Sample the best of Iberian Peninsula's fabulous food, vibrant cities and fascinating history
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Tuck into tasty tapas in Madrid
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Take a train Andalusia, spending a day in Cordoba on the way
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Explore the narrow streets and buzzing squares of sunny Seville
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Soak up the sun on a beach in the Algarve
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Enjoy a romantic evening cruise along the Douro River
What's included
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private transfers and rail travel
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Privately guided city tours, cooking classes and hikes
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
A fabulous city-hopping tour of southern Spain and Portugal, immerse yourself in the history, incredible food and vibrant culture that make the Iberian Peninsula such a fabulous corner of Europe to explore.
Begin the Spanish capital of Madrid where you’ll get your first taste of tapas, an introduction to the country’s story from a local historian guide and visit the world-famous Prado Museum, one of Europe’s great art galleries.
Take a train south to Andalusia, are mountainous region ruled by the Moors from the 8th-15th centuries, leaving behind an incredible architectural legacy. En route, spend a day in the handsome city of Cordoba, a centre of culture and learning in the Muslim golden age and home to the famous ‘Mezquita’ Mosque–Cathedral. From here continue to Granada, whose hilly old streets are overlooked by the lavish Alhambra palace and Generalife Gardens, perhaps the finest example of Moorish design anywhere.
Next turn west to sunny Seville. Its old centre is dominated by the towering mosque turned awe-inspiring cathedral – one of the largest in Europe – beautiful Alcázar palace complex and the General Archive of the Indies, once the centre of the Spanish Empire. From here, narrow streets and buzzing squares brimming with century old bars, restaurants and shops make it a great city for long nights out alongside the locals. You’ll also attend an evening of flamenco and hands-on cooking class.
Continue westward into Portugal for a couple of days relaxing on the sands of the Algarve at a beautiful little resort with a restaurant overseen by the country’s most highly decorated chefs, and two more in the rural region of Alentejo where you can trace Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and the Neoclassical in the ‘museum city’ of Évora.
Close by is the elegance and old-world charm of the capital, Lisbon, and a little further north the fabulous riverside setting of Porto. Spending two nights in each, and ending in a romantic evening boat cruise along the Douro, glass of the valley’s celebrated vinicultural produce in hand.
Example trip itinerary
Madrid
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Madrid
Accommodation in Madrid
- 78 rooms and suites
- Spa
- Bar
- Restaurant
One of Madrid’s newest boutique hotels, set among noble residences and grand embassies, the Hotel Urso has quickly become one of the hottest and trendiest places to lay your head.
Housed in an early 20th-century palace, its neoclassical style gives off an air of sophistication, while its well-appointed interiors are comfortable and stylish.
Its six categories of guest rooms and suites range in size, bed type and views, yet all feature contemporary Scandi-chic-style décor and calming tones.
Wake up to breakfast each morning in the light-filled conservatory, decorated in Oriental-inspired 18th century wallpaper and bamboo plants. When you’re ready to head out and explore, you’ll find sites such as the Madrid History Museum, the National Museum of Romanticism and the vast Retiro Park, located close by.
Wind down after your day in the plush wood-panelled spa, offering a variety of massages and specialised skincare treatments. And when you’re fully relaxed, head to the sleek Urso Bar for cocktails and gourmet Spanish tapas, made from ingredients sourced at the local Mercado de Barceló. The hotel restaurant, ½ Ración, which means ‘half portion’ offers cuisine based on the traditional Madridian food.
- 150 rooms and suites
- Two restaurants
- Terrace
- Bar
Built on the site of a former palace, Villa Magna has plenty of history but that doesn’t mean it’s living in the past. Sleek design coupled with all the modern amenities you could want, make this a luxurious base from which to explore the city.
The 150 rooms and suites are a mix of classic and contemporary and provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. A Nespresso coffee machine ensure you’re ready to take on Madrid. The hotel is located on Paseo Castellana, one of the longest and widest avenues, and you can access the Corte Ingles shopping mall from the ground floor.
There are two restaurants, one serving traditional Spanish dishes with a twist, and the other specialising in Cantonese cuisine. No trip to Spain would be complete without sampling some tapas, and you can relax on the terrace and savour a selection of delicious morsels. Blankets and heaters ensure you can enjoy the atmosphere all year round.


The Spanish capital is bursting with life and passion and through its well planned streets course Madrilenos, the city's inhabitants who really know how to live
Madrid is a powerhouse of culture, and no trip here could miss a tour of the the Golden Triangle of Art, encompassing the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Music is also an important feature and the city marches to the beat of flamenco, jazz and live music of all kinds. And don't forget that Madrid serves some of the most delicious tapas that there is.

Spain has an incredibly rich culinary history and is famous for its tapas, bite-sized morsels of delicious food usually enjoyed with a glass or wine or beer. You'll visit some of the city's best tapas bars and enjoy dining the way Spaniards have for more than two centuries.

