Treasures of Portugal & Spain: Lisbon to Madrid

Welcome to Lisbon! Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and accommodation. Once you've checked in and freshened up, the day is yours to explore at your own pace.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, embark on a city tour of Lisbon, formerly known as Olissipo, visiting its main squares and avenues, including the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery (exterior), and the Monument to the Discoveries. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the charming corners of the city, such as the Alfama District, or opt for an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sintra and Cascais.

Enjoy breakfast before departing for the Alentejo region and arriving in Montemor-o-Novo. Spend some free time in this charming town, known for its wineries and dominated by the impressive castle featuring the elegant Torre do Relógio. Then, continue to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Embark on a city tour to see its magnificent Roman Temple, the grand Cathedral, and the hauntingly beautiful Chapel of Bones (entry included).

After breakfast, we will depart for Tomar, a city rich in history and mystery, where you will explore its heritage as an ancient stronghold of the Knights Templar. The highlight of your visit will be the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its impressive Manueline architecture and intricate details. Enjoy free time to stroll through the ancient streets, visit historic churches, and immerse yourself in the captivating stories of this charming town. Next, continue to Coimbra and meet with a local guide for a city tour, known for its prestigious university (one of the oldest in Europe), charming medieval streets, and beautiful riverside promenade.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before continuing to Aveiro, known for its picturesque canals, which have earned it the nickname "The Venice of Portugal." After some free time to explore, we will depart for Porto, where you will visit one of the city’s renowned wineries for a tasting of the local wine. Additionally, we will tour the museum "Porto Across the Ages," which will provide insight into the city's rich history. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided tour of Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, renowned for its significant historical and cultural heritage. Highlights of the tour include the Cathedral, the Stock Exchange building, and the Church of Santa Clara. The remainder of the day is free for you to continue exploring the secrets of Porto. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for the Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline Gothic style and a UNESCO World Heritage site. After some free time to explore, continue to Óbidos, a charming medieval town in central Portugal. Renowned for its well-preserved castle and historic center, Óbidos features narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers, and traditional tilework. The town is surrounded by sturdy 14th-century walls that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. After this visit, we will depart for Lisbon, where you will arrive and check into your accommodation. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Mérida, the capital of Extremadura. Declared a World Heritage Site, Mérida is renowned for its rich historical heritage, featuring well-preserved Roman ruins, including the theater, amphitheater, and Roman bridge. After some free time to explore, continue to Córdoba, once the capital of the Caliphate. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Take an impressive tour of the Mosque (entrance included) and other sites that will soothe your mind and spirit as you stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter. In the afternoon, after a short two-hour ride, arrive in Seville. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, embark on a panoramic city tour, visiting the Cathedral (the second largest in the Catholic world after St. Peter’s in Rome), the Santa Cruz quarter (the natural setting of “Carmen” and the birthplace of the myth of “Don Juan”), Maria Luisa Park, and Plaza de España. The afternoon is at your leisure to discover the unique views and flavors of this vibrant, sunlit city. Overnight accommodation at the hotel. Optional Flamenco show available. Meals: B

After breakfast at the hotel, drive south, passing through typical villages on the way to Ronda. Enjoy free time to admire this town of Celtic origin and take in the marvelous views of the valley and mountain range. In the afternoon, continue to the Costa del Sol, one of the most modern and important international tourist destinations. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast before departing for the city of Granada, renowned for its incredible monumental heritage as the last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms until 1492. Visit the world-famous Alhambra complex (entrance included) and the Generalife Gardens, which have inspired numerous authors, including Washington Irving in his “Tales of the Alhambra.” Overnight accommodation at the hotel. In the evening, you have the option to attend a Flamenco Zambra show. Meals: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before driving northward to the impressive Imperial city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage City surrounded by the Tagus River. This remarkable city reflects the coexistence of Christian, Moorish, and Jewish cultures. As a summary of Spanish art, history, and spirituality, the entire town is a National Monument. Enjoy a short guided tour of the historic old town, exploring its narrow streets before continuing to Madrid. Meals: B

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport or train station, or choose to extend your stay in Madrid to explore its majestic wonders. Alternatively, take a train to Barcelona for further adventures. Meals: B