Portugal & Spain From Madrid

Madrid - Toledo - Cordoba. Departing from the heart of Spain, we head south to explore the former capital of the country, Toledo. Perched on a hill, Toledo offers a picturesque view of the Tajo River. Once known as the 'City of Three Cultures' for its harmonious blend of Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, and Christian cathedrals, Toledo invites visitors to immerse themselves in its ambiance by strolling through its charming cobbled streets.

As we journey through Castilla-La Mancha, we traverse the landscapes that inspired the adventures of the iconic literary hero, Don Quixote. Along the way, a stop at Despeñaperros Natural Park marks the entrance to the region of Andalucía.

Upon arriving in Córdoba, a bustling city awaits, adorned with vibrant squares and captivating architecture.

Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 8:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 8:30) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.

Cordoba - Granada. In the morning, seize the opportunity to explore La Mezquita, an impressive mosque crafted by the Moors in Spain. This renowned landmark boasts numerous rows of beautifully adorned arches and a tranquil interior. What sets it apart is its sheer size, so vast that a cathedral has been constructed inside it.

Following our visit, we'll traverse rolling hills adorned with olive trees, their striking silvery-grey-green leaves signaling our entry into the province of Jaén, famed for its olive oil production.

Continuing our journey, we'll head south to the ruins of Fortaleza de la Mota, a fortress perched atop a hill. By early evening, we'll arrive in Granada, where we'll be based for the next two nights.

Commence our day in the enchanting city of Granada, where we are greeted by the breathtaking Alhambra, Europe's most sensual palace. This UNESCO World Heritage site, initially a fortress transformed into a palace, will captivate us with its beauty, transporting us to the tales of 1,001 Nights.

In the afternoon, venture into the intriguing Barrio de las Cuevas of Gaudix, also known as the neighborhood of house caves. Immerse ourselves in the history and evolution of this complex maze of homes by visiting the Gaudix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre, housed inside several original cave dwellings. Gain insights into the unique lifestyle of the inhabitants and delve into the rich heritage of this fascinating neighborhood.

Before returning to Granada, seize a moment to capture the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains with a photo stop. Once back in Granada, make the most of our evening by exploring the city's tapas restaurants and savoring its culinary delights.

Please note that the itinerary may be reversed at times, with the visit to the Alhambra taking place in the afternoon.

Granada - Ronda - Seville. Today's itinerary is dedicated to exploring various facets of Andalucía. We kick off by heading west towards El Torcal de Antequera, a nature reserve nestled in the Sierra del Torcal mountain range. This extraordinary location boasts breathtaking limestone formations, sculpted over millions of years.

Continuing our adventure, we delve into the landscapes of Malaga's 'Lake District' before reaching the town of Ronda. Perched on a steep cliff of the El Tajo Gorge, this enchanting commune captivates with its literary connections and a rich history steeped in outlaw tales. A leisurely stroll along the city walls, exploration of picturesque plazas, and a delightful lunch are in store.

Before our journey to Seville, we have the chance to visit an olive oil farm, delving into the production of Spain's renowned 'liquid gold.'

As we cast a final glance over the stunning Andalusian countryside, we embark on our journey to Seville, where the next two nights will be spent.

Today, the day is yours to shape as you prefer. One option is to explore the 80 chapels at the Seville Cathedral and marvel at La Giralda. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the Guadalquivir riverbank, appreciating the historic Torre del Oro, a military tower dating back to the 13th century. Another option is to join a half-day tour to Jerez de la Frontera, a charming town renowned for its sherry and Spanish brandy production. Regardless of your choice, the evening invites you to enjoy a relaxing walk through the grand Plaza de España, surrounded by beautiful arches. However, be warned that the city offers hypnotic Flamenco performances, delicious tapas, and lively bars that can keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning.

Seville - Tavira (Portugal) - Lisbon. Bid farewell to Seville and relish the final glimpses of the captivating Andalusian countryside as we venture west towards Costa de la Luz, an enchanting destination renowned for its abundant sunlight and stunning sandy beaches. Along the way, we pause in Huelva, a seaside city where Christopher Columbus meticulously planned his historic expedition to discover a western sea route to China and India. Immerse ourselves in history and visit the fascinating waterfront exhibition known as Muelle de las Carabelas, where life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships await our exploration.

Continuing our journey, we cross the Portuguese border and make a stop in Tavira, nestled in the charming region of Algarve. This picturesque town, situated on the delightful River Gilão, emanates a magnetic allure that beckons us to uncover its hidden treasures. Meander through the quaint cobblestone streets, traverse an ancient Roman bridge, and indulge in our first taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine.

As we bid adieu to the glorious landscapes of Algarve, we venture northward and arrive in the laid-back city of Lisbon.

Today is completely free for you to explore Lisbon how you wish. You could discover Alfama, the oldest part of the city, or take in the beautiful Moorish castle of Sao Jorge. You may also wish to ride one of Lisbon's iconic yellow trams, or head to the waterfront for a sunny stroll. Enjoy some authentic local dishes for dinner this evening before we get ready to resume our journey tomorrow!

Please note: In Lisbon, some members of your group may be ending their tour, and others may join. You may also meet a new guide for the next part of your trip, and change vehicle.

Lisbon - Obidos - Coimbra - Aveiro - Porto. Today kicks off with a visit to Óbidos, a charming walled town just a short distance away. Explore interesting sights such as the sturdy walls of the Moorish Castle, cobbled shopping lanes, and enjoy a unique experience of sipping Ginjinha d'Óbidos, a sweet liqueur served in a chocolate cup.

Continuing north, we'll reach Coimbra, a former capital of Portugal and home to one of the world's oldest universities, established in the 13th century. Take the opportunity to explore this magnificent institution before treating ourselves to local cuisine for lunch.

The journey then leads to Aveiro, a town resembling a little Venice with picturesque canals and art-nouveau architecture.

Our final destination is Porto, where we'll be staying for the next two nights. Despite a day filled with exploration, consider taking a leisurely walk to a sunset spot in this multi-tiered town.

Today presents a choice: either take it easy and explore the charming city of Porto at your own pace, with an optional Douro River cruise and wine tasting. Alternatively, join our optional mini-coach tour of the Douro Valley. Both options offer an enjoyable experience.

Opting for the half-day excursion means a journey to Pinhão by coach, where you can embark on a river cruise aboard a traditional rabelo boat. In this quaint town celebrated for its port production, relish the delightful local wine and soak in the breathtaking views. En route back to Porto, we'll pause at Mesão Frio viewpoint, providing stunning panoramas of the Douro River and its surroundings.

The remainder of the day is yours to delve further into the city's offerings, savoring its wines and cuisine at your leisure. For enthusiasts of live music, don't miss the opportunity to catch a performance of Fado, Portugal’s soul-stirring traditional music.

Porto - Braga - Guimaraes - Santiago de Compostela (Spain). Departing from Porto, we head north to Braga to explore the esteemed Bom Jesus Sanctuary, a site of religious, cultural, and architectural significance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019, situated at the base of Mount Espinho, boasts an elaborate Baroque staircase adorned with granite fountains and statues. At the summit, a neoclassical church offers breathtaking views of the city. You can reach the top by purchasing a ticket for the special elevator or challenging yourself with the nearly-600 steps on foot.

Next on the itinerary is Guimarães, often hailed as the 'birthplace of Portugal.' The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing an opportunity to explore the city and enjoy a leisurely lunch. For a deeper insight into the life of the Braganza Dukes during the 15th and 16th centuries, consider a visit to the Palace of Braganza.

The adventure then crosses the border into Spain, with Santiago de Compostela as the destination. Known as a globally renowned pilgrimage site, you'll spend two nights in this historic city.

Today, you have the option to explore Santiago de Compostela at your leisure or join us on an exciting optional adventure. Opting for our trip, we'll start by driving along the Costa da Morte, also known as 'the Coast of Death.' Despite its ominous name, it once gained notoriety for shipwrecks. Our first stop is the charming town of Noia, followed by a coffee break in Muros.

We'll then visit Playa de Carnota, Galicia's largest beach, for a photo opportunity. Next, we'll venture to the Ézaro waterfall, offering a short walk and a unique sight of the river cascading directly into the sea. After marveling at the waterfall, we'll head to Cape Finisterre, often called the 'End of the World,' believed by ancient civilizations to be the edge of the earth. Take time to admire the lighthouse and gaze out at the wild Atlantic Ocean. Our next stop is the picturesque town of Muxía, known for its historic harbor. It's a perfect opportunity to relish the region's famous fresh seafood and observe the departure of ships. Upon returning to Santiago de Compostela, you'll have the evening to indulge in Galician specialties or marvel at the renowned cathedral, standing above the remains of St. James, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ.

Santiago de Compostela - Lugo - Salamanca. Commence our day by visiting Lugo, renowned for its stunning cathedral and inviting atmosphere. Notably, Lugo boasts fully intact Roman city walls, a unique feature making it the only place globally where we can immerse ourselves in this ancient experience. Take a leisurely stroll along the defenses and step into the shoes of Roman Legionnaires.

Continuing our journey in the footsteps of the ancient Romans, we'll reach Las Médulas. This extraordinary landscape showcases peculiar red pinnacles and mountain holes, creating an otherworldly ambiance. Formed by the Romans during their quest for gold through earth excavation, these formations invite exploration. Enjoy our lunch in this remarkable setting before heading to Salamanca for an overnight stay.

Salamanca, a city adorned with the treasures of the Spanish Golden Age, awaits. Its architectural marvels and vibrant atmosphere make it an essential destination. Moreover, the city boasts a thriving culinary scene, inviting us to indulge in delightful local cuisine.

Salamanca - Avila - Madrid. In the morning, we'll have the chance to appreciate the beautiful golden-hued landmarks of Salamanca's Old Town and university. Alternatively, for those who enjoyed the famous nightlife the previous night, a more leisurely morning is an option.

Before our departure, let's take one last look at the stunning architecture of the city as we continue our journey through the vast plains of Castile and León.

On our way, we'll make a stop for lunch and provide everyone with some free time to explore the city of Ávila. Following this, we'll visit El Escorial, the impressive residence of the Spanish Royals and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Having immersed ourselves in the cultural riches of Spain, we'll arrive in Madrid in the evening, where our tour ends.

Please note: Drop off for this tour is at 19:30 - Madrid Drop Off, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.