7-Day Spain Tour: Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona and Zaragoza from Madrid

Travelers eager to soak in Spain’s most iconic sights often face the challenge of fitting multiple cities into a limited timeframe. This 7-day guided tour offers a compelling way to see six of Spain’s standout destinations—Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It combines guided visits, free time, and comfortable transport, making it an appealing option for those who want a balance of structure and adventure.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on top landmarks like Granada’s Alhambra and Cordoba’s Great Mosque—both UNESCO World Heritage sites—and the opportunity to explore vibrant cities with knowledgeable guides. The included transport is in an air-conditioned coach, perfect for long days on the road, and accommodations are either 3- or 4-star, offering decent comfort for the price.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed, which means long days and limited free time in some locations. If you’re hoping for deep, leisurely explorations, some stops might feel hurried. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic way to get a broad taste of Spain’s cultural tapestry in just a week. This tour suits travelers who appreciate guided sightseeing, want to tick multiple destinations off their list, and enjoy a mix of guided and independent exploration.

Key Points

• Well-Structured Itinerary: Covers six major cities with a mix of guided tours and free time.
• Top Sights Included: Visits to Granada’s Alhambra, Cordoba’s Great Mosque, and Gaudí’s Barcelona landmarks.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned coach keeps travel days manageable.
• Accommodation Options: Choice of 3- or 4-star hotels in key cities.
• Cultural & Culinary Experiences: Guided city tours plus some dinners included.
• Long Days: Expect early mornings, lengthy coach rides, and packed schedules.
• Authentic Insights: Knowledgeable guides make the history and sights come alive.
• Mixed Reviews on Free Time & Guides: Some travelers felt certain city explorations could be longer or more personalized.

Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect from the 7-Day Spain Tour

This tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of Spain, taking you from Madrid’s lively streets to the Moorish splendor of Granada, the historic charm of Cordoba, and the vibrant coastlines of Valencia. Each city is chosen for its cultural and historical significance, giving you a well-rounded experience of the country’s diversity.

Day 1: Madrid to Cordoba and Seville

Travel begins from Madrid early in the morning, with a scenic drive through La Mancha—famous for Don Quixote. A brief stop at Puerto Lapice gives you a taste of the classic Spanish countryside. Once in Cordoba, the highlight is the Mezquita Cathedral, a stunning mosque-cathedral that blends Islamic and Christian architecture, and is an absolute must-see. Reviewers mention how the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter set a peaceful tone for the afternoon.

Moving on to Seville, the city’s vibrant energy is apparent as you visit Catedral de Sevilla, the second-largest cathedral in the world, with its impressive Gothic interior. The Barrio Santa Cruz offers a maze of narrow, orange-scented streets, perfect for wandering, and the Plaza de España provides a scenic spot to relax.

Day 2: Exploring Seville

The day kicks off with a guided tour of Seville’s iconic Catedral, followed by free time to absorb the local atmosphere. Many reviewers appreciated the local guides’ knowledge, noting they made the city’s history and architecture come alive. Carmen’s influence and the romantic myth of Don Juan add a layer of storytelling to your walk through the city.

Some travelers, however, felt that more time exploring Seville independently would have been ideal. Still, the combination of guided insights and personal wandering strikes a good balance for most visitors.

Day 3: Granada and the Alhambra

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Alhambra, Granada’s Moorish palace complex. The guided tour here is praised for its depth, with many saying the gardens and intricate architecture leave a lasting impression. The nearby Generalife Gardens are equally stunning, with lush greenery and fountains that inspired writers like Washington Irving.

A review notes that the tour guides “took care of us,” and the optional Flamenco show in Sacromonte offers a lively end to the day. Be prepared for a busy schedule, as the drive from Granada to the coast takes you through the picturesque Andalusian landscape dotted with olive groves.

Day 4: Valencia and the Mediterranean Coast

Crossing from Andalucia to the Mediterranean coast, you’ll pass through Murcia and Alicante before arriving in Valencia. The city’s City of Arts and Sciences complex is a modern marvel, with futuristic buildings housing museums, an oceanographic park, and an opera house. Reviewers mention how impressive and photogenic the architecture is—definitely a highlight.

Lunch at a local restaurant gives you a chance to try the city’s famous paella, a culinary must-do. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Day 5: Valencia’s Modern Marvels and Tarragona

The morning tour includes a drive through the old city, with highlights like the historic Turia Riverbed and prominent buildings. The visit to the City of Arts and Sciences is brief but impactful, offering enough time to appreciate the exteriors, as many reviewers noted.

Later, the journey continues along the coast to Tarragona, known for its Roman ruins. This stop adds a historical layer to the trip, and you can enjoy wandering through ancient amphitheaters and city walls.

