• Madrid: Sightseeing including the Plaza Espana and Cibeles Fountain plus a highlight visit to the famous Prado Museum.
• Toledo: Sightseeing includes visits to the Synagogue, Church of Santo Tomé and a steel workshop.
• Burgos: See the tomb of El Cid.
• Santander: Orientation tour.
• Bilbao: Photo stop at the Guggenheim Museum.
• San Sebastian: Orientation tour includes ''La Concha'' Bay.
• Pamplona: See the ancient streets where the bulls run.
• Zaragoza: View the Cathedral of El Pilar and La Seo.
• Barcelona: Sightseeing includes the Gothic Quarter, Gaudi''s ''Sagrada Familia'' and the Ramblas.
• Peñiscola: See the ancient castle used in the film ''El Cid''.
• Valencia: See the Cathedral and Serrano and Cuarte Towers.
• Granada: Sightseeing including a visit to the Alhambra Palace.
• Torremolinos: Stay in this famous holiday resort.
• Gibraltar: Visit the famous Rock.
• Seville: Sightseeing including the Bell Tower and Maria Luisa Park.
• Cordoba: Sightseeing including the Mezquita and medieval Synagogue.
• Scenic drives: Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains, the Cantabrian Cordillera, Montserrat Mountain, the Catalonian vineyards, Levant region, the Mora Pass, the Costa del Sol, Andalusia, Guadalquivir Valley and La Mancha.

• 1 Welcome Drink with your Tour Director in Madrid
• 14 Hot Buffet breakfasts
• 6 three-course dinners in hotels
• 1 local speciality restaurant dinner in Barcelona
• Farewell Dinner with wine in Madrid

• The services of one of Trafalgar''s top professional multi-lingual Tour Directors.
• A qualified local city guide in Madrid, Toledo, Barcelona, Granada, Seville and Cordoba.
• Chauffeur driven on Trafalgarís luxury air-conditioned coaches with onboard washroom.
• Stay in twin-bedded rooms with private facilities.
• All hotel service charges, tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes included.
• A stylish wallet, tour documents and map book journal.

• London Gateways: Transfers can be expensive, particularly between the Airport and central London. When you book your tour with Trafalgar your transfers to and from the airport are included. It''s that simple. Trafalgar has included a Free transfer to and from your airport and Central London.
• Important – Please Note: Passengers will only be entitled to transfers to and from London Airports providing the following conditions are met:
• You are staying at a London hotel, booked by Trafalgar, on the night of your arrival and the night prior to the date of your departure.
• Flights are either booked by Trafalgar or detailed information on flights is provided by your Travel Agent not less than 21 days prior to departure.
• Only one included transfer both inbound and outbound per tour is included by Trafalgar. Transfers are by express train to a Central London Rail Station.
• Only one included transfer both inbound and outbound per tour is included by Trafalgar. Transfers are by express train to a Central London Rail Station.
• Heathrow Airport: Inbound transfers operate between 06.00-21.30. Outbound transfers are timed to connect with scheduled flights departing between 08.00-23.00. Transfers will be by coach. Gatwick Airport: Inbound transfers operate between 06.00-12.30. Outbound transfers are timed to connect with scheduled flights departing between 08.00-23.00. Transfers will be by express train and coach. Transfers outside these times will be at the passengers own expense.
• In the event of unforeseen events (road or rail works, demonstrations, strikes) Trafalgar will not be held responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers.
• No refund is available for passengers not utilising this service.
• Why not upgrade to a Hotelink transfer from the Airport to-the-door of your Trafalgar London hotel? (please ask Trafalgar or your travel agent of the additional upgrade price per person when booking)
• European Gateways: With Trafalgar all passengers will receive complimentary arrival and departure transfers on the scheduled arrival and departure day of their tour at the times specified below. Please ensure your Travel Agent reserves your flight to co-ordinate with the transfer times shown.
• Trafalgar Bonus - Passengers who book Trafalgar''s Land+Air package and who arrive or depart outside of these specified times on the scheduled arrival and departure day of the tour will also be provided with a transfer.
• Passengers arriving before or leaving after the scheduled tour days are not entitled to a transfer but may book and purchase one through Trafalgar providing that they also purchase the additional pre and/or post tour hotel night(s) from Trafalgar. Please ask for prices of transfers at the time of booking your extra night accommodation.
• Land only passengers arriving or departing on the scheduled tour arrival or departure days but whose flights don''t coincide with the listed transfer times below may also book and purchase these transfers. Flight details must be provided to Trafalgar not less than 21 days before the flight departure.

• Day 1- Depart USA Overnight flight to Madrid
   
• Day 2 - Arrive Madrid (2 nights) On arrival at Madrid Airport you are met and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, you may wish to relax at your hotel or why not take an excursion to El Escorial? This evening we will enjoy a Welcome Drink with our Tour Director and travelling companions.
  
  Hotel: Holiday Inn (2 nights)
   
• Day 3 - Toledo Excursion & Madrid Sightseeing First we enjoy an included excursion to Toledo, capital of Castile. Here sightseeing with a local guide includes a visit to the Synagogue, the Church of Santo Tome and a steel workshop. Then we return to Madrid where our guided tour shows us the Plaza Espana, the Puerta del Sol, the Cibeles Fountain and Gran Via.This evening, perhaps dine in a restaurant on the Plaza Mayor. (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 4 - Madrid – Burgos – Santander This morning our journey takes us over the Guadarrama Mountains to El Cid''s city of Burgos, to see the gothic Cathedral. From here, we drive close to the Ebro, and over the Cantabrian Cordillera to the coast and sophisticated Santander for the night. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Santemar
   
• Day 5 - Santander - Bilbao - San Sebastian - Pamplona Today''s first stop is in Bilbao where there''s a chance to visit the new Guggenheim Museum before heading to seaside San Sebastian. On our arrival an orientation tour shows us the Bahia de la Concha beach, then on to Pamplona. Here we see the ancient streets and learn of the Festival of St. Firminius, when the bulls are left to run free through the town! (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: NH Iruna Park
   
• Day 6 - Pamplona - Zaragoza - Barcelona (2 nights) Today we return to the Ebro Valley, stopping at Zaragoza, where we see the Cathedral of El Pilar as well as the Cathedral La Seo. Then onto Barcelona where our Tour Director shows us a Hidden Treasure and we enjoy dinner in a typical restaurant. (Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Abba Sants (2 nights)
   
• Day 7 - Barcelona sightseeing & at leisure Our morning sightseeing tour with a local guide and audio system includes a walk through the Gothic Quarter with its impressive Cathedral. We also see Gaudi''s ''Sagrada Familia'' plus many of his other eccentric architectural masterpieces. Later, we''ll view Columbus'' Monument and the Ramblas. Then enjoy time at leisure in this sophisticated city, or perhaps an optional excursion to mystical Montserrat? (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 8 - Barcelona – Peñiscola – Valencia We drive past orange and almond orchards to Peniscola with its ancient castle. Then through the ëhuertasí to sunny Valencia where our orientation includes the Town Hall, the Bull Ring, the Towers of Serrano and Cuarte and the Cathedral. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Abba Acteon Plaza
   
• Day 9 - Valencia – Guadix – Granada This morning we travel inland to the ësierrasíand Guadix, stopping to view the troglodyte cave dwellings. From here we continue our journey via the jagged Mora Pass, as we make our way to the Moorish city of Granada. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Gran Luna de Granada
   
• Day 10 - Granada - Costa del Sol (2 nights) This morning after breakfast our sightseeing tour with a local guide and audio system visits the spectacular Alhambra Palace as well as the Generalife Gardens. After, we will continue to the coast, and our hotel for two nights, in the Costa del Sol with its long beaches, stopping in the resort of Torremolinos. (Buffet Breakfast)
  
  Hotel: Melia Costa del Sol (2 nights)
   
• Day 11 - Costa del Sol at leisure After breakfast you can enjoy a full day at leisure perhaps to relax! Or you may wish to shop for souvenirs in the old town of Torremolinos, lie on the beach and soak up the sunshine or maybe take an optional excursion to the white-washed village of Mijas. Your evening is at leisure. (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 12 - Costa del Sol – Seville (2 nights) This morning we enjoy a scenic drive past the exciting millionaire''s resort of Marbella and on to La Linea. Later, we cross to the Rock of Gibraltar, with plenty of time for duty-free shopping before continuing through the Jerez countryside. Finally, we arrive in the Andalusian capital of Seville for two nights. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Tryp Macarena (2 nights)
   
• Day 13 - Seville sightseeing & at leisure This morning after breakfast we will drive through the tree-lined streets of Seville and enjoy a sightseeing tour with audio system including the Bell Tower and weather vane of the Giralda. We''ll also see the pools and fountains of the Maria Luisa Park and Christopher Columbus'' tomb and continue with a walk through the Jewish quarter. Tonight, why not experience a little Spanish passion at a fiery Flamenco show? (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 14 - Seville – Cordoba Today along the Guadalquivir Valley, we travel to the Roman founded city of Cordoba. Here our sightseeing including audio system this afternoon features the Mezquita, a former Moorish Mosque, now hosting Cordoba''s main Cathedral and also a visit to the medieval synagogue. Before dinner, there''s time for relaxation and exploration of the city on your own. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Occidental
   
• Day 15 - Cordoba – Madrid Today we cross La Mancha to Puerto Lapice where, according to tradition, Don Quixote was dubbed Knight by the local innkeeper. Next we drive back to Madrid where a local guide takes us on a visit to the world-famous Prado Museum to admire the paintings of Velazquez and Goya among the many fine works displayed (audio system included). Then there''s time perhaps to enjoy some last minute shopping. This evening, join your Tour Director and travelling companions for a Farewell Dinner. (Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Agumar
   
• Day 16 - Madrid - USA Time to bid farewell to new-found friends as we transfer you to the airport for your return flight to America. (Buffet Breakfast)

• Toledo: Sightseeing including the Jewish Synagogue and El Greco masterpiece.
• Granada: Sightseeing including a visit to the Alhambra Palace.
• Fez: Sightseeing including a walking tour of the Medina.
• Marrakesh: Sightseeing includes Djemma Square and visits the Bahia Palace. Stop for mint tea at a Moroccan tea-house.
• Casablanca: Sightseeing tour includes the New Mosque.
• Rabat: Sightseeing including the Royal Palace, Mausoleum and Royal Mosque.
• Tangier: Sightseeing tour including Cape Spartel.
• Gibraltar: See the famous Rock.
• Seville: Sightseeing tour including Christopher Columbus'' tomb.
• Lisbon: Sightseeing including the Hieronymite Monastery.
• Fatima: Visit the celebrated religious shrine.
• Salamanca: See the Plaza Mayor.
• Avila: See the city of St. Theresa.
• Madrid: Sightseeing including views of the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol and Cervantes Monument.
• Scenic drives over the Sierra Nevada mountains, Costa del Sol, foothills of the Atlas mountains, North African coastal drive, Sierra d''Aire mountains and the Sierra de Guadarrama.
• Where Trafalgar considers that our excellent audio system will enhance the commentary made by our local guides, making your tour of a city clearer and more entertaining, it will be included.

• 1 Welcome Drink with your Tour Director in Madrid
• 15 hot Buffet breakfasts
• 6 three-course dinners
• 1 speciality dinner in Seville

• The services of one of Trafalgar''s top professional multi-lingual Tour Directors.
• A qualified local city guide in Toledo, Granada, Fez, Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Seville, Lisbon and Madrid.
• Chauffeur driven on Trafalgar''s luxury air-conditioned coaches with onboard washroom.
• First Class ferry crossing between Spain and Morocco.
• Madrid Airport Transfers will be provided on Days 1 and 16.
• You''ll stay in twin-bedded rooms with private facilities.
• All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes included.
• A stylish wallet, tour documents and map book journal.

