Easter in Spain
March 31 - April 10, 2012

Itinerary
Day 0 – March 30: Fly from the USA to Granada, Spain
Day 1 - March 31 – Saturday: Granada
Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening we will meet with the rest of the group for a welcome talk and dinner. Sleep in Granada
Day 2 – April 1 – Sunday: Granada
Today we will explore Granada, an ancient city that still boasts vestiges from its multi-ethnic past. This morning you will visit world-famous “Alhambra”— the Grand Palace of the Moors. A series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th Century, Alhambra will be one the architectural highlights of your trip. After this awe inspiring visit you will have time to relax before “Borriquilla” is launched-- the Palm Sunday procession that marks the opening of Holy Week and is characterized by the great numbers of children who participate in it. Sleep in Granada
Day 3 – April 2 – Monday: Granada and Malaga
This morning we will make our way to the special city of Malaga. We will take time to explore Malaga’s most beautiful attractions before we witness the afternoon’s main event: the procession of Senor de la Columna and Virgin de l’o. The very spirit of the Andalucian region is embodied in this procession, which is accompanied by the rhythmic music of the gypsies and precious gold and silver statues that are paraded through the city. Sleep in Granada
Day 4 – April 3 – Tuesday: Cordoba
Today we will move to Córdoba where a knowledgeable and passionate local guide will tell us how the city has been influenced through the ages by the Jews, Moors and Romans. We will visit a unique mosque/cathedral and the ancient Jewish Synagogue, now a museum. Tonight we will enjoy a sultry, swirling flamenco show followed by a typically late Spanish style dinner! Sleep in Cordoba
Day 5 – April 4 – Wednesday: Cordoba
This morning you will have plenty of free time to explore Córdoba's medieval quarter - a labyrinth of winding, narrow streets, flower-filled courtyards and picturesque squares. Later we will take in more Holy week events here - so different in atmosphere if compared to the others because the processions of Cordoba are more silent and imbued with deep religiosity. Sleep in Cordoba
Day 6 and 7 – April 5 and 6 – Thursday and Friday: Sevilla
Today we will make our way to Sevilla, arguably the most historic and aesthetically pleasing city in Spain. Virtually everywhere you cast your eyes there are magnificent monuments and buildings which stand as a legacy to this city's fascinating heritage. The most memorable structures date back to the Moorish conquest in 712 AD. We will tour the Giralda, the Alcazar, and the Cathedral which was originally built as a mosque by the Almohads in the late 12th century and later became the largest Gothic church in the world. Over the next two days you will have time to explore the beautiful art and architecture of Sevilla while taking time to observe the many processions and events that make Easter one of the most famous events in Spain. Several of the city’s ancient guilds will parade through the city in a circular manner from the Cathedral where events and services are conducted all day. These precessions extend into the wee hours of the morning so get ready to do as much as your energy will allow you! On Friday the big procession of Hermandad del Cachorro will take place – a sight that you will remember forever! Sleep in Sevilla
Day 8 – April 7 – Saturday: Madrid
This morning we will catch a local flight to Madrid, one of Spain’s most exciting cities. In the afternoon we will check in at our hotel and enjoy a walking tour of this historic city. Sleep in Madrid
Day 9 – April 8 – Sunday: Madrid
Any visit to Madrid wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Prado – one of the world’s finest art museums. You are free this afternoon to visit the Royal Palace, the amazing Museo Nacional Reina Sofia and just people watch in the vibrant Puerta del Sol. Tonight we have a great Easter feast to look forward to. Sleep in Madrid
Day 10 – April 9 – Monday –Madrid: Sleep in Madrid
We’ll have free time today to visit museums, gardens and stroll through the local neighborhoods before we meet one last time for a relaxing farewell dinner. Sleep in Madrid
Day 11 - April 10 – Tuesday: End of tour
This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to the US.
What is included in your trip fare:
- Accommodation in carefully selected, centrally-located hotels and charming country inns
- All group transportation in a deluxe private bus
- Meals: all breakfasts, 5 dinners
- Tour leading by highly professional tour guides
- Entrance to museums and attractions as per the itinerary
- Local flight from Sevilla to Madrid
- Pre and post tour planning assistance
What is not included in your trip fare:
- International airfare to and from Spain
- Personal expenses
- Tips for drivers and guides
- Travel Insurance
