Duration: 13 Days
Like the blue Azulejo-tiled walls on Portugal’s beautiful buildings, homes, and churches, we’ve pieced together the best experiences of two sun-washed countries for those looking for an enlightening getaway. On this 9-day tour of Spain and Portugal, you’ll spend two nights each in four legendary cities spanning from the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the golden coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, Madrid’s artistic energy, Seville’s medieval past, and Lisbon’s tiled and cobbled charm await your arrival and exploration. With immersive sightseeing, you’ll dive into the history, culture, and cuisine of each city during the must-see, must-taste, and must-hear experiences, from Portugal’s sweet red port and mournful fado music to Spain’s dry Rioja wine and lively flamenco performances. Continue your tour with a trip to Santa Cruz on the magical Island of Madeira, complete with crystalline waters and centuries of tradition and culinary treats. Explore “Little Lisbon” in Funchal, with is creative atmosphere that inspires the imagination. From the quaint charms of fishing villages to the quiet reflections from luminous pools and lofty plateaus, your holiday in Portugal is a feast for the senses and an unforgettable adventure for the soul.
Traveller Notes
We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect holiday—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides (with headsets to hear every word), to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi. Return flight from Lisbon to Madeira.
Welcome to Barcelona!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Gaudi's Masterpiece
BARCELONA Guided sightseeing includes the Palau de La Musica and panoramic views of the city and harbour from Montjuic Hill. Stop at Sagrada Familia Basilica, Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluna, and Paseo de Gracia. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia stands in Barcelona as a monument to the Holy Family and a testament to the masterwork of Antoni Gaudi. Built on the reliance of donations since the first stone was laid more than 130 years ago, the iconic church remains an unfinished masterpiece and the world's longest-running construction project - slated for completion in 2026 on the 100th anniversary of the architect's death.
Splendid Spain
Scenic drive through the Catalonian and Aragonian countryside en route to Madrid. (B) 385 mi / 620 km
FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE The 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. Don't forget to note the statues of the Fallen Angel, representing Lucifer, the Angel who was expelled from Heaven for rebelling against God.
Masterpieces in Madrid
MADRID Guided sightseeing includes the Prado Museum and sights of the Cibeles Fountain and Calle Alcala. (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
CORDOBA Guided walking tour includes the Mosque of the Caliphs. Free time to browse before departing for Seville. (B) 354 mi / 570 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Cordoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Cordoba 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 in Seville
SEVILLE Visit Plaza de Espana. Guided sightseeing includes the Casa de Pilatos and a walk through the Santa Cruz quarter. Enjoy [LF] dinner with local specialties at El Palacio Andaluz restaurant with Flamenco entertainment. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVOURITE
CULTURE & TRADITION Feed the gypsy within you with 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
SETUBAL Free time for lunch in the vibrant food market.
AZEITAO [LF] Visit a traditional tile workshop. LISBON Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. (B) 273 mi / 440 km
LOCAL FAVOURITE
ART & ARTISTRY Enter a world of authentically handmade Portuguese tiles at the Sao Simao Arte workshop and gallery in Azeitao. It is here that distinguished antique collector Antonio Soares Franco creates his ceramic masterpieces by hand in the style of his ancestors.
Lovely Lisbon
LISBON Guided sightseeing includes Jeronimos Monastery and cloister with a photo stop at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Join a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOTS The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces. Lisbon is home to the 16th-century Monastery of Jeronimos, adorned with its 100-foot facade featuring images of St. Michael the Archangel and Our Lady of Belem. See the 16th-century Belem Tower, which served as a fortress but also as an embarkation point for sailors and was their last sight of land before the start of their journey. Lisbon's Monument to the Discoveries pays homage to great Portuguese explorers with a spectacular carved prow of an ancient ship.
Seasons in the Sun
LISBON Fly to Funchal.
SANTA CRUZ Orientation walk. Free time (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS The Island of Madeira is boasting 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 Visit Mercado dos Lavoratores and the "open-air-museum" of the Santa Maria. Take the cable car to Monte and take in views of the city. 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
SANTA CRUZ Day at leisure. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
NATURAL WONDERS Head West and stop in Camara de Lobos, a small fishing village that in 1949 Winston Churchill chose to paint. 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 which are the village's main attractions and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Sights of Santa Cruz
SANTA CRUZ Stop for a walk in the village of Porto da Cruz. Free time in Santana, for its typical houses with thatched roofs. Fly to Lisbon.
LISBON Free time. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
TOUR HIGHLIGHT Time to pack your bags and say goodbye to the magical Island of Madeira with a flight to Lisbon to relax and reminisce over your stunning adventure.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
