9-day Tour: Madrid, Andalusia, Valencia & Barcelona from Madrid

An In-Depth Look at the 9-Day Madrid, Andalusia, Valencia & Barcelona Tour

Imagine spending nearly two weeks soaking in some of Spain’s most compelling sights — from the bustling streets of Madrid to the majestic Alhambra Palace in Granada, and from the lively beaches of Valencia to the vibrant charm of Barcelona. For around $1,956, you get a comprehensive 9-day itinerary, guided city tours, entrance tickets to key attractions like the Cordoba Mosque and Alhambra, and cozy accommodations.

What we love about this experience is how it balances guided sightseeing with ample free time to explore at your own pace — especially in cities like Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, where wandering the streets can often be the best way to truly connect with the place. Plus, the inclusion of air-conditioned coach transport means no stress over navigating public transit or dealing with the logistics of moving from city to city.

A possible drawback is the size of the group—some reviews mention traveling with over 60 people, which can make keeping tabs on your guide a challenge and might slow down some sightseeing. Also, the tour’s fast pace might not suit travelers who prefer to take their time or get off the beaten path.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors to Spain with a love for history, architecture, and vibrant city atmospheres, and who don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re comfortable with long days of sightseeing and want to maximize your time in the country’s highlights, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Diverse Itinerary: Visits to Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona offer a thorough taste of Spain’s rich culture.
• Balanced Structure: Guided tours combined with free time provide a good mix of learning and personal discovery.
• Comfortable Travel: Deluxe, air-conditioned coach transport and 8 nights of hotel accommodations aim for a hassle-free experience.
• Highlights & Optional Tours: Main attractions are included, with optional flamenco and gypsy night tours for added local flavor.
• Group Size: Some reviews warn about large groups, which can affect the experience.
• Value for Money: With entrance tickets, guided tours, and hotel stays, many find this a worthwhile way to see Spain efficiently.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect in Each City

Madrid: The Capital’s Charm & Sights

The tour kicks off in Madrid with a 2-night stay. The included guided panoramic tour takes you through Madrid’s Hapsburg district, where you’ll see Renaissance and Baroque buildings, along with landmarks like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace.

We loved the way the guide explained how the city’s layout reflects its royal history. The tour also covers modern Madrid, including areas like Gran Vía, Castellana, and Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. If you’re interested in museums, the Prado Museum is highlighted, giving you a chance to view some of Spain’s finest artwork.

However, some reviews mention that the initial Madrid tour can be very quick — a common theme among big group tours. One traveler noted the “panoramic tour was so fast we could barely appreciate Madrid,” leading many to arrange extra time later on their own.

Cordoba: The Mosque & Winding Streets

Next stop is Cordoba, famous for its Great Mosque (Mezquita). The visit is included and lasts about two hours. The mosque’s architecture is stunning, and the guide will probably point out its unique features like the red and white arches.

Strolling through the Jewish Quarter’s narrow lanes offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling cities. Reviewers loved this part, with one saying, “the winding streets of the Jewish Quarter are perfect for wandering.” Entrance to the mosque is included, making this a highlight.

Seville: A City of Flamenco & History

In Seville, you’ll spend two nights. The tour includes a visit to the Catedral de Sevilla (exterior), and the Barrio Santa Cruz district — a lively neighborhood full of history, winding alleys, and iconic sites like Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Gardens.

Optional activities include a flamenco tour, highly recommended by travelers who loved the passionate performances. One reviewer raved about their flamenco experience, calling the dancer “a world flamenco champion.”

Some travelers noted the large group size can make this part a bit rushed, but guides are generally praised for their knowledge.

Granada: The Moorish Jewel & The Alhambra

Granada’s Alhambra Palace is the star here, and entrance is included in the tour. The guided visit lasts about two hours and covers the Generalife Gardens as well. The Alhambra’s intricate architecture and lush gardens are captivating, and the historical significance of Moorish rule makes it a must-see.

One review shared disappointment about visiting the Alhambra at night, saying, “you can’t see much because it’s dark, and some rooms are closed,” which is a downside if your dream is to explore during the day. Still, many find the Alhambra to be the absolute highlight of their trip.

Valencia: Sun & Science

The journey continues east to Valencia for a one-night stay. The city is known for its City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural marvel with six futuristic buildings, including the Hemispheric and Oceanogràfic.

