Culture & Adventure in Spain, Portugal & Morocco - 21 Days

Highlights

• Enjoy food and history tours in Madrid and Granada
• Visit the beaches and national parks around Porto
• Tour the highlights of Lisbon and sail on the Tagus River
• See Marrakesh in a hot-air balloon and take a cooking class
• Take a sunset camel ride in the Sahara Desert

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Madrid, Wine & Gourmet Tapas Tour

Welcome to Spain! The fact this country was officially founded in 1492 belies a much longer history. Before the 15th century, this territory on the Iberian Peninsula was under Muslim rule, and before that, it was the site of a Roman conquest that started in 218 BCE. You'll arrive in the capital of Madrid, itself a bastion of rich history. At the airport, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in the city. Then you'll head out to discover this nation's culture in the tastiest way possible—through its cuisine.

In the evening, you'll meet your guide and head out to experience the most Spanish of culinary offerings: tapas (literally "tops" or "caps"). These are small plates of food served in bars, bodegas, and restaurants, sometimes for free, accompanied by beer or wine. During this four-hour flavor extravaganza, your guide will take you to the authentic spots where local madrileños eat tapas.

During the tapeo (tapas crawl), you'll stop at traditional family-run bodegas that have been serving fresh tapas paired with beer and wine for generations. It begins in the Las Letras neighborhood, where you'll visit three historic taverns and centuries-old bars. Here, you'll nibble on delicious tidbits and sip local wine as you learn the history of Madrid, which was founded back in the ninth century. The final stop is at one of the most exclusive restaurants in the city. There, you'll enjoy a multicourse gourmet meal paired with more great wines and complemented by a decadent dessert. 

Day 2: Rooftops Walking Tour

Get a bird's-eye view of Madrid on one of the most unique excursions in the city: a rooftop walking tour. This three-hour excursion will take you literally off the tourist trail as you go above the streets to the tops of buildings throughout the city. These may look like ordinary office and apartment buildings on the outside, but once on their rooftops, you'll be treated to wide vistas out over Madrid's famous skyline. Come for a sunset tour and enjoy stops at secret rooftop tapas bars, where you can nibble on delicious food as the sun gilds the tops of Madrid's Baroque buildings.

Day 3: Day Trip to Segovia & Kayaking

In the morning, your driver will pick you up for the one-hour drive north from Madrid to Segovia. This is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the country, with no shortage of ancient history. Your first stop is just northeast of the city at the Río Duratón Natural Reserve. This impressive river gorge boasts immense natural beauty and is a habitat for birds of prey like griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons.

Once at the river, you'll hop in a kayak and paddle down the gorge flanked by its sheer limestone walls that rise 328 feet (100 m) in places. Keep an eye out for birds as you journey to the ruins of Monasterio de la Hoz, a monastery dating to the eighth century. After the ride, you'll break for lunch and can enjoy the traditional cuisine of the northern Castile region of Spain.

After lunch, head into Segovia and meet a local guide for a tour. Most of Segovia's attractions are in the medieval Old Town, where you'll start. As you stroll down cobbled streets and ancient alleyways, you'll visit highlights like the 11th-century Alcázar (palace), the 14th-century Old Main Synagogue, and the 16th-century Segovia Cathedral, which dominates the skyline. The star, however, is the Roman Aqueduct. Dating to around 50 BCE, it runs 8 miles (14 km), stands an impressive 93 feet (28 m), and features two tiers comprised of 160 arches. After the tour, you'll return to Madrid.

Day 4: Transfer to Granada, Tour of the Alhambra & Generalife Gardens

After breakfast, you'll transfer to the station in Madrid and catch a train south 3.5 hours to the southern Andalusia region and Granada. This is a city that rivals any other in Spain for history and beauty. Granada was once the last bastion of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain) during the 400-year reign of the Moors, which lasted from 711 to 1086 CE. You can see examples of this history at Granada's most famous landmark, the Alhambra, which receives more than two million visitors annually. Upon arrival, you'll head right to this 26-acre (12 ha) Muslim fortress for a guided tour.

Built atop a hill overlooking Granada, the Alhambra dates to the ninth century. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by the Nasrid Dynasty and served as a Moorish palace until 1492, when, after the Christian reconquest, it became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella. During this three-hour tour, you'll walk its grand halls and stroll the Generalife Gardens, which are filled with colorful flowers and fountains and offer panoramic views of the city below. Afterward, you'll transfer to your hotel and will have the rest of the day free.

Day 5: Sierra Nevada E-Bike Tour

Another highlight of Granada is its snowcapped Sierra Nevada mountains, which loom over the city like sentinels. In the morning, you'll head out on a trekking adventure to explore Sierra Nevada Natural Park. Besides rivers and streams, the area is home to some of the highest peaks in Spain.

