PEARLS OF SPAIN & EGYPT

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

Greca Tip: As in any other large city, the center of Madrid offers a diverse variety of gastronomic venues to suit all tastes, where you can taste the traditional local tapas.

After your breakfast, you will have a panoramic tour of the city to discover the medieval origins of Madrid, like the Arabic fortress at the Barrio de la Moreria, famous for its historical buildings. 

You will walk around the courtesan district of the Hapsburg characterized by Phillip II and its Renaissance and Baroque style buildings, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa; the Madrid of the Bourbons and the complex town planning schemes of Charles III. You will admire the Royal Palace, Cibeles, and Neptuno Fountains, and the Puerta de Álcala. 

You will learn about the contemporary areas of the city such as Gran Vía, Castellana, the district of Salamanca, Plaza Castilla, and Parque del Oeste, as well as commercial and financial areas of modern Madrid: the emblematic Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas and the Santiago Bernabeu soccer stadium.

The afternoon will be free to keep exploring all the wonders that the city has to offer.

Greca Tip: Located very close to the Plaza Mayor, in the center of the city, you will find the Mercado de San Miguel, a place to enjoy the typical dishes of the region, accompanied by a glass of wine or a "caña".

After a nutritious breakfast, you will leave for Extremadura to reach Cáceres.

You will have free time to visit the old town and its medieval quarter, considered a World Heritage Site.

Walking through the old town will allow you to see palaces such as the Golfines de Abajo, the Carvajal, the Toledo-Moctezuma (home of the daughter of the Aztec emperor Moctezuma II), the Casa de las Veletas (which houses the Museum of Cáceres with works by Picasso or Miró and the second-largest cistern in the world) or the Co-Cathedral of Santa María, from whose bell tower you can get good views.

You will have time for lunch and then continue your journey towards Córdoba.

On your arrival in Córdoba, you will check at the hotel for accommodation.

Greca Tip: For sugar fans, we recommend visiting the Convent of San Pablo in Cáceres. This convent is famous in the city for its handmade sweets. It is an ideal gift to bring to the family or for a snack that same day.

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will start the panoramic tour to Córdoba, you will visit the city including the interior of the famous Mosque/Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter.

Córdoba was an important Roman city and a great Islamic center during the Middle Ages. Its buildings and architecture reflect the coexistence of various religions throughout its history: Christian, Jewish, and Islamic.

After visiting this beautiful city, you will continue the route to Seville where you will have free time to start knowing the city and then check in the hotel where you will stay.

Greca Tip: Seville is the cradle of tapas and although many cities dispute this title, it is said that the origin of tapas goes back to the 16th century when King Alfonso XIII to prevent dirt from getting into his glass, the waiter used a slice of ham to cover the glass.

After a delicious breakfast, we will visit the city accompanied by our guide and explore its most important landmarks. Seville is an emblematic city with a rich historical, cultural, and artistic heritage, making it a favorite destination for visitors from around the world.

We will start our visit at Maria Luisa Park, designed by the French landscape architect Forestier for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. Here, you can appreciate the "neosevillian" style that served as inspiration and influence for other Spanish public parks in the early 20th century.

Next, our tour will take us to the Plaza de España, a semi-elliptical square symbolizing Spain's embrace of its former American territories. It is known as the masterpiece of Sevillian architect Aníbal González and covers a total area of 50,000 square meters, making it undoubtedly the most colossal square in Spain.

The tour concludes with an exterior view of the impressive Cathedral and the Giralda (the name of the bell tower) and a visit to the typical Santa Cruz neighborhood with its streets, squares, and narrow alleys.

The rest of the day will be free for you to continue enjoying this wonderful city.

Greca Tip: Don't forget to visit an authentic Sevillian "tablao" to enjoy a typical regional dance show, "las sevillanas."

After a delicious breakfast, we will head towards our next destination, Ronda, along the White Towns Route.

Ronda is a charming town situated on a gorge overlooking the Guadalevín River. Its historic center is a treasure trove of iconic monuments, including its renowned bullring, one of the most famous in the world. The town is also known for its ancient bridge and Arab baths, adding to its historical and monumental appeal.

You will have free time to explore this beautiful Andalusian town before continuing your journey to the Costa del Sol, a modern and popular tourist destination.

Greca Tip: Don't miss the Puente Nuevo, also known as the New Bridge or El Tajo, a majestic structure with over 200 years of history, symbolizing the city of Malaga.

After breakfast, we will head to the city of Granada. As we reach Sabikah Hill, prepare to be captivated by the rosy walls of the Alhambra Palace. With our "skip-the-line" access, we will enter the palace without delay and embark on a tour of this extraordinary masterpiece.

The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World, will transport you to a realm of opulence and beauty. From the royal palace to the palatial city and fortress, every corner tells a fascinating story.

Accompanied by our guide, you will explore the intricately designed rooms, courtyards, and gardens, discovering the rich history of this 9th-century fortress. The Alhambra showcases a unique blend of Islamic and Renaissance architecture, with the Nasrid and Charles V Palaces showcasing the harmony of these different styles.

