Southern Spain

Today we gather in Toronto for our direct flight to Madrid.

Touching down in Madrid, our Spanish journey begins with a transfer to the historic city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” its winding streets reflect centuries of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage. Stepping through its medieval gates, our guided walk highlights the 1226 Cathedral of Toledo, a stunning Gothic masterpiece. We also explore the historic Jewish Quarter and bustling Plaza de Zocodover before settling into our hotel to relax before our welcome dinner. 

Hotel Parador Toledo - 1 night

We head to Córdoba today, but first we stop at the iconic Consuegra windmills, made famous by Miguel de Cervantes’ classic novel, Don Quixote. Dating from the 16th century, these picturesque windmills are among Spain’s most recognizable landmarks. We enjoy an authentic Manchego cheese tasting
paired with local produce and regional wine before continuing to Córdoba. 

Hotel TBD - 2 nights

Córdoba is one of Andalusia’s most historic cities. We tour its UNESCO-listed Historic Centre, wandering narrow streets steeped in centuries of history. We continue with a stop at the Mosque-Cathedral, an iconic landmark and symbol of the many cultures that have shaped the city over time.

A short drive takes us to Sevilla. Our visit begins with a walk of the Old Town and the Jewish Quarter, once home to one of Spain’s largest Jewish communities. Stepping into the Alcazar Palace, we marvel at one of the official residences of the Spanish royal family. Nearby, we discover the Cathedral and its striking Giralda Tower, beautifully preserving its origins as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Sevilla. To end the day, we dine aboard a relaxing river cruise, taking in views of the city. 

Hotel Inglaterra - 2 nights

Delve into the art and tradition behind Spain’s prized Pata Negra ham with an immersive tasting experience. The rest of the day is at leisure. 

Jerez de la Frontera is a vibrant city renowned for its Sherry and we will not leave without sampling it. Today we visit a bodega to enjoy a tasting paired with an authentic regional meal. 

Sherry Park Hotel - 1 night 

Before we reach Málaga, we stop by the historic town of Ronda. This clifftop town sits above the deep El Tajo gorge. The gorge is connected by the Puente Nuevo bridge, which was completed in 1793. Ronda is also home to the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, built in 1785. We pause to discover Andalusia’s historic white villages along the way. 

H10 CROMA - 2 nights

Today is dedicated to exploring the historic coastal gem of Málaga. We explore the city landmarks alongside sites dedicated to its most famous son. At the Picasso Museum, we admire his masterpieces, then we head to Plaza de la Merced to see the artist’s childhood home. In the evening, we savour a seaside dinner featuring traditional espetos, sardines grilled to perfection over an open flame, a beachside tradition of Málaga.

En route to Granada, we stop at the Antequera Dolmens, an extraordinary UNESCO site. It features some of the largest and best-preserved megalithic monuments dating back to the Neolithic period. For lunch, we continue to a caviar farm for a unique tasting experience. 

Áurea Catedral - 2 nights 

We begin the morning with a guided tour of the Alhambra, a breathtaking fortress and UNESCO site. Built primarily during the Nasrid dynasty in the 13th and 14th centuries, the complex includes the beautifully detailed Nasrid Palaces, renowned for their exquisite royal chambers. After our magical time at the Alhambra, we will indulge in a hands-on olive oil masterclass, complete with tasting and a private lunch. (BL)

Travel in comfort aboard a high-speed train to Madrid. Upon arrival, we take a panoramic city drive along the UNESCO-listed Paseo del Prado, showcasing the 1778 neoclassical Puerta de Alcalá and Retiro Park’s former royal grounds. We admire the 18th-century Cibeles Fountain, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, and elegant Castellana Avenue. Passing the Prado Museum area, we view a district celebrated for masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Afterward, we check in with some time to relax before dinner. 

Emperador Hotel - 2 nights 

We step into the historic heart of the city at Puerta del Sol, Spain’s bustling public square and the starting point for its six major highways. Our guided walk explores the elegant Madrid de las Austrias quarter. Here, we admire Plaza Mayor, before discovering the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace of Madrid, western Europe’s largest functioning royal residence. Following a free afternoon, we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner and soulful Flamenco show. 

All too soon, our Spanish journey comes to an end as we transfer to the airport for our direct flight home.