Silversea Luxury Cruises To MOTRIL (Granada)

Experience the spectacular beauty and grandeur of the Alhambra Palace during this unforgettable, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Motril and Granada

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.25-hour drive to Granada. Nestled in the shadows of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada holds the secrets of ancient Moorish Andalusia. Granada rose to fame when the Moors transferred the seat of their diminishing empire to this charming city. Its most famous site is the Alhambra Palace, a spectacular complex of buildings, courtyards and cupolas that represent the zenith of Moorish architecture. This last capital of the Moors is so impressive that even Catholic conquerors could not bear to destroy it.

Alhambra Palace, Nazaries Palace, Serallo, Patio de Los Leones, and Fountains

Upon arrival, take a guided tour inside the Alhambra Palace. Along the way, visit the section known as the Nazaries Palace, which is adorned with intricately carved stucco walls, knotted ceilings, elaborate honeycomb vaulting and beautiful courtyards. You can also step inside the Serallo, the official residence of the Sultan, and Harem, which surrounds the famous Patio de Los Leones with its fountains feeding water through the mouth of 12 lions. There are many other wonderful sights to be seen within the fortress.

Generalife, Gardens, Terraces, Grottoes, Flowerbeds, Fountains, and Sierra Nevada Mountains

Next, your guided stroll continues among the Generalife, a garden residence that was built as a summer paradise for the Sultans. Its lovely terraces, grottoes, flowerbeds and fabulous fountains bring to life the glamour of the Moorish inhabitants. Look up and marvel at the splendid view of the 'original' Sierra Nevada. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.25-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and standing for approximately 2.5 hours, at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and many steps at the Generalife Gardens. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour sequence may vary. The distance between the pier and Granada is approximately 1.25 hours in each direction.

Reservation note: due to a change in the reservation system of the Alhambra, the tickets will be available approximately 1 month prior to the call. Untill then, this tour can be booked on request only. The waitlisted bookings will be cleared following the order of the reservation date. A message will be e-mailed to all waitlisted Silversea Guests to notify the confirmation of their booking or an alternative itinerary of the Alhambra visit.

Indulge your senses with the music, dance, history and culture of Andalusia at your leisure during a full-day flamenco show and self-guided excursion to Granada City.

Motril, Sierra Nevada National Park, Granada City, and Sacromonte

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate one-hour drive inland, past the majestic Sierra Nevada National Park and on to Granada, an Andalusian city that reveres flamenco dancing. Upon arrival in Granada, proceed to Sacromonte, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Granada's Old Arab Quarter, and take in a highly-charged, passionate flamenco performance.

Flamenco Performance, Lunch and Granada City Centre

Through dance, song and guitar music, the seductive gypsy art of flamenco tells an emotional story with themes ranging from love to oppression. Its roots can be traced back more than 200 years, and nowhere is flamenco admired more than in Granada. After this pure Andalusian experience, re-board your coach and proceed for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, drive to the city centre, where ample free time is made available to spend the afternoon at your leisure.

Free Time, Alhambra Palace, Generalife Gardens, Albaicin, Cathedral, and Royal Chapel

During the self-guided portion of your visit, take a tour of the landmark Alhambra Palace and its splendid Generalife Gardens (advance ticket purchase is highly recommended), or stroll along the labyrinthine of streets and plazas in the historic Albaicin neighbourhood, an UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Moors once resided. Behold the ornate Cathedral and adjacent Royal Chapel, where the remains of Queen Isabella and her husband Ferdinand lie.

Shopping, Hand-Painted Ceramics, Designer Fashions, and Leather Goods

Alternately, you might simply spend your time browsing the shops for hand-painted ceramics, designer fashions and leather goods, all of which are extraordinary in Granada. Following your visit, re-board your coach at the appropriate time and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and standing, at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and many steps at the Generalife Gardens. Walking in Granada is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the cathedral; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore the beautiful mountains, valleys, gorges and towns of Las Alpujarras during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Motril, Las Alpujarras, Villages, Valleys, Gorges, Presa de Rules, Guadalfo River

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the region of mountain villages known as Las Alpujarras, or 'The Grasslands'. Here, whitewashed towns cling to the southern flanks of the Sierra Nevada, bisected by deep, sheltered valleys and gorges that run all the way down to the Mediterranean. The Alpujarra area is famous for its unique mini-ecosystem. Its terraced farmlands are constantly watered by the snowmelt from above, creating a high-altitude oasis of greenery dramatically contrasting with the arid foothills below. The cultural interest of the region lies in its fifty-odd villages, which were the last stronghold of the Moors. A photo stop is made at Presa de Rules, also known as the 'Rules Reservoir or Dam', which is located in the Guadalfeo River.