Meet your art historian guide and venture out into the city to learn about its urban and architectural evolution since its foundation by the Moors in the early ninth century. Admire the wide variety of styles that coexist in the city, from contemporary architectural wonders to seventeenth century baroque buildings - most of them within the limits of the old city like the Plaza Mayor or the former City Hall - through the magnificent eighteenth century neoclassical period with such masterpieces as the Prado Museum, the Puerta de Alcalá and the Fuente de Cibeles. Close by, the elegant and glamorous Barrio de Salamanca, a showcase of 19th and early 20th century buildings.
The tour includes a visit to the Prado Museum, one of Europe's great art galleries, to see some of its 9,000 pieces by artists such as Bosch, Titian, El Greco, Rubens, Velasquez, Goya and Madrazo.

Madrid's Royal Palace was the residence of the Kings of Spain from the 18th century to the early 20th century. It was built by order of Philip V on the site of the old Alcázar fortress, a former Moorish castle. The Sabatini and Campo del Moro Gardens are among the Palace’s other attractions, as well as its several different façades. Notable among its numerous rooms are the Royal Guards' Room, the Columns Room, the Hall of Mirrors and King Charles III’s room.
Transfer
Private transfer to Madrid Atocha railway station
Transfer
High speed train from Madrid to Cordoba

Cordoba is perhaps Spain’s most handsome city, an historic centre of culture and lasting testament to a golden age of religious tolerance during its time as a caliphate. King Ferdinand III then claimed the city for Castile during the Spanish Reconquista, bequeathing it its gothic and renaissance finery. Visit today, and you'll find Cordoba's grand past beautifully reflected in the city's magnificent architecture. During your tour, explore the Moorish, Jewish and Christian quarters including the Alcazar with its beautiful gardens. You'll also discover Roman remains and the famous Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral.
Transfer
Private transfer from Cordoba to Granada
Granada
Accommodation in Granada
- 42 rooms
- Restaurant
- Spa
Granada is a city steeped in history, but this hasn’t stopped it embracing modern Spanish culture with aplomb. The blend of old and new is what makes a stay at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos so special.
The hotel is split across two buildings, one a renovated 19th century palace and the other a striking modern construction. The interior is bright and airy, and rooms in the older part of the hotel contain beautiful features such as plasterwork ceilings, Doric columns and friezes.
After a day of exploring, you’ll relish the opportunity to relax and unwind in the spa which features Turkish baths, a sauna and thermal pool. Sightseeing can build up quite the appetite so enjoy some traditional Spanish tapas or dishes inspired by the city’s Moorish past in the hotel’s restaurant.
No trip to Granada would be complete without visiting the majestic Alhambra, a series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th century. Be sure to also stop by the Granada Cathedral and the Alcazaba, a wonderfully preserved Moorish fortress.
- 75 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Sauna and Turkish bath
- Courtyard
Granada is a city with more than its fair share of beautiful buildings and stunning architecture. The luxurious AC Palacio de Santa Paula occupies the former Santa Paula Convent which has been lovingly restored to offer guests a relaxing retreat bursting with character.
The hotel is centred around a beautiful courtyard with elegant stone arches and palm trees, the delicate tinkling of the fountain in the background. It also houses the tombs of the nuns from the convent. Admire it from the wraparound balcony on the first floor, complete with 16th century frescos, or sink into one of the chairs and enjoy it illuminated at night.
Fusing old and new, the hotel has managed to retain its charm and authenticity while allowing guests to enjoy all the comforts of a modern hotel. There are 75 rooms and suites, some with exposed brick walls and views over the courtyard.
The restaurant occupies the former convent library and the menu makes for good reading, fusing traditional Andalusian flavours with more modern culinary concepts. The courtyard is the perfect setting for a glass of wine and nibbles.
You’re ideally situated on the Gran Via de Colon, one of the main avenues in Granada’s old quarter. The cathedral and archeological museum are on your doorstep and the majestic Alhambra is within walking distance.


Seville's brooding Andalusian sister sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Iberian Peninsula's highest massif. Renowned as the last stronghold of the Moors who were driven out of Western Europe in the 15th century, it's here that you'll best discover Andalusia's splendid Arabic architectural heritage at its finest at the beautiful Alhambra Palace.

