Portugal and Spain: Historical Wonders

12 Days from $5,790 USD / person

Beaches

Heritage & Culture

Cordoba, Spain, Andalusia. Roman Bridge on Guadalquivir river and The Great Mosque (Mezquita Cathedral)

Mijas street. Charming white village in Andalusia, Costa del Sol. Southern Spain

Ideal For

Beaches

Heritage & Culture

Itinerary Summary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 3

Lisbon
Highlights: Alfama & Belem Areas, Tram 28, Saint George’s Castle & Jeronimos Monastery, Street art, Sintra

H10 Duque de Loule
Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel

3 – 5

Algarve
Highlights: Lagos, Picturesque Coastline with Grottos & Caves, Ria Formosa Nature Park, Beaches & Relaxation, Hiking

Pestana Viking Beach & Spa Resort
Hotel PortoBay Falesia

5 – 7

Seville
Highlights: Royal Alcázar, Cathedral, Old Jewish Quarter, Plaza de España, Tapas

EME Catedral Mercer Hotel
Hotel H10 Casa de la Plata

7 – 9

Granada
Highlights: Alhambra Complex, Palacio de Generalife, Albaicín District

Hotel Catalonia Granada
Hotel Hospes Palacio de los Patos

9 – 10

Córdoba
Highlights: Mosque-Cathedral, Roman Bridge, Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs

NH Collection Amistad Córdoba
Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba

10 – 12

Madrid
Highlights: Royal Palace, Prado & Sofia Reina Museum, El Retiro Park, Gran Via

Hotel Emperador
Catalonia Las Cortes

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Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 3

2 Nights

Lisbon

Explore Lisbon, Portugal’s cosmopolitan capital that graces the Tagus estuary on the Atlantic coast. Covering seven hills and a natural harbor, this intimate city welcomes you with an inclusive culture and a spirit of exploration! Alfama’s steep cobbled paths meander past historic buildings that don pastel shades and street art. St. George Castle and Belem Tower along with several churches stand testament to Lisbon’s rich past. The yellow Remodelado trams and funiculars are a great way to commute. The riverfront Commerce Square is ideal for people-watching, and the century-old Santa Justa elevator offers panoramic vistas of the cityscape. Lisbon’s many themed museums offer glimpses of Portuguese treasures and stories of seafaring heritage. Hip neighborhoods house trendy tascas where soulful melodies of traditional fado entertain over seafood, ports, and ginjinhas, or parties until sunrise!

Included activities

Personalized Tour: Unique Views of Lisbon

Take in beautiful views of Portugal’s capital city, its surroundings and landmarks from various vantage points. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this bustling modern city with a rich history. Head up to the observation deck at the Statue of Jesus Christ for views of Lisbon and the river. The viewpoint at Edward VII Park offers vistas of the city’s historical neighborhoods. Accompany your knowledgeable guide to Saint Peter’s observation point and enjoy beautiful views of the ancient Alfama district. Make your way to the fortress of Saint George that sits perched on the city’s highest hill as you listen to lesser-known historical facts. After enjoying all round views from the high fortress walls, stop by the viewpoint at ‘Gates of the Sun’ for gorgeous views of the old port area and the monastery of Saint Vincent. Wind up your tour with unforgettable memories of a unique experience. (Duration: Half Day; Starting Time: 0900/1400 hrs; Ending Time: 1300/1800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Part of this tour involves walking.)

Group Tour: Dinner and Fado Show in Lisbon

Immerse yourself in the rich folk traditions of Lisbon at this intimate dinner show. Make your way to a cozy restaurant in the historic neighborhood of Alfama. Settle down at your table and take in the elegant ambience of the space. Enjoy the best of Portuguese cuisine as you listen to a live performance of authentic Fado music by talented artists. Return to your hotel with cherished memories of a unique experience. (Duration: Half Day; Shared Activity; Dinner Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hotel options

H10 Duque de Loule – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel – Opt 2

Room Square Double

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 3 – 5

2 Nights

Algarve

The Algarve is a sun-soaked sliver of coastline set at the southernmost end of Portugal. Bordered by the magnificent Atlantic Ocean on two sides and blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate, it makes for an idyllic holiday destination. Sandy beaches and unique geological formations rub shoulders with historic castles and charming hamlets. While the splendid waves are a magnet for surfers seeking thrills, the beautifully designed golf courses are ideal for those who seek a slower pace. Nature lovers can look forward to abundant bird watching opportunities in the many lagoons and islets around. With the easy availability of fresh seafood and colorful produce, mealtimes hold the promise of myriad gastronomic delights. Meanwhile, wine lovers can look forward to leisurely tours of vineyards and tasting sessions at local wineries known for their flavorful whites, reds, and roses.

