Globus Highlights of Spain and Portugal(ZZ)
9 days from Barcelona to Lisbon
Like the blue Azulejo-tiled walls on Portugal’s beautiful buildings, homes, and churches, we’ve pieced together the best experiences of two sun-washed countries for those looking for an enlightening getaway. On this 9-day tour of
Spain and Portugal, you’ll spend two nights each in four legendary cities spanning from the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the golden coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, Madrid’s artistic energy, Seville’s medieval past, and Lisbon’s tiled and cobbled charm await your arrival and exploration. With immersive sightseeing, you’ll dive into the history, culture, and cuisine of each city during the must-see, must-taste, and must-hear experiences, from Portugal’s sweet red port and mournful fado music to Spain’s dry Rioja wine and lively flamenco performances.
Itinerary (2024)
| Day 1 | ARRIVE IN BARCELONA, SPAIN |
| | Welcome to Barcelona! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D) |
| Day 2 | BARCELONA |
| | Gaudi’s Masterpiece BARCELONA Guided sightseeing includes the Palau de La Musica and panoramic views of the city and harbor from Montjuïc Hill. Stop at Sagrada Familia Basilica, Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluna, and Paseo de Gracia. (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. |
| Day 3 | BARCELONA–MADRID |
| | Splendid Spain Scenic drive through the Catalonian and Aragonian countryside en route to Madrid. (B)385 mi / 620 kmFREE 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. |
| Day 4 | MADRID |
| | Masterpieces in Madrid MADRID Guided sightseeing includes the Prado Museum and sights of the Cibeles Fountain and Calle Alcala. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTART & 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. |
| Day 5 | MADRID–CORDOBA–SEVILLE |
| | Treasures of Cordoba CORDOBA Guided walking tour includes the Mosque of the Caliphs. Free time to browse before departing for Seville. (B) 354 mi / 570 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba 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. |
| Day 6 | SEVILLE |
| | Dance Steps in Seville SEVILLE Visit Plaza de España. Guided sightseeing includes the Casa de Pilatos and a walk through the Santa Cruz quarter. Enjoy [LF] dinner with local specialties at El Palacio Andaluz restaurant with Flamenco entertainment. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & 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! |
| Day 7 | SEVILLE–SETUBAL–AZEITÃO, PORTUGAL–LISBON |
| | Painting the Town in Portugal SETUBAL Free time for lunch in the vibrant food market.AZEITÃO [LF] Visit a traditional tile workshop.LISBON Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. (B) 273 mi / 440 kmLOCAL FAVORITE ART & ARTISTRY 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. |
| Day 8 | LISBON |
| | Lovely Lisbon LISBON Guided sightseeing includes Jeronimos Monastery and cloister with a photo stop at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Join a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC 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 Jerónimos, adorned with its 100-foot façade featuring images of St. Michael the Archangel and Our Lady of Belém. See the 16th-century Belém 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. |
| Day 9 | LISBON |
| | Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B) |
Included Globus Meals
Full buffet breakfast daily; 3 three-course dinners