Day 1 & Day 2 – Depart the U.S. and arrive in Malaga, Spain – transfer to Marbella

Depart the U.S. on your transatlantic flight to Malaga, Spain. Upon arrival at Malaga airport, transfer to Marbella and the Aparthotel Monarque Sultan. Upon arrival at the hotel your luggage will be delivered to your guest room. Your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director will be available this afternoon and throughout the program for suggestions regarding personal sightseeing arrangements, restaurants reservations, shopping suggestions of any other assistance you may require. This evening, gather for a welcome reception followed by dinner at the hotel. (R,D)

Day 3 – Marbella

Enjoy a walking tour through Marbella, a lovely seaside town with a labyrinth of cobbled streets. Discover beautiful plazas and well-preserved churches and public buildings.  See the colorful Plaza de Naranjos in the city center. Then stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Your afternoon is at leisure.

This evening gather for a stroll along Marbella’s seaside promenade and view the town’s main beaches, El Fuerte and La Fontanilla. This evening, dine with fellow travelers at a local seaside restaurant. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Excursion to Malaga’s Province and the White Villages

Depart Marbella and travel inland to discover the traditional villages of Gaucin and Casares, villages that have maintained traces of their Moorish era of Al-Andalus. These small white villages with whitewashed houses, some with remains of castles and fortresses, are set in spectacular mountain settings. Spend time visiting with local artists in their studios. While on the excursion a luncheon of local delicacies will be served. Return to Marbella in the afternoon with the remainder of the day at leisure. In early evening, join new friends in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for refreshments and conversation. (B,L)

Day 5 – Marbella

For those who have subscribed to Track 1.1 Language Option, this morning depart on the walk to your Spanish language school, for an orientation of the facilities, placement test and your first Spanish class.

Track 3.1 Food and Traditions Option participants depart 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. The balance of the day is free of planned activities.

Day 6 – Excursion to Ronda

Today depart for Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest and most breathtaking towns. Ronda’s twisting streets reveal architecture influenced by centuries of Moorish domination such as birdcage balconies and more. Step into the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor, a church commissioned by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1485. The church was built on the site of a mosque and wasn’t completed until the 17th century, so the architecture combines Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque elements as well as vestiges of its Moorish beginnings. Also visit the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s finest bullfighting rings, and Casa don Bosco, a modernist palace with a stunning courtyard and a collection of fine regional ceramics.

Continue to a local vineyard to enjoy a luncheon and wine tasting. Return to Marbella in the late afternoon. Gather for a presentation on the History of Al Andalus: Islam on the Iberian Peninsula 711-1492. Dinner is independently and the remainder of the evening is at leisure. (L)

Day 7 – Marbella

For those who have subscribed to the Track 2.1 Active Discovery, take a guided walk in to the Natural Area of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, where you’ll enjoy an amazing aerial pathway known worldwide as Caminito del Rey (King´s pathway) that takes hikers over a breathtaking gorge. The walkway was fully renovated after nearly 4 years of renovation. The excursion is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. The duration of the hike is two (2) hours with a total distance of 3.2 miles and 100 stairs. If you’re not participating in the optional track, the day is free so that you can follow your own path and explore on your own, This evening dinner is at leisure.

Day 8 – Excursion to Gibraltar

Depart Marbella by motorcoach for 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. Travel to the top of the Rock for breath-taking views. From a height of 1,400 feet (weather permitting) you will be able to see the North African coastline, where the waters of the Atlantic meet the Mediterranean. This evening gather in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner then enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 9 – Marbella

The Track 1.2 Language instruction meets this morning with a first full day of language immersion.

In the afternoon all guests  gather for a local expert presentation on Exploring Flamenco’s Arab Roots.

Day 10 – Excursion to Málaga and Museo Picasso Málaga

Track 1.3 Language class will meet this morning.

