Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 2 - Arrive Casablanca
‘Ahlan wa sahlan’ and welcome to Morocco. We’ll begin our journey in Casablanca, where history and everyday life come together in a city full of colour and rhythm. Set along the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is Morocco’s largest and most cosmopolitan city.
The name Casablanca, or 'White House' in Spanish, comes from the bright, whitewashed walls of its old medina. Once a quiet trading post, it grew quickly after the French arrived in 1912, shaping it into the country’s economic centre. Today, you’ll find grand colonial buildings and graceful Moorish arches alongside lively cafés and wide, busy boulevards. And while the classic film gave it its fame, the real Casablanca offers a story all its own.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 4.00pm
Meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for welcome drinks at the hotel.
Day 3 - Casablanca - Marrakesh
We’ll start the day by getting to know Casablanca, Morocco’s lively and stylish coastal city. We’ll wander through the colourful Central Market, where stalls brim with fresh produce, flowers and all sorts of local treasures. Then we’ll take a stroll along the breezy Aïn Diab Esplanade, a favourite seaside spot where locals gather over mint tea as the Atlantic waves roll in.
Next, we’ll visit one of Morocco’s most breathtaking landmarks, the Hassan II Mosque. It’s one of the largest mosques in the world, with a minaret that reaches nearly 700 feet into the sky. Built partly over the sea, it even features a glass floor that lets you glimpse the ocean below.
We’ll continue on through the Habous Quarter, where French design blends beautifully with Moroccan tradition. It’s quiet lanes, tucked-away bookshops and sweet-smelling bakeries invite you in with the warmth of another era.
After some free time for lunch, we’ll make our way to Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Founded in the 11th century, it was once the heart of a vast empire stretching into Spain and West Africa.
Special Experience
Experience the atmosphere of Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Pass through a wondrous mix of food, music and entertainment, getting a taste of this fantastic city.
We’ll experience a real taste of Morocco at tonight’s group welcome dinner, complete with dancers and musicians, in a local restaurant.
Day 4 - Marrakesh
Marrakesh, with its terracotta walls and the snow-dusted Atlas Mountains in the distance, is a city that truly lingers in the memory. Often called the Pearl of the South, it’s the second oldest of Morocco’s four Imperial Cities, and today we’ll explore some of its most beautiful and historic spots.
We’ll begin our day at the Saadian Tombs, hidden away for centuries and only rediscovered in 1917. With their intricate carvings, colourful tiles and graceful script, these 16th century tombs are a quiet masterpiece of Moroccan design. We'll then visit Bahia Palace, once home to a powerful vizier. Its peaceful courtyards, hand-painted ceilings and blooming gardens create a calm and elegant escape from the bustle outside.
Next, we’ll admire the Koutoubia Mosque, a landmark of Marrakesh with its soaring 12th century minaret that watches over the city. While we can’t step inside, its presence is powerful from every angle.
As we continue through the winding streets of the Medina and Kasbah districts, we’ll stop at a traditional Berber pharmacy. Here, ancient remedies, fragrant oils and natural treatments offer a glimpse into the country’s rich healing traditions — some of which have been used for centuries.
Special Experience
Take a cooking lesson in a beautiful Moroccan riad, then enjoy the food prepared for lunch.
After a full day of discovery, we’ll return to the hotel. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Day 5 - Marrakesh - Fez
This morning, we’re off to explore a different side of Morocco as we make our way to the ancient city of Fez. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch. Why not try pastilla? This flaky pastry filled with tender meat, sweet spices and almonds is a perfect example of Morocco’s unique mix of flavours.
As we continue our journey, the landscape changes to wide mountain views and peaceful countryside. It sets the tone beautifully for our arrival in Fez, one of Morocco’s most historic Imperial Cities. Fez is known for its beautifully hand-painted ceramics, and the markets are full of colourful pieces if you fancy a little browsing or bargaining.
