Andalusia by Cruise: A Journey through Art and History (port-to-port cruise)

You will travel to Granada by coach (driving time is approximately 3 hours round trip). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada and at the confluence of three rivers, Granada was the capital of the last Islamic kingdom in the Iberian Peninsula.
Upon arrival, you will begin your tour at the Alhambra, directly translating as "the red”, reflecting the color of the walls at sunset. It is one of the major monuments of Islamic architecture and the most majestic mediaeval fortress in the Mediterranean. Along with the Great Mosque of Córdoba, it is the most impressive evidence of the Islamic presence in Spain from the 8th to the 15th century. The tour continues with a visit to the Generalife, which was the summer residence of the Nasrid Emirs, and its marvelous 14th-centruy gardens, where water was harnessed to refresh every courtyard and garden.
Transfer to a restaurant in the center for lunch. In the afternoon, you'll be able to enjoy the delights of the historical center of Granada at your own pace. Return by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• Entrance included to the Alhambra and the Generalife.
• Good walking shoes are recommended. There are some stairs and slopes at the Alhambra.
• Lunch includes 250ml of wine and 250ml of water per person.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• For your information, please note that the bus trip should take about 3 hours to go and 3 hours to return.

Cádiz will be your starting point for an excursion to Jerez. Jerez owes its fame to its wines, flamenco, horses, and bull breeding.

Visit to the Alcázar.

This ancient fortified palace, dating back to the 9th century, bears witness to the city's Muslim heritage. It is mainly built from limestone rubble, with brick elements added over the centuries. Within its beautifully restored annexes, you will find the Christianized mosque, dedicated to Santa María la Real, the Arab Baths, the Olive Mill, and the peaceful gardens, designed according to Andalusian aesthetic principles.

The Torre del Homenaje, a 30-meter watchtower, is the central point of the Alcázar and offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes. The Alcázar played a strategic role throughout history, particularly during the Reconquista, serving as a noble residence and a military defense point.

Then, you will discover the cathedral.

Built between the 17th and 18th centuries, this masterpiece illustrates the transition between Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles. Its façade, made of cut stone, is adorned with sculptures and refined architectural details, including statues of saints and floral motifs. The main entrance is topped with an impressive pediment, while the bell towers, each in a different style, add a vertical dimension to the structure.

The cloister, designed in an elegant Baroque style, offers a serene space with its arches and gardens. These two landmarks, the Alcázar and the cathedral, showcase the cultural and historical richness of Jerez, reflecting the evolution of architectural styles and the impact of various civilizations on the region.

Return on board.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.