12-Day Morocco and South of Spain Tour from Madrid

A 12-Day Journey Through Spain and Morocco — What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk through centuries of history in two continents, this 12-day Morocco and South of Spain tour from Madrid might just be your ticket. For around $2,425, you get to experience vibrant cities like Seville, Córdoba, Marrakech, and Fez — all packed into roughly two weeks of travel. The trip includes accommodation in 3- and 4-star hotels, guided sightseeing, ferry crossings, and plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to see the contrast between Moorish architecture and lively markets in Spain and Morocco. We also appreciate the inclusion of key landmarks such as the Alhambra and the Hassan II Mosque, which are unforgettable sights. Plus, the chance to cross the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry brings a real sense of adventure and adds to the feeling of stepping into a different world.

On the flip side, this tour might involve a significant amount of bus travel, especially in Morocco, where reviews highlight long hours en route. Also, some travelers note variability in hotel standards, especially in Morocco, which might impact your overall comfort.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to combine cultural exploration with comfortable logistics. If you’re okay with some long travel days and enjoy guided tours with free time to explore, this trip offers a solid balance of guided sightseeing and independent discovery.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Visit iconic cities like Cordoba, Seville, Fez, Marrakech, and Granada, covering both Spain and Morocco.
• Cultural Highlights: See the stunning Mezquita in Córdoba, the Alhambra in Granada, and the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
• Comfortable Hotels: Stay in centrally located 3- or 4-star hotels, with a few reviews praising their quality, though some Moroccan hotels may disappoint.
• Travel Logistics: Expect a fair amount of bus travel and ferry crossings; good to be prepared for long days on the road.
• Guided Experiences: Enjoy informative guides in both countries, with some reviewers highlighting their knowledge and friendliness.
• Value for Money: The tour packs a lot of sights into 12 days, making it a reasonably priced way to see two fascinating countries.

The Experience in Detail

The First Four Days in Spain — Exploring Andalucía

Starting in Madrid, the tour quickly ramps up with visits to Cordoba and Seville, two cities famed for their Moorish architecture and vibrant street life. The visit to the Mezquita Cathedral in Córdoba is a highlight. This mosque-turned-cathedral offers a stunning sight with its forest of red and white arches. In reviews, travelers rave about guides who make these sites come alive, describing the experience as “an impressive tour” that eases your mind and energizes your spirit.

We loved the way Seville’s Cathedral and Barrio Santa Cruz blend history and local life. The Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park provide picturesque settings, perfect for wandering or relaxing. One traveler mentioned, “the guides in Spain were wonderful, sharing so much knowledge,” which can turn a sightseeing day into a memorable story.

Ronda, with its dramatic cliffs and ancient bridge, offers a different kind of charm. The town’s Celtic roots and panoramic views are stunning. Following that, the group heads to the Costa del Sol, where you can enjoy a relaxing overnight stay — a good break before crossing into Africa.

Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar and Entering Morocco

On Day 4, you’ll take a ferry from Tarifa to Fez, entering a world where medinas, ancient markets, and Islamic architecture dominate. Arrival in Fez is exciting; it’s the most monumental of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, with the University of Karaouine and historic gates. Travelers often mention the medina’s maze-like streets and the opportunity to explore on your own or with guides.

However, some reviews highlight the variability in hotel quality in Morocco — a common concern. One traveler described a hotel in Rabat as “very old and poorly maintained,” which reminds us to keep expectations flexible.

Morocco’s Cities — A Feast of Sights and Sounds

The tour continues with visits to Rabat, Marrakech, Casablanca, and Tangier. In Rabat, sights like the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohamed V reveal Morocco’s political and spiritual heart. Marrakech’s Jma El Fna Square is described as a lively open-air theatre, packed with snake charmers, storytellers, and street performers, making it one of the most memorable stops. Many travelers commend the guides’ knowledge and the city’s energy.

