7-Day Spain Tour: Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona and Zaragoza from Madrid

Explore Spain’s Most Famous Cities in Just One Week

This 7-day Spain tour from Madrid takes you through Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza for an all-encompassing experience of Spain’s vibrant culture and historic sites. Priced at $1,376.16 per person, this trip offers guided visits to famous landmarks, 3- or 4-star hotel stays, daily breakfasts, and three dinners. With an average booking time of 70 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a thorough introduction to Spain’s key cities in a manageable timeframe.

The tour departs from Madrid at 8:00 am, with round-trip coach transport in an air-conditioned deluxe motor coach. Although the itinerary is packed with sightseeing, some reviews mention the limited English explanations and the long bus rides, making it best suited for those with a strong interest in Spanish culture and history who don’t mind a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Six cities in seven days, including Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza
• Guided visits to major landmarks like the Alhambra, Great Mosque of Cordoba, and La Sagrada Familia
• Accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotels, with daily breakfasts and three dinners included
• Travel via air-conditioned coach with plenty of free time to explore each city independently
• Tour length is approximately 7 days, with round-trip transportation from Madrid

Departing from Madrid to Cordoba’s Historic Sites

The journey begins in Madrid, with the coach leaving early in the morning. The first stop is Cordoba, famous for its Great Mosque. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the Mezquita Cathedral, where the stunning architecture and intricate details offer a glimpse into Andalusia’s Moorish past. After exploring Cordoba’s charming streets and Jewish Quarter, the tour continues to Seville for a two-night stay.

Guided Tour of Seville’s Iconic Landmarks

In Seville, a guided tour covers the Catedral de Sevilla, the second-largest cathedral in the Catholic world, and the Barrio Santa Cruz neighborhood, famous for its narrow streets and orange trees. Visitors get to see Maria Luisa Park, a lush area with shaded paths and fountains, and Plaza de España, an impressive square showcasing Spain’s regional tiles and architecture. The guided visits ensure you see the city’s highlights, while free time allows for personal discovery.

Discover the Moorish Grandeur of Granada and the Alhambra

From Seville, the trip takes you east to Granada, the last Moorish stronghold in Spain. The highlight here is the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Spain’s most famous monuments. The guided tour of the Alhambra complex and Generalife Gardens reveals the exquisite Islamic architecture, intricate tile work, and lush gardens that inspired writers like W. Irving. The guided visit lasts about 3 minutes and provides plenty of time to absorb the beauty of this monumental site.

Moving Along the Mediterranean Coast to Valencia

After Granada, the coach heads toward Valencia, known as the birthplace of paella. The drive passes through Murcia and Alicante, two important cities on Spain’s eastern coast. In Valencia, the Arts and Sciences Architectural Complex draws attention with its modern design, including the Hemispheric, Oceanographic, and Palau de les Arts structures. The city offers a good balance of history and modern innovation, with a free afternoon to explore or relax.

Visiting Valencia’s Futuristic Science Complex

The following morning, a guided city tour takes visitors through Valencia’s old city, highlighting its historic buildings and vibrant street life. The tour then visits the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a striking complex of six futuristic buildings. Its exterior architecture is particularly eye-catching, and the site includes attractions like the Science Museum and Oceanographic. The tour provides about 2 hours to appreciate the complex’s design and atmosphere.

From Valencia to Barcelona’s Modernist Marvels

Continuing north along the Mediterranean coast, the trip makes a brief stop in Tarragona to see its Roman ruins before arriving in Barcelona for a two-night stay. In Barcelona, the tour features a guided city tour that passes by famous landmarks such as La Pedrera and Casa Milà, both designed by Antoni Gaudí and listed as World Heritage sites. The tour also covers Montjuïc Park, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor, as well as the Olympic Ring and Columbus monument.

Exploring Barcelona’s Artistic Masterpieces and Vibrant Streets

In Barcelona, the guide introduces you to the city’s lively atmosphere and architectural wonders. After the guided tour, you have free time to continue exploring, enjoy local cuisine, or visit additional sites at your own pace. The city’s mix of modernist architecture and dynamic neighborhoods makes it an appealing destination for those wanting a blend of culture, art, and seaside charm.

Concluding in Zaragoza with Moorish and Gothic Highlights

The final stop in the itinerary is Zaragoza, a city on the banks of the Ebro River. Known historically as Cesar Augusta, Zaragoza played a significant role in Spain’s history. The tour includes free time to see its impressive Baroque Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a key spiritual site with distinctive architecture. After exploring Zaragoza, the journey concludes with a return trip back to Madrid.

Practical Aspects: Transport, Accommodation, and Meals

Transportation on this tour is provided in a deluxe air-conditioned coach, ensuring comfort during long drives between cities. The stay in each city typically lasts two nights, with 6 nights of accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotels. The tour includes six breakfasts and three dinners, giving a good balance of guided meals and independent dining. Note that food and drinks outside of the included meals are at your own expense, and city tax is not covered.

What the Tour Offers for Different Types of Travelers

This tour is well-suited for those interested in an organized, rundown of Spain’s most significant cities. The guided visits to landmarks like the Alhambra and La Sagrada Familia add depth to the experience, while the free time allows for personal exploration. However, some reviews mention that bus rides can be lengthy, and explanations in English may be minimal at times, so travelers comfortable with guided tours and long travel days will enjoy this experience most.

The Review of Hotel and Guide Quality

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of included tours. Guides like Joseph receive particular mentions for their care and expertise. The hotel standards are generally consistent as 4-star options, with some noting that standard and superior rooms offer similar quality, so saving money by choosing the standard option could be worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on the 7-Day Spain Tour

This trip offers a rich snapshot of Spain’s history, architecture, and culture across six major cities. The combination of guided visits, free time, and comfortable transportation makes for an efficient and enjoyable travel experience. It’s especially appealing for those who want to see a lot in a short period, provided they are prepared for some long bus days and limited English commentary at times.

While some may find the itinerary packed, the highlights such as Granada’s Alhambra, Seville’s Plaza de España, and Barcelona’s Gaudí architecture make it worthwhile. The value for money is solid considering the included guides, entrance fees, and hotel stays, though upgrading to a superior hotel may not be necessary based on reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but it is designed for groups, with a maximum of 40 travelers. It offers guided tours and free time, making it manageable for solo participants.

Are the hotels comfortable?
Most guests find the hotels to be 3- or 4-star standards, with some noting little difference between standard and superior options.

How much free time do I get in each city?
The itinerary includes guided tours and free time, especially in Barcelona and Zaragoza, as well as opportunities to explore independently after guided visits.

Are food and drinks included?
Breakfasts are included every day, and three dinners are covered. Other meals are at your own expense.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in an air-conditioned deluxe coach, ensuring comfort during the long drives between cities.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Less notice results in partial or no refund.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 days, with departures on Day 1 and return to Madrid on Day 7.

Does the tour include visits to the interior of landmarks?
Yes, guided visits include Granada’s Alhambra and Cordoba’s Great Mosque, with entrance tickets included.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most ages, the long bus days and walking involved may require some stamina. It’s ideal for those interested in history and architecture.

What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, be ready for busy days, and have an interest in art, history, and traditional Spanish cuisine to fully enjoy the experience.