8-night luxury rail holiday aboard the luxurious Al Andalus train from Seville to Madrid, with 6 nights on board and all meals included plus excursions.
This is an 8-night luxury holiday with six nights spent on the luxurious Al Andalus train from Andalusia as you journey through the heartlands of southern Spain, visiting some of the most iconic heritage sites of Andalusia, Extremadura and Castille-la-Mancha to the Spanish capital Madrid. The holiday starts with a flight to Seville where you spend the first night of the holiday. Then follow six nights on board the luxurious train, where accommodation is in lavish suites and four saloon cars allow guests to relax in comfort and enjoy the stunning scenery. Each trip on the Al Andalus train includes a programme of excursions including entry to museums and other places of interest with a multilingual guide, while all meals are included, either on board the train or in local restaurants. Excursions include a tour of Seville, an equestrian ballet performance in Jerez, the World Heritage Site of Mérida, an artisanal cheese factory and winery in Castille-la-Mancha and the Imperial city of Toledo. This holiday also operates from Madrid to Seville.
Highlights
• Spend 6 nights on the Al Andalus • One night in Seville • One night in Madrid • All meals included on the train • Excursions in Seville, Córdoba, Cadiz, Jerez, Zafra, Cáceres, Mérida, Alcázar de San Juan, Toledo, Madrid
About the Al Andalus Luxury Train
The Train: The Al Andalus Luxury Train is made up of historical suite cars which were built between 1928 and 1930 in France for the British monarchy to travel between Calais and the French Riviera. Alongside the saloon coaches, they form an elegant and comfortable train with a Belle Epoque air. Original elements of these genuine coaches are combined with the latest technology to allow travellers to enjoy maximum comfort and safety. The train is equipped with Wifi internet and has a computer in the lounge car.
Accommodation on board
“Grand Class” cabins are formed of two twin beds (both at ground level) which turn into comfortable sofas during the day. They are equipped with a wardrobe, luggage rack, safe, minibar and individual climate control. They have large windows and an ensuite bathroom with shower and hairdryer provided. Guests looks for a special treat may upgrade to a “Deluxe Suite”. These cabins have a double bed which is a sofa during the day. They have the same facilities as the “Grand Class” cabins and their bathrooms are equipped with a hydro-massage shower/steam sauna.
What's included with Grand Class cabins
A la carte and buffet breakfasts every day All dinners and lunches (including wine, water, soft drinks and coffee) Welcome drink and snack Travelling toiletries bag Free mineral water in the minibar Activities onboard: music and live performances, parties in the bar car, show cooking and cocktails, dancing etc. End of trip party Tickets to museums, attractions and shows Excursions and scheduled tours Luxury coach accompanying the train Taxes and services – there is no obligation to tip Daily newspapers and magazines Multilingual guide throughout the tour
Plus what's included with Deluxe Suites
As above, plus: All non-alcoholic drinks in the minibar Options for crew to unpack and pack your luggage
Not included on the train
Optional laundry service Bar service
What a simply wonderful train adventure you put together for us. Seems unbelievable we made it to the Black Sea via so many differing train journeys without a problem. Thank you so much for all your efforts with the bookings. Train connections, Coaches , seats , position of hotels, everything happened without a hitch. So, congratulations, we are all most grateful to you and Expressions Holidays.Mr and Mrs H, May, 2024
Holiday price guide Prices from £7,150 per person based on two people sharing a double or twin room and Grand Class cabin on the train. Supplement for upgrade to Deluxe Suite: £1,170 per person
From about
£7,150 Per person in a Grand Class cabin
£8,320 Per person in a double deluxe suite
Holiday Code SNFH10
Call us on 01392 441245
8-night luxury rail holiday aboard the luxurious Al Andalus train from Seville to Madrid, with 6 nights on board and all meals included plus excursions.
Begin your holiday by flying from London Gatwick to Seville. A private car transfer to your hotel is included. Settle into your hotel and spend the night here, ready to start your rail adventure the following day.
Check out of the hotel and take a taxi to the meeting point for the train. Reception of passengers at 10:00 a.m. at a location to be determined in Sevilla and tour of the City. Afterward, we'll visit the capital of Andalusia, which boasts the largest historic centre in Spain. After lunch, we'll enjoy a panoramic view of the city before boarding the Al Andalus Train. We'll receive a welcome toast on the train, introduce the crew, and settle in. Dinner will be served on board as the train heads to Córdoba. Overnight stay in Córdoba.
After breakfast on board, we'll visit the Mosque-Cathedral and continue touring what was once the capital of the medieval Emirate and Caliphate of Al-Andalus, when it was the largest, most cultured, and most opulent city in Western Europe. Lunch will be served on board on route to Jerez. From Jerez, in the afternoon, we'll visit Cádiz, popularly known as the "Silver Cup" and considered the oldest city in the Western World. Dinner in Cádiz and overnight stay in Jerez.
After breakfast, we'll enjoy the city of Jerez and the show "How the Andalusian Horses Dance," a famous equestrian ballet with Spanish music. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before visiting a winery in the afternoon. Dinner will be served on board while the train heads to Zafra. Overnight stay in Zafra.
While we have breakfast, the train will arrive in Cáceres, a World Heritage Site, where the streets, squares, and palaces are magnificently preserved, thanks to its cultural mix that makes Cáceres a unique cultural experience. Lunch will be served on board as we arrive in Mérida, where we will relive the ancient Roman Empire. Also a World Heritage Site, founded in 25 BC, we will visit its remains and history. Dinner and overnight stay in Mérida.
While we have breakfast, the train will arrive in Alcázar de San Juan, located in the region of Castilla-La Mancha, internationally known for its cheeses and wines. We will visit an artisanal cheese factory and a winery. Lunch will be served in the area. In the afternoon, we will visit Campo de Criptana, with its characteristic landscape of windmills, a source of inspiration for Cervantes in his novel Don Quixote. We will return to Alcázar de San Juan, have dinner on board, and spend the night in this town.
While we have breakfast, the train will arrive in Aranjuez. From here, we will visit Toledo, another World Heritage city, which we will consider the most monumental Imperial city in Europe. The blend of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish architecture - the Gothic cathedral, the 10th-century mosque, and two synagogues - has given Toledo its universal character. Lunch in Toledo. In the afternoon, we will visit the Royal Palace of Aranjuez and its gardens. Also a World Heritage Site, where history and beauty fill every corner of this royal site. Dinner on board and overnight stay in Aranjuez.
After enjoying our last breakfast on board, we'll bid farewell to the train and its crew and end the journey in Madrid around 1:30 p.m. Take a taxi to your hotel for one night.
Spend today in Madrid, depending on your flight time, before travelling back to the airport by private transfer for your flight back to London.
What a simply wonderful train adventure you put together for us. Seems unbelievable we made it to the Black Sea via so many differing train journeys without a problem. Thank you so much for all your efforts with the bookings. Train connections, Coaches , seats , position of hotels, everything happened without a hitch. So, congratulations, we are all most grateful to you and Expressions Holidays.Mr and Mrs H, May, 2024
Holiday price guide Prices from £7,150 per person based on two people sharing a double or twin room and Grand Class cabin on the train. Supplement for upgrade to Deluxe Suite: £1,170 per person
From about
£7,150 Per person in a Grand Class cabin
£8,320 Per person in a double deluxe suite
Holiday Code SNFH10
Our prices include
● Scheduled flights from Gatwick to Seville, Madrid to London in economy
● 1 night’s bed and breakfast in a Dreamer room at the Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza in Seville
● 6 nights’ accommodation in a “Grand Class” cabin on the Al Andalus train
● 1 night’s bed and breakfast in a Dreamer room at the Hospes Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid
● All meals and excursions whilst on the Al Andalus train
● Private transfers from the airport to your hotel in Seville and from your hotel in Madrid to the airport
Call us on 01392 441245
Train operating dates
Seville to Madrid 2026
The Al Andalus train departs from Seville to Madrid operates on the following dates. You will need to arrive in Spain at least one day before this. April 5, 19 | May 3, 17 | June 7, 21 | September 6, 20 | October 4
Madrid to Seville 2026
The Al Andalus train departs from Madrid to Seville operates on the following dates. You will need to arrive in Spain at least one day before this. April 12, 26 | May 10, 24 | June 14, 28 | September 13, 27 | October 11
What a simply wonderful train adventure you put together for us. Seems unbelievable we made it to the Black Sea via so many differing train journeys without a problem. Thank you so much for all your efforts with the bookings. Train connections, Coaches , seats , position of hotels, everything happened without a hitch. So, congratulations, we are all most grateful to you and Expressions Holidays.Mr and Mrs H, May, 2024
Holiday price guide Prices from £7,150 per person based on two people sharing a double or twin room and Grand Class cabin on the train. Supplement for upgrade to Deluxe Suite: £1,170 per person
From about
£7,150 Per person in a Grand Class cabin
£8,320 Per person in a double deluxe suite
Holiday Code SNFH10
Our prices include
• Scheduled flights from Gatwick to Seville, Madrid to London in economy
• 1 night’s bed and breakfast in a Dreamer room at the Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza in Seville
• 6 nights’ accommodation in a “Grand Class” cabin on the Al Andalus train
• 1 night’s bed and breakfast in a Dreamer room at the Hospes Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid
• All meals and excursions whilst on the Al Andalus train
• Private transfers from the airport to your hotel in Seville and from your hotel in Madrid to the airport
Call us on 01392 441245
8-night luxury rail holiday aboard the luxurious Al Andalus train from Seville to Madrid, with 6 nights on board and all meals included plus excursions.
Hospes Las Casa del Rey de Baeza is a charming, 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of Seville's Old Town. Delicious, modern Anadalusian cuisine and refreshing rooftop cocktails make it a restorative haven from the bustle of the city.
Dreamer room
Hospes Puerta de Alcalá is a luxury 5-star boutique hotel in an excellent central location. Gastronomic delights and excellent spa facilities make this an ideal spot to recuperate after enjoying the cultural and historical sites of Madrid.
Dreamer double
Special offers
Save £640 per person Book the Southern Iberian Route Holiday before 31 July 2025 and receive a reduction of £640 per person.
What a simply wonderful train adventure you put together for us. Seems unbelievable we made it to the Black Sea via so many differing train journeys without a problem. Thank you so much for all your efforts with the bookings. Train connections, Coaches , seats , position of hotels, everything happened without a hitch. So, congratulations, we are all most grateful to you and Expressions Holidays.Mr and Mrs H, May, 2024
Holiday price guide Prices from £7,150 per person based on two people sharing a double or twin room and Grand Class cabin on the train. Supplement for upgrade to Deluxe Suite: £1,170 per person
From about
£7,150 Per person in a Grand Class cabin
£8,320 Per person in a double deluxe suite
Holiday Code SNFH10
Our prices include
• Scheduled flights from Gatwick to Seville, Madrid to London in economy
• 1 night’s bed and breakfast in a Dreamer room at the Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza in Seville
• 6 nights’ accommodation in a “Grand Class” cabin on the Al Andalus train
• 1 night’s bed and breakfast in a Dreamer room at the Hospes Puerta de Alcalá in Madrid
• All meals and excursions whilst on the Al Andalus train
• Private transfers from the airport to your hotel in Seville and from your hotel in Madrid to the airport
Call us on 01392 441245
8-night luxury rail holiday aboard the luxurious Al Andalus train from Seville to Madrid, with 6 nights on board and all meals included plus excursions.
About Andalusia
An Expressions tailor-made holiday to Andalusia offers the chance to explore a holiday destination famed for its indulgent climate and coastal appeal. The region cannot deny its fair share of sun, sea and sand, but what is often neglected to mention is the region's immense variety. Comprising of eight unique provinces, Andalusia spans west to east from the wetlands and the Atlantic Ocean to the deserts and the popular Costa del Sol on the Mediterranean Sea. Poised at the southern-most tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Andalusia acts as a gateway between the European and African continents, harbouring a myriad of influences that speak of the layers of civilisation that have roamed and inhabited the land. From the vibrant cities to the tiny white-washed villages, from vast sierras to the extensive coastline, Andalusia is a region of contrasts which promises an authentic luxury holiday.
Highlights of Andalusia
With 800km of coastline, there are plenty of beaches to choose from - facing the Atlantic are the long, sandy beaches of the Costa de la Luz, extending south from the Portuguese border to Tarifa; covering the area between Malaga and Gibraltar is the famous Costa del Sol, known for its numerous beach resorts which range from the cheap and cheerful to exclusive luxury; to the south of Granada is the Costa Tropical, a stretch of coast with sandy coves and a pleasant microclimate; and to the east is the more rugged Costa de Almeria. A number of luxury resorts and hotels are located along each of these coastlines. Surrounding Granada is the Sierra Nevada, a mountain range where the Spanish mainland's highest peak can be found and home to white-washed mountain villages. In the far east of Andalusia is the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park, the largest protected area in Spain where you can find hiking trails, mountain villages and many wild animals. Further south is The Cabo de Gata Natural Park, a land and sea reserve near Almeria which is home to unspoilt scenery and an abundance of wildlife. In the west of the region is the Doñana National Park, an extensive area in the delta of the Guadalquivir River which includes marshland and sand dunes and is a breeding ground of the endangered Iberian Lynx. Thanks to the region's great variety in landscapes, culture and cuisine, a luxury holiday to Andalusia is sure to be a delightful experience.
Cultural highlights of Andalusia
Many of the Andalusia's cultural highlights can be found in the three Moorish cities of Cordoba, Granada and Seville, all of which are home to a number of excellent luxury hotels. Cordoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former centre of Muslim control during Andalusia's colonisation by the Islamic Empire. At the city's heart is the astounding Mezquita de Cordoba, a mediaeval mosque turned Catholic cathedral with endless Moorish arches, columns and glinting tiles of vibrant hues. Other highlights include the fascinating Jewish quarter and Roman ruins galore. Nearer the coast is Granada, where Islamic rule endured the longest and the magical Alhambra remains as a monument to this legacy. A 9th century palace fortress, it guards over the city from an elevated crag amongst vast, aromatic gardens. To the west, on the peaceful plains of River Guadalquivir, Seville quietly awaits discovery along with its three World Heritage Sites: the Alcazar palace, the gothic Cathedral and the General Archive of the Indies. Other towns and cities of interest in Andalusia include Jerez de la Frontera, where you can visit the sherry bodegas which make the city famous and watch the dressage displays which are held at The Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art; Cadiz, the oldest city in Europe which is surrounded almost entirely by water; Ronda, a spectacular city which is split in half by a narrow gorge; Malaga, birthplace of Picasso and home to a Museum which displays a collection of his work; the small town of Baeza, where you can find stunning examples of Renaissance architecture; and Almeria, a coastal city which is dominated by the Alcazaba, the largest Moorish fortress in Spain. During your stay in Andalusia make sure to witness the seductive art of flamenco. Alluring, passionate and cathartic, it's easy to understand how this gypsy tradition has become one of the most familiar emblems of Spanish culture.
Festivals in Andalusia
There are a huge number of local festivals held in villages, towns and cities throughout Andalusia, many of which have a religious significance. 5 January: Three Kings parades, February: Shrove Tuesday Carnivals, February: Seville Tapas Fair, February to March: Jerez Flamenco Festival, March/April: Holy week celebrations, April to October: Seville Bullfighting season, April/May: Seville Spring Fair, April/May: Úbeda Classical Music Festival, Mid May: Jerez Horse Fair, June to July: Granada Music & Dance Festival, June - July: Cordoba Guitar Festival, August: Malaga Summer Fair, September: Ronda bullfighting festival, November: Granada Jazz Festival.
Gastronomy in Andalusia
Cuisine in Andalusia is diverse, varying throughout the region and combining Arabic flavours with more common Mediterranean ingredients such as seafood, olive oil and an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables. As the birthplace of tapas, Andalusia is an excellent place to try the snacks which are often served free with drinks in Granada. Other Andalusian specialities include Serrano ham from the Sierra Nevada and sherry from Jerez de la Frontera, as well as dishes such as ‘Ajo blanco’ (a white gazpacho), ‘Espetos de sardina’ (roasted sardines), ‘Huevos a la flamenca’ (baked eggs with vegetables) and ‘Fritura de pescado’ (mixed fried fish).