Orgiva, Pampaneira and Lanjarón Villages, Walking Tours and Free Time

Next, re-board your coach and drive through Orgiva en route to Pampaneira Village, which lies approximately 5,000 feet (about 1,524 metres) above sea level. Pampaneira, the 'Land of Vines', has retained its traditional Berber architecture, terraced clusters of grey-white box-shaped houses with flat clay roofs, a style that is still common in the Rif and Atlas mountains of Morocco. Upon arrival at Pampaneira, take a short, guided walking tour, followed by some free time to explore the village at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier. En route, pass through the village of Orgiva and stop in Lanjarón, where some free time is made available for independent exploration.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. The distance between the pier and Las Alpujarras is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction.

Experience the wonderful colours, flavours and sights of Andalusia during this lovely, half-day excursion to the Nazari Gardens, and a tapas-and-wine tasting.

Motril, Lecrin River Valley, Velez de Benaudalla Village, Muslim Gardens, and Cypress Trees

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive through the Lecrin River Valley en route to the village of Velez de Benaudalla. Upon arrival, proceed for a guided walking tour of the Nazari Gardens, one of the last remaining Muslim Gardens in southern Spain. Originally designed to stimulate the five senses, the lush gardens are immensely peaceful. As you stroll about the grounds, discover why the flowers in full bloom and countless aromas wafting through the air are often described as a spiritual experience. Be sure to walk through the iconic stand of cypress trees, which are so tall they dwarf everything else below.

Bodega Señorio de Nevada, and Wine and Tapas Tasting

Next, re-board your coach and continue on to the esteemed Bodega Señorio de Nevada for a guided walking tour of the historic winery, which is located in a valley where conquering Romans produced wine centuries ago. Following your guided tour, proceed for a tasting of tapas and wine featuring vintages produced from Spain's native tempranillo grape. The grape tends to ripen early, resulting in wines that are typically spicy, aromatic and flavourful. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and commence the approximately 50-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and standing, at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour sequence may vary. Guests must be at least 21 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages.

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Explore Motril at your leisure during a full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Motril at your leisure during a half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Motril at your leisure during a full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guides are English-speaking. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

BODY>

Explore Motril at your leisure during a half-day (4 Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Discover sugar's profound influence on the history of Motril and visit related landmarks during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion

Motril and Sugar Museum

Depart the pier for the short drive to the Museo Preindustrial del Azucar, better-known as the 'Sugar Museum'. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the museum, and learn how sugar, known as the 'sweet gold', has shaped the culture of southern Spain. The region's microclimate is ideal for growing sugar cane, which over the centuries has brought great wealth to the Spaniards.

Sugar-Refining Exhibits

Historical records show that sugar production in Motril dates from the 10th century, and Christopher Columbus carried sugar cane plants from southern Spain to the New World on his second voyage. The development of Motril City is inextricably linked with the sugar industry, and nowhere is this more evident than at the museum, which sits on the site of a 16th-century sugar mill. Inside, view exhibits that demonstrate the painstaking process of refining sugar long before more modern technology was developed.

Sugar Factory and Piononos-Making Demonstration

Leaving the museum, proceed on-foot to a nearby sugar factory that operated until 1984. After an exterior photo stop here, re-board your coach and drive to a local restaurant. Upon arrival, enjoy a professional cooking demonstration during which you can observe the typical Andalusian 'piononos' being prepared. A traditional Spanish dessert, these small pastries originated in the little town of Santa Fe, near Granada. A pionono consists of a thin layer of sponge that is rolled into a cylinder, flavoured with different kinds of syrup to give it a sweet and pleasant taste, and covered with caramelised creme patissiere. Following the preparation of the piononos, you can sample these delicious specialities, which are normally eaten in one or two bites. Afterward, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 547 yards (about 500 yards), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair, provided they have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to get on/off the coach on their own, and accompanied by an able-bodied companion to assist them. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least 21 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary.