• London Gateways: Transfers can be expensive, particularly between the Airport and central London. When you book your tour with Trafalgar your transfers to and from the airport are included. It''s that simple. Trafalgar has included a Free transfer to and from your airport and Central London.
• Important – Please Note: Passengers will only be entitled to transfers to and from London Airports providing the following conditions are met:
• You are staying at a London hotel, booked by Trafalgar, on the night of your arrival and the night prior to the date of your departure.
• Flights are either booked by Trafalgar or detailed information on flights is provided by your Travel Agent not less than 21 days prior to departure.
• Only one included transfer both inbound and outbound per tour is included by Trafalgar. Transfers are by express train to a Central London Rail Station.
• Heathrow Airport: Inbound transfers operate between 06.00-21.30. Outbound transfers are timed to connect with scheduled flights departing between 08.00-23.00. Transfers will be by coach. Gatwick Airport: Inbound transfers operate between 06.00-12.30. Outbound transfers are timed to connect with scheduled flights departing between 08.00-23.00. Transfers will be by express train and coach. Transfers outside these times will be at the passengers own expense.
• In the event of unforeseen events (road or rail works, demonstrations, strikes) Trafalgar will not be held responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers.
• No refund is available for passengers not utilising this service.
• Why not upgrade to a Hotelink transfer from the Airport to-the-door of your Trafalgar London hotel? (please ask Trafalgar or your travel agent of the additional upgrade price per person when booking)
• European Gateways: With Trafalgar all passengers will receive complimentary arrival and departure transfers on the scheduled arrival and departure day of their tour at the times specified below. Please ensure your Travel Agent reserves your flight to co-ordinate with the transfer times shown.
• Trafalgar Bonus - Passengers who book Trafalgar''s Land+Air package and who arrive or depart outside of these specified times on the scheduled arrival and departure day of the tour will also be provided with a transfer.
• Passengers arriving before or leaving after the scheduled tour days are not entitled to a transfer but may book and purchase one through Trafalgar providing that they also purchase the additional pre and/or post tour hotel night(s) from Trafalgar. Please ask for prices of transfers at the time of booking your extra night accommodation.
• Land only passengers arriving or departing on the scheduled tour arrival or departure days but whose flights don''t coincide with the listed transfer times below may also book and purchase these transfers. Flight details must be provided to Trafalgar not less than 21 days before the flight departure.

• Day 1- Depart USA Overnight flight to Madrid.
   
• Day 2 - Arrive Madrid You are met at Madrid airport and transferred to your hotel. Time to relax or explore this lively Spanish capital. Later, enjoy a Welcome Drink with your Tour Director and fellow travelling companions.
  
  Hotel: Rafael Orense
   
• Day 3 - Madrid - Toledo - Granada This morning after breakfast we travel to Toledo, capital of Castile. On our arrival a guided walking tour highlights the Jewish Synagogue and more. Next into Andalusia to hilltop Granada with its views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This evening dinner is included at our hotel. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Alhamar
   
• Day 4 - Granada – Costa del Sol (Marbella) Our morning sightseeing tour visits the exquisite Alhambra Palace, Spain''s most beautiful Moorish building and former residence of the Moorish kings. Then on to the centre of the Costa del Sol where tonight, you may wish to sample the nightlife of this lively beach resort area. (Buffet Breakfast)
  
  Hotel: NH Marbella
   
• Day 5 - Costa del Sol (Marbella) – Fez (2 nights) We begin with a Mediterranean coastal drive to Algeciras for the crossing to North Africa. We continue into a different world as we enter Morocco, driving past the Rif Mountains to the Imperial city of Fez and the first of our six-night stay in Africa! (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Crown Palace (2 nights)
   
• Day 6 - Fez sightseeing & at leisure Today''s morning sightseeing tour shows us the fascinating labyrinthine Medina plus the Royal Palace. Later, enjoy the atmosphere of this exotic city with time to haggle over beautiful Moroccan carpets - an everlasting souvenir! This afternoon time is your own to do as you please. Tonight, why not enjoy some typical Moroccan cuisine and watch some expert belly dancing? (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 7 - Fez - Marrakesh (2 nights) Today we drive through the foothills of the Atlas Mountains to Marrakesh for two nights, Africa''s most popular year-round sun resort. It was once the favourite holiday spot of Sir Winston Churchill. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Ryad Mogador Menara (2 nights)
   
• Day 8 - Marrakesh sightseeing & at leisure Our walking tour with the local guide using our audio system visits the Bahia Palace and stops at the vast Djemma Square with its palm-readers, acrobats, camels, markets and more. Here we stop for some mint tea in a typical Moroccan tea–house before bargain hunting in the souks and bazaars or maybe take an excursion to a Berber village. Tonight, why not enjoy a Moroccan show? (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 9 - Marrakesh - Casablanca Today we drive to Casablanca, scene of Bogart''s most magical moments and some of North Africa''s best beaches. Here our sightseeing tour shows us the panoramas to be enjoyed from the Corniche, views the Mosque and the modern section of the city. Then we visit the Casbah, to explore its maze of twisted streets. Later time to explore this romantic city and its associations with Humphrey Bogart. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Sheraton
   
