Madrid, Marrakech & Fes
Take in the best of southern Spain and Morocco on this 16-day coach tour. Explore the Spanish capital Madrid, discover Cordoba and visit the iconic cathedral in Seville. Explore Malaga and take the ferry to Tangier in Morocco, visiting the Rock of Gibraltar en route. In Morocco, uncover the highlights of coastal Casablanca, ancient Fes, and Marrakech, home to the atmospheric Djemaa el Fna main square. Explore Rabat before returning to Spain, visiting the Alhambra fortress in Granada on your way back to Madrid.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Bienvenido a Espana!
Day 1 Bienvenido a Espana!
Welcome to Madrid, the Spanish capital! You will be collected at the airport and transferred to our hotel, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 Magical Madrid
Day 2 Magical Madrid
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off on a guided city tour to uncover the many splendours of Madrid. Our journey takes us through the historic Barrio de la Morería, the Habsburgs District, and the vibrant Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa. We’ll delve into the Madrid of the Bourbons and explore the intricate town planning of Charles III, including the majestic Royal Palace, the Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains, and the iconic Puerta de Alcalá.
We’ll also experience modern Madrid with visits to Gran Vía, Castellana, and the bustling Salamanca district, as well as its commercial and financial hubs. Along the way, we’ll indulge in a delicious taste of traditional chocolate with churros, a quintessential Madrid treat. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure, allowing you to further explore and soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere. We have a tasty Welcome Dinner this evening at an authentic Tapas restaurant.
Day 3 Merida & Cordoba
Day 3 Merida & Cordoba
Madrid - Merida - Cordoba. After breakfast we say farewell to Madrid and head south, bound for the region of Andalusia. Before we reach mainland Spain's southernmost region, we stop in Merida. Our first stop is Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman ruins, including the stunning Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre. We’ll delve into the city’s rich historical tapestry before continuing our journey to Córdoba We then climb back on board our coach and complete the journey to Cordoba, where the evening is at leisure.
Day 4 Cordoba sightseeing & Seville
Day 4 Cordoba sightseeing & Seville
Cordoba - Seville. This morning we tour Cordoba, an important Roman city that was also an Islamic centre during the Middle Ages. The most important landmark here is the sprawling La Mezquita mosque-cathedral, which dates back to 988 AD. Entrance to the mosque is included on our tour and we also take a stroll through the Jewish Quarter before departing the city and travelling south-west to Seville, capital of Andalusia. After our tour, in the afternoon, we have the chance to indulge in the flavours of Andalusian cuisine at a local restaurant, sharing the experience with our fellow travellers.
Day 5 Exploring Seville
Day 5 Exploring Seville
Today we explore Seville on a guided tour. Entrance to the city's cathedral, the second largest in the Catholic world, is included. We also visit the Santa Cruz Quarter, where the famous opera 'Carmen' is largely set. Wander through Maria Luisa Park and the picturesque Plaza Espana. In the afternoon we have free for you to further explore Seville at your own pace.
Day 6 Jerez & Ronda
Day 6 Jerez & Ronda
Seville - Jerez - Ronda. After breakfast, we head south through charming Andalusian villages to Jerez, where we immerse ourselves in two quintessential aspects of Andalusian culture: wine and horses. We’ll visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and enjoy a wine tasting at one of the renowned local wineries.
Continuing our journey, we reach the picturesque mountain-top town of Ronda. Here, we’ll explore the local olive oil production facility at LA Organic, walk through the olive groves, and taste their exquisite organic olive oil. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, discovering the secrets and beauty of Ronda.
Day 7 Ronda to Tangier via Gibraltar
Day 7 Ronda to Tangier via Gibraltar
Ronda - Gibraltar - Tangier - Tetouan. After breakfast at the hotel, we depart Ronda and head towards Gibraltar. On arrival, we explore the iconic "On The Rocks" in Gibraltar before enjoying some free time to discover the city. We then continue to Algeciras to catch the ferry to Tangier. Upon reaching Tangier, our first taste of Morocco, we transfer to Tetouan, known as "The White Dove," with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Medina. We’ll conclude the day with dinner and overnight accommodation.
