Hi all,
we are planning a trip to spain/portugal this summer and i wanted to get an idea of how much to allocate to this trip. The main sites I want to see in Spain is Alahambra and Mezquita of Cordoba, what other sights are a do-not-miss in Spain? I have no clue on what is a must see in Portugal, any help there is much appreciated! we may have about 8-9 days at the most for this trip. so the best of the best only can be accomodated. thanks a lot!!!!
I meant to say, how many days to allocate to this trip? thanks!!
For an 9 day trip (not counting arrival or departure days), I'd set it up as....
Day 1-3....Madrid (including a day trip to Segovia or Toledo)
Day 4...transit to Sevilla...leave early and spend some hours in Cordoba on the way.
Day 5-6.....Sevilla....leave for Granada on the evening of Day 6.
Day 7-8...Granada.
Day 9....back to Madrid.
You won't have time to get to Portugal without sacrificing some of the great sights and experiences of Spain.
For discounts on the AVE fast train Madrid-Cordoba and Cordoba-Sevilla, you can book at the Spanish national rail website, RENFE. Book up to 62 days in advance....you can check a couple of months out, since some of the runs are put up early, but don't panic if they don't match your travel schedule right now. I would also use this website to book your Toledo or Segovia daytrip, if your dates are firm. No discounts, but you'll avoid ticket lines, and be assured of getting the trains you want to maximize your time. The site is in Spanish, but it's not hard to figure out...and if you have problems, we can help.
For Sevilla-Granada and Granada-Madrid, you can book trains, or you can check the buses, which run more frequently, take about the same length of time, and cost less. Check Movelia for more info.
P.S....you'll also DEFINITELY have to book tickets ahead for the Alhambra. Check their official ticket website. They usually accept bookings 3 or 4 months in advance. Admission is STRICTLY limited, and once the day's allotment of tickets is sold, that's it. You'll be given a choice of morning or afternoon sessions, and a half hour time slot by which you must begin your tour of the Nazrid palace.|
As well, be prepared for some VERY hot and humid weather in Sevilla.
