Madrid & Andalucia in a Week

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Madrid

   The capital, as well as the geographical and cultural center of Spain, Madrid has long enthralled visitors. Since Prince Phillip II made Madrid the capital in the mid 16th century the city has become home to the largest functioning royal palace in Europe, as well as many museums, cafes, parks, universities, and cultural attractions. Although tourism in the city is growing, Spain's many other attractions mean the city is able to maintain its authenticity and you'll find local character and charm in each of its different neighborhoods. Madrid is perfectly located as a base for day trips to UNESCO-listed towns in central Spain and well connected for traveling onward to any corner of the country for further exploration.

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Madrid's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

   

   Get Your Madrid Bearings. And Some Tapas.

   Start out by getting your central Madrid bearings by strolling two of the city's most impressive squares, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza Mayor. Then make your way into the adjoining La Latina neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and tapas bars. Explore the narrow streets and hop from one tapas bar to another, savoring a variety of local flavors and specialties.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Madrid

   

   Madrid Private City Tour

   Uncover the city's highlights, secrets, and charm in a compact yet enriching experience. Are you ready?

   
   

   Take advantage of your vacation in Madrid to discover the city in one of the best ways, on a private walking tour with an english speaking guide. You will discover the history of Madrid from the 16th century until today. The tour lasts 2 hours starting from your hotel. You will love the unique insights into Madrid's history and will have the chance to discover hidden gems for dining, shopping, and entertainment that will be useful during your stay.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   Small portions, grand flavors

   In Madrid, where the harmonious blend of traditional meals and international flavors has thrived since the 16th century, immerse yourself in the authentic dining experience of a light and varied traditional meal – tapas! For early risers, exploring local markets offering fresh produce on a daily basis is a must. A visit to a Spanish food market promises an unforgettable experience. If you desire to embark on a culinary journey guided by an expert, choose from a food tour with tastings or immersive cooking classes.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Paella and Tapas - Madrid Group Cooking Class with Market Visit

   Uncover the secrets of the traditional paella and other regional dishes on a journey across the tastes of Spain without ever leaving the country's vibrant capital, Madrid. After a guided visit to a local market, in the company of your small group, you will head to a unique private cooking space reserved just for you at one of the quaintest restaurants in Madrid. During this cooking class, an expert local guide and chef will guide you through the fascinating process of preparing a mouthwatering homemade lunch of Spanish staples, such as paella and tapas.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Tapas & History - Gastronomy Group Experience in the Madrid Old Town

   Enjoy an introduction to the history of Spain and Madrid with a walking tour in the old district, visiting four emblematic taverns and bars. These visits include a VIP Pass – that is, no queues at the bar!
You will be guided by a local guide specializing in history and food.
You will get to try more than 16 flavors and different Spanish wines, with every taste explained in detail.
Finish your gastronomy experience by enjoying the best churros and chocolate in town!

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

3. Day 3 Traveling to Granada by Train / Arrival in Granada

   

   You're leaving Madrid behind today and heading to Granada. We will arrange a transfer to the train station and economy class tickets. There are a few train departures to Granada daily, so you can choose your preferred departure time. Then just sit back and relax on a 3.5-hour journey. An upgrade to the first class is available for an additional fee.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Granada by Private Transfer with a Stop in Baeza and Ubeda

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Granada is one of the most visited cities in Spain. What makes this place so unique is that it was the capital of the Moorish kingdom until it was captured by the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492. Today you will find a fascinating city, rich in multicultural history - a beautiful reflection of its Arab and Christian past. The Alhambra, a spectacular Arab citadel and palace, is certainly one of the main highlights of Granada but besides seeing this signature sight, you'll also enjoy being in the birthplace of tapas. True to its roots there are still places in Granada where the tapas is free with your drinks. Granada is one of the preferred destinations for European students, giving it a fun, vibrant university city feel. It is also a city with an important artistic energy. Strolling along the streets you will surely come across artisans and musicians showcasing their talents.

   When you arrive at Granada's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

   Go Local in Albaicín

   Want to feel like a local right from the start? Then, you could plan to spend your first night in the Albaicín neighborhood. It is a totally distinct world from what Granada generally offers. It is a quarter that used to be populated by Muslims, and so it bears the characteristics of Arab architecture. The whitewashed houses near the River Darro have bars and terraces that offer great tapas, drinks, and a view of the Alhambra, which is best to catch at sunset. Flamenco, the traditional Andalusian dance, is performed in many local bars in Albaicin, like La Soleá and Jardines de Zoraya. Or, we can even arrange for a very special traditional Flamenco show set in a cave in Granada with food to accompany it.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Flamenco Show in a Cave with Tapas Menu

   Experience a Flamenco Show in an impressive Granada cave structure featuring three primary caves arranged in a cross shape. The 'tablao' is elevated one meter (three feet) above the ground for optimal visibility from all points within the caves. The recently renovated 'Templo del Flamenco' cave is renowned as one of Granada’s finest venues. Enjoy a captivating 60-minute performance by skilled flamenco dancers, complemented by food from the traditional Andalusian restaurant, offering an exceptional way to savor the art of flamenco.
   

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Flamenco Show in a Cave with Flamenco Menu

   Experience a Flamenco Show in an impressive Granada cave structure featuring three primary caves arranged in a cross shape. The 'tablao' is elevated one meter (three feet) above the ground for optimal visibility from all points within the caves. The recently renovated 'Templo del Flamenco' cave is renowned as one of Granada’s finest venues. Enjoy a captivating 60-minute performance by skilled flamenco dancers, complemented by food from the traditional Andalusian restaurant, offering an exceptional way to savor the art of flamenco.
   

