Explore the superb cities and acclaimed sights of Spain on an escorted grand tour that embraces the diverse culture and unique history of the country

Your holiday begins at London St Pancras where you are welcomed by the Tour Manager before boarding the Eurostar to Paris in Plus class. Enroute, we enjoy a light meal at our seats before arriving in the French capital.

We continue our journey south by First Class rail to France's coastal resort town of Biarritz for the night. Arriving this evening, we check in to our hotel situated on the 'Grand Plage', the main beach of Biarritz's famous sweeping bay, before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the sea.

Please note: on the 21st April, 6th May and 22nd September departures, your holiday starts on Day 2 with a flight to Madrid. If opting to fly on other dates, your holiday begins on Day 2.

This morning we're transferred by coach to the railway station for a First-Class journey by high-speed rail to Madrid. Arriving in the afternoon, we check into our central hotel for two nights.

The afternoon is yours to explore this exciting city at your own pace. Although Madrid is the European Union's second-largest city, its streets are easy to navigate thanks to its grid system. A short walk from our hotel is Puerta del Sol in the heart of the city, and three of Madrid's world-class art galleries - the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Prado, which is a treasure chest of Spanish masters including Diego Velázquez and Francisco Goya, and the Reina Sofía museum that has an impressive collection of 20th-century art.

Tonight, you are free to dine independently, and Madrid offers many enticing places to eat - from fashionable cafés serving a range of mouthwatering tapas to more traditional establishments offering specialities such as paella, regional wines and several varieties of cured jamon.

Please Note - For departures 1st June and 7th Septemeber our journey to Madrid will be in Standard Class.

This morning, we are taken on a guided sightseeing tour, by coach and on foot, and introduced to Madrid's main sights, historical buildings and the city's vast green park, 'El Retiro'. These beautiful gardens were originally built for Spain's royal family in the 1500s, but the park is now a public space used by residents and visitors alike.

Our tour takes us past the magnificent Palacio Real, or Royal Palace, still used for official state functions and filled with impressive paintings, sculptures and antiques.

With an afternoon at leisure, you could walk along the wide boulevard of El Paseo del Prado to discover the famous Prado gallery, or visit one of the city's other great museums nearby. El Retiro is a peaceful contrast to Madrid's lively streets, providing an oasis at the heart of the city for locals and tourists alike. The park has a boating lake and around that area you're likely to come across street entertainers - from mime to puppet shows and folk musicians to Mexican Mariachi bands.

This morning, we travel by First Class rail into Andalucía in Seville, for a two-night stay. After checking in and some free time to find lunch independently, this afternoon we enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the city, by coach and on foot.

We are taken through the city's historic Santa Cruz district, before entering Seville's impressive Gothic cathedral in the centre of the Old Town. The largest Gothic building in Europe, the cathedral was built on the site of a mosque. Look out for the cathedral's medieval stained-glass windows, and the Patio de los Naranjos, a peaceful area which is part of the original mosque.

After our tour, you are at leisure for the rest of the afternoon. You could stroll along the river to see the Torre del Oro, which was once a military watchtower and medieval prison. The golden tower is next to the Guadalquivir River and late afternoon or early evening is a special time to view it, as the tower glows as the sun's rays stretch across the river. We meet up with our group again this evening to dine at a restaurant close to our hotel.

Today is a chance to continue sightseeing at your own pace. Many of the city's landmarks are within easy walking distance. You could visit the grand monument, Plaza de España, an area of colourful tiled arches, ornate fountains and alcoves, created for the 1929 'Fair of the Americas'.

Another way to spend half a day is to visit the Real Alcázar, or Royal Palace, whose interiors are a combination of Moorish, Mudejar and Christian architecture with elaborate patios and geometric tiles. For art enthusiasts, Seville's Fine Art Museum, or Museo de Bellas Artes, is one of Spain's top art museums. Another emblematic site of Seville is the Triana Bridge, also known as Isabel II Bridge.

There are also several flamenco venues in the Old Town with shows usually starting late in the evening - booking ahead is advised. Seville is known as the birthplace of tapas and there are many bars and restaurants where you can indulge in the celebrated dish independently this evening.

We travel by coach to the station in Seville, where we board a train to the Moorish city of Granada where we stay for two nights. The city is dominated by the spectacular Alhambra which dates from the 13th and 14th centuries.

This breathtaking palace and fortress complex is one of the world's most important and well-preserved examples of Moorish architecture, set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. We begin our explorations with a sightseeing tour, visiting the Albaicín Quarter. Once the Moorish quarters of the city, the area is now a UNESCO World Heritage site which retains the narrow winding streets of its medieval past.

After our tour, you are at leisure to continue exploring at your own pace. In the older streets, you will find Moroccan-style tea gardens, bohemian bars and craft shops. A must-visit area is the Mirador de San Nicolas. This wide terraced area has fantastic views up to the Alhambra - a popular spot to see flamenco players or artists and craftspeople selling their work. This evening you are free to dine independently.

