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Experience the magic of Spain
Grand Tour of Spain by First Class rail
★★★★★ 5/5
A delightful 13 night / 14 day holiday
by First Class rail
First Class Rail travel throughout your journey
13 nights / 14 days
Inc. 3 nights in Barcelona and Madrid, 2 nights in Cordoba, Granada and Seville, and 1 night in Girona
4 star accommodation throughout your holiday
Discover the fabulously diverse Spanish cities on this wonderful holiday
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Grand Tour of Spain by First Class rail Holiday Highlights
- First Class rail travel
- Barcelona - Ramblas & Catalunya Square
- Evocative Andalucia
- Cordoba
- Granada
- Sunny Seville
- Madrid, Spain’s magnificent capital
- Charming Girona
Experience the magic of Spain and its fabulously diverse cities and culture on this wonderful 13 night / 14 day Grand Tour of Spain.
Your holiday includes the vibrant Catalan capital, Barcelona, famous for stunning architecture and a delightful gastronomic heritage. Revel in the winding lanes of the Gothic quarter, stroll along the sandy beaches and swim in the sparkling Mediterranean. Then head south to the warmer climes of Andalucia to visit medieval Cordoba, with its magnificent Mezquita and charming bodegas, before you continue to the dramatic setting of Granada for ‘free tapas’ amidst the stunning backdrop of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada. Your journey takes you to sunny Seville, capital of flamenco and home to the heavenly Alcazar, captivating cathedral and beautiful bell tower, the Giralda. Your holiday also takes you to the fascinating Spanish capital, Madrid, with one of the finest art collections, a growing reputation for culinary excellence and an infectious energy and love of life. Your final Spanish destination in the city of Girona for an overnight stay.
13 night / 14 day holiday by First Class rail on daytime trains, including 3 nights in Barcelona and Madrid, 2 nights in Cordoba, Granada and Seville, and 1 night in Girona, plus private taxi transfers in Paris, is from £2,095 per person (based on 2 people travelling together in low season).
Grand Tour of Spain: Holiday Itinerary
Day 1 – London to Barcelona
Your holiday begins as you enter to the stunningly restored St. Pancras International station. Take your time to appreciate the splendour of the magnificent glass roof, then sit back, relax and watch the countryside swish past as you travel by Eurostar to Paris at speeds of up to 186mph. Enjoy the light meal and drinks served on board in Standard Premier service (Eurostar’s 1st class for leisure travellers).
On arrival in Paris your private taxi transfer will take you across Paris to the Gare de Lyon to continue your journey by TGV through France and into Spain.
You travel through the changing French landscape at high speed on this direct train to the vibrant city of Barcelona. You arrive in time for dinner or tapas before you settle into your hotel for 3 nights at the highly rated H10 Urquinaona Plaza (4 star) ideally located in central Barcelona.
Days 2 and 3 - Barcelona
You have two full days to explore this magical city and visit the most famous of its sights. Make sure you allow plenty of time to soak up all aspects of this remarkable city, from the lively Ramblas to the smart shops of Passeig de Gracia.
Perhaps head towards the cathedral and older parts of town with wonderful examples of Gaudi architecture or visit one of the city’s museums. Don’t miss the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece, or the Picasso Museum which houses one of the most extensive collections of the 20th century painter’s artworks.
During your stay perhaps head to Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol where the street musicians, fortune tellers and painters will entertain visitors, who are being tempted by the designer boutiques and handicraft shops. There are plenty of options for dinner from wonderful gastronomic restaurants to cosy bistros and tapas bars.
Day 4 - Barcelona to Cordoba
This morning after breakfast head back to Barcelona Sants station for the start of your First Class journey aboard the high-speed service south-west to Cordoba.
On arrival in Cordoba make your own way to your hotel for the next 2 nights, the comfortable, centrally-located Las Casas de la Juderia (4 star). This afternoon you might like to visit the palace of the Christian Kings, the Alcazar, with its luxuriant gardens of courtyards, fountains and water terraces, combined with colourful flowers, palm trees and orange groves.
Day 5 – Cordoba
You have a full day to explore the compact city of Cordoba. Among many highlights is the world’s 3rd largest mosque, the Mezquita, a mystical, beautiful building, with simply stunning interiors, including a ‘forest’ of more than eight hundred red and white striped columns and arches.
