Journey Across Iberia - 21 Days

Depart from our bus terminal at 8:00 a.m. heading towards the Extremadura region, arriving in Trujillo, the birthplace of Spanish conquerors, where we take time to explore the grand Plaza Mayor framed by noble mansions and bronze statues. We then cross into Portugal and follow the Tagus River to Lisbon, the nation’s sunlit capital. This evening, you might like to join an optional outing to experience the haunting melodies of Fado in a traditional tavern.

Please note: This tour is bi-lingual and will be conducted in Spanish as well as in English.

Meeting Point: C. de Ferraz, 3, Moncloa - Aravaca, 28008 Madrid at 8:00.

After breakfast, we enjoy a panoramic tour of Lisbon, discovering the grand avenues and charming districts that unfold across the city’s seven hills. From the sweeping views of Edward VII Park, we make our way through the elegant Praça do Rossio and along Liberdade Avenue. In the historic Belem district, we admire the Jeronimos Monastery, the Tower of Belem, and the Monument to the Discoveries. The afternoon is yours to explore further or perhaps join an optional trip to the fairytale town of Sintra and the coastal gems of Cascais and Estoril.

Today we journey to Fatima, one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Take time to visit the Sanctuary and reflect at your own pace before we return to Lisbon by late afternoon.

We return to Spain this morning, stopping in the UNESCO-listed city of Caceres. Wander through its beautifully preserved medieval quarter and relax in the spacious Plaza Mayor. Continuing south into Andalusia, we arrive in vibrant Sevilla, where we gather for dinner and settle in for the night.

We discover Sevilla’s highlights this morning, including the expansive Maria Luisa Park, the elegant Plaza de España, and the majestic exterior of the Cathedral with its iconic Giralda bell tower. In the old Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz, we stroll through cobbled alleys and flower-filled courtyards. Later, you might opt for a cruise along the Guadalquivir River or visit the historic Maestranza bullring. In the evening, enjoy an optional flamenco show full of colour and intensity.

After breakfast, we journey east to Cordoba. On arrival, we explore the atmospheric Jewish Quarter and visit the awe-inspiring Mezquita, a former mosque transformed into a cathedral. The rest of the day is free to soak up the city’s distinctive blend of Moorish and Spanish heritage.

Travelling along the Route of the White Villages, we stop in dramatic Ronda, perched high above a deep gorge. Enjoy free time to admire its historic bullring and breathtaking vistas before continuing to the Mediterranean coast. We arrive at the Costa del Sol for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Today we head inland to the city of Granada, where we visit the majestic Alhambra and the lush Generalife gardens, once the summer palace of Moorish royalty. This evening, there's an optional chance to visit the flamenco-filled caves of Sacromonte.

Please note: If tickets to the Alhambra and Generalife are unavailable on specific dates, as determined by the Patronato, an alternative city tour of Granada will be offered. This will include visits to the Palace of Carlos V, the Archaeological Museum, the Church of Santa María de la Alhambra, the Royal Chapel, as well as a walk through the Alcaicería silk market and Cathedral Square.

We leave Andalusia behind and journey northeast along the Mediterranean, passing through the high plateaus of Guadix and Baza. Our destination is Valencia, a lively port city famed for its futuristic architecture and paella traditions.

The morning is yours to enjoy Valencia before we travel onward to Barcelona. Arriving in the Catalan capital, we have time to explore or relax. In some cases, a city tour may take place this afternoon depending on arrival time.

We spend the morning discovering Barcelona’s highlights, from the panoramic views of Montjuic Hill to the Gothic Quarter’s narrow lanes and the historic Columbus Monument. The afternoon is free to explore more of Gaudi’s masterpieces or relax on the city’s beaches. Later, you may join an optional evening tour of Barcelona’s illuminated streets and fountains.

We cross into Spain’s northern heartland today, stopping briefly in Zaragoza, home to the striking Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Continuing to the Basque Country, we arrive in elegant San Sebastian, known for its sweeping bay and culinary scene.

After breakfast, we travel to Bilbao to see the striking modern architecture of the Guggenheim Museum (exterior view). We then continue along the Cantabrian coast to Santander, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy the beaches or seafront promenade.

Today we visit the medieval village of Santillana del Mar, a national treasure of stone streets and preserved heritage. We continue through the green mountain landscapes to Covadonga, an important pilgrimage site, before arriving in Oviedo, capital of Asturias.

Our journey continues into Galicia, arriving in the Atlantic port city of La Coruña. After a short panoramic tour, you may wish to join an optional excursion to the Rías Altas, visiting charming towns like Betanzos and Pontedeume.

A short drive brings us to Santiago de Compostela, final destination of the famed Camino. We enjoy a guided tour of the cathedral and the Obradoiro Square, followed by an afternoon at leisure.

We explore Galicia’s fjord-like estuaries today, passing mussel farms and island-studded bays. We stop at La Toja Island and O Grove, where you can opt for a scenic catamaran ride with mussel tasting and Ribeiro wine. We end the day in coastal Vigo, with an optional trip to the hilltop ruins of Santa Tecla.

Crossing back into Portugal, we pause in Viana do Castelo to stroll its elegant old town, then continue to Braga, often called the Portuguese Rome. We arrive in Porto later today and settle in for the night.

Today we explore Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city famed for its riverside charm and rich wine tradition. We visit the Cathedral, the Palacio da Bolsa, and the ornate Church of Saint Clara, finishing with a tasting of port wine at a local cellar.

We travel to Coimbra, home to one of the world’s oldest universities. Enjoy lunch and time to explore the historic centre. This is also the birthplace of Portuguese Fado, echoing through the university halls and winding streets.

On our final day, we visit Fatima once more for those who wish a final moment of reflection. We then return to Lisbon, where our journey together concludes.