IBERIAN EXPLORER
Price
Duration
Min People
Tour Type
Tour Code
CS-ES
Overview
Add a dash of emoción to your journey across the Iberian Peninsula, following an enticing trail of tapas, architectural triumphs and centuries-old art on this 13 day adventure through Spain and Portugal. You’ll ramble through Barcelona, people-watch in Madrid, and stroll along the golden beaches of Costa del Sol. Other famous highlights along the way include the ancient cave dwellings at Guadix, Lisbon’s iconic Belém Tower and the world’s greatest Gothic Cathedral in sizzling Seville.
Included/Excluded
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- City orientation tours
- Extensive variety of Choice Optional Experiences
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
- Many meals and daily breakfasts included
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
Day 1 | Arrive Barcelona (Meals: Dinner)
- Begin your exhilarating visit to Spain and Portugal in Barcelona, known for its golden shores and boundless energy.
- Check in to your hotel, Campanile Sud – Cornella, and take some time to recharge siesta-style.
- Meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers in the evening for a glimpse of the adventures ahead.
- Explore the capital of Catalonia and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona on your first evening.
Day 2 | Barcelona sightseeing and free timec (Meals: Breakfast)
- Embark on an exciting morning of sightseeing in Barcelona with your Local Specialist, who will guide you to the best spots in town.
- Capture the sights and sounds of La Rambla, Passeig de Gracia, and the ornate facade of La Sagrada Família during your city tour.
- Spend the rest of your day exploring Barcelona on your own, perhaps visiting the Gothic Quarter or seeking out the fanciful facades of Antoni Gaudí’s works.
- Optional Experience: Consider joining a tour to Montserrat to explore its hidden monastery, home to the revered La Moreneta, followed by a scenic drive of Montjuic, the site of the 1992 summer Olympics. Later, indulge in a delightful Catalonian feast with drinks.
- Stay at the Campanile Sud – Cornella hotel for the night.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Mystical Montserrat –
- Take a drive to the enchanting and mystical mountain of Montserrat with your Local Specialist.
- Experience the feeling of stepping into a fairytale as you enjoy the spectacular scenery and embark on a tour of the sights.
- Visit the Benedictine Monastery, where you’ll view the famed Black Madonna.
- Adult: 53.00 EUR
- Note: This optional experience involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Barcelona Evening with Montjuïc & Olympic Drive –
- Enjoy the beauty of Barcelona as the day ends, including a drive up to Montjuïc hill with your Local Specialist.
- Experience an incredible panorama over the city and its impressive harbor from Montjuïc hill.
- Later, enjoy free time for dinner in a Catalan restaurant with your newfound friends.
- Adult: 31.00 EUR
Day 3 | Barcelona – Peñíscola – Valencia (Meals: Breakfast)
- Skirt along the Costa Dorada, a gleaming strip of the Mediterranean coastline, passing expansive orange groves en route to Peñíscola.
- Visit Peñíscola and see its imposing 13th-century Templar Castle, famous as the dramatic backdrop for the Hollywood classic El Cid.
- Continue to Valencia and embark on an orientation tour with your Travel Director, catching glimpses of the iconic highlights of this bustling modern metropolis.
- View the Art Nouveau Train Station Estación del Norte, as well as the Towers of Serrano and Quart.
- Admire the futuristic ‘City of Arts and Sciences’, a cultural complex built into the Turia riverbed.
- Stay at the NH Las Ciencias hotel for the night.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Valencia’s Golden Age, a Leisurely Walking Tour –
- Explore Valencia’s well-preserved medieval center with a Local Specialist, who will bring its history alive, spanning from Roman and Gothic times into the Golden Age.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the medieval streets of Valencia, experiencing its rich historical heritage.
- Visit Lonja, an exquisite late Gothic building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996.
- Adult: 32.00 EUR
Valencia Dinner and Discovery –
- Delve into Valencia, the country’s third-largest city, to experience its Mediterranean verve.