Call us on 01392 441245
8-night luxury rail holiday aboard the luxurious Al Andalus train from Seville to Madrid, with 6 nights on board and all meals included plus excursions.
About Heart of Spain
An Expressions tailor-made holiday to the Heart of Spain feature some of the best four and five star hotels in central Spain, featuring vineyard hotels, rural estates and city properties. Located at the geographical heart of Spain is its vibrant capital, Madrid, where days can be filled with art galleries and atmospheric outdoor cafes, and evenings promise an energetic nightlife. Surrounding the city are the dry plains of the country's central plateau which are divided by spectacular mountain ranges and dotted with numerous castles, magnificent cathedrals and ancient Roman ruins. The regions which make up Spain's central plateau have all played a hugely important role in the history of modern Spain, which is evident in the numerous castles which were built to protect towns and villages as the Moors fought the Christians in the 10th and 11th centuries. These are some of the least visited parts of Spain where few tourists venture outside of the main cities, ensuring that visitors will leave feeling like they have discovered something new. At the centre of Spain is Madrid, where atmospheric cobbled streets link bustling squares which are filled with pavement cafes and flea markets, whilst tree-line boulevards are overlooked by neo-classical buildings. Surrounding the city are the dry plains of the country's central plateau which are divided by spectacular mountain ranges and dotted with numerous castles, magnificent cathedrals and ancient Roman ruins. To the north of Madrid is Castilla y León, an elevated region which has played a hugely important role in the history of modern Spain. Rolling countryside is littered with historic cities, isolated villages and mediaeval castles, built by the Christians to defend against the Moorish invaders. Salamanca, Avila, Segovia, León, Valladolid and Burgos are all home to a wealth of art and stunning architecture, including Gothic cathedrals and Roman structures. Away from the cities are natural attractions including mountain ranges and nature reserves, with wheat fields and vineyards covering the high plateaus. To the south and east of Madrid is Castilla-La Mancha, an expansive region with dry plains stretching towards mountains in the distance. The predominantly flat scenery is made up of olive groves, wheat fields, extensive vineyards, hilltop castles and the iconic windmills described by Cervantes. Head to the historic city of Toledo, where Christian, Jewish and Arab cultures blend to create a popular tourist destination, or to Cuenca, a dramatic town where houses seemingly dangle over a plunging gorge. Further west towards the border with Portugal is Extremadura, a region with green pastures and rolling hills, forests and fertile river valleys, as well as charming towns boasting stunning examples of Roman architecture. Elaborate palaces and manor houses are found in clusters throughout the region, built by conquistadors with gold from the New World.
Highlights of the Heart of Spain
The three world-class art galleries which make up Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art, home to works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Francisco de Goya. The historical sights of Old Madrid, including the lavish Royal Palace, the grand Plaza Mayor and the city's spiritual centre, Puerta del Sol. Parque del Retiro, a popular spot for relaxation in the centre of Madrid with a boating lake. El Escorial, a large royal residence just outside Madrid which also functions as a monastery and is where many Spanish monarchs are buried. The Gothic cathedrals of León, Burgos and Toledo which feature stunning stained glass, mediaeval art and elaborate sculptures. The numerous castles which are scattered across the region including the Gothic-style Belmonte Castle, the Mudejár Coca Castle and the Moorish Alcazaba of Badajoz. The university city of Alcalá de Henares, birthplace of Cervantes, the 16th century author who wrote about the adventures of Don Quixote. The walled city of Ávila. The university city of Salamanca. Segovia, with its Roman Aqueduct and distinctive castle. Cuenca, a picturesque old town with houses which appear to hang over a gorge. The iconic windmills which sit on the plains near Consuegra. Roman ruins in Mérida. Elaborate palaces and manor houses in Trujillo and Cáceres. The wine-producing regions throughout central Spain including Ribera del Duero, La Mancha and Valdepeñas where visitors can visit vineyards and enjoy wine tastings. Mountain ranges which divide the central plateau, with many opportunities for walking and rock climbing.
Festivals in the Heart of Spain
February: Caja Madrid Flamenco Festival, February to March: Madrid Carnival, February to March: Madrid Contemporary Art Fair, March/April: Holy week celebrations, May: San Isidro bullfighting festival (Madrid), May/June: Toledo Corpus Christi processions (Toledo), July to August: Madrid summer arts festival, October: Saffron Rose Festival (Consuegra), October: Cervantes Week (Alcala de Henares), October to November: Madrid Autumn Festival
Gastronomy in the Heart of Spain
As expected, Madrid is home to some excellent restaurants serving a great range of cuisine from throughout Spain and around the world. Roasted meat and game as well as a variety of broths and stews are common features on menus throughout central Spain, where traditional cooking is simple and hearty. Cuisine varies slightly between the regions, with more paprika and saffron being used in the south. Various pulses are grown on the plains of Castilla y León, whilst Manchego cheese produced in La Mancha and high quality Ibérico ham is produced in Extremadura. There are a number of wine regions which produce high-quality red and white wines. Local dishes include ‘Pollo a lo Padre Pero’ (chicken with a spicy sauce), ‘El frite’ (fried lamb), ‘Sopa de ajo’ (garlic soup), ‘Pisto manchego’ (similar to ratatouille), ‘Yemas’ (a rich dessert made with egg yolks).
Climate in the Heart of Spain
The climate of central Spain is generally quite extreme, with extremely hot summers and bitterly cold yet dry winters. Rainfall is generally quite low thanks to the mountains which surround the region. Madrid can be almost unbearable in the summer months as temperatures reach 40 degrees, whilst during the temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit as temperatures are warm and pleasant, although there is increased rainfall.
Call us on 01392 441245
8-night luxury rail holiday aboard the luxurious Al Andalus train from Seville to Madrid, with 6 nights on board and all meals included plus excursions.
About Madrid
An Expressions tailor-made holiday to Madrid is a chance to explore this lively and passionate capital city with a laid-back lifestyle. Atmospheric cobbled streets link bustling squares which are filled with pavement cafes, whilst tree-lined boulevards are overlooked by neo-classical buildings. Our luxury holidays to Madrid feature some of the best four- and five-star hotels in the city, including elegant hotels and more boutique properties. Visitors to Madrid will find plenty to fill their days. Art and culture play an important role, primarily thanks to the three world-class art museums which make up Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, home to works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Francisco de Goya. Illustrating the city’s rich history are the sights of Old Madrid, including the lavish Royal Palace, the grand Plaza Mayor, and the city’s spiritual centre – Puerta del Sol. There are plenty of designer shops to browse throughout the city, as well as small boutiques and flea markets which visitors might stumble across. It is after dark that Madrid really comes alive as the streets, parks and open-air cafes fill with people of all ages and the bars and clubs remain open until dawn. What better way to recover from a late night than to while away a morning in the Parque del Retiro, strolling through the beautiful gardens and perhaps hiring a rowing boat on the park’s tranquil lake. For those who wish to escape the energetic city, a number of towns are located nearby which make for an interesting day trip.
Highlights of Madrid
Numerous squares including the historic Plaza Mayor, the setting of bullfights and executions during the Spanish Inquisition. The Royal Palace, a lavish building which was constructed in the 1700s and is still used today for state occasions. The Prado Museum, one of the largest art galleries in the world which contains an impressive selection of Spanish paintings including works by Goya and El Greco. Reina Sofia Museum, displaying modern works including Picasso’s ‘Guernica’. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, based on a private art collection which illustrates the history of western art and includes pieces by Goya, Degas and Renoir. Retiro Park formerly used by the royal family and now a popular spot for relaxation. The Teatro Real, an important opera house with performances of opera and dance. Almudena Cathedral. Gran Vía, a famous street which is lined by theatres and shops. Debod Temple, an ancient Egyptian temple which was rebuilt in Madrid in the 1960s. The Santiago Bernabéu Football stadium, home to Real Madrid. El Rastro Market, an open-air flea market which is held on Sundays. Ventas Bullring where bullfights take place every week during the bullfighting season.