Set between the Rif and Middle Atlas Mountains, Fez is the cultural soul of Morocco. Its old medina, Fez el-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and one of the largest living medieval cities in the world. Behind its towering gates and ancient walls lies a maze of winding lanes, lively souks and traditions that have stood the test of time. It’s a place full of character, and a wonderful introduction to Morocco’s deep and fascinating history.
Day 6 - Fez
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll begin our day exploring the heart of Fez. Our first stop will be the Main Medina (Fez el-Bali), a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site where the maze of narrow alleys, colourful souks, and bustling local traders bring the city to life. The vibrant sights and the enticing aromas of spices are sure to captivate you.
Next, we’ll stop at the Kairaouine Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world. While non-Muslims can’t enter, the view of its magnificent architecture from the nearby Medersa Attarine is simply unmissable when the space is open.
We’ll then take a moment to appreciate the fountains at Carpenters Square, where local artisans still craft their wares by hand. You’ll have free time to wander the Medina, so don’t forget your best haggling skills for picking up a special souvenir.
For lunch, we’ll dine in a charming Moroccan palace nestled within the Medina, offering a truly authentic taste of the region. Afterwards, we’ll visit Fez’s famous tannery, where vibrant dyes are used to craft leather goods using techniques that have been passed down for centuries.
The rest of the evening is yours to unwind or explore even more of Fez at your leisure.
Day 7 - Fez – Meknes – Volubilis – Chefchaouen
From Fez, we’ll journey to Meknes, Morocco’s smallest imperial city, founded in the 11th century. Although this city seems more laid-back than Fez, Meknes is still vibrant with its winding streets and impressive architecture. We’ll start with an orientation tour of the old city, often called the ‘Versailles of Morocco.’ You’ll marvel at the grandeur of Bab el Mansour Gate, the historic Royal Stables that once housed the royal horses, and the beautiful Bou Inania Madrasa, known for its intricate mosaics and carvings.
After soaking in the sights of Meknes, we’ll continue on to the ancient ruins of Volubilis. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Volubilis is a partly excavated Roman city that dates back to the 3rd century BC. It was once a thriving administrative hub in Roman Africa, famous for grain production and exports to Rome.
After some free time for lunch, we’ll head towards Chefchaouen, passing through rolling hills and picturesque villages, taking in the beautiful rural landscape of Morocco.
Finally, we’ll arrive in Chefchaouen, the famed ‘Blue City,’ nestled in the Rif Mountains. With its striking blue buildings and steep streets, Chefchaouen looks like something out of a painting. You’ll soon see why this peaceful town is a favourite of visitors!
Day 8 - Chefchaouen
Today, we’ll explore the storybook beauty of Chefchaouen, a town known for its relaxed atmosphere and striking blue buildings. Founded in 1471 as a fortress against the Portuguese, it grew over the centuries into a unique place shaped by Berber, Arab and Jewish influences. One popular belief is that the town’s blue tones were introduced by Jewish refugees in the 1930s, symbolising peace and spirituality.
We’ll start our day in Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the lively main square, then stroll through the winding streets where the colourful displays of local goods stand out against the blue-washed walls. It’s a wonderful place to pick up handmade treasures like woven blankets and woollens you won’t find anywhere else in Morocco.
Later, we’ll head uphill for a short hike to a scenic viewpoint. The path is a little steep, but the panoramic views across the rooftops and out to the Rif Mountains are well worth the effort.
After our guided walk, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Settle into a local café, explore the artisan shops, or simply wander the colourful lanes and soak up the slower pace of life in this unforgettable mountain town.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 9 - Chefchaouen - Tangier - Granada
This morning, we’ll say goodbye to magical Morocco and make our way to the ferry port in Tangier. After a scenic crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar, we’ll arrive in Spain at the southern port town of Tarifa. From here, we’ll continue by coach towards Granada, with a break along the way to stretch our legs and enjoy lunch.
Granada is one of those cities that instantly captures your imagination. Tucked beneath the Sierra Nevada mountains, it’s a place where Moorish palaces, lively tapas bars and flamenco rhythms all come together. It’s rich in history, full of life, and has a bit of an old soul feel.
Upon arrival in Granada, we will check into our hotel and take a short orientation tour with our Tour Director.
Day 10 - Granada
Granada is a living canvas, where Moorish, Muslim and Catholic influences blend beautifully in the city’s architecture and spirit. Around every corner, there’s a story waiting to be discovered, and today we’ll explore some of its most treasured highlights.
We begin with a guided visit to the iconic Alhambra Palace, a masterpiece of 13th century Islamic design. Known as the ‘Red Castle’ for its glowing walls, this historic complex includes the intricate Nasrid Palaces, the watchful Alcazaba fortress, and the grand Palace of Charles V. Once home to rulers and royals, it now stands as one of Spain’s most unforgettable landmarks.
Just nearby, we’ll stroll through the peaceful Generalife Gardens. Once the summer retreat of Granada’s kings, this tranquil spot is full of playful fountains, colourful flowers and gentle, fragrant pathways.
Afterwards, we’ll wander the winding streets of the old town, soaking in the atmosphere as we make our way to see the exterior of the Royal Chapel, where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella are laid to rest.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, before we come back together for a warm and relaxed group dinner to round off a wonderful day.
Special Experience
Taste traditional Spanish tapas, enjoying a range of delicious bite-sized savoury dishes, richly seasoned with local spices.
Day 11 - Granada – Ronda – Seville
After an early breakfast, we’ll make our way to Ronda, one of Andalusia’s most picturesque white villages. Perched high above a dramatic gorge, Ronda offers sweeping views and a peaceful, timeless feel. With its whitewashed buildings and slow pace, it’s easy to see why so many fall in love with this little gem.
We’ll take a short orientation walk with our guide to see some of the highlights, including the famous Puente Nuevo bridge and the historic Plaza de Toros. Built in 1785, Ronda’s bullring is one of the oldest in Spain and is often called the birthplace of modern bullfighting.
Afterwards, you’ll have some free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your own pace. Whether it’s tapas or a hearty paella, there are plenty of delicious options to try.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue our scenic drive to Seville. Once the gateway to the Americas, Seville was one of Europe’s wealthiest cities during the 16th century. Today, it blends its rich Roman and Moorish past with a lively modern energy.
After settling into our hotel, we’ll enjoy a relaxed orientation walk before a free evening to explore or dine at your leisure.
Day 12 - Seville
According to legend, Seville was founded by Hercules and has ancient roots going back to the Tartessian civilisation. It’s a city full of stories, music and spirit and the birthplace of famous characters like Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Today, we’ll explore this rich history with a guided tour that brings Seville’s colourful past to life.
We’ll begin at the Royal Alcázar, a stunning Moorish palace that has been home to royalty for centuries. As we wander through its intricate rooms and tranquil gardens, it’s easy to see why it’s still used by the Spanish Royal Family today. From there, we’ll pass by the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria and its soaring Giralda Bell Tower. This is the largest cathedral in Spain and is believed to be the final resting place of Christopher Columbus.
We’ll end our morning with a walk through the old Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz, where winding lanes, shaded courtyards and little hidden corners create a peaceful, almost storybook atmosphere.
This afternoon is at leisure for you to discover the delights of this beautiful city.
Optional Excursion
Flamenco Show, 'El Palacio Andaluz’ - Located in the beautiful city of Seville is El Patio Andaluz, a place where passionate Flamenco dancers (known as bailaores or bailaoras) perform group and solo dances. The Flamenco style of dance originated in the Andalusian region and is expressed by the performer with intricate hand, arm and body movements whilst clapping their hands and rhythmically stomping their feet. The dances are usually accompanied by guitars and as the song builds so does the tempo and volume. Enjoy a traditional Flamenco show accompanied with one drink (beer, wine or soft drink) on arrival and return bus transfers. 1hr 30mins - from Euro 49pp (no minimum number required)
Day 13 - Seville – Évora –Lisbon
Today, we’ll set off for the beautifully preserved town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem tucked away in Portugal’s Alentejo region. We’ll enjoy a leisurely drive, with a stop along the way for lunch and a chance to stretch our legs.
Once we arrive, a local guide will take us on a walking tour through Évora’s historic heart. In Giraldo Square, you’ll catch a glimpse of local life as people gather under shady arcades for a coffee. We’ll make our way to the grand Cathedral of Évora, where sturdy Romanesque walls meet elegant Gothic arches.
Just a short walk away, we’ll admire the Roman Temple, still standing tall after nearly two thousand years and often linked to the goddess Diana. We’ll also stop by the Church of St Francis, before visiting the city’s most thought-provoking site, the Chapel of Bones. Decorated with thousands of real bones, it’s both fascinating and humbling, offering a gentle reminder to make the most of every moment.
Later in the afternoon, we’ll continue on to Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital. Built across seven hills and overlooking the River Tagus, this colourful city is full of soul, sunshine and stories. We’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a relaxed dinner together this evening.
Day 14 - Lisbon
Exploring the sights of this remarkable city is on the agenda today, and we’ve got a lovely mix of history, beauty and flavour in store. We’ll begin with a panoramic tour, starting at the elegant Park Edward VII. These peaceful gardens offer sweeping views across Lisbon and down towards the river and a perfect way to take in the city’s grand layout.
Next, we’ll make our way to Belém, often called the ‘Discoveries Quarter,’ where Portugal’s famous explorers once set sail. We’ll step inside the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture with intricate stonework that celebrates Portugal’s golden age. Nearby, we’ll see the iconic Tower of Belém, built to protect the city’s harbour, and stop for a photo at the Monument to the Discoveries, which honours the brave navigators who changed the course of history.
Our journey then takes us through Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric neighbourhood. With its narrow winding lanes, colourful houses and the warm scent of pastries wafting from tucked-away kitchens, it feels like a step into another time. We’ll also pass Liberty Avenue, Rossio Square and the grand Commerce Square, each revealing another layer of Lisbon’s rich story.
Special Experience
Learn to make Lisbon’s most delicious treat, the famous Portuguese custard tart, in a hands-on cooking class.
During a fun and interactive cooking class, we’ll learn the secrets of crafting the perfect Portuguese custard tart. Locally known as 'pastel de nata', these beloved custard tarts are world-renowned and are one of Portugal’s most popular desserts. Along with uncovering the recipe’s history, we’ll learn how to perfectly create the crunchy puff pastry from scratch, and its delicious custard filling.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Day 15 - Lisbon
Today is yours to explore at your own pace, and Lisbon is full of lovely ways to spend it. You might start with a visit to one of the city’s lively markets. Mercado de Campo de Ourique and Mercado de Alvalade Norte are both great options, full of colourful produce and food stalls. You can nibble on cheese, cured meats, and sweet pastries, and maybe sip a glass of wine as you watch the locals go about their day.
If you're in the mood for history, wander up to Castelo de São Jorge for stunning views and a peek into Lisbon’s Moorish past.
If the weather is nice, you might enjoy a peaceful walk through Estrela Garden, a beautifully maintained park with shady trees, a small café and locals going about their day. For something more modern, head to Parque das Nações on the riverfront. This area was revitalised for Expo 98 and is now home to striking architecture, open spaces and the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
Whether you’re sightseeing or simply taking it easy, today is yours to enjoy.
Day 16 - Lisbon - Coimbra
This morning, we’ll set off for a full day of discovery as we travel north to Coimbra, with a few lovely stops along the way. Our first stop is Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town set in the hills just outside Lisbon. Once a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, Sintra is known for its green landscapes and grand palaces. Here, we’ll visit the National Palace of Sintra, easily recognised by its twin chimneys. Inside, we’ll explore rooms decorated with colourful tiles and finely crafted ceilings, each with its own story to tell.
From Sintra, we’ll continue to the medieval village of Óbidos, still enclosed by its original stone walls. In 1282, it was gifted to Queen Isabel, beginning a royal tradition that helped preserve the town’s beauty. We’ll stroll past the 12th century fortress and have some time to wander the cobbled streets. While here, we’ll also try Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur served in a small chocolate cup that’s both a treat and a tradition.
In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Coimbra, once Portugal’s capital and now a lively university city filled with history. We’ll check in and enjoy a relaxed evening at leisure.
Day 17 - Coimbra - Porto
Inhabited by Romans and later by Arabs, Coimbra was once the capital of Portugal and still holds a strong sense of its rich and layered past. Today, we’ll explore this fascinating city, starting in the upper town where the University of Coimbra proudly overlooks the river. Founded in 1290, it’s one of the oldest universities in Europe, and we’ll take our time to admire its grand halls and soak in the beauty of this historic institution.
Next, we’ll stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and pause to admire the exterior of the Old Cathedral, a solid Romanesque structure that’s watched over the city for nearly 900 years. After some free time for lunch, we’ll continue to the coastal town of Aveiro.
Often referred to as the 'Portuguese Venice,' Aveiro is known for its pretty canals, painted boats, and relaxed pace. We’ll enjoy a short orientation walk and try the town’s signature sweet treat, ovos moles, made from egg yolk and sugar.
Later this afternoon, we’ll arrive in Porto. The evening is yours to enjoy. Perhaps explore the riverside or simply enjoy a walk through the city’s old, cobbled streets.
Day 18 - Porto
Today, we’re diving into the rich history of Porto, one of Europe’s oldest cities, dating back to around 300 BC. Once known as ‘Portus Cale’ in Roman times, the city still carries echoes of its ancient past. Our journey begins with a guided tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ribeira Quarter, a picturesque maze of cobblestone alleys that lead down to the Douro River. This vibrant neighbourhood is Porto’s heart and soul, filled with colourful houses, cozy tavernas, family-run shops, and fascinating landmarks.
Next, we’ll marvel at the Gothic beauty of the Church of Saint Francis. Afterwards, we’ll head to the Palácio da Bolsa, Porto’s former Stock Exchange, which still serves as the headquarters of the Porto Commercial Association. Built in 1842 over the ruins of a convent that burned down in 1833, the building blends British Neoclassical and Palladian styles, offering a perfect snapshot of Porto’s unique architectural heritage.
Special Experience
Learn how authentic port is made and taste it at one of the many producers in Porto.
After a special port tasting, we’ll take to the water for a short and relaxing cruise of the Douro River. Giving us the opportunity to admire the city from a different perspective, we pass under some of Porto’s famous bridges.
Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to unwind or explore at your own pace.
Day 19 - Porto - Salamanca
Our journey takes us to Salamanca today, known for its well-preserved architecture and long-standing academic tradition. Founded in Roman times and home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Salamanca is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city and an important cultural centre in Spain. Often called the 'golden city,' Salamanca is known for its honey-coloured sandstone buildings that seem to glow in the sunlight.
On arrival, we’ll take a guided tour to see some of the city’s key landmarks. We’ll pass by the Casa de las Conchas, a 15th century building known for its unique facade covered in carved stone shells. We’ll also see the Roman Bridge, which dates back to the 1st century and once formed part of the Roman silver route.
In Plaza Mayor, the city’s main square, we’ll admire its baroque architecture and lively atmosphere. We’ll also view the exteriors of both the Old and New Cathedrals, which stand side by side and reflect centuries of religious and architectural history. In the University Quarter, you’ll get a sense of the academic legacy that has shaped Salamanca for centuries.
After the tour, the rest of the day is at leisure. You might like to revisit the sites, explore the city’s shops, visit a local museum, or find a quiet café for lunch. Salamanca is easy to explore on foot, with plenty to see at your own pace.
