Day 1. (Thursday) BARCELONA – MADRID

Your journey begins in the morning at Barcelona Sants Station, where you will board the AVE, Spain’s premier high-speed train, bound for the capital. Sit back and relax in total comfort as you glide across the peninsula. From your seat, you’ll enjoy a front-row view of the ever-changing Spanish landscapes, from the rugged hills of Catalonia through the dramatic plains of Aragon to the expansive plateaus of Castile. Upon arrival in Madrid, please make your own way to the hotel to check in and begin your discovery of the Spanish capital. The rest of the day is yours to discover the vibrant energy of Spain’s diplomatic and economic capital. As the official residence of the Spanish Monarchy and the seat of government, Madrid offers a unique blend of imperial history and cosmopolitan flair. If you are wondering what to do in Madrid with your free time, we highly recommend a stroll through the Madrid de los Austrias (Hapsburg Madrid). This historic quarter features stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture in the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Royal Palace area at the elegant Plaza de Oriente, or admire the city’s grand landmarks including the Cibeles Fountain, Puerta de Alcalá, and the bustling Gran Vía. You may also want to visit the city’s world-class museums or a visit to the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the world-famous arena, the home of Real Madrid. Accommodation in Madrid.

Day 2. (Friday) MADRID – SALAMANCA – VIGO

Departure from Madrid to Salamanca, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage city known as the Golden City for its glowing sandstone architecture. You will have free time for a leisurely visit to Salamanca’s historic center, a place of extraordinary artistic wealth. A stroll through the city’s pedestrian-friendly streets will lead you to the breathtaking Plaza Mayor, widely considered the most beautiful square in Spain. If you are wondering what to do in Salamanca, we highly recommend exploring its architectural evolution through its two cathedrals, the 12th-century Romanesque Old Cathedral and the 16th-century New Cathedral. Don’t miss the iconic House of Shells, the Baroque Clerecía Church, and the historic University of Salamanca with its world-famous Plateresque façade. Later we’ll continue northwest towards Galicia, a mythical land full of history and a unique natural wealth and a rich landscape. Arrival in Vigo, a city spectacularly situated in the heart of its namesake estuary. Considered the most beautiful of the Rías Baixas, Vigo offers stunning beaches and a vibrant maritime atmosphere. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3. (Saturday) VIGO – VIANA DO CASTELO – BRAGA – PORTO

After breakfast, we cross the border into Portugal and arrive at Viana do Castelo, a charming town nestled perfectly between the mouth of the Minho River and the city of Porto. You will have free time to explore the historic old town, famous for its picturesque cobblestone streets and elegant, emblazoned architecture. Our route continues to Braga, the historic City of the Archbishops. Free time at your disposal. We recommend a self-guided exploration of Braga‘s labyrinthine streets, where traditional family-owned shops coexist with ancient monuments. Key highlights for your visit to Braga include the medieval Braga Cathedral, home to a fascinating sacred art museum and the Gothic-style Kings’ Chapel, the imposing Archbishop’s Palace, and the vibrant, floral Santa Barbara Garden. Before departing, immerse yourself in the local culinary scene; you cannot leave without tasting exquisite regional specialties such as bacalhau à Braga (codfish), succulent roast kid, or the classic pudim de leite (crème caramel). In the afternoon, we depart for Porto, a majestic city proudly declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation in Porto.

Day 4. (Sunday) PORTO

After breakfast, we dedicate our full day to exploring the authentic spirit of Porto, the vibrant capital of Northern Portugal. We begin with a panoramic tour of Porto, designed to showcase the city’s most iconic landmarks. We will see the Sé Cathedral, the city’s most significant religious monument, renowned for its rich blend of architectural styles and historical influences. Our tour continues to the magnificent Palacio de la Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace), considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Porto, and the ornate Church of Santa Clara. To complete our experience, we will stop at a local cellar for a tasting of the world-famous Port wine. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to inmerse in the nostalgic atmosphere of this port city, where elegant villas stand in contrast to the narrow, storied alleys of the Ribeira district. What about embracing the city’s maritime soul by boarding a traditional Rabelo boat, the iconic wooden vessels once used to transport port wine barrels? This relaxing cruise along the Douro River offers an incomparable perspective of the city’s six bridges and the colourful, stacked houses of the Ribeira district. Discover the historic soul of Porto by visiting the São Bento Station, where you can admire breathtaking blue-and-white azulejo tile panels that masterfully depict scenes from Portuguese history. Nearby, step into the magical Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, famous for its sweeping Neo-Gothic staircase. To capture the ultimate photo, climb the Clérigos Tower for a spectacular 360-degree view over the medieval heart of the city before taking a leisurely stroll along the riverside Ribeira. Finally, marvel at the engineering grandeur of the Dom Luís I Bridge as you cross over to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can conclude your day with a nice dinner to smaple the local gastronomy. Hotel accommodation.

Day 5. (Monday) PORTO – COIMBRA

After breakfast, we depart Porto and travel southward to Coimbra, a captivating riverfront city that rises scenically from the banks of the Mondego River. As the country’s former capital during the Middle Ages, Coimbra is a treasure trove of heritage and culture. You will have free time to explore the remarkably preserved medieval old town, characterized by its winding, dark cobblestone lanes. If you are planning a visit to Coimbra, we highly recommend prioritizing its most iconic landmarks. You should not miss the monumental 12th-century Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. A visit to the University of Coimbra is equally essential; as the oldest and most prestigious university in Portugal, it offers a glimpse into centuries of academic excellence. Other historic highlights include the Gothic-style Igreja de Santa Cruz and the legendary Café Santa Cruz, the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional coffee and a sweet pastry in a unique, historic setting. Whether you are curious about what to do in Coimbra or simply wish to soak in the atmosphere of this scholarly city, Coimbra promises an unforgettable experience. Accommodation in Coimbra.

Day 6. (Tuesday) COIMBRA – FATIMA – LISBON

After breakfast, we travel south to Fatima, one of the most significant sacred centers of the Christian faith. Known globally for its world-famous sanctuary, Fátima has been a major site of Christian pilgrimage since the early 20th century. If you are planning a visit to the Sanctuary of Fátima, you will have ample time to explore this spiritual hub at your own pace. Key landmarks include the impressive Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapel of the Apparitions, the very heart of the sanctuary where, according to tradition, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children: Lúcia, Francisco, and Jacinta. You may choose to pay your respects at the tombs of the three little shepherds, admire the revered statue of Our Lady of Fátima, or visit the historic holm oak tree and the monument dedicated to the seers. For those wondering what to do in Fátima, the site offers a unique opportunity for reflection, prayer, and historical discovery. In the late afternoon, we continue our journey to Lisbon, the majestic capital of Portugal. Arrival to the hotel for your overnight stay. In the evening, you can immerse yourself in the soul of Portugal with an optional Fado show, experiencing the hauntingly beautiful traditional music in an authentic Lisbon tavern.

Day 7. (Wednesday) LISBON

Breakfast at the hotel. We’ll have a full day to explore each corner of Lisbon. We’ll start the day with an in-depth sightseeing tour of Lisbon. Our panoramic tour starts at Eduardo VII Park, offering stunning views over the city towards the Tagus River. We’ll dive into the heart of the Baixa Pombalina, passing through the majestic Marquis of Pombal Square and the bustling Rossio, where you can admire the hilltop São Jorge Castle overlooking the ancient Alfama district. We continue through the elegant Estrela neighbourhood to admire the grand Estrela Basilica before heading to the waterfront of Belem district. Here, we celebrate Portugal’s seafaring heritage at the Monument to the Discoveries, the fortified Belém Tower, and the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Vasco da Gama’s resting place. The afternoon is yours to further explore the magic of Lisbon. We recommend wandering through the steep, tiled streets of Alfama district, the city’s oldest quarter, to discover hidden viewpoints (miradouros) or taking a ride on the iconic yellow Tram 28. For those wishing to see the surrounding coast, our guide will offer an optional excursion to the fairytale town of Sintra, famous for its colourful palaces, followed by a visit to the chic seaside resorts of Cascais and Estoril. Overninght in the hotel.

Day 8. (Thursday) LISBON – MERIDA – MADRID

Our last breakfast in Portugal. Departure from Lisbon to the Spanish border. Our route takes us across rolling green plains that stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with ancient cork oaks and olive trees that have stood the test of time. As we cross into Spain, you will experience the unique landscapes of the Extremadura region. This is the land of the Dehesa – vast, sun-dappled woodlands where Iberian pigs roam freely among holm oaks in search of the acorns that produce the world’s finest ham. We arrive in Merida, once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania, known as Augusta Emerita. You will enjoy some free time at your disposal to visit the spectacular Archaeological Ensemble of Merida, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring one of the best-preserved Roman theatres and amphitheatres in existence. Following this journey back in time, you will have free time to enjoy lunch in the shadow of ancient monuments. In the afternoon, we head back to Madrid. Arrival and end of our services.