Highlights of Madrid and Portugal Escorted Vacation

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (Your arrival transfer is included only if you arrive on the actual day the tour commences. For customers arriving earlier an individual transfer can be organized at an additional cost. Night supplements will be charged for early morning/late evening transfers.) Overnight in Madrid

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a guided panoramic tour of Madrid. Your journey includes the major landmarks and will take you through the enchanting Barrio de la Moreria, the historic Hapsburgs District, the iconic Plaza Mayor, and the charming Plaza de la Villa. You'll experience the modern side of Madrid, with visits to vibrant areas like Gran Via, Castellana, and the upscale district of Salamanca. This afternoon is free for you to explore the city's wonders at your own pace. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for an authentic Welcome Tapas Dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Spanish cuisine. Overnight in Madrid. (B,D)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Madrid. Drive to Salamanca. Free time in this University City World Heritage of great architectural and artistic wealth. Departure to the Portuguese border until you reach Porto. Overnight in Porto. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Porto. During the tour, admire the Cathedral, Stock Exchange building and Santa Clara church. Following your exploration of Porto's architectural gems, prepare for an enchanting Douro River Cruise allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. As part of this memorable experience, you'll have the opportunity to visit renowned Port Wine Cellars, where you can indulge in a delightful wine tasting session. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to discover this beautiful Mediterranean city. Overnight in Porto. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a journey to Coimbra, home to one of Europe's most ancient universities and the birthplace of the soulful musical tradition of Fado. Upon arrival, you'll have some free time to explore the city at your leisure. Then it's onto Fatima, a profound center of the Christian Faith and a global Pilgrimage Sanctuary. Here stands the remarkable Basilica, the Cova da Iria site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared. This evening, there's a wonderful opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring candlelight procession, a moving and spiritual experience. Overnight in Fatima (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the breathtaking Batalha Monastery. This architectural marvel, blending Gothic and Manueline styles, has also been honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, the path leads you to the charming fishing town of Nazare, where you'll have some leisure time to explore its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture. Continue to Alcobaca, another UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its Gothic church and historic Cistercian monastery, whose origins trace back to the 12th century. From here, it's onto Lisbon. Overnight in Lisbon. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a morning city sightseeing tour of the historic Olissipo. Traverse its main squares and avenues, including Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoverers, Marquis of Pombal Square, and Liberty Avenue. This afternoon is at your leisure to catch the nostalgic corners of Alfama Quarter, the old city, or perhaps do some shopping. This evening, join your fellow travelers for an authentic Portuguese dinner at one of the city's oldest Fado venues. Overnight in Lisbon. (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Caceres, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its captivating blend of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic, and Italian Renaissance architecture. Stroll through its Plaza Mayor and the Old Town with its famous Medieval Quarter. Overnight in Madrid. (B)

You will be transferred to the Madrid airport for your return flight home. (Your departure transfer is included only if you depart on the actual day the tour concludes. For customers departing later an individual transfer can be organized at an additional cost. Night supplements will be charged for early morning/late evening transfers.) (B)