18 Day Inspiring Spain, Portugal & Morocco (2020/21)

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Spain. 

Make your own way to your hotel. 

Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm. Please confirm this time by asking hotel reception or checking for a note in the hotel lobby. 

There may be some free time before your welcome meeting to get your bearings in Barcelona, the Catalan capital known for its art and architecture. 

Your accommodation is connected to downtown Barcelona by train, a 20 to 30 minute ride. Depending on the rail card you choose, a train ride costs between EUR 1.20 to EUR 2.50 each way; a taxi ride averages EUR 22 to EUR 30.

Please note: If you are going to be late to the welcome meeting, please inform hotel reception. 

Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Start the day with a walking tour of the charming Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s historic central area dating back to the Middle Ages. 

The rest of the day is free for you to keep exploring this attractive city with a beach vibe and proud Catalan identity. You’ll find plenty of art, cuisine and architecture to get excited about. 

The city was the home of celebrated architect Antoni Gaudi, an icon of Catalan Modernism who revolutionised Spanish architecture. Modernist landmarks, like his grand Sagrada Familia church, are dotted around the city. Seven of Gaudi’s properties are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

Visit renowned museums, like the Barcelona City History Museum to see ancient excavated relics. Gaudi’s celebrated, grand La Sagrada Familia cathedral is a must-visit, with its intricate mosaics inside and distinctive sky-piercing spires. You can climb to the top of these spires for panoramic views over the city.

Stroll the pedestrian-friendly boulevard of Las Ramblas, ideal for people watching. It’s home to souvenir shops, street artists, cafes and folk Sardana dancers. Starting at the Plaça de Catalunya and running for 1.2km down to Mirador de Colom, this famous stretch is dotted with cafes and kiosks, and jam-packed with people from morning to night.

Barcelona is also renowned for its exquisite and varied gastronomy. Enjoy a steamy cortado in a sidewalk cafe. Of course, tapas are a must – nibble on these bite-sized appetisers around the bar like a local. 

We’ll head south along the spectacular Mediterranean coast to València today.

On the way, we’ll stop in the fortified city of Peñíscola, joined to the mainland by a very thin stretch of land. It’s a beautiful setting here for you to wander, with a fairytale castle, steep narrow streets and rugged mountains. 

Spend the night in València, a laid-back port city along the Mediterranean. The old capital of the kingdom of València is home to beautiful churches, beaches and it has the important distinction of being home to paella, surely the most famous Spanish dish!

Depending on traffic, we’ll arrive late afternoon. You may wish to take a taxi downtown (approximately EUR 8) and stroll past its beautiful churches and historic buildings. Don’t forget to try a paella valenciana before heading back to your hotel!

Be ready for a long but exhilarating day as we journey to sunny, enchanting Andalusia today, nestled on the southern tip of Spain’s Iberian Peninsula.

This is a region of enormous history and heritage, being occupied by the Romans, the Moors and finally Christians. It’s the home of passionate flamenco, not just a famous dance, but a genuine Spanish art form. It’s known for bullfighting, beautiful beaches, great food and dreamy landscapes, with charming whitewashed villages. Think Mediterranean coastline, bright sun and perfect blue skies. 

Our first stop is at Alicante, with some free time to explore. Perhaps take the funicular up Santa Barbara Castle for some sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline, or simply stretch your legs on a walk along the beach. 

At night we’ll arrive in Granada, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms up to 1492, the city is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and loads of natural beauty. 

It’s time to explore the famous Alhambra and Generalife Gardens today with your guide. Given the vastness of this sprawling complex, this involves approximately three hours walking – don’t forget your walking shoes!

The Alhambra is contemporary history of Granada’s Arab past. Its buildings, towers, palaces, patios and gardens make this palace and fortress complex one of the most visited monuments in Spain. It towers over Granada’s historic Arabic quarter. Within the fortress you’ll find exquisite palaces and serene pathways weaving through amazing gardens and courtyards. The detail is next level – sumptuous interiors, beautiful Islamic geometric patterns, exquisitely carved wood, incredible ornamental features. First built by the Moors as a fortress during the Muslim rule of Spain, the complex is testament to their decadent lifestyle. 

The rest of the day is free for you to see more of Granada at your own pace. The city is home to a huge number of tapas bars – what better way to pass the time?

Walk around the Albaicín (the old Arab Quarter), a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses. Visit the Alcaiceria, the big bazaar in the centre of the city that was the original Moorish silk market, and peruse craftworks on sale like ceramics, marquetry and leather goods.

Climb the steep streets up to the popular viewpoint Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the Alhambra, the jewel in Granada’s crown. 

After a long day sightseeing, you may want to consider a visit to one of the best preserved hammam in Spain: Hammam Al Andalus. Bookings are essential and your tour leader can assist you to book on the day. Options range from EUR 32 for bathing to EUR 77 for bathing and a 30 minute relaxing massage.

It’s an 8am start this morning, with a transfer to Algeciras to board the ferry to Morocco. Accompanied by your European guide, you’ll sail from Europe to Africa, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar.

Upon arrival, meet your Moroccan guide and journey by bus along the coast. We’ll stop in Asilah, a small city on the northwest tip of the Atlantic coast. The city is a living art gallery, thanks to its renowned month-long art festival every summer, where artists paint wall murals throughout the medina. 

You’ll have free time to explore.

We’ll then head to Rabat for the night, diplomatic and administrative capital.

Please note: Keep your passport ready as you will pass international border controls in both Spain and Morocco.

The morning, your tour leader will help you explore Rabat’s main highlights: the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a striking masterpiece of modern Moroccan architecture and the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco, is another of the city’s beautiful landmarks. 

We’ll then set off for romantic Casablanca. This busy port city is famous for its art deco buildings and the modern-day masterpiece, the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa.

It took more than seven years to build this impressive site. Decorated with intricate tiles – more than 10,000 m2 of zellige was used – beautiful carvings and an unusual glass floor, allowing worshippers to feel like they’re praying directly over the ocean. This huge building is part on land and part on sea. 

Afterwards, we’ll set off for ancient, exotic Marrakech – a feast for the senses. Be enticed by the alluring scents and brilliant colours of the spice markets, the sounds of the musicians, the rich folds of carpets, delectable foods, acrobats and perfumed gardens. Marrakech won’t disappoint – it’s eclectic, beautiful and a modern fusion of Moroccan and international culture. 

Depending on arrival time, once you’ve settled into your hotel, we’ll head to the old medina to catch a glimpse of this bustling destination at night. 

After breakfast, meet your local guide and set off for a morning tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood flowing through the city. 

A medina is the historic heart of a city. Shops, restaurants, markets and homes line the twisting and turning streets. This is the trading centre of the city and the sights, sounds and fragrant smells are almost overwhelming. The walls surrounding the medina, made of a distinct orange-red clay and chalk, were built in the 12th century. 

We’ll stop by Koutoubia Mosque; its famous minaret is the prototype for others of its kind around the world, including La Giralda in Seville. The mosque is surrounded by beautiful gardens. 

Walk back through the streets of the old medina to the famous Djemaa el-Fna, the main square of Marrakech in the heart of the medina. It’s big and frantic, with scores of people shopping, eating, getting henna tattoos and watching snake charmers. Packed with locals and tourists alike, it’s certainly memorable.

The rest of the day is free to explore further or shop in the bazaar. No doubt you’re becoming familiar with Moroccan delicacies, like aromatic tajines, couscous and the street food favourite pastilla. Moroccan food is as exciting as you’d imagine – spicy, full-flavoured and often boasting a mix of contrasting textures and flavours. You’ll find street vendors and waiters at restaurants all eager – almost too eager – to win your custom. Make like a local and sip sweet mint tea at a cafe as you watch the world go by. 

If you choose to include an Optional Tour today, please note that due to time constraints, you may only select one.

We’ll begin our journey to the Sahara along mountain roads today, crossing over Morocco’s highest pass, Tizi n’Tichka (2,260 metres), to arrive at the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou – you may recognise this from Game of Thrones. Centuries ago, this was an important stop for caravans carrying salt across the Sahara. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains as a striking example of southern Morocco architecture. 

We’ll take a walking tour of its grand kasbah, a fine example of clay architecture.

Then, a drive out to Ouarzazate reveals dramatic landscapes where productions like Lawrence of Arabia, The Sheltering Sky and Black Hawk Down were filmed. This charming village, once an old military enclave, is now home to two movie studios. 

We’ll stop for the night in the Dadès Valley. 

This morning we’ll leave for Todra Gorge, a massive trench rising over 250 metres to form a dramatic and spectacular natural sight.

We’ll continue to Erfoud, a city known as the desert gate given its location on the edge of the Sahara.

