Spain and Portugal: History, Traditions and Gastronomy

Trip Overview

Get immersed into the iconic culture of Andalusia and discover the centuries old influence of the Moorish and Jewish cultures in this region of Spain and the lesser-known coastal cities of Portugal and its capital. Encounter the magnificence of many centuries old temples and buildings now considered world heritage sites along the way. Discover the once capital of the “New” Province of Cordoba’s Caliphate, the Palace-City of Medina Azahara, be surprised by the magnificence of La Alhambra, walk through the narrow streets of Carmona and discover some of the most important works of the 16th Century Manuelino art in Belem, Portugal.

Itinerary Highlights

10 NIGHTS / 11 DAYS
LISBON TO MADRID

PRICING per PERSON:
$ 6,495 USD

What´s included:

Itinerary

Welcome cocktail and dinner.

Today discover the Alhambra, the great work of the Nasrids, the last Hispanic Muslims. Through its’ rooms, patios and gardens it is possible to understand the fascination that the Islam culture has had with water and vegetation. Later, walk thought the Albaicín where it is possible to discover the mark that Christian Spain imprinted in Granada. In the evening enjoy a Flamenco show in the Sacromonte Caves.

This morning head to The Hills of La Alpujarra, a true source of health and well-being. Situated less than 30 minutes from the coast of Granada and Almería it has a vast number of fountains and springs with therapeutic properties. This morning venture into one of the springs or spas of the region. In the afternoon visit a ham producer in Trevélez, a village high in the hill.

The expedition today is led by the endless olive groves of Jaén and Córdoba. Visit an olive mill and learn about the different qualities of Baena’s (denomination of origin) olive oil. Later, continue to Montilla, famous for its wines and olive oils. Stroll through the streets and discover the many palaces, churches, monasteries and more from the 16th and 17th centuries. In the evening, already back in Cordoba, participate in a private cooking demonstration in an old ancient Arab steam bath and enjoy dinner and local wines, along with a private Flamenco recital.

Perhaps Cordoba was the most powerful city of Al – Andalus at its peak. The Grand Mosque bears witness of that glorious era despite or because of its conversion to Cathedral. Finish the visit with a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and its cozy courtyards. On the way back to Seville, visit Medina Azahara, and Carmona where you will have the opportunity to explore its narrow cobblestone streets.

Of the three capitals that the Islam had in Andalusia, the Christian Kings chose Seville as theirs. Visit the Alcázar, one of the masterpieces of mudejar style architecture. Continue to the imposing Gothic Cathedral, followed by La Giralda and a through the old quarters of the city. In the afternoon discover the Roman city of Italica, which was founded in the year 206 BC. Tonight, visit some of the most acclaimed tapas bars in the city.

The city of Jerez has always enjoyed a privileged economic position which, from the 18th century has been reinforced by the export of sherry. Today visit Sherry and enjoy a tasting of this unique wine, later witness the Equestrian Art displayed at the Royal School of Equestrian Art followed by a seaside lunch in Cadiz, the said oldest city of the west, founded by the Phoenicians more than 3,000 years ago.

This morning depart for Tavira, in Portugal a city established in I BC, located on the route between Ossonoba (Faro) and Baesuris (Castro Marim), between the hills of Algarve and the Gilao River. Stroll through the streets of the city and visit a Fish Salting factory. In the evening enjoy a tasting of some of the most emblematic dishes of the region

Continue the expedition in Lisbon. Full day exploration of the city and some of the most beautiful neighborhoods of the city; Visit the Church of San Antonio, the fortress, the Chiado and La Baixa. Visit the Ancient Art Museum with a curator and, In the evening, witness a Fado musical performance with an exquisite dinner.

This morning, visit the beautiful village of Sintra. Located at the foot of the mountain range of the same name, Sintra has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, continue to the port of Cascais, an old fishing town that used to be the royal summer retreat of King Luis. On the way back, stop in Belen to enjoy an off-hours visit of the World Heritage site Monasterio de los Jerónimos. Tonight, enjoy a private farewell cocktail and dinner.

End of the Trip.

Map

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