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Highlights of Spain and Portugal
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Highlights of Spain and Portugal
Operated by: Trafalgar
13 Days from $2,565 per person
Locations Visited
Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Guadix, Granada, Córdoba, Seville, Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Évora, Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca, Toledo ...more Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Guadix, Granada, Córdoba, Seville, Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Évora, Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca, ToledoBOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
✓ Lock in this trip with $250 deposit
✓ Refund Guarantee within 30 days of booking
✓ Flexible changes up to 60 days before your tour departs
✓ Lock in this trip with $250 deposit
✓ Refund Guarantee within 30 days of booking
✓ Flexible changes up to 60 days before your tour departs
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Day 1
Welcome to Madrid
The fiery Spanish capital of Madrid paves the way for an unforgettable journey through centuries of history and cultural highlights across the Iberian Peninsula. Embrace la buena vida and soak up the vibrant city atmosphere, before joining your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and orientation of the city's iconic sights.
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Day 2
Journey to Cuenca and Valencia
Witness the dramatic honey-coloured clifftop hanging houses of Cuenca, before your journey continues to Valencia, renowned for its modern verve and spirit of innovation. An orientation drive will include views of the 14th-century Towers of Serrano and Quart, and the City of Arts and Sciences, a large-scale urban recreation centre for culture and science and designed by Santiago Calatrava. This evening, consider indulging in Valencia’s fragrant flavours and aromas of paella.
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Day 3
Off to Unique Guadix and on to Granada
We travel through the Sierra Nevadas bound for Guadix, where we’ll witness how generations of locals have carved cosy abodes into their rocky surrounds. We'll view the troglodyte cave dwellings that blend effortlessly into the surrounding ochre landscape. Then, journey through the jagged Mora Pass to Granada, the last stronghold of the Moors in Europe. This evening, sample the hearty flavours of Andalusia during a special Regional Dinner at a local restaurant.
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Day 4
Onwards to Córdoba and Seville
Tread in the footsteps of Spain's last emirs, joining your Local Specialist for a visit to the incredible Alhambra, with its amazing palaces, gardens and fountains. Inspired by poetry, the architecture is said to be a reflection of paradise as described in Islamic verse. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere in quiet courtyards, follow its colossal ancient walls and admire the ornate stone carvings. We leave Granada behind for Córdoba where we'll join a Local Specialist to visit the mesmerising Mosque of the Caliphs, the former mosque of the caliphs and a jewel of Hispano-Islamic art featuring striking arches and Byzantine mosaics. Our final stop for the day is alluring Seville, our home for the next three nights.
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Day 5
Uncover the Secrets of Seville
Seville takes centre stage today as we explore this charismatic city. We'll see the symbolic Giralda Bell Tower with a Local Specialist, then visit the Maria Luisa Park, home of the 1929 Exposition. The park was built in a Moorish style and features half a mile of fountains, ponds, pavilions and lush plantings. We'll walk through the imposing Plaza de España and visit the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world, where the explorer Christopher Columbus is entombed. Consider an Optional Experience this evening to witness the twirling of colourful skirts and rhythmic clapping of castanets at a fiery flamenco performance.
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Day 6
Admire the Sights of Jerez and Cádiz Dive Into Culture
We indulge in the aromatic flavours of Jerez today as we Dive Into Culture and into the centuries-old tradition of Spanish sherry production. The leafy boulevards and quiet plazas of romantic Cádiz are our next stop. Tread in the footsteps of Columbus, who used this historic port city as his launchpad to the 'New World', and see the exotic plants and trees dotted throughout the city, said to have been brought here by him upon his return.
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Day 7
Venture to Évora Connect with Locals
Leaving the zesty scents of Seville behind, we head to the golden landscapes of the Alentejo, where the Brito Paes family await our arrival for a special Connect With Locals lunch on their traditional stud ranch, which has been rearing Lusitano horses since the 18th century. Enjoy a Be My Guest experience in the home of their ancestor before continuing to Évora for a guided sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist of its cathedral, Roman temple and Chapel of Bones. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
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Day 8
On to Lively Lisbon Dive Into Culture
We arrive in the seafaring Portuguese capital of Lisbon this afternoon, where we'll join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour. A particular highlight of this afternoon is an opportunity to Dive Into Culture at the UNESCO-listed Hieronymite Monastery, an exquisite testament to 16th-century Manueline architecture and art.
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Day 9
Lisbon Your Way
Today is yours to connect with the Portuguese capital. Relax at a sidewalk café with a creamy pasteis de nata and venture to the Castle of São Jorge and admire the sea of pastel pinks, yellows and blues that clad Lisbon's seven hills. You may choose to join an Optional Experience to the historic towns of Cascais and Sintra.
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Day 10
Pilgrimage to Fátima and on to Salamanca
Follow the road taken by pilgrims over the last 100 years to the Shrine at Fátima, a site of celebrated religious miracles. We leave Portugal, travelling to the historic Spanish city of Salamanca with its golden-hued façades and ancient university heritage, where we will visit its 18th-century Plaza Mayor.
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Day 11
Continue to Toledo and Madrid Dive Into Culture
See the walled city of Ávila, the city of Saint Teresa of Ávila. We arrive in the clifftop city of Toledo and join a Local Specialist for a guided walk through its streets. We'll visit the Church of Santo Tomé, home to one of El Greco's most famous paintings – 'The Burial of the Count of Orgaz' and the former Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Later, Dive Into Culture and witness local craftsmen at work creating inlaid steel the traditional way. We arrive in Madrid this evening, our home for the next two nights.
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Day 12
Explore Fiery Madrid
This morning, we join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of Madrid, where we’ll see the Royal Palace, Cibeles Fountain and Retiro Park, originally created as a retreat for the royal family. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the city on your own terms. Admire the world's finest collection of Spanish art at the Prado Museum, indulge in some last-minute shopping on Gran Vía or consider an Optional Experience to the medieval UNESCO-listed city of Segovia. This evening marks the end of our memorable journey through the Iberian Peninsula. Join your fellow companions and Travel Director for a Farewell Dinner.
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Day 13
Adiós Madrid
For now it's time to say a fond farewell to our travelling companions, your Travel Director and the beauty of Spain and Portugal at the end of a memorable holiday. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
Price Includes
Whats Included
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
Dining Summary
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
Be My Guest
- Panoias-Ourique: Saddle up for a superb stud farm visit, the tragic story of unrequited love and a traditional home-cooked Be My Guest lunch with Tiago and Vera in Portugal's beautiful Alentejo.
Dive Into Culture
- Toledo: The invincible swords of Toledo have defended cities for centuries. Visit an inlaid steel factory in Toledo to see local craftsmen forging the highest quality steel.
- Lisbon: Visit the Hieronymite Monastery, a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome and exquisite example of Manueline architecture.
- Jerez de la Frontera: Sample the famous sherry tradition in the southern Spanish city of Jerez, which has been making wine since ancient times.
Iconic Experience
- Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Specialist. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the Cibeles fountain, Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace.
- Toledo: Explore this magnificent ancient city with your Local Specialist and visit the Church of Santo Tomé to see an El Greco masterpiece.
- Avila: View the impressive city walls that define Ávila's Old Town.
- Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions or see the basilica.
- Salamanca: See the Salamanca's golden Plaza Mayor, voted one of the most beautiful central plazas in Spain.
- Lisbon: Explore with your Local Specialist, from the Lower Town, beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco. Visit the Belém Quarter to see the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the medieval Belém Tower.
- Évora: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with your Local Specialist and see the famous Roman Temple. Witness the fascinating cathedral and its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Cádiz: See the cathedral, Teatro Romano, the monumental Puerta de Tierra and enjoy a walk along Paseo Maritimo.
- Seville: Guided by your Local Specialist, see the Giralda Tower, former minaret of the Great Mosque and now the cathedral's belltower. Explore the narrow streets of the Santa Cruz Quarter and emerge by the great walls of the Alcazar.
- Granada: Visit the famous Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. Explore with a Local Specialist keen to share insights into this Moorish landmark.
- Córdoba: Explore the incredible Mezquita with your Local Specialist. Admire the forest of horseshoe arches and learn how this building symbolises many of Córdoba's religious changes over the centuries.
