The Iberian Experience 16 Days
16 Days: Madrid - Porto - Coimbra - Lisbon - Cordoba - Seville - Granada - Valencia - Barcelona
Tour overview:
From the lively tapas culture of Madrid to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast, this captivating Iberian journey reveals the very best of Spain and Portugal. Explore Porto and Lisbon, cruise the Douro River, wander the canals of Aveiro and admire the historic treasures of Coimbra and Mérida. In Spain, marvel at Córdoba’s magnificent Mosque-Cathedral, Seville’s enchanting plazas, Granada’s legendary Alhambra and the architectural masterpieces of Valencia and Barcelona. A remarkable blend of history, culture, cuisine and unforgettable experiences awaits.
Day 1 - Arrive Madrid
Upon arrival at the airport, transfer to your hotel and settle in before beginning your Spanish adventure. In the evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Tapas Dinner at a carefully selected local restaurant. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Spanish cuisine while getting to know the group in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Accommodation in Madrid. (D)
Notes: We recommend selecting flights that arrive no later than 5 PM so you can enjoy the itinerary from the beginning.
Day 2 - Madrid
Immerse yourself in the Spanish capital on a guided tour with your Local Expert. Discover the historic heart of Madrid, from the medieval Barrio de la Morería and the elegant Habsburg Quarter to the magnificent Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa. Continue through the stately avenues of Bourbon Madrid, admiring landmarks such as the impressive Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptune Fountains, Puerta de Alcalá, Gran Vía, Salamanca District, Paseo de la Castellana and Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, The afternoon is free to experience Madrid at your own pace. Explore its charming neighborhoods, visit its celebrated museums, indulge in world-class shopping, or simply soak up the city's lively café culture and unmistakable energy. Accommodation in Madrid. (B)
Day 3 - Madrid - Salamanca - Porto
Bound for Portugal, drive towards Salamanca. Enjoy some free time in this university city and World Heritage Site, renowned for its architectural and artistic wealth. Continue to the Portuguese border and onward to Porto.Located along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, Porto is one of the oldest European towns and was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Accommodation in Porto. (B)
Day 4 - Porto
Guided sightseeing tour of Porto, a charming city renowned for its rich history and riverside beauty. Discover its main highlights, including the majestic Cathedral, elegant Stock Exchange Palace and beautiful Church of Santa Clara. Continue with a scenic cruise along the Douro River, offering unique views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, before visiting one of the famous Port Wine Cellars, where you will enjoy a tasting of the region's world-renowned wine. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Accommodation in Porto. (B)
Day 5 - Porto - Aveiro - Coimbra
Depart for Aveiro, a charming coastal city affectionately known as the "Venice of Portugal" for its picturesque network of canals. Enjoy a relaxing ride aboard a traditional, brightly coloured moliceiro boat before continuing to Coimbra. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a sightseeing tour of this historic city, home to one of Europe's oldest universities. Wander through its charming medieval streets, admire its remarkable heritage and enjoy the unique atmosphere that has made Coimbra one of Portugal's cultural treasures. Accommodation in Coimbra. (B)
Day 6 - Coimbra - Batalha - Nazare - Lisbon
Depart for Batalha to visit its magnificent Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal's finest examples of Gothic and Manueline architecture. Continue to the picturesque seaside town of Nazaré, famous for its golden beaches, fishing traditions and spectacular Atlantic views. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Afterwards, travel to Lisbon. In the evening, cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas and enjoy a delightful seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Accommodation in Lisbon. (B)
Day 7 - Lisbon
Morning guided sightseeing tour of Lisbon, the captivating capital of Portugal, built on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River. Discover its main highlights, including Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries, Marquês de Pombal Square and Liberty Avenue. The afternoon is at leisure to explore the city's unique atmosphere, perhaps wandering through the charming Alfama district, with its narrow cobbled streets, colourful houses and traditional taverns. Accommodation in Lisbon. (B)
Day 8 - Lisbon - Merida - Cordoba
Bound for Andalusia and back into Spain, drive to Mérida, founded by the Romans in 25 BC and one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage city boasts an extraordinary Roman legacy, including its magnificent Theatre and Amphitheatre, elegant bridges, temples and ancient streets. Enjoy free time to discover its remarkable historical heritage before continuing to Córdoba, once the flourishing capital of the Umayyad Caliphate and one of medieval Europe's greatest centres of culture, science and learning. Accommodation in Córdoba. (B)
Day 9 - Cordoba - Seville
Discover the impressive Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, one of the world's great masterpieces of Islamic architecture. Its striking arches and richly decorated interior reflect the city's glorious past. Continue exploring the narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter before continuing your journey towards Seville in the afternoon. Accommodation in Seville. (B)
Day 10 - Seville
Morning city tour of Seville with your Local Expert. Discover the iconic Giralda and Cathedral, lush María Luisa Park and magnificent Plaza de España. Continue through the enchanting Santa Cruz Quarter, with its maze of narrow streets, picturesque squares and timeless Andalusian charm. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy Seville at your own pace. Accommodation in Seville. (B)
Day 11 - Seville - Granada
Depart along the historic Caliphate Route, travelling through the heart of Andalusia and its seemingly endless olive groves on the way to Granada. Upon arrival, visit the world-renowned Alhambra and beautiful Generalife Gardens. This extraordinary palace and fortress complex, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with its elegant courtyards, intricate decorative details, lush gardens and magnificent views over Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains.The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Granada at your own pace. Accommodation in Granada. (B)
Day 12 - Granada - Valencia
Depart for Spain's Mediterranean Coast and continue to Valencia, a dynamic city where centuries of history blend seamlessly with cutting-edge architecture. Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, combines its rich historical heritage with striking contemporary architecture. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it captivates visitors with its elegant Old Town, lively atmosphere, world-famous City of Arts and Sciences and delicious cuisine. Accommodation in Valencia. (B)
Day 13 - Valencia - Barcelona
Explore Valencia on a guided tour. Discover the charming Old Town, elegant squares, impressive Cathedral and lively Central Market area, before admiring the exterior of the iconic City of Arts and Sciences. Complete the experience with a tasting of the city's traditional horchata, the refreshing local drink made from tiger nuts. Next, depart for Barcelona, a vibrant Mediterranean city where history, art and modernity come together. Accommodation in Barcelona. (B)
Day 14 - Barcelona
Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Barcelona. Drive along its elegant avenues, admiring Antoni Gaudí's iconic Modernist masterpieces, including La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. Continue to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views over the city and its harbour, passing the Olympic Ring, Columbus Monument and lively waterfront. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the magnificent Sagrada Família, Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece and the city's most emblematic landmark. The afternoon is at leisure to continue exploring Barcelona at your own pace. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner. Accommodation in Barcelona. (B/D)
Day 15 - Barcelona - Zaragoza - Madrid
Depart southwest towards Madrid, travelling through one of Europe's most important agricultural and industrial regions. En route, stop in Zaragoza, the historic capital of Aragón, beautifully set on the banks of the Ebro River. Enjoy free time to discover the city's rich heritage, including the magnificent Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Afterwards, continue to Madrid. Accommodation in Madrid. (B)
Day 16 - Depart Madrid
At the scheduled time, transfer to Madrid Airport for your departure flight. (B)
