travel agency south spain

• Extended Tours
• Walking Tours
• Shore Excursions
• CUSTOM TOURS

Let yourself use a Spain Trip Planner. Let us show you Andalusia

Genuine andalusia is a spain travel planner holding the key to a memorable vacation to andalusia and beyond. a trusted, awarded and caring travel advisor crafting some of the best spain vacation itineraries for very small private groups since 2013..

Allow yourself the peace of mind to have a destination expert plan your dream trip to Southern Spain. Allow us the joy and the honour to welcome you in our homeland like an old friend. You will have all your needs and wishes carefully catered for, while you enjoy a Spain trip of a lifetime

Let yourself use a Spain vacation planner. Let us you show Andalusia.

Start now planning your dream trip to southern spain, new: spain travel advisory 2024 and etias europe, culture and lifestyle tours.

Immerse yourself into our living traditions. Discover our long and colourful history. See its footprint in our lifestyle and be amazed by the unique architecture of our towns.

Food and Wine Tours

Come and experience with us the joy of our vibrant markets and tapas bars, learn the art of Spanish cooking and discover our ancient and modern wine scenes.

Outdoors and Nature Tours

Venture into nature with us and see our whitewashed villages, cycle along former railways, hike through lost valleys and sail legendary waters.

EXTENDED TOURS

• Walking the GENAL VALLEY
• The ROMANTIC TRAVELERS in ANDALUSIA
• The WONDERS of CADIZ
• The SHERRY TRIANGLE
• Seville to CORDOBA
• Moorish RONDA
• The WHITE VILLAGES up on the hills
• CADIZ and JEREZ de la Frontera
• GRANADA and the Alhambra
• VEJER de la Frontera and Cape TRAFALGAR
• JEREZ vineyards and SHERRY bodegas
• Three towns, three treats: SHERRY, CHEESE and SWEETS!
• Spanish FOOD AND WINE WORKSHOP
• Cadiz bay SAILING TOUR
• Colonial CADIZ
• Hidden gems of SEVILLE

WALKING TOURS

• SEVILLE World Heritage Sites
• CORDOBA Jewish quarter and Mosque
• GRANADA Alhambra and Generalife
• CADIZ and the Americas
• JEREZ old town for foodies
• SEVILLE behind the scenes

SHORE EXCURSIONS

• Malaga SHORE EXCURSIONS
• Cadiz SHORE EXCURSIONS

CONTACT & LEGAL

Genuine Andalusia Memorable Private Tours Jerez de la Frontera and Seville South West Spain

Tel and whatsapp: +34 655232132 Email: [email protected] skype: genuine.andalusia

Travel Agency. License number C.I.AN-116540-2

• Cookie Policy

Privacy Policy

Legal Notice

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. You can see our privacy policy .

These are our strictly necessary cookies for navigation

asp_transient_id Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: Session Purpose: unique identification of the user session.

CookieConsent Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 1 year Purpose: it stores the user's cookie consent for the present domain.

rc::a Provider: google.com Type: HTML Duration: persistent Purpose: this cookie is used to distinguish between humans and bots. This is beneficial for the web in order to elaborate valid reports about the use of our site.

rc::b Provider: google.com Type: HTML Duration: session Purpose: this cookie is used to distinguish between humans and bots.

rc::c Provider: google.com Type: HTML Duration: session Purpose: this cookie is used to distinguish between humans and bots.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics and Hotjar to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping these cookies enabled helps us to improve our website:

_ga Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 2 years Purpose: this cookie registers a unique identification used to generate statistical data about how a visitor uses the website.

_gat Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 1 day Purpose: this cookie is used by Google Analytics to control the rate of requests.

_gid Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 1 day Purpose: this cookie registers a unique identification used to generate statistical data about how a visitor uses the website.

_hjAbsoluteSessionInProgress Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 1 day Purpose: this cookie is used to count the number of times that a website is visited by different users. This is done by assigning a random ID to each user so that they are not counted as a different user every time they access the site.

_hjFirstSeen Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 1 day Purpose: this cookie is used to determine whether a visitor is new or not (has visited the website before).

_hjid Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTTP Duration: 1 year Purpose: this cookie sets a session ID. This allows the site to obtain data about the behaviour of the visitor for statistics purposes.

_hjid Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTML Duration: persistent Purpose: this cookie sets a session ID. This allows the site to obtain data about the behaviour of the visitor for statistics purposes.

_hjIncludedInPageviewSample Provider: genuineandalusia.com Type: HTML Duration: 1 day Purpose: This cookie is set to let Hotjar know whether that visitor is included in the data sampling defined by the site’s pageview limit.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

Book one of our trips for 2024/2025 today »

Experience the Spain you Never Knew

We want to share the culture and history of Spain with you, in a way you’ll never forget. TOMA & COE are not like every other tour company. We specialise in escorted excursions, private tours, bespoke tours and small group tours of Andalucia, uncovering a unique land of contrast, art, gastronomy, culture and duende  – getting to the heart of the Spain you never knew.

At TOMA & COE we are proud to work with LGBTQ+ agencies and guests from around the world. Two thirds of our team happen to be gay and although we don’t shout about it from the rooftops, over the years we have garnered meaningful working relationships with clients from all sorts of different backgrounds and creeds.

Spain is a very tolerant and open country. The vast majority of our colleagues, suppliers, preferred hotels, restaurants and services are very open to people from all walks of life. WE pride ourselves on our inclusive policies and ability to cater an itinerary to people from all walks of life.

We used to run a programme called FIESTAS & SIESTAS for gay people who wanted to party at night but also get out and about the next day to enjoy cultural visits and unique experiences.

We have also run programmes for an agency in the USA, designing Highlights of Andalucia and The Best of Spain for their discerning clients.

We never dilute our philosophy of high-end, authentic luxury and love being able to help our clients “EXPERIENCE THE SPAIN THEY NEVER KNEW.”

A unique view of the Spain you never knew

If time is tight, or you find yourself at a loose end during your stay, we can give you a unique cultural experience focused on the things you love. Foodies will love our tapas tours, foodie tours or perhaps a Spanish cooking experience. Culture vultures will love the Picasso Museum, or a tour of the spectacular architecture, while the more adventurous can saddle up or step out for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors on one of our walking holidays or activity tours.

Extended trips

The complete bespoke experience, with no stone left unturned.

Our fully guided or self drive tours cover as much or as little of this wonderful area as time allows. Whether you want to build a complete holiday around southern Spain, or just spend a few days exploring its culture, art, food and people – whatever your interests, we can create an itinerary just for you. Book one of our trips for 2024/2025 today

Destination Guides

We know andalucia like no one else..

Creating unforgettable trips for you to share with your loved ones and friends. We operate tours to a number of destinations, with a focus on experiencing a side of Andalucia that would be otherwise unreachable with our private guides. Take a look at our tours to destinations above, or read through our experiences of these amazing locations below.

Bespoke Tours

Toma presents bespoke tours..

Got something particular in mind from your trip to Andalucia? Whether it’s a short day tour or a longer escorted trip TOMA & COE can help you discover the very best of the local culture, cuisine and lifestyle. The only limit is your imagination.

Life at Toma and Coe

🇪🇸 Spain | Travel | Consultant 🚐 #PrivateTravelPods 💚 #Andalucia 🍽 #Food 🍷 #Wine 💃 #Culture 🥾#caminodesantiago

Stay connected

Totally Spain | Spain & Portugal Travel Agency

1-888-717-4514 0871-666-0214 +34-942-637-358

Your Local Specialist Travel Advisors For Custom Tours in Spain & Portugal

• Experiences
• Accommodation
• Small Country Hotels
• Destinations
• How It Works
• Booking conditions
• Our Company
• Our Location
• The Totally Spain Team
• Our Service

YOUR PERFECT TAILOR MADE TRIP STARTS HERE!

Obligation free proposal. Response within 48hrs

Exquisite Expeditions Made Effortless

Custom Journeys, Embracing Life´s Golden Chapter

Seamless Voyages for Unparalleled Memories.

Unveil Spain & Portugal´s Hidden Gems

Your Dream Trip, Perfected!

Every Journey Begins with Award-Winning Service.

CUSTOM PRIVATE TRAVEL BY THE SPECIALISTS IN SPAIN & PORTUGAL

Totally Spain is a savvy and reputable Spain & Portugal Travel Agency with expert travel advisors dedicated to organising exceptional Custom Designed Private Travel.

HIGHLIGHTED SPAIN & PORTUGAL TOURS

Explore curated tours to base your custom trip around or book as shown.

• Cultural Tours
• Food & Wine Tours
• Fully Inclusive Private Tours
• Jewish Heritage Tours
• Spanish Paradores
• The Camino de Santiago

11 night tour Madrid, Andalusia and Barcelona

12 night Honeymoon in Spain - Madrid, Toledo, Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada & Barcelona

12 nights tour Barcelona, Basque Country, Cantabria & Madrid

9 night Private Exploration of Madrid, Seville & Barcelona

9 nights Delights of Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto & Surrounds

Prehistoric Caves of Cantabria Spain Tour

Spanish Splendors: Madrid, Barcelona, and Beyond

Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona for Gastronomes & Food Lovers

Rioja Reverie: 5 Days of Wine, Food, and Culture in the Rioja Wine Region

Wine Regions of Northern Spain

12 nights Lisbon, Porto, Madrid and Barcelona

7 nights Architecture in the Basque Country (Spain)

Highlights of Jewish Spain 11 nights

Jewish Heritage in Spain 14 nights

7 night Self Drive Camino de Santiago Tour in Parador Hotels

7 nights Historic Paradores of Northern Spain

Spanish Pyrenees Parador Tour 12 days

7 nights Walking Tour from Sarria to Santiago with Madrid stay

Why Choose Totally Spain

Winner Spain´s Leading Tour Company 2022, 2023 & 2024 at the annual  World Travel Awards .  We are based in Spain and we take our clients travel needs very seriously. We have a proven track record built-up over 24 years dedicated to designing top class Private Custom Spain & Portugal trips including Private Self Drive Tours , Rail and Coach Tours ,  Private Guided Tours , Private Chauffeur Drive Tours ,  Themed Tours - Wine, Art, Gastronomy, Luxury Honeymoon Vacations , Private Group Tours and more.

VALUE FOR MONEY

When you choose to engage directly with our Spain-based travel agency, you unlock unparalleled value for your money. This is made possible through our exclusive supplier arrangements , up-to-the-minute local insights , and extensive contacts cultivated over numerous years. Totally Spain ensures you a direct and personalized experience, guaranteeing you the utmost satisfaction in every aspect of your travel arrangements.

PEACE OF MIND

Totally Spain is a fully licensed and bonded Spain Travel Agent successful in business  since 2000 .  Your entire custom trip will be handled by knowledgeable and creative, expert Travel Advisors who know Spain and Portugal inside out.  We are a single source for all your Spain & Portugal travel needs , no matter how complex.  Totally Spain has an outstanding network of trusted partners in both countries that allow us provide our clients with access to unique and authentic experiences. At every stage of your custom trip, from inception to conclusion,  Totally Spain will be on-hand for you.

Since the year 2000, Totally Spain has meticulously planned and orchestrated bespoke journeys for over forty thousand discerning travelers hailing from various corners of the globe. Our dedicated team has been instrumental in turning the dreams of these mature explorers into reality, guiding them through the enchanting and authentically rich landscapes of Spain and Portugal. 

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the exceedingly high levels of customer satisfaction we consistently achieve—a source of pride that motivates us to continually exceed expectations. At Totally Spain, we are unwaveringly devoted to providing an unparalleled travel experience, ensuring that each journey is not just a trip but a personalized exploration of the truly captivating cultures and destinations we showcase.

Totally Spain Tour Reviews

Wonderful trip, our third trip with Totally Spain. So well managed, the personnel on there tours are so well managed and well vetted. We feel totally relaxed with their planning of each tour. We have traveled all Spain and Portugal with Totally Spain...

J. Reynolds, Franklin, TN, USA 2023-01-05

Totally Spain is featured in:

ABOUT TOTALLY SPAIN

Award winning specialist Travel Agency dedicated to organising exceptional Custom Designed Private Travel, Tours & Vacations to Spain & Portugal for Individuals, Couples, Families and Groups since 2000. Unique Experiences that only a Spain based company can provide.

SHORT VIDEO ABOUT TOTALLY SPAIN, THE SERVICES WE CAN OFFER YOU & HOW WE WORK TO CUSTOM MAKE YOUR SPAIN TRIP

21 May 2019 Spanish Pyrenees Parador Tour | 11 Night Self Drive

Love Spain and the great outdoors? Here at Totally Spain we do too and that’s why we’ve created this unique 11-night self-drive itinerary starting in Barcelona, with 7 nights in the Spanish Pyrenees and finishing up with 2 nights in the Rioja wine region and a night in Bilbao! Gastronomy is a key element in this Parador self-drive…

The post Spanish Pyrenees Parador Tour | 11 Night Self Drive appeared first on Totally Spain Travel Blog .

Read more »

05 Jul 2019 Experiences in Cantabria Spain| Holiday like a Local

Do you ever wonder what professional travel planners do during their Summer holidays? Because we spend the Spring and Autumn months road-testing new hotels, venues, activities and experiences, in July and August, we stay local at home here in Cantabria. In Northern Spain, the temperatures are perfect for days on the beach, BBQs at home and lunches…

The post Experiences in Cantabria Spain| Holiday like a Local appeared first on Totally Spain Travel Blog .

28 Jun 2019 Forest Bathing in Spain | Where to Visit

When we say forest bathing in Spain, we don’t mean swimming in the conventional sense. We mean surrounding yourself in the beauty of the forest – whether that’s walking, trekking or simply having a picnic or reading a book under the shade of the trees. Perhaps you already practice Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) which emerged from…

The post Forest Bathing in Spain | Where to Visit appeared first on Totally Spain Travel Blog .

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER (Great offers, news and tales)

GET INSPIRED

Tailormade   andalucia.

Tailormade Andalucia combines local knowledge with a traveller's eye to hand craft authentic and private holiday experiences .

From our location in Seville, the capital of Andalucia, we endeavour to take you off the beaten track and show you the real Spain.

We are a local travel company specialist in Andalucia and Spain .

Our travel designer team is dedicated to create and plan a customised holiday with passion and a personal touch.

WE ARE ORIGINAL

We love to think outside the box. Our experiences are far removed from mass travel forums and all things mainstream!

REAL EXPERIENCES

The biggest isn’t always the best. The most luxurious isn’t always unique. But real experiences are the most memorable.

Size matters! Being a small travel company we are able to go that extra mile.

THE BEST GUIDES

Our company was created by a guide! We want our guides to be your host, your friend and your bridge into the Spanish underworld!

INDEPENDENT

We’ve forged our own identity and enjoy complete freedom to pioneer travel experiences without the constraints of being a cog in a bigger machine!

CEAV (Spanish travel agent confederation) members. Turismo de Sevilla. Junta de Andalucia

History Flamenco Bulls Art

Hiking Biking Nature Rural

Tapas Fine dining Spanish wine Olive oil

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

Think outside.

Renewable energy Volunteer project Easter week Art restoration

Local   knowledge .

Sevilla, Andalucia and the rest of Spain.

Culture, Outdoors, Gastronomy, Think outside the box.

Meet the team, Why us?, Testimonials.

Interested in tailormaking your holiday with us?

This is our home, our love, and our favourite city in the world! We truly believe that we can wow you when you come here!

This region has it all! History, culture, gastronomy, sierras, cities, coastline! We’ve guided it all here and we’ve discovered some pretty special people and experiences!

We’ve lived in Madrid, in Cataluña and enjoyed experiencing all corners of Spain. We have a superb knowledge base and a wonderful network of colleagues throughout the country

BLOG LATEST POSTS

Andalucian Wine Regions Beyond the Sherry Triangle!

Enriching Hiking Journeys in Andalucia

The 6 Best Bond Roads in Andalucia!

Blissful Bubbles in Rural Spain

I've been to Spain several times and love this country so much. This time, I was taking my 74-year-old parents with me to Spain. It was their first time and I wanted them to have an amazing experience and fall in love with Spain as much as I did.

I couldn't have planned it myself like this and my parents' experience in Spain would not have been the same without Sam's team.

I definitely recommend them if you ever find yourself heading out to Spain!

Won Sun Parque

“This was our second holiday in Andalucia in as many years, and once again Sam and the Tailormade Andalucia team arranged an absolutely fantastic time for us. The first few days were spent in a luxurious and idyllic retreat, where we could just wind down and relax close to nature in the Ronda hills. We had really wanted to delve more deeply into the fascinating culture and traditions of the region, so when we moved on from Ronda we contrasted the peacefulness of the hillsides with an exciting few days in Seville. We made the most of what the City has to offer and the TA team were able to arrange for us to enjoy plenty of “authentic” cultural experiences, away from the well-trodden tourist path. It was an unforgettable holiday and we are already looking forward to going back again soon. Thanks go to Sam and the team for making our holiday even better than we could have wished for. Mark Gregory”

Mark Gregory

On behalf of my mother and I, thank you very much for not only rescuing our tour of Spain, but for putting together a trip that more than met and exceeded our needs and expectations.

Five weeks before my 85 year old mother and I were to embark on our Spanish tour I learned our tour company was bankrupt.  Luckily a friend provided Tailormade's contact info along with a glowing recommendation.  Sam took our old itinerary and promised to attempt to put something together while warning that, being high season in Spain, options may be limited.  Sam was, on very short notice, not only able to recreate our trip but make some excellent suggestions to improve upon it.

Dan Russell

Geoff and julia crocker.

Sam, Rocio and the Tailormade Andalucia team provided an excellent service.

They guided us very sensibly in terms of our 3 week itinerary - at the right pace and with a great mix of experiences, including local guides now and then. Our accommodation was of a very high standard... and when things weren't quite perfect they intervened to make sure things were. They were absolutely committed to making sure we had a great trip and nothing was too much trouble.

So thanks again Sam and Rocio! We loved Spain and we will be back!

Chris Gudgeon

Our family trip to Spain was very memorable. Sam and his team were top notch and provided us with everything that we needed from hotels to transportation to specialized guides for all the things that we were interested in seeing and experiencing. They put such a personal touch on every step of the way. Each day they had us dialed in for exclusive experiences.

In each city there were special touches and awesome opportunities to see the best of what they had to offer. Sam‘s team even provided us with a book of suggestions for things to do, restaurants, and local hotspots.

This was the most thorough, reasonable, worry free, informational, and smooth traveling experience that I have ever had. Thanks to Sam and his team we fell in love with Spain and we can’t wait to come back.

Kyle Lawson

James and Rocio were always on top of everything. Tour was well thought out and we had a great time. Andalusia Region is so beautiful, we will be back for sure. Local hotels and guides were also amazing, we couldn't ask for more.

Highly recommend this trip and also its crew.

Palomares Family

I can't speak highly enough of my 9 day Spanish experience. From the drivers, the hotel service and Rocio, who made time to check in how my trip was going.

My tour guide Delia in Sevilla was great company and her knowledge was fantastic. She really made me feel welcomed. I can't recommend her enough. Kudos to La Azotea on Calle Zaragoza, some great tapas!

Overall, the tour was top notch. Special thanks to James who really crafted a great itinerary. His correspondence was of the highest order. Cheers for taking the pressure of planning off my shoulders!

Jordan Ezekia

We all absolutely loved Spain, so much to see and do and amazing history. The accommodation was excellent, all of the hotels had lots to offer and were small enough to still feel unique and personal. The guides and drivers we had in Spain were also wonderful, we connected with each of them and really enjoyed our time. We were also lucky enough to have our guide in Malaga meet us again in Ronda which was lovely. Francisco was wonderful to deal with, really professional and everything ran perfectly.

We are already talking about our next trip to Spain! In summary, we had a fantastic experience in Spain. Tailormade Andalucia were brilliant to deal with and the accommodation, drivers and guides all excellent.

Sue Baker & Family

What also really made the holiday as happy and relaxing as it was, was that every aspect of the week had clearly been meticulously planned so we didn’t once have to think about any logistics or timings. Every car was waiting for us to arrive, every tour guide was early and boundless with enthusiasm. Every hotel was as luxurious and original as we had hoped it would be. Having come back from the trip now, one thing that really shines through was how quickly Sam and Tailormade totally grasped the sort of trip that we wanted to go on but then went that extra mile to push our boundaries and create a week that felt truly unique.

Sophie O’Sullivan

We celebrated my granddaughter birthday in Spain and when we got back from a day trip they had a bottle of champagne waiting for her.

Memories of a lifetime were made on this trip and those memories would not have happen if not for the planning that Sam and his team did for us.

Anyone travelling to Spain should contact Tailormade Andalucia for a fantastic trip.

Cathy Mcclure

For us, it was probably a once in a lifetime experience but some of our friends have more money and time on their hands (and no kids) so hopefully you'll get a few referrals, you certainly deserve it. My only wish is that you were experts in travel across the whole of Europe!!!

Thank you Sam for your incredible itinerary and patience in designing it, thank you Rocio for your prompt responses and support during our holiday and a huge shout out to Delia. She was incredible. Don't ever let her get away!!

