Spain and Portugal: 10 Extraordinary Cities

Portugal is a country brimming with a seafaring history and old-world charm. Many cultures have thrived here over the centuries as evidenced by the stately palaces, medieval castles, tranquil monasteries and quaint fishing villages they left behind. Lisbon, the capital, enchants with limestone buildings, intimate alleyways and easygoing vibe.

Enjoy a tour of Lisbon with an expert local guide, roaming streets that gently rise and fall over the hills on which this coastal city is built. See the Belém Tower, an intricately carved limestone structure with Moorish-inspired architecture, and visit the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery.

Journey to Évora, a beautifully preserved medieval city located on a sun-drenched plain in southern Portugal, stopping en route for a wine tasting. On arrival, visit the historic town center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to view an ancient Roman Temple, the Gothic 13th-century Sé Cathedral with its Romanesque architectural influences, and the striking city walls — all must-see treasures.

Drive eastward into Spain, long a crossroads of western Europe — ruled by the Romans, swept by the Moors and reclaimed by crusaders — and a crucible of architectural and culinary innovations that still resonate. Its cities, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, like tapas, each come with their own flavor and story. Stop in Mérida to view its Roman amphitheater, built to host gladiatorial combat. Journey into the Andalusia region to Seville, a bastion of Moorish architecture and whitewashed barrios with jasmine-scented streets. Ride a horse-drawn carriage to a palace where the owners host your private dinner, followed by a performance of flamenco dancing and singing at their historic home.

One of Spain’s most romantic cities, Seville was home to the legendary Don Juan and Carmen, and its warm, easygoing atmosphere welcomes you. Visit the city’s gems, including the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the Jewish Quarter, where you stroll a labyrinth of narrow streets dating to the time of Moorish rule. Your afternoon is free to relax or explore on your own.

Take in the beguiling city of Granada, an Andalusian hub where Catholics, Jews, Muslims and the Romani all had a hand in creating its eclectic history and culture. Explore Alhambra, a vast palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site that exemplifies the height of Moorish architectural flourish. Dine at a restaurant offering striking views over the site.

Travel to Córdoba, a city of winding, stonepaved streets and whitewashed houses, their wrought-iron patios and balconies graced with flowers. Visit this city’s historic Jewish neighborhood, and then enter the former Great Mosque, now known as the Mezquita, to view its breathtaking Moorish-influenced interior. Enjoy time to explore before boarding a highspeed AVE train to Madrid. Cap off your day with a fun tapas tour for dinner.

Situated 2,100 feet above sea level, near Spain’s geographic center, Madrid is Europe’s highest capital city. With its ideal blend of the historic and the modern, wonderful cuisine and a buoyant nightlife, Madrid never disappoints. Get to know the city alongside an expert, visiting the Royal Palace to admire its rich decor. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy free time to explore independently, perhaps following the sound of flamenco guitar pouring from an intimate café.

Discover Toledo, a place in medieval Europe where Muslim, Jewish and Christian communities coexisted. Visit the Sephardic Musum, Synagogue and Cathedral as well as Santo Tomé church, where you behold the El Greco masterpiece The Burial of the Count of Orgaz, one of history’s most influential works of art. Savor some time on your own to further appreciate Toledo before returning to Madrid, with the rest of the day free.

Journey to La Rioja, stopping en route for a tour, followed by a chef-led gourmet lunch with wine pairings at the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture. Proceed to Elciego and check into the Hotel Marqués de Riscal. Settle into your luxurious room and admire the hotel’s amazing design, created by master architect Frank Gehry.

Spain’s storied Rioja region comes to life as you visit an olive oil mill and sample their oils, walk through Laguardia and taste wine with tapas in one of the village cellars.

Drive to Bilbao today, where you tour galleries devoted to modern and contemporary art, including the monumental sculpture The Matter of Time, at the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. After lunch at a local restaurant fly to Barcelona.

Connect with the best of the city, starting at the Barcelona Pavilion, a study in minimalism. Then explore the iconic Sagrada Família, a spectacular basilica designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Behold the towering spires outside and take in the incomparably detailed vaulted ceiling inside. Enjoy time for lunch at leisure in the Central Market, also known as La Boqueria. Your afternoon is on your own before tonight’s festive farewell dinner.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.