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Spain and Portugal Grand Tour

posted by Mojca Cvetko
July 29, 2021
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Spain attracts every year millions of foreign tourists making it one the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Easier to escape the crowds, Portugal offers an old-fashioned charm, with medieval castles and picture-perfect villages, meandering coastlines and flower-covered hillsides. Experience the magic of both countries on this 18 day grand tour.

Arrival to Barcelona airport. Individual transfers to the hotel. Welcome dinner either at the hotel or at the local restaurant. Overnight.

After breakfast begin a guided FD s/s tour of Barcelona (4+4 hrs), which includes Barcelona’s most important artistic sights: Gaudi’s famous buildings Casa Batlló, Casa Milá, the Cathedral Sagrada Familia (entrance fee to the cathedral included) and Guell Park, declared an artistic monument and mankind’s heritage by the Unesco. We pass by the Barcelona’s Monumental Bull Ring and the city park La Ciutadella.
Around midday free for lunch and in the afternoon continuation of the city tour featuring Plaza Cataluña, Vía Laietana, the Cathedral, the Gothic Quarter and Plaza Sant Jaume. Continue to the Vila Olímpica and the Port Olímpic, pass the Montjuic Mountain, and see the harbour.
Evening free for strolling around on your own. Overnight.

Breakfast in the hotel. Departure to Valencia. Upon arrival, afternoon guided HD s/s tour of Valencia (3,5 hrs), one of the most lively Mediterranean cities, known for its numerous gardens. Tour of the old part of the town includes the Cathedral with a bell tower of 8 angels – the symbol of the town, Puerta del Real, Puerta de la Trinidad, Puerta de las Serranos and a walk through the lively streets of Barrio de Carmen. Overnight.

After breakfast departure to Granada, passing by a famous tourist centre Alicante and the town Murcia.
Arrival to Granada in the evening. Overnight.

After breakfast start the guided HD s/s tour of Granada (3,5 hrs), one of the most charming cities in Spain with its unique architecture, a mixture of Moorish, Muslim and Catholic art. We shall visit the famous Alhambra Palace (entrance included) and the amazing gardens of Generalife (entrance included). Walk through the old part of the city and visit of the Royal Chapel (entrance included), where King Ferdinand and Queen Elisabeth are buried. Overnight.

After breakfast transfer to Cordoba and upon arrival HD SS tour of Cordoba. You will be able to visit Mezquita de Cordoba, a Roman Catholic Cathedral and former Mosque. Under the rule of Islam, it was built as the second-largest mosque in the world, and is perhaps the most accomplished monument of the Unmayyad dynasty of Cordoba. After the Spanish Reconquista it was transformed into a church, and some of the Islamic columns and arches were replaced by a basilica in early Baroque style. After visit you will be able to walk through the streets of barrio de la Judería, known for its interesting interior patios. After visit free time for personal activities and lunch.
In the afternoon way to Sevilla and overnight.

After breakfast begin a guided HD s/s tour of Seville (3,5 hrs). We will visit the two most important highlights of central Sevilla: the Cathedral of Santa María (entrance included), biggest in Spain and place where is buried Christopher Columbus, and the Royal Alcazar (entrance included), Arabic palace from the 14th Century and nowadays residence of the Spanish kings, to end with a nice walk through the historical Jewish section called Santa Cruz.
In the evening optional Tapas dinner & Flamenco show. Overnight.

After breakfast depart direction Lisbon. En route stop in Évora, a place which is classified as World Heritage by Unesco. This city accomplishes a great harmony of all époques that marked the prestigious history of Évora. On the Giraldo Square, from the arcades you will have a great perspective; you’ll notice the right architectural proportion and balance of the city. This city with six kilometres of ramparts can be visited by foot: the historical quarter, with the roman and gothic cathedral, the Roman Temple, Saint Francis church and the Bone Chappel.
From Evora proceed to Lisbon. Overnight.

