Looking for elegance, comfort and zero stress in your next trip? You’re in the right place! This Southern Spain 7-Day Luxury Itinerary with Hidden Gems is made for travelers who love beauty, history, and wine.
We’ll travel through Andalusia, the heart of Southern Spain. A region filled with sunlight, Moorish history, olive groves, flamenco and unforgettable food. Think private guides, charming villages and slow travel with a touch of history and gastronomy. From Seville to Granada, you’ll discover cities full of life. Plus, we’ve added a few secret spots most tourists miss!
Day 1: Arrival in Seville and Sightseeing
Welcome to Seville, the radiant capital of Andalusia and your starting point on this unforgettable journey. Once you’re settled, the city is yours to explore.
On the first morning, enjoy our Seville Walking Tour with your private guide, who will lead you through the heart of Seville and share its history, from the Romans to the Arabs to the colonial era. Beginning at Plaza Nueva, you’ll stroll through the historic Santa Cruz quarter, a labyrinth of whitewashed alleyways and hidden courtyards. Along the way, you’ll pass by emblematic sites like the Old Tobacco Factory, the grand San Telmo Palace, the iconic Torre del Oro overlooking the Guadalquivir River, and the beautifully tiled Plaza de España (one of the most photographed spots in Spain!). Finally, end your walk with sweeping views from the top of the Metropol Parasol, the largest wooden structure in the world, and my favourite viewpoint for a 360-degree view of Seville.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Seville’s soul with a private visit to its two most treasured monuments: the Royal Alcázar and Seville Cathedral. With skip-the-line access, you’ll explore the Alcázar’s Mudejar architecture and gardens. After that, you will step into the biggest Gothic Cathedral in the world, home to an immense altarpiece and the tomb of Cristopher Columbus. Additionally, climb its tower, the Giralda, once a Muslim minaret and now one of the best viewpoints in town.
The day isn’t over yet! In the evening, join us for our Tapas and Flamenco Tour and dive into Spanish culture. You’ll start with a peaceful walk through Triana, Seville’s most unique neighbourhood, where you’ll discover corners wth more than 2,000 years of history. After the walk, you’ll attend a unique flamenco show. Prepare for one intense hour of music, rhythm and emotion. It’s not a tourist performance; this is the real thing. Then, with your guide, continue the evening like a true local with a visit to authentic tapas taverns. You’ll try the best regional dishes paired with Spanish wines, socializing and savoring each bite! You can take a look at some must-try dishes in Seville in our blog Top 7 Foods You Must Try if you’re Visiting Seville.
Day 2: Cadiz & Wine
It’s time to hit the road to discover more of Andalusia. Today’s journey takes you to Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, and Jeréz de la Frontera, a real hidden gem on this Southern Spain 7-Day Luxury Itinerary with Hidden Gems.
Your guide will pick you up for a scenic 1.15-hour drive south. First stop: Cádiz, founded by the Phoenicians 3,000 years ago. It sits at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, and offers whitewashed buildings, lively plazas and narrow Andalusian streets.
Start your visit in the old town, surrounded by thick stone walls and views of the Atlantic coast. You’ll wander narrow alleys and sunny corners. Admire Cádiz Cathedral, a golden-domed beauty and climb its towers for views of the city and the ocean. Alternatively, don’t miss Plaza de las Flores, a lively square, and La Caleta Beach, nestled between two castles.
Next, your journey continues inland to Jerez de la Frontera, home of flamenco, Andalusian horses, and, of course, the renowned sherry wine. Here, you’ll visit a traditional family-run bodega, where you’ll taste different types of sherry in a quiet and unique cellar. Fino, amontillado, oloroso…you’ll be a connoisseur by the end of the trip!
For those visiting on Tuesdays or Thursdays, you can also experience the elegant Royal Equestrian Horse Show, one of the finest in Europe, highly recommended for anyone who loves Spanish traditions.
Finally, after a day rich in sights, tastes, and sounds, you’ll return to Seville in the early evening, perfectly timed for a relaxed dinner. Check our guides for the best tapas bars and the best cocktail bars in Seville!
Day 3: Discover Cordoba
Today, you’ll head east to Cordoba on an unforgettable day trip from Seville. Once the capital of Islamic Spain, and now one of Andalusia’s most charming cities, this place is perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed.
Upon your arrival, meet your local guide and begin your private tour through the historic center. You’ll be impressed with the breathtaking Mezquita, originally a mosque, later converted into a cathedral. Its forest of red-and-white arches, intricate mihrab, and Gothic chapels reflect centuries of cultural fusion between Moors, Christians and Jews.
Next, wander through the Jewish Quarter, a maze of cobbled lanes and whitewashed walls, tiny synagogues and beautiful patios filled with flowers. Additionally, visit the nearby Real Caballerizas (Royal Stables).
By midday, eat like a local. Cordoba’s tapas are a delicious reflection of its heritage. Don’t miss salmorejo, a creamy tomato purée topped with ham and egg; flamenquín, a pork and ham roll fried to crispy perfection; and rabo de toro, oxtail stew cooked until tender. Pair your meal with a glass of chilled Montilla wine. Check out our blog to discover the best tapas bars in town!
In the afternoon, walk across the Roman Bridge, which stretches over the Guadalquivir River. It’s perfect for photos and views of the city skyline. Stop at a traditional tavern and enjoy one last glass of a local wine before heading back to Seville for a quiet evening or a night out, your choice!
Day 4: Iberian Ham Tasting or Day Trip to Gibraltar
The fourth day of this Southern Spain 7-Day Luxury Itinerary with Hidden Gems offers two exceptional options, depending on your appetite for either Spanish gastronomy or a unique cross-cultural experience beyond Andalusia’s southern edge.
