16 Day Tastes of Southern Spain and Portugal

DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Spain
Depart for Spain

DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Malaga, Transfer to Marbella
Arrive in Malaga and transfer to Marbella, located along the shore of the Costa del Sol. Most flights arrive in the early morning, and your room may not be ready for you. In this case, leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will provide suggestions for you to begin exploring the city on your own. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM. We recommend you select flights that arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Marbella

DAY 3, Thursday - Marbella and Mijas
Embark on a morning city tour of Marbella, the jewel of the Costa del Sol. While known for its luxury lifestyle, Marbella also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings, offers a glimpse into its Moorish past. Next, continue with a scenic drive through the Andalucian hills to Mijas, a charming village nestled on the mountainside. Stroll through the winding streets adorned with colorful flowerpots and unique shops. View the Plaza de la Constitución, the Mijas Museum, and the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Afterward, return to the hotel and spend time at leisure
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Friday - Moorish Granada
Today's journey takes you from Spain's southern coast to Granada. Here, visit the 13th century Alhambra*, one of Spain's most celebrated monuments, perched atop Assabica Hill overlooking the city. This hilltop fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fine example of Moorish art and architecture. During the reign of the Moors, Alhambra served as the residence of the royal family. Walk along the lanes of the serene Generalife Gardens with its beautifully designed courtyards, waterfalls, ponds, and views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Return to the hotel in the afternoon. This evening, don't miss the optional Flamenco Show
*Alhambra visiting times, which may include evening hours, and which areas of the complex are accessible on the day of your visit, are determined solely at the discretion of the Alhambra. Your itinerary will be arranged by your Tour Manager to accommodate the designated time of entry.
Optional: Evening Flamenco Show
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Marbella or Optional Ronda City Tour
Today is free to explore Marbella at your own pace. Perhaps, participate in the optional Ronda City Tour. Depart Marbella and head north to the dramatic cliffside city of Ronda, a historic gem amidst the rugged landscapes of Andalucia. View the Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge and explore the Plaza de Toros, the oldest bullring in the country. Ronda, considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting in the 18th century, was once a horsemanship training facility. View the old stables and its museum with exhibits of some of Spain's most famous Matadors. Return to Marbella in the early afternoon
Optional: Ronda City Tour
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Sunday - Malaga City Tour with Picasso Museum
Your day of exploration begins with a drive to Malaga. Embark on a tour of the city's historic center with its majestic Malaga Cathedral, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. View the Paseo de la Alameda, fragrant Paseo del Parque, and the Barrio de la Malagueta. Afterward, visit the Picasso Museum, housed in a restored 16th century palace. Admire works of the legendary artist Pablo Picasso, spanning his early years in Malaga to his later masterpieces. Gain insight into his artistic vision and contributions to the world of modern art
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Monday - Full Day in Marbella or Optional Full Day Frigiliana & Nerja Tour
Spend the day at leisure, or choose the optional Full Day Frigiliana & Nerja Tour. Begin your excursion with a drive to the village of Frigiliana, nestled amidst the foothills of the Sierra Almijara. Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies. View the Renaissance Church of San Antonio de Padua and the Palace of the Counts of Frigiliana. Continue to the Mudejar Quarter, a historic neighborhood characterized by its blend of Moorish and Andalucian architecture. Next, venture onward to the coastal town of Nerja, known for its pristine beaches and cliffs. View the iconic Balcony of Europe, a promenade atop cliffs offering views of the coastline. After lunch at a local restaurant, have free time to explore. Arrive in Marbella in the late afternoon
Optional: Full Day Frigiliana & Nerja Tour
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Tuesday - Full Day in Marbella or Optional Full Day Gibraltar
On your last day at leisure in Marbella, join the optional Full Day Tour of Gibraltar. Journey to the impressive Rock of Gibraltar*, a British colony for over 300 years standing guard over the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea and Europe meets Africa. Take a tour of the area with minibuses climbing up to see St. Michael's Cave and the famous Barbary apes with views of both the Spanish and Moroccan coastlines. Spend time on the main street of town exploring the colonial buildings and duty-free shops before returning to Marbella. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Spanish Tour Manager
*Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory independent from Spain and therefore has different entry requirements. Non-US passport holders are responsible to check if a visa is required for Gibraltar in addition to all other countries on their itinerary.
Optional: Full Day Gibraltar
Overnight: Marbella
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9, Wednesday - Flight to Lisbon, Transfer to Tomar
Depart Marbella and head to the airport in Malaga for your flight to Lisbon. Arrive and transfer to Tomar, renowned for its rich Templar heritage. Check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. This evening, attend an orientation meeting with your new Portuguese Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM, followed by a reception
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 10, Thursday - Tomar Walking Tour, Optional Half Day Constancia & Almourol Castle
