Spain, Morocco & Portugal
16 Days from $3,575 per person
Wander down Madrid's Gran Via, visit the Alhambra Palace and learn to haggle in a Moroccan medina. Travel to Lisbon and cross into Spain to admire the beauty of Salamanca.
Spain, Morocco & Portugal also has winter departures; click here to see the Winter Season version of this tour!
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange for flights to arrive on or before Day 1.
Overview
Wander down Madrid's Gran Via, visit the Alhambra Palace and learn to haggle in a Moroccan medina. Travel to Lisbon and cross into Spain to admire the beauty of Salamanca.
Spain, Morocco & Portugal also has winter departures; click here to see the Winter Season version of this tour!
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 (2 Nights)
Color outside the lines on this unforgettable encounter with the intoxicating lands of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Kick off your unforgettable journey in the fiery Spanish capital of Madrid. 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. Explore the city's vibrant streets before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and orientation drive past some of the city's most iconic sites.
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Day 2: Madrid Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist on this day of discovery, which includes views of the iconic Cibeles fountain and Paseo de la Castellana. At Plaza de España, we admire the monument to Cervantes and his beloved Don Quixote characters, before spending the rest of the day at leisure indulging in la buena vida. Consider an Optional Experience to the medieval UNESCO-listed city of Segovia or encounter the greatest collection of Spanish art in the world at El Prado.
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Day 3: Madrid – Toledo – Granada
Witness the influence of Christians, Muslims and Jews that has spanned centuries in the imperial city of Toledo. Join your Local Specialist for a walking tour, during which you'll visit the Church of Santo Tomé, home of El Greco's most famous painting, The Burial of the Count of Orgaz. Celebrate the tradition of steel manufacturing and molding as you dive into culture at a local steel factory before your journey continues through the soul-stirring Andalusian landscape to Granada, where we'll spend tonight.
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Day 4: Granada – Costa del Sol
Tread in the footsteps of Spain's last emirs and admire the impressive palatial city of the Alhambra, a collection of palaces and fortresses dating from the 12th century, said to have been inspired by poetry and reflecting the description of paradise found in Islamic verse. Join a Local Specialist for a guided visit exploring its intricate designs, tranquil gardens and colossal walls. We leave this “paradise on earth” behind and continue to the flamboyant Costa del Sol, where we'll spend tonight.
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Day 5: Costa del Sol – Fez (2 Nights)
We travel along the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean and cross to North Africa by ferry. A memorable drive past the Rif Mountains brings us to the Fez, with its ancient walled city—our home for the next two nights.
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Day 6: Fez Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour through the cultural and spiritual center of Morocco. Stroll through the Medina of Fez, view its fortifications and Royal Palace, and admire traditional Moroccan handiwork during a visit to a carpet cooperative. Spend the rest of your afternoon on your own or consider a visit to the imperial city of Meknès, with its medieval medina and harmonious Islamic and European styles.
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Day 7: Fez – Marrakesh (2 Nights)
Departing Fez, we journey west through the green and golden landscape which turns to rusty red, bound for vibrant Marrakesh. Embrace the unrivaled energy of a city said to have been the favorite vacation haunt of Sir Winston Churchill. Relax after your journey or spend the evening enjoying an authentic Moroccan show.
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Day 8: Marrakesh Sightseeing and Free Time
Visit the Bahia Palace during your walking tour with a Local Specialist. See Djemaa el-Fna Square in the old quarter with its palm-readers, acrobats and snake charmers. Visit a traditional Moroccan pharmacy and dive into culture gaining insights into the blending of creams and cosmetics using regional ingredients. 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 visit a local Berber village. Dine tonight at your hotel.
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Day 9: Marrakesh – Casablanca – Rabat – Tangier
We journey north to enchanting Casablanca to experience first-hand the intrigue and romance of this city, immortalized by Hollywood. We walk along the city's Corniche and enjoy views of the Hassan II Mosque with the world's tallest minaret, before venturing to the Moroccan capital, Rabat. Here we will view the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the 19th-century Royal Palace, the residence of the Moroccan Royal Family. We arrive in Tangier later this evening, where we will dine in our hotel.
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Day 10: Tangier – Seville (2 Nights)
Crossing the Straits of Gibraltar by ferry, we arrive in Spain and journey past the region of Jerez, renowned as the origin of Spanish sherry. We drive through Andalucía and arrive in Seville—our home for the next two nights. What better way to experience this vibrant city than witnessing the passion of flamenco? Immerse yourself in the intoxicating sights of colorful twirling skirts and the clapping of castanets as you watch an optional performance this evening.
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Day 11: Seville Sightseeing and Free Time
Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour which will take you past the iconic Giralda Tower. Admire the tiled fountains and pavilions in the Maria Luisa Park, the showcase for the Ibero-American Exhibition in 1929, and visit the imposing Plaza de España. See Christopher Columbus's ornate tomb in the Cathedral and the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world, then enjoy a walk through the lovely historic Jewish Quarter. Meet the Albaserrada family and their horses on their farm in the Andalusian countryside near the white-washed village of Gerida. Here you'll connect with locals over a Be My Guest dinner featuring fresh regional ingredients and the local sangria of course.
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Day 12: Seville – Lisbon (2 Nights)
Your panoramic journey continues through Huelva, famous for Jabugo jamón and the Riotinto mines. We cross into the golden fields of the Alentejo region, bound for Lisbon, the gastronomic soul of Portugal.
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Day 13: Lisbon Sightseeing and Free Time
See the gleaming Monument to the Discoveries, the suspension bridge spanning the River Tagus, Belém Tower and the quaint Alfama district, home to the melancholic fado. Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO-listed Hieronymite Monastery before spending free time exploring the city's quaint bairros or perhaps consider an Optional Experience to discover Portugal's Golden Triangle of Queluz, Cascais and Estoril.
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Day 14: Lisbon – Fátima – Salamanca
We trace the path of pilgrims, who for decades have ventured north to the celebrated shrine at Fátima to pray to the Virgin Mary, and see the site of a celebrated religious miracle. Departing Portugal, we arrive in the historic university city of Salamanca—La Dorada, so named for its golden, orange and pink façades, which we will have an opportunity to see in the magnificent Plaza Mayor—voted by the locals as the most beautiful of all squares in Spain.
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Day 15: Salamanca – Madrid
Traversing the dramatic Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains, we arrive in Madrid, Europe's highest capital. Spend this afternoon exploring the sights. Indulge in some last-minute shopping on Gran Vía or relax in one of the plazas and people watch. This evening we join our travel companions and Travel Director for a memorable Farewell Dinner with wine.
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Day 16: Depart Madrid
Our epic journey through Spain, Morocco and Portugal comes to an end this morning. Return transfers will arrive at Madrid Airport at 8:30 am and 11 am. Conditions apply.
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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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Jun 19 | 23 Jun 19 |
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$3,625pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 | ||
| 22 Jun 19 | 7 Jul 19 |
|
$3,595pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 6 Jul 19 | 21 Jul 19 |
|
$3,595pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 13 Jul 19 | 28 Jul 19 |
|
$3,575pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 27 Jul 19 | 11 Aug 19 |
|
$3,575pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 3 Aug 19 | 18 Aug 19 |
|
$3,575pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 10 Aug 19 | 25 Aug 19 |
|
$3,575pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 17 Aug 19 | 1 Sep 19 |
|
$3,575pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 24 Aug 19 | 8 Sep 19 |
|
$3,575pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 31 Aug 19 | 15 Sep 19 |
|
$3,675pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 31 Aug 19 | 15 Sep 19 |
|
$3,675pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 14 Sep 19 | 29 Sep 19 |
|
$3,675pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 14 Sep 19 | 29 Sep 19 |
|
$3,675pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 28 Sep 19 | 13 Oct 19 |
|
$3,595pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 5 Oct 19 | 20 Oct 19 |
|
$3,595pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 12 Oct 19 | 27 Oct 19 |
|
$3,595pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote | ||
| 19 Oct 19 | 3 Nov 19 |
|
$3,595pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote |
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 $990 per person
Triple Discount: $60 per person
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver, $156 per person
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.
Ramadan: During daylight hours from dawn to sunset fasting takes place for Ramadan. It is observed from Sunday, May 5 to Tuesday, June 4, 2019, in Morocco. The order of sightseeing and meals may be adjusted.
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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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
22 meals: 15 hot buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, 3 dinners with local wine.
Insider Experiences
Connect with Locals
- Visit a horse ranch in the Andalusian countryside near the white-washed village of Gerida, where you'll enjoy a Be My Guest dinner of traditional Sevillano cuisine
Dive into Culture
- 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. Visit a Moroccan pharmacy to learn about local healing creams and cosmetics made from regional ingredients
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Madrid, Toledo, Fez, Marrakesh, Seville, Lisbon
Sightseeing Experiences
- City tour in Madrid, Toledo, Fez, Marrakesh, Seville, Lisbon
- Orientation of Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Fátima, Salamanca
- Visit the Synagogue and Santo Tomé in Toledo, the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Cathedral in Seville, Monastery of the Hieronymites in Lisbon, Plaza Mayor in Salamanca
- View Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Royal Palace in Rabat, Belém Tower in Lisbon, the Shrine at Fátima
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
Thank you for your review and kind words. We are thrilled to know that you enjoyed your tour of Spain, Morocco & Portugal. They are wonderful destinations and we're glad you were able to experience them with us.
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.
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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
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, as well as seeing the best-preserved Roman aqueduct which has remained intact for 2,000 years.
Adult Price: €45.00
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: €62.00
Jet-set Marbella: Puerto Banús & Mediterranean Dinner
Enjoy strolling through the atmospheric whitewashed townhouses & cobbled streets of Marbella´s old town. Following a drive along Marbella´s Golden Mile, we'll explore jet-set Puerto Banús. Then, we'll round the evening off with a delicious specialty Mediterranean dinner in a well-known local restaurant.
Adult Price: €62.00
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: €51.00
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: €32.00
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: €60.00
Marrakesh
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 a bargain for beautiful, handcrafted jewelry made in the local style.
Adult Price: €30.00
Seville
Discover The Origin Of "Tapas" & Evening In Old Seville
Join us for a dinner of mouth-watering tapas-style specialties. You’ll get the chance to taste different flavors and wines, before taking an atmospheric evening stroll through the charming old quarter of Seville.
Adult Price: €53.00
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: €40.00
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: €69.00
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: €41.00
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: €53.00
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: €53.00
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: €66.00
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: €46.00
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: €52.00
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.
