Days 1 and 2 – Depart the U.S. for Málaga, Spain/Marbella

Depart the U.S. on a transatlantic flight to Málaga. Upon arrival, transfer to Marbella and check in to your apartment-style hotel, located on the famous Golden Mile, just steps from the shore. Your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director will be available this afternoon and throughout the program to help with personal sightseeing arrangements, restaurants reservations, shopping suggestions, and any other assistance you may require. This evening, gather for a welcome reception followed by dinner at the hotel. (Meals: 1R,1D)

Day 3 – Marbella

Get acquainted with your home for the next three weeks during a walking tour of Marbella, a lovely seaside town with a labyrinth of cobbled streets. Discover beautiful plazas and well-preserved churches and public buildings. Stroll the colorful Plaza de Naranjos in the city center, then stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Your afternoon is at leisure.

This evening, meet up for a walk along Marbella’s seaside promenade, taking in views of the town’s main beaches, El Fuerte and La Fontanilla. Cap off the day with dinner at a seaside restaurant. (Meals: 1B,1L,1D)

Day 4 – The White Villages of Andalusia / Marbella

Travel inland to discover the traditional "white villages" of Gaucin, Casares, and Castellar de la Frontera, which date back to the era of Al-Andalus, when the Moors ruled Spain. Nestled in the mountains and often protected by medieval fortifications, these villages are known for their picturesque whitewashed houses and and narrow lanes. During your excursion, enjoy a lunch of local delicacies. Return to Marbella and take advantage of free time in the afternoon. Early this evening, gather with new friends in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for refreshments and conversation about your discoveries so far. (Meals: 1B,1L)

Day 5 – Marbella

Immerse yourself in the rhythms of daily life in Marbella during a day at leisure. Those who have opted for the Language track will walk to the nearby Spanish language school for an orientation tour, a placement test, and your first Spanish class.

Participants on the Food and Traditions track embark on an interactive tapas tour in Marbella’s Old Town. During the excursion, learn about the history and culture of the town and explore its interesting nooks and crannies. 

• Optional Language Track 1.1: Placement test and Spanish class
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.1: Old Town tapas tour

Day 6 – Ronda / Marbella

Set off on an excursion to Ronda, an ancient town built on a cliff above deep gorges. Examine layers of history as you tour the twisting streets of its historic center, learning about its Roman occupation and discovering its distinctive Moorish influence. See a hodgepodge of architectural styles at the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor, commissioned by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1485 but not completed until centuries later. Visit the Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring and one of its most architecturally beautiful, and admire local art and handicrafts at the superb Casa don Bosco. Continue to a nearby vineyard for lunch and a wine tasting. 

Return to Marbella in the late afternoon and gather for a presentation on the history of Islam in Iberia. (Meals: 1L)

Day 7 – Marbella

If you have chosen the Food and Traditions track, head out with a guide this morning to explore the municipal markets of Marbella and sample regional food and drink specialties as you go. Meet local vendors and learn about the traditions of the marketplace. If you are not participating in the optional track, enjoy the full day to explore Marbella and its environs as you wish.

• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.2: Marbella markets tasting tour

Day 8 – Gibraltar / Marbella

Venture to Gibraltar, a strategic British Overseas Territory first settled by the Moors and later ruled by Spain. This slice of Britain in Spain holds a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Greeks. Trace it significance through Homeric tales through 20th-century World Wars as you travel to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar. From the summit, 1,400 feet above the sea, take in views (weather permitting) across the famous Strait of Gibraltar to the coast of North Africa. You'll have the remainder of the day at leisure in Marbella.

Day 9 – Marbella

Those pursuing the Language track meet this morning for a first day of Spanish immersion. Otherwise, enjoy a leisurely morning in Marbella. You might stroll past the yachts moored along the Golden Mile or visit one of Marbella's wonderful small museums. This afternoon, gather for a presentation by a local expert on the Arab roots of flamenco.

