Spain, Portugal & Morocco (18 destinations)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 25-day multi-country tour that takes you through the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Begin your journey in the bustling city of Madrid, where you'll immerse yourself in the rich art and history of Spain's capital. Travel through the medieval streets of Salamanca and the serene beauty of Coimbra, before exploring the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Faro. Cross into Morocco to discover the enchanting blue town of Chefchaouen, the spiritual heart of Fes, and the bustling streets of Marrakech. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains, the iconic Ait Benhaddou, and the majestic Sahara Desert. Conclude your adventure with the coastal charm of Essaouira and the vibrant atmosphere of Marrakech. With a perfect blend of guided tours and free time, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse cultures and landscapes of these three captivating countries.
Included
22 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
TRANSPORT IN EUROPE:
Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.
There are some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from the main tourist routes. High passes, windy roads, and rough surfaces make for some challenging travel experiences. On some long travel days, we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time at our next destination. If you experience travel sickness we recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort. The best part about all of these long drives is the spectacular views and fun stops en route such as mountain passes, kasbahs, palmeries, sand dunes, goats up trees, etc.
We also use public transport on some of our trips around Morocco. Be it a train or a public bus, remember that the best part of it is the possibility to interact with local people traveling along with you.
Train , Ferry , Metro , Private vehicle , Public bus , Taxi
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
EUROPEAN HOTELS:
Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be rather small, especially by American or Australian standards.
Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.
Camp site (1 night), Gite (1 night), Hotel (19 nights), Riad (3 nights)
camping: 1 night(s), hotel: 19 night(s);
All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative.
Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
EUROPEAN LEADERS:
Intrepid trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe.
We also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance
Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle
Algarve - Island Day Trip by Boat
Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide
Fes - Medina walking tour
Aroumd - High Atlas Mountains guided hike
Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
Tamegroute - Ancient Library
Tamegroute - Underground kasbah guided tour
Sahara Desert - Sunset Camel Ride
Tata - Leader-led orientation walk
Tissint – Waterfall of Attiq
Tleta Tagmoute – Amazigh village and collective granary visit
Tafraoute – village walk and souk visit
Tafraoute - Pierres Bleues Boulders (Painted Rocks)
Tafraoute - Ameln Valley hike with tea and picnic
Taghazoute – Argan oil women's co-op visit
Essaouira - Guided walking tour
Essaouira – Local fisherman visit
Map
Attractions
Faro Marina
Barbican Gate
Arco do Repouso
Museo del Prado
Casa de las Conchas
Salamanca Cathedral
Castle of the Moors
Museu do Fado
Municipal Museum of Faro
Praia da Mata
Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara
Tavira Island
Turismo da Universidade de Coimbra
Main SquareDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Madrid
- Madrid - Arrival day
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- Museo del Prado
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Welcome to the heart of Spain, Madrid! Begin your journey with a warm welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you'll meet your fellow travelers and local guide. Afterward, enjoy an optional group dinner to kickstart your adventure. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore the city's rich art scene, perhaps visiting the Museo Reina Sofia to admire works by Picasso and Dali.
Day 2 – Day 2: Madrid to Salamanca
- Salamanca
- Madrid
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- Casa de las Conchas
- Salamanca Cathedral
- Main Square
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Bid farewell to Madrid and journey to the historic university town of Salamanca. Nestled among lush pastures, this medieval town is perfect for exploration on foot. Your guide will lead you through the central Plaza Mayor and showcase the stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Spend your afternoon delving into the intricate details of the Casa de Las Conchas or marvel at the contrasting Old and New Cathedrals. As night falls, immerse yourself in the vibrant student nightlife.
Day 3 – Day 3: Salamanca to Coimbra
- Coimbra
- Salamanca
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- Barbican Gate
- Turismo da Universidade de Coimbra
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Travel westward to the serene city of Coimbra, once the capital of Portugal. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk through its ancient streets, rich with royal heritage. Spend your free time exploring the city's white stone buildings adorned with colorful azulejos tiles. Visit the University of Coimbra, the oldest in Portugal, and the renowned Biblioteca Joanina, a baroque library that stands as a testament to the city's academic legacy.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore Coimbra
- Coimbra
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- Cabril do Ceira
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Today is yours to discover Coimbra at your leisure. Venture into the countryside to explore the ancient Roman ruins of Conimbriga, renowned for its well-preserved mosaics. Choose to return via a scenic walk to the rural town of Condeixa or a short bus ride. In the evening, experience a traditional Fado performance, where soulful melodies recount tales of the sea and life's struggles, a tradition deeply rooted in Coimbra's university culture.
Day 5 – Day 5: Coimbra to Lisbon
- Lisbon
- Coimbra
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- Museu do Fado
- Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara
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Journey by train to Lisbon, a vibrant capital city known for its multicultural flair and lively atmosphere. Upon arrival, embark on a guided walk along the Tagus River, exploring the city's beautifully restored buildings and grand boulevards. Visit the historic Citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, perched on the highest point of the Old Town. In the evening, delve into Lisbon's rich maritime history at the Naval Museum or experience the bustling nightlife in Barrio Alto.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discover Lisbon or Sintra
- Lisbon
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- Castle of the Moors
- Praia da Mata
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Spend the day exploring Lisbon or take a short train ride to the enchanting town of Sintra. Here, you'll find the stunning Pena Palace, a masterpiece of Romantic architecture, and the ancient Castle of the Moors, offering breathtaking views over the Serra de Sintra Mountain Range. Whether you choose to wander Lisbon's charming streets or explore Sintra's majestic landscapes, the day promises unforgettable experiences.
Day 7 – Day 7: Lisbon to Faro
- Lisbon
- Faro
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- Faro Marina
- Arco do Repouso
- Municipal Museum of Faro
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Travel to the Algarve's capital, Faro, a city known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, explore the Old Town through the neoclassical Arco da Vila. Visit the 13th-century Faro Cathedral and the Municipal Museum, housed in a 16th-century convent. Spend the rest of the day wandering the cobbled streets or relaxing in this charming coastal city.
Day 8 – Day 8: Explore Faro's Natural Beauty
- Faro
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- Tavira Island
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Embark on a boat trip to Faro's barrier islands, where you'll discover a stunning landscape of canals, lagoons, and sandbanks. Stroll along boardwalks through fishermen's settlements, cross dunes, and relax on endless beaches. Return to Faro in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, exploring the Algarve's hidden gems or simply unwinding as the sun sets.
Day 9 – Day 9: Faro to Seville
- Faro
- Seville
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Cross the border back into Spain and arrive in the vibrant city of Seville, a place steeped in history and culture. Known for its oranges, tapas, and flamenco, Seville offers a rich tapestry of experiences. After a brief orientation walk, spend the afternoon and evening exploring the city's main attractions at your own pace, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Day 10 – Day 10: Seville to Chefchaouen
- Seville
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Embark on a journey from Seville to the enchanting town of Chefchaouen in Morocco. Known for its blue-washed buildings and serene ambiance, Chefchaouen is a hidden gem nestled in the Rif Mountains. Upon arrival, explore the town's charming streets, visit the 15th-century Grand Mosque, and savor local delicacies like goat cheese and tajine.
Day 11 – Day 11: Explore Chefchaouen
Day 11: Explore Chefchaouen
Discover the captivating beauty of Chefchaouen with a guided tour through its maze-like medina. Admire the striking blue and whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs, and artistic doorways. Visit local artisans, explore the bustling main square, and enjoy panoramic views from a former mosque. In the afternoon, unwind with a traditional Moroccan hammam experience.
Day 12 – Day 12: Chefchaouen to Fes
Day 12: Chefchaouen to Fes
Travel to Fes, Morocco's spiritual and cultural heart. Step back in time as you explore the medieval medina, a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas. Spend your afternoon sipping mint tea and sampling sweet Moroccan dates, then delve deeper into the city's rich culinary heritage with local specialties like camel burger and harira.
Day 13 – Day 13: Discover Fes
Day 13: Discover Fes
Embark on a guided walking tour of Fes el Bali, the city's ancient medina. Navigate through bustling souks, admire the exquisite Medersa Bou Inania, and visit the Belghazi Museum and Funduk Nejjarine. Witness the iconic view of the Fes Tannery and explore a traditional ceramics factory. After the tour, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your leisure.
