Luxury rail holiday on the Al Andalus train in Andalusia with six nights on the train plus a night each in Seville and Granada
With our Al Andalus luxury train holiday, you start with a night in Seville, then you spend six nights on board the spacious and luxurious train, where accommodation is in lavish suites and four saloon cars allow guests to relax in comfort and enjoy the stunning scenery, and you end with a night in Malaga, before flying home, or the other way round. Each trip on Al Andalus 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 Your journey from Seville continues to Jerez, Ronda, Córdoba, Ubeda, Baeza and Granada before reaching Malaga. Excursions include a tour of Seville, an equestrian ballet performance in Jerez, a visit to La Alhambra in Granada, and a tour of the historic buildings of Baeza. The itinerary also works in reverse on separate dates. The 2025 itinerary will start in Seville and end in Granada (not Malaga) or vice versa. This is a fascinating and luxurious way to visit Andalusia.
Highlights
• Spend six nights on the Al Andalus • Spend two nights in Seville • Excursions in Seville, Jerez, Ronda, Granada and Cordoba • All meals included on the luxury train
On-board Al Andalus train
The Al Andalus train is a spacious and luxurious hotel on wheels which offers comfortable accommodation and saloon cars which allow guests to relax in comfort and enjoy the stunning scenery as they travel through Spain, stopping off along the way for cultural excursions. The train’s coaches date back to the 1920s, with those that house the suites having been built for use by the British Monarchy. Original elements sit alongside modern technology, promising guests the ultimate in comfort and safety. The train retains an air of elegance and sophistication, thanks to the furnishings and decoration which hark back to the Belle Époque. Public areas on board the train consist of four saloon coaches – two restaurant cars where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served; a bar car where guests can enjoy a relaxing drink; and a piano bar car where musical performances are held each night. Guests can choose to stay in a Grand Class room or a Deluxe Suite, both of which boast an en-suite shower room, air conditioning, a minibar, safe, wardrobe and luggage rack. A Grand Class room features two single beds which can be turned into seats during the day, while a Superior Suite is a more spacious option with a slightly larger shower room, a double bed which can be turned into a sofa during the day and a separate seating area. Each trip on board the Al Andalus train includes a programme of excursions including entry to a number of museums and other places of interest. A luxury coach accompanies the train to transport passengers where necessary, and a multilingual guide is on hand throughout. All meals are included, either on board the train or in local restaurants in the towns and cities that are visited. Meals on board the train are created by a renowned chef, all of which are accompanied by wine, coffee and spirits. Guests staying in Deluxe Suites can choose to have two private lunches or dinners in their suite, and also enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic beverages throughout the trip.
You handled everything very well and chose some lovely hotels either side of our train tour.Mrs I, Oct 2024
Holiday price guide Sample prices are per person based on two people sharing a double Gran Clase cabin on the train and a double or twin hotel room for two nights.
From about
£6,440 per person Gran Clase cabin on Al Andalus
£7,490 per person Deluxe suite on Al Andalus
Holiday Code SNFH01
The prices displayed here are a guide only. Each holiday price will be tailor-made at the time of booking to reflect all actual costs including up-to-date special offers.
Call us on 01392 441245
Luxury rail holiday on the Al Andalus train in Andalusia with six nights on the train plus a night each in Seville and Granada
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. The itinerary can also work the other way round, starting in Malaga, as the train operates some departures from Seville to Malaga and some from Malaga to Seville. In 2025 the train will run from Seville to Granada and vice versa (not Malaga).
Check out of the hotel and take a taxi to Hotel Alfonso XIII which is just a few minutes’ from the hotel we have included for your first night. Meet here at 10.00 am, and the crew will take care of your luggage. You are served welcome snacks and drinks before receiving a short presentation by the guide who will then accompany you into the historic quarter of Seville. You enjoy a complete tour of the city where you are shown the Cathedral, the Giralda and the Royal Alcazar. Stroll through the Santa Cruz quarter. At lunchtime you return to the Hotel Alfonso XIII for a lunch of local dishes. The tour continues by bus making a special stop at the Plaza de Espana. You are then taken to the Santa Justa station to board the train. You are greeted on board by the staff and welcomed with a toast. Settle in to your room as the journey to Jerez starts. On the way to Jerez, you will enjoy dinner in one of the restaurant wagons.
After breakfast on board, leave the train by coach to visit Cádiz, popularly known as the 'Little Silver Cup' and considered the oldest city in the West. Visit and free time to immerse yourself in the charm of Cadiz. Lunch. In the afternoon return to Jerez by coach. Free time, dinner and night in Jerez.