After breakfast begin a guided HD s/s tour of Lisbon (4 hrs). We start with a panoramic tour that will take us through the most historical and traditional points of the city, such as the Park Edward VII, Liberty Avenue, Restauration Square, Rossio Square, the Downtown (rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755) and Commerce Square. Afterwards we continue to Belém, that is known as the “Discoveries Quarter” – it was from here that the caravels set sail to their trips to South America and to the Orient. First we stop at the Tower of Belém (outside visit) – built in Manueline style on the north bank of the River Tagus for the defence purposes of the city – and afterwards we make a photo stop at the Monument to the Discoveries, that celebrates the Portuguese discoveries and specially Henry the Navigator. We continue by visiting the Jeronimus Monastery (entrance included), built in the 16^th century in Manueline style. This monument celebrates the power of King Manuel I and the magnificence of the empire.
Proceed to Alfama, the quarter where the city was born. In the afternoon begin the excursion: travel to Estoril for panoramic view of its gardens and Casino. On to Cascais, where we stop for a beautiful view of the fishing port. Due to its strategic position Cascais became a look-out for Lisbon during the age of the Discoveries. It became very famous at the end of the 19^th century, when it was chosen as a summer residence by the Portuguese Royal Family. From Caiscais we drive along the coastline towards Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in Continental Europe with wonderful views over the Atlantic and with a unique flora.
Continue to Sintra, a beautiful town situated on the green slopes of a mountain range. This town used to be the residence of the Portuguese royal family during the middle ages and it was considered World Heritage by UNESCO. In Sintra you will have an opportunity to taste the local cheese cake – queijadas, and visit the impressive Sintra Palace (entrance included). From Sintra return to Lisbon. In the evening optional Fado dinner. Overnight.

After breakfast we depart North direction Coimbra. Stop in the medieval fortress village of Obidos, still surrounded by high walls, which date back to the 12^th century.
On to Nazare, a fishing village with historical points related to legends, and known for its excellent cuisine.
From there we continue to Batalha, the town was that was founded to pay homage to the Portuguese victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota (August 14, 1385) that put an end to the 1383-1385 crises.
On to Fatima, famous for the Marian apparitions, recognized by the Catholic Church, that took place there in 1917. From Fatima proceed towards the last destination of the day. Overnight in Coimbra.

The city of Coimbra is divided into two: the baixa (lower town) by the river is the main commerical centre and alta (upper town) is the older part of the city where the university and many of Coimbra’s main attractions are located. After breakfast start a guided HD s/s tour of Coimbra (4 hrs), a charming town with an ancient and traditional University, where we mingle in the atmosphere of students. Inhabited by Romans and Arabs, it was once the capital of Portugal, before Lisbon took its place. During the tour we visit the University & Library (entrance included), the first to exist in Portugal, since the XIII century and one of the most important universities in Europe: see the Library, a masterpiece of gilt wood-work and its courtyard from where we have another nice view over Mondego river.
Afternoon free time for lunch and to walk through the narrow streets of the ancient area, see the antique Cathedral, dating from the XII century. Overnight.

Departure to Aveiro, city of the clourful houses and numerous canals, known as the “Portuguese Venice”, where you shall have time to see the graceful boats “moliceiros” and taste the local sweets “ovos moles”. After short orientation tour there will be free time to enjoy this city on your own. Early afternoon departure to Porto.
Upon arrival free time for lunch and afterwards HD guided visit (4 hrs) of Porto’s most attractive areas such as the Ribeira quarter, St. Francisco Church (entrance included), the Stock Exchange (entrance included), and the one of the Porto’s wine cellars to enjoy the tasting of Porto wine. Continue with enjoyable 1 hour cruise on the Douro River (included). Overnight in Porto.

Full day at leisure. Possibility for the optional excursion along the Douro valley. Overnight in Porto.

After breakfast departure to Salamanca. an ancient city famous for its university founded by Alfonso IX in the early 1200’s. All the buildings in the center of town, even the new ones, are made of the stone from Villamayor, which contains a high concentration of iron making possible very filigree works. Together with its characteristic golden color gives strong personality to all the town. Our panoramic tour features the highlights such as Casa de las Conchas, the Roman Bridge, Plaza Mayor, Old and New Cathedral and the University Quarter with its famous Salamanca University.
The reminder of the day is free to stroll around on your own. Overnight in Salamanca.

