17. Southern Spain to Barcelona

This 7-day journey is a thoughtfully paced cultural adventure through Spain’s most evocative regions, traveling from the heart of the country to the Mediterranean coast. Beginning in Madrid and ending in Barcelona, the itinerary blends Roman legacy, Moorish splendor, Andalusian passion, and contemporary coastal life into one seamless experience. Scenic drives, historic cities, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites are balanced with relaxed evenings and time to explore at your own rhythm.

From the remarkably preserved Roman city of Mérida to the vibrant streets of Seville and Córdoba, the route dives deep into southern Spain’s layered past. The dramatic landscapes of Ronda and the timeless beauty of Granada’s Alhambra provide unforgettable moments before the journey turns east toward Valencia and Barcelona - cities defined by Mediterranean light, creativity, and cuisine. Ideal for travelers seeking cultural depth without feeling rushed, this itinerary captures Spain’s diversity in just one unforgettable week.

Journey Highlights

• From the Capital Outward – Depart Madrid and cross the sunlit plains of Extremadura, a region known for its rural beauty and deep Roman roots.

• Roman Hispania – Explore Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s best-preserved Roman cities, with theaters, aqueducts, and ancient bridges still shaping daily life.

• Andalusian Soul – Discover Seville, celebrated for Plaza de España, María Luisa Park, Seville Cathedral, the Giralda, and the intimate streets of Barrio Santa Cruz.

• Córdoba’s Cultural Crossroads – Visit Córdoba, home to the extraordinary Mosque-Cathedral and the atmospheric Judería, where Islamic, Jewish, and Christian heritage coexist.

• Dramatic White-Village Country – Experience Ronda, perched above the El Tajo Gorge, known for its iconic Puente Nuevo, historic bullring, and sweeping mountain views.

• Mediterranean Interlude – Unwind on the Costa del Sol in Torremolinos, where palm-lined promenades, sandy beaches, and sea breezes set a relaxed coastal rhythm.

• Moorish Masterpiece – Explore Granada, crowned by the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens—one of Europe’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• Valencian Energy – Enjoy Valencia, where Roman and Gothic heritage meets bold modern design—and where paella was born.

• Catalan Finale – Conclude in Barcelona, a city of panoramic viewpoints, medieval quarters, modernist icons, and a distinctly Mediterranean lifestyle.

• Balanced & Immersive – A carefully designed route combining cultural highlights, scenic landscapes, rich cuisine, and unhurried free time.

This itinerary offers a vivid introduction to Spain’s history, artistry, and regional character - perfect for travelers who want both meaningful discovery and time to savor the journey along the way.

Day 1: Madrid – Mérida – Seville (568 km / 353 miles)
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Our journey begins bright and early at 8:00 a.m. as we depart Madrid and travel west through the wide, sunlit landscapes of Extremadura, a region known for its unspoiled countryside and deep historical roots. By midday, we arrive in Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest surviving Roman cities. Founded in 25 BC as Emerita Augusta, Mérida once served as an important provincial capital of the Roman Empire. Today, it feels like an open-air museum, where ancient monuments are woven into everyday life.
During our visit, enjoy time to explore the historic center, where Roman theaters, stone bridges, temples, and aqueducts still dominate the landscape. Strolling through the old town offers a chance to imagine life in ancient Hispania while enjoying a relaxed Mediterranean pace. After this enriching stop, we continue south to Seville, arriving in the evening. Dinner and overnight in this vibrant Andalusian capital.

Day 2: Exploring Seville

After breakfast, a guided tour introduces us to Seville, a city full of warmth, rhythm, and tradition - often considered the cultural heart of southern Spain. Our visit begins at the magnificent Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition and admired for its sweeping semi-circular design, colorful ceramic tiles, elegant bridges, and reflective canals. We then stroll through María Luisa Park, a green oasis of palm-lined paths, fountains, and shaded walkways that provide a peaceful contrast to the city’s lively streets.
Next, we admire the exterior of Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, and glimpse the iconic Giralda, originally a Moorish minaret. We continue into Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter, where narrow streets, whitewashed houses, hidden courtyards, and flower-filled patios create a timeless atmosphere.
The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace - perhaps visit the Royal Alcázar, enjoy a traditional flamenco performance, or relax at a local café. Overnight in Seville.

