We are planning a 3 week trip to Spain (including a few days in Morocco) next May. Don't want to change hotels too often, so I'm thinking of Madrid, Seville, Barcelona and Fez in Morocco as main stops. We will do day trips from those places. (Can Granada be a day trip from Sevilla?) My husband loves mountains and hiking, and wants to include 2-3 days in the Pyrenees. Most of our trip will be by public transit, but we'll rent a car for a portion if we have to. Suggestions for the best way to include Pyrenees scenery on this trip? Is it worth it to try?
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
4656 posts
I find there is false economy on daytrips that stretch too far distance. Granada can be done by a tour from Seville, but it is a long day and won't provide the amount of time that some think is needed for this trip. Most recommend at least an overnight in Granada.
How were you going to get to Fes? If travel is convenient from Malaga, that might be another home base to add. It is closer to Granada for bussing and independent travel for a day trip, or a tour.
Malaga itself has history once one gets off the beach. You can even review flights from home - into Malaga and home from Barcelona. Trains and busses would connect you to all the other cities you mention - no need to drive. Parking and driving in these ancient cities is expensive and a big stress that is not necessary.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15788 posts
Madrid is fine for day trips to Segovia and Toledo. From Sevilla you can day-trip to Cordoba, Jerez, Cadiz and Arcos. There are more options from Barcelona. Granada is too far for a day trip - it's 3 hours by bus or train, plus time to get to the station from your hotel, then from the station in Granada to the sights, and the same back again. I think the Pyrenees are accessible from Barcelona.
What do you want to see in Morocco? I've looked into visiting, but I haven't been yet. My impression is that overland transportation between major cities is slow. You could spend 2-3 days in Fes if you can find flights on the right days from one of your Spanish cities and to another one. Otherwise, you'll use up a lot of time. Or you could spend a couple nights in Fes, then fly to Marrakesh for a couple nights, depending on available flights.