- Despite its vibrant and modern atmosphere, Valencia retains much of its past, dating back to its Roman foundation 2,000 years ago.
- Learn about the iconic dish “Paella,” which originated in Valencia, and enjoy this singular Spanish fare during a typical meal in one of the city’s most emblematic restaurants.
- Adult: 59.00 EUR
Day 4 | Valencia – Guadix – Granada (Meals: Breakfast, Dinner)
- Journey to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada to discover a hidden underground world of cave houses in Guadix.
- Explore the ancient man-made dwellings, skillfully carved centuries ago by the troglodytes of Guadix.
- Capture the unique sight of white chimneys rising from the hills and front doors etched into the rockface.
- Continue your scenic travels to Granada, the last stronghold of the Moors in Spain.
- Stay at the Macia Condor hotel for the night.
Day 5 | Granada – Costa del Sol (Meals: Breakfast)
- Embrace the laid-back spirit of your Spanish hosts and enjoy a slow start to the day on your Mediterranean tour.
- Spend your free morning exploring Granada and its Moorish influences at your leisure.
- Optionally, join an Optional Experience to the Albaicín Quarter, one of the oldest centers of Islamic culture in the city.
- Later, head to the golden beaches of the Costa del Sol and enjoy a leisurely stroll or siesta time to soak up the fresh sea air.
- Optionally, consider joining an Optional Experience this evening to the hilltop village of Mijas, offering stunning views of the coast followed by a delicious Mediterranean meal.
- Stay at the Moon Dreams Calabahia Hotel for the night.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Mijas Andalusian Hilltown & Mediterranean Dinner –
- Visit the charming hilltop village, perched high with splendid views of the coastline.
- Traverse its narrow streets and pass white-washed houses with a Local Specialist.
- Explore the oval bullring and hunt for hidden gems in the shops.
- Conclude the evening with a Mediterranean dinner at a coastal restaurant.
- Adult: 68.00 EUR
Albaicín and the Royal Chapel –
- Enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the Albaicín UNESCO World Heritage Site with our Local Specialist.
- Explore the maze of narrow streets and Moorish splendor.
- Visit the Catholic Monarchs’ tombs and view some of their treasures at the Royal Chapel.
- Wander through the picturesque Alcaicería quarter.
- Adult: 41.00 EUR
Day 6 | Costa del Sol – Gibraltar – Seville (Meals: Breakfast, Dinner)
- Cross the border into Gibraltar, known as the much-contested gateway to the Mediterranean Sea.
- Optionally, consider joining an Optional Experience to get up close to the Barbary apes and visit the cave of St. Michael at the Rock of Gibraltar, once considered the pillar of the “known world” by the Romans and Greeks.
- Return to Spain, traveling north through the Andalusian countryside.
- Arrive in sizzling Seville.
- Stay at the MA Congresos hotel for the night.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
A Guided Tour of the Rock of Gibraltar –
- Experience a tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, one of the pillars of Hercules, by private minibus.
- Enjoy magnificent views of the meeting of the Atlantic and Mediterranean and the Spanish Sierra.
- Visit St. Michael’s Cave and see the famous Barbary apes for an unforgettable travel experience.
- Adult: 54.00 EUR
Day 7 | Seville sightseeing and free time (Meals: Breakfast)
- A Local Specialist will reveal Seville’s special allure, starting amidst the pavilions and fountains of Maria Luisa Park.
- Learn about the elaborate Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, which put Seville on the global map.
- See the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral and its Giralda Bell Tower.
- Optionally, consider joining an Optional Experience to the Alcázar, a lavish palace complex built by a Christian king who loved Mudéjar architecture.
- Experience the Alcázar, which has witnessed key moments in Spanish history and welcomed great Spanish kings and queens over the centuries.
- Optionally, consider an Optional Experience to see a flamenco show tonight, showcasing the whirling skirts and fiery passion of this traditional dance.
- Stay at the MA Congresos hotel for the night.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Flamenco: Experience the Best Show in Town –
- Immerse yourself in the authentic culture of locals while traveling through Andalusia.
