Madrid, Andalusia, Costa del Sol & Toledo

Welcome to Spain! Arrival at the Madrid airport transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, either relaxing or exploring all that the Spanish capital has to offer. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, we will take a panoramic tour of the city, where we will see its medieval origins, such as the Arab fortress, while strolling through the Moorish Quarter, known for the age of its buildings and the flavors of its traditional taverns. Then, we will explore the Habsburg Madrid of Philip II, and admire its Renaissance and Baroque buildings in Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa.

We will continue our journey through history, passing through "The Madrid of the Bourbon" sand the urban planning of Charles III, where we will marvel at the Royal Palace, the Cibeles and Neptune fountains, and the Puerta de Alcalá. We will also appreciate 19th-century works, such as the elegant Plaza de Oriente and the Prado Museum.

Next, we will delve into contemporary Madrid, exploring avenues such as Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana, and the exclusive Salamanca District. There will be opportunities to enjoy green spaces, like the Parque del Oeste, and to experience the vibrant university life at the University City. We will also explore the commercial and financial areas of modern Madrid, as well as the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

In the afternoon, you’ll head north to the stunning imperial city of Toledo, located beneath the skies of Castilla and surrounded by the Tagus River. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Toledo is the birthplace of civilisations and a place where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures once coexisted. A true reflection of Spain’s art, history, and spirituality, the entire city is a National Monument. You’ll enjoy a brief guided tour through its historic old town and explore Toledo Cathedral.

After the visit, you’ll return to Madrid to relax. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we depart towards Extremadura to visit Mérida, the capital of the province, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have free time to explore the old part of the city, with its ancient walls and the famous medieval quarter, full of history and charm. Afterwards, we will continue our journey to Córdoba. Transfer to the hotel and check-in. You will have the afternoon free to enjoy the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Córdoba.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you will begin your journey south, crossing the land of Don Quijote, the "Man from La Mancha," and passing the traditional Don Quijote inn in Puerto Lápice. You will continue your route through the natural pass of "Despeñaperros" and arrive in Andalusia, a region with a rich heritage from a glorious past. Once in Córdoba, you are invited to explore the impressive Mosque-Cathedral, where you can relax and be captivated by its history and beauty as you stroll through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter. In the afternoon, after a short drive of about two hours, you will reach the charming city of Seville, the capital of Andalusia. Overnight stay in Seville.

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, you’ll begin with a panoramic tour of the city. You’ll start at the majestic Seville Cathedral, the second-largest and most impressive in the world, surpassed only by St. Peter’s in Rome. Next, you’ll explore the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood, the birthplace of the “Carmen” and “Don Juan” legends, with its labyrinthine narrow streets and picturesque courtyards inviting you to wander. Afterward, you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful María Luisa Park, an oasis of lush greenery and fountains. You’ll finish at the iconic Plaza de España, renowned for its unique architecture and stunning tiles. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to continue discovering the city at your own pace, uncovering new perspectives and flavors in this vibrant, sunlit city. Overnight stay in Seville.

Breakfast at the hotel. After leaving Seville, you’ll head south along the famous Route of the White Villages toward Ronda. This historic city, of Celtic origin, will captivate you with its charm, offering you free time to admire its breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and mountains. Ronda is renowned for its unique landscape and architecture, seamlessly blending the old and the new. In the afternoon, you’ll continue your journey to the world-famous Costa del Sol, one of the most modern and sought-after destinations for international tourism, known for its perfect climate, golden beaches, and vibrant social scene. Overnight stay in Costa del Sol. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you’ll head to Granada, the last stronghold of the Nasrid Kingdom until 1492, to uncover its remarkable treasures. You’ll begin with a visit to the famous Alhambra complex and the Generalife Gardens, whose breathtaking views and sounds have inspired authors like Washington Irving in his “Tales of the Alhambra"*. It’s an experience that will truly leave you in awe. Afterward, you’ll have the afternoon free to explore Granada at your own pace, wandering through its charming streets and discovering its most captivating corners. In the evening, you can choose to enjoy an authentic Zambra Flamenca show. Overnight stay in Granada.

*Important note: To visit the Alhambra, it is mandatory to send copies of all passengers’ valid passports to customerservice@exoticca.com once you have made your reservation, as these details are necessary to purchase a ticket on your behalf. Please note that there are a limited number of tickets available each day and that the Alhambra is a large complex with multiple parts. If it is not possible to visit the Alhambra including the Nasrid Palaces, you will see the Generalife and the Alcazaba instead. For any change once the passport information has been entered, a cancellation fee of 23 EUR will be applied.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you’ll leave early for Madrid. Upon arrival, enjoy the rest of the day exploring the Spanish capital at your own pace. From discovering iconic neighbourhoods to having an unforgettable gastronomic experience, there's plenty to see and do. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Breakfast at the hotel.* Sadly, it's time to bring your journey through Spain to an end. At the indicated time transfer to the airport** for your flight back to Canada. Arrive in Canada and end your trip.

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

**Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in Canada the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 11 days