Carissa Harford

We got more out of our days by having guides. We had never done a vacation with private guides before and were pleasantly surprised by the small extras we enjoyed (learning to make tomato bread and tinto de verano at lunch (Jose Luis), eating fruit from the tree and fresh cheese from the cheese maker during a bike tour (Olga)). This was easily one of the best, if not the best, vacation we’ve had. I’m so glad I took the gamble to work with TailormadeAndalucia. I look forward to doing so again! Thanks, James and Rocio!

Carol Price

We had a great time, overall the experience exceeded our expectation. James was very professional throughout the preliminary and delivered a perfect package for us. Thank you!

Mauro Cirili

Our train trips, tours, rental cars, hotels were all set up by the TMA team! Did I mention we had a Spanish liaison Rocio who went out of her way to check in with us at every stop to make sure we were enjoying ourselves! We couldn’t have asked for a better vacation and it definitely wouldn't have been so smooth and easy without TMA! We are already ready to start planning our 2020 trip and will absolutely use this service again! Thank you James, Rocio and the TMA Team

Kenya Costa

When we decided to vacation in Spain, the first thing we knew was that we did NOT want to be one of fifty tourists on a big bus, wearing headsets and struggling to keep up with a tour guide.  While that might be a good idea for some, we wanted to be able to see the sites that are most interesting to us, and to have the freedom to set our own itinerary. Not knowing when, or if, we might return to Spain, we really wanted to be able to maximize our time there without running ourselves ragged.  We also wanted to “get off the beaten path” a bit.    We did quite a bit of research, and had a general plan of where and when we wanted to go.  But organizing it all, including all the connections and finding good, local guides, was somewhat intimidating.

And then we found Tailormade Andalucia.

Laura and Jim Pekarek

I returned home last night after 2 days in London. I cannot thank you enough for all you did to make our trip such a success. Apart from the weather which was ‘variable’ it was pretty well perfect.

Our guides were excellent & the restaurants you chose offered delicious food & wine. To go through our programme. We loved our walk in the Albaycin & our dinner that night was memorable with the view of the floodlit Alhambra in the distance. The Alhambra needs no write up from me. It is so utterly beautiful & somehow so peaceful. We loved our guide!

Gillie Keown-Boyd

Thanks for organising a brilliant holiday for us. It was the little things that touched us, you both contacted us during the trip, the package you supplied was the best we have had in a long time. All the hotels and trips were "estependo" they all had their own charm, beauty and character. The drivers and the guides were very pleasant and knowledgeable people. Do you do other parts of Spain? Tailormade Andalucia seems very specific. We normally take a holiday in February or March each year. Looking for the good weather we have tended to go for the southern hemisphere which is getting too far to travel these days.

Once again thanks

Ken y Phyllis Fennah

Querido Sam gracias a Dios por el momento de serendipia que nos hizo descubrir a Mi querida España de nuevo y regalarme vistas rejuvenedoras de gentes y maneras de ser humanas casi olvidadas. Como recuerdos del pasado nostálgico puestos en una caja de zapatos y creer no volver a ver. Dios que encuentro tan vivificante, multisapido ,oloroso, texturizado en la seda acariciante en cada bocado de Tapas , vino y Noche azaharina. Gracias Sam a ti y a todos.

Francisco y Claudia Antonorsi

Thought it time we contacted you and Francisco to express our appreciation for planning our recent tour in Spain. Everything went like clockwork, (the exception being Richard's brief illness...!), the hotels were all lovely in different ways, the mix of visits & leisure, city & country were all ideal.

I think your guides were wonderful...the personal contact with them and the locals they introduced us to added a very memorable dimension to out trip. Now back in NZ, the brain is still processing .....Many thanks for a great tour.

Linda & Richard Avery

We felt very well looked after. James made us feel very special throughout the whole process and we really felt he cared and wasn’t trying to just get ‘another booking.

The itinerary worked very well and all the various arrangements you made clicked into place with no problems to us whatsoever.

Prof. Mahesha Kapurubandara

Sam and Fran arranged our whole trip, covering internal flights, airport hotel transfers, hotels and a number of private tours, everything was incredibly well organized, on time and all of the personnel they used were very professional and helpful in every way. The guides were amazing and certainly gave us an insight into the localities and landmarks we visited. It really enhanced our experience and we felt we were visitors rather than tourists.

I would not hesitate to recommend Sam and his team to other travelers.

Gavin and Susie Martin

Recently my husband and I were fortunate to travel to South Spain. We were recommended Tailormade Andalucia Tours by our local travel agent in New Zealand to help plan our tour.

We found the company friendly, very professional to deal with and nothing was ever a problem to sort out to make our trip a fabulous adventure to remember. They went that extra mile!

We would absolutley recommend Tailormade Andalucía and will certainly use them in the future if we ever visit Spain again.

Jo and Trevor Dewis

We cannot recommend Sam Lister and Tailormade Andalucia highly enough! We have used him on two different trips to Spain and each time, the tours he arranged were the highlights of our trip!

Whether you are looking for someone to plan one day or your whole trip, Sam is your guy! We only hope we return to Spain again soon so we can use his services again!

Debbie and Joe Kasle

We have just returned from an excellent trip to Andalucia, organised by Sam at Tailormade Andalucia.

We would never have been able to organise so much on our own and can thoroughly recommend the skills of this company, remaining friendly, approachable and patient at all times. The guides they provided were knowledgeable and interesting, each injecting their own personalities into our tours. First class – thank you!

Caroline & Desmond Bradley

Privacy overview.

• How we work

Sarah Gemba | Founder

Hola, i'm sarah.

I’m the Founder and Principal Travel Designer here at Spain Savvy. I have the ambitious and exciting vision of making Spain the premier travel destination for fellow Americans and the gateway to the rest of Europe. Throughout my 20 years of travel design experience, and just as long living in this adopted country of mine, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my own unique discoveries with travelers of all backgrounds. Families, honeymooners, and retirees have all entrusted me to craft their unique itineraries, and I’ve found that our local knowledge is what makes for a truly incomparable experience.

Don’t take our word for it

Client testimonials.

"Sarah Gemba planned a wonderful trip for us. The hotels, restaurants and tours were all fantastic. She was always super responsive anytime we had questions, responding either immediately or within a very short period of time. She cheerfully made adjustments when our schedule changed...Overall she was a joy to work with and I will definitely be reaching out when I return to visit..."

– Felicia Grant

"It was exactly what I needed help with so that we could relax and enjoy the program she crafted. We visited Porto, Tarragona, Sitges, and Barcelona and she guided us each step of the way. Highly recommend! If only there was a Sarah in every country we want to visit"

– Sharon Friedman

"Megan and Sarah made the trip easy and memorable in every way! Working with Megan and Sarah, we felt like we were dealing with a loving family. We were so impressed with how they really “got us” and designed an itinerary that was perfect for us... Over and above all the attention to detail, Megan and Sarah made us feel valued and taken care of the whole time."

– Linda Shuster

"Sarah is incredibly professional and wonderful to work with. She promptly responds to all emails and text messages and makes herself available while you are traveling...We will definitely be contacting Sarah & Spain Savvy for all of our future travel needs to Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Sarah and Spain Savvy will make your travel experience magical and seamless!"

– Melanie Smith-Thuret

"Contacting Spain Savvy was the best decision I've ever made for my travel planning! Sarah and her team went above and beyond to create the most memorable trip ever for my family. Sarah took care of every request that we had and she really took the time to listen to us to create a trip that was tailored just for us."

– Marla Rzeszotarski

"I'm so glad I found Spain Savvy and decided to put them in charge of it all as I was really able to enjoy our trip and really absorb all that Spain had to offer. The fact that they are located in Spain is a huge plus. They really took care of us, and we felt that they genuinely wanted to make sure everything went well and that we had a great experience. Everything went smoothly. Well worth it. So don't hesitate."

– Jocelyn Abisia

"She took the time to understand what made us tick, and was UNBELIEVABLY responsive as we planned the trip. We were rusty travelers, and having her in our corner gave us tons of confidence... Our girls said the trip to Spain was a huge highlight to summer, and we are so grateful we made it. I’m not sure we could have pulled this trip off without Sarah and Spain Savvy"

"We often question and regret the choices we make. I can honestly say that booking my travel with Spain Savvy was one of THE BEST choices I have ever made! Booking your travel with Spain Savvy will take the worry and stress out of planning. I am thinking of my next venture to that part of the region so that I can use Spain Savvy services again!"

– Mary Spencer

"Sarah was fantastic to work with. We loved how Sarah asked great questions, listened to what we said, and seemed to understand immediately what was important to us. While we knew where we wanted to go, there was still a lot of knowledge that Sarah had that we didn’t. This is where Sarah excelled...we were even more impressed with her ability to translate our interests into a doable plan. When we had a question or needed help, Sarah was incredibly responsive and helpful. We never felt like we were alone. She’s a gem!"

– Art & Hallie

Let's Talk.

Looking to design your tailored trip to Spain and beyond? Send us a quick message and our expert design specialists will help you start your journey.

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences, let’s talk.

We are happy to set up a phone call, Zoom, Google Meet or whatever method of communication works best for you to get started on your trip planning. We are certain you will be more than pleased with our swift response systems and effective correspondence methods. 

Phone: +34 717 702 559 

[email protected]

Contact Us! | [email protected]

Andalusia Spain

The south of spain, trips to spain: travel to andalusia in the south of spain, andalusia is the spain of the imagination, the place where a dreamy sun kisses land and where passion, poetry, and drama meet all together. fearless matadors, fabulous festivals, and foot-stomping flamenco represent this emblematic region. you can feel here the legacy of the past while wandering through the twisting medieval cobblestone streets, admiring the swirling arabesque patterns in islamic architecture or maybe listening for melancholy notes of gypsy soul in the strumming of spanish guitar ., we have prepared some tailor-made holidays so you can discover the traditional andalucia, andalusia off the beaten track.

Andalusia is a place of contrasts: snowcapped mountains, lush green river valleys, and wild gorges. The scenery provides stunning backdrops for amazing sights. From the glorious cathedral of Seville to the gorgeous Alhambra palace in Granada and the Great Mosque of Córdoba , Andalusia has some of the most thrilling monuments in the world.

A stroll through almost any of Andalusia’s historic towns leads to delightful discoveries of fountain-adorned squares and some whitewashed houses with flower-filled patios.

WHY TAKE A TRIP TO SOUTHERN SPAIN IN ANDALUSIA

Southern Spain is a perfect road trip destination. Most locations in Andalusia are only a 2–4-hour drive apart, but you will never get bored here! The region will capture you with its beauty and pleasant weather all year round.

You will enjoy stunning Moorish architecture, and a rich history of melting cultures. In one small area you will find World Heritage Sites , white-washed villages, and deep-rooted traditions of flamenco and bullfighting.

THINGS TO DO IN SEVILLE

Seville is one of the most important cities in Spain and also the capital of Andalusia . The city’s Roman heritage is obvious and the Muslim one is evident all over the city. During the times of the Spanish Empire when trade and wealth was abundant, the city was given impressive architecture and a beautiful atmosphere.

Must do’s in Seville:

• Visit the amazing Real Alcazar (used to film some scenes during the 5th season of “Game of Thrones”).

Visit the Cathedral (the largest Cathedral in Spain and the largest Gothic church in the world).

Take a ride around the Cathedral on a horse-drawn carriage.

• Walk around the narrow and romantic Santa Cruz neighbourhood.

Visit the famous Plaza de España and Parque de Maria Luisa from Seville. Plaza de España was used to film scenes in “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Star Wars”.

Enjoy a Guadalquivir River cruise and walk along the riverbanks from the Torre del Oro to the Maestranza bullring.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GRANADA

Another jewel in the Andalusian crown is Granada. Settled within a broad, this ancient city is above all known for its association with Moorish Spain, of which the legendary Alhambra palace-fortress remains the most tangible legacy. Surrounded by fragrant gardens, the latter encompasses an entire hilltop complex.

Here you can find stylish Arab-style baths and spas, Moroccan-inspired tetería tearooms and also houses whose private gardens, courtyards and rooftop terraces recall the days when this was the last Moorish capital of Andalusia.

Granada spreads out into an elegant baroque historic center full of grand churches, imposing public buildings and beautiful monuments. In many ways a typically lively and impressive southern Spanish city, Granada is also the official birthplace of the tapa . So, expect many opportunities to enjoy this very social way of dining across the many tapas bars and small restaurants that dot one of Spain’s most visited historic centers.

Here are some ideas of what you can do in Granada:

• Visit Alhambra
• Treat yourself to tapas
• Enjoy some walking tours
• See Sacromonte
• Visit Granada Cathedral
• Go hiking in the Sierra Nevada
• Savor some flamenco shows

ENJOY A SOUTHERN SPAIN ITINERARY

One way to discover the culture of Andalusia is by exploring the sites which have been awarded as UNESCO World Heritage sites . In Granada, you’ll see the Alhambra palace, the Generalife gardens and the mediaeval Albaicín neighbourhood, in Cordoba, its historic center with the great Mosque, in Seville, the cathedral and the Alcazar palace and many, many more!

You’ll find a variety of natural landscapes which range from the beaches of La Costa del Sol, Costa de la Luz and Almería to the extensive olive groves of Jaén. Moreover, you can visit the Doñana National Park –also declared a World Heritage Site–, or go skiing in the Sierra Nevada ski resort.

Most visitors center on Seville, Granada and Marbella for traditional tapas, flamenco and controversial bullfighting – but there is so much to discover beyond these magnificent cities in the south of Spain. So, creating a Southern Spain itinerary can be very challenging.

Map of Southern Spain

There are so many interesting things to see in Andalusia that it becomes hard to choose. If you want to see the place for a better decision, take a look at this map of Andalucia.

ANDALUSIA IS A MUST IN THE SOUTH OF SPAIN!

Most of the popular images of Spain come from Southern Spain : flamenco dancers, bullfighters, gazpacho, sangria, and beaches of Costa del Sol . This way Andalusia represents many of the iconic cultural elements that make Spain stand out from the rest of Europe.

From whitewashed mountain villages to flamenco dancing in dive bars, and from world-famous art in Picasso’s birthplace Malaga to the scent of orange blossom in Seville, Andalusia never fails to enchant .

You can visit everything from outstanding monuments to a wide variety of different natural landscapes… and you’ll be part of several unique events and sample a range of delicious gastronomic products. Have you booked your ticket?

OUR EXPERIENCES FOR A TRIP TO ANDALUSIA REGION

Seville Tours: Places like La Giralda and Seville Cathedral

Between the orange-scented courtyards, stunning architecture, and joyful flamenco dancing in cozy plazas after dark, Seville is a dream come true. Visiting Seville is discovering a very rich architectural and historical legacy, but also diving in Spanish culture , with tapas, sangria and flamenco.

• DESTINATION COUNTRY: Spain
• CATEGORY: History, Arts & Architecture

Costa de la Luz: Gulf of Cadiz and Vejer de la Frontera

The Costa de la Luz stretches over the entire Atlantic coast of the Andalusian coastline , from the Gulf of Cadiz to the Strait of Gibraltar. The long beaches are formed by endless dunes, sometimes colored with pine forests. The sand is gilded by considerable annual sunshine and the hotel and tourist infrastructures are well developed.

Tours in Cordoba: Historic Center & Great Mosque of Cordoba

Cordoba is one of the most amazing and beautiful cities of Andalusia . It stands on of the Rio Guadalquivir. This southern Spanish city was one of the greatest urban centers in the world. Explore its ancient sites and medieval charms with a private guide who is ready to take you on a private Cordoba tour .

The Alhambra, the Albaicín and Sacromonte in Granada Spain

Granada is a city full of history. It is the southern Spanish city which is the home of the Alhambra and here you can find a lot of things about the Nasrid dynasty or Charles V of Spain, as well as see such incredible places like the Granada Gardens , the court of lions or the lion fountain.

Málaga Spain: Málaga Cathedral and Gibralfaro near Alcazaba

Malaga is a cultural city that holds art galleries, fashion boutiques and an edgy new creative quarter , all under near-constant sunshine and golden-sand beaches. If that hasn’t convinced you yet, let’s see how we can improve your experience in this city.

Top things to do in Ronda Spain

This “white village” is one of the most beautiful perched on the edge of a gorge surrounded by hills, whitewashed buildings, orange and olive groves. Ronda is in the south of Spain, about 100 kilometers from the city of Malaga . It will charm you with its narrow streets, an emblematic bridge , houses on the edge of the canyon and much more.

Go for the best flamenco show in Seville Spain

Seeing a live flamenco show is definitely one of the best things to do in Seville . Would you like to join us? Spain is known for its history, delicious tapas and wide variety of beaches. However, this beautiful country is also home to world-class folk music and dance.

• CATEGORY: Go Local, Gastronomy & Wines

Bullfighting in Spain: Bull Farm and Bullfighting History Tour

Let us take you on a journey into the world of bullfighting . Join an exciting and fascinating trip that revolves around the art of bullfighting and gives you an in-depth understanding of this art. Come and experience the Andalusia countryside life !

Iberian Ham Tour in Andalusia Spain: The Black Iberian Pig

The mighty Iberian pig is something of an icon in Spain, with ham being the king of tapas throughout the country and beyond. This tour explores the journey of Iberian ham from farm to table, offering you a fascinating insight and appreciation. On our tour of southern Spain you will discover all about Iberian acorn-fed ham.

Jerez de la Frontera wine tour: Is Sherry a wine?

Taking a Jerez de la Frontera wine tour is more than just an opportunity to taste these local wines . It is a journey into the history of Andalusia that goes back more than 3000 years and traces the centuries of the many civilizations that occupied this rich land.

Flamenco dance lesson in Triana Seville

The southern Spanish city of Seville will steal your heart with its charming streets, glorious architecture and its traditions. Or maybe you prefer hang out at the tapas bars chatting up friendly folks. And if you have some time, why not soak in the cultural air and learn the flamenco dance ? Seville is, after all, one of the greatest sources of flamenco in Spain.

The white villages of the Axarquia in Malaga Spain

Your visit to Malaga in Andalusia wouldn’t be complete without a side trip to one of the beautiful white villages. The dazzling white villages of Spain along the coastline and in the Sierras are charming and make for a perfect day out.

Bike Tour Sevilla: Tour the city and the Guadalquivir River

Cycling in Seville is the best way to cover the whole city in a few hours. Discover the charming spots along the Guadalquivir River on this eco-friendly bike tour of Seville. During the tour, follow your local guide along bike-friendly trails as you enjoy the sights and tranquility of this amazing city away from the typical tourist crowds.

• CATEGORY: Outdoors Activities

Spain Hiking Trail: Doñana – Famous National Park in Spain

Hiking in Andalusia is definitely worthy of your list of things to do in Spain. We recommend a hiking vacation in Spain to discover the Doñana National Park. With a variety of wonderful scenery including coastal hiking like no other, rivers, ravines, waterfalls and rugged 3,000 meter peaks, a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Discover the Andalusian horse: Equestrian art dressage show

Horses are used in all facets of Andalusian life, and have been since time immemorial. Whether it is for political functions, or for pleasure days at the beach or to take the goats out or parade around town, Spanish Andalusian horses are amazing ! Come see for yourself how this animal is the cornerstone of life in southern Spain.

Sotogrande, Valderrama Golf & Marbella golf country club

If you’re going to spend a golf vacation in Spain , chances are it’s going to be in Andalusia. It is the region of Spain with the highest average temperature and is one of the world’s top golf destinations. Spain has more than 350 golf courses . Golf is very popular in this country, especially in the south of Spain. Golf on the Costa del Sol is one of the main sporting pastimes. The Costa del Sol is known as the Costa del Golf , and rightly so.

Las Alpujarras day trip from Granada Spain

The Alpujarra is a natural paradise formed by a series of picturesque villages of great beauty that extends along the southern foothills of the Sierra Nevada to the Mediterranean coast, between the provinces of Granada and Almeria . It is an area of contrasts, with a rugged terrain formed by valleys and ravines.

The international zip line border between Spain and Portugal

If you’re looking for Spain itineraries , you might want to consider a visit to Portugal. But we don’t mean the typical means of transportation. You can literally zip-line down from Sanlúcar de Guadiana in Andalusia, Spain, to Alcoutim in Algarve, Portugal, via a steel cable on the world’s only zip line that will take you over an international border.

Hiking Around Malaga Spain: El Caminito del Rey Hike

Spain is an excellent country for hiking, but the Caminito del Rey stands out among all others as an impressive feat. This nearly 8-kilometer trail near Malaga (Andalusia) was once considered one of the most dangerous in the world. Today the entire route has been restored, but one thing has not changed: the unique experience of walking along footbridges suspended more than 100 meters above a sheer cliff.

Sailing holidays: Andalusia or Mallorca sailing day trips

To show you all the charm and beauty of the capital of Spain from an ecological means of transport: the Segway. Madrid is a special city to travel on a Segway because its streets have ups and downs that are much more accessible when traveling with this transportation.

