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Southern Spain Itinerary: 7 Days in Madrid, Seville & Granada
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertBooking the Alhambra timed entry for the Nasrid Palaces is the first planning step this entire week depends on, and I always tell clients not to leave it more than a day after booking the trip. The late afternoon window when the carved stucco of the Comares Tower catches the last western light is worth building the entire Granada stay around. The flamenco show in a small Santa Cruz tablao over any large venue near the cathedral: the proximity to the performers and the acoustics change the register from spectacle to something that feels genuinely inhabited. For the Generalife gardens, the afternoon light through the cypress hedges of the Acequia Real after the main Nasrid crowds have cleared is the version that makes the Moorish garden philosophy legible rather than merely decorative.
Booking the Alhambra timed entry for the Nasrid Palaces is the first planning step this entire week depends on, and I always tell clients not to leave it more than a day after booking the trip. The late afternoon window when the carved stucco of the Comares Tower catches the last western light is worth building the entire Granada stay around. The flamenco show in a small Santa Cruz tablao over any large venue near the cathedral: the proximity to the performers and the acoustics change the register from spectacle to something that feels genuinely inhabited. For the Generalife gardens, the afternoon light through the cypress hedges of the Acequia Real after the main Nasrid crowds have cleared is the version that makes the Moorish garden philosophy legible rather than merely decorative.
Recommended route
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Madrid
Day 1
Spain’s enormous central capital, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares and is a city of contrasts. Historical monuments like the impressive Royal Palace stand in stark contrast to state-of-the-art skyscrapers; masterpieces by Picasso, Dali and Velazquez adorn the walls of the city’s world-class galleries alongside contemporary modern works; local chefs display a passion for Spanish food at traditional eateries while chic fusion restaurants operate next door. Madrid’s real attraction lies in the seductive lifestyle of its hedonistic inhabitants; indulging in tapas, hunting for treasures at the El Rastro flea market or partying the night away in one of the many lively nightclubs. Make sure to soak up the vibrant street life of the grand, historic Plaza Mayor, Madrid's central square, and spend a leisurely afternoon on the landscaped lawns at the Parque del Buen Retiro.
Hotel Villa Real, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Located in Madrid (Madrid Centro), Hotel Villa Real, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts is within a 10-minute walk of National Prado Museum and Puerta del Sol. This luxury hotel is 0.5 mi (0.7 km) from Gran Via and 0.6 mi (1 km) from Plaza Mayor.
Enjoy recreational amenities such as a fitness center and a seasonal outdoor pool. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.
Make yourself at home in one of the 115 guestrooms featuring minibars and espresso makers. LCD televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Bathrooms have jetted bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include safes and complimentary newspapers, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Seville
Day 2 - 3
Welcome to Seville, the passionate heart of Andalusia, a city that effortlessly blends rich history with vibrant modern life! This enchanting capital is truly famous for its fiery flamenco dancing, where passion ignites on every stage, its delectable tapas culture that invites endless culinary exploration, and its magnificent Moorish architecture that speaks volumes of its diverse past.
You can expect to be transported back in time as you explore the grand Seville Cathedral, home to Christopher Columbus's tomb and its iconic Giralda tower, offering breathtaking views of the city. Wander through the ethereal beauty of the Royal Alcázar palace and its serene gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the intricate tilework and tranquil courtyards. Then, soak in the grandeur of the expansive Plaza de España, a stunning architectural masterpiece.
Seville's warm, inviting charm and its deep, palpable history make it an inspiring and utterly unforgettable destination. Don't miss the chance to experience a traditional flamenco show in the Triana neighborhood or enjoy an evening stroll along the Guadalquivir River – it’s a city that truly lives and breathes its heritage.
Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza, a Member of Design Hotels
A stay at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza, a Member of Design Hotels places you in the heart of Seville, within a 10-minute walk of Seville Cathedral and Metropol Parasol. This historic hotel is 0.7 mi (1 km) from Royal Alcázar of Seville and 0.5 mi (0.9 km) from Giralda Tower.
Relax and unwind with massages, body treatments, and facials. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a reception hall. Guests can catch a ride on the shuttle (surcharge), which operates within 200 meters.
Make yourself at home in one of the 41 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and espresso makers. Your bed comes with down comforters and Egyptian cotton sheets. Wired and wireless internet access is complimentary, while 50-inch plasma televisions with digital programming provide entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature rainfall showerheads and complimentary toiletries.
