21 Day Madrid, Granada and more

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Description

Madrid, Porto, Lisbon, Seville, Tangier, Fez, Marrakech, Granada and more.

21 Days / 20 Nights

Guaranteed departures every Wednesday from Madrid, from end of March until the end of October.

What is included in this package

  • 3-night Accommodation in Madrid
  • 1-night Accommodation in Vigo
  • 2-night Accommodation in Porto
  • 1-night Accommodation in Coimbra
  • 2-night Accommodation in Lisbon
  • 2-night Accommodation in Seville
  • 2-night Accommodation in Costa del Sol
  • 1-night Accommodation in Tangier
  • 2-night Accommodation in Fez
  • 2-night Accommodation in Marrakech
  • 2-night Accommodation in Rabat
  • 1-night Accommodation in Granada
  • Half-day city tour with an official English-speaking guide in Porto, Lisbon, Seville, Tangier, Fez, Marrakech and Rabat
  • Visit to the Alhambra Palace with an official English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to the archaeological sites as per description
  • Fast Ferry tickets with numbered seats, Algebra-Tangier and Tangier-Algebra
  • All transfers as mentioned in this itinerary
  • 24/7 Emergency phone line
  • Daily breakfast. Lunch in Seville, Fez, and Toledo. Dinner in Vigo, Seville, Costa del Sol, Tangier, Fez, Marrakech, Rabat and Granada

IMPORTANT:If the Board of Trustees of the Alhambra and Generalife does not grant tickets for the participants on certain dates of the Tour, instead we will conduct a visit to the city of Granada: Visit to the Palace of Charles V, Archaeological Museum, Church of Santa Maria de la Alhambra, Royal Chapel, and a stroll through the city including the Alcaicería and the Cathedral Square.

Itinerary

1

Day 1:WELCOME TO MADRID!

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

2

Day 2: VISITING MADRID

After a delicious breakfast, we will enjoy, along with our guide, a panoramic tour of Madrid’s most important landmarks, exploring its avenues, squares, and monuments.

We will start our journey from the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC, and continue to the Puerta del Sol Square, considered the Kilometer Zero, the central point of all Spanish roads.

The next stop will be the Plaza de Oriente and the exterior of the Sabatini Gardens, where the royal stables were located, and the Almudena Cathedral.

We will stroll through the beautiful Plaza de la Villa and its winding streets, which was the core of medieval Madrid, continuing to the Plaza de San Miguel, where we will find the famous market of the same name.

Our next destination will be the Plaza Mayor, which we will enter through one of its most well-known and famous accesses: the Arco de Cuchilleros. The Plaza Mayor is a symbol of the city that has witnessed numerous public events, popular festivities, religious processions, and even theatrical performances.

The tour ends at the Plaza de Oriente, located in front of the Royal Palace. The rest of the day will be free to continue enjoying the city at our own pace.

3

Day 3: FROM MADRID TO VIGO

After enjoying our breakfast, we will start our trip to Vigo.

On the way, we will stop at the famous city of Salamanca. It is renowned for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and prestigious university, the University of Salamanca, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Salamanca is known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, including its stunning cathedrals, the Plaza Mayor (main square), and the Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells). The city is also famous for its vibrant cultural scene, lively atmosphere, and traditional Spanish cuisine.

We will have free time to discover this important city before continuing our way to Vigo, where we will have dinner and stay overnight in our hotel.

4

Day 4:FROM VIGO TO PORTO

After our breakfast, we will continue our way to cross the border between Spain and Portugal.

Our first stop in Portugal will be in Viana do Castelo, where we will have free time to wander through the charming streets of the historic center, lined with colorful buildings adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles. Visit the Praça da República, the main square, and admire landmarks like the Misericórdia Church and the Renaissance-style Town Hall.

In the afternoon we will arrive in the beautiful city of Braga, famous for its historic center and its beautiful architecture, including medieval buildings, Baroque churches, and grand plazas. Don’t miss landmarks like the Braga Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace.

We will have free time in the city to discover dis historical city.

In the afternoon, we will continue our way to Porto, where we will stay overnight.

