Cities of Andalusia 4-Day Tour from Madrid

Learn the history of some of the most beautiful cities in Spain on a 4-day tour of Andalusia, stopping at the former imperial city of Toledo en route back to Madrid. Visit the former Roman capital of Hispania Ulterior on the streets of Cordoba, take in the majesty of Seville, with its Gothic cathedral - the largest in the world - and discover the magnificence of the Alhambra palaces and gardens in Granada. Day 1: (Monday) Madrid - Cordoba - Seville Meet your guide at the bus terminal on Calle Ferraz Madrid at 08:00, and drive through La Mancha to Cordoba. Relax on board the air-conditioned coach as you travel across the arid but fertile plateau of central Spain. Upon arrival in Cordoba, take a sightseeing tour of the historic city center, former capital of Hispania Ulterior during the Roman Republic. Discover the confluence of civilizations in Europe’s 2nd oldest Old Town, such as the Mosque-Cathedral dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Go to the Jewish Quarter to explore the irregular streets. Then transfer to Seville for dinner and your overnight accommodation. Day 2: (Tuesday) Seville Enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Seville, and see iconic attractions including the green oasis of Maria Luisa Park on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Marvel at the mosaic tiles of Plaza de España. Admire the ornate exterior of the vast cathedral and its neighborhing bell tower. The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, Seville Cathedral boasts no fewer than 15 doors on its 4 façades. Explore the former Jewish Quarter of the Barrio de Santa Cruz. Then, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace. Day 3 (Wednesday) Seville -Granada Depart Seville after breakfast for a day tour of Granada. Upon arrival, your guide will take you to the Alhambra palace and gardens complex. Explore the beautiful Nazari palaces of the former fortress, built on the site of a small castle in the mid-11th century by the Moorish emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar. Learn the history of the complex, including its conversion into a royal palace in 1333 by the Sultan of Granada, Yusuf I. Go to the Generalife gardens of a 14th-century villa on the summit of Monte Mauror. Optional evening activities include a visit to the caves of Sacromonte and the chance to watch a traditional flamenco show. Day 4 (Thursday) Granada - Toledo - Madrid Depart Granada after breakfast for the return transfer to Madrid, stopping en route at Toledo. One of the most beautiful cities in Spain, the former imperial city is a labyrinth of narrow streets and known for its historical co-existence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures. Discover Mudejar style city gates, and medieval castles with impressive ramparts. Admire the rich stucco work of the Jewish Quarter, see the regal façade of the Alcázar, and more.