Take in the best of southern Spain and Morocco on this 16-day tour. Explore the Spanish capital Madrid before travelling south to Andalusia. Discover historic Merida and enchanting Seville. Admire the famous Rock of Gibraltar before crossing by ferry to Morocco. Stroll around the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen, step back in time on a tour of ancient Fes, experience the atmospheric Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech. Visit Casablanca and Morocco's capital Rabat before returning to Spain and the sunny Costa del Sol. End your adventure with a visit to the spectacular Alhambra fortress in Granada before returning to Madrid.
Included
Itinerary
Bienvenido a Espana!
Welcome to Madrid, the Spanish capital! You will be collected at the airport and transferred to our hotel, where the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Madrid
Magical Madrid
Today we take an all-encompassing coach tour of Madrid. Highlights of the excursion include the historic Barrio de la Morería region, Habsburgs District, Puerta del Sol central square, Plaza Mayor and the Neptuno Fountains. These are dedicated to Neptune, a Roman water god. In the more modern part of the city we see the Salamanca district, Plaza Castilla and Parque del Oeste. We also see the Santiago Bernabeu, the football stadium of Real Madrid, the most successful European club.
The rest of today is free for you to relax in the hotel or head out and explore further at your own pace. Tonight we enjoy a group Welcome Dinner at a local Tapas restaurant. Get to know your fellow travellers and enjoy some authentic Spanish cuisine.
Overnight: Madrid | Breakfast, Dinner
Merida & Cordoba
Madrid - Merida - Cordoba. Departing Madrid, and bound for Andalusian soils, we make a stop in Mérida. Mérida is a historic city established by the Romans in 25 BC. It is famed for its remarkable archaeological ensemble, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep an eye out for its famous landmarks such as the Roman Theatre, the Amphitheatre, and the Guadiana River Roman Bridge. We finish the day with a final journey to Cordoba, the previous capital of the Caliphate.
Overnight: Cordoba | Breakfast
Cordoba sightseeing & Seville
Cordoba - Seville. This morning we tour Cordoba, an important Roman city that was also an Islamic centre during the Middle Ages. The most important landmark here is the sprawling La Mezquita mosque-cathedral, which dates back to 988 AD. Entrance to the mosque is included on our tour and we also take a stroll through the Jewish Quarter before departing the city and travelling south-west to Seville, capital of Andalusia.
Overnight: Seville | Breakfast
Exploring Seville
Today we explore Seville on a guided tour. Entrance to the city's cathedral, the second largest in the Catholic world, is included. We also visit the Santa Cruz Quarter, where the famous opera 'Carmen' is largely set. Wander through Maria Luisa Park and the picturesque Plaza Espana. After our tour, the afternoon is free for you to further explore Seville at your own pace.
Overnight: Seville | Breakfast
Jerez & Ronda
Seville - Jerez - Ronda. Leaving Seville after breakfast, we pass through quaint Andalusian villages and make a stop in the picturesque mountain-top town of Jerez, Jerez is celebrated for its sherry wine production, rich flamenco heritage, and renowned tradition of horse taming, highlighted by its world-famous annual horse fair. During our visit, we will explore a local winery where we will enjoy a Sherry wine tasting accompanied by a light lunch. In the afternoon we enjoy an authentic Olive Oil Experience at a local Almazara before travelling on to the picturesque mountain-top town of Ronda.
Continuing our journey, we stop at a local Almazara, olive oil mill. Here we can walk through the olive groves and taste some of the delicious organic olive oil produced here. We then continue to Ronda. The evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Ronda | Breakfast, Lunch
Ferry to Gibraltar, Tarifa and Tetouan
Ronda - Gibraltar - Tarifa - Tetouan. Today we make our way to Morocco, starting with a drive through the picturesque Andalusian countryside and arriving in Gibraltar. Upon arrival, we have some free time to explore this fascinating British colony. The towering Rock of Gibraltar offers stunning views over both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, immersing us in a unique blend of British and Spanish cultures, a rich military history, and the presence of the famous Barbary macaques.