Day 8 Tetouan to Chefchaouen & Fes
Day 8 Tetouan to Chefchaouen & Fes
Tetouan - Chefchaouen - Fes. After breakfast, we set off on a panoramic tour of Tetouan, exploring its most captivating sights. We then continue our journey to Chefchaouen, famously known as the Blue City for its vibrant blue-painted houses and streets. Upon arrival, we explore the city's charm, strolling through the picturesque Uta El Hammam square, with free time to browse the local shops and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we depart for Fes, travelling through the stunning Rif mountain range and arriving in the late afternoon.
Day 9 Exploring Fes
Day 9 Exploring Fes
After breakfast, we embark on a comprehensive tour of Fes, Morocco’s spiritual heart, founded in the 8th century by Idriss II and one of the Four Imperial Capitals. We explore the city's most iconic sites, including the Royal Palace gates, the Jewish Quarter, and a fortress offering stunning views of Fes el Bali, the medina. Our walking tour will lead us to the renowned Bab Bou Jeloud gate, giving us a glimpse into a city that retains its medieval charm. We’ll wander through its ancient, labyrinthine alleys, immersing ourselves in the rich array of scents and flavours that define this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Next, we arrive at a local palace for a hands-on class in preparing one of Morocco’s most cherished dishes, couscous. We’ll assist the chefs in finishing this traditional dish before enjoying a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we visit nearby vineyards for a delightful wine tasting session.
Day 10 Rabat, Casablanca & Marrakech
Day 10 Rabat, Casablanca & Marrakech
Fes - Casablanca - Marrakech. Today we travel to Casablanca. On our included sightseeing tour we will see United Nations Square, the Boulevard de la Corniche and the exterior of the iconic Hassan II mosque. The magical city of Marrakech is our final destination for today.
Day 11 Exploring Marrakech
Day 11 Exploring Marrakech
Our sightseeing of Marrakech today begins in the tranquil Menara Gardens. On our included sightseeing tour we also see the Koutoubia Mosque, Dar el Bacha Museum, Bahia Palace, Bay Palace, Saadian Tombs necropolis and the atmospheric Djemaa el Fna main square - where fortune tellers, snake charmers, market sellers and acrobats entertain and enthral the crowds. It's the heart of the city and a fascinating place to explore.
In the afternoon, we explore artisan guilds, including woodworkers, potters, tanners, and spice merchants, experiencing the rich crafts of Morocco. We then visit a riad in the medina for a traditional tea ceremony led by an expert, learning to prepare this iconic Moroccan beverage. Afterward, we return to the hotel for dinner and accommodation.
Day 12 Exploring Rabat
Day 12 Exploring Rabat
Marrakech - Rabat. After breakfast, we set off early for Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Our visit takes us to some of the city’s most impressive sights, starting with the grand gates of the Royal Palace. We then explore the magnificent Mausoleum of Mohammed V and marvel at the historic Hassan Tower. After a day filled with exploration, we head to our hotel for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Day 13 Rabat and Tangier to Malaga
Day 13 Rabat and Tangier to Malaga
Rabat - Tangier - Tarifa (Spain) - Malaga. We set off for Tangier. On arrival, we embark on a panoramic tour of Cape Spartel, the historic palace route, and the ancient Kasbah, where the city's defenders once stood against pirate raids. We then head to Tangier's port to board a swift catamaran across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tarifa. From there, we continue our journey to Malaga.
Day 14 Malaga & Granada
Day 14 Malaga & Granada
Malaga - Granada. Today we head to Granada, located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada. We will enjoy an included Flamenco dance masterclass before attending an included dinner and Flamenco show. After dinner, we will head to one of the city viewpoints to take in our surroundings.
Day 15 The Alhambra & Madrid
Day 15 The Alhambra & Madrid
Granada - Madrid. This morning we visit the world-famous Alhambra. This stunning palace and fortress complex was built during the Nasrid Dynasty in the 13th and 14th centuries. Originally constructed as a small fortress in 889 AD on Roman remains, it was later transformed into a royal palace by the Moors. The Alhambra showcases exquisite Islamic architecture, with intricate carvings, stunning tilework, and tranquil gardens, reflecting the cultural zenith of Islamic Spain before the Christian Reconquista in 1492, when the Alhambra was surrendered to Ferdinand and Isabella.
After our included visit to the Alhmabra, we make our way back to Madrid, and there is an included farewell dinner this evening.
Day 16 Madrid
Day 16 Madrid
Enjoy a final breakfast in the hotel before our tour comes to an end. There is an included transfer to the airport.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Opposite Cuzco metro station in Madrid's business district, this contemporary hotel is an 8-minute walk from Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid football club. The modest rooms, equipped with soundproof windows, feature 49-inch flat-screen TVs, desks, Wi-Fi, and minibars. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas. The hotel boasts a casual Mediterranean restaurant and a lounge/bar, as well as a fitness centre and 9 meeting rooms.
Located on the peaceful banks of the Guadalquivir River, Hesperia Cordoba offers views of Cordoba's two main attractions, La Mezquita and the Alcazar and is just a 7-minute walk from the city's historic centre. Facilities include a rooftop pool, garden and complimentary Wi-Fi connection. Rooms at the hotel all come equipped with ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and satellite TV. Decor is classic white, as is commonplace in southern Spain. As well as an onsite restaurant, there is a rooftop bar serving drinks until 23:30.
A stylish hotel located in Seville's commercial district, Melia Lebreros was extensively refurbished recently and modern, elegant decor is visible throughout. Rooms offer air-conditioning, wood panelled flooring, minibar, flat screen TV and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Facilities include an outdoor pool and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Local and international cuisine can be enjoyed at the Mosaico Restaurant and local dishes are served in a traditional atmosphere at La Taberna la Dehesa. There is also an onsite bar.
Nestled in a pine forest, this modest hotel is located 1.1 km from both the Museo del Bandolero-Ronda and the Puente Viejo. The understated rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars, with upgrades adding terraces, tea and coffeemakers, living areas, and scenic views. Suites feature separate living rooms, sofas, seated terraces, and spa access. The hotel also offers room service, a restaurant, a bar/lounge, and a seated patio. Guests can enjoy an exercise room, an outdoor pool with a sundeck, and a spa with a sauna for an additional fee.
Located in the heart of ancient Fes, the Royal Mirage Hotel is just a short walk from the medina. There is a large outdoor pool and terrace, free Wi-Fi and a Moroccan spa and wellness centre. Traditional cuisine is served in the Al Wadi restaurant and there are a number of smaller snack bars, coffee shops and bars serving alcoholic drinks. Guest rooms offer either a pool or garden view and come with a balcony or terrace, as well as modern amenities including ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, safe and TV.
An upscale hotel located on landscaped grounds in the Agdal district of Marrakech, the 5-star Palm Plaza boasts a large outdoor pool and sun terrace, piano bar, nightclub, sauna, hamman and gym for guests to enjoy. Dining is at the El Menzah International Restaurant buffet, or the Marrakech-Phuket open air restaurant, serving regional dishes in a relaxing environment. There is also a poolside snack bar. Guest rooms are decorated in Moroccan style, with flat screen television, air-conditioning, seating area, ensuite bathroom and a terrace or balcony. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Just a 3-minute walk from Rabat Ville railway station and a few minutes on foot from the beach, this casual hotel occupies a modern corner building and is a 7-minute walk from the Mohamed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. The cosy rooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safes, and complimentary minibars, with upgraded rooms featuring balconies and suites adding sitting areas. Room service is available 24/7. The hotel also features a relaxed restaurant, a bar and grill, and a nightclub.
Hotel Málaga Alameda Centro is a contemporary hotel ideally situated in the heart of Málaga, Spain, offering a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Located just a short walk from the bustling historic centre and the popular Larios shopping street, the hotel provides easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural and commercial attractions. The hotel boasts modern, well-appointed rooms equipped with all essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Located in the heart of Granada, the Catalonia hotel offers sleek and modern guest rooms with smart TV, private bathrooms, minibar and desk. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property and other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and rooftop sun terrace. Buffet breakfast is served in the main restaurant, and there is an onsite Gastrobar open from 11am to 11pm, serving a variety of snacks and Mediterranean dishes.
Tour Reviews
Worst booked tour my wife and I have taken. We had 6 different guides, some of which could barely speak English. Too may long bus rides with short tours. Too much free time without suggestions on what to see
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