Lisbon to Morocco, Madrid & Porto - 13 days

Your adventure begins in Lisbon, where you gather at the centrally located HOTEL LUTECIA SMART DESIGN (or similar) for an early morning departure. Crossing into Spain, you arrive in Mérida, a city steeped in Roman history. Here, you have time to explore the UNESCO-listed Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, marveling at their ancient grandeur. After enjoying lunch at your leisure, the journey continues along the scenic Silver Route, winding through picturesque landscapes en route to Andalusia. By late afternoon, you reach Seville, the vibrant capital of the region, where you settle in for the evening and enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.

Begin your day with a guided exploration of Seville’s most iconic sights. Stroll through the lush María Luisa Park and admire the architectural splendor of Plaza de España. Take in the impressive exterior of the Seville Cathedral and its renowned bell tower, La Giralda, before wandering the enchanting lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter. The afternoon is yours to discover more of Seville at your own pace—perhaps opt for a river cruise along the Guadalquivir, admire the Gold Tower, or visit the historic Maestranza Bullring. In the evening, immerse yourself in Andalusian culture with an optional flamenco show.

Leaving Seville, you journey to Córdoba, once the thriving heart of Islamic Spain. Begin your walking tour at the historic Almodóvar Gate, then meander through the atmospheric Jewish Quarter, where whitewashed houses and vibrant patios line the narrow streets. The highlight is a visit to the awe-inspiring Mosque–Cathedral, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture. The afternoon is free for you to explore Córdoba’s charming old town or relax at a local café before settling in for the night.

After breakfast, set out along the scenic Route of the White Villages, passing through picturesque Andalusian countryside dotted with charming hilltop towns. Arrive in Ronda, famed for its dramatic gorge and historic bullring, where you have time to explore at your leisure. Later, continue to the sun-kissed Costa del Sol, where you enjoy a group dinner and a restful overnight stay.

Departing the Costa del Sol, you cross the iconic Strait of Gibraltar by ferry, leaving Europe behind as you arrive in Tangier, Morocco’s vibrant gateway. Journey south along the Atlantic coast, stopping in the artistic seaside town of Asilah, where you can wander its colorful medina and enjoy lunch. By afternoon, continue to Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital, where you settle in for the evening.

Begin your day exploring Rabat’s imperial grandeur, visiting the striking Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, where ceremonial guards stand watch. Continue to Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual heart. Upon arrival, embark on a panoramic tour, viewing the ornate Royal Palace before delving into the labyrinthine Fes el Bali medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the city’s rich history as you pass through Bab Boujloud, visit a historic medersa, and witness artisans at work in the bustling craft quarters. Enjoy lunch in a traditional Moroccan restaurant before settling in for the night.

Depart Fes for the enchanting mountain town of Chefchaouen, renowned for its blue-washed streets and tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the medina, arriving at the lively Outa el Hammam Square, the heart of local life. After free time to explore or shop for handicrafts, continue north to Tangier, where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, and settle in for the evening.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Tangier, perhaps taking a final stroll through its vibrant streets. Later, board the ferry for a scenic crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar, returning to Spain’s Costa del Sol. Share a delicious dinner with your group and unwind in your comfortable accommodation for the night.

Depart the Costa del Sol for Granada, a city set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada. Upon arrival, visit the world-famous Alhambra and the lush Generalife Gardens, marveling at their exquisite architecture and tranquil beauty. In the evening, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Granada. For those seeking more, consider an optional evening of gypsy flamenco in the atmospheric caves of Sacromonte.

Travel north to the storied city of Toledo, once Spain’s capital and a crossroads of Christian, Jewish, and Moorish cultures. Savor lunch before taking in the breathtaking panorama from the Mirador del Valle. Stroll through Toledo’s historic old town, where centuries of art and architecture await. Later, continue to Madrid, where you settle in for the final leg of your journey.

Depart Madrid for Salamanca, a city famed for its golden sandstone buildings and prestigious university. Enjoy free time to explore the lively historic center and the magnificent Plaza Mayor. Later, cross into Portugal, arriving in Porto, a city celebrated for its riverside charm and world-renowned port wine.

Begin your day with a panoramic tour of Porto, taking in the imposing Cathedral, the elegant Stock Exchange Palace, and the ornate Church of Santa Clara. Conclude the morning with a visit to a renowned port wine cellar, where you sample the city’s signature drink and learn about its storied winemaking tradition. The afternoon is yours to explore Porto’s riverside neighborhoods, vibrant markets, or inviting cafés at your own pace.

After breakfast, journey to Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and the birthplace of traditional fado music. Enjoy free time to explore the historic old town and university quarter. Continue to Fátima, a revered pilgrimage site, where you can visit the Sanctuary and Basilica. Later, return to Lisbon, where your unforgettable multi-day tour concludes.