In Casablanca, the Hassan II Mosque shines as an architectural marvel, with some reviews noting the brief time allocated for visits — only about 20 minutes. You’ll also enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, with guides sharing stories that bring the city’s modern and historic sides alive.

The Final Days — Granada and Toledo

Back in Spain, the tour wraps with the Alhambra in Granada, a Moorish fortress that’s a must-see for its intricate gardens, palace rooms, and stunning vistas. Reviewers agree that the Alhambra’s beauty and grandeur are worth the early start and the crowds. We loved the way the gardens and palaces combine natural beauty with exquisite architecture, inspiring writers and artists alike.

Finally, a short stop in Toledo introduces you to a city where Christian, Moorish, and Jewish cultures intersected, creating a place full of narrow streets and historical significance. Many reviews praise the “fascinating” atmosphere and the guide’s storytelling.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Overall Value

This tour relies heavily on air-conditioned buses for city-to-city travel, which can mean hours of sitting. Several reviews note the long travel times, especially in Morocco, where waiting for ferries and transfers can add up to many hours on the road. That said, the coaches are generally comfortable, and the group size is capped at 50, making it manageable.

Hotels are typically rated 3 or 4 stars, with some reviewers mentioning excellent stays and others pointing out that Moroccan hotels can sometimes be less comfortable or dated. The inclusion of breakfasts, some dinners, and guided sightseeing adds value, though food quality varies, especially in Morocco.

The tour’s price covers entry fees to main sites, guides, and most meals, which makes it a cost-effective way to see both countries without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. However, some travelers felt that the long bus days diminished their free time and overall enjoyment, especially when not enough time is allocated for certain attractions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re interested in history, architecture, and culture, and don’t mind spending quite a bit of time on a bus, this tour offers a packed itinerary at a reasonable price. It’s especially suitable for those who like guided experiences with knowledgeable guides and appreciate mixing sightseeing with some free time.

Travelers who prefer luxurious accommodations or a slower pace might find this tour too rushed or inconsistent in hotel quality. Also, if you’re sensitive to long travel days, be prepared for hours on the road, particularly in Morocco.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but be aware that the tour groups may split into different subsets, especially in Morocco, which could make socializing more challenging for solo travelers.

What kind of transportation is used?
Most of the main travel is done by air-conditioned coach. Expect some ferry crossings, notably the Strait of Gibraltar, which are included in the itinerary.

Are hotel stays comfortable?
Hotels are generally rated 3- or 4-star, but reviews note that Moroccan hotels can sometimes be older or less modern, so a flexible attitude toward comfort is helpful.

How much walking is involved?
A moderate amount of walking is expected, especially in historic sites like the Medina of Fez, Córdoba, and the Alhambra.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour covers guided visits, entry tickets to key sites, most meals (breakfasts and some dinners), hotel accommodations, and travel insurance.

Are there additional costs I should budget for?
Yes, personal expenses, meals not included, optional activities, and tips are extra.

Is a visa required for Morocco?
It’s your responsibility to verify visa requirements prior to travel, and you’ll need your passport details at least 30 days before departure.

Final Thoughts

If your dream is to wander through Moorish palaces, bustling markets, and historic cities across Spain and Morocco, this tour offers a convenient way to see the highlights. It’s especially appealing for travelers who value guides with good knowledge and value-packed itineraries. That said, be prepared for long days on the bus and some variability in hotel quality — particularly in Morocco — which can influence your overall experience.

For those interested in culture with manageable logistics, this trip strikes a pretty good balance. It’s a great introduction to two very different worlds, and with some flexibility and patience, you’ll come away with stories you’ll cherish.

Final Words

This 12-day tour is an adventure that combines architecture, history, cuisine, and landscapes across two continents. While some travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning sites, and the value for money, others note the long travel hours and hotel inconsistencies. Knowing what to expect will allow you to decide if this trip fits your style of travel.

Overall, if you’re eager to see the best of Andalusia and Moroccan cities, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour could be your perfect introduction. Just pack your curiosity along with your patience — you’ll need both for this whirlwind cultural ride.