17. South & Mediterranean

Discover the Magic of Spain with Iberica Travel’s Southern Spain Tour!

Embark on a one-week Southern Spain Tour with Iberica Travel, where you’ll explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes of Andalusia and the Mediterranean Coast - two of Spain’s most captivating regions.

Your adventure begins in the energetic city of Madrid, from where you’ll journey deep into Andalusia, home to the enchanting cities of Córdoba, Seville, and Granada—often referred to as the “golden triangle” of southern Spain. These cities are the heart of Spanish culture, offering a sensory feast of flamenco rhythms, guitar melodies, the enticing aromas of tapas and wine, and the warmth of Andalusian hospitality. Marvel at the region’s Moorish architecture, Roman ruins, and rustic charm, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Next, travel along the Mediterranean Coast, renowned for its more than 1,000 kilometers of golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visit the fascinating cities of Valencia and Barcelona, each offering its own unique blend of Mediterranean allure. In Valencia, savor the world-famous paella and explore the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, while Barcelona dazzles with its Gaudí masterpieces, vibrant culture, and seaside charm. Whether lounging on silky sands, enjoying fresh Mediterranean cuisine, or admiring the coastal scenery, this leg of the tour offers pure relaxation and inspiration.

On the return journey to Madrid, stop in Zaragoza, the historic capital of Aragon and Spain’s fifth-largest city. Here, visit the breathtaking Cathedral of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a stunning symbol of the city’s architectural and cultural significance.

This thoughtfully curated one-week journey through Andalusia and the Mediterranean Coast offers an unforgettable experience. From the Moorish splendor of southern Spain to the modern elegance of the Mediterranean, Iberica Travel’s Southern Spain Tour guarantees a trip filled with unforgettable memories, rich cultural experiences, and the very best of Spain.

Please click here to see the route on a map.

Day 1: Madrid - Córdoba - Seville (530 km / 329 miles)

Begin your journey with an early departure from Madrid at 8:00 a.m., heading through the scenic region of Castilla La Mancha, immortalized as the backdrop for Miguel de Cervantes' classic novel, Don Quixote de la Mancha. The landscapes, dotted with windmills and rolling plains, provide a charming introduction to your adventure.

Arrive in Córdoba, one of Andalusia's most captivating cities, and embark on a guided tour through its historic center. This enchanting area is a feast for the senses, with cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant pots of jasmine and geraniums, and courtyards exuding timeless charm. A highlight of your visit will be the iconic Mosque-Cathedral, a symbol of Córdoba's rich and layered history.

The Mosque-Cathedral, originally a Roman temple, evolved through the centuries under Visigoth, Moorish, and Christian rule. Marvel at its 850 double-arched columns in the vast prayer hall, where sunlight filters through to create mesmerizing patterns of light and shadow. The blend of Islamic and Renaissance elements, including the 16th-century nave commissioned by Charles V, is a testament to Córdoba's cultural fusion.

After exploring the Judería (Jewish Quarter), filled with atmospheric streets, tapas bars, and quaint squares, enjoy lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Seville, arriving in time for dinner and an overnight stay.

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Day 2: Seville

Start your day with breakfast before diving into the wonders of Seville, the largest city in southern Spain. A guided tour will take you to the city's most famous attractions.

Begin at Plaza de España, a masterpiece of Spanish architecture built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition. With its grand semi-circular design, intricate ceramic tiles, and picturesque canal, it’s often called the "Venice of Seville" and has been featured in films like Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars.

Stroll through the adjacent Maria Luisa Park, a serene oasis of palm trees, orange groves, and Moorish-style fountains. Next, visit the Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, home to the impressive tomb of Christopher Columbus and a gilded altarpiece of dazzling beauty. Don’t miss the chance to climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Conclude your tour with a walk through the Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville’s historic Jewish Quarter. Its maze of narrow alleys, hidden squares, and whitewashed buildings creates an unforgettable atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore Seville on your own.

Visit the futuristic Metropol Parasol, known as the "Mushrooms of the Incarnation," or head to the Triana district, a vibrant neighborhood famous for its traditional ceramics and lively tapas bars. End your day with dinner and a relaxing evening in Seville.

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Day 3: Seville - Granada (250 km / 155 miles)

After breakfast, travel to Granada, set at the foot of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the world-renowned Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Alhambra, a stunning blend of palace and fortress, showcases the grandeur of Moorish architecture. Explore its intricate Nasrid Palaces, where delicate stucco work and serene courtyards captivate every visitor. Stroll through the lush Generalife Gardens, designed as a tranquil retreat for royalty, and admire panoramic views of Granada from its terraces.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Granada at your own pace. Visit the bustling Alcaicería market, reminiscent of a Moroccan bazaar, or wander through the historic Albaicín district, where narrow streets and traditional tea houses transport you to a different era. Don’t miss the chance to experience Granada’s unique tapas culture, where drinks are served with complimentary small plates. Dinner and overnight stay in Granada.

