Discover the multicultural past of Andalusia, and learn about the intertwining of faiths and traditions that left an indelible mark on this enchanting city.
- Flamenco Performance: Visit the Museo del Baile Flamenco to learn about flamenco culture and witness an electrifying performance. Experience the fiery footwork, soulful singing, intricate hand-clapping, and percussive rhythms of this quintessential Spanish cultural tradition.
- Prado Museum: Explore an extraordinary collection of European art at one of the world's most prestigious art museums, showcasing masterpieces from artists like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
- Valencia City of Arts and Sciences: Experience this captivating postcard of modernity, creativity, and architectural brilliance. More than just a collection of buildings, the City of Arts and Sciences is a celebration of human creativity, scientific curiosity, and the beauty of our natural world.
- Viña Elena Winery Tour: Explore Viña Elena firsthand, an immersive wine tourism experience of the vineyards -- learn intimate winemaking secrets, and taste their exceptional wines.
- Córdoba Mezquita Cathedral: Explore the Mezquita Cathedral and learn about its fascinating history and architectural significance. Its rich history spans various civilizations, and is a testament to the multicultural heritage that characterizes Andalusia’s past, where different faiths and cultures intersected and left an indelible mark on the remarkable monument. Indeed an awe-inspiring experience!
- Sagrada Familia: Explore the most iconic landmark in Barcelona, designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Its stunning exterior and interior will fascinate you with whimsical, surreal details that perfectly combine nature, religion and architecture. The architectural marvel is a work in progress. Construction began in 1882, and it’s still ongoing!
- NH Madrid Ribera del Manzanares (4 Stars)
- Barcelo Sevilla Renacimiento (5 Stars)
- Melia Granada (4 Stars)
- Exe Rey Don Jaime, Valencia (4 Stars)
- Hilton Barcelona (4 Stars)
- 8 Breakfasts (B), 1 Lunch (L), and 4 Dinners (D)
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Brochure
CIE Ireland & Britain (2025)
Availability
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by CIE Tours. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from CIE Tours. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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