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Journeys: Iconic Portugal & Spain

15 days, Lisbon to Seville

Map of the route for Journeys: Iconic Portugal & Spain
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Itinerary

Day 1Lisbon

Arrive at any time. This evening, savour a traditional Portuguese dinner and performance of fado, a local folk singing tradition, in one of Lisbon's oldest neighbourhoods.

To ensure you are able to join the group for dinner, please arrive in Lisbon by 6pm at the latest.

Portugal features diverse terrain, including regions with steep streets and uneven surfaces. Please bring sturdy walking shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking.

If you wish to explore Lisbon before your tour begins, consider booking pre-tour accommodation with us. Please speak to a G Adventures representative about booking accommodations in Lisbon before Day 1 of this itinerary.

Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
1h

The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

Your Foodie Moment: Fado Night with Traditional Portuguese Meal

Sit down to a traditional meal and lend your ears to the sound of a performance by Portuguese folk music artists.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

My Story Hotel Tejo Lisbon (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Dinner

Day 2Lisbon

Travel back in time to the fairytale castles and hills of Sintra, a 19th-century resort town and UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the colourful manors, medieval palaces, and lush gardens that enchanted English Romantic poet Lord Byron as well as Portuguese royalty. Enjoy a short orientation walk followed be a free afternoon to discover Lisbon’s pastel-hued architecture and lively plazas. Opt to soar over Lisbon on the historic Santa Justa lift, an engineering marvel that ascends 147 feet to an epic viewing platform.

Private Vehicle
Lisbon – Sintra30m28km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Pena Palace and Park Guided Visit
Sintra2h

Situated in the hills of Sintra, Pena Palace and its surrounding park are one of the greatest expressions of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal. With clear Manueline influence and Moorish architectural styles, the palace is built in a such a way as to be visible from any point in the park. Tour the Palace and park and learn about the Palace's origins and influences throughout Portuguese history.

Private Vehicle
Sintra – Lisbon30m29km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

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Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow

Rossio Square
Lisbon
Free

Stop in this lively square to get a taste of the local hustle and bustle.

Sao Jorge Castle
Lisbon
15EUR per person

Climb up to this Moorish castle for a wander around the impressive grounds on a guided tour, and a great view over Lisbon and Tagus River.

Santa Justa Lift
Lisbon
6EUR per person

Take a ride up 147ft from the lowest to highest points of Portugal. Sit back and enjoy the views.

Alfama District Visit
Lisbon1h-2h
Free

Explore Lisbon’s past in Alfama, one of the city’s oldest quarters. Wander along narrow medieval streets lined with typical tile-covered façades and take a step back in time; the area largely survived the great earthquake of 1755, and still retains much of its original layout. Listen for Portugal's traditional music, fado, gracing the streets at night.

Accommodation

My Story Hotel Tejo Lisbon (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 3Lisbon/Évora

Head to medieval Évora, in the heart of the bucolic Alentejo region, for a fascinating foray into the past. Be mesmerized by the haunting Chapel of Bones, erected by 16th-century Franciscan monks. Then pay a visit to one of the best preserved Roman temples on the Iberian Peninsula, known as Diana’s Temple.

Private Vehicle
Lisbon – Évora2h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Chapel of Bones Visit
Évora

Visit the most famous sight in Évora, the Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones. Take care if squeamish – built in the 1500s by a Franciscan monk, the walls are covered with human skeletons as a reminder to fellow monks that life is fleeting.

Diana Roman Temple
Évora

Take a visit to the best preserved Roman structure on the Iberian Peninsula, assumed to have been constructed in 1 AD.

Accommodation

Vitoria Stone Evora (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 4Évora

Venture into the Alentejo countryside, home to centuries-old cork forests. Join a local expert at a traditional farm, and learn about cork harvesting and production. Then sit down to a traditional cork stripper’s lunch at the cork farm. This afternoon, return to Évora and explore its UNESCO World Heritage–designated city centre on your own, walking past whitewashed houses decorated with azulejos and wrought-iron balconies.

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Cork Farm Visit and Lunch

Since this is the region where most of Portugal's cork is grown you'll learn about cork harvesting and production from a local expert at a traditional cork farm in the Alentejo countryside, home to centuries-old cork forests and about 30 minutes from Évora. After the guided walk of the farm sit down for a traditional cork stripper's lunch at a local restaurant in town.

