Spain

If you want to see the sights of Spain's Andalusia region, take the Al Andalus Express train. The opulent train, with its polished wood carriage interiors and gleaming etched-glass windows, transports you to a grand train journey from the past. The six-day tour passes through the historic towns of Seville, Cordoba, Granada, and Jerez, as well as hills of olive and citrus trees and the stonier Sierra Nevada foothills. Along the way, you'll see the massive 8th-century mosque-turned-cathedral Mezquita, the Alhambra, and Spain's oldest bullring, the Ronda.

With a trip to Spain, you can explore pristine coastlines and immerse yourself in some of the world's most vibrant cities. Spain, the largest country on the Iberian Peninsula, is a destination known for its spicy culture, incredible arts, and world-renowned culinary scene, all of which have a distinct Mediterranean flavor. Explore the splendor of this country with a vacation package from Vacations by Rail. Itineraries in Spain can take you through northern Spain or to well-known destinations in the south. You can spend a week in Spain on its own or combine it with a trip to neighboring Portugal or other European countries for a well-planned multi-country vacation.

Spain's highlights are presented in each city as visitors explore with guided tours and inspired excursions. Visit Barcelona, a bustling city with centuries-old architecture and sites dating back to the medieval and Roman periods. The sandy beaches and magnificent parks here, of course, are simply breathtaking. Travel from Barcelona to Madrid, Spain's capital city, and explore attractions such as the Prado Museum, one of the world's most famous art museums, and the Royal Palace, which dates back to the 18th century. Travel south to Cordoba, a Moorish-influenced city with a historic Jewish Quarter.

In Granada, you'll be surrounded by imposing medieval structures, including the world-famous Alhambra, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Taste your way through Seville, the birthplace of tapas, and stroll through the Santa Cruz Quarter's white-washed buildings. Relax on the Costa del Sol's sun-kissed beaches in Torremolinos and Marbella. Enjoy the delicious locally produced wines and delectable cuisine that make Spain one of the best places to visit in the world as your tour progresses.

Significant train routes:

• Algeciras to Ronda - 1h36 mins
• Barcelona to Madrid - 2h45 mins
• Madrid to Málaga - 3h10 mins
• Valencia to Cádiz - 5h38 mins
• San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela - 10h26 mins