Itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Madrid

Following an airport transfer, the day is free to explore Madrid at leisure. In the evening, a Welcome Dinner is held at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to meet the Travel Director and fellow travellers. An orientation of the city will showcase the Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, and the Cibeles Fountain.

Day 2: The Old Capital of Toledo and on to Granada

The day begins with a journey south to Toledo for a visit to a Damascene workshop for an insight into this traditional craft. A Local Expert then leads a walk through the city’s cobbled streets, including a visit to the Church of Santo Tomé. The journey concludes upon arrival in the city of Granada.

Day 3: The Alhambra Palace and Seville

The morning is dedicated to exploring Granada's Alhambra Palace and the Generalife gardens with a Local Expert. Afterwards, a scenic drive leads to Seville for a guided tour of the Santa Cruz Quarter and the 15th-century cathedral, the location of Christopher Columbus's tomb. The evening features an authentic Andalusian dinner accompanied by a traditional flamenco show.

Day 4: Seville at Leisure

This day is entirely at leisure for independent exploration of Seville. An optional experience is available to visit Córdoba to see the magnificent Mezquita, an 8th-century mosque.

Day 5: The Plains of the Alentejo to Lisbon

The itinerary proceeds through the oak forests of Jabugo, home of the black Iberian pig, for an insight into the curing of Jamón Ibérico, complete with a tasting. The journey then crosses the Alentejo Plateau into Portugal, ending in Lisbon.

Day 6: Lisbon and the Age of the Discoveries

A guided city orientation with a Local Expert includes the avenues of the Lower Town and the Terreiro do Paco square. In the Belém Quarter, there is a visit to the original home of Pastéis de Belém, followed by viewings of the Monument to the Discoveries and Belém Tower. The day also includes a visit to the 500-year-old Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 7: Holy Fátima and Golden Salamanca

Travel north to Fátima, a celebrated pilgrimage site, to visit the Basilica. After crossing back into Spain, the itinerary continues to Salamanca, a city known for its golden stone architecture. Sights include the Plaza Mayor and the ancient Roman Bridge over the River Tormes.

Day 8: Old Castile, Ávila, and back to Madrid

The journey crosses the Castilian landscape to the historic city of Ávila to walk within its completely intact 11th-century walls. Upon returning to Madrid, a Local Expert leads a tour of the old town. A final Celebration Dinner takes place at a local restaurant.

Day 9: Farewell Madrid

The trip concludes after breakfast. Return transfers to Madrid airport are arranged for onward flights.

Terms and Conditions

INCLUDES: accommodation in handpicked 4 and 5-star hotels in great locations, ‘Business Class’ style coaches with extended legroom, superior dining in top-rated restaurants, breakfast daily, 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable travel director & expert driver, insider access, Insightful Encounters and Insight Choice experiences.

SAVE 15%! - 9 Days from R38,930 per person sharing