Moorish Andalusia: Granada, Córdoba, Seville

Andalusia · Spain

Easy8 daysEurope~£1,100 est.

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Overview

Eight centuries of al-Andalus left Europe's most intoxicating architecture, and this eight-day rail journey links its three masterpieces. In Granada you take the first timed slot into the Nasrid Palaces while the Court of the Lions is still quiet, then watch the Alhambra turn gold from the Mirador de San Nicolás as the Sierra Nevada pinks behind it. In Córdoba the Mezquita's forest of candy-striped arches absorbs you; go at 8.30am when early entry is free and near-silent. Seville delivers the Real Alcázar's tilework, the Giralda climb and flamenco done properly in a Triana peña rather than a dinner show. The trains make it easy — Granada, Córdoba and Seville are each under two hours apart — and the walking is flat except Granada's Albaicín hills. The variable that ruins trips: Alhambra tickets. They sell out weeks ahead, so book the moment dates firm up, and avoid July–August when the cities cook at 40°C. Spring (orange blossom, Semana Santa if you dare the crowds) and October are perfect. Around £1,000–£1,200 for eight days with mid-range hotels, tapas budget included.