This 14-day trip through Southern Spain and Portugal invites you to sample the unique cultural delights of both countries. On a round trip from Madrid, enjoy the rich history and beauty of Andalusia and Central Portugal.
The beating cultural heart of Spain, Madrid moves to its own busy rhythm as one of the world’s great art, culture, and architecture cities. Let a city tour take you to its historic sights and exciting neighbourhoods before enjoying an afternoon on your own to visit whatever part of the city interests you, whether it’s a deep cultural dive at the Prado Museum, a wander through Habsburg history at the Royal Palace, or a relaxing afternoon in Retiro Park.
Set out from Madrid toward Avila, Salamanca, and Portugal, stopping in each of the historic cities before settling into Porto for two nights. Take a sightseeing tour of the city’s most beautiful buildings, and visit its famous Port Wine cellars on the other side of the Douro for a tasting. Then turn south toward Coimbra, Portugal’s most famous university town, and Fatima, a place of pilgrimage for many Catholics. Then it’s time for the magical trio of Batalha, Alcobaca, and Nazare. See two of the most beautiful former monasteries in Portugal, while Nazare is a traditional fishing town with its own retro charms.
Continue on to Lisbon, Portugal’s fabled capital, for a visit to the Belem neighbourhood and its famous tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, the Coach Museum, the Monument to the Discoverers, and a tour of the historic Alfama Quarter, little changed since Medieval times. From Lisbon, cut back across the border to Cordoba in Spain, stopping off at the World Heritage Listed city of Caceres to admire its unique blend of architecture. Cordoba’s main claim to fame is its Moorish history, most notably enshrined at the astonishing Mezquita Mosque. With a night here, you’ll also have time to explore the atmospheric Jewish quarter.
On to Seville, a city that captures the spirit of Andalusia like no other! See the second largest church in the catholic world, the sprawling Plaza de Espana, and opt for a Flamenco tour if you’re curious about this most Andalusian of dance arts. Then enjoy a day visiting Ronda with its spectacular views, and the Costa del Sol, a thriving tourist hub for modern Spain. Of course, no first trip to Andalusia is complete without a visit to Granada and the awesome Alhambra palace complex, your next destination.
Return to Madrid, stopping for a sightseeing tour of historic Toledo en route. You may wish to book an extra day or two to enjoy all Spain’s energetic capital has to offer.