Cultural
Spain and Portugal's rich history is a tale of mighty conquistadors and momentous conquests. Worn on its sleeve, in its traditions, architecture, food, music and art, the heritage of these countries is a huge source of national pride, and rightly so. With 12 UNESCO world heritage sites to its name, Portugal is abundant with cultural gems whilst Spain is a patchwork of influences hailing from Africa, Europe, the Middle East and even further afield. We've chosen our very favorite cultural experiences that allow you to get under the skin of both of these fascinating destinations.
Listen to Fado in Lisbon
The heart and soul of Portuguese music, Fado, is often performed in cafes, restaurants and bars, and gives us a fascinating insight into the country’s cultural heritage. Enjoy a dinner at O Faia, serenaded by a Fado singer for the quintessential Lisbon experience while enjoying typical Portuguese fare in an authentic restaurant.
Tour the medieval villages of Catalonia
Catalonia's rich history is etched into every one of its bustling streets and buzzing squares. On this day trip from Barcelona, discover the region's most picturesque towns and villages, getting lost in labyrinthine cobbled streets, exploring ancient monuments and soaking up the boundless charm of the region.
Explore Ronda and the white villages
Ronda, perched precariously atop El Tajo gorge has found fame as the largest of Andalucia’s charming white villages thanks to the vertiginous viaduct that joins the two parts of the town. Spend a day driving through mile after mile of rolling countryside, peppered with dusty olive groves and sugar cube shaped villages to see the best of the famed pueblos blancos of the region.
Step back in time in Sintra
Only a short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is a world away from the bustling cosmopolitanism of the capital. Every bit as regal today as it was in its heyday, the Pena Palace and its grounds offer a fascinating insight into the eclectic history of Portugal. Combine culture with the coast at Cascais, a former fishing village bursting with charm and complete with the relics of its former glory as a vacation destination of the royal family.
Visit the Guggenheim with an expert
No trip to Bilbao is complete without a visit to Frank Gehry’s iconic Guggenheim museum. Continuing to enthral and intrigue all that enter through its doors, this incredible building houses not only some of the world’s most cherished masterpieces, but also hosts many exhibitions, keeping ahead of the curve when it comes to contemporary art across the world.
Call us on 858 345 1764 to start planning
