This tour features a combination of escorted and independent travel. Part of your journey will be enjoyed as a group experience, led by expert tour leaders or local guides. The remainder is self-guided—whether by rail, cruise, or overland—allowing you the freedom to travel between destinations independently and explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Incredible sightseeing including guided visits in Athens, Porto, Lisbon, Madrid, Seville, Granada, Barcelona and more throughout the itinerary
✓ Small, intimate group experience - no more than 24 people in Spain and Portugal
✓ Embark on a picturesque cruise along the Douro River
✓ Entry fees to Merida’s Roman Theatre and Granada’s mighty Alhambra
✓ Immerse yourself in the emotive sounds of Portugal's traditional Fado music and enjoy a mesmerising Flamenco show
✓ 18 nights in centrally located, 4 and 5-star premium accommodation
✓ 5-day cruise on the Aegean Sea with Celestyal Cruises in an exterior cabin – including select drinks with meals, entertainment and port charges
✓ Airport transfers included on the first and last day of your tour
✓ Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 8 dinners, including a glass of wine, beer or soft drinks during meals on board the Celestyal Discovery
✓ Travel in comfort with luxury coach transportation
✓ Benefit from the expertise of an English-speaking Tour Director throughout the journey (except while on board the Celestyal Discovery)
✓ Economy class flight from Athens to Madrid
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Athens!
In the evening you will meet your Tour Director at the hotel’s reception for a Welcome Meeting.
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
Embark on an extraordinary journey aboard the Celestyal Discovery Cruise, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the enchanting Aegean Sea and its unique Mediterranean islands. Our breathtaking 4-night Iconic Aegean cruise gives you an unforgettable feast of ancient history, authentic cuisine, Greek culture and stunning vistas. Your voyage takes you through crystal-clear waters to discover an exciting blend of thrilling attractions, dramatic cliffs, rolling landscapes and all the romanticism of the Greek islands.
The magical sun-kissed island of Mykonos invites you to admire its stunning coastline, soft sandy beaches, and rugged rock landscapes. Affectionately known as the “Island of the Winds”, Mykonos is home to the 16th Century windmills that have become iconic landmarks on postcards. The energetic Greek island is well known for its beauty, diverse range of bars, cafes, restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere.
Settle into your comfortable exterior cabin and join your fellow travellers for an exclusive private welcome dinner. Enjoy your accommodation in your superior cabin for a truly luxurious experience.
Today is a day for you to savour at your leisure, embracing the pleasures of your cruise and immersing yourself in the stunning Mediterranean scenery. You'll have the freedom to select from a range of enticing shore excursions thoughtfully curated by Celestyal Cruises. Celestyal staff will be on hand to assist you in planning and arranging these excursions to suit your preferences.
The dynamic beach resort of Kuşadası welcomes you with its warm and friendly ambience. Take time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar. Continue to Patmos, boasting a spiritual vibe thanks to the legend of St. John. Explore the lush, forest-like hills that encircle the capital.
The stunning landscape of Greece’s largest Dodecanese Island, Rhodes, seamlessly incorporates dramatic ancient and historic sites with charming modern hillside villages. Here you will find the majestic medieval fortification of the Acropolis at Lindos perched on the clifftop above the crystalline Aegean. Explore the cobbled alleyways and narrow arteries in the Old Town where you will discover opulent architecture with Ottoman and Italian influence.
As we pull into Heraklion, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th-Century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront or opt to go on a whirlwind adventure around the Cretan countryside.
Next, the spectacular sweeping scenery of Santorini will simply take your breath away. The romantic island is the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island's calm and tranquillity.
Disembark the cruise after breakfast. Your Tour Director will be on hand to lead you to meet your local Greek guide, who will accompany you on a captivating exploration of the city of Athens.
Commence with a drive through the Panathenaic Stadium, a historic site that played host to the modern Olympics in 1896. The next stop will be at the Temple of Zeus, often regarded as the father of all Gods. From there, your exploration of Athens will take you to its key landmarks, including the Parliament, Currency Museum, the Catholic Cathedral, the neoclassical buildings of the Academia, the University, the National Library, and Adriano's Arch.
The highlight of your day will be the visit to the Acropolis Archaeological area, where you'll marvel at the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the iconic Parthenon, and the Erechtheion Temple dedicated to Poseidon.
Today is spent at your leisure in this ancient city.
Today, you will check-out of your cabin after breakfast and be transferred to the airport in time for your included, international flight to Madrid.
Upon arrival into Madrid, you will be privately transferred to your accommodation where you will have the afternoon at your leisure.
At 7pm, meet your Local Guide at the hotel’s reception, who will brief you on your touring throughout Spain and Portugal.
Internal Flights - Luggage Allowance: please note checked luggage allowance is 23kg.
Embark on a morning adventure to uncover the treasures of Madrid, one of the world's most thrilling cities. Witness its iconic attractions and immerse yourself in the inherent passion that defines this vibrant metropolis.
The afternoon is yours to leisurely delve deeper into the city's enchanting marvels.
Today, you will head west towards the historical city of Salamanca.
Here, you will be treated to a city tour including; Salamanca Cathedral, Casa Lis, Roman Bridge of Salamanca and arguably the most famous city site; the 800 odd year old - University of Salamanca.
After your city tour has concluded, spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Say ‘adios’ to Spain as you’re bound for Portugal today.
Your first stop en route to Porto is Pinhão - a beautiful little town on the Douro Riverbank and famous for their centenary cellars. Taste their wines while visiting their stunning vineyards. After the tasting experience, enjoy a local products-based lunch.