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Day 4: Granada - Valencia (498 km / 309 miles)

After breakfast, depart for Valencia, passing through picturesque towns like Guadix, Baza, and Puerto Lumbreras. Arrive in Valencia in the early evening and settle into your hotel.

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, offers a delightful mix of historic charm and modern innovation. In your free time, explore landmarks such as the City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural marvel, or the Central Market, a vibrant hub of Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss a visit to La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage site, or enjoy a leisurely dinner featuring Valencia’s signature dish, paella.

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Day 5: Valencia - Barcelona (355 km / 220 miles)

Spend the morning exploring more of Valencia. Relax on the city’s golden beaches, stroll through the bohemian streets of El Carmen, or admire the views from the historic Torres de Serranos.

In the afternoon, journey to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy an evening of leisure in this iconic Mediterranean city.

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Day 6: Barcelona

After breakfast, take a guided tour of Barcelona, a city renowned for its rich history and architectural wonders. Visit Montjuïc Hill, where panoramic views of the harbor and Mediterranean Sea await, and see the Olympic Park, a legacy of the 1992 Olympic Games.

Stroll through the Gothic Quarter, a labyrinth of medieval streets and squares that showcase the city’s historic charm. In the afternoon, explore at your own pace. Visit Sagrada Família, Park Güell, or the vibrant La Rambla, a bustling street filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Enjoy another night in Barcelona.

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Day 7: Barcelona - Zaragoza - Madrid (635 km / 395 miles)

Depart in the morning for Zaragoza, the capital of Aragón and a city rich in history. Explore the stunning Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a Baroque masterpiece and spiritual landmark, and take in the views from the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge).

Continue your journey to Madrid, where your unforgettable Southern Spain tour concludes.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1195 €

Single Supplement: 395 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 80 €

Supplement for departure on May 5 (Feria): 110 € 

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Here you will find commonly asked questions regarding our tours.

1. Are the tours for individuals, families, or small groups of friends?

- Yes. Our tours are for single travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends whom we put together with other travelers to form a larger group.

2. How many people are normally included on a tour?

We cannot guarantee an exact number per tour. Normally, it ranges from 10 to 25 people per group, but these numbers can vary greatly depending on the time of year. In summer, groups tend to be larger as this is a popular time of year, while the winter season usually attracts fewer people, thus smaller groups are formed. There are certain tours that combine travelers if the destinations follow the same routes; e.g., you may be on a 10-day tour package with companions traveling on a 5-day package. The tour will cover the same areas, and the 5-day package guests will break off thereafter. Also, more people may be joining in for the other part of the package.

3. Is there a guide or tour leader on the bus?

- Yes. An accompanying guide (tour leader) always travels with the group during the entire tour. An exception may occur when there are minimal numbers signed up for a particular tour. These small groups will travel with an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide. In all major cities, we use local professionals and licensed guides.

4. What languages do the guides use?

English and Spanish. All our tour guides speak both languages fluently. If a tour group consists of an English-speaking group only, the tour will run in English. But most of the tours will have both English and Spanish (from Latin America and Central America) passengers, so the guides will explain in both languages.

5. Do your tours run during certain times of the year?

Most of our tours run all year. Some tours, e.g., those running to the northern regions of Spain, only run from March until October. Each tour's description provides all the relevant information needed. For example, ''Sundays all year'' means that a tour will start on every Sunday of the year, regardless of the numbers. Just look up the calendar for the specific dates Sundays are falling on, and make sure you arrive in Spain a day before.

6. What cities do the tours start from?

Tours start in Madrid or Barcelona.

7. Where are the meeting points for the tours?

In Madrid, it is Calle Ferraz 3 (Ferraz Str., 3). This meeting point is in the city center, right off Plaza España.

In Barcelona, it is in the reception of the Hotel ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' (Carrer de Muntaner, 505, 08022, Barcelona).

8. Do you pick them up from the hotels on the first day of the tour?

By default, no. We do not pick up from hotels because that would delay the tour launch time. However, if your hotel is en route, using the same bus route on launch day, we will pick you up. A week before travel, we require the name of your hotel in Madrid and will inform you if you can be picked up directly from your hotel or need to head over to the meeting point at 7.45 a.m.

In Barcelona, the meeting point is always in the reception of the ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' hotel.

