Day 1 Madrid, Spain - Tour Begins

Welcome to Madrid, Spain’s dynamic capital city. Tonight, enjoy a charming welcome dinner.

Day 2 Madrid

Today, it’s your choice! Join a local expert who introduces you to Madrid’s architectural treasures on a panoramic tour; then, explore the priceless masterpieces of the Prado Museum which boasts the world's finest collection of art by masters such as Velazquez and Goya -OR- take a walking tour of Madrid featuring sites of the Habsburg era: discover the Puerta Del Sol, Plaza Mayor and the famous Andalusian Tavern “La Torre del Oro;” the Mercado San Miguel, the last remaining market constructed in forged iron; Arco de los Cuchilleros (the Arch of the Knifemakers); and Plaza de la Villa with its historic Baroque and Mudéjar-style buildings. The remainder of your day is at leisure or you may choose to purchase an optional tour to Toledo.

Day 3 Madrid - AVE High-Speed Train - Cordoba - Málaga

Sit back and enjoy stunning landscapes as you travel via AVE high-speed train to the Moorish city of Cordoba. Embark on a walking tour of the Mezquita (UNESCO World Heritage site). Originally built as a mosque, it was converted into the city’s cathedral when the Christians conquered the region in 1236. Stroll through the streets of the historic Jewish Quarter. Continue on to Spain’s Costa del Sol and enjoy a leisurely 3-night stay in beautiful southern Spain.

Day 4 Málaga

Today is yours! Enjoy time to relax and experience the beauty of coastal Andalusia. Or, you may choose to purchase an optional tour to Gibraltar.

Day 5 Málaga - Granada - Málaga

Take a day trip to Granada, the last great capital of the Moors in Spain. Travel past rolling hills dotted with olive groves, capturing the country’s classic beauty. Upon arrival, join a local expert for a tour of the world-famous Alhambra (UNESCO),* a stone fortress overlooking the entire city and serving as a mesmerizing example of Islamic architecture.

Day 6 Málaga - Ronda - Seville

Head to Ronda, a stunning historic town perched upon a cliff in Andalusia. Explore the old town full of twisting narrow streets, the 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) over the El Tajo gorge, and La Alameda Park with its wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. Then, continue to Spain’s “cultural capital” – Seville.

Day 7 Seville

In Seville, see Columbus’ tomb, the ornate cathedral (UNESCO), and Giralda Bell Tower. Take a walking tour of the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter with its cascading bright flowers, whitewashed buildings and winding streets. Continue to Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park – one of the loveliest parks in all of Europe. Your afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps you will attend an optional tapas market tasting and flamenco show at one of Seville’s most famous tablaos (flamenco club).

Day 8 Seville - Estremoz, Portugal - Cascais

Depart Spain and travel through the Portuguese countryside to Estremoz – a historic town whose marble can be found in Portuguese monuments throughout the country. Spend the morning exploring this hilltop town on your own before gathering for a lunch full of local flavors. Continue on to Cascais, the picturesque resort town situated along the coast of the Portuguese Riviera. Enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day 9 Cascais - Lisbon - Cascais

Your journey takes you to Lisbon, Europe’s second oldest capital city. Embark on a panoramic city tour that takes you through the postcard-worthy streets of the Alfama District. Take a step into the past and tour the medieval St. Jorge Castle, the sprawling Jeronimos Monastery (UNESCO), and the seaside Belem Tower (UNESCO). The rest of the day is yours to explore independently.

Day 10 Cascais - Sintra - Cascais

Head to the town of Sintra (UNESCO), a favorite summer residence of Portuguese kings for six centuries. Explore Sintra’s National Palace and peruse specialty shops filled with Portuguese handicrafts. Enjoy leisure time to discover the storybook streets on your own. Travel back to Cascais and indulge in savory Portuguese flavors at a farewell dinner.

Day 11 Cascais - Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close today.