In partnership with The Dallas Arboretum, we are offering a five-star, garden and culture tour to Madrid and Marrakech. This thoughtfully curated tour takes travelers through two of the world’s most vibrant and visually stunning cities, as well as the area's gorgeous gardens.
The itinerary features immersive cultural experiences, along with leisurely free time throughout the journey for relaxation, exploration, and shopping in two unforgettable cities. Guests will begin in beautiful Madrid and explore celebrated sites such as the Royal Palace Gardens, Retiro Park, and the Real Jardín Botánico, before continuing onto Marrakech and its iconic green spaces, including the legendary Jardin Majorelle, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, and the tranquil Menara Gardens. Along the way, travelers will enjoy guided visits, artisan markets, and cultural experiences that highlight the design, color, and creative spirit of both destinations.
Please contact Masahiko at masahiko@johnshorstravel.com. We'd love to have you join this fabulous tour!
Be greeted by a private driver, who will drive you to our five-star hotel, located in Paseo del Prado, the most famous part of Madrid.
If guests wish to arrive one day earlier, so that they may relax for a full day before the tour starts, they may do so. Anyone arriving one day early will still have complimentary airport pickup, but will be on their own for May 3rd in terms of activities, and will be charged for an extra night at the hotel.
Spain’s lively capital pulses with art, elegance, and energy. From its world-class museums to its grand boulevards and late-night tapas culture, Madrid is a city that celebrates life with flair.
Our hotel will be located in the heart of the city. The options include Hotel Montera, or similar.
Meet your guides and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby, and walk to a nearby restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Dinners in Spain are late
Meet at the hotel lobby and depart with our guides for a visit to Parque del Retiro, Madrid's most famous park. Enjoy a tour of this expansive and beautiful garden.
Enjoy lunch at a neighborhood restaurant.
Head to one of Spain’s most renowned art museums, the Prado Museum. The museum houses an unparalleled collection of European masterpieces, from Velázquez and Goya to El Greco and Rubens.
Relax for the rest of the day, or continue exploring the area independently.
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for dinner at a local restaurant.
Meet at the hotel lobby and head for a guided tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid - a magnificent 18th-Century palace, the official residence of Spain’s royal family, filled with ornate halls, artworks, and history.
Afterwards, we will walk through the elegant neoclassical gardens beside the Royal Palace, known as the Sabatini Gardens.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.
After lunch, explore the expansive romantic gardens behind the Royal Palace, featuring sweeping lawns, shaded pathways, and graceful fountains.
Relax for the rest of the day, or continue exploring the area independently.
Guests will be on their own tonight. Enjoy a meal of your choosing.
Meet at the hotel lobby and head out to visit the Royal Garden. Enjoy a tour through the 18th Century botanical garden, which houses thousands of plant species from around the world.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Enjoy the rest of your afternoon to explore the city independently. There are many cafés and shops in the area to enjoy.
Meet at the hotel lobby and depart for our special dinner experience. Tonight's dinner will be accompanied by a Flamenco performance, a traditional Spanish dance.
Meet in the hotel lobby, with bags ready, and depart for the airport
Enjoy a snack or light lunch at the airport while waiting for our flight.
Be greeted by a private driver after arrival, who will drive you to our hotel.
Alt schedule: 4:00 p.m. -> 5:00 p.m.
Subject to change based on confirmed flight schedule
Arrive in Marrakech, the Red City where ancient traditions meet vibrant modern life. From buzzing souks to serene riads and colorful gardens, Marrakech is a feast for the senses.
Our hotel will be a comfortable, five-star hotel located in heart of Marrakech, within walking distance of many of the city's most famous sites. The hotel will most likely be The Sofitel, or similar.
Relax for the rest of the day, or explore the surrounding area.
Guests will be on their own tonight. Enjoy a meal of your choosing.
Meet at the hotel lobby and depart for a tour of the Majorelle Garden, a vibrant oasis designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle. It is famed for its blue walls and exotic plants, later restored by Yves Saint Laurent.
After the garden, head to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door. Learn about the iconic artist and his legacy in the fashion industry.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Head to The Secret Garden, a beautifully restored Islamic garden in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina. This garden features traditional geometric designs, fountains, and serene shaded spaces.
Relax for the rest of the day, or explore the surrounding area.
Meet in the lobby and depart for dinner at Pointbar.
Meet at the hotel lobby and depart with our local guide for a walking tour of the ancient Medina - the original fortified citadel of Marrakech. Enjoy walking through the thousand-year-old fortress surrounded by its pink walks and endless alleys.
We will begin with a visit to the Koutoubia Mosque.
Enjoy a rooftop lunch at L'Mida.
After lunch, guests will have the opportunity to visit a special carpet shop, where they can see how traditional carpets are made and have the chance to make a purchase.
If you still have energy, enjoy an optional visit to the Menara Gardens. The garden is a historic olive grove centered around a tranquil reflecting pool and pavilion, offering iconic views of the Atlas Mountains.
Relax for the rest of the day, or explore the surrounding area.
Meet in the hotel lobby, and walk to the nearby restaurant, Comptoir Darna.
Dinner is set for 8:30 p.m., and belly dancers will begin performing at 9:30 p.m.
Meet at the hotel lobby and depart for a tour of The Jewish Quarter, also knows as the Mellah. This ancient neighborhood is known for its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere, supplementing its historical significance.
Although the Jewish population in Marrakech has declined, the Mellah is still a fascinating historical area filled with shops selling local crafts, spices, and other goods.
Afterwards, head to the Les Monde des Arts de la Parure. Explore the museum's collection of ornaments, jewelry, and ceremonial garments from around different parts of the world.
Board our private coach and return to the hotel.
Enjoy lunch at your own leisure. Pick from the many restaurants and cuisine in the area.
If interested, meet at the hotel lobby and head to the Medina. Enjoy exploring the local shops with a guide.
We will return to the hotel at 4:00 p.m.
Meet at the hotel lobby, and walk to the nearby restaurant for dinner.
Meet at the hotel lobby and head out to visit Bahia Palace. Enjoy a guided visit through this stunning 19th-century palace, admired for its intricate Moroccan architecture, peaceful courtyards, and beautifully decorated rooms that reflect the elegance of royal life in Marrakech.
Visit El Badi Palace, exploring its atmospheric ruins, expansive courtyards, and evocative remnants of royal splendor, with sweeping views across Marrakech.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Visit Saadian Tombs, a serene and beautifully preserved burial complex, admired for its intricate decoration, quiet courtyards, and refined details reflecting Morocco’s royal heritage.
Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the city independently. There are many cafes and shops in the area to explore.
Meet at the hotel lobby and head to Restaurant Red House for a farewell dinner.
Private transportation is provided to Marrakech International Airport.
Price of Tour:
$10,595 USD per person, based on double occupancy
$13,395 USD per person, based on single occupancy
Price includes:
Accommodations at high-end hotels
All transportation, including flight to Marrakech
Most meals
Non-alcoholic drinks
Fees (tours, guides, etc.)
Excursions
All tips
Price does not include:
International airfare to Madrid and returning from Marrakech
Alcoholic drinks
Three meals
Activities during free times such as golf, spa, etc.
Hotel incidentals such as room service, mini bar, phone charges, laundry, etc.
Charges incurred if guests arrive a day early or decide to remain in Marrakech after the tour ends
Before booking your slot, please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to travel fully unassisted. This includes being able to:
Walk two or more miles per day, including on uneven surfaces
Go up and down steps and inclines
Stand for periods of time
Carry personal bags and luggage independently
Have a look at our full “Traveler Expectations and Disclaimer” page here.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. For your convenience, you can explore options from our trusted travel insurance partner here.