Itinerary

1. Overnight Flight

   It’s an adventure that spans two continents. It’s culture centuries in the making. It’s your tour of Spain and Morocco. You’re on your way: are you ready?

   Accommodation: Hotel Riu Plaza España

2. Madrid, Spain

   Welcome to Madrid! Did you know that Spain’s capital was a fortified enclave during the Andalusi period? Experience the city’s vibe as you walk to your welcome dinner. With new friends, say “Salud!” to a new journey.

   Meal included: Dinner
   Accommodation: Barceló Carmen

3. Madrid

   A local expert highlights Madrid’s diverse and iconic spots, including Plaza Mayor. Dive deeper into the city’s Mudéjar history to see how centuries of co-existence molded the city and its inhabitants. With the rest of the day on your own, you do you – Madrid-style. If you prefer to tour, an optional excursion to the fortified city of Segovia explores its medieval streets, where you can see the 14th-century Alcazar Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site blends Christian and Muslim influences.

   Meal included: Breakfast
   Accommodation: Barceló Carmen

4. Madrid - Córdoba - Granada

   ¡Zoom! Travel at alta velocidad aboard the AVE high-speed train to Córdoba. This is a city known for its harmonious blend of Christians, Muslims, and Jews, and yet it also tells a story of the religious upheavals along its history. Walk with a local expert to La Mezquita (UNESCO), an 8th-century mosque that was converted into the city’s cathedral in the 16th century during the Reconquista. Then, it’s off to Granada, Spain’s final Moorish capital before it fell to Catholic monarchs in 1492.

   Meal included: Breakfast
   Accommodation: NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas

5. Granada

   Explore the world-famous Alhambra* (UNESCO) with a local expert. Bathed in morning light, the Alhambra Palace awaits – a fantasy of arabesque gardens, fountains, and stone cut like lace. If you still have the breath, also explore the exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the royal summer residence. Take a moment to relax in the sunshine as this stone fortress overlooks Granada, a mesmerizing example of Islamic architecture. With a free afternoon, soak in the local culture however you choose. Tonight, eat as the Spanish do... because tapas is on the menu.

   Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
   Accommodation: NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas

6. Granada - Seville

   Your taste of the local culture continues today. Head to an award-winning olive grove and learn about this family-owned business. Try their unique olive oil during lunch before departing for Seville, Spain’s “cultural capital.” This evening, experience Spain’s musical culture during a flamenco show (UNESCO). Passionate performers showcase this dance form with mysterious roots.

   Meal included: Breakfast & Lunch
   Accommodation: Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel

7. Seville

   A local expert uncovers the city’s historic Mudéjar architecture with you – as well as Seville’s intriguing stories. A panoramic tour reveals iconic sites, including the Giralda Bell Tower, originally built as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville, and the beautiful Plaza de España. Visit the Seville Cathedral (UNESCO), the largest gothic cathedral in the world. Meander the narrow streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, the old Jewish quarter of Seville. Here, quaint courtyards, bright flowers, and whitewashed buildings create a charming backdrop. The afternoon is yours, enjoy it at your own pace!

   Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
   Accommodation: Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel

8. Seville - Tangier, Morocco

   Climb aboard the high-speed ferry to Africa** because today, you’ll say “adios” to Spain and “salaam alykum” to Morocco. Cross the Strait of Gibraltar (it’s a short ride), and disembark in the city of Tangier, a multicultural hotspot. Tangier was once occupied by the Portuguese and the British. A local expert leads you throughout the city to share places with you like the old medina and the kasbah. Later, get to know the American Legation in Tangier; it’s the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located in a foreign country, and a symbol of the diplomatic ties of these two nations, dating back to the 1800s.

   Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
   Accommodation: Barceló Fès Medina

9. Tangier - Asilah - Tangier

   A morning at leisure means more time to explore Tangier. See why this coastal city has been inspiring artists and writers for ages. You may want to stroll the oceanfront promenade, visit the marina, or shop in the medina. This afternoon, discover the walled city of Asilah, a seaside city with a bohemian art presence. Historically, Asilah hosted many conquerors and pirates – and now it welcomes you.

   Meal included: Breakfast
   Accommodation: Barceló Fès Medina

10. Tangier - Chefchaouen - Fes

    Leave Tangier for Morocco’s “Blue City” – Chefchaouen. Scenic mountains and brightly painted buildings signal your arrival. In your free time, explore the famous indigo-blue streets of this hilly city and take some time to have lunch on your own. Stop in its handicraft shops and find the wool garments and woven blankets that are unique to this region. This evening, arrive in Fes (UNESCO). The “Mecca of the West,” Fes remains the region’s religious capital.

    Meal included: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Widiane Hotel

11. Fes

    Explore Fes, one of the holiest cities in the world. Learn of its historical importance as a center of government, philosophy, medicine, and religion during your tour. See the Jewish quarter, the city ramparts, and the gates of the palace. Then, set out on a walking tour in the medina. Founded in the 9th century, it’s home to the world’s oldest continuously functioning university. Along the cobbled alleyways of this ancient market, find spices and colorful wares. Find out about the leather tanneries, a tradition dating back to the 11th century. View the honeycomb of vats exuding brilliant colors. Tonight, the food: a Moroccan dinner. The setting: a traditional riad.

    Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
    Accommodation: Widiane Hotel

12. Fes - Bin El Oudaine

    Prepare yourself for a long bus ride, and know it’s worth it when you reach the awe-inspiring Middle Atlas Mountains, which are a jewel in Morocco’s crown – take in their majesty on today’s journey to the small, rural hamlet of Bin El Oudaine.

    Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
    Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

13. Bin El Oudaine

    Explore Bin El Ouidane and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the area. Today, it’s your choice! Explore the breathtaking rural lake landscape in a boat -OR- visit the UNESCO M’Goun Geopark Museum, which showcases the geopark’s natural, cultural, and landscape treasures. No matter what you do, a natural and cultural wonderland is yours to experience. Enjoy a calm and relaxing afternoon.

    Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
    Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi

14. Bin El Oudaine - Marrakech

    Travel to Marrakech, an imperial city full of ancient artistry and religious history. Stroll the Jardin Majorelle, one of the most stunning botanical gardens in Morocco. This evening, wander through a maze of colors and fragrances in Jemaa el-Fnaa – one of Morocco’s famous squares – before sitting down for dinner at a local restaurant.

    Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner
    Accommodation: Marriott Casablanca Hotel

15. Marrakech

    Start your morning visiting El Bahia Palace, with its marble floors and carved cedar ceilings. Then, with your local expert, explore Marrakesh’s labyrinth-like medina and its local crafts. Spices, rose petals, babouches, and Berber rugs are in every corner, making this experience a highlight. Find out what made this souk one of the most famous in the world, as well as the centerpiece of so many novels and travel books. The rest of the day is yours to explore “the red city” of Marrakech at your own pace, or you may want to immerse yourself in the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Moroccan cuisine during a cooking demonstration.

    Meal included: Breakfast

16. Marrakech - Casablanca

    Today, it’s off to Casablanca, a romantic setting that showcases the modern side of Morocco in the best way. Tour the Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece of Moroccan artisanship. Later, step inside, Rick’s Café***, the legendary saloon from the film Casablanca. Here’s looking at you (and your fellow travelers), as you toast your adventure during a farewell dinner.

    Meal included: Breakfast & Dinner

17. Casablanca - Tour Ends

    It’s time to say “adios” and “besslama” to an incredible tour. But remember...you’ll always have Spain and Morocco.

    Meal included: Breakfast