Reviews about Andalusia

The most memorable part of our trip was All of it . . especially Seville and the three major art museums in Madrid. Carameltrail is an amazing company that attended to every detail to make this trip PERFECT and memorable.  I cannot emphasize enough that this is the perfect company who asks enough questions to get to know your preferences and gears the itinerary around YOU and your desires and needs. Thank you again Samuel.  We would use them again in a heartbeat.  Also, it would have been nice if Carameltrail was equipped to book our international flights . But that was not a big deal. Carameltrail worked around our international flight schedules even when we changed arrival cities in Spain to suit our own needs. They were forced to “redesign our itinerary” and did it graciously. If I could take the trip again, probably, because of the very long international flights, I would not scheduled anything the morning we arrived because of the lack of sleep and jet lag, but because of the hours of these museums, availability of the special guides, etc. and the rather short stay in Madrid, there was little choice.

They are a very professional, ethical and efficient travel company. Samuel put together an excellent tour with  high quality hotels , which made our trip most enjoyable. He gave us a good taste of Spanish culture and life style while exposing us to their rich history and tradition. We returned with many memories and enjoyed everything  from snacking on churros with our tour guide, driving through Andalusia and the Costa Del Sol and watching the sun set on the Alhambra in Granada. Driving in the cities through narrow, poorly marked streets is difficult for any American driver. Driving in Manhattan is a breeze compared to navigating through Granada.

This Spain travel agency did a phenomenal job in planning my itinerary. Sam was especially excellent in providing many options and details. Just through email correspondence he learned my likes/dislikes and had such focused attention that at times  I felt like I was the only client. Every single recommendation Sam gave was spot on – restaurants, shopping, shows, Etc. I have worked with many travel companies and this Spain travel company stands out above the rest.  Everything was handled with care and class.  Each tour guide we had was extremely knowledgeable, patient and fun, the drivers were excellent and everything was perfectly orchestrated. Really top notch, personalized service. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience and I’m a tough customer! The most memorable parts of my trip were getting to know  Gaudi in Barcelona , Private cooking class in Seville, a very special table for dinner overlooking the Alhmabra in Granada, eating Tapas, and Flamenco in Madrid. I also loved the opportunity to meet Sam in Madrid after all the correspondence over the last couple months. If I could take my trip again, I would take more time off so that I could see more of Spain!

Carameltrail was truly an amazing experience! I have never used a travel agency per se to plan a vacation, but after this experience, I can say that I was really impressed at the attention to detail.  Not only was Samuel very attentive from the initial e-mail, but he was constantly checking and making sure everything was okay during the trip. He also had great recommendations in each city in Espana. It was truly the best trip that I have taken, and  a wonderful first experience in Europe . Furthermore, the actual trip itinerary was fabulous! I went with my best friend and another college friend, and we are all 29 years old. We e-mailed Samuel many times before the trip, but he never seemed to care and was always so helpful and quick to respond. We initially told him we’d like to visit Ibiza, and he was nice enough to give us 2 different itineraries. We ended up choosing the itinerary without Ibiza, and it was so worth it. We ended up seeing Barcelona, Nerja, Grenada, Sevilla, and Madrid, all in 9 days, and it was the perfect amount of days in each city. I highly recommend using Carameltrail for any trip to Spain, and this is coming from someone who has never blogged/Yelped about anything, so you know it has to be good!

Bobbie and Stan Bahler We just returned from our trip to Portugal and Spain, and it was terrific. We told Samuel which cities we wanted to visit (Porto, Lisbon and Seville), and Carameltrail made all the arrangements for airport pickup, hotel reservations, guided tours in each city, and travel between cities. That made it totally stress free. The local guides in each city were all knowledgeable, professional, and well-organized. The person who drove us between the cities was a professional guide and was able to stop in several small towns along the way and show us interesting and important sites. Samuel and Paloma maintained regular contact with us throughout the trip, and I’m happy to say that every part of their planning worked without a hitch.

I have travelled many places in Europe and by chance found Carameltrail Travel Agency for Spain. They were absolutely the best I have ever worked with in Europe. Angela did an absolutely excellent job in communicating with us over a six month period. She had everything lined out perfectly with guides, events, train, automobile and wi-fi box. Being from Texas we actually drove from Seville all the way down the coast to the southern part of Spain . Being that we did not speak any Spanish, she had maps and directions for us with signs to look for, thank goodness. She even told us  she was available 24-7  if we needed help. If you ever travel to Spain, I give them 5 stars up!! They are the BEST!

This Spain tour company is an excellent travel company. We had a wonderful trip to Spain. Because they had arranged all travel details, we were never stressed about travel connections.  The pace was perfect.  All of our guides were extremely knowledgeable and a pleasure to be with. When we had changes to make, the people at this Spain travel company worked with us quickly and efficiently to make it happen. We were initially apprehensive about spending so much money and this company was new and had few reviews, but all travel, accommodations, and guides were top rate and worth the price.  The most enjoyable part of our trip was visiting Alhambra in Granada, spectacular.  Pablo, this travel company’s local guide, was extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of the Alhambra: history, politics, architecture, myth, intrigue, engineering, archeology, religion, linguistics, botony, plus more. Also, when we arrived in Madrid jet lagged and concerned about how we were going to kill 4 hours before our next connection. We were greeted as promised by this travel company’s inbound manager, who didn’t just “provide documentation and transportation to the train station” as expected, but also drove us around Madrid, stopping at places to allow us to walk around, including the Royal Palace, finally escorting us to the train station for our last leg of the trip to Seville. In Madrid, this travel company’s guide, Maria, had an indepth knowledge of the art in the Prado museum.  Again, we were treated to a range of information about the art : art appreciation, history at the time of the painting, the artists and their influences, etc. She also treated us to a much needed warm chocolate drink (NOT your mother’s hot chocolate) in a very cool spot in Madrid. All guides did a great job pointing out sights, restaurants, walks, vistas, cafes, etc., that we may want to visit on our free time, never steering us wrong. If we could take our trip again we would spend more time there! I would have liked an additional side trip to a more rural area to get a break from the cities.

We enjoyed our trip a lot. The pace was ok for us, and I felt we accomplished our goal of seeing the major sights and having time to discover places on our own in our free time.  The guides were all good. A special mention to David in Córdoba. But all were charming, warm, and knowledgeable. We especially liked the Hotel in Bilbao. Bilbao was well worth two nights. We are urban people, and it is a beautiful city. But we also enjoyed the other cities very much. Thanks so much for a memorable trip, Samuel!

Having never been to Spain and knowing very little about it, but hearing from everyone else we knew that had gone there had loved it, we decided that it would be a great destination for a two week trip. So  where to begin?  Fortunately a friend of ours recommend Samuel and his Spain travel agency Carameltrail to us. He had planned their Spain trip and they had a great experience. Based on that we decided to contact Samuel to plan the trip to Spain for us and for our two good friends that were traveling with us. It turned out to be a very good move. Samuel was incredibly knowledgeable, responsive and  detailed oriented . He began by learning of our interests and our list of must see places. Then based on that, coupled with his extensive knowledge of Spain, he made a number of suggestions which we took on board. From that he then put together a fantastic itinerary. Everything worked perfectly , the accommodations which were excellent, the transportation and especially the high quality guides in all the key places we visited (Barcelona, Seville, Toledo, Granada and the Alhambra and Madrid). The trip to Spain could not have been executed any better! The quality, attention to detail and the planning process was just extraordinary. We are already talking of our next trip back to Spain with Samuel and Carameltrail. This time it will be Northern Spain and Portugal. I could not give him a  higher recommendation for any traveler  interested in having a great travel experience in Spain.

I wanted to give you my personal views on everything. The trip to Spain was really great. Could have done one more day in Barcelona. Unfortunately it  poured during part of the tour, but we didn’t miss a thing. Malaga  was great, Beautiful Hotel which we loved. Great breakfast service. Wonderful location. Our guide in Malaga was our favorite guide and did all kinds of little special things to make his tours even more interesting than they already were. We loved him and the side tours to Frigiliana and Nerja Great seafood restaurant there with views of the sea.  Can’t say enough good about him . The driver Antonio was also terrific. Ronda was also lots of fun and amazing. Granada, besides Alhambra didn’t do it for us. One day would have been fine. Sevilla. Fabulous hotel and  wonderful town . We liked it a lot and could have spent another day. Your guide was fabulous. She made the side trips really fun and very interesting. Madrid.  Transportation by train was great and easy. The guide who took us to the Prado was fabulous. It was the first time I’ve seen my daughter get really interested in art. We were there for two hours because we were enjoying it.  Big marks for your guide.  Great guide and wonderful person. We like Madrid more as a city than we expected from friends who have been. Easy to get around, lots to do and overall  fun and interesting .  The Artisan guide on our last day very cool. Everybody loved that, especially the leather and jewelry shops. Both my girls came home with something from each. The Flamenco show was good although we would have preferred the earlier performance. I think it was a “must do” but was not on the top of our list of things we loved. Everybody is of course different.  We went to Botin for lunch. I was expecting it to be very touristy and not good, but I was pleasantly surprised. You did a  fabulous job  Samuel and I would highly recommend you. You made our first trip to Spain memorable and we will be back.

More experiences in other geographical areas of Spain

Barcelona & catalonia, put barcelona to your buket list in your spain itinerary join us to discover the charm and history of the gothic quarter in barcelona, the always busy passeig de gràcia, the gaudi architecture, the jewish legacy, girona and some of the world-famous wine regions. immerse yourself in the heart of catalonia and discover the gastronomy and traditions of the catalans. all your expectations with the region will be surpassed, madrid & center, madrid is a unique city with amazing art galleries, a lovely and lively capital with a fascinating nightlife and many unforgettable sights. come to catch the secrets and stories of this incredible city. explore some of madrid´s historical sites, visit the prado museum, find some special things in el rastro, be amazed by the aqueduct of segovia and enjoy a wine and tapas tour. madrid´s glamour will surely fascinate you, northern spain, if you are keen of the mountains and love to be in the nature, the northern part of spain is the best choice for your net trip. this side of the country is known for its basque culture, an excellent gastronomy, elegant cities such as bilbao or san sebastian and also for the small charming villages and its incredible wine. come and see some magnificent mountain landscapes, rivers and forests, all bordered by the ocean. everyone who comes around this corner of the earth is fascinated by its grace. book your tickets today, do you want to plan your tailor-made trip, adapted to your preferences.

CARAMELTRAIL

At Carameltrail, we offer you the best trips in Spain, Portugal and Morocco . We work hard to offer you the best experiences, customizing your trip . We take you beyond the tourist attractions to show you the true value of the traditions, culture and local life of each destination. We have a team of people with in-depth knowledge of each destination and excellent customer service. We have carefully selected all the details of unique experiences and exclusive activities that will meet your expectations. Do you want us to plan a trip now?

SPANISH TRAVEL AGENCY

Carameltrail, S.L. es una agencia de viajes española, con licencia concedida por el Gobierno español (C.I.C.M.A num. 2642).

We arrange Custom Tours of Spain, Portugal and Morocco . Discover with us the essence of travelling!

ABOUT CARAMELTRAIL

Our story: Carameltrail Origin Our team & Expert local guides Our Services How to plan a trip? Travel Blog Contact Us Reviews FAQs BOOK A TRIP NOW!

Terms and Conditions Cookies Policy Privacy Policy Sitemap

• [email protected]
• US (305) 704-7242
• SPAIN (+34) 91-638-97-27
• Carameltrail

DESTINATIONS COUNTRIES

TRAVEL TO SPAIN

• Central Region & Madrid Tours
• Catalonia & Barcelona Tours
• Northern Spain Tours
• Andalusia & Southern Spain Tours

TRAVEL TO PORTUGAL

• Northern Region & Porto Tours
• Central Region & Lisbon Tours
• Southern Region & Algarve Tours

TRAVEL TO MOROCCO

• Northern Region & Fez Tours
• Central Region & Marrakech Tours
• Southern Region & Sahara Tours

UNIQUE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

History, Arts & Architecture Go Local, Gastronomy & Wines Outdoors Activities

CaramelTrail © Copyright 2024 | All Rights Reserved | Design by Ipnosix

Expert travel advisors

Your personal travel agency, committed to you and to becoming the difference between an ordinary and extraordinary visit to Spain.

Portugal, travel memories to last you a lifetime!

Meaningful holidays make happy memories and we aim to provide you with a trip as unique and individual as you are.

Experiences specially crafted for you

Our greatest satisfaction is to provide the discerning traveller the opportunity to explore and experience Spain their way.

Allow yourself to be seduced by Spain

Looking for culture and art, fine dining, nature, nightlife and high end shopping? Spain has it all. Come, discover it yourself.

Indulge in a gastronomic experience

180 Michelin Stars and counting and first in the world in terms of area covered by vineyards… what are you waiting for?

Lugarex – Luxury Travel in Spain & Portugal

At Lugarex;

we are passionate about designing tailor-made trips curated with your wishes and needs at heart.

We prepare unique customized itineraries that consider your preferences, age, expectations, travel interests, and anything that is meaningful to you when visiting a new country…

How we work

It is essential to put ourselves in the place of the traveler and design a tailor-made itinerary as if we were traveling ourselves.

Commitment is one of our hallmarks. Our local knowledge and experience, combined with your wishes and needs, will result in a personalized itinerary and a flawless travel experience…

The team at Lugarex;

is made up of a group of people passionate about discovering and really experiencing the world

The company was founded by two travelers who know vast amounts about Spain and Portugal and have spent years advising friends, colleagues…

We show you;

Spain and Portugal in an authentic yet exclusive way

We provide you with a comprehensive service, including your transportation needs, selecting and booking charming boutique or luxury accommodations…

Experiences

Treat yourself to a memorable trip, bespoke travel experiences.

Madrid, diverse & unique

Experience the magic of Andalusia

Southern spain - tours & day trips.

Building world Heritage Sites for centuries

Architecture.

With all my loved ones...

The folden triangle of Art...

MORE EXPERIENCES

What’s new in Spain

Fiesta del Orujo in Potes, Spain – The real Spanish liqueur

Potes, cantabria every year in november.

Gran Canaria Carnival: dates, events and typical food

Gran canaria every year in february.

SHOW ME MORE

TESTIMONIALS

Our clients loved it.

Wow! Just Wow!! Our trip was amazing!!! Our trip planner was amazing-very patient with our party trying to make decisions about what to do and where to go. I was suspect at first about some of the things he suggested, but those things ended up being the best part of the trip. The support offered during the trip was outstanding, and if we needed something, all I had to do was text the main office, and it was taken care of within 5 minutes. Again-our trip was terrific and if we had to do it over we would do it the exact same way!!!!

Lucinda V. & friends Texas, USA

Our friend found Lugarex online and recommended your service. Everything was so well done from the transportation to the hotels to the friendly people; we enjoyed our trip! The art museums in Madrid and our knowledgeable and art expert tour guide. He made the art so much more understood! The tapas tour in Seville was so much fun. Our hotels were all wonderful.

Allan & Lori S. Georgia, U.S.

A trip prepared with love. My partner and I wanted to visit Andalusia in the hope of exploring it in a different way than visiting the usual tourist hotspots. Lugarex customized our trip and organized private visits that meant moving at our own pace and without the need to follow a tight schedule. They showed us Andalusia as locals - everyday places that helped us understand southern Spain, the way of life and the customs. The trip was excellent and they took care of every detail along the way to make us feel that we were their priority. An anniversary trip that I will never forget, thanks!

Greta C. Chicago, USA

Friends had used this travel agency's services and insisted that I used them too. We had a great time. Lugarex is extraordinarily organized, and all our needs were taken care of. We loved our tours -, especially to Sagrada Familia and Montserrat. We also had just the right amount of downtime, which was suggested by Lugarex. Tossa de Mar was just what we needed after the flight over.

Weaver Family North Carolina, U.S.

Lugarex was willing to work with me on specific destinations. The best way to describe my trip is - Perfection! Everything worked as desired/needed, down to people being present on a timely basis for tours or travel to transportation. Fantastic work! We were so pleased that EVERYTHING worked as planned. Life can be quite fine, indeed!

Mark & Anne M. California, USA

Lugarex did an excellent job for us. Our travel specialist spent the time communicating with me and refined our two-week trip into a perfect one. Both the accommodations and guides were fantastic. The drivers were extremely professional. Everyone we asked about our travel company spoke highly of their professionalism and care, and we would certainly second that assessment. The trip lived up to my highest expectations and Lila adored it. Thank you so much. We will be sure to refer friends to you should they plan on taking a trip to Spain. From start to finish it has been a true pleasure.

Abbott & Lila S. New York, USA

Lugarex provided a wonderful combination of service, attention, thoughtfulness, and professionalism throughout our interactions, from the early stage of planning until the end of our trip. We loved that the team in Lugarex offered suggestions which we had not previously considered that added to our experience of Spain. This tour company should be anyone's first choice when considering a personalized trip to Spain.

Joseph & Angeline M. Georgia, USA

I would highly recommend the Lugarex team to anyone that wants to see Spain. The team and our point of contact within it were so easy to work with while planning the vacation and more importantly, easily accessible while we were actually in Spain. We made MANY last-minute changes while we were there, and he was so accommodating and responsive to every single request. Everything went EXACTLY as planned - pickups, transfers etc. Nothing was left to chance, and everything was flawless. I LOVE not having to wait in those long lines for the attractions. We LOVED all the hotels that were chosen. They were all small boutique hotels that were centrally located to everything. The guides were ridiculously knowledgeable, friendly and more importantly totally flexible. We have done many private tours, and I would rate these guides as among the best we have ever had. Besides their depth of knowledge (which honestly was terrific) they were all incredibly well mannered, easy to get along with and just generally lovely people. I don't think there was a question we asked that they couldn't answer and they all seemed to genuinely love what they do AND loved working for Lugarex, which I thought was important.

Ray T. & Anne C. Jamaica

Our group of six, including two ladies of senior years (both 87) had a total blast: The trip of a lifetime. The organisation by Lugarex was 100% spot-on. All guides turned up prior to the appointed times or even made contact before the appointment. Each tour was brilliantly curated for our group. The guides were, to a man, warm, personable, knowledgeable and passionate about their field. The hotels selected each offered the ideal location for the city/town we were staying in. All accommodations were of a high standard representing good value with more than ample in-house and nearby dining options. To be honest... Each succeeding day offered a new and unforgettable highlight. We were blown away by Toledo, then by Granada, then -- wouldn't you know -- by Ronda... Jerez and just possible because of the variety it offered, most of all, by Sevilla.

John M & Family Thailand, Australia & Ireland

I chose this travel agency because they were very professional and attentive to customer. Exceptional service! Thank you! Granada, seeing the Alhambra, the Islamic architecture was awe inspiring!! Cordoba mosque and street of flowers. Malaga- Gibralfaro and the Picasso museum, these were all some of the absolute highlights of our trip. Despite my last-minute trip decision and that we visited during the Christmas period, the entire travel plan and a well-thought itinerary resulted in a memorable trip. Throughout the trip I felt safe and supported at all times; it was easy to rely on Lugarex.

Fiona K & daughters Texas, USA

Lugarex service before and during the trip was outstanding. I was very impressed! Seville Féria and the wonderful guides that took us around were the highlights of a great trip. The restaurant suggestions were great also.

Angella & David N. Los Angeles, U.S.

Booked a trip to Madrid and Barcelona with Lugarex and the experience was fantastic. The private tours were led by knowledgeable people who were able to tell us about the history of Madrid and Barcelona. Lugarex 24x7 support via WhatsApp made us feel comfortable and secure. Would most certainly use Lugarex again when travelling to Spain.

Eve Lynn T. & Family LONDON, UK

Lugarex planned and delivered the best 14 day trip to Spain for my wife and me. Everything from transportation to location of the hotels to sightseeing with English speaking guides was just perfect and to our liking. Thanks to our guides who recommended vegetarian restaurants in all the cities we visited. We will definitely recommend this agency to our friends.

Mahendra & Ramilaben San Francisco, USA

The customer service was well beyond any expectation. The tours and unique experiences themselves also exceeded expectations and were exactly what we believe made the trip a wonderful experience. The communication was prompt and clear and gracious. Our tour guide gave us such a beautiful glimpse of the city's history as well as culinary experience. And she was pure joy to spend time with and get to know.

Aimee & Paula DiCicco Texas, USA

Our trip was fantastic! We had a wonderful time with our adult children visiting so many beautiful places in Andalusia and Madrid. Our guides were so knowledgeable and pleasant. Transport arrangements were also first class. Most enjoyable and memorable parts were the Prado, the Alhambra and Generalife and the Alcazar. Also, the tapas tour, when we first arrived in Seville, was a great way to get started on our trip! Our travel team was very responsive and took care of anything that came up during the trip.

Teller Family New Jersey, U.S.

My family and I would like to thank Lugarex for organizing an incredible week for us. The only problem was that it was too short, and we missed some major highlights out of necessity, but we are inspired to return. We found Lugarex to be highly professional and organized, and appreciate your quick responses and willingness to accommodate our requests.

Arlyn W. & Family New York, USA

Excellent! I have only good things to say about Lugarex....Everything went very very smoothly....The hotels were perfect. The drivers were great. The guides knowledgeable and friendly. I will recommend this travel agency without hesitation.

