18. Southern Spain Highlights

Departure point: Madrid
Tour kicks off every Tuesday
Duration: 7 days

Price from: €1165
Duration: 7 days, 6 nights

Tour starts on every single TUESDAY all year long.


Tour code: C-272

Included in tour:

- accommodation in **** hotels

- 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners

- modern and air-conditioned bus

- multi-lingual tour escort

- sighseeing tour with local guide in Cordoba, Sevilla, Granada and Toledo

- tickets to Cordoba's Mosque

- tickets to Alhambra in Granada

- tickets to St. Tome and St. Maria Blanca churches in Toledo

- travel insurance

- free Wi- Fi on board 

- tips 

This 7-day journey offers a richly textured exploration of southern and central Spain, blending legendary cities, dramatic landscapes, Moorish masterpieces, and time to truly relax by the Mediterranean. Beginning and ending in Madrid, the route traces Spain’s cultural evolution from Roman and Islamic splendor to Gothic grandeur and modern Andalusian life - at an unhurried, rewarding pace.

From the historic layers of Córdoba and Seville to the white villages and deep gorge of Ronda, the itinerary balances guided sightseeing with generous free time. Two full leisure days on the Costa del Sol provide a refreshing pause before the journey continues inland to Granada’s Alhambra and concludes in Toledo, Spain’s emblematic ''City of Three Cultures.'' This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking depth, atmosphere, and a harmonious mix of culture and relaxation.


Journey Highlights

  • Castilian Plains – Travel south from Madrid through the storied landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha, long associated with Don Quixote.

  • Córdoba’s Cultural Layers – Discover Córdoba, home to the extraordinary Mosque-Cathedral and the atmospheric Judería, where Roman, Islamic, Jewish, and Christian histories intertwine.

  • Andalusian Capital – Experience Seville, highlighted by Plaza de España, María Luisa Park, Seville Cathedral, the Giralda, and the romantic streets of Barrio Santa Cruz.

  • Dramatic Ronda – Visit Ronda, perched above the El Tajo Gorge, famous for the Puente Nuevo, historic bullring, and sweeping mountain views.

  • Mediterranean Pause – Enjoy two leisurely days on the Costa del Sol, with time to relax on sandy beaches, stroll seaside promenades, and savor fresh coastal cuisine in Torremolinos.

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

  • Imperial Toledo – Conclude with Toledo, the former capital of Spain, celebrated for its Gothic cathedral, historic synagogues, El Greco masterpiece, and centuries-old sword-making tradition.

  • Balanced Pace – A thoughtful blend of guided touring, scenic drives, cultural depth, and unstructured leisure time.

This itinerary captures the essence of southern Spain - its history, artistry, landscapes, and rhythm of life - making it an excellent choice for travelers who value both immersive sightseeing and restorative downtime.

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

Your journey begins early this morning with an 8:00 a.m. departure from Madrid as we head south through Castilla-La Mancha, the storied land of Don Quixote. Rolling plains, distant windmills, and wide-open horizons set the tone for the adventure ahead as Spain’s landscapes slowly change on our way to Andalusia. By late morning, we arrive in Córdoba, one of southern Spain’s most captivating cities and a place where centuries of history coexist beautifully. Free time allows you to wander through the old town’s narrow lanes, where whitewashed houses are decorated with colorful flower pots and the scent of orange blossoms fills the air. The centerpiece of the visit is the extraordinary Mosque-Cathedral, a masterpiece of layered architecture. Inside, endless rows of red-and-white arches create a mesmerizing visual rhythm, while the Christian cathedral rising at its heart tells the story of Córdoba’s unique cultural evolution. Before departing, you’ll have time to explore the Judería, the former Jewish Quarter, ideal for lunch, relaxed strolling, or discovering small artisan shops.
In the late afternoon, we continue to Seville, arriving in time for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Andalusia’s vibrant capital.