The lavish Alhambra is Granada's most visited site. Once a palace and fortress for the city's Muslim rulers, the Alhambra means ‘red fort' and is named after the red clay used in its construction in the mid-13th century. The Generalife was the country residence of the Nasrid king and the recreational courtyard and its beautiful gardens sit on the slopes of the Cerro del Sol, offering spectacular views.
Transfer
Private transfer to Malaga

Start this route at the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a natural beauty spot in the centre of Malaga. It is a canyon carved by the river Guadalhorce river and recently a water channel from the reservoirs was constructed to make the most of the slope in a hydroelectric power station. This King’s Little Pathway, is commonly known as El Caminito del Rey because it was first opened by King Alfonso XIII in 1921 in celebration of the inauguration of the nearby dam. The walkway is three feet wide, rising one hundred metres above the river below, and is not for the faint-of-heart. Trekking the whole path takes about three hours, and offers a fantastic opportunity to take in the surrounding nature and crimson cliffs.
Transfer
Private transfer to Seville
Seville
Accommodation in Seville
- 151 guestrooms including 19 suites
- Two restaurants including a tapas bar by Michelin-starred chef
- Lobby bar with piano
- Fitness room
- WiFi
Steeped in history, the Hotel Alfonso XIII was constructed by order of the King as luxury lodging for the international VIPs attending the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.
This grand structure quickly became an emblem of the city centre and has been continuously used as a hotel until the present day, although Franco’s regime necessitated a name change to the Andalusian Palace while under his rule. To this day, you’ll find that it is the city centre’s only true, luxury property.
Typically Andalusian in style, the hotel expresses the region’s mixed Moorish and Castilian founding influences with authentic and detailed features. Each of its 151 bedrooms including its 19 suites are unique in design, falling into three style categories: Andalusian, Moorish, and Castilian.
Alongside its exalted, majestic architecture, Hotel Alfonso XIII is also notable for its large pool, which sits amidst lush gardens. This makes it a rare urban sanctuary and one of the only locations where being in Seville during the heat of high summer will be thoroughly enjoyable.
By the pool you’ll find an al fresco restaurant that turns itself into a twinkling vision after dark and serves Spanish and international delicacies. You can also eat in the sumptuously-tiled gallery surrounding an arched interior courtyard where you can take your breakfast and coffee. If you fancy something truly epicurean, the atmospheric Ena tapas bar is manned by Michelin-starred chef Carles Abellán of Barcelona. Afterwards, discuss the highlights of your meal to the accompaniment of live piano music at Bar Americano.
In terms of location, you’ll find that you really couldn’t be better placed to discover Seville. Hotel Alfonso XIII sits right on the edge of the old – pedestrianised – quarter, meaning that you can benefit from arriving to the hotel by car and walking five minutes to outstanding historic sites such as the Cathedral de Seville, the Alcazar, Puente de S. Telmo, and Plaza de Espana.


The jewel in the Moorish Caliphate of Cordoba and the capital of the most powerful Castilian Kingdom, Seville has been left with eye-popping architecture and majestic grace. While Seville reached its peak in the 17th century and then suffered terribly in the Spanish Civil War, today it has resurrected itself as the capital and largest city of Andalusia. You'll need to spend a few days here at least to experience the true essence of Spanish grandeur.

Meet an expert resident guide an take to two wheels, exploring the beautiful city of Seville at a leisurely pace. Cycle along its pretty streets and over the bridge, passing by the Golden Tower and through parks while your host brings the city to life with fascinating stories and intriguing anecdotes.

Flamenco is the traditional song and dance of the gypsies of Andalusia and was developed over hundreds of years before becoming popular in the 19th century as a form of café entertainment. There are three parts to every flamenco show: 'grande' or 'hondo' with intense, profound songs; 'intermedio'; and finally 'pequeño', lighthearted songs about love and nature.

Meet your host, Amelia Gomez, before beginning this hands on class where you will cook and taste some of the most famous dishes of Andalusian cuisine. Enjoy the traditional salmorejo, beetroot and avocado cream and Spanish omelette or fried aubergine with honey. You will learn how to prepare Paella with saffron, vegetables and chicken or seafood.
Transfer
Private transfer to the Algarve
The Algarve
Accommodation in The Algarve
- 13 rooms and nine suites
- Two Michelin starred restaurant
- Bar and wine cellar
- Two swimming pool
- Spa
- Tennis court
Perched above the blue Atlantic and surrounded by evergreen gardens and fronted by a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, Vila Joya is striking family-run boutique resort.
There are just 22 rooms and expansive suites, each unique and with direct sea views, and casual, luxurious interiors of light, warm tones, natural materials and fine examples of Portuguese craftsmanship. Each room also includes a terrace or balcony, some with direct access to the garden.
At lunchtime and dinnertime, the terrace becomes a dining space under Dieter Koschina, patron at Vila Joya for over 25 years, winning two Michelin stars and becoming one of Portugal’s most highly decorated chefs. Fine dining is central to the Vila Joya experience and indeed the reason many people stay here again and again. There are also lighter bites at the Pool Restaurant. Indulgence continues at the fabulous spa which focuses on water, air and light.


