Spain to Morocco: A Cultural Journey

• Day
  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?
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hotel Riu Plaza España
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hotel Riu Plaza España
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Barceló Carmen
• Day
  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 are on the menu.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Barceló Carmen
• Day
  6

  Granada - Seville

  Your taste of the local culture continues today at an award-winning olive grove. Discover the rich history of olive oil production at this family-owned company as you tour the grounds and sample oils before sitting down to lunch. Next, it’s on to Seville, the capital of the Andalusia region and a city famous for its flamenco scene. Later this afternoon, join in a flamenco lesson at Fundación Cristina Heeren de Arte Flamenco. In this Impact Moment, be a part of this non-profit’s mission to share the art of flamenco. Then, sit back and enjoy a traditional flamenco performance.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  Accommodations:  NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas
• Day
  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!

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Barceló Fès Medina
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Barceló Fès Medina
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Widiane Hotel
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Widiane Hotel
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  Accommodations:  Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  Accommodations:  Marriott Casablanca Hotel
• Day
  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.

  • Meals Included:
  • Breakfast

Optional Activities:

• Medieval Segovia

  Location: Madrid
  Price: $75.00 per person

  
  Retrace history in Segovia, a city with 2,000 years of stories within its walls. Walk the medieval streets, making your way to The Alcazar of Segovia (UNESCO). This dreamy palace is shaped like the bow of a ship and had humble beginnings as a Roman fort. Legend has it that Sergovia was founded by Hercules, giving the city a legendary background story only matched by the grandeur of its Roman Aqueduct. Whatever draws you to Segovia, its streets and charm set in the rolling hills of Castilla will be sure to impress you! Duration approximately 4 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 6 passenger(s) is required to operate this option. This option is only available until 30 days prior to departure. After this time, it may be purchased once you are on tour, if Alcazar is available and the maximum number of people of 29 is not exceeded.

• Farm-to-Table Moroccan Cooking Class

  Location: Marrakech
  Price: $80.00 per person

  
  Whether you are an avid cook, a curious foodie, or someone who just enjoys Moroccan food, there is no better way to learn Moroccan cooking than by doing it! Immerse yourself in the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Moroccan cuisine during this class at a serene and picturesque organic farm. You’ll have the unique opportunity to pick fresh ingredients from the farm, making this a true farm-to-table experience. Make your vacation a culinary adventure by joining this hands-on cooking class in a relaxed, homelike learning environment. Experiment with new flavors and enjoy your own creations as an early dinner! Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.

Tour Extensions:

Pre-tour Extension

• 3 Night Lisbon Pre Extension (Land Only)

  Price: $1,599.00 per person

  
  Add another country to your travels with three nights in Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal. See the city via tram with a local expert, who will show you the remains of the old Medina in the Alfama, one of the oldest districts of the city. Then, travel outside of the modern city for an interesting contrast as you discover the quaint walled village of Obidos and the scenic city of Sintra. Take time to explore Portugal’s hidden charms on your own, making sure to take advantage of its savory cuisine, lively energy, and colorful promenades OR you can choose a Pre night.

Pre-tour Hotel

• Riu Plaza Espana

  Price: $210.00 per person

Post-tour Hotel

• Marriott Casablanca Hotel

  Price: $115.00 per person

Tour extensions are 1-night in length, unless noted otherwise.