Andalucia Luxury Train Trip

Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will greet you and provide a private transfer to the Seville train station. In Seville, you’ll be greeted at the railway station in Santa Justa and helped onto the luxury Al Andalus train. On your way to Córdoba, you will enjoy a wonderful lunch featuring typical Andalusian specialties. When you arrive in Córdoba, you will be transferred to the Old Town for your guided tour of Córdoba. A gem in the Andalusian crown, Córdoba has a glorious Moorish past and exceptional monuments that stand as testimony. You’ll begin the tour at La Mezquita, one of the highlights of Andalusia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the biggest mosque in Europe and is considered to be one of the most spectacular buildings ever constructed. Originally built in the 8th century, La Mezquita was converted to a cathedral in 1523 by Christian rulers. However you can still see the basic structure of the Islamic architecture, especially the endless rows of awe-inspiring arches.

Continue your tour of Córdoba with a visit to the Judería, Córdoba’s medieval Jewish quarter. During the 10th century, Córdoba was Europe’s greatest city and a place where people of three religions (Jews, Christians and Muslims) lived together harmoniously. The medieval city had paved roads, illumination at night by oil lamps, piped-in running water, hundreds of mosques, many palaces and public baths. Soak up the history as you stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets and visit the enchanting hidden courtyards. After the tour, you’ll have leisure time to continue sightseeing on your own. Tonight you’ll have dinner at one of the local establishments in Córdoba and then spend the night in your luxurious room on the Al Andalus train.

After you enjoy a gourmet breakfast, you’ll reach the Linares Baeza railway station, where a coach will be waiting to take you to the historic center of Baeza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also visit the Olive Oil Museum to learn about this traditional culinary product. After the visit, you’ll have some leisure time before your lunch in Úbeda. Another World Heritage site, Úbeda is a beautiful Renaissance city surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves. After lunch, you’ll enjoy a tour of the most important sites in Úbeda. Enjoy some free time before getting back on the train and then for dinner, enjoy another exquisite meal on the train. Next you’ll arrive in Granada, where you spend a peaceful night on the train.

This morning you’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then set out for a guided tour of the Alhambra Palace, a true marvel of Andalusia. This spectacular old Moorish fortress was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional cultural value. The Alhambra is composed of a cluster of several different sites, beautiful palaces designed in characteristic Islamic style and surrounded by exquisite gardens. Another important site is the Palace of Charles V, which is Spain's most impressive Renaissance building. After the guided tour, you may spend time wandering the Los Jardines del Generalife, Alhambra’s lovely gardens that are filled with flowing fountains and lush greenery. You’ll also be treated to a delightful lunch at a lovely restaurant on the palace grounds.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit another UNESCO site—the Albaicín. This old Moorish settlement stands on the slopes of Sacromonte hill facing the Alhambra Palace. Later you’ll walk over to the Sacromonte, the Gypsy quarter. There is a vibrant Gypsy community at Sacramonte living in caves built into the hill, but if you peak inside the homes don’t be surprised if you see comfortable furnishings and televisions. You’ll also notice many Flamenco venues where the authentic dance form still flourishes. The tour concludes with a visit to the first Spanish Renaissance church, Sacromonte Cathedral. After the tour, you’ll have free time before dining at an atmospheric local restaurant where you’ll enjoy an authentic Flamenco performance. Spend the night on board the Al Andalus in Granada.

While enjoying breakfast on the train, take in the views of the La Serranía countryside. After traveling past the rolling hills, you’ll arrive in Ronda. This dramatically situated city clings to the edge of a mountainous ridge. Besides its exceptional location, Ronda’s claim to fame is bullfighting—the sport was created and perfected here. Ronda has a history going back to antiquity and its monumental buildings tell fascinating tales. You’ll stroll around the old town and visit the cathedral to admire its marvelous combination of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and Arabic architecture. This beautiful city has many lovely mansions with shaded patios. You’ll also see remnants from the city’s Moorish past, including the spectacular Arab Baths and buildings featuring minarets (that were once mosques). After your tour, you can continue sightseeing at your leisure and then enjoy lunch on the Al Andalus.

Next, you’ll arrive in the seaside city Cádiz on the Bay of Cádiz. Basking in the sun and boasting beautiful beaches, Cádiz is a colorful city steeped in history. Cádiz is actually the oldest city in Europe, and locals take pride that the Spanish constitution (known as "La Pepa") was written here. The city was founded by the Phoenicians over 3,000 years ago. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and handsome seaside promenades. Cádiz’s seafront is often used as a stand-in for Havana filming locations. After your visit, you’ll indulge in a delicious dinner at an authentic Cádiz restaurant. Be sure to sample the regional specialties such as shrimp fritters and fish stew made from fresh local catches. Spend the night on the Al Andalus in Cadiz.

After breakfast, you’ll arrive in Jerez de la Frontera, the birthplace of Sherry wine and home of the beloved Andalusian tradition of equestrian arts. First you’ll visit one of the most prestigious Sherry bodegas in Jerez de la Frontera. You’ll learn about the wine production process and then will sample fine Sherry wines from the bodega. Next you’ll visit the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, where you will have a chance to see the “The Dancing of Andalusian Horses” performance.

After visiting Jerez de la Frontera, you’ll travel to the neighboring town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. This lovely village has a charming historic center with a delightful palm-fringed main square and an exquisite 13th-century church. Sanlúcar de Barrameda is located in the estuary of the Guadalquivir River, the largest eco-reserve in Europe and a World Heritage Site. After lunch, you’ll go on a boat trip down the Guadalquivir River to take in the natural beauty of this peaceful location. In the afternoon, you’ll ride the train back to Jerez de la Frontera and enjoy free time before dinner at a local restaurant. As this will be your last night on the Al Andalus, tonight’s dinner will be a special end-of-journey celebration. After dinner, return to board the train and spend the night on the Al Andalus in Jerez de la Frontera.

After breakfast, the Al Andalus train will reach its final stop in Seville, the city of flamboyant culture. Seville is a place that celebrates life and the vibrancy bursts on every corner and at every tapas bar. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city. Seville is one of the architectural gems of Andalusia, and you’ll be impressed by the sites: the Cathedral, La Giralda, the Alcázar and the Archivo de Indias (which was an archive of documents about the New World)—all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your guide will explain the history and culture of this fascinating city. You’ll learn why the 12th-century La Giralda tower is a masterpiece of Moorish architecture and how the Seville Cathedral was constructed as the largest Gothic church in the world.

After the tour, you’ll return to the Santa Justa train station, where you will begin your voyage by high-speed train to Madrid. Enjoy a private transfer from the train station in Madrid to your hotel. You’ll be staying at the Westin Palace, a luxury hotel in the center of Madrid within walking distance of world-class museums and the upscale shopping district. Take advantage of the location’s hopping restaurant scene and nightlife. Be sure to check out the tapas bars that are always bustling with people. Ask a local where to go for the most authentic culinary and cultural experience.

This morning, you’ll enjoy a private guided visit to the Museo del Prado. You’ll discover one of the best collections of Spanish art in the world. The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 4,800 paintings from the Romanesque period to the 19th century. The expansive galleries reveal masterpieces by El Greco, Velázquez and Goya, among others. The Goya collection alone comprises more than 150 paintings, including some of the artist’s most celebrated works.

After your visit to the Prado, you’ll have free time to explore more of the city. You may opt for guided tours or continue sightseeing at your own pace. A visit to the Habsburg Quarter, the heart of historic Madrid, is recommended. This quarter of Madrid became important after King Felipe II relocated the Spanish court to Madrid in 1561. As a result, Madrid became an elegant capital city in the 16th and 17th centuries. You’ll definitely notice the splendor in the Habsburg Quarter’s royal palaces. If you have time after visiting the Habsburg Quarter, you could take a pleasant long walk over (or short taxi ride) to the fashionable Barrio de Salamanca. In this elegant and traditional neighborhood, you’ll find many upscale boutiques, posh restaurants and stylish lounge bars. Select a restaurant that suits your taste to celebrate your last night in Spain. To sample authentic paella, try the Restaurante St. James ( on Calle Juan Bravo, 26) where you will enjoy an excellent meal in a stylish setting.

The tour concludes today after breakfast at your hotel. You’ll be provided a private transfer to the airport in time for your return flight home.