Elegant Madrid kick-starts your exciting journey across Spain, Morocco and Portugal. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. If you’d prefer to skip the siesta, take to the city’s golden streets for a glimpse of what this football-crazed metropolis has in store. The real fun begins this evening when you meet your Travel Director and fellow travel compañeros, followed by some time to curb your craving for tapas and get to grips with why the Madrileños adore their nightlife.
There is plenty to see in the lively Spanish capital, so we get right to it this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour to view the Cibeles Fountain, the Gran Vía and Paseo de la Castellana. Admire the Royal Palace the spend your afternoon exploring the city further or consider an Optional Experience to the UNESCO-listed city of Segovia. Marvel at the impressive towering arches of the ancient Roman aqueduct and trace the ornate esgrafiado façades that are characteristic of the city’s most important buildings before returning to Madrid.
Set your sights firmly on Toledo today, embarking on a scenic journey south through the windswept plateau of La Mancha where the fictional Don Quixote and his trusty companion Sancho Panza once roamed. View the enchanting skyline of the ancient hilltop city known as the “City of Three Cultures” – the influences of Christians, Muslims and Jews are reflected in the city’s history, culture and religion. Then, join your Local Specialist who will lead you on a captivating walking tour past the impressive cathedral to an ancient white and golden synagogue. Visit a steel workshop to see first-hand how Toledo’s famous steel-craft has evolved over centuries, then continue to the former Moorish stronghold of Granada. What better way to end the day than by choosing to watch an optional fiery Gypsy performance in Old Granada?
Lace up your walking shoes and take to Granada’s narrow cobbled streets for an independent exploration of a city whose Arab influences remain in its Moorish architecture, tetería tea houses and even hammams. Delve into its Arab history and culture during an Optional Experience visit to the Albaicín Quarter, the city’s oldest neighbourhood and its characteristic cármenes (Moorish houses). On the hilltop overlooking the city is the fortified citadel of the Alhambra – its opulent palaces and gardens the former seat of Granada’s Nasrid emirs. Later, continue south to the sun-kissed Andalusian holiday retreat of Costa Del Sol, the gateway the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. This evening an Optional Experience could see you visit the hill-top village of Mijas for spectacular coastal views followed by a Mediterranean dinner.
Follow the coast to the edge of the Strait of Gibraltar, which you'll cross this morning bound for Moroccan shores. A short ferry ride brings us to Tangier. There's more to Morocco than mint tea and medinas, and you'll have an opportunity to explore the country's rich and diverse experiences over the coming days. Your Moroccan guide will reveal insights into Morocco's proud culture, heritage and cuisine as you wind your way south. The dramatic Rif Mountains, labyrinthine markets and ornate palaces are just some of the highlights to look forward to during your stay here.
We journey south to the Moroccan capital, Rabat, to view the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the 19th-century Royal Palace. Our next stop is the city that inspired a Hollywood classic. Our scenic drive through the sophisticated city of Casablanca reveals both Arabic and French influences as we embark on a panoramic drive of the Corniche and enjoy views of the impressive Hassan II Mosque, featuring the world's tallest minaret. The Red City beckons and we leave Casablanca behind, following in the footsteps of traders who would journey to Marrakesh to sell their ceramics, glassware, spices and handmade carpets. Enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
Today Marrakesh remains home to some of Morocco's most vibrant souks, enveloped in the city's characteristic red sandstone façades, which you will have an opportunity to explore during your stay. The endless streets of Marrakesh have long enticed curious travellers like you, seeking to uncover its bewitching blend of Arab and Berber influences, so prepare for sensory overload and some hearty haggling. Visit the Bahia Palace during your walking tour with a Local Specialist and see Djemaa el-Fna Square in the Old Quarter with its palm-readers, acrobats and snake charmers. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Don't miss the chance to shop for bargains in the souks and bazaars or perhaps join an Optional Experience visit to a local Berber village.
Departing Marrakesh, we journey north to Fes, the cultural capital of Morocco and home the world’s oldest university. The oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities, Fes sits at the crossroads of Morocco’s most important and influential centres. Relax are your journey and enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.
Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour through the cultural and spiritual centre of Morocco. There's no out haggling the enterprising vendors of the Fes Medina as you'll experience for yourself during a guided visit through the hidden alleyways and main squares of this ancient marketplace. Visit a carpet weaving cooperative and admire the delicate craftsmanship and stories behind every deliberate knot, images immortalised in silk and wool, and the colours symbolising special occasions. With your afternoon free, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy Fes on your own terms. You could choose an Optional Experience - Arabian dinner in a traditional riad.
We return to Spain this morning, crossing the Straits of Gibraltar and heading north to Seville, home of the flamenco, the Seville orange and scorching Spanish summers. But it is the 16th-century Cathedral of Seville, the Plaza de España (hidden behind deceptively understated walls) and one of Spain's most beautiful Alcázars that make Seville a true feast for the senses. Spend the evening relaxing in preparation for a day of sightseeing tomorrow which will reveal why the city has been the favourite winter retreat of Spanish royalty for centuries.
Admire the great monuments, handsome pavilions and lush gardens of Seville when you join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of the Plaza de España, Maria Luisa Park and Seville’s Old Quarter. View the spectacular Cathedral of Seville, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb. Its Giralda bell tower was originally built as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville and you’ll get to see it in all its glory, before enjoying the rest of the day on your own. When the sun sets over this golden city, with the aroma of jasmine and orange blossom lingering around every turn, consider a foot-tapping Optional Experience at a flamenco show.
Our visit to Spain is short-lived, but it’s not farewell forever, as we head west across the Iberian Peninsula to Portugal. Our journey takes us through the rolling golden and green plains of the Alentejo, Portugal’s bread-basket. Continuing north, we arrive in the seafaring capital of Lisbon to enjoy an evening on your own to unwind after the day’s journey. If you’re tempted to take to its cobblestone streets, join your Travel Director for a poignant Optional Experience in the city’s Bairro Alto district for a traditional meal accompanied with the melancholic sounds of fado.
Explore the Age of the Discoveries and Portugal’s role as a global maritime power many centuries ago when you join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour to Belém on the edge of the Tagus River. See the alabaster-white Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries and the iconic Hieronymite before taking the rest of the day to explore on your own. Hop on one of Lisbon’s signature trams rolling along the city’s cinematic hillsides and you’ll quickly discover leafy squares and countless corner tascas (taverns) for a quick coffee and pasteis de nata (custard tartlet) fix. Perhaps choose an Optional Experience where you will visit Portugal’s Golden Triangle of Cascais, Estoril and Sintra and see some of the country’s most extravagant palaces during your free afternoon. This evening, consider an optional seafood dinner and views of the mighty Tagus for the perfect end to your Lisbon visit.
We travel to Fátima where three young shepherds are said to have seen an apparition of the Virgin Mary in 1917. You’ll see pilgrims visiting, who have come to pray and seek divine guidance as you explore the Basilica Chapel and Sanctuary on your own. Leaving this site of celebrated religious miracles behind, you’ll continue your journey across the border to Spain and arrive in Salamanca later. Join your Travel Director for a brief orientation of the city, past golden façades and ancient university buildings followed by an evening on your own. Sit back in the city’s 18th-century Plaza Mayor and wait for sunset when the square lights up and its Baroque buildings provide a gleaming backdrop for a drink or two.
Your return journey to Madrid includes a scenic drive through the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains. There’s time for an optional visit to El Escorial Palace and the Valley of the Fallen. Then you’ll have the rest of the day to get your final fix of Madrid, whatever form that may take – retail therapy, artistic flair in the Prado Museum or decompressing in the leafy midst of El Retiro Park. What better way to end your epic adventure through Spain, Morocco and Portugal then with a final dinner with your new friends to toast to shared memories and your next holiday? Salud!
Fill your heart with memories of your epic journey filled with colour, culture and the generous spirit of the locals, as the curtain closes on a mesmerising journey through Spain, Morocco and Portugal. Bid your Travel Director and newfound friends a fond farewell. Find out more about your free airport transfer at costsavertour.com/freetransfers.
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Available on Day 2
Discover the charm and character of Old Madrid as we head out on a memorable walking tour with our Local Specialist. Take in the monumental Plaza Mayor, stroll atmospheric alleyways and emblematic squares before enjoying a drink and bite to eat in one of the famous downtown ‘tapas’ bars. Later, enjoy free time to further discover the dreamy sights of Old Madrid.
Adult Price: € 29
Enjoy a visit to Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which sits on a rocky outcrop between two rivers. With your Local Specialist, you’ll visit the 13th-century castle, reputed to have inspired Walt Disney for his famous fairytales, as well as see the best-preserved Roman aqueduct which has remained intact for 2,000 years.
Adult Price: € 45
Available on Day 3
Take your Spanish holiday to the next level as we enjoy a memorable evening in Granada’s Sacromonte quarter, which offers the finest views over the illuminated Alhambra Palace. We’ve organized tickets for you to see the Zambra dances by members of Granada's most famous gypsy clan, with their camp located inside the caves – a fiery, emotive performance unique to these people. And we've also included a drink, too.
Adult Price: € 35
Available on Day 4
With our Local Specialist, we'll enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the Albaicín UNESCO World Heritage Site – a maze of narrow streets and Moorish splendor. You'll get to explore the Catholic Monarchs' tombs and some of their treasures at the Royal Chapel, and wander through the picturesque Alcaicería quarter.
