Spain's Silver Route with Parador Hotels

Day 1 Seville      
Fly into Seville and pick up your car before making the short drive to Carmona on the outskirts of the city. Spend the rest of your evening settling in to the beautiful Parador de Carmona, your home for the next two nights. The building is built over the ruins of a stunning fortress, standing high above the town and offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.      

Day 2 Seville      
Spend today exploring the fascinating city of Seville. Discover the famous Royal Alcazar with your included Skip the Line ticket on a guided tour of this spectacular palace complex. Admire the architecture and wander amongst the idyllic gardens complete with lush foliage and bubbling fountains. This evening cross the picturesque Guadalquivir River to explore the lively Triana neighbourhood, Seville’s old Gypsy quarter, and perhaps catch a traditional flamenco show.      

Day 3 Seville to Cáceres    
This morning, leave Seville behind as you head towards Cáceres, stopping en route at Mérida, the capital of the Extremadura region. This unassuming city is home to a wealth of impressive, ancient monuments, including a beautifully preserved Roman theatre and Temple of Diana. Later, drive to the traditional yet modern Parador de Cáceres in the heart of the city's old quarter, which features an exquisite design.    

Day 4 Cáceres      
Explore Cáceres’ remarkable old town today; a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic walled city is extraordinarily well preserved. Explore the labyrinth of cobbled streets and pretty plazas lined with grand palaces and ornate churches. Why not delve into the city’s rich history at the Cáceres Museum or perhaps climb the 12th Century Bujaco Tower for lovely views across this fairy tale town. This evening, choose one of Cáceres’ many restaurants to sample authentic local flavours.      

Day 5 Cáceres to Salamanca    
Bid Cáceres farewell and head north to Salamanca, passing through picturesque Bejar on the way, home to one of Spain's oldest bullrings. Later, arrive at the elegant Parador de Salamanca, which offers panoramic views over the beautiful city.      

Day 6 Salamanca      
Sitting pretty on the banks of the Tormes River, Salamanca is a picturesque city of distinctive sandstone buildings and a UNESCO-listed old town. Start at Salamanca’s magnificent cathedral which looms above the city, and admire its ornate Baroque facade. Continue exploring the magical old town; visit the world-famous university which is the oldest in Spain, and marvel at the striking architecture in the Plaza Mayor, once used as a bull fighting arena. End this evening with an indulgent dinner of local specialties and the region’s fine wine.      

Day 7 Salamanca to Zamora    
Continue along the Vía de la Plata to notable Zamora. One of the best examples of Romanesque architecture on the peninsula, this town is like a work of art, showcasing ancient walls and palaces combined with traditional cuisine and beautiful landscapes. Tonight, feel like royalty with a stay at the unique Parador de Zamora, a former palace.    

Day 8 Zamora to León      
Depart Zamora and make a short detour to ancient Astorga, home to sweet treats and stunning architecture including the Gaudi Palace, before continuing on to León. Explore the magnificent cathedral and the narrow streets and plazas of the picturesque old quarter. Spend tonight at the striking Parador de León and learn about the property’s fascinating history as the convent of San Marcos.  

Day 9-10 Leon to Gijón  
Today, head north via historic Oviedo to the coast and spend your final night at the Parador de Gijón, which occupies an old mill. There’s plenty to do in this seaside city, with a botanical garden, wild beaches, seafood restaurants and cider bars. On day 10, after a leisurely morning head to Asturias airport, approximately 30 minutes’ drive away, to drop off your car and catch your onward flight.