Day 1 : Fly to Portugal

Our journey begins with a flight across the Atlantic.

Day 2 : Belem Tower & Jeronimos Monastery

Upon arriving in Portugal, our local guide takes us through the vibrant capital city of Lisbon for views of the gorgeous coastline, the famous 16th-century Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, and Jeronimos Monastery. Next, enjoy leisure time in Rossio Square before checking in to our accommodations. This evening, we get to know fellow travelers over a delicious Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Lisbon Neighborhoods

After breakfast, we see the city’s most famous neighborhoods, including Baixa, Chaido, and Bairro Alto. Afterwards, we break for lunch at the 19th-century Time Out Market to independently savor some of the best regional cuisine. Our final stop is the medieval Alfama neighborhood, the capital’s oldest district, to discover its traditional character, shop for authentic crafts, and soak up the breathtaking vistas.

Day 4 : Sintra’s Pena Palace & Rare Wine

This morning, we’re off to discover UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra’s spectacular architecture and royal history, as it was once a peaceful escape for the noble. On our guided tour of Pena Palace, admire its striking Romanticism, unique statues, and beautiful terraces with views of the Sintra Mountains. Then, spend time exploring on your own. Later, we travel to Portugal’s oldest cooperative winery in Colares, home to rare red wines. Learn how these vinos are crafted and enjoy a tasting surrounded by vineyards and mountains before we return to our hotel.

Day 5 : Alentejo Country Estate

Today, our travels take us to Albernoa in the Alentejo region, known for its red wine, beautiful countryside, environmental sustainability, and preservation of ancient traditions. We stop at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova estate to learn about the art of training pureblood Lusitano horses, a rare breed, then indulge in their most popular wines. Afterwards, we depart for the country’s southernmost region – the Algarve – and break for leisure time in Castro Verde. Views of pristine beaches, red cliffs, and magnificent architecture unfold before us as we reach the resort town of Vilamoura.

Day 6 : Traditional Cork Factory

Our day begins with a drive to the 19th-century Eco-Cork Factory in Sitio da Mesquita Baixa. Marvel at the traditional process of preparing and packing cork created from a noble oak tree, then see its latest uses in fashion accessories. We are also treated to regional sweets, like fig biscuits with tea! Afterwards, we have time at leisure in Tavira, nestled within a salt extraction area of Ria Formosa Natural Park. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy views of medieval buildings overlooking the Gilao River. Later, we cross the border into Spain and reach Huelva.

Day 7 : Aracena’s Iberian Pigs

We depart this morning for Aracena, an Andalusian village surrounded by Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. During our stop at Jamones Eiriz, we see Iberian pigs roaming free in beautiful pastures, then visit the drying rooms and natural ham cellars. The Eiriz family has built a 200-year legacy of curating high-quality ham and Iberian sausages, which we have the opportunity to taste! Later, we check in to our accommodations in Seville and gather for a tapas-style dinner.

Day 8 : Seville & Bullfighting Ranch Tour

Today, we cherish Seville’s lively culture as we stroll the Santa Cruz Quarter and Parque de Maria Louisa, then view the world’s largest Gothic cathedral – the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Our exploration continues at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Royal Alcazar, a 10th-century palace used by Spanish Kings and currently occupied by the royal family. This afternoon, we venture into the countryside to be immersed in the traditional world of bullfighting at Finca La Capitana! A farm manager takes us through the facilities while detailing the challenges they face as owners of Toros Bravos, magnificent Spanish bulls. They also treat us to an authentic Andalusian snack. Back in Seville, we have leisure time at Mercado Lonja del Barranco to taste cuisines from around the world.

Day 9 : Cordoba’s Grand Mosque

This morning, we travel to Cordoba for a tour with a local guide to view the Jewish Quarter, Roman Bridge, and iconic squares while learning about its Roman and Islamic history. We also visit the synagogue, the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, and the famous Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, the only one of its kind in Europe. Afterwards, we check in to our hotel with free time to stroll the courtyards or the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center.

Day 10 : Montilla Tour & Olive Oil Mill

We journey into the Sierra de Montilla mountains today and stop in the vibrant town of Montilla, famous for its wine and olive oils. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Plaza Llano de Palacio, the location of the Palace of the Dukes of Medinaceli, and visit the 16th-century Convent of Santa Clara. Don’t miss an opportunity to purchase traditional sweets from the nuns who still live onsite! Next, we visit Juan Colin Olive Grove, Mill, and Museum to learn the process of making their extra virgin olive oil from cultivation to harvesting, then indulge in a tasting.

Day 11 : Toledo & Traditional Flamenco

This morning, we drive to the ancient hilltop city of Toledo. Known as the City of Three Cultures, it has strong influences from medieval Arab, Hebrew, and Christian occupants. Embark on a guided tour that includes Iglesia de Santo Tome and the Toledo Cathedral, renowned for its gold monstrance and grandiose chapel. Afterwards, we settle into Spain’s capital city of Madrid and enjoy an immersive cultural experience at a local restaurant with a flamenco show.

Day 12 : Royal Palace of Madrid

Today, we join our local guide for a tour of Madrid to see its most beloved monuments, streets, and squares. We also see the illustrious interior of the Royal Palace, the largest in Western Europe and home to several generations of royal families. The remainder of the day is yours to explore as you wish. Tonight, we celebrate our adventure with a Farewell Dinner that features authentic paella.

Day 13 : Fly Home

We board our flight home, returning with fond memories of uncovering agricultural and historical wonders in Spain and Portugal.