Highlights of Spain, Morocco & Portugal
16 Days from $1,995 per person
Intoxicating scents of spice and the warm Mediterranean sun join your voyage through Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Wander down Madrid's Gran Via, learn the art of haggling in the labyrinthine Medina and travel to the seafaring Portuguese capital of Lisbon.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Overview
Intoxicating scents of spice and the warm Mediterranean sun join your voyage through Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Wander down Madrid's Gran Via, learn the art of haggling in the labyrinthine Medina and travel to the seafaring Portuguese capital of Lisbon.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
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Day 1: Arrive Madrid
Welcome to Madrid, Spain's capital city. On arrival at Madrid Airport transfers will operate at 10:30 am, 1 pm and 3:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Check in to your hotel then relax and unwind. Later meet with your Travel Director and fellow travelers. This evening, spend free time exploring on your own or take a walking tour of the city with the chance to savor local ‘tapas' at a café on the Plaza Mayor. Or perhaps dine in a local restaurant offering the traditional flavors of Spain.
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Day 2: Madrid Sightseeing and Free Time
Your Local Specialist shows you the sights of Madrid including the Cibeles Fountain, the Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana and Puerta del Sol. See the monument to Cervantes in Plaza de España. Afterwards, consider an Optional Experience to the medieval UNESCO World Heritage city of Segovia.
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Day 3: Madrid – Toledo – Granada
Today, drive to ancient Toledo and see the cathedral and the ancient synagogue with your Local Specialist. Visit a steel workshop to see some fine examples of the famous Toledo steel-craft. Travel through Andalucía to the Moorish city of Granada.
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Day 4: Granada – Costa Del Sol
Enjoy free time this morning to explore or join an Optional Experience to the Albaicín Quarter of Granada. Then travel towards Malaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and the gateway to the Costa del Sol.
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Day 5: Costa Del Sol – Fez
The day begins with a scenic coastal drive before boarding the ferry to North Africa. A different world awaits you in Morocco, from the dramatic Rif Mountains to the imperial city of Fez, the architecture, culture and scent of the land is as rich as it is diverse.
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Day 6: Fez Sightseeing and Free Time
This morning, your guided sightseeing tour includes views of the Royal Palace. Admire traditional Moroccan handiwork during a visit to a carpet cooperative. Experience the atmosphere of this exotic city with time to relax or use your new-found skills to haggle over beautiful Moroccan carpets – an everlasting souvenir. Tonight, consider joining an Optional Experience to a traditional Arabian dinner, complete with belly dancing.
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Day 7: Fez – Marrakesh
Today, travel to the city of Marrakesh, Africa's most popular year-round sun resort. It was once the favorite vacation spot of Sir Winston Churchill, a haven where he used to relax and paint.
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Day 8: Marrakesh Sightseeing and Free Time
This morning, your guided sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist includes a visit to the ornate Bahia Palace and the vast Djemaa el-Fna Square with its palm readers and acrobats. Then there is time at leisure for bargain hunting in the many souks and bazaars or perhaps take an Optional Experience to a Berber village in the Ourika Valley.
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Day 9: Marrakesh – Casablanca – Rabat – Tangier
Today, continue to Casablanca, scene of Humphrey Bogart's most magical moments. Upon arrival, your orientation includes a panoramic drive of the Corniche, plus views of the Hassan II Mosque with the world's tallest minaret. Then continue to the capital city, Rabat, where you view the Mohammed V Mausoleum and Royal Palace. Arrive later in Tangier.
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Day 10: Tangier – Seville
Board the ferry for the return journey back across the Straits of Gibraltar to the Spanish mainland. Continue your journey to the capital of Andalucia, Seville for a two-night stay.
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Day 11: Seville Sightseeing and Free Time
Admire the great monuments and sights of Seville with your Local Specialist. See the tiled fountains, pavilions and lush palms in the Maria Luisa Park, renowned for its landscape design and walk through the imposing Plaza de España. Marvel at the mighty Cathedral and La Giralda Bell Tower. This evening, why not experience the fire and passion of a Spanish flamenco show?
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Day 12: Seville – Lisbon
Drive to the Portuguese border then continue past the cork trees of the Alentejo region. From here, travel to the capital of Portugal, Lisbon, a great seafaring city situated where the Tagus River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Tonight, why not consider a traditional Portuguese dinner with entertainment?
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Day 13: Lisbon Sightseeing and Free Time
See the Hieronymite Monastery and the medieval quarter of the city before taking in views of the Belém Tower on an included sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist. Then time at leisure to maybe take an Optional Experience to discover Portugal's Golden Triangle of Queluz, Cascais and Estoril.
