26. Galicia, Portugal & Andalusia

Two weeks in Spain and northern Portugal will reveal their true natural and cultural beauty. The stunning scenery, dynamic cities, and iconic attractions will make this tour unforgettable.

Starting off from Madrid, we'll go to Andalusia, the "golden triangle" of it, with Seville, Cordoba, and Granada epitomizing Spanish culture. Flamenco rhythms, guitar strumming, great tapas, and passionate locals will enchant you. Andalusia's history, charm, and natural beauty make the region the most popular tourist spot in Spain!

Later, relocation to Esatern Spain. Shore boasts 1000 kilometers of Mediterranean shoreline with stunning views. The main cities for us to go to are Valencia and Barcelona, both Mediterranean jewels. Eat fresh seafood, see the best sights, and relax on sandy beaches.

Zaragoza, Aragon's capital, is our stop before the Mediterranean and Atlantic. The stunning Nuestra Señora del Pilar Cathedral showcases the city's history and architecture.

Our northern Spanish provinces' natural beauty and unique landscape await us with more iconic places, such as San Sebastian and Bilbao. Santillana de Mar, Covadonga, and Natural Park Picos are all fantastic places not to be missed.

west to intriguing Galicia. This region of Spain has lovely cities and towns due to its coastline, luscious hills, and high mountains. Galicia's beaches and scenery are famous despite its milder Atlantic Ocean waters than the Mediterranean or Costa del Sol. Octopus and shrimp are local favorites. We will explore the splendor of north-western Spain, including the cities of La Coruña, Santiago de Compostela, and Vigo.

The tour continues to Portugal, with its rich history and beautiful scenery. Once a fishing village, Porto is today Portugal's second-largest and most famous metropolis. The city's vintage look, dark skies, ancient architecture, and Douro River lights make it beautiful. Porto's beautiful scenery, pleasant people, famous trams, excellent architecture, and world-renowned wines attract tourists from all over the world.

Beautiful Salamanca is our penultimate stop before Madrid.

See the route map.

Please click here to see the route on a map.

Day 1. Madrid - Leon - Oviedo (446 km ~ 277 miles)

Departure at 8 a.m. to the north-west of Madrid. First stop: the Spanish city of Leon, offering an excellent variety of things to see. Leon is home to a wealth of grand, historic buildings, including some of the most important in Spain. Some sights in the city center you may explore in your free time are:

• Leon’s Cathedral (the Catedral de Santa María de Regla de Leon) is a French-style gothic cathedral that was built on the site of King Ordoño II’s royal palace. He wanted to give thanks to God after he was able to defeat the Moors, and the cathedral was his way of doing this. It has a stunning facade, decorated with a huge rose window and lots of colorful stained glass.
• The Basílica de San Isidoro is a caramel-colored old church and collegiate college sitting at the edge of the Old Town. It was consecrated in 1063 and comprises a Royal Pantheon, covered in stunning colorful frescoes; an Oriental and Biblical Museum; and a collegiate library.
• Gaudí's Casa Botines—the famous architect Antoni Gaudí not only designed buildings in Barcelona but in northern Spain too. One of these is Leon’s Casa Botines, which opened in April 2017 for the first time in 125 years. From the outside, it looks like a medieval fortress, but it was actually inspired by Leon’s gothic cathedral.
• The Convento de San Marcos, the old convent of San Marcos, is one of the most famous and stunningly beautiful buildings in Leon. It’s made up of the convent itself, which is now a luxury five-star hotel; a church consecrated in 1541; and a fascinating archaeological museum. It was a gift from Fernando the Catholic to the city of Leon, and today it is considered one of the most important Spanish Renaissance buildings in the country.
• At the center of the city sits the Grand Plaza Mayor, surrounded by colonnade arches, beautiful architecture, and buildings painted in crimson, mustard, and rose. The original name of the square was Plaza Pan, or Bread Square, because it was home to so many bakeries. Have a snack, a coffee, or a proper lunch in one of the numerous restaurants and cafeterias located along the inner perimeter of Plaza Mayor.

Later, we will continue onward to Oviedo. Accommodation and dinner upon arrival.

Day 2. Oviedo - La Coruna (295 km)

Breakfast and departure to the very northwest corner of Spain, La Coruna (or A Coruna, as the locals say). A Coruña sits in the very northwest corner of Spain, in the autonomous community of Galicia. A vibrant coastal city with plenty in the way of culture, history, gastronomy (famous for its seafood), and natural sights. Enjoy a panoramic city tour upon arrival and, later, some free time. Things you'll see during the city tour (and explore later on your own):

• Torre de Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, has become somewhat of a symbol of the city. Built in Roman times, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also some lovely nature walks around the area.
• Galerias:lerías—enclosed glass balconies—on the side of its buildings. Most date back to the 19th century and feature patterns as well as colors and embellishments.
• Castillo de San Anton, a 16th-century fortress set on a small island, was connected to the mainland via a bridge. Today, the castle houses the Museo Arqueológico e Histórico, the Museum of Archeology and History.
• Estrella Galicia is one of Spain’s best-loved beers, and its home is here in A Coruña. Founded in 1906 by Jose M. Rivera, it’s possible to visit the original location of the first Estrella Galicia brewery in the neighborhood of Cuatro Caminos. The site is now the brewery-restaurant Estrella de Galicia, and you can enjoy food and fresh, unpasteurized beer straight out of the brewery.

Accommodation, dinner, and night in La Coruna.

Day 3. La Coruna - Santiago de Compostela (75 km ~ 47 miles)

Breakfast in a hotel in La Coruna, then transfer to Santiago de Compostela. In Santiago, we'll have a proper city tour with the entrance and city tour inside its cathedral. The city is renowned for its shrine to Saint James the Great and was built to accommodate the thousands of pilgrims that would, and still do, gather there every year. The architecture and atmosphere of the city are impregnated with history, and visitors may feel like they've taken a step back in time. Some highlights of the tour:

• Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela: You simply cannot go to Santiago and not visit its cathedral. Built during the 1300s, the changes over the subsequent centuries have added Gothic and Baroque features to its Romanesque architecture. The grand Plaza del Obradoiro leaves enough room to admire the cathedral’s impressive size and design, and through the front doors you will find the Portico de Gloria, the Corticela chapel, and the relic of Saint John.
• Casco Historico (or Historical Center). We’ll take time to explore the little streets around the cathedral, and you will find lots of hidden squares, like the Plaza de Cervantes, with beautiful statues and intricate fountains. The district is alive with activity, and as you walk around the old streets, you are likely to stumble upon a mass or the gathering of a procession. There are also lots of cafés and restaurants where, later in the day, you can sit down to enjoy some Spanish tapas and watch the world go by.

In your free time in the afternoon, you can visit:

• San Francisco Convent: If you’re feeling hungry, you should head over to the San Franciscan Convent, which housed Franciscan monks in the 18th century. The monks have now moved to a more modern building, and the old convent now serves as a restaurant. The food is delicious, and they offer a special Pilgrim menu with typical convent or monastery dishes. The unique food, combined with the architecture and décor, will make for an unforgettable experience. If you have time, check out the chapel and Holy Land museum next door.
• Alameda Park: This is a beautiful park with wonderful views of the cathedral and the old town from the Ferradura walk. Alameda Park is a great place to seek peace and quiet away from the busy center. One of the park’s many statues is Las dos Marias (''the two Mary''), which depicts a fun piece of local history: when two women became famous during the 1950s and 1960s by walking through the city center every day at 2 p.m. sharp, dressed and made up in what was considered an eccentric manner, and flirting with the university students.
• San Martin Pinario Monastery: This 10th-century baroque Benedictine monastery and church has a beautiful stairway, and its walnut choir stalls, made by Mateo de Prado, are considered the most impressive in Galicia.