- Discover the passion, rhythm, and magic of an Andalusian flamenco show organized for this evening.
- Experience 90 minutes of memorable entertainment at the best show in town, with included drink.
- Adult: 44.00 EUR
Flamenco, the Best Show in Town With a Three-Course Dinner – This evening you’ll discover the
magic, rhythm and passion of flamenco, while being served a three-course dinner of Andalusian
specialties with drinks included. We’ve organised tickets to the best show in town. You won’t soon
forget this incredibly memorable ninety-minute experience.
Adult: 74.00 EUR
Discover The Origin Of Tapas & Evening In Old Seville –
- Experience the historic city of Seville, characterized by its Gothic architecture, splendid palaces, and dazzling Flamenco shows.
- Add an unforgettable experience to your bucket list with an evening of traditional tapas.
- Join for an evening of mouth-watering tapas specialties in the charming old quarter of Seville.
- Sample different flavors and wines as you dine like a local.
- Adult: 60.00 EUR
The Moorish Alcázar and Plaza América –
- Visit the elegant 14th Century Moorish Alcazar with our Local Specialist, a royal palace set in its own beautiful gardens.
- The gardens were famously used as the setting for the Water Gardens of Dorne in the Game Of Thrones series due to their breathtaking beauty.
- Journey to the famous exhibition site of Plaza América, a must-visit for any visitor to Seville.
- Adult: 51.00 EUR
* This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation will incur a 50%
cancellation fee
Day 8 | Seville – Lisbon (Meals: Breakfast)
- Bid farewell to Sevilla and welcome Portugal as you journey through the golden and green plains of the Alentejo to Lisbon.
- Explore Lisbon, where pastel and azulejo-clad façades line the narrow streets across and over its seven hills from St. George Castle to the Tagus River.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Bairro Alto and beyond, either by heading out with new friends for a night on the town or joining your Travel Director for a poignant Optional Experience.
- Optionally, join a traditional meal accompanied by the authentic sounds of fado.
- Stay at the Ramada by Wyndham hotel.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Portuguese Fado Evening Of Music & Song With Dinner –
- Immerse yourself in the culture and tradition of Lisbon with a night on the town as part of your tour of Portugal.
- Savour a typical meal with local aperitifs and drinks included.
- Listen to the melodic sounds of beautiful Fado singing, an expressive musical art with more than 200 years of history.
- Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
- Adult: 76.00 EUR
Downtown Lisbon Promenade –
- Immerse yourself in downtown Lisbon by exploring the charming and historic neighborhood of Baixa.
- Admire the intricate facades of historic buildings adorned with local azulejos (painted tiles).
- See the famous trolleys and uncover the diversity of the city’s vibrant squares.
- Savor the unmistakable Ginginja liqueur, a sweet cherry-flavored delight, as you soak in the picturesque surroundings of Lisbon’s bustling heart.
Day 9 | Lisbon sightseeing and free time (Meals: Breakfast)
- Join a Local Specialist for a guided sightseeing tour along the banks of the Tagus River this morning.
- Pass by the iconic Hieronymite Monastery and Belém Tower, built in the 16th century to defend the city.
- Later, hop on one of the signature trams to explore the city’s hilly bairros or sample some local pastries, such as pasteis de nata, at a corner café.
- Optionally, leave the city limits behind in the afternoon and visit the beach playgrounds of Estoril and Cascais, as well as Sintra, on an Optional Experience of the iconic Golden Triangle.
- Stay at the Ramada by Wyndham hotel.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
The Golden Triangle: Sintra, Cascais & The Estoril Coast –
- Venture outside Lisbon with a Local Specialist to experience some of the region’s most wonderful sights.
- Pass through the fashionable Estoril Coast and explore the picturesque fishing village of Cascais, known for its beautiful array of mansions and exclusive residences.
- Complete the Golden Triangle by visiting one of the impressive Royal Palaces of Portugal nestled in the Sintra Mountains.
- Adult: 51.00 EUR
Seafood Feast by the Tagus River –
- Enjoy a memorable evening out in Lisbon by taking a ferry across the mighty Tagus River.
- Indulge in typical Portuguese seafood and fish specialties at a local restaurant.
- After dinner, cross the impressive Suspension Bridge to take in sweeping views of the Portuguese capital.
- On occasion, the ferry may not be available, and travel will be over the bridge both ways.
- Adult: 64.00 EUR
Day 10 | Lisbon – Fátima – Salamanca (Meals: Breakfast, Dinner)
- Rub shoulders with visiting travelers at the Catholic pilgrimage center of Fátima, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children in 1917.
- Explore the Basilica and Sanctuary in Fátima, transformed into a place celebrating a religious miracle.
- Venture east and cross the Spanish border bound for Salamanca.
- Visit Plaza Mayor with its golden baroque facades, one of Spain’s most beautiful plazas, with your Travel Director.
- Spend the evening amidst the historic monuments and honey-hued façades of Salamanca, an ancient university town famous for its beauty.
- Hotel: Bardo Recoletos Coco
Day 11 | Salamanca – Madrid sightseeing (Meals: Breakfast)
- Leave Salamanca behind and head to Madrid, the Spanish capital, with a scenic drive through the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains.
- Embark on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist to view iconic landmarks such as the Cibeles Fountain, Gran Vía, and Paseo de la Castellana.
- Admire views of the Royal Palace and Retiro Park, originally created as a retreat for the Royal Family.
- The evening is free for you to explore Madrid’s nightlife, with optional dinner and discovery opportunities in downtown Madrid.
- Hotel: Praga
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Dinner and Discovery in Downtown Madrid –
- Enjoy a tour of some lesser-known sights in Downtown Madrid as part of your tour of Spain’s capital city.
- Indulge in an “a la carte” meal with musical entertainment.
- Top off the evening with a spin around the beautiful squares and fountains of this magical city.
- Adult: 68.00 EUR
Day 12 | Madrid free day (Meals: Breakfast)
- Enjoy a leisurely start to your morning in Madrid.
- Spend a full free day exploring the city your way.
- Discover the legacy of ‘Madrid’s Best Mayor’, King Charles III, who helped beautify the city and turn it into one of the most gracious capitals across Europe.
- Alternatively, take the opportunity to join an Optional Experience to the medieval city of Toledo, known as the country’s famous sword-making center.
- Hotel: Praga
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Spectacular Toledo: Spain’s Ancient Capital –
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Listed city of Toledo with a Local Specialist.
- Uncover the culture and enchanting medieval architecture of the ancient capital of Spain.
- Learn about the Moorish and Jewish cultures in the region.
- Discover why Toledo is famous for Damascene metalworks.
- Visit El Greco’s masterpiece in St. Thomas’ church.
- Adult: 54.00 EUR
Day 13 | Depart Madrid (Meals: Breakfast)
- Keep that Spanish gusto in your step as you prepare to close the curtain on your epic Mediterranean journey through Spain and Portugal.
- Say a final hasta la vista to your fellow travelers and your Travel Director.
- Barcelona Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of Gaudi’s La Sagrada Família and La Rambla
- Peñíscola See the ancient castle overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
- Valencia See the Art Nouveau, Train Station Estación del Norte, Cathedral, Towers of Serrano and Quart and the City of Arts and Sciences
- Guadix View the cave homes in ‘Barrio Troglodyte’
- Granada Enjoy a scenic drive to this Moorish city
- Costa Del Sol Visit this renowned resort area
- Gibraltar Visit the famous Rock of Gibraltar Seville
- Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the Cathedral, Plaza de España and Giralda Tower
- Lisbon View Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries on your sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist
- Fátima Visit the celebrated Shrine
- Salamanca Orientation of this university city includes views of the Plaza Mayor
- Madrid See the Royal Palace, Cibeles Fountain and Retiro Park on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist