Spain & Portugal: Costa del Sol to the Portuguese Riviera

Enjoy a true taste of the Iberian Peninsula. Your tour begins with an overnight flight.

Welcome to Málaga, a city known for its Andalusian lifestyle and birthplace of artist Pablo Picasso. Later this afternoon, join your fellow travelers and your Tour Manager for a welcome reception.

Discover the port city of Málaga with a local guide. Walk through the colorful market stalls, sampling an almond snack or two, and learn about the history and culture of this seaside community. Stop at a local restaurant for churros con chocolate. Visit the Alcazaba, an ancient fortress where Roman, Arabic, and Renaissance culture intersect. Meet a local from the Sepulcro Brotherhood to learn about the importance of the brotherhoods to the local culture. Then, stop at a local bodega bar to sample the famous Malaga sweet fortified wine. Enjoy a guided visit of the Picasso Museum, viewing paintings by this iconic artist. After dinner, wrap up your day of exploration with a walk to see this fascinating city at night.

Today we will journey to the picturesque white villages of Andalusia. The village of Frigiliana, considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, will make you feel as though you have stepped back in time as you take in its whitewashed houses and historical sites while walking through the narrow cobblestone streets. Travel to the town of Nerja and explore its famous caves, home to one of the world’s largest stalactites. In Nerja, visit the Balcón de Europa, a balcony in the center of town with stunning views of the sea. Return to Málaga where you can choose to join your Tour Manager on a sunset marina stroll, the perfect way to say goodbye to Málaga.

Head to Ronda, a historic town perched upon a cliff in Andalusia. Explore the old town full of twisting narrow streets, the 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) over the El Tajo gorge, and La Alameda Park with its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. During your walking tour, hear about the often-debated topic of bullfighting in this city rich with bullfighting lore. Visit the stunning Casa don Bosco, a modernist mansion featuring Nazarite tiles, a beautiful garden, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Complete your tour of Ronda and be welcomed in to a local’s home for a farm-to-table home-hosted lunch. Arrive in Cordoba this evening.

Begin your day with a visit to a family run horse ranch. Then immerse yourself in the culture of Cordoba when you admire the rows of patios filled with colorful flowers and plants. Meet with a local to discuss the tradition and importance of these bountiful displays. Later, tour the magnificent Mezquita (UNESCO). Originally built as a mosque, it was converted into the city’s cathedral when the Christians conquered the region in 1236. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

Depart Cordoba for Seville, Spain’s “cultural capital.” Get to know Seville on a panoramic city tour featuring the famous Bull Ring, Torre de Oro, Plaza de Espana, and Maria Luisa Park. Get a true taste of Seville when you indulge in light tapas lunch. Then, visit the Seville Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest gothic cathedral in the world. View the ornate architecture of the cathedral and see Christopher Columbus’ tomb along with the Giralda bell tower. This evening, take in sweeping views of Seville from atop the Mirador Setas viewpoint.

In Seville, it’s your choice! Take a walking tour of the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter with its cascading bright flowers, whitewashed buildings and winding streets -OR- take a horse and carriage ride through Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park – one of the loveliest parks in all of Europe. Later this afternoon participate in a flamenco lesson at Fundacion Cristina Heeren de Arte Flamenco, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the art of flamenco in Spain and internationally. After your lesson, enjoy a traditional flamenco performance.

Say adios to Spain and travel through the Portuguese countryside to Estremoz – a historic town whose marble can be found in Portuguese monuments throughout the country. After a lunch full of local flavors, continue on to Cascais, the picturesque resort town situated along the coast of the Portuguese Riviera. Enjoy an evening at leisure.

Your journey takes you to Lisbon, Europe’s second oldest capital city. We will start in Belem, home to many of Lisbon’s most iconic sites and its most famous pastry – pasteis de Belem. After viewing the sprawling Jeronimos Monastery (UNESCO), embark on a panoramic city tour on one of Lisbon’s iconic trams taking you through the postcard-worthy streets of this charming city! Return to Cascais, where the rest of the day is yours to explore independently. This evening, you may choose to join an optional experience to savor Portuguese cuisine and wine while local artists perform traditional Fado (UNESCO).

Head to the town of Sintra (UNESCO), a favorite summer residence of Portuguese kings for six centuries. Explore the Quinta da Regaleira, a 20th-century palace with an elaborate gothic façade and beautiful gardens. Then stop at a local bakery and indulge in a local pastry before enjoying some time on your own to discover this storybook town. Tonight, toast to a wonderful trip with your fellow travelers during a farewell dinner featuring savory Portuguese flavors.

Your tour comes to a close today.