Sitting right at the foot of the country, the Algarve is one of Portugal's most popular coastal destinations and home to some of its loveliest beaches. West of Faro you'll find golden sands and hidden coves, with the coastline getting wilder the further west you head. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy life by the sea.
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Alentejo
Alentejo
Accommodation in Alentejo
- 92 rooms
- Two restaurants
- Spa
- Swimming pol
A short drive from the centre of Evora, Convento do Espinheiro is a historic hotel located within a 15th-century convent.
The chapel, cloisters, and extensive grounds create a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere and 92 rooms can be found in both the old building and modern annex.
Divinus Restaurant is located within the ancient wine cellar, and the high vaulted ceilings and flagstone floors really give the feeling of stepping back in times. In the summer, the courtyard, surrounded by Moorish arches, becomes another dining space provides the perfect place to dine while enjoying the sunshine. The bar is located in the former convent kitchen and the water deposit is now a wine bar where expert sommeliers will introduce you to the wines of the region.
The Diana Spa is named after the Roman temple of Diana in Evora, and features an indoor pool, treatment rooms, Turkish baths and sauna. There is also an outdoor pool, gym and tennis courts for those who like to keep active.
- 22 suites
- Restaurant
- Wine tasting
- Spa
This exclusive retreat, set in the heart of Alentejo, effortlessly integrates modern architecture into nature. The interiors are designed by Marcio Kogan and feature artworks by Michael Biberstein.
The 22 suites offer you a place to relax surrounded by luxury and the tranquillity and beauty of nature. For a truly stellar romantic experience, choose to sleep beneath the stars in one of the sky suites.
Dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant and go on a gastronomic journey with Miguel Laffan. The menu features Portuguese flavours and ingredients.
Enjoy the outdoors and take a leisurely stroll through the estate’s vineyards, do a wine tasting, or take a tour of the other wine farms in the region.
Find renewal at the Caudalie spa where the treatments carry through the vineyard theme with grape-based products. There are also yoga and meditation sessions on offer, as well as individually designed detox programmes.


Covering almost a third of the country, Alentejo is a vast region of cork plantation, wheat fields, vineyards and clusters of historic hilltop towns. Its name means beyond the Tajo, and it stretches south from the River Tajo to the northern mountain ranges of the Algarve. Explore the rolling hillsides, rugged peaks, endless plains and its sweeping Atlantic beaches. Vast swathes of sand lay sheltered between rocky cliffs and over 100km of the coastline is part of the South West Alentejo and Costa Vicentina National Park, an area rich in animal and plant life. Heading inland, Alentejo is littered with Roman ruins, crumbling Moorish castles, marble towns and whitewashed villages. The UNESCO towns of Evora and Elvas are home to baroque bell towers, temples and mighty fortresses and there are plenty of smaller atmospheric towns with winding cobbled streets to explore.


A UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the 'museum city', Évora traces some 2000 years of history, from the Roman to the Neoclassical via Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque.
The main square, Praça do Giraldo, is the heart of the city where you can see the 16th Century St. Anton’s Church and the popular Henriquina Fountain. The Gothic and Manueline architecturally influenced Church of St. Francis is a pearl of its own with its golden altars and painted blue, as well as the Capela dos Ossos - the Chapel of Bones – the entire room covered with about 5000 human bones and skulls built by Franciscan monks. Then, of course, there’s Évora’s Cathedral, by far the most dominating site in the whole town and the largest cathedral in Portugal. Inside, you may enter the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Piedade (also known as Chapel of Esporão), and observe the fine decoration representative of the Renaissance movement.
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Lisbon
Lisbon
Accommodation in Lisbon
- 4 restaurants and lounges
- In room dining options
- 2 swimming pools (outdoor and indoor)
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Rooftop running track
- Pilates studio
Located in the heart of the Lisbon, at the top of one of the city’s famous seven hills, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz offers spectacular views across the city and river.
282 rooms and suites are beautifully decorated with 18th-century style furnishings as well as tapestries, painting and sculptures by contemporary Portuguese artists. Most rooms come with a private balcony overlooking the hotel gardens, Eduardo VII Park or the River Tajo so you can enjoy bird’s-eye-views and wonderful sunsets over the city’s rooftops.
One of Lisbon‘s gastronomic gems, the Verandah restaurant serves fresher-than-fresh seafood caught from the nearby Atlantic Ocean and boasts an impressive wine cellar. For those with a keen interest in cooking, the hotel can arrange tastings, visits to the fish market and cooking classes. There is a also a sushi bar for fresh, healthy bites.
Named after the famous Portuguese artist, Jose Almada Negreiros, the hotel lounge is a favourite haunt for guests and locals alike. The centrepiece of the Ritz bar is Pedro Leitao’s piano, which has been signed by world-famous artists. Take a seat under one of the hand-made Centauros tapestries or head out onto the terrace to drink in the views.
There is a spa featuring an indoor pool and treatment rooms for when you want to completely unwind, as well as a rooftop fitness centre and running track for those who like an active start to their day.
There are 60 pieces of art throughout the hotel and privatley guided tours can be arranged for guests to learn more about them and their history.

Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Winding your way through the city, you’ll pass rows of houses in warm shades of orange, yellow and rust red. Washing is strung from wrought iron balconies and window boxes overflow with flowers. Weaving their way through this pretty patchwork are the city’s trams, the favoured mode of transport of Lisbonites and a great way to hop between the different districts.
Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azelujo tiles. The city is built on seven hills, each one offering spectacular views over the city and the River Tajo. It is also known for its lively restaurant scene and there are plenty of places to stop, sip a coffee and savour a Portuguese custard tart while watching the world go by

This tour allows you to discover Portugal's capital, colonised by many civilizations through the centuries including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and finally the Portuguese after 1147. You will visit the Castle of Saint Jorge and the surrounding area of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest quarter.
This city is linked with the heroic deeds of the Portuguese maritime exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. This was the Age of Discoveries and the Golden Era of Portugal, transforming Lisbon into the opulent center of a vast empire. Part of the wealth from these expeditions was used to build magnificent monuments in the extravagant Manueline style. Some of these monuments can still be seen, especially in the area of Belem. You will visit also the traditional commerce zones of the city, with their 18th-century buildings as well as the Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods.

This tour will take you on a journey to explore Portugal's traditional towns. Discover Sintra where hundreds of years of history and culture await. Walking through the city center you will find yourself surrounded by old houses now converted into quaint handicraft shops and traditional pastry shops. Driving around the mountain you will pass amazing chalets and aristocratic residences, until you reach the 19th-century Pena Palace, an incredible combination of architectural styles, colors and shapes.
The Palacio da Pena, located in the Sintra hills, is the greatest expression of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal. The palace was built in such a way as to be visible from any point in the park, which consists of a forest and luxuriant gardens with over 500 different species of trees originating from the four corners of the earth.
Cascais is a coastal town, once a small fishing village, that became popular with artists and writers thanks to its idyllic scenery. You will also have time to explore the town of Estoril.
Transfer
Private transfer to Lisbon Train Station
Transfer
Train from Lisbon to Porto
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Porto
Porto
Accommodation in Porto
- 109 rooms and suites
- Rooftop swimming pool
- Spa
- Two gourmet restaurants
This hotel was the family home of the Yeatmans, the British owners of a large port business. A hillside position on the banks of the River Douro in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia and next to ancient port houses puts the hotel in a prime position for epic views and interesting activities.
The decor is classic and elegant, in keeping with the family’s heritage. The 109 rooms and suites feature antique artefacts and pictures from different Portuguese wine producers, opening out onto private balconies overlooking the river and the city’s historic centre. Be immersed in the city’s culture in the ADF Suite, where the bed head is an original barrel top and the domed oak ceiling mimics the enormous oak barrels used in wine production.
A highlight of a stay at The Yeatman is dining at the two gourmet restaurants. Enjoy imaginative cuisine where the traditional flavours are reinterpreted and presented immaculately. The restaurant is bright and airy and offers spectacular views over the river. There’s a comprehensive list of Portuguese wines and food and wine pairing menus take you on a journey through Portugal’s diverse and varied wine regions.
Relax and unwind at the hotel spa which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, using natural ingredients from the surrounding vineyards. There is also an indoor and outdoor rooftop pool – take a dip in the evening and admire the twinkling lights of the city laid out before you.
- 105 rooms
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa treatments
- Fitness centre
Indulge in sophisticated luxury amid elegant surroundings at InterContinental Porto – Palacio das Cardosas in the centre of Porto. The exquisitely restored interiors speak of the palace’s grand past.
The 105 charming and spacious rooms and suites offer views out over peaceful enclosed gardens, Liberdade Square and the Clerigos Tower. The design is contemporary, making for comfortable inner-city havens. Chic suites boast living rooms, and balconies with views out over the Porto skyline.
Dine in style at Astoria Restaurant, where the menu features traditional Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine with modern flourishes. Local, seasonal ingredients ensure the richness of the traditional flavours is preserved. As the sun goes down sip on cocktails and port wines in the elegantly stylish Cardosas Bar. Styled on a British library, this is also where you’ll find an indulgent afternoon tea.
When you are not out exploring the fascinating city, relax with a spa treatment or two, or fit in a work out in the fitness centre.


Portugal's second city is one of Europe's most charming. Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface and people spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name.

This tour is a great introduction to Porto, its history and its cultural treasures. Discover a colorful city with medieval relics, soaring bell towers, extravagant baroque churches and stately beaux-arts buildings piled on top of one another.
Visit landmarks such as the Stock Exchange Palace, the Church of Saint Francis, the Cathedral and Lello Bookstore in the historic Ribera district - one of the most ornate bookstores in the world with carved wooden ceilings and stained glassed roof.

