Andalusian Fiesta

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: Toledo

Arrive in Madrid, meet your ACIS Tour Manager and drive the short distance to Toledo.

Day 3: Toledo

Get to know the old Visigothic capital of Toledo. With an expert local guide giving commentary, explore the Medieval Synagogue, visit El Greco's great painting in the Church of Santo Tomé and have a complete tour of the treasures of the Gothic Cathedral. In the afternoon, there is an optional excursion to Aranjuez, a favorite residence of monarchs throughout the centuries. If you prefer, enjoy free time to shop for Toledo Damascene ware or take time out in the main plaza for a café con leche.

Day 4: Granada

Live out the famous scenes of Cervantes' Don Quixote today as you view the windmills of Consuegra. Continue to beautiful Granada, situated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada and home to Europe's greatest Moorish legacy. Tonight you'll learn one of Spain's most enduring traditions, flamenco dancing, at a unique venue where Andalusian culture comes alive—Granada's Plaza de Toros. An expert teaches you the moves during your flamenco lesson before you enjoy a special dinner, and then get swept up by the passion and skill of your professional instructors during a flamenco show. After, take a winding evening stroll with your tour manager through the old Medieval Moorish streets of the Albaicín neighborhood, and cap off your day with stunning views from Mirador de San Nicolás.

Day 5: Ronda

Your local guide provides expert commentary during this morning's sightseeing tour of the Alhambra, one of the greatest accomplishments of Moorish art and architecture, and the fragrant Generalife Gardens. Depart in the afternoon for Mijas, one of Spain's picturesque pueblos blancos. The white houses decorated with iron grilles make this a jewel of Andalucía. You'll also want to check out the intricate weaving, pottery and basket-making that the town is known for. Your final destination today is Ronda.

Day 6: Seville

This morning's guided sightseeing tour of Ronda includes time to visit inside the 18th century bullring and then view the cathedral as well as the Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the dramatic gorge over the Guadalevín River. Then head north to Seville, capital of Andalucía. Your route may take you past several more beautiful pueblos blancos—white villages—situated on rocky crags with charming streets and whitewashed houses.

Day 7: Seville

Located in the heart of Andalucía, Seville is the region's capital. During today's sightseeing tour a local expert will show you the city's immense Gothic Cathedral, burial place of Christopher Columbus, and the grand Giralda Tower with its panoramic views. In the afternoon participate in a fan painting workshop with an expert instructor from the Escuela de Bellas Artes. Then stroll the old section of the city, past the Torre de Oro or into the Parque María Luisa in the evening.

Day 8: Madrid

This morning drive to Córdoba, where sightseeing with a local expert using audio guides includes the unique striped arches of the Moorish Mezquita and the myriad narrow lanes lined with whitewashed buildings. Next journey to Madrid, Spain's modern capital for a traditional Spanish paella dinner—a spicy tango of rice, seafood and vegetables considered by many as Spain’s national dish.

Day 9: Madrid

Madrid's rich heritage comes alive on a guided morning walking tour that showcases classic Spanish boulevards, grand plazas and the diverse architecture of modern-day Madrid. Highlights include the Teatro Real Opera House, Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and Neptune Fountain. You'll also go inside the magnificent Prado (skipping the lines with a timed reservation), one of the world's premier art museums. Here an expert will provide illuminating commentary about the artwork of Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens and Bosch. Even the 18th-century neo-classical building that houses the collection is stunning. Spend your final evening in Spain wandering to see the artists and street perfomers in the Plaza Mayor.

Day 10: Departure

Depart for the USA.