22 Day Inspiring Spain, Portugal & Morocco With Northern Spain
A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
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.
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.
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Spain. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. 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.
Please note: If you are going to be late to the welcome meeting, kindly inform the hotel reception.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Hotel check-in time is at 3 pm. If arriving prior to this, you will be able to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. 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. Afterwards, you continue your exploration of Barcelona on a panoramic bus tour.
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.
The Holy Family building proposes one of the most exciting experiences possible today, integrating us in the vision of a genius, Antoni Gaudí, capable of imagining at the beginning of the 20th century a building that incorporated the viewer in the process of Divine Creation, and made for almost 150 years, successive generations were involved in his dream. Something different, impossible to find anywhere else, a living element that evolves as it is concluded, together with the feelings of those who visit it and know it in depth. A monumental complex impossible to compare: a complex architectural project, a world heritage site, on whose exterior stand out its 18 towers with more than 100 meters high; its three thematic facades where Life, Death and Glory are represented by innumerable statues and symbologies based on nature and the Gospels; an interior space that allows the spiritual communion of those who enter, transferred by Gaudí to a Mediterranean forest in which the light filters with different tonalities through its stained glass windows, bathing the inclined columns branched like trees.
This is an audio-guided tour. You will have your own audio guide headset to tour at your own pace.
Starts: approx. To be confirmed on tour with your Tour Guide
Duration: approx. 2-3 hours
Transport: Make your own way. The site is approximately 2.6km from Plaza de Catalunya and it's accessible by Metro (Sagrada Famila station) or taxi.
Please note the start and duration times advised are subject to change depending on the traffic, weather and tourism conditions on the day. Your Tour Guide will provide you with appropriate expectations while you are on tour.
Spend the night like a local discovering Barcelona's favourite tapas. During this tour you will visit a number of establishments who pride themselves on this casual cuisine. Immerse yourself in Spanish culture as you visit five separate venues for Spanish tapas and wine (or soft drink, if you prefer).
Starts: approx: To be confirmed on tour with your Tour Guide
Duration: approx 3 hours
Meeting point and transport: Make your own way to the metro “Liceu” in Las Ramblas. Exit “Teatre Liceu”, meet your guide on the street level by the glass elevator. This site is accessible by Metro Line L3, towards “Zona Universitària” or taxi.
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. 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 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.
During the day, you will enjoy some free time to explore 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.
In the evening, go on a bus ride to the popular viewpoint Mirador de San Nicolas. A great way to enjoy beautiful 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 Morocco and Spain. During the ferry transfer, it is essential to be aware that travelers are responsible for carrying their own luggage for a significant distance. This includes navigating through immigration building halls, using stairs (not escalators), and tackling steep staircases on the ferry itself. Please ensure that your luggage is packed in a way that allows you to carry it comfortably and unassisted throughout the journey.
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 (entrance not included).
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.
The art of hammam, a traditional steam bath/bathhouse, is an ancient and integral part of Moroccan life. At the heart of Marrakech medina, enjoy a rejuvenating moment at a traditional Moroccan Riad dedicated to relaxation. Enjoy a private Beldi Hammam including a Moroccan black soap exfoliation.
Today enjoy a cooking class at the the legendary restaurant at La Maison Arabe where you will use modern equipment found in everyday kitchens. At the end of each workshop, you will dine on the meal you have prepared. At a typical half-day workshop, one learns to prepare an appetizer and a main dish, or a main dish and dessert. The workshops are conducted by a dada (traditional Moroccan cook) or a chef.
Starts: approx: 3pm
Duration: approx: 3 hours
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
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. During the ferry transfer, it is essential to be aware that travelers are responsible for carrying their own luggage for a significant distance. This includes navigating through immigration building halls, using stairs (not escalators), and tackling steep staircases on the ferry itself. Please ensure that your luggage is packed in a way that allows you to carry it comfortably and unassisted throughout the journey.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided orientation tour in the irresistible city of Seville. Seville is home to the country’s best Fiestas and the site of some well-known scenes in big films. Afterwards, perhaps visit the city’s colossal Gothic cathedral and its famous Giralda, or bell tower. The Seville Cathedral is the third largest church in the world as well as the largest Gothic church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also the final burial place of Christopher Columbus. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure further discovering this enchanting city.
We’ll set off for Portugal today. On the way, we’ll stop in Mértola and Beja (time permitting).
This morning we will set out on a morning orientation tour of charismatic Lisbon. We’ll visit traditional neighborhoods and take in the Belem district, a relaxed area on the Tagus River known for its fresh seafood restaurants and colourful houses. We invite all our travellers to try a “Belem cake”, an exquisite local delicacy. This area is the birthplace of the great Portuguese navigators who sailed the oceans in the Fifteenth Century. Along our tour we will see Belem Tower and the beautiful Jeronimos Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The afternoon following our guided tour is free for you to relax or explore this great city independently.
Get ready for a night of tasty Portuguese food, tipples, and tunes on this Lisbon tour. You’ll discover the city as dusk falls, heading out alongside locals for dinner and drinks, and taking in a dramatic Fado performance that will leave you mesmerised all night long.
To join this activity you will need to make your way to Central Lisbon by 7pm (subject to change - time and location to be confirmed by your Tour Leader). A taxi to the starting location costs approximately €10 to €15 each way.
Start time approx: 7:00pm
Finish time approx: 11:00pm
It’s a long day of travel to Madrid, Spain’s elegant capital. On the way we’ll stop in Mérida, with its imposing Roman theatre taking us back to the Roman Empire. Did you know it still operates after 2,000 years, hosting festivals in summer?
After breakfast, your tour around Spain, Portugal and Morocco comes to an end. However, you are now to embark on a post tour travel exploring northern Spain independently.
This morning, make your own way back to the train station to make your train to Bilbao, one of the most prominent cultural cities in Spain.
Seen as the capital of the Basque region, an area with its own distinct culture and language, you will notice the diversity of the country. One of the most famous institutions in the city is the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum, a must visit for anyone staying in the city.
A day to explore Bilbao. To help you about, included is a hop-on hop-off pass that will take you to the main attractions of the city. The day will be yours to explore them all at your own leisure.
Make your own way back to the bus station to catch your bus to San Sebastian, another centre of the Basque region. The city itself is iconic for jet-setters, it’s lively atmosphere, nightlife and it’s incredible cuisine - most notably the mane pintxos bars scattered throughout the old town.
Today, enjoy an included hop-on hop-off pass to take you to all the attractions. Later in the day, make sure you spend some time on its most famous beach, La Concha, to soak in the atmosphere in what is considered one of the best beaches in Europe. This evening, the pintxos bars await.
Your adventure across Spain, Portugal and Morocco comes to an end this morning. Included is an bus ticket to take you to Bilbao airport.
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 package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”
By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and an overview of the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorize 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 will be applicable during your ferry to and from Morocco - you will be required to handle your luggage up and down some flights of stairs.
This particular tour is categorized as a “4”: Lively Pace
This is considered a fast-paced tour. In order to explore as much as possible, this tour may require early starts and long travel days. One to two nights at one destination are standard. While some free time may be scheduled, most sightseeing is included throughout this tour. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage. To ensure this trip is right for you, 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 aid, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour, your Tour Leader will suggest contributing towards a ‘tipping kitty’ which can then be used to tip local guides, hotel staff, driver, etc. You will have complete visibility over amounts tipped and any funds left will be distributed back to travellers. This tipping kitty is not mandatory, however, over time we’ve found it frees travellers from the stress of keeping the right change at hand and not knowing appropriate tipping amounts. We suggest EUR2 for hotel staff, EUR3-4 for local guides and EUR2-3 for the driver (suggestions are per person per day).
Please note that this tipping is not for your Tour Leader. If you are happy with the service provided by your Tour Leader we recommend tipping EUR2-4 per person per day.
Luggage Requirements
Please take note of the following important instructions regarding luggage for this tour:
By following these guidelines and packing light, you will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience during the tour.
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, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,772.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
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.
Visa & Passport information
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.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.safetravel.govt.nz for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Spain, Portugal & Morocco - Group tour between 20 to 40 travellers
Northern Spain (Day 18 - 22) - Independent travel
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:
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.