- Day 1
ARRIVAL
Welcome to the vibrant heart of Spain—Madrid! Arrive and settle into your hotel before venturing out into the lively capital. Lose yourself in the historic grandeur of Plaza Mayor, sip coffee at a local café, and explore the intricate lanes of the old city. As evening falls, indulge in the flavorful food scene and immerse yourself in Madrid’s lively nightlife. Your adventure begins here. Overnight in Madrid. (B)
- Day 2
MADRID
After breakfast, set off on a panoramic city tour of Madrid. Trace the city's medieval origins at the Arab fortress, wander through the historic Barrio de la Morería, and marvel at the Renaissance and Baroque splendor of the Hapsburgs’ district. Discover the grandeur of the Bourbon kings with visits to the Royal Palace and the iconic fountains of Cibeles and Neptune. Admire the elegant 19th-century landmarks, including the Prado Museum, before exploring the chic avenues of contemporary Madrid. The afternoon and evening are yours to delve deeper into this magnificent city. Overnight in Madrid. (B)
- Day 3
MADRID | PORTO
Greet the morning with a hearty breakfast before departing for the architectural jewel of Salamanca. Roam around the Plaza Mayor and marvel at the ornate facades of the Pontifical University and the city's two majestic cathedrals. After soaking in the scholarly ambiance, cross into Portugal and the charismatic city of Porto. Settle into your hotel and take your time this evening on your own, tasting the renowned Port wine and savoring local cuisine. Overnight in Porto. (B)
- Day 4
PORTO
Begin your day with breakfast, then join in a panoramic tour of Porto, a city celebrated for its rich heritage and riverfront charm. Visit key landmarks like the Cathedral, Stock Exchange building, and Santa Clara church. Next, experience a different perspective of the city along the Douro followed by a visit to the famous Port Wine Cellars for a wine tasting experience. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Consider indulging in the local fare at cafes, bars, and restaurants that specialize in the flavors, dishes, and drinks of Portugal’s far north. Overnight in Porto. (B)
- Day 5
PORTO | COIMBRA | FATIMA
Travel to Coimbra after breakfast, where ancient academic tradition and melancholic Fado ballads fill the air. Take your time at leisure to discover this 13th century town. Later, journey on to Fatima, revered as a sanctuary of faith. Visit the Basilica, see the Cova da Iria, and explore the Chapel of the Apparitions. In the evening, you may wish to participate in a moving candle procession. Overnight in Fatima. (B)
- Day 6
FATIMA | BATALHA | NAZARE | ALCOBAÇA | LISBON
Kick-off the day with breakfast then a visit to the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning Gothic and Manueline architecture. Continue to the seaside town of Nazare, a slice of coastal life where you can share a leisurely stroll. Visit Alcobaça to see its historic Cistercian monastery, then travel to Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital. Overnight in Lisbon. (B)
- Day 7
LISBON
Savor breakfast before embarking on a morning tour of Lisbon where every turn reveals layers of history and waves of maritime charm. Visit iconic sites, including the Belem Tower and Jeronimo's Monastery. Your afternoon is free to wander through Lisbon’s enchanting neighborhoods or take an optional tour to Sintra and Cascais. Tonight, consider taking time to experience the soulful sounds of Fado at a local casa de fado. Overnight in Lisbon. (B)
- Day 8
LISBON | MERIDA | MADRID
After breakfast, depart for Merida, a treasure trove of Roman history. Explore its ancient theater, amphitheater, and Roman bridge. Revel in some free time to absorb the city's timeless ambiance before continuing back to Madrid. With your evening at leisure, consider adventuring out on a tapas crawl, hopping from one tapas bar to the next to sample a selection of Iberian hams, cheeses, and specialty dishes. Overnight in Madrid. (B)
- Day 9
MADRID
Enjoy one last breakfast in Madrid before your transfer to the airport. Depart with a heart full of memories and a camera full of unforgettable moments from your journey through Madrid and Portugal. (B)
Begin your travel adventure in Madrid, where grand plazas and bustling tapas bars offer a lively introduction to Spanish life. Travel through the scholarly elegance of Salamanca before crossing into Portugal to experience Porto's famous port wine and riverfront splendor. Wander through Coimbra’s ancient university and find spiritual solace in Fatima’s sacred sites. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Batalha and picturesque Nazare, before soaking in Lisbon's rich maritime heritage. From the historic mystique of the Roman ruins in Merida to the lively avenues of Madrid, each day promises a blend of historical discovery and modern allure. Dive into this unforgettable exploration of Iberian culture, cuisine, and tradition, designed to enchant and inspire on your amaz...
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