Afterwards, we depart for Tarifa, where we take a short, but captivating ferry ride across the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa. Upon reaching Tangier, we disembark and pass through customs, driving southwards towards Tetouan. This charming town is located between the Rif Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea in northern Morocco. Tetouan is mesmerising for visitors due to the remarkably well-preserved medina, UNESCO World Heritage site, flamboyant Andalusian architecture, and profound cultural heritage.
We'll then have some leisure time to explore Tetouan at our own pace. Join the rest of the group for dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Tetouan | Breakfast, Dinner
Mesmirising Chefchaouen
Tetouan - Chefchaouen - Fes. We'll begin our adventure today with a journey to Chefchaouen, where it's azure-hued streets await exploration. It's certainly easy to be immersed in the beauty of this blue city. After some free time, we carry on towards Fes, navigating through landscapes rich in history, leading us to the labyrinthine alleys of the ancient medina where stories of Morocco's vibrant history come alive.
Overnight: Fes | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Fes
This morning we enjoy a tour of ancient, UNESCO-listed Fes, one of the most important imperial cities in Morocco, and the oldest and largest medieval city in the world. On our tour we will wander down some of the old walled city's 9,400 alleyways and take in the heart of the medina. We also see the seven gates of the Royal Palace, explore the Jewish Quarter and admire the ornate gate of Bab Bou Jeloud, built by the colonial French administration in 1913. Tonight there is an optional show with dinner included - book and pay locally.
Overnight: Fes | Breakfast, Dinner
Middle Atlas Mountains
Fes - Middle Atlas - Marrakech. In the morning, we leave the lively streets of Fes behind and weave our way through the magnificent Middle Atlas Mountains. Along the route, we pass charming Berber villages and picturesque valleys dotted with olive groves and cedar forests. Heading further south, the scenery changes to the stunning arid landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains, where winding roads unveil breath-taking vistas at every turn. Finally, we reach our destination: Marrakech.
Overnight: Marrakech | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Marrakech
Marrakech. Our sightseeing tour of Marrakech today departs by bus and begins in the tranquil Menara Gardens which features a pavilion and an abundance of olive trees. Next, we admire the exterior of the Koutoubia Tower, reminiscent of Seville's Giralda. Moving into the historic heart of the city, see the Bahia Palace, once owned by a prominent local nobleman. Finally, we arrive at the vibrant Jmaa el Fnaa square, one of Morocco's most captivating spots, offering access to bustling souks and medina. Here, we'll visit workshops of artisans specializing in woodwork, ceramics, fur, and spices, elevating all five senses. Dinner tonight can be enjoyed at the "Fantasia Chez Ali" show.
Overnight: Marrakech | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Casablanca
Marrakech - Casablanca - Rabat. After our overnight stay in Marrakech, we continue our journey, setting off early in the morning for Casablanca. Explore the city's highlights on a panoramic tour, including United Nations Square, Boulevard de la Corniche, and the iconic Hassan II Mosque. We then continue our journey to Rabat, the capital of Morocco where we stop for the night.
Overnight: Rabat | Breakfast
Return to Spain
Rabat - Tangier - Tarifa - Malaga / Costa Del Sol. Today concludes our time in Morocco, and we head down to the pier where we take a return ferry across the straight of Gibraltar back into Spain. Once we reach land, the final stretch will be a drive to either Costa del Sol or Malaga.
Overnight: Costa del Sol | Breakfast
Leisure and Entertainment in Granada
Costa del Sol / Malaga - Granada. We depart for one of the finest jewels of Spain -Granada. Take some time for leisure, before we enjoy an included group dinner and Flamenco show.
Overnight: Granada | Breakfast, Dinner
Granada & the Alhambra
Granada - Madrid. In the morning we enjoy an included visit to the Alhambra complex. This famous 13th century palace and fortress is one of the best-preserved examples of early Islamic architecture anywhere in the world, as well as being home to important Spanish Renaissance architecture. We'll tour Alhambra and the adjacent Generalife Palace and Gardens. The gardens have historically inspired many authors, including Washington Irving. This American author wrote his Tales of the Alhambra in 1832 whilst visiting the area.