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

This morning, we travel northeast to Córdoba, a city that perfectly reflects Spain’s layered cultural history. Once the capital of Islamic Spain, Córdoba was among the most advanced cities in medieval Europe. A guided visit introduces its historic center, famous for narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and patios filled with colorful flowers.
The highlight is the extraordinary Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, one of the most unique monuments in Europe. Inside, endless rows of red-and-white arches create a mesmerizing forest of columns, while a Renaissance cathedral nave rises at the center - an architectural symbol of centuries of coexistence and transformation. We continue through the Judería, Córdoba’s former Jewish quarter, with time to enjoy lunch, browse local artisan shops, or simply soak in the city’s relaxed ambiance. Dinner and overnight in Córdoba.

Day 4: Córdoba – Ronda – Costa del Sol (322 km / 200 miles)

After breakfast, we travel through rolling Andalusian countryside toward Ronda, one of southern Spain’s most dramatic and unforgettable towns. Spectacularly set above the El Tajo Gorge, Ronda combines breathtaking scenery with a deep sense of history shaped by Roman, Moorish, and Christian influences. Free time allows you to explore the iconic Puente Nuevo, visit one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, or wander through the atmospheric old town, where cobbled streets, historic houses, and scenic viewpoints overlook fertile valleys far below. You may also enjoy a pause at a local café to take in the town’s unique ambiance.
In the afternoon, we continue to the Costa del Sol, where the rugged mountains gradually give way to the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean. Arrival in Torremolinos brings a relaxed change of pace, perfect for unwinding after a day rich in scenery and history. Dinner and overnight by the coast.

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

After breakfast, we travel inland to Granada, beautifully set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, where snow-capped peaks often contrast with the city’s warm Andalusian light. A guided visit introduces the Alhambra, one of Spain’s most celebrated landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within its fortified walls, you’ll discover the refined artistry of the Nasrid Palaces, admired for their delicate stucco decoration, elegant arches, and harmonious courtyards that reflect the height of Moorish culture. The visit continues through the tranquil Generalife Gardens, once the summer retreat of Moorish rulers, where fountains, terraces, and shaded walkways create a peaceful atmosphere overlooking the city.
The afternoon is free to explore Granada further at your own pace. You may wander the atmospheric Albaicín, a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses offering stunning views back toward the Alhambra, browse traditional craft and spice markets, visit the impressive Renaissance cathedral, or enjoy Granada’s legendary tapas culture, where a drink is often accompanied by complimentary local specialties. Overnight in Granada.

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

Today we continue our journey eastward, passing through a variety of landscapes that highlight Spain’s geographic diversity - rugged mountain ranges give way to open plains and small inland towns, each offering a glimpse into local life beyond the major cities. By late afternoon, we arrive in Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city and one of its most dynamic destinations. Valencia offers a fascinating blend of old and new. Its historic heart reflects centuries of Roman and medieval heritage, while bold modern architecture showcases the city’s forward-looking spirit. After checking in, the evening is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. You may choose to wander through the atmospheric old town, admire Gothic landmarks, or simply settle into a sidewalk café and watch the city come alive. Food lovers will be especially delighted - this is the birthplace of paella, and dinner provides the perfect opportunity to sample this iconic dish prepared the traditional way. Overnight in Valencia, ready to continue your Mediterranean adventure the next day.

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

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Valencia, taking time to discover more of the city at your own pace. You may choose a leisurely walk along the Mediterranean shoreline, where wide beaches and palm-lined promenades create an easygoing coastal atmosphere. Alternatively, visit the lively Central Market, one of Europe’s largest food markets, bursting with fresh produce, seafood, spices, and local specialties that reflect Valencia’s rich culinary traditions. Another great option is exploring the El Carmen district, a character-filled area where medieval streets, historic buildings, independent boutiques, and vibrant street art come together. 
In the afternoon, we travel north toward Barcelona, a city renowned for its bold architecture, artistic spirit, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Arrival in the evening marks the conclusion of our journey.

As the city lights come on, you’ll carry home unforgettable memories shaped by Spain’s diverse regions, historic cities, flavorful cuisine, and warm local character.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1125 €

Single Supplement: 340 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 90 €

Supplement for departure on April 9 and 16 (Easter). April 30, May 7 (Feria): 120 € 

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Seville – Silken Al-Ándalus Palace

Silken Al-Ándalus Palace is a spacious 4-star hotel located in the southern part of Seville, near María Luisa Park and Plaza de España, with convenient access to the historic center by coach or public transport. Its location combines a quieter setting with easy connections to Seville’s main monuments, cultural attractions, and shopping districts. The hotel offers bright and comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Facilities include a large seasonal outdoor swimming pool, restaurant serving Andalusian and international cuisine, bar/lounge, landscaped gardens, and extensive meeting spaces. Thanks to its generous capacity and wide range of services, it is particularly suitable for tour groups while also welcoming individual travelers.