Dinner and accommodation.

Day 4. Santiago de Compostela - Rias Bajas - Vigo (90 km ~ 56 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer through the beautiful area of Rias Baixas (''lower rivers'').

• Rias Bajas is one of the largest estuaries in the area. The coastline of the province boasts three magnificent inlets surrounded by cliffs, islands, ports, hills, beaches, and stunning landscapes that make it a perfect destination to visit. On both the coast and inland, you’ll definitely enjoy unforgettable views.

First stop: at a small town called O Grove in the Isle of Toja (Isla de la Toja, a small peninsula in the area). O Grove is a privileged location in the heart of the Galician Rías Baixas, a place that stands out for its history and traditional fishing. Highlights to see in your free time:

• Chapel of the Shells: it was built for San Caralimpio and the Virgen del Carmen. It stands out because its structure is decorated with scallop shells and its conservation level is very high.
• Aldea dos Grobits Village: the ''Grobits'' are fictional creatures that, as the story tells, were living in the depths of the thermal waters on the Island of the Toja. On some special days, the soil of the well is transformed into water, and the grobits rise up the well. They walk among the centenary pines, playing among them, and when they are tired, they go to these houses to rest.
• O Grove Beaches offer the ideal complement to international prestige. Starting from one of the most famous beaches for surfers, such as A Lanzada, we continue with recognized and appreciated sites such as ''Dogs Beach''. The other beaches are Pipas in Reboredo, Area Grande, Area da Cruz, and Raeiros. Most of them have plenty of places to eat nearby and spectacular views.

Later, we will continue to Vigo. Arrival and accommodation. Main highlights to see and explore:

• Vigo’s old town is set on a slope that meets the estuary at the old port, with alleys that lead onto handsome arcaded squares like, for example, Praza da Constitución. This is the part of the city where fishermen's houses and grander buildings like plush townhouses and the 19th-century church of Santa María were set side-by-side. Almost all were built with Galician granite, which gives the old town a dignified atmosphere distinct from many Spanish old quarters. Many of the street names correspond to old trades, and in Rúa Cesteiros you can still find basket-weavers in business, and of course, Calle de las Ostras.

Dinner and night in Vigo.

Day 5. Vigo - Viana do Castelo - Braga - Porto (220 km ~ 137 miles)

Breakfast as usual. Departure towards Portugal and cross the border to arrive at Viana do Castelo, a town located between the mouths of the rivers Mino and Porto.

• Viana do Castello is a visually stunning town whose architecture includes Baroque, Manueline, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles and influences. Especially beautiful is an old town, with its cobbled streets and emblazoned buildings. Viana do Castelo is also an excellent spot to buy jewelry and home to many shops specializing in Portugal’s ''gold filigree'', a form of intricate metalwork, a specialty of this area.

Free time; later continuation to Braga.

• This city is immersed in historical and spiritual surroundings and acclaimed as a youthful center. Within the café-filled center, students from the nearby university meet to socialize and discuss ideas, while a short distance away, tourists will enjoy seeing the famous Bom Jesus do Monte (Bom Jesus Sanctuary) and the oldest cathedral in the country. Braga is part of the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO too, and it's the third largest city in Portugal after Lisbon and Porto.

Free time to explore Braga. Later, we'll depart for Porto. Arrival, accommodation, and night in Porto.

