Spain and Morocco

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday June 14: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Tuesday June 15: Madrid

¡Bienvenidos a España! Arrive in Madrid, meet your ACIS Tour Manager and settle in before exploring the wide avenues and open plazas of Spain's capital city. (B,D)

Day 3, Wednesday June 16: 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. Your cultural immersion continues in the afternoon as a teacher shows you how to channel your inner bailaor/bailaora with a lesson in the passionate art of flamenco dancing, an important tradition in Spanish culture. Then top off the day by dining like the madrileños do during an authentic tapas evening. Classic tapas dishes include items such as tortilla española, patatas bravas, bacalao, cheeses, olives or jamón. (B,D)

Day 4, Thursday June 17: Madrid

Enjoy a full-day excursion to culturally diverse Toledo, known for its unique blend of Christian, Jewish and Muslim influences. As you listen to your guide's commentary, visit landmarks such as the Gothic Cathedral, the Medieval Synagogue and the Church of Santo Tomé, home to one of El Greco's best-known paintings, The Burial of Count Orgaz. Then visit a local restaurant for a Spanish cooking lesson led by professional chefs. Work in teams to create traditional dishes before dining on the tasty results with spectacular views of the Toledo skyline. Lunch is included today instead of dinner. Return to Madrid for the evening and perhaps take a stroll to see the artists and street performers in Plaza Mayor. (B,L)

Day 5, Friday June 18: Tangier

Depart Madrid for your flight to Morocco. Upon arrival in Tangier, meet your local Moroccan guide and enjoy an orientation tour of this beautiful North African town. Marking the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean Sea melts into the Atlantic Ocean, Tangier has played an important role in the many societies that have inhabited its lands and is home to one of the first U.S. Consulates, opened by George Washington. Keep your eyes open because everything you see, hear and smell will truly be unique. (B,D)

Day 6, Saturday June 19: Fes

Travel this morning from Tangier to hilltop Chefchaouen, one of the prettiest small cities in Morocco. A guided visit shows you sights such as the labyrinthine and vibrantly blue-washed medina, 15th century kasbah, Ras Elma Waterfall, Plaza Uta el-Hammam and souks brimming with artisan crafts. Later today you’ll journey to Fes, arriving in time for dinner. (B,D)

Day 7, Sunday June 20: Rabat

Fes is the oldest of the four Imperial Cities (historic capitals) of Morocco, alongside Meknes, Marrakech and Rabat, and it has preserved many of its medieval aspects and ways of life. A guided sightseeing tour inside the Fes medina shows you food and spice markets, handicraft quarters, and colorful shops. Visit the architecturally brilliant Bou Inania Madrasa, and the University and Mosque of al-Qarawiyyin, the oldest continually operating institution of higher learning in the world. Then discover Fes’ famous Chouara Tannery, where the vibrant colors of the leather come to life through a tradition that spans centuries. In the afternoon, journey to Meknes. Guided sightseeing shows you highlights such as its vibrant medina, humming with artisan workshops and souks, towering city gates like the iconic Bab el Mansour, fortified imperial walls and the covered market, where stalls overflow with olives, pastries, and fragrant spices. The day’s final destination is Rabat, Morocco’s regal capital city and official residence of the king. (B,D)

Day 8, Monday June 21: Marrakech

This morning’s sightseeing tour of Rabat begins with the tranquil streets, iconic blue and white residences, old mosque, and Andalusian-style garden of the Kasbah des Oudaias, an ancient fortified citadel overlooking the river estuary and ocean. Then see the Mohammed V Mausoleum, a masterpiece of the Moroccan arts and crafts, next to which stands the medieval Hassan Tower. In the afternoon, drive to Marrakech, the Red City. Considered one of Morocco’s most cosmopolitan centers, it offers a spectacular location surrounded by farmlands and snowcapped mountains. After arriving, perhaps enjoy an evening walk through the enchanting Jemaa El Fna, which comes alive as the sun sets with street performers, snake charmers, and the mouthwatering aromas of street food. It’s a vibrant sensory overload that you won’t soon forget. (B,D)

Day 9, Tuesday June 22: Marrakech

Unlock the secrets of Marrakech during today's sightseeing. Highlights include the perpetually bustling Jemaa El Fna square, seeing Koutoubia Mosque’s skyline-dominating 282-foot minaret, and soaking in the atmosphere of the 12th century Kasbah’s food market, bakeries and narrow alleyways. A fun and collaborative Culture Quest treasure hunt introduces you to the medina's historic fondouks and their local artisans as you follow clues and solve puzzles to complete each challenge with your team. You'll also visit the opulent 19th century Bahia Palace to marvel at the intricate craftsmanship decorating this splendid home, courtyard and gardens that were built by a powerful Vizir for his Harem. Following an afternoon to explore more at your own pace, you'll be delighted this evening by a special dinner featuring authentic local cuisine as performers entertain you with traditional Moroccan songs and dances. (B,D)

Day 10, Wednesday June 23: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)