This morning, we visit the breathtaking UNESCO-listed Alhambra itself on a guided tour.

Once the residence of the Moorish leaders of Granada, this spectacular palace complex sits on a plateau overlooking the city, with the fairytale Sierra Nevada mountains as its backdrop. The Alhambra is listed as a World Heritage site for its outstanding aesthetic value as the world's only preserved palatine city of the Islamic period and the best example of its architecture. We walk through the series of outstanding palaces with intricate carved wooden ceilings, colourful mosaics and astonishing plasterwork. We also enter the beautiful 14th-century Generalife, once a summer palace and country estate of the sultans.

Afterwards, we are transferred back to our hotel with time to relax before dinner. This evening, we visit a traditional restaurant for an authentic Andalucían dinner, with views of the illuminated Alhambra.

Please Note - For departure 6th May, dinner has been moved to Day 6, meaning this evening is free for you to dine independently.

After breakfast, we travel by coach to Córdoba. The third of Spain's great Moorish cities, this was once the largest metropolis in Western Europe and is another outstanding UNESCO World Heritage site. Arriving around lunchtime, we check into our hotel for the night. After time to settle in and find some lunch independently, we are taken on a guided tour of this beautiful city.

Entering the Old Town area, we cross the Roman Bridge, passing the 14th-century Calahorra Tower, before continuing to the Mezquita - a mosque-cathedral considered to be one of the greatest remaining works of Islamic architecture in the world. From its Moorish origins, it was transformed over the centuries after Andalucía was reclaimed by the Spanish crown. Today, its interior includes dozens of chapels and several Christian icons.

Next, we explore the narrow streets of Córdoba's historic Jewish Quarter. We see its ancient synagogue, a statue of the Jewish philosopher and astronomer Maimonides, hidden stone patios, and other relics from this significant period in the city's history. This evening you are free to dine independently.

This morning, we travel by First Class high-speed rail to the Catalan capital of Barcelona. Arriving in the afternoon, we check into our hotel for the final two nights of our grand tour.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy the city. It's impossible to visit Barcelona and not fall under the spell of renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Our hotel on Passeig de Gràcia, in the Modernist district, places you near his masterpieces Casa Milà and Casa Batlló. While some of the city's main attractions are easy to reach on foot, you could also use the city's efficient metro system to head further afield.

In the Gothic Quarter, you could visit the impressive Picasso Museum with its many drawings from the artist's early work. For a relaxing experience, the city's botanical gardens provide a peaceful retreat. You could visit Park Güell, with its colourful mosaic sculptures and stunning city views. You could also decide to enter the Sagrada Familia, where it's possible to take a lift to the top (booking ahead is recommended). This evening you are free to dine independently.

A guided tour of Barcelona by coach and on foot awaits after breakfast. After viewing the astonishing exterior of the Sagrada Familia, we walk along the tree-lined boulevard of Las Ramblas and end our tour among the attractive and labyrinthine alleys of the Gothic Quarter, signposted as Barri Gòtic.

If you would like to visit the interior of Sagrada Familia, you could choose to do this independently with free time this afternoon. Elsewhere, there are several neighbourhoods dotted along Barcelona's coast, including former fishing villages such as Poblenou, which can be reached by metro. Alternatively, the 18th-century residential area of Barceloneta exudes Catalan coastal charm, with leafy squares surrounded by bustling bodegas. Another area of the city to visit is the expansive park on a hill above the city, where you'll find the Montjüic Castle. Or you could visit the Boqueria market, just off the Ramblas, and sample the Catalan tapas.

This evening, we head to an authentic 17th-century Catalan farmhouse, just outside Barcelona. Now transformed into a stately restaurant, we enjoy an excellent dinner of traditional dishes in a private room - the ideal way to conclude our holiday.

On our grand tour of Spain by rail, we've explored Madrid's impressive historical landmarks, seen Seville's stunning Gothic cathedral and Royal Palace and, not least, have walked through the magnificent palaces of the Alhambra. Cordoba's Mezquita and Barcelona's architectural marvels completed our journey, enriched by time at leisure in each city.

If returning by air to London, your group will be transferred to Barcelona El Prat airport after breakfast ahead of your flight to London Gatwick. If you are returning home by rail your group will transfer to Barcelona rail station after breakfast and continue by First Class train to Paris. In the French capital, we join the Eurostar service to London St Pancras where your holiday draws to a close and you are free to make your way home.

Please note that while every departure of this tour will feature the same excursions, the order may differ from that shown above.

Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

AVE is Spain's flagship high-speed service, connecting Madrid, Cordoba and Seville across dedicated high-speed tracks. AVE trains are based on the French TGV and Thalys, and the speed and comfort offered are similar. We travel on AVE Comfort Class (formerly known as Preferente) which offers reclining seats with power sockets for laptops and mobile phones.