Early departure toward Avila. Sta. Teresa de Jesús, a great mystic woman of the Catholic Church, was born in the city of Avila, which conserves the most ancient and complete fortified complex in Spain (XI century). Its 2500 m wall and its 90 fortified towers surround the old city, which houses great part of its monumental treasure including a large number of Romanesque style churches, gothic palaces and a fortified cathedral of the XII century.
After orientation tour of Avila proceed to Segovia. The Roman Empire left in Segovia the Aqueduct, which is 16 km long. It was the residence of some of the kings of Castilla and preserves one of the most important medieval groups of buildings in Spain. The cathedral is considered “the Lady of the Cathedrals” thanks to its elegance, and the Alcazar is the most spectacular castle in the country.
After orientation tour of Segovia we proceed to the final destination of the day, Madrid. Overnight.

Breakfast. Start a guided HD s/s tour of Madrid (4 hrs), a multi-faced city, with its Arab-fortress which origins to the court days during the reign of Philip II and that of Charles III, at which period some important building schemes were undertaken and, finally, present day Madrid, one of the most important European capitals. We’ll drive past such well-known avenues as those of Gran Vía and Castellana, famous squares such as the Plaza de España, Oriente, Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Atocha, Neptuno, Cibeles, Puerta de Alcalá, Colón and Plaza de Castilla, quarters of major historical relevance such as that of the Austrias, the Borbouns and Salamanca, the Oeste and Retiro parks, commercial and financial areas Coliseums such as the Bullring, the Santiago Bernabeu soccer stadium, University Campous, etc. Time permiting we shall visit also the Basilica San Francisco.
The afternoon is at leisure. Overnight.

After breakfast begin a HD excursion to Toledo. In Toledo, guided HD tour of the city (3 hrs) with included inside visits to the Cathedral (entrance included) and Santo Tome Church (entrance included).
From Toledo return to Madrid. Afternoon at leisure. Farewell dinner at the local restaurant (walking distance, without the coach transfer). Overnight.

Breakfast. Individual transfers to Madrid airport for your home bound flight.

Porto City Break

posted by Mojca Cvetko
July 29, 2021
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Porto, also known as Oporto, is the second-largest city in Portugal, after Lisbon, and one of the major urban areas in Southern Europe. Located along the Douro River, Porto is one of the oldest European centres, and registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996.

ts settlement dates back many centuries, when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire. One of Portugal’s internationally famous exports, port wine, is named for Porto, since the metropolitan area, and in particular the adegas of Vila Nova de Gaia, were responsible for the production and export of the fortified wine. The history of Porto dates back to the 4th century, to the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula.

Arrival to Porto and transfer to the hotel. Overnight in hotel.

Breakfast and half day sightseeing tour of Porto with local guide. In the second largest portuguese city we will visit the Palacio de Bolsa (stock exchanges palace), the Saint Francisco Church and we will end in one of the famous wine cellar where we will have a tasting of local wine.
Afternoon free, at leisure. Overnight in Porto.

Breakfast in hotel. Day at leisure. Overnight in hotel.

Breakfast in hotel. Transfer to airport and END OF SERVICES.

Madrid and Lisbon

posted by Mojca Cvetko
July 29, 2021
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Madrid & Barcelona, the world’s greatest avant-garde and modern cities, Portugal with its old-fashioned charm..

Visit Madrid, one of the world’s truly great cities and Lisbon, that offers all the delights you’d expect of Portugal’s star attraction, yet with half the fuss of other European capitals.

Arrival to Madrid Airport by scheduled flight. After entry formalities you will depart to Caceres. The journey will take you through the wild countryside of mountains and lakes. Upon arrival, check in to hotel. Overnight.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast begin HD panoramic tour of Caceres. Caceres is a medieval city situated in the province of Extremadura and is a city that has not changed for hundreds of years, so everything is the same as in the medieval times. You will be able to see the Church of San Antonio (a former synagogue), which might be the only church in Christendom with a women’s gallery. Free for lunch on own.
After lunch depart to Lisbon. Upon arrival, check in to hotel. Overnight.