The best way to discover the romantic and mythical city of Porto is by boat, and this evening you will experience it in the most spectacular way. Cruise along the Douro River on your private boat and enjoy a glass of local wine as the views of soaring bell towers, baroque churches, and stately beaux-arts buildings are illuminated by the last rays of the sun.
Once the sun has set, the lit-up homes seem to dance along Porto’s hills, and the city takes on a whole new character.
Transfer
Private transfer to Porto airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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Luxury Spain and Portugal Trip
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A fabulous city-hopping tour of southern Spain and Portugal, immerse yourself in the history, incredible food and vibrant culture that make the Iberian Peninsula such a fabulous corner of Europe to explore. Begin the Spanish capital of Madrid where you’ll get your first taste of tapas, an introduction to the country’s story from a local historian guide and visit the world-famous Prado Museum, one of Europe’s great art galleries. Take a train south to Andalusia, are mountainous region ruled by the Moors from the 8th-15th centuries, leaving behind an incredible architectural legacy. En route, spend a day in the handsome city of Cordoba, a centre of culture and learning in the Muslim golden age and home to the famous ‘Mezquita’ Mosque–Cathedral. From here continue to Granada, whose hilly old streets are overlooked by the lavish Alhambra palace and Generalife Gardens, perhaps the finest example of Moorish design anywhere. Next turn west to sunny Seville. Its old centre is dominated by the towering mosque turned awe-inspiring cathedral – one of the largest in Europe – beautiful Alcázar palace complex and the General Archive of the Indies, once the centre of the Spanish Empire. From here, narrow streets and buzzing squares brimming with century old bars, restaurants and shops make it a great city for long nights out alongside the locals. You’ll also attend an evening of flamenco and hands-on cooking class. Continue westward into Portugal for a couple of days relaxing on the sands of the Algarve at a beautiful little resort with a restaurant overseen by the country’s most highly decorated chefs, and two more in the rural region of Alentejo where you can trace Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and the Neoclassical in the ‘museum city’ of Évora. Close by is the elegance and old-world charm of the capital, Lisbon, and a little further north the fabulous riverside setting of Porto. Spending two nights in each, and ending in a romantic evening boat cruise along the Douro, glass of the valley’s celebrated vinicultural produce in hand. | Whats included?
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Days 1-3 |
Madrid |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Madrid |
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Accommodation in Madrid
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Hotel Urso - $$$$$
One of Madrid’s newest boutique hotels, set among noble residences and grand embassies, the...
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Villa Magna - $$$$$
Built on the site of a former palace, Villa Magna has plenty of history but that doesn’t...
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Two nights in Madrid The Spanish capital is bursting with life and passion and through its well planned streets course Madrilenos, the city's inhabitants who really know how to live Madrid is a powerhouse of culture, and no trip here could miss a tour of the the Golden Triangle of Art, encompassing the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Music is also an important feature and the city marches to the beat of flamenco, jazz and live music of all kinds. And don't forget that Madrid serves some of the most delicious tapas that there is. |
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Tapas walking tour Spain has an incredibly rich culinary history and is famous for its tapas, bite-sized morsels of delicious food usually enjoyed with a glass or wine or beer. You'll visit some of the city's best tapas bars and enjoy dining the way Spaniards have for more than two centuries. |
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Historical and Artistic Madrid tour Meet your art historian guide and venture out into the city to learn about its urban and architectural evolution since its foundation by the Moors in the early ninth century. Admire the wide variety of styles that coexist in the city, from contemporary architectural wonders to seventeenth century baroque buildings - most of them within the limits of the old city like the Plaza Mayor or the former City Hall - through the magnificent eighteenth century neoclassical period with such masterpieces as the Prado Museum, the Puerta de Alcalá and the Fuente de Cibeles. Close by, the elegant and glamorous Barrio de Salamanca, a showcase of 19th and early 20th century buildings. The tour includes a visit to the Prado Museum, one of Europe's great art galleries, to see some of its 9,000 pieces by artists such as Bosch, Titian, El Greco, Rubens, Velasquez, Goya and Madrazo. |
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Royal Palace Madrid's Royal Palace was the residence of the Kings of Spain from the 18th century to the early 20th century. It was built by order of Philip V on the site of the old Alcázar fortress, a former Moorish castle. The Sabatini and Campo del Moro Gardens are among the Palace’s other attractions, as well as its several different façades. Notable among its numerous rooms are the Royal Guards' Room, the Columns Room, the Hall of Mirrors and King Charles III’s room. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Madrid Atocha railway station |
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High speed train from Madrid to Cordoba | |
Tour of Cordoba Cordoba is perhaps Spain’s most handsome city, an historic centre of culture and lasting testament to a golden age of religious tolerance during its time as a caliphate. King Ferdinand III then claimed the city for Castile during the Spanish Reconquista, bequeathing it its gothic and renaissance finery. Visit today, and you'll find Cordoba's grand past beautifully reflected in the city's magnificent architecture. During your tour, explore the Moorish, Jewish and Christian quarters including the Alcazar with its beautiful gardens. You'll also discover Roman remains and the famous Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral. |
