Exploring Iberia: Southern Spain To Coastal Portugal

Enjoy a true taste of the Iberian Peninsula. Your tour begins with an overnight flight

Welcome to Malaga, a city known for its Andalusian lifestyle and the birthplace of artist Pablo Picasso. As travelers’ arrival times will vary, we have not included any sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception.

Discover the port city of Malaga with a local guide. Walk through the colorful market stalls and learn about the history and culture of this seaside community. Meet a local from the Sepulcro Brotherhood to learn about the importance of the religious brotherhoods to the local culture. Then, stop at a local bodega bar to sample some tapas. Next, it’s your choice! Audio guide in hand, venture into the Malaga Cathedral, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture -OR- visit the Picasso Museum with a local expert and see paintings by this iconic artist who called Malaga his first home.

Today, travel to Granada, the last capital of the Moors in Spain before it fell to the Catholic monarchs in 1492. Spend the morning with a local expert visiting the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s known as one of the Wonders of the Muslim World. After your extensive morning walk at this centuries-old palace and fortress complex, enjoy some free time in Granada for lunch on your own. Later, return to your hotel to spend the evening as you please.

Journey to the picturesque white villages of Andalusia. Visit Nerja, renowned for its breathtaking caves that house one of the largest stalactites on Earth. Continue your adventure to Frigiliana, considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in the region, which will make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Take in its whitewashed houses and historical sites while walking through the narrow cobblestone streets. Return to Malaga where you can choose to join your Tour Manager on a sunset stroll with a sweet surprise — the perfect way to say goodbye to Malaga.

Today's final destination: Córdoba. But first, let's stop in Ronda, a historic town perched upon a cliff in Andalusia. Explore the Old Town, full of twisting narrow streets, the 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) over the El Tajo gorge, and La Alameda Park with its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. During your walking tour, get the local perspective on the often-debated topic of bullfighting in this city rich with the history surrounding these contests. Complete your tour of Ronda and be welcomed into a local’s home for a home-hosted lunch. Arrive in Cordoba and conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through its enchanting streets.

Begin your day immersing yourself in the culture of Cordoba when you admire the rows of patios* filled with colorful flowers and plants. The tradition of decorating patios dates to the time when Cordoba was under Muslim rule. Houses were built with inner courtyards to provide a cool, private space for families. Later, tour the magnificent Mezquita (UNESCO). Originally built as a mosque, it was converted into the city’s cathedral when the Christians conquered the region in 1236. End your afternoon with a visit to a family-run bull ranch to see life on the farm and learn about the care of these animals.

Your taste of the local culture continues today. Head to an award-winning olive grove and learn about this family-owned business. Try their unique olive oil during a delightful light tapas lunch before arriving in Seville, Spain’s “cultural capital.” Once you arrive, get acquainted with Seville on a panoramic city tour featuring the famous Bull Ring, Torre de Oro, Plaza de Espana, and Maria Luisa Park. This evening, take in sweeping views of Seville from atop the Mirador Setas viewpoint. After you’ve worked up your appetite, you’ll sit down to dinner at a trendy local restaurant.

In Seville, begin your day with the guidance of a local expert as you walk from your hotel and explore the historic center until you reach the magnificent Seville Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. View the ornate architecture of the cathedral and see Christopher Columbus’ tomb. Then, it’s your choice! Continue with your guide on a walking tour of the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter with its cascading bright flowers, whitewashed buildings, and winding streets -OR- learn the secret of ceramics in a dynamic hands-on workshop. Later this afternoon, during an Impact Moment, participate in a flamenco lesson at Fundacion Cristina Heeren de Arte Flamenco. This is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the art of flamenco in Spain and internationally. After your lesson, enjoy a traditional flamenco performance.

Say adios to Spain and travel through the Portuguese countryside to Estremoz - a historic town whose marble can be found in Portuguese monuments throughout the country. After savoring a delightful lunch brimming with local flavors, set off toward Lisbon, nestled along the serene banks of the Tagus River. This charming, coastal city will be your welcoming home in Portugal. Enjoy an evening at leisure to do as you please.

Olá Lisboa! It’s time to get to know Europe’s second oldest capital city. Start in Belem, home to many of Lisbon’s most iconic sites, like the Maritime Museum that showcases Portugal's pioneering role in ocean exploration, the facade of the impressive Jeronimos Monastery (UNESCO), and birthplace of the most famous Portuguese sweet - the Pastel de Belem. Embark on a unique panoramic city tour when you hop on one of Lisbon’s iconic trams taking you through the postcard-worthy streets of the hilly city. Return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring independently. This evening, you may choose to join an optional experience to see local artists perform traditional fado music (UNESCO).

Head to the town of Sintra (UNESCO), a favorite summer residence of Portuguese kings for six centuries. High above, nestled in the crown of the Sintra hills, lies the enchanting Pena Palace, surrounded by a magnificent park. Spend some time exploring this storybook town before heading to the stunning coastal views of Guincho Beach. Then, make a stop in Cascais, the picturesque gem of the Portuguese Riviera, before returning to Lisbon. Tonight, toast to a wonderful trip with your fellow travelers during a farewell dinner featuring savory Portuguese favorites.

This cultural deep dive into Spain and Portugal comes to a close today.