Breakfast in the hotel. After breakfast start a HD panoramic tour of Lisbon. First we will have a panoramic tour that will take you through the most historical and traditional points of the city, such as the Park Edward VII, Liberty Avenue, Restauration Square, Rossio Square, the Downtown (rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755) and Commerce Square. Afterwards we will continue to Belém, that is known as the “Discoveries Quarter” – it was from here that the caravels set sail to their trips to South America and to the Orient. First we will see the Tower of Belém (entrance not included) – built in Manueline style on the north bank of the River Tagus for defence of the city – and afterwards photo stop at the Monument of the Discoveries that celebrates the Portuguese discoveries and specially Henry the Navigator. Continue towards the Geraniums Monastery (entrance not included), built in the 16^th century in Manueline style. This monument celebrates the power of King Manuel I and the magnificence of the empire. Free time for lunch on own.
After lunch proceed to Sintra, a beautiful town situated on the green slopes of a mountain range. This town used to be the residence of the Portuguese royal family during the middle ages and it was considered World Heritage by UNESCO. Visit of the National Palace (entrance not included), built over an ancient Arabic palace and rebuilt over the centuries. It houses an interesting collection of glazed tiles, paintings and furniture. Return to Lisbon. Overnight.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast depart to Merida. En route stop in Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in Continental Europe with wonderful views over the Atlantic and with a unique flora. We will then drive along the coastline towards Cascais, where we will have a stop for a beautiful view of the fishing port. Cascais became a look-out for Lisbon during the age of the Discoveries. Due to its location close to the mouth of the River Tagus it was the first place the navigators used to see when they returned from overseas. Cascais became very famous in the end of the 19^th century, when it was chosen as a summer residence by the Portuguese Royal Family. Continue to Estoril and enjoy a panoramic view of its gardens and Casino. Free time for lunch on own.
After lunch proceed to Merida. Upon arrival, start a panoramic tour of Merida (without local guide). Merida is designated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. This was once the most important city in the Roman’s Iberian empire. You will be able to see the extensive Roman ruins (entrance not included), considered to be the best-preserved and finest outside Italy. After panoramic tour, check in to hotel. Overnight.

Breakfast in the hotel. After breakfast depart to Madrid. En route stop in Toledo. Upon arrival free for lunch on own. After lunch HD panoramic tour in Toledo. Toledo was declared a World heritage site by UNESCO in 1986 for its extensive cultural and monumental heritage as one of the former capitals of the Spanish Empire and place of coexistence of Christian, Jewish and Moorish cultures. Many famous people and artist were born or lived in the city, including Garcilaso de la Vega, Alfonso X and El Greco. Toledo also was well known for historic events such as the Visigothic Council of Toledo. You will be able to see the Cathedral of Santa Maria (entrance not included), a 13^th century high gothic cathedral, the Santo Tome Church (entrance not included) with the El Greco’s best known work “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz” an exceptionally large painting, clearly divided in two zones, the heavenly above and the terrestrial below, and the former Synagogue of Santa Maria la Blanca (entrance not included), a religious building erected in 1180 (according to the inscription on a beam). Its stylistic and cultural classification is not simple, because it was constructed in Christian territory by Islamic constructors for Jewish use and owners. It is considered a symbol of the cooperation of the three cultures that lived in the Iberian Peninsula in the middle ages.
Continue to Madrid. Upon arrival check in to hotel. Overnight.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast begin HD sightseeing tour in Madrid. Madrid is a multi-faced city, with its Arab-fortress which origins to the court days during the reign of Philip II and that of Charles III, at which period some important building schemes were undertaken and, finally, present day Madrid, one of the most important European capitals. We’ll drive past such well-known avenues as those of Gran Vía and Castellana; famous squares such as the Plaza de España, Oriente, Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Atocha, Neptuno, Cibeles, Puerta de Alcalá, Colón and Plaza de Castilla; quarters of mayor historical relevance such as that of the Austrias, the Borbouns and Salamanca; the Oeste and Retiro parks; commercial and financial areas coliseums such as the bullring, the Santiago Bernabeu soccer stadium, University campus, etc. You will visit the Prado Museum (entrance not included). Free for lunch on own. Free afternoon for personal activities. Overnight.

Breakfast in the hotel. After breakfast at the hotel, begin the full day excursion to Escorial and Valle de los Caidos. Our first stop will be the El Escorial (entrance not included). To commemorate the battle “San Quintin” and to locate the remains of his dead father the emperor Charles V, Philip II ordered the construction of this monastery, considered as a temple, austere royal residence, and pantheon for kings, the monastery is a real symbol of Spanish power from the XVI century. The construction was focussing sense, symmetry and balance, keeping in all cases the exposure for the Renacentist style. The pictorial and sculptural importance is also great. It is also possible to visit: The Austrians Palace, Pantheons for Kings and Infants, Chapters rooms and basilica. Continue to Valle de los Caidos (entrance not included).
Return to Madrid Airport.

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