Portugal and Spain: Iberian Highlights

Spend a day discovering the lovely coastal city of Porto at your leisure. After a hearty breakfast in your hotel, set off to explore town. You could begin with Porto’s medieval riverside district, strolling down the narrow cobblestone alleys, passing street cafes, old churches and merchant houses. Admire the opulent baroque architecture of São Francisco Church and the lavish Palácio de Bolsa. Stop by the many miradouros or high lookout points around town, taking in the lovely cityscape with its meandering river and medieval stone bridges. Stop at a local tapas bar for a light bite and take a walking tour of the town’s vibrant street art. Enjoy a picturesque tram ride, passing the city landmarks and public gardens to reach the ocean front. Explore the city’s bustling food markets and ancient port cellars and try a wine tasting session. Discover the lively nightlife and dine at a gourmet steakhouse before calling it a day. (Self-explore Activity; Transfers, entrance fees and meals are not included; Choose what best suits your interests and pace from our recommendations; Please note that you may not be able to do all recommended activities)

Discover the romantic city of Porto with a local guide! See famous landmarks such as the ancient 12th century Sé Cathedral with its large altar of hammered silver and the Episcopal Palace. Head to the Ribeira embankment and take a cruise along the Douro River. Make your way to a famous wine cellar and take part in a tasting of port wine. Tour the Infante Henriques Square to see the Palacio da Bolsa monument and the gothic-style Church of St. Francis. Visit the São Bento Station to see its magnificent tiled mosaics and huge wall panels. Walk along Freedom Square where the King Don Pedro IV monument stands, and stop at the church with a 6-meter bell tower – the famous ‘Baroque Candle.’ End this tour with a stroll through the lively Rua de Santa Catarina shopping street and a cup of coffee at the old Majestic Cafe. (Duration: Half Day; Timings: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Private Walking Tour, Shared Boat Tour & Transfers; Meals Not Included; Wine Tasting Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear comfortable clothes & shoes; Don’t forget your camera.)

Discover the historic towns and monasteries of central Portugal on this leisurely tour. Drive from Porto to the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Alcobaca, believed to be one of the country’s first gothic buildings. The oldest Cistercian Abbey in the region, it houses the tombs of the famous lovers Pedro and Ines. Travel on to the medieval Batalha monastery, built to commemorate the Portuguese victory over the Castilians. Get a closer look at the intricate stone lace-work on this UNESCO-listed monument, before you drive on. Stop to explore the seaside resort town of Nazare, once a small fishing village, with its gorgeous beach. You could buy yourself lunch at one of the oceanfront restaurants and try the local specialty – cooked octopus! Afterwards, visit the well-preserved medieval town of Obidos that is surrounded by a fortified wall. Walk down the narrow streets lined with traditional houses that offer a vibrant display of flowering plants at their windows. If you’re lucky, you might get to see the annual knights’ tournament or chocolate festival held outside the castle gates. Before resuming your onward journey, be sure to try Ginja, the local cherry liqueur. (En route; Duration: 7 hrs; Starting Time: 1000 hrs; Ending Time: 1700 hrs; Private Activity; Lunch and Entrance Fees Not Included)

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; Private Guide & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Part of this tour involves walking.)

Visit the Almendres Cromlech, located about three miles from the village of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe, in the Alentejo Region. Huge menhirs, which look like gigantic stone eggs, form a mysterious circle in the clearing of a cork oak forest. It is one of Europe’s largest prehistoric sites, formed about 7,000 years ago. Most of the menhirs are about waist high, while others are nearly 11 ½ feet tall. Walk around the circle and check out each stone. About a dozen monoliths show cryptic carvings of spirals, circles, crescents and snake-like shapes. A couple of the menhirs have humanoid figures carved on them that possibly represent gods and deities. Then, drive to historic Evora, a UNESCO-listed city. Explore Praça do Giraldo with its Baroque fountain. Stroll along the Moorish cobblestone alleys of Old Town. Follow the circuit of medieval walls and the arches of the 16th-century Silver Water Aqueduct. Tour the ruins of the Roman Temple, San Francisco Church and Cathedral of Evora. ( Duration: full day; Enroute; Private activity & transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included)

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)

