Day 1. (Saturday) MADRID

Hola! Welcome to Europe! Welcome to Spain! Upon your arrival at Madrid-Barajas International Airport, our team will be waiting to provide assistance and a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Once settled, you are free to begin exploring this magnificent cosmopolitan capital at your own pace. In the afternoon, please consult the information boards at the reception for details regarding the welcome meeting with your expert guide and fellow travellers. To kick off your journey, we’ll enjoy an evening transfer to the iconic Plaza Mayor. Located in the heart of old Madrid, this vibrant square is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and choose from a wide array of traditional restaurants for your first Spanish dinner. Overnight stay in Madrid.

Day 2. (Sunday) MADRID

Breakfast at the hotel. Escorted by a local guide, we’ll start a guided tour of Madrid discovering the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the world-renowned Paseo del Prado (the Art Triangle), the majestic Cibeles Square, the most emblematic square in Madrid with the fountain of the Greek goddess Cibeles, place where Real Madrid and Spain national team fans celebrate their victories, the Neptuno Square, and the triumphant Puerta de Alcala. We will also admire the lush greenery of Retiro Park and the historic Plaza de Colón, soaking in the sophisticated atmosphere of the Spanish court. From imperial history to sporting glory, our next stop is the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. We have included your entry to this world-famous arena, the home of Real Madrid. You’ll have the chance to explore the state-of-the-art museum, see the record-breaking collection of European Cups, and feel the atmosphere of one of the world’s most iconic football cathedrals. The remainder of the day is yours to discover Madrid’s soul at your own pace. The city centre is perfectly walkable and full of surprises. Here are some recomendations for your free time in Madrid. You can visit Puerta del Sol, the Kilometre Zero of the country, and lose yourself in the nearby medieval streets of Madrid de los Austrias Neighborhood. Walk along the Gran Vía, Madrid’s answer to Broadway, famous for its grand architecture and flagship stores. Stroll towards the Royal Palace and the adjacent Almudena Cathedral for some of the city’s finest sunset views. Return to hotel and accommodation.

Day 3. (Monday) MADRID – GRANADA

After breakfast, we depart Madrid and head south across the legendary plains of Castile-La Mancha, the land immortalised by Miguel de Cervantes in Don Quixote. We’ll pass the iconic windmills and cross the dramatic Despeñaperros Pass, the natural gateway into Andalusia. Upon arrival in Granada, we have included a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savour the first authentic flavours of southern Spanish cuisine. In the afternoon, we experience the pinnacle of Moorish art: the visit of Alhambra. We have included your entry and an official local guide to lead you through this stunning palace complex. You will marvel at the intricate stucco work of the Nasrid Palaces, the imposing Palace of Charles V, and the serene beauty of the Generalife Gardens, with their sparkling fountains and fragrant jasmine. This UNESCO World Heritage site is widely considered the most beautiful example of Islamic architecture in the Western world. Following our visit, enjoy free time to discover the soul of Granada. We highly recommend to wander through the Monumental area of ​​Granada, strolling through the origins of this city that still retains all the magic of its Arab past. There are some must-see places: the Royal Chapel of Granada, the place chosen by the Catholic Monarchs for their last rest, the Cathedral, with its impressive facade of Spanish Baroque style and also the Alcaiceria, the old Silk Market in the Nasrid era, a network of narrow streets filled with shops selling handicrafts from Granada, reminiscent of a Moroccan souk. Optionally, you can join us for an unforgettable night in the Sacromonte caves for an authentic Zambra Gitana. This passionate Gypsy Flamenco show, performed in a traditional cave-dwelling, is a deep immersion into the spirit of Granada. Accommodation at the hotel. Note: Within the Alhambra, the Nasrid Palaces allow the entry of a limited number of people. In case of not being able to visit this area of the Alhambra, a visit with a local guide of the city of Granada would be included and also the Real Alcazar of Seville with similar characteristics will be visited.

Day 4. (Tuesday) GRANADA – NERJA – MALAGA – RONDA – SEVILLE

After breakfast, we depart Granada to explore the treasures of the Mediterranean coast. Our first stop is Nerja, a jewel of the Costa Tropical. You will have free time to wander its charming whitewashed streets and stand upon the legendary Balcony of Europe, a stunning natural viewpoint perched on a cliff offering endless vistas of the azure sea. We continue our route to Málaga, the vibrant capital of the Costa del Sol and the birthplace of Picasso. During your free time, immerse yourself in the elegance of Calle Larios, admire the majesty of the Cathedral (affectionately known as La Manquita), and step back in time at the Roman Theatre and the imposing Alcazaba, the best-preserved palatial fortress of the Nasrid era. In the afternoon, we head into the mountains to reach Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest and most romantic cities. During your visit, you will be captivated by the New Bridge (Puente Nuevo), a masterpiece of engineering spanning a dramatic 120-metre deep gorge over the Guadalevín River. Stroll through the medieval Old Town, visit the historic Bullring on Ronda, one of the oldest in Spain, or simply soak in the panoramic views from the Alameda del Tajo cliffs. Our journey concludes in Seville, the luminous capital of Andalusia. Upon arrival, enjoy an included dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 5. (Wednesday) SEVILLE

