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Portugal and Spain with Jessica Ventrello
Program Dates: July 7-18, 2026
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Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure to Lisbon
Board your overnight flight to Lisbon, ready for an enriching journey through Portugal and Spain.
Day 2: Welcome to Lisbon
Arrive in Lisbon and meet your local Program Director at the airport. After settling into your centrally located hotel, explore the Alfama district on a guided walking tour. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner, sampling traditional Portuguese dishes!
Day 3: Lisbon Highlights and Tile Workshop
Take a guided tour of Lisbon’s top landmarks, including St. George’s Castle, the Monument of the Discoveries, and the Jerónimos Monastery. In the afternoon, participate in a hands-on tile-painting workshop, creating your own azulejo ceramic tile. Enjoy free time in the evening to explore Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Day 4: Sintra and Cascais Day Trip
Take a day trip to the magical town of Sintra, visiting the colorful Pena Palace. Then, stop in Cascais to explore the charming coastal village. Return to Lisbon for your final evening in the city.
Day 5: Travel to Seville via Évora
Depart Lisbon for Seville, stopping in the historic town of Évora along the way. Visit the Roman Temple, Évora Cathedral, and the Chapel of Bones. Arrive in Seville in the evening, and take a short walk through the atmospheric Santa Cruz neighborhood before dinner.
Day 6: Seville’s Highlights
Take a guided tour of Seville, including the Royal Alcázar, Plaza de España, and the Seville Cathedral. Climb La Giralda tower for stunning views. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time for shopping at the local markets and stores!
Day 7: Travel to Granada via Ronda
Journey to Granada with a stop in Ronda. Explore the picturesque town known for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed houses, and iconic Puente Nuevo bridge. Arrive in Granada and enjoy a night walk through the Albaicín quarter, with views of the illuminated Alhambra.
Day 8: The Alhambra
Spend the morning exploring the Alhambra Palace and the Generalife Gardens, learning about their Moorish history and architectural significance. In the evening, attend an authentic flamenco show (this is an optional for additional cost) followed by a fun and interactive flamenco dance lesson, diving into the cultural heart of Andalusia.
Day 9: Travel to Valencia and Paella Cooking Class
Depart Granada for Valencia. Upon arrival, explore the City of Arts and Sciences or Valencia’s old town. In the evening, participate in a hands-on paella cooking class, learning how to make the region’s most iconic dish. Enjoy your homemade dinner and reflect on your culinary adventure.
Day 10: Travel to Barcelona and Beach Picnic
This morning travel to Barcelona! After arriving, visit La Boqueria Market to pick up fresh ingredients for a beachside picnic. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Barceloneta Beach, enjoying the sun, sea, and delicious local food. End the day with free time to explore the Gothic Quarter or Las Ramblas.
Day 11: Gaudí’s Barcelona and Farewell Dinner
Discover Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces on a guided tour, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Spend the afternoon exploring Montjuïc or unwinding by the beach. Celebrate your incredible journey with a festive farewell dinner, sharing memories of your time in Spain and Portugal.
Day 12: Departure from Barcelona
Transfer to the airport for your return flight, leaving with lasting memories of Lisbon, Évora, Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona.
What’s Included:
Roundtrip Airfare from Newark, NJ
Accommodations
Teacher Leaders
Full Time Local Program Director
Transportation to Included Activities
Breakfast and Dinner Daily
All Attractions and Activities Listed on Itinerary
Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides
All Tips and Gratuities
24-Hour Support
All Taxes and Fees
Global Citizen Certificate
Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings and Seminars
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