9 Day Tastes of Southern Spain

DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Spain
Depart for Spain

DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Malaga, Transfer to Marbella
Arrive in Malaga, and transfer to Marbella, located along the shore of the Costa del Sol. Most flights arrive in the early morning and your room may not be ready for you. In this case, leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will provide suggestions for you to begin to explore the city on your own. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM. We recommend you select flights that arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Marbella

DAY 3, Thursday - Marbella and Mijas
Embark on a morning city tour of Marbella, the jewel of the Costa del Sol. While known for its luxury lifestyle, Marbella also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings, offers a glimpse into its Moorish past. Next, continue with a scenic drive through the Andalucian hills to Mijas, a charming village nestled on the mountainside. Stroll through the winding streets adorned with colorful flowerpots and unique shops. View the Plaza de la Constitución, the Mijas Museum, and the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Afterward, return to the hotel and spend time at leisure
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Friday - Moorish Granada
Today's journey takes you from Spain's southern coast to Granada. Here visit the 13th century Alhambra,* one of Spain's most celebrated monuments, dramatically perched atop Assabica Hill overlooking the city. This imposing hilltop fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world's finest examples of Moorish art and architecture. During the reign of the Moors, the Alhambra served as the residence of the royal family. Walk along the lanes of the serene Generalife Gardens with its beautifully designed courtyards, waterfalls and ponds, and views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Return to the hotel in the afternoon. This evening, don't miss the optional Flamenco Show
*Alhambra visiting times, which may include evening hours, and which areas of the complex are accessible on the day of your visit, are determined solely at the discretion of the Alhambra. Your itinerary will be arranged by your Tour Manager to accommodate the designated time of entry.
Optional: Evening Flamenco Show
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Marbella or Optional Ronda City Tour
Today is free to explore Marbella at your own pace. Perhaps, participate in the optional Ronda City Tour. Depart Marbella and head north to the dramatic cliffside city of Ronda, a historic gem, nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Andalucia. View the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the dramatic El Tajo gorge and explore the Plaza de Toros, the oldest bullring in the country. Ronda, considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting in the 18th century, was once a horsemanship training facility. View the historic stables and its interesting museum with exhibits of some of Spain's most famous Matadors. Return to Marbella early afternoon
Optional: Ronda City Tour
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Sunday - Malaga City Tour with Picasso Museum
Your day of exploration begins with a drive to Malaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Embark on a tour of the city's historic center with its majestic Malaga Cathedral, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. View the Paseo de la Alameda, fragrant Paseo del Parque, and the Barrio de la Malagueta. Afterward, visit the Picasso Museum, housed in a restored 16th century palace. Admire works of legendary artist Pablo Picasso, spanning his early years in Malaga to his later masterpieces. Gain insight into his artistic vision and contributions to the world of modern art
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Monday - Full Day in Marbella or Optional Full Day Frigiliana & Nerja Tour
Spend the day at leisure or choose the optional Full Day Frigiliana & Nerja Tour. Begin your excursion with a drive to the village of Frigiliana, nestled amidst the foothills of the Sierra Almijara. Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets adorned with whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies. View the Renaissance Church of San Antonio de Padua and the Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana. Continue to the Mudejar Quarter, a historic neighborhood characterized by its unique blend of Moorish and Andalucian architecture. Next, venture onwards to the coastal town of Nerja, known for its pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. View the iconic Balcony of Europe, a promenade perched atop rugged cliffs offering sweeping views of the coastline. After lunch at a local restaurant, free time to explore. Arrive in Marbella in late afternoon
Optional: Full Day Frigiliana & Nerja Tour
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Tuesday - Full Day in Marbella or Optional Full Day Gibraltar
On your last day at leisure in Marbella join the optional Full Day Tour of Gibraltar. Journey to the impressive Rock of Gibraltar,* a British colony for over 300 years standing guard over the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea and Europe meets Africa. Take a tour of the area with minibuses climbing up to see St. Michael's Cave and the famous Barbary apes with dramatic views of both the Spanish and Moroccan coastline. Spend some time in the main street of town with its colonial buildings and duty-free shops. Return to Marbella. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
*Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory independent from Spain and therefore has different entry requirements. Non-US passport holders are responsible to check if a visa is required for Gibraltar in addition to all other countries on their itinerary.
Optional: Full Day Gibraltar
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Wednesday - Depart Spain
Transfer to the airport in Malaga for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast