Highlights of Spain and Portugal (Summer, 13 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, where the vibrant cultures of Spain and Portugal await. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the historic wonders of Lisbon, this journey offers a captivating blend of history, art, and culinary delights. Explore iconic landmarks, savor regional flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of each destination. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with discovery and adventure. Join us for a remarkable exploration of the Iberian Peninsula's most enchanting cities and landscapes.
Included
5 Dinner (D)
12 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
NH Collection Eurobuilding
Novotel Valencia Lavant
Abades Nevada Palace
Meliá Lebreros
M'ar de Ar Muralhas
Olissippo Marquês de Sá
Gran Corona Sol
VOCO Madrid Retiro
Panoias-Ourique: Saddle up for a superb stud farm visit, the tragic story of unrequited love, and a traditional home-cooked lunch with Tiago and Vera in Portugal's beautiful Alentejo.
Jerez de la Frontera: Sample the famous sherry tradition in the southern Spanish city of Jerez, which has been making wine since ancient times.
Lisbon: Visit the Belém Quarter and enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years.
Toledo: The invincible swords of Toledo have defended cities for centuries. Visit an inlaid steel factory in Toledo to see local craftsmen forging the highest quality steel.
Madrid: Drive through central Madrid and see some of the city's famous features during an orientation with your Travel Director.
Valencia: See the ultra-modern Centre of Arts and Sciences and the historic bullring of Valencia during an orientation drive with your Travel Director.
Guadix: See the cave homes that embellish the hills around Guadix.
Granada: Visit the famous Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. Explore with a Local Specialist keen to share insights into this Moorish landmark.
Córdoba: Explore the incredible Mezquita with your Local Specialist. Admire the forest of horseshoe arches and learn how this building symbolises many of Córdoba's religious changes over the centuries.
Seville: Guided by your Local Specialist, see the Giralda Tower, former minaret of the Great Mosque and now the cathedral's belltower. Explore the narrow streets of the Santa Cruz Quarter and emerge by the great walls of the Alcazar.
Cádiz: See the cathedral, Teatro Romano, the monumental Puerta de Tierra and enjoy a walk along Paseo Maritimo.
Évora: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with your Local Specialist and see the famous Roman Temple. Witness the fascinating cathedral and its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
Lisbon: Explore with your Local Specialist, from the Lower Town, beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco. Visit the Belém Quarter to see the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the medieval Belém Tower.
Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions or see the basilica.
Salamanca: See the Salamanca's golden Plaza Mayor, voted one of the most beautiful central plazas in Spain.
Toledo: Explore this magnificent ancient city with your Local Specialist and visit the Church of Santo Tomé to see an El Greco masterpiece.
Avila: View the impressive city walls that define Ávila's Old Town.
Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Specialist. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the Cibeles fountain, Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace.
Valencia: Taste authentic Valencian horchata from a local vendor. This rich and flavourful nut-based drink loved by many is produced here using only locally sourced and natural ingredients, and respecting traditional methods of production. Alongside the local and organic production, they have been bringing the vibrant tradition of horchata back to its glory days, giving employment opportunities to people at risk of social exclusion. They have also built over 10 street carts from recycling materials, all working on solar energy and ice. Your experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Explore Córdoba, Seville, Évora, Lisbon, Toledo and Madrid
Discover Valencia, Cádiz and Salamanca
Visit the Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Cathedral Mosque in Córdoba, Seville Cathedral, the Cathedral of Évora, Plaza Mayor in Salamanca and the Church of Santo Tomé and the Synagogue in Toledo
View the Towers of Serrano and Quart and the City of Arts and Sciences complex in Valencia, the Cave Houses of Guadix, the Hieronymite Monastery in Lisbon and the Shrine at Fátima
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Madrid
- Madrid - Arrival day
- More
Begin your Iberian adventure in the heart of Spain, Madrid. This vibrant city welcomes you with its lively atmosphere and rich cultural tapestry. Join your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a delightful dinner and an orientation of the city. Settle into your comfortable accommodations at a hotel like the NH Collection Madrid (or similar) and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Valencia
- Madrid
- Cuenca
- Valencia
- More
- City of Arts and Sciences
- Torre de Torrent
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Travel to the dynamic city of Valencia, known for its innovative spirit. Your orientation drive will showcase the impressive 14th-century Towers of Serrano and Quart, as well as the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Experience the local flavor with a refreshing glass of organic Horchata during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Rest at a comfortable hotel like the SH Valencia Palace (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: Guadix to Granada
- Valencia
- Guadix
- Granada
- More
- Barrio de Cuevas
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Journey through the Sierra Nevada to the town of Guadix, where you'll explore the unique troglodyte cave dwellings. Continue to Granada, the last Moorish stronghold in Europe. This evening, savor the robust flavors of Andalusia with a special Regional Dinner at a local restaurant. Stay overnight at a hotel like the Hotel Alhambra Palace (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Granada to Córdoba and Seville
- Granada
- Seville
- Córdoba
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- Alhambra
- Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
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Explore the breathtaking Alhambra with its stunning palaces and gardens. Later, travel to Córdoba to visit the mesmerizing Mosque of the Caliphs, a masterpiece of Hispano-Islamic art. Conclude your day in the enchanting city of Seville, where you'll stay for the next three nights at a hotel like the Hotel Alfonso XIII (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Seville
- Seville
- Jerez
- Cádiz
- More
- Sevilla Aquarium
- Puerta de la Macarena (Seville)
- Casa de Pilatos
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Discover the captivating city of Seville, starting with the iconic Giralda Bell Tower and the lush Maria Luisa Park. Visit the grand Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, where Christopher Columbus is entombed. Consider an optional evening experience to enjoy a fiery flamenco performance. Return to your hotel for a restful night.
Day 6 – Day 6: Jerez and Cádiz
- Seville
- Jerez
- Cádiz
- More
Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Spanish sherry production in Jerez. Continue to the historic port city of Cádiz, where you'll walk in the footsteps of Columbus and explore the city's exotic flora. Return to Seville for your final night in this enchanting city.
Day 7 – Day 7: Seville to Évora
- Seville
- Évora
- More
Leave Seville behind and journey to the golden landscapes of the Alentejo region. Enjoy a special lunch at the Brito Paes family stud ranch, famous for rearing Lusitano horses. Continue to Évora for a guided tour of its cathedral, Roman temple, and Chapel of Bones. Spend the night at a hotel like the M'AR De AR Aqueduto (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Évora to Lisbon
- Évora
- Lisbon
- More
- Jerónimos Monastery
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Arrive in Lisbon, the seafaring capital of Portugal. Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour, including a visit to the UNESCO-listed Hieronymite Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel like the Altis Grand Hotel (or similar).
Day 9 – Day 9: Lisbon
- Lisbon
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- Castelo de S Jorge
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Enjoy a day at leisure in Lisbon. Relax at a sidewalk café with a pastel de nata or visit the Castle of São Jorge for panoramic views of the city. Consider an optional excursion to the historic towns of Cascais and Sintra. Return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 10 – Day 10: Fátima to Salamanca
- Lisbon
- Fátima
- Salamanca
- Batalha
- More
- Wax Museum of Fátima
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Follow the path of pilgrims to the Shrine at Fátima, a site of religious significance. Cross the border into Spain and arrive in Salamanca, known for its golden-hued architecture and ancient university. Visit the 18th-century Plaza Mayor before settling into your hotel like the Hotel Hospes Palacio de San Esteban (or similar).
Day 11 – Day 11: Ávila to Toledo and Madrid
- Salamanca
- Toledo
- Madrid
- Ávila
- More
- Museum of Santa Cruz
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Visit the walled city of Ávila, then travel to Toledo for a guided walk through its historic streets. Explore the Church of Santo Tomé and the former Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Witness traditional craftsmanship before heading to Madrid for your final two nights at a hotel like the Hotel Riu Plaza España (or similar).
Day 12 – Day 12: Madrid
- Madrid
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- plaza de España
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- Chapel of the Hearers
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Join a Local Specialist for a tour of Madrid, visiting the Royal Palace, Cibeles Fountain, and Plaza de Oriente. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at your leisure, perhaps visiting the Prado Museum or shopping on Gran Vía. Consider an optional excursion to Segovia. Conclude your journey with a farewell dinner with your travel companions.
Day 13 – Day 13: Departure from Madrid
- Madrid - Departure day
- More
Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and Travel Director as your memorable journey through Spain and Portugal comes to an end. Depart from Madrid with cherished memories of your Iberian adventure.
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