After breakfast, we’ll journey to Midelt, a market town originally built as a base for mining in the area. It’s the perfect spot to break up the journey back from the Sahara. Surrounded by natural wonders, like imposing Mount Ayachi looming over the town, it’s a refreshing place to take a breath and relax.

Then it’s onto the living museum of Fes. The well-preserved medieval labyrinth of Fes is the country’s cultural capital, surely the spiritual heart of Morocco. 

You’ll have free time here – perhaps a chance to explore the old city, stop by one of the city’s famous tanneries, or see the oldest university in the world.

This morning, your guide will take you on a tour of the beautiful imperial city of Fes.

We’ll see the grand seven golden gates of the impressive royal palace and the walled old Jewish Quarter. You’ll see the distinctive, ornate city gate, Bab Bou Jeloud. This iconic blue gate is the entrance to the old medina, where you’ll take a walking tour. Walk in the narrow maze-like streets of the city passing artisans at work, vendors selling leather and oils, and locals gathering to eat, shop and pray. The winding paths – no cars allowed, instead you’ll see donkeys – seem to go on forever in this 540-acre medina. 

Later in the afternoon we’ll set off for the coastal town of Tangier, Europe’s gateway to Africa. Being just a short boat ride from Spain, it boasts an interesting mix of African and European influences. When you arrive in Tangier, the rest of the day is yours.

Its medina, a star attraction, is everything you’d expect – lively, with the typical narrow, labyrinthe-like alleyways of shops, teahouses and homes. A great place to people watch is the Grand Socco, a large square at the main entrance of the medina and a popular meeting place. 

You’ll be transferred to the port to meet your European guide and board your ferry back to Spain. 

On arrival in Algeciras, you’ll be taken to Seville, capital of Andalusia. This bustling port is known for being a joyous town; famous for oranges, tapas and flamenco. 

Seville is another Andalusian city that has roots linked to North Africa as seen through its architecture and cuisine. But it is flamenco for which Seville is truly famous. Originating as an expression of oppression by the region’s gypsy population, this area is the birthplace of the guitar, first designed for use in flamenco music. Today, the town is still the world capital of flamenco.

Please note: Keep your passport ready as you will pass international border controls in both Morocco and Spain.

It’s a free day in Seville for you to explore at your own pace.

The Moorish influence here is undeniable, as you’ll see if you visit the Alcázar of Seville, an elaborate fortress and palace with beautiful formal gardens. Used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, it’s one of the oldest palaces still in use in the world.

You might like to see the majestic Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic building in Europe. This sprawling monument was built in the 16th century and houses the remains of Christopher Columbus and his son, Diego. Its Mudéjar (Moorish-Christian) Giralda Belltower is one of its most jaw-dropping features, and was originally part of an ancient mosque built by the previous ruling Moors.

You could stop by the Santa Cruz quarter – the perfect scene for the masterpiece Carmen, as well as precisely where the myth of libertine Don Juan developed. 

The food of Seville won’t disappoint. All your favourites are here; paella, gazpacho, churros. Seville is home to traditional favourites like carrillada (pork cheek), cazón en adobo ( shark in a Moorish marinade) and espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas) – the name might sound unimaginative but the dish is certainly not!

We’ll set off for Portugal today. On the way, we’ll stop in Pales de la Frontera and Mértola (time permitting).

Enjoy a free day in Lisbon, a city that oozes charm and character, with its beautifully renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. The capital serves up the best of Portuguese life, from architecture to nightlife and delicious food, especially seafood. 

There are plenty of interesting museums, like the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, National Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Coach Museum.

Perhaps a visit to Sao Jorge Castle, a medieval citadel that dates back to Moorish times. It sits on the highest point of the Old Town so you can look over the city of endless angular white houses and buildings with distinctive red terracotta rooftops.

The best place to explore Lisbon’s nightlife is the bohemian Bairro Alto neighbourhood, with several places that offer mesmerising Fado performances. 

It’s a long day of travel to Madrid, Spain’s elegant capital. On the way we’ll stop to see the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a renowned Catholic pilgrimage site.

If you’re a football fan and in Madrid on a match day, you might get lucky with a chance to see one of the local teams, Atletico or Real Madrid.

Enjoy one last delicious breakfast this morning, before your adventure comes to an end after checking out of your hotel. 

Madrid is a glorious city to explore – we recommend spending a couple of extra days to make the most of it. If you do extend your stay, you may wish to consider taking part in one of the two optional tours.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey.

Check out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or, alternatively, please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost.