Day 1 : Fly to Portugal

Our journey begins with a flight across the Atlantic to Portugal.

Day 2 : Arrive in Lisbon

Upon arriving at Humberto Delgado Airport, the main international gateway to Portugal, we begin exploring Lisbon. This vibrant capital city perched on hilltops offers gorgeous coastal views, incredible seafood, and fascinating attractions that are rooted in the country’s heritage. We visit the famous 16th century Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, as well as the neighborhoods of Baixa, Chaido, Bairro Alto, and Alfama. This afternoon, we check into our beautiful accommodations for a two-night stay, then continue enjoying the city’s charm on our own. Tonight, we gather for a delicious Welcome Dinner and get acquainted with our fellow travelers.

Day 3 : Sintra & Pena Palace

After breakfast at the hotel, we’re off to discover the royal history and magnificent architecture in Sintra. Now a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, this resort town was the first hub of European Romantic architecture and once a royal sanctuary. We tour majestic Pena Palace within the Sintra Mountains, one of Europe’s finest palaces. Admire its striking Romanticism, unique statues of mythological creatures, spectacular terraces, and opulent rooms that are each painted a different color. We then take time to individually explore Sintra’s eateries, quaint shops, and stunning vistas. Later, we return to Lisbon and have time to relax before tonight’s moving dinner and show at an authentic fado restaurant, a cultural representation of Portugal with folkloric music.

Day 4 : Roman Temple & Cathedral of Evora

We depart our hotel this morning and travel to Evora, another entrancing UNESCO World Heritage Site partially enclosed by medieval walls. A local guide joins us for a comprehensive tour of the city’s best sights including its well-preserved historic center that consists of an ancient Roman Temple, aqueduct, and 12th century Gothic cathedral. The afternoon is yours to try a savory dish at a local restaurant and visit more fascinating attractions. We then travel across the Portugal-Spain border which takes us over the Guadiana River, and check into our accommodations in Seville, Spain before enjoying dinner together.

Day 5 : Seville Cathedral & Flamenco Show

Following breakfast, we embark on a city tour of Seville, the capital of Andalusia. Cherish its lively culture as we view the Santa Cruz Quarter, Parque de Maria Louisa, and the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, which is also the final resting place of great navigator Christopher Columbus. We also have time at leisure in this delightful city to stroll through its orange-scented courtyards, explore the Plaza de España, take a relaxing boat ride down the canal, or delight our taste buds with tapas! Tonight, we enjoy an immersive cultural experience at a local restaurant with dinner and a Flamenco show that features traditional Spanish music and dancing.

Day 6 : Granada & Historic Palaces

Today we journey to Granada, nestled within the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Remarkable churches, convents, monasteries, and mansions dot the hillsides. We tour the last fortress of the Spanish Moors, Alhambra, dating back to the ninth century. This stunning, expansive complex is an iconic landmark and one of the best-preserved palaces in all of the Islamic world. We also visit Generalife, a summer escape for Nasrid dynasty rulers to find peace while soaking up spectacular views of the city and river valleys below. As you explore the city, enjoy its famous free tapas with drinks and admire the ever-present Moorish culture found within the beautiful architecture and historic Arab quarter. Later, we get settled at our hotel and gather for a fantastic dinner at a local restaurant. *Entrance to the palaces and gardens is not always guaranteed.

Day 7 : Toledo & Madrid

This morning, we board our motorcoach for a drive to the ancient hilltop city of Toledo, dramatically situated overlooking the river Tajo. Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” it has strong influences from medieval Arab, Hebrew, and Christian occupants dating back to the Middle Ages. Admire the area’s profound history during our guided tour, including the Toledo Cathedral with its famous gold monstrance, grandiose chapel, and brilliant paintings. This afternoon, our journey continues to Spain’s vibrant capital city of Madrid, our home for the next two nights.

Day 8 : Royal Palace of Madrid

We enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before joining our local guide for an impressive tour of Madrid. Gaze upon its distinguished boulevards, impeccable parks, and magnificent European art as we dive into the fascinating history, rich in nobility. We visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, the largest in Western Europe and home to several generations of royal families. Discover centuries of Spanish history within these illustrious walls while visiting its iconic spaces, such as the Throne Room and Hall of Columns. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore the unique neighborhoods, food markets, and lively nightlife.

Day 9 : Barcelona

Our morning begins with a high-speed AVE train ride to Barcelona, the final city on our spectacular journey. This cosmopolitan destination offers the finest in everything – art, weather, beaches, cuisine, architecture, and more. A local guide joins us for a wonderful tour that includes Las Ramblas Boulevard, Casa Mila, Parc de Montjuic, and the Columbus Monument. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the city’s spirited atmosphere and captivating attractions that bring in tourists from all over the world.

Day 10 : Gaudi’s Masterpieces

We continue sightseeing this morning with attractions such as Parc Guell, one of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi’s most expansive and spectacular designs. Stroll the estate to see “El Drac” or the symbol of Barcelona, the Austria Gardens, Sala Hipostila’s towering pillars, and more. We also view innovative La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, the world’s largest unfinished Catholic church. Our afternoon is free for individual exploration or relaxation. You may enjoy revisiting Las Ramblas Boulevard to observe more of its mesmerizing attractions, shop for souvenirs at the various markets, take in unmatched views of the Mediterranean Sea in the Waterfront District, or appreciate masterpieces in the world-renowned museums. This evening, we get together to celebrate our unforgettable trip with new friends at a delicious Farewell Dinner.

Day 11 : Fly Home

We board our flight and return home with fond memories of our time in Spain and Portugal.