Spain

Southern Spain Yesterday & Today: Madrid, Granada & Seville

Program No. 22175RJ
From olive groves to world-renowned cathedrals, Southern Spain is a diverse region just waiting to be explored. Discover the very best of Madrid, Granada and Seville!

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At a Glance

Glorious Gothic cathedrals, intricately detailed synagogues, traditional Moorish neighborhoods and ancient Roman ruins: The icons of Southern Spain are a testament to its distinct history of conquest, culture and art. Discover the unique legacy and exuberant modern life in Madrid, Granada and Seville through expert-led walks, lectures and excursions. Join us to learn about some of the most diverse and exciting cities in all of Europe.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to 3-4 miles per day, cobblestones and winding roads.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Discover a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alhambra Palace and Generalife gardens.
  • Explore the Museo Nacional del Prado, one of the world’s leading art museums.
  • Spend an exciting evening seeing Flamenco Dance in Seville. Meet a local expert for Alcázar Royal Palace visit.

General Notes

Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Francisco Garcia
Francisco “Paco” Garcia was born in Madrid and received his B.A. in history from The Complutense University in Madrid. He continued studies at the University of California/Berkeley, earning his M.A. and Ph.D. in Medieval history, as well as lecturing. In 1997, he received a Fulbright Scholarship. In 2011, Paco journeyed to Japan as a visiting professor. He is presently a professor at the Madrid campus of St. Louis University. An expert on the history of Spain, he shares his passion and enthusiasm in his lectures.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Francisco Garcia
Francisco Garcia View biography
Francisco “Paco” Garcia was born in Madrid and received his B.A. in history from The Complutense University in Madrid. He continued studies at the University of California/Berkeley, earning his M.A. and Ph.D. in Medieval history, as well as lecturing. In 1997, he received a Fulbright Scholarship. In 2011, Paco journeyed to Japan as a visiting professor. He is presently a professor at the Madrid campus of St. Louis University. An expert on the history of Spain, he shares his passion and enthusiasm in his lectures.
Profile Image of Covadonga Hortal
Covadonga Hortal View biography
Covadonga Hortal is passionate about education and traveling. After graduating from university with a degree in tourism, she led her first travel program in 1999 and continues leading groups, having worked as a cultural expert around Europe. She is a certified Andalusia guide and a Europe certified expert in cultural tourism with ample competency in Spanish culture. She’s ever continuing her education, having earned her post-graduate master's degree in teaching Spanish, studying French, and Chinese. She has led many Road Scholar groups in Spain.
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Deborah Cole View biography
Deborah Cole Díaz has been teaching Spanish history and geography for more than 22 years, at both the university and high school levels. She has found that lecturing with Road Scholars is by far the most fulfilling and enjoyable. Road Scholars are special, not simply interested in passing exams or obtaining diplomas, but are here to learn. They ask the most pertinent and interesting questions, both in the classroom and during field trips. Indeed, they want to understand the connection of history to contemporary events.
Profile Image of Elena Moro
Elena Moro View biography
Elena Moro, born in Australia to an Andalusian family, is a professional Flamenco dancer. She began at the age of 5 and has toured all over Australia and parts of Asia with a Flamenco dance company. After many years traveling back and forth with dance scholarships, Elena now lives in Seville. She has worked with Road Scholar for almost ten years as a Group Leader and travelled to most parts of Spain.
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Maria Blanco View biography
Maria Blanco was born and raised in Extremadura, a region located north of Andalusia and east of Portugal. She studied art and graphic design at the University of Seville and at universities in England and the Netherlands. Throughout her professional career, Maria has combined her work as a group leader with other artistic and graphic design functions. Maria is passionate about the simple pleasures of life, especially music, art, and meeting people who provide her new perspectives..
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