Best of Spain & Portugal

Explore the vibrant, dynamic Iberian Peninsula, from the cobbled streets of Lisbon to the Moorish architecture of Seville. Get under the skin of the history and culture of these fascinating countries as you uncover the very best of Spain and Portugal.

1. Fly to Lisbon

2. Days 1-3: Lisbon, Portugal

   Begin your Iberian discovery in Lisbon, the colourful capital of Portugal. Packed with character, each of Lisbon’s distinct neighbourhoods is a delight to explore, from the colonial elegance of Belém to the Moorish-influenced Alfama. Explore the city with your private guide and wander through the charming cobbled streets, admiring the traditional architecture and fantastic views across the Tejo river from the hilltop neighbourhoods.

   Spend a day out of the city discovering the fairytale palaces of nearby Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled among dramatic mountains. Visit a selection of the palaces and beautiful manor houses with your private guide, from the eccentric Pena Palace to the imposing Quinta da Regaleira, before exploring the picturesque coastal town of Cascais.

   Accommodation: Hotel do Chiado (2 nights)

3. Days 3-5: Porto, Portugal

   Continue north from Lisbon, stopping at the charming towns of Coimbra and Aveiro on your way to vibrant Porto. Renowned for its production of some of Europe’s finest wine, including the eponymous port, Porto boasts a fantastic gastronomy scene alongside its centuries-old port houses.

   With your private guide, discover the mouthwatering specialities of Porto as you explore the city’s culinary delights. Wander from traditional bakeries to family-owned chocolate shops and bustling cafés, sampling a selection of delicious treats as you get under the skin of this charming city.

   Accommodation: Intercontinental Porto (2 nights)

4. Days 5-7: Madrid

   Leaving Portugal behind, it’s time to begin your journey through Spain in the capital city, Madrid. Known for its thriving art scene, Madrid is packed with world-class art galleries alongside its elegant architecture. Your private guide will explain Madrid’s history and show you the city’s highlights, including the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor and the verdant Retiro Park before you explore the Prado Museum and its fantastic collection of Spanish art.

   The following day, escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid for the nearby Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a royal palace which dates back 400 years. Discover El Escorial’s opulent interiors and admire its beautiful Renaissance architecture, protected by its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

   Accommodation: NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado (2 nights)

5. Days 7-9: Granada, Spain

   Next, you’ll travel south to Andalucia and the charming city of Granada, dramatically surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Sierra Nevada. The Moorish influence in Granada can still be seen to this day, and you’ll have the chance to explore the city and admire its architecture with your private guide. Learn about the city’s history and visit the spectacular Cathedral, with its impressive Renaissance and Gothic interior.

   While in Granada, you’ll also visit one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks – the majestic Alhambra. Dating back to the 11th century the Alhambra boasts truly breathtaking, intricate Moorish architecture, and your private guide will explain the history behind this magnificent palace.

   Accommodation: Hotel Alhambra Palace (2 nights)

6. Days 9-10: Ronda, Spain

   The following day, head west through the scenic Andalucian countryside to Ronda, one of the region’s enchanting white villages. Perched atop a dramatic cliff overlooking El Tajo gorge, Ronda is separated in two by the spectacular bridge which spans the gorge, with the medieval town on one side and the 18th-century neighbourhood on the other.

   Discover the picturesque streets of Ronda with your private guide and you’ll discover how the Romans and Moors both left their mark on the city. Soak up the charm of the city and admire its whitewashed buildings before taking in the incredible views across the gorge.

   Accommodation: Hotel Catalonia Ronda (1 night)

7. Days 10-13: Seville, Spain

   Your final stop will be in Seville, the vibrant and atmospheric capital of Andalucia. This enchanting city is bursting with colour and character, found in its lively tapas bars and flamenco performances. Your private guide will lead you on a walking tour of the city, explaining the history hidden in the winding cobbled streets and UNESCO World Heritage Site landmarks. Visit the captivating Real Alcazar to admire its incredible Mudéjar architecture, and the impressive Seville Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Spend an evening with your private guide exploring Seville’s buzzing tapas bars, tasting a selection of local delicacies and Spanish classics. Join the locals in some of Seville’s most loved bars in this city renowned for its mouthwatering tapas.

   Spend a day in the nearby picturesque town of Jerez, famed for its historic production of sherry. Explore the city with your private guide, learning about its fascinating history, before a visit to the Royal Andalucian School of Equestrian Art, where you may be lucky enough to witness a magical horse exhibition. End the day in one of Jerez’s traditional wineries where you’ll have the chance to sample a selection of delicious local sherries.

   Accommodation: Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla (3 nights)

8. Fly home from Seville

• Discover Aveiro and Coimbra

  Venture south of Porto, travelling along the coast to the enchanting town of Aveiro. Here you'll admire the picturesque canals before continuing south to Coimbra, the charming, medieval capital of Portugal and an ancient university town.

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• Discover Sintra and Cascais

  Discover the charming Estoril Coast and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra with your private guide, strolling the historic streets and soaking in the delightful character of the old city.

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• Granada historical walking tour

  Explore the picturesque streets of Granada with your private guide, taking in some of the city's oldest neighbourhoods and ancient monuments.

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• Jerez and the art of Spanish horses

  Visit the historic town of Jerez, known around the world for its production of delicious sherry wines. In addition to its wines, Jerez has been the home of the famed Andalucian horses since the Moors ruled the city.

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• Porto's traditions - a foodie walking tour

  Discover Porto's delicious specialities as you explore this beautiful city. Visit bakeries, markets and cafes with your private guide, sampling local favourites on the way.

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• Ronda walking tour

  One of Andalucia's picturesque white towns, Ronda offers dramatic views across the El Tajo gorge. Explore the charming town with your private guide and learn about its fascinating history.

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• Tour of El Escorial & Valley of the Fallen

  Close to Madrid, the breathtaking El Escorial was once a residence for the King of Spain. Admire this historic site with your private guide before visiting the Valley of the Fallen, a monument honouring those who died during the Spanish Civil War.

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• Tour of Madrid and the Prado Museum

  Explore beautiful Madrid with your private guide and driver, discovering a selection of the city's highlights. Admire some of Madrid's iconic landmarks before visiting the world-class collection of the renowned Prado Museum.

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• Walking tour of Lisbon

  Wandering the streets of Lisbon is an ideal way to soak in its history and the lifestyle of its inhabitants, passing people chatting on patios, drinking coffee in pavement cafes and enjoying the conviviality of the city.

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• Walking tour of the Alhambra

  Discover the beauty of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Spain's most iconic landmarks. Explore the ancient fortress and palace with your private guide, learning about its history and spectacular design.

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Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, Granada, Ronda & Seville