5

Day 5:PORTO: CAPITAL OF THE NORTH

After a delicious breakfast, you will embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of Porto.

Our first stop will be the Stock Exchange Palace (Palacio de Bolsa). This National Monument, situated in the historic center of the city and recognized as a World Heritage Site, was constructed by the Porto Commercial Association on the remains of the Church of Saint Francis.

It has become the epitome of Porto’s grandeur, hosting distinguished visitors such as Monarchs, Presidents, and Ministers from around the world. It has also become the most visited monument in northern Portugal.

Next, we will visit one of the renowned wine cellars, where you can indulge in a delightful wine tasting. Following that, we will embark on a boat excursion, offering one of the most breathtaking experiences in the city.

The afternoon is yours to explore and uncover the hidden gems of this beautiful city.

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Day 6: FROM PORTO TO COIMBRA

After enjoying our breakfast, we will leave Porto to continue our way to Coimbra, home of one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1290.

In the city, we will enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch before having free time. We will be able to admire the stunning architecture of the university buildings, including the Joanine Library, the Royal Palace of Alcáçova, and the Chapel of São Miguel. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the university’s hilltop location.

We will stay overnight in this wonderful city.

 

7

Day 7:FROM COIMBRA TO LISBON

After your breakfast, we will leave for Fatima, an important center for pilgrimage.

We will have free time to visit the Basilica and the attractions that are around it.

Fátima is a town located in central Portugal, known worldwide as a major Catholic pilgrimage site. It gained prominence due to reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children, Lucia Santos and her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto, in 1917. These apparitions occurred six times between May 13 and October 13, 1917, and were witnessed by thousands of people. The messages conveyed during these apparitions are believed to emphasize prayer, penance, and devotion to Mary.

Afterwards we will continue to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal located at the side of the river Tagus.

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Day 8: LISBON, A DIFFERENT CAPITAL

After a delicious breakfast, we will visit, accompanied by our local guide, the most important sites of this beautiful city of Lisbon, located at the mouth of the Tagus River.

Our first destination will be the Alfama district, which still retains its essence as a neighborhood with low houses and narrow streets. It is the oldest part of Lisbon and the most photogenic due to its graffiti and pastel-colored facades. Because of its labyrinthine structure, inherited from the Arabs, getting lost in its alleys is delightfully easy.

The Belém Tower, situated at the mouth of the Tagus Estuary, initially served as a defensive tower to protect the city, but later became a customs center and lighthouse. It was built between 1515 and 1519 and is the work of Francisco de Arruda. In 1983, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is located very close to the Jerónimos Monastery, where we will continue our visit. Inside this monastery, we will find a church that houses the tombs of one of the most important figures in the history of Portugal: Vasco da Gama. This Portuguese navigator and explorer was responsible for circumnavigating the African continent to reach India, opening up what became known as the spice route for the Portuguese.

We will have the afternoon free to continue exploring the most precious corners of the city, which is known for being one of the most vibrant cities in Western Europe. Its hills dazzle with the multitude of colors that paint the facades of the houses, as well as its castles and medieval constructions.

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Day 9: FROM LISBON TO SEVILLE

After our breakfast, we will continue our trip to Seville.

After crossing the border between Spain and Portugal, we will stop in the historical city of Caceres, in Extremadura. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Its historic center, known as the “Old Town” (Ciudad Monumental), is characterized by narrow cobbled streets, fortified walls, and well-preserved Renaissance palaces, churches, and other buildings.

Some notable landmarks in Caceres include the Plaza Mayor, the Torre de Bujaco, the Palacio de las Veletas, and the Concatedral de Santa María. Cáceres is also famous for its gastronomy, with traditional dishes such as migas, sopa de tomate, and caldereta being popular among locals and visitors alike.

We will continue our way to Seville, where we will arrive in the evening. We will enjoy our dinner and stay overnight in our hotel.

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Day 10:DISCOVERING SEVILLE

After a delicious breakfast, we will visit the city accompanied by our guide and explore its most important landmarks. Seville is an emblematic city with a rich historical, cultural, and artistic heritage, making it a favorite destination for visitors from around the world.

