Highlights of Spain and Portugal

Welcome to Barcelona!

At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Gaudi's Showcase

Wake up in Barcelona! The morning is yours to either explore independently or join an optional excursion. This afternoon, discover Barcelona with your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Gràcia. Enjoy a photo stop at the Sagrada Familia, visit the historic concert hall Palau de La Musica, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor from Montjuïc Hill. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: It won't take long for you to realize why the motto “Barcelona Inspires” is true. This lively city has so much to offer, from vibrant markets to delicious dishes. This stunning city is a spectacular showcase for Antonio Gaudí's architectural works of art. Known as “God's architect,” Gaudí began designing lampposts before designing some of Barcelona's most famous buildings—the Casa Batló and Casa Milà on the Passeig de Gracia, and the jaw dropping Sagrada Familia - the iconic unfinished church which has become the world's longest-running construction site!

Splendid Spain

Today, sit back and relax for a scenic drive through the Catalonian and Aragonian countryside en-route to Madrid. Enjoy an evening at leisure to get your first taste of Spain's capital city. (B) 385 mi / 620 km.

ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: The captivating city of Madrid is filled with intriguing stories and hidden secrets. Stroll around the streets and take pictures of “El Osoy el Madrono”(The Bear and the Strawberry Tree), the biggest symbol of the city. See the Statue of the Fallen Angel, depicting Lucifer's expulsion from Heaven.

Masterpieces in Madrid

Discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ART & ARCHITECTURE: The Prado Museum houses one of the world's largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.

Treasures of Cordoba

Enjoy a scenic drive south into the region of Andalusia. This afternoon, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba, follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to see the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge, and the remains of the Alcazar. The tour highlight is a visit of the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Enjoy some free time to browse the narrow streets before continuing to the vibrant city of Seville. (B) 348 mi / 560 km.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE: The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque's architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city.

Dance Steps & Castanets

This morning, discover what makes Seville so special! Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city's most famous landmarks. Then, join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing tour featuring a panoramic drive, a visit to the Casa de Pilatos, and a stroll through the charming Santa Cruz Quarter. This evening, delve deeper into Sevillian culture and enjoy dinner with local specialties at El Palacio Andaluz restaurant accompanied by authentic Flamenco entertainment. (B/D)

LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITION: Be moved by the soulful sounds and steps of the Flamenco. You'll see the very best display of this passionate Flemish dance performed by award-winning dancers who'll add some spice to your dinner at El Palacio Andaluz restaurant in Seville. Ole!

Painting the Town in Portugal

Bid adios to Spain as you cross over the border to Portugal. Stop in Setúbal for some leisure time to browse this colorful town and try some local specialties for lunch. Continue to Azeitão to visit a traditional tile workshop and see how the traditional azulejos (tiles) are created. Reach Lisbon, free time late afternoon and evening to start exploring Portugal's capital. (B) 323 mi / 520 km.

LOCAL FAVORITE - ART & ARTISTRY: Enter a world of authentically handmade Portuguese tiles at the São Simão Arte workshop and gallery in Azeitão. It is here that distinguished antique collector Antonio Soares Franco creates his ceramic masterpieces by hand in the style of his ancestors.

Spend your day your way in Lisbon

Explore more of Lisbon with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.

• Going Medieval - Experience the sights and sounds of Lisbon. Hop on one of Lisbon's trams for a short ride in the center. Walk the narrow streets, alleyways, and cobblestones to soak in the city like a true local. Taste traditional ginjinha (berry liqueur) in this medieval world of stories and historical legends.
• Legends of Lisbon - Discover the historic grandeur of Lisbon on an orientation drive through the city, complete with photo stops at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Visit the stunning and historically significant Jeronimos Monastery and marvel at its intricately carved cloisters.

Safe travels until we meet again!

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)