Epic Coastal Tour of Portugal, Spain & Morocco - 14 Days

Highlights

• Explore the best of Lisbon on foot and by tuk-tuk
• Kayak to the world-famous Benagil Cave in the Algarve
• Enjoy lazy beach days in southern Spain and visit the Alhambra
• Experience the vibrant Moroccan cities of Tangier, Rabat, and Marrakesh
• Buy pottery in Safi and eat local seafood in Essaouira

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon (Portugal), Food & Culture Walk

Welcome to sunny Portugal! Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities, and golden beaches await. But first, a driver will greet you at Lisbon airport and transfer you to your hotel. Freshen up before hitting the colorful streets on a food and culture walking tour. Explore two of Lisbon's most ancient neighborhoods and step through time as you stroll from old 12th-century alleys into the bustling modern-day city. Along the way, sample authentic Portuguese dishes and learn about why the neighborhood of Mouraria is such a unique place, historically and today.

This evening is yours to explore Lisbon as you wish. Make your way to one of the city's many viewpoints or down to the riverfront to take in a special sunset.

Day 2: Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour, Free Time

Explore the "City of Seven Hills" in style today by electric tuk-tuk. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll zip through the charming capital's modern and historic districts, from the neoclassical avenues of Baixa to the cobblestone alleys of bohemian Bairro Alto. Discover the city's fascinating history and hidden corners, and stop at stunning panoramic viewpoints such as São Pedro de Alcântara, Parque Eduardo VII, Senhora do Monte, and Santa Luzia.

Use the rest of the day to explore at your own pace. Lisbon's markets give insight into the city's day-to-day rhythms. Each Tuesday and Saturday, the Feira da Ladra flea market offers everything from vintage clothing to quirky antiques. For produce, try the city's most prominent traditional market, the daily Mercado da Ribeira, and then visit the buzzing Time Out Market food hall next door. This evening, head into Bairro Alto for a special night at one of the city's best fado restaurants, where good food and the melancholic tones of fado come together for an authentic evening.

Day 3: Transfer to the Algarve, Kayak to Benagil Caves

This morning, a private driver will collect you from your Lisbon hotel for a three-hour transfer to the Algarve. This southernmost coastline of Portugal is known for its breathtaking cliffs, beautiful beaches, and charming towns.

Start exploring the soaring cliffs and curious coastal formations today when you kayak to the world-famous Benagil Cave. Getting there is an adventure as you paddle past an extraordinary section of the coast full of fantastic geological features, such as natural rock arches and rock stacks. Paddle inside and land on the sandy beach within Benagil Cave, a cathedral cave with a hole in the roof that lets in a warm sunbeam of light.

This evening you could join a special excursion and witness a beautiful sunset from the most southwesterly point in continental Europe. As twilight approaches, you'll spectate from the St. Vincent Cape of Sagres, where you can watch the sun sink into the Atlantic Ocean as you enjoy a glass of Portuguese wine with bread and chorizo.

Day 4: Ilha Deserta Beach Day

Day 5: Transfer to Cádiz (Spain), Free Time

Wave goodbye to Portugal this morning when your driver collects you for a transfer to Cádiz. Three hours later, you will arrive in one of the most historic cities in southern Spain with the whole day free to explore. Cádiz was the site of the creation of Spain's first constitution. It was passed in 1812 in the Church of Oratorio de San Felipe Neri, establishing national sovereignty from France. Visit the historic square, Plaza de San Antonio, then dive into its food scene.

Start at the Mercado Central de Abastos, Spain's oldest indoor market with more than 150 stalls, including tapas bars, fresh produce, and fish stalls. Near the market is the Paseo Campo del Sur, a waterfront promenade and the perfect place to view the majestic twin bell towers of the dominating 17th-century Catedral de Cádiz. Grab your towel and go to La Caleta, the most popular stretch of sand in town, or join a half-day sail in the Bay of Cádiz. Later explore Cádiz's famous restaurant scene and sample a glass (or bottle) of the regional garum red wine.

Day 6: Transfer to Málaga, Beach Time

Today the journey continues to Málaga. A driver will pick you up at your hotel for the 2.5-hour drive to the heart of the Costa del Sol. Spend the rest of your day lazing on Málaga's golden La Malagueta Beach. Or escape from the crowds an hour east of the city at the fishing village of Nerja. Known for its coastal cliffs and beautiful beaches, the town is just as famous for the Caves of Nerja, a series of caverns that stretch 5 miles (3 km) and not only feature hanging stalactites and columns but also a theater that holds regular concerts.

Return to Málaga for an evening hopping between tapas bars. The tapas culture here is just as strong as it is anywhere else in Andalusia, and some of the best spots indulge in these small plates include La Deriva, La Farola de Orellana, Lo Güeno Mesón, Matahambre, and Mesón Ibérico.