In early evening, meet for a drink and conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. Then continue for dinner with your expert and fellow travelers at a restaurant in town. (D)

• Optional Language Track 1.2: Spanish class 

Day 10 – Málaga / Marbella

Spanish students will meet for a Language class this morning.  

After lunch on your own, journey to Málaga, a coastal city that is currently undergoing a cultural renaissance, with a flourishing of cuisine, music, and the arts. At the Museo Picasso Málaga, dedicated to the city's native son, take a guided tour of a collection that spans Picasso’s various periods. Enjoy time on your own to discover the city, then meet at a tavern to watch a flamenco performance. Return to Marbella for dinner at a local restaurant. (Meals: 1D)

• Optional Language Track 1.3: Spanish class 

Day 11 – Nerja / Frigiliana / Marbella

This morning, travel east to the seaside town of Nerja, famous for subterranean caves that stretch for almost three miles. Venture into these underground chambers to see the largest known stalagmite in the world. Next, visit Frigiliana, poised on the slopes of the Sierra Almijara with breathtaking views of the Costa del Sol. Venture to the upper village, known as Barrio Mudéjar for its Moorish architecture. Stroll narrow alleys past whitewashed houses adorned with blue trim and bougainvillea, and learn about the town's cultural heritage and cuisine. Try local delicacies at lunch on your own, and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure back in Marbella. (Meals: 1L)

Day 12 – Marbella

A Spanish language class is scheduled for this morning. If you have not opted for the language track, enjoy a free morning in Marbella.

Gather in the afternoon for a presentation by a local expert on the kingdoms of Iberia.

This evening, those who have selected the Food and Traditions track will delve into the cultural significance of Andalusia's iconic spirit: sherry. Learn about the art of making sherry and sample different types of Spanish sherry paired with local dishes. Hear about Marbella's traditions and anecdotes and trace the history of a wine that has been evolving for more than 3,000 years. (Meals: 1D for Food and Traditions participants)

• Optional Language Track 1.4: Spanish class 
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.3: Sherry tasting experience

Day 13 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Getaway-Carmona

Embark on an optional two-night weekend getaway to Carmona, Seville, and Cordoba (at additional cost). Or stay in Marbella and take advantage of a weekend at leisure to live like a local, enjoying the beach, spending time at a café, and practicing your Spanish.

Day 1: Weekend Getaway: Travel inland across the Andalusian plains, stopping for a visit to the ducal town of Osuna to see its impressive 17th- and 18th-century buildings. Arrive in Carmona in time for lunch and a walking tour, and take the rest of the day to discover the town on your own. (Meals: 1L) Hotel Alcazar de la Reina

Day 14 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Getaway–Seville

Day 2: Weekend Getaway: Spend a full day discovering the delights of Seville, the cultural heart of southern Spain. Explore the Alcazar palace, the cathedral, and La Giralda clocktower—which together make up a World Heritage site. Return to Carmona for an evening at leisure. (Meals: 1B)  Hotel Alcazar de la Reina

For those remaining in Marbella, the day is free for independent pursuits.

Day 15 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Getaway–Cordoba

Day 3: Weekend Getaway: Depart Carmona for Córdoba, stopping on the way to visit Ecija, a town of 11 towers, nine steeples, and many churches and palaces. In Córdoba’s, stroll beneath the striped arches of beguiling Mezquita, an immense mosque with a cathedral built right at its center. Explore the city’s World Heritage-listed historic center before returning to Marbella this afternoon. (Meals: 1B)

For those remaining in Marbella, the day is free for independent pursuits.

Day 16 – Marbella

The majority of the day is free to follow your own path if you are not enrolled in an optional track.

Spanish students will meet for a morning Language class. In the afternoon, gather for a presentation with a local expert on contemporary Spain.

