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Spain & Morocco
Make your way across two continents and discover a vivid tapestry of cultures, customs, and cuisines on this enchanting journey through Spain and Morocco. In Spain's historic capital of Madrid, discover dynamic history and culture. Travel to the Moorish city of COrdoba to encounter the religious marvel of La Mezquita. Journey to Granada and see the amazing Alhambra. See the Cathedral of Seville, the third largest in the world. Board a high-speed ferry to Africa, just a short ride across the Strait of Gibraltar. In Morocco, discover the indigo-blue streets of Chefchaouen, the "Blue City." In Fes, the "Mecca of the West," learn why this city continues to be called one of the holiest cities in the world. Discover Casablanca on a tour of the masterful Hassan II Mosque and see the city by night on a drive along the seashore before dining at Rick's CafE, the legendary saloon from the film Casablanca.
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| Details | | Collette | | Offer valid through 12/31/2024 | | | Day | Destination | Description | | Day 1 | Madrid | It's an adventure that spans two continents. It's culture centuries in the making. It's your tour of Spain and Morocco. You're on your way: are you readys | | Day 2 | Madrid | Welcome to Madrid! Did you know that Spain's capital was a fortified enclave during the Andalusi periods Experience the city's vibe as you walk to your welcome dinner. With new friends, say "Salud!" to a new journey. | | Day 3 | Madrid | A local expert highlights Madrid's diverse and iconic spots, including Plaza Mayor. Dive deeper into the city's MudEjar history to see how centuries of co-existence molded the city and its inhabitants. With the rest of the day on your own, you do you - Madrid-style. If you prefer to tour, an optional excursion to the fortified city of Segovia explores its medieval streets, where you can see the 14th-century Alcazar Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site blends Christian and Muslim influences. | | Day 4 | Madrid | Zoom! Travel at alta velocidad aboard the AVE high-speed train to COrdoba. This is a city known for its harmonious blend of Christians, Muslims, and Jews, and yet it also tells a story of the religious upheavals along its history. Walk with a local expert to La Mezquita (UNESCO), an 8th-century mosque that was converted into the city's cathedral in the 16th century during the Reconquista. Then, it's off to Granada, Spain's final Moorish capital before it fell to Catholic monarchs in 1492. | | Day 5 | Granada | Explore the world-famous Alhambra* (UNESCO) with a local expert. Bathed in morning light, the Alhambra Palace awaits - a fantasy of arabesque gardens, fountains, and stone cut like lace. If you still have the breath, also explore the exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the royal summer residence. Take a moment to relax in the sunshine as this stone fortress overlooks Granada, a mesmerizing example of Islamic architecture. With a free afternoon, soak in the local culture however you choose. Tonight, eat as the Spanish do... because tapas is on the menu. | | Day 6 | Granada | Your taste of the local culture continues today. Head to an award-winning olive grove and learn about this family-owned business. Try their unique olive oil during lunch before departing for Seville, Spain's "cultural capital." This evening, experience Spain's musical culture during a flamenco show (UNESCO). Passionate performers showcase this dance form with mysterious roots. | | Day 7 | Seville | A local expert uncovers the city's historic MudEjar architecture with you - as well as Seville's intriguing stories. A panoramic tour reveals iconic sites, including the Giralda Bell Tower, originally built as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville, and the beautiful Plaza de EspaNa. Visit the Seville Cathedral (UNESCO), the largest gothic cathedral in the world. Meander the narrow streets of Barrio Santa Cruz, the old Jewish quarter of Seville. Here, quaint courtyards, bright flowers, and whitewashed buildings create a charming backdrop. The afternoon is yours, enjoy it at your own pace! | | Day 8 | Seville | Climb aboard the high-speed ferry to Africa** because today, you'll say "adios" to Spain and "salaam alykum" to Morocco. Cross the Strait of Gibraltar (it's a short ride), and disembark in the city of Tangier, a multicultural hotspot. Tangier was once occupied by the Portuguese and the British. A local expert leads you throughout the city to share places with you like the old medina and the kasbah. Later, get to know the American Legation in Tangier; it's the only U.S. National Historic Landmark located in a foreign country, and a symbol of the diplomatic