Day 7: Cliffs of Maro, Paradise Beach & Snorkeling Day Trip

Soak up the natural beauty of Spain's southern coast on today's day trip to the Cliffs of Maro. Follow hidden trails between tropical plantations of avocados, custard apples, banana trees, sugar cane, and papayas. Then enter the natural park and visit a 16th-century watchtower. From here, you have spectacular views of the Cliffs of Maro and the Mediterranean Sea. Take photos and rest before continuing on the trail, descending to a hidden beach. Swim in the calm waters, or snorkel along the rocky coast, discovering the colorful marine life that inhabits the area.

Day 8: Train to Granada, Tour the Alhambra

Granada was once the last bastion of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain) when the Moors ruled it, and today you'll see striking examples of this ancient history. Make your way to Málaga's train station for a quick 90-minute journey to Granada. Drop your bags at the hotel and go out to explore.

Day 9: Ferry to Tangier (Morocco), Private Guided Tour

Today you'll board a ferry for Africa! Take a private transfer from Granada to the coastal town of Algeciras, where you will take a boat to Tangier in Morocco. Tangier is known as the gateway between Europe and Africa. Stretching along the Maghreb Coast at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier offers a remarkable blend of cultures. Several influences have shaped the city for centuries, attracting artists, spies, and eccentric foreigners.

Get to know Moroccan culture with a private guided visit. Meander around the Kasbah and Medina districts, passing places such as the 17th-century Sultan's Palace. Stroll through the intricate lanes leading to Bab Bhar (Gate to the Sea), offering stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar, the Iberian Peninsula, the vibrant port of Tangier, and the Ville Nouvelle. Appreciate the cultural diversity and unique lifestyle passed on through generations with the communal ovens used for baking bread, the weaver's section, and tiny restaurants you would not venture into without a local.

Day 10: Transfer to Rabat, Self-Guided Tour

This morning you'll take a comfortable three-hour private transfer to Rabat, the capital of Morocco since 1956 and a bustling UNESCO World Heritage city. Embark on a self-guided tour, starting at the Royal Palace of Rabat and the medieval fortification of the Chellah Necropolis, where you can wander the Roman and Islamic ruins. Stroll through the medina (old town) to find the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohamed V. This abandoned 12th-century project features the minaret of an incomplete mosque and some 200 columns.

Spend time in the historic medina—stop at the souks to peruse local crafts and goods, such as rugs, spices, slippers, jewelry, leather, and more. Remember that bartering is part of the fun! Next, visit the 20th-century Andalusian Gardens and enjoy the serene space away from the crowds. The lush terraces are filled with paths, exotic plants, flowers, and fruit trees. End at the grand door of the Kasbah des Oudaïas, the gate out of Rabat's old city center and the Musée des Oudaïas handicrafts museum. Admire the white and blue architecture, then relax at your accommodation.

Day 11: Transfer to Safi, Self-Guided Tour

Today you'll hit the road again with another three-hour private transfer, this time heading toward the coastal city of Safi. This small city is known for its talented craftsmen who excel in traditional hand-painted pottery. The medina also offers many high-quality traditional products, making Safi a great destination for shopping and finding great deals. Shop your heart out, then wander down to Paradise Beach, where you can find camel rides, sports competitions, and many music festivals in the summer.

Day 12: Transfer to Essaouira, Private Guided Tour, Seafood Lunch

Take a two-hour transfer along the coast toward Essaouira, a small but charming city with a long history of different influences, including Indigenous Berbers, Phoenicians, and Romans. The Portuguese occupied the city from the 15th century and built its fortress and ramparts in 1506 CE, influencing the design of the city. Known for its blue and white buildings, Essaouira hosts an art-centric population, attracting a large bohemian crowd for the Gnaoua and World Music Festival every summer. You'll also find windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts and plenty of surfers.

Twist through the medina's wide and bright streets, which cover 75 acres (30 ha) with a private guide. Enjoy the souks, street vendors, leafy plazas, and whitewashed houses with ornate wooden doors. Stop into various traditional shops to find ceramics and spices, leather goods, and shoes. Visit Mulay El-Hassan Square and the 16th-century Portuguese Castelo Real of Mogador. Uncover Jewish history at Rabbi Haim Pinto, a well-preserved synagogue. Essaouira's large working port is noisy, pungent, and hugely atmospheric. Get a recommendation and enjoy a seafood lunch in town.

Day 13: Transfer to Marrakesh, Private Guided Tour

This morning take a private three-hour transfer to Marrakesh, "the Red City." A guide will meet you at the hotel for a half-day guided visit, leading you past historical sites such as the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadien Tombs, the 19th-century Bahia Palace, and the Jewish Quarter. Wind your way through the colorful and lively UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina, visiting different artisan areas within the souks

Day 14: Depart Marrakesh

It's the final morning of your two-week vacation through Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. When the time is right, take a transfer from your hotel to Marrakesh airport for your departing flight. Safe travels!

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