We will start our visit at Maria Luisa Park, designed by the French landscape architect Forestier for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. Here, you can appreciate the “neo-Sevillian” style that served as inspiration and influence for other Spanish public parks in the early 20th century.

Next, our tour will take us to the Plaza de España, a semi-elliptical square symbolizing Spain’s embrace of its former American territories. It is known as the masterpiece of Sevillian architect Aníbal González and covers a total area of 50,000 square meters, making it undoubtedly the most colossal square in Spain.

The tour concludes with an exterior view of the impressive Cathedral and the Giralda (the name of the bell tower) and a visit to the typical Santa Cruz neighborhood with its streets, squares, and narrow alleys.

The rest of the day will be free for you to continue enjoying this wonderful city.

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Day 11: FROM SEVILLE TO COSTA DEL SOL

After a delicious breakfast, departure along the White Town’s Route towards our next destination: Ronda. We will enjoy some free time to get to know this beautiful Andalusian town. Later, we will leave for the Costa del Sol.

 

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Day 12: FROM COSTA DEL SOL TO TANGIER

After enjoying our breakfast, we will leave to the nearby port in order to embark on the ferry that will take us to the Moroccan city of Tangier.

Upon our arrival to Africa, we will enjoy a tour in the surroundings of Tangier, such as the Caves of Hercules (entrance not included) and the Cape Spartel.

The Cape Spartel is a promontory located at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, near the city of Tangier in northern Morocco. It marks the southwestern end of the Strait and the northwestern tip of Africa.

Cape Spartel is known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the meeting point of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It has historically been significant for navigation, serving as a landmark for sailors and ships entering or leaving the Mediterranean. Additionally, it is a popular tourist destination, offering picturesque scenery and opportunities for sightseeing.

In the evening, we will arrive to pour hotel, where we will have dinner.

13

Day 13: FROM TANGIER TO VOLUBILIS, MEKNES AND FEZ

After a tasty breakfast, we will leave for Volubilis, an ancient Roman city located in Morocco, near the city of Meknes and about 30 kilometers north of the modern city of Fez. It was founded in the 3rd century BC and later became an important Roman settlement in North Africa. Today, Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa.

We will continue our way to Meknes, a World Heritage Site and one of the four imperial cities along with Marrakesh, Fez and Rabat and the ancient capital of Morocco. You will visit this fortified city starting with its walls and its magnificent gates (bab, in Moroccan): Bab el Mansur, the largest gate in the country and in North Africa, the Agdal Pond, built for irrigation in the area, the Plaza Bab Lahdim, epicenter of the city’s activity.

Finally, we will arrive in Fez, where we will stay and have dinner.

14

Day 14: ONE DAY IN FEZ

After our breakfast, we will start our visit to the magical city of Fez, renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, particularly in pottery, leather work, and textiles. Visitors can explore the souks of Fez to admire and purchase these handmade goods, as well as to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling markets.

We will visit the Golden Doors of the Royal Palace, seven bronze doors of different sizes represent the seven days of the week and the seven levels of the monarchy.

We will also see the Medina (old quarter) with its Madrasa of Bou Anania (the madrasas are the Islamic schools), the Nejjarine Fountain and the Karaouine Mosque.

In addition, the headquarters of the University of Fez, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, the most revered saint in Morocco.

After lunch, we will have free time to continue exploring Fez.

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Day 15: FROM FEZ TO CASABALANCA AND MARRAKECH

After a tasty breakfast, we will continue our way to Casablanca, where we will have free time to visit the best places of the city such us Boulevard of the Corniche, the seafront promenade and the coastal road, through which you reach Anfa (old quarters of the historic city), a famous neighborhood in which its luxurious houses stand out.

Another must in the city is the Great Mosque of Hassan II, a monumental and modern work (sliding roof and resistance to earthquakes) that holds the title of the third-largest mosque in the world after Mecca and Medina. It is the most representative monument of the 20th century in the city.

In the afternoon, we will continue to Marrakech, where we will have dinner and stay overnight

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Day 16:ONE DAY IN MARRAKECH

After a delicious breakfast, we will begin your visit to the city of Marrakech, the magical red city.

Our tour will start at the Koutoubia Mosque. Its construction began in the late 12th century during the reign of the Almohad caliph Yaqub al-Mansur, but it was completed in the early 13th century. The mosque’s name, “Koutoubia,” is derived from the Arabic word “kutub,” which means “bookseller,” as it was originally surrounded by book markets.

We will continue with the Bahia Palace, masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate stucco work, carved wood ceilings, colorful tile mosaics, and ornate marble floors. The palace’s interior is adorned with beautiful courtyards, reception halls, and private apartments, showcasing the opulence and luxury of the Moroccan aristocracy during the late 19th century.

We will also visit the old Jewish quarter called Mellah and the famous Djmaa square. Our vtour will end in Fna, a bustling market square where visitors can explore a variety of stalls selling everything from traditional crafts and souvenirs to spices, textiles, and street food. Snake charmers, henna artists, musicians, and storytellers also gather in the square to entertain locals and tourists alike.

As the day turns into night, Jemaa el-Fnaa undergoes a transformation, becoming even more lively and bustling. The square fills with food stalls offering a wide array of Moroccan dishes, including tagines, grilled meats, couscous, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Visitors can dine al fresco while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and live music performances.

After enjoying our lunch we will have free time to continue discovering the city.

 

17

Day 17: FROM MARRAKECH TO RABAT

After our breakfast, we will start our way to the Imperial city of Rabat, kingdom capital and the second most populated city of the country.

Our tour in the city will start at in the Royal Palace which is the seat of the government, “Dar el Makhzen” where live more than two thousand people.

The next visit is the Kasbah of the Oudaya, fortified space of Bereber origin dating back to the 12th century, Humanity Heritage, after that you will see the Mohamed V Mausoleum (ten years of work and collaboration of more than 400 artists), the unfinished Mosque and the Hassan Tower, monuments of the Bereber dynasty of the 12th century.

Dinner and accommodation at the hotel in Rabat.

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Day 18: FROM RABAT BACK TO SPAIN

After breakfast, we will start our way back to the port of Tangier to embark in our ferry back to Costa del Sol.

We will arrive in our hotel in Torremolinos where we will have dinner and stay overnight.

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Day 19: COSTA DEL SOL AND GRANADA

After breakfast, we will head to the city of Granada. As we reach Sabikah Hill, prepare to be captivated by the rosy walls of the Alhambra Palace. With our “skip-the-line” access, we will enter the palace without delay and embark on a tour of this extraordinary masterpiece.

The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World will transport you to a realm of opulence and beauty. From the royal palace to the palatial city and fortress, every corner tells a fascinating story.

Accompanied by our guide, you will explore the intricately designed rooms, courtyards, and gardens, discovering the rich history of this 9th-century fortress. The Alhambra showcases a unique blend of Islamic and Renaissance architecture, with the Nasrid and Charles V Palaces showcasing the harmony of these different styles.

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Day 20: FROM GRANADA TO MADRID THROUGH TOLEDO

After a delicious breakfast, you will leave for the Imperial city of Toledo, the cradle of civilizations. Followers of the three religions have lived in this city for centuries, and their traces have been left on its streets and corners.

In Toledo, it is possible to see, in a matter of a few meters, a Gothic cathedral, a 10th-century mosque, and two synagogues.

You will have a panoramic visit of ​​the city, you can find the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, which for more than 1,000 years is the oldest monument in Toledo and one of the most important of Hispano-Muslim and Mudéjar architecture in Spain.

Another important area is the Jewish Quarter, an area full of charm where two of its protagonists also await: the synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca, the oldest in the city, and the synagogue of El Tránsito, which houses the Sephardic Museum.

Also in this area is the museum dedicated to one of the most illustrious and beloved residents of Toledo, the painter of characteristic elongated figures known as El Greco.

Of the Christian legacy, the 13th century Cathedral and its stained-glass windows stand out, as one of the strong points of the city. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, which was built to honor the Catholic Monarchs, and the Alcázar, which dominates the entire city, are not far behind either.

Later you will continue the route to Madrid, where you will stay.

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Day 21: GOODBYE MADRID!

After a tasty breakfast, the tour will come to an end, hopefully full of unforgettable memories!

 

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