The five-hour excursion begins in the morning with a pickup from your hotel. Then you'll drive 45 minutes up to the 6,561-foot (2,000 m) park limit. Then, hop on an e-bike and begin the thrilling descent down the mountain's north face. Because you'll be riding around the second-highest mountain range in Europe, expect incredible scenery and plenty of sweeping viewpoints. For example, you can admire the soaring peak of Mulhacén, which at 11,423 feet (3,482 m), is the tallest in the Iberian Peninsula. Also, be on the lookout for mountain goats hopping around the slopes.

Throughout the trip, you can ride at your own pace. Also, there will be an expert guide riding alongside you who can point out the incredible sights you pass along the way. You'll even pedal through some of Andalusia's famous white villages and witness a more traditional way of life. At the end of the ride, you'll transfer back to your hotel in Granada.

Day 6: Day Trip to Las Alpujarras

Today's adventure takes you an hour from Granada into the idyllic mountains of the Alpujarras range. Visit the famous white villages that were the last stronghold of the Spanish Moors (Muslims) who, soon after the Castilians took Granada in 1492, were forced to convert to Christianity or flee. Those who refused to convert opted to take to the hills, settling in this remote area.

The medieval buildings and streets that make up these communities have remained remarkably well-preserved over the centuries. During stops in these villages, you'll find excellent cuisine sourced from locally-grown produce. Your guide will lead you to a traditional restaurant where you can sample these delights while learning about the region's history.

Watch for the area's abundant birdlife as you continue driving through the countryside. Birding is a popular activity in Las Alpujarras, and one colorful specimen that resides in the area is the hoopoe. Known for its haunting cry that echoes through the mountain valleys, it's distinguishable by its long crest and beak. After the tour, you'll return to Granada to spend the evening as you please.

Day 7: Transfer to Málaga, Hike the Caminito del Rey

In the morning, you'll transfer 1.5 hours south to the coastal city of Malága. It's a scenic ride that winds around mountains, olive groves, rolling meadows, cork forests, and more. You'll stop en route to Málaga to hike the famous Caminito del Rey—a network of walkways built along a deep gorge carved out by the Guadalhorce River. At times, the gorge reaches harrowing depths of 2,297 feet (700 m).

You'll arrive at the north entrance, put on your safety equipment, then head off on the trail. As you hike, you'll be treated to incredible views of the river winding through the valley below. This one-way route typically takes about three to four hours to complete. Once you've conquered the "King's Little Path," you'll continue to Málaga, where you'll check into your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax.

Day 8: Day Trip to the Cliffs of Maro, Beaches & Snorkeling

Head out on a half-day trip to the Maro Cliffs. Located about 45 minutes east of Málaga, this scenic area features a 7.5-mile (12 km) hiking path that runs parallel to the coast along dramatic cliffs. Besides the incredible sea views, many exotic plant species are endemic to this particular region in Spain.

The excursion begins with your arrival at a nature park in the Axarquía region. Here, you'll head out on the hiking trail running along fruit plantations that grow avocados, bananas, custard apples, sugar cane, and papayas. Eventually, you'll reach a 16th-century watchtower, from which you'll enjoy stunning views over the Maro Cliffs out over the Mediterranean. After some time for photos, you'll head down the cliffs to a hidden cove, where you can go snorkeling. 

Day 9: Fly to Porto (Portugal), Foodie Tour

Bid Spain adiós this morning as you transfer to the airport in Málaga and catch a 1.5-hour flight to Porto. This historic city in northern Portugal sits on the Douro River and is 20 years older than the country where it resides (Porto was founded in 1123). Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in the city center.

After checking into your hotel, you'll meet a local guide for a tasty half-day food tour around Porto's historic downtown. This small-group excursion focuses on the city's culinary renaissance. It includes stops at family-run eateries, cafés, and food purveyors focusing on simple ingredients and recipes passed down over generations. In the evening, you'll get to sample another staple of the region: port wine. You'll taste three different versions, including one vintage, as you learn about the history of this timeless drink.

Day 10: Porto E-Bike Tour, Vist Nearby Beaches

Head out to explore Porto's cobbled streets and medieval landmarks on an e-bike tour around the city. The electricity will do most of the work as you zip around Porto on a three-hour scenic ride led by a local expert who will point out the cultural and historical landmarks of the city.

The tour will take you through Porto's historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—where you can admire architectural landmarks that run the gamut from Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and neoclassical. These include the São Bento Railway Station (built in 1900 on the site of a former convent), Clerigos Tower, Church of St Francis, Sta Catarina Street, and Bolhão Market, to name a few.

After the ride, it's time for some relaxing beach time. Though this metropolis overlooks a river, it's also within striking distance of many beautiful stretches of sand. Popular options include sandy Praia dos Ingleses, which is right outside the city; Praia da Aguda, located in a charming fishing village; and Matosinhos, a port city with a wide and inviting stretch of sand popular with tourists and weekenders from Porto.