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Private transfer from Cordoba to Granada | |
Days 3-5 |
Granada |
Accommodation in Granada
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Hospes Palacio de los Patos - $$$$$
Granada is a city steeped in history, but this hasn’t stopped it embracing modern Spanish...
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AC Palacio de Santa Paula - $$$$$
Granada is a city with more than its fair share of beautiful buildings and stunning...
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Two nights in Granada Seville's brooding Andalusian sister sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Iberian Peninsula's highest massif. Renowned as the last stronghold of the Moors who were driven out of Western Europe in the 15th century, it's here that you'll best discover Andalusia's splendid Arabic architectural heritage at its finest at the beautiful Alhambra Palace. |
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Tour of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens The lavish Alhambra is Granada's most visited site. Once a palace and fortress for the city's Muslim rulers, the Alhambra means ‘red fort' and is named after the red clay used in its construction in the mid-13th century. The Generalife was the country residence of the Nasrid king and the recreational courtyard and its beautiful gardens sit on the slopes of the Cerro del Sol, offering spectacular views. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Malaga |
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El Caminito del Rey Path Start this route at the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a natural beauty spot in the centre of Malaga. It is a canyon carved by the river Guadalhorce river and recently a water channel from the reservoirs was constructed to make the most of the slope in a hydroelectric power station. This King’s Little Pathway, is commonly known as El Caminito del Rey because it was first opened by King Alfonso XIII in 1921 in celebration of the inauguration of the nearby dam. The walkway is three feet wide, rising one hundred metres above the river below, and is not for the faint-of-heart. Trekking the whole path takes about three hours, and offers a fantastic opportunity to take in the surrounding nature and crimson cliffs. |
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Private transfer to Seville | |
Days 5-8 |
Seville |
Accommodation in Seville
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Hotel Alfonso XIII - $$$$$
Steeped in history, the Hotel Alfonso XIII was constructed by order of the King as luxury...
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Three nights in Seville The jewel in the Moorish Caliphate of Cordoba and the capital of the most powerful Castilian Kingdom, Seville has been left with eye-popping architecture and majestic grace. While Seville reached its peak in the 17th century and then suffered terribly in the Spanish Civil War, today it has resurrected itself as the capital and largest city of Andalusia. You'll need to spend a few days here at least to experience the true essence of Spanish grandeur. |
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Bike tour of Seville Meet an expert resident guide an take to two wheels, exploring the beautiful city of Seville at a leisurely pace. Cycle along its pretty streets and over the bridge, passing by the Golden Tower and through parks while your host brings the city to life with fascinating stories and intriguing anecdotes. |
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A thrilling flamenco show Flamenco is the traditional song and dance of the gypsies of Andalusia and was developed over hundreds of years before becoming popular in the 19th century as a form of café entertainment. There are three parts to every flamenco show: 'grande' or 'hondo' with intense, profound songs; 'intermedio'; and finally 'pequeño', lighthearted songs about love and nature. |
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Hands-on Andalusian cooking class Meet your host, Amelia Gomez, before beginning this hands on class where you will cook and taste some of the most famous dishes of Andalusian cuisine. Enjoy the traditional salmorejo, beetroot and avocado cream and Spanish omelette or fried aubergine with honey. You will learn how to prepare Paella with saffron, vegetables and chicken or seafood. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to the Algarve |
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Days 8-10 |
The Algarve |
Accommodation in The Algarve
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Vila Joya - $$$$$
Perched above the blue Atlantic and surrounded by evergreen gardens and fronted by a...
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Two nights in the Algarve Sitting right at the foot of the country, the Algarve is one of Portugal's most popular coastal destinations and home to some of its loveliest beaches. West of Faro you'll find golden sands and hidden coves, with the coastline getting wilder the further west you head. This is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy life by the sea. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Alentejo |
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Days 10-12 |
Alentejo |
Accommodation in Alentejo
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Convento do Espinheiro - $$$$$
A short drive from the centre of Evora, Convento do Espinheiro is a historic hotel located...
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L’And Vineyards - $$$$$
This exclusive retreat, set in the heart of Alentejo, effortlessly integrates modern...
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Two nights in Alentejo Covering almost a third of the country, Alentejo is a vast region of cork plantation, wheat fields, vineyards and clusters of historic hilltop towns. Its name means beyond the Tajo, and it stretches south from the River Tajo to the northern mountain ranges of the Algarve. Explore the rolling hillsides, rugged peaks, endless plains and its sweeping Atlantic beaches. Vast swathes of sand lay sheltered between rocky cliffs and over 100km of the coastline is part of the South West Alentejo and Costa Vicentina National Park, an area rich in animal and plant life. Heading inland, Alentejo is littered with Roman ruins, crumbling Moorish castles, marble towns and whitewashed villages. The UNESCO towns of Evora and Elvas are home to baroque bell towers, temples and mighty fortresses and there are plenty of smaller atmospheric towns with winding cobbled streets to explore. |
