The Malaga metropolitan area encompasses the adjacent towns and municipalities of Rincon de la Victoria, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Alhaurin de la Torre, Mijas, and Marbella. The important cultural infrastructure and the rich artistic heritage have culminated in the nomination of Malaga as a candidate for the 2016 European Capital of Culture. Board the SeaDream II and settle in to your cabin, then attend a welcome dinner as the ship sets sail for Cartagena.
Optional Activities:
Malaga – The Magnificent Alhambra: Discover the Alhambra, a dramatic highlight of historic Granada, on this unforgettable land adventure. The city is beautiful in its own right, but nothing in all of Spain compares to the wealth of architectural art to be found in the city's Muslim-Hispano complex, the 14th-century Alhambra. This breathtaking example of Muslim architecture is completely encircled by walls and towers - palaces, military buildings, a fortress, and the administrative centers of a bygone era all lie protected within. Explore this remarkable structure on foot and marvel at the detailed mosaics, prism-style cupolas, and stone-cast latticework that speak to a surprising grace and sophistication. The nearby Generalife, surrounded by water gardens, was the residence of kings in need of refuge, and in direct contrast, the stunning El Vino Gate commissioned by Carlos V is built in the purest Renaissance style of the 16th century. Delight yourself with a typical Spanish tapas meal provided after your walk with wine, bottled water, and dessert at the Ruta del Vileta restaurant at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The restaurant is a favorite of King Juan Carlos I during the skiing holidays of the Spanish Royal Family.
Duration: 8 hours
Malaga – Malaga’s Old City – Tour & Tapas: Get to know the old city of Malaga with a knowledgeable local guide. From Plaza de la Marina proceed up Calle Larios, exploring the narrow side streets. The first stop is Plaza de la Merced, Picasso's birthplace. Then pass the Roman theater on the way to the Alcazaba. This grand Moorish fortification was built by the Berber ruler Badis Ben Habus in the mid-11th century on a hill in the center of the city, overlooking the port. After your exploration of the citadel walk down to the typical tapas bar called Bodega "El Pimpi" for refreshments and tapas. The guide makes sure you get back safely to the yacht.
Duration: 4 hours
Malaga – Fashionable Costa Del Sol – Marbella & Puerto Banus: Less than an hour drive from Malaga are the two most talked-about haunts on the Costa del Sol: Marbella and Puerto Banus. Drive along the coast before arriving at the town of Marbella. Here plunge into the past and visit the old quarter of the town with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and heavy-grilled windows, centered around the beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Tree Square) filled with stately buildings, small shops, art galleries, bars, and bistros. Once a small fishing village, Marbella today is a fashionable and sophisticated resort, frequented by the rich and famous. Then, it's off to Puerto Banus, one of the most famous places in Andalucia, not to mention the rest of Spain and Europe. Puerto Banus is synonymous with wealth, fashion, and the highlife; it is the place to be and be seen. The area is lined with designer boutiques, restaurants, and hotels and the marina is home to large expensive yachts. Wander at leisure along the promenade and take time out to people-watch or follow the guide on a walk of this vibrant town. Have some time to do your own shopping before returning to Malaga.
Duration: 4.5 hours