Your activity
Cathedral Walking Tour
Experience one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world - Seville Cathedral, a masterpiece full of history and art. Built in the 15th century on the foundations of a former mosque, it impresses with its enormous vaults, magnificent chapels and works by great artists such as Murillo.
A highlight is the ascent to the Giralda, the former minaret that now serves as a bell tower. Once at the top, you can enjoy a spectacular view over Seville, all the way to the Alcázar. The tomb of Christopher Columbus is also located in the cathedral, giving the visit additional historical significance.
The tour includes an audio guide, which is included in the price - so you won't miss a single detail.
Granada
Day 4 - 5
The small historical city of Granada lies tucked in a crook of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, with the River Darro flowing through its centre, in southern Spain’s Andalucia region. The world-renowned and extraordinarily well-preserved Moorish Alhambra, with its mysterious, reddish-gold, fortressed palaces and exotic gardens, presides over the city. On an adjacent hill, the Albaicin quarter consists of a warren of narrow, cobbled alleyways strewn with whitewashed houses, tiny hidden squares adorned with orange trees and fountains, traditional bars serving free tapas, and a growing number of gourmet restaurants. The third hill, Sacromonte, once a Gypsy enclave, is packed with fascinating cave dwellings hosting nightly flamenco dance performances. The city centre has a more elegant, contemporary feel with its upmarket boutiques, art nouveau flower stalls and large decorative fountains.
NH Collection Granada Victoria Hotel
With a stay at NH Collection Granada Victoria Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Granada, within a 5-minute drive of Alhambra and Granada Cathedral. This hotel is 20.3 mi (32.7 km) from Sierra Nevada Ski Resort and 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Calle Navas.
Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as bicycles to rent, or other amenities including complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services. Additional amenities at this hotel include wedding services, a television in a common area, and a banquet hall.
Make yourself at home in one of the 69 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms have deep soaking bathtubs and rainfall showerheads. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Alhambra & Generalife
Alhambra is a palace and a fortress complex. One of the Wonders of the World and UNESCO world heritage listed. You will discover a unique Arab medieval citadel, probably the best preserved in the world, and also the highest tourist attraction in Spain. During this visit you will be accompanied by an official guide who will explain the history and legends of this emblematic place. You will visit the Alcazaba (citadel), Carlos V Palace, Generalife Gardens and Nazari Palaces. The Alcazaba was the military zone, The Generalife is the villa with gardens used by the Muslim kings of Granada as a place of retreat and rest and the Nazari palaces constituted the seat of the administrative functions, of the court, protocol and retirement and private enjoyment.
Madrid
Day 6 - 7
Spain’s enormous central capital, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares and is a city of contrasts. Historical monuments like the impressive Royal Palace stand in stark contrast to state-of-the-art skyscrapers; masterpieces by Picasso, Dali and Velazquez adorn the walls of the city’s world-class galleries alongside contemporary modern works; local chefs display a passion for Spanish food at traditional eateries while chic fusion restaurants operate next door. Madrid’s real attraction lies in the seductive lifestyle of its hedonistic inhabitants; indulging in tapas, hunting for treasures at the El Rastro flea market or partying the night away in one of the many lively nightclubs. Make sure to soak up the vibrant street life of the grand, historic Plaza Mayor, Madrid's central square, and spend a leisurely afternoon on the landscaped lawns at the Parque del Buen Retiro.
H10 Villa de la Reina Boutique Hotel
With a stay at H10 Villa de la Reina Boutique Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Madrid, within a 10-minute walk of Plaza de Callao and Puerta del Sol. This luxury hotel is 0.5 mi (0.8 km) from Plaza de Cibeles and 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum.
Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a television in a common area. Additional amenities at this Beaux Arts hotel include a banquet hall and bicycle tour information.
Make yourself at home in one of the 74 guestrooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Flamenco Show with drink
Flamenco, a lively mixture of dance, song and guitar, is the heart and soul of Spain. It has developed alongside the contrasting historical influences of Arab, Jewish and gypsy cultures. Ava Gardner or Hemingway, they all loved flamenco. In this show you will enjoy the best pure flamenco in a mythical place in Madrid. Experience how heart, soul and the artists' total dedication to their craft is what it's all about.
