Christmas in Granada

For Christmas 2027, join us in Granada at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in Southern Spain, for a unique festive experience plus visits to a host of attractions in this region so rich in history. Granada exudes a distinct Moorish charm as the last city reclaimed by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492, and we explore the stunning architecture which sees blends of Islamic and Christian elements. With guided visits to the impressive Alhambra Palace and Generalife, and day trips to Cordoba's stunning Mosque-Cathedral and Antequera with its megalithic architecture, this tour takes in the very best of Andalusia, with plenty of free time to soak up the local festive atmosphere.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick to Malaga
Transfer to Granada (140 km) and check in to our hotel. Welcome dinner this evening.

Day 2: Exploring Granada
A leisurely morning will be spent exploring the historic city of Granada on foot, a fascinating crossroads of cultures and religions. We will enjoy a guided tour to learn a little about the city’s historic highlights including its Old Quarter with whitewashed buildings and charming streets leading to views of the Alhambra Palace; the Renaissance and Baroque-style Cathedral and Royal Chapel. The rest of the day will be free for you to explore at leisure and take in the city’s Christmas atmosphere and market. 

Day 3: Alhambra and Generalife
Overlooking Granada is the stunning Alhambra Palace, which was built by the Nasrid dynasty between 1238-1358 and used as a military fortress until 1492. We take a guided tour of this extremely well-preserved complex with its intricate Islamic architecture and beautiful gardens with many water features. Next we visit the adjacent Generalife, a beautiful summer palace built in the 14th century as a country retreat for the Nasrid kings and renowned for its stunning gardens. Return to Granada for free time before a festive dinner this evening at the hotel.

Day 4: Christmas Day
Full day at leisure to relax in the hotel or explore Granada independently. Christmas Day lunch at the hotel.

Day 5: Full day Antequera
Today we head west to the ancient town of Antequera, known as 'The heart of Andalusia' due its central location in the region. We take a guided tour of the Old Quarter with its narrow streets and traditional architecture, and the archaeological site of the Dolmens of Viera, Menga and El Romeral - three monuments dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze ages. We have free time for lunch (own expense) to explore this charming city. In the afternoon we visit the Museo de la Ciudad de Antequera. We then continue on to Granada for the evening at leisure.

Day 6: Full day Cordoba
This morning we drive north west to Cordoba. Situated by the Guadalquivir River, Cordoba was a key Roman city due to its strategic location. We explore the historic Old Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the archaeological site of Medina Azahara a fortified palace-city built in the 10th century. The highlight of our guided tour is the Mezquita-Catedral (mosque-cathedral) with its stunning architecture blending Islamic and Christian elements. Originally built as a mosque in the 8th century, it was converted into a cathedral in 1236, and is a visual masterpiece with a mix of columns, arches, and mosaics to admire. Free time to take in the city's renowned Moorish architecture before returning to Granada. 

Day 7: Free day in Granada
Full day at leisure to relax or explore independently. This evening we attend a flamenco show and farewell dinner.

Day 8: Malaga and home
We return to Malaga with time to explore independently - visit the Old Quarter and Alcazaba, which is one of the best-preserved in Spain. At the foot of the fortress is the remnants of a Roman theatre dating back to the 1st century AD. Transfer to Malaga Airport for return flight to London Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion. 

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 30 passengers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to time spent standing for viewing at attractions. Guided tours run for 2-3 hours, and will be on foot. Day 6 is a long day of travelling. For further information please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return scheduled flights from London Gatwick to Malaga
• Seven nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the four-star Hotel Vincci Albayzin, Granada, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome tapas dinner, plus farewell dinner
• Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day lunch at the hotel
• Transfers and full touring itinerary as detailed
• Entrance fees and guided tours as per the itinerary
• Tour manager throughout
  
  

NOT INCLUDED

• Double room for sole use supplement - £590
• Porterage and gratuities
• Personal items such as drinks, meals, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Meals other than those stated
• Travel insurance

HOTEL

Hotel Vincci Albayzin, Granada

Four star hotel located in the city centre, close to everything that Granada has to offer. Built in a typically Andalusian building, the hotel offers a restaurant, fitness centre, bar, and classic decor bedrooms with modern facilities including TV, WIFI, telephone, air-conditioning, and hairdryer.

Hotel website