18-Day Landscapes of Spain, Southern France Tour from Madrid: Merida, Seville, Bacelona, Carcassone, Nimes, Avignon, Cote d´Azur, Milan, Garda Lake | Welcome Tapas Dinner/Farewell Dinner | Free Airport Pick-up & Drop-off Service

What you'll experience

Highlights

18 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Madrid

   Meet & greet at the airport and take a private transfer to your hotel. At 19:00, meet with your Tour Director at the hotel's Reception Desk for a welcome meeting. You will also meet your journey's fellow travellers. Your TD will give you all relevant details of the city and will inform of the schedule for the following day. And start your adventure! Rest of the day is at leisure. Accommodation at your hotel.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Barcelo Torre de Madrid 5*(Plaza de España, 18)
2. 2

   Day 2 — Madrid (Mapping In-Depth)

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel.
   Set out for morning city discovery and enjoy one the most exciting cities in the world,
   Madrid. See the highlights and live the passion this city has on its DNA.
   Afternoon at leisure to continue exploring the wonders that the city has to offer. 
   Mapping in-depth. Optionally, take an excursion to Toledo, capital of the Spanish Kingdom for centuries, and the center of many cultures. Learn about the more than 2000 years of history of Toledo. We will discover how Jews, Christians and Muslims lived together in the so-called City of the Three Cultures and we will see how this past influenced Toledo's architectural style.  Strolling through the cobbled and steep streets of Toledo we will see buildings and landmarks such as the Plaza de Zocodover, the Alcazar or the Cathedral, the thirteenth century. In addition, we will access the interior of this important temple to know it in depth.
   In the early evening, join your fellow travellers for an authentic Welcome Tapas Dinner at a local restaurant.
    

   

   Toledo city

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Barcelo Torre de Madrid 5*(Plaza de España, 18)
3. 3

   Day 3 — Madrid - Merida - Seville (Mapping in-depth)

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Depart southwards to Merida, our first destination of the day. Merida, the capital of Extremadura, in western Spain, was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. There still remain of the ancient city, such as the spectacular Roman Theatre (entrance included). Enjoy some time at leisure. Continue towards Seville, the famous Andalusian capital, and the Spanish city of light.
   Mapping in-depth: Tapas Tour in Sevilla Optionally, delve into an authentic tapas experience as you navigate the charming streets of Seville, including the lively Barrio de Triana. Explore traditional tabernas known for their diverse tapas selections, soaking in the vibrant evening atmosphere of this iconic Andalusian city. Discover the rich culinary heritage and social tradition that make Seville's tapas scene a must-experience for visitors. Accommodation at your hotel.
    
    
    

   

   Teatro Romano de Mérida

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: NH Collection Sevilla 4*(Avenida Diego Martínez Barrio 8)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Seville

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel.
   Today you'll explore romantic Seville on a city tour. Visit the city's Jewish Quarter, with its labyrinth of narrow streets dating to the time of Moorish rule. Afternoon is at leisure for you to enjoy the city of light.
   Mapping In-Depth: Jerez de la Frontera. Optionally, immerse yourself in the cultural essence of Andalusia with our optional excursion to Jerez de la Frontera, a historical gem known for its vibrant equestrian legacy and exquisite wine tradition. This unique experience will take you to the heart of Jerez, where the aroma of wine and the sound of horse hooves echo through the cobblestone streets of the city. Begin your adventure by enjoying the charming old town of Jerez, where you will discover Gothic and Baroque architecture that adorns the city. The day will continue at one of Jerez's most prestigious wineries, where the secrets of local winemaking will be revealed. Learn about the complex production of the famous sherry and enjoy a professional tasting that will delight your palate with various varieties. Conclude your experience with a visit to an equestrian exhibition. In a setting that seems taken from a painting, you will attend an exciting demonstration of classical Andalusian dressage. Accommodation at your hotel.
    

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: NH Collection Sevilla 4*(Avenida Diego Martínez Barrio 8)
5. 5

   Day 5 — Seville - Córdoba - Granada

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel.
   Depart to Cordoba, a landmark of enormous heritage from a splendorous past. You´ll visit its impressive Mosque, now a Christian Cathedral, and its narrow Arabian-style streets. Bond for Granada, most magic city in Spain, driving through endless olive oil groves. In the early evening, join your fellow travelers to experience the most authentic Gypsy Flamenco show in Spain, including dinner. An evening not to forget. Accommodation at your hotel.
    

   

   Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Occidental Granad 4*(Calle Alhamar, 46)
6. 6

   Day 6 — Granada

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel.
   Today's highlight will be the visit to Alhambra Palace, most special Spanish World Heritage Site. The ornately decorated domes and archways are a testament to the brilliance of Moorish craftsmen. Located on a hilltop on the west bank of the River Darro, it also offers views across the entire city. Rest of the day at leisure.
   Mapping In-Depth: Albaicin Moorish experience. Optionally, walk the Albaicín, a real experience through Arabian Granada. A journey from Islam to Christianity in which we show the exciting transformation of such a mythical city. Walking through the Albaicín is to explore the history of Granada, from Islam to Christianity, you will contemplate the city from its imposing viewpoints, we will see old mosques converted into churches, old palaces, artisan workshops, we will visit one of the old Moorish houses and we will have the opportunity to try the celebrated Arab pastry having tea and a sweet in a typical Granada teashop. We will finish our tour of contrasts in the Royal Chapel, a jewel of the late Gothic, built by the Catholic Monarchs. Accommodation at your hotel.
    

   

   Alhambra Palace

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Occidental Granad 4*(Calle Alhamar, 46)
7. 7

   Day 7 — Granada - Ubeda - Valencia

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel.
   Today, we will depart towards the enchanting town of Úbeda, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its Renaissance architecture and deep historical roots. As we explore this hidden gem, you'll have the opportunity to taste the town's famous Extra Virgin Olive Oil, often referred to as "liquid gold," during a local tasting session. This experience will be complemented by a light lunch, allowing you to savor the rich flavors of the region. After immersing yourself in the cultural and culinary delights of Úbeda, we continue our journey towards Valencia, where the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean awaits. Accommodation at your hotel.
    

   Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Ac Valencia 4*(Avda. De Frnacia, 67)
8. 8

   Day 8 — Valencia - Barcelona

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Today you'll explore Valencia´s old town and the exterior of the most avant-garde complex: Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Continue your journey in the early afternoon towards Catalunya. Reach Barcelona, main Mediterranean Spanish city and home to world famous architect Gaudí, symbol of the Catalonian modernism. Accommodation at your hotel.
   Mapping in-depth: Valencia Paella Experience
   Optionally join us on a unique excursion as we explore the culinary heart of Valencia in a renowned restaurant known for its authenticity and charming ambiance. Here, you will delight in the iconic Valencian paella, masterfully prepared to capture the essence of local cuisine. This experience is not just a meal; it is a journey through the flavors and history of Valencia, designed to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the culture that defines this vibrant region. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
    

   

   City of Arts and Sciences

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Catalonia Barcelona Plaza 4*(Plaça Espanya 6-8)
9. 9

   Day 9 — Barcelona

   Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel.
   Set out for morning city discovery and enjoy the main Mediterranean Spanish city and home to world famous architect Gaudí, symbol of the Catalonian modernism. Follow your guide through the streets of Barcelona and get into your private vehicle for a panoramic tour of the city. We will head towards the Montjuic Mountain, the area that hosted many of the facilities of the 1992 Olympic Games. Get ready to enjoy the incredible views over the city of Barcelona. On the way back to the city centre, we will drive along Paseo de Gracia, one of the most important streets in Barcelona, and we will see the facades of Gaudí's emblematic buildings such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. Admire Gaudi's mastery and make sure not to miss out on the rich symbolism of his works. Learn about the history and significance of Sagrada Familia from inside. Discover how nature influenced and inspired Gaudí on his planning. In the early evening, join your fellow travelers for the Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. Accommodation at your hotel.
    

   

   La Pedrera (Casa Mila)

   

   Montjuïc

   

   La Sagrada Familia

   

   Casa Batllo

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Catalonia Barcelona Plaza 4*(Plaça Espanya 6-8)
10. 10

    Day 10 — Barcelona - Girona - Carcassonne

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Depart towards Girona. Since much of the old quarter of this ancient city has been preserved and is a popular destination for tourists, and film productions have used it as a filming location (e.g., Game of Thrones). Enjoy time at leisure. Continue crossing the border of France to Carcassonne. Dinner and accommodation at your hotel. 
     

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Sowell Les Chevalier 4* (3 Rue des Calquières)
11. 11

    Day 11 — Carcassonne

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. We start our day with a walking City tour of the Citadel, known as the Cite? de Carcassonne, a mediaeval fortress dating back to the Gallo-Roman period and restored in 1853. It was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997 because of the exceptional preservation and restoration of the mediaeval citadel. Rest of the afternoon is at leisure for you to enjoy this stunning mediaeval town in Southern France. Accommodation at your hotel. 
     

