This itinerary takes inspiration from Ibn Battuta’s travels through Andalusia, exploring Spain’s Islamic heritage, architectural wonders, and cultural richness that reflect the period of Al-Andalus.
Day 1: Arrival in Granada – The Jewel of Al-Andalus
- Morning: Arrive in Granada, a city steeped in Moorish history.
- Afternoon: Explore the Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Stroll through the Generalife Gardens, once the summer retreat for Nasrid rulers.
- Evening: Wander the Albayzín, Granada’s historic Moorish quarter, and enjoy a traditional Andalusian dinner with views of the Alhambra.
- Overnight: Granada.
Day 2: Córdoba – The City of Caliphs
- Morning: Travel to Córdoba, the former capital of the Umayyad Caliphate.
- Afternoon: Visit the Mezquita-Catedral, a masterpiece of Islamic art with its iconic red-and-white arches. Walk through the Jewish Quarter and see the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs, with its beautiful Moorish gardens.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Córdoba’s unique culinary fusion.
- Overnight: Córdoba.
Day 3: Seville – A Blend of Cultures
- Morning: Head to Seville, a city reflecting the cultural amalgamation of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences.
- Afternoon: Explore the Real Alcázar of Seville, an exquisite royal palace built during the Moorish period. Visit the Giralda Tower, originally a minaret of a mosque, and the Seville Cathedral, where Christopher Columbus is buried.
- Evening: Stroll along the Guadalquivir River, imagining the bustling trade Ibn Battuta might have witnessed, and enjoy a flamenco dinner show.
- Overnight: Seville.
Day 4: Ronda – The City in the Sky
- Morning: Travel to Ronda, a picturesque town perched on cliffs and historically significant in Al-Andalus.
- Afternoon: Visit the Puente Nuevo Bridge, spanning a deep gorge, and the Arab Baths, remnants of Ronda’s Islamic past. Stroll through the Old Town to experience its rich history and Moorish architecture.
- Evening: Enjoy the tranquility of this stunning town with a relaxed dinner at a local eatery.
- Overnight: Ronda.
Day 5: Málaga – Ibn Battuta’s Port of Entry
- Morning: Drive to Málaga, a city Ibn Battuta visited and described as a prosperous port.
- Afternoon: Explore the Alcazaba of Málaga, a beautifully preserved Moorish fortress, and the Roman Theatre nearby. Visit the Atarazanas Market for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
- Evening: Relax along the Málaga Port, imagining the maritime trade routes of Ibn Battuta’s time, and enjoy fresh seafood for dinner.
- Overnight: Málaga.
Day 6: Departure from Málaga
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and, if time permits, visit the Picasso Museum to explore the modern side of Málaga’s cultural heritage.
- Afternoon: Transfer to Málaga Airport for departure, carrying memories of Andalusia’s splendor and the legacy of Ibn Battuta.