Carole & Marshall B. California, USA

My sister in law recommended this travel company, but I decided to work with them based mostly on their prompt and professional replies right from the first moment I contacted them. They offered excellent service, good coordination with all the departments. i.e.: hotel, transfer etc. We particularly appreciated how helpful the company was getting a passport that one of my kids left behind and got it delivered the next day to our hotel in Seville from Granada. To me, this is the most memorable experience I have with Lugarex. We felt safe and supported at all times.

Clive T & Family SINGAPORE

We only had a week in Spain, and the trip planned for us covered Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba, Granada and Seville. The organisation was seamless, at no time did we feel rushed, and we experienced the highlights of every city. Lugarex selected very knowledgeable guides who significantly increased our understanding of whatever we were looking at. We stayed in lovely boutique hotels right in the heart of the cities, and they organised all the transport, so we didn't have to think about anything. It was a fabulous experience.

Jenny & Greg L. Sydney, Australia

This was our 5th trip to Spain. In the past, we always created our own plan, itinerary, and did our own driving. This time, we wanted a relaxing, personalized and custom tour of Andalusia with guides, hotels and suggestions for sight seeing and time spent in cities in the region. We must say that everything was spectacular. The guides in each city were knowledgeable, friendly, and we liked every one of them. It was a truly personal experience in Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Costa del Sol. Most remarkable was the excellent service when our flight to Madrid was delayed, my husband's luggage was left in Newark and Lugarex arranged for a driver to pick us up at the airport, drive us to Madrid train station, and give us two tickets to Seville. Even better was the arrangement to pick us up on our second day in Seville to get us to the airport to retrieve the bag which had arrived from Newark to Madrid to Seville. Absolutely the best service, truly exceptional!

Jackie & Mike Rizzi Rhode Island, U.S.

I was traveling with a large family group (10 pp) and needed professional help to coordinate transfers and multi-activity. LUGAREX enhanced our holiday in Lisbon & Barcelona and made a brilliant work customizing our holiday. LUGAREX coordinated a special tour at Camp Nou, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. All aspects of LUGAREX were brilliant, including their service and multiple phone calls to make sure all aspects were perfect. Thank You!

Dan C. & Family Texas, USA

I chose this travel agency after reading about their services online. We were impressed with all the little details that were looked after. The quality of guides for tours was superb. Having a number to call and chat while on the trip was so helpful. I loved the entire itinerary! I felt safe and supported at all times; it was easy to rely on Lugarex.

Susan F. & partner Alberta, Canada

I just came back from the most amazing trip with Lugarex touring Andalusia, Spain. We were a group of 6 women with a lot of different personalities and this company delivered something for everyone. From the very beginning our trip planner was attentive and professional and provided me with information to put together the best trip I could for the 6 of us. We wanted to experience culture and history and the beauty of Andalusia in a luxurious setting. The trip was fantastic - from the minute we stepped off the plane there was somebody there waiting for us, we were shuttled and guided every day by a different person who was always punctual and friendly and would bend over backwards to accommodate us. Our accommodations were palatial and grand, and our trip planner added beautiful fresh fruit and chilled Cava for us to enjoy. Our tour guides were top notch and informative. Lugarex provided us with restaurant suggestions, and the tour guides also did. I am an avid traveler and was so impressed with the organization of the whole trip. We even threw our trip organiszer a curve ball and asked him to throw in a winery last minute- he gave us a private tour of a winery with a complimentary lunch- pure class!!! The whole trip was amazing! If I could take the trip again the only thing I would do differently would to spend more time, unfortunately we only had 1 week.

Kerri & Friends United States

Of all companies that we considered, Lugarex put together the best itinerary and provided excellent personal service. The trip itself was excellent. Everything went smoothly and was first class. The accommodations in Seville and Tossa de Mar were spectacular. We really appreciated the support during our trip. Having the internet hot spot was terrific. We were grateful for the extra effort that went into trying to rearrange our schedule when we had an emergency; working with hotels so we could check in early, and all of the behind the scenes work that went into making our experience so smooth.

Ann M. & Family North Carolina, USA

Lugarex was highly recommended to us by a friend. We had an unbelievable holiday in Spain. Lugarex planned all of the details - and then some. We loved touring Barcelona and walking through the Gothic Quarter. We also enjoyed the time we spent in the South relaxing. Granada was worth the long drive and incredible to see. The people in Spain were fantastic.

Lavine Family New York, U.S.

This travel company was exceptional in every way. During the planning stages, this company paid attention to every last detail and created a perfectly customized itinerary for a large group with different interests, ages, and physical abilities. We had a fantastic time and would highly recommend this travel company to future travelers. The olive oil estate visit was really informative, and the people warm and fun. The tapas tour in Sevilla with our guide was also exceptional, but it is hard to choose. All of our experiences were fun and memorable.

Visioni Family Chicago, U.S.

We wanted a service that provided a tailored travel experience in Spain. We decided to proceed with Lugarex after interacting with their team. The trip and service were excellent. Lugarex delivered on everything that was promised. We loved Barcelona. Our hotel was great - well located with an interesting vibe. There wasn't a single most memorable moment as we really enjoyed everything. Our guide was outstanding, we've experienced many guides in our travels, and she ranks as one of the best. The support during the trip was great, and the few times we needed to get in touch, the response was almost immediate.

Karen F. & Family Toronto, Canada

After an extensive online search, we found Lugarex's website to be the most professionally presented and made a non-Spanish speaker very comfortable interacting with you online. In the end, it was not just the stunning website that proved the value, but all that the company did. For in life we know that what's on the surface may not always be what's underneath. The immediate response to our web inquiry and the phone call that followed were extremely positive and convinced us of the company's professionalism and ability to accommodate our requests. The guides were superb, personable and went out of their way to ensure that we had the best experience and access to their expertise and their cities. We appreciated that most were natives in each of the places we visited. Having the opportunity to interact with people who are fiercely proud of their country helped us to see and experience Spain in a unique way. We especially appreciated your sensitivity to our request for Jewish history content whenever possible.

Sharon & Joseph B. Pennsylvania, USA

What we liked the most was the personalised and customised approach that Lugarex took throughout our entire experience with them. We appreciated the 1st phone call and the time the travel specialist took to understand our needs and requirements and subsequent follow up enquiries. Our group of four believes that this is our most enjoyable holiday and the most efficient service. Each of us had different highlights. My husband enjoyed the Guggenheim while my sister and I enjoyed the whole experience of Santiago de Compostela, the best!

Tan Family SINGAPORE

Our travel specialist was able to provide an excellent tailored itinerary for our four-city tour. Guides very knowledgeable, restaurant recommendations were first class. We loved our trip, especially our privately guided tours in Santiago, Bilbao and in the San Sebastian coastal area.

John & Caragh M. Worcester, United Kingdom

Thank you for visiting our website. We hope that we have shown you how passionate we are about bespoke travel in Spain. We look forward to introducing you to the best that Spain has to offer and to a once in a lifetime experience in this extraordinary country.

Fill the contact form and we will get back to you in less than 24 hours.

EMAIL: [email protected]

I've read and accept the Privacy Policy

Please leave this field empty.

Madrid & Beyond crafts customized luxury travel for discerning travelers who seek seamless, unique cultural vacations in Spain and Portugal

START YOUR DREAM VACATION

THE SOUL OF SPAIN THE ESSENCE OF PORTUGAL

EXPERIENCE THE ESSENCE OF SPAIN & PORTUGAL

We create personalized travel experiences in Spain and Portugal that become cherished, lifelong memories, catering to those who seek to go beyond all the clichés and discover the heart and pulse of both historic and contemporary Iberia.

For Madrid & Beyond, it’s all about the people! Now in our 24 th year, we take you deep inside the worlds of art, wine, food, architecture, music and culture, ensuring that you truly “experience” Spain and Portugal, providing insider’s access to a huge range of fabulous individuals and places that are simply not available elsewhere. That is the luxury of traveling with Spain and Portugal’s premier travel agency.

For couples, families and small groups, enjoy seamless and fun vacations. For larger groups, we have the reputation of being Spain’s and Portugal’s best travel company for all escorted and guided tours on a private basis.

GET IN TOUCH

SPAIN IPSUM DOLOTR SIT AMET

We customize all itineraries according to your tastes, requirements and budget, creating the trip that best suits your preferences. Whether you are a couple, a family, a group of friends or a larger group focused on gastronomy or other, we listen to what you seek and craft a trip that aims to exceed all your expectations.

We create personalized travel experiences in Spain that become cherished, lifelong memories, catering to those who seek to go beyond all the clichés and discover the heart and pulse of both historic and contemporary Spain. We take you deep inside the worlds of Spanish wine, food, music, art and culture, ensuring that you truly “experience” Spain, providing insider’s access to a huge range of fabulous people and places in Spain that is simply not available elsewhere.

OUR HAPPY CLIENTS SAY

Quite simply the very best travel company we have ever experienced… guides were top-flight; the hotels were beyond our expectations… And working with the staff was very, very pleasant.

Norma & Randy Moore — USA

I urge you to carefully consider Madrid & Beyond who, quite simply, provides unparalleled travel experiences and arrangements in Spain.

Karen Schueller, FROSCH, USA, Director, Private Client Services

THANK YOU for a trip to Spain that we will treasure forever in our photos and our memories. We are deeply grateful to you and wish you only the best as you continue to build what should be the model for tour agencies everywhere. As promised, we will recommend you to everyone and anyone we know traveling to Spain!

Carrie Irwin

Our only problem is that now we have grown so accustomed to using Madrid & Beyond with your expertise and personal touch, and we do not know if any other agency will ever be able to live up to our expectations

Allison and Alton Ashy

We LOVE SPAIN! We have been bragging to anyone who will listen about our amazing trip and Madrid & Beyond. I am so glad that we found you – it would not have been the same without your good care.

Cindy Thompson

Our trip to Spain was absolutely wonderful. Had it not been for you, the trip may have been very different. Everything was so laid out and planned for us. You were very thorough and right on with everything. Our hotel accommodations and restaurants were excellent. We expressed our want to experience Spain…and we certainly did.

Dwayne Klarenbeek

Words cannot express our deepest appreciation for all of your work in making our most recent trip to Spain, one Alton and I will never forget and always treasure.  As we have come to expect in booking trips with you, there is not one detail that is ever overlooked.  From the moment we arrived, until we got on the plane to leave, everything we experienced was flawless.

The whole trip was amazing. I don’t think I would have changed anything! The hotels were spectacular, the tours really great…the food was wonderful, and your recommendations were very useful and the ones we tried were great places…what can I say, you made our honeymoon very special and your country is spectacular.

Ron Milstein

This company is simply the best. I wouldn´t book a trip to Spain with any other agency. Hotels, tour guides, private car transfers, cultural exchanges and experience… everything top notch. If you are planning on a trip to Spain, this company is the go to travel agency.

Charles Petrick

You did everything you could to make sure we had an incredible trip. If we ever head back to Spain we´ll definitely be using you again!

Nate Flaherty

quite simply the very best travel company we have ever experienced… guides were top-flight; the hotels were beyond our expectations… And working with the staff was very, very pleasant.

Norma & Randy Moore — USA

Private guides, insider access, art & history, traditions & folklore, accommodation, active outdoors, special celebration trips, jewish heritage, architecture, camino de santiago, rest & relaxation, nature & wellness.

PRIVATE GUIDES

Tell us about your dream trip

Estimated trip start and end date*

Number of people on the trip*

Other trip details Eg: Interests & preferences / Places you would like to visit / Type of accommodation

By submitting this form you agree to the storage and handling of your data in accordance with our privacy policy

Sign up to our quarterly newsletter for travel inspiration – you can unsubscribe at any time I would like to receive email updates about vacations in Spain and Portugal

• HOW WE WORK

See the autumn colors reflected in a glass of wine

Feel the wind in your face, leave your footprints on eternal beaches, meet the fallero artists who carve throughout the year what will be the pasture of the flames, discover the incredible heritage with the best specialists, truly spain is an experiential travel agency specialized in designing authentic, tailor-made itineraries all over spain and portugal. we focus on unique, distinctive trips by connecting our clients with real local culture and people. we have been in the industry for over a decade, taking care of the most sophisticated and well-travelled clients., we are passionate about our work and our goal is to exceed your expectations. each and every trip is a personal investment that we take very seriously. our clients’ safety and satisfaction are our priorities. let us take care of every detail while you sit back, relax, and have the time of your life, knowledge and experience, unique and unrepeatable trips, every trip is a blank book that we write from scratch with the traveler, without preconceived patterns or ideas. every traveler is different., private access, we will open for you the doors of places that few know so that you can enjoy the most exclusive experiences, budget precision, we make meticulous budgets adapted to your needs, always ensuring the best quality in our services and accomodations, 24/7 personalized service, we will be right next to you, contact us if you need anything we will assist the traveler at every moment to guarantee excellence and the best experience, our suppliers, they are part of our team. for years we have been selecting the best local specialists that we deeply trust due to their excellence, professionalism and commitment with each traveler, enter the kitchens, savor spain, its landscapes, its people ..., touch the stars in the best and most renowned restaurants, spearhead of international cuisine, share the joy of living, discover new flavors in old recipes, sample the hours of sunshine in olive oil, witness the majesty of the arrival of the cranes, ride on the waves of the cantabrian sea, create your own path when walking, strike the sails, dive into the mediterranean sea, experience the hike of hikes, vibrate with "a rapa das bestas", listen to the breath of a bull, visit the meadows where they breed, tremble as the earth trembles with the drums of calanda, admire the castellers who make the sky touch catalonia, learn flamenco in a cave of the alpujarra, imagine barcelona like gaudí did, reflect yourself on the new spain, enter the alhambra under the moonlight, follow the traces of the judaism, walk the paths to reach hidden and forgotten treasures, wet your hands in fountains of secret gardens, the men and women of our country are our hands and our eyes, the best part of our team ..., ... people who put passion in their work and pass it on to our travelers., ... farmers, artists, dancers, painters, restaurateurs, artisans, drivers, winemakers, cooks, historians ..., rediscover the classics through the eyes of an specialist, go back to the museum while everyone sleeps, enter the living room of a house to know the family treasures, sculpt the wind like chillida, find another spain behind the walls, vuelve al museo mientras todos duermen, see the autumn colors reflected in a glass of wine while navigating in the immense douro valley. sample the hours of sunshine in olive oil. feel the waves of cádiz fighting with the tuna. share the joy of living, discover new flavors in old recipes. touch the stars in the best and most renowned restaurants, spearhead of international cuisine. enter the kitchens, meet the people that nourish the gastronomy every day, savor spain and portugal and their landscapes, the warmth of their people…, art & history, rediscover the classics with the glance of a specialist. learn about details nobody notices in the streets of madrid. sculpt the wind like chillida. imagine barcelona like gaudí did. ride a boat like the portuguese sailors did to transport wine barrels .find another spain and portugal behind the walls., tradition and folklore, meet the fallero artists who carve throughout the year what will be the pasture of the flames. listen to the breath of a bull, visit the meadows where they breed. palpitate as the earth trembles with the drums of calanda. visit tomar covered in flowers for the festa dos tableiros. admire the castellers who make the sky touch catalonia. vibrate with “a rapa das bestas”. celebrate the harvest with riojan winemakers. learn flamenco inside an alpujarra cave., insider access, unique experiences, we will open for you the doors of private palaces and living rooms to unveil the family treasures. explore the alhambra under the moonlight and visit a museum while everyone sleeps. if you are celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon, anniversary or birthday, let us make it unforgettable, nature and adventure, how about a picnic and some wine among the tramontana mountains or in the colorful irati forest admire all the different tones of blue in the balearic islands and costa brava and feel small in front of nazare’s huge waves. relax stargazing in san lourenço do barrocal or feel energized by all the flowers decorating the charming white villages., jewish, islamic and christian heritage, learn about how these three cultures coexisted in the peninsula for centuries, turning it into a rich land of cultural mix that still today determines our heritage and way of life. walk the paths to reach hidden and forgotten treasures from ancient and modern cultures, stroll through the jewish quarters or visit immense cathedrals., fun and family, tour the city in an original and fun way with our local specialists on tuk tuks, electric bikes, sidecars or classic cars. learn some traditional crafts. ride a private boat or yatch to relax seeing the sunset and enjoy some tapas and wines. whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a group of friends or a family, you won’t have the chance to get bored.

Madrid Office: Plaza Doctor Laguna 5 28009 Madrid + 34 914 038 675 + 34 618 382 249 [email protected]

Your Email (*)

Fall in love with Spain and Portugal

© 2017 Truly Spain. Aviso legal y Política de Privacidad de datos. Condiciones generales de contratación

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Spain Tours & Vacations

From towering cathedral spires to a shared jug of sangria, it’s passion that ties Spain together.

Passion is the constant across Spain’s diverse regions and cultures, from the twirling skirts of flamenco dancers in Seville to the tears of pilgrims arriving in   Santiago de Compostela . Despite (or perhaps because of) its complicated history, Spain has produced some of the most moving art in the world – and we’re not just talking about Gaudi’s architecture and Dali’s melting clocks. Here, art isn’t just in the grand architecture and museums around the country. It’s in the jamón expertly cured by a family who has been making it for centuries, and  vibrant festivals  that bring whole cities together. Like its art, Spain offers something for everyone.

Our Spain trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Spain tour reviews

Filter by rating

Best of Spain

Madrid to Marrakech

This couple is exploring the world one podcast episode at a time 

The top 10 destinations to travel in May 2024

Italy or Spain? Which European country should you travel to?

Travel is back and we just dropped 10 new Premium adventures

Where to celebrate Pride in Europe 2023

6 reasons why you should do a guided Camino walk

5 of the best walks in Europe – The Great Walks of Europe

Fool or genius? Getting to know Gaudi in Barcelona

We also travel to

Spain at a glance, capital city.

Madrid (6.9 million)

47.5 million

(GMT+01:00) Madrid winter, (GMT+02:00) Madrid summer

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Spain

Culture and customs.

Spain today is made up of 17 distinct autonomous communities, a product of the region’s history as a land of diverse tribes, kingdoms, and cultures. Each has its own traditions, cuisines, and customs shaped by the extensive war, invasion, immigration, and trade that the region has seen over the past few thousand years. From the Moors to the Romans, the British to the Portuguese, modern Spain is a product of both its   geographic neighbors   and the far-flung lands it conquered as a colonial superpower.

Spaniards are known, perhaps above all else, for their passion – for food, politics, partying, and life in general. This is the home of vibrant fiestas, fierce independence movements, flashy flamenco, worker uprisings, and the grand architectural remnants of a lavish and bloated empire.

Roman Catholicism is deeply entrenched in society, and as such Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas are widely observed. Additionally, different patron saints are honored in regional areas throughout the year, with small cities and villages celebrating their saints with bonfires, feasts, and parades.

From visionary architects to painters, controversial film directors to literary greats, Spain has a strong creative tradition evident in Gothic cathedrals, abstract art, and surreal film.

History and government

There is evidence of human habitation in the area now known as Spain dating as far back as 32,000 years ago. Pre-historic cultures likely existed as disparate tribes across the region until the Iron Age, when emerging groups like Iberians, Celtiberians, and Greeks began to exercise more formal control over certain areas.

The Romans arrived in 206 BC and spent hundreds of years systematically conquering the region before ruling uninterrupted for almost 500 years.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, various Muslim and Christian conquerors spent the next 700 years struggling for full control of the region. The last Muslim city, Granada, fell under the control of the Christian Kingdoms of Castile and Aragon in 1492, ending the last period of Muslim rule in Spain to this day.     

Spain as a global empire

The Kingdom of Spain was unified under Christian rule in 1512 and began expanding at a ferocious pace. The far-reaching colonization that saw Spain conquer land on almost every continent earned it the title of the first ‘global empire’.

With access to the natural resources and human labor extracted from its colonies, Spain continued to balloon in power and influence until the 17th century. At this point, lavish construction and out-of-control spending, as well as the growing influence of other global powers, caused the empire to stall.  

By the 18th century, the Kingdom of Spain was struggling. An invasion from Napoleon’s France, royal infighting, and various successful independence movements among colonies were the final death blows delivered to the ailing empire.

20th century

The early 20th century was a tumultuous time for Spain. Between 1918 and 1920, influenza killed an estimated 250,000 people in Spain alone. The nation oscillated between monarchy and short-lived stints as a republic. Attempted coups were frequent as left-wing and right-wing struggled for power, with powerful anarchist and fascist movements emerging, often in reaction to each other.

In 1936 the right-wing Nationalists (led by military general Francisco Franco Bahamonde AKA Franco) overthrew the government in a coup. A three-year civil war began for control of the country. At least 350,000 Spaniards died during the war, which ended with Franco’s victory and ascension to the dual roles of Head of State and Commander-in-Chief. Franco controlled Spain through a rigid totalitarian regime until his death in 1975. His legacy today is mixed, notable for the brutal repression of dissenters but also for an improved economy.

After Franco’s death, Spain transitioned to a democracy, holding its first free elections in almost 40 years in 1979. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the government was controlled alternately by socialist, conservative, and populist parties.    

Though power has continued to swing between conservative and socialist governance, Spain today is relatively politically stable and home to a thriving democracy.   

Remarkably, centuries of Catholic supremacy and enforced cultural hegemony under Franco’s dictatorship haven’t been able to stamp out a spirit of counterculture and rebellion. In general, public engagement in social and political issues is high, and public protest is common.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you’re sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat, or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from in every part of the world.

