Madrid, Cordoba & Porto — A World Apart

Barcelona

Meet your private driver and vehicle for an airport transfer.. For your added comfort, an English-speaking assistant will meet you at your hotel lobby to walk you through your welcome package documents and assist with hotel check-in, if required.. A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.. With hundreds of restaurant options, choosing where to dine in an unfamiliar city can prove to be a challenge. To assist, within your final trip documents, you’ll receive a supplemental composition which showcases our top restaurant suggestions for Barcelona, as selected by Memori Tours Destination Experts.

Accommodation: Ohla Eixample (B) (Essential), Barcelona

Barcelona

Set out with your private guide for a half-day walking tour of Old Barcelona's historic Gothic Quarter. Take a journey back in time and discover Roman remains and medieval palaces nestled in the heart of the city. Stroll by medieval Roman walls and towers dating back to the 4th century, meander through narrow stone alleyways of the old Jewish Quarter, and stand at the center of the governmental square Plaça de Sant Jaume. Walk past the 15th-century Casa de l'Ardiaca, former residence of the archdeacon, and enjoy a visit to the 14th-century Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, an architectural marvel of Gothic Art. Marvel at its impressive interior, including a magnificent central nave full of finesse and elegant sobriety. After soaking up Barcelona's historic core, travel like a local as your guide hails a taxi to bring you to famed Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi's iconic Sagrada Familia. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and monumental masterpiece of architecture - still under construction over 100 years after building commenced. One of Barcelona's must-see sites, the Sagrada Familia is the largest, unfinished Roman Catholic church in the entire world, and its unique style is not to be missed. After your visit, a taxi will whisk you back to your hotel, though you can opt to continue exploring on your own should you wish. Please note: Passports are required to visit the Sagrada Familia. Failure to present a valid passport may result in denied access. Sagrada Tickets are non-refundable & guaranteed only at time of purchase.. Enjoy an amazing Flamenco show inside an intimate theater in the center of Barcelona. Your VIP Seat is reserved for you right in front of the stage and perfectly paired with a glass of Spanish Cava. Enjoy the spectacle of this cultural tradition, as you're dazzled by the music and dance of Spain's most famous art form.

Accommodation: Ohla Eixample (B) (Essential), Barcelona

Barcelona, Madrid

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer.. Depart by train from Barcelona to Madrid. The train ride takes approximately 2.5 hours.. Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer.. Meet your private walking guide in the hotel lobby and set out on foot for a pleasant walking tour which reveals the secrets of the two must-see attractions of the Spanish capital: the Prado Museum, and the Royal Palace. Along the way, you'll get to discover the most important buildings and avenues of the vibrant Madrid, from the time of the Habsburgs and the Bourbons up until today. The Prado Museum is one of the most important art galleries in the world. Its main corpus is nourished by the royal collections treasured for centuries by different imperial dynasties. Together with Las Meninas de Velázquez and Goya’s May 3rd 1808 , the galleries are full of masterpieces from the Spanish, Italian and Flemish schools. After your visit of the Prado, you'll be treated to a coffee break to recharge your batteries and take in the local ambiance. From there, you'll follow your guide on a walk to Madrid's Royal Palace, the largest in all of Western Europe. Built during the 18th century by Felipe V, the first king of the Bourbon dynasty, it is used in modern times by the Spanish Crown. As you visit, admire the official reception rooms, the museum area, the Royal Chapel, the Throne Room and the private rooms of King Carlos III and Queen Isabel II. After your tour, you may continue your Palace visit at leisure before independent return to your hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel Atlantico (B) (Superior Room), Barcelona

Madrid

Spend a half-day venturing out to explore Toledo with a private driver and a local guide. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toledo is Spain's medieval capital, and an area of inspiration for 16th-century master, El Greco. Surrounded by the River Tajo, the atmospheric walled town is crammed with churches, museums, and even steel workshops of master artisans, carrying on the tradition of the renowned swordsmiths of medieval Toledo. Upon meeting your local guide, take a walk into the past along the city’s cobblestone alleyways. Witness the 14th century Toledo Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, considered by some the magnum opus of Gothic style in Spain. In the Jewish Quarter, you’ll see Europe’s oldest still-standing synagogue, the Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue. Spot the imposing Alcazar of Toledo, a historic fortress with its strategic stance gazing out over Toledo to the River Tagus and lands beyond, and see the exterior of the medieval Castle of San Servando, former home to the Knights Templar.

Accommodation: Hotel Atlantico (B) (Superior Room), Madrid

Madrid, Cordoba

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer.. Depart by train from Madrid to Cordoba. The train ride takes approximately 2 hours.. Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer.. Enjoy a private walking tour with an expert local guide, setting out to explore the impressive historic and cultural monuments of Cordoba. Historically of great importance to both the Christian and Islamic powers in Europe, Cordoba was formerly a capital of the Roman Empire, and later the Umayyad Caliphate. The UNESCO organization recognized the universal importance of Cordoba's historic legacy and extended the title of World Heritage Site not only to the city's impressive Mosque-Cathedral, but also to all the streets and buildings around it. Enjoy a visit of the Mosque-Cathedral, with sections dating back as far as the 8th century, highly regarded as one of the most accomplished Moorish complexes ever built. Your guide will take you through the flower-lined streets of the Jewish Quarter, where you'll visit the exceptional 14th century medieval Synagogue. Round out your day with a stroll through the magnificent gardens and courtyards of the royal Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Castle of the Christian Monarchs), part of the UNESCO-listed city center near the Grand Mosque.

Accommodation: Las Casas de la Juderia (B) (Classic Room), Madrid

Cordoba, Granada

Meet your private guide and driver and set out on a half-day tour to discover the fascinating 10th century Medina Azahara, one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Spain. The history of Medina Azahara, the magnificent, enigmatic palace-city which was built for Abd-ar-Rahman III at the foot of the Sierra Morena mountains, is shrouded in myths and legends. Many believe Abd-ar-Rahman III, after proclaiming himself Caliph in 929 A.D., built the Medina in honor of his favorite wife, Azahara. However, modern archaeologists and researchers believe the true reason was actually one of strategy, trying to position the newly-created independent western Caliphate as one of the strongest, most powerful kingdoms in Medieval Europe. Explore the ancient site with your guide, and see what you think - was it love, or power? Please note, a short shuttle bus ride is required between your private transfer and the actual archaeological site.. Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Granada. Approximate travel time is 3 hours.. The medieval town of Granada is host to a number of optional (not included) cultural experiences, ranging from cooking demonstrations, tapas tours, and flamenco shows, to classes where you can learn to speak Spanish, how to paint ceramics, or how to dance in flamenco style. Please speak with your Travel Consultant if any of these are of interest.

Accommodation: Alhambra Palace Hotel (B) (Classic City View), Cordoba

Granada

Meet your private guide and depart from your hotel on foot for a half-day walking tour, discovering the historical, monumental and cultural richness of Granada. Explore the city's historic neighborhoods including the Albaicin district, the one-time Moorish quarter of Granada, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See how this medieval Islamic city has kept its identity into the modern age, with your guide explaining its social history and character in anecdotal style. As you walk through its twisting alleyways, you'll reach San Nicolas viewpoint revealing stunning views of the city, the majestic Alhambra palace and, beyond, the often snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. Next to Albaicín, stroll to the hill of Sacromonte, another typical quarter famous for its cave dwellings, Romani community, and flamenco tradition. You'll also enjoy a visit to the stunning 16th century Gothic Cathedral, one of the summits of the Spanish Renaissance. The cathedral's Royal Chapel is built with a single nave, and holds the tomb of King Ferdinand, the Queen Isabella, Philip the First and Joanna the First, and Miguel, the Prince of Asturias.. Intricate Moorish architecture, lush gardens, and a rich history spanning centuries converge as you join your private local guide on site for a tour of the Alhambra Palace, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site in Granada. On a rocky hill, on the banks of the River Darro, protected by mountains and within the eldest quarter of the city, the Alhambra rises up like an imposing castle, with its distinctive reddish stone in its ramparts which prevent the outside world from seeing the delicate beauty enclosed within. The Alhambra ranks among the world’s finest examples of Islamic art with carved cedar, intermittent stucco work, and gorgeous mosaics. Originally designed as a military area, the Alhambra became the residence of royalty and the court of Granada in the middle of the 13th century. The complex of monuments is formed by the stunning Moorish palaces, including the Palace of King Charles V, and the Generalife, which is surrounded by orchards, tranquil pools, fountains and beautiful gardens, which you'll also visit. At the end of your tour, you can either choose to walk back down the hill to explore the city, or return by taxi (paid locally). If you prefer us to arrange private transfers, please let us know. Please note: Passports are required to visit the Alhambra Palace. Failure to present a valid passport may result in denied access.