Day 6. Porto

Breakfast in the hotel, then we’ll head on a proper city tour of Porto with a local guide. There are plenty of things that this lively and extraordinary city has to offer. Slightly timeworn and weathered, the gray skies and dated buildings add character, while the twinkling lights along the Douro River reflect off the water and illuminate a central part of the city. Pair these features with the reserved yet friendly locals, the charming trams, the beautifully adorned architecture, and the wine, and Porto’s charm may put anyone under its spell. Here are some highlights of the tour:

• Porto’s bustling Ribeiro district is the most eclectic part of the city, inviting everyone to sit by its banks, from locals to students and tourists. As a historical center and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is lots to see here, and the picturesque quality of the river, cafés, buildings, and statues only adds to the allure.
• Porto’s Cathedral (Sé do Porto in Portuguese) is the most important religious edifice in the city and has been declared a National Monument. It is situated in the upper part of Porto. The building looks a bit like a fortress with crenels from the outside.
• The cathedral sits on a square with a column in the middle, which offers impressive views over the city, the Douro River, and the wine cellars on the waterfront.
• Palacio da Bolsa is a 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace, the neoclassical product of a combined effort by several architects. It was created in the late 19th century to attract European businesses, but today it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national monument.
• Igreja de Santa Clara, the 15th-century Santa Clara church, may actually be one of the most exquisite examples of Portugal’s 17th-century woodwork, reflecting Baroque and Rococo styles.
• Dom Luís Bridge: Porto’s bridges are well known, but the Dom Luís Bridge is perhaps the most popular. This metal, double-decked arch bridge is a popular spot for photographers looking to snap a unique angle of the city and an easy way to traverse over to Vila Nova de Gaia and its wineries. Opened in the late 19th century, it was the longest arch bridge at the time.

Later, we will continue our tour with a visit to an antique wine cellar, experience the wine-making process, and definitely taste the famous local fortified wine, Port, which in many cases gets served straight from the barrel.

On the second half of the day, feel free to explore the city on your own. Some suggestions:

• Experience Livraria Lello; this bookstore is one of the most beautiful in the world and has become extra famous as one of JK Rowling’s favorite haunts when she lived in Porto (and began developing the Harry Potter series). There is no doubt that the Livraria Lello & Irmo, which has been in business since 1906, is one of Porto’s most popular and busiest landmarks; there is even a cover charge to enter. Centrally located, near the locals’ favorite Piolho Café and a block from Igreja do Carmo, it’s easy to find, but be prepared to stand in line to enter.
• Appreciate the city’s azulejo art. Azulejo (ceramic tiles) are unique to Portugal in the way they are used to decorate buildings, streets, and homes, and this is especially noticeable in Porto. A few landmarks popular for their stunning artistic and cultural mosaics include the Estação São Bento, the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, and the Igreja do Carmo. To see some amazing displays, you won’t need to try hard because azulejos are practically everywhere in the city.
• Eat traditional and local treats; it’s impossible to visit Porto and not eat well. The gastronomy scene is among the best in the country, and restaurants serve all sorts of recipes, from the most traditional to modern and sophisticated. Porto is also a city that knows its comfort food.

Second night in Porto.

Day 7. Porto - Coimbra (120km ~ 75 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer to Coimbra. Coimbra was Portugal’s capital for 124 years between the 12th and 13th centuries, but this classical city is still often eclipsed by metropolitan Lisbon or distinguished Porto. However, Coimbra is mainly about its university, the city’s 700-year-old patrimonial jewel. Founded in 1290, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in the world. It made the UNESCO World Heritage Site List in 2013. In your free time, you'll have the opportunity to explore it. Some facts:

• As is the case across Portugal’s other regal cities, Coimbra and Coimbra's University showcase an exemplary mix of old vs. new, modern versus traditional, and have moved forward holding strong to ancient customs while flourishing progressive initiatives. Among the university’s eight academic faculties, extra recognition is noticed towards science, technology, and medicine/pharmacy, keeping in line with the country’s focus on technological and scientific advances.
• At Coimbra University, you may first notice the student uniforms, and you’re not alone if they remind you of Hogwarts. Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling began writing the first book of the HP series in Portugal, and the similarities may hit you like a quaffle to the face.
• Coimbra University’s Joanina Library is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It seems fitting that some of Portugal’s greatest writers and poets were also alumni of Coimbra University, including Luís de Camões (the ''Portuguese Shakespeare''), José Maria Eça de Queiroz, and Almeida Garrett.