An abundance of fresh seafood and produce, a long wine-making tradition and diverse culinary influences from the former colonies make for a vibrant food culture. You can find delicious delicacies everywhere from bars to restaurants, cafes, street fiestas, and markets across the country. Savor the cuisines of Northern Spain on our  10 day Northern Spain Real Food Adventure  or taste your way through two countries on our  17 day Spain & Portugal Real Food Adventure.

Plant-based dining in Spain

Vegetarians certainly won’t go hungry in Spain. And while vegans might need to do a little detective work, there’s still a lot on offer if you know where to look.

Vegetarian options can be found in the vast majority of bars, restaurants, cafes, and markets. Vegan travelers will find major cities like Madrid and Barcelona are packed with vegan-friendly (and just straight-up vegan) restaurants. Outside of the big cities, it starts to get a little trickier. The safest option is to make the local market your first port of call in each destination to stock up on fresh fruit, vegetables, and bread. In eateries, vegans should keep an eye out for gazpacho (tomato soup), crema de verduras (vegetable soup), and basic ensaladas (salads) which are likely to be vegan. To be sure they won’t come served with meat on top (which can happen even when it isn’t listed as an ingredient) order them ‘sin jamon y sin huevo’ – without ham or eggs. 

Your local leader will be able to help you navigate the menu and find plant-based dining options.

Must-try dishes and drinks in Spain

• Paella This delectable rice dish is served throughout Spain and comes in many different ways. The mixed version (with chorizo, mussels, and prawns) is the most popular internationally, but if we have to recommend just one it’s got to be the original Valencian version – with rabbit, chicken, and butter beans.
• Albondigas This tapas staple of meatballs swimming in a spicy tomato sauce is a classic. Typically made from a combination of veal and pork mince, the dish is simple to make and even easier to eat, particularly when washed down with a glass of tempranillo.
• Croquettes Another tapas favorite, this time one that vegetarians can easily get behind. These delightful little balls of fried bechamel come with a number of fillings, from beef and ham to broccoli and goat’s cheese.
• Sangria Jugs filled with chunks of apple, lemon, and orange in chilled red wine are the perfect accompaniment to a golden Spanish sunset. Sangria is a well-known ticket to extended late-night revelry, so don’t say we didn’t warn you.
• Calamares a la Romana This dish of crispy, deep-fried calamari is popular in coastal regions like Barcelona. Eat a plate of it at a beachside restaurant or head to a bar and include it in your tapas mix.
• Churros For a sugar hit, try Spain’s version of the doughnut. Churros are sticks of deep-fried dough, dipped in chocolate for good measure! Find them at open-air food stalls and cafes.
• Jamon Spain is famous for its cured ham, the legendary jamon. You’ll find salty jamon hanging in shop windows, on display at markets, and featured on menus throughout Spain.
• Gazpacho For a fresh and healthy Spanish dish, you can’t go past gazpacho. The raw, chilled tomato soup is a cool answer to Spain’s summer heat.
• Tortilla de Patatas Potato tortilla (or Spanish omelette) is a slice of authentic Spanish culinary tradition. A simple dish that’s often served as part of a tapas spread, it’s a great option for vegetarians wanting something hearty.
• Vino tinto We know what you’re thinking. Isn’t it a bit of a cop-out to call ‘red wine’ a must-try? Not when the diversity and quality of the drop are this good. There are so many must-sip varieties in Spain it’s hard to go wrong, but here’s a little list to get you started – tempranillo, rioja, priorat, and toro. Go!

Read more about what to eat in Spain

Read more about what to drink in Spain

Geography and environment

Located in southwestern   Europe , Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula and shares borders with   France ,   Andorra ,   Portugal ,   Morocco   , and Gibraltar, as well as the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The region’s topography is a blend of mountains, low-lying plains, and a long coastline.

The northern Pyrenees and the Picos de Europa are two northern mountain ranges that draw travelers from the continent and around the world in search of active adventure. The Picos de Europa is smaller and popular with hikers, while the powdery slopes of the Pyrenees attract hordes of skiers during an impressively long snow season. 

Spain’s coastline and islands are world-renowned. The Mediterranean Coast, in particular, is incredibly long and beautiful, featuring a mix of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and protected bays. Islands like Tenerife, Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca are among the most popular with tourists chasing sunshine and good times.

While many know its beaches, fewer travelers are aware that southern Spain is home to the only real desert in Europe – the Tabernas. The barren badlands were the setting for a number of Western films in the 1960s and 1970s.

However, most of the countryside in Spain’s central and northern regions offers green valleys, olive groves, rolling farmland, and rivers.

Home of cult fast fashion brand ZARA, Camper shoes, Lladro porcelain, Mango clothing, and some of the best wine and olive oil in the world, Spain’s consumer goods may not be cheap but the quality is high if you stick to authentic brands and hand-made goods. If you are chasing a bargain, flea markets are abundant in Spain and make for a great way to mingle with locals while you look for a souvenir. If you’re spending a few days in a city, ask a local (or if you’re traveling with Intrepid, ask your leader) where and when you can find the local second-hand market. Popular items to look for are leather goods like bags, belts and boots, Moorish mementos and printed fans.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have strict quarantine laws. 

Festivals and events

Valencia’s Las Fallas is a sizzling cacophony of colorful firecrackers, smoky bonfires, roaring rockets, and massive effigies. Celebrated each year in honor of Valencia’s patron saint, this is a week of fiery fun and extensive late-night partying.

Every summer the Spanish town of Haro explodes into a ‘Wine War’, known to locals as Batalla del Vino. Unforgiving residents pump red wine out of water pistols, hoses, and other vessels in this grand example of wine warfare. Be warned: no one is spared – this is not a spectator sport!

La Tomatina

A relative newcomer to the Spanish festival scene,   La Tomatina   draws in travelers, tourists, and the world’s media who come to see ripened tomatoes splattered across the city of Bunol. Thousands of people cram into the narrow town plaza to smash tomatoes into each other – a chaotic, strange, and super fun experience.

The Holy Week

As a predominantly Catholic country, Easter is a huge deal in Spain. But even if you’re not a believer, the Holy Week (Semana Santa) is a fascinating event to experience. Each region has its own unique traditions, but all involve lavish processions, incredible outfits, and torrijas (fried sweet bread). 

Fiesta de San Isidro

Fiesta de San Isidro  is Madrid’s largest festival to honor San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of Madrid who was believed to be a miracle worker in the 12th century. Over the years, the festival has evolved into an all-encompassing celebration of Madrid’s traditions and modern culture, from folk music and dancing to delicious street food. 

Read more about popular festivals in Spain.

Top places to visit in Spain

1. santiago de compostela.

Even if you don’t follow the Camino, or Way of Saint James, to get there, it’s hard not to be moved by the flocks of faithful who arrive in the courtyard of the city’s eponymous cathedral at the end of their pilgrimage. Soak up the cathedral's holy atmosphere, marvel at the impressive stone facades and soaring towers, or explore the labyrinth of cobbled streets, lively squares and perfectly manicured gardens.

Embark on Europe's greatest pilgrimage on our  7 day Walk the Camino de Santiago tour .

Welcome to the capital of Spain’s famous La Rioja wine region. Logrono is home to the must-visit Calle de Laurel – an ancient medieval street where you'll discover some of Spain's best pintxos​, small bites of food served on a skewer or piece of bread. The city is also the gateway to countless wineries, ancient castles and stunning Spanish countryside.

Combine rich culture and delicious cuisine on our  8 day North Spain Discovery tour .

The capital of Andalucia, Seville is famous for its flamenco dancing, oranges, tapas and the world's largest Gothic cathedral. Explore the city's elaborate Moorish architecture – a product of over 400 years of caliphate rule in the Middle Ages, watch a lively flamenco performance at local tapas bars, or enjoy a refreshing  rebujitos cocktail  in the bustling main street of the Triana quarter.

See the best of southern Spain on our  8 day Highlights of Andalucia tour .

4. Valencia

Sun-drenched Valencia has clean beaches, picturesque parks and a mixture of medieval architecture and creative modern design . Be sure to take a walk through the Jardin del Turia – a riverbed that was turned into a park that snakes through the city, pick up some local goodies at the market in Old Town, or try Valencian paella made with rabbit, chicken and butter beans.

Explore coastal Valencia on our  15 day Best of Spain tour.

5. Barcelona

Surreal Gothic architecture, superb dining and non-stop nightlife make Barcelona an unmissable spot. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, grab fresh juice at the colorful La Boqueria market, sample Catalan dishes on a tapas crawl through the funky El Born neighborhood, or discover Gaudi's architectural masterpieces.

Immerse yourself in Spain's rich and quirky culture on our  7 day Classic Barcelona to Madrid tour.

Come for the sprawling beauty of the 11th-century Alhambra Palace, stay for the small flamenco taverns and some of the best tapas in Spain. Whether you want to do a local produce tasting at a family-run delicatessen, explore the Moorish Albaicin quarter and traditional tea houses or marvel at the beautiful tombs at the Royal Chapel, it's impossible not to fall in love with Granada's charm.

Get a little taste of it all on our  20 day Premium Spain in Depth tour.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Spain adventure, check out these books:

• The Shadow of the Wind   – Carlos Ruiz Zafon
• Don Quixote   – Miguel de Cervantes
• Imperial Spain: 1469–1716   – John Elliott
• The Ornament of the World: How Muslims, Jews, and Christians Created a Culture of Tolerance in Medieval Spain   – Maria Rosa Menocal
• Homage to Catalonia   – George Orwell
• The Back Room   – Carmen Martin Gaite
• Iberia   – James A Michener

Similar destinations

Never want your European vacation to end? No problem! We have a variety of similar trips and routes to extend your trip and add another destination. Check out these tours departing from locations around Spain. 

• 15 day Explore Spain & Portugal tour
• 22 day Classic Spain & Portugal tour
• 15 day Madrid to Marrakech tour
• 24 day Spain, Portugal & Morocco tour
• 15 day Barcelona to Rome tour
• Italy or Spain? Which country to choose?

Spain travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Spain?

Due to its size, Spain has a varied climate, but for the most part, you can expect Mediterranean temperatures along the coast, with hot, sunny summers (and peak tourism!) and colder, rainy winters .

On the east coast of Spain, major cities like Barcelona can be very busy during summer, so if you’d prefer to share the streets with more locals and fewer tourists you might find the ‘low season’ of November to February is the best time to visit this region.

What's the weather like in Spain?

Spain is known to be one of the warmest and sunniest countries in Europe regardless of the season, but weather patterns differ depending on where you are: you can expect mild summers and cold winters in the northern regions and hot summers and mild winters in the south.

Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Citizens of the European Union and Iceland, Norway and Switzerland are not required to obtain a visa but must abide by local residency requirements if they plan to stay for more than 90 days.

Travelers from Australia, the USA, New Zealand, Brazil, Japan and more can visit Spain for 90 days in a six-month period with no visa, as long as they have no plans to work. 

Travelers visiting from Cambodia, Ecuador, India, Nepal and other countries must obtain a visa from the Spanish consulate or embassy in their region – allow at least two weeks for it to be issued. 

The information is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 14 June 2023

Is tipping customary in Spain?

Tipping in Spain is entirely optional. If you would like to tip, rounding up the bill or leaving spare change in restaurants should be sufficient. Feel free to tip more for good service, but it isn’t expected of you.

What is the internet access like in Spain?

Internet access is good in Spain. Internet cafes and wi-fi hotspots are easily found in most cities and major towns. In some very remote and rural areas, access can be patchy, but this is improving.

Can I use my cell phone while in Spain?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Spain. If you want to use your cell phone, purchase a local sim or ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur). Travelers from countries not part of a Global Mobile Systems network, like Japan, will not be able to use their cell phones in Spain.

What are the toilets like in Spain?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the standard in Spain. Be aware that public toilets aren’t as common in Spain as they are in some other countries and you often have to pay to use them. Be sure to carry change to avoid being caught short.

What will it cost for a…?

Spain's unit of currency is the euro. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Pint of beer = USD $3–5
• Basic cafe meal = USD $13-16
• Simple tapas plate = USD $6-8
• Metro ticket = USD $2.50

Can I drink the water in Spain?

Drinking water from taps is safe in Spain unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Spain?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Spain. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Spain?

ATMs are very common in Spain, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Spain?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• April or May: Maundy Thursday/Good Friday
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 15 Aug: Assumption of Mary
• 12 Oct: Fiesta Nacional de Espana
• 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day
• 6 Dec: Constitution Day
• 8 Dec: Immaculate Conception
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Please note, Spain public holidays may vary.

Is Spain safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Overall, Spain is a welcoming and safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Same-sex marriage is legal, and laws exist to protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals to live free from of discrimination (though employment discrimination laws do not yet protect transgender individuals). 

Public opinion on LGBTQIA+ individuals is relatively positive. Though LGBTQIA+ travelers may encounter more conservative views in rural areas and small towns, the risk of experiencing overt discrimination in Spain is very low for travelers.

Transgender individuals and gender non-conforming folks are widely accepted in Spain, though gender identity-based discrimination still occurs.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Spain accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Spain is a mixed bag when it comes to access for travelers with disabilities. While some regions like Catalonia are proactively working to meet the needs of travelers with disabilities, others may prove challenging for travelers with mobility and/or visual impairments.  

Barcelona is notable as one of the most wheelchair-friendly cities in Europe. All of Barcelona’s major sights are accessible for wheelchair users, and some beaches have all-terrain wheelchairs for free hire as well as boardwalks that extend to the water. The vast majority of metro stations and all buses are accessible to folks with reduced mobility. Many train stations in Barcelona have tactile strips to direct folks with vision impairments to platforms, ticket machines, and elevators. Ticket machines and elevators have speech options in a variety of languages. 

Madrid is also a city committed to accessible travel, with metro and bus systems that can be used by people with mobility and visual impairments and many accessible monuments.

Spain’s national parks are somewhat accessible, as they are commonly outfitted with accessible interpretation centers and viewpoints. The trails of the Picos de Europa are well-maintained and non-reflective, so may be accessible to people with visual impairments (depending on the severity of the impairment).

Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should familiarise themselves with the Spanish equivalent of the batteries their devices need.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What are some useful Spanish phrases to learn?

You don’t need to spend hours trying to learn Spanish before your trip... unless you want to, that is! The following phrases should help you get by:

• Good morning –  Buenos días
• Good afternoon –  Buenas tardes 
• Good evening –  Buenas noches
• How are you? –  ¿Cómo está usted?  (formal) 
• How are you? –   ¿Cómo estás?  (informal)
• What are you doing? –  ¿Qué haces?  
• Thank you –  ¡Gracias!  
• Nice to meet you –  Mucho gusto
• Please –  Por favor

Does my trip to Spain support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Spain directly support our foundation partner, Open Arms.

Open Arms protects people fleeing from their home country to reach Europe by sea. Donations from our trips help them protect immigrants abandoned in international waters fleeing war, persecution and poverty. They collaborate with healthcare and frontline research teams to support immigrants through health emergencies and work in their countries of origin to strengthen communities and build alternatives to irregular or unsafe immigration.  

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

• Europe Tours
• Spain Tours
• Tour Operators

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Spain 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Spain. Below you will find 42 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Spain offering in total 542 tours and holidays through-out Spain. Combined they have received 624 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Spain are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Air tours, road trips and transfers.

• Tours in Spain
• Spain Travel Guide
• Things to Do in Spain
• Best Time to Visit Spain

42 Tour Operators in Spain with 624 Reviews

Expat Explore

• Address 10 Merryweather Place, London, England
• Response Rate 90%
• Response Time 1 hour

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

Exodus Travels

• Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
• Response Rate 85%
• Response Time 2 hours

• Address 30 N Gould St, Sheridan, WY, USA
• Response Rate 98%

• Address 1B Osiers Road, Wandsworth, London, England

• Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
• Response Rate 88%

Destination Services

• Address Edificio TUI, SM2, Calle Rita Levi, Parc Bit, Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Insight Vacations

• Response Rate 86%
• Response Time 3 hours

• Address 38-51 Bedford Way, London, England

Europamundo

• Address c/ Garcia de Paredes Nº 55 1ª Planta, Madrid, Spain
• Response Rate 96%

CroisiEurope

• Address 12 Rue De La Division Leclerc, Nedre Rhin, France

Back-Roads Touring

• Address 109 Power Road, Chiswik, London, England
• Response Rate 89%

Walkers' Britain

• Address 1B Osiers Road, London, England
• Response Rate 83%

Top Day Tours

• Address rambla catalunya 15, barcelona, Spain
• Response Rate 91%

• Address 2461 FM 778, Mineola, USA
• Response Rate 95%

Traveling to Spain? Chat with a local travel specialist in Spain who can help organize your trip.

Spain Tour Reviews

• Shamsiev Shokhrukh
• Spain budget tours
• Eco tours in Spain
• Spain guided tours
• Spain family tour packages
• Spain luxury tours
• Spain private tours
• Spain self-guided tours
• Spain small group tours
• Spain solo trips
• Spain tailor-made vacation packages
• Spain tours for senior citizens
• Spain tours for young adults
• Spain group tours
• Spain last minute deals
• Spain travel deals

Popular Destinations

• Barcelona Tours

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025

Best price guaranteed - No booking fees

Free cancellation on most trips

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Southern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days in Andalucía

Last Updated on November 27, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a southern Spain itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming when you consider all of the incredible places to visit in this vast and diverse region. Boasting vibrant cities, sleepy beach towns and everything in between, heading to Andalucía is never a bad idea.

Known for its diverse landscape, fantastic cuisine, historic cities, and laid-back culture, Andalucía is one of the most popular and sought-after regions in the country. As one of the largest autonomous regions in Spain, Andalucía is filled with a complex history and culture unique to the rest of the country.

If you’re wondering what to see when spending 10 days in Southern Spain, then look no further. We have had the pleasure of spending months exploring this incredible region over several years and have gained a wealth of knowledge about travelling there.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Southern Spain

Before we get into the logistics of our itinerary, we need to discuss the best time of year to visit this sunny region.

A good portion of Andalucía is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine per year and, outside of the high Sierra Nevada mountains, the weather will rarely ever get cold enough for it to freeze or snow.

Because of this, Andalucía (and the Costa del Sol in particular) is a popular winter destination for northern Europeans looking to escape the cold, dark weather of their home countries.

However, while the months between November and March are certainly warmer than virtually anywhere else on the continent, nights can still get chilly and you are more likely to have some rainy days.

However, if you plan to visit Andalucía in the summer months, you can expect some of the hottest temperatures in Europe, with some towns repeatedly being subjected to temperatures over 40°C (104°F).

While many hotels, apartments, and tourist sites are air-conditioned and many of the towns are equipped to handle such high temperatures, it can be uncomfortable to visit during the peak summer months.

Arguably the best time to undertake an Andalucía itinerary is in the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November. It is during these months where the weather is at its best — mild yet warm and sunny — and tourist numbers haven’t reached their peak.

How Many Days in Southern Spain?

Now that we’ve determined which time of year is best to go to Spain, we need to figure out how many days you need for your itinerary for southern Spain.

While it might seem that one region of a country wouldn’t require all that much time to explore, you would be quite wrong to assume this of Andalucía.

The region is vast, encompassing multiple major metropolitan areas and various sub-regions and provinces. Each city, town or village that you will visit in Andalucía will have its own unique character that will beg you to explore more.

However, if you don’t have a lifetime just to devote to exploring one region of one country (like everyone else), plan to set aside at least ten days for your trip.

In ten days, you can see a lot of the region without being too rushed and really get a feel for the culture and history. While you likely won’t have time to visit every city and town of interest in Andalucía, 10 days is enough to give you a very good feel for the region.

If you have a bit longer to spend, then the absolute ideal amount of time to spend in Andalucía would be about 2 weeks. This will allow you to visit all of the major metropolitan areas of the city and get a little bit off the beaten path.

Getting To & Around Andalucía

Spain is home to a number of different international airports and there are lots of options when it comes to your itinerary.

The largest airport in Andalucía is located in Málaga and there are countless connections across Europe and further afield here. Flying into Málaga is a good option for those following the Costa del Sol route below.

There are also airports in Seville and Granada, though they are less trafficked. You can find connections across Europe – particularly into Seville – however, you may find it easier to fly into Madrid and then take the fast train to Seville, depending on where you’re coming from.

Once in Spain, it is also necessary to figure out how to get from one destination to another as you explore the region.

While many people like to hire a car and head out on a Southern Spain road trip itinerary, having your own rental car isn’t entirely necessary. The stops on this route are all easily accessible by bus or train (though booking trains and buses in advance is a good idea!) and each city itself is quite walkable.

If planning on taking a number of trains, a train pass can be incredibly good value. If you’re from outside of Europe, you can view Eurail Spain Passes here . Alternatively, if you’re from the EU, you can view Interrail Spain Passes here.

Where you might find a car more helpful during this Andalusian route is if you want to go on some more off-beat day trips that don’t have frequent or easy connections via public transport.

