Duration: 9 Days
This Escape brings together the sights and cultures of the most famous cities in Spain and Portugal—Barcelona, Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, and Lisbon—and weaves them into one marvellous holiday. Barcelona has so much to offer! During your guided sightseeing, marvel at the Sagrada Familia Basilica, Gaudi’s yet unfinished masterpiece. In Madrid, visit the famous Prado Museum, one of the world’s most prestigious art museums. A guided walking tour in Cordoba showcases the sights, including a visit to the magnificent 8th-century Mosque of the Caliphs. In Seville, visit the Casa de Pilatos, with a splendid collection of Roman sculptures.
In Seville, enjoy dinner with local specialties and Flamenco entertainment. In Lisbon, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Throughout this Spain and Portugal holiday, you’ll be accompanied by an expert Tour Director and Local Guides who will bring these destinations to life with in-depth, first-hand knowledge of the cities’ histories, sights, cultures, and insider secrets. Magnificent churches and cathedrals, local specialties and wine, and much more...what else could you ask for in a dream holiday and guided tour of Spain’s famous cities and Lisbon?
Welcome to Barcelona! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travelling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Gaudi's Masterpiece
BARCELONA Guided sightseeing includes sights of the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluna, and a stop at the Sagrada Familia. Continue on for a panoramic view of the city and harbour from Montjuic Hill. (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) 385mi/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) 354mi/570 k
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 Guided sightseeing includes the Casa de Pilatos and a walk through the Santa Cruz Quarter. Globus Local Favourite Dinner includes 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!
Lyrical Lisbon
A scenic drive en route to Lisbon.
LISBON Free time this evening. (B) 273 mi/440 km
FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE Stroll the cobblestone alleys of Lisbon's charming Alfama district, the popular quarter of seamen and Fado singers. Fado is a style of Portuguese folk music, with distinct Moorish and African influences, it is played in the traditional Fado restaurants and can be enjoyed while tasting local specialties.
Lovely Lisbon
LISBON Guided sightseeing includes Jeronimo's Monastery and its Cloister and a photo stop at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. 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 30.5 metre (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.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
