Excursions in Spain (Guadalquivir)

In Spain, many of our excursions offer you to discover a country with dazzling traditions and rich and historic past. Stroll through the colourful cobblestone streets of Seville before visiting the famous city of Alcazar. Our guides will take you to Cadiz, a beautiful coastal town overlooking the Atlantic skyline. On the way, you will also pass through Granada, topped by its unique and formidable Alhambra. This fortress, a masterpiece of Ottoman art and architecture, will give you all its secrets.

Then discover true Andalusia, venture to Jerez and see a breeding of bulls and the spectacle of matadors at work.

A cruise on the Guadalquivir is a unique way to discover Spain and its Andalusia region. Your cruise ship will sail on the peaceful waters with the perfect Spanish sun and fabulous weather. Discover a journey through tradition, culture and history all at the same time.

12 excursions available

Day trip to Cordoba (lunch included)

Córdoba is one of the jewels of Andalusia. Its history spans more than 2,000 years and reflects Roman, Jewish, Muslim, and Christian influences. During this full-day excursion, you will discover its remarkable architectural heritage. The historic centre, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with treasures that bear witness to the legacy of several civilizations. Among them is the famous Mosque-Cathedral, known as the Mezquita, which you will visit with an expert guide. Built in the 8th century as one of the largest mosques in the world, it was later converted into a cathedral following the Christian reconquest of the city in the 13th century. As you explore its different halls, you will be captivated by the blend of Islamic and Christian elements that make this monument truly unique. You will then stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic centre, including a visit to the Judería, Córdoba’s former Jewish quarter, renowned for its maze of narrow lanes, whitewashed flower-filled houses, and medieval synagogue. This district perfectly illustrates the multicultural spirit of medieval Andalusia. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site of Medina Azahara, a fascinating journey into Córdoba’s most glorious past, when the Umayyad Caliphs ruled Al-Andalus. Built in the 10th century at the foot of the Sierra Morena mountains, Medina Azahara served as the permanent residence of the Caliph and the seat of the Caliphate government. PLEASE NOTE Good walking shoes are recommended. The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate. For your information, please note that the bus trip should take about 2 hours to go and 2 hours to return.

10h00Authentic

Included

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Tour the Palacio de las Dueñas and Seville Fair Festivities

Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, Las Dueñas was named after the former monastery of Santa María de las Dueñas. It has several buildings, courtyards, and gardens. We will tour the stables, lemon-tree courtyard, main courtyard, and Gypsy Hall—which was once the center of social life in the palace. Many of the other rooms we will see illustrate the fundamental activities found in Andalusian culture, including bullfighting and flamenco dancing. We'll then move on to discover the Seville Fair. This is a unique opportunity to discover and participate in traditional Andalusian festivities. Many wonders and excitements await you at the "Real de la Feria," where the fair takes place—including tapas, music, and dancing. Join us for a glass of Rebujito* and some local specialties. PLEASE NOTE For optimal organization of your excursion, the order of the visits can be modified. Times are approximate and can change according to navigational conditions. *Alcohol can be dangerous to your health. Please drink in moderation.

6h00Authentic

Included

Guided tour of Jerez and equestrian show

We will depart from Cadiz for our excursion in Jerez. Jerez has been renowned for its wines, flamenco, horses and bull ranching. A panoramic tour by coach will enable you to see the cathedral which was built in 1695 over the ruins of the old Jerez mosque and the former Salvador Church. The bell tower outside was probably built over the mosque's minaret. The rectangular temple has five naves and houses a latin cross structure. We'll then visit a stud farm that raises magnificent Andalusian horses, and we’ll enjoy a presentation of the equestrian arts the country is famous for. We'll return on board for lunch. PLEASE NOTE Good walking shoes are recommended. The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