    

    Carcassonne

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Sowell Les Chevalier 4* (3 Rue des Calquières)
12. 12

    Day 12 — Carcassonne - Nimes - Avignon

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Depart to Nimes, the most Roman city outside Italy. Several famous monuments are in Nimes, such as the Arena of Nimes and the Maison Carrée. Because of this, Nimes is often referred to as the "French Rome". We continue our Roman day visiting the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge built in the first century AD to carry water over 50 km. It was added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites in 1985 because of its exceptional preservation, historical importance, and architectural ingenuity. Finally, arrive in Avignon, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its famous Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon), a bridge dating back to the 12th century. Accommodation at your hotel. 
     

    

    Nimes old city

    

    Pont du Gard

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Najeti La Magnaneraie 4* (37 Rue du Camp de Bataille)
13. 13

    Day 13 — Avignon

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Today we will discover the famous Provence capital, Avignon. Visit The Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important mediaeval Gothic buildings in Europe. Once a fortress and palace, the papal residence was a seat of Western Christianity during the 14th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding architecture and historical importance for the Papacy. Our journey continues as we marvel at the iconic Pont d'Avignon. Accommodation at your hotel.
     

    

    Palais des Papes

    

    Pont d’Avignon

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Najeti La Magnaneraie 4* (37 Rue du Camp de Bataille)
14. 14

    Day 14 — Avignon - Cote D´Azur

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Our first activity takes us to the charming town of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, celebrated worldwide for its prestigious wines. With an annual production totaling around 100,000 hectoliters (equivalent to 13 million bottles of 0.75 liters), this region embodies the essence of Provencal viticulture. Continue the day with a unique visit and wine tasting experience, accompanied by a light lunch, at one of the region's most stunning wine cellars. Immerse yourself in the rich history and expertise that define Provencal winemaking, while enjoying the picturesque surroundings that add to the charm of this memorable culinary and cultural experience. Accommodation at your hotel. 
     

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Juliana 4* (14 Av. de Madrid)
15. 15

    Day 15 — Cote D´Azur

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Embark on a full day excursion to explore the glamorous Cote d'Azur. This renowned region is not only famed for its stunning coastline but also serves as the epicenter of the French perfume industry, producing over two-thirds of France's natural aromas used in perfumes and food flavorings. During the journey, immerse yourself in a hands-on experience at an exquisite Perfume school, where you'll have the opportunity to create your own personalized fragrance. Discover the art of perfumery under expert guidance and leave with a unique scent that captures your essence. Continue the journey to Nice, where you can further explore the allure of the Cote d'Azur, known for its Mediterranean charm, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage.
    Mapping in-depth: Monaco Optionally, Embark on an exciting optional excursion to Monaco, the most glamorous principality on the French Riviera. Visit the Monaco Citadel for panoramic views, explore the iconic streets of the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, and marvel at the legendary Monte Carlo Casino. Experience luxury and history in this iconic destination of European high society. Accommodation at your hotel.
     

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel Juliana 4* (14 Av. de Madrid)
16. 16

    Day 16 — Cote D´Azur - Milan

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. We will cross another European border bound for Milan, the Italian Northern capital. Milan has been recognised as one of the world's four fashion capitals. Enjoy a city tour and head to Milan's Cathedral, the fifth-largest cathedral in the world and the most important example of Gothic architecture in Italy. The city hosts La Scala opera house, considered one of the world's most prestigious. Accommodation at your hotel. 
     

    

    Milan Cathedral

    

    La Scala opera house

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Starhotel Ritz 4* (Via Spallanzani, 40)
17. 17

    Day 17 — Milan - Garda Lake - Milan

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Early departure to the beautiful lake of Garda. Embark on a breathtaking boat trip across the tranquil waters of one of Europe's most scenic lakes, followed by a delightful light lunch at a charming lakeside spot. In the early evening, join your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. where you can reminisce about the journey and enjoy delicious cuisine in a convivial atmosphere. Accommodation at your hotel. 

    

    Lake Garda

    Meals: B: Included, L: Included, D: IncludedStay: Starhotel Ritz 4*(Via Spallanzani, 40)
18. 18

    Day 18 — Milan

    Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at your hotel. Take a private transfer to the airport. END OF OUR SERVICES.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

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