Culture & history in Costa del Sol
Guided Tour of La Axarquia with Frigiliana and Nerja
Considered the most picturesque part of the Costa del Sol coastline, Nerja is a trip that you shouldn't miss out on. On this half-day morning excursion, you'll explore the white village of Frigiliana and the charming town of Nerja to visit the ‘Balcon de Europa'– a stunning coastal viewpoint.
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Day Trip to Gibraltar including Minibus Tour of the Rock
An exotic blend of the familiar and the unusual, Gibraltar is a must-visit. This tour ticks off all its top attractions – the Barbary apes of the Rock, St Michael's Caves and the Main Street. Rosa, one of our local guides, says: ‘Gibraltar is one of the most unexpected culture shocks I've ever encountered. It feels like my native Andalusia, but everything looks British. Wandering around, listening to the locals chat in their cute dialect is always a joy.'The fun kicks off on a high with a guided tour of the Rock of Gibraltar. Towering 426 metres above the Med, its steep slopes look daunting – but you'll be discovering it from the comfort of a minibus. The first stop is packed-with-monuments Europa Point, a popular spot for taking snaps. At the Upper Rock nature reserve, you'll meet the free-roaming Barbary apes – Europe's only wild monkeys. On a clear day, you can see all the way across to Africa. Next up is St Michael's Cave. Once home to Neanderthals and used as a war hospital during World War II, they're now an atmospheric concert hall.Back at ground level, Gibraltar's town centre has a distinctly British feel to it, whether it's the more obvious red phone and post boxes or the more succinct ones such as arched Georgian door frames. Tuck into a pie or maybe some fish and chips for lunch, before some retail therapy. Main Street, where many of the British high street chains have outlets, is famed for its duty-free shops.
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Full day Tour of Cordoba during the Patio Festival
On this full day tour, you'll visit the UNESCO-listed old town of Cordoba in May, when it comes to life during the annual patio competition. You'll see the flower-festooned patios on a guided tour, discover the great mosque and enjoy free time to explore.
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Full Day Tour to Ronda with Reservatauro Ranch Visit
Heading into the hills from the Costa del Sol, you'll come across one of the most storied medieval towns in the region – the one and only Ronda. Spend the whole day exploring its cobbled alleys and discover its history and local traditions, including a visit to a bull ranch. Marilo, one of our expert local guides, says ‘Ronda's famous bridge is still known as Puente Nuevo, even though construction began over 250 years ago. It joins the two parts of Ronda – the new town, “Mercadillo”, and the old town, “La Ciudad”.'After arrival, you'll set off on a guided walk around the town, checking out its churches, mansions and the Puente Nuevo. This magnificent stone bridge straddles the 100-metre-deep Tajo gorge that bisects the town, serving up dizzying views. Ernest Hemingway was a frequent visitor – so much so, there's a sculpture of him, opposite one of Orson Welles, another Ronda aficionado – in Blas Infante park. Then, you'll enjoy more views over the ravine from the Casa Don Bosco, a modernist mansion perched above the gorge, as well as a glass of wine.You'll round off at the Reservatauro Ranch – set in a biosphere reserve filled with centuries-old oak trees, it's a perfect habitat for breeding Spanish bulls and Andalusian horses. Learn more about the history of Spanish bulls and Andalusian horses, in a sustainable and eco-friendly way. You'll stroll through wooded pasturelands studded with oaks and get to meet these lovingly cared-for animals, which are free to roam the vast ranch.
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Marbella and Golden Mile Tour with Puerto Banus Visit
The charming old town of Marbella and the upscale opulence of Puerto Banus provide a perfect contrast on this trip. Take half a day to discover them both, with a little help from your guide. Sip a coffee in its famous Orange Tree Square, see the Dali sculptures along the Avenida del Mar, and see the millionaire's playground of Puerto Banus.
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de, en, fr, nl
Gibraltar Panoramic Tour and Deluxe Tea
Touring Gibraltar's historic sites and dramatic landscapes has never been easier. Climb aboard our comfy bus for a scenic adventure. Our first stop is Rosia Bay, steeped in history as the spot where Admiral Nelson prepared his fleet for the Battle of Trafalgar. Ana, one of our expert local guides, says, 'Legend has it that Nelson's body was brought ashore to Nelson's Anchorage - otherwise known as Rosia Bay - after his death on board the HMS Victory, supposedly preserved in a barrel of rum.'Take in the sweeping views across the Bay of Gibraltar towards Spain, then head to Europa Point, the southern tip of Europe, where you'll be treated to uninterrupted vistas stretching across the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa. On a clear day you'll be able to see the Rif mountains in northern Morocco, and sometimes even the Atlas mountains 500 kilometres to the south. Admire the Trinity Lighthouse, before winding by bus along Gibraltar's eastern coastline, keeping an eye out for remnants of the rock's military past, from ancient fortifications to secret submarine pens.Our final stop is the iconic Rock Hotel, an Art Deco gem frequented by royalty and celebrities alike. Take a seat in the sumptuous surroundings and tuck into a traditional afternoon tea, featuring classic sandwiches, homemade scones and pastries, all while soaking in the splendid views and the refined ambiance of this historic hotel.
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Nat Geo Day Tour: Echoes of Al-Andalus in Malaga
Journey through time and culture as you uncover the fascinating heritage of Al-Andalus in Malaga. Visit the Alcazaba, a formidable fortress standing as a testament to the military prowess of the Arab era. As you explore its imposing walls and strategic design, you'll be transported back to a period of grandeur. Continue the adventure at Malaga Museum, where Al-Andalus' vibrancy is showcased through a collection of ceramics and Moorish calligraphy. Marvel at exhibits merging history and art, delving into the cultural richness of the past. Next, you will stop at a restaurant to enjoy a typical tapa merging Arabic and Mediterranean flavours, washed down with local wine. Then, learn how to write your name in Arabic at a calligraphy workshop, crafted exclusively for National Geographic travellers. Discover the characteristic streets of the historic centre, revealing the urban heritage shaped by Al-Andalus. Admire the decorative tiles and intricate details that bear witness to the fusion of cultures, creating a unique landscape. Wrap up your experience at the colourful Atarazanas Market, its Moorish entrance beckoning you into the sensory overload of colours and aromas. Engage with vendors as you meander through stalls filled with fruits and herbs. To fully immerse yourself in the local experience, take a sip from an Andalusian-style wineskin.
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Gibraltar Panoramic Tour and Botanical Gardens
Gibraltar may be small but it packs a punch in terms of things to see and do. On this tour, enjoy a panoramic bus tour of the major sights and then visit the Botanical Gardens and wander through the town centre where history radiates through the ancient city walls. Janice, one of our expert local guides, says, 'The Alameda Gardens were first opened in 1816 by Lieutenant-Governor Sir George Don. Reflecting Gibraltar's military history, the gardens feature historic guns and busts, some listed under the Gibraltar Heritage Act. Revitalized in 1991, this serene place is now a Botanic Garden for education, research, and rare plant conservation.'The day starts with a panoramic bus tour that takes you back in time to the Battle of Trafalgar at Rosia Bay. The bus winds its way around Gibraltar's scenic coastline, offering glimpses into the region's military history and awe-inspiring views over the Bay of Gibraltar towards Spain. Janice adds, 'Legend has it that Nelson's body was brought ashore to Nelson's Anchorage - otherwise known as Rosia Bay - after his death on board the HMS Victory, supposedly preserved in a barrel of rum.'Enjoy uninterrupted views across the Strait of Gibraltar from Europa Point, before a stroll through Gibraltar's serene Botanic Garden and then down Main Street, a bustling hub lined with shops selling a wide range of goods, ending at Casemates Square - a busy plaza with plenty of bars and cafes which is undoubtedly the heart of Gibraltar.
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Cordoba Guided Tour with Mosque Visit
Cordoba was a hugely important city in medieval times and remains a fascinating cultural hub. You'll discover its UNESCO-listed old town, famous for its flower-festooned patios, the Roman Bridge, the Mezquita – a showstopping Cathedral-Mosque. You'll also get the chance to see the historic Royal Stables.
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There's more to Granada than the Alhambra, and that's what this tour is all about. You'll visit the Palace of Charles V and explore the Moorish-era Albaicin district. And you'll also get the chance to search for souvenirs in the Alcaiceria bazaar before visiting the Royal Chapel.
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de, en, fr, nl