Your Itinerary
Day 2 - Arrive Casablanca
Ahlan wa sahlan — welcome to Casablanca! Morocco’s largest city greets us with a mix of old-world charm and modern rhythm. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, this lively port hums with life and history. Though sleek skyscrapers and stylish cafés dot the skyline, Casablanca still holds tight to its roots.
Its name, meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, comes from the brilliant, whitewashed walls of the Old Medina. Wander a little, and you’ll spot the elegant French colonial buildings with Moorish arches and Art Deco details, it’s a city that wears its past and present side by side.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm
This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink.
Day 3 - Casablanca - Marrakesh
We’ll begin our morning with an introduction to Casablanca, Morocco’s vibrant and cosmopolitan city. We’ll wander through the lively Central Market, where the colours and sounds bring the city to life. Then, we’ll take a stroll along the seaside Aïn Diab Esplanade, where locals sip mint tea and the Atlantic breeze keeps time with the waves.
Afterwards, we will step inside the awe- inspiring Hassan II Mosque. This architectural marvel is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a minaret soaring nearly 700 feet high. Even more impressive? It’s built partly over the sea, with a glass floor that lets you glimpse the ocean below.
We’ll pass through the Habous Quarter, with its blend of French design and Moroccan tradition. Narrow streets, spice shops and fragrant bakeries invite you in with the warmth of another era.
After some free time for lunch, we’ll make our way to Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s four Imperial cities. Founded in the 11th century, it was once the heart of a vast empire stretching into Spain and West Africa.
Special Experience
Experience the atmosphere of Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Pass through a wondrous mix of food, music and entertainment, getting a taste of this lively city.
We’ll experience a real taste of Morocco at dinner, complete with dancers and musicians, in a local restaurant.
Marrakesh, with its terracotta walls and snow-capped Atlas Mountains in the distance, is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Known as the ‘Pearl of the South,’ Marrakesh is the second oldest of the four Imperial Cities, and today, we’ll uncover some of its most beautiful corners.
We’ll begin at the peaceful Saadian Tombs which was hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917. Its intricate carvings, colourful tiles and elegant script reflect the artistry of the 16th century. Next, we’ll explore Bahia Palace, a lavish residence once home to a powerful vizier. With its serene courtyards, detailed ceilings and fragrant gardens, it’s easy to imagine the stories it holds.
The striking Koutoubia Mosque comes next, with its 12th century minaret rising above the city like a beacon. Though non-Muslims cannot enter, the exterior alone is breathtaking. We’ll also wander through the Medina and Kasbah districts and stop at a traditional Berber Pharmacy, where time-tested remedies and oils offer a window into Moroccan healing traditions.
Special Experience
Take a cooking lesson in a beautiful Moroccan riad, then enjoy the food prepared for lunch.
After a full day of discovery, we’ll return to the hotel. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
This morning, we’re off to discover a different side of Morocco, with our sights set on the historic city of Fez. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pastilla, a delicious pastry filled with savory meats and sweet spices that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine.
We’ll continue our drive towards Fez, soaking in the stunning mountainous scenery as we approach one of Morocco’s most ancient Imperial Cities. Fez is famous for its beautifully crafted ceramics, so be sure to bring your bargaining skills to the market!
Fez is truly the heart of Morocco, nestled in the rolling countryside between the Rif and Mid Atlas Mountains. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina, Fez el-Bali, is one of the largest living medieval cities in the world, with towering gates and magnificent walls that transport you to another time.
We’ll check into our hotel and later enjoy a relaxing dinner together.
Fez is a city where rich history and ancient traditions blend seamlessly with the lively energy of today. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set off to explore the heart of this magical city. Our day begins in the Main Medina (Fez el-Bali), a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, where narrow alleys and colourful souks bring the city to life. The vibrant sights, scents of spices and the bustle of local traders will captivate you at every turn.