This afternoon depart Marbella for an excursion to Málaga.  Málaga is currently undergoing a Renaissance, with an investment in culture and the arts.  Take a guided tour of the Museo Picasso Málaga, dedicated to the artist in the city he was born.  Containing works from a span of Picasso’s various periods, the museum presents them in chronological order. After time independently, Smithsonian Journeys travelers will attend a flamenco performance at a local tavern in Malaga then return to Marbella for dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 11 – Excursion to Granada

Depart Marbella this morning for the scenic drive to famed city of Granada. There you will visit the renowned Alhambra, the city’s remarkable Moorish fortress and palace complex. The Alhambra, which was built in the 13th and 14th centuries, dominates the city. Admire fountains, pools, courtyards and shaded porticos. The interiors feature exquisite carvings and tiles. After the visit, enjoy lunch on the grounds of the Parador de Granada. Following lunch, return to a leisure afternoon in Marbella. 

Day 12 – Marbella

Track 1.4 Language instruction will meet this morning.

In the afternoon gather for a presentation on Kingdoms of Iberia with a local expert.

For those who have subscribed to the Food and Traditions Track 3.2 discover the municipal markets of Marbella and sample regional food specialties and drinks as you go. Meet market vendors and learn about the traditions of the marketplace. The evening and dinner is independently.

Day 13 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Escape to Seville & Carmona

Enjoy an optional two-night weekend escape (additional cost) staying in Carmona, one of the most scenic areas of Andalusia and a charming and vibrant market town. Explore Osuna, known for its rich history and archeological sites dating from Roman and Arab times. Spend a full day in Seville, the cultural heart of southern Spain with its beautiful Alcazar palace and magnificent cathedral, both World Heritage sites. Stop at Ecija with its 11 towers, nine steeples, many churches, and palaces and then continue on to Cordoba, an important Roman city and a major Islamic center in the Middle Ages, its central town is now a World Heritage site. While there tour La Mezquita, an immense mosque dating from 784 A.D. and featuring a columned prayer hall and stunning Byzantine mosaics.

Guests who select this Weekend Escape option will spend two nights at the Hotel Alcazar de la Reina in Carmona. 

Day 1: Weekend Escape – Depart Marbella for Osuna which boasts many fine baroque palaces, mansions and churches from the 16th to the 18th centuries.  Continue on to Carmona for an included lunch and a walking tour.  Afterwards check-in to the hotel where the remainder of day is at leisure. (L)

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

Day 14 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Escape to Seville & Carmona

Day 2: Weekend Escape: Drive to Seville to spend the day touring this most magnificent city. Tour the Plaza de Espana, Cathedral de Sevilla, and the Royal Alcazar. Return to Carmona for an evening at leisure. (B)  Hotel Alcazar de la Reina

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

Day 15 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Escape to Seville & Carmona (concludes)

Day 3: Weekend Escape: This morning check-out of the Hotel Alcazar de la Reina in Carmona and drive to Ecija where you’ll learn more about the town’s impressive Roman heritage and view noble manor houses and spectacular churches. Then continue on to Cordoba for an included tour of La Mezquita, the spectacular mosque-cathedral of Cordoba. Weekend Escape participants will then return to Marbella and the hotel in the late afternoon. (B)

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

Day 16 – Marbella

Track 1.5 Language instruction will meet this morning.

Gather for a presentation on Contemporary Spain with a local expert.

Food and Traditions Track 3.3 participants will enjoy a lesson on Andalucian cooking in one of the most charming villas in Marbella. Learn how to make a classic paella with the owners of the villa and enjoy a tasting of their exquisite olive oil from their century- old family-run farm. Enjoy your paella and delicious Spanish wine in a beautiful setting this evening.

The day is free to follow your own path if not enrolled in an optional track.

Day 17 – Marbella / Return Excursion to Malaga

 Track 1.6 Language instruction will meet this morning.

This afternoon, return to Malaga for an afternoon of exploring. With Spain and France commemorating the 50th anniversary of Picasso's death, they have declared 2023 “The Year of Picasso”. In Malaga, you have the opportunity to visit his birthplace or one of the many other museums and points of interest in the city. Return to Marbella late in the day where you can enjoy time for independent pursuits. Join fellow travelers this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 18 – Excursion to Nerja and Frigiliana

After breakfast, depart the hotel for the towns of Nerja and Frigiliana. Nerja is famous for its subterranean caves that can be easily explored. The caves stretch for almost three miles as a series of underground caverns and contain the largest stalagmite in the world. Frigiliana protects and preserves some of the best examples of Moorish architecture. The town’s cultural and architectural heritage and will transport you to Moorish times. Lunch today will offer you the opportunity to try some local delicacies. Return to Marbella late in the day. Gather in early evening for lively conversation in the Travelers Corner. Afterward, dine independently.

