Portugal and Spain Upgraded

This in-depth adventure of the Iberian Peninsula will bring you forever closer with southern Spain and Portugal. Check a handful of UNESCO World Heritage sites off those travel lists, learn the historic significance of these areas from local experts, wander the fairytale castles of Sintra, visit the walled city of Toledo, sip wine in Porto, and let your body move to the vibrant rhythms of flamenco in Granada. Be prepared to fall in love with these places as you discover the charm of two Western European countries all in one trip.

Day 1 Lisbon
Arrive at any time. Bring your appetite for this evening’s traditional Portuguese dinner in one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Enjoy delicious food while listening to a fado performance by local folk singers.

Day 2 Lisbon
Visit the 19th-century resort town of Sintra, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set your eyes upon a landscape that inspired the English poet Lord Byron. Then, spend the afternoon as you wish to discover more of Lisbon’s lively atmosphere. Maybe decide to be a daredevil and take the Santa Justa lift to the highest point in Portugal.

Day 3 Lisbon/Évora
Be prepared to witness something you may have never seen before as you travel to medieval Évora home to the haunting Chapel of Bones. Yes, that’s right bones. This chapel was built in the 16th-century and the walls are covered with human skeletons, but for a worthy reason. Afterwards, you’ll visit ancient Diana’s Temple which is very well preserved for its age.

Day 4 Évora
Travel into the Montemor-o-Novo countryside to a traditional farm and learn about cork harvesting from an expert. Afterwards, sit down to a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Once you return to the city centre, explore more on your own, taking some time to walk around. Maybe head to the Clock Museum to take a peek at watches from different eras, or visit the Cathedral of Évora, which is considered the most important local monument.

Day 5 Évora/Coimbra
It’s on to Tomar today to learn about the Crusades era in Portugal. A local expert will take you on a guided walk through the Convent of Christ and Templar Castle, teaching you a bit of the history as you go. Then you'll arrive in the riverfront city of Coimbra in the evening.

Day 6 Coimbra/Porto
Tour the centuries-old University of Coimbra in the morning, entering through the Porta Férra. You’ll stop at the Joanina Library, the Chapel of São Miguel, and the Botanical Garden before catching the train to Porto.

Day 7 Porto
Porto has a lot to offer, but first and foremost let’s have a drink. Hop aboard a boat and cruise down Portugal’s “river of gold”, which also happens to be the ancient trade route for port wine. You’ll learn about this rich tradition at a local wine cellar and finish the tour with a tasting of this delicious vino. For the rest of the day explore Porto’s Ribeira district and admire the architecture and atmosphere of this coastal city.

Day 8 Porto/Madrid
Transfer to the airport and catch a short flight to Madrid. Explore Spain’s bustling capital on your own. Wander around Plaza Mayor or people watch over a coffee at an outdoor café.

Day 9 Madrid
Drive south to Toledo—a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Tagus River. Once here embark on a guided tour, walking past churches, synagogues, mosques, and plazas. Then it’s back to Madrid where you’ll have free time to gaze at artworks in the Museo del Prado, find a fun restaurant to try, or look for some enticing nightlife spots.

Day 10 Madrid/Córdoba
Córdoba was once the largest city in Europe, known for its mosques, palaces, and libraries and today you’ll be taking a high-speed train there to check out its medieval centre. Once you become acquainted, walk the maze of winding lanes in the Jewish quarter and in the evening opt to try some of the delicious cuisine like, “ajo blanco” or “caldereta de cordero”. We bet these dishes will only leave you wanting more.

Day 11 Córdoba/Granada
Arrive in the birthplace of Flamenco and enjoy an orientation walk around the city of Granada. Opt to see the Granada Cathedral or the Royal Chapel and then take part in a private Flamenco dance class. Tonight, put your new moves to the test, head out on the town, and experience Granada’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 12 Granada
It’s all about immersing yourself in the Alhambra today, a Moorish fortress residing on a hilltop overlooking Granada. You’ll receive a guided tour of yet another World Heritage site and then explore more on your own time as twilight begins to descend on this 13th-century palace. If you’re looking for a perfect spot to catch the sunset, consider the fantastic views and narrow lanes of Albaicin. Then opt to venture back out for some more lively nightlife at popular local tapas bars.

Day 13 Granada/Seville
Travel to Seville and enjoy a CEO led orientation walk of one of Spain’s most colourful cities. Afterwards, choose to visit Casa Pilatos, or climb Giralda’s bell tower, and then opt to catch a glimpse of traditional gypsy culture with a flamenco performance.

Day 14 Seville
Your final full day on this trip consists of free time to further get to know Seville. Go off on a jaunt through winding alleys, take pictures in the squares of Santa Cruz quarter, or opt to visit another World Heritage site and former filming place of Game of Thrones. Along the way don’t forget to grab a Serranito to curb your appetite.

Day 15 Seville
Depart at any time.