- Valencia: See the ultra-modern Centre of Arts and Sciences and the historic bullring of Valencia during an orientation drive with your Travel Director.
- Madrid: Drive through central Madrid and see some of the city's famous features during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Guadix: See the cave homes that embellish the hills around Guadix.
Must-see Highlights
- : Explore Córdoba, Seville, Évora, Lisbon, Toledo and Madrid with a Local Specialist
- : Discover Valencia, Cádiz and Salamanca
- : Visit the Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Cathedral Mosque in Córdoba, Seville Cathedral, the Cathedral of Évora, the Hieronymite Monastery in Lisbon, the Shrine at Fátima, Plaza Mayor in Salamanca and the Church of Santo Tomé and the Synagogue in Toledo
- : View the Hanging Houses of Cuenca, the Towers of Serrano and Quart and the City of Arts and Sciences complex in Valencia and the Cave Houses of Guadix
Whats Included
- : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- : Optional Experiences and free time
Dates & Prices
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.
Online Booking Process
Financing from $/month
Optional Add-Ons
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.
Valencia
Available on Day 2
Valencia Dinner and Discovery
We'll delve into the country's third-largest city to enjoy its Mediterranean verve. Vibrant and modern, Valencia still retains much of its past, going back to its Roman foundation 2,000 years ago. The iconic dish "Paella" originated here and tonight we'll learn about its traditions and enjoy this singular Spanish fare during a typical meal in one of the city’s most emblematic restaurants.
Adult Price: € 53
Available on Day 2
Valencia’s Golden Age, a Leisurely Walking Tour
Valencia has a well-preserved medieval centre which our Local Specialist will bring alive as they take us back to the city's heyday, from Roman and Gothic times into the Golden Age, when Valencia was Spain’s most important city. We'll take a leisurely stroll through the medieval streets and also visit Lonja, an exquisite late gothic building, UNESCO-listed since 1996.
Adult Price: € 29
Granada
Available on Day 3
Albaicín And The Royal Chapel
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 splendour. 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 3
Gypsy Night Out in Old Granada
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 organised 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: € 37
Seville
Available on Day 5
Flamenco: Experience the Best Show in Town
Travelling 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 organised tickets to the best show in town, where you’ll experience 90 minutes of memorable entertainment with an included drink.
Adult Price: € 40
Available on Day 5
The Moorish Alcazar and Plaza América
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: € 46
Note: This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Available on Day 5
Discover The Origin Of Tapas & Evening In Old Seville
Travelling through the historic city of Seville you'll be left in awe of gothic architecture, splendid palaces and, of course, dazzling Flamenco shows. But one of the best experiences to add to your bucket list is an evening of traditional tapas. Join us for an evening of mouth-watering taps specialties in the charming old quarter of Seville, sampling different flavours and wins as you dine like a local.
Adult Price: € 53
Available on Day 5
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 Price: € 69
Lisbon
Available on Day 8
Gourmet Dinner, Parliament, Exclusive Estrela and Evening Orientation
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: € 58
Available on Day 8
Seafood Dinner By The Tagus River
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. Local crab will usually be available on the menu for a €7.00 supplement.
Adult Price: € 58
Note: On occasion the ferry may not be available and we will travel over the bridge both ways.
Available on Day 9
Portuguese Fado Evening Of Music & Song With Dinner
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. Savour 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
Note: Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Available on Day 9
The Golden Triangle: Sintra, Cascais & The Estoril Coast
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
Madrid
Available on Day 11
Dinner and Discovery in Downtown Madrid
Take your tour of Spain's capital city to the next level as we scratch beneath the surface of Madrid. Enjoy a tour of some lesser-known sights in Downtown Madrid, before indulging in an “a la carte” meal with musical entertainment. Top off the evening with a spin around beautiful squares and fountains of this magical city.
Adult Price: € 61
Available on Day 12
Segovia World Heritage Site - Its Ancient Aqueduct & Fairytale 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 for his famous fairytales, as well as seeing the best-preserved Roman aqueduct which has remained intact for 2,000 years.
Adult Price: € 45
Note: This optional involves reservation and entrance pre-payments. Cancellation within 24 hours will incur a 50% cancellation fee.,
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