Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid
Embark on a 9-day journey through southern Spain from February 20 to 28, 2027, exploring the sun-soaked Costa del Sol and the vibrant capital of Madrid. Discover charming Andalusian towns like Fuengirola, Marbella, Málaga, and Ronda, visit the breathtaking Alhambra in Granada, and enjoy a high-speed train ride to Madrid for culture, history, and iconic plazas. This trip blends coastal beauty, rich history, and authentic Spanish culture for a well-rounded European escape.
About
This Tour
Activity Level 3
This means you’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days with early mornings or late nights balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.
Included in this Tour: Roundtrip transportation from White Mills to the Newark airport, roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers, and roundtrip airfare.
Saturday, February 20, 2027
Overnight Flight
Get ready for a true taste of southern Spain, from the sparkling blue waters of Costa del Sol to the chic avenues of Madrid. Your tour begins
with an overnight flight.
Sunday, February 21, 2027
Málaga, Spain - Fuengirola
Welcome to Málaga, one of the oldest cities in Europe, known for its sunny, Andalusian lifestyle and for being the birthplace of artist Pablo Picasso. Settle into your new surroundings and start enjoying the town of Fuengirola. With no scheduled sightseeing today, spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Depending on your flight arrival time, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a welcome reception at your hotel this evening.
Monday, February 22, 2027
Fuengirola - Ronda
Travel to Ronda! Like many of the Andalusian white villages, it has deep ties to the Arab population that once ruled the region. Walk the Old Town and see its 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) over the El Tajo gorge. Then it’s your choice between visiting the Arab Baths archaeological site with your local guide -OR- delving into bullfighting’s fixture in Spanish culture with an audio-guided visit to the bullring. In Fuengirola this evening, gather for dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)
Tuesday, February 23, 2027
Fuengirola - Marbella
Journey to romantic Marbella today and enjoy a walking tour of the city’s winding cobblestone streets before spending some free time exploring Marbella’s charming shops, cafés, and galleries on your own. Afterward, return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps relaxing on the beach just a short walk from your hotel. (B)
Wednesday, February 24, 2027
Fuengirola - Málaga
Discover the port city of Málaga with a local guide. Meet a local from the Sepulcro Brotherhood to learn about the importance of the religious brotherhoods to the local culture. Let Málaga’s winding old town streets and historic Roman Theatre transport you back in time. Engage in conversation while being welcomed into a local’s home for lunch. Top off your day in Málaga with some free time to explore on your own, perhaps to do some shopping or even visit the Picasso Museum.* Return to Fuengirola, where the sunset beckons a relaxing ending to the day. (B, L)
Thursday, February 25, 2027
Fuengirola - Granada
Today, travel to Granada, the last capital of the Moors in Spain before it fell to the Catholic monarchs in 1492. Here, spend the morning with a local expert visiting the Alhambra,** a UNESCO World Heritage site also known as one of the Wonders of the Muslim world. After your extensive morning walk at this centuries-old palace and fortress complex, enjoy some free time in Granada for lunch on your own before returning to your hotel in Fuengirola to spend the evening as you please. (B)
Friday, February 26, 2027
Málaga - Madrid
This morning, say adiós to the Costa del Sol and hop on a northbound fast-speed train*** from Málaga to the capital city of Madrid, relaxing and enjoying the scenic ride. Then join a panoramic tour of Madrid’s historic center to see iconic sites like the Gran Via and Puerta de Alcala, and get the lay of this capital city. Tonight, experience a dinner with traditional entertainment at a local restaurant and discover the gorgeous Plaza Mayor. (B, D)
Saturday, February 27, 2027
Madrid
The day is yours to explore this magnificent city. Take time to discover Madrid’s elegant boulevards and rich culture or visit one of its iconic
museums, such as the Prado or Reina Sofia. Perhaps you will choose to join an optional excursion to the historic town of Segovia, with a guided walk to learn about its iconic Roman Aqueduct, massive 16th-century cathedral, and historic main square. Tonight, bid farewell to Spain and your fellow travelers during dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)
Sunday, February 28, 2027
Madrid - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close today. Reflect on the warmth and spirit of the Costa del Sol as you journey home. (B)