12-day tour around Andalusia and Portugal from Madrid

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

Greca Tip: As in any other large city, the center of Madrid offers a diverse variety of gastronomic venues to suit all tastes, where you can taste the traditional local tapas.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you will make your way to the train station to begin our journey to Cordoba.

Our high-speed train is scheduled to depart around 11:00 a.m. (time to be confirmed). In less than two hours and reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h, we will arrive in Cordoba, the former capital of the Caliphate during the Islamic period. You will have free time to stroll through the historic center and enjoy lunch at your own pace.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a guided tour with a local expert of the iconic Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba (admission included), a true masterpiece that blends Islamic heritage with Christian art. We will also explore the charming Jewish Quarter, known for its narrow streets and flower-filled courtyards—authentic symbols of the city.

At nightfall, between June 21 and September 20, when the palatial city of Medina Azahara opens to the public, we will enjoy a nighttime visit to this impressive archaeological site (admission included). During the rest of the year, or if the visit is not possible, we will extend our panoramic tour to include one of Córdoba’s most emblematic patios (admission included).

Greca Tip: To complete your experience, don’t miss the chance to try salmorejo cordobés at one of the traditional taverns in the old town. A refreshing delight with centuries of history!

After enjoying breakfast, we’ll set off toward Baena, traveling through vast stretches of olive groves that define the Andalusian landscape. This town, with Roman roots, is internationally known for its high-quality olive oil. We will visit the historic Núñez de Prado Olive Mill, one of the oldest in the Mediterranean, located in an 18th-century building. There, we’ll learn about the traditional oil production process and enjoy a tasting of the classic “bread with olive oil.”

We’ll then continue our journey to Granada, a renowned Andalusian city famous for the magnificent Alhambra (admission and guided tour included), a stunning palace complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch will be included during the day.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your own pace. You may choose to visit the Cathedral, wander through the charming Albaicín district, or simply enjoy the spectacular views of the Alhambra from one of its scenic viewpoints.

Greca Tip: Don’t leave Granada without trying a traditional tapa with a drink in one of the local bars. A flavorful and authentic experience you won’t forget!

We begin the day with a delicious breakfast. Today, we embark on a journey filled with unforgettable landscapes as we cross the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range. Later, we’ll continue our route along the Tropical Coast, a privileged stretch of the Mediterranean where the mild year-round climate allows for the cultivation of exotic fruits like guavas, mangoes, and avocados. In earlier times, this area was also known for its sugarcane fields.

We will make a stop in Nerja, a charming seaside village known for its breathtaking cliffs and its laid-back coastal atmosphere. Next, we’ll visit Frigiliana, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, with its steep cobbled streets and whitewashed houses decorated with flowers—a true Andalusian gem that invites you to explore every enchanting corner.

We continue to Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol. This vibrant city, birthplace of Picasso and renowned for its wide variety of museums, is also home to the unique cathedral known as La Manquita, the “one-armed lady,” missing one of its towers. You will have free time to enjoy lunch, stroll through the lively historic center, or, if the weather allows, head to the beach for a swim in the Mediterranean.

Greca Tip: For a truly authentic culinary experience, try espeto de sardinas—sardines grilled over a wood fire—at one of the beachside chiringuitos. A delicious local tradition full of seaside flavor!

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will embark on one of the most beautiful stages of the trip, discovering the charm of the White Villages and the Andalusian mountain ranges.

We depart early towards Puerto Banús in Marbella, one of Spain's most exclusive marinas, famous for its luxurious yachts and high-fashion boutiques. You will have time to stroll along its elegant seafront promenade. Our journey continues to Setenil de las Bodegas, a breathtaking white village with homes built into the rock, creating a unique landscape. We will continue to Ronda, a picturesque city perched above the stunning Tajo Gorge. You will have free time to explore the historic center before enjoying a typical Andalusian lunch (included). Then, we will visit its iconic bullring (entrance included), one of the oldest and most monumental in Spain.

In the afternoon, we will arrive in Jerez de la Frontera, where we recommend strolling through the charming historic center and indulging in tapas at the traditional tabancos, local taverns.

Greca Tip: If you want to fully immerse yourself in Jerez’s authentic culture, don't miss trying a glass of fino paired with Iberian ham at a tabanco, accompanied by live flamenco music. An unforgettable experience for all the senses!

After breakfast, we will find ourselves in the heart of Andalusia, in Jerez, a city known for its wine tradition, equestrian culture, and flamenco art. We will start the day with a visit to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art (entrance included), where we will explore the Carriage Museum and witness the training of the majestic Andalusian horses. Before we leave Jerez, we will make a brief stop to photograph the exterior of the Arab Alcázar, a historical gem.

We will continue our journey to El Puerto de Santa María, renowned for its exquisite wines and seafood. Here, we will visit the Osborne Wineries (entrance and tasting included), where we will immerse ourselves in the region's winemaking tradition. After some free time to enjoy the place, we will board a boat to Cádiz, on a journey of about half an hour. In this city, one of the oldest in Europe, we will have free time to discover its impressive cathedral and charming historic center.

