SMALL GROUP TOUR: Travel from Spain to Portugal on this 6-day group tour from Madrid to Lisbon. Leave the capital of Spain, visit hill-top Toledo and journey through Castilla-La Mancha to the southern region of Andalucia. Explore the La Mezquita mosque-cathedral in Cordoba and Granada's famous Alhambra Palace. Continue through Malaga's 'Lake District' to Seville where there is free time to explore and delight in the taste of tapas and wine tasting. In Portugal, explore the Algarve and end your trip in Lisbon.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Toledo & Cordoba
Madrid – Toledo – Cordoba. Departing the current Spanish capital, we head south to Toledo, the former capital of the country. Perched on a hill overlooking the Tajo River, it's often called the 'City of Three Cultures.' There is free time to explore its cobbled streets and seek out the remnants of Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, and Christian cathedrals.
Next, we travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the backdrop for literary hero Don Quixote's adventures. Along the way, we stop at Despenaperros Natural Park, the gateway to Andalucia. Arriving in Cordoba, the evening is free to head out for dinner and discover some of the city's lively squares and charming architecture.
Please note: Pick up for this tour is at 8:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 8:30) - Madrid Pick Up Point, Hotel Porcel Ganivet, Madrid.
Overnight: Cordoba
Cordoba to Granada
Cordoba – Granada. In the morning we enjoy an included visit to La Mezquita, a stunning Moorish mosque featuring rows of adorned arches, a serene interior, and even a cathedral inside. Then we journey through olive tree-covered hills, signalling our entry into the olive oil-producing province of Jaen.
We continue our trip south and pay a visit to the hilltop fortress of Fortaleza de la Mota. We arrive in Granada early in the evening, where we'll stay for the next two nights.
Overnight: Granada | Breakfast
The Alhambra & Caves of Guadix
Granada – Guadix – Granada. This morning we take in one of Spain's most famous attractions, the UNESCO-listed Alhambra fortress and palace. Entrance is included and there will be time to explore this cavernous architectural wonder.
In the afternoon, we visit the unique Barrio de las Cuevas of Guadix and you can opt to visit the Guadix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre, nestled within original cave dwellings. If time permits, we enjoy a photo stop of the Sierra Nevada mountains before returning to Granada. The evening is free - why not head out for some mouth-watering tapas this evening?
Overnight: Granada | Breakfast
Mountains, El Tajo Gorge & olive oil
Granada – Ronda – Seville. We begin our journey today in the El Torcal de Antequera nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal Mountains. Marvel at the incredible limestone formations sculpted over millions of years.
We continue through Andalucia's countryside, taking in the landscapes of Malaga's 'Lake District' before reaching Ronda. This town is dramatically perched on the cliffs of El Tajo Gorge and is known for its rich literary history, old city walls, and charming plazas. There's free time to explore and savour a leisurely lunch.
Next, we enjoy an included visit to an olive oil farm, to find out more about the production of Spain's 'liquid gold'. It's then time to complete our journey to Seville, where we'll spend the next two nights.
Overnight: Seville | Breakfast
Seville free time or optional Jerez tour
Today is at leisure to explore Seville, one of Spain's most popular cities. You could visit the iconic cathedral, enjoy a glass of wine in the buzzing Plaza de Espana or take a stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Your guide can help you with suggestions!
Alternatively, you can join an optional half day tour to Jerez, best known for flamenco, horses and sherry production. The evening is free back in Seville.
Overnight: Seville | Breakfast
Journey to Portugal
Seville – Huelva – Tavira (Portugal) – Lisbon. Departing Seville, we head west to the Costa de la Luz, known for its bright sunshine and golden sandy beaches. We make a stop in Huelva, a seaside city where Christopher Columbus once mapped his voyage to seek a western sea route to China and India. There's an included visit to the waterside exhibition of Muelle de las Carabelas, housing life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships.
We then say Adios to Spain and cross the border into neighboring Portugal. Heading through the Algarve, we stop in Tavira, nestled along the River Gilao. There is some free time to wander its cobblestone streets, admire the ancient Roman bridge, and enjoy some delectable Portuguese cuisine.
We then complete our journey to the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, where our tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour finishes at 19:00 - Lisbon Drop Off, Hotel Zenit, Lisbon.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates noted with a 'G' are guaranteed to operate. All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 8 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The Single Room price applies for solo travellers who require their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Eurostars Conquistador, Cordoba
Set on the Guadalquivir River, the Hotel Eurostars Conquistador offers an enchanting retreat in the heart of Andalusia's historical gem. Located just steps away from the iconic Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba and the enchanting Jewish Quarter, this hotel provides a prime location for exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. Rooms are designed for comfort and relaxation, with modern amenities such as TV, minibar, and A/C. The hotel also features a restaurant serving Spanish cuisine and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. The Eurostars Conquistador ensures a memorable stay in this historic city.
Hotel Porcel Alixares, Granada
Hotel Alixares is located just a stone's throw away from the breathtaking Alhambra palace and fortress complex. The hotel is nestled in a peaceful residential area, surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering panoramic views of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with ensuite bathrooms, wooden flooring and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi connection, a swimming pool, fitness centre, and a sauna. Hotel Alixares also boasts an on-site restaurant that serves delicious traditional Andalusian cuisine, as well as a cafe, bar and a summer terrace with barbecue.
Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb, Seville
Found in the vibrant heart of Seville, the Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb offers a captivating blend of modern comfort and Andalusian charm. Located near the historic city centre, it's within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Giralda and the Alcazar. The hotel provides a variety of well-designed rooms, each offering a comfortable and stylish retreat with modern amenities such as a television, A/C, and en-suite. Guests can enjoy a peaceful night's rest after a day of exploration. Hotel amenities include a restaurant serving delectable Spanish cuisine and a rooftop pool with panoramic views. With its central location and contemporary comforts, Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb is the ideal base for a memorable stay in Seville.
At a Glance