Day 2: Seville

After breakfast, we set out on a guided tour of Seville, a city celebrated for its warmth, artistic spirit, and deep-rooted traditions. The tour begins at the impressive Plaza de España, a sweeping semi-circular plaza adorned with colorful ceramic tiles representing Spain’s provinces, elegant bridges, fountains, and a reflective canal that adds to its grandeur. From here, we stroll through María Luisa Park, a lush green oasis filled with palm trees, shaded walkways, tiled benches, and fountains offering a peaceful contrast to the lively streets beyond. We then admire the exterior of Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a powerful symbol of Spain’s Golden Age. Rising beside it is the Giralda, originally built as a Moorish minaret and later transformed into a bell tower - an enduring emblem of Seville’s layered past. Our walk continues into Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish Quarter, where narrow winding streets, hidden patios, and quiet plazas create an intimate and atmospheric setting.
The afternoon is free to explore Seville at your own pace. You may choose to climb the Giralda for panoramic views, visit the modern Metropol Parasol for a striking contrast of old and new, or cross the river to Triana, known for flamenco culture, ceramics, and lively tapas bars. Dinner and overnight in Seville.



Day 3: Seville → Ronda → Costa del Sol (190 km / 118 miles)

This morning we leave Seville and travel through the rolling Andalusian countryside toward Ronda, one of the most dramatic and unforgettable towns in southern Spain. Spectacularly perched above the El Tajo Gorge, Ronda combines breathtaking natural scenery with layers of Roman, Moorish, and Christian history. During free time, you may stroll across the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge, pausing to admire the sheer scale of the canyon below, visit one of Spain’s oldest and most historically important bullrings, or wander through the Moorish old town, where narrow streets, stone houses, and quiet plazas reveal the town’s timeless character. Scenic viewpoints throughout Ronda offer sweeping vistas across fertile valleys and rugged cliffs, making this a truly memorable stop.
In the afternoon, we descend from the mountains toward the sparkling Mediterranean coast. As we arrive on the Costa del Sol, the landscape opens to wide beaches and palm-lined promenades. Checking into our hotel in Torremolinos, you’ll immediately feel the pace slow as sea breezes and warm sunshine set the tone for a relaxed evening. Dinner and overnight by the coast.


Day 4: Costa del Sol – Leisure Day

Today is entirely yours to enjoy the easygoing rhythm of the Costa del Sol, where sunshine, sea air, and a laid-back lifestyle define the experience. Torremolinos is known for its long, sandy beaches, a lively palm-lined promenade, and a pleasant mix of classic Andalusian charm and modern resort amenities. You may choose to settle in by the water with a good book, enjoy a refreshing swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the coast, watching daily life unfold along the shoreline.
A relaxed lunch at a beachfront chiringuito is highly recommended, where freshly grilled fish, seafood, and local specialties are served just steps from the sand. If you prefer something more active, you might explore nearby coastal neighborhoods, browse local shops, or enjoy one of the many cafés overlooking the sea. With no fixed schedule, today is about slowing down and savoring the Mediterranean atmosphere before ending the day with dinner and another peaceful overnight stay by the coast.



Day 5: Costa del Sol – Another Day to Unwind

A second full day at leisure allows you to enjoy the coast even more deeply, embracing the unhurried pace that defines life along the Mediterranean. You may choose to explore nearby fishing villages, return to a favorite stretch of beach, or simply enjoy the pleasure of doing very little at all. The region’s cuisine invites you to linger over meals, where freshly caught fish, olive oil, and seasonal ingredients highlight the flavors of southern Spain.
Whether you spend the day strolling seaside promenades, relaxing under the sun, or enjoying a long café break with views of the water, the Costa del Sol offers the perfect setting to unwind and recharge. As the day winds down, gather for dinner and another comfortable overnight stay by the coast, fully immersed in the relaxed coastal lifestyle.


Day 6: Costa del Sol → Granada (180 km / 112 miles)

After breakfast, we leave the coastline behind and head inland toward Granada, dramatically set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. A guided visit introduces the Alhambra, one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extraordinary complex of palaces, courtyards, and fortified walls showcases the refined artistry of Moorish Spain. Inside the Nasrid Palaces, intricate stucco work, delicate arches, and serene courtyards reflect a world of elegance and balance. The visit continues through the Generalife Gardens, once the summer residence of Moorish rulers, where flowing water, terraced gardens, and shaded paths create a peaceful retreat overlooking the city.
The afternoon is free to explore Granada on your own. Wander through the Albaicín’s winding streets, browse the Alcaicería market, visit the Renaissance cathedral, or embrace Granada’s famous tapas tradition, where ordering a drink often comes with a complimentary bite. Dinner and overnight in Granada.


