Day 1: Lisbon
Welcome to lovely, historic Lisbon. Meet a tour representative upon arrival & transfer to tonight’s accommodation. Enjoy Portugal’s capital city today, followed by dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Lisbon – Queluz
Discover the grandeur of Lisbon on a city tour, with visits to Jerónimos Monastery, a Manueline architectural masterpiece, that took an entire century to complete; the Tower of Belém & the Monument to Discoveries, a 171-foot landmark commemorating Portugal’s role in the Age of Discovery. Next, head for the outskirts of Lisbon to the city of Queluz. Tour the National Palace, an exquisite example of 18th-century Portuguese architecture. Relax under the Mediterranean skies for the remainder of the day.
Day 3: Lisbon – Monsaraz – Évora
Take in the scenic charm of Portugal’s countryside as we venture through the Alentejo district. Savor the tastes of Portuguese cuisine during a lunch visit to the quaint, hilltop town of Monsaraz. Arrive in Évora this afternoon & enjoy lodging at a pousada, one of Portugal’s historic hotels.
Day 4: Évora
Explore the city bursting with ages of history on a morning walking tour. Visit the famous Chapel of Bones, which features an impressive décor of human skulls & bones. Other highlights include the ancient Roman Temple of Évora, & remains of the city walls from the Roman era. Spend the afternoon at ease.
Day 5: Évora – Mérida – Carmona
Cross the border & enter the land of “La Furia Roja,” Spain. Explore the city of Mérida, a gold mine for archeology enthusiasts. See the beautiful 2,000-year-old bridge, Puente Romano; the remains of the Roman theatre & amphitheater; & the Muslim fortress, Alcazaba. Venture about the city & enjoy a traditional Spanish meal or savor some delicious tapas. After lunch, travel to Carmona. Relax at your parador, a historic Spanish hotel.
Day 6: Carmona – Seville – Carmona
Feast your eyes upon the magnificent Seville Cathedral, an enormous Gothic structure known for its numerous symbolic entrances. Tour Seville’s Arab quarter & visit the Alcázar of Seville, the elegant royal palace. Explore the town this afternoon, creating your own adventure, before returning to Carmona for dinner at the parador.
Day 7: Carmona – Cordoba – Carmona
Travel to Córdoba today to visit many famous sites that will illuminate the city’s historical & cultural heritage. Visit the Old Quarter, the Córdoba Synagogue, a bold representation of Islamic-influenced architecture, & the Mezquita, Córdoba’s Mosque-Cathedral. Enjoy free time before heading back to Carmona.
Day 8: Carmona – Ronda
Arise this morning ready to see an extraordinary sight. Enjoy a walking tour of the scenic town of Ronda, including breathtaking views from the edge of El Tajo, the enormous gorge situated in the middle of the town. Spend the afternoon at leisure.
Day 9: Ronda
Enjoy Ronda today at your leisure before sampling the tastes of Spain tonight at the parador, the original town hall of Ronda.
Day 10: Ronda – Granada – Ubeda
Learn about Muslim rule in Spain during a visit to Granada. Tour the Alhambra, the 9th-century fortress that became an Islamic palace by the 14th century. See the remains of the citadel & follow the mosaic pathways through the beautiful gardens at the Generalife, the royal summer estate. Afterward, head for the 16th-century palace parador in Ubeda, tonight’s historic accommodation.
Day 11: Ubeda – Toledo – Madrid
Take in the essence of medieval times on a guided tour of Toledo, featuring a visit to the cathedral, which houses the amazing El Transparente, a famous work of art made visible by the natural light of day. This afternoon, enjoy free time before traveling to Madrid for an overnight stay.
Day 12: Madrid
Visit the city thriving with art, architecture, culture, history, & a passion for sports. This morning, enjoy a tour of Spain’s capital. Walk through Plaza Mayor, visit the Royal Palace, & enter the magnificent Prado, Spain’s famous national art museum. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 13: Madrid
Madrid is at your fingertips today. Relax, explore, or shop. This evening, enjoy the tastes of Spain once more at an arranged farewell dinner.
Day 14: Madrid
This morning, transfer to the airport & board return flight to USA.