Start your day with a traditional Andalusian breakfast, perhaps sampling the local olive oil and fresh tomatoes on toasted bread, before we embark on a comprehensive guided exploration of Seville, a city that radiates passion and history. To ensure you capture every perspective of the Andalusian capital, our tour combines a comfortable coach drive, and a guided walk through its most charming quarters. We will admire the grand Plaza de España Square, a masterpiece of tiled fountains and bridges, the lush Maria Luisa Park, and the historic Torre del Oro standing guard over the riverbanks. As we wander through the narrow, flower-filled alleys of the Santa Cruz District (the old Jewish Quarter), the natural setting of Carmen as well as the place where the myth of Don Juan developed, you will feel the romantic soul of the city. Following our tour, we’ll embark on a scenic cruise along the Guadalquivir River, the perfect way to enjoy Seville’s most iconic landmarks from a different perspective. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, perhaps stroll along the elegant Paseo de Colón or enjoy some tapas in the vibrant Triana neighbourhood. For those wishing to delve deeper into Seville’s monumental heritage, our guide will offer an optional visit to the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world with its iconic Giralda Tower, and the Royal Castle (Alcázar), a stunning Mudéjar palace that served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. In the evening, don’t miss the chance to go tapa-hopping through the city’s atmospheric taverns. It is the ultimate way to taste your way through Andalusia, sharing small plates of exceptional local cuisine while soaking in the authentic charm of Seville’s night scene. To conclude your Seville experience, you will have the opportunity to attend an optional authentic Flamenco show in the evening, witnessing the raw emotion and artistry of this UNESCO-listed tradition. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 6. (Thursday) SEVILLE – MERIDA – EVORA – LISBON

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Andalusia and journey north into Extremadura. The landscape unfolds into a vast, rugged terrain of rolling hills and dramatic granite outcrops, reflecting the untamed beauty of Western Spain. Our first destination is Merida, once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania, known as Augusta Emerita. We will 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 to Portugal, travelling through the serene and endless dehesas. This unique Mediterranean ecosystem, dotted with cork oaks and holm oaks, is the ancestral home of the Iberian pig, which can be seen grazing freely in the countryside. Our first Portuguese stop is Évora, a jewel of the Alentejo region. You will have free time to explore this walled city, famous for its Roman Temple of Diana, its impressive Gothic cathedral, its Renaissance palaces and also the Church of San Francisco with its adjacent hauntingly beautiful Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), where all its walls are covered with skulls and human bones, symbolizing how ephemeral human existence is. We then continue our route to Lisbon, the city of the seven hills. Known for its melancholic Fado music, tiled facades, and golden Atlantic light, Lisbon is a captivating blend of age-old tradition and modern maritime flair. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 7. (Friday) 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. We conclude the afternoon with a transfer to Restauradores Square, famous for its lively restaurant scene. Take the opportunity to ride the historic Gloria Funicular up to Bairro Alto, where the San Pedro viewpoint offers spectacular views over the heart of Lisbon. Afterward, we will return 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 8. (Saturday) LISBON – FATIMA – PORTO

After breakfast, we travel north to Fátima, one of the most revered Marian shrines in the world. You will have free time to immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the Sanctuary. You may visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, where the tombs of the three shepherd children are located, spend a moment of reflection in the modern Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, or visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, the very heart of the sanctuary where the Virgin Mary appeared in 1917. We continue our journey to Porto, the second-largest city of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, we embrace 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. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the steep, cobbled streets of Porto. Discover the historic soul of Porto by visiting the majestic Sé Cathedral and the Stock Exchange Palace, one of the city’s most exquisite architectural gems. Your journey through time can continue at 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 an authentic tasting of the city’s world-famous fortified Port wine. Hotel accommodation.

Day 9. (Sunday) PORTO – BRAGA – CAMBADOS – SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

After breakfast, we start our trip to the northern Portugal. At Braga we will visit the magnificent Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a masterpiece of European Baroque design. We will ascend the sacred hill via its historic funicular, the oldest in the world powered by water counterbalancing. To truly appreciate the scale of this monument, we recommend descending on foot down the grand zigzagging Stairway of the Five Senses, a monumental Baroque stairway of 381 feet, which offer breathtaking views over the valley. We then cross the border into Spain, entering the lush, green landscapes of Galicia and its famous Rías Baixas (Lower Estuaries of Galicia). Upon arrival in the charming town of Cambados, we embark on a glass-bottom boat cruise through the Ría de Arousa. This unique voyage takes us to the traditional floating platforms (bateas) to discover how Galicia’s world-famous mussels are cultivated. To celebrate this maritime tradition, we’ve included a tasting of freshly steamed mussels accompanied by local Albariño wine. Our journey continues to Santiago de Compostela, one of the most important monumental centers of Spain, one of the sacred cities of Christendom, the final destination of the legendary Camino de Santiago (Saint James pilgrimage route). Joined by a local guide, we’ll explore the city’s UNESCO-listed historic centre. We will wander through its granite-paved streets and medieval squares, such as the Plaza de las Platerías and the Plaza de la Quintana, soaking in the mystical atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for over a thousand years. Our tour concludes at the majestic Praza do Obradoiro, where we will admire the awe-inspiring exterior of the Santiago Cathedral, dedicated to the Apostle James the Elder, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ and brother of John, the Evangelist. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 10. (Monday) SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA – LUGO – O CEBREIRO – LEON – OVIEDO