If you’re thinking of renting a car in Spain, we recommend using Rentalcars.com to find the best rates. It can also be worth taking out a third-party insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance to avoid paying higher fees through the rental car agency.

10-Day Southern Spain Itinerary

Day 1 – seville.

The capital of Andalucía, no itinerary would be complete without a stop in the dynamic and historic city of Seville. One of the most beautiful cities in Spain, Seville has a ton to offer tourists and it is one of the best cities to get to know the unique culture and history of Andalucía.

Seville is the fourth-largest city in Spain and therefore is an easy starting point for a route through southern Spain as it is well connected both because if its international airport and frequent buses and trains from all major Spanish cities.

Due to its size and historical significance, there are also a lot of things to do in Seville that you can easily spend 3 or more full days exploring the city. Plan to spend a couple of days in the city itself, checking out all of the incredible sites.

On your first day, plan to get your bearings – a great way to do this is by going on a free walking tour! Of course, you cannot miss the incredible Seville Cathedral , which takes some time to explore.

Make sure to wander through the gorgeous streets or take a walking tour of Barrio Santa Crus, which was the former Jewish Quarter of Seville. And, finally, end your day by taking in the sunset from the Metropol Parasol – known locally as “Las Setas.”

No visit to Seville is complete without hopping around a few tapas bars and this is an excellent thing to do your first evening in Andalucía!

Where to Stay in Seville

Hotel Bécquer  – This centrally located hotel is a great choice if you’re travelling on a mid-range budget but want to be close to all of the action. They have numerous clean, comfortable rooms available and they also have a wonderful rooftop pool and terrace to take the edge off of those warm Seville days.

Monte Triana  – Located in the vibrant Triana neighbourhood, this swanky boutique hotel is on of the highest-rated in Seville. Located within a 15-minute walk of all of the top sights of the city and close to some of the best tapas bars in Seville, they have a number of luxurious rooms available.

Onefam Catedral  – If you’re travelling solo or have a tight Spain travel budget , this hostel is an excellent choice. It is one of Seville’s highest-rated hostels and it is located within easy walking distance of sites like the Cathedral and the Alcázar. They have a range of dorms and private rooms available and the staff organises social events and activities.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse for more hotels in Seville!

Day 2 – Seville

On your second day in the capital of Andalucía, take the time to dig a bit deeper and enjoy some more of the incredible sites that Seville has to offer.

Start your day by exploring the Mercado de Triana on the other side of the Guadalquivir River – this is a great area to wander through on its own, but the market is something special.

And you absolutely cannot miss the Real Alcázar – this takes a few hours to explore and it is so wonderful and worthwhile. The architecture is absolutely stunning, as are the tranquil gardens to be found here.

You also should ensure to visit the iconic Plaza de España, one of Andalucía’s most beautiful town squares.

And end your day with a visit to a flamenco show – Seville is one of the birthplaces of this artform and there are plenty of tablaos where you can experience it!

Day 3 – Ronda

After spending two full days in Seville itself, now it’s time to head out on a day trip. One of the most popular options is to visit Ronda , a beautiful whitewashed village in the hills of Andalucía.

You can reach Ronda via bus (which is the easiest route if going by public transport), via car in about 2 hours or join an organised day trip.

Ronda is known for the incredible Puente Nuevo, a gorgeous and impressive bridge that cascades over the river gorges it sits above. But there is more to this town than the bridge. You can also tour the bullfighting ring, see beautiful churches like the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor or even visit the old Arab Baths.

Ronda also has plenty of great bars to have a bite to eat in that serve up traditional cuisine from this area. In general, it’s a great day trip option.

Day 4 – Cádiz or Jerez de la Frontera

On your fourth day in Seville, it’s another great opportunity to head out and explore a nearby town. One of my favourites would be the gorgeous coastal city of Cádiz , which is located only about 1.5 hours by train from Seville.

Here, you can visit the beautiful Cádiz Cathedral and experience the find Camera Obscura at the Torre Tavira. There are also some cool, historic castles to take in, like the Castillo de San Sebastian. Cádiz also has its own unique cuisine with some incredible eateries, so this can be a great opportunity to head out on a food tour.

Alternatively, you could also visit the city of Jerez. This is located just a bit north of Cádiz and about 1 hour on the train from Seville.

Jerez is known as the cradle of sherry and is a fantastic place to visit for fans of this fortified wine. When you visit Jerez, make sure to pop into a bodega or two to learn about (and taste) all varieties of Spanish sherry – from fino to amontillado to oloroso. Of course, there are also incredible places to eat in Jerez, so it’s a great place for foodies!

Day 5 – Córdoba

After spending your first four days of this itinerary in Seville, it’s time to head to another historic city in Andalucía: Córdoba.

While many visitors to the south of Spain tend to only treat Córdoba as a day trip from Seville , the city is much better experienced in the two days I have allotted in this route through Andalucía.

Córdoba is located only about 45 minutes by train from Seville, so you can enjoy a relaxed morning without feeling the need to be rushed and get moving.

Once you arrive in Córdoba, spend your first day getting your bearings in the city and wandering through the incredible and beautifully preserved old Jewish Quarter. Of course, if it interests you, you could opt to go on a walking tour (free or paid) to get more historical context here.

At one point, Córdoba was considered to be the most important city in Western Europe and it was the head of one of the most advanced civilizations of its time during the Moorish rule of Spain.

Therefore, there are centuries, if not millennia, worth of history to explore in Córdoba and though it’s historical centre might be small, it is much better enjoyed at a slower pace.

It’s also a great idea to visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos in Córdoba. Though not as impressive as the one in Seville, it’s still worth taking in and seeing more of the Moorish architecture and learning about the history here.

Where to Stay in Córdoba

Hesperia Córdoba – This comfortable boutique hotel, located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, is a great place to stay if you are travelling on a mid-range budget. They have a range of modern, clean and comfortable rooms and also include a rooftop pool to take the edge off of a hot Córdoba day.

Puerta de la Luna – This small hostel is a fantastic option for solo and budget travellers alike. They have great common areas, a range of both dorm and private rooms, and even have a rooftop terrace to chill out on.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in Cordoba!

Day 6 – Córdoba

Córdoba is perhaps most famous for its marvellous Mezquita-Catedral, a massive Moorish mosque-turned-cathedral in the centre of town. The monument is one of the most-visited in Andalucía and is a shining example of the Mudéjar architecture so common throughout this region and country as a whole

The Mezquita is certainly a can’t-miss sight in Córdoba, but it does get very busy which is why I recommend trying to get there as early as possible. That is why it’s ideal to visit the Mezquita on your first full day in Córdoba, rather than the day before when you first arrive.

After taking in the Mezquita, take the time to get lost in the gorgeous streets of Córdoba, visit the Mercado de la Corredera which is located below the plaza of the same name, and enjoy the city’s laid-back tapas culture.

This is also an excellent opportunity to take advantage of some regional cuisine that hails from Córdoba – particularly salmorejo , a cold tomato soup that is similar to gazpacho.

Day 7 – Granada

The penultimate stop on this itinerary is the incredible city of Granada , one of the best places to visit in all of Spain.

Tucked high in the Sierra Nevada, in 1492, Granada was the last city to fall to the Catholic monarchs during the Reconquista. Because of this, Granada’s Islamic roots and history seem somehow more pronounced than in other Spanish cities or cities in Andalucía altogether.

Much like Córdoba, Granada is perhaps most famous for its iconic monument: the Alhambra. The fantastic Moorish palace, summer house, and fortress is a sight to be seen and is one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

From Córdoba, it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Granada depending on the route you choose. So you don’t feel too rushed, spend your first day in the city getting the feel for everything and exploring the Albaicín and the historical centre of the city.

Start off in the central area of Granada, first visiting the gorgeous Granada Cathedral and the nearby Monasterio de San Jerónimo. Then, make your way up the hill to the UNESCO-listed Albaicín.

Getting lost in the incredible Albaicín neighbourhood, which was once the city’s Arab quarter, is one of the highlights of visiting Granada. There is something beautiful to explore around every corner. And, if you want an excellent place to see the sunset, head to the Mirador de San Nicolas – it’s popular for a reason!

Spend your evening bouncing between some of Granada’s bars – here you can get a free tapa with a drink order and it’s one of the best experiences to have while in the city!

Where to Stay in Granada

Hotel Rosa D’oro – This hotel, located in the heart of Granada along the tranquil River Darro is an excellent place to base yourself in the city. They are located within easy walking distance of all of Granada’s main attractions, have a range of comfortable rooms available, and breakfast is included in the room rate.

Hotel Los Tilos – Centrally located close to everything Granada has to offer, this hotel is a great place to rest your head in the city. They have numerous rooms available, a rooftop terrace with excellent views of the city and the surrounding mountains, and breakfast is included each morning.

El Granado Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a budget, then this hostel is a fantastic accommodation in Granada. Located in the heart of the Albaicín, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available, numerous common areas, and they organise social events each evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Granada hotels!

Day 8 – Granada

On your second day in Granada, it’s time to visit the main attraction – the Alhambra. The Alhambra complex is massive and it will take the better part of half a day to do the area justice, so make sure that you’re aware of that.

It’s also essential to book your visit to the Alhambra well in advance, as it can be booked out early and you may not be able to see some of the areas you wanted without having to join a guided tour.

After visiting the Alhambra, head to one of Granada’s more unique areas – Sacromonte. This traditional Roma neighbourhood is made up of cave dwellings, and it’s a place where some people living alternative lifestyles still live today.

If you want a truly spectacular view, then hike up to the San Miguel Alto Viewpoint, which is a bit of a trek but well worth it.

End your time in Granada by bouncing around various tapas bars again – it really never gets old!

Day 9 – Málaga

The final stop on this Southern Spain itinerary is in the lively coastal city of Málaga . Málaga is a wonderful city to visit and it is a great place to relax by the coast while still taking in some history.

It’s also located only about an hour from Granada and, as home to a high-traffic international airport, a logical place to end this itinerary.

Spend your first day wandering around and getting to know the city. It has a lively, metropolitan vibe that is definitely different from the cities you’ve visited previously.

Make sure to visit the gorgeous Alcazaba which towers over the city and, also, wander around the Roman Theatre that is located directly below.

Of course, you must visit the Picasso Museum while here. This was the birthplace of the famous artist and it’s worth taking in some of the incredible works while visiting the city.

Where to Stay in Málaga

Hotel Sur Málaga – This centrally-located hotel is a wonderful place to stay in Málaga, situated within easy walking distance to all of the best museums and attractions. They have a range of air-conditioned, clean, and comfortable, rooms available and it is the ideal place for couples. There is also breakfast available for an additional charge.

Madeinterranea Suites – This is a great hotel if you’re after a little bit of luxury on your trip to Málaga. There are numerous spacious and comfortable rooms available, a restaurant on site (complete with room service!), and a fantastic breakfast included in the room rate. They also can organise an airport shuttle.

The Lights Hostel – This hostel is one of the highest-rated and a great option for solo travellers or if you’re on a budget in Malaga . They have a range of dorm and private rooms available and a hearty breakfast available at an additional cost. They also organise social events in the evenings.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Málaga!

Day 10 – Málaga

Spend your final day exploring more of beautiful Málaga. Begin your day at the massive Mercado de Atarazanas where you can take in a lot of delicious local produce. Then, make your way to the Museo del Vino which, if you don’t understand Spanish, means the Museum of Wine!

You can also take some time to lounge at Playa de Malagueta, the main beach in the city. Or, if you want to explore a cool, hip area with lots of street art, then make sure to wander around the lovely Soho neighbourhood.

Have More Time?

If you have more time in the area, then you can continue exploring past Málaga and visit more of the Costa del Sol. There is a lot more to this area than just Malaga or Marbella and it’s worth taking the time to visit some of the smaller coastal towns.

The town of Estepona is just lovely, as is the nearby beachy city of Marbella . Both are worth visiting if you’re on the Costa del Sol.

Of course, it’s also very popular to go on a day trip to Gibraltar , the British Overseas Territory is easily reached from Málaga and it’s a unique experience to visit!

No matter where you choose to visit on your southern Spain itinerary, you are sure to leave with fond memories of an enriching and historical experience.

Are you planning a trip to Andalucía? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

8 Best Areas to Stay in Malaga for Tourists

The Perfect 2 Days in Malaga Itinerary

Seville to Cordoba Day Trip: A One Day in Cordoba Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

is easy to put together a side trip to Morocco while in the south of Spain ?

Yes, it’s very common for travellers to add on a visit to Morocco when in the far south of Spain 🙂

Hi Maggie This is a great post. I’m planning a trip to this region and would like to visit Seville, Cordoba and Cadiz. I would be flying into and out of Malaga but don’t want to stay as I’ve seen it and Granada on a previous trip. I’m wondering would it be best to get a train or bus from Malaga to Seville and use it as a base to take trips to Cordoba and Cadiz or go from Malaga to Cordoba – Seville- Cadiz- Malaga? Thanks

Seville makes for a good base for exploring both Córdoba and Cádiz but all three cities have enough to do to keep you occupied for more than a day each. So it really depends on how much time you have and if you want to move accommodations a few times during your trip or not. 🙂

This is a wonderful resource and I’m so glad I found it!

I’m in the very early stages of planning a 10 day trip (Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada) with my parents in 2023. I’m thinking a September trip might be a great idea before the end-of-year holiday travel begins.

How early do you think we should start booking travel/lodging? And it’s probably too hard to guess with the ever-changing COVID precautions.

Hi Camille, thanks so much for your comment! I would personally wait until your trip is only a few months out before booking – but hopefully, things are a bit more clear when it comes to planning travel in the future.

We are planning 4.5 weeks in Spain & Portugal next May 2020-flying into Barcelona (but not staying there this timeas we were there last year) and then out of Madrid. We will be hiring a car and our rough plan is to head up the Costa Brava from BCN, then across to San Sebastian (not much time to expolre the Pyrenees unless we cut out other areas?) and along the northern coast (inland or mountains – or a mix?) to Santiago de Compostela, then down through Portugal via Porto, Coimbra to Lisbon and then Algarve region to Andalucia then back up towards Madrid, seeing Toledo, Salamanca and some rural spots inbetween. I know we’ll be moving fairly quickly but we just spent weeks in the balkans with a car and found if we had some 3 night breaks in more popular stops, we were happy with some overnights in between. Would you say this is do-able in the time and any unmissable places to stay a few days on the way, or pass through to check out main sights? I like your destination info and presentation and used it for our Balkans trip too so any feedback would be much appreciated.l I then have a week extra so am thinking I’ll get a Spanish rail pass and base myself in Madrid to do trips out from there or maybe return to an area for 4-5 days R&R after all the driving! Cheers & Merry Xmas ?

Thanks for your comment, Lyndie! Sounds like you’ve got quite a busy trip planned but if you’re hiring a car, I don’t see why it shouldn’t be doable. Unfortunately, we haven’t travelled as much in Catalonia or Northern Spain (yet!) so I can’t be of much help in that regard. Hope you have a great time, though!

Thanks for all your interesting information! It has been useful in the beginning stages of my planning to see how long to stay in each town.

Glad it’s helped, Claudia! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Private Guided Tours of Spain

Expert guides, luxury vehicles, welcome to guided spain tours.

At Guided Spain Tours, our specialist private tour planners officially licensed guides, and certified drivers are ready to design and deliver the perfect Spanish vacation for you.

Quite simply, no one knows Spain better than us. From the elegant boulevards and Royal Palaces of Madrid, the sublime architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona, exploring the secrets of the Alhambra in Granada, colorful and passionate flamenco performances and medieval villages of Andalucía, and everything in between.

Request your complimentary itinerary today and discover what our local travel experts can suggest for you, or explore some of Spain’s stunning destinations below.

Popular Private Tours in Spain

We have expert private guides across all of the 17 regions of Spain, meaning that wherever you wish to explore, you can rely on us to take care of every detail for you. 

Let our guides entertain you with fascinating insights and legendary tales as you walk along ancient medieval trails, glide along the Spanish Riviera on a luxury yacht cruise, explore our legendary Tapas and wine culture, and indulge in the rich culture on display in our main cities.

Below you can browse our private tour experiences and customizable private tour itineraries or get in touch about arranging a completely bespoke Spanish tour.

Balearic Islands Guided Tour

Tours of La Rioja Region

Barcelona Full-Day Private Tour

Guided Tour of Seville

Best of Granada

Jewish Guided Spain

Private Tour of Madrid

Example spain tour itineraries.

10 Day Camino a Santiponce

One Week in Spain

14 Days North Iberia

Best of Spain in 10 Days

Guided Camino De Santiago Tour

4 Weeks Itinerary of Spain

16 Day Spain Vacation

11 Days Hiking in Spain

Costa Brava, Barcelona & Garrotxa Tour

9 Day Family Tour

10 Day Barcelona & South Spain Tour

5 Days in Andalucia

10 Days Jewish Heritage

2 Weeks in Spain

Spain, Portugal & Morocco: 13-Day Tour

10 Day Southern Spain

3 Day Mallorca Tour

Food & Wine Tour

10 Day Spain & Portugal

7 Day Catalonia Tour

15 Day Iberia Itinerary

16 Day Spain & Portugal

14 Day Spain & Portugal

7 Day Family Vacation

21 Day Spain Itinerary

France & Spain 14-Day Tour Itinerary

Madrid & Andalucia In One Week 

7 Day Bullrun Tour

7 Day Basque Country

White Villages of Southern Spain

21 Day Spain & Portugal

Foodie Tour Itinerary In Spain & Portugal

Bespoke Custom Tours of Spain

Ensure you enjoy the very best of what Spain has to offer with a complimentary bespoke custom itinerary designed by our team of tour planning specialists.

We will make sure you spend the right amount of time with your private guide exploring the most celebrated and fascinating sites and attractions and using our local knowledge to include cultural festivals, authentic fairs, and exclusive experiences you may otherwise miss out on. Moreover, we will schedule luxury air-conditioned vehicles for any transfers, driver guided excursions and offer accommodation suggestions.

Discover Spain your way: in style, comfort, and luxury on a bespoke tour with your private guide.

Tours across Iberia

With Spain and Portugal sharing the same Iberian Peninsula, it is no surprise that many of our clients frequently wish to include a visit to Portugal as part of their vacation.

In fact, our guests have become so enamored with Portugal’s dramatic landscapes, rich heritage, gastronomy culture, and vibrant centers such as Lisbon, Porto, and more that we now have a dedicated team of Portugal-based specialists to provide our tailored tour itinerary and guided tour services.

See our private tour experiences , themed Portugal tour itineraries, or get in touch for a complimentary custom itinerary .

21 Day Portugal Tour

1 Week in Portugal

10 Days Portugal Tour

2 Weeks in Portugal

Why choose guided tours of spain.

For complete peace of mind and certainty that your vacation is in the hands of experienced local experts, allow us to take care of every detail of your vacation. Working with our tour planners entitles you to:

• A bespoke itinerary tailor-made for you
• Your own officially certified & fluent English-speaking private guide
• Luxury air-conditioned vehicles & private drivers for seamless transfers
• Unforgettable experiences, select hotels, and hidden gems
• 24/7 in-country support & advice if required
• Risk-free booking guarantee

Meet Our Founder & Owner

Hola from Spain! I’m Emily Matthews, tour director at Guided Spain Tours.

After working as a guide for several years, the arrival of my wonderful children has seen me build our agency, where I now channel my energy into crafting personalized custom tours across Spain’s diverse regions.

Our team of tour planners and officially licensed guides are delighted to offer their local insight and knowledge to deliver bespoke itineraries and seamless experiences for your Spanish Vacation. We look forward to getting to know you and creating memories you will cherish for a lifetime.

Contact Your Spain Private Tour Specialist

With over 15 years of experience providing private tours of Spain, we have mastered the art of hand-crafting exquisite private tours filled with iconic sights and exclusive experiences that others simply cannot match. 

Contact our team for your complimentary itinerary and get ready to say Ola to Espania!

Let us know your questions!

Call our team

US: +1 (240) 332-1519

Search For More Guided Spain Tours

Popular Searches:  Barcelona Tours ,  Madrid Tours ,  Custom Tours of Spain ,  Family Tours

Spain Tours

Tour itineraries, other destinations.

Partnered with DABA Tourism Marketing

Guided Spain Tours is managed and operated by Guided Spain Tours SLU B56482201

Ask Our Experts For Your Custom Tour Itinerary

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

Spain Travel Agents & Reviews

• Featured Tours
• Travel Agents

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1534  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

We go beyond traditional travel planning to curate truly exceptional vacations. We do this by connecting you to the top Spain travel agents with the expertise to craft an itinerary based on your unique interests.  Our process is simple but thorough. We take the time to understand your travel priorities and then match you to the top travel agencies in Spain. You review customized trip plans and select your preferred agency.  Our Spain travel agencies ensure your vacation will surpass expectations with insider access and knowledge to plan experiences you never imagined possible.

Discover our Spain travel agents, the top 10% of local specialists

We go beyond traditional travel planning to curate truly exceptional vacations. We do this by connecting you to the top Spain travel agents with the expertise to craft an itinerary based on your unique interests. 

Our process is simple but thorough. We take the time to understand your travel priorities and then match you to the top travel agencies in Spain. You review customized trip plans and select your preferred agency. 