Day 7: Granada → Toledo → Madrid (446 km / 277 miles)

On our final day, we travel north to Toledo, Spain’s former capital and one of its most historically rich cities. Set above the Tagus River, Toledo is often called the “City of Three Cultures,” reflecting centuries of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim coexistence. A guided tour introduces the city’s highlights, including the magnificent Gothic cathedral, the historic Jewish Quarter, and the elegant Santa María la Blanca Synagogue. At the Church of Santo Tomé, you’ll have the opportunity to view El Greco’s celebrated masterpiece, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.

Before leaving, we visit a traditional artisan workshop to see Toledo’s legendary sword-making craftsmanship, a tradition passed down through generations. In the evening, we return to Madrid, bringing this richly layered journey through southern Spain to a memorable close.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1165 €

Single Supplement: 425 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 75 €

Supplement for departure on April 15 (Easter), May 6 (Feria), June 24 (Congress): 125 € 

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Discounts:


- Children under 4 years old: Free; no granted seat on the bus.
- Children between 4 and 7 years old: 25% discount off the adult price; they share a room with adults.
- Teenagers between 8 and 18 years old: 5% discount off the adult price.
- Seniors (65+ years old): 5% discount off the adult price.
- Third person in a triple room: 5% discount.
- Discounts cannot be combined.


Booking Process:

1. Choose the desired tour and confirm it via email. Provide the starting date, tour code, number of travelers, their names, age and preferred room types (Single/Double/Triple).
2. Receive an invoice from us.
3. Make a 15% deposit to secure the booking.
4. Receive confirmation from us.
5. Three weeks (21 day) before the tour starts, pay the remaining balance.
6. Arrive for the tour on the scheduled date and time.


Payment Information:

- A 15% deposit is required during reservation.
- The remaining 85% must be paid at least 3 weeks before the tour starts.
- Payment methods:
   1. Bank wire to our company's bank account (details on the invoice).
   2. Credit card payment (additional 2% charge, the link will be sent to you). 
   3. Western Union (for urgent, short-notice reservations).
   4. Wise.com – a cost-effective online currency transfer system. Ask us for an ''invitation'' if you're not a member.


Cancellation and Refund Policy:

- The 15% deposit at the time of reservation is non-refundable.
- If you paid 100% upfront and canceled at least 3 weeks before the trip, the remaining 85% is fully refundable.
- Cancellations made less than 3 weeks before the trip won't receive any refunds.

Seville – Ilunion Alcora Sevilla

Ilunion Alcora Sevilla is a modern 4-star hotel located in San Juan de Aznalfarache, just outside Seville, with convenient access to the historic center by short transfer. Its elevated position offers panoramic views over the city while providing a quieter setting away from the busiest areas. The hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Facilities include a restaurant serving Andalusian and international cuisine, a bar/lounge, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, landscaped terraces, and extensive meeting areas. Its large capacity and practical layout make it especially suitable for tour groups, while also offering a comfortable stay for individual travelers.



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 provides immediate access to the beach and a lively holiday atmosphere on 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 resort-style amenities and generous capacity make it ideal for organized groups as well as individual holidaymakers seeking a seaside escape.

or

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 is within walking distance of the town center and promenade. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Guests have access to multiple outdoor swimming pools, buffet restaurants, bars, landscaped gardens, and leisure facilities within the resort complex. Its spacious layout and broad range of services make it particularly suitable for larger groups while remaining attractive for individual stays.

or

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 vibrant promenade. Its setting offers easy access to local entertainment areas and coastal attractions. 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 excellent seaside position and wide range of amenities 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, shopping areas, and the iconic Alhambra. Its location allows visitors to combine sightseeing with comfortable accommodation in a well-connected area. The hotel offers stylish and comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. On-site 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 organized groups and individual travelers.

or

Granada - Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, hotels selected for tour programs are typically well located with convenient access to major attractions such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and the Pacific coastline. Good highway and transit connections make it easy to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods and entertainment districts. Rooms are generally spacious and equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Many properties offer on-site restaurants, bars, outdoor swimming pools, and fitness centers. Their combination of comfort, facilities, and strategic locations makes them suitable for both organized groups and individual travelers discovering Los Angeles.

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.