Journey through the heart of Spain and sail into the charm of the Mediterranean, where centuries of culture, history and coastal beauty await at every stop

Your holiday begins at London Heathrow, where you meet the Great Rail Journeys Tour Manager and rest of the group before boarding your flight to Madrid.

On arrival in the Spanish capital, we check in to our central hotel for two nights, located on the famous Gran Via street. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace. Just a short stroll from our hotel is Puerta del Sol, the heart of the city, and nearby you'll find three of Madrid's world-renowned art galleries: the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Prado and the Reina Sofia, which showcases an impressive collection of 20th-century art.

This evening, you're free to dine independently. Madrid is full of tempting options, from stylish cafés serving an array of delicious tapas to traditional restaurants offering local specialties such as paella, regional wines and a variety of cured jamón.

This morning, we embark on a guided sightseeing tour, travelling by coach and on foot. We are introduced to Madrid's main sights, historical buildings and the city's vast green El Retiro park. Originally created in the 1500s for the Spanish royal family, these beautiful gardens are now a much-loved public space, popular with locals and visitors.

We continue past the magnificent Palacio Real, or Royal Palace, still used for official state functions and home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and antiques.

The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. You might choose to visit one of the nearby world-class museums, relax in one of the sun-drenched plazas or return to El Retiro for a peaceful contrast to the city's lively streets. The park is home to a boating lake and you're likely to come across street entertainers - from puppet shows to folk musicians - adding to its charm.

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

We are taken through the historic Santa Cruz district, before arriving in the centre of the Old Town and entering the impressive Gothic cathedral - the largest in Europe.

After the tour, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might choose to take a leisurely stroll along the river to visit the Torre del Oro, a historic golden-hued tower that once served as a military watchtower and medieval prison. Situated by the Guadalquivir River, the tower is especially captivating in the early evening, when it seems to glow in the soft light of the setting sun. After an afternoon exploring, we regroup for dinner at a local restaurant this evening.

You are free to continue exploring Seville at your own pace after breakfast this morning. Many of the city's iconic landmarks are within easy walking distance, and you might choose to visit the impressive Plaza de España, a stunning area filled with colourful tiled arches, ornate fountains and alcoves - built for the 1929 'Fair of the Americas'.

Another way to spend part of your day is exploring the Real Alcázar, or Royal Palace, known for its blend of Moorish, Mudejar and Christian architecture, featuring intricate patios and beautiful geometric tiles. For art lovers, the Museo de Bellas Artes (Fine Art Museum) is one of Spain's finest art museums.

As the birthplace of tapas, Seville offers countless bars and restaurants where you can indulge in this beloved Spanish tradition independently tonight. You might also enjoy a flamenco show in one of the many venues in the Old Town. With shows usually starting late in the evening, booking ahead is advised.

Travelling by coach to the station in Seville after breakfast this morning, 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.

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, which has fantastic views up to the Alhambra. This evening, you are free to dine independently.

This morning, we visit the breathtaking UNESCO-listed Alhambra on a guided tour. Once the residence of the Moorish leaders of Granada, this spectacular 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 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.

We travel by coach to Córdoba after breakfast. 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 in and find lunch independently before we are taken on a guided tour of this beautiful city.

Entering the Old Town area, we cross the Roman Bridge 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.

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 in to our hotel.

The rest of the day is free to explore the city independently. Barcelona is famous for the work of architect Antoni Gaudi, and our hotel puts you close to his iconic Casa Milà and Casa Batlló.

In the Gothic Quarter, you could visit the Picasso Museum, home to an extensive collection of the artists early drawings or for a relaxing experience, the city's botanical gardens offer a peaceful escape. You could also visit Park Güell, known for its colourful mosaic sculptures and sweeping views across the city. This evening, you are free to dine independently in one of Barcelona's many inviting restaurants.

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

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.

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.

This morning, you are transferred to your luxurious Azamara ship, where you say farewell to the Tour Manager and are welcomed by the friendly and attentive crew onboard.

With a smaller capacity than most other ocean and sea cruise ships, these vessels can get closer to ports than their counterparts allowing for a more immersive experience. All meals and a house drinks package are included on your cruise, and you can enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the many dining venues as the ship sets sail towards France.

Find out more about your ship here.

Throughout the cruise, you can enjoy a selection of optional excursions at each port of call (payable onboard). Today, your ship docks in Marseille and you have the full day to explore one of Europe's oldest cities, where colourful markets, rich history and stunning coastal views come together.

Take a stroll around Le Vieux Port, the atmospheric Old Port lined with fishing boats and quaint cafés, perfect for soaking up the city's mediterranean charm.

You might also choose to visit the impressive Notre-Dame de la Garde, which offers panoramic views over the city and coastline, or explore Le Panier, Marseille's oldest neighbourhood, with its narrow streets, street art and artisan shops.

Arriving in the glamourous district of Monte Carlo this morning, you can explore this jewel of the French Riviera at leisure.

Famous for its luxury lifestyle, Monte Carlo is home to grand boulevards, designer boutiques and the world-renowned Monte Carlo Casino. You might step inside to admire its ornate interiors or simply take in the atmosphere of the surrounding Place du Casino.