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Day 14: Lisbon – Fátima – Salamanca
A scenic drive north through the magnificent Serra d'Aire Mountains brings you to the Shrine at Fátima, site of celebrated religious miracles. Cross the border back into Spain and arrive later in Salamanca where you view Plaza Mayor during your orientation tour.
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Day 15: Salamanca – Madrid
Your journey continues through the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains to Madrid, Europe's highest capital city. Tonight, enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers on the final night of your vacation.
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Day 16: Depart Madrid
This morning it is time to bid farewell to your Travel Director and new-found friends as your memorable vacation comes to an end. Return transfers will arrive at Madrid Airport at 8:30 am and 11 am. Conditions apply.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 May 19 | 26 May 19 |
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$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
| 18 May 19 | 2 Jun 19 |
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$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 29 Jun 19 | 14 Jul 19 |
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$1,995pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 6 Jul 19 | 21 Jul 19 |
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$2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 13 Jul 19 | 28 Jul 19 | $2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 20 Jul 19 | 4 Aug 19 |
|
$2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 3 Aug 19 | 18 Aug 19 | $2,225pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 17 Aug 19 | 1 Sep 19 |
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$2,495pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 24 Aug 19 | 8 Sep 19 |
|
$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 7 Sep 19 | 22 Sep 19 |
|
$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 21 Sep 19 | 6 Oct 19 |
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$2,275pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 28 Sep 19 | 13 Oct 19 |
|
$2,275pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 12 Oct 19 | 27 Oct 19 |
|
$2,250pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $690 per person
Triple Room Discount: $50 per person
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $156 per person
Ramadan: Fasting during daylight hours from dawn to sunset takes place during Ramadan. It will be observed from Sunday, May 5 to Tuesday, June 4, 2019, in Morocco. The order of sightseeing and meals may be adjusted accordingly.
Airport transfers: On arrival at Madrid Airport transfers will operate at 10:30 am, 1 pm and 3:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Madrid Airport at 8:30 am and 11 am.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Breakfast Daily
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Personal Flight Options
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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Professional Travel Director
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
21 meals: 15 Buffet breakfasts, 6 Three-course dinners.
Sightseeing Experiences
- Madrid Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes Puerta del Sol, The Cervantes Memorial and the Cibeles Fountain
- Toledo Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the synagogue and cathedral. Visit a steel workshop
- Granada Enjoy a scenic drive to this Moorish city
- Fez Sightseeing includes a walking tour of the Medina and views of the Royal Palace
- Marrakesh Visit Bahia Palace and Djemaa el-Fna Square during your sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist
- Casablanca View the Corniche and see the Hassan II Mosque
- Rabat View the Mausoleum and Royal Palace during your orientation
- Seville Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- Lisbon View Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries on your sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist
- Fatima Visit the celebrated shrine
- Salamanca Orientation of this university city includes views of the Plaza Mayor
First Class Highlights
- Return ferry crossing between Spain and Morocco
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Spain, Portugal and Morocco must have a current passport valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens visiting these countries.
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Currency
The currency in Spain and Portugal is the Euro (€) and in Morocco is the Dihram (.د.م). U.S. dollars and euros are also usually accepted in Morocco. While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Spain, Portugal and Morocco. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
Spain offers a delicious selection of cured hams, chorizo sausage, seafood, cheeses, and more. Try traditional dishes such as tortilla española (Spanish omelet), paella, and desserts such as flan, churros, and Catalan cream. For a quick lunch at a reasonable price, stop by a café or food cart for a bocadillo, a traditional Spanish sandwich made with baguette-style bread, ham and cheese. In the evening, try a selection of tapas with a glass of the local wine.
With Portugal’s long coastline, seafood is featured prominently on their menus. Popular dishes include sopa de mariscos (a shellfish soup) and bacalhau (dried codfish), and Portuguese grilled chicken prepared with chili, garlic and olive oil. For dessert, don’t miss out on the famous pastéis de nata custard pastry or arroz dolce (rice pudding) and a glass of port wine.
Moroccan food is a flavorful mix of Mediterranean, Arabic, Andalusian and North African cuisines. A wide variety of spices including saffron, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and paprika are used in cooking. Try a variety of couscous with meat and vegetables and fresh baked Moroccan bread. Meals are generally concluded with fresh fruit and a glass of sweet mint tea.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase. This will also give you many options for how to dress in varying climates. In Morocco, loose fitting clothes are always a respectful and comfortable option, especially during the hot and humid summer months. It’s a good idea to bring a lightweight scarf that can be worn at religious sites throughout your trip and at night when temperatures cool off. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping in Spain and Portugal is much less common than in the U.S. When dining out, it’s appreciated, although not required, to leave a few extra euros for your server, and up to 10 percent for particularly good service. Leave your tip on the table rather than adding it to your credit card slip to ensure that your waiter receives it. In Morocco, it’s appropriate to tip your waiter 1 dh per person at cafés and up to 10-15 percent at upmarket restaurants.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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.
