Andalusia + Madrid + Barcelona + Marbella

About the destination: Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every corner. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern while still holding onto its extensive historical past. The palm-tree lined Paseo el Parque leads you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls surround aromatic gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle sits atop a nearby hill, offering exceptional views of the expansive city below. The Picasso Museum is also worth a visit, providing not only an impressive artistic heritage, but also educational activities and cultural events. A nighttime visit to Malaga is highly recommended: don't miss a leisurely stroll along the harbor where traditional fried fish is paired with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars), and take in the sight of the illuminated Alcazaba, which stands guard over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.

About the destination: The Islamic leaders of Granada cherished and beautified this regional capital. Overlook the humble apartments of Granada and gaze upwards: the imposing clay-red Alhambra palace stands out against the Sierra Nevada, the sunniest ski slopes in Europe. The invigorating coastline is also within close proximity. The Alhambra, which translates to 'the red one' in Arabic, is a globally renowned Islamic monument of enduring magnificence, situated on a hill blanketed with lush woods and gardens. The numerous courtyards and rooms within the palaces of the Casa Real are among the finest examples of Mudejar art and architecture. Built after the Reconquista of Granada to replace the mosque that previously stood there, the Cathedral of Granada is the first purely Renaissance cathedral in Spain. The Royal Chapel, accessible through a separate entrance, houses the intricate tomb of Ferdinand and Isabella, along with Isabella's impressive private art collection. South of the Cathedral lies the Albayzin, the old Arab quarter, a maze of winding alleyways with Moorish-style archways adorning the walls. Granada is renowned for its holy week celebrations, which include festivities and processions. For a less cultural experience, stick to the student pubs around the university.

About the destination: Córdoba, nestled in the heart of Andalusia, is a city where Roman, Islamic, Jewish, and Christian histories weave together in a remarkably walkable old town. Its star attraction is the Mezquita-Catedral, a former mosque whose forest of red-and-white arches and tranquil courtyard of orange trees create an unforgettable atmosphere. Step inside to see the astonishing blend of Islamic architecture and a later inserted Renaissance cathedral nave, a striking symbol of the city’s layered past. Beyond the Mezquita, Córdoba’s historic centre is a maze of whitewashed lanes, flower-filled patios, and hidden plazas. Wander through the Jewish Quarter (Judería), where you’ll find one of the few remaining medieval synagogues in Spain, as well as traditional craft shops and tapas bars. Don’t miss Calleja de las Flores, a tiny alley framed with potted geraniums and one of the city’s most photographed spots, especially with the bell tower rising in the background. The Guadalquivir River frames the city’s southern edge, crossed by the Roman Bridge, which is especially atmospheric at sunset when the skyline glows golden. On the far side of the bridge, the Calahorra Tower hosts a small museum with panoramic views. A short bus or taxi ride away lies the archaeological site of Medina Azahara, the ruins of a vast 10th‑century palatial city that once showcased the power of the Caliphate of Córdoba. Food is an essential part of the experience here. Sample salmorejo, a thicker, creamier cousin of gazpacho often topped with ham and boiled egg, and flamenquín, a rolled, fried pork dish typical of the region. Visit in May to see the famous Patios Festival, when residents decorate their courtyards with hundreds of flowers and open them to visitors, turning the entire city into a living celebration of colour, fragrance, and local pride.

About the destination: Seville has a unique charm, this vibrant city is filled with enchanting traditional architecture in hues of lemons, plums, and oranges. The Guadalquivir River flows roughly from north to south through Seville. The majority of the city, including the historic district of Barrio de Santa Cruz, is located on the east bank, while the Barrio de Triana is situated on the west bank. At midnight, spontaneous singing, clapping, and guitar playing fill the bars and streets. During the day, the city's diverse heritage becomes evident. The Romans, Moors, Catholic Spaniards, and now, throngs of tourists have all attempted to claim Seville as their own. Indeed, Seville has always managed to ignite the imagination of newcomers. From the outside, the cathedral may not seem impressive; you must enter to truly grasp its size. Huge pillars support the vaulted ceiling, and the abundance of treasure is unbelievably magnificent. Another major attraction of the city is La Giralda, which was the minaret of the Almohad mosque. From the top, there's a spectacular view of the city across the spiked spires and buttresses of the roof. La Torre del Oro, a symbol of the city, originally covered in golden tiles, has been standing guard over the town since 1220. Seville at night is magical, everything takes on a mystical aura that can mesmerize and if you know how to experience it, you will be captivated by its charm.