Córdoba – Exe Ciudad de Córdoba

Exe Ciudad de Córdoba is a modern 4-star hotel located a short distance from the historic center of Córdoba, offering easy access to landmarks such as the Mezquita, Roman Bridge, and Jewish Quarter. The hotel provides a practical base for exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage. Rooms are comfortable and functional, featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. The hotel also offers a breakfast room, bar/lounge, and meeting facilities, making it suitable for organized groups as well as independent travelers.

Córdoba – Crisol Jardines de Córdoba

Crisol Jardines de Córdoba is a charming 4-star hotel set in a quiet residential area of Córdoba, surrounded by attractive gardens and offering a peaceful atmosphere just a short transfer from the historic center. Its calm environment provides a relaxing contrast to the lively old town. The hotel features comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and spacious garden areas. Its tranquil setting and outdoor spaces make it particularly suitable for group stays, while also appealing to individual travelers seeking a restful base.

Córdoba – Exe Las Adelfas

Exe Las Adelfas is a comfortable 4-star hotel located in a residential district of Córdoba, with convenient road access and easy connections to the city center. Its quiet surroundings make it a pleasant retreat after sightseeing. Rooms are bright and well equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Facilities include landscaped gardens, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, bar/lounge, and meeting rooms. Its combination of comfort and accessibility makes it suitable for both tour groups and independent guests.

Costa del Sol (Torremolinos) – Sol Príncipe

Sol Príncipe is a large beachfront 4-star hotel located in Torremolinos, directly on the seafront promenade and close to Málaga. Its prime location allows guests to fully enjoy the beaches and lively atmosphere of the Costa del Sol. The hotel offers bright and modern rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms, many with sea views. Facilities include several outdoor swimming pools, buffet restaurants, bars, gardens, and entertainment programs. Its extensive amenities and beachfront setting make it ideal for organized groups as well as individual holidaymakers.

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Costa del Sol (Torremolinos) – Sol Torremolinos Don Pablo

Sol Torremolinos Don Pablo is a 4-star beachfront hotel forming part of the Sol Torremolinos Resort complex in Torremolinos. It enjoys direct access to the beach and promenade and is within walking distance of the town center. Rooms are comfortable and well appointed, featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Guests have access to multiple swimming pools, restaurants, bars, landscaped gardens, and leisure facilities within the complex. Its spacious layout and full-service amenities make it especially suitable for larger groups while remaining attractive for individual stays.

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Costa del Sol (Torremolinos) – Sol Torremolinos Don Pedro

Sol Torremolinos Don Pedro is a modern 4-star hotel located within the Sol Torremolinos Resort complex in Torremolinos, close to the beach and lively promenade. The hotel offers easy access to both seaside relaxation and local entertainment. The hotel features comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Facilities include several outdoor swimming pools, buffet restaurants, bars, and attractive garden areas shared within the complex. Its seaside setting and broad range of services make it suitable for both organized tours and independent travelers.

Granada – Hotel Saray

Hotel Saray is a modern 4-star hotel located close to the city center of Granada, with convenient access to the historic quarter and the Alhambra. Its location allows visitors to combine cultural sightseeing with comfortable accommodation in a well-connected area. The hotel offers stylish and comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Facilities include a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Andalusian cuisine, a bar/lounge, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and meeting rooms. Its contemporary Andalusian-inspired design and comprehensive services make it an excellent base for both tour groups and individual travelers.

Valencia – Eurostars Acteón

Eurostars Acteón is a modern 4-star hotel situated in a quiet area of Valencia, close to the City of Arts and Sciences and within easy reach of the historic center. Its location offers a balance between peaceful surroundings and convenient access to Valencia’s main attractions. Rooms are spacious and well designed, featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, work desks, and private bathrooms. The hotel also offers a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a bar/lounge, and meeting facilities. Its comfortable ambiance and good transport connections make it suitable for both organized groups and individual travelers visiting Valencia.

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.