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Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

Clock Museum
Évora

A remarkable collection of watches on display from different eras, this family run watch museum will take you back in time.

Évora Cathedral
Évora

Visit one of Évora's oldest and most important local monument. Located at the highest point of the city, the Cathedral of Évora is a Roman Catholic church with an elaborate interior including white mortar on the bare high walls, pillars and vaults.

Accommodation

Vitoria Stone Evora (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 5Évora/Coimbra

Spend the day in Tomar and delve into the Crusades era in Portugal. Go on a guided walk with a local expert around the vast medieval complex of the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Templar Castle, founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais—grand master of the Knights Templar. Continue on to Coimbra for the evening.

Private Vehicle
Évora – Tomar2h225km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Knights Templar Historic Tour

In Tomar, 14th-century Portugal’s headquarters for the Knights Templar Order, take an expert-led walk to learn about the country during the time of the Crusades. Visit the impressive Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Private Vehicle
Tomar – Coimbra54m75km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Vila Gale Coimbra (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 6Coimbra/Porto

This morning, enjoy a tour around the centuries-old University of Coimbra, Portugal's most prestigious university and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enter through the 10th-century Porta Férra, the old entrance to the citadel of Coimbra. Following mosaic cobblestone paths around campus, stopping to see the baroque stylings of the Joanina Library, elaborate azulejo wall tiles adorning the Chapel of São Miguel, and the 18th-century Botanical Garden. Later, catch the train to Porto on the coast.

University of Coimbra Visit
Coimbra

Portugal's most prestigious university, the University of Coimbra is a must see landmark. Explore the World Heritage Site as you enter through the Porta Férra, the old entrance to the citadel of Coimbra constructed in the 10th century. Walk through the campus along mosaic cobblestone paths, explore it's botanical gardens and Chapel of S. Miguel and opt to visit the ornate Joanina Library.

Local Train
Coimbra – Porto1h30m120km

Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.

Accommodation

Mercure Porto Centro (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 7Porto

Board a boat down Portugal's Douro River, or "river of gold". Float on the typical Rabelo Boat along the riverbanks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia and marvel at the historical bridges connecting the two cities. Famous for centuries as a port wine shipper's centre, discover the rich tradition of port making at a local wine cellar, then cap off the day with a tasting of this distinct regional specialty. In your free time, explore the cobblestone streets of Porto’s medieval Ribeira district, marvel at the baroque São Francisco Church, and admire the palatial Palácio de Bolsa, a one time stock market.

Porto Ribeira Cruise
Porto1h-2h

Board a boat down Portugal's Douro River, or "river of gold". Float along this ancient route used for centuries as a port wine shipper's route.

Free Time
Porto

Enjoy all the gems of this coastal city. Visit the medieval Ribeira district with its narrowed cobbled stone streets. Marvel in the baroque architecture of São Francisco Church and discover the palatial 19th century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, built to impress potential European investors. But most importantly, make sure to try a glass of port wine.

Your Hands-On Moment: Port Wine Cellar Visit

Finish off the day with a tour of the cellars of the region's famed export - Port wine. Learn about the art of Port making and the processes that render its rich taste. Indulge in a tasting and raise a glass to a day well spent. Saúde!

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Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow

Ribeira Square
Porto
Free

Take some time to walk around this charming square and get in with the local hustle and bustle.

Sao Bento Railway Station
Porto
Free

The blue painted tiles on the inside of São Bento railway station makes it one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. See for yourself.

Lello Bookstore
Porto
8EUR per person

Take a wander around this incredible, and beautifully ornate bookstore built in 1906.

Palacio da Bolsa
Porto30m-1h
12EUR per person

Join a half-hour guided tour of this neoclassical monument.