Down by the harbour, admire the opulent yachts moored in Port Hercule, or explore the winding streets of Monaco-Ville, the old town, where you'll find the Prince's Palace and scenic gardens with views across the Mediterranean.

Docking in Livorno, the beauty of Florence awaits today - the birthplace of the Renaissance and a city steeped in art and history.

Wander through the heart of the city, where every turn reveals grand architecture and elegant piazzas. You can visit the Piazza del Duomo, home to the city's iconic cathedral and bell tower or stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge known for the shops built along it.

Art lovers can explore world-class galleries, including the Uffizi (booking in advanced advised), where masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci are on display.

Arriving in Rome, get to know a city where ancient history and vibrant street life sit side by side.

Discover some of the world's most iconic landmarks, including the magnificent Colosseum - a symbol of Imperial Rome and the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built. In the Vatican City, the world's smallest independent state, you'll find St Peter's Basilica, and no visit to Rome is complete without seeing the Trevi Fountain, the largest Baroque fountain in the city.

Beyond these sights, Rome offers plenty more opportunities to explore - from charming piazzas and cafés to tucked-away ruins and bustling neighbourhoods.

Please note: Pre-booking tickets to visit the Colosseum and the Vatican is recommended.

Overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples, today you can explore the lemon-scented lanes and elegant piazzas of Sorrento.

Wander through the historic centre, where local cafés and traditional trattorias spill out onto the streets. The historic centre is a maze of artisan boutiques, traditional shops and workshops offering handmade leather goods, ceramics and locally produced limoncello - a regional favourite.

For those looking to soak up the scenery, the town's terraced gardens and viewpoints offers sweeping views of the Amalfi Coast, Mount Vesuvius and the shimmering sea below.

Today, your ship arrives in the picturesque town of Amalfi and you have time to explore one of the most iconic spots on the Italian coast at leisure.

Set between dramatic cliffs and the sparkling sea, Amalfi charms with its whitewashed buildings, colourful ceramicDoos and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Stroll along the winding streets of the historic centre, where you'll find artisan shops and the striking Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, with its grand staircase and beautifully tiled façade. You might also choose to visit the Cloister of Paradise; a peaceful garden oasis tucked behind the cathedral.

Today is a full day at sea as you sail the sparkling waters towards Montenegro, giving you time to relax and enjoy the ship's excellent facilities.

Soak up the sunshine on the sundeck, take a dip in the outdoor pool or indulge in a treatment at the spa (payable onboard). The front-deck bar offers some of the best views at sea, while a range of dining options, including two speciality restaurants, invite you to savour delightful cuisine throughout your journey.

Each evening, enjoy a programme of onboard entertainment, from live music and cultural shows to a variety of captivating performances.

Sailing into the Bay of Kotor this morning, you're greeted by towering mountains and fjord-like waters - a memorable arrival into one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities.

Surrounded by ancient walls, Kotor's old town is a maze of cobbled streets and hidden squares, perfect for discovering at leisure. You might visit the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, one of the town's oldest landmarks, or browse shops selling traditional crafts and delicacies.

For sweeping views over the bay, take a walk up the old city walls to the Castle of San Giovanni, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Bay of Kotor and surrounding mountains.

You dock in Dubrovnik today, a beautifully preserved walled city that feels like stepping back in time. Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', this historic gem is set against a backdrop of turquoise waters and rugged coastline.

Stroll along its ancient stone streets, where Baroque churches, elegant squares and cafés are tucked within the city walls. You might explore landmarks like the Rector's Palace or the grand Dubrovnik Cathedral, or walk the iconic city walls for views over the rooftops and harbour.

For a different perspective, take the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the city.

Slovenia's beautiful coastal city of Koper awaits today, where Venetian architecture, winding medieval streets and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere come together.

You might visit the impressive Praetorian Palace, which houses the Koper Regional Museum, or step inside Koper Cathedral, the largest in Slovenia. Climb its bell tower for panoramic views over the red-tiled rooftops and sparkling coastline.

With its sunny squares, waterfront promenade and laid-back cafés, Koper is an inviting city to explore at your own pace.

This extraordinary journey has combined escorted rail travel through the iconic cities of Spain with the elegance of a luxury cruise across the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Beginning in Madrid, we travelled through Spain's most captivating cities, from the soul of Seville to the artistic flair of Barcelona, experiencing the country's rich history, culture and cuisine along the way.

From Barcelona, our journey continued by sea, sailing along the sparkling Mediterranean coastline. Each day brought something new, from the glamour of Monte Carlo and the Renaissance beauty of Florence to the charm of Rome and the ancient walls of Dubrovnik.

Arriving in your final port of Venice today, you disembark the cruise ship and are transferred to the airport for your flight home. Landing in London Heathrow, your holiday comes to and end and you are free to make your own way home.

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.

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.

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.

Built in 2000 and thoughtfully refurbished in 2016, the Azamara Journey is a boutique-style ship designed for a more personal and relaxed cruising experience. With a capacity of under 700 guests, the ship offers a sociable atmosphere and attentive service. Its smaller size allows it to reach lesser-known ports, giving you the chance to explore hidden gems and enjoy immersive shore excursions - including Azamara's signature AzAmazing Celebrations, offering a deeper connection to local cultures. Onboard, you'll find elegant spaces to unwind, exquisite dining options and everything you need for a comfortable journey at sea.

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.