Best of Spain, Portugal & Morocco
Madrid
Casablanca
Spain Portugal Morocco
Experience the colours of Spain and Portugal, enjoy Morocco desert tours and soak up rich history and culture. Wander through Madrid’s vibrant streets, discover Toledo’s charm, explore Granada’s historic highlights, see iconic landmarks like the Seville Cathedral and travel along the Costa del Sol. In Portugal, stroll Lisbon’s picturesque streets and taste port wine in Porto. Then, traverse Morocco’s mesmerising Atlas Mountains, behold the blue city of Chefchaouen, and immerse yourself in the Imperial Cities of Fes, Marrakesh and Rabat. Are you ready for your ultimate, 24-day escape?
Itinerary

Welcome to this adventure through Spain, Portugal and Morocco! Meet with your tour leader and fellow travellers in Madrid and head off to the first stop, Toledo. Embark on an orientation tour of this magical UNESCO World Heritage town celebrated for its diverse architecture and surrounding vistas lifted straight off the pages of a storybook. Next, journey to the south of Spain towards Granada. Upon arrival, discover the city's history, culture and lore on an informative orientation tour. Take the opportunity to snap photos of the sweeping views from Mirador de San Cristobal and Mirador San Nicolas. Then, opt for the Granada Local Food & Wine Pairing to enjoy an unmissable gastronomic experience. Be sure to book this optional excursion before the tour begins.
Experiences
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Visit the ancient city of Toledo
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Discover the delights of Granada
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Begin the day with an optional visit to the breathtaking Alhambra Palace. This must-see marvel must be booked before the tour begins. Otherwise, explore Granada at leisure before the group departs for a Costa del Sol tour. En route, take a moment to marvel at the Aqueduct Eagle before arriving in the charming town of Nerja. Explore the town’s highlights with your tour leader on an orientation tour before heading to the captivating coastal city of Malaga. This seaside treasure is known for its breathtaking beaches, impressive architecture and booming arts and cultural scene. Take an orientation tour through the city before some free time to discover more. Tonight, enjoy an included dinner with the group.
Experiences
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Soak up the sun in Costa del Sol
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy breakfast before journeying to the mountaintop city of Ronda on the Tajo Gorge. This city is most famous for its 'Puente Nuevo', or New Bridge. Discover and learn about this spectacular sight on an orientation tour. Later today, travel to Seville to take in the most magical sights of the “Pearl of Andalusia” with an expert local guide. Tick off the Torre del Oro, Metropol Parasol, Calle Sierpes and the extraordinary Plaza de Espana. As one of the most impressive public squares in Spain, this vibrant location is home to some stellar examples of Baroque Revival, Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival Spanish architecture. This evening, enjoy an included dinner for a true taste of Seville.
Experiences
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Visit Ronda; home to the famous Puente Nuevo
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See Seville on a driving tour
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Enjoy a local dinner in Seville
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Spend an entire day at leisure in Seville and explore your way! For the ultimate cultural immersion, join the optional excursion through UNESCO-listed historic sights like the Seville Alcázar and Seville Cathedral. These architectural wonders are some of Spain's top travel attractions! Alternatively, discover the city of Seville on your own with a variety of options available. For example, a trip to the Museum of Flamenco will reveal all about this vibrant performance style which originated in Seville. Tonight, grab the opportunity to experience a traditional Flamenco for yourself by joining the optional Flamenco dinner show. It's sure to be a captivating night of colour and culture!
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Bid farewell to Spain as you journey into Portugal and make your way along the picturesque Algarve. This enchanting southern seaside area is filled with the most striking, sunny attractions. Start your Algarve adventure in Tavira on an orientation tour highlighting the historic Old Bridge and charming Tavira Castle. Next, head to a local cork factory for insight into the region's rich biodiversity and a liquor tasting! The final stop of the day is Faro, the capital of Algarve. This pedestrian-friendly town is filled with history and framed with stunning mountainous surroundings. Embark on an orientation tour of its historic centre, home to architectural wonders such as the Faro Cathedral.
Experiences
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Visit the Algarve; Portugal's stunning southern coast
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Enjoy a tour of a cork factory and a traditional liquor tasting
Meals Breakfast,
Following breakfast, depart the Algarve with fond memories as the journey continues to Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon. Embark on a scenic driving tour through Lisbon and discover an array of colourful architecture and cultural gems. Driving along the Tagus River, marvel at must-see landmarks like the Monument to the Discoveries, Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower. You have a full free day tomorrow to explore the city in more detail. After hotel check-in later, make the most out of some free time before this evening's included three-course dinner, featuring delectable local dishes.
Experiences
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Discover Lisbon on a driving tour
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Today is dedicated to getting immersed in Lisbon, whether you explore some of yesterday's highlights further or discover new ones. Visit the bohemian Bairro Alto neighbourhood or discover the hilltop Castelo de São Jorge. Alternatively, consider joining the excursion to Fátima, Portugal’s renowned pilgrimage destination. Marvel at must-see sights like the limestone Coin Caves and the revered Sanctuary of Fátima. Spend the afternoon on the highly recommended, optional half-day trip to Sintra – Portugal's Romantic capital and a fairytale UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Pena Palace before enjoying dinner. Any option is sure to make this day memorable!
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Check Lisbon off your list and get ready to tick off the next destination – Porto! En route, pause in Obidos to explore its medieval streets, quaint houses and an impressive castle during an orientation drive. Next, travel to the dazzling coastