7 day guided tour in Seville, Granada and Barcelona from Madrid

Discover Spain’s Most Iconic Cities in Just One Week

This 7-day guided tour offers an immersive experience through some of Spain’s most lively and culturally rich destinations. Starting in Madrid, the journey takes travelers through Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona, and finishing in Zaragoza. With a price of around $1,349.73 per person, the tour balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and comfortable accommodations, making it a compelling option for those eager to explore Spain’s highlights in a compact timeframe.

This tour features local guides, visits to renowned landmarks such as Giralda Tower, Alhambra, and Sagrada Familia, plus included breakfasts and dinners. While the itinerary covers a lot, reviewers note that guide expertise and scenic views are among the biggest strengths, though some mention organizational hiccups. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and interested in a rundown of southern Spain’s cities.

Key Points

• Seven-day guided tour through Madrid, Andalucia, Valencia, and Barcelona.
• Visit top landmarks including the Alhambra, Plaza de Espana, and Sagrada Familia.
• All accommodations, transportation, and select meals are included, offering good value.
• Tour departs from Madrid at 8:00 a.m. and includes air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi.
• Small group size with a maximum of 50 travelers ensures manageable sightseeing.
• The tour receives a mixed rating of 3.5/5 based on 6 reviews, with many praising guides and value, but some noting disorganization.

Starting the Journey: Departure from Madrid

The tour begins at C. de Ferraz, 3, Moncloa – Aravaca, promptly at 8:00 a.m. The pickup point is conveniently located near public transportation, easing travel logistics. From here, the coach takes travelers through the scenic landscape of La Mancha towards Cordoba, marking the first highlight of the trip. The journey’s pacing balances travel time with sightseeing, making sure that the experience stays engaging without feeling rushed.

Exploring Cordoba’s Historic Mosque-Cathedral and Jewish Quarter

In Cordoba, the tour includes a sightseeing tour of its most famous sites. The highlight is visiting the Mosque-Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. The Jewish Quarter adds a layer of cultural depth, with narrow streets and quaint courtyards that showcase centuries of history. This stop sets the tone for the rich blend of cultures that define southern Spain.

The Charm of Seville’s Plaza de Espana and Barrio de Santa Cruz

Traveling onward, the group arrives in Seville, where the tour explores key landmarks like Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park. The Giralda Tower and the outskirts of Seville Cathedral provide photo-worthy views, while the Barrio de Santa Cruz offers a glimpse into the city’s former Jewish quarter. The guided city tour offers context and stories behind each site, making the experience more meaningful. Travelers appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to explore at leisure in the afternoon.

Visiting the Magnificent Alhambra and Generalife Gardens

In Granada, the Alhambra takes center stage. Recognized as a world heritage site, the Alhambra impresses with its intricate architecture and lush gardens of Generalife. Visitors can marvel at the Palace of Charles V, the Archaeological Museum, and the Royal Chapel, depending on ticket availability. The tour offers an optional visit to the Sacromonte Caves to enjoy a flamenco show, which many find adds a vibrant cultural touch. Some reviews mention last-minute ticket changes, so flexibility may be required.

Traveling along the Mediterranean Coast to Valencia

After Granada, the journey continues via Guadix, Baza, and Puerto Lumbreras, heading towards the Mediterranean coast. The highlight here is the scenic drive through varied landscapes before arriving in Valencia, where travelers stay overnight. The itinerary provides a restful evening after days packed with sightseeing, with the opportunity for some independent exploration.

From Valencia to Barcelona: The Catalan Capital

The next morning, travelers have free time in Valencia before moving on to Barcelona. Upon arrival, the group checks into their accommodations, with the afternoon free to rest or explore on their own. The next day features a guided tour of Montjuic Park, where the spectacular views of the city and the Olympic Ring highlight Barcelona’s modern achievements. The Columbus Monument and the Gothic Quarter complete the cultural tour, offering a mix of history, architecture, and vibrant city life.

Enjoying Barcelona’s Iconic Landmarks and Nightlife

The morning sightseeing tour in Barcelona covers many highlights, including the Gothic Quarter and Montjuic Park. In the afternoon, travelers are at leisure, with an optional night tour available to see the city’s beautifully lit avenues, fountains, and notable buildings. The tour’s pacing allows for personal exploration while ensuring key sights are covered with expert guidance.

Continuing to Zaragoza and Returning to Madrid

On the final day, the group departs Barcelona after breakfast, traveling through Lerida and Zaragoza. There’s time to enjoy free time in Zaragoza before the coach proceeds back to Madrid. The tour ends at the original meeting point, concluding a week packed with diverse sights and experiences.

Logistics, Comfort, and Group Size

The entire journey uses air-conditioned coaches equipped with free Wi-Fi, making long drives comfortable and connected. The small group size—maximum 50 travelers—helps maintain a more personal atmosphere, with a multi-lingual guide leading the way. The accommodations are included in the package, alongside breakfasts every day and three dinners, providing convenience and value.

Realities of the Tour Experience

While many appreciate the well-organized sightseeing and knowledgeable guides, some reviews point out issues such as bus delays, last-minute changes to visits like the Alhambra, and occasional organizational lapses. It’s important for travelers to remain flexible and aware that ticket availability for certain attractions might be unpredictable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adults interested in a structured overview of Spain’s key cities, especially those who value guided explanations and ease of logistics. It suits travelers willing to keep a fast pace, with some free time for personal exploration. The inclusion of meals and transportation simplifies planning, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those looking to maximize their time in Spain.

The Sum Up: A Solid, Though Not Flawless, Overview of Spain

This 7-day guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Spain’s cultural and historic landmarks, from Madrid to Barcelona. The inclusions of accommodations, transport, and meals provide good value, and guides are often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge. However, some organizational issues and ticket uncertainties highlight the importance of flexibility.

Travelers who enjoy guided experiences with engaging storytelling and are comfortable with a busy schedule will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see many highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The tour balances scenic sightseeing with culture, making it a practical choice for a broad overview of Spain’s most famous cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 days.

What landmarks are included?
Famous sites like Plaza de Espana, Giralda Tower, Alhambra, and Sagrada Familia are part of the itinerary.

Are meals included?
Yes, all breakfasts and 3 dinners are included in the package.

What transportation is used?
Travel is by air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi on board.

Can I expect to stay in the same hotel throughout?
No, accommodations are arranged in each city, with overnight stays in Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so travelers should plan accordingly.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 50 travelers ensures a manageable group experience.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provider, VPT Tours, with confirmation received at booking.

What should I be aware of regarding ticket availability?
Attractions like the Alhambra may have ticket limitations; flexibility may be necessary if tickets are unavailable.

Is there an option for additional activities?
Yes, optional visits such as flamenco shows and night tours are available in Granada and Barcelona.