Option 1: Gourmet Escape to Sierra de Aracena
Food lovers, this day trip is for you! You’ll head north with your guide to Sierra de Aracena (Huelva), a lush, mountainous area filled with chestnut trees, stone villages, and oak groves where the famous pata negra pigs roam free.
You’ll experience a visit to a family-run Iberian Ham producer, learn firsthand about the life of the pigs, the curing process, and the traditions behind this product; join a guided tour through the drying cellars, a walk along the oak groves where the pigs live, and see how time, salt, and air transform pork into Spain’s culinary treasure. Additionally, join a gourmet tasting experience, sample grades of jamón ibérico, and other cured meats, all paired with local wines. Finally, you’ll get the chance to explore the beautiful town of Aracena and enjoy a local lunch.
Option 2: Day Trip to Gibraltar
Prefer a cross-cultural twist? Embark on our day trip to Gibraltar, a unique adventure to the tiny British Overseas Territory perched at the southern tip of Spain. Once here, ride a cable car or drive a car to the top of the iconic Rock for panoramic views.
Visit the famous Barbary macaques, wander through St. Michael’s Cave, and explore the Great Siege Tunnels that reveal Gibraltar’s military past. Wrap up with a stroll down the city center, where Union Jacks fly high, red phone booths line the sidewalks and everything from fish and chips to tax-free shopping awaits. If you choose this option, don’t miss our complete guide on how to spend a perfect day in Gibraltar!
Day 5: From Seville to Granada via Ronda
On the fifth day, you can hop on a transfer from Seville to Granada through Andalusia’s heart, with a stop in Ronda and a taste of the region’s finest olive oil.
After a scenic 2-hour drive, you’ll arrive in the dramatic mountaintop town of Ronda. You’ll explore both sides of the city, crossing the Iconic Puente Nuevo, which spans the deep El Tajo gorge. Wander Ronda’s charming old quarter, home to noble houses, quiet plazas and one of Spain’s oldest bullrings.
Additionally, enjoy a relaxed lunch on your own. Ronda is known for rustic dishes like venison stew and orange and cod salad. Afterwards, stop at a traditional olive oil state nearby. Learn about the centuries-old production methods and sample some of Andalusia’s finest extra virgin olive oil, a true highlight of the region.
Continue your journey east through rolling hills and olive groves. In about two hours, you’ll arrive in Granada, where your driver will drop you at your new hotel. The evening is free to relax, perhaps with a short walk through the Realejo district or a quiet tapas dinner to end the day.
Day 6: Discover Granada
Today is devoted to discovering the soul of Granada, its rich Moorish heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food culture.
Start with our exclusive private visit to the Alhambra, led by a specialist. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the seat of the Nasrid dynasty, offers stunning examples of Moorish architecture. Wander through the intricately detailed Nasrid Palaces, marvel at the Patio de los Leones, and hear the tales of sultans and conquest. Then, stroll the peaceful Generalife Gardens, with their flowing fountains, lush terraces, and sweeping views of the city.
Descend into the city for lunch at your leisure. Granada is known for its free tapas culture, so order a drink and enjoy local dishes like berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey), remojón granadino (orange and cod salad) and pionono (sweet cream-filled pastry) for dessert. For a relaxed atmosphere, head to a terrace in the Realejo or Albaicín districts.
In the afternoon, join our guide again for a private walk, talk and devour tour where you’ll walk through Granada’s old town and the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter. Learn about its history and try some local bars in the neighbourhood. You’ll walk through cobbled alleys, admire whitewashed homes, and stop at the Mirador San Nicolás for sweeping views of the Alhambra above.
Day 7: Day Trip to the Alpujarras
On your final day on this Southern Spain 7-Day Luxury Itinerary with Hidden Gems, escape the city with our day trip and explore one of Andalusia’s most enchanting hidden gems: Las Alpujarras. Nestled on the southern slopes of Sierra Nevada, this region offers a journey through time, tradition and raw natural beauty.
Your driver will collect you for a full-day adventure into the mountains. The winding route reveals dramatic gorges, olive trees, whitewashed villages clinging to hillsides… Your first stop is Pampaneira, a charming, artisan white village with flower-filled balconies and winding streets with views of the mountains.
Continue to Bubión, a quieter, more contemplative town steeped in Moorish history. Stroll its cobbled streets and learn how this village played a role in the final Muslim resistance during the Spanish Reconquista.
Your final village is Capileira, perched high above the Porqueira Gorge with sweeping views of Mulhacén and Valeta, Spain’s highest peaks. Here, you’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch at a traditional inn, where hearty mountain dishes like plato alpujareño and stews warm the soul.
Before returning to Granada, visit a small cheese and jam workshop. Meet the makers, learn about traditional methods, and enjoy a tasting of their homemade goat cheeses and preserves, a final, delicious gift from the land.
As you descend to Granada, take in your last views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, raw, timeless and unforgettable. Enjoy your last few hours of this 7-day luxury itinerary!
After seven days of exploring Andalusia, from the orange-scented streets of Seville to the mountain air of Granada, you’ll leave with much more than photos. This trip is all about feeling the rhythm of southern Spain, tasting its flavors, hearing its stories, and meeting the people who bring it all to life.
Whether it’s your first time here or your fifth, this Southern Spain 7-Day Luxury Itinerary with Hidden Gems is designed to take you beyond the usual, with just the right mix of culture, food, history and beauty. It’s a journey full of special moments, from sipping wine in a tucked-away bodega to gazing at the Alhambra at sunset.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions, or even create your own personalised trip. Start planning your southern Spain escape now!