Accommodation: Alhambra Palace Hotel (B) (Classic City View), Granada

Granada, Seville

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Seville. Approximate travel time is 3 hours.

Accommodation: Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (B) (Deluxe Rooms), Granada

Seville

Meet your private guide and set out on foot for a walking tour today, visiting a pair of Seville's most outstanding monuments: Seville Cathedral, and the Seville Royal Alcazar. Begin with a stroll around Barrio de Santa Cruz, formerly the Jewish quarter, and the most picturesque and delightful part of the city, with narrow winding cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. From there, head to the Seville Royal Alcazar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing different palaces of various periods, and its gardens, which evoke its Muslim past. The upper levels of the Alcazar are still used by the royal family as the official Seville residence. Afterward, you’ll visit the largest Gothic cathedral in the world; the Seville Cathedral, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus. This Roman Catholic cathedral stands on the site of the 12th century Great Mosque, of which only the minaret remains. Locally known as “La Giralda”, it was converted to the cathedral’s bell tower in the mid-13th century. Please note: Passports are required to visit the Royal Alcazar. Failure to present a valid passport may result in denied access.. Make your way independently to El Arenal Tablao Flamenco this evening, where you'll cap your day with a magical night of authentic flamenco performance, celebrating Andalusia's unique, world-renowned combination of song and dance. Located in Seville's traditional El Arenal district, between La Maestranza Theater and the Bullring, El Arenal Tablao Flamenco has been delighting audiences since its opening back in 1975. Relax, enjoy a drink, and watch a show with up to 17 professional artists on stage at once - bringing the mesmerizing art of flamenco to life.

Accommodation: Hospes Casas del Rey de Baeza (B) (Deluxe Rooms), Seville

Seville, Albufeira

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Albufeira. Approximate travel time is 2 hours.. For your added comfort a Meet & Greet assistant will meet you at the hotel to walk you through your welcome documents, trip details, and answer any questions you may have.. Settle in at your own pace, whether exploring independently or unwinding at your hotel with access to its full range of amenities.. A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.

Accommodation: Epic Sana Algarve (B) (Deluxe Resort View Room), Seville

Albufeira

Settle in at your own pace, whether exploring independently or unwinding at your hotel with access to its full range of amenities.

Accommodation: Epic Sana Algarve (B) (Deluxe Resort View Room), Albufeira

Albufeira, Lisbon

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer.. Enjoy a train ride from Albufeira to Lisbon. The journey will take between 2.5 - 3 hours.. Meet your private driver for a train station transfer.. Accompanied by your knowledgeable private guide and driver, embark on a half-day tour of Lisbon, the city of seven hills. Portugal's stunning capital city is home to layers of rich history, dating back to the occupation of the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Visigoths and the Moors. Visit the heart of the city, Rossio Square, then spend some time in Alfama, the Old Quarter. See the Lisbon Cathedral, with history dating back to the 12th century, and admire views of St. George’s Castle, a Moorish fortification. Catch a stunning panorama over the city from the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte lookout. In Belem, the city's monumental district, walk alongside a pair of UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the stunning 16th-century Jeronimos Monastery, and the Belem Tower, nestled on the bank of the Tagus River. Enjoy a short stop at the Monument to the Discoveries, celebrating the influential 15th-16th century Portuguese Age of Discovery before a transfer back to your hotel.. With so many restaurant options, choosing where to dine in an unfamiliar city can prove to be a challenge. To assist, within your final trip documents, you’ll receive a supplemental composition which showcases our top restaurant suggestions for Lisbon, as selected by Memori Tours Destination Experts.