Madrid
Old Madrid with a Taste of Tapas
Join us for a walking tour through Old Madrid, taking in its monumental Plaza Mayor, atmospheric alleyways and emblematic squares. Your Local Specialist will accompany you for a drink and snack in one of its famous downtown 'tapas' bars. We’ll finish with a tour of the city.
Adult Price: €29
Segovia World Heritage Site - Its Ancient Aqueduct & Fairy-tale Castle
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, as well as seeing the best-preserved Roman aqueduct which has remained intact for 2,000 years.
Adult Price: €45
Granada
Gypsy Night Out in Old Granada
Enjoy an 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—a fiery, emotive performance unique to these people. And we've also included a drink, too.
Adult Price: €34
Albaicín And The Royal Chapel
Enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the Albaicín 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 stop off at the picturesque Alcaicería quarter.
Adult Price: €37
Costa del Sol
Mijas Andalusian Hilltown & Mediterranean Dinner
Visit this charming hilltop village, perched up high with splendid views of the coastline. Experience its narrow streets with white-washed houses, see the oval bullring, or hunt for hidden gems in the shops. Your evening will finish with a Mediterranean dinner at a coastal restaurant.
Adult Price: €62
Fez
Arabian Dinner and Entertainment in a Riad
Enjoy an Arabian feast of fine food, a live band and traditional entertainment including belly dancing, in a spectacular Moroccan setting.
Adult Price: €51
Meknes Imperial City Visit & Exploration
We´ll drive to Morocco’s third Imperial city—World Heritage Meknes with its endless walls & ramparts, impressive Sultan Moulay Ismail’s 17th-century granaries and stables that once housed over 12,000 horses. We'll see the magnificent Bab el-Mansour Gate and visit a medieval school or “madrasa."
Adult Price: €32
Marrakesh
The Square at Night with Horse & Buggy and Traditional Dinner
You’ll take a horse and carriage ride to the magical Jemaa el Fna Square to enjoy the exotic sights and sounds of Marrakesh by night. Then we’ll have dinner in a typical Moroccan restaurant, with music and entertainment.
Adult Price: €60
Ourika Valley And Berber Village Home Visit
You’ll enjoy a scenic drive into the Atlas Mountains where you’ll visit a typical home in a primitive adobe Berber village in the Ourika Valley. You’ll also have the chance to meet the family and enjoy legendary Berber hospitality—as well as bargain for beautiful, handcrafted jewelry made in the local style.
Adult Price: €30
Seville
Flamenco: Experience the Best Show in Town
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
The Moorish Alcazar And Plaza América
We'll begin with a visit to the elegant 14th-century Moorish Alcazar, 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. Then, we'll journey to the famous exhibition site of Plaza América—a must for any visitor to Seville.
Adult Price: €41
Flamenco, the best show in town with a three-course dinner
After a three-course dinner of Andalusian specialties with drinks included, you’ll discover the passion, rhythm and magic of flamenco this evening. We've organized tickets to the best show in town, where you’ll experience 90 minutes of memorable entertainment.
Adult Price: €69
Lisbon
Gourmet Dinner, Parliament, Exclusive Estrela and Evening Orientation
Your opportunity to view the exclusive district of Estrela, its park, basilica and the Portuguese Parliament, on the way to a delicious gourmet dinner. You’ll finish the evening with a drive along the banks of the mighty Tagus River.
Adult Price: €53
Seafood Dinner By The Tagus River
Take a ferry across the mighty Tagus River and enjoy typical Portuguese seafood and fish specialties at a local restaurant. After dinner, we’ll cross the impressive Suspension Bridge for a sweeping view over the Portuguese capital.
Adult Price: €53
Portuguese Fado Evening Of Music & Song With Dinner
An evening's entertainment Portuguese style. You’ll savor a typical meal with local aperitifs and wines and hear beautiful, traditional Fado singing.
Adult Price: €66
The Golden Triangle: Sintra, Cascais & The Estoril Coast
After passing through the fashionable resort of Estoril, we'll explore the picturesque fishing village of Cascais, with its beautiful array of mansions and exclusive residences. To complete the Golden Triangle, we'll visit the impressive Royal Palace of Sintra.
Adult Price: €46
Madrid
Discover "El Escorial" Palace/Monastery & The 'Valley Of The Fallen'
Come with us, along with a Local Specialist, to the royal city of El Escorial, where the great monastery palace was built in the foothills of the Guadarrama Mountains. We’ll also visit the incredible Spanish Civil War memorial, which is cut into the rock face.
Adult Price: €52
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
