Iberian Grand Tour: Spain & Portugal

Upon your arrival at the airport in Madrid, you'll be greeted by your dedicated driver who will be ready to transfer you from the airport to your hotel. Once you've checked in and freshened up, the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Madrid offers a wealth of cultural and culinary delights for you to discover. Whether you choose to visit world-class museums, savor delicious tapas, or simply wander through charming streets, the city is sure to captivate you with its vibrant energy and rich history. Enjoy your first day in Madrid to the fullest!

After breakfast, embark on a captivating morning tour of Madrid. Explore medieval Morería, known for its ancient architecture and lively taverns. Discover courtly Austrias with highlights like Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa.

Continue through Bourbon Madrid, admiring the Royal Palace, iconic fountains like Cibeles and Neptune, and Puerta de Alcalá. Marvel at 19th-century gems like Plaza de Oriente and the renowned Prado Museum (exterior). Experience modern Madrid on Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana, and in the upscale Barrio de Salamanca.

Visit the green Parque del Oeste, the academic hub of Ciudad Universitaria, and bustling commercial and financial districts. Conclude with a visit to the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The afternoon is yours to explore.

Breakfast will be served at the hotel, followed by our departure towards Zaragoza. You will have some free time to explore the Basilica of Our Lady of The Pilar. Afterward, you can leisurely stroll through the charming old streets of Zaragoza.

In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to San Sebastian, renowned for being one of the most sought-after tourist destinations and the prestigious host of the International Film Festival.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on a panoramic tour of this refined and genteel city, where the Bay and La Concha Beach create a captivating backdrop. Our journey will take us up Mount Igueldo, offering a breathtaking vista of the city below.

The remainder of the day will be yours to explore at your own pace.

Later in the afternoon, there will be an optional excursion to the picturesque villages of Biarritz and San Juan de Luz, located in French territory. This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of these unique coastal towns.

After a hearty breakfast, we'll set off for Bilbao, where you'll have some free time to explore the esplanade of the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture.

Following this, we'll continue our journey to Castro Urdiales, a quintessential fishing village where you'll have the opportunity to wander at your own pace.

Next on our itinerary is Santander, a captivating port city nestled between the sea and mountains, renowned for its numerous beaches, including the well-known El Sardinero. You'll have ample free time to meander through the elegant streets of this city.

Following breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Santillana del Mar, a town of immense historical and artistic significance in Spain. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore true architectural treasures, including the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, which is considered the most important Romanesque gem in Cantabria.

Our journey will then take us to Covadonga, where you'll have free time to visit the Sanctuary and the grotto containing the image of the Virgin.

In the afternoon, we'll continue our travels to Oviedo, a city nestled on a series of hills at the base of the Naranco mountain range. Oviedo is renowned for the beauty of its streets, with many being designated as pedestrian-only. The city's monuments have earned its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the Cathedral standing out as one of the most significant examples of Asturian Gothic architecture.

You'll be accommodated for the night in Oviedo.

After breakfast, we'll journey towards the picturesque Galician region. En route to Lugo, we'll make a stop in Mondoñedo. Here, you'll have some free time to explore the imposing 12th-century cathedral and savor the delectable "Mondoñedo cake."

We'll then continue to Lugo, where you'll have additional free time to marvel at the well-preserved Roman vestiges, particularly the awe-inspiring walls which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our journey will culminate in Santiago de Compostela, where the ancient city itself holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stands as one of the most significant monumental centers in Spain and is the focal point of Christian pilgrimage, marking the end of the historic Camino de Santiago, originally constructed by the Roman Empire.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on a city tour of Santiago. This will include a visit to the Plaza del Obradoiro and its magnificent Cathedral, dedicated to the Apostle Santiago el Mayor. Entrance to the cathedral is included, providing you with the opportunity to explore its awe-inspiring interior.

The remainder of the day will be yours to explore at your leisure. Santiago is known for its vibrant university atmosphere, so feel free to take your time soaking in the unique energy of this city. There are plenty of fascinating corners to discover.

After a satisfying breakfast, we'll set out for the picturesque region of the Galician Rías Bajas, often likened to Spanish fjords. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking landscapes.

Our journey will lead us to the island of La Toja, renowned worldwide for its spa facilities and natural beauty. Here, you'll have some free time to explore and enjoy the island's offerings.

Continuing on, we'll pass through the Arosa estuary as we make our way towards Portugal. Our final destination for the day is Porto.

Following breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on a panoramic tour of Porto, a city esteemed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During this tour, you'll have the chance to admire notable landmarks such as the Cathedral, the Stock Exchange building, and the Church of Santa Clara.

Next, we'll take to the Douro River on a cruise, offering a unique and captivating perspective of the city. You'll be able to soak in the historical heritage of Porto from the water.

The tour will also include a visit to a renowned Port Wine Cellar, where you'll have the opportunity to partake in a wine-tasting session, immersing yourself in the rich flavors of this iconic beverage.

The remainder of the day will be yours to enjoy at your own pace. You'll have the freedom to explore more of Porto or simply relax and savor the local ambiance.