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

4. Day 4 Your First Full Day in Granada

   

   Alhambra and Generalife Premium Group Tour

   On this tour, you will go on a captivating journey through the Alhambra, expertly led by an official guide. This immersive experience ensures comprehensive access to every facet of the monument, allowing you to explore renowned areas such as the Nasrid Palaces, La Alcazaba, the Generalife Palace and its meticulously manicured gardens, and the glorious Carlos V Palace.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Soak in a Hammam

   The Arab Baths are one of the most important historic and architectural aspects of Granada, as they are evidence of the city's religious turmoil all the centuries ago. One of the best options is Hammam Al Andalus. Parts of the building were once used as a bathhouse and a well (which served the adjoining mosque, now the Church of Santa Ana) before it was converted into a bakery after the re-conquest of the city by the Catholic Kings. You enter through a low, stone-arched doorway into a tiny, wooden balconied courtyard draped with hanging plants. Once inside, you move through a series of pools lined with highly decorative tiles, finishing up with a refreshing, sugary mint tea and an icy dip (massages are an optional extra).

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Traveling to Seville by Train / Arrival in Seville

   

   Today, you're leaving Granada behind and heading to Seville by train. We'll be able to arrange for a driver to pick you up from your accommodations in Granada and take you directly to the train station in plenty of time for your train. You'll have second-class train tickets and reserved seats where possible. There are several train departures to Seville daily so that you can choose your preferred departure time. The journey takes around 3 hours.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Seville by Private Transfer with a Stop in Antequera

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Although it may not be the most famous city in Spain, Seville is considered by many to be the most beautiful. You get a sense of its unique charms as you meander through winding streets surrounded by characteristic white and pipeclay yellow walls of the painted buildings. Due to the hustle and bustle of port activity, 16th century Seville was the richest city in Spain. Goods of all splendor brought from the New World arrived at the feet of awestruck locals. Venture further into the city to marvel at the largest Gothic Temple in the world, Seville Cathedral, or try to imagine the sense of pride and awe felt by locals for hundreds of years as they gazed up at The Giralda Tower. This minaret was built in the Almohad period and was, for centuries, the tallest building in Spain and constructed as part of a Grand Mosque.

   When you arrive at Seville's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

   

   Stroll On and Beneath The Metropol Parasol

   The Metropol Parasol, affectionately known as "Setas" (mushrooms), is a wooden structure in Seville that dominates the skyline. This contemporary architectural marvel, completed in 2011, serves as an urban canopy, housing an archaeological museum, a marketplace, and a panoramic terrace with stunning views of Seville. Its undulating design and impressive scale make Setas a unique and modern addition to the historic cityscape. Visitors can explore its various levels and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Seville. Below the structure and on surrounding La Encarnacion square, you'll find plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy your first tastes of Seville. Fun JayWay fact: we held our 2022 end of season team meeting closing event inside the mushrooms!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Seville

   

   Alcazar & Cathedral Exclusive Small Group Tour

   This guided tour offers a comprehensive journey through the city's historical trajectory and architectural significance. Spanning 3 hours, participants will engage in an in-depth examination of Seville's rich history and distinctive features, tracing the cultural influences of diverse civilizations that have shaped these designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. The itinerary begins with a detailed exploration of the majestic Seville Cathedral and its renowned bell tower, the Giralda, followed by an enthralling excursion to the Royal Alcazar, featuring its opulent palaces and captivating gardens. Participants will uncover the ancient and intriguing narrative of the city, witnessing its evolution across different epochs.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Learn About & Experience Flamenco

   Seville is renowned for flamenco, an expressive art form rooted in the diverse folk music traditions of southern Spain, particularly originating from Andalusia. The Museo del Baile Flamenco showcases the allure of this art through exhibitions on dance, singing, and guitar. Visitors can explore flamenco costumes, video displays, and various educational exhibits. Additionally, the museum houses a Flamenco School and hosts daily performances from 5 to 9 pm, providing an immersive experience into the captivating world of flamenco. If you'd prefer more of a dinner-and-a-show performance, we can arrange for a table at Tablao el Arenal, another famous flamenco venue in the city.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Seville

   

   World Heritage Hunt

   After exploring the magnificent UNESCO sites in Seville, consider a day trip to Córdoba, where time seems to stand still in a medieval setting. This city, like many in Spain, was once a harmonious coexistence of Christians, Muslims, and Jews. A highlight is the 8th-century mosque, a pinnacle of Islamic architecture in the Western world. Don't miss the historical Jewish Quarter, Judeíra. Wander through Moorish castles like Alcazar, discover Andalusian gardens, and savor the experience at local restaurants and bars. Córdoba is truly another jewel in Spain's crown.

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Private Day Trip Through the White Villages of Cadiz and Ronda

   On this tour of the picturesque white villages of Cádiz, you start by visiting the captivating Zahara de la Sierra, where you'll explore the charming streets of this beautiful town. Next, you will venture to the hidden gem of Grazalema, nestled amidst rocky landscapes. You then go to the legendary Ronda, renowned for its magnificent new bridge and iconic bullring. These white villages, adorned with narrow streets and Arab-inspired whitewashed houses, exude an authentic charm that will captivate your senses. As the afternoon draws to a close, you'll return to your hotel, cherishing the memories of this magical journey. Seeing other towns like Olvera or Setenil may be possible - please ask your guide/driver.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Departure Day

   The driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport for your departing flight. Duration of the drive is about 20 minutes.