Step aboard the high-speed international rail service, linking London St Pancras to Paris and Lille in France, Brussels in Belgium and Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Eurostar's Standard Class coaches feature two seats on either side of the central aisle, most of which are arranged in an 'airline' seating configuration with drop-down tray tables. There are two tables for four per carriage. Passengers travelling in Eurostar Standard Class coaches can take advantage of the Bar-Buffet which sells a range of snacks, meals, and hot and cold drinks - including Champagne!

The highest class of Eurostar travel available for leisure customers is Plus class. In your dedicated Plus carriage you'll find a less dense seat configuration, meaning the seats are larger and you have ample space to relax and stretch out. As part of the service, you'll enjoy complimentary drinks and refreshments, served at your seat by friendly, helpful waiting staff.

For the class of travel used on your chosen tour, please refer to the 'What's Included' section of the tour page.

Introduced in 1981, France's TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) was the original European high-speed train. Linking Paris with Lyon, the new service revolutionised train travel and meant that travelling by air over medium and short distances was no longer seen as the best option, even for business travel.

The network has expanded rapidly and today these sleek, stylish trains offer links to over 60 destinations throughout France. Operated by SNCF, the French national rail operator, TGV trains travel over specially constructed high-speed lines. The trains can achieve speeds of up to 186mph (300km/h) on most long-distance routes and 200mph (320km/h) on the new TGV Est line, which links Paris with Strasbourg, Luxembourg and Basel. With the exception of shorter journeys, TGVs almost always have an on-board buffet car, serving a selection of drinks and light refreshments.

This superb 4-Star hotel is a short distance from the grand La Sagrada Família, Gaudi's renowned unfinished work. You can easily access the local shops and trendy district of Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona's main shopping boulevard. The hotel has a rooftop pool, where you can enjoy views of this wonderful city. Air-conditioned guest rooms are spacious and come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, minibar, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

This 4-Star hotel stands in the centre of Biarritz, just a short distance from the main beach and the sea. This stylish Art Deco hotel has retained many of its original features and is recognised by the French National Trust as being a fine example of 1930s seaside architecture. The hotel has a bar serving a range of beverages and light snacks. Air-conditioned guest rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, minibar, tea & coffee-making equipment, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

Set on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, this 4-Star hotel boasts scenic views across some of Cordoba's famous landmarks, including La Mezquita, a mosque which dates back to 784 AD. The centre of Cordoba is easily accessible by foot, across the Roman Bridge. Guests can unwind in the hotel's seasonal rooftop pool or on the sundeck. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safety deposit box, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

This converted 16th-century palace is a traditional 3-Star hotel, close to many of Granada's most popular attractions and set in the UNESCO World Heritage Albaicín district. Featuring an authentic Andalucían courtyard with a cooling water fountain, ornamental tiles and original frescoes, the hotel has plenty of bright open spaces, marble flooring and an authentic Mudéjar-panelled roof. The air-conditioned bedrooms feature antique furniture and are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, minibar tea & coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

Centrally located on the Gran Vía, this elegant 4-Star hotel is close to the Prado Museum and the Thyssen Gallery. On-site, there is a restaurant and bar, and leisure facilities include a gym and wellness centre. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safety deposit box, kettle, minibar and hairdryer.

This 4-Star hotel has a fantastic location in the Regina area of the city, close to the centre and many of Seville's most popular tourist spots. On the roof terrace of the hotel is a wonderful cocktail bar with views of the Seville skyline. Air-conditioned guest rooms are stylishly decorated and come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, ironing equipment, coffee machine, minibar, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

Conveniently set in Seville's old town, near the Plaza Nueva Square, this 4-Star hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a seasonal rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, offering views across the city skyline. Seville's Baroque Cathedral and its Alcázar palace and gardens are each a short distance away. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities and hairdryer.

Near Atocha railway station, this elegant 4-Star hotel offers a furnished roof terrace with a seasonal plunge pool, bar and wonderful views of the city, a restaurant and a snack bar. The hotel is also close to the Reina Sofia and Prado Museums. The lively tapas bars of La Latina are a 10-minute walk away and the nearest metro station is just 50 metres from the hotel. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safety deposit box, tea * coffee-making facilities, minibar and hairdryer.

Ideally located in Madrid's city centre, this 4-Star hotel is just a short distance from Gran Vía, one of the city's fashionable streets, plus the Royal Palace and its grounds. Other nearby attractions include Madrid's Plaza Mayor and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and hairdryer.

The Catalonia Barcelona 505 is a modern 4-Star property, located in a quiet neighbourhood, which has been eco-certified under the Biosphere programme. Hotel facilities include a rooftop plunge pool, a gym, and a gastro bar which offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes and cocktails. The air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with a minibar, complimentary toiletries, free Wi-Fi, a safe, flatscreen TV, and a hairdryer.

Flight upgrades are available. For information regarding the types of upgrades offered by the various airlines we use, call our expert team for details.

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.