Sunny Spain: Madrid & Costa del Sol

Get ready for a true taste of southern Spain. From the sunlit shores of the Costa del Sol to the grand boulevards of Madrid, the journey ahead promises contrast, culture, and color. Settle in and enjoy your overnight flight as the adventure begins.

Welcome to Málaga, where centuries of history meet the easy rhythm of Andalusian life. After arriving, make your way to the coastal town of Fuengirola and settle into your home for the next few nights. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing through the afternoon, leaving time to wander, relax, or ease into the Mediterranean pace. As evening approaches, gather with your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a welcome reception at your hotel.

This morning, travel into the hills to Ronda, a dramatic town shaped by centuries of layered Arab history. Walk through the Old Town and see the 18th-century Puente Nuevo spanning the sheer El Tajo gorge below. Then it’s your choice! Visit the Arab Baths archaeological site alongside a local guide -OR- explore bullfighting’s place in Spanish culture during an audio-guided visit to the historic bullring. Back in Fuengirola, the day winds down with dinner at a local restaurant.

Set out for Marbella, where narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed façades, and flower-lined plazas reflect the city’s Moorish past. During a walking tour, spend time around Plaza de los Naranjos, where daily life unfolds amid historic architecture. By afternoon, continue into the Andalusian hills to Mijas, a whitewashed village known for its winding lanes, colorful balconies, and expansive coastal views. After time to explore, return to Fuengirola and enjoy a relaxed evening at leisure.

This morning, head into Málaga and discover the port city alongside a local guide. Meet a member of the Sepulcro Brotherhood and gain insight into the religious traditions that continue to shape daily life. Walk Málaga’s winding old town streets and see the historic Roman Theatre before sharing lunch inside a local’s home, where conversation flows easily across cultures. With free time to explore independently, shop in the old town, or perhaps visit the Picasso Museum.* Return to Fuengirola as the sun begins to dip toward the horizon.

Today, you travel to Granada, the last capital of the Moors in Spain before it fell to the Catholic monarchs in 1492. This morning, spend time with a local expert visiting the Alhambra,** a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Wonders of the Muslim world. As you walk through this centuries-old palace and fortress complex, intricate stonework, shaded courtyards, and far-reaching views reveal layers of power, artistry, and belief. After your extensive morning walk, enjoy free time in Granada to find lunch on your own before returning to Fuengirola, where the evening unfolds at your own pace.

This morning, bid adiós to the Costa del Sol and board a northbound fast-speed train*** bound for Madrid. Sit back and watch the landscape shift as southern Spain gives way to Spain’s bustling capital. After arriving, walk from the station to your hotel before joining your Tour Manager for a stroll to get your bearings in the city. Wander along the Paseo del Prado and into Barrio de las Letras, where historic streets and long-standing cafés introduce the spirit of Madrid.

Set out with a local expert to explore Madrid’s historic center. See iconic sites like Plaza Mayor, once the city’s social heart, and wander through tucked-away streets and quiet squares filled with stories of monarchs, artists, and everyday life. Continue toward Plaza de Oriente, where views of the Royal Palace frame the walk. The city tour concludes around noon, leaving the afternoon yours to experience Madrid in your own way – linger at a café, stroll through the plazas, or you may choose an optional excursion to visit the Prado Museum**** with a local expert. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to toast the end of your journey. ¡Salud!

Your tour comes to a close today. As you head home, carry with you the flavors, landscapes, and shared moments from the Costa del Sol to Madrid.