Mediterranean Glamour |
11 days / 10 nights
Madrid - Toledo - Cordoba - Marbella - Málaga - Granada - Cartagena - Alicante - Valencia - Peñiscola - Barcelona
Day 1 Madrid
Arrival at Madrid airport. Transfer and overnight in Madrid.
Day 2 Madrid - Toledo (80 km/1,30h) - Córdoba (350 km/5h)
Departure from Madrid and drive through Castilla-La Mancha region to reach Córdoba. On the way, you will visit the impressive city of Toledo, famous with its rich history. In the Middle Ages Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures lived side by side here, and it was during the same period that the Cathedral, the city’s most outstanding monument was built. See also the medieval castle and Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue. Afterwards, continue the trip to Córdoba for overnight.
Day 3 Córdoba - Marbella (220 km/3,30h)
In the morning explore the city’s most popular highlights, starting with the majestic Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. Contemplate the beauty of the Mezquita, spectacular testimony to the Califalian age and visit the Jewish quarter, a lively place for a walk and shopping. In the afternoon proceed the trip to one of Andalucia’s treasures - the coastal city of Marbella. Enjoy a night walk to explore the charm of the city - don’t miss Plaza de los Naranjos and the Old Quarter. Overnight in Marbella.
Day 4 Marbella - Málaga (60 km/1h)
Continue the journey through the beautiful landscapes of Costa del Sol and reach Málaga. Enjoy a city tour, representing the most attractive sites, including the city’s cathedral ‘La Manquita’, known as the one-armed lady. Continue the sightseeing with Alcazaba - one of the largest Arab fortress in Andalucia and Gibralfaro castle, where you can have an outstanding views over the city coastline. Don’t miss one of the symbols of Málaga - the bullfighting ring ‘La Malagueta’ and the Picasso Museum, set in the same house where the famous artist was born. In the evening enjoy a traditional flamenco show. Overnight in Málaga.
Day 5 Málaga - Granada (140 km/2h)
Depart from Málaga and head off to Granada, located at the foot of Sierra Nevada mountain. Visit the magnificent Palace Alhambra, one of the most important tourist attraction in Spain. Enjoy also a walk in the gardens of Generalife, part of the complex, built during the 14th century by the Moors. Next to Alhambra, you will see the old neighbourhoods of Albacín with its whitewashed houses and the cave houses of Sacramonte, included in the World Heritage of UNESCO.
Day 6 Granada - Cartagena (300 km/4,30h)
Next stop on our trip is the ancient city of Cartagena. With its strategic position on the Mediterranean coast, the port of Cartagena was prized from the Carthaginians, Romans and Arabs, and always has been a point of interest. Visit ‘La concepción’ Castle, standing atop a hill with a panoramic view of the city harbour and of the old bullfight ring, built on a top of a Roman gladiator arena and theatre. Take a close look of the Roman theatre and the Old Cathedral. In the afternoon enjoy a free time to explore the new part of the city, starting from Calle Mayor. Overnight in Cartagena.
Day 7 Cartagena - Alicante (130 km/2h) - Valencia (170 km/3h)
Continue driving north through the Mediterranean coast and reach Alicante, situated on Costa Blanca seaside. Make a short stop for a lunchtime in one of the most attractive tourist destinations on the spanish east coast. Afterwards, proceed to Valencia, the third largest city in Spain and a worth-visit, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Day 8 Valencia
A full-day guided tour of this beautiful and modern city, with rich roman and gothic history. Start from the Historic center and visit the Valencia Cathedral, the Miguelete tower, the Cathedral’s gothic bell tower, Palau de la Generalitat, Plaza de la Virgen, Torres de Serranos, one of the gates of the medieval city wall, and the Silk Market. In the afternoon visit the spectacular city of Arts and Sciences, with the main building, designed by the Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava. With an extension of 55,000 square meters, the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia is one of the finest international venues for theatre, dance, opera and musicals.
Day 9 Valencia - Peñiscola(150 km/2,30h) - Barcelona (230 km/3,30h)
Depart from Valencia to get to the Mediterranean capital of Spain - Barcelona. On the way, visit the Peñiscola castle, built by the Knights Templar in the 14th century. Enjoy a great panoramic view of the Mediterranean sea on the balcony of the Castle. Continue the journey through the seaside resorts of Costa Dorada and pass through the city of Tarragona, until arrive in Barcelona, Catalunya’s lively and beautiful capital.
Day 10 Barcelona
In the morning start with a sightseeing tour of Barcelona, visiting the best parts of the city - Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter, Port Vell with the Columbus Monument, drive to Montjuic hill to see the Olympic ring and the Fortress from 16th century, located on the top of the hill. Later, see the Gaudí’s most impressive works at the beautiful boulevard Passeig de Gracia, and admire the unique basilica of Sagrada Familia, another masterpiece by Gaudí.
Day 11 Barcelona
Departure to Barcelona airport.