Welcome to Lisbon!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Lovely Lisbon
This morning, discover the historic grandeur of Lisbon when you join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing drive complete with photo stops at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Visit the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery and cloister with its 100-foot façade featuring images of St. Michael the Archangel and Our Lady of Belém. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to explore more of the city. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces, including the 16th-century Belém Tower, which was both a fortress and the embarkation point for sailors, 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.
Artistry in Azeitão
Bid adeus to Portugal as you cross over the border to Spain. Stop in Azeitão to [LF] visit a traditional tile workshop and see how the traditional azulejos (tiles) are created. Reach Seville and enjoy free time late afternoon and evening to start exploring Andalusia’s capital. (B,D) 311 mi / 500 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITION Enter a world of authentically handmade Portuguese tiles at the São Simão Arte workshop and gallery in Azeitão. It is here that distinguished antique collector Antonio Soares Franco creates his ceramic masterpieces by hand in the style of his ancestors.
The Squares of Seville
This morning, discover what makes Seville so special. Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Then join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing tour comprising a panoramic drive, a visit to the Casa de Pilatos, and a stroll through the charming Santa Cruz Quarter. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOT Walk through Seville’s picturesque Plaza de España, originally built for Seville's Ibero-American Expo at the 1929 World's Fair, the 540,000-square-foot plaza features a sprawling mosaic patio. Explore the historic Santa Cruz quarter and its magical maze of tapas, flamenco, and cafés
Magical Morocco
Today leave Europe and cross the Straits of Gibraltar by ferry to reach the northern coast of Africa. On arrival enjoy a scenic drive along the Barbary coast to Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. (B,D) 292 mi / 470 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDARY LIVES Travel the Mediterranean coastline of North Africa along the Barbary Coast, and explore this country that is a true melting pot of cultures from the South of Sahara, France, Spain and many more.
As Time Gs By
This morning’s guided city sightseeing is a fascinating journey through history and culture. See the Royal Palace, the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Kasbah of Oudayas. Continue to Casablanca and start your visit in style with [LF] lunch at Rick’s Café Américain before getting acquainted with the city during a panoramic drive to see the main landmarks, plus a visit to the Hassan II Mosque. Later, arrive at your hotel in Marrakesh. (B,L,D)224 mi / 360 kmLOCAL FAVORITE CULTURAL GEMS “Everybody comes to Rick’s. It is where deals are made and where time is passed.” Rick’s Café Américain was made famous by the iconic movie with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Enjoy lunch and relax in this iconic Moroccan venue and you’ll definitely want to play it again.
The Spice of Life
Start your day with a guided city sightseeing tour to discover the fortified “red city” of Marrakesh. Visit the remarkable Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs, both ooze with architectural beauty, culture, and history. This afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore more of this amazing city. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS Marrakesh is a magnificent feast for the senses, from its spice markets to its historic sites, including the intricate designs of Bahia Palace and marble masterpiece of the Saadian Tombs. Steeped in rich heritage and vibrant artistry, Marrakesh endures as a city of artisans who keep its ancient traditions alive.
Captivating Kasbahs
Depart Marrakesh for a scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains to Ouarzazate, an enchanting city considered the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Enjoy a guided visit of the outstanding Kasbah Taourirt, a UNESCO-listed, historic fortified residence. (B,D) 134 mi / 215 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTLEGENDARY SITE Ouarzazate has remained at the edge of the Sahara Desert for a long time. A city of palm trees and sandy lanes, it is known as “the door to the desert.” Today Ouarzazate is considered Morocco’s Hollywood, as it has been immortalized in movies like Lawrence of Arabia, Star Wars, and Gladiator. Many may recognize it as the port of Pentos, one of the Free Cities of the Game of Thrones.
Desert Oases
A fascinating day awaits! A scenic drive takes you through the desert via the Dades Valley with its oases filled with olives, dates, and figs, and views of the Todra Gorge, Morocco’s Grand Canyon. Arrive in Erfoud, an oasis town in the Sahara Desert, and take a [LF] 4-wheel drive excursion to the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi. Sip the traditional mint tea and enjoy dinner in a tent in the desert while watching the sunset. (B,D) 196 mi / 315 kmLOCAL FAVORITE EPIC RIDE A desert sea of sand dunes unfolds in front of your eyes while on a 4-wheel adventure in Erg Chebbi. Take in the endless expanse of sand and sky before sipping traditional mint tea. Afterwards enjoy dinner in a tent in the desert.
Sheer Beauty
Relax and enjoy the panorama as you drive north to Fez. En-route stop at Er Rachidia with its desert oasis architecture sought after by visitors and filmmakers alike. See the Ziz Gorges before arriving in Fez this evening. (B) 261 mi / 420 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDERS Drive along the dramatic and sheer slopes of Ziz Gorges on the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Take in the spectacular scenery carved by the River Ziz on your way to Fez.
The Heart of Morocco
This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing of Fez, Morocco’s oldest imperial city. Visit the Medina, one of the world’s largest and oldest urban pedestrian zones, and Medersa Bou Inania. Continue to Tangier, a melting pot of culture, and enjoy an orientation drive. (B,D) 217 mi / 350 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Discover a lively city akin to Disney’s Aladdin, bursting with vibrant hues and fragrant aromas. Fez’s ancient history comes to life in this part of the town surrounded by high walls, separating the maze of over 9.000 alleys from the outside world.
Strait to Spain
After breakfast drive to the port and board a ferry back to Spain. Continue to the Costa del Sol, one of Spain’s most famous seaside rivieras. Enjoy some leisure time this afternoon and evening to browse, try local specialties, or take a walk on the beach. (B) 68 mi / 110 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SIGHTS Cross the deep and narrow waters of the Strait of Gibraltar - connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. See the massive Rock of Gibraltar that, with Mount Hacho, forms the Pillars of Hercules standing high above one of the world’s busiest waterways. Keep an eye out for the numerous birds that migrate along the strait each year, including Atlantic puffins.
Sea & Sun
Enjoy a free day on the Costa del Sol, take a stroll on the promenade, browse the stores, laze on the beach, or try local specialties at a traditional chiringuito (beach bar). (B)ENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE MORE Endless beaches to stroll along, hidden caves, white villages that scatter the mountains, historical landmarks with centuries of culture, evenings spent sipping cocktails by the sea, pleasant temperatures all year round and happy friendly people that make you feel at home. These are the many ingredients of the area. Take your pick!
Splendid Spain
Leave the coast behind and drive to Granada. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Alhambra Complex, an Islamic architectural masterpiece. Visit the breathtaking complex with your Local Guide and discover what makes it so special. After your visit enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Later, enjoy some free time getting acquainted with this captivating city, shaped by its blend of cultural influences.* (B,L) 87 mi / 140 km*Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteedTOUR HIGHLIGHTARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada’s Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife, at the once summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers.
City of Three Cultures
Travel north to the majestic town of Toledo, a cultural melting pot of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian influence. Together with your Local Guide, explore the charming streets and visit the Synagogue, Cathedral, and Church of Santo Tomé. Learn about the artisan technique of inlaying precious metal into steel with a visit to a Damascene Steel Workshop. Continue to Madrid and enjoy some free time this evening. (B) 273 mi / 440 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITION Known as the “City of Three Cultures” Toledo gets its nickname from the ancient influences of the Romans, Visigoths, and North African Moors – evident in the city’s well-preserved synagogues, mosques, and cathedrals. See the Gothic cathedral, Santo Tomé Church with one of El Greco’s masterpieces, and Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue on a walk through this dynamic city.
Spend Your Day Your Way in Madrid
This morning your guided sightseeing features a panoramic drive, plus a visit to the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Explore more of Madrid with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Writing History
Turn the page of history and trace the steps of Ernest Hemingway on a walking tour of the city that inspired some of the author's famed works. From historic Plaza Mayor to Madrid¿s Barrio de las Letras, (literary quarter), and Puerta del Sol, you'll discover the former hub of literary and intellectual life in Spain.
Landmarks & Legends
Dream the impossible dream with an orientation drive through Madrid. Discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote."
This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
