The Grand Tour of Spain by Rail

Day 1  London to Barcelona      
Arrive at London St Pancras to catch your early morning Eurostar, connecting in Paris with a change in station. Enjoy the mix of stunning views of the Spanish countryside as you relax. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel before heading out to discover the city.            

Day 2  Barcelona      
Today use your included ticket to navigate this amazing city by bus. Perhaps travel the city on the top deck to get the best views. Opt to see Antonio Gaudí’s impressive structures by venturing over to La Sagrada Famila, the iconic unfinished basilica which has been under construction since 1882 and due to be completed in 2026, or Parc Güell? Decide to take the bus to the impressive Camp Nou stadium and to learn about one of Spain’s top football teams and their interesting history.            

Day 3  Barcelona to Valencia      
Before making your way to the station, enjoy a stroll down the verdant tree-line boulevard, Las Ramblas then roam through the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter and maybe enjoy a traditional churros and chocolate for breakfast. After your three hour train journey to Valencia, drop off your bags at the hotel set out to explore the vibrant city boasting a blend of old and contemporary architecture. Promenade along the sea front to Valencia Marina and watch the sun dip below the horizon.            

Day 4  Valencia      
This morning, make your way to the El Carmen neighbourhood in the historic centre with over 1,000 years of history alongside many examples of medieval architecture. Select to visit the Cathedral Miguelete and Holy Grail, a fascinating fusion of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture and climb the 207 steps of the tower to appreciate 360 degree views of the city. After, stop at La Lonja (the Silk Exchange), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous Gothic monuments in Europe. For lunch, sample delicious local delicacies such as fuet, jamón serrano and manchego cheese at the opulent Central Market before continuing with your sightseeing. Head to the architecturally impressive City of Arts and Sciences for a tour of the museum followed by a delicious rooftop dining experience.            
         
Day 5  Valencia to Madrid      
Enjoy the morning visiting Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium containing 45,000 animals of 500 different species and learn fascinating facts about the marine life and ecosystems. Proceed to the station for your two hour train journey to Spain’s capital city, Madrid. Spend your afternoon exploring the symbolic Plaza de Cibeles and marvelling at the lovely fountain, one of Madrid’s iconic landmarks. Amble down Gran Vía, also known as the Golden Mile, one of Madrid’s liveliest streets to browse the charming shops and perhaps enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine in one of the local restaurants.    

Day 6  Madrid          
Walk to the impressive Royal Palace and uncover its rooms, works of art and treasures. Visit the Prado Museum to see its incredible collection of art, then meander down the Paseo del Prado, also known as the landscape of light. Maybe wander through the beautiful botanical gardens before winding through the green oasis in the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, El Retiro Park. In the evening why not treat your tastebuds by sampling some sumptuous traditional Spanish tapas in a local restaurant followed by watching a Flamenco show in one of the local tablaos?        
         
Day 7  Madrid to Córdoba      
After one last wander through the charming streets of the capital, make your way to the station to catch your train to Córdoba.    
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel before setting out to explore the city. Wander the winding streets of the old town, appreciating the patios adorned with colourful flowers and historic monuments and spend the afternoon admiring the extraordinary blend of architectural styles of the UNESCO World Heritage 11th Century Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.      

Day 8  Córdoba          
After breakfast, head out to the Alcázar Fortress of the Christian Monarchs, a former royal residence and unearth the magnificent gardens. Cross the Guadalquivir River over the spectacular Roman bridge, originally constructed in the 1st Century, to the Calahorra Tower boasting 18 arches and a sculpture of San Rafael from 1651. This afternoon, opt to discover the Palacio de Viana, an impressive palace with a wonderful collection of tapestries, mosaics, paintings as well as a marvellous garden.            

Day 9  Córdoba to Seville          
After a leisurely breakfast, go to the station to board your train to Seville, a gorgeous city often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Andalusia’. Amble down the pretty orange tree lined streets to Plaza de España, the most famous square in Seville, and marvel at the multicoloured Andalusian benches, representing the Spanish provinces.          
         
Day 10  Seville          
Roam the pathways through the verdant Maria Luisa Park, an oasis of peace in the city, filled with trees, colourful flowers and fountains. Stop by the old quarter to see the Setas de Sevilla, the largest wooden construction in the world, and walk the wooden pathway on top of the parasols whilst admiring the remarkable views of the city. This evening, choose to cross the Guadalquivir River to the Tirana district to enjoy an extraordinary flamenco show in an authentic tablao and indulge in a tasty tapas meal.
         
Day 11  Seville to Granada      
Upon arrival in Granada, a lovely city at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, proceed to your hotel and check in. Get your bearings by ambling through the narrow-cobbled streets of the Albaicin district, admiring the traditional Carmen houses enroute, and passing the whitewashed buildings and hidden squares in the Jewish Quarter. This evening, why not go to Triunfo Gardens to see the fountains lit with bright, multicoloured lights?  

Day 12  Granada            
Today, visit the iconic Alhambra, an exquisite Moorish palace and fortress decked with sunning frescoes, decorated columns and arches and courtyards dotted with burbling fountains. Explore the pretty hillside gardens of the Generalife Palace just next door with breathtaking views of the Rivers Darro and Genil. After a day of exploring the historic sites, indulge in some typical tapas in one of the local restaurants.        

Day 13  Granada to Málaga      
Prior to taking your train to Málaga, choose to enjoy a scenic stroll along the Darro River on a narrow, cobblestone pathway and appreciate the picturesque brick and stone bridges along the way. Arrive in Málaga after your one and a half hour train journey, transfer to your hotel and drop off your bags. Wander round the historic squares and buildings before spending the evening at the contrasting Port of Málaga, home to a palm-lined promenade of glamorous restaurants, bars and superyachts.            
         
Day 14  Málaga            
If you still want to do some sightseeing, take your pick from the Moorish Alcazaba and Gibralfaro fortresses, the imposing Málaga Cathedral or the ancient mountainside Alcazaba Roman theatre. Alternatively, end your trip with some well-deserved rest and relaxation. With 300 days of sunshine a year, a trip to Malaga wouldn’t be complete without escaping the city for a spot of golden sand. Mosey on through the cool Soho district to uncover impressive and unique street art, before continuing on to Playa de la Malagueta for some relaxing and fun beach time. Don’t forget to grab a refreshing drink at one of the many vibrant beach bars!            

Day 15  Málaga            
Enjoy your final morning in Málaga, basking in the sun before your onward journey.