Start in Lisbon, admiring its unique architecture and landmarks like the Monastery of Jeronimos. Enjoy a Pastel de Nata in Belem before traveling to Cordoba to see its grand mosque. Continue to Granada to visit the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens, then head to Seville to explore its massive church. In Madrid, tour Toledo and the Royal Palace. Next, savor Porto’s coastal beauty and cuisine, then head to Coimbra and its historic university. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and the Monastery of Santa Maria in Batalha before returning to Lisbon for your flight home, filled with unforgettable memories.
For reservations or more information please contact:
Maritime Travel
Mickey Coleman
mcoleman@maritimetravel.ca
604-746-40411
HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Arrive at Lisbon International Airport, meet and greet followed by a tour of the beautiful city of Lisbon. Start a sightseeing tour in the beautiful city of Lisbon. You will first discover Belém where the 16th century Monastery of Jerónimos is (UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the Belém pastry “pastel” factory dated from 1837 where you will taste the delicious “pastéis de Belém”. You will also stop at Belém Tower to take photos and continue to the hotel. Arrive and check in at the hotel for rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight in Lisbon. D
Enjoy full-day trip to Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. Ascend eastward towards the town of Sintra and learn about Portugal’s history. Pass Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and arrive at the opulent Sintra National Palace. Tour the palace and hear fascinating insight about the architectural design and elegant interior of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and former home to royal families of Portugal. Buckle-up aboard your air-conditioned coach and enjoy views of the Tagus River as you drive the scenic coast of Portugal. Next, cruise to the westernmost extent of mainland Europe, Cabo da Roca (April to October only, weather permitting). Admire expansive Atlantic Ocean views alongside the lighthouse which sits upon a granite bluff of boulders. Then, cruise the coastline gazing over the golden beaches and turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Before you know it, reach the rocky chasm of Hell’s Mouth cliff (Boca do Inferno), formed over millennia of crashing waves tearing away at the coastal bluff. Overnight in Lisbon. B D
Depart early this morning for Caceres in Spain. Founded by the ancient Romans, the city now boasts a blend of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic, and Italian Renaissance architecture with its with fortified houses, cobblestone streets, and magnificent palaces. Walk through the Plaza Mayor and the Old Town with its famous Medieval Quarter. Afterwards, continue to Córdoba, once the capital of the Caliphate, situated in the southern Spanish region of Andalusia. Overnight in Cordoba. B D
Explore Cordoba, a landmark of enormous heritage from a splendorous past known for its breathtaking Mosque (entrance included). the greatest dual-identity monument in Spain and a powerful symbol of the two cultures that have shaped Andalusia. After the Moors captured Córdoba in 711, what had previously been a Visigoth Christian Church was split in two, it was used by Christians and Muslims as a place of worship. But in 784, on the orders of the Emir Abd al-Rahman, the church was destroyed and work on the great mosque began. Construction lasted for over two centuries and the building was eventually completed in 987, by which point Córdoba was the most significant city in the Islamic Kingdom. You will have the opportunity to explore the narrow Arabian-style streets of Cordoba. Later check out and drive to Seville. From Moorish palaces and Roman ruins to sun-baked plains and bosky river valleys, province of Sevilla boasts some of Andalucía’s greatest and least-known treasures. At its heart is the region’s charismatic capital, Seville. A gregarious, flamboyant city famed for its artistic and architectural riches, flamenco clubs and teeming tapas bars, this heady riverside metropolis provides a fabulous introduction to the region. Overnight in Seville. B D
After breakfast, explore romantic Seville on a city tour. Seville is known for its rich history, flamenco music, lively festivals and exquisite Moorish architecture. Seville offers visitors a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Visit the city’s Jewish Quarter, with its labyrinth of narrow streets dating to the time of Moorish rule. You will have the opportunity to see the exterior of the Cathedral (the second largest in the Catholic world after St. Peters in Rome), the Santa Cruz Quarter and Maria Luisa Park. We recommend visiting the Royal Palace, known as the Alcazar Royal Palace and its beautiful gardens. From the iconic Giralda Tower to the sprawling Plaza de España, Seville is a city that captivates with its stunning landmarks, winding streets, and warm Andalusian hospitality. Overnight in Seville. B D
Drive to Granada, driving through endless olive oil groves. Arrive and check in at the hotel. After brief rest, explore Granada. Granada’s most popular tourist attraction consists of a gathering of splendid Moorish palaces and landscaped gardens. The city is well known for its medieval architecture from the Moorish occupation — specifically it’s Alhambra Palace (entrance included). Set against a backdrop of brooding Sierra Nevada peaks, it was originally formed as a small fortress in 889 AD on the remains of a Roman fortification. Along with the visit to the Alhambra, you will have the opportunity to discover the magnificent Generalife Gardens. Overnight in Granada. B D
Spend the day at leisure. Explore the city at your own pace. Serene Islamic architecture, monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art combine to make Granada a compelling city break. You can go out and discover more of its historical buildings, you can visit Monasterio de San Jeronimo, the 16th-century monastery is one of Granada’s most stunning Catholic buildings. You can also visit 13th Century Palacio de la Madraza, Abadia del Sacromonte, this impressive 17th-century abbey is known for its catacombs, underground caves and art collection or you can just relax and enjoy the hotel facilities. Overnight in Granada. B D
Drive to Madrid, the dynamic capital of Spain, enchants visitors with its rich history, cultural treasures, and delectable cuisine. The city seamlessly integrates tradition with modernity, promising an unforgettable experience. Enroute visit the World Heritage City of Toledo surrounded by the Tagus River. It is here where three cultures coexist: Christian, Moorish, and Jewish. The entire town is a national monument. The city tour will boost the most important monuments, its narrow streets, and a demonstration of the famous “Damasquinado”,which is a Moorish art of engraving gold or silver threads into black steel. Arrive Madrid and check in at the hotel. Spend rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight in Madrid. Optional tour: Ticket for Flamenco Show at Madrid Theater:USD 55 per person. It is the largest flamenco show in Madrid and also the most visited in the Spanish capital. It has the best flamenco artists on the national and international scene, as well as a meeting point for the best flamenco artists of the moment. The show lasts one hour and during it you will be able to observe a tour of the different “palos” or flamenco styles that will make you vibrate to the rhythm of “EMOCIONES”. B D
Head on a morning panoramic tour of Madrid, discover the medieval origins of the city, such as the Arabic Fortress, at the Barrio de la Morería, famous for its historic buildings. Drive through the courtesan district of the Hapsburgs characterized by Phillip II and its Renaissance and Baroque style buildings, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa; the Madrid of the Bourbons, and the complex town planning schemes of Charles III, the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains, and the Puerta de Alcalá. Admire the XIX C works such as the Prado Museum. Explore the contemporary areas of Madrid such as Gran Vía, Castellana, the district of Salamanca, Plaza Castilla, and Parque del Oeste, as well as commercial and financial areas of Modern Madrid, the emblematic Las Ventas Bullring, and the Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. In the afternoon you will be free to explore the wonders the city has to offer. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Stroll through the Madrid of the Austrias and discover the most curious legends and stories. Overnight in Madrid. B D
Today get set to explore Iberian as you make your way towards Salamanca, a city steeped in history and culture. Immerse yourself in the charm of this University City, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and be awed by its remarkable architectural and artistic treasures. Walk through its winding streets and marvel at the majestic Plaza Mayor, adorned with elegant Baroque buildings. You may explore the prestigious University of Salamanca, one of the oldest in Europe and discover its impressive library and ornate façade. Engage with the vibrant student life that infuses the city and experience the lively atmosphere of its bustling squares and cafes. Be ready to unveil its grandeur and rich cultural heritage. Continue your drive to Porto, arrive and check in for rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight in Porto. B D
Your day will begin in Porto, a beautiful city situated next to the Douro River. Porto is a fascinating and vibrant city that is rapidly becoming one of Western Europe’s most respected tourist destinations. The city boasts an extensive history, interesting tourist attractions, a buzzing nightlife, and outstanding tourist facilities. In the morning you will go sightseeing to get familiar with the main attractions of the city. Then you will have the afternoon at your leisure to explore the city on your own. There is a lot to see and do in Porto, and this diverse city will appeal to a wide range of visitors, to find what suits your taste. Porto is a historic and varied city, from the warren of narrow streets that make up the ancient Ribeira district. The region is famed for producing Port, which is stored and matured in the vast cellars along the banks of the Douro River. You might finish your day by walking through Jardins do Palácio De Cristal to enjoy pleasant views of the Douro River, or shop for souvenirs to take along with you. Overnight in Porto. Optional Tour: Tuk Tuk Tour and Six Bridge Boat Ride with return hotel transfers (1.5H) – $110 USD/person, based on min 2 pax. Explore Porto through a Tuc Tuc Ride in the city and head on an hour-long boat ride on the breathtaking Douro River. Learn about the rich winery history of Porto and its fine options. B D
Depart to Aveiro, often referred to as “The Portuguese Venice.” Experience the enchantment of a cruise along its picturesque canals aboard a traditional Moliceiro boat. Take your time to immerse yourself in the town’s charm, wandering through the quaint streets of the old Beira Mar neighborhood. Visit the vibrant Aveiro Fish Market, where you can witness the bustling activity and sample fresh seafood delights. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, capturing the essence of Aveiro and creating cherished memories of this unique destination. Next, continue to Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe and the birthplace of Fado. You will have free time to explore the city before you drive to Fatima. Overnight in Fatima. B D
You may find the day long as you’ll be discovering several small historical towns, but the distances are short and enjoyable. Start your journey by departing to Batalha where you will have time to admire the Santa Maria monastery listed as a UNESCO heritage site. Next visit the picturesque fishing town of Nazaré, where you can explore and enjoy the surroundings. Afterward, continue to Obidos, a captivating Portuguese medieval walled town. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of this historic place and explore its beauty. Lastly, make our way to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Overnight in Lisbon. B D
After breakfast, you will be transferred back to the Lisbon International Airport to check in for your onward flight. B
B = BREAKFAST L = LUNCH D = DINNER
Terms & Conditions: *Some itinerary details are subject to change. Price is per person based on double occupancy. TOUR PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE: Any international or regional flights, Items of personal nature, tips, and gratuities, Local city taxes, Arrival and departure transfers for the land-only option, Luggage fees may apply and vary by the carrier
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