Greca Tip: The name "Alhambra" derives from Arabic, meaning "red castle," owing to the reddish hues of its towers and walls.

After a delicious breakfast, you will leave for the Imperial city of Toledo, the cradle of civilizations. Followers of the three religions have lived in this city for centuries, and their traces have been left on its streets and corners.

In Toledo, it is possible to see, in a matter of a few meters, a Gothic cathedral, a 10th-century mosque, and two synagogues.

You will have a panoramic visit of ​​the city, you can find the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, which for more than 1,000 years is the oldest monument in Toledo and one of the most important of Hispano-Muslim and Mudéjar architecture in Spain.

Another important area is the Jewish Quarter, an area full of charm where two of its protagonists also await: the synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca, the oldest in the city, and the synagogue of El Tránsito, which houses the Sephardic Museum.

Also in this area is the museum dedicated to one of the most illustrious and beloved residents of Toledo, the painter of characteristic elongated figures known as El Greco.

Of the Christian legacy, the 13th century Cathedral and its stained-glass windows stand out, as one of the strong points of the city. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, which was built to honor the Catholic Monarchs, and the Alcázar, which dominates the entire city, are not far behind either.

Later you will continue the route to Madrid, where you will stay.

Greca Tip: Be sure to try the Andalusian gazpacho, a kind of cold soup that is served especially on the hottest days and whose main ingredient is tomato. You can find it in most restaurants and eating houses in the region.

You will enjoy your breakfast and, at the indicated time, you will be transferred to Madrid-Barajas International Airport to board your next flight.

After you arrive in Cairo, the capital of the Arab Republic of Egypt, a person from our English-speaking team will be waiting at your departure to assist you during the visa process, inform all the details of your trip, and clear any type of doubt or query that you have as well and make a brief presentation of the city and its day to day.

The transfer to the hotel will be made by one of our private air-conditioned vehicles.

At the hotel, your assistant will help you with the registration. The rest of the day is for you to relax, and begin to enjoy the comforts of your hotel.

Greca Tip: Learn everything you need to know about this incredible country before your arrival, in our blog section: all about Egypt.

After enjoying a tasty and abundant breakfast with typical products of the region, our visit to the most important points of interest in the largest metropolis on the African continent will begin.

The tour, as our official English-speaking guide will explain, will start with the famous Pyramids of Giza. Here, we will find the only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world still standing: the Great Pyramid of Khufu.

This funerary complex is presided over by the famous Sphinx, with the head of King Khafre and the body of a lion. We will be able to observe it both from the main access esplanade and up close. Additionally, we can enter the interior of one of the other two pyramids: Khafre or Menkaure.

Optionally, we can include lunch and a tour of the Saqqara necropolis. There, the funerary complex of King Djoser stands out. It is a city built exclusively for the king's afterlife. Its step pyramid is the first stone structure made in pyramid form. It symbolizes the beginning of this type of construction in Egypt.

Furthermore, at night, we can arrange the light show at the Pyramids of Giza. We can also enjoy dinner while floating on the Nile. All of this is optional and should be consulted with your travel assistant.

Greca Tip: In addition to the famous step pyramid, Saqqara is home to numerous tombs and mastabas (rectangular tombs with flat roofs) belonging to nobles, priests, and high officials of ancient Egypt.

Begin your day with a delectable breakfast served in the hotel dining room, followed by a free day in Cairo to enjoy at your leisure.

For those seeking an immersive experience, we offer an optional full-day tour to Cairo, where you will explore the significant landmarks of this historic city.

The journey starts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, situated in the heart of the city. Inside, you will encounter a vast collection of invaluable artifacts, including the renowned treasures of Tutankhamun, magnificent sarcophagi, well-preserved mummies, and sculptures of indescribable beauty.

Next, venture into the captivating historic district of Cairo, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area has been home to caliphs and their mosques since the 10th century. One notable attraction is the Citadel of Saladin, which was fortified to safeguard the city against Crusader invasions nearly a thousand years ago.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Khan el Khalili bazaar, where you will have the opportunity to test your negotiation skills during some free time.

Before returning to the hotel, you will personally explore the Coptic neighborhood, a melting pot of different religions. Stand in awe of the Hanging Church, a remarkable structure built on the foundations of the Babylon Fortress.

There, you should visit the Saints Sergius and Wachus Church, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their escape from Herod, and discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of the oldest in the country.

At the designated time, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport to catch your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, embark on a memorable cruise ship journey along the legendary Nile River. Indulge in comfortable accommodation and enjoy a delicious dinner onboard.

Greca Tip: Don't forget to inquire about the optional excursions available during the cruise, such as the unforgettable balloon ride in Luxor, offering a truly unique and breathtaking experience.

Start your day in Edfu with a memorable experience of witnessing one of Egypt's most beautiful sunrises. After indulging in a delicious breakfast onboard, prepare to embark on an enchanting carriage ride to the Temple of Horus.

This remarkable sanctuary holds the distinction of being the best-preserved Egyptian temple, having been concealed beneath the sand for centuries until its discovery by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette in the mid-19th century.