Adult Price: € 37
Available on Day 4
Visit this charming hilltop village, perched up high with splendid views of the coastline. With our Local Specialist, we'll experience its narrow streets with white-washed houses, see the oval bullring and hunt for hidden gems in the shops. Your evening will finish with a Mediterranean dinner at a coastal restaurant to toast the day's adventures.
Adult Price: € 62
Available on Day 7
Immerse yourself in the exotic sights and sounds of Marrakesh by night, visiting the magical Jemaa el Fna Square, where your travel dreams of Morocco will be brought to life. Wander through the maze of stalls and marvel at the impressive street performers before we enjoy dinner in a typical Moroccan restaurant. Feast on authentic dishes such as tajine, while enjoying music and entertainment that will dazzle you.
Adult Price: € 64
Leave the bustling city streets behind and join us for a scenic drive into the Atlas Mountains valley of Ourika to enjoy legendary Berber hospitality. We’ll visit a local family at home in an adobe village to enjoy traditional tea together and learn of local life up here amongst the mountains.
Adult Price: € 30
Available on Day 9
With striking textiles and enviable courtyards, the riads of Morocco are world-famous for their striking architecture that calls to travelers from all around the globe. Tonight, you’ll enjoy the chance to make your holiday dreams come true as we spend the evening in a spectacular Moroccan setting. You’ll enjoy delicious Arabian food, a live band and traditional entertainment including belly dancing.
Adult Price: € 51
Join us for a drive to Morocco’s third Imperial city – World Heritage Meknes with its endless walls and ramparts, impressive Sultan Moulay Ismail’s 17th-century granaries and stables that once housed more than 12,000 horses. We'll see the magnificent Bab el-Mansour Gate and visit a medieval school or “madrasa.” Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Adult Price: € 42
Available on Day 11
Traveling through Andalusia is all about immersing yourself in the authentic culture of locals. Discover the passion, rhythm and magic of an Andalusian flamenco show with us this evening. We've organized tickets to the best show in town, where you’ll experience 90 minutes of memorable entertainment with an included drink.
Adult Price: € 40
Flamenco is one of Seville’s most important cultural touchstones and "El Museo del Baile," the Museum of Flamenco, will offer an immersive experience you won’t find at any other venue. We'll enjoy a tour to learn about the history of the dance and even have the chance to take a flamenco lesson ourselves, followed by tapas and drinks with your fellow travelers. Note: an alternate venue may be substituted due to availability.
Adult Price: € 53
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 organized tickets to the best show in town. You won't soon forget this incredibly memorable ninety-minute experience.
Adult Price: € 69
Today with our Local Specialist, we'll visit the elegant 14th-century Moorish Alcazar, a royal palace set in its own beautiful gardens. The gardens were recently used as the setting for the Water Gardens of Dorne in the Game Of Thrones series thanks to their breathtaking beauty. We'll also journey to the famous exhibition site of Plaza América - a must for any visitor to Seville.
Adult Price: € 43
Enjoy an authentic travel experience in Seville and join us for an unforgettable hands-on experience with a cooking lesson at the local market. You'll learn about locally grown Spanish produce and help select the ingredients that we'll use later in your cooking class. Heading home with the skills to recreate a meaningful dish for yourself, this is an ideal tour for the foodies among us.
Adult Price: € 69
Available on Day 12
Take your tour of Portugal to the next level as you immerse yourself in the culture and tradition of Lisbon with a night on the town. Savor a typical meal with local aperitifs and drinks included as you 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 Price: € 67
Available on Day 13
Take on the must-visit sights of Lisbon on this tour, kicking off with your chance to view the exclusive district of Estrela, its lush green park, enchanting Basilica and the Portuguese Parliament before enjoying a delicious gourmet dinner. You'll top off the evening with a drive along the banks of the mighty Tagus River.
Adult Price: € 55
Venture outside Lisbon with our Local Specialist to experience some of the region's most wonderful sights. After passing through the fashionable Estoril Coast, explore the picturesque fishing village of Cascais, with its beautiful array of mansions and exclusive residences. To complete the Golden Triangle, we'll visit one of the impressive Royal Palaces of Portugal nestled in the Sintra Mountains.
Adult Price: € 46
Enjoy a memorable evening out in Lisbon as we take a ferry across the mighty Tagus River to enjoy typical Portuguese seafood and fish specialties at a local restaurant. After dinner, we'll cross the impressive Suspension Bridge to take in sweeping views of the Portuguese capital. On occasion, the ferry may not be available and we will travel over the bridge both ways.
Adult Price: € 55
Available on Day 15
Join our Local Specialist for an enchanting visit to the royal city of El Escorial, where the great monastery palace was built in the foothills of the Guadarrama Mountains. Explore the historic grounds, dating back to the 16th Century, before we visit the incredible Spanish Civil War Memorial, which is cut into the rock face. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Adult Price: € 52