Portugal, Spain and Morocco

Program Group Leader: Mary Summy

Dates: October 6-18, 2026

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Flight to Portugal

Depart on your international flight to Portugal, ready to begin an unforgettable journey through the Iberian Peninsula. Sit back, relax, and prepare to immerse yourself in the rich culture, cuisine, and history that await.

Day 2 – Arrival in Lisbon

Arrive in Lisbon and meet your local Program Director, who will greet you at the airport and accompany your group throughout the entire journey. Enjoy a brief city orientation and take some time to explore Lisbon’s vibrant streets and cafés. Later in the afternoon, check into your hotel and relax before gathering for a welcome dinner (included) featuring authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Day 3 – Lisbon City Tour

Set out on a guided visit of Lisbon, exploring its historic neighborhoods and landmarks. See the elegant Praça do Comércio, the medieval Alfama district, and the iconic Belém Tower. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. End the day with some free time to browse shops and cafes in the Bairro Alto district and dinner on your own.

Day 4 – Sintra and Cascais Excursion & Fado Evening

Travel to the fairytale town of Sintra, home to colorful palaces and lush gardens. Tour the romantic Pena Palace and stroll through the winding lanes filled with local shops and bakeries. Continue to the coastal town of Cascais, once a royal retreat, where you’ll have time to walk along the beach or explore the charming seaside town. Enjoy the ocean views and relaxed atmosphere before returning to Lisbon for a traditional Fado evening—Portugal’s hauntingly beautiful folk music—paired with dinner (included).

Day 5 – Drive to Seville via Évora

Depart Lisbon and drive through the scenic Alentejo region, stopping in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Évora. Visit the Roman Temple, the whitewashed cathedral, and the fascinating Chapel of Bones before continuing across the border into Spain. Arrive in Seville, enjoy dinner (included) and settle in for the night.

Day 6 – Seville Sightseeing & Cooking Class

Join a guided tour of Seville, exploring the magnificent Seville Cathedral—one of the largest in the world—and the adjacent Giralda Tower. Stroll through the Alcázar Palace and its Moorish gardens, then wander the cobbled streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood. In the afternoon, take part in a hands-on Andalusian cooking class for dinner.

Day 7 – Sherry Bodega Excursion

Begin your day in Jerez de la Frontera, a charming Andalusian town known for its elegant plazas, equestrian traditions, and lively local culture. Stroll through the historic center, browse artisan shops, and soak in the warm, welcoming atmosphere of southern Spain. Later, visit a renowned Sherry bodega, where you’ll step inside cool, aromatic cellars lined with aging oak barrels and learn about the centuries-old craft of sherry production. Enjoy a guided tasting of several distinctive varieties—from crisp Fino to rich Oloroso—paired with Spain’s finest Iberian ham and local tapas. Return to Seville for a relaxed evening at leisure, perhaps with a stroll through the illuminated old town or a quiet café under the stars.

Day 8 – Córdoba and on to Granada

Depart Seville and travel east toward Córdoba, once the dazzling capital of Moorish Spain and one of the most important cities in medieval Europe. Explore the magnificent Mezquita, a former mosque turned cathedral, famous for its mesmerizing forest of red-and-white arches, intricate mosaics, and peaceful courtyards scented with orange blossoms. Wander through the Jewish Quarter, with its narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, and traditional patios draped in flowers, offering a glimpse into Andalusia’s layered history of cultures and faiths. Enjoy some free time for lunch or shopping before continuing to Granada, where you’ll check into your hotel and have the evening free for dinner and to explore the old town’s lively streets and tapas cafés.

Day 9 – Alhambra and Flamenco Night

Spend the morning visiting the breathtaking Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most exquisite examples of Moorish architecture in the world. Explore its intricate courtyards, delicate stucco arches, and tranquil fountains that reflect centuries of artistry and empire. Wander through the lush Generalife Gardens, once the summer retreat of Nasrid kings, with cascading water channels, shaded walkways, and panoramic views of Granada below. In the evening, experience the true spirit of Andalusia with an authentic Flamenco performance and dinner (included) in the historic Albaicín district, where narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses create the perfect setting for this passionate dance. Feel the rhythm, emotion, and intensity of the music as you celebrate the cultural heartbeat of southern Spain.

Day 10 – Costa del Sol

Drive south through the rolling hills of Andalusia to Spain’s famed Costa del Sol, where the Mediterranean sparkles under year-round sunshine. Arrive at your hotel and take in the relaxed coastal atmosphere. Spend the afternoon and evening unwinding on the beach.

Day 11 – Day Trip to Morocco

Embark on an unforgettable full-day excursion across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tangier, where Africa and Europe meet. As you arrive, feel the vibrant mix of Arab, Berber, and European influences that give this coastal city its unique rhythm and charm. Begin your day with a scenic drive to Cape Spartel, the dramatic headland where the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea meet. Take in the panoramic ocean views and visit the historic lighthouse. Next, head into the city to explore the Kasbah and the medina, a maze of colorful alleyways alive with local markets, spices, and artisan shops. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch, featuring flavorful tagine, couscous, and mint tea. After some time to shop the coloful markets, board your ferry back across the Strait to Spain, reflecting on a day that perfectly captures the magic of travel—two continents, one incredible adventure.

Day 12: Costa del Sol – Free Day & Farewell Dinner

This morning, transfer to the charming whitewashed village of Mijas, perched in the hills overlooking the Mediterranean. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, explore artisan shops and cafés, and take in the sweeping coastal views from the town’s scenic terraces. Return to the Costa del Sol in the afternoon to relax and explore at your own pace—whether that’s soaking up the sun on the beach, browsing local boutiques, or enjoying a final swim in the sea. This evening, reunite with your group for a special farewell dinner (included) as you reflect on the unforgettable experiences—from Portugal’s colorful streets to Spain’s historic cities and Morocco’s vibrant energy—and celebrate new friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 13 – Departure from Málaga

Transfer to Málaga Airport for your return flight home, filled with memories of the stunning landscapes, rich flavors, and cultural treasures of Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.

What’s Included:

 
  • Roundtrip Airfare

  • Twin Room Accommodations

  • Full Time Local Program Director

  • Transportation to Included Activities

  • Daily Breakfast and Dinners (as noted on the itinerary)

  • Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides

  • All Tips and Gratuities

  • 24-Hour Support

  • All Taxes and Fees

  • Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings

Questions?

Contact Us