Day 14 – Day 14: Fes to Marrakech
Day 14: Fes to Marrakech
Travel by train to the vibrant city of Marrakech. Upon arrival, explore the bustling Djemaa el-Fna, a lively square filled with performers, storytellers, and street food vendors. Admire the iconic Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret, then enjoy a group dinner in the heart of the city, celebrating the journey so far.
Day 15 – Day 15: Free Day in Marrakech
Day 15: Free Day in Marrakech
Enjoy a leisurely day in Marrakech, exploring the city's vibrant streets and hidden gems. Attend a group meeting at 6 pm to discuss the next leg of your adventure. Whether you choose to relax or dive into the city's bustling atmosphere, Marrakech offers a wealth of experiences to savor.
Day 16 – Day 16: Marrakech to Aroumd
Day 16: Marrakech to Aroumd
Venture into the High Atlas Mountains to the village of Imlil. From here, trek to the serene village of Aroumd, where you'll experience traditional Amazigh culture. Spend the night in a family-run mountain gite, enjoying home-cooked meals and breathtaking views. Explore the village and surrounding farmlands, or embark on a hike to the shrine of Sidi Chamharouch.
Day 17 – Day 17: Aroumd to Ait Benhaddou
Day 17: Aroumd to Ait Benhaddou
Travel along mountain roads to the iconic Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient town's winding streets and climb to the hilltop for panoramic views. In the evening, participate in a local cooking demonstration, learning to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes like couscous and tagine.
Day 18 – Day 18: Ait Benhaddou to Erg Chigaga
Day 18: Ait Benhaddou to Erg Chigaga
Embark on a full day of travel towards the Sahara Desert. Visit the Tamegroute Library, home to ancient manuscripts, and explore the underground Kasbah. Continue to M'Hamid, then switch to 4WDs to reach the majestic Erg Chigaga dunes. Experience a camel ride into the Saharan sunset, and spend the night under a starry sky.
Day 19 – Day 19: Erg Chigaga to Tata
Day 19: Erg Chigaga to Tata
Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Sahara. After breakfast, journey out of the desert, stopping at the Attiq Waterfall for a refreshing break. Arrive in Tata by mid-afternoon, where you can relax or explore the town with your guide, enjoying a local dinner in the evening.
Day 20 – Day 20: Tata to Tafraoute
Day 20: Tata to Tafraoute
Visit the village of Tleta Tagmoute to explore its oasis granaries and date palm plantations. Continue to Tafraoute, a picturesque village in the Anti Atlas Mountains. Discover the local souqs and the controversial Pierres Bleues, painted rocks by Belgian artist Jean Verame. Decide for yourself whether these rocks are art or not!
Day 21 – Day 21: Hike in Ameln Valley
Day 21: Hike in Ameln Valley
Embark on a hike through the stunning Ameln Valley, passing through small Amazigh villages. Sample local Amlou spread with tea and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the valley's breathtaking scenery. Return to Tafraoute for a free afternoon and evening to explore or relax.
Day 22 – Day 22: Tafraoute to Essaouira
Day 22: Tafraoute to Essaouira
Travel towards the Atlantic, stopping at an Argan oil cooperative to learn about the production process and try freshly made Amlou paste. Continue to Essaouira, a charming coastal city with whitewashed houses and vibrant art galleries. Spend the evening exploring or relaxing by the sea.
Day 23 – Day 23: Explore Essaouira
Day 23: Explore Essaouira
Join a local guide for a walking tour of Essaouira's medina, Jewish mellah, port, and skala. Meet an expert fisherman and learn about traditional fishing methods. Enjoy free time to explore the city's art galleries, shops, or take a surfing lesson. Relax with a hammam experience or savor fresh seafood by the ocean.
Day 24 – Day 24: Essaouira to Marrakech
Day 24: Essaouira to Marrakech
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Essaouira before catching a bus back to Marrakech. Upon arrival, explore the vibrant Djemaa el-Fna, filled with performers and street food vendors. Consider visiting the Palais Bahia or the ruins of the Palais Badi. Join your group for an optional farewell dinner to celebrate the journey.
Day 25 – Day 25: Departure from Marrakech
Day 25: Departure from Marrakech
Conclude your adventure with a final breakfast in Marrakech. If you wish to extend your stay, additional accommodation can be arranged. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during this incredible journey through Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
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