Day 19 – Marbella

Track 1.7 Language instruction will meet this morning.

The day is free for independent activities.

For those subscribed to the Food and Traditions Track 3.4, learn about the art of producing Jerez sherry.  Enjoy sampling the various types of sherries that pair well with the local cuisine. Hear about local traditions and cultural anecdotes about Marbella and embrace the history of a fortified wine that has been evolving in character for more than three millennia.

Day 20 – Excursion to Antequera

This afternoon travel to the outskirts of Antequera, where you’ll visit megalithic tombs thought to be more than 5,000 years old. These include the Menga Dolmen and Viera Dolmen. Both are World Heritage sites. Continue your excursion to the old town of Antequera. Stop at the hilltop Alcazaba de Antequera, proudly situated atop the city-line, and begin a walking tour. Visit the El Carmen Church, just one example of the more than 30 churches and cathedrals found in Antequera. The town is also full of charming shops, cafes and restaurants, to be found in its shaded winding streets and lanes. You’ll discover the blend of cultures that have become a way of life in Andalusia. This evening, meet fellow travelers in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for conversation then dine independently. (L)

Day 21 – Marbella

For those who subscribed to the Active Discovery Track 2.2, there is a 3-4 hour soft hike, enjoying the Costa del Sol views from above, seeing Marbella, Estepona and even Gibraltar and África. Visit some viewpoints, like Mirador del Corzo and Mirador del Macho Montés in the foothills of Sierra Blanca and Juanar. Lunch is included at a nearby restaurant that used to be an old hunting lodge.

Day 22 – Marbella

Spend your final day independently in Marbella enjoying the seaside and Andalucian way of life.

Gather this evening with your fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers to celebrate your Spanish adventure, and all you have experienced and accomplished, with an evening’s farewell reception and dinner. (R,D)

Day 23 – Depart Marbella for Malaga and your return flight to the U.S.

Depart Marbella and transfer to Malaga Costa del Sol International Airport for your return flight to the U.S.

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. 

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

Depart the U.S. on your transatlantic flight to Málaga, Spain. Upon arrival at Malaga airport, transfer to Marbella and the Aparthotel Monarque Sultan. Your Smithsonian Journeys Resident Director will be available this afternoon and throughout the program for suggestions regarding personal sightseeing arrangements, restaurants reservations, shopping suggestions of any other assistance you may require. This evening, gather for a welcome reception followed by dinner at the hotel. (R,D)

Day 3 – Marbella

This morning enjoy a walking tour through Marbella, a lovely seaside town with a labyrinth of cobbled streets. Discover beautiful plazas and well-preserved churches and public buildings. See the colorful Plaza de Naranjos in the city center. Then stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Your afternoon is at leisure.

This evening gather for a stroll along Marbella’s seaside promenade and view the town’s main beaches, El Fuerte and La Fontanilla. Then dine with fellow travelers at a local seaside restaurant. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Excursion to Malaga’s Province and the White Villages

Depart Marbella and travel inland to discover the traditional villages of Gaucin, Casares, and Castellar de la Frontera, villages that have maintained traces of their Moorish era of Al-Andalus. These small white villages with whitewashed houses, some with remains of castles and fortresses, are set in spectacular mountain settings. While on the excursion a luncheon of local delicacies will be served. Return to Marbella in the afternoon with the remainder of the day at leisure. In early evening, join new friends in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for refreshments and conversation. (B,L)

Day 5 – Marbella

For those who have subscribed to Track 1.1 Language Option, this morning depart on the walk to your Spanish language school, for an orientation of the facilities, placement test and your first Spanish class.

Track 3.1 Food and Traditions Option participants depart 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. The balance of the day is free of planned activities.

Day 6 – Excursion to Ronda

Today depart for Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest and most breathtaking towns. Ronda’s twisting streets reveal architecture influenced by centuries of Moorish domination such as birdcage balconies and more. Step into the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor, a church commissioned by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1485. The church was built on the site of a mosque and wasn’t completed until the 17th century, so the architecture combines Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque elements as well as vestiges of its Moorish beginnings. Also visit the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s finest bullfighting rings, and Casa don Bosco, a modernist palace with a stunning courtyard and a collection of fine regional ceramics.

Continue to a local vineyard to enjoy a luncheon and wine tasting. Return to Marbella in the late afternoon and gather for a presentation on the History of Al Andalus: Islam on the Iberian Peninsula 711-1492. The remainder of evening will be at leisure. (L)

Day 7 – Marbella

For those who have subscribed to the Food and Traditions Track 3.2, discover the municipal markets of Marbella and sample regional food specialties and drinks as you go. Meet market vendors and learn about the traditions of the marketplace. If you’re not participating in the optional track, the remainder of the dayis free so that you can follow your own path and explore on your own. This evening dinner is at leisure.

Day 8 – Excursion to Gibraltar

Depart Marbella by motorcoach for 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. Travel to the top of the Rock for breath-taking views. From a height of 1,400 feet (weather permitting) you will be able to see the North African coastline, where the waters of the Atlantic meet the Mediterranean.

Day 9 – Marbella

The Track 1.2 Language instruction meets this morning with a first full day of language immersion.

In the afternoon all guests  gather for a local expert presentation on Exploring Flamenco’s Arab Roots.

In early evening, get together for a drink and conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. Afterward, join fellow travelers for dinner at a restaurant in Marbella. (D)

Day 10 – Excursion to Málaga and Museo Picasso Málaga

Track 1.3 Language class will meet this morning.

This afternoon depart Marbella for an excursion to Málaga.  Málaga is currently undergoing a Renaissance, with an investment in culture and the arts.  Take a guided tour of the Museo Picasso Málaga, dedicated to the artist in the city he was born.  Containing works from a span of Picasso’s various periods, the museum presents them in chronological order. After time independently, Smithsonian Journeys travelers will attend a flamenco performance at a local tavern in Malaga then return to Marbella for dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 11 – Excursion to Nerja / Frigiliana

After breakfast, depart the hotel for the towns of Nerja and Frigiliana. Nerja is famous for its subterranean caves that can be easily explored. The caves stretch for almost three miles as a series of underground caverns and contain the largest stalagmite in the world. Frigiliana protects and preserves some of the best examples of Moorish architecture. The town’s cultural and architectural heritage will transport you to Moorish times. Lunch today will offer you the opportunity to try some local delicacies. Return to Marbella late in the day. Gather in early evening for a drink and lively conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. This evening, dine at your leisure. (L)

Day 12 – Marbella

Track 1.4 Language instruction will meet this morning.

In the afternoon gather for a presentation on Kingdoms of Iberia with a local expert.

For those subscribed to the Food and Traditions Track 3.3, learn about the art of making sherry and enjoy different types of Spanish sherry paired with the local cuisine. Hear about local traditions and cultural anecdotes of Marbella and embrace the history of a wine that has been molding its identity for more than 3,000 years. (D)

Day 13 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Escape to Seville & Carmona

Enjoy an optional two-night weekend escape (additional cost) staying in Carmona, one of the most scenic areas of Andalusia and a charming and vibrant market town. Explore Osuna, known for its rich history and archeological sites dating from Roman and Arab times. Spend a full day in Seville, the cultural heart of southern Spain with its beautiful Alcazar palace and magnificent cathedral, both World Heritage sites. Stop at Ecija with its 11 towers, nine steeples, many churches, and palaces and then continue on to Cordoba, an important Roman city and a major Islamic center in the Middle Ages, its central town is now a World Heritage site. While there tour La Mezquita, an immense mosque dating from 784 A.D. and featuring a columned prayer hall and stunning Byzantine mosaics.

Guests who select this Weekend Escape option will spend two nights at the Hotel Alcazar de la Reina in Carmona. 