Embark on a morning city tour of Tomar, a city shaped by centuries of history. Begin at the Convent of Christ, once the headquarters of the Knights Templar and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue through the Old Jewish Quarter, with its narrow lanes and preserved synagogue, offering a glimpse into the town's diverse past. Conclude with a walk along the banks of the Nabao River. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, or join the optional Half Day Constancia & Almourol Castle. Depart Tomar and travel to Constancia, a riverside town where whitewashed houses and winding cobblestone streets overlook the meeting of the Zezere and Tagus Rivers. Stroll through the town and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Continue to Almourol Castle, a striking 12th century fortress built by the Knights Templar on a small island in the Tagus. Take a short boat ride to explore the castle. Its stone walls and hilltop setting offer panoramic views. Return to Tomar in the late afternoon
Optional: Half Day Constancia & Almourol Castle
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11, Friday - Machado de Castro Museum, University of Coimbra, Casal de Sao Simao
Today's journey takes you to Coimbra, one of Portugal's most historic cities. Upon arrival, visit the acclaimed Machado de Castro Museum, housed in the former Bishop's Palace and renowned for its Roman cryptoporticus and extensive art collections. Continue to the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the courtyards and visit the Baroque Joanina Library with its gilded woodwork and vast collection of ancient volumes. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore in the Baixa district and have lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, visit the schist village of Casal de Sao Simao. Wander along its stone-paved alleys lined with traditional houses and learn about the preservation of these mountain communities before heading back to your hotel
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 12, Saturday - Full Day in Tomar or Optional Half Day Santarem with wine tasting and Lunch, Afternoon Lecture on Portuguese Tiles
Today is free to explore Tomar at your own pace. Perhaps, participate in the optional Half Day Santarem with a wine tasting and lunch. Travel to Santarem, the Gothic capital of Portugal. Begin at the Portas do Sol mirador, where views stretch across the Tagus River and the fertile plains beyond. Take an orientation walk through the Old Town, admiring the Gothic facades of historical buildings and traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles that adorn the streets. Continue to Quinta da Lagoalva, an estate with deep roots in the region's agricultural and wine making heritage. Learn about the history of Lagoalva as you explore its highlights, including the elegant Sao Pedro Church, the Carriage Museum, the working stables, and the wine cellar. Savor a lunch of regional specialties paired with Lagoalva's own wines, then walk through the estate's olive grove to discover the traditions and techniques behind Portugal's prized olive oil before returning to Tomar. In the afternoon at your hotel, attend a lecture on traditional azulejos (decorative tiles). Learn about the history, symbolism, and techniques behind these works. Later, visit a local workshop to see skilled artisans at work, observing the tile-making process
Optional: Half Day Santarem with wine tasting and lunch
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 13, Sunday - Funicular to Sitio Viewpoint, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, São Martinho do Porto, Obidos, Ginginha Tasting
Your day of exploration begins with a visit to the fishing town of Nazare, known for its golden beaches and record-breaking waves. Board the funicular to the clifftop district of Sitio. Take in the sweeping ocean from the viewpoint before visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazare, a pilgrimage site steeped in legend. Enjoy free time to wander and have lunch on your own and consider sampling fresh seafood. Continue to the sheltered bay of Sao Martinho do Porto for a stroll along its waterfront. Next, travel inland to the town of Obidos, with its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-bedecked balconies. Conclude the visit with a tasting of the town's beloved cherry liqueur, Ginginha. Arrive back at the hotel in the late afternoon
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 14, Monday - Full Day in Tomar or Optional Half Day Fatima Tour, Optional Lisbon City Walking Tour with Dinner
Spend the day at leisure or choose the optional Half Day Fatima Tour. This morning, set out on an excursion to Fatima, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Catholic world. Visit the humble homes of the three shepherd children who witnessed the apparitions in 1917. Continue to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, adorned with beautiful stained glass and mosaics, and the Chapel of the Apparitions, built in the very spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. Conclude at the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, an architectural landmark that welcomes millions of pilgrims from around the world. In the afternoon, participate in the optional Lisbon City Walking Tour with dinner. Depart for Lisbon this afternoon, making a brief stop in Belem to savor the famous pastel de Belem, Portugal's beloved custard tart. Upon arrival at the capital, begin with a gentle walk to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, offering views over Lisbon, followed by the nearby Miradouro da Graça. Descend through cobblestone streets, passing the Calçada da Amália, a tribute to fado singer Amália Rodrigues. Continue to St. George's Castle for a visit, then proceed toward St. Anthony's Church, said to be built on the birthplace of the saint. The walk continues through the lively Baixa district to Praça do Comércio, past the Santa Justa Elevator and into the bustling Praça do Rossio. Conclude with dinner at a local restaurant in Praça dos Restauradores, surrounded by the energy of Lisbon by night
Optional: Half Day Fatima Tour
Optional: Lisbon City Walking Tour with dinner
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 15, Tuesday - Marvao, Castelo de Vide
Depart Tomar and travel into Portugal's eastern hills, beginning in the town of Marvao. Perched high above the Alentejo plain, this walled village offers breathtaking panoramas and a step back into medieval history as you wander its narrow lanes and explore the imposing castle which once guarded the border with Spain. Continue to the nearby town of Castelo de Vide, where you can stroll along the old Jewish Quarter with its historic synagogue, and admire the architecture. There will be free time for lunch at your leisure before making the return journey to Tomar in the afternoon. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Tomar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 16, Wednesday - Depart Portugal
Transfer to the airport in Lisbon for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast