Worldwide Destinations
Freedom To Wander
Treasures of Spain Portugal & Morocco|Insight Vac.
Starting and ending in Madrid, experience the highlights and iconic sights of three amazing countries, at a pace you can enjoy. From the Prado Museum in Madrid to the Terreiro do Paco in Lisbon and the Barbary Apes in Gilbratar, learn about the history, art, culture and cusine of this wondrous region of the world.
Starting and ending in Madrid, experience the highlights and iconic sights of three amazing countries, at a pace you can enjoy. From the Prado Museum in Madrid to the Terreiro do Paco in Lisbon and the Barbary Apes in Gilbratar, learn about the history, art, culture and cusine of this wondrous region of the world.
17 DAYS | 3 BEAUTIFUL COUNTRIES - SPAIN, PORTUGAL & MOROCCO
SPAIN - Is a country on Europe's Iberian Pennisula, includes 17 autonomous regions with diverse geography and cultures. Capital city, Madrid, is home to the Royal Palace and Prado museum, housing works by European masters. Seville is the largest city of the Spanish autonomous community of Audalusia and the province of Seville.
PORTUGAL - Is a southern European country on the Iberian Penninsula, bordering Spain. Its location on the Atlantic Ocean has influenced many aspects of its culture: salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes. The Algarve's beaches are major destinations and much of the nation's architecture dates to the 1500s-1800s, when Portugal had a powerful maritime empire.
MOROCCO - Is a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, and is distinguished by its Berber, Arabian and European cultural influences.
Marrakesh's medina, a mazelike medieval quarter, offers entertainment in its Djemaa el-Fna square and souks (marketplaces) selling ceramics, jewelry and metal lanterns. The capital Rabat's Kasbah of the Udayas is a 12th century royal fort overlooking the water.
On certian days of the tour you will have Optional Experiences to choose from at an additional charge.
Please see Other Information Tab for detailed information.
Roundtrip airfare from US to Madrid Additional | Please call for Air Inclusion Rates
$350 non-refundable deposit due at time of booking
Final payment 90 days prior
Single Supplement Rate $8,135.00
Day One
Welcome to Madrid - Join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant and get to know your fellow travelers over an evening of delicious food and wine.
DDay Two
Prado Museum and on to Golden Salamanca - With your Local Expert, travel along the main historical areas of the capital of Spain, known as Madrid of the Bourbons. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter, to discover the origins of the city. A sure highlight is when you join an art historian to explore the Prado Museum, a magnicent palace housing works by Velázquez, Goya, Rubens and other masters. Journey past the walls of Ávila en route to Salamanca, with its honey-colored cathedral and 16th-century university buildings.
FBDay Three
Holy Fátima and Lisbon - Cross the Portuguese frontier and skirt the Estrela Mountains en route to Fátima, Portugal’s most renowned religious site. Join the pilgrims ocking into the great basilica, commemorating the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917. In the heart of the Shrine of Fátima is The Chapel of Apparitions, marking the exact location of her first appearance. Your travels continue to Lisbon.
FBDay Four
Lisbon and the Age of the Great Discoveries - Your guided sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and across the tree-shaded squares. Pass beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paço, the nest square in the city, named after the palace that was destroyed in the terrible earthquake of 1755, along with much of the rest of the city. Visit the Belém Quarter from where sailing ships once set forth to discover unknown lands. Enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years. Visit National Coach Museum, which features one of the most prominent horsedrawn carriage collections in the world. This afternoon is free to explore further as you wish or perhaps decide to visit the Portuguese Riviera.
FBDay Five
To Seville, the City of Carmen - Visit Seville's Cathedral, the final resting place of Christopher Colombus. Explore the city with Insight Choice. Choose to walk through the old Jewish quarter and see La Giralda, the former minaret of the Great Mosque, which is now the bell tower of the cathedral. Alternatively, join a scenic drive and enjoy panoramic views.
FBDay Six
Free Time and Flamenco in Seville - This morning is yours to completely relax or continue exploring this fascinating city. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to Córdoba and visit the magnicent Mezquita, an 8th century mosque with a Christian cathedral built inside it? Later this afternoon, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Cristina Heeren Foundation, a flamenco dance school and beneficiary of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Their mission is to promote the teaching and conservation of flamenco. Feel the passion behind the choreography as you put your rhythm to the test during a dance lesson before witnessing emotions come to life in a flamenco performance.
FBDay Seven
The Straits of Gibraltar to Fes - Set sail across the Strait of Gibraltar to reach Morocco, a historic land of deep-rooted tradition and compelling cultural character.
FB, DDay Eight
Explore Fes - This morning join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience to the non-profit American Fondouk, speak with the volunteer veterinarians who care so passionately for the welfare of the animals. Your Local Expert will guide you through the ancient Medina, teeming with hidden courtyards, beautiful mosques and local workshops. Sensorial delights await around every corner as you take in the historic grandeur of this walled city. Walk through the souks and pass one of the world’s oldest universities. Learn about the ancient craft of handwoven carpets, a tradition developed in this region over thousands of years. Gain insight into the exceptional skill and artistic symbolism applied to make each carpet unique.
FB, DDay Nine
On the Road to Marrakesh - During today's journey, see traditional mud-walled villages set against the vast arid plains. Glimpse the Atlas Mountains as you approach Marrakesh, a bustling hub of culture and trade.
FBDay Ten
Explore Marrakesh - Join a Local Expert to explore the Medina, the historic heart of the city. See the Koutoubia Mosque, its minaret dominating the Marrakesh skyline with golden brickwork. Visit the intricately decorated Palais Bahia, a 19th-century mosaic-laden masterpiece built to be the greatest palace of its day. Experience the city's captivating charm during time at leisure. Perhaps try your hand at haggling in the souks on Jemaa-el-Fnaa Square or visit one of the acclaimed museums.
FBDay Eleven
Play It Again Sam in Casablanca - Journey to the west coast of Africa to reach Casablanca. Did Humphrey Bogart really say ''Play it again, Sam''? Your Local Expert will reveal the truth to this and other fascinating elements of this storied city. See the impressive Hassan II Mosque, the largest in the country. For those who came to Casablanca for the waters, the Corniche, a chic seaside strip, welcomes you with its trendy restaurants and cafes.
FB, DDay Twelve
Rabat and Tangier - Travel north to Rabat to see the intricately-decorated Royal Palace and Hassan Tower with your Local Expert. Your journey continues to Morocco’s port of Tangier, overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. You will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of the city with a Local Expert. After dinner, enjoy an evening at leisure to relax in the comfortable surroundings of your hotel as the sun sets or take a stroll along Avenue d'Espagne on the Bay of Tangier.
FB, DDay Thirteen
On to the Costa del Sol - Cross the water to Spain and continue on to Gibraltar, an overseas territory under British control since 1704. Meet your Local Expert for a guided tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, St. Michael’s Cave and see the Barbary Apes, legendary guardians of the colony. Your travels continue through Andalucía and on to the Costa del Sol, famous for its beaches.
FBDay Fourteen
At Leisure on the Costa del So - Enjoy the day at leisure on the sun-drenched Costa del Sol. Relax by the blue Mediterranean waters, stroll along the promenade, savor the specialties in the local restaurants, or consider exploring Malaga, the birth city of Picasso.
FBDay Fifteen
Dining with Locals and the Alhambra Palace - Continue to Alfarnatejo, a quiet white washed village with a population of just 500 people, surrounded by stunning mountainous landscape. Travel to the oldest olive grove in the region and stop at the rural mill-factory of Alfarnatejo to taste a selection of different oils with locally made farmer bread. In small groups, you are invited into the home of a local family to join them for a delicious Highlight Lunch made with fresh, local produce that showcases the flavors typical of the region. Continue to Granada, where overlooking the town stands one of the most remarkable fortresses ever built, the Alhambra. Led by your Local Expert, explore this exquisite palace built as a citadel by the Moors in the 13th century - a fantasy of arabesque gardens, fountains and stone cut like lace. Stroll through the elegant, exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the summer residence of the Spanish royals.
FB, LDay Sixteen
To Madrid in search of Don Quixote - Your journey continues to the north, through countryside immortalized by Cervantes' fictional hero, Don Quixote. On return to Madrid, toast your travels with your newfound friends during a lively Celebration Dinner of delicious food and wine at a local restaurant.
FB, DDay Seventeen
Depart Madrid - Today bid farewell to your journey along Spain and Portugal as you transfer to the airport.
FBFB=Full Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Suggested Packing
-Comfortable walking shoes
-Hat and Sunscreen
-Cash and Credit Cards (Only those needed)
-Medicine and spare prescriptions
-Extra glasses and/or contacts
-Book, Word Search and/or Crossword Puzzle
-Binoculars
-Seat Cushions and/or Blanket (If attending a parade or show)
-Ear plugs and sleep mask
-Mini-Sewing Kit
-Toiletries and Tissues
-Chargers for devices (Cell phones, Tablets, etc.)
-Extra Memory Cards (Digital Cameras) or Extra Film
Activity Level 3
This travel experience is perfect for those who want to see everything their destination has to offer. With the ability to navigate hills and uneven ground (1-2 hours with little difficulty), as well as climb into various modes of transportation, you'll be able to explore every corner of your destination without missing a thing. Plus, with some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure, you'll have the perfect harmony of flexibility.