After breakfast, we follow the historic Way of St. James toward the plains of Castile. Our first stop is Lugo, known in antiquity as Lucus Augusti. We’ll explore its tranquil, pedestrianised historic centre, which is entirely enclosed by the monumental Roman Walls. As the best-preserved example of Roman fortifications in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, these ancient walls offer a unique journey back to the days of the Empire. Our route continues through the mist-shrouded village of O Cebreiro, a quintessential Galician stone hamlet, before arriving in León. A vital enclave on the pilgrimage road, León boasts some of Spain’s most extraordinary architecture. During your free time, you can marvel at the Gothic Cathedral of Leon, famous for having the most exquisite stained-glass windows in Europe, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of San Isidoro, and the stunning Plateresque façade of the San Marcos Hostel. Later, we cross the dramatic peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains into the green landscapes of Asturias. We arrive in Oviedo, a city that has preserved an authentic medieval atmosphere. Accompanied by a licensed local guide, we’ll enjoy an in-depth city tour of Oviedo’s treasures, including the 9th-century Cathedral, the contemporary Calatrava Palace, the historic Campoamor Theatre, and the charming Calle de la Rúa. To conclude the day, we have included a traditional Asturian dinner, where you can experience the art of cider pouring and taste the region’s famous authentic cider. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 11. (Tuesday) OVIEDO – COVADONGA – SANTILLANA – SANTANDER

After breakfast, we journey into the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of breathtaking scale. As we navigate the winding mountain roads, a spectacular landscape unfolds, a world of crystalline waters, vibrant green meadows, and jagged limestone peaks that seem to touch the sky. We arrive at the Sanctuary of Covadonga, a sacred site of pilgrimage nestled within a natural cave. You will have free time to explore the Shrine and pay your respects to Our Lady of Covadonga, the beloved Patroness of Asturias. Our route then leads us to Santillana del Mar, frequently described as one of the most beautiful historic villages in Spain. We will wander its medieval stone streets to discover architectural treasures like the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a true jewel of Cantabrian Romanesque design. Nearby, we visit the Museum of the Caves of Altamira, where a state-of-the-art replica provides a fascinating insight into the prehistoric cave art that defined the early Iberian Peninsula. Finally, we travel to Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria. Accompanied by a local guide, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Santander to discover the aristocratic charm and coastal highlights of the city. Our tour features the historic Cathedral Square before heading to the stunning Magdalena Peninsula, home to the majestic Royal Palace and panoramic bay views. We then visit the iconic El Sardinero Beach to admire the Belle Époque grandeur of the Gran Casino. Finally, we reach the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Mayor, where the historic Lighthouse offers spectacular vistas over the rugged Cantabrian coast. Arrival at the hotel and accommodation. NOTE: From July to mid-October, due to seasonal high occupancy, some groups may be accommodated in Bilbao.

Day 12. (Wednesday) SANTANDER – BILBAO – MADRID

After breakfast, following the highway along the Cantabrian Coast, with beautiful landscapes between the mountains and the sea we head to Bilbao, capital of the province of Vizcaya, and the largest city of the Basque Country. Accompanied by an expert local guide, we will visit Bilbao, where design and architecture permeate this entire city. We’ll explore the historic Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) with its Seven Streets and marvel at the titanium curves of the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of modern architecture. Afterward, enjoy free time for a pintxos experience, the Basque version of tapas. These miniature gourmet delights, often served on a slice of bread and held together with a toothpick, are a true culinary art form best enjoyed with a glass of local cider or txakoli. In the afternoon, we begin our final journey toward Madrid. As we leave the green, misty mountains of the Basque Country behind, the landscape transforms into the vast, golden plains of the Castilian plateau. This scenic drive offers the perfect moment for quiet reflection; as you gaze out at the rolling horizons, you can reminisce about the incredible 20-day odyssey you’ve just completed – from the sun-drenched palaces of Andalusia and the mystical souks of Morocco to the Atlantic charm of Portugal and the rugged beauty of Green Spain. Upon arrival in the capital, we check into our hotel for a final night in the heart of Spain. Note: Depending on the number of passengers, the Bilbao / Madrid route may be made by regular-line coach or by train.

Day 10. (Thursday) MADRID

Breakfast at the hotel and end of our services. While your guided journey ends here, the adventure doesn’t have to. We invite you to continue exploring Madrid, Spain’s sophisticated capital and the majestic seat of the Spanish Monarchy. If you wish to delve deeper into the heart of Castile, consider an optional excursion to the Imperial City of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel. Alternatively, you can discover the medieval jewels of Ávila and Segovia, famous for their ancient walls, imposing castles and Roman aqueducts. These day trips are easily available for booking directly through our website. We wish you a safe onward journey!