Accommodation

Mercure Porto Centro (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 8Porto/Madrid

Transfer to the airport and catch a short flight to Madrid. Set out on your own to take in the elegant squares and leafy boulevards of Spain’s bustling capital. Amble around the baroque Plaza Mayor, a 17th-century square lined with shopping arcades, and soak up the scene over a coffee at one of its outdoor cafés.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

Plane
Porto – Madrid1h15m

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Accommodation

Hotel Madfor (or similar)
Hotel

Day 9Madrid

Spend the morning exploring Madrid, the quintessential heart of Spain, on a CEO-led orientation walk. Explore the treasure trove of cultural riches, elegant plazas, and centuries old squares, as you walk in the footsteps of days gone by. Finish this walk at a local market and enjoy delicious samples of Spanish gastronomy. Enjoy free time this afternoon to admire the world-renowned artworks at the Museo del Prado, relax at a café, or experience the city’s legendary nightlife.

Other options for exploring the city include the Palacio Real, Real Jardin Botánico or Escorial. Experience more nightlife at the Plaza del Dos de Mayo, in the area known as Malasaña. Taste some sangria and dance to the latest music.

Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Prado Museum.

Free Time
Madrid

Opt to visit the Museo del Prado, the Gran Vía or Plaza Mayor.

Your Foodie Moment: Local Food Market Tour

Experience Madrid’s vibrant culture and cosmopolitan spirit on this immersive, CEO-led market tour. Savour the diverse flavours that define Spanish cuisine while discovering what makes life here so special.

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Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow

Plaza Mayor Visit
Madrid15m-30m
Free

Enjoy some spectacular people watching with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, the true heart of the city. Enjoy a coffee in one of the plaza’s many cafes and watch the world go by.

Real Jardín Botánico Visit
Madrid
3EUR per person

Recover from an art overdose with a visit to the beautiful Real Jardin Botánico, a large botanical garden near the Prado Museum.

Museo Nacional Del Prado Visit
Madrid30m-1h
15EUR per person

Take in some culture with a trip to the Museo del Prado, one of the greatest art galleries in the world, and a definite highlight of any Madrid trip. Be inspired by its collections and exhibitions: the museum's main emphasis is 15th to 19th century Spanish, Flemish, and Italian art, but there is plenty of Goya and a wealth of paintings by Diego Velázquez.

El Retiro Park
Madrid
Free

Known as the "green heart" of Madrid, a walk through these beautiful grounds will make you feel one with nature when looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Keep an eye out for stunning landmarks like the Peurto de Alcala and de Cibeles along the way.

Royal Palace (Palacio Real) Visit
Madrid1h-2h
12EUR per person

See how kings and queens live, with a visit to the Palacio Real, the official (and uninhabited) palace of the King of Spain. Wander the rooms to take in some of the most elaborately decorated and furnished rooms you'll ever see.

Accommodation

Hotel Madfor (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 10Madrid/Córdoba

Drive south to the ancient walled city of Toledo, perched on a rocky headland overlooking the Tagus River. Join a local historian on a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site filled with churches, synagogues, mosques, and plazas. Explore the old quarter and glimpse the soaring tower of the city’s 13th-century cathedral, a masterpiece of high Gothic architecture. Continue on to Córdoba, a beguiling Andalusian town steeped in history. As the capital of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain) until its fall in 1236, Córdoba was once the largest city in Europe known for its mosques, palaces, and libraries.

Head out tonight to sample some local food. Try the thick, hearty stew called "caldereta de cordero" or cool off with "ajo blanco," a hearty white gazpacho soup.

Private Vehicle
Madrid – Córdoba4h15m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle, stopping in Toledo before moving on to Córdoba.

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Historic City of Toledo visit

With a local historian, we explore the World Heritage city of Toledo and the old quarter, which is considered an open-air museum. Known as the “city of three cultures,” Toledo conserves its artistic and cultural heritage behind its walls, featuring historic churches, palaces, fortresses, mosques, and synagogues.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

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Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow

The Cathedral Bell Tower
Córdoba
2EUR per person

Visit the top of the Bell Tower in Cordoba. This tower has played an important role on the history of this city. It stands at 54 metres and is the tallest building in the city, which means impressive views await those who chose this adventure.

The tower is open 9:30-13:00 and again from 16:00-18:30. Entrances occur every half hour.

Tower of the Calahorra Museum
Córdoba
4-5EUR per person

Visit the Tower of La Calahorra south of the Roman bridge and at the far end from the city centre. The tower is a fortified gate which was built by the Moors. Explore the fortress and revel in the deep history of its architecture. It is open from 10:00-14:00 and again from 16:30-20:30.

Accommodation

Macia Alfaros (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 11Córdoba/Granada

In the morning, join a guided tour of Córdoba and discover its medieval centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, or Mezquita, where a 13th-century Catholic cathedral stands in the center of a former Moorish mosque that dates to the 8th century. Afterwards, stroll the historic Jewish quarter’s maze of winding lanes and traditional whitewashed houses. In the afternoon, transfer to Granada and set out on a CEO led orientation walk of this alluring Andalusian city.

Opt to visit the Granada Cathedral of the Incarnation or the Royal Chapel.

Mezquita de Córdoba (Mosque) Visit
Córdoba1h-2h

Be amazed by the diverse and stunning architecture of Córdoba's most famous monument, the extraordinary Mezquita. Built as a mosque in 785 by the Moors, the Mezquita was converted in the 16th century by the remarkable addition of a Christian cathedral inserted into the centre of the building.

Private Vehicle
Córdoba – Granada2h30m-3h210km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Jewish Quarter (Juderia) Visit
Córdoba1h-2h

Wander among narrow winding lanes, traditional houses, and charming cafés in Cordoba's historic medieval Jewish quarter. Discover one of Spain’s three remaining synagogues.

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Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow

Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit
Granada30m-1h
5EUR per person

Be taken by the beauty of one of the largest cathedrals in Spain on this visit to the Cathedral of Granada. Tour its beautiful facades and interiors that house a grand altar and numerous chapels. Built by Queen Isabella, it is a masterpiece of Spanish-Renaissance style.

Royal Chapel of Granada
Granada
5EUR per person

Nestled between the old fish market and Church of Sagrario is the Royal Chapel of Granada - the burial place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabel of the 15th century Spanish monarch. Constructed beginning in 1504, this ornate monument displays exquisitely carved tombs of the royal family.

Accommodation

Hotel Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 12Granada

Spend today immersed in the majesty of the Alhambra, a pinnacle of Moorish architecture in Europe. This fortress and palace built by 13th-century Nasrid sultans crowns a hilltop overlooking Granada. On a guided tour of this extraordinary World Heritage site, marvel at the intricate stuccowork, elegant archways, and intimate courtyards bursting with blooms. Later, explore on your own time as you amble through the old Moorish quarter, the Albayzín, and enjoy views of the Alhambra glowing in the twilight.

After visiting the Alhambra, opt to wander through the whitewashed historic quarter of the Albaicin, with its narrow lanes and fantastic views. This is a great place to go to catch the sunset.

In the evening, opt for a night on the town. The city is filled with trendy tapas bars and has a lively music scene.

Due to regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at the time of booking in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. See "Important notes" under Tour Details for more information.

Alhambra visit
Granada2h-3h

Enjoy a guided visit of the Alhambra, one of the greatest accomplishments of Islamic art and architecture. Learn about Granada’s reign as one of the region’s most regal cities during the Muslim rule of Spain, which is captured in time within the Alhambra.

Free Time
Granada Full Day

Free time to explore with the option to take a bike tour or visit the cathedral.

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Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow

Albaicín (El Albayzín) Visit
Granada1h-2h
Free

Wander through the historic quarter of the Albaicin. Try to head there for sunset. With its narrow lanes and fantastic views back to the Alhambra, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular colour-washed skyline when the sun goes down.

Realejo of Granada (Old Jewish Quarter)
Granada30m-1h

Take a stroll around the colourful streets of Realajo - the historic Jewish neighbourhood of Granada. Sit down to a delicious tapas meal at one of the many restaurants or enjoy a glass of wine at a local bar. Keep an eye out for the stunning 16th century architecture of the Palace of La Casa de los Tiros.

Church of San Juan de Díos
Granada
7EUR per person

If you find yourself walking through a cathedral adorned with golden glittering embellishments at every corner, you are likely visiting the Basílica San Juan de Díos. Climb the stairs behind the alter to visit the site of the saint's remains.

Flamenco Show
Granada
20-60EUR per person

Sit down to dinner and enjoy a traditional flamenco performance. Be swept away by the flamenco's passion, fire, and grit!

Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit
Granada30m-1h
5EUR per person

Be taken by the beauty of one of the largest cathedrals in Spain on this visit to the Cathedral of Granada. Tour its beautiful facades and interiors that house a grand altar and numerous chapels. Built by Queen Isabella, it is a masterpiece of Spanish-Renaissance style.

Granada Hammam Visit
Granada1h-2h
30-55EUR per person

Relax in one of the many hammam baths around town. Ranging in services depending on the establishment, some offer massages and serve mint tea, but all have amazing architecture and are a perfect place to soak and unwind.

Accommodation

Hotel Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 13Granada/Seville

Journey to Seville, one of Spain’s most colourful and beautiful cities, with a walking tour of Ronda on the way. Upon arrival in Seville, set out on a CEO led orientation walk and choose to climb the cathedral Giralda’s bell tower or visit Casa Pilatos, a prototypical Andalusian palace that combines Italian Renaissance and Spanish Mudéjar architectural styles. Get a glimpse of traditional gypsy culture by opting to witness a soulful performance of flamenco dance.

Free Time
Seville Half Day

Start wandering around this charismatic city.

Orientation With CEO
30m-1h Afternoon

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Santa Cruz Quarter Visit
Seville15m-45m

Visit the true heart of Seville, the Santa Cruz quarter. A charming area with winding alleys, picturesque lime-washed houses, flowery patios, and small squares, you can wander, shop, or just soak in the neighbourhood's quaint atmosphere while enjoying a refreshing drink (sangria, perhaps) at one of the local restaurants.

Private Vehicle
Granada – Seville3h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

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Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow

Casa de Pilatos
Seville1h30m-2h
10-12EUR per person

Take a visit to marvel at one of the grandest mansions in Seville. The home is still inhabited by the Medinaceli family, but remains open to visitor tours during operating hours.

La Giralda Visit
Seville1h-2h
9EUR per person

Climb the tower known as La Giralda, adjacent to the world's largest Gothic cathedral, for spectacular views and a walk among historic walls. The 76m (249 ft) Giralda was constructed by the Moors as a mosque between 1184 and 1197. In 1568, after the reconquest, Christians fit the minaret with its bell tower.

Accommodation

Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 14Seville

Enjoy some free time to follow your impulses in Seville. Lose yourself among the winding alleys, flower-draped patios, and picturesque squares of the charming Santa Cruz quarter. Opt to visit the ornate Mudéjar palace and gardens of Real Alcázar de Sevilla, a World Heritage site and former filming location for Game of Thrones. Here, in the birthplace of flamenco, take a private dance class in a professional studio. This evening, put your new moves to practice as you experience the city’s upbeat nightlife on your own.

Have a chance to savour some tapas at the city's many bars and cafés.

Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville.

Free Time
Seville Morning

After your CEO has taken you on a short orientation walk to get your bearings, you will have time to take in all this great city has to offer.

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Flamenco Dancing Experience

As the birthplace of flamenco, Spain is the perfect place to learn some new steps. Flamenco is one of the most recognizable elements of Spanish culture and incorporates three key elements: guitar, song and dance. Embrace the culture as we visit a studio to enjoy a private lesson from a professional dancer – the perfect introduction for when you head out later that evening.

3

Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow

Casa de Pilatos
Seville1h30m-2h
10-12EUR per person

Take a visit to marvel at one of the grandest mansions in Seville. The home is still inhabited by the Medinaceli family, but remains open to visitor tours during operating hours.

Alcázar Palace Visit
Seville2h-3h
13.50EUR per person

Explore the wonderful interiors and gardens of the Alcázar, a royal palace that was originally a Moorish fort. Arrive during the evening in the summer months (until mid-September) and enjoy a series of concerts in the beautiful setting of the Reales Alcázares.

La Giralda Visit
Seville1h-2h
9EUR per person

Climb the tower known as La Giralda, adjacent to the world's largest Gothic cathedral, for spectacular views and a walk among historic walls. The 76m (249 ft) Giralda was constructed by the Moors as a mosque between 1184 and 1197. In 1568, after the reconquest, Christians fit the minaret with its bell tower.

Accommodation

Hotel Macia Sevilla Kubb (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 15Seville

Depart at any time.

We recommend staying a few extra nights to better explore Seville at your leisure.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Journeys: Iconic Portugal & Spain

| 15 days - Lisbon to Seville - from $3999 USD