We’ll also stop at the Kairaouine Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world. While entry is restricted to Muslims, the view of its stunning architecture from the top of Medersa Attarine when open, is not to be missed.
After taking in the sights, we’ll pause to see the fountains of Carpenters Square, where local artisans continue to practice their craft. You’ll have some free time to shop in the Medina, so bring your best haggling skills!
Later, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a small but beautiful Moroccan palace in the heart of the Medina. We’ll then visit the city’s famous tannery, where leather is dyed in vibrant colours using centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.
The rest of the evening is yours to relax or explore more of Fez on your own.
Day 7 - Fez – Meknes – Volubilis – Chefchaouen
From Fez we head to Meknes, Morocco’s smallest imperial city founded in the 11th century. Quieter and more laid-back than Fez, Meknes still boasts beautiful winding streets and grand architecture. We’ll take an orientation tour of the old city, known as the ‘Versailles of Morocco.’ We’ll see the impressive Bab el Mansour Gate, the historic Royal Stables that once housed the royal horses and the lovely Bou Inania Madrasa known for its mosaics and carvings.
After soaking in the sights of Meknes, we’ll continue to the ancient archaeological site of Volubilis. UNESCO World Heritage-listed Volubilis is a partly excavated Roman city, developed from the 3rd century BC as a Phoenician settlement. Volubilis was a central administrative city for this part of Roman Africa, responsible for grain production and exports to Rome.
We’ll enjoy some free time for lunch before continuing our journey towards Chefchaouen. As we drive, we’ll pass through rolling hills and local villages, soaking in the beautiful rural landscape of Morocco.
Finally, we’ll arrive in Chefchaouen, the famous ‘Blue City,’ nestled in the Rif Mountains. With its vibrant blue buildings and steep streets, Chefchaouen feels like a real-life watercolour painting. Get ready to fall in love with this tranquil town!
Chefchaouen, founded in 1471 as a fortress to defend against the Portuguese, has blossomed into a town with a unique blend of Berber, Arab, and Jewish influences. One popular theory behind its iconic, blue-painted buildings is that Jewish refugees introduced the tradition in the 1930s, symbolizing peace, spirituality, and a connection to the divine.
Today, we’ll explore this magical town on foot, beginning with Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the lively heart of Chefchaouen. As we wander through the narrow, winding streets, you'll be delighted by the vibrant contrasts of colourful wares and the town’s iconic blue walls. Chefchaouen is a great place to shop for locally made treasures like woven blankets and wool, items you won’t easily find elsewhere in Morocco.
Next, we’ll embark on a hike up to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the town and the surrounding mountains. It’s a bit steep, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort!
After our guided exploration, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You can relax in one of the cafés, browse the artisan shops for unique crafts, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the vivid streets.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 9 - Chefchaouen – Tangier – Seville
This morning, we bid farewell to Morocco, as we make out way to the ferry port in Tangier. After crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, we’ll arrive in Tarifa, Spain. From here, we’ll head toward Seville, with some free time along the way to stretch our legs and have some lunch.
As we arrive in Seville, you’ll quickly fall for this lively city. Once known as ‘Hispalis’ by the Romans and ‘Ishbiliya’ under the Moors, Seville’s rich history is still woven into its vibrant atmosphere today. With stunning architecture and a fascinating past, Seville perfectly blends the old and new. The old town, in particular, feels like stepping back in time to an authentic Spanish village, where much of the city’s history has been carefully preserved.
After checking in, the rest of the evening is yours to explore at your own pace.
According to legend, Seville was founded by Hercules and has origins linked to the Tartessian civilisation. It’s a city full of passion and stories — the birthplace of Carmen, Don Juan, and Figaro. Today, we’ll step into its rich history with a guided tour that brings Seville’s colourful past to life.
We’ll begin at the Royal Alcázar, a breathtaking Moorish palace that’s been home to royalty for centuries. As we stroll through its ornate rooms and peaceful gardens, you’ll see why it’s still used by the Spanish Royal Family. Next, we’ll admire the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria and its soaring Giralda Bell Tower. This is Spain’s largest cathedral and said to be the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. We’ll wrap up our tour with a wander through the historic Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz, a maze of lanes, leafy courtyards, and hidden corners.
