Great Iberian Cities *NEW*

Ramble up Las Ramblas and to an unforgettable discovery of the Iberian Peninsula. The fiery coastal city of Barcelona kicks off your mesmerising encounter with Spain, and Portugal's capital, Lisbon. Set your watch to the leisurely Mediterranean way of life, spending the day relaxing or delving into the charm of a city that once inspired Gaudi's imagination. Later, meet your fellow compañeros and Travel Director for an orientation drive through some of the city's iconic sights, followed by a Welcome Reception.

We spend the morning exploring a city whose great passions include football, fashion and fairy-tale façades by famed architect Antonio Gaudi, whose Sagrada Familia we have an opportunity to see during our guided sightseeing tour of the city with a Local Specialist. We'll see the Las Ramblas and Plaça Catalunya at the heart of Barcelona, stopping to pay tribute to the great discoverer, Christopher Columbus at his monument overlooking the harbour. The rest of the day is yours to delight in Spanish culture and cuisine. Consider joining an Optional Experience to Montserrat to see the shrine of the Black Madonna - affectionately known in Catalonia as 'La Moreneta' or enjoy the flavours of tapas against the passionate backdrop of a flamenco guitar.

We leave the rugged Costa Brava behind and drive through the valleys and pastures of Aragon towards Spain's historical capital. We arrive this evening in Madrid, renowned for its vibrant nightlife which we will have an opportunity to enjoy on our own terms. This evening embrace la buena vida and soak up the passionate atmosphere of Madrid's vibrant streets.

This morning we join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of Madrid where we will see Plaza Espana, trendy Gran Vía, Puerta Del Sol and the Cibeles Fountain before visiting the world-famous Prado Museum. Admire the masterpieces of Velasquez and other Spanish greats at this extraordinary museum that is said to house the largest collection of European art in the world. Spend the rest of your day exploring the city on your terms. Visit the Royal Palace or stroll through Buen Retiro Park at the heart of the city - the choice is yours.

We meander southwards to the clifftop city of Toledo, where we'll join our Local Specialist for a walking tour through the narrow streets of this fascinating city. Visit the Church of Santo Tome, home to one of El Greco's most famous paintings - The Burial of Count Orgaz - and visit the oldest synagogue building still standing in Europe during your guided walk through the narrow streets. We arrive in Seville this evening and indulge in the effervescent spirit of Andalusia on our own terms.

The charisma of Seville is unmistakable. Meander through its charming streets during a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. View the symbolic Giralda Bell Tower, see the tiled fountains, pavilions and lush palms in the Maria Luisa Park and walk through the imposing Plaza de España. Later, we'll visit the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world, where Christopher Columbus is entombed before taking a walk through the historic Jewish Quarter. The fine art of olive oil production is explored this evening during a memorable Be My Guest dinner at an olive oil mill where you learn how oil is produced from the 6,000 trees.

We travel west to Portugal, meandering through the province of Huelva, renowned for its Jabugo ham. Passing the 13th century Castle at Aracena, we cross into Portugal's picturesque rural landscapes of the Alentejo - the country's cork capital. We arrive in colourful Lisbon where we'll meet our Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour celebrating the grand triumphs of the Portuguese in centuries past. See the Monument to the Discoveries, the suspension bridge that spans the Tagus, and Belém Tower. Meander through the quaint hillside Bairro of Alfama and visit the UNESCO-listed Hieronymite Monastery.

Enjoy sauntering through Lisbon's grand shopping boulevards and the cobblestone lanes of Bairro Alto or consider joining an Optional Experience to the historic towns of Cascais and Queluz. This evening we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with newfound friends and our Travel Director, toasting to an epic Iberian holiday.

Our journey through Spain and Portugal has come to an end. All's that left is to say a fond adeus at the end of an unforgettable holiday. Airport transfers are available. Conditions apply.