Spain Classics & Portugal
From March 29 to April 12, 2025, embark on a vibrant cultural journey through Spain and Portugal, exploring iconic cities from Barcelona to Lisbon. This itinerary covers historical landmarks, local cuisines, and unforgettable experiences in each destination, offering a deep dive into the rich tapestries of Iberian cultures.
About
This Tour
Activity Level 3
The "Activity Level 3 - Active" category is tailored for travelers who prefer a dynamic and physically engaging experience. If you're comfortable with walking and standing for 2-3 hours without issue, and can handle a 2.5-hour walking tour that includes covering several miles, navigating hills, and uneven terrain, this level suits you. Being able to walk up to four miles in a day, easily climb three flights of stairs, and adapt to altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet are key aspects. This level also requires you to be agile enough to get in and out of different types of transportation, like tuk-tuks and cable cars. While there are longer days filled with activities, there's also ample free time for relaxation or personal exploration. It's important to note that this level isn't suitable for those who need mobility assistance devices.
March 29, 2025
Overnight Flight
You are embarking on a vibrant cultural journey that showcases the finest aspects of Spain and Portugal.
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March 30, 2025
Barcelona, Spain - Tour Begins
Welcome to Spain. Your journey commences in the dynamic city of Barcelona. This evening, you will have the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and partake in a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (Dinner Included)
March 31, 2025
Barcelona
Begin your day with a stroll from your hotel to some of Barcelona's principal attractions, immersing yourself in the essence of this remarkable city through an exploration on foot. Following a leisure period for lunch at your discretion, proceed to a comprehensive tour of Barcelona. This tour highlights the Columbus Monument, Parc de Montjuic, and the celebrated works of Antoni Gaudi, including Batllo House and Casa Mila building, both recognized by UNESCO. Accompanied by a local expert, you will visit the magnificent La Sagrada Familia* (UNESCO), arguably Gaudi’s most renowned creation. Construction of the basilica commenced in 1882, with its completion projected for 2026, marking the centennial of the architect's passing. (Breakfast Included)
April 1, 2025
Barcelona - Peniscola - Valencia
Today marks your departure from Barcelona. En route to Valencia, make a stop at the picturesque Peniscola, where you will have free time to discover its charms independently. Referred to as the "City in the Sea," this fortified seaside town boasts a Knights Templar Castle from the 13th century, representing a lesser-known jewel. Your journey concludes for the day in Valencia, a city rich in Roman and Arabic architectural heritage, nestled amidst citrus groves. You may also consider participating in an optional tour that delves into the myths and legends of Valencia. (Breakfast Included)
April 2, 2025
Valencia - Albufera - Valencia
During a panoramic tour of Valencia, witness the City of Arts and Sciences – a symbol of the city's commitment to futuristic education and architectural innovation. Continue with a guided exploration of Valencia’s historic center on foot, led by a local expert who will unveil the city's rich tapestry of history. Admire the elaborate Serranos Towers and meander through the vibrant central market, engaging in the local shopping culture. Allocate personal time for further exploration according to your interests. The journey extends to Albufera, the birthplace of paella, where you will embark on a brief canal boat tour amidst the rice fields. Experience the authenticity of visiting a traditional fisherman’s dwelling, known as a barraca. Highlighting the visit will be a paella-making demonstration followed by a delectable paella lunch. (Breakfast & Lunch Included)
April 3, 2025
Valencia - Granada
Today, your travels take you to Granada, renowned as the final stronghold of the Moors in Spain until its capture by the Catholic monarchs in 1492. This evening, you will have the opportunity to dine with your fellow travelers at a local restaurant. (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
April 4, 2025
Granada - Seville
This morning, engage with a local expert on a tour of the internationally acclaimed Alhambra** (UNESCO), a majestic stone fortress that dominates the cityscape, epitomizing the zenith of Islamic architectural artistry. Conclude your day in Seville, often heralded as Spain's "cultural capital." (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
April 5, 2025
Seville
Today, the exploration of Seville allows you to personalize your experience with a choice of activities. Opt for a guided walk through the Santa Cruz Quarter, where the scent of orange blossoms and the sight of white-washed houses capture the essence of Andalusia, before proceeding to the Plaza de España. Alternatively, experience Seville from the waters of the Guadalquivir River with a boat tour that offers unique views of ancient bridges and towers.
Later, visit the Seville Cathedral*** (UNESCO), the world's largest gothic church, where you will encounter Columbus' tomb and the Giralda Bell Tower. Your afternoon concludes with a light tapas lunch with views of the cathedral. This evening, immerse yourself in Andalusian culture with an authentic flamenco show (UNESCO), showcasing one of Seville's most celebrated traditions. (Breakfast & Lunch Included)
April 6, 2025
Seville - Cordoba - Madrid
Journey to the extraordinary Moorish city of Cordoba. Upon your arrival, partake in a guided walking tour of La Mezquita (UNESCO), an iconic 8th-century mosque which underwent a conversion into the city’s cathedral in the 16th century. Extend your exploration to Cordoba's historic Jewish Quarter, renowned for its well-preserved cultural heritage. Subsequently, you will board the AVE high-speed train destined for Spain’s vibrant capital, Madrid. Upon arriving in the late afternoon, avail yourself of some free time to either relax or initiate your exploration of the city independently. (Breakfast Included)
April 7, 2025
Madrid
Embark on a locally guided panoramic tour of Madrid's historic center, where you will encounter iconic landmarks including the Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, the latter of which has been a focal point for events since the 17th century. Accompanied by a local expert, delve into the invaluable treasures housed within the Prado Museum. Established in 1819, the museum is celebrated for hosting one of the globe's premier collections of art, featuring eminent masters such as Velazquez and Goya. The remainder of your afternoon is at your disposal to further explore the captivating city of Madrid. (Breakfast & Diner Included)
April 8, 2025
Se Madrid - Toledo - Elvas, Portugal
Journey to Toledo (UNESCO), which served as the capital of medieval Spain until 1560. Embark on an extensive tour that features the city's splendid Gothic cathedral. Following this, visit the Church of Santo Tomé to admire El Greco’s renowned painting, "The Burial of Count Orgaz." Afterward, bid farewell to Spain and cross the border into Portugal, arriving in the lesser-known town of Elvas, a fortified garrison town distinguished as a World Heritage site. (Breakfast Included)
April 9, 2025
Elvas - Lisbon
Following a leisurely morning in Elvas, proceed to Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal. Dedicate your day to exploring the narratives of the nation's storied past, with visits to notable landmarks such as the Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO), the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Tower of Belém (UNESCO). The evening offers a chance to acclimate to your accommodations, which will be your base for the next three nights. (Breakfast Included)
April 10, 2025
Lisbon
The day is entirely at your disposal to explore the capital city independently. Seize the opportunity to sample Lisbon's delectable cuisine or board the historic tram to the lively Alfama district. You may also opt for an additional excursion to the Portuguese Riviera, where you can visit the scenic towns of Cascais and Sintra. (Breakfast Inlcuded)
April 11, 2025
Lisbon - Obidos - Lisbon
Today, venture to one of Portugal's most celebrated towns – Obidos! This medieval town, with its intricate network of cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses, invites you to take your time and soak in its enchanting atmosphere. You are encouraged to sample one of the local specialties – sour cherry liqueur served in edible chocolate cups, or simply relish the quaint streets and idyllic alleyways. This evening, come together for a farewell dinner to commemorate the conclusion of a memorable journey through Spain and Portugal. (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
April 12, 2025
Lisbon - Tour Ends
Return home carrying memories of a beautiful landscape and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. (Breakfast Included)