Our Spain travel agencies ensure your vacation will surpass expectations with insider access and knowledge to plan experiences you never imagined possible.

Life-Enriching Travel

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Zicasso in the News

Ana's Travel Agency

 Based on  295  reviews

Destinations:

Verified review.

My hubby and I had a fabulous time in Spain, with good weather and good guides. Our Zicasso travel agent and her team were excellent in planning this trip for us. As we had been to certain parts of Spain before, our plan was to go down south. Our agent planned it so well, with great and knowledgeable guides throughout our trip to Seville, Córdoba, Ronda, and Granada. The hotels were all in good and central locations. We particularly liked the hotels in Seville and Madrid. With our agent’s help, our rooms were upgraded.

Antonio's Travel Agency

 Based on  204  reviews

This travel company and Antonio really listened to what we wanted from our trip. And they delivered exactly the trip we wanted!  Very professional, very thorough, very experienced at what they do. There was one mishap along the way with a transfer but the lengthy and complicated trip otherwise was flawless. We had a wonderful time!!

Jorge's Travel Agency

 Based on  27  reviews

I worked with our travel agent for my trip to Spain. He prepared an itinerary for us which was perfect, with all the places we intended to travel. I loved that he was flexible in working with us on a final itinerary that met our expectations. Our travel agent was available every step of the way, advising of any changes by tour agencies or in transportation, which gave us peace of mind during our entire trip. The tour agencies were exceptional and knowledgeable about all the places we visited. The private transportation worked out well. All drivers were accommodating and helpful with our luggage. The hotels were all central and within our budget. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend our travel company to anyone looking for a special experience in Spain. I know that when the opportunity comes I will use our travel company again. I have already recommended his services to friends and family planning to visit Spain.

Get matched with our top travel agencies

Tell us about you trip and preferences. We will hand pick the right travel agency for you.

Get Matched

Manlio's Travel Agency

 Based on  101  reviews

Our travel company was amazing! I would highly recommend them to all of our friends. My husband and I are experienced travelers and Zicasso’s company has one of the best travel agents we have worked with. They responded quickly, listened to our likes and dislikes, and planned a high-quality travel experience. Their attention to detail was the most impressive. At every city we visited they identified and scheduled for us all connections, hotels, and special sights. We feel as if there is nothing we missed in our sightseeing of Andalucia. The private tour guides were knowledgeable and very personable. Their personal touches, such as a welcome package at the hotel, were especially touching and made us feel welcomed. Their accessibility for any emergency was very reassuring, especially when traveling in a foreign country. We are so grateful to have chosen our travel agency.

Lalo's Travel Agency

 Based on  48  reviews

Zicasso's travel agent was absolutely outstanding in handling our recent trip to Spain. Planning, communication, and execution were everything we could expect. He listened to us, understood the nuances of our thinking, and provided a plan that fulfilled our hopes (including making last-minute schedule changes that we needed). Everything went exactly according to plan … the drivers were professional and on time, the guides were extraordinarily knowledgeable, and the hotels and train tickets were all as promised. His use of the "trip plans'' app provided real-time information for everything. We'd recommend our travel team to our best friends without hesitation. Five stars.

Samuel's Travel Agency

 Based on  496  reviews

From start to finish, we were extremely happy with all the services and communication provided by Zicasso’s tour operator. They helped us create a perfect itinerary and made sure we had continuous communication through WhatsApp during our travels. I have used Zicasso twice before for trips to Southeast Asia and Italy, and both experiences were excellent. This was also the case for our Spain trip, showing that pretty much anywhere in the world, you are put in touch with reputable travel agencies that will provide exceptional service. Our travel agent was always responsive, professional, and very committed to helping us with every aspect of our trip. Our tour included Madrid, Granada, Sevilla, and Barcelona, with several special tours, meals, and events in each place. While in Madrid, we took a day trip to Toledo and also saw a flamenco show with dinner. We had plenty of time to tour the famous sites in Madrid, eat tapas, and do some shopping. The hotel was excellent! We decided to upgrade for a fee when we arrived to have early access to the room, and it was worth every penny. We enjoyed all of the hotels that were selected for us on this trip. Moving between cities by train was also a relaxing and efficient way to travel in Spain. A true highlight was the tour of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, with its spectacular history and views. Sevilla was also wonderful, but hard to navigate as we visited during Semana Santa and several streets were closed (and there were crowds of thousands) for the holy processions. It was very special to get to see the processions, but not ideal for touring the city. We ended our trip in Barcelona and loved a special group cooking class arranged by our tour operator, and also a day trip to Montserrat. It was my daughter's birthday and our travel agent and her team helped us book a dinner reservation at a wonderful restaurant to celebrate. They also helped us with a dinner reservation for one of our nights in Madrid. All of our transportation between trains/hotels/airports and cities was excellent, with very nice drivers and luxury vehicles! Thank you to all of the tour operator’s staff and service providers for making our trip so special. We highly recommend the company for your trip to Spain.

Emily's Travel Agency

 Based on  110  reviews

We enjoyed the trip and it met almost all of our expectations. The weather was terrible during the first week, but we survived. The guides were well informed and personable, and for the most part, the drivers were punctual. We appreciated the detailed instructions from Zicasso’s travel agency one day in advance, although we would have liked to know more of the details (departure times, tour times) at the start of the trip.

Javier's Travel Agency

 Based on  122  reviews

This was the trip of a lifetime!! Our Zicasso tour operator was incredible from start to finish!! I traveled to Barcelona to see my son who was studying there. From there, my travel agent helped me plan a trip up the northern coast of Spain that included San Sebastián, Biarritz, Santander, Oviedo, and Santiago de Compostela. My agent didn’t miss a thing. From top hotels to the best rooms at each hotel, incredible tour guides, and wonderful restaurant recommendations, everything he suggested was a win for us. He was even able to accommodate a last-minute request for a tour at one of our stops. In addition to all this, he was attentive, checking in during our trip to ensure we were having fun and didn’t need anything. All this, combined with his attentive response to questions and a very user-friendly travel app, made the trip very easy! I highly recommend him and would definitely use his company again to book my next trip.

Show more agents

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

• English (CA)
• Deutsch (DE)
• Deutsch (CH)

The 6 best online travel agencies in Spain

Best online travel agencies for business travel, 1. travelperk: best for businesses looking for a complete solution.

Main offerings:

• Extensive inventory of travel services
• Flexible booking with FlexiPerk
• Safety alerts with TravelCare
• Integrated travel policy & approval flows
• Centralized invoicing
• Easy & real-time expense reports
• Carbon offsetting with GreenPerk
• 24/7 customer support with a 15s target response time
• VAT reclaim to save up to 25% on travel
• Integration with 3rd party tools : such as expense management platforms or HR software like Expensify and BambooHR

Embark on a journey of smart travel solutions with TravelPerk—your perfect companion for Spanish business ventures!

2. b travel: good for discounted travel.

• Group tours and private tours are available
• Travel expense management and reports
• Travel specialist agent and customer service in Spanish or English
• Different billing options for corporations
• Dedicated travel portal for business travelers

Best online travel agencies for leisure travel in Spain

3. viajes el corte inglés: where personalization is served daily.

• Expertise in Spain, Europe, and the Caribbean
• Package deals
• Day tours to France, Morocco, Portugal, and other European cities available
• Possibility to book cruise ships and trains

4. Halcón Viajes: bespoke travel has never been this easy

• Customer loyalty program
• Dedicated travel plan to the Spanish islands
• Guided tours by local tour guides
• Circuits and longer trip options (Africa, Asia, Europe, America, and more)
• Offices across Spain and Morocco

5. eDreams: the right tech to make your travel planning fácil y rápido

• Easy-to-use website and booking app
• Real-time flight tracking
• Discount codes especially for app users

6. Logitravel: putting the logic in travel

• Great deals and exclusive offers
• Specialized agents available
• 24/7/365 Customer support
• Includes TripAdvisor ratings and reviews

Vamos! It’s time to choose the best travel agency for you

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

• See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
• Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books and blog posts have you covered.
• Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us on social for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.

The 8 best business travel management companies in Europe

10 best business travel management companies in Ireland

8 best business travel management companies in Dubai

• Business Travel Management
• Offset Carbon Footprint
• Flexible travel
• Travelperk Sustainability Policy
• Corporate Travel Resources
• Corporate Travel Glossary
• For Travel Managers
• For Finance Teams
• For Travelers
• Thoughts from TravelPerk
• Careers Hiring
• User Reviews
• Integrations
• Privacy Center
• Help Center
• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Modern Slavery Act | Statement
• Supplier Code of Conduct

2 Day – 2 Week Southern Spain Itinerary! A Complete Guide to Planning Your Trip!

Categories Europe , Itinerary , Spain

After my recent visits to South Spain, I want to help you plan your Southern Spain itinerary with a range of itineraries you can follow and also tell you the best places to visit in Southern Spain so you can plan your own trip!

This post gives public transport options as the buses and trains in South Spain are great! But it is very focused on a Southern Spain road trip which will make it possible for you to visit some smaller towns and villages in Southern Spain too!

Andalucia is the region that covers most of Southern Spain and planning an itinerary for Andalucia will give you mountains, historic buildings, beautiful beaches, the taste of Tapas and the sound of Flamenco!

So Vamos, let’s get into this complete South Spain itinerary guide to help you plan your Southern Spain trip!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

South Spain Itinerary

Best places to visit in Southern Spain

Let’s jump in with the best places to visit in the South of Spain so you can start planning your Southern Spain itinerary based on how long you have .

Here is a map with all of these places to go in Southern Spain on it to help you plan your trip too.

I have noted roughly how much time you need in each place , but below in the Souther Spain itineraries section , I’ll go into more detail about where to visit in Southern Spain based on the time you have like 4 days, 7 days, 10 days or 14 days in South Spain .

Got 10 days to explore Europe? Here are some great 10 day Europe itinerary options to help you see a lot!

– Malaga

Malaga is the best place to start your South Spain itinerary because it has the biggest airport with the most amount of flights and because it’s so big you can often get some really good deals and cheap flights into Malaga Airport from elsewhere in Europe!

Malaga used to be seen as the gateway to the beaches of the Costa del Sol , but Malaga City has been revamped and these days it’s a great place to visit in its own rights too! There are many things to do in Malaga worthy of a day, or a few days!

Malaga Airport also offers a huge range of car rentals because it is the biggest airport. We rented a car from Malaga Airport recently using RentalCars and then visited many of the places on this Spain itinerary!

Search car rental from Malaga Airport for your Southern Spain trip here on RentalCars!

Things to do in Malaga

• Alcazaba – this has to be top of your list on things to do in Malaga as it’s the top Malaga tourist attraction . It’s a Moor-ish style medieval fortress which offers a lot of history and great views! Buy great value tickets here!
• Castillo de Gibralfaro – next to Alcazaba but further up the hill, this is the Castle on the hill! You can walk around the old walls of the fortress castle and it offers even better views! It’s a great sunset spot in Malaga too!
• Ancient Roman Theatre – as the base of Alcazaba is a museum and an anicent roman theatre. You can go inside but you can equally see a good view of the theatre from the street.
• Malaga Cathedra l – this is one big Cathedral with an impressive a 16th Century Baroque facade. There is also a museum inside which requires a ticket.
• Picasso Museum – this is a treat for art lovers. It’s located in a restored 16th Century palace with over 200 pieces by Pablo Picasso. Buy tickets here!
• Mercado Central de Atarazana – visiting markets in Spain is always such a great thing to do, whether you want to pick up some fresh food or drink or take a wander around the local produce and this old-school market with an impressive stained glass front offers this.
• Playa de la Malaga – there are many beaches in Malaga along the coast but Playa de la Malaga is the city centre beach and for a city beach, it’s pretty good!

Tours and activities in Malaga!

How much time to spend in Malaga?

Visiting the top tourist sights in Malaga City requires half a day at a minimum and 2 days at a maximum .

You may decide to spend more time in the area of Malaga though so you can enjoy more of the beaches as well as the things to do in Malaga city.

Also, Malaga acts as a great base for a Southern Spain trip because you can visit a lot of places from here, especially if you hire a car.

For example, in May, I stayed at 5* Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton for 3 nights, we spent 1 day relaxing at the hotel and the other 2 days doing a Southern Spain road trip but with this Malaga base which was perfect for a long weekend in Southern Spain.

– Granada

When people think of Andalucia, they most likely think of Granada, or of the sights that you do see in Granada!

Granada is such a charming city. I love it because it has so much character and energy but it isn’t a huge city to navigate. Without a doubt, Granada has to be on your Southern Spain itinerary , without it, and a visit to Alhambra , your trip is not complete!

Things to do in Granada

• Alhambra – this is one of the top tourist attractions in Spain and rightly so! You need to PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE which you can do here and should do as soon as you know your trip dates, and remmeber to take your passport. Alhambra takes 2-4 hours to go around. It’s a huge medieval complex with palaces, throne rooms and gardens from when the Muslims ruled Granada.
• Albacin – this is an area of Granada which is made up of small winding streets. Many of the lower streets are filled with shops and cafes but as you get further up the hill you can wander quiet residental streets. This is the old Muslim quarter of the city so you may feel like you’re in Morocco here!
• Granada Mosque – at the top of the Albacin is Granada Mosque. You should visit here even if you aren’t Muslim because the gardens are beautiful and it has the best view of Alhambra. Next to it is San Nicholas viewpoint outside the church but this viewpoint is better and much quieter.
• Granada Cathedral – a huge catholic cathedral, this is free to enter so definietly worth going inside.
• Flamenco Show – Andalucia is the home of Flamenco and although you’ll see more Flamenco in the streets of Seville, one of the best things to do in Granda is see a Flamenco show as they have so many high quality shows on offer.
• Shopping – there are so many shops in Granada, some are typical tourist souvenir shops, but others like Granart offer many beautful pieces using traditional Granada styles and artwork. There’s also a perfume shop I recommend called Patio de los Perfumes .

Tours and Activities in Granada

How much time to spend in Granada?

You need to factor in at least a few hours in Granada to visit Alhambra, plus a few more hours to see the rest of the city by foot at a minimum.

If you have limited time on your Southern Spain trip , you could spend 1 full day in Granada / 6-8 hours and this is enough time to see Alhambra and get a feel for the city.

However, I recommend at least 1 night and 2 days to get a better feel for the city, go for brunch and relax there like a local as well as sightseeing. And on that note, if you have longer, like 2 weeks in Southern Spain and somewhere on your South Spain itinerary to have a break in, this is a great place to do it. You could happily spend 3-5 days here relaxing and living that slow-paced Andalucian lifestyle, with lots of good food too!

– Seville

Seville is the capital city of Andalucia and the largest of the cities in Andalucia. It’s great, charming and you’ll get all the Spanish feels when you see and hear Flamenco being performed on the streets .

Seville has some of the best places to visit in Andalucia, and it’s also great to use as a base to see more of Southern Spain from because of its great road, bus and train links.

Seville is made up of different neighbourhoods which are great to explore and stay in, check out where to stay in Seville and the best neighbourhoods!

Things to do in Seville

• Plaza de Espana Square – this is one of the most famous places in Seville and translated as the ‘Spanish steps in Seville’. It’s a truly grand and large place with so much tiling work, fountains, benches and you can hire a boat to sail along the small area of water within the Plaza.
• Setas de Sevilla / Las Setas – also known as ‘the mushroom’ one of the fairly new Seville tourist attractions opened in 2011 and you can certianly tell as it’s very modern and unique. It’s cool to see from the ground but one of the top things to do in Seville is to go to the walkway and viewpoint along the top!
• Royal Alcazar of Seville – the Royal Palace of Seville with Islamic, Moor-ish and Christian architecture deisgns, if you’re coming to Southern Spain for Islamic history, this has to be on your list of places to go in Southern Spain! You have to BUY TICKETS IN ADVANCE as there are limited daily tickets. You can buy tickets here.
• Seville Cathedral – this is the largest gothic cathedral in the world!
• Flamenco – shows like this are hugely popular with tourists and locals and are a must-do in Seville and Southern Spain!

Tours and Activities in Seville

How much time to spend in Seville?

The best Seville attractions are dotted around the city and therefore, take more time to walk to and from than in Malaga and Granada. One day in Seville is enough and will enable you to visit a few of the top places to go in Seville but ideally, 2 days in Seville is good .

– Cordoba

Cordoba is one of the cities in Southern Spain you might not have heard much about, especially in comparison to Seville, Granada and Malaga, which was the case for me until last year,

However, Cordoba is definitely worth a visit on your South of Spain itinerary. It has the largest old town in Spain and is the only city to have 4 UNESCO world heritage sites which are part of the best things to do in Cordoba.

Things to do in Cordoba

• Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba – if you only go to one place in Cordoba, this has to be it! This is a really unique building which was once a mosque when the Muslims ruled and then became a Church in 1236 when the Muslim rule fell. Today, as you enter inside you can see architecture from both a mosque and cathedral mixed into one which is really unique! BUY FAST-TRACK TICKETS HERE!
• Alcazar de los Rayes Christianos – this was once a fortress with gardens, baths, courtyards and the largest library in Western Europe, it’s changed hands a few times since then and is now of the one top Cordoba tourist attractions with plenty to see!
• Cordoba Old Town – as mentioned, this is the largest old town in Spain which is one of the UNESCO protected sites in Cordoba. It’s made up of lots of small winding streets full of shops, hotels, cafes and restaurants and you’ll also come across many plaza’s and courtyards as you wander.
• Medina Azahara – If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Southern Spain, visiting a place like this will do this! Medina Azahara is on the outskirts of Cordoba city. It was once a magnificent fortified palace-city , with sources mentioning 10,000 people working here to create a new city and Western Caliphate. It’s remains are a major archelogical site in Spain today which can be visited and explored.

Tours and Activites in Cordoba

How much time to spend in Cordoba?

I spent just a few hours in Cordoba , I didn’t see that much, just the Mosque-Cathedral, the Old Town and Old Bridge but it gave me a lovely insight and feel of the city. Without going to Medina Azahara you could spend just one day in Cordoba just fine and it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Seville, and Malaga by train or car .

If you want to visit Medina Azahara and all the top places to see in Cordoba, I’d recommend 1.5 – 2 days in Cordoba .

– Ronda

Ronda Bridge has to be one of the most photographed places in Spain. I know I’d seen so many photos of this impressive, high, arch bridge and gorge.

I had always thought that it was hard to get to Ronda and Ronda was further inland in Spain than it is, but Ronda is in Andalucia in Southern Spain and travelling around Andalucia, especially on a Southern Spain road trip will enable you to see this spectacular pueblo blanco (white town) that has escaped mass build-up of chains and modern buildings.

Things to do in Ronda

• Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) – this bridge isn’t exactly new and it’s over 230 years old , but it is the famous bridge in Ronda which connects the two sides of the town and has a 100m drop and gorge below it. There are viewpoints on either side and all 4 are great to visit to see a different view and perspective.
• El Tajo Gorge – I was surprised to see so many people walking into the Gorge below Ronda’s bridge but it can be done via a path down one side, at the bottom you can walk through the gorge and see the waterfalls down here.
• Old Town – Ronda is nothing but charming and idilic and walking through the small streets of the old town will show you this. During the day it can get busy with day trip tourists but if you visit in the morning, afternoon or evening, you’ll see even more how special Ronda is!

Day Tours to Ronda

Ronda & Setenil from the Costa del Sol

Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas tour from Malaga

Ronda and White Villages Day Trip from Seville

Private Day Trip to Ronda from Marbella

How much time to spend in Ronda?

I spent just 2-3 hours in Ronda as we were on a little road trip around Southern Spain and decided to come here pretty last minute. Even though it was quick and we didn’t get to fully see inside the Gorge, I loved what I saw of Ronda and don’t feel like I have to return in future to see more, even though I wouldn’t say no!

Some people love to spend their whole Southern Spain holiday in and around Ronda because of the beautiful surrounding countryside.

On your itinerary for Southern Spain, I’d spend from 0.5 days to 2 days here depending on how long you have and it’s possible to do a day trip from Seville or Malaga to Ronda.

– Setenil de las Bodegas

My husband literally found the small town of Setenil de las Bodegas via Instagram during our road trip around Southern Spain. We added it to our Spain itinerary straight away and headed here after Ronda as it’s extremely close by.

Setenil de las Bodegas is another one of the pueblos blancos which are the white villages of Andalucia but it has a unique aspect to it because it has buildings built into the rocks of a canyon, which is usual to see for us travellers but even more unusual because usually towns in this area are built on hilltops, not inside a canyon!

Things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas

• Rock Covered Streets – most people do not visit Setenil de las Bodegas for a large list of things to do in Setenil de las Bodegas, instead it is to wander it’s unique streets and see the buildings that are built into the rock.
• Oberservation Deck – seeing the town from a viewpoint is quite an experience, in Spainish a viewpoint is a ‘Mirador’ and there are a few viewpoints in Setenil de las Bodegas.
• Arab Castle – if you have time you should head up here and it’s another way to see a great view as well as take in some history. I read it’s just 1 euro to enter so super cheap but now that only 1 of the 12 towers remain it won’t take you too long to look around.

How much time to spend in Setenil de las Bodegas?