Located on Europe's Iberian Peninsula, Spain is comprised of 17 autonomous regions with diverse geography and cultures, a rich history steeped in tradition, and a wealth of world-renowned architectural and artistic treasures. The Moorish influences on the stunning city of Granada are evidenced in a host of renowned landmarks, including the spectacular Alhambra Palace and Albaycin Quarter, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Córdoba is an historic city with many spectacular monuments, including the Mezquita Mosque, the largest of its kind in Europe. The capital city, Madrid, is home to the Royal Palace and Prado Museum, which houses works by European masters. Valencia boasts a wonderful blend of old and new, from the Cathedral and Old Quarter to the contemporary City of Arts and Sciences. Celebrate the best Spain has to offer during this captivating, two-night overland excursion that highlights the exquisite scenery, architecture, flavours and traditions of Granada, Córdoba, Madrid and Valencia. Following a scenic drive from the ship in Motril to Granada, explore the Carthusian Monastery, Albaycin Quarter, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Palace Dar al-Horra on-foot. From here, stroll by the Santa Isabel Monastery en route to San Nicolas Square, and a visit to the Mosque's gardens. After lunch at the Mirador de Morayma restaurant, set in a lovely garden overlooking Granada, transfer to the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula for check-in, then depart for an Interactive cooking class with dinner in a gypsy cave. Your last stop of the evening is at the world-renowned Alhambra Palace to explore its towers, Nasrid Palaces and a Nazari art display with special lighting. Following an overnight stay and breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the train station for an approximately one-hour, high-speed train-ride to Córdoba. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the Old Town and visit a synagogue in the Jewish Quarter. Next, proceed for lunch at the Almudaina restaurant, located in a small, 16th-century palace. After lunch, take a picturesque, high-speed train-ride to Madrid. Upon arrival, take a sightseeing drive through the city, then head to an interactive paella, sangria and gazpacho workshop and tasting. At the conclusion of the workshop, enjoy the meal you have helped to prepare. Tonight, experience 'Flamenco Night' at Tablao Las Carboneras, and indulge your senses with a lively and captivating Flamenco show and Spanish cuisine. Following an overnight stay and breakfast at the Hotel Hospes - Madrid, take a guided tour of the world-renowned Prado Museum, and a viewing of some of the museum's most famous works. Leaving the museum, proceed for lunch at La Botilleria. After lunch, transfer to the train station for the high-speed train-ride to Valencia. Upon arrival, take a panoramic sightseeing drive through Valencia's city centre, and pass by the City of Arts and Sciences, Cathedral and Old Quarter in Plaza de la Reina, and more. Your Mid-Voyage Land Adventure concludes on Day Three with transfer to the port of Valencia. Upon arrival, embark the ship.

Great Monuments of Spain-Granada Madrid Cordoba

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights

Departs from: Motril

Re-join ship: Valencia

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE:

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Payment-in-full is due within 120 days prior to sailing. Booking made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea. Onboard Spending Credit may not be applied to the purchase of this programme.

All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 90 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.

VISA INFORMATION:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for Spain. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

LOCAL CURRENCY:

The local currency is the Euro; local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels (a shopping stop is planned during the program-please note that being August 15th National Holidays, some shps may be closed).

Celebrate the best Spain has to offer during this captivating, two-night overland excursion that highlights the exquisite scenery, architecture, flavours and traditions of Granada, Córdoba, Madrid and Valencia.

DAY ONE - Saturday, August 23, 2019 - Motril/Granada

Scenic drive to Granada, nestled between the rivers Darro and Genil

Upon disembarking the ship in Motril, meet your guide and depart for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Granada. This stunning city is nestled between the rivers Darro and Genil, and hosts an imposing tribute to Granada's Al-Andalús heritage; the renowned Alhambra Palace, Generalife Gardens and Albaycin Quarter are all unmistakable Moorish.

Carthusian Monastery, Tabernacle, Church, Sacristy, Charterhouse, Collection of Cotán Paintings

Upon arrival in Granada, your first stop is at Granada's Carthusian Monastery. If the exterior is a smouldering ember, the inside is a riotous explosion of ornamentation. The monastery's most striking features include the Tabernacle, Church and revered Sacristy. The Charterhouse also displays an extensive collection of paintings by influential artist Juan Sánchez Cotán.

Panoramic vistas over Granada from the San Cristobal Viewpoint

Next, a short drive brings you to the San Cristobal Viewpoint for a spectacular panoramic vista overlooking Granada. After a photo stop here, re-board your coach and continue on to the Albaycin Quarter.

Albaycin Quarter, an UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Albaycin Quarter is a huge labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, small houses, and noble mansions with amazing gardens. An UNESCO World Heritage Site, this uniquely attractive part of Granada is often overlooked by visitors. This quarter is among the oldest settlements in Andalusia, and home to the world-famous Alhambra Palace and Realejo Jewish neighbourhood. It is the flat part of an otherwise hilly city, and was once protected by a city wall.

Walking tour of the Albaycin Quarter and a visit to the Palace Dar al-Horra

Your visit takes place in a part of the Albaycin Quarter that is opposite the Alhambra, perched on a hill and offering amazing views. Upon arrival, take a guided stroll through the Albaycin Quarter en route to the Palace Dar al-Horra, former residence of the Sultana Aixa, mother of Sultan Boabdil, who was defeated by Queen Isabella in 1492. It is structured around a central courtyard. Beautiful plasterwork adorns the upper floor, with inscriptions from the Nasrid period. The locals refer to it as 'Little Alhambra', as it features many elements in common with its big sister.

Stroll by the Santa Isabel Monastery en route to San Nicolas Square and the Mosque's gardens

From here, continue on-foot past the Santa Isabel Monastery en route to San Nicolas Square, famous for its view over the Alhambra. Upon arrival at Saint Nicolas Square, visit the Mosque's adjacent gardens.

Lunch at the Mirador de Morayma restaurant, set in a lovely garden overlooking Granada

A few yards away, proceed for a delicious gourmet lunch at the Mirador de Morayma restaurant, featured in Food & Wine magazine and one of Chef Mario Batali's favourite spots in Spain. Mirador de Morayma is set in an historic house with a lovely garden, and boasts an exquisite view over Granada's rooftops, with the famed Alhambra in the distance. It is also home to some of the region's most lauded cuisine. Dine on local specialities with a modern flair, including pomegranate salad with fried garlic, oxtail croquettes and Iberian pork; an experience designed to satisfy all of your senses.

Transfer to the Hotel Palacio Santa Paula, check-in and a transfer to Sacromonte

After lunch, walk back to San Cristobal, then transfer to the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula. Following check-in, depart for hilly Sacromonte, another stunning neighbourhood of Granada.

Interactive cooking class with dinner in a gypsy cave and free time in Granada

Upon arrival, proceed for an authentic culinary experience in a unique setting; a gypsy cave. During your interactive cooking class, learn how to prepare amazing Spanish dishes in beautiful surrounds, then enjoy a dinner consisting of the dishes you have helped to prepare. After dinner, some free time is made available for independent shopping and exploration in Granada.

Alhambra Palace, Towers, Nasrid Palaces and a Nazari art display with special lighting

Your last stop of the evening is at the spectacular Alhambra Palace. Upon arrival, head to the Nasrid Palaces to discover the culminating work of Nazari art, presented under special lighting conditions. Your visit begins at the Atrium of the Alhambra, then continues along a parallel path to the wall. From this route, you can admire the exterior of the Baltasar de la Cruz Towers, Siete Suelos Towers, Water Towers, Cabezas Towers, Captain's Tower, and the Palace of Carlos V through the Puerta de los Carros or Puerta de la Justicia. Following your visit, transfer back to the hotel.

Overnight in a Dreamer Room at the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula - Granada

DAY TWO - Sunday, August 24, 2019 - Granada/Córdoba/Madrid

Breakfast at the hotel, train station transfer, and a comfortable, high-speed train-ride to Córdoba

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the train station for a scenic and comfortable, approximately one-hour, high-speed train-ride to Córdoba. The 'City of Caliphs', Córdoba is an historic city with many attractive monuments, including the Mezquita Mosque, the largest of its kind in Europe. For many centuries, Christians, Jews and Moorish people lived in peace and harmony here. The first universities of the entire western world were founded in Córdoba in the 10th century, and, compared with other cities, Córdoba featured street lighting and paved streets many centuries before the likes of London and Paris.

Córdoba Walking Tour, Old Town, Jewish Quarter, Synagogue Visit

Since Córdoba must be seen on-foot, take a guided stroll through its narrow streets, peep into the shady patios with abundant potted plants and colourful, scented flowers that engulf you with their sweet aroma.

Visit the Old Town, and stop by a synagogue in the former Jewish Quarter.

Guided tour of the fascinating Mezquita Mosque and Cathedral, light and colour effects, columns

Continue on-foot to the famous Mezquita, the most powerful Moorish building in Europe. It is comprised of a lavish Mosque in which a Cathedral of Gothic, Baroque and Plateresque elements has been built. This fascinating building also features captivating light and colour effects, as well as beautiful doors and nearly a thousand columns.

Lunch at the Almudaina restaurant, located in a small, 16th-century palace in the Jewish Quarter

Next, proceed on-foot for lunch at the nearby Almudaina restaurant. Located in a small, 16th-century palace in the Jewish Quarter, front to Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos and very close to La Mezquita, the restaurant has six dining rooms with different décor and capacity, for common or private use.

