Barcelona to Lisbon Mediterranean Marvels Tour - 17 Days

Our adventure begins with your arrival in Barcelona, where we'll ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. Once settled, you'll have some leisure time to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, be sure to check the hotel reception boards for all the essential information about the start of your journey. While there's no organised activity scheduled for today, take the opportunity to wander around the city, perhaps explore a nearby café, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We will start our day in the captivating city of Barcelona with a panoramic tour showcasing its vibrant spirit and historical richness. Known for its stunning modernist architecture by Gaudí, bustling pedestrian streets like Las Ramblas, and a history marked by events such as the Universal Exposition and the Olympics, Barcelona offers a spectrum of fascinating experiences. The morning tour will cover the city's most iconic sights, leaving you inspired by its unique charm. In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to explore at your leisure, delving into the myriad of activities this dynamic city has to offer. As the sun begins to set, we'll transfer you to Maremagnum, a contemporary hub for entertainment and dining situated by the tranquil waters near Plaza de Colón. Here, you can unwind and select from a variety of dining options while soaking in the local ambiance. Enjoy your evening strolling through this lively complex, savouring the vibrant blend of culture and cuisine by the sea.

We will continue our journey south along the Mediterranean coast, with a notable stop in the enchanting town of Peñíscola. Here, this delightful walled town by the sea offers an opportunity to explore its scenic beauty. We'll have time to wander around and take in the charming surroundings before we head onwards to Valencia. A lively port city on the Levantine coast, Valencia welcomes us just in time for lunch – perfect for savouring the famous paella. At around 4:30 p.m., our travels will take us toward Madrid, but not before a short visit to the innovative City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia. Upon arrival in Madrid between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m., you'll be introduced to the city with a transfer to the bustling Plaza Mayor. Here, you're invited to enjoy local delicacies like pinchos or perhaps a glass of wine at one of the many restaurants. Please note, depending on the number of travellers, our journey from Valencia to Madrid might be accommodated by a high-speed train.

Our day in Madrid begins with a thoroughly engaging tour of the city’s renowned attractions. We’ll explore the iconic Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, Puerta de Alcalá, and the vibrant Plaza Mayor. Continuing our journey, we’ll visit Retiro Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, which boasts a beautiful lake and the striking Palacio de Cristal. A visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is also included, giving you insight into the legendary home of Real Madrid, celebrated as one of the world's premier football clubs. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace, enabling you to delve deeper into Madrid's rich tapestry. In the evening, we’ll provide a convenient transfer back to the hotel.

On the fifth day, we depart from Madrid in the early morning, setting our course southward through the heart of La Mancha. Our journey first stops at Puerto Lápice, a delightful village that echoes the adventures of Don Quixote. Continuing on, we enter Andalusia through the picturesque Despeñaperros Pass. Upon our arrival in Granada, a traditional lunch awaits you. For those who have chosen the option to explore the Alhambra, we will delve into its magnificent palace and serene Generalife Gardens this afternoon. These stunning sites, crafted during the Arab period, will be expertly explained by our local guide. It’s crucial to note that visitor numbers to the Alhambra are legally limited, so be sure to confirm your tour reservation by providing accurate personal information, as tickets are non-refundable. If for any reason access to the Alhambra is not possible, we will instead visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville, which offers similar historical intrigue and architectural beauty.

Leaving the stunning city of Granada behind, we will embark on a journey along the sun-drenched Costa del Sol. Upon arrival at Algeciras or Tarifa, we will board a modern ferry to cross the iconic Strait of Gibraltar, with ferry tickets included in your tour. Please note, passengers will need to handle their own luggage as the bus does not accompany us on the ferry crossing. Once we land on Moroccan shores, we will traverse through striking landscapes to the walled city of Asilah. Historically notable as a port and a pirate stronghold on the Atlantic coast, the city is now a vibrant hub of life and culture. Enjoy time for lunch here before we continue our journey to Rabat, where dinner is included upon arrival.

Today, we explore Rabat, the vibrant capital of Morocco, on a panoramic tour that takes us to some of its most iconic sites. We visit the impressive Royal Palace, the resting place of Mohammed V at the Mausoleum, and the formidable Kasbah of the Udayas. By midday, we depart for Casablanca. Here, you will join a short guided city tour that includes the exterior of the stunning Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Arab world. Later in the day, we continue our journey to the enchanting city of Marrakech. Upon arrival at the hotel, you have the opportunity to experience a traditional Kalesa ride to the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Dinner is included, allowing you time to savour local flavours amidst the vibrant atmosphere.

Today, we delve into the mesmerising city of Marrakech, the very heart of Morocco, after which the nation is named. Our city tour will take you through its enchanting streets, fortified by ancient walls, and the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the bustling heart of the city. We’ll explore the vibrant Medina, visit the majestic Koutoubia Mosque, and marvel at the intricately designed Bahia Palace—entry to all these iconic sites is included. Following the tour, enjoy an included lunch and spend the afternoon at your leisure. You might choose to unwind by the pool, relax in the hotel garden, or wander through the traditional souks to shop. In the evening, consider joining the optional Fantasy Party, a vibrant excursion to cap off your day in this extraordinary city.