Continue to Porto. Located along the Douro River estuary in Northern Portugal, Porto is one of the oldest European towns, and proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996.
This evening is spent at your leisure.
Today is all about Porto.
In the morning, you’ll be guided around the riverside city, taking in such sites as; Porto Cathedral, also known as Sé Catedral. This impressive Romanesque cathedral offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its terrace. Explore the interior, which features stunning architecture and historical artefacts. The Stock Exchange Palace, Palácio da Bolsa, located just a short walk from the cathedral. This neoclassical building is renowned for its opulent interiors, including the Arab Room, where you can admire intricate Moorish-style decoration. The Santa Clara Church, this Gothic-style church is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful stained glass windows. Take a moment to appreciate its religious and historical significance.
After lunch (not included), head to the nearby Ribeira dock for a relaxing Douro River Cruise. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Douro River, where you'll be able to appreciate the picturesque landscape of terraced vineyards, historic bridges, and colourful buildings. As you cruise, sip on a glass of fine Portuguese wine (paid locally) and take in the fresh breeze.
Spend this evening at your leisure.
Today, depart for Aveiro, known as “The Portuguese Venice”. Enjoy a cruise on its beautiful canals aboard a traditional Moliceiro boat. Enjoy time at leisure and explore the town, the old Beira Mar neighbourhood and the Aveiro Fish Market.
Continue to Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe and the birthplace of Fado.
Spend this afternoon at your leisure.
Today may seem long as you´ll discover several small historical towns, but distances are short and sweet.
Depart to the Tomar´s Monastery, a Gothic and Manueline style masterpiece considered a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Continue to the picturesque fishing town of Nazaré where you will have some time to wander at your own pace.
Continue to Obidos, a beautiful example of Portuguese medieval walled town. Spend some time at your leisure exploring this town.
Continue to Lisbon, the Portuguese Capital.
Spread across seven hills and known for its decorative arts, Lisbon is one of Europe’s most interesting capitals. Join a morning city sightseeing of the ancient Olissipo. Drive through its main squares and avenues, Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Monument to the Discoverers, Marquis of Pombal Square & Liberty Avenue.
Afternoon is at leisure for you to catch the nostalgic corners of Alfama Quarter, the old city gathered next to its Castle, with old buildings nested in narrow twisting “Ruas” full of colour housing the genuine “tabernas”.
In the early evening, join your fellow travellers and enjoy a typical Portuguese dinner visiting one of the oldest Fado venues in the city.
Wave goodbye to Portugal as you’re Spain bound today.
Your first stop en route to Seville is the ancient capital of the Lusitania Province, Mérida. Now, the capital of Extremadura, in western Spain, was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. There are still remains of the ancient city, such as the spectacular Roman Theater (entrance included). Spend some time at your leisure before departing for Seville.
On arrival into the famous Andalusian capital, check-into your hotel and have the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Today you’ll explore romantic Seville on a city tour.
Visit such notable sights as; the picturesque Plaza de España, Royal Alcázar of Seville, Catedral de Sevilla and La Giralda.
Spend some time navigating the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter as this labyrinth dates back to the time of Moorish rule.
Enjoy the evening at your leisure in the ‘City of Light’.
Depart to Cordoba, a landmark of enormous heritage from a splendorous past. You´ll visit its impressive Mosque, now a Christian Cathedral, and its narrow Arabian-style streets.
Bond for Granada, most magic city in Spain, driving through endless olive oil groves.
In the early evening, join your fellow travellers to experience the most authentic Gypsy Flamenco show in Spain, including dinner - an evening not to forget.
It’s time to explore the famous Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. Given the vastness of this sprawling complex, this involves approximately three hours walking – don’t forget your walking shoes! Your transfer will take you to La Alhambra for you to complete this visit on an audio-guided tour.
The Alhambra is the 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.
Today you depart for Valencia with a stop in Ubeda on the way.
Ubeda is often considered the Spanish olive oil capital. Enjoy a pleasant walk through this historical gem and taste their unique extra virgin olive oil before having a light lunch.
Some notable sights worth seeing here include Plaza Vázquez de Molina (where you will most likely have lunch), a marvel of Renaissance architecture the Sacra Capilla del Salvador, the beautiful chain-decorated façade of Palacio de las Cadenas and the now luxury hotel, Hospital de Santiago.
This afternoon you will arrive in Valencia where the afternoon will be at your leisure.
Today you’ll explore Valencia´s old town and the exterior of the most avant-garde complex: Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.
Continue your journey in the early afternoon towards Catalunya. Reach Barcelona, main Mediterranean Spanish city and home to world famous architect Gaudí, symbol of Catalonian modernism.
We highly recommend, whilst in Barcelona, enjoying a drink at the W Hotel for its amazing vistas.
Begin your day in Barcelona with a city discovery. See the Barcelona Pavilion, a study in minimalism built for the 1929 International Exposition. Then explore the Sagrada Familia (entrance not included), a still-unfinished cathedral designed by Catalan architect Antoní Gaudí.
The afternoon is free to explore the city at your own pace. There are many different additional tours (organised locally) which may be of interest to you.
In the early evening, join your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.
Your tour has now come to an end. We hope you enjoyed you trip!
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
For more information on your Greek Island cruise, click HERE
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $3,345.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
2-24 Persons
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Please note: groups under 8-10 passengers will be operated with an English-speaking driver-guide.
Internal Flights - Luggage Allowance:
Please note checked luggage allowance is 23kg.
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
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