Day 1 - London to Biarritz
We meet at London St Pancras and take the Eurostar to Paris, continuing to Biarritz or Bayonne for the night. (Eurostar Meal, D)
Day 2 - Madrid
Today we transfer to San Sebastián for the train to Madrid, where we spend two nights. Overnight Madrid. (B)
Day 3 - Sightseeing in Madrid
Today we enjoy a sightseeing tour by coach and on foot, admiring the many architectural styles and attractive green spaces. We have a tapas lunch in a restaurant on Plaza Mayor, then the rest of your day is at leisure to revisit favorite sites from the tour or to continue your explorations. Overnight Madrid. (B, L)
Day 4 - To Seville
This morning, we depart Madrid by high-speed AVE train for a journey south into Andalucía, to the fascinating city of Seville. This old port city is set on the Guadalquivir River and played a key role in establishing and continuing trade with South America. Today, it remains one of Spain's most active river ports. Seville is also credited with inventing tapas and hosts as many as 1,000 tapas bars throughout the city. We enjoy a guided tour through Seville this afternoon which introduces us to the city and presents the beautiful and historic Santa Cruz area, the Gothic Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower. Overnight Seville. (B, D)
Day 5 - Seville at Leisure
Today is spent at leisure discovering this quintessentially Spanish city. Perhaps visit Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage palace that is still in use by the Spanish royal family, or walk around the Plaza de España. There are beautiful parks throughout the city, including Maria Luisa Park, and numerous museums to explore. For a true taste of Seville, catch a flamenco show and eat your way through the city’s tapas bars. Overnight Seville. (B)
Day 6 - Granada and the Albayzin
Today we travel by rail to Granada (Standard Class), an enchanting city scattered over seven small hills at the confluence of 2 rivers. Charming and romantic, Granada is dominated by the exquisite Alhambra, one of the most recognizable palaces in the world. After checking in at our hotel, the 4-Star Melia Granada Hotel, we begin our explorations with a sightseeing tour. The excursion highlights the unique beauty of the city, including the Albayzin area, which offers fantastic views of the Alhambra; the oldest street in Granada, Carrera Del Darro; the Church of San Salvador; Arab baths and Plaza Larga. Our evening concludes with dinner at a restaurant in the Albayzin Quarter. In addition to the delicious local fare, we also enjoy views of the beautifully illuminated Alhambra as we dine. Overnight Granada. (B, D)
Day 7 - The Alhambra
We continue our sightseeing today with a visit to the Alhambra, which was once the residence of the Muslim Kings of Granada. The Alhambra sits proudly on a plateau overlooking Granada, with the imposing Sierra Nevada mountains as its backdrop. Dating back to the 9th century, the palace complex boasts UNESCO World Heritage Site status and is one of Spain's most iconic monuments. During our guided tour, enjoy glimpses at the intricate art and carvings throughout the palace, and admire the luxurious furnishings that adorn each room. From the Alhambra’s towers and great halls to the original fortress, the site is truly spectacular. Outside the palace, the gorgeous gardens are lush with Meditteranean flora. Following our tour, we visit a traditional restaurant for dinner. Overnight Granada. (B, D)
Day 8 - To Cordoba
Our journey today takes us by coach to Cordoba, a beautiful, relaxed city. We enjoy a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO World Heritage city, seeing its labyrinth of winding alleys and pretty squares. After crossing the Roman Bridge and passing the 14th-century Calahorra Tower, we continue to the famous Mezquita. We then tour the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter. Overnight Cordoba. (B, D)
Day 9 - Barcelona
We make our way to the train station this morning to board our high-speed AVE train to Barcelona. We travel in Standard Plus class for this journey. Upon arrival, check-in at the 4-Star Hotel Catalonia La Pedrera, and then begin your explorations in this exciting city at your own pace. Barcelona has long been Spain's economic heart, and this wealth is reflected in the opulent buildings that encircle the various public squares throughout the city. You may wish to sample the food unique to Catalonia and this part of Spain in a local restaurant or café or to take a stroll along the beach to savor the sight of the blue waters of the Balearic Sea as the sun melts into the waves. Overnight Barcelona. (B)
Day 10 - A sightseeing tour of Barcelona
Delight in the historic sites and beautiful views of Barcelona today, as we take a guided sightseeing tour through the city. Our excursion includes a visit to the beautiful Old Town, the Barri Gotic and the tree-lined boulevard of Las Ramblas. The rest of your day is free to enjoy the city. From the Gaudí architecture and the medieval churches to the boutiques, markets, art galleries and countless street performers, the lively atmosphere in Barcelona is all-encompassing. Join the group at a local restaurant this evening for a farewell dinner. Overnight Barcelona. (B, D)
Day 11 - Return Home
After breakfast this morning, we depart by high-speed TGV to Paris, where we join the Eurostar, continuing on to London St Pancras International. (B, Eurostar Meal)
Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
