Explore one of Spain’s largest regions by rail. Andalucia stretches from the Portuguese border and the Atlantic at its western end to the small region of Murcia, which hugs a corner of the Mediterranean at its eastern end.
Andalucia has been a popular destination with travellers for well over 100 years. Other than the wonderful climate, part of its allure is the variety of cultures it has been home to over the centuries – a fascinating melting pot of Islamic, Christian and Jewish faiths. It still has architecture dating back to the Moors, who ruled most of Spain for centuries until overthrown by the Catholic Christians, when they transformed Spain into the world’s first global empire – The Spanish Empire.
An empire, which at its height brought galleons laden with gold, silver and exotic produce to Andalucia. The produce influenced the cuisine markedly and the gold and silver paid for fine buildings in the Renaissance. Also, not to be underestimated, is the influence of the Romany people on folk dance and music traditions, notably flamenco.
With such a history and culture Andalucia is a wonderful region to explore.
Seville 3 nights | Cordoba 2 nights | Granada 2 nights
Day 1: UK to Seville
Fly from your chosen airport to Seville. On arrival, you will have a private car transfer to your first hotel.
Day 2: Seville
This morning, you will have a 2-hour-30-minute guided walking tour of Seville. You will discover the old quarter, ‘Barrio de Santa Cruz’, and other surroundings, as well as the exteriors of the main monuments.
Day 3: Seville
Iberian Ham is famous as a local delicacy. Today, you can learn how it is produced and the skill of carving Iberian Ham. There is a chance to sample the ham as well!
Day 4: Seville to Cordoba
Transfer by rail between Seville and Cordoba. In the evening, you will attend an authentic Andalucian Flamenco show. See the skill and passion of the musicians and dancers.
Day 5: Cordoba
Today, you will visit the Mosque of Cordoba, one of the largest in the world and the most important Islamic monument in Western Europe. It dates back to the 9th century and is considered one of the most spectacular buildings ever constructed. UNESCO also classified it as a World Heritage Site.
Day 6: Cordoba to Granada
Transfer by rail between Cordoba and Granada. In the evening, enjoy a ‘Caliphal’ dinner comprising an exclusive selection of Tapas, typical Andalucian dishes and dessert.
Day 7: Granada
The Alhambra of Granada, with its spectacular Generalife Gardens, was the residential palace of the Nasrid Sultans and is now classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. The Alhambra was the last bastion of a splendid civilisation leaving marvellous palaces, gardens, mosques, baths and fountains. Today, you will be collected from your hotel and taken to enjoy a Guided Tour of the Royal Palaces, the Generalife Gardens and Carlos V’s Palace before being taken back to your hotel.
Day 8: Granada to Malaga to UK
A private car transfer will take you to Malaga Airport for your flight home to the UK.