Optional Experiences
Day Three - Seafood Dinner By The Tagus River - Across the mighty Tagus River await Lisbon's famous traditional restaurants and wonderful views of the city. Board your ferry to cross the wide blue waters for a delightful evening of Portuguese seafood and fish specialties. After dinner, encounter more sweeping views over the Portuguese capital, as you return to your hotel via the impressive suspension bridge. Local crab will usually be available on the menu for a $7.56 US supplement. $70.23 US
Day Four - Excursion to the Royal Portuguese Riviera - Like the Kings of Portugal before you, travel along the Portuguese Riviera. With your Local Expert, see the glamorous resort of Cascais and the wealthy playground of Estoril, with its famous Casino and learn of the inspiring people who frequented Portugal's Golden Triangle. Finally, a visit to Queluz Palace – all veritable jewels in the crown of Portugal. Adult: $59.42 US
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Fado Evening - Known as ''the soul of the Portuguese identity'', Fado is the emotive national song. Take in an unmissable performance of this UNESCO-recognised art in one of the country's famed fado houses. To complete the experience, savor a typical Portuguese dinner with drinks included. Adult: $82.11 US
* Cancellation will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Lisbon by Night - Drive to Restauradores then a gentle walk through Rossio across the Baixa to discover the beautiful views of Santa Justa, the arch of Augusta, St George’s Castle and the Cathedral. Perhaps enjoy a drink at sunset in Commerce Square. There’s free time for dinner before returning to your hotel. Adult: $23.77 US
Day Five - You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Dinner in Seville With a Horse and Carriage Ride - Seville is Spain's most majestic city and an evening out is a must! Tonight we'll enjoy a lovely array of traditional Andalusian specialties, served in a local restaurant with wine, beer & soft drinks included. As well as a wonderful meal, we'll experience a magnificent horse & carriage ride through the gardens of Plaza de America, the Murillo Gardens and Plaza de España, which is especially magical in the evening. Adult: $77.79 US
Andalusian Evening & The Atmosphere Of Old Seville - Enjoy a delicious array of alluring Andalusian specialties in a local restaurant with wine included. Perhaps round out the evening with a stroll through the atmospheric squares and lanes of Seville's old quarter, which has a magical charm by night. Adult: $64.83 US
Day Six - Cordoba & the Mezquita - Join your Local Expert for a walking tour of the perfectly preserved Moorish city of Cordoba. The highlight is undoubtedly the magnificent Mezquita, an 8th-century mosque with a Cathedral built inside. Walk through the forest of horseshoe shaped arches to the Baroque choir stalls of the Cathedral and the richly ornamented Mihrab prayer niche, with free time to enjoy this amazing city. Adult: $61.59 US
Day Eight - Excursion to Bhalil - This afternoon we make our way to Bhalil, a remote troglodyte village at the foot of the middle Atlas where we'll visit the caves hewn out of the mountain where families have lived for many generations. This is your chance to meet and talk to local people. Then we make our way to the oldest and best known ceramic work shop to see how Fes style ceramics are made, starting from the soft clay to the finished product. Adult: $30.25 US
Day Nine - Marrakesh by Night & Dinner - Marrakesh comes alive when the sun goes down. Visit the magical Jemaa el Fna market place where an assortment of acrobats, snake charmers, trained monkeys, jugglers and conjurers congregate by night. After a walk in the square, dinner is served in a vibrant Moroccan restaurant. Enjoy classic tagine dishes and colorful salads amid a sultry ambiance of Arabic rhythms and twirling belly dancers balancing trays of lit candles. Adult: $71.31 US
Day Ten - Ourika Valley - A scenic drive south of Marrakesh brings you to the beautiful and fertile Ourika Valley. Enjoy spectacular views of the towering High Atlas Mountains which are snow capped nine months of the year. Adult: $32.41 US
Day Thirteen - Mediterranean Dinner - Join us for a delicious Mediterranean style dinner in a delightful family restaurant on the Costa del Sol. We'll sample fresh Mediterranean fare, including some of the restaurant's signature dishes such as "fritura malagueña" or sea bass baked in sea salt, a traditional recipe since Roman times. Your meal will be accompanied by local wine. Adult: $65.91 US
Day Fourteen - Highlights of Malaga - A short drive brings us to Malaga, the thriving capital of the Costa del Sol. We'll see the old town with our Local Expert and see the house in which Pablo Picasso spent his early years. The town is also famous for its sweet, full-bodied wines and our tour concludes with a taste of the recent vintage. Adult: $52.94 US
