The passion, romance, mystique, beauty and history of Spain are nowhere more evident than in ancient Andalusia, the vast southern region whose name has become a byword for Spanish culture. Over this eight-day fascinating self-drive tour, you will discover the cultural riches of Andalusia, from Phoenician times through the Roman, Muslim, Jewish and Christian periods. Visit spellbinding World Heritage sites such as the Alcazar and Cathedral in Seville, the Great Mosque of Cordoba and contemplate great views of the Alhambra in Granada.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Malaga & Costa del Sol: Enjoy utter relaxation in the beautiful coastal city of Malaga and surrounding gems.
Granada: Be dazzled by the jewel in Andalusia’s crown with a visit to the awe-inspiring Alhambra palace and Generalife gardens, as well as a stroll through the ancient Albaicin district.
Seville: Explore the elegant capital of Andalusia, visiting the world-famous Plaza de España, the former royal palace and cathedral as well as strolling through old Jewish quarter.
Jerez: Because of its wine, Jerez or Sherry, the name of the city crossed international borders several years ago.
Day 1: ARRIVAL MALAGA
Arrive at Malaga airport and pick up the rental car. Afterwards, take a stroll around the centre of Malaga, enjoy the museums, restaurants, historic locations, and the lovely port. If time permits, check out Torremolinos, one of the most popular beach resorts in Spain. Located just under 20 kilometres away from central Malaga, this beautiful resort is famous for its long sandy beach and tasty seafood.
Overnight in Costa del Sol.
Day 2: MALAGA – GRANADA (125km – 1.5hrs)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Granada (approx. 1.5hrs driving time on the A-92). Check in upon arrival and begin exploring the historic city of Granada and its greatest treasure, the Alhambra palace. For more than 1,000 years, this ‘pearl set in emeralds’ has stood atop Sabika hill overlooking the city, gaining in importance during the Moorish Nasrid dynasty, which turned the original castle into the palace of today. The royal complex and gardens were built to be a heaven on earth, with cool patios, fountains and intricate carvings. Marvel at the many jaw-dropping rooms, such as the Court of the Myrtles and the Hall of the Ambassadors, which are decorated in elaborate honeycomb arabesque plasterwork. Admire, too, the Court of Lions, which medieval Islamic poets described as the physical realisation of paradise.
Overnight in Granada.
Day 3: GRANADA
Indulge in breakfast and continue exploring Granada. Stroll over to the Generalife Palace and its lush gardens, where the Nasrid emirs retreated during the summer heat, and hear the soothing sound of the water running in channels. Cross the verdant ravine of the River Darro to the historic Albaicin quarter, which has existed since Moorish times and still maintains its original chaotic layout. Narrow cobblestone alleys of tightly packed whitewashed houses snake their way upwards to the various vantage points offering breathtaking views of the Alhambra nestled under the Sierra Nevada.
Overnight in Granada.
Day 4: GRANADA – CORDOBA (201km – 2.15hrs)
Depart from Granada to Cordoba after breakfast at the hotel (approx. 2.15hrs on the A-92&A-45). Cordoba was the capital of the Moorish Caliphate of Al-Andalus during the height of its powers and glory, and nowhere is this wealth more evident than in the magnificent Great Mosque, which is now the Catholic cathedral. Wander through the collonaded prayer halls, which are decorated with hundreds of marble columns joined by two-tone arches. Admire the mihrab and the side chapels, with their eclectic mix of arabesque and baroque styles. Stroll through the Patio of the Orange Trees, an oasis of peace cooled by the shade of 100 trees, and admire the arabesque decorations of exterior doorways. Continue the tour by walking to the former Jewish Quarter to visit the 14th-century synagogue.
Overnight in Cordoba.
Day 5: CORDOBA – SEVILLE (145km – 2hrs)
Discover Seville with a morning walk after check-in at the hotel (approx. driving time 2hrs on the A-4). Visit some of the Andalusian capital’s top attractions such as the Royal Alcazar Palace and the Cathedral – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites – as well as Santa Cruz, its most picturesque old town neighbourhood. The Royal Alcazar traces its origins to the 10th century when it became the palace of a Moorish caliph. Over the centuries, it has been expanded with a series of stunning halls, pavilions, patios and gardens in a variety of styles from Moorish and Mudejar to Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. Admire the elaborate arabesque carvings, the ornate tile work and the fine tapestries and paintings decorating the walls. Behold the brilliance of the inner domes of the Hall of Ambassadors and the Patio of Dolls and wander the tranquil landscaped gardens. Continue to the Cathedral, whose glorious Giralda belfry is Seville’s most iconic symbol. The cathedral began life as a mosque in the 12th century and has since grown to become the third-largest church in the world. Discover the 80 chapels and more than 700 works of religious art, see the amazing, gilded altarpiece – which took 80 years to make – and stroll through the peaceful Patio of the Orange Trees. Next, explore secluded Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter and today the most traditional neighbourhood in the old town. It is a warren of whitewashed lanes, alleys, archways and patios, each with a historical tale to tell. Enjoy a tasty tapas lunch in a typical restaurant (not included).
Overnight in Seville.
Day 6: SEVILLE
Indulge in breakfast at the hotel. Then, continue with discovering this fascinating city and its surroundings. Maybe forget about the main landmarks and maps in order to let the city surprise you with its hidden gems while you get lost on the beautifully arranged streets.
Overnight in Seville.
Day 7: SEVILLE – MALAGA (205km – 2.5hrs)
On your way from Seville to Malaga (approx. driving time 2.5hrs on A-92), perhaps make a stop in the beautiful town of Jerez de la Frontera. Because of its locally produced wine - Jerez or Sherry - the name of the city crossed international borders several years ago. It is home to the Carthusian horse and bullfighting, the birthplace of flamenco, a city of motor racing, and other important events. Continue to the Malaga area and check in to your hotel for your last night in Andalusia.
Overnight in Costa del Sol.
Day 8: DEPART MALAGA
End this unforgettable journey by returning the vehicle at the airport. Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by rental car company when you pick up the car on arrival day. Breakfast included.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent in summer can be very useful during your stay.