• Day 10 - Casablanca – Rabat – Tangier We drive along the Atlantic Coast to Rabat, capital of this fascinating country. Here we enjoy an orientation featuring the Royal Mosque, Mausoleum and Royal Palace. Then on to Tangier, where an orientation shows us the city''s highlights and the area where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean Sea. (Buffet Breeakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Rif
   
• Day 11 - Tangier - Seville (2 nights) A morning ferry cruise across the Straits of Gibraltar, with views of the famous Rock. We disembark and join our coach for our journey through Jerez vineyards to beautiful Seville. Tonight, after dinner, why not experience a fiery Flamenco show? (Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Tryp Macarena (2 nights)
   
• Day 12 - Seville sightseeing & at leisure Our morning sightseeing with audio system in this romantic city highlights the Giralda Tower along with the pools and fountains of the Maria Luisa Park, the Cathedral and Columbus'' tomb. We will also enjoy a walk through the Jewish quarter. (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 13 - Seville - Lisbon (2 nights) Today our Tour Director will show us a Hidden Treasure! But first we travel through the ''Jabugo'' producing region of Spain and past the castle at Aracena to the Alentejo region of Portugal, with its many cork forests. Soon, we arrive in Lisbon, the capital, for our two nights stay. (Buffet Breakfast)
  
  Hotel: Marriott (2 nights)
   
• Day 14 - Lisbon sightseeing & at leisure Morning sightseeing with audio system highlights the medieval quarter, Vasco da Gama''s tomb inside the Hieronymite Monastery, plus views of the Belem Tower and includes a walking tour of the colourful Alfama district. The rest of your day is at leisure, perhaps to shop for pottery and fishermen''s sweaters in Cascais. Tonight a Portuguese seafood dinner by the Tagus River is our suggestion. (Buffet Breakfast)
   
• Day 15 - Lisbon – Fatima – Salamanca Today we enjoy a scenic drive through the Serra d''Aire Mountains, arriving at the Shrine at Fatima, scene of celebrated religious miracles. Then we cross the border back into Spain to Salamanca where an orientation shows us the Plaza Mayor. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Stil
   
• Day 16 - Salamanca – Avila – Madrid After breakfast our first stop is at Avila, birthplace of St. Theresa, to see its mighty fortifications. From here we continue past the Sierra de Guadarrama back to Madrid for the final night of our tour. Here our sightseeing tour using our audio system features views of the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol and Cervantes Memorial. This evening join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner. (Buffet Breakfast, Farewell Dinner)
  
  Hotel: Rafael Orense
   
• Day 17 - Madrid - USA Time to bid farewell to new-found friends as we transfer you to the airport for your return flight to America. (Buffet Breakfast)

• Escorted by a professional Tour Director Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 17

Quality Dining

• Highlight Dinner featuring a Flamenco Show in Seville (HD)
• 15 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 6 three-course table d’hôte Dinners,or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

17 Days ~ Spain ~ Portugal

Tour Pace
This tour moves at a comfortable leisurely pace with five two-night stays in Lisbon, Seville, the Costa del Sol, Barcelona & Madrid and overnight stays in the four other cities. Driving days are not too long and with frequent stops.

DAY 1 – FRI – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Madrid.

DAY 2 – SAT – MADRID AT LEISURE
Welcome to Madrid! There are complimentary transfers from Madrid Airport to your tour hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax or to begin exploring this vibrant city. Enjoy a Welcome Drink with your Tour Director as night falls.
Hotel: Melia Galgos.

DAY 3 – SUN – MADRID – SALAMANCA
Drive to Toledo, former capital of Spain, to see the 13th century Cathedral and one of Europe’s oldest synagogues, as well as the El Greco masterpiece in the chapel of Santo Tomé. Later, pass the ancient walls of St Teresa’s town of Avila en route to the ‘golden’ city of Salamanca. Before reaching your hotel, see the handsome arcaded Plaza Mayor and honey-colored cathedral.
Hotel: Alameda Palace. (BB,D)

DAY 4 – MON – SALAMANCA – OPORTO
Cross the Portuguese border to reach Oporto, celebrated internationally as the Port wine capital. With your Tour Director, see the Vila Nova de Gaia wine stores which house the famous port wines. Also admire the multi-colored houses and churches covered in glazed tiles.
Hotel: Le Meridien Park Atlantic. (BB,D)