9. What type of vehicles do you use?

We use buses for larger groups and minibuses for smaller ones. Vehicles are comfortable, modern, and equipped with air conditioning.

10. If there is Wi-Fi on your buses,?

There is Wi-Fi on all our buses in Spain and Portugal. But please keep in mind that sometimes during the transfers between the cities, the Wi-Fi signal can be weak or intermitting due to poor coverage from the main operators. Please do not expect very high Internet speed (to download or stream movies during the transfers).

11. Are meals included?

Buffet breakfasts with all the drinks are included every morning in all hotels our guests occupy during their tour.

Lunches and dinners are included anywhere that's mentioned in the itinerary (sections ''Itinerary'' and ''Included in Tour''). Normally, dinners are held in the hotel's restaurants, but many times they will be buffet (''eat as much as you want''), and only drinks will be at an extra cost. Also, sometimes lunches and dinners will be held in the restaurants.

12. If I am a vegetarian or allergic to certain products, is there any problem?

No problems at all. Inform the tour leader, and he will assist you. On a side note, many dinners are buffet-type, so you can simply choose what you prefer. For those with allergies, if in doubt, please remind the tour leader during mealtimes. Alternatively, ask the restaurant staff about the content of the dishes.

13. What time do you arrive in Madrid on your last day of travel? Can I book a flight on the same day, flying out of Spain?

Normally, we return to Madrid between 17.00 and 19.00 on the last day of the tour. However, it is not recommended to book the flight out on the same evening or night, as traffic jams in Madrid or other possible events may delay your arrival. Feel free to talk to us before starting the tour, and we'll organize your overnight stay in Madrid after the tour.

14. I need a night in the hotel or a transfer from or to the airport to be booked before or after the tour.

Sure. Just let us know at the time you organize it.

15. Can I just show up for the trip without a reservation and pay directly in the office, on the spot?

Unfortunately, not. The tour must be booked in advance, as we need to make all the arrangements beforehand.

16. How long in advance should I book a trip?

If you book at least 2 weeks in advance, the trip is guaranteed for you, though we recommend booking even earlier, if possible, as in these cases we have a wider range of hotels to accommodate the early reservations—better options.

17. Can I customize one of the tours for myself?

No, as there are more people traveling with you on the tour. However, if you represent an agency or the leader of a group of people, contact us; we'll take care of a private and customized tour for your party only.

18. What is the booking process?

It is simple. Once you have chosen the tour, there are six steps:

1. You confirm the tour by e-mail, indicating the starting date, tour code, number of persons traveling, and their names, as well as the types of rooms preferred (single, double, or triple).

2. We will send you an invoice.

3. You pay 10% to book the tour.

4. We issue the confirmation.

5. Three weeks before the starting date, you pay the rest of the money due, and

6. You show up for the tour on the appointed date and time.

19. How much should I pay and when?

We require a 10% deposit during reservation and the remaining 90% no less than 3 weeks before the tour commences.

20. How would I pay?

You can pay in one of four ways:

1. Bank wire to our company’s bank account. Our banking details are included on the invoice that you receive.

2. We can charge your credit card. Please keep in mind that, in this case, we charge an additional 2% on top of the amount (bank charges).

3. Transferwise.com is an online system allowing the transfer of funds. There is a small commission attached.

4. Western Union (normally for short-notice reservations and when the amount needs to be received urgently).

21. What is the cancellation and refund policy?

10% paid at the time of reservation is non-refundable. The other 90% is fully refundable if cancelled in no less than 2 weeks (e.g., if you paid 100% upfront, you get the whole amount right away). There are no refunds for cancellations made with less than 3 weeks to go before the trip.

22. Are there any discounts or surcharges?

Yes. Discounts are listed under the section ''Prices'', under each package.

23. Are taxes included in the tour prices?

Yes, VAT and tourist taxes for different cities are included.

24. How do I know if I need a visa for Spain or Morocco?

- Please check the visa information for Spain here. The visa requirements for Morocco can be found here. Please note that all trips to Morocco will require your Schengen visa to be of an ''multiple entry'', as you will enter Spain for the second time.

25. I am ready to go ahead and book one of your tours, but I need a visa to enter Spain.

Yes, we do help our customers get their visas after a trip is confirmed. As we are a fully licensed tour operator in Spain, after the deposit is paid, we can issue a confirmation, which you can later bring to the Spanish Embassy or Consulate. In this letter, we confirm that you booked and partially (or fully) paid for a tour with us. Please note that we do not guarantee the issue of a visa and cannot influence the process. The decision is up to the Embassy, as they have their own rules and regulations for each country. At the same time, we do our best to ensure we provide assistance where possible.