21. South & Mediterranean Coast

Embark on a captivating Southern Spain tour with Iberica Travel, exploring the vibrant heart of Andalusia and the stunning Mediterranean Coast. This nine-day Southern Spain package is designed to showcase the best of these enchanting regions, steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Your journey begins in Madrid, heading first to the ancient city of Cáceres, a treasure trove of medieval architecture and history. From there, venture into the heart of Andalusia, home to the legendary "golden triangle" of Seville, Córdoba, and Granada. These cities epitomize the essence of Southern Spain, offering an intoxicating blend of flamenco rhythms, soulful guitar music, exquisite wines, tantalizing tapas, and the passionate warmth of Andalusian people.

The allure of Andalusia lies in its contrasts - Moorish architectural splendor meets Roman heritage, rural charm blends seamlessly with dramatic landscapes of towering mountains and winding gorges. This timeless region has long captivated travelers, making it one of Spain's most sought-after destinations.

The tour then turns east along the stunning Mediterranean Coast, following a scenic 1,000-mile journey brimming with breathtaking coastal views. Along the way, discover the vibrant cities of Valencia and Barcelona, where contemporary architecture and cultural treasures meet sandy beaches and delectable seafood. Enjoy every moment as you savor Mediterranean charm, indulge in fresh local cuisine, and marvel at architectural wonders that push creative boundaries.

As the tour makes its way back to Madrid, a stop in Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon, offers an unforgettable highlight. Here, you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Nuestra Señora del Pilar Cathedral, a testament to Zaragoza's grandeur and rich heritage.

Your Southern Spain tour concludes in Madrid, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Andalusia’s charm, the Mediterranean’s allure, and Spain's remarkable cultural diversity. Let Iberica Travel guide you through this unforgettable journey, blending history, culture, and natural beauty into the perfect Southern Spain experience.

Please click here to see the route on a map.

Day 1: Madrid to Cáceres and Seville (560 km / 348 miles)

The journey begins at 8 a.m. with a departure from Madrid, heading west toward the region of Extremadura. The first stop is the enchanting medieval town of Cáceres, founded by the Romans in 25 BC. Walking through Cáceres feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages, with its winding streets, ancient palaces, and mansions. The skyline is adorned with gargoyles, spires, and storks’ nests, perched atop fortress walls that have stood since the 16th century.

You’ll have time to explore highlights such as Plaza Mayor, a vibrant square surrounded by historic architecture, and the Torre de Bujaco, a medieval tower offering stunning views of the town. The nearby Arco de la Estrella leads into the Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets and antique buildings await. Don’t miss the Palacio de Toledo-Moctezuma, a striking architectural gem. While in Cáceres, try the local specialties like Torta de Casar goat cheese and fig cake.

After this enchanting visit, continue to Seville for dinner and accommodation.

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Day 2: Seville

Start the day with breakfast before a guided tour of Seville, Andalusia’s capital and a city of grandeur. Highlights include Plaza de España, a magnificent square built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition, with its semi-circular design, tiled alcoves, and canal earning it the nickname "the Venice of Seville." Nearby Maria Luisa Park offers a peaceful retreat with its Moorish-style fountains and lush greenery.

The Seville Cathedral, one of the largest in the world, boasts a Gothic exterior and an interior housing the gilded main altarpiece and Christopher Columbus’s tomb. Stroll through Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter, with its labyrinthine streets, whitewashed houses, and hidden plazas.

In the afternoon, explore at your leisure. Visit the Metropol Parasol, a modern wooden structure offering panoramic views, or wander through the Triana district, known for its tapas bars, ceramics, and vibrant market. End the day with dinner and a night in Seville.

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Day 3: Seville to Córdoba (145 km / 90 miles)

After breakfast, travel to Córdoba, one of Andalusia’s most picturesque towns. The highlight here is the Mosque-Cathedral, a unique monument that combines Moorish and Christian architecture. Its vast hall, with over 850 double-arched columns, creates a mesmerizing play of light and shadow.

Stroll through the Judería, Córdoba’s former Jewish quarter, known for its charming streets, patios, and lively tapas bars. Take some time to enjoy lunch and shop for souvenirs before settling in for dinner and an overnight stay in Córdoba.

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Day 4: Córdoba to Ronda and the Costa del Sol (322 km / 200 miles)

Begin the day with breakfast and then head to Ronda, one of Andalusia’s most beautiful towns. Perched dramatically on a gorge, Ronda is famous for the Puente Nuevo, a bridge spanning the 100-meter-deep El Tajo gorge, and its historic bullring. Explore the Old Town’s Moorish charm and the newer El Mercadillo district.

Continue to the Costa del Sol, known for its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. Arrive in Torremolinos, a coastal town offering a mix of relaxation and lively nightlife. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.

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Day 5: Costa del Sol to Granada (180 km / 112 miles)

After breakfast, travel to Granada, nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. A guided tour takes you to the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Moorish architecture. Wander through its intricate palaces and the serene Generalife Gardens.

Spend the afternoon exploring Granada at your leisure. Visit the Alcaicería bazaar for a taste of Arab culture, or stroll through the Albaicín district with its narrow streets and scenic views. Don’t miss Granada’s Cathedral or the city’s unique tapas culture, where drinks come with complimentary snacks. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay.

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Day 6: Granada to Valencia (498 km / 309 miles)

Depart Granada after breakfast and travel to Valencia, passing through quaint towns like Guadix and Baza. Arrive in Valencia by evening and enjoy the city’s blend of futuristic architecture and historic charm.

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences, a stunning complex of modern buildings, or explore the medieval Silk Market, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Valencia Cathedral, rumored to house the Holy Grail, is another must-see. Savor a traditional paella, the city’s signature dish, before retiring for the night.

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Day 7: Valencia to Barcelona (355 km / 220 miles)

After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Valencia’s highlights, such as its pristine beaches, the Central Market with its vibrant displays of local produce, and the street art of the El Carmen district. In the afternoon, journey to Barcelona, arriving in the evening for dinner and accommodation.

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Day 8: Barcelona

Begin the day with a guided tour of Barcelona, showcasing landmarks like Montjuïc Hill with its panoramic views, the Gothic Quarter’s medieval charm, and the Christopher Columbus Monument at the end of La Rambla.

In the afternoon, explore on your own. Visit the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, or Camp Nou Stadium, home to FC Barcelona. The city’s vibrant energy and cultural treasures promise a memorable experience. Spend another night in Barcelona.

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Day 9: Barcelona to Zaragoza and Madrid (635 km / 395 miles)

After breakfast, travel to Zaragoza, Spain’s fifth-largest city, for a brief visit. Explore the Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a Baroque masterpiece, and the Puente de Piedra, a historic stone bridge over the Ebro River.

Continue to Madrid, where the tour concludes. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories from this journey through Spain.

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*In the rare event that tickets for the Alhambra and Generalife are unavailable on specific dates, an equally enriching city tour of Granada will be arranged. This alternative itinerary includes a visit to the Palace of Carlos V, the Archaeological Museum, the Church of Santa María de la Alhambra, and the Royal Chapel. You will also enjoy a leisurely walk through the vibrant Alcaicería, Granada's historic silk market, and the picturesque Cathedral Square.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1375 €

Single Supplement: 435 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 80 €

Supplement for departure on April 12 and 19 (Easter), May 3 and 10 (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.