Food and Traditions participants will meet this evening in one of the most charming villas in Marbella for a lesson in Andalusian cooking. Try your hand at making paella with the villa's owners and enjoy a tasting of olive oils produced at their century-old, family-run farm. Then savor a paella feast accompanied by delicious Spanish wine in a beautiful setting. (Meals: 1D for Food and Traditions participants)

• Optional Language Track 1.5: Spanish class 
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.4: Andalusian cooking class and olive oil tasting

Day 17 – Antequera / Marbella

Language track partcipants will attend a morning Spanish class.

In the afternoon, step back in time among the megalithic tombs of Antequera. Here, the Menga Dolmen and the Viera Dolmen are set among fantastic rock formations just outside of the medieval town. These 5,000-year-old vestiges of Iberia’s earliest inhabitants were recently declared a World Heritage site, and the Menga Dolmen is considered the largest burial mound in Europe. Continue to the town itself for a walking tour along its picturesque medieval streets. Visit the Alcazaba, a hilltop Moorish fortress, and see some of the many churches and cathedrals that dot Antequera’s historic center.

Back in Marbella this afternoon, enjoy free time to pursue your interests. Join fellow travelers this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (Meals: 1D)

• Optional Language Track 1.6: Spanish class 

Day 18 – Marbella

If you have opted for the Active Discovery track, embark on your first guided walk today. Travel to the Natural Area of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, where you’ll follow the famous Caminito del Rey, an aerial pathway that crosses over a breathtaking gorge. 

The day is free for those not taking part in the Active Discovery track.

• Optional Active Discovery Track 2.1: Guided walk in Desfiladero de los Gaitanes and Caminito del Rey

Day 19 – Marbella

Spanish Language students will meet for a class this morning. 

During your free time today, you might visit another museum or take a walk on one of the many lovely beaches that line the coast around Marbella. Grab lunch at a café with new friends, or find a spot in a park to read or people-watch. 

Join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant tonight. (D)

• Optional Language Track 1.7: Spanish class 

Day 20 – Granada / Marbella

A scenic drive brings you to Granada, the final stronghold of the Moors in Spain. Explore the legendary Alhambra, the fortified palace complex that overlooks the city. Built by the Nasrid Dynasty in the 13th and 14th centuries, the hilltop site is a maze of stunning courtyards and arcaded walkways, filled with gardens, fountains, and stunning Moorish architectural details.  Sit down to lunch at the Parador de Granada, set within the complex, and enjoy views of the Generalife summer palace. Return to Marbella in the afternoon and gather for a drink and conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. (Meals: 1L)

Day 21 – Marbella

Those who opted for the Active Discovery track will set out today on a leisurely hike in the foothills of Sierra Blanca, following gentle trails that overlook the Costa del Sol. On this 3-4 hike, take in views of Marbella and its scalloped beaches, the neighboring town of Estepona, and, if skies are clear, even Gibraltar and the Moroccan coast. Stop at several viewpoints along the way, and take a break for lunch at a former hunting lodge.  

If you did not select the Active Discovery track, enjoy a full day at leisure in Marbella. (Meals: 1L for Active Discovery participants)

• Optional Active Discovery Track 2.2: Costa del Sol hike

Day 22 – Marbella

Soak up the Andalusian way of life during your final day in Marbella. Pay a final visit to your favorite spots in town, or take a last walk along the lovely Costa del Sol.  

Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers to celebrate your Spanish sojourn, and all you have experienced and accomplished, at a festive farewell reception and dinner. (Meals; 1R,1D)

Day 23 – Málaga/Return home

Depart Marbella and transfer to Málaga Costa del Sol International Airport for your return flight. 

Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change due to operational considerations. Both included excursions and optional enrichment tracks often involve walking, standing, and climbing steps. All enrichment tracks as well as the optional two night excursion to Carmona, Seville, and Córdoba are at an additional cost. 