Day 11: Hiking in Peneda-Gerês National Park

Get active on a full-day excursion in Portugal's only national park: Peneda-Gerês. Covering a whopping 436 square miles (703 sq km) in Portugal's north, near the Spanish border, it's filled with hiking trails around wild mountain landscapes. Today's tour begins after breakfast with a pickup from your hotel in a 4WD vehicle. After an hour's ride outside the city, you'll reach the park. There, you'll head out and explore.

Throughout the day, you'll see some breathtaking viewpoints—from mountain panoramas to waterfalls—and swim in crystal-clear lagoons. Wildlife to watch out for on this tour includes wild horses, wild boar, wildcats, deer, otters, and endangered bats. At one of the most iconic viewpoints, you'll enjoy a picnic of traditional local food while admiring the gorgeous scenery.

As you travel between the scenic highlights of the park, your knowledgeable guide will reveal insights into the park and its inhabitants. You'll also visit the area's centuries-old villages, where ancient traditions have been preserved, and meet the villagers that help conserve the region's distinctive culture. Part of the national park ticket price also goes to help the community you visit.

Day 12: Transfer to Lisbon via Mira De Aire Caves

Wake up early and meet your driver for the transfer from Porto to Lisbon. The trip takes about three hours, but you'll stop on the way at the impressive Grutas Mira de Aire (Mira De Aire Caves). These are the largest underground caves in Portugal, formed during the Middle Jurassic Age more than 150 million years ago. The caves were only discovered in 1947, and in 2010 they were voted one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal.

The tour starts with a short film explaining the history of how the cave system and its discovery. Then, follow your guide underground as you hike down 340 feet (110 m) into a fascinating world of underground lagoons and unique mineral formations such as towering stalagmites and hanging stalactites. The temperature inside the caves is constant year-round at around 62.5°F (17°C). After visiting the caves, continue on to Lisbon. There, you'll check into your hotel and will have the rest of the day to explore Portugal's capital.

Day 13: Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour, Sunset Sailing Cruise

After breakfast, you'll explore the "City of Seven Hills" on a tuk-tuk (auto rickshaw) tour around Lisbon. Led by an expert guide, you'll travel to all corners of the city, from the waterfront Baixa district to the cobblestone alleys of the bohemian Bairro Alto. Throughout the two-hour tour, you'll learn about the city's medieval history as you stop at hidden enclaves and at stunning panoramic viewpoints. These include São Pedro de Alcântara, Parque Eduardo VII, Senhora do Monte, and Santa Luzia.

Later, see Lisbon from a different vantage point with a sunset cruise along the Tagus River. Your vessel for this seafaring adventure is one of Lisbon's iconic wooden sailboats. For hundreds of years, these specially-crafted vessels were a vital means of transport around Lisbon, ferrying cargo and people between the river's two banks.

During the two-hour ride, you can relax on deck as you pass the city's famous waterfront landmarks. These include Commerce Square, São Jorge Castle, the National Pantheon, Santa Apolónia Station, Christ the King, the 25th of April Bridge, the Tower of Belém, the Palace of Ajuda, and many more. The cruise ends as you watch the last rays of the sun dip behind Lisbon's skyline.

Day 14: Day Trip to Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Coastal Hike

In the morning, you'll leave Lisbon for a day trip to the stunning Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. This 56-square-mile (145 sq km) protected area comprises the forested Sintra Mountains, coastal hills, and cliffs. You'll experience this natural wonderland in all its majesty on a 12-mile (20 km) scenic hike along breathtaking cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

The excursion will take you through small traditional towns to Cape Roca, near the westernmost point of continental Europe. Here you can admire the historic lighthouse that has been watching over the coast since 1772. Afterward, you'll return to Lisbon.

Day 15: Fly to Marrakesh (Morocco), Street Food Tour

Bid Portugal farewell this morning as your driver picks you up and transfers you to the airport in Lisbon, where you'll catch a 1.5-hour flight to Marrakesh. This kicks off the final Morocco leg of your grand tour! This North African country is a colorful jumble of Arab, Jewish, and Berber influences, but its proximity to Spain and a history of French colonization imbue it with a distinctly European feel. You'll see it right away when your driver takes you to your hotel in Marrakesh. 

When the sun goes down, head out to discover the flavors of Morocco on a food tour. Expert local guides have curated this epic culinary adventure, so expect to visit some of the most authentic local spots around the city. You'll go to souks and try street-food staples like pastilla (chicken pie) and msemen (Moroccan square pancakes). You might also stop in at a family-run restaurant for a tajine, a traditional stew slow-cooked in an earthenware pot. Know that all dishes you try here are Moroccan mom-approved. 