Discover the vibrant culture, sandy beaches and beautiful architecture of Algarve! Surrounded on two sides by the Atlantic, Algarve is blessed with stunning beaches, picturesque fishing towns and a glorious climate. Walking enthusiasts can head to the Roto Vicentina, which stretches through one of the most beautiful Portuguese natural parks. Try the Historical Walkway or the Fisherman’s Trail, which both offer views of the natural landscapes. Visit Sagres, Algarve’s most westerly point, where you can stroll around the Baleeira fishing harbour with its brightly painted boats and fishermen at work. Explore the cobbled streets of Lagos Old Town and pop into the Igreja de Santo António to admire its gilt-covered chapel, frescoes and tiles. For the best views, head to Ponte da Piedade and explore the caves. Visit the Portimão Museum, which hosts historical exhibitions, before you have a delicious Portuguese lunch at one of the restaurants in town. Head to the town of Silves to explore its majestic 8th century Moorish Castle made of red-sandstone. End your tour with a cup of coffee in one of the lively cafes outside the castle walls. (Self-explore Activity; Transfers, entrance fees and meals are not included; Choose what best suits your interests and pace from our recommendations; Please note that you may not be able to do all recommended activities)

Experience the Spanish culture, accompanied by a local specialist. Visit bars and taverns specialized in tapas!

Explore the icons of the city center, with a private local guide and a walking tour around the main areas and corners of the city. Walk through Barrio de Santa Cruz, Jewish quarter, Alcazar fortress and Cathedral area. After the walking, the guide will take you to your Flamenco class where you will learn the basics of Flamenco dance. After this, relax in a cruise in Guadalquivir River.

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)

The tour will take you through all different and interesting views of Madrid: the elegant Plaza de Oriente and Plaza España, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Neptuno, Atocha, Puerta de Alcala, the memorial Retiro Park, the Bullring, and Plaza Colón, large avenues reaching the new four towers and Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. Following on to Royal Palace, a beautiful exponent of the 18th century and one of the best preserved in Europe.

Savor typical Spanish snacks called tapas and watch a flamenco show on this tour. Head to a traditional tavern and enjoy specialties such as creamy croquettes of Iberian ham and Spanish omelet. Accompaniments include a selection of country cheese and pickled squids, all washed down with robust red and white wines. Then, witness a flamenco performance in a tablao, which is a music venue specially created for hosting these shows. Flamenco is an Andalusian folk music that has matured into a complete art form. Be dazzled by the first clap of the hands, the swirl of brightly colored costumes and the sound of flamenco music. Experience the three forms of flamenco expression: singing, dancing and playing the guitar, while the dancers interact with the audience. The mesmerizing choreography allows you to enjoy different flamenco styles, characterized by the pattern of rhythms and beats. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time: tapas 1830 & show 1900 hrs; Shared activity; No transfers; Starting point: Torres Bermejas Restaurant, Calle de Mesonero Romanos, 11, 28013 Madrid; Meals included: tapas; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance)

Enjoy Catalonian cuisine and traditional wines of Barcelona on this tapas and wine tour. Meet your local food guide at the entrance of the Hard Rock Café in Plaza de Catalunya in the evening. Walk around and sample the delicious fare served at the local tapas bars and some of the oldest traditional taverns in the city. Learn about Catalonian culture and history, which is reflected in its cuisine, from your guide. Check out at least two different traditional eateries to sample what the locals enjoy when it comes to tapas. Try local wines and spirits as well. Your guide will also take you to one of Barcelona’s oldest taverns or tasca, for a Catalonian wine tasting with tapas samplers. Return to your hotel after the walk. (Duration: 2 hrs; Private activity; Starting point: entrance of Hard Rock Cafe, Plaza de Catalunya, 21, 08002 Barcelona; Meals included: tapas & beverages; Please inform us of any allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes) ‘

Discover the highlights of Barcelona city on this engaging tour. Set off with your personal guide and driver for the waterfront Olympic Village, built in 1992. Explore La Barceloneta, the seaside neighborhood, and its beach that is a favorite with surfers and sunbathers. Next, head to Montjuic Mountain and take in scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the port. Make your way down to the bustling city square, Plaza de Espana and the trendy business district of Gran Via. Pass by La Rambla, a picturesque tree-lined pedestrian boulevard and Passeig de Gràcia, home to the city’s most iconic buildings. Drive on to the Sagrada Familia, the unfinished masterpiece of renowned Catalonian architect Antoni Gaudi. Explore the interiors of this UNESCO-listed cathedral with its ornate ceilings and stained glass windows. Walk around to get a closer look at the columns and pinnacles. Browse the exhibits and pictures displayed at the museum located on the ground floor of the church before you wrap up your tour. (Duration: half day: Private activity & transfers; Entry tickets to Sagrada Familia included; Sleeveless shirts, shorts, and flips flops not permitted at Sagrada Familia; Please bring your voucher)