Today, we embark on a journey over the majestic Atlas Mountains, where snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop as we depart from the palm-filled landscapes of Marrakech. You’ll encounter quaint Berber villages, ingeniously nestled along the rugged mountain gorges. Our route includes a visit to Ait Benhaddou, a fortified village known for its striking architecture and frequent appearances in famous films. Continuing through scenery reminiscent of ancient times, we arrive in Ouarzazate, home to an impressive Kasbah and often referred to as the gateway to the desert. Our adventure then leads us through the fragrant Valley of Roses, ultimately reaching Boumalne Dades where we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner. Please note that during winter months, road closures due to snow may lead to adjustments in this part of our itinerary – accessibility to the Sahara Desert is subject to road conditions.

As we embark on our adventure through the Sahara Desert, we will traverse the Valley of the Kasbahs, encountering a series of majestic landscapes. Our route takes us through river valleys lined with lush palm trees, rolling rocky plains that give way to verdant oases and traditional adobe villages, and imposing fortresses that once safeguarded ancient routes. A highlight of the day will be our visit to Todgha Gorge, where you’ll be mesmerised by its towering cliffs rising more than 100 metres on either side. Along the way, we'll make a stop in a small adobe town near Khorbat, where you can discover the local desert community—supported by a foundation (access may be contingent on weather conditions, such as river flooding). Our journey concludes in Erfoud. For those eager for an added adventure, an optional off-road excursion offers a breathtaking sunset experience over the Sahara Desert’s sand dunes. Lunch will be included during our journey.

Today we embark on an early morning departure from Erfoud, crossing the majestic Atlas Mountains. This route treats us to dramatic gorges and stunning vistas. Passing through a high, chilly plateau home to nomadic shepherds, we take a brief pause in Midelt, a commercial hub known for its agricultural roots. Continuing onward, we enjoy lunch amidst the beauty of the Middle Atlas, stopping by a lake nestled in a picturesque natural setting. As we progress, the scenery transforms dramatically into a forested region, often blanketed with snow in winter. Near Azrou, we explore the "House of Cedars" in a national park – a small museum offering insights into the local area. Here, we might also encounter the playful monkey colonies that inhabit these woods. Our journey then leads us to the serene town of Bhalil, renowned for its vibrant old town where traditional cave dwellings are now part of the houses. Finally, we arrive in Fez, where we'll find time to admire the city's ancient beauty from the Marinid Tombs before settling in at our hotel. Dinner is included to conclude the day.

Today, we will explore the vibrant culture of Fez, starting with a visit to the Royal Palace. Enter through its stunning Bronze Gates and wander through the city's lively Jewish quarter, bustling souks, and the famous Tanners' Quarter. Renowned as Morocco's cultural capital, Fez is celebrated for its Medina, which impeccably preserves the traditional Arab atmosphere. We'll conclude our visit with an included lunch at a historic palace within the Medina. In the afternoon, our journey continues northward along a modern highway, taking us to Tangier by evening. Enjoy a delicious dinner upon arrival.

You'll have some free time in Tangier today – perfect for squeezing in a bit of last-minute shopping. In the afternoon, we'll board a ferry back to Spain. Please be aware that our bus will not accompany us, so you'll need to carry your luggage onto the ferry. Once we arrive in Algeciras or Tarifa, we'll continue our journey towards Seville, reaching the city by evening, where dinner will be provided.

Today begins with a guided tour of Seville, where we'll discover the magnificent cathedral, famed for its iconic Giralda tower, and explore the scenic banks of the Guadalquivir River. Enjoy the charm of the Santa Cruz and Triana neighbourhoods, each offering a taste of Seville's vibrant culture. After the tour, relax and take in the stunning panoramic views on a boat trip along the Guadalquivir River, offering a unique perspective of the city. In the evening, you have the opportunity to delve into the passionate art of flamenco by attending a local tablao, experiencing an integral part of Andalusian tradition.

Today, we depart from Seville, traversing the picturesque landscapes of gentle hills and expansive pasturelands on our way to Extremadura. In Mérida, we'll explore the remarkable Archaeological Ensemble, which houses a Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre. Admired for their excellent state of preservation, these sites are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll have time to enjoy lunch and wander through the vibrant historic centre, where the pedestrian streets are alive with local character and a variety of dining options. Our journey then continues into Portugal, with a stop in Évora, another charming UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its whitewashed streets, Renaissance palaces, and impressive cathedral, Évora offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich history. We anticipate arriving in Lisbon by evening.

Today, we will explore Lisbon, the captivating capital spread across seven hills. Our morning sightseeing tour introduces you to its winding streets, the unique beauty of its iconic tiles, and the city's distinctive "saudade," or longing, steeped in its atmosphere and illuminated by a bright Atlantic light. We'll venture to the historic Belem district, famous as the launch point for the Portuguese explorers who once crossed the world's oceans in the 15th century. The afternoon is yours to explore. You might choose to wander through the Bairro Alto and take in panoramic views from its viewpoints, or perhaps opt for a trip to the picturesque towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. The day concludes with a return to our hotel from Restauradores Square, known for its lively bars and cafes, perfect for soaking up more of Lisbon's vibrant ambiance.

As your journey winds down on our final day, we’ll enjoy breakfast together one last time in Lisbon. This marks the conclusion of our adventure, leaving you with a collection of cherished memories. While it’s time to part ways, we hope the experiences and moments shared throughout the trip will linger long after you return home. Safe travels onwards!