5h00Authentic

Included

Visit of Jerez, horse show and wine tasting in a bodega

We will leave by coach for Jerez. Known worldwide as the cradle of flamenco music, the city is also revered for its sherries, fine horses, and bull ranches. During a panoramic tour, you'll discover the 17-century Jerez de la Frontera Cathedral. The Baroque-style building has a rectangular plan with five naves. We'll then visit a stud farm that raises magnificent Andalusian horses, and we'll enjoy a presentation of the equestrian arts the country is famous for. At the end of the show, we'll have a tasting of local products and wine in a bodega. After our excursion, we'll return on board for lunch. PLEASE NOTE Good walking shoes are recommended. The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

6h00Authentic

Included

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Guided walking tour of Cadiz

Departure on foot to visit Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe. The old center brings together the most characteristic areas of the city, including beautiful baroque churches and elegant mansions, many of which are adorned with painted facades of delicate pastel colors and ornate wrought iron balconies. Sights include the castle of San Sebastian built in the 17th century, the popular neighborhood of the Vina, the cathedral whose construction lasted 116 years, which explains the diversity of styles. In the 18th century, King Phillip II of Spain commissioned the construction of many important monuments in this area in order to protect the town from seaborne assaults. You'll be able to admire the Castillo de Santa Catalina, the Castillo de San Sebastián and many more of the monuments that Cristobal de Rojas had built at the time. Our tour continues towards the Plaza de España, formerly known as Plaza del Carbón, which was extended to mark the 100th anniversary of the constitution. The square contains the Monument to the Constitution of 1812, created by architect Modesto López Otero and sculptor Aniceto Marinas. Your tour ends via the Plaza de las Flores. You will be enchanted by this blue and white city. Return on board in Cadiz. PLEASE NOTE Good walking shoes are recommended: visit entirely on foot. The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

2h00Authentic

Included

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Visit in an Andalusian hacienda

At the end of the afternoon, we’ll visit a typical Andalusian hacienda. You’ll discover the hacienda’s beautiful architecture with its impressive Andalusian patio and watch an Andalusian dance performance in its private arena. We'll return to the ship after the show. PLEASE NOTE Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

1h30Authentic

Included

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Guided Tour of Cadiz and its Christmas Market

Departure on foot from the dock to begin the tour of Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe. The old town is home to the city's most typical neighborhoods, featuring stunning baroque churches and elegant manor houses, many of which are adorned with pastel-colored facades and wrought iron balconies. In the 18th century, Cristobal de Rojas commissioned the construction of significant monuments in this area on the orders of King Felipe II to protect the city from maritime attacks. Among them, you will admire the Fortress of Santa Catalina and the Fortress of Saint Sebastián. The tour continues toward the Plaza de España, formerly Plaza del Carbón, which was expanded to celebrate the General States. In this square stands the monument to the General States of Cadiz, designed by architect Modesto López Otero and sculptor Aniceto Marinas. You will also explore the magnificent Christmas market in the Plaza de San Antonio, where sparkling garlands create a magical atmosphere, and the enticing scents of local specialties will captivate you. Return aboard in Cadiz. PLEASE NOTE The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

2h00Authentic

Included

Seville and the Alcazar Palace

Transfer by coach to Seville. We'll start off our visit with the azulejos that adorn the Plaza de España which was constructed for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. The 200 meter diameter hemicycle symbolizes Spain welcoming its former colonies. It faces in the direction of Guadalquivir and represents the path to the Atlantic Ocean and America. There is only one building going all along its rounded side. A fountain designed by Vicente Traver, a Valencian architect, stands in the center. Also lying between the center and the palace are four bridges spanning four canals in half circles, representing the four former Spanish Queens. We'll move on with a stroll through the typically Sevillian patios garnished with flowers in the charming Santa Cruz district. Sheltered behind the former perimeter wall, what used to be the Jewish district belongs to the historic heart of the city and is surrounded by the most famous buildings of the Andalusian capital. The district, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is a center of art and history that brims with legends, churches and palaces, witnesses to its past. It was greatly enhanced at the beginning of the 20th century and stands today as one of the most emblematic quarters of Seville. It's mostly reputed for its enchanting steep alleys and shaded squares. Afterwards, we'll discover the Alcazar*, one of the oldest Royal Palaces in Europe and the King's residence. A Moorish house and a fortress, the Alcazaba (former Arab district) is a gorgeous witness of the mudéjar style with a combination of Moorish techniques and Christian symbols. The visit will end with Seville's cathedral, providing one of the last testimonies to the Gothic style. This structure was built over the ruins of an Almohad mosque as a symbol of the capital's prosperous status of great commercial town after the Reconquista. We'll return on board at the end of the morning. PLEASE NOTE Entrance to the Alcazar and the cathedral is included. Good walking shoes are recommended: visits by coach and on foot. Please dress appropriately for the visit of the cathedral. *Except on Sunday afternoons and Mondays: visit of the Pilate Palace. The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

3h30Authentic

Included

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Visit to a Mantecados Factory in Estepa

You will travel to Estepa by coach (1h30 travel time each way). You will discover the history and tradition of one of the most iconic specialties in Andalusian Christmas cuisine: Mantecados. These delicious shortbread cookies, rich in flavor and heritage, hold an essential place during Christmas festivities in Spain. The origin of Mantecados dates back to the 16th century, between the towns of Estepa and Antequera, where this pastry was born. In the past, houses were transformed into factories in Estepa to meet the growing popularity of these tasty cookies, which were marketed throughout Spain from the 19th century. These old bakeries are still a testament to the culinary tradition of the city. Mantecados continue to symbolize sharing and conviviality, and their presence on Christmas tables embodies the joy of the holiday season. You will have the opportunity to discover the entire manufacturing process of these sweet treasures, true ambassadors of Andalusian Christmas traditions.Return by coach. PLEASE NOTE The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

4h30Authentic

Included

Visit of the Nervión Christmas market, enhanced by the illuminations

Departure on foot towards Avenida Luis de Morales. Enjoy the nightfall to admire the Nervión Christmas market, where wooden chalets and magical illuminations create a warm and enchanting atmosphere. Stroll among a refined selection of local crafts: jewelry, traditional decorations, and gourmet specialties such as mulled wine, pastries, cheese, and charcuterie. Let yourself be immersed in this authentic atmosphere where Andalusian traditions and festive spirit blend perfectly. Return on board. PLEASE NOTE The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

2h30Authentic

Included

Seville, the Palacio de las Dueñas

The most famous palace in Seville was built in the late 15th century and is a good example of the eclectic mix found between Spanish Gothic and Moorish styles. Many historic figures have passed through the palace doors over the years, including Spanish poet Antonio Machado, who was born here. The palace is a work of art unto itself. During our tour, you’ll see its rich collection of furniture, ceramics, antiques, and paintings. You’ll also discover its interior courtyards and magnificent gardens with thousands of plants, including orange, lemon, and palm trees. PLEASE NOTE The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

3h30Authentic

Included

The Three Wise Men parading in Seville during the Cabalgata de Reyes

Departure on foot towards the city center. On January 5th, Seville celebrates one of its most emblematic events: the Cabalgata de Reyes, a spectacular parade that dates back over a century. First established in 1918, this Andalusian tradition marks the eve of Epiphany, when the Three Wise Men arrive to offer their gifts. Over the decades, this parade has become one of the largest and most lavish in Spain, featuring more than 30 floats, 1,000 participants, and tons of sweets thrown to the crowd each year. The route winds through the city’s main avenues in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. The floats, designed as true works of art, depict biblical scenes, legendary figures, or symbols of Hispanic culture. The Three Wise Men – Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar – always close the procession on their majestic thrones. A magical moment awaits you, filled with sounds, colors, and traditions. The Cabalgata will immerse you in a true popular celebration, reflecting the Andalusian soul and its deep-rooted customs. Return on board. PLEASE NOTE The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate.

2h00Authentic

Included