Picturesque, high-speed train-ride to Madrid, the capital of Spain

After lunch, transfer to the train station for the picturesque, approximately two-hour, high-speed train-ride to Madrid. The capital city of Spain, Madrid is the heart of the nation's business, headquarters of the Government and Local Administration, and the residence of the Spanish Royal Family. This bustling young city is characterised by intense cultural, artistic and commercial production.

History of Madrid and a sightseeing drive through the city

The roots of Madrid date back to the 9th century, when the Arab Emir Mohamed I built his defensive fortress on the left bank of the Manzanares River. Over the ensuing centuries, Christians and Arabs fought for control of Madrid and its treasures; both left visible traces in the architecture and culture of the city. In the 18th century, under the reign of Carlos III, Madrid enjoyed a flourishing period of comfort, which you can witness in the magnificent monuments and landmarks to be seen during a panoramic sightseeing drive through this cosmopolitan city.

'Flamenco Night' at Tablao Las Carboneras

Next, re-board your coach and transfer to a 'Flamenco Night' at Tablao Las Carboneras. Situated in the heart of Madrid's city centre and very close to the Plaza Mayor and San Miguel Market, Tablao Las Carboneras was created in the style of the old establishments known as café 'cantantes'. These intimate venues are dedicated to quality flamenco to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. To create the perfect flamenco atmosphere, the venue is dedicated to displaying photography, paintings, sketches, and other works from renowned national and international flamenco artists such as Candy Román, Ari Alexis Patacuás, Juan Herrera, and Shin Yamasawa.

Lively and captivating Flamenco show and Spanish cuisine

During your visit, enjoy a flamenco show accompanied by a dinner comprised of traditional Spanish dishes. The approximately hour-long performance includes guitarists, singers and dancers, as well as a featured artist which changes every fifteen days. Some of the performers who have been featured include Ángel Gabarre, Montse Cortés, Juan Soto, Arcadio Marín, José Antonio Suárez (El Canito), Ana Romero, and more. At the conclusion of this lively and captivating evening, transfer back to the hotel.

Overnight in a Dreamer Room at the Hotel Hospes - Madrid

DAY THREE - Monday, August 25, 2019 - Madrid/Valencia

Guided tour of the Prado Museum, and a viewing of some of the museum's most famous works

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, depart for the short drive to the Prado Museum. Upon arrival, marvel at the masterpieces of what is called the widest art gallery of the world. In addition to the museum's old coins, valuable sculptures and sketches by famous artists, The Prado boasts a collection of paintings that is unique in terms of the variety, quantity and value. The Treasure counts over 8,600 paintings, of which less than 2,000 are exposed to the public for spatial reasons. During a guided tour, view a selection of works from among the museum's most famous masterpieces and figurative art.

Lunch at La Botilleria, train station transfer, and a comfortable, high-speed train-ride to Valencia

Leaving the Prado Museum, transfer for lunch at La Botilleria. Located in the area known as 'El Madrid de las Austrias' by the Teatro Real Opera House, this original restaurant is decorated in the style of the old European cafés. After lunch, transfer to the train station for your scenic and comfortable, approximately two-hour, high-speed train-ride to Valencia.

Panoramic sightseeing drive through Valencia, and a transfer to the port and your ship

Upon arrival in Valencia, take a panoramic sightseeing drive through the city. Pass through the city centre, and by the impressive complex known as the City of Arts and Sciences. Designed by the architect Santiago Calatrava, it is one of the most exciting views in Valencia; five buildings representing exquisite modern architecture. From here, proceed past the Cathedral and Old Quarter in Plaza de la Reina, coliseum-like Bullring, Central Train Station, and the Serrano's and Quart Towers. At the conclusion of your sightseeing drive, re-board your coach and transfer to the port of Valencia. Upon arrival, embark the ship.

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking, at times over uneven, cobblestone, rocky, sandy, grassy, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and board/de-board the high-speed train, and many steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, raingear, and a camera from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the churches; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence and itinerary may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Programme Includes:

• One-night stay in a Dreamer Room at the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula - Granada
• One-night stay in a Dreamer Room at the Hotel Hospes - Madrid
• High-speed train-ride: Granada/ Córdoba/MadridValencia
• Two breakfast, three lunches and two dinners (lunch includes choice of two local beers, soft drinks, bottled water; beverage at dinner also includes house wine)
• Lunch at La Botilleria restaurant in Madrid
• Lunch at the Almudaina restaurant in Córdoba
• Lunch at the Mirador de Morayma restaurant in Granada
• Interactive cooking class with dinner in a gypsy cave in Granada
• Spanish dinner and Flamenco show at Tablao Las Carboneras in Madrid
• Nazari art display with special lighting
• Free time for shopping and exploration in Granada
• All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items.