Days 1 and 2 – Depart the U.S. for Málaga, Spain/Marbella

Depart the U.S. on a transatlantic flight to Málaga. Upon arrival, transfer to Marbella and check in to your apartment-style hotel, located on the famous Golden Mile, just steps from the shore. Your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director will be available this afternoon and throughout the program to help with personal sightseeing arrangements, restaurants reservations, shopping suggestions, and any other assistance you may require. This evening, gather for a welcome reception followed by dinner at the hotel. (Meals: 1R,1D)

Day 3 – Marbella

Get acquainted with your home for the next three weeks during a walking tour of Marbella, a lovely seaside town with a labyrinth of cobbled streets. Discover beautiful plazas and well-preserved churches and public buildings. Stroll the colorful Plaza de Naranjos in the city center, then stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Your afternoon is at leisure.

This evening, meet up for a walk along Marbella’s seaside promenade, taking in views of the town’s main beaches, El Fuerte and La Fontanilla. Cap off the day with dinner at a seaside restaurant. (Meals: 1B,1L,1D)

Day 4 – The White Villages of Andalusia / Marbella

Travel inland to discover the traditional "white villages" of Gaucin, Casares, and Castellar de la Frontera, which date back to the era of Al-Andalus, when the Moors ruled Spain. Nestled in the mountains and often protected by medieval fortifications, these villages are known for their picturesque whitewashed houses and and narrow lanes. During your excursion, enjoy a lunch of local delicacies. Return to Marbella and take advantage of free time in the afternoon. Early this evening, gather with new friends in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for refreshments and conversation about your discoveries so far. (Meals: 1B,1L)

Day 5 – Marbella

Immerse yourself in the rhythms of daily life in Marbella during a day at leisure. Those who have opted for the Language track will walk to the nearby Spanish language school for an orientation tour, a placement test, and your first Spanish class.

Participants on the Food and Traditions track embark on an interactive tapas tour in Marbella’s Old Town. During the excursion, learn about the history and culture of the town and explore its interesting nooks and crannies. 

• Optional Language Track 1.1: Placement test and Spanish class
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.1: Old Town tapas tour

Day 6 – Ronda / Marbella

Set off on an excursion to Ronda, an ancient town built on a cliff above deep gorges. Examine layers of history as you tour the twisting streets of its historic center, learning about its Roman occupation and discovering its distinctive Moorish influence. See a hodgepodge of architectural styles at the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor, commissioned by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1485 but not completed until centuries later. Visit the Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring and one of its most architecturally beautiful, and admire local art and handicrafts at the superb Casa don Bosco. Continue to a nearby vineyard for lunch and a wine tasting. 

Return to Marbella in the late afternoon and gather for a presentation on the history of Islam in Iberia. (Meals: 1L)

Day 7 – Marbella

If you have opted for the Active Discovery track, embark on your first guided walk today. Travel to the Natural Area of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, where you’ll follow the famous Caminito del Rey, an aerial pathway that crosses over a breathtaking gorge. 

The day is free for those not taking part in the Active Discovery track.

• Optional Active Discovery Track 2.1: Guided walk in Desfiladero de los Gaitanes and Caminito del Rey

Day 8 – Gibraltar / Marbella

Venture to Gibraltar, a strategic British Overseas Territory first settled by the Moors and later ruled by Spain. This slice of Britain in Spain holds a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Greeks. Trace it significance through Homeric tales through 20th-century World Wars as you travel to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar. From the summit, 1,400 feet above the sea, take in views (weather permitting) across the famous Strait of Gibraltar to the coast of North Africa. You'll have the remainder of the day at leisure in Marbella.

Day 9 – Marbella

Those pursuing the Language track meet this morning for a first day of Spanish immersion. Otherwise, enjoy a leisurely morning in Marbella. You might stroll past the yachts moored along the Golden Mile or visit one of Marbella's wonderful small museums. This afternoon, gather for a presentation by a local expert on the Arab roots of flamenco.

In early evening, meet for a drink and conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. Then continue for dinner with your expert and fellow travelers at a restaurant in town. (D)

• Optional Language Track 1.2: Spanish class 

Day 10 – Málaga / Marbella

Spanish students will meet for a Language class this morning.  

