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Portugal and Spain Upgraded
15 days, Lisbon to Seville
Itinerary Notes
Due to revised regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at least 30 days prior to departure in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. See "Important notes" under Tour Details for more information.
Itinerary
Day 1Lisbon
Arrive at any time. Bring your appetite for this evening’s traditional Portuguese dinner in one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Enjoy delicious food while listening to a fado performance by local folk singers.
To ensure you are able to join the group for dinner, please arrive in Lisbon by 6pm at the latest.
For trips departing April 2020 onwards: 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
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.
Meals included:
DinnerDay 2Lisbon
Visit the 19th-century resort town of Sintra, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set your eyes upon a landscape that inspired the English poet Lord Byron. Then, spend the afternoon as you wish to discover more of Lisbon’s lively atmosphere. Maybe decide to be a daredevil and take the Santa Justa lift to the highest point in Portugal.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Pena Palace and Park Guided Visit
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
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Sao Jorge Castle
15EUR per personClimb 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.
Rossio Square
FreeStop in this lively square to get a taste of the local hustle and bustle.
Santa Justa Lift
6EUR per personTake a ride up 147ft from the lowest to highest points of Portugal. Sit back and enjoy the views.
Alfama District Visit
FreeExplore 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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Lisbon/Évora
Be prepared to witness something you may have never seen before as you travel to medieval Évora home to the haunting Chapel of Bones. Yes, that’s right bones. This chapel was built in the 16th-century and the walls are covered with human skeletons, but for a worthy reason. Afterwards, you’ll visit ancient Diana’s Temple which is very well preserved for its age.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Diana Roman Temple
Take a visit to the best preserved Roman structure on the Iberian Peninsula, assumed to have been constructed in 1 AD.
Chapel of Bones Visit
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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Évora
Travel into the Montemor-o-Novo countryside to a traditional farm and learn about cork harvesting from an expert. Afterwards, sit down to a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Once you return to the city centre, explore more on your own, taking some time to walk around. Maybe head to the Clock Museum to take a peek at watches from different eras, or visit the Cathedral of Évora, which is considered the most important local monument.
Cork Farm Visit Montemor-o-Novo
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 Montemor-o-Novo 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.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Clock Museum
A remarkable collection of watches on display from different eras, this family run watch museum will take you back in time.
Évora Cathedral
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.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 5Évora/Coimbra
It’s on to Tomar today to learn about the Crusades era in Portugal. A local expert will take you on a guided walk through the Convent of Christ and Templar Castle, teaching you a bit of the history as you go. Then you'll arrive in the riverfront city of Coimbra in the evening.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Coimbra/Porto
Tour the centuries-old University of Coimbra in the morning, entering through the Porta Férra. You’ll stop at the Joanina Library, the Chapel of São Miguel, and the Botanical Garden before catching the train to Porto.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
University of Coimbra Visit
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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Porto
Porto has a lot to offer, but first and foremost let’s have a drink. Hop aboard a boat and cruise down Portugal’s “river of gold”, which also happens to be the ancient trade route for port wine. You’ll learn about this rich tradition at a local wine cellar and finish the tour with a tasting of this delicious vino. For the rest of the day explore Porto’s Ribeira district and admire the architecture and atmosphere of this coastal city.
Porto Ribeira Cruise
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.
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!
Free Time
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.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Sao Bento Railway Station
FreeThe 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
8EUR per personTake a wander around this incredible, and beautifully ornate bookstore built in 1906.
Ribeira Square
FreeTake some time to walk around this charming square and get in with the local hustle and bustle.
Palacio da Bolsa
12EUR per personJoin a half-hour guided tour of this neoclassical monument.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Porto/Madrid
Transfer to the airport and catch a short flight to Madrid. Explore Spain’s bustling capital on your own. Wander around Plaza Mayor or people watch over a coffee at an outdoor café.
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
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 9Madrid
Drive south to Toledo—a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Tagus River. Once here embark on a guided tour, walking past churches, synagogues, mosques, and plazas. Then it’s back to Madrid where you’ll have free time to gaze at artworks in the Museo del Prado, find a fun restaurant to try, or look for some enticing nightlife spots.
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Opt to visit the Museo del Prado, the Gran Vía or Plaza Mayor.
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Real Jardín Botánico Visit
3EUR per personRecover from an art overdose with a visit to the beautiful Real Jardin Botánico, a large botanical garden near the Prado Museum.
El Retiro Park
FreeKnown 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.
Museo Nacional Del Prado Visit
15EUR per personTake 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.
Plaza Mayor Visit
FreeEnjoy 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.
Royal Palace (Palacio Real) Visit
12EUR per personSee 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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Madrid/Córdoba
Córdoba was once the largest city in Europe, known for its mosques, palaces, and libraries and today you’ll be taking a high-speed train there to check out its medieval centre. Once you become acquainted, walk the maze of winding lanes in the Jewish quarter and in the evening opt to try some of the delicious cuisine like, “ajo blanco” or “caldereta de cordero”. We bet these dishes will only leave you wanting more.
Córdoba’s gastronomy features cuisine steeped in Roman, Moorish, Christian, and Jewish traditions. 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.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Mezquita de Córdoba (Mosque) Visit
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.
Jewish Quarter (Juderia) Visit
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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Córdoba/Granada
Arrive in the birthplace of Flamenco and enjoy an orientation walk around the city of Granada. Opt to see the Granada Cathedral or the Royal Chapel and then take part in a private Flamenco dance class. Tonight, put your new moves to the test, head out on the town, and experience Granada’s vibrant nightlife.
Opt to visit the Granada Cathedral of the Incarnation or the Royal Chapel before your Flamenco class.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Orientation With CEO
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.
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 in the heart of the ancient Albaicin quarter of Granada to enjoy a private lesson from a professional dancer – the perfect introduction for when you head out later that evening.
Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow
Royal Chapel of Granada
5EUR per personNestled 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.
Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit
5EUR per personBe 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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Granada
It’s all about immersing yourself in the Alhambra today, a Moorish fortress residing on a hilltop overlooking Granada. You’ll receive a guided tour of yet another World Heritage site and then explore more on your own time as twilight begins to descend on this 13th-century palace. If you’re looking for a perfect spot to catch the sunset, consider the fantastic views and narrow lanes of Albaicin. Then opt to venture back out for some more lively nightlife at popular local tapas bars.
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.
Alhambra visit
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
Free time to explore with the option to take a bike tour or visit the cathedral.
Optional Activities - Day 12 HideShow
Realejo of Granada (Old Jewish Quarter)
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
7EUR per personIf 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
20-60EUR per personSit down to dinner and enjoy a traditional flamenco performance. Be swept away by the flamenco's passion, fire, and grit!
Albaicín (El Albayzín) Visit
FreeWander 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.
Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit
5EUR per personBe 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 City Center and Tapas Gourmet Tour
Explore Granada beyond the Alhambra on a guided walking tour of its historic city centre, where centuries of Moorish influence, incredible architecture and a lively university town await visitors today. Immerse yourself further in Andalusian culture by enjoying some tapas (light bar snacks and appetizers) at bars where the locals hang out. Sample local fare and the region's excellent wine - this is one of the world's gastronomic capitals for a reason!
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Granada/Seville
Travel to Seville and enjoy a CEO led orientation walk of one of Spain’s most colourful cities. Afterwards, choose to visit Casa Pilatos, or climb Giralda’s bell tower, and then opt to catch a glimpse of traditional gypsy culture with a flamenco performance.
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.
Orientation With CEO
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
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.
Free Time
Start wandering around this charismatic city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow
Alcázar Palace Visit
13.50EUR per personExplore 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.
Casa de Pilatos
10-12EUR per personTake 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
9EUR per personClimb 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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Seville
Your final full day on this trip consists of free time to further get to know Seville. Go off on a jaunt through winding alleys, take pictures in the squares of Santa Cruz quarter, or opt to visit another World Heritage site and former filming place of Game of Thrones. Along the way don’t forget to grab a Serranito to curb your appetite.
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
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.
Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow
Alcázar Palace Visit
13.50EUR per personExplore 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.
Casa de Pilatos
10-12EUR per personTake 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.
Flamenco Show
18-30EUR per personEnjoy a flamenco performance in the city known for the energetic dance. Be swept away by the flamenco's passion, fire, and grit!
La Giralda Visit
9EUR per personClimb 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.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 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.