Compare Discover Moorish Spain by G Adventures vs Solo Travel: The Heart of Spain by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 7 days |
| Price From | $ 2,349 | $ 2,454 |
| Price Per Day | $ 294 | $ 351 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Self-guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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N/A |
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | NA |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included | 7 breakfasts | N/A |
| Description |
Andalucia exudes history and romance, from its grand plazas and iconic architecture to soulful traditions and evocative alleyways. Experience the spirit of southern Spain on a captivating voyage through five alluring cities. Explore Madrid’s famed museums, join a local historian along the cobblestoned streets of El Greco’s Toledo, and take a flamenco lesson in Granada. Along the way, glimpse the region’s Moorish legacy amid a string of spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites. |
Drive through central Spain on this 6-night solo adventure! You're in control with your own personal rental car and the open road ahead of you! Begin in Madrid, the central capital of Spain. Take a city highlights tour, complete with a visit to the Royal Palace! Be sure to also visit the Puerta del Sol, which is among the most famous spots in the city! Hop in your rental car and continue your trip in Salamanca! Check out the Universidad de Salamanca, the detailed architecture, and the Old City! Then, drive to Toledo for a few more days in central Spain! With a rich religious history, Toledo boasts many beautiful churches, cathedrals, and monuments. You'll definitely want to try some tapas here, too! At the end of your trip, drive your rental car back to the Madrid Airport for your flight home! |
Day 1 Madrid
Arrive at any time.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel. If arriving early, head out and explore the city. Madrid has it all; history, architecture, museums, galleries, beautiful parks, and wild nightlife. The capital's most exciting street is the Gran Vía, but be sure to visit the Plaza Mayor – the true heart of Madrid. Enjoy a coffee in one of the plaza’s many cafés and watch the world go by. After the group meeting, opt to head out for a meal at a local restaurant with the group.
If you want more time to explore the city, we recommend booking pre-nights in Madrid. Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Prado Museum.
Day 2 Madrid
Drive south to the ancient walled city of Toledo, perched on a rocky headland overlooking the Tagus River. Join a local historian on a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site filled with churches, synagogues, mosques, and plazas. Explore the old quarter and glimpse the soaring tower of the city’s 13th-century cathedral, a masterpiece of high Gothic architecture. Return to Madrid and enjoy free time to admire the world-renowned artworks at the Museo del Prado, relax at a café, or experience the city’s legendary nightlife.
Other options for exploring the city include the Palacio Real, Real Jardin Botánico or Escorial. Experience more nightlife at the Plaza del Dos de Mayo, in the area known as Malasaña. Taste some sangria and dance to the latest music.
Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Prado Museum.
Day 3 Madrid/Córdoba
Take the high-speed train to Córdoba, a beguiling Andalusian town steeped in history. As the capital of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain) until its fall in 1236, Córdoba was once the largest city in Europe, known for its mosques, palaces, and libraries. Discover the medieval centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, or Mezquita, where a 13th-century Catholic cathedral stands in the center of a former Moorish mosque that dates to the 8th century. Afterwards, stroll the historic Jewish quarter’s maze of winding lanes and traditional whitewashed houses. This evening, opt to savour the city’s distinctive gastronomy—a mélange of Roman, Moorish, Christian, and Jewish traditions.
Córdoba’s gastronomy features cuisine steeped in Roman, Moorish, Christian, and Jewish traditions. Head out tonight to sample some local food. Try the thick, hearty stew called "caldereta de cordero" or cool off with "ajo blanco," a hearty white gazpacho soup.
Day 4 Córdoba/Granada
Arrive in Granada and set out on a CEO led orientation walk of this alluring Andalusian city. Here, in the birthplace of flamenco, take a private dance class in a professional studio. This evening, put your new moves to practice as you experience the city’s upbeat nightlife on your own.
Opt to visit the Granada Cathedral of the Incarnation or the Royal Chapel before your Flamenco class.
Day 5 Granada
Spend today immersed in the majesty of the Alhambra, a pinnacle of Moorish architecture in Europe. This fortress and palace built by 13th-century Nasrid sultans crowns a hilltop overlooking Granada. On a guided tour of this extraordinary World Heritage site, marvel at the intricate stuccowork, elegant archways, and intimate courtyards bursting with blooms. Later, explore on your own time as you amble through the old Moorish quarter, the Albayzín, and enjoy views of the Alhambra glowing in the twilight.
After visiting the Alhambra, opt to wander through the whitewashed historic quarter of the Albaicin, with its narrow lanes and fantastic views. This is a great place to go to catch the sunset. In the evening, opt for a night on the town. The city is filled with trendy tapas bars and has a lively music scene.
Due to revised regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at least 30 days prior to departure in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. See "Important notes" under Tour Details for more information.
Day 6 Granada/Seville
Journey to Seville, one of Spain’s most colourful and beautiful cities. Set out on a CEO led orientation walk and choose to climb the cathedral Giralda’s bell tower or visit Casa Pilatos, a prototypical Andalusian palace that combines Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudéjar architectural styles. Get a glimpse of traditional gypsy culture by opting to witness a soulful performance of flamenco dance.
Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville.
Day 7 Seville
Enjoy a full day of free time to follow your impulses in Seville. Lose yourself among the winding alleys, flower-draped patios, and picturesque squares of the charming Santa Cruz quarter. Opt to visit the ornate Mudéjar palace and gardens of Real Alcázar de Sevilla, a World Heritage site and former filming location for Game of Thrones.
Have a chance to savour some tapas at the city's many bars and cafés.
Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville.
Day 8 Seville
Depart at any time.
We recommend staying a few extra nights to better explore Seville at your leisure.
Day 1 Welcome to Madrid!
Touch down in the artistic city of Madrid! Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and head to your first hotel. Once you get settled, enjoy a night at leisure! Spend the evening getting to know the city. Why not treat yourself to some tasty tapas?
Day 2 Madrid
Rise and shine! Recharge with a delightful breakfast, then embark on your half-day tour of Madrid! Explore the city's highlights and complete your tour with a special guided visit to the Royal Palace. The rest of the day is yours! Consider a stroll through Retiro Park, or a visit to Madrid's renowned art museums, such as the Prado, the Reina Sofia, or the Thyssen-Bornemisza.
Day 3 Madrid - Salamanca
After breakfast, wave goodbye to Madrid and head on your merry way! As you journey toward stunning Salamanca, you may want to make a couple of noteworthy stops. Consider visits to the beautiful cities of Segovia and Avila - they're both on the way! Once you arrive in Salamanca, settle into your accommodation and enjoy free time to explore the city.
Day 4 Salamanca
Enjoy a whole day exploring Salamanca at your own pace! Take in the beauty of the grand Plaza Mayor and visit the city's breathtaking cathedrals. You might want to check out Salamanca University, a stunning, historic university where Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, attended school!
Day 5 Salamanca - Toledo
Fuel up with breakfast and enjoy a morning at leisure. If there's a site you missed yesterday, this morning is a perfect time to complete your sightseeing checklist. Next, check-out of your hotel and take a scenic drive down to Toledo! Check-in to your final accommodation and settle in. When you're ready to explore, grab your camera and hit the streets of Old Toledo! Discover beauty around every corner of Casco Historico and Judaria, where you'll find a charming maze of narrow lanes, quiet courtyards, and artisan shops that will make you feel like you've stepped into the Middle Ages.
Day 6 Toledo
Holy Toledo! Enjoy a pleasant breakfast, then discover the magic of this culture-packed city. Be sure to visit Toledo Cathedral, one of the most impressive, iconic pieces of the city. Built in Gothic style with French influence, this cathedral still holds several masses each day. Other amazing sites to consider are The Alcázar and the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes. Cross the medieval Puente de San Martín for beautiful views of the city!
Day 7 Depart Spain
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your suitcase and head for the airport. Once you arrive, turn in your rental car and find your departure gate. Spend your flight home replaying wonderful memories and dreaming about your next adventure!