Day 1: Weekend Escape – Depart Marbella for Osuna which boasts many fine baroque palaces, mansions and churches from the 16th to the 18th centuries.  Continue on to Carmona for an included lunch and a walking tour.  Afterwards check-in to the hotel where the remainder of day is at leisure. (L)

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

Day 14 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Escape to Seville & Carmona

Day 2: Weekend Escape: Drive to Seville to spend the day touring this most magnificent city. Tour the Plaza de Espana, Cathedral de Sevilla, and the Royal Alcazar. Return to Carmona for an evening at leisure. (B)  Hotel Alcazar de la Reina

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

Day 15 – Marbella or Optional Weekend Escape to Seville & Carmona (concludes)

Day 3: Weekend Escape: This morning check-out of the Hotel Alcazar de la Reina in Carmona and drive to Ecija where you’ll learn more about the town’s impressive Roman heritage and view noble manor houses and spectacular churches. Then continue on to Cordoba for an included tour of La Mezquita, the spectacular mosque-cathedral of Cordoba. Weekend Escape participants will then return to Marbella and the hotel in the late afternoon. (B)

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

Day 16 – Marbella

Track 1.5 Language instruction will meet this morning.

Gather for a presentation on Contemporary Spain with a local expert.

Food and Traditions Track 3.4 participants will enjoy a lesson on Andalucian cooking in one of the most charming villas in Marbella. Learn how to make a classic paella with the owners of the villa and enjoy a tasting of their exquisite olive oil from their century- old family-run farm. Enjoy your paella and delicious Spanish wine in a beautiful setting this evening.

The day is free to follow your own path if not enrolled in an optional track.

Day 17 – Excursion to Antequera

 Track 1.6 Language instruction will meet this morning.

This afternoon travel inland to the outskirts of Antequera, where there are a series of 5,000-year old megalithic tombs, including Menga Dolmen and Viera Dolmen, which are both World Heritage sites. Visit these outstanding examples of megalithic architecture before continuing your journey in the old town of Antequera. Stop at the hilltop Alcazaba de Antequera, proudly sitting atop the city-line, to begin the walking tour.  Visit the El Carmen Church, just one example of the more than 30 churches and cathedrals found in Antequera.  Antequera is also full of charming shops, restaurants, and winding lanes that encompass the mix of cultures that have become one in Andalusia.

Return to Marbella late in the day for the remainder of the day at leisure for independent pursuits. Join fellow travelers this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 18 – Marbella

Today is Track 2.1 for those who have opted for the Active Discovery excursions.

Take a guided walk into the Natural Area of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, where you’ll enjoy an amazing aerial pathway known worldwide as Caminito del Rey (King´s pathway) that takes hikers over a breathtaking gorge. The walkway was fully renovated after nearly 4 years of renovation. The excursion is not recommended for those with a fear of heights.

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

Day 19 – Marbella

Track 1.7 Language instruction will meet this morning.

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

Day 20 – Excursion to Granada

Depart Marbella this morning for the scenic drive to famed city of Granada. There you will visit the renowned Alhambra, the city’s remarkable Moorish fortress and palace complex. The Alhambra, which was built in the 13th and 14th centuries, dominates the city. Admire fountains, pools, courtyards and shaded porticos. The interiors feature exquisite carvings and tiles. After the visit, enjoy lunch on the grounds of the Parador de Granada. Following lunch, return to a leisure afternoon in Marbella. Later, join fellow travelers for a drink and conversation in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. (L)

Day 21 – Marbella

For those who subscribed to the Active Discovery Track 2.2, there is a 3-4 hour soft hike, enjoying the Costa del Sol views from above, seeing Marbella, Estepona and even Gibraltar and África. Visit some viewpoints, like Mirador del Corzo and Mirador del Macho Montés in the foothills of Sierra Blanca and Juanar. Lunch is included at a nearby restaurant that used to be an old hunting lodge.

Day 22 – Marbella

Spend your final day independently in Marbella enjoying the seaside and Andalucian way of life.

Gather this evening with your fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers to celebrate your Spanish adventure, and all you have experienced and accomplished, with an evening’s farewell reception and dinner. (R,D)

Day 23 – Depart Marbella for Malaga and your return flight to the U.S.

Depart Marbella and transfer to Malaga Costa del Sol International Airport for your return flight to the U.S.

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.