Included activities

Personalized Lagos Attractions with Group Grotto Tour

Enjoy a tour of Lagos as well as the spectacular grottos off the west coast. Even before you reach Lagos, there is something to catch your eye – the unique pottery of this region at an en route craft center. Arrive at Lagos to discover its ancient history and seafaring traditions, evident in robust coastal defenses, ruins of a 15th century slave market, the Baroque Church of Santo António and artifacts at the local museum. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the city center, pausing at quaint stores and charming cafes for a light lunch break. Later, set out on a boat tour that takes you through the caves of Ponta da Piedade. Marvel at the ochre hued rocks and azure blue sea water which lights up grotto walls with shimmering reflections. You can extend this sensory delight even further with a spot of swimming and sunbathing on the rocks. (Duration: Full Day; Private Lagos Tour & Transfer; Shared Grotto Tour; Time: 1000 – 1700 hrs; Guests are requested to bring bathing suit, windbreaker and sneakers as well as water and sunscreen; Fitness level: easy)

Hotel options

Pestana Viking Beach & Spa Resort – Opt 1

Room Deluxe Sea View

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Hotel PortoBay Falesia – Opt 2

Room Twin Sea View

Meals Breakfast

Style Beach Resort

Day 5 – 7

2 Nights

Seville

Seville is a city of flamenco music and dance, of medieval Moorish history and architecture, wild parties, grand parades and fiestas. If Spain has ever conjured up images from Carmen, Don Juan and Hemingway’s descriptive prose for you, then Seville is surely the city that brings it all to life! This hot-blooded Andalusian capital is well known around the world for the Alcázar castle with its Islamic influence and the iconic bullfighting ring of Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza. The confluence of Moorish and Roman Catholic heritage at Seville is best represented by the Giralda, a minaret turned bell tower that continues to soar above town. Don’t leave town without a visit to the tomb of the famous Spanish explorer, Christopher Columbus, at the Seville Cathedral with its lovely Gothic architecture. But perhaps the closest route to the heart of Seville is though the annual festivals of Semana Santa and Feria de Abril.

Included activities

Walking Explorations of Seville

Explore the highlights of sun-drenched Seville as you traverse its historical neighborhoods. Soaking up the Andalusian vibe, begin your tour with a visit to the Seville Cathedral that houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Marvel at the expansive structure that showcases stunning late Gothic architecture, and features dozens of chapels inside. Drop by Giralda bell-tower next door, which is a minaret of the former mosque on this site, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the city. Continue onward to the 14th century Royal Alcázar of Seville that is still in use by the Spanish royal family. Strolling through ornamental gardens and beautiful courtyards of this palace complex, admire the Mudéjar, Islamic, and Gothic styles of architecture. Finally, navigate the maze of narrow streets at Seville’s former Jewish quarter Santa Cruz that features colorful houses, and intimate plazas dotted with orange trees. (Duration: 3.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

EME Catedral Mercer Hotel – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Hotel H10 Casa de la Plata – Opt 2

Room Double Room Atrium View

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 7 – 9

2 Nights

Granada

Set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain, the grand Andalusian city of Granada is best known for the Alhambra, the symbol of Europe’s colorful Moorish history from the Middle Ages. The palace complex is perched on a hilltop and features domed and arched structures, unexpected inner courtyards with stone fountains, ornamental doorways, arched windows, and tranquil gardens. Several other Islamic architectural gems as well as towering churches, edgy street art and numerous tapas bars serving some of the region’s best food and wine dot the city’s landscape. Find yourself a comfortable corner at a traditional Arab teahouse (teterías) and nibble on Moorish pastries and pancakes as you catch the local color. Or sit atop a sunny terrace with strains of Flamenco music in your ears, enjoying Iberian ham, olives and ‘Patatas a lo Pobre’, delicious cakes with custard cream, and sherries, savoring the city’s vibe!

Included activities

Discover Granada & the Alhambra Palace

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Alhambra palace complex and the city of Granada. Learn about the history of the Alhambra that was built by the Nasrid emirs in 1238. Symbolic of the end of 800 years of war against the invading Moors, it is also known for being the place where Columbus got permission from the Queen to set sail to America. Marvel at the distinctive features of the monument – an Alcazaba (fortress), an Alcázar (palace) and a small medina (city), all in one. After lunch, continue on your own to the Royal Chapel – an Isabelline style, 16th-century building, which was the burial place of the Spanish and Catholic monarchs. Learn why this location was chosen for its construction and the socio-political factors that led to it. (Duration: 6 hours; Private Activity and Transfers; Fitness level: Easy; A tour guide, entrance fees, and taxi from your hotel to Alhambra and to Sacromonte.)

Hotel options

Hotel Catalonia Granada – Opt 1

Room Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Hotel Hospes Palacio de los Patos – Opt 2

Room Dreamer Alabaster Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 9 – 10

1 Night

Córdoba

Cordoba’s colorful historical past and an equally vibrant present brought together with a medieval Islamic heritage delights travelers from all over the world. The landscape of this Andalusian beauty is dotted with several architectural marvels, none more imposing than the La Mezquita. This medieval Spanish mosque never fails to awe bystanders with its striking arches, impressive prayer hall and Byzantine mosaic work. Cordoba’s old town delights with its stone paved streets lined with wrought-iron street lamps, quaint buildings with overhanging balconies, winding alleyways and potted plants in arched windows. Expect to come upon a little courtyard, neighborhood patio or plaza lined with eateries and cafés. Sit back and relax at a plaza corner, enjoying the local music and people watching. Feast on delicious Andalusian delicacies cooked in fragrant Spanish olive oil, washed down with the region’s famous Montilla-Moriles wines.

Included activities

Walking Explorations of Cordoba

Admire the historic architectural highlights of Cordoba that hark back to the time when it was the capital of Islamic Spain. Visit the multi arched La Mezquita mosque-turned-Catholic church with its columned prayer hall, Byzantine mosaics, and the Renaissance-style nave. Admire the iconic Roman Bridge that was originally built in the early 1st century BC across the Guadalquivir river. Take a trip back in time as you stroll through the fascinating narrow lanes in the Jewish Quarter past well-preserved Medieval-era buildings including the Calle Judios is Casa de Sefarad museum and the city’s traditional flower-adorned patios. Drop into the famous Alcazar that was once the residence of monarchs, a defense fortress, and was even a garrison for Napoleon Bonaparte’s army. Admire the distinct Mudejar architecture of the oldest remaining synagogues which survived the Spanish inquisition. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity; Fitness level: Easy; Tour guide, and entrance fees included.)

Hotel options

NH Collection Amistad Córdoba – Opt 1

Room Superior Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba – Opt 2

Room Standard Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 10 – 12

2 Nights

Madrid

The beautiful city of Madrid serves the global traveler an amalgamation of Spain’s glorious history and modern culture on a platter. From the medieval heights of the Spanish monarchy to its modern monarchs in the football clubs of Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid, this Spanish capital has seen it all! Madrid is an art lover’s paradise, with museums and galleries lined with old masters and contemporary talent. Begin with the famous trio of Museo del Prado, Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza for a taste of Goya and Velázquez, as well as works of Picasso, Dalí and Miró. The landscaped gardens and boulevards lined with baroque mansions are a fitting frame for the lively tapas bars, trendy restaurants and taverns overflowing with good food and wine. All set to the pulsating beats of flamencos and Madrid’s reggaeton: Buena Vida!

Included activities

Personalized Tour: Madrid Meander and Museums

Discover old Madrid on this historic walk, in the company of your local English speaking guide. Stroll down popular old streets, lingering around the many plazas surrounded by public buildings and magnificent palaces. Walk to Plaza de Oriente by which the Royal Palace stands. Enter the 18th century Royal Palace, which once housed royal receptions, hosted foreign dignitaries and saw the signing of historic treaties. Head to either the Museo Nacional del Prado for a taste of classical Spanish art or the Museo Reina Sofía for a taste of modern 20th century Spanish art. At the Museo Nacional del Prado admire the museum’s famous masterpieces, such as Las Meninas by Velázquez, The Nobleman with His Hand on His Chest by El Greco, and The Family of Carlos IV by Goya. At the Museo Reina Sofía see masterpieces from the likes of Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. Don’t miss Guernica, one of Picasso’s most recognizable masterpiece. (Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity & Taxi Transfer; Admission Included; Drink & Snack tasting included; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Personalized Tour: A Night of Tapas

Discover Madrid’s vibrant culinary scene, accompanied by a local expert guide, after dusk. Take a walk through stylish neighborhoods dotted with centenary bars and cozy taverns tucked away in lively cobbled streets. Getting introduced to Spanish cuisine while listening to live commentary, learn about the origins, inspirations, and ingredients of tapas. Interacting with madrileños over vermouth – Madrid’s national drink – join in on the city’s aperitif ritual. Test your Spanish skills by ordering tapas plates from the daily chalkboard menus. Savor an assortment of traditional and modern gourmet tapas paired with an array of regional drinks. Expect to try Iberian ham, salted cod croquettes, cheeses, olive oils, eggplants with honey, Spanish omelets, and chickpea stew among others. Round this off with a plate of typical Spanish desserts, and knowledge of Madrid’s hidden gems before dispersing. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity & Taxi Transfers; Tapas and drinks included; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

Hotel Emperador – Opt 1

Room Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Catalonia Las Cortes – Opt 2

Room Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Marvel at the historical and cultural treasures of the Iberian Peninsula on this combined tour of Portugal and Spain. Begin your journey with a guided tour of Lisbon’s most well-known landmarks. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of the Fado as you enjoy some authentic Portuguese delicacies. At your next stop – Lagos, in the Algarve region, go on a boat tour to marvel at the colors of the Atlantic, the stunning coastline and the beautiful beaches. After savoring the sights of Portugal, it is time to head for Spain. Explore Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, and learn about the fascinating history of the region with visits to grand palaces and churches. Round off your tour at Madrid, where you will get to visit its famous museums, and soak in the atmosphere of its vibrant plazas. Feast on tapas and raise your glasses to some truly amazing memories.

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $5,790 USD / person

Option 2

From $6,190 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Not Included

Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips and personal expenses
Visa and tourism fees
Travel, health and cancellation insurance
International airfare

What Our Guests Say

We used Enchanting Travels to help us plan a big graduation trip for my two sons. There was 6 of us in total and we had the perfect blend of activity/tours/sightseeing as well as free time to explore Spain and Switzerland. We had a perfect trip; all the details were thought of and there were no worries or stress throughout our travels. I would recommend them to anyone looking for help planning a European vacation!

Daphne Fleck

USA

Enchanting Travels is a great way to go! Travel plans are made according to our own desires yet with the expertise of well travelled guidance. We were grateful for having a point of contact during our trip. It gave us reassurance that we had someone to call for questions and emergencies. Our trip to Spain went without a hitch! We appreciated the itinerary that was suggested and that we followed. The whole trip plan was right on. We had the best time ever!!

David Cook

USA

First and foremost – A huge shout out to Nurit for how incredible she is! We love her! She, not only listens – truly listens, she is an amazing person and now a friend:) We appreciate her and trust her – which is so important! She was very patient and understanding throughout the process and made things work that we were wanting to do! The entire process is so simple and alleviates so much undo stress that is associated with traveling. You all know the areas – the places to go – where to go and when, etc. The transfers to and from airport, train station, excursions and hotels were a huge help! We will work with you all again and again! Also, Tanisha and team were and are GREAT – they were on top of responding to us when needed throughout the entire trip. Very good about getting right back always! Last minute questions were answered throughout the entire trip and if we needed to adjust anything she and the team were on it! Thank you! Thanks overall for a great trip – we are working on our next one now 🙂 100% recommend to anyone traveling! Tracy and Michayla George

Tracy George

USA

Enchanting Travels can be trusted to offer a well-planned, well-executed trip to any country. They have the expertise and partner with local travel companies who provide the best experiences. Should anything go wrong, Enchanting Travels will ensure a resolution as quickly as possible.

Ronda Eckhardt

USA

Enchanting truly makes your trip an enchanting experience!! I have used them a few times with the same results. They are all so nice and willing to work with you and make it that very special experience

Ranjani Chandramouli

USA

Everything was perfectly planned and executed! Everyone was putting their best effort to please us!

Pablo Paramo Sierra

Mexico

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