Lunch is included. Free second half and night in Coimbra.

Day 8. Coimbra - Fatima - Lisbon (222 km ~ 138 miles)

Breakfast in the hotel, then a tour to Fatima, one of the world's largest Catholic pilgrimage sites, with its Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima (Santuário de Fátima). A tour and some free time here to feel and appreciate this sacred place. Some facts about Fatima:

• Portugal is known as a Catholic country filled with dramatic monasteries and ancient churches, but the Sanctuary of Fátima is one of the most sacred Catholic destinations that receives around 5 million visitors every year. Between May 13 and October 13, 1917, three shepherd children are believed to have witnessed six apparitions of the Virgin Mary, who imparted various messages and predictions about the future. During the last of these apparitions, it is said that around 50,000 observers witnessed the sun moving around in the sky in a way that defied the laws of cosmology.
• Among the various buildings associated with the sanctuary, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary (Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário) is a solid limestone church built between 1928 and 1953 in Neo-Baroque style. The basilica has a 65-meter-high bell tower, and there is a large statue of Our Lady of Fatima above the main entrance to the church.
• Across the square from the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Basilica of the Holy Trinity (Basílica da Santíssima Trindade) is a relatively austere, modern structure built between 2004 and 2007 to accommodate the crowds who flock here on the anniversaries of the apparitions. With a seating capacity of over 8,000, this is among one of the biggest Catholic churches in the world.

Later, we will continue to Lisbon. Accommodation and overnight.

Day 9. Lisbon

Breakfast, followed by a tour around Lisbon with a local guide.

Lisbon offers a rich and varied history, a buzzing nightlife, and is blessed with a glorious year-round climate. It is a bustling and exciting city that boasts a wide choice of activities and fascinating tourist attractions. The city has a welcoming atmosphere while still embracing its deep-rooted heritage and extensive history. Some of the highlights of the tour include:

• Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries): This 50-meter-tall sculpture is a monument to the Portuguese ''Era of Discovery'' and to ''Henry the Navigator'', Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan. A total of 33 statues line the sides of the monument, each representing an important figure from that epoch: monarchs, cartographers, and scientists stand alongside explorers, artists, and missionaries.
• Belem Tower. The Torre de Belém was built in the 16th century as a military fortress and ceremonial entrance to the city. And yet, despite its primary function as a defensive structure, the tower’s delicate ornamentation, which includes arcaded windows, intricate sculptures, and Moorish-style watchtowers, makes it a real architectural marvel.
• Jeronimos Monastery. The undisputed highlight is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Construction of this former monastery began in 1501, and as designs became increasingly elaborate (fueled by trade with Asia), it eventually took nearly a hundred years to complete. Today, it stands as a testament to the prosperity of Lisbon at the height of the Portuguese empire. Check out its impressive cloisters, replete with ornate sculptural details and masterful stonework, and pay your respects to the major historical figures buried here, including Vasco da Gama and the celebrated poet Luís de Camões. Entrance and tour inside.
• Alfama Quarter. A maze of narrow, winding streets, Lisbon's Alfama quarter is the oldest and most historical part of the Portuguese capital, having survived the great earthquake and subsequent fires and tidal waves of 1755 almost intact. Mostly traffic-free these days, except for the occasional 100-year-old tram creaking and rattling through, this ancient labyrinth of twisting lanes and cobbled stairways is in many ways the heart and soul of the Portuguese capital.

Enjoy an evening in Lisbon on your own. Please do not miss an opportunity to try the famous pastel de nata (egg tart), a local culinary icon whose recipe dates back to the 16th century. You can buy it at any coffee or bakery shop.

Another night in Lisbon.

Day 10. Lisbon - Caceres - Seville (575 km ~ 357 miles)

After breakfast, we are heading back to Spain. We'll cross the border and pass again through the province of Extremadura, but this time we'll head to Caceres, a town founded by the Romans in 25 BC. Visiting Cáceres will bring you back to the medieval era. The streets climb and twist among hoary palaces and mansions. As you turn your head up, you can see the skyline decorated with gargoyles, spires, and gigantic storks' nests. The fortress has been serving as a defensive wall since the 16th century. You will have a good hour and a half there, so go ahead and check the main highlights; those are very close to each other:

• Plaza Mayor, Cáceres, is the town’s most lively square. There are several must-see places located in Plaza Mayor. Climb up the steps from the old town and turn left. You will see the great Torre de Bujaco, or Bujaco Tower. At the top of the tower, you will be treated to a stork's'-eye view of the Plaza Mayor. To climb the tower, you need to spend 2 euros.
• Next to Torre de Bujaco, at the top of the stone stairs, you will see the Arco de La Estrella (Star Archway). This archway serves as a traditional entrance to the Old Town. Built in the 18th century, this archway is considered to be the most important gate in Cáceres.
• The essential part of traveling to Cáceres is what lies inside the fortress. As you enter the Arco de la Estrella, several antique buildings greet you. If you walk left from the archway, you will find the Palacio de Toledo-Moctezuma, built between the 14th and 15th centuries. Though you can only visit the palace from the outside, the front-facing architecture is worth seeing.
• Additionally, the small streets in the Old Town have different small shops selling local products, such as homemade pastries and sweets. Other local products definitely worth trying are goat cheese (Torta de Casar) and fig cake.

Continuation to Seville. Arrival, dinner, and accommodation.

Day 11. Seville

Breakfast in the hotel, followed by a proper city tour throughout Seville with a local guide, to admire this beautiful and also the largest city in Southern Spain. With numerous sights and attractions, this city will never leave visitors stuck for choice. The main highlights of the tour are:

• Plaza de España was built as a centerpiece for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition. Described as one of Seville’s most impressive sights, this plaza (square) measures 50,000 sq. meters. Only a twenty-minute walk from Seville Cathedral, this is one of Seville’s more popular locations, and with a canal measuring 500 meters, the plaza is known as ''the Venice of Seville’’. It is a magnificent sight and a must-see, with its colored ceramics and 48 tiled alcoves, each representing a different province of Spain. This place is not only popular with tourists and visitors, as it has been used as the location of a number of films, including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars.
• Maria Luisa Park acted as the site of the Ibero-American Exhibition in 1929. Filled with orange trees, palm trees, and flower beds, it is the perfect place to unwind. With a number of colorfully tiled benches and fountains erected in a Moorish style, this park brings a touch of the exotic to the city. It is surrounded by a number of historic sites and wonderful architectural buildings, which allows visitors to indirectly appreciate the beauty of Seville.
• Seville’s cathedral is one of the largest in the world. It stands at an enormous 126 meters long and 83 meters wide, with a ceiling height of 37 meters. The classical exterior draws visitors into an equally impressive interior. For example, the main altarpiece consists of 36 gilded panels, gently glimmering through the space. Globe-trotters can also pay their own homage to one of the world’s greatest travelers: the cathedral holds the sarcophagus of Christopher Columbus. A definite must-see.
• Barrio Santa Cruz is Seville’s most famous area and a former Jewish quarter. Its unfeasibly narrow streets, white houses, secret squares, and small churches create an unforgettable atmosphere; just enjoy it.

Lunch is in the restaurant. After the city tour, you will have the afternoon off to rest or explore more on your own.

• You can check out the inside of the cathedral or visit the famous Giralda Bell Tower attached to it. This is the most iconic representation of the Islam and Christian traditions that define Seville’s history. You can walk to the very top, and, except for the final section, which features stairs, the route almost all the way up (for stunning views!) is via ramps.
• Go to Metropol Parasol, also known as the ''Mushrooms of the Incarnation'', built just a few years ago and now one of Seville’s newest architectural ventures. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, and from the top of it, you can have a truly spectacular view. The structure also hosts a museum, which houses Roman remains found during the beginning of construction.
• Another suggestion for your free time is to explore the district of Triana, Seville’s former gypsy quarter and one of the city’s most distinctive attractions. Its colorful, quaint streets are lined with old-style tapas bars, the walls of which are often plastered with faded bullfighting posters, photos of flamenco artists, and weeping Virgin Marys. It is also known for its locally made ceramics, which adorn the walls of its old, whitewashed houses, and one of Seville’s best and most lively markets, the Mercado de Triana.

Night in Seville.

Day 12. Seville - Ronda - Costa del Sol (190 km ~ 118 miles)

Breakfast. Transfer and a first stop in the beautiful town of Ronda. Steeped in dark myths and bullfighting folklore, while boasting one of the most extraordinary locations in Spain, it is no wonder that Ronda has become Andalusia's third most visited place. With its world-famous New Bridge and bullring, as well as the hidden corners of the gorge on top of which it perches, Ronda will definitely not disappoint. You will have free time to explore the main highlights of this beautiful town.

• Puente Nuevo (the New Bridge), one of southern Spain’s most famous attractions and Ronda’s epic bridge, spans the 100-meter-deep El Tajo gorge, connecting El Mercadillo (the little market), the newer part of town, with La Ciudad (the town), the old Moorish quarter. The bridge was completed in 1793, and it took some forty years and the lives of 50 construction workers to build.
• Puente Viejo (Old Bridge) is the more notable of the two crossings that the gigantic Puente Nuevo was built to improve upon. Comprising a single stone archway, this early 17th-century structure is reached by strolling down through the beautiful Jardines de Cuenca (Cuenca’s Gardens), and from its center, there are some spectacular views of the countryside beyond Ronda.
• Bullring: simply the largest (by diameter!) bullfight ring in the world.
• Old and New Town: El Tajo Canyon not only rendered Ronda’s most iconic attraction necessary, it also divided the town into two separate halves, each with its own style and atmosphere. La Ciudad, or The Town, is the original Moorish part and weaves around one central street, Calle Armiñan, south of Puente Nuevo. On the northern cliffs of El Tajo is the more commercial part of town, known as El Mercadillo (The Little Market).

Later, we'll continue to the Costa del Sol.

• Situated in the province of Málaga, in the south of Spain, the Costa del Sol (or Coast of the Sun) is among the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. Having marvelous weather (with over 300 days of sun a year) ensures that Costa del Sol gets bombarded by tourists any time of the year. Coming there means finding not only beautiful landscapes and scenery but also outstanding beaches. Each town is rich in cultural heritage and tasty food.

Arrival to Torremolinos: beautiful coastal towns with excellent beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a very relaxed atmosphere. Dinner and accommodation.

Day 13. Costa del Sol - Granada (180 km ~ 112 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer to Granada, a beautiful southern city right at the foot of the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains. The popular favorite of the region of Andalusia, Granada has a rich history, a fantastic range of sites to see, and a bustling nightlife. With Arab influences and Spanish charm, there is plenty of culture and history to explore here. Upon arrival, you'll have a guided tour to see the famous complex of La Alhambra*, its Arabian palaces, Nazaries, and its green and picturesque Generalife Gardens.

• Alhambra is definitely number one on the list of unmissable things to see in Granada and the most visited sight in all of Spain. The world-renowned Alhambra gets its name from the Arabic for ''Red Castle'', and has been poetically described as the place where the air is clear and the fresh water from the mountains reaches. Partly a palace, partly a fort, the Alhambra is now a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts spectacular medieval architecture that captivates its thousands of visitors. It tends to get quite crowded, given its magical nature, with around 6,000 visitors a day, but its beauty can be appreciated even in the busiest of moments.

The tour to Alhambra is already quite extensive and includes a good part of walking, so it’s your choice the rest of the day: to relax in the hotel or continue to explore the city of Granada on your own. Suggested places to visit on the second half of the day:

• Alcaicería, best known as'mini Morocco’, is the home of the Great Bazaar of Granada. Consisting of a series of streets that are very much reminiscent of a Moroccan souk, this is not only another example of the rich Arab history of the city but also very similar to Morocco itself. Selling everything from spices to henna, there are many little treasures to be found on these streets. Look out for traditional Arabic handicrafts such as fajalauza—traditionald lamps made from intricate stained glass.
• Albaicín is another UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the city of Granada. Albaicín is a district of the city boasting narrow, winding streets that have stood here since its medieval Moorish era. Often described as a different world inside Granada, the strong Muslim influence makes Albaicín somewhat of an open-air museum. After touring the narrow and characterful streets to experience the charm of the past, you can relax in one of its many bars and terraces and enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Alhambra.
• Granada’s Cathedral, located near the Plaza Nueva, was built on the site of a former mosque by Queen Isabella as a symbol of the Christian victory over the Moors. With parts of it decorated with beautiful, intricate sculptures, there is much beauty and architecture to be admired. Complete with numerous chapels, each with their own character and artistic style, this iconic and historical building is definitely worth a visit.
• Try free tapas ''culture''. Tapas (an appetizer or snack in Spanish cuisine) is certainly one of the first things that comes to mind whenever Spain is mentioned, and Granada is probably the city most renowned for its popular tradition of free tapas. With the fantastic ''buy a drink, get free tapas'' phenomenon, this timely Spanish tradition is even more popular here. With countless numbers of bars and tapas restaurants, you’ll certainly be left with plenty of choice as to where to get these tempting little snacks. Offering everything from gourmet and international tapas like sushi and caviar to traditional Spanish jamón (dry-cured ham), you can’t leave Granada without experiencing this culinary delight.

Dinner and night in Granada.

Day 14. Granada - Toledo - Madrid (446 km ~ 277 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer to Toledo, the ancient capital of Spain. Toledo is an incredibly culturally diverse city; it has seen numerous different cultures and dynasties pass through its walls, as well as many wars, royalty, and artists. The legacy that it guards is an essential part of Spanish culture, so visiting Toledo is bound to be an extremely unique experience. Some of the highlights of the tour include:

• Cathedral. Toledo’s Cathedral is one of the most important places to visit when in this stunning city. It is a grand monument built in Gothic style with an obvious French influence, and there are people who say that it is the best and most impressive building in that style in the entire country. It was finished towards the end of the 15th century, over 200 years after construction began.
• The Juderia (''the city of the Jews'') district is what once used to be the city’s Jewish quarter, and nowadays it is one of the most beautiful parts of the city, with some excellently preserved buildings. A tour through this part will enable you to learn what life was like under Muslim and Christian domination for Jews, as well as to explore their culture and architecture.
• You will see and enter the important synagogues of Santa María la Blanca (12th century) and also the church of Santo Tomé. The last one has a fine tower and a chapel containing the painting Burial of the Conde de Orgaz by El Greco.

Lunch is in the restaurant. Later, we'll visit a traditional craftsman's workshop to discover the ancestral techniques and phases of the true Toledano sword-making elaboration process.

Toward the evening transfer and arrival in Madrid, where the tour ends.

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* If, in an unlikely case, The Patronato of the Alhambra and Generalife were not granted tickets for certain dates for the participants of the visit, a tour of the city of Granada will be provided instead: Visit the Palace of Carlos V, the Archaeological Museum, the Church of Santa María de la Alhambra, the Royal Chapel, and take a walk through the city's Alcaiceria (silk market) and the Cathedral Square.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 2055 €

Single Supplement: 635 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 100 €

Supplement for departure on April 1 and 8 (Easter), April 22 and 29 (Feria) : and 18: 110 €

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Discounts:

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.