Welcome to Barcelona!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Gaudí'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.
Seasons in the Sun
Today leave the Portuguese mainland and fly to Funchal, capital of Madeira. Meet your Local Expert and continue to Santa Cruz, a delightful mix of nature, beach, culture, and tradition. Join an orientation walk to admire the historic landmarks and attractive waterfront. Enjoy free time to explore more. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: The Island of Madeira boasts some of Europe's most impressive landscapes. Soak in the breathtaking natural scenery that merges with crystal- clear waters, centuries-old traditions, and authentic flavors. Experience a unique island where the clock does not set the time, and the calendar does not dictate the season.
Little Lisbon
Funchal was once called “Little Lisbon” due to its narrow streets and historical buildings. Discover the city with a visit to Mercado dos Lavoratores and the “open-air-museum” of the Santa Maria. Take the cable car to Monte and for spectacular views. This evening, taste the local Madeira wine and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ART & NATURE: Funchal used to be called “Little Lisbon,” and that is no coincidence. There are plenty of historical buildings to discover in the narrow streets, while the traditional white houses are nestled on the steep slopes. You won't believe your eyes at the heart of the Zona Velha (Old Town), a swirl of public creativity, which has seen the entrances to buildings along the Rua de Santa Maria adorned with bright paintings and imaginative scenes. Images include everything from a fisherman sitting by his boat in the moonlight to a dislocated eye peering from behind a cracked “window” of yellow glass.
Fishing Lore & Luminescent Pools
Enjoy a free day to explore independently or join an optional excursion to discover further afield. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - NATURAL WONDERS: Discover more of Madeira Island with an optional excursion. Stop in Camara de Lobos, a small fishing village that Winston Churchill chose to paint in 1949. Continue towards Cabo Girai, the world's second highest sea cliff (and Europe's highest) and the Paul de Serra, Madeira's biggest and highest plateau. Visit Porto Moniz, the most north-western valley. Here visit its beautiful natural pools.
At Leisure in Lisbon
Pack your bags and depart the magical Island of San Miguel with a flight to Lisbon. Enjoy leisure time to explore more of the city. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Enjoy free time in Lisbon to absorb more art and culture in one of the museums, stroll along the classic streets, browse the stores, or try local specialties, like the delicious pastel de nata.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Don't waste your precious time qeuing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the destination. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of Europe through its regional cuisine. Read more
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