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Private guided tour of Evora A UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the 'museum city', Évora traces some 2000 years of history, from the Roman to the Neoclassical via Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The main square, Praça do Giraldo, is the heart of the city where you can see the 16th Century St. Anton’s Church and the popular Henriquina Fountain. The Gothic and Manueline architecturally influenced Church of St. Francis is a pearl of its own with its golden altars and painted blue, as well as the Capela dos Ossos - the Chapel of Bones – the entire room covered with about 5000 human bones and skulls built by Franciscan monks. Then, of course, there’s Évora’s Cathedral, by far the most dominating site in the whole town and the largest cathedral in Portugal. Inside, you may enter the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Piedade (also known as Chapel of Esporão), and observe the fine decoration representative of the Renaissance movement. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Lisbon |
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Days 12-14 |
Lisbon |
Accommodation in Lisbon
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Four Seasons Hotel Ritz - $$$$$
Located in the heart of the
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Two nights in Lisbon Europe’s second oldest capital, Lisbon is an effortlessly elegant city, full of old-world charm. Winding your way through the city, you’ll pass rows of houses in warm shades of orange, yellow and rust red. Washing is strung from wrought iron balconies and window boxes overflow with flowers. Weaving their way through this pretty patchwork are the city’s trams, the favoured mode of transport of Lisbonites and a great way to hop between the different districts. Lisbon has plenty to offer, with a plethora of museums and galleries as well as beautiful buildings covered in iconic azelujo tiles. The city is built on seven hills, each one offering spectacular views over the city and the River Tajo. It is also known for its lively restaurant scene and there are plenty of places to stop, sip a coffee and savour a Portuguese custard tart while watching the world go by |
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Lisbon highlights tour This tour allows you to discover Portugal's capital, colonised by many civilizations through the centuries including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and finally the Portuguese after 1147. You will visit the Castle of Saint Jorge and the surrounding area of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest quarter. This city is linked with the heroic deeds of the Portuguese maritime exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. This was the Age of Discoveries and the Golden Era of Portugal, transforming Lisbon into the opulent center of a vast empire. Part of the wealth from these expeditions was used to build magnificent monuments in the extravagant Manueline style. Some of these monuments can still be seen, especially in the area of Belem. You will visit also the traditional commerce zones of the city, with their 18th-century buildings as well as the Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods. |
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Sintra, Cascais and Estoril tour This tour will take you on a journey to explore Portugal's traditional towns. Discover Sintra where hundreds of years of history and culture await. Walking through the city center you will find yourself surrounded by old houses now converted into quaint handicraft shops and traditional pastry shops. Driving around the mountain you will pass amazing chalets and aristocratic residences, until you reach the 19th-century Pena Palace, an incredible combination of architectural styles, colors and shapes. The Palacio da Pena, located in the Sintra hills, is the greatest expression of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal. The palace was built in such a way as to be visible from any point in the park, which consists of a forest and luxuriant gardens with over 500 different species of trees originating from the four corners of the earth. Cascais is a coastal town, once a small fishing village, that became popular with artists and writers thanks to its idyllic scenery. You will also have time to explore the town of Estoril. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Lisbon Train Station |
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Train from Lisbon to Porto | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Porto | |
Days 14-16 |
Porto |
Accommodation in Porto
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The Yeatman - $$$$$
Many of the oldest port firms were founded by British merchant families, and the Yeatmans were...
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InterContinental Porto – Palacio das Cardosas - $$$$$
Indulge in sophisticated luxury amid elegant surroundings at InterContinental Porto –...
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Two nights in Porto Portugal's second city is one of Europe's most charming. Built on a steep riverbank, a jumble of colourful medieval houses hug the calm waters of the Douro River where wooden boats bob on the surface and people spill out of its cafes and bars, more often than not with a glass of the wine that gave the city its name. |
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Porto city tour This tour is a great introduction to Porto, its history and its cultural treasures. Discover a colorful city with medieval relics, soaring bell towers, extravagant baroque churches and stately beaux-arts buildings piled on top of one another. Visit landmarks such as the Stock Exchange Palace, the Church of Saint Francis, the Cathedral and Lello Bookstore in the historic Ribera district - one of the most ornate bookstores in the world with carved wooden ceilings and stained glassed roof. |
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Evening boat cruise along the Douro River The best way to discover the romantic and mythical city of Porto is by boat, and this evening you will experience it in the most spectacular way. Cruise along the Douro River on your private boat and enjoy a glass of local wine as the views of soaring bell towers, baroque churches, and stately beaux-arts buildings are illuminated by the last rays of the sun. Once the sun has set, the lit-up homes seem to dance along Porto’s hills, and the city takes on a whole new character. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Porto airport |