Today, enjoy Porto at your own leisure. Wander through the cobbled streets of Porto, where charming buildings adorned with colorful tiles line the riverbanks. Indulge in delectable Portuguese cuisine at quaint riverside cafes, and savor a glass of the world-famous Port wine in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. Take in the breathtaking views from the Dom Luís I Bridge as the sun sets over the Douro River, casting a warm, golden glow on this enchanting city.

After breakfast, set off for Coimbra, a city steeped in history as the home to one of Europe's oldest universities and the birthplace of Fado music. You'll have some free time to explore its cultural riches.

Later, journey to Fatima, a focal point of the Christian Faith and a renowned World Pilgrimage Sanctuary. Here, you'll be awestruck by the impressive Basilica and the sacred Cova da Iria, the very spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. Visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, which lies at the heart of the sanctuary and is the final resting place of the three young shepherds, Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta. In the evening, there's an opportunity to witness the captivating Candlelight Procession.

Savor a delightful breakfast at the hotel before we embark on our journey. Our first stop is the awe-inspiring Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece blending Gothic and Manueline styles, rightfully designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Next, we'll head to the charming fishing town of Nazaré, where you'll have some leisure time to explore. We'll then continue to Alcobaça, another UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its Gothic church and ancient Cistercian monastery, which traces its origins back to the 12th century.

Finally, we'll make our way to Lisbon for your accommodation. You have the option to partake in a traditional and typical dinner, complete with a captivating Fado performance, showcasing the heart of Portuguese song and music.

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a captivating morning sightseeing tour of Lisbon. Traverse its main squares and avenues, taking in iconic landmarks like the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Monument to the Discoverers, Marquis of Pombal Square, and Liberty Avenue.

The afternoon is yours to wander at your own pace, discovering the nostalgic corners of the Alfama Quarter. This historic district, nestled next to the Castle, boasts old buildings lining narrow, winding "Ruas" brimming with vibrant colors. Here, you'll also find authentic "tabernas" where the soulful strains of Fado music evoke a bygone era. Return to your hotel for a comfortable night's rest.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel. We'll then depart for Caceres, a city distinguished as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its remarkable fusion of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic, and Italian Renaissance architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through its captivating Plaza Mayor and explore the renowned Medieval Quarter in the Old Town.

Later, our journey continues to Cordoba, once the illustrious capital of the Caliphate. Check in to your accommodation for a comfortable stay at the hotel.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel. We'll begin our day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Mosque/Cathedral, a place of tranquility that will surely rejuvenate our minds and spirits. Following this, we'll meander through the charming narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter. After a brief journey of approximately two hours, we'll reach the vibrant city of Seville. You'll be comfortably settled into your accommodation at the hotel.

Indulge in a delightful hotel breakfast to kickstart your day, then embark on a monumental city tour, including an exclusive visit to the awe-inspiring Cathedral, second only to Saint Peter's in Rome. Explore the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, linked to the opera "Carmen" and the legend of "Don Juan". Discover the beauty of María Luisa Park and Plaza de España.

The afternoon is yours to relish the city's diverse perspectives and unique flavors. Return to your comfortable hotel for relaxation and evening preparations. Optionally, immerse yourself in a captivating Flamenco show for an extra dose of cultural richness.

After breakfast at the hotel, commence your journey eastward, following the historic Caliphate route. Along the way, take in the breathtaking scenery of countless olive trees that stretch to the horizon.

Upon arrival in Granada, you'll be captivated by the astonishing monumental surroundings, which served as the final bastion of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada until 1492. Embark on a visit to the world-renowned Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. These enchanting spaces, adorned with fountains, meticulously manicured gardens, and serene patios, have inspired many notable authors.

Settle into your accommodation at the hotel for a restful night. Optionally, in the evening, you may choose to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing Flamenco show.

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll embark on our journey to Alicante, the second largest city in the Valencian Community, before reaching Valencia. This city stands as one of the key capitals along the Mediterranean coast, renowned for its modern Architectural Complex of Arts and Sciences. Notably, the internationally beloved dish, "Paella," finds its roots in Valencia.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before immersing yourself in the luminous city. Explore its charming old town in the morning, then stroll along the ancient bed of the Turia River. Later, pay a visit to the avant-garde marvel that is the City of Arts and Sciences, where you can marvel at its iconic structures from the outside.

In the afternoon, we'll journey northward along the picturesque Mediterranean coast, passing through Tarragona, the ancient Roman city of Tarraco. Finally, we'll arrive in Barcelona, the thriving heart of the Mediterranean and the birthplace of the renowned architect Antonio Gaudí, a symbol of Catalan Modernism. Settle into your accommodation at the hotel.

In the morning, explore the city renowned worldwide for hosting the iconic 1992 Olympic Games. Stroll along its main avenues, taking in the breathtaking modernist masterpieces designed by Gaudí, and be captivated by his most emblematic creations: Casa Milá, La Pedrera, and Casa Batlló, all of which have been designated World Heritage buildings. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of Montjuic Park, where you'll be treated to spectacular views of both the city and the port, as well as the Olympic Ring and the Columbus Monument.

The afternoon is yours to seize, whether it's for further exploration of the city's attractions or indulging in its diverse and exquisite gastronomy. Wind down in comfort at the hotel.

Following breakfast, meet with your driver for a private transfer to the airport. Safe travels!