Discover Andalusia

Day 1

Arrive in Mijas Area, Spain. Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to start exploring Mijas on the glorious Costa del Sol. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.

Day 2

Mijas Area–Ronda–Seville. Skirt the Mediterranean Sea, then continue inland to mesmerizing Ronda. Established in the 9th century AD, this is one of Spain’s oldest—and most unique—towns. It dramatically spans the El Tajo Gorge in a picture-perfect way, and is known for its white-washed villages, historic charm, and three stunning bridges across the canyon. Continue your scenic drive to Seville, your home for the next three nights. (B)

Day 3

Seville. The Local Guide will give you a good introduction to this wonderful Andalusian city, epitome of Spain with its fiery Flamenco, Moorish splendor, fragrant gardens, and elegant plazas. Situated on the Guadalquivir River, its harbor is Spain’s only river port. Visit two of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the 15th-century Cathedral of St. Mary, built on a former mosque and housing 80 chapels and the longest nave in Spain; and the breathtaking Alcázar, a previous Moorish palace. The afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, maybe experience Seville’s colorful dance culture at an optional Flamenco excursion. (B)

Day 4

Seville. The entire day is yours to explore on your own. This beautiful, 2,200-year-old capital of Andalusia boasts many highlights—don’t miss the magnificent landmark Plaza de España in Maria Luisa Park, created for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo and used as a filming location in many films, including Lawrence of Arabia, Star Wars Attack of the Clones, and The Dictator. (B)

Day 5

Seville–Córdoba–Granada. Head deep into the heart of the Andalusian countryside and stop in Córdoba, the world’s most populous city in the 10th century. Its great Mezquita, a former mosque-turned-Catholic cathedral, is considered one of the most remarkable examples of Moorish architecture outside the Arab world (entrance fee not included). On to history-steeped Granada, where you will spend the next two nights. (B)

Day 6

Granada. Ideally situated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains and at the confluence of four rivers. Accompanied by a Local Guide, visit the world-famous ALHAMBRA COMPLEX. A lavish residence built by Moorish kings in 889 AD, it later became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella—and was where Christopher Columbus received endorsement for his voyage to the New World. The incredible architectural beauty and magnificent gardens here are sure to leave a lasting impression on you. You will also have time to explore the city center on your own. (B)

Day 7

Granada–Málaga–Costa del Sol. A scenic drive today returns you to Málaga—just 80 miles (130 km) north of Africa and the southernmost large city in Europe. Founded by the Phoenicians around 770 BC, it is one of the oldest cities in the world. Enjoy some time at leisure. Why not visit the Pablo Picasso Birthplace Museum? (B)

Day 8

Costa del Sol. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning (the nearest airport is Málaga). (B)