Duration: 8 Days
What could be better than spending eight days in Portugal and Spain? Spending them during the off season when crowds are fewer and travel prices are lower! Begin your European holiday in Lisbon to enjoy guided sightseeing through the Imperial history of the colourful city. In Fátima, hear the story of Our Lady of Fátima at the site where Mary appeared to three shepherd children, then travel to Oporto for sightseeing and port-wine tasting. Enjoy a wine tasting and dinner at a hacienda in Salamanca. Stand before the masterpieces of Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and more in Madrid’s Prado Museum. Eight days of sumptuous color, cuisine, and culture await you on this guided vacation in Portugal and Spain!
Please note: Itinerary is based on 2024, and is subject to change. Full details will be confirmed in 2024.
Welcome to Lisbon! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travelling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Lovely Lisbon
LISBON Guided sightseeing includes a photo stop at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces. Along the banks of the River Tagus see the 16th-century Belem Tower, which served as a fortress and an embarkation point for sailors, it was their last sight of land before the start of their journey. Lisbon's impressive sculpture, the Monument to the Discoveries pays homage to great Portuguese explorers with a spectacular carved prow of an ancient ship.
Templars & Sanctuaries
TOMAR Free time to browse.
FATIMA Stop to see the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary before continuing on to Porto. (B) 236 mi / 380 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
MIRACULOUS EVENTS In 1928 the Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary was built to celebrate the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children and the 'Miracle of the Sun.' Today Fatima is a principal pilgrimage destination and welcomes multitudes of pilgrims from around the world.
Panoramas & Port Wine
PORTO Guided sightseeing includes a panoramic drive to the mouth of the Douro River and the cathedral. Visit the Arabian Hall in the Stock Exchange. Port wine tasting at a local cellar. Free time this afternoon. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LOCAL TASTES The grapes from the vineyards in the Douro Valley surrounding Porto provide the main ingredient for one of the world's most recognised fortified wines. Visit a local wine cellar and taste centuries of tradition in a glass of Port wine in the city that bears its name. Saude!
Good-Bye Portugal, Hello Spain!
SALAMANCA Globus Local Favourite Wine tasting and dinner at a local hacienda. (B,D) 286 mi / 460 km
LOCAL FAVOURITE
LOCAL TASTES Salamanca is a captivating city with a unique blend of history and culture. It is also known for its culinary traditions and wine production. Experience gastronomic delights and a wine tasting in the cellars of a blissful vineyard retreat in the Duero Valley.
Spectacular Spain
SALAMANCA Orientation walk includes Plaza Major.
MADRID Guided sightseeing includes the Prado Museum and sights of the Cibeles Fountain and Calle Alcala. (B) 137 mi / 220 km
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.
Marvelous Madrid
MADRID Free day. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
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.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