About the destination: Welcome to Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain! As the capital city, Madrid is a mesmerizing blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone looking to experience the local lifestyle, Madrid offers a plethora of activities and sights that will undoubtedly captivate your senses. Begin your journey at the iconic Puerta del Sol, the bustling central square that serves as the perfect starting point for any exploration. From here, you'll find yourself just a short walk away from some of Madrid's most significant landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll to the Royal Palace, one of the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe, and marvel at its stunning architecture and lavish interiors. Don't forget to visit Almudena Cathedral, located right next to the palace, which offers an impressive contrast of modern and traditional architectural styles. Art lovers should not miss the "Golden Triangle of Art," which includes the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. The Prado houses masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, while the Reina Sofía is home to Picasso's Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró. The Thyssen-Bornemisza offers an extensive collection that spans from the Renaissance to the modern era, providing a comprehensive overview of Western art history. No visit to Madrid would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Head to a traditional tapas bar and savor a variety of small plates, from patatas bravas to jamón ibérico. For a more substantial meal, try a cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew that's a local favorite. Top off your gastronomic adventure with a visit to one of the city's bustling mercados, such as Mercado de San Miguel, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delectable pastries. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Madrid's dynamic spirit and endless attractions ensure an unforgettable experience.

About the destination: Barcelona is a coastal city in northeastern Spain. It's the capital and biggest city of the autonomous region of Catalonia, and the second most populated municipality in Spain. The city has a population of 1.6 million within its limits, but its urban area, which extends to many neighboring municipalities within the Province of Barcelona, is home to approximately 4.8 million people. This makes it the fifth most populated urban area in the European Union, following Paris, the Ruhr area, Madrid, and Milan. Barcelona is one of the largest metropolises on the Mediterranean Sea, situated on the coast between the mouths of the Llobregat and Besòs rivers. It's bordered to the west by the Serra de Collserola mountain range, the highest peak of which is 512 meters (1,680 feet) tall.

About the destination: Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every corner. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern while still holding onto its extensive historical past. The palm-tree lined Paseo el Parque leads you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls surround aromatic gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle sits atop a nearby hill, offering exceptional views of the expansive city below. The Picasso Museum is also worth a visit, providing not only an impressive artistic heritage, but also educational activities and cultural events. A nighttime visit to Malaga is highly recommended: don't miss a leisurely stroll along the harbor where traditional fried fish is paired with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars), and take in the sight of the illuminated Alcazaba, which stands guard over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.

About the destination: Marbella is a premier tourist destination in the Mediterranean, highly favored by travelers due to its top-notch facilities and services. Once a small fishing village, this city has transformed into one of the most cosmopolitan beach resorts on Spain's Costa del Sol. Marbella boasts a rich archaeological heritage, numerous museums and performance venues, and a diverse cultural calendar featuring events from reggae concerts to opera performances. Opened in May 1970, Puerto Banús in Marbella has become a major attraction for both national and international tourists. This spot, one of the main tourist draws in the city, features an exclusive leisure area within its superb marina facilities. The La Concepción reservoir, located in the Sierra de las Nieves, is a man-made marvel that has resulted in a unique location teeming with a wide variety of biological resources for visitors to enjoy.

About the destination: Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every corner. Regarded as one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern while still holding onto its extensive historical past. The palm-tree lined Paseo el Parque leads you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls surround aromatic gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle sits atop a nearby hill, offering exceptional views of the expansive city below. The Picasso Museum is also worth a visit, providing not only an impressive artistic heritage, but also educational activities and cultural events. A nighttime visit to Malaga is highly recommended: don't miss a leisurely stroll along the harbor where traditional fried fish is paired with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars), and take in the sight of the illuminated Alcazaba, which stands guard over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.