The tour includes a guided walk around the complex, but some reviews suggest visiting on your own might be better if you’re keen to explore inside. The city’s lively atmosphere and seaside vibe make it a great stop, especially for food lovers, as Valencia is the birthplace of paella.

Barcelona: Artistic Flair & Vibrant Streets

Your final stop is Barcelona, with a two-night stay. The tour includes a guided city tour along Passeig de Gracia, and highlights Gaudí’s masterpieces like Casa Milà (La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló.

The panoramic views from Montjuïc Park are stunning, and the city’s energetic vibe keeps visitors engaged. One traveler loved the views of the Magic Fountains from their hotel rooftop — a perfect way to end the trip.

Practical Notes & Tips

The tour offers airport pickup in Madrid and drop-off in Barcelona, which simplifies your logistics. Hotels are chosen for comfort and location, with some reviewers noting that hotels outside city centers can add a walk back after long sightseeing days. Breakfast is included, and guides are available in multiple languages, although some mentioned the language repetition can be a bit tedious.

Optional tours, like flamenco or gypsy nights, come at an extra cost but add a layer of local culture. The group sizes, often over 60, can sometimes slow things down, so patience is a virtue here.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the value for money — particularly considering the entrance fees, guided tours, and hotel stays are all included. One traveler commented, “The guides were very helpful and knew their stuff,” while another appreciated how seamless the process was, saying, “The coordination went without a hitch.”

However, not all experiences were perfect. Some reviewers pointed out the large group sizes, which occasionally made it difficult to keep everyone together, and the short time at sites like Madrid and Granada, which can leave visitors wishing for more in-depth exploration.

One common theme is the effectiveness of the balance between guided tours and free time — travelers enjoyed the chance to explore independently and appreciated guide recommendations for local eateries and hidden gems.

The Overall Value

While the price might seem steep at nearly $2,000 per person, the inclusive nature of this tour — covering major attractions, comfortable hotels, transportation, and guided sightseeing — makes it a solid choice for those wanting to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially advantageous for first-time visitors feeling overwhelmed by multiple cities and big sights.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground in a short time, especially if they’re new to Spain and want a structured experience. It suits those who enjoy guided sightseeing but also value free time to wander and discover their favorite spots. If you’re comfortable with large groups and don’t mind a packed schedule, this tour offers a great way to get a broad taste of Spanish culture, history, and architecture.

If you’re someone who prefers slow, immersive visits or has specific sites in mind, you might find the schedule a little rushed. But for those who want efficient sightseeing with a touch of local flavor, it hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include airport transfers?
Yes, there is airport pickup in Madrid on the first day and drop-off in Barcelona on the last day, making logistics much easier.

Are entrance tickets included?
Most key attractions, including the Cordoba Mosque, Cathedral of Seville, and Alhambra Palace, come with included tickets, saving you time and money.

Is hotel accommodation comfortable?
Yes, accommodations are in 3- or 4-star hotels that are carefully selected for quality and comfort. Some reviewers mention hotels outside city centers, so plan accordingly.

How much free time is there in each city?
The itinerary offers free time in Madrid, Valencia, Seville, and Barcelona so you can explore at your own pace or relax after guided tours.

What optional activities are available?
You can opt for flamenco shows in Seville or a gypsy night tour in Granada for additional insight into local culture.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Many reviews mention the age range of travelers being mostly 40-55, and the pace may be brisk, so it’s best for those in good health comfortable with walking and moving quickly.

What about group size?
Some reviews note groups can reach over 60 people, which could make managing the schedule a little challenging.

Can I customize or extend my trip?
While the tour is fixed, you can use the free time to explore more or arrange extra nights before or after the tour.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day tour of Spain offers an impressive overview of some of the country’s most iconic cities and sites. With guides that many travelers found knowledgeable and helpful, the experience provides a great foundation for understanding Spain’s cultural tapestry. The inclusion of major attractions, combined with comfortable transport and accommodations, makes it a good value for those eager to see a lot with minimal planning.

However, it’s not for everyone. If you prefer a slower pace, more off-the-beaten-path experiences, or smaller groups, you might want to consider alternatives. But if you’re ready for a fast-paced, rewarding adventure filled with history, architecture, and vibrant city life, this tour hits just the right notes.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for first-time travelers who want a structured, well-organized introduction to Spain’s highlights, especially if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and large groups. Just be prepared for some long days and a good deal of walking — and you’ll come away with a fantastic snapshot of Spain’s best sights.