DAY 5 – TUE – OPORTO – LISBON
Head south to Fatima to join the pilgrims flocking into the great Basilica. Continue to Batalha to visit the Royal Chapel in the Gothic monastery before driving to the old walled town of Obidos to explore the medieval streets. Later, continue to Lisbon.
Hotel: Marriott. (BB)

DAY 6 – WED – LISBON SIGHTSEEING
Today’s sightseeing with a local guide shows you Sao Jorge Castle, the Monument to the Discoveries and the Belem Tower. Later, visit Jeronimo’s Monastery with its superbly ornate cloister. The afternoon is at leisure to explore at your own pace. (BB)

DAY 7 – THU – LISBON – SEVILLE
Leave Lisbon via the modern Tagus Bridge and cross the border to reach Seville. A tour with a local guide includes the immense 15th century Cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus, and the slender Giralda Tower. Tour the fashionable Santa Cruz Quarter with its flower-decked wrought iron balconies and see the Alcazar. Enjoy a Highlight Dinner and entertainment featuring a fiery Flamenco show.
Hotel: Melia Lebreros. (BB,HD)

DAY 8 – FRI – SEVILLE AT LEISURE
The day is yours to relax, explore or continue sightseeing. Why not take an optional excursion to Cordoba to visit the magnificent Mezquita? Afterwards, consider enjoying a typical Sevilliano dinner at a local restaurant. (BB)

DAY 9 – SAT – SEVILLE – COSTA DEL SOL
Head south to Gibraltar, attached to Spain, yet an independent colony under British control since 1704. There’s time to explore the shops or take a trip to the top of the Rock to see St Michael’s Cave. Later, take the scenic route along the Costa del Sol to your hotel.
Hotel: Melia Costa del Sol. (BB,D)

DAY 10 – SUN – MIJAS EXCURSION
A leisurely drive through green hills above the Costa del Sol leads to the white-washed village of Mijas. There is time to stroll through the old streets and pleasant gardens and take in the views of the Mediterranean coast. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the Costa del Sol. (BB,D)

DAY 11 – MON – COSTA DEL SOL – GRANADA
See some of Spain’s most exclusive resorts before turning inland to Granada, capital of the Moorish Kingdom of Spain until the Moors’ defeat in 1492. Visit the Alhambra Palace, a complex of magnificent buildings begun by the Moors and built over the centuries. Sightseeing includes the famous Lion Court as well as the exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the royal summer residence, where you can relax in the sun and enjoy the fine views over the town.
Hotel: Saray. (BB,D)

DAY 12 – TUE – GRANADA – VALENCIA
Drive over the Mora Pass, enjoying views over the Sierra Nevada en route. Pass through palm forests and lemon groves as you travel to Valencia. On an orientation tour, see the Generalidad Palace, El Miguelete Cathedral, gates of Serranos, Cuarte and the modern Centre for Arts and Sciences before checking into your hotel.
Hotel: Husa Reina Victoria. (BB,D)

DAY 13 – WED – VALENCIA – BARCELONA
Follow the coast to Peñìscola to view the sea-lapped castle used in the film El Cid. Continue along the Costa Dorada (Gold Coast) to Barcelona. A local guide will show you the Gothic Quarter, where you will visit the cathedral and view the lively Ramblas. Tour the modern Eixample District to see Gaudi’s famed Sagrada Familia church. As night falls, why not dine out ‘Catalan style’?
Hotel: Melia. (BB)

DAY 14 – THU – BARCELONA AT LEISURE
The day is free for you to explore this vibrant city. Take an optional excursion to the great Monastery of Montserrat to see the Black Madonna and enjoy the fine views. (BB)

DAY 15 – FRI – BARCELONA – MADRID
Pass the city of Zaragoza in the province of Aragón as you make your way along the Jalón Valley, past Guadalajara and back to Madrid.
Hotel: NH Abascal. (BB)

DAY 16 – SAT – MADRID SIGHTSEEING
A guided sightseeing tour takes you along the Gran Via and Paseo de la Castellana. See the Cervantes Monument in the Plaza España, the Puerta del Sol and Madrid’s most famous fountain in the Plaza de la Cibeles. Visit the Prado Museum to admire the paintings of Velázquez and Goya. Perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening with your fellow passengers. (BB)

DAY 17 – SUN – RETURN TO USA
The tour ends with transfers to the airport. (BB)