After breakfast, board the bus that will take you to a famous Sherry winery. There you will learn the secrets of making this renowned drink with Denomination of Origin. In addition, taste the best specimens that the winery produces. You will finish the visit in Jerez attending the equestrian show 'How the Andalusian Horses Dance'.Then return to the Al Andalus Train to head for the beautiful White Village of Ronda. Along the way, enjoy a hearty lunch in the onboard dining cars. During the afternoon performances and shows take place in the train’s luxurious lounge cars. Then go by bus to have dinner in a restaurant in Ronda.The train will stop in Ronda to spend the night.
After breakfast on the train, get ready to tour the old city of Ronda, which is part of the route of the beautiful White Villages. The guide will take you through the Alameda del Tajo, the New Bridge and the Old Bridge. You will also see the oldest bullring in Spain, the Palacio Mondragón, among other emblematic places. There is free time to explore Ronda and admire the beautiful views of the Serranía. Back on board the luxurious Al Andalus Train, the journey continues to Cordoba whilst you enjoy dinner. The train overnights in Cordoba.
Like every day, after breakfast, continue the itinerary of the Al Andalus Train. You visit Cordoba, which in medieval times was an opulent city, capital of the Al Ándalus caliphate. You will enter one of the World Heritage Sites, the impressive Mosque of Cordoba.Then return to your hotel on wheels for a delicious lunch while the train continues on its way to Linares station, in Baeza. Along the way, the protagonists will be the unique landscapes of the Andalusian countryside. Take the opportunity to relax with the views, while having a drink in the privacy of your suite or in one of the train cars. In the afternoon visit Ubeda and Baeza, two towns that hold the title of World Heritage Cities. Back on board, you continue the route on the Al Ándalus train bound for Granada, the home of the famous Alhambra. During the journey enjoy dinner served on board followed by the nightly entertainment program. Finally, spend the night at the Granada station.
Today is a special day with a chance to see inside the most visited place in Spain: The Alhambra, a World Heritage Site. You will visit the beautiful palaces and gardens of this fortress that was once the home of sultans and kings. Take the opportunity to take photos in the spectacular Nasrid Palaces and its Lions courtyards. And relax strolling through the fabulous gardens and fountains of the Generalife Palace. In the afternoon there will be free time to explore the centre of the city of Granada on your own. You round off the night with dinner at a local restaurant, where you will taste the most select dishes of Granada cuisine.
2024 itinerary - On the last day of the Al Andalus Train route, after enjoying breakfast on board, you say goodbye to the train and its crew to take the coach to Malaga, where there is a visit of its Alcazaba, palatial fortification of the Muslim era. This is followed by some free time and lunch at the Hotel AC by Marriot Málaga Palacio, where the trip will end around 5:00 p.m.
2025 itinerary - Enjoy breakfast on board the train and then there is one last visit of the city followed by lunch. The tour ends about 16.00 hrs. You make your own way to your overnight hotel in Granada.
Today, depending on the time of your flight from Malaga, you should take a taxi to Granada station to catch a pre-booked train to Malaga. Transfer by airport train or taxi to Malaga airport for the flight back to the UK.
You handled everything very well and chose some lovely hotels either side of our train tour.Mrs I, Oct 2024
Holiday price guide Sample prices are per person based on two people sharing a double Gran Clase cabin on the train and a double or twin hotel room for two nights.
From about
£6,440 per person Gran Clase cabin on Al Andalus
£7,490 per person Deluxe suite on Al Andalus
Holiday Code SNFH01
The prices displayed here are a guide only. Each holiday price will be tailor-made at the time of booking to reflect all actual costs including up-to-date special offers.
Our prices include
● Flights London to Seville, Malaga to London or vice versa
● Elige class rail travel one way from Malaga to Granada or vice versa
● One night's bed and breakfast at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza, Seville based on two people sharing a Dreamer Room
● Six nights’ full board on Al Andalus train based on two people sharing a Grand Class Cabin, including the excursions and meals mentioned in the itinerary
● One night's bed and breakfast at the Parador Malaga Gibralfaro in a double room in 2024 and at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos, Granada in a Dreamer room in 2025
● Concierge service and Expressions Holidays regional helpful hints
Our prices do not include
● Early check-in or late check-out at any hotels (although we can arrange this on request at additional cost)
● Any other services not mentioned above, such as transfers and meals except breakfast at hotels
● Personal holiday insurance. This is essential and cover should be in place from when you book the holiday.
● Local tourist tax, usually between Euros 1 and 3 per person per night, and payable locally to the hotel
● Transfers between hotel and station
Call us on 01392 441245
Train departure dates
2025 Seville to Granada
23 March | 6, 20 April | 4, 18 May | 8 June | 7, 21 September | 5 October
2025 Granada to Seville
30 March | 13, 27 April 11, 25 May | 15 June | 14, 28 September | 12 October
2024 Seville to Malaga
31 March | 14, 28 April | 12, 26 May | 16 Jun | 1, 15, 29 September | 13, 27 October
2024 Malaga to Seville
7, 21 April | 5, 19 May | 2, 23 June | 8, 22 September | 6, 20 October | 3 November
You begin your holiday one day earlier when you fly into Seville or Malaga for one night at the beginning of the holiday.
You handled everything very well and chose some lovely hotels either side of our train tour.Mrs I, Oct 2024
Holiday price guide Sample prices are per person based on two people sharing a double Gran Clase cabin on the train and a double or twin hotel room for two nights.
From about
£6,440 per person Gran Clase cabin on Al Andalus
£7,490 per person Deluxe suite on Al Andalus
Holiday Code SNFH01
The prices displayed here are a guide only. Each holiday price will be tailor-made at the time of booking to reflect all actual costs including up-to-date special offers.
Our prices include
• Flights London to Seville, Malaga to London or vice versa
• Elige class rail travel one way from Malaga to Granada or vice versa
• One night's bed and breakfast at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza, Seville based on two people sharing a Dreamer Room
• Six nights’ full board on Al Andalus train based on two people sharing a Grand Class Cabin, including the excursions and meals mentioned in the itinerary
• One night's bed and breakfast at the Parador Malaga Gibralfaro in a double room in 2024 and at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos, Granada in a Dreamer room in 2025
• Concierge service and Expressions Holidays regional helpful hints
The journey and how you get there You fly from London to Seville or Malaga with British Airways or Easyjet. The flying time is about 2hrs 45 mins. We include a rail ticket for the journey from Malaga to Granada or the other way round in 2025.
Call us on 01392 441245
Luxury rail holiday on the Al Andalus train in Andalusia with six nights on the train plus a night each in Seville and Granada
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
The Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro is a luxury property on the hilltop overlooking the bay and city of Malaga. This is the perfect choice for guests looking to explore Malaga and the surroundings from a relaxing and tranquil location.
Standard double
Hospes Palacio de los Patos is a luxury 5-star boutique hotel in an excellent central location. The serene spa, delicious cuisine and rooftop bar make it an excellent spot to recuperate after a day enjoying the sights of Granada.
Dreamer room
Special offers
Call to make your booking and save an extra £50 per adult Call us instead of emailing us when you are thinking of booking a holiday and save an extra £50 per adult (in addition to any special offers that might be available). We want to talk to you to discuss your requirements and a phone call is usually the best way for you to define what you want enabling us to respond more accurately. We want to talk to you and you save an extra £50 per adult.
You handled everything very well and chose some lovely hotels either side of our train tour.Mrs I, Oct 2024
Holiday price guide Sample prices are per person based on two people sharing a double Gran Clase cabin on the train and a double or twin hotel room for two nights.
From about
£6,440 per person Gran Clase cabin on Al Andalus
£7,490 per person Deluxe suite on Al Andalus
Holiday Code SNFH01
The prices displayed here are a guide only. Each holiday price will be tailor-made at the time of booking to reflect all actual costs including up-to-date special offers.
Our prices include
• Flights London to Seville, Malaga to London or vice versa
• Elige class rail travel one way from Malaga to Granada or vice versa
• One night's bed and breakfast at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza, Seville based on two people sharing a Dreamer Room
• Six nights’ full board on Al Andalus train based on two people sharing a Grand Class Cabin, including the excursions and meals mentioned in the itinerary
• One night's bed and breakfast at the Parador Malaga Gibralfaro in a double room in 2024 and at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos, Granada in a Dreamer room in 2025
• Concierge service and Expressions Holidays regional helpful hints
The journey and how you get there You fly from London to Seville or Malaga with British Airways or Easyjet. The flying time is about 2hrs 45 mins. We include a rail ticket for the journey from Malaga to Granada or the other way round in 2025.
Call us on 01392 441245
Luxury rail holiday on the Al Andalus train in Andalusia with six nights on the train plus a night each in Seville and Granada
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).