Day 20 - Salamanca - Madrid
After breakfast, we’ll make our way to the beautiful walled city of Ávila, known for its remarkably preserved medieval defences. These impressive stone walls stretch for over two kilometres, lined with 90 sturdy towers that have stood watch over the city since the 11th century. Ávila is also the birthplace of Saint Teresa, one of Spain’s most important religious figures. As we stroll through the historic centre on our orientation tour, we’ll pass Romanesque churches, grand Gothic palaces and a striking 12th century cathedral, all built from the golden stone that gives the city its warm glow.
Next, we’ll head to Segovia, where Roman history takes centre stage. We’ll see the incredible Roman aqueduct, still standing after nearly 2,000 years. Our orientation tour will also take in the elegant Gothic cathedral and the fairytale-like Alcázar, perched high above the town.
By early evening, we’ll arrive in Madrid, Spain’s lively and elegant capital, where the energy of grand boulevards and vibrant plazas welcomes us.
Day 21 - Madrid
Did you know Madrid sits higher than any other capital city in Western Europe? At 667 metres above sea level, the city offers not only striking views but also sunny weather year-round and has more trees and green space than any other European city. Today, we’ll set off on a guided city tour to discover some of Madrid’s most iconic sights.
We’ll begin with a drive along the grand avenues of Gran Via and Paseo de la Castellana, both known for their impressive architecture, theatres and shops. Along the way, we’ll pass major city landmarks such as Plaza de España, featuring a monument to the writer Cervantes, and Cibeles Square, home to the iconic fountain and the striking City Hall.
We’ll continue through some of Madrid’s most historic areas, including Plaza Mayor, with its arcaded buildings, and Puerta del Sol, the symbolic heart of the city. At Oriente Square, we’ll take in views of the Royal Palace and its beautifully kept gardens.
We’ll also pass by Oeste and Retiro Parks, Madrid’s famous bullring Las Ventas, and the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid.
This afternoon is at leisure. You may want to explore a museum, enjoy a traditional lunch in the old town, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere at a nearby café.
Day 22 - Madrid - Valencia
This morning, we’ll head to Cuenca, a remarkable hilltop town that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Nestled between deep river gorges, Cuenca is famous for its dramatic 'hanging houses,' which appear to be suspended over the cliffs. With its narrow medieval streets and squares, the town has a wonderful, old-world feel that invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Once we arrive, we’ll have some free time to explore this well-preserved fortified city and enjoy lunch, before continuing to our final destination for the day.
In the afternoon, we’ll travel to Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city. Valencia beautifully blends the old with the new, from its Gothic architecture to the modern and futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. It’s also where paella was born, and you’ll feel the Mediterranean spirit in its sunny streets and laid-back atmosphere.
We’ll check into our hotel, and you’ll have the rest of the evening at leisure.
Day 23 - Valencia
Waking up in beautiful Valencia, we’re in for a lovely morning of sightseeing through the city’s historical centre. Accompanied by a local guide, our first stop will be admiring the magnificent Cathedral, a stunning mix of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque, with its grand façade towering over the square. From there, we’ll pass Puerta del Real, the grand entrance to Valencia’s royal gardens, and continue to Puerta de la Trinidad, a 14th century gateway that gives us a glimpse of the city’s medieval defences. We'll also see the Serranos Towers, one of the original gates that once protected the city.
As we wander through the charming streets of Barrio del Carmen, we’ll visit Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed building. This 15th century silk exchange is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its intricately detailed stonework and soaring columns that transport us back to Valencia’s golden age of trade.
In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. Since we’re in the birthplace of paella, why not indulge in a delicious plate of this iconic dish? Whether you go for the traditional Paella Valenciana with chicken and rabbit or the seafood version, it’s the perfect way to taste the local flavour.
Day 24 - Valencia - Barcelona
Start the day with a relaxed morning in Valencia, giving you time to enjoy the city at your own pace. You might like to take a walk through Turia Gardens, a peaceful green space that stretches through the city where a river once flowed. It’s perfect for a quiet stroll or simply sitting with a coffee. If you’re interested in architecture or science, the City of Arts and Sciences is worth a visit. Its striking design houses museums, an aquarium and exhibition spaces that showcase Valencia’s more modern side. Or, if you’re in the mood for something light, visit a local café to try a glass of traditional horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, often served with sweet pastries called fartons.
Around midday, we’ll travel to Barcelona, one of Spain’s most iconic cities. Set between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is known for its unique blend of art, architecture and history.
After checking in to our hotel, we’ll head out on a short orientation tour with our Tour Leader to get acquainted with the city. It’s a great introduction to what makes Barcelona such a fascinating place, with much more to discover in the days ahead.
Day 25 - Barcelona
Today, we’ll explore the architectural treasures of Barcelona with a local guide, starting with the elegant Passeig de Gracia. This stylish boulevard is home to two of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works. Casa Batlló, which delights with its colourful, curved facade and mosaic tiles that sparkle in the sun. Just nearby, Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, impresses with its flowing stone exterior and balconies made of twisted iron.
Next, we’ll enter the crown jewel of Gaudí’s creations, the magnificent La Sagrada Família. Still under construction after more than 140 years, this soaring basilica is a stunning blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau design. As we tour the interior, we’ll marvel at the intricate facades carved with biblical scenes, and the sunlight pouring through the stained-glass windows, which fill the basilica with an ethereal glow. This is a truly unique opportunity to explore a masterpiece still in the making.
We’ll then pass the historic Monumental Bullring and continue past La Ciutadella Park, a leafy escape with fountains, gardens and a peaceful lake. From there, we make our way to the breezy Port Olympic area, where you can take in views of the marina and the seaside promenade. Our final stop is Montjuïc Mountain, where a lovely panorama of the harbour awaits.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Art lovers might like to visit the Picasso Museum which exhibits works from his ‘Blue’ and ‘Pink’ periods. Your Tour Director can help with directions.
Optional Excursion
Montserrat is a mountain top monastery in Catalonia, Spain. This incredible rocky formation is a sacred place for the Catalan people. Includes entrance to Basilica and return cable car for breathtaking views up to the Monastery and with any luck you can also hear the singing of the boys choir (weekdays around 13.00 and Sundays around 12.00, the boys choir does not sing every day as they frequently travel and perform in other churches). 4hrs – From Euro 87pp. This price is based on a minimum of 10 guests. If there are less than 10, please speak with your Tour Director about other options.
Day 26 - Barcelona
Our sightseeing continues this morning with a visit to the amazing Park Güell, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most imaginative creations and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. With its colourful mosaics, playful shapes and sweeping views over the city, it’s a place that truly brings Gaudí’s unique vision to life. We’ll take our time here, walking through the gardens and admiring the remarkable architecture that makes this park unlike anywhere else in the world.
From there, we’ll make our way down to the Gothic Quarter, one of the oldest and most fascinating areas of Barcelona. We’ll begin at Cathedral Square, home to the grand Barcelona Cathedral, then wander through the narrow streets where you’ll find small artisan shops, inviting cafés and the feeling of history all around. We’ll continue on to Plaza Sant Jaume, the city’s political heart, before finishing our walk at vibrant Cataluna Square.
We’ll then have free time for lunch. This is a great spot to enjoy a relaxed meal, perhaps some tapas or a light salad with a glass of local wine.
The afternoon is yours. You might like to explore Las Ramblas with its cafés, street performers and people-watching. This evening, we’ll come together for a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 27 - Depart Barcelona
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to the wonderful friends we’ve made along the way, and to the unforgettable landscapes, cultures and experiences of Spain, Portugal and Morocco. We hope you’re heading home with full hearts and memories that will stay with you for years to come.
Day 28 - Arrive Australia
Day 28 - Arrive Australia