Day 6: Barcelona’s Modernist and Olympic Highlights

Barcelona’s allure is undeniable. The morning includes a guided tour of Gaudí’s masterpieces, such as La Pedrera and Casa Milà, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The views from Montjuïc Park are spectacular, offering panoramic sights of the city and port.

In the afternoon, you’re free to explore further or relax. Some reviews mention that the guides did a good job covering the main sights but wished for more personalized exploration, especially in the bustling Las Ramblas and Gothic Quarter.

Day 7: Zaragoza and Return to Madrid

Your final stop is Zaragoza, a city with Roman roots and Moorish influences. The Basilica of Our Lady Pilar is a highlight—an impressive Baroque structure with a lively atmosphere. Travelers appreciate having free time here to soak in the city’s charm before heading back to Madrid.

Deep Dive into What Makes This Tour Worthwhile

This tour is perfect for those who want to see a broad swath of Spain’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or accommodation. The guided elements ensure you get expert insights at key sites, and the included entrances—like the Alhambra and Cordoba’s Great Mosque—save you both time and money.

The accommodations are a mixed bag but generally comfortable, with some reviewers feeling that the difference between 3- and 4-star options isn’t dramatic. The coach rides are lengthy but necessary to connect all these destinations efficiently. Expect scenic drives through countryside and along the coast, with ample photo opportunities and chances to stretch your legs.

The Value of Guided Tours and Transportation

Most reviewers agree that the guides—like Joseph and Hugo—are knowledgeable and caring, making the experience richer. They often mention that local guides in each city are well-informed, making the landmarks come alive with stories you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

Transport in a deluxe coach is a significant benefit, offering a break from driving and the convenience of door-to-door transfers. However, some travelers felt that too much time was spent on the bus, and that certain days could have been less rushed. The busy itinerary leaves little room for lingering in any one place, but it’s a trade-off for covering so much ground.

Food and Dining

While included dinners and breakfasts add convenience, many reviewers found the local cuisine—especially tapas and paella—to be delicious and authentic. Still, there are notes about some restaurants being expensive or not up to expectations, so dining at local spots independently might be more satisfying.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This 7-day Spain adventure is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a rundown of Spain’s most famous cities without the stress of planning. If you enjoy guided sightseeing and don’t mind long days on the road, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, including architectural wonders, historic sites, and gorgeous landscapes. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace or deep dives into fewer cities might find this schedule too packed, but for most, it offers a satisfying, whirlwind experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers great value for the price, with guided visits to iconic landmarks, comfortable transport, and a chance to tick off several destinations in just a week. The knowledgeable guides, especially in cities like Granada and Seville, elevate the experience, making Spain’s history and culture more accessible.

The included sights—Granada’s Alhambra, Córdoba’s Great Mosque, Gaudí’s Barcelona—are unforgettable. While the schedule is busy, it’s designed to give you a taste of everything—urban buzz, Moorish marvels, seaside charm—in one seamless journey.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, culturally rich, and lively way to experience Spain’s highlights without extensive planning, this tour is a strong contender. It’s best for those who thrive on guided exploration, enjoy social group travel, and want to maximize their time in this vibrant country.

FAQ

How many cities does the tour visit?
The tour covers six main cities: Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza.

What is included in the price?
Your package includes guided visits in Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona, hotel accommodations for six nights (choice of 3- or 4-star), transportation in an air-conditioned coach, six breakfasts, and three dinners.

Are there free days or optional activities?
There’s some free time each day, but the schedule is quite packed. Reviewers mention that guides sometimes leave travelers in certain cities, such as Barcelona, for independent exploration.

What are the hotel standards like?
Most hotels are 3- or 4-star, with some reviewers noting little difference between the grades. Some found the hotels in Barcelona less satisfactory and quite distant from city centers.

How long are the coach rides?
Long days are common, with some transfers taking several hours. The coach is comfortable and air-conditioned, but expect to spend time on the road.

Can I expect guided visits at major sights?
Yes, most significant landmarks like the Alhambra and Córdoba’s Great Mosque have guided tours included, with local guides adding insights that bring the history alive.

What meals are included?
Six breakfasts are included daily, along with three dinners. Most other meals are at your own expense, and reviewers suggest trying local dishes like paella.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but the long days and walking might be tiring for some. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule.

How do I cancel or change my booking?
You can cancel up to six days in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund, and changes less than six days before are not accepted.

This 7-day Spain tour offers a lively, engaging way to see the country’s most famous sights. With a good balance of guided tours, free time, and comfortable transport, it’s a solid choice for first-timers eager to get a broad taste of Spain’s diverse culture and history.