There is accommodation in Setenil de las Bodegas however it seems it’s very much one of the places to visit on a day trip in Southern Spain, it’s very close to Ronda which is where we visited from and then we drove back down to the coast to Malaga afterwards with no problem.

There are many restaurants and cafes in Setenil de las Bodegas and it’s a nice relaxed place to have lunch in on your South Spain road trip.

So, you could spend 1 night in Setenil de las Bodegas but equally 1-3 hours seems to be enough too.

For more information on this pretty town, here’s a great guide to Setenil .

– Puerto Banus

You have probably heard of Marbella which is known for being a high-end beach destination in Spain to visit, but actually, Marbella is a city and actually, where everyone visits is a place near to Marbella called Puerto Banus.

Puerto Banus is known as a playground for the rich and famous because of its yachts, supercars and designer shops so it’s not to everyone’s taste, and people probably don’t associate it with Andalucia but it’s worth passing by to see, especially if you’re doing a Southern Spain road trip.

Things to do in Puerto Banus

• Puerto Banus Harbour – this is the main place I’d suggest going to and plan in visiting for lunch or dinner because there are lots of nice restaurants. There are high-end expensive restaurants but also a fair few mid-range places so it can be enjoyed by all. Walking around the harbour looking at all the yachts and cars is what a lot of people enjoy too.
• Nikki Beach Marbella – this is a really famous beach club which now has other locations in Dubai and Marrakesh. If going to a fancy beach club is on your list of things to do in Spain, this is where you can do it!
• Boat Trip – this location is all about fun in the sun and sea ! From Marbella / Puerto Banus you can do a sunset evening cruise , dolphin watching trip and a party boat trip !

Tours and Activities in Marbella

How much time to spend in puerto banus.

It’s really up to you and what you like. People visit Marbella and Puerto Banus for their 1 or 2 week holiday so you can spend a few days in Marbella, but equally, you can enjoy it by passing by as you drive along the South coast of Spain as I did recently just stopping in for dinner in the evening to take in the pure luxury and craziness of this place.

– Cadiz

Not many people will get over to Cadiz on their Southern Spain itinerary because it is quite far West in the South of Spain, especially if you start your trip in Malaga, but it is a gem not to be missed if you have time, and, it is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe !

Why should Cadiz be on your list of places to visit in Southern Spain? You’ll get the white-washed buildings, cobbled streets, and historic buildings, but also get beautiful clear water surrounding you and plenty of places to visit in Cadiz to keep you busy, and full!

Things to do in Cadiz

• Cadiz Cathedral – this Cathedral took 116 years to complete between 1722 and 1838 and sits in the heart of Cadiz welcoming all visitors as one of the top places to visit in Cadiz.
• Cadiz Cathedral Bell Tower – I love that you can see views of Cadiz city and over to the water from the bell tower of such an impressive cathedral!
• Mercado Central De Abastos – when in a Spainish city you must visit a market and this is a really old one built in 1839! You’ll find all types of food so why not get some food for lunch and even if you’re not hungry, going in is a must to see daily local life !
• Bike Tour – biking through a city is the best way to see it and in Cadiz you can do an organised 3 hour bike tour like this around one of Europe’s oldest cities taking in the historic sites and learning about them from a guide.
• Tapas Tasting – the best way to see a city can be through the food and in Spain, you want to try real Tapas , but the best way is often to do with a guide on a 3 hour tour like this , so they can take you to the best places for tapas in Cadiz!
• Watch Flamenco – just like in Seville and Granada, you can watch Flamenco in Cadiz and get skip the queue tickete here ! Flamenco will have you mesmerised and even those who think they might not like it, will enjoy it!

Tours and Activites in Cadiz

How much time to spend in cadiz.

Like many of the other cities in Andalucia, you could spend 2-3 days in Cadiz enjoying a laid-back lifestyle and this is definitely what people like Cadiz for, but you could also pass through for one day and see a lot of the top things to do in Cadiz.

Southern Spain Map

All 8 of the places to visit in Southern Spain are on this map to help you work out your itinerary!

Southern Spain Itineraries

To help you work out where to visit in Southern Spain I’ve given you some ideas of itineraries below. These are not definites but you can use them to understand where you can visit in the time you have.

– Southern Spain 3-4 Days

Arrive in Malaga – 1 Day

Day Trip from Malaga to Cordoba – 1 Day

Granada – 1-2 Days

– Southern Spain 7 Days

Granada – 2 Days

Cordoba – 1 Day

Seville – 2 Days

Malaga – 1 Day

– Southern Spain 10 Days

Cadiz – 2 Days

Ronda – 1 Day

– Southern Spain 14 Days

Seville – 3 Days

Ronda – 2 Day

Marbella – 1 Day

How to get around Southern Spain

– southern spain road trip.

Hiring a car in Spain is the best option if you are able to do this because then you can explore as much as you want and be on your own schedule!

Malaga Airport is a huge airport with lots of car rental companies and the best place to hire a car from in South Spain. I always use RentalCars which searches the top rental car companies.

Search car hire availability and prices for Southern Spain here!

But you can also hire a car in Seville as I recently did if you happen to fly in and out of there to start and end this trip, or Cadiz or Granada.

Have a look for a car for your Southern Spain Road Trip here on RentalCars!

The roads in Southern Spain are very good . The main roads are all highways with 2 lanes , sometimes 3 around cities such as Malaga and they are all in good condition.

In the countryside, the roads become smaller and can become quite steep, windy and narrow in places but they are still very well maintained so as long as you drive carefully you’ll be fine!

– Buses and Trains in Southern Spain

South Spain is well connected by train and bus and OMIO is the best platform to search all transport options within Spain so you can check the best, cheapest and fastest route.

Going by train is a great idea to connect between the big cities like Malaga, Seville, Cordoba and Cadiz as they all have good train stations with lots of routes.

Search train and bus routes through Spain using Omio here ! Omio searches all the train and bus providers in Spain to give you the most availability!

If you plan to do some day trips in Southern Spain to see more of the country, then I recommend using the train as it’s faster than the bus and probably driving. For example, you can easily do a day trip to Cordoba from Malaga, Granada or Seville by train.

Going by bus is sometimes the only option but it’s still a good option, I recently booked by bus through OMIO with the ALSA bus company to get from Granada to Malaga. They are a well-organised company with regular departures for a good price with comfy coaches. You even get assigned a seat on the coach making it very safe too.

– Shared Taxi Transport

Another way to get between the cities is using a carpool / shared taxi company . I haven’t used this myself but my friend who lives in Seville has used BlablaCar several times between Seville and Granada .

It gives an added level of comfort being in a car rather than on a bus and can be much cheaper than the train. You will share with strangers but you never know, they may be new friends by the end of the trip !

Accommodation in Southern Spain

There is a huge amount of accommodation on offer in the cities and big towns in Southern Spains to suit all trip types and budgets.

I have used booking.com and Airbnb to book all of my Spain accommodation recently.

In Malaga , I recommend a hotel in the Soho District which is really cool! Have a search for one here!

Or, in Malaga, if you’d prefer to be by the beach and in a resort hotel , I really recommend the 5* Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton where I stayed in May.

In Granada , I recommend staying in the Albaicin , only if you don’t have much luggage because the Albicin is full of small pedestrian streets and gives you a really good feel for the old city of Granada!

Best time to visit Southern Spain

One of the reasons I love Spain is because of the all-year-round great weather ! Yes, it does get cold in Spain in the winter but the South is much warmer than the North in winter!

– Weather in South Spain

Recently, I visited Southern Spain in November, May, June & July and honestly, it was great all of those months weather-wise .

June and July were very hot and in terms of visiting Southern Spain in Summer, I would avoid July & August if you can as temperatures can go over 40c, especially in cities such as Seville. Being by the coast or in the mountains is a bit more manageable in the summer months.

I loved Spain in May because it was hot but not too hot at all and so many flowers were in bloom because it was spring, it was just a very warm and sunny spring compared to the U.K!

Visiting Southern Spain in Winter is also a great idea. The start of November when I went was very pleasant, I had a jacket on but it wasn’t cold and wasn’t wet either. There was also a huge difference in temperature between Granada which is in the mountains and is colder than Seville and Cordoba which were much warmer in November!

December, January and February definitely get cold in South Spain but not so cold that it snows and with the right warm clothes on you will be comfortable and it will be much milder than in the UK and many other parts of Europe!

For more reasons why I love Spain, especially Southern Spain, check out my YouTube video:

Thank you for reading my guide on a Southern Spain itinerary, I hope you have worked out where to visit in Southern Spain, especially if you plan to do a Southern Spain road trip!

• For more of my posts from Spain see:
• REVIEW: Higuerón Hotel Malaga. Incredible 5* Hotel Near Malaga!
• The Ultimate Zaragoza Travel Guide! Everything You Need To Know!
• 50 Things To Do in Zaragoza & Things To See in Zaragoza!

If you liked this please share it! 🙂

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

• € EUR

Luxury Spain Tours made for you

Wine Regions

Visit the Duero Valley and La Rioja vineyards

Art and Architecture

Discover multiple galleries and museums

Spanish Flavours

Sample the country's best cuisine

Coastal Escape

Explore the rugged Costa Brava

Santiago de Compostela

Visit the popular pilgrimage destination

Stunning architecture, soulful people, a grand heritage and wild landscapes

As one of Europe’s largest countries, you’ll find that Spain is as enchanting as it is varied. Take a luxury journey to this southern European country and prepare to fall in love with it. From sun-kissed beaches to vibrant medieval cities to dramatic natural landscapes, Spain has it all.

A rich history stretches back to the great Mediterranean civilisations such as the Phoenicians and Carthaginians. The Romans greatly favoured ‘Hispania’ for six centuries, especially for its wine and olive oil, and later North African Arabs, known as Moors, conquered much of Iberia and brought in another golden age.

Art lovers will be in awe of the masterpieces at Madrid ’s Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen museums while further north in Figueres, the Dalí Theatre-Museum allows visitors to embark on a fascinating journey through the life of one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century. The whole of Spain is dotted with architectural wonders, from Gaudí’s modern marvels in Barcelona to the incredible Moorish architecture of Seville , Cordoba and Granada .

And then of course there’s the food. Eating in Spain is all about keeping it simple and letting the incredible flavours of its natural ingredients shine through. Each region is fiercely proud of their culinary heritage and trying the local dishes is all part of what makes travelling in Spain so rewarding.

Your luxury trip to Spain can include as much or as little as you like. We plan every step of your trip so you can enjoy the tremendous adventure knowing that we take care of the details. We’ll also pair you with incredible local guides who bring the country to life.

Discover the ancient Moorish architecture of Seville and Granada

Eat your way through San Sebastian ‘s pinxtos scene

Enjoy the beaches and glamour of Mallorca

Explore the arrestingly green coastal landscapes of Asturias

Climb to the top of Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Melania Siriu

Senior Travel Designer

Spain is a vibrant country with something new to discover at every turn. Whether you're an art lover, an avid foodie or a history buff, there's no end to what you can experience as you get to know the welcoming people and the places they call home. 

Luxury accommodation in Spain

Catalonia and the Costa Brava

La Rioja Wine Region

Duero Valley Wine Region

Trip inspiration

21 Day trip

11 Day trip

13 Day trip

10 Day trip

Whatever you want from your Spain tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

The Spanish capital is bursting with life and passion and through its well planned streets course Madrilenos, the city’s inhabitants.

Barcelona caters to every type of traveller, from honeymooners and beach lovers to art aficionados, foodies and culture hunters.

Along Catalonia’s rugged coast, the Costa Brava, secluded beaches are punctuated by fishing towns.

Seville has resurrected itself as the capital and largest city of Andalusia, full of Spanish grandeur.

Beloved by Chopin, George Sand, Joan Miro, and other such luminaries, the largest of the Balearic Islands is nothing short of inspiring.

Granada is as famous for its beautiful gardens and charming narrow streets as for its tavern-style nightlife and Flamenco-skilled gypsy artists.

Andalusia possesses the most-varied terrain in all of Spain and boasts both a Mediterranean and an Atlantic coastline.

Sophisticated, cosmopolitan, and vibrant, Bilbao is the modern face of the Basques.

Tucked away between the Basque Country, Navarre and Castilla y Leon, northern La Rioja may be small, but it’s full of spirit.

San Sebastian

The sophisticated and shimmering city of San Sebastian in the north has quickly become the Spanish city of choice for those in the know.

With more than 300 wineries, there’s no chance of going thirsty. Each and every winemaker is immensely proud of their product and have their own secrets.

Malaga and the Costa del Sol

Malaga is best known for the Costa del Sol, a stretch of sandy coastline punctuated by Marbella and Puerto Banus Marina, as well as sleepier fishing villages.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the country’s most culturally and historically significant cities.

Meet your Europe team

Travel Designer

When to visit

The summers can get very hot in southern Spain so visiting in spring, early summer and autumn is preferable. The north is still hot during the summer but is cooler than the south, which is great for hiking. With plenty of museums and galleries in the cities, they make great year-round destinations.

June and September

Wine tasting

Calcot season

November - April

When is the Best Time to Visit Spain?

Spain travel guides.

Photo Journal: Exploring Mallorca's Natural Beauty

The Best Christmas Markets from Around the World

Our Cultural Guide to Seville

Ultimate Guide to a Food and Art Vacation in Spain

Plan your trip to spain.

Whatever you want from your adventure in Spain, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Andulsia April 2023 From the first contact to the last day the trip was smooth and seamless. Our Agent Dan our concierge Alice and our very knowledgable guides and hosts made the trip so very enjoyable. Everything Jacada had arranged for us was exactly the kind of thing we were interested in. The Alhambra, Ubada/Beaza, Cordoba, Ronda, Jerez and one…

Great service, very knowledgeable guides, great locations and super transport

Jacada provided our family with two amazing European getaways. Hanna and Alice had everything set up beautifully down to every last detail. The excursions, hotels, and guides were all incredible. We definitely recommend them and hope to work with Hanna again for future travel!

This was an outstanding tour of Spain Every guide, Driver and Hotel were very good. The breakfasts were excellent. The Hotels and the locations were just beautiful You did a very good job of meeting our needs. I will definitely recommend Jacada Travel and I hope to use your services in the future. I loved Spain and the cities you…

We were really happy with our entire trip and the guides and their pride in their countries. Everything that we booked to visit was perfect and so interesting. No complaints and only compliments.

Plan with peace of mind

When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

Advertisement

Supported by

Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

• Share full article

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• National Media Release

CBP Announces Next Phase in Fight Targeting Criminals Funneling Fentanyl into American Communities

NOGALES , AZ – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) today announced that it will lead an expanded, multi-agency effort to target the transnational criminals funneling fentanyl from Mexico into American communities. Operation Plaza Spike targets the cartels that facilitate the flow of deadly fentanyl, as well as its analogs and precursors and tools to make the drugs. It is designed to disrupt operations in the “plazas,” cartel territories located directly south of the United States that are natural logistical chokepoints within the cartels’ operations. This is the next phase in CBP’s Strategy to Combat Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Drugs , a whole-of-government and international effort to anticipate, identify, mitigate, and disrupt illicit synthetic drug producers, suppliers, and traffickers.

Operation Plaza Spike will employ multiple tactics, including seizing illicit proceeds and scrutinizing related cross-border business entities and cross-border trade. Operation Plaza Spike includes releasing the name of the plazas’ senior ranking cartel officials, the “plaza bosses,” to increase public and law enforcement pressure on them. Plaza bosses control and profit from all illicit activity through the plaza – extortion, kidnapping, as well as the smuggling of humans, dangerous drugs, and firearms. CBP will leverage partnerships, authorities, and resources of other government agencies in our efforts to gather intelligence, disrupt and degrade illicit operations, and deliver legal consequences.

“So long as fentanyl and other illicit opioids wreak tragedy across American communities, the men and women of the Department of Homeland Security will remain unrelenting in their work stopping these deadly drugs from hitting our streets and taking lives,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Operation Plaza Spike is a critical step in our ongoing whole-of-Department campaign to directly attack the transnational criminal organizations that peddle narcotics, death, and destruction for profit. We are sparing no effort to dismantle cartels and ensure everyone from kingpins to plaza bosses are brought to justice.”

CBP’s first target is the Nogales Plaza, located directly south of the border crossing at Nogales, Arizona. Sergio Valenzuela Valenzuela, aka Gio, the Nogales Plaza boss, was indicted by a federal grand jury in 2018 for his role as a Sinaloa Cartel Plaza Boss .

“We are entering the next phase in our fight against fentanyl: one where we are going after the plaza bosses, whose organizations are responsible for virtually everything that is smuggled into the United States. By targeting them for enforcement action, we can directly impact their operations and ability to traffic fentanyl into the United States, which makes its way into communities all across the country,” said Troy A. Miller, CBP Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner. “Sergio Valenzuela Valenzuela is the first plaza boss that we target, but he won’t be the last. Just as the men and women of CBP are steadfast in the fight against fentanyl - will be unrelenting in our pursuit of those people and organizations that threaten the safety and security of our people and our country.”

Valenzuela Valenzuela and his organization allegedly are responsible for moving thousands of pounds of fentanyl to the U.S. border. Nearly every day, CBP officers intercept fentanyl headed from Valenzuela Valenzuela’s plaza northbound through CBP ports of entry onward to cities across the United States.

Operation Plaza Spike is just the latest effort by CBP, an agency of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as part of this Administration’s efforts to stem the flow illicit opioids, including fentanyl, and cracking down on the Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) that traffic them. Through a whole-of-government effort, the Department has stopped more illicit fentanyl and arrested more individuals for fentanyl-related crimes in the last two fiscal years than in the previous five years combined.

CBP is also in the midst of Operation Apollo, and announced today that it will expand into Arizona to continue gathering and utilizing intelligence, and focusing on state and local partnerships to interdict fentanyl. Operation Apollo was launched by CBP in Southern California in October 2023 as a counter-fentanyl joint operation. CBP has evaluated the successes and lessons learned from Operation Apollo, and Operation Apollo – Arizona is now replicating it within the Arizona corridor, integrating all local law enforcement resources in Arizona to interdict finished fentanyl products, illicit precursor chemicals, adulterants, pill press equipment, illicit proceeds, and weapons.

In addition to CBP’s efforts to target operations that move fentanyl north, as well as guns south, CBP will be leveraging partnerships, authorities, and resources of other government agencies.

In 2023, DEA seized a record 79.5 million fentanyl pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder. Throughout Arizona the DEA Phoenix Field Division seized more than 42 million fentanyl pills last year.

“Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat our nation has ever faced. The men and women of DEA are relentlessly focused on saving lives by defeating the two cartels responsible for the majority of fentanyl and methamphetamine poisoning our communities – the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels.” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram . “DEA proactively investigates cartel members and associates, like Sergio Valenzuela Valenzuela, who allegedly oversee the transportation and distribution of these deadly drugs while interagency partners, like U.S. Customs and Border Protection, interdict shipments at the border before they enter our country. These partnerships ensure those responsible face justice for their crimes.”

As a collaborative partner, HSI will leverage its abilities, ample customs authorities, and investigative capabilities to continue to look at the TCOs supply and distribution chains, while taking dangerous, destructive, and deadly drugs off our streets together with the violence that comes with the illicit activities of these criminal enterprises. HSI Arizona has dedicated groups of special agents assigned to combat drug and human smuggling as well as southbound weapons and bulk cash smuggling.

“HSI stands at the ready to continue dedicating our resources, unique customs authorities and investigative capabilities toward joining our federal partners in not only disrupting the trafficking of lethal drugs into our country but capturing and prosecuting the plaza bosses who profit from poisoning our communities,” said HSI Countering Transnational Organized Crime Assistant Director Ricardo Mayoral . “We will leverage the combined strength of our partnered efforts to relentlessly pursue, disrupt and dismantle one of the most prolific and violent cartels in the world.”

With the launch of its updated Fentanyl Strategy CBP Strategy to Combat Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Drugs Report in fall 2023, CBP has continued to look at innovative ways to stop fentanyl trafficking. The agency continues to utilize its unique authorities and resources as the nation’s border security agency to lead the whole-of-government approach to dismantling the means and methods of the production and distribution of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, in addition to its historic target of interdicting narcotics at the border of the United States.

CBP officials have previously targeted fentanyl interdictions along the southwest border of the United States during Operation Blue Lotus, Four Horsemen, and Rolling Wave as well as precursors and production materials used to make fentanyl during Operation Artemis . With this latest operation, CBP is utilizing another avenue to disrupt the networks that create and distribute these drugs.

CBP and DEA are also calling on the public to provide any relevant information they may have about Sergio Valenzuela Valenzuela, his movements, his associates, and his operation. Tips can be provided anonymously by calling or texting 619-540-6912 via phone, Telegram, WhatsApp and Signal. Information can also be submitted through Snapchat at narcos_tips or by using the Threema ID: 2VBZFZTY.

For more information about CBP’s efforts to combat fentanyl and other synthetic drugs, visit CBP Strategy to Combat Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Drugs Report .

Operation Plaza Spike press conference: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/918681/operation-plaza-spike-press-conference

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the comprehensive management, control, and protection of our nation’s borders, combining customs, immigration, border security, and agricultural protection at and between official ports of entry.