We then continue back to Madrid. Once we arrive, embrace your fellow travellers, reminisce on great memories and enjoy a farewell dinner party.
Overnight: Madrid | Breakfast, Dinner
Back to Madrid
Madrid. Enjoy the final breakfast in the hotel before our tour comes to an end. There is an included transfer to the airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 1 person. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Read MoreHotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Riu Plaza Espana, Madrid
Housed in the striking red and white Edificio Espana building in the centre of Madrid, the 4-star Riu Plaza Espana boasts an outdoor swimming pool on the 21st floor, free Wi-Fi throughout, a fitness centre and a sky bar offering sweeping vistas of the city. All rooms come equipped with ensuite bathrooms, mini-fridge and air-conditioning. Buffet breakfast is served in the onsite restaurant and travellers can tuck into authentic Tapas at the El Eden Gastrobar a la carte restaurant. This hotel is located on the Gran Via, often referred to as the 'Spanish Broadway', with a host of shopping and dining opportunities at hand. It is also an easy walk to the Royal Palace.
Hesperia Cordoba, Cordoba
Located on the peaceful banks of the Guadalquivir River, Hesperia Cordoba offers views of Cordoba's two main attractions, La Mezquita and the Alcazar and is just a 7-minute walk from the city's historic centre. Facilities include a rooftop pool, garden and complimentary Wi-Fi connection. Rooms at the hotel all come equipped with ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and satellite TV. Decor is classic white, as is commonplace in southern Spain. As well as an onsite restaurant, there is a rooftop bar serving drinks until 23:30.
Melia Lebreros, Seville
A stylish hotel located in Seville's commercial district, Melia Lebreros was extensively refurbished recently and modern, elegant decor is visible throughout. Rooms offer air-conditioning, wood panelled flooring, minibar, flat screen TV and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Facilities include an outdoor pool and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Local and international cuisine can be enjoyed at the Mosaico Restaurant and local dishes are served in a traditional atmosphere at La Taberna la Dehesa. There is also an onsite bar.
Royal Mirage Hotel, Fes
Located in the heart of ancient Fes, the Royal Mirage Hotel is just a short walk from the medina. There is a large outdoor pool and terrace, free Wi-Fi and a Moroccan spa and wellness centre. Traditional cuisine is served in the Al Wadi restaurant and there are a number of smaller snack bars, coffee shops and bars serving alcoholic drinks. Guest rooms offer either a pool or garden view and come with a balcony or terrace, as well as modern amenities including ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, safe and TV.
Palm Plaza Hotel & Spa, Marrakech
An upscale hotel located on landscaped grounds in the Agdal district of Marrakech, the 5-star Palm Plaza boasts a large outdoor pool and sun terrace, piano bar, nightclub, sauna, hamman and gym for guests to enjoy. Dining is at the El Menzah International Restaurant buffet, or the Marrakech-Phuket open air restaurant, serving regional dishes in a relaxing environment. There is also a poolside snack bar. Guest rooms are decorated in Moroccan style, with flat screen television, air-conditioning, seating area, ensuite bathroom and a terrace or balcony. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Farah Hotel, Rabat
Farah Hotel in Rabat is a prestigious hotel that offers a luxurious and comfortable stay. With its elegant decor and modern amenities, guests can unwind in style. The spacious rooms provide a serene retreat, while the hotel's facilities, including a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center, cater to relaxation and well-being. Indulge in delectable dining options at the on-site restaurants and enjoy impeccable service from the attentive staff.
Hotel Catalonia Granada, Granada
Located in the heart of Granada, the Catalonia hotel offers sleek and modern guest rooms with smart TV, private bathrooms, minibar and desk. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property and other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and rooftop sun terrace. Buffet breakfast is served in the main restaurant, and there is an onsite Gastrobar open from 11am to 11pm, serving a variety of snacks and Mediterranean dishes.
At a Glance