This afternoon is at leisure for you to discover the delights of this beautiful city.
Optional Excursion
Flamenco Show, 'El Palacio Andaluz’ - Located in the beautiful city of Seville is El Patio Andaluz, a place where passionate Flamenco dancers (known as bailaores or bailaoras) perform group and solo dances. The Flamenco style of dance originated in the Andalusian region and is expressed by the performer with intricate hand, arm and body movements whilst clapping their hands and rhythmically stomping their feet. The dances are usually accompanied by guitars and as the song builds so does the tempo and volume. Enjoy a traditional Flamenco show accompanied with one drink (beer, wine or soft drink) on arrival and return bus transfers.. 1hr 30mins - from Euro 48pp (no minimum number required)
Day 11 - Seville – Zahara de la Sierra – Setenil de las Bodegas – Granada
The pueblos blancos, or white villages, of southern Spain are a stunning collection of hilltop towns scattered across Andalusia. Their name comes from the traditional whitewashed houses, originally painted with lime to reflect the sun and keep interiors cool during hot summers. But these villages offer more than just beauty — each one is rich in history, and today we’ll explore and uncover the fascinating stories they hold.
Our first stop is Zahara de la Sierra, a mountaintop village overlooking a stunning blue reservoir. Here, we’ll visit an olive mill to learn about the production of one of Spain’s most cherished ingredients.
Special Experience
Discover Andalucia's essence at an olive oil mill. Tour the grounds, relish a degustation of local produce, and immerse in the flavours of the region.
Next, we’ll head to Setenil de las Bodegas, a town unlike any other, where dwellings have been built into the cleft of rocks cut by the Guadalporcún River. It’s a truly unique sight, as though nature and architecture made a perfect partnership. You’ll have some free time to explore its winding streets, grab a coffee, or indulge in a slice of almond cake, tarta de almendra.
Arriving in Granada, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Granada is like a living canvas, where Moorish, Muslim and Catholic influences come together in a beautiful mix of architecture. The charm and history at every turn will captivate you, and today, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of this enchanting city.
Our sightseeing today includes entry into the world-famous Alhambra Palace complex, a stunning example of 13th century Islamic architecture. Known as the ‘Red Castle’ for its reddish walls, this Moorish citadel includes the Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba, and the Palace of Charles V. Once a fortress and royal residence, it’s now one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks.
Just a short stroll away, we’ll wander through the serene Generalife Gardens, once the summer retreat for the Kings of Granada. With peaceful fountains, vibrant flowers, and fragrant pathways, it’s a tranquil oasis that feels like stepping into another world.
After exploring the Alhambra, we’ll walk through the old part of the city. You’ll get to soak up the atmosphere as we stroll through winding streets, before ending at the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, before we reconvene for a group dinner.
Special Experience
Taste traditional Spanish tapas, enjoying a range of delicious bite-sized savoury dishes, richly seasoned with local spices.
Day 13 - Granada – Córdoba – Madrid
This morning, we’ll be exploring more of the beautiful Andalusian countryside as we enjoy a scenic drive, with comfort stops along the way, before reaching the historic city of Córdoba. Our first stop will be the magnificent Mezquita Mosque, also known as the Cathedral of Córdoba. It’s one of the most important monuments in the Western Islamic world and blends ‘Omeya’ style with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque touches. Its grand arches, intricate carvings, and peaceful courtyards are sure to leave you in awe.
Next, we’ll wander through Barrio de la Judería, the old Jewish Quarter. Known for its narrow, interlacing streets and whitewashed buildings, the area reflects the city’s layered cultural history. You’ll have some free time to stroll through the district taking in the atmosphere or enjoy something to eat.