Take time to explore Cordoba’s countless plazas and courtyards hidden along narrow streets.
Day 6 – Cordoba to Granada
This morning you return to the station to take the regional train to the Moorish-influenced city of Granada where you arrive in the afternoon in time for a short siesta.
Make your own way to your hotel for the next 2 nights, the stylish and highly-rated Hotel Aurea Catedral (4 star).
This evening why not head to one of Granada’s wonderful tapas bars and delight in the intoxicating atmosphere and taste some of the flavours of Spain?
Or you may wish to take an early evening stroll through the meandering streets of the Albaycin, to see the view of the Alhambra Palace, which is most wonderful at sunset, when it takes on a warm, slightly reddish tone. Night-time views are also impressive, with the Alhambra completely illuminated. Musicians and vendors add to the liveliness of the scene.
Day 7 – Granada & the Alhambra Palace
You have a full day in Granada so why not start early so you can enjoy the spectacular view of the sun coming up over the Alhambra Palace?
If you set off early you can make the most of your time to visit the stunning Moorish palace and its luscious gardens. Perhaps one of the most photographed sites in Andalucia, the Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will also have time to explore some of the interesting quarters of Granada today or you may even want to take a trip to visit some of the beautiful pueblos blancos (white villages) in the surrounding Alpujarras area.
Day 8 – Granada to Seville
Today after breakfast make your way back to Granada station. Here you join the regional train for the journey westwards to Seville.
On arrival in Seville make your own way to your hotel for the next 2 nights, the comfortable and centrally located Hotel Becquer (4 star).
This afternoon you have time to start to explore the delightful city of Seville. Why not climb the Giralda (bell tower) and gaze down on the buzzing city beneath, taking in the barrios and the Seville of Bizet’s Carmen across the River Guadalquivir?
Then stroll through the characterful courtyards and narrow alleys of the ancient Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz before rounding off your evening at one of Seville’s wonderful tapas bars.
Day 9 – Seville
You have a full day to discover the wonders of Seville. Perhaps start with the elaborate Arabic designs and outrageous rococo ornamentation that make up the Mudejár mélange of Seville’s Royal Palace, or Alcázar, and be sure to visit the delightful gardens too. Then head for the awe-inspiring gothic cathedral which took a whole century to build.
Day 10 - Seville to Madrid
This morning head back to Seville’s station for the high-speed journey back to Madrid.
When you arrive in Madrid make your own way back to your hotel for the next 3 nights, the elegant Hotel Liabeny (4 star), ideally situated in the heart of the Spanish capital. This evening you may wish to sample one of the Madrid’s fine restaurants.
Days 11 and 12 – Madrid
You have two full days in Madrid to explore the wealth of experiences on offer. You might like to visit Madrid’s golden triangle of art: the Prado Museum (best for El Greco), the more intimate Reina Sofía Museum and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (for 18th-20th century art), all located within striking distance of each other on the Paseo del Arte.
Perhaps head down the Carrera de San Jerónimo, past the Parliament and onto Sol, in the heart of the city. From here why not take Calle Mayor to the Plaza Mayor and the surrounding wonders of the old Madrid of the Asturias, capped by the opulent Royal Palace?
Day 13 – Madrid to Girona
This morning after a leisurely breakfast you have time to further explore Madrid. Then make your way back to Madrid Atocha station. Here you board the high-speed AVE Northwards to the charming city of Girona. On arrival in Girona, make your own way to the welcoming Hotel Nord 1901.
This afternoon, you may choose to discover more of this wonderful city. As northern Catalonia’s largest city, Girona is a jewellery box of museums, galleries and Gothic churches, strung around a web of cobbled lanes. The walled medieval quarter, the Barri Vell, is perched on a hill above the city and is well worth a visit. With its narrow cobbled alleyways, balconied houses and shady little plaças, it is a delight to explore.
Another highlight is the long row of picturesque pastel-hued houses, the Cases de l’Onyar (pictured), which cling to the banks of the Ríu Onyar, as it meanders through the centre of town. The city’s medieval Jewish quarter remains one of the best preserved in Spain.
Day 14 – Girona to London - Homeward bound
This morning after breakfast make your way back to the station and board your high-speed TGV to Paris. On arrival at the Gare de Lyon, you will be transferred by private taxi to the Gare du Nord ahead of your Eurostar journey back to London.
Take time to reflect on the magnificent sights, sounds and tastes you have enjoyed on your holiday as you sit back and relax with a light meal and drinks before your arrival into London St. Pancras International for the final leg of your journey home.
Further information
Typical hotels
BARCELONA
Enjoying a great location just a 5-minute walk from Plaza de Catalunya and Las Ramblas, the H10 Urquinaona Plaza Hotel (4 star) is housed in a beautifully-restored historical building that dates back to the late 19th century. Its modern interior design is set against the building’s 19th-century features, giving it an effortlessly elegant feel. The hotel includes the Novecento Restaurant, a coffee shop, a pleasant courtyard garden and Chill-Out terrace with plunge pool and excellent views of the city. The 80 bright, modern rooms, with their high ceilings, white décor and elegant en-suite bathrooms are equipped with a 37” LED TV with international channels, a Nespresso coffee machine, free safe box, minibar, smart temperature control and soundproofed walls.
CORDOBA
The charming Hotel Las Casas de la Juderia (4 star) is just metres from the Mezquita. It is made up of attractive 17th and 18th century houses with lovely gardens, fountains and patios. Located in the historic centre of Cordoba, this comfortable hotel combines modern facilities with historic buildings. There are many authentic, hand-made details. All of the hotel’s 64 en-suite rooms boast original features and modern comforts, such as air conditioning, television with cable channels and a mini bar. Guests can also take advantage of the complimentary internet connection available in public areas. Whilst staying at this friendly and welcoming hotel you can admire the architecture of El Siglo del Oro, relax at the outdoor swimming pool, unwind with a drink at the in-house bar or on the traditional patio. The hotel also benefits from its own restaurant.
GRANADA
Across the street from the Renaissance-era Granada Cathedral, the stylish Hotel Aurea Catedral (4 star) is 1 km from Granada train station and 2 km from the iconic Alhambra. The warm, streamlined rooms with wood decor provide Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffeemakers. A breakfast buffet is complimentary. Other amenities consist of a sophisticated restaurant, a cafe/bar and a terrace.
SEVILLE
Situated in the historic old town, the Hotel Bécquer (4 star) is less than 5 minutes’ walk from the impressive Cathedral, Alcázar Fortress and the River Guadalquívir. The hotel boasts a terrace overlooking the Giralda (bell tower) and cathedral and offers an outdoor pool, snack bar and tapas bar. Guests can also relax in the Bécquer’s spa, which includes Turkish Baths, a hot tub and sauna. Each of the hotel’s 134 air-conditioned rooms comes with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a safe and tea/coffee making facilities. Laptops, iPads and DVD players are also available on request and subject to availability.
MADRID
The elegant and distinguished Hotel Liabeny (4 star) is ideally situated in the centre of Madrid, just 200 meters from Puerta del Sol – Madrid’s most famous and central square. The hotel offers modern facilities such as a gym with sauna, a bar and lounge area, and an excellent selection of Mediterranean and International cuisine served in the Restaurante Sensaciones (Sensations Restaurant). The dining room also serves a Buffet-Style breakfast, where guests can find a large selection of pastries, cold and hot dishes and the famous home-made churros. The hotels 220 large and functional bedrooms are equipped with air-conditioning and central heating, LCD flat-screen satellite TV, a minibar, a safe, free WiFi, and the bathroom features a vanity mirror, hair-dryer and toiletries. Many of Madrid’s attractions can be found a short walk from the hotel, with the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums less than 10 minutes away.
GIRONA
Set on a narrow, cobblestone city street, the welcoming Hotel Nord 1901 (4 star) is a 7 minutes’ walk from Girona Cathedral, 8 minutes’ walk from the Girona Art Museum and 12 minutes’ walk from the Girona train station. The elegant rooms offer Wi-Fi & flat-screen TVs, plus minibars, and tea and coffeemakers. A breakfast buffet is served in the relaxed, airy restaurant or by the sleek outdoor pool. There’s also a garden bar with seating.
Departure dates
Throughout the year and tailor-made to suit your holiday needs
Holiday duration is 14 days
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