ties of these two nations, dating back to the 1800s. | | Day 9 | Tangier | A morning at leisure means more time to explore Tangier. See why this coastal city has been inspiring artists and writers for ages. You may want to stroll the oceanfront promenade, visit the marina, or shop in the medina. This afternoon, discover the walled city of Asilah, a seaside city with a bohemian art presence. Historically, Asilah hosted many conquerors and pirates - and now it welcomes you. | | Day 10 | Tangier | Leave Tangier for Morocco's "Blue City" - Chefchaouen. Scenic mountains and brightly painted buildings signal your arrival. In your free time, explore the famous indigo-blue streets of this hilly city and take some time to have lunch on your own. Stop in its handicraft shops and find the wool garments and woven blankets that are unique to this region. This evening, arrive in Fes (UNESCO). The "Mecca of the West," Fes remains the region's religious capital. | | Day 11 | Fes | Explore Fes, one of the holiest cities in the world. Learn of its historical importance as a center of government, philosophy, medicine, and religion during your tour. See the Jewish quarter, the city ramparts, and the gates of the palace. Then, set out on a walking tour in the medina. Founded in the 9th century, it's home to the world's oldest continuously functioning university. Along the cobbled alleyways of this ancient market, find spices and colorful wares. Find out about the leather tanneries, a tradition dating back to the 11th century. View the honeycomb of vats exuding brilliant colors. Tonight, the food: a Moroccan dinner. The setting: a traditional riad. | | Day 12 | Fes | Prepare yourself for a long bus ride, and know it's worth it when you reach the awe-inspiring Middle Atlas Mountains, which are a jewel in Morocco's crown - take in their majesty on today's journey to the small, rural hamlet of Bin El Oudaine. | | Day 13 | Bin El Oudaine | Explore Bin El Ouidane and enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the area. Today, it's your choice! Explore the breathtaking rural lake landscape in a boat -OR- visit the UNESCO M'Goun Geopark Museum, which showcases the geopark's natural, cultural, and landscape treasures. No matter what you do, a natural and cultural wonderland is yours to experience. Enjoy a calm and relaxing afternoon. | | Day 14 | Bin El Oudaine | Travel to Marrakech, an imperial city full of ancient artistry and religious history. Stroll the Jardin Majorelle, one of the most stunning botanical gardens in Morocco. This evening, wander through a maze of colors and fragrances in Jemaa el-Fnaa - one of Morocco's famous squares - before sitting down for dinner at a local restaurant. | | Day 15 | Marrakech | Start your morning visiting El Bahia Palace, with its marble floors and carved cedar ceilings. Then, with your local expert, explore Marrakesh's labyrinth-like medina and its local crafts. Spices, rose petals, babouches, and Berber rugs are in every corner, making this experience a highlight. Find out what made this souk one of the most famous in the world, as well as the centerpiece of so many novels and travel books. The rest of the day is yours to explore "the red city" of Marrakech at your own pace, or you may want to immerse yourself in the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Moroccan cuisine during a cooking demonstration. | | Day 16 | Marrakech | Today, it's off to Casablanca, a romantic setting that showcases the modern side of Morocco in the best way. Tour the Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece of Moroccan artisanship. Later, step inside, Rick's CafE***, the legendary saloon from the film Casablanca. Here's looking at you (and your fellow travelers), as you toast your adventure during a farewell dinner. | | Day 17 | Casablanca | It's time to say "adios" and "besslama" to an incredible tour. But remember...you'll always have Spain and Morocco. |
| | Hotel Riu Plaza EspaNa - Madrid, Spain | BarcelO Carmen - Granada, Spain | | NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas - Seville, Spain | Hilton Tanger City Center Hotel - Tangier, Morocco | | BarcelO FEs Medina - Fes, Morocco | Widiane Hotel - Bin El Oudaine, Morocco | | MOvenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi - Marrakech, Morocco | Marriott Casablanca Hotel - Casablanca, Morocco |
| * NOTE: Tour prices are land only rates based on per person, double occupancy. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking. Government taxes and fees are additional. Land rates are guaranteed at time of deposit. Certain taxes and fees are to be paid upon exiting the country in local currencies.
Airfare is additional and is available through Collette Vacations.
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