Iberian Heritage Madrid to Lisbon Odyssey - 8 Days

Upon your arrival in Madrid, we will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel where you can enjoy some leisure time. Settle in and explore the vibrant surroundings at your own pace. In the afternoon, check the boards in the hotel reception for important information regarding the commencement of your tour. This is the perfect opportunity to acclimate to the city and prepare for the adventures that await. 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.

On your second day in vibrant Madrid, we will embark on an extensive exploration of the city's heart. Our morning tour takes in iconic sights, including the grand Paseo del Prado, the impressive fountains of Cibeles and Neptuno, the majestic Puerta de Alcal�, the verdant Plaza de Col�n, and the historic Plaza Mayor. Following this, a visit to the serene Retiro Park awaits, where we'll take in the tranquil lake and the stunning Palacio de Cristal. The day includes admission to the legendary Santiago Bernab�u Stadium, the renowned home of Real Madrid, acknowledged as one of the best football clubs globally. You will have the afternoon free to explore Madrid at your leisure. In the evening, we will arrange your return transfer to the hotel.

We will depart Madrid and travel towards M�rida, the capital of the Extremadura region. Here, we'll explore the extraordinary Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre archaeological complex�one of the best-preserved sites of its kind and a designated World Heritage Site. Enjoy some time for lunch in M�rida�s vibrant historic centre, where you can choose from an array of inviting restaurants. Our journey then takes us across the border into Portugal, where we will visit �vora, another World Heritage Site. Stroll through the city's picturesque streets adorned with whitewashed buildings, and admire its Renaissance palaces and cathedral. We'll continue our journey and arrive in Lisbon by the evening.

In the morning, we embark on a captivating tour of Lisbon, a city renowned for its picturesque seven hills, winding alleys, and characteristic tiles. Experience the unique essence of "saudade" and bask in the enchanting light of the Atlantic. Our exploration includes a visit to the historic Belem district, the launching point for many of Portugal's famed 15th-century explorers. The afternoon provides an opportunity to wander at your leisure. You may choose to explore the lively Bairro Alto, with its sweeping viewpoints, or consider an optional excursion to the charming towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. As the day winds down, we will regroup and return to the hotel from the vibrant surroundings of Restauradores Square, bustling with lively bars and caf�s.

Today, we venture north through the captivating countryside of Portugal, beginning our day with a visit to the revered pilgrimage destination of F�tima. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil yet spiritually rich atmosphere of this significant site. Following this, we journey to Porto, the country�s vibrant second city. After lunch, we�ll embark on a delightful 50-minute cruise on a traditional �Rabelo� boat on the Douro River, affording us a distinctive view of Porto's picturesque riverside. Once we've experienced the city from the water, you�ll have free time to wander and explore Porto�s lively medieval Ribeira district, which is celebrated for its narrow lanes, historic merchant houses, and inviting caf�s. As the day winds down, we�ll make our way to the hotel, where you can relax at your leisure.

Today, we journey through enchanting landscapes, beginning in the city of Braga, where we'll experience the historic charm of the world's oldest water-operated funicular railway. This ascent leads us to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, offering spectacular views and a moment of tranquillity. After exploring the sanctuary, you might choose to descend its picturesque staircase.

Our adventure continues as we cross into the picturesque region of Galicia, stopping in the historic town of Cambados, situated in the R�as Baixas. Here, we take to the water on a glass-bottom boat tour of the R�a de Arousa, offering a unique insight into the local mussel and oyster farming industry. As part of this aquatic experience, we'll savour a wine and mussel tasting on board, offering a true taste of the region.

At lunchtime, we reach the storied city of Santiago de Compostela, where a local guide will introduce us to its medieval streets and legendary pilgrimage sites, which have drawn visitors since the Middle Ages. These experiences give us a rich understanding of the cultural and historical significance of our journey.

We will follow the storied path of the Way of St. James today. Our first stop is Lugo, where you'll discover the historic town centre and the impressive Roman Walls, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their exceptional preservation. Continuing our journey, we will visit the quaint village of O Cebreiro, with its traditional Galician stone architecture. By midday, we will arrive in Le�n. Here, you'll admire the Gothic cathedral, famed for its magnificent stained-glass windows, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the town's historic streets. We plan to depart Le�n around 5:00 p.m., with our arrival in Madrid anticipated at approximately 9:00 p.m. Depending on the size of our group, the journey from Le�n to Madrid may be by train or standard transport.

After breakfast, our adventure concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of this remarkable journey.