Direct Departure from Ankara: Magnificent Spain and Andalusian Cities – 7 Nights with AJet, October 24 (October 29 Special)

Meeting in front of the AJet Airlines counter at the international departures terminal of Ankara Esenboğa Airport 3 hours before the flight. Following the baggage, ticket and passport procedures, departure for Madrid at 12:10 on AJet Airlines flight VF605. Upon arrival at 16:05 local time, our Madrid city tour begins with our vehicle waiting for us at the airport. Madrid, the capital of Spain, is one of the most visited cities in Spain with its deep-rooted history and cultural richness. During our city tour here, the Bullfighting Arena (from the outside), Alcalá Gate and Independence Square, the Cibeles Monument, the famous Gran Vía avenue, Bernabéu Stadium, Plaza Castilla, Atocha Train Station, the famous Prado Museum (from the outside), Plaza de España featuring statues of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, the Royal Palace (from the outside), the nine-gated Plaza Mayor and Sol Square will be among the places to see in Madrid. After our tour, transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Following breakfast at the hotel, departure for Seville. En route, our guests who wish may join the additionally organized Magnificent Toledo Tour. (70 Euros) Located approximately 70 kilometers from Madrid, Toledo is a historic city that has hosted different cultures of the Iberian Peninsula and bears the traces of Roman, Visigoth, Muslim and Christian civilizations, protected by UNESCO. It is known for its magnificent medieval architecture and cultural heritage. During our tour of this open-air museum city, we will see its historic narrow streets, Toledo Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Spain (from the outside), churches converted from Andalusian mosques, and many other wonders. Following our tour, departure for Écija. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Écija is a historic city in southern Spain, located in the Andalusia region and belonging to the province of Seville. Often referred to as the “Peacock of Andalusia” or the “City of Towers,” Écija is known for its rich Baroque architecture and magnificent historic buildings. Known as “Astigi” during the Roman period, the city was one of the important centers of the province of Hispania Ulterior. The city also became an important cultural and economic center during the period of the Umayyads of Córdoba. Today, while walking through the streets of Écija, one can feel a historic atmosphere filled with elegant palaces, churches and tall bell towers dating from the Baroque period. In particular, the churches of Santa María and San Juan, dating from the 18th century, are among the finest examples of Baroque art. For travelers interested in history, art and traditional Andalusian architecture, Écija is like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. While exploring the city’s narrow streets, it is possible to find traces of both the Roman and Islamic periods. Following our tour, departure for Seville. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Seville is a city in Spain’s Andalusia region, famous for its historical and cultural richness. During our city tour in Seville, located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, we will first see Maria Luisa Park, which includes Plaza de España, and Plaza de América; Seville Cathedral (from the outside), the world’s third-largest cathedral, which contains the tomb of Christopher Columbus; and the Giralda Tower, the last surviving part of the mosque built by the Umayyads of Córdoba, carrying the memory of the Umayyad State of Andalusia, located right next to the cathedral. The Alcázar, the palace of the kings of Castile (from the outside), is also among the places to be seen. We will then reach the old narrow streets of the Santa Cruz district, known as “old” Seville, passing through the Archives of the Indies, where records of all maritime expeditions to the Americas from the Age of Discovery until the 19th century were kept. At the end of our walk, after seeing the Torre del Oro, or Golden Tower, the former tobacco factory used today as the central campus of Seville University and now serving as a maritime museum, we will be transferred to our hotel. In the evening, our guests who wish may join the additionally organized Magnificent Flamenco Fire Tour. (55 Euros) Seville is one of the birthplaces of flamenco and is regarded as one of the most important centers of flamenco culture in Spain. The city is famous for its traditional flamenco performances, dance studios, and flamenco festivals and events. During our Flamenco evening, you will be mesmerized as you watch the flamenco dancers. Following our tour, transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Following the breakfast we will have at the hotel, guests who wish may join the Magnificent Cities (Cordoba & Mijas & Malaga) tour, which will be arranged as an optional extra. (140 Euros) Cordoba is a historic city located in the Andalusia region of Spain. It is famous for its historical and cultural wealth, impressive architecture, and structures bearing the traces of Andalusian Islamic culture. We will reach Cordoba after a 1.5-hour journey, where the Guadalquivir River will be the first to greet us. We will enter the city by walking across the historic Roman Bridge and passing through the Roman Gate. We will visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba, the most magnificent structure of this 2,000-year-old city and one of the largest mosques in the world, rising on 850 columns. Accompanied by our guide, we will witness the grandeur of this magnificent monument and receive fascinating information. After our tour of the Mosque of Cordoba, we will continue on foot, seeing its immaculately clean old streets, the old inn reflecting all the elegance of Andalusian architecture, and the houses of Cordoba. Following our tour here, our second stop will be Mijas, a charming and traditional mountain town located in the Málaga province of the Andalusia region in southern Spain, especially famous for its whitewashed houses. Situated near the Costa del Sol coast, Mijas attracts attention with both its sea views and historic character. Mijas Pueblo, the historic part of the town, offers a postcard-like view with its narrow streets featuring typical Andalusian architecture, flower-adorned balconies, and whitewashed houses. Although the origins of the town date back to Ancient Rome and even the Phoenicians, its present character was largely shaped during the Muslim period of Andalusia. One of the most striking points in Mijas is the small bullring built at the top of the town and the ruins of Mijas Castle. Following our tour, our final stop will be Malaga. During our tour of Malaga, the birthplace of the famous painter Pablo Picasso, the places we will see include Paseo de Parque (Park Avenue), Plaza de la Merced, the Jewish Quarter, Constitution Square and Larios Street, Puerto Marina (Harbor), La Alcazaba, and Gibralfaro Castle. Following our tour, transfer to our hotel in Ecija. Overnight at the hotel.

Following breakfast at the hotel, we depart for Granada. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Granada is a city full of history and culture, located in the heart of the Andalusia region. Granada is famous for its historical heritage, music and dance, breathtaking views, and the Alhambra Palace. The city is one of Spain's leading tourist destinations and welcomes millions of visitors every year. During our city tour here, Gran Via Street, BibRambla and the Municipal Squares, Granada Cathedral (from the outside), Madraza, Granada’s first university, the Silk Market, and the old Nasrid Caravanserai are among the places to be seen. Following our tour, guests who wish may join the optional Magnificent Alhambra Palace Tour. (80 Euros) (There is a daily visitor limit at the Alhambra Palace, and our palace visit may also be conducted without the harem, depending on availability. We kindly ask you to inform your agency whether you will participate in this tour during the reservation.) One of Granada's greatest treasures, the Alhambra Palace is one of the most striking and impressive examples of Islamic architecture in Andalusia. One of the most visited historical sites in Spain, the Alhambra is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and has gained worldwide fame. This famous monument began to be built in the 13th century as a fortress and palace on the plateau of Sabika Hill overlooking Granada, and its construction continued until the 15th century. It was called Alhambra, meaning “Red,” because of the red color it acquired from the red earth used in its construction. Following our tour, transfer to our hotel. In the evening, guests who wish may join our optional Magnificent Neighborhoods (Albaicin and Sacromonte Gypsy Quarter) tour. (60 Euros) Albaicin is a historic and fascinating neighborhood of Granada. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is famous for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and scenic hills. It bears the traces of Andalusian Islamic culture and architecture and reflects Granada's history. Following our tour here, we will watch a Gypsy show and observe their way of life while enjoying a drink in completely handmade caves. Following our tour, return to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Following the breakfast we will have at the hotel, we set off towards Valencia. Along the way, guests who wish may join the Magnificent City of Alicante tour, to be organized as an optional extra. (40 Euros) Alicante is a historic and touristic city located on the Mediterranean coast in southeastern Spain. An important settlement since ancient times, the city was first founded by the Iberians and later conquered by the Carthaginians and Romans. Known as "Lucentum" during the Roman period, the region remained highly significant throughout the Middle Ages due to its strategic location. Alicante came under Arab rule in the 9th century and experienced great cultural and economic development during this period, with city walls and irrigation systems being built. Conquered by the Castilians in the 13th century, the city came under Christian rule. Today, Alicante’s most prominent historical landmark is Santa Bárbara Castle, built by the Arabs in the 9th century and later expanded by the Christians. The Old Town area (El Barrio), surrounded by historic buildings, bears the traces of the past with its narrow streets, churches and traditional houses. In addition to all this historical heritage, Alicante attracts thousands of tourists every year with its sunny climate, Golden Sand Beach (Playa del Postiguet), delicious Mediterranean cuisine and colorful festivals. Following our tour, we depart for Valencia. Valencia is a historic and modern city on Spain’s eastern coast, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. As Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia attracts visitors with its rich history, culture and art. During the city tour we will take upon our arrival, the City Hall, Gothic Cathedral, Arena, Museum of Arts and Sciences, Historic Mercado Central Market and the Old Silk Exchange will be among the places to see. Following our tour, transfer to our hotel, check-in and free time. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast at our hotel, we depart for Barcelona. Upon arrival, our city tour begins. Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain and the vibrant, fascinating capital of the Catalonia region, renowned worldwide. Washed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean, this magnificent city offers a unique blend of history, art, culture, and entertainment. With its magnificent architecture, colorful streets, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, Barcelona attracts millions of visitors every year. The city is like an open-air museum adorned with the unique works of Antoni Gaudi. During our city tour of this beautiful city, the La Sagrada Familia Church, Christopher Columbus Monument, La Rambla, Spain and Catalunya Squares, Las Arenas, and Olympic Port are among the places to be seen. Following our tour, guests who wish may join the Magnificent Poble Espanyol & Montjuic Hill tour, organized as an optional extra. (30 Euros) We begin our tour by visiting Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village), consisting of 117 buildings, streets, and squares, built for the 1929 World's Fair and now a popular destination for visitors to Barcelona. Here, we will see examples of buildings from regions throughout Spain, walk along streets reflecting the architecture of different Spanish regions, visit fascinating handicraft workshops, and take a short journey through virtually all of Spain. Poble Espanyol is also home to artisans working in ceramics, glass, leather, jewelry, and other handicrafts. We then ascend Montjuic Hill, which offers much more than a panoramic view of Barcelona. This area, where history, culture, and nature converge, has undergone transformation by hosting important events such as the 1992 Olympic Games. Following our photo break, we transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.

Following the breakfast we will have at the hotel, guests who wish may join the optional Magnificent Pearls of Northern Catalonia (Girona & Figueras & Dali Museum) tour. (70 Euro) Our first stop on the tour is Girona. Located in northeastern Catalonia, approximately 100 kilometers north of Barcelona, Girona is a historic city famous for its narrow medieval streets, historic buildings, museums, churches, and city walls. During our tour here, the Lion Statue, Cathedral Square, and the famous Jewish Quarter (El Call) are among the places we will see. Following our tour, we depart for the city of Figueres. Figueres is a city located northeast of Girona and is known as the birthplace of Salvador Dali. The city is closely associated with the life and works of the famous Spanish painter Salvador Dali. The most important tourist attraction in Figueres is the Salvador Dali Museum. Dali established a museum here to leave something in the place where he was born and to exhibit his works. Today, this museum has the largest Dali collection, and since Dali designed every part of it, it is considered Dali’s greatest work. The museum houses more than 4,000 works created by Dali using different techniques. Following our tour, we return to Barcelona. Guests who wish may join the optional Gaudi’s Magnificent Creation (Park Guell) & Gothic Quarter tour. (50 Euro) Our first stop on the tour is Park Guell. One of Antoni Gaudi’s magnificent works, Park Guell is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Known as a fairytale park, this park creates a magical atmosphere with its colorful staircases and imaginary mansions. After seeing this magnificent work by Gaudi, our second stop is the Gothic Quarter. In the Gothic Quarter, you can feel the enchanting atmosphere of the Middle Ages and admire its historic fabric with its narrow, labyrinthine medieval streets, Gothic churches, romantic squares, and Roman walls. The most important structures in the quarter include Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça Reial (Royal Square), Plaça del Rei (King’s Square), and La Rambla. Following our tour, transfer to our hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the airport at the time determined by the guide. Following baggage, ticket, and passport procedures, depart for Ankara at 14:20 on Ajet Airlines flight VF608. Arrival at 20:20 local time and the end of our tour.