In the afternoon, we will cross the magnificent bridge to Seville, where we will arrive at the end of the day.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss trying a glass of Jerez, the drink that gives the city its fame, and enjoy it with a plate of traditional fried fish in one of the local bars in Jerez. A truly authentic Andalusian experience!

We begin the day with a delicious breakfast. After that, we head to Itálica (entrance included), an ancient Roman city where emperors Trajan and Hadrian were born. We will visit its impressive amphitheater, which could hold 25,000 spectators, as well as its baths and mosaics, which still preserve part of their splendor.

Next, we head to Palos de la Frontera, the place where Columbus's ships set sail for America in 1492. We will visit the Monastery of La Rábida, where Columbus found support for his historic expedition, and the Muelle de las Carabelas (entrance included), where replicas of the famous ships are displayed. There will be free time for lunch in Huelva.

In the afternoon, we continue along the Atlantic coast, near the Doñana National Park, one of Europe's most important natural reserves. We will stop at El Rocío, a picturesque village famous for its pilgrimage and rural atmosphere, where we will visit its sanctuary and enjoy spectacular views of Doñana. We will return to Seville at the end of the day.

Greca Tip: Take the opportunity to try the local cuisine in El Rocío, such as "papas aliñás," a refreshing and tasty dish that perfectly represents Andalusian tradition.

After a delicious breakfast, we will begin the day with a comprehensive panoramic tour of Seville, the capital of Andalusia and one of the most enchanting cities in Spain. Accompanied by your guide, you will discover the main treasures of this historic city: the imposing Cathedral of Seville—one of the largest in the world—and its iconic Giralda, a symbol of architectural fusion between cultures.

We will also stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir River, witness to many great historical events, and wander through the picturesque neighborhoods of Santa Cruz, with its flower-filled alleyways, and Triana, birthplace of artists and flamenco tradition.

Next, we invite you to enjoy a truly unique experience: a boat ride along the Guadalquivir, offering a privileged perspective of some of Seville’s most iconic monuments.

In the evening, if you wish, you may attend an optional flamenco show at a traditional tablao, where you’ll experience the passion and intensity of Andalusian art in an unforgettable performance of music, singing, and dance.

Greca Tip: At sunset, take a stroll through the María Luisa Park gardens, and don’t miss a visit to the Plaza de España, especially stunning when lit up at night—perfect for capturing memorable photos.

We will start the day with a delicious breakfast before setting off through the serene landscapes of rolling hills and pastures that define the region of Extremadura. Our first stop will be in Merida, where we include admission to the Archaeological Ensemble—home to the remarkably well-preserved Roman Theater and Amphitheater, both declared World Heritage Sites. You will have time to explore the vibrant historic center, enjoy lunch, and soak in the charm of this culturally rich city.

In the afternoon, we will cross into Portugal and make a stop in Évora, another jewel declared a World Heritage Site. Its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, Renaissance palaces, and imposing cathedral invite you to take a step back in time. We’ll continue our journey and reach Lisbon by the evening.

Greca Tip: In Evora, if time allows, don’t miss the chance to taste a "pastel de nata" in one of the local cafés—a sweet treat that perfectly captures the flavor of Portugal.

We’ll start the day with a delicious breakfast before setting off on a panoramic tour of Lisbon, the charming Portuguese capital known as the city of seven hills. We’ll stroll through its narrow streets decorated with colorful tiles, filled with saudade and bathed in the unique light of the Atlantic. We’ll also visit the iconic district of Belém, from where the great Portuguese navigators set sail to explore the world in the 15th century.

You will have the afternoon free to explore the city at your own pace. We suggest visiting the Bairro Alto and taking in the breathtaking views from its famous lookout points. If you wish, you can join an optional excursion to the picturesque towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. In the evening, we’ll return from the lively Restauradores Square—brimming with local cafés and bars—back to the hotel.

Greca Tip: While in Belém, don’t miss the chance to try the famous pastéis de nata fresh from the oven. A classic Portuguese treat that delights every palate!

We begin the day with a hearty breakfast before saying farewell to Portugal and setting off towards Spain.

We’ll travel through the charming region of Alentejo, known for its golden fields and traditional villages. We will make a brief stop for coffee in Estremoz, a picturesque Portuguese town featuring a medieval castle, cobblestone streets, and a tranquil atmosphere that reflects the country’s authentic character.

After crossing the border, we will arrive in Cáceres, where you will have free time to enjoy lunch and stroll through its impressive old town, considered one of the best-preserved medieval and Renaissance urban complexes in the world.

In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Madrid, arriving at the end of the day.

Greca Tip: If you wish to bid farewell to the journey with one last unforgettable flavor, we recommend trying “migas extremeñas” in Cáceres — a traditional dish that captures the essence of western Spain’s rustic cuisine.

After a tasty breakfast, you will be transferred to Madrid Airport for your return flight, and the tour will come to an end.

Having spent a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to help create and enjoy some more wonderful moments that you will cherish forever!

Have a nice trip! Or, as Spanish people say: "¡Buen viaje!".

Greca Tip: Extend your stay in Madrid at Step 1 of your reservation, to continue discovering this amazing city!