Portugal Explorer From Madrid - 9 Days

Upon arrival in Madrid, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax or explore Madrid at your own pace.

Please Note: This is a bi-lingual, large group coach tour, where a majority of travellers may be Spanish speaking. If this is the case, then English may be the second language. For groups of 12 or more the tour is escorted by a bilingual (Spanish & English speaking) tour leader/escort. They will provide explanations about the itinerary, coordinate accommodation services, and ensure the smooth running of the tour, making your trip an enjoyable experience. When the group size is less than 12, this service may be provided by the driver. There will be experienced bi-lingual local guides for included city sightseeing. This tour also combines different programmes, meaning some travellers may join and leave the tour part way through, and your tour escort may also change.

This morning, after breakfast, we’ll embark on a captivating panoramic city tour through Madrid, tracing the city’s rich history from its medieval roots. Our journey begins with a glimpse of the Arab fortress and a stroll through the charming Barrio de la Morería, a district steeped in history, where ancient buildings and traditional taverns evoke a sense of timelessness.

We’ll then explore the Hapsburg district, with its Renaissance and Baroque treasures, including the iconic Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa, all shaped by the reign of Philip II. Continuing our exploration, we’ll encounter the grandeur of Madrid under the Bourbons, marveling at the Royal Palace, the impressive Cibeles and Neptune Fountains, and the elegant Puerta de Alcalá, masterpieces of urban design crafted by Charles III.

We’ll pause to admire 19th-century landmarks such as the refined Plaza de Oriente and the world-renowned Prado Museum, before venturing into the heart of modern Madrid. Here, we’ll discover bustling avenues like Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana, and the Salamanca district, alongside the commercial and financial hubs of the city, not forgetting the legendary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The afternoon is yours to explore Madrid at your own pace.

Please note: The tour escort service is not available during your stay in Madrid, but local guides will lead the guided city tours. As well as if the panoramic tour of Madrid cannot operate, it will be replaced with the Madrid Hop-on Hop-off Bus or a walking tour of the Hapsburg Quarter

Madrid - Salamanca - Porto (Portugal). Today, we will embark on journey from Madrid to Salamanca, known as a University and World Heritage City. Once we have arrived in Salamanca, you will have time at leisure to explore this architectural and artistic wealth that Salamanca has to offer at your own pace. Afterwards, we will depart for the Portuguese border making our way to Porto,Portugal.

Today, we set off on a sightseeing tour of Porto, a World Heritage city. We admire its magnificent Cathedral, with stunning views over the city, the historic Stock Exchange building showcasing impressive neoclassical architecture, and the beautiful Santa Clara church with its intricate azulejos.

Afterwards, we enjoy a unique perspective of the city along the scenic Douro River and discover its rich heritage with a visit to the renowned Port Wine Cellars, where we indulge in a delightful wine tasting.

The rest of the day is at your leisure to further explore Porto, enjoy food, or relax at the hotel.

Porto - Coimbra - Fatima. After breakfast, we journey to Coimbra, a city renowned for housing one of Europe’s oldest universities and being the birthplace of Fado. You have the opportunity to explore at your leisure, with suggestions such as visiting the stunning Joanina Library, strolling through the beautiful Botanical Garden, or enjoying a performance of traditional Fado music.

We then continue to Fatima, a significant centre of Christian faith and a world-famous pilgrimage site. We visit the awe-inspiring Basilica and the Cova da Iria, where the Virgin Mary appeared. At the heart of the sanctuary, we see the Chapel of the Apparitions, home to the tombs of the three shepherds—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta. In the evening, you have the option to attend the solemn procession of candles.

Fatima - Batalha - Nazare - Alcobaca - Lisbon. We depart for the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an exceptional example of Gothic and Manueline architecture. We take time to admire this magnificent structure.

We then continue to the picturesque fishing town of Nazare, where you have free time to explore its quaint streets or enjoy the seaside charm.

Next, we head to Alcobaça, a World Heritage site known for its striking Gothic church and Cistercian monastery, which dates back to the 12th century.

Our day concludes as we make our way to Lisbon, the captivating capital of Portugal, where we arrive ready to discover its rich history and vibrant culture.

In the morning, we begin our city tour of Lisbon, once called Olissipo, as we discover its main squares, grand avenues, and historic landmarks, including the Belem Tower, the exterior of Jeronimo's Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoverers.

The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. You can stroll through the charming Alfama district or choose to join an optional tour to the beautiful towns of Sintra and Cascais.

Lisbon - Merida (Spain) - Madrid. After breakfast, we depart towards Merida, a UNESCO World Heritage city. As the capital of Extremadura, Merida is renowned for its rich historical heritage, including well-preserved Roman ruins such as the impressive theatre, amphitheatre, and Roman bridge.

You have some free time to explore this fascinating city at your own pace before we continue our journey to Madrid.

Tuck into a final breakfast in the hotel before our tour comes to an end. There is an included transfer to the airport.