Following your visit to the Temple of Horus, return to the motor ship for a delectable lunch as you set sail towards Kom Ombo. Here, an exciting excursion awaits you at the temple dedicated to Haroeris, the falcon god, and Sobek, the crocodile god.

As part of your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore an exhibition showcasing remarkably preserved mummified crocodiles, providing fascinating insights into the culture of Ancient Egypt.

As the day draws to a close, a delightful dinner will be served onboard before you embark on a serene night sailing towards Aswan.

Greca Tip: Make sure not to miss the chance to savor a cup of traditional Turkish coffee, infused with the aromatic flavors of cardamom, for an authentic and delightful experience.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a relaxing morning to rejuvenate. If you're interested, we highly recommend considering an optional visit to the Temples of Abu Simbel in Nubia, located in southern Egypt on the shores of Lake Nasser.

These remarkable temples form part of the Nubia and Aswan Open-Air Museum and have been meticulously relocated piece by piece due to the rising waters of the Nile River caused by the construction of the Aswan Dam.

Commissioned by Ramses II, the rock-cut temples were constructed over 20 years to commemorate the Battle of Kadesh, paying homage to the great deities while also honoring Ramses himself.

Also, the main highlight of the complex is the Temple of Ramses II, featuring four awe-inspiring statues on its façade that exude the majesty of Ancient Egypt. Additionally, you will find the temple dedicated to Nefertari, the esteemed wife of the pharaoh, in Abu Simbel.

In the afternoon, following a delectable lunch onboard, we suggest considering an optional felucca ride, an authentic Egyptian wooden boat, allowing you to intimately admire the scenic beauty of the Nile.

Along this journey, you will encounter Elephantine Island, once a thriving center for the ivory trade, as well as Kitchener Island, renowned for its exquisite botanical garden and panoramic view of the Agha Khan Mausoleum. A single glance at this sight will help you comprehend why it was chosen as the eternal resting place for Supreme Chief Ismaelita.

Next, you will embark on a visit to Aswan Dam, an impressive feat of hydraulic engineering initiated by the British Empire and completed by the Egyptians in the mid-20th century. Designed to regulate the flooding of the Nile River, this monumental structure stands as a testament to human ingenuity.

Following the visit, you will proceed to the inaccessible island of Philae, where you will have the opportunity to witness the temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. Like the temples of Abu Simbel and other sites across Egypt, the Philae Temple complex had to be relocated from its original location to protect it from the Nile's rising waters.

After a day filled with exploration, return to the motor ship and enjoy a restful overnight stay onboard in Aswan.

Greca Tip: This is the perfect occasion to try karkadé, a delightful Nubian infusion made from hibiscus flowers. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, adding a refreshing touch to your Egyptian experience.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, you will embark on a journey to Marsa Alam, a hidden paradise situated on the stunning West Riviera of the Red Sea.

This incredible beach destination offers a plethora of water activities for you to indulge in, ranging from snorkeling to surfing. Among its renowned beaches, Abu Dabbab stands out, not only for its majestic sea turtles but also for its unique and exotic marine life, including fascinating creatures like crocodile fish and octopuses.

During your stay in Marsa Alam, you will be treated to a "soft" all-inclusive experience, ensuring that your every need is catered to.

Greca Tip: If you wish to upgrade your all-inclusive experience to "hard" all-inclusive, simply consult our agents for more information.

You will have the day off with an all-inclusive regime to enjoy the facilities of the hotel, take a swim on the beach, get to know the city, or take some of the optional excursions that this beautiful destination offers.

You can snorkel in the house of the Dolphins, snorkel in the house of the Corals, visit the beautiful beaches such as Hamata or Sataya, practice water sports, or have fun in a jeep safari with a camel ride and BBQ dinner.

Greca Tip: The city of Marsa Alam is known as a world-class destination for kitesurfing and the perfect starting point for safaris.

You will have the day off with a "soft" all-inclusive regime to enjoy the facilities of the hotel, take a swim on the beach, get to know the city, or take some of the optional excursions that this beautiful destination offers.

You can snorkel in the house of the dolphins, snorkel in the house of the corals, visit the beautiful beaches as Hamata or Sataya, practice water sports, or have fun in a Jeep safari with a camel ride and BBQ dinner.

Greca Tip: On the coast of Marsa Alam, it is very common to see Turtles, dugongs, and dolphins.

In the morning you will enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel and then will be transferred by air-conditioned vehicle to Marsa Alam Airport and board the flight to Cairo.

Once there, our specialized staff will meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

At night, you can optionally enjoy a buffet dinner with a show in a floating restaurant on the Nile River. Ask your travel agent for more information.

Greca Tip: Consult with our guide for night tours in Cairo or the best gastronomic options to make the most of your stay in Egypt.

At the indicated time, one of our vehicles will take you to the Cairo International Airport to check in your luggage and, if necessary, process any tax refund on tax-free products that you have purchased.

From Greca, we hope to see you again to enjoy some wonderful moments that will remain forever in your memory.

Have a good trip! Or, as you will say yourself: “Rihlat Jayida!”.

Greca Tip: If you feel that your stay in Egypt has not revealed all its secrets yet, you can add more nights to this fantastic city.