After lunch on your own, journey to Málaga, a coastal city that is currently undergoing a cultural renaissance, with a flourishing of cuisine, music, and the arts. At the Museo Picasso Málaga, dedicated to the city's native son, take a guided tour of a collection that spans Picasso’s various periods. Enjoy time on your own to discover the city, then meet up to attend a flamenco performance. Return to Marbella for dinner at a local restaurant. (Meals: 1D)

• Optional Language Track 1.3: Spanish class 

Day 11 – Marbella / Granada

A scenic drive brings you to Granada, the final stronghold of the Moors in Spain. Explore the legendary Alhambra, the fortified palace complex that overlooks the city. Built by the Nasrid Dynasty in the 13th and 14th centuries, the hilltop site is a maze of stunning courtyards and arcaded walkways, filled with gardens, fountains, and stunning Moorish architectural details.  Sit down to lunch at the Parador de Granada, set within the complex, and enjoy views of the Generalife summer palace. Return to Marbella in the afternoon and gather for a drink and conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. (Meals: 1L)

Day 12 – Marbella

Those on the Language track will attend a morning Spanish class. 

If you have chosen the Food and Traditions track, head out with a guide to explore the municipal markets of Marbella and sample regional food and drink specialties as you go. Meet local vendors and learn about the traditions of the marketplace. If you are not participating in the optional track, enjoy the full day to explore Marbella and its environs as you wish.

In early evening, gather for a presentation by a local expert on the kingdoms of Iberia.

• Optional Language Track 1.4: Spanish class 
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.2: Marbella markets tasting tour

Day 13 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Getaway: Carmona

Embark on an optional two-night weekend getaway to Carmona, Seville, and Cordoba (at additional cost). Or stay in Marbella and take advantage of a weekend at leisure to live like a local, enjoying the beach, spending time at a café, and practicing your Spanish.

Day 1: Weekend Getaway: Travel inland across the Andalusian plains, stopping for a visit to the ducal town of Osuna to see its impressive 17th- and 18th-century buildings. Arrive in Carmona in time for lunch and a walking tour, and take the rest of the day to discover the town on your own. (Meals: 1L) Hotel Alcazar de la Reina

Day 14 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Getaway: Seville

Day 2: Weekend Getaway: Spend a full day discovering the delights of Seville, the cultural heart of southern Spain. Explore the Alcazar palace, the cathedral, and La Giralda clocktower—which together make up a World Heritage site. Return to Carmona for an evening at leisure. (Meals: 1B)  Hotel Alcazar de la Reina

For those remaining in Marbella, the day is free for independent pursuits.

Day 15 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Getaway: Cordoba

Day 3: Weekend Getaway: Depart Carmona for Córdoba, stopping on the way to visit Ecija, a town of 11 towers, nine steeples, and many churches and palaces. In Córdoba’s, stroll beneath the striped arches of beguiling Mezquita, an immense mosque with a cathedral built right at its center. Explore the city’s World Heritage-listed historic center before returning to Marbella this afternoon. (Meals: 1B)

For those remaining in Marbella, the day is free for independent pursuits.

Day 16 – Marbella

The majority of the day is free to follow your own path if you are not enrolled in an optional track.

Spanish students will meet for a morning Language class. In the afternoon, gather for a presentation with a local expert on contemporary Spain.

Food and Traditions participants will meet this evening in one of the most charming villas in Marbella for a lesson in Andalusian cooking. Try your hand at making paella with the villa's owners and enjoy a tasting of olive oils produced at their century-old, family-run farm. Then savor a paella feast accompanied by delicious Spanish wine in a beautiful setting. (Meals: 1D for Food and Traditions participants)

• Optional Language Track 1.5: Spanish class 
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.4: Andalusian cooking class and olive oil tasting

Day 17 – Marbella / Málaga

Spanish students will meet for a Language class this morning.  

You'll have another opportunity to experience the many cultural offerings of Málaga during an afternoon at leisure in the city. Perhaps you will visit Picasso's birthplace or admire Andalusian art at the Museo de Carmen Thyssen, set within a 16th-century palace. Browse Málaga's art galleries, visit the cathedral, or take a stroll among exotic plants in the botanical garden. Gather back in Marbella this evening for dinner at the hotel with fellow travelers. (Meals: 1D)

• Optional Language Track 1.6: Spanish class 

Day 18 – Nerja / Frigiliana / Marbella

This morning, travel east to the seaside town of Nerja, famous for subterranean caves that stretch for almost three miles. Venture into these underground chambers to see the largest known stalagmite in the world. Next, visit Frigiliana, poised on the slopes of the Sierra Almijara with breathtaking views of the Costa del Sol. Venture to the upper village, known as Barrio Mudéjar for its Moorish architecture. Stroll narrow alleys past whitewashed houses adorned with blue trim and bougainvillea, and learn about the town's cultural heritage and cuisine. After lunch on your own in Frigillana, drive back to Marbella to enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Meet up in early evening for a drink and lively conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner.

Day 19 – Marbella

A Spanish language class is scheduled for this morning. If you have not opted for the language track, enjoy a free morning in Marbella.

Gather in the afternoon for a presentation by a local expert on the kingdoms of Iberia.

This evening, those who have selected the Food and Traditions track will delve into the cultural significance of Andalusia's iconic spirit: sherry. Learn about the art of making sherry and sample different types of Spanish sherry paired with local dishes. Hear about Marbella's traditions and anecdotes and trace the history of a wine that has been evolving for more than 3,000 years. (Meals: 1D for Food and Traditions participants)

• Optional Language Track 1.7: Spanish class 
• Optional Food and Traditions Track 3.3: Sherry tasting experience

Day 20 – Antequera / Marbella

In the afternoon, step back in time among the megalithic tombs of Antequera. Here, the Menga Dolmen and the Viera Dolmen are set among fantastic rock formations just outside of the medieval town. These 5,000-year-old vestiges of Iberia’s earliest inhabitants were recently declared a World Heritage site, and the Menga Dolmen is considered the largest burial mound in Europe. Continue to the town itself for a walking tour along its picturesque medieval streets. Visit the Alcazaba, a hilltop Moorish fortress, and see some of the many churches and cathedrals that dot Antequera’s historic center.

Back in Marbella this afternoon, enjoy free time to pursue your interests. Join fellow travelers this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (Meals: 1L)

Day 21 – Marbella

Those who opted for the Active Discovery track will set out today on a leisurely hike in the foothills of Sierra Blanca, following gentle trails that overlook the Costa del Sol. On this 3- to 4-hour hike, take in views of Marbella and its scalloped beaches, the neighboring town of Estepona, and, if skies are clear, even Gibraltar and the Moroccan coast. Stop at several viewpoints along the way, and take a break for lunch at a former hunting lodge.  

If you did not select the Active Discovery track, enjoy a full day at leisure in Marbella. (Meals: 1L for Active Discovery participants)

• Optional Active Discovery Track 2.2: Costa del Sol hike

Day 22 – Marbella

Spend your final day independently in Marbella enjoying the seaside and Andalusian way of life. Pay a final visit to your favorite spots in town, or take a last walk along the lovely Costa del Sol. Gather this evening with your fellow travelers to celebrate your Spanish sojourn, and all you have experienced and accomplished, at a festive farewell reception and dinner. (Meals: 1R,1D)

Day 23 – Málaga / Return home

Depart Marbella and transfer to Malaga Costa del Sol International Airport for your flight home.

Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change due to operational considerations. Both included excursions and optional enrichment tracks often involve an element of walking, standing and climbing steps. All enrichment tracks as well as the optional two-night excursion to Carmona, Seville, and Córdoba are at an additional cost.