Accommodation: Hotel Britania (B) (Premium ), Albufeira

Lisbon

Gain insight into the cities and wines of the Alentejo during today's privately guided experience. Head out into this renowned region and make your way to a local winery for a small group visit of their unique facility, including a guided wine tasting. Just as the wines stands between old wisdom and modern winemaking, the winery promotes a dialogue between a medieval palace and contemporary architecture. Its style is relaxed and cosmopolitan, with beautiful Evora in its background. Savor a filling snack-style lunch, paired with more wine - an excellent opportunity to choose a favorite. In the afternoon, continue to Evora and uncover the capital of the Alentejo. Boasting a UNESCO-listed Old Town, Evora is a city overflowing with religious architecture, former palaces and stunning marble fountains. Admire the stonework of the 18th-century Evora Cathedral and take in the columned remains of the 2,000-year-old Roman Temple. Return to your hotel after a day of exploring Alentejo.

Accommodation: Hotel Britania (B) (Premium ), Lisbon

Lisbon, Porto

Meet your private driver for a train station transfer.. Enjoy a train ride from Lisbon to Porto. The regular trains take around 3 hrs, while the highspeed trains takes a little less than 3 hrs.. Meet your private driver for a train station transfer.. Meet your private guide and depart your hotel on foot for a half-day walking tour of Porto and its historic city center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the exterior of the 18th century Porto Cathedral, one of Porto's oldest monuments, followed by a panoramic viewpoint over the Douro River where you can take in views out to the city Gaia. Head to Batalha Square where you can spot the 18th century Batalha Palace, then walk Santa Catarina Street, the city's main shopping street, buzzing with action. Enjoy a visit to the celebrated Café Majestic, a historic Epoque-era cafe where you will be treated to a coffee and pastel de nata , Portugal's iconic custard tart. Head to Liberdade Square where the monument to King Peter IV is centralized within a number of beautiful neoclassical facades, and continue to see the Clerigos Church and Tower, dominating the city at 250 feet tall. Venture down to Ribeira Square, with its river view and three-storey high monumental fountain before returning to your hotel.. With options galore, deciding on a restaurant to try during your time in Porto may prove challenging. To assist, you’ll receive a supplemental composition within your final trip documents, showcasing our restaurant suggestions for Porto, as selected by Memori Tours Destination Experts.

Accommodation: The Editory Boulevard Aliados Hotel (B) (Standard), Lisbon

Porto

Embark on a captivating full-day journey with your tourism driver through the enchanting Douro Valley, renowned as the world's oldest demarcated wine region. Carved by the river and shaped by human hands, the valley showcases breathtaking landscapes with lush green vineyards in summer and vibrant autumn foliage. Passed down through generations, the art of cultivating terraced vineyards imparts warmth to the grapes, defining the wine's unique character. Nestled in the Peso da Régua and Pinhão area, these wine estates offer an exclusive experience. Journey along the riverbanks of the Douro enhances this exceptional visit, where curated stops at the most stunning estates provide opportunities to appreciate vineyards, savor wines, relish a delightful lunch, and delve into the rich history and winemaking processes. Conclude your day on arrival back to Porto. Note: alternate wineries may be used if required for availability purposes.

Accommodation: The Editory Boulevard Aliados Hotel (B) (Standard), Porto

Porto

Meet your private driver for an airport transfer. Please note drivers may or may not speak English as their sole responsibility is to transfer clients from one location to another. If you would like to have the presence of an English speaking Assistant or Guide for your transfer this can be pre-arranged upon request and would be subject to an additional supplement.