After lunch, we’ll transfer to the train station and take the AVE high-speed train to the grand city of Madrid. As the capital of the Spanish Empire and once the richest and most powerful city on Earth, Madrid is known for its vibrant energy and rich culture. Today, Madrid is known as a city that never sleeps with its palaces, museums and concerts are up there with the best in the world.
Today, we’re in for a treat as we set off to discover the many faces of Madrid on a guided city tour. We'll begin with a scenic drive past Plaza de Colón, where the enormous Spanish flag stands tall and proud, then roll through the elegant Calle Serrano in the stylish Salamanca district.
From there, we’ll pass the grand Puerta de Alcalá and the famous Retiro Park, a favourite local spot where you might spot rowboats drifting across the lake. Next up is the Atocha district, followed by the tree-lined Paseo del Prado, home to the world-famous Prado and Reina Sofía museums.
We’ll glide past the iconic fountains of Neptune, Apollo, and Cibeles before taking in the buzz of Gran Vía and the stately Plaza de Oriente.
Our next stop is at the Royal Palace, a beautiful baroque masterpiece with over 3000 rooms. Although the royal family no longer lives here, the Palacio Real still serves as the king and queen's official residence, a venue for state ceremonies, and a place for tourists to get a peek into the fascinating royal history of Spain.
We’ll finish our tour at Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol. Then it’s your time to enjoy a leisurely lunch or simply soak up the city’s charm at your own pace. You may wish to sit back and relax at a cafe and be entranced by Madrid's energy as you people-watch, view eclectic architecture along the Gran Via and savour Spanish fare in Puerta Del Sol.
Special Experience
This evening participate in a cooking class, learning traditional methods and discovering the delights of typical Spanish cuisine. We’ll leave with a new repertoire of delicious recipes to take home.
Day 15 - Madrid – Barcelona
We’ll begin the day with a relaxed morning at your own pace in beautiful Madrid. It’s the perfect time to soak up a little more of the city’s magic—perhaps take a morning stroll through the leafy boulevards of Retiro Park, enjoy a slow coffee at a sun-dappled café, or revisit one of the museums we passed yesterday for a closer look.
Later, we’ll make our way to the station and hop aboard the AVE—Spain’s sleek and speedy high-speed train. Sit back and enjoy the comfort as we glide across the countryside on our way to the vibrant and unique Barcelona.
Barcelona is one of the world’s most stylish and cosmopolitan cities on the cutting edge of architecture, food, fashion, style and music. The city features buildings by the genius and eccentric Antoni Gaudí, significant art collections of Picasso and Miro, and the exuberant locals will enchant you. The city's main tree-lined pedestrian mall, Las Ramblas, runs all the way from the quayside through the heart of the city and will lead you to the Gothic Quarter.
Arriving in Barcelona in the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure to begin exploring this magnificent city at your own pace.
Did you know this stunning city enjoys more sunny days than almost anywhere in Europe? Or that it was once home to Picasso, Gaudí, and even a booming chocolate guild? Well, today we’ll be exploring the sights that make Barcelona so captivating, taking in the contrast of old and new as we drive through the city’s lively streets.
We’ll step inside Antoni Gaudí's iconic masterpiece, the La Sagrada Família (Holy Family Church). This sky-scraping basilica, an enduring symbol of Barcelona, stands as a testament to Gaudí's visionary genius and remains an unfinished work in progress, captivating visitors with its intricate facades and towering spires.
From there, we’ll continue our journey walking through Plaza Cataluña and along the elegant Paseo de Gracia passing Gaudí's distinctive architecture continues as we marvel at the whimsical exteriors of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà along Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s largest avenues.
The afternoon is at leisure to further explore before our group farewell dinner this evening. Why not take some time to visit the popular Las Ramblas Street with its cafes, restaurants and street artists?
Day 17 - Depart Barcelona
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to Morocco and Spain. We hope you leave with the memories of a lifetime.
Day 18 - Arrive Australia
Day 18 - Arrive Australia