Day 16: Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon Ride, Cooking Class

Rise before dawn and head just outside the city to the embarkation point for a special tour. Here, you'll hop in the basket of a hot-air balloon and ascend over Marrakesh as the first rays of light cast the valley underneath you in a golden glow. As you float through the air, you'll be far removed from the chaotic bustle of Marrakesh.

During this two-hour ride, you'll enjoy the scenery as you float over arid deserts, quaint villages, and green patchwork fields—with the snowcapped Atlas mountains as a backdrop. After sunrise, you'll sit down for a breakfast of fresh Moroccan pastry right in the basket. At the end of the ride, you'll touch down on terra firma and transfer back to the city.

Later, you'll visit the Amal Center, an NGO dedicated to empowering disadvantaged women through restaurant training and job placement. Here, you'll strap on an apron and participate in a group cooking class in which you learn to prepare traditional chicken tajine with olives and pickled lemons. The 90-minute class takes place in the center's tranquil garden, with an outdoor fire to cook your tajines and flatbread. As you cook, you'll chat with the members about the center's good work and hear their personal stories of finding employment after job training. Then it's time to eat!

Day 17: Transfer to Boumalne Dades via Ouarzazate

In the morning, you'll meet your driver and embark on a road trip out of Marrakesh and east to Boumalne Dades. This city lies in the Dadès Valley of Tinghir Province, home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the country, including river gorges, mountains, and desert plains dotted with ancient towns and kasbahs (citadels). The trip takes about six hours, during which you'll wind your way over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass in the High Atlas mountains. At this point, you'll catch views of Mount Toubkal, the range's highest summit (13,671 ft / 4,167 m), as you pass traditional Berber villages.

Soon enough, you'll reach the medieval village of Aït Benhaddou, home to the most famous kasbah in Morocco—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village dates to the 11th century when it was a major point on the trans-Saharan trade route between the mountains, Marrakesh, and the southern desert. You'll stop here for a walk around the village. Then continue to the picturesque town of Ouarzazat, a beautiful mud-brick city featured in productions like "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones." It has a scenic Mellah (Jewish quarter) close to the souks (markets) and kasbahs.

After Ouarzazate, you'll cross the Dadès River and head toward Kelâat M'Gouna, the "Valley of the Roses." Admire the cultivated rose bushes and visit a rose collective, where you'll learn how artisans convert the petals into rose water and oil for the cosmetic industry. Your final stop is Boumalne Dades, where you'll check into your accommodation. Enjoy the scenes of arid landscapes and traditional architecture contrasting with the verdant river valley.

Day 18: Transfer to Merzouga, Sunset Camel Ride

Get back in the car this morning for the 4.5-hour transfer east from Boumalne Dades to Merzouga, a small town in the Sahara Desert. On the way, you'll pass through the 984-foot (300 m) deep Todra Gorge, where you'll stop for an easy walk amid its red limestone cliffs. Continue to the market town of Erfoud, which is known for its annual date festival, fossil mining, and artisan factories. When you reach Erfoud, you'll glimpse the Sahara's dunes. Continue farther and you'll see the impressive Erg Chebbi (a sea of windswept dunes) in the distance.

Upon arrival near Merzouga, you'll check into your luxury Bedouin-style tent accommodation and enjoy a short break. Then, just before sunset, hop on a camel for a ride through the dunes as the last light turns the Sahara sands fiery shades of red and gold. Return to camp for dinner, followed by time relaxing by the campfire as you enjoy traditional Berber music performed by locals. 

Day 19: Desert Adventures Around Erg Chebbi

Wake early to catch a Sahara sunrise, then enjoy a 4WD ride over the Erg Chebbi dunes. Afterward, meet with the local nomads, enjoy a cup of tea with a family, and visit a house in the small village of Khamleya to listen to spiritual healing music. Traditionally practiced throughout Morocco and originating from the sub-Saharan region, gnawa is spiritual music at its roots, although popular maâlems (master musicians) are taking the music mainstream.

In the late afternoon, you'll have the option to rent a sandboard and test your skills on the dunes or join a quad ATV tour. Afterward, climb the nearest dune and enjoy one more vermillion sunset over the Sahara. Then head back to camp for dinner and more time by the campfire enjoying traditional Berber music under the desert sky.

Day 20: Transfer to Marrakesh, Optional Activities

Your driver will be waiting this morning to take you on the eight-hour drive from Merzouga back to Marrakesh. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have the rest of the evening free. If you haven't already, visit Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square in the city's medina (walled old town) quarter, which also houses Marrakesh's famous tanneries. The city is known for its leather goods; local families have been plying this trade since the 11th century. Just outside the medina is the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, which dates to 1147.

Day 21: Transfer to Casablanca & Depart

Your grand adventure around the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco has, alas, come to an end. In the morning, your driver will meet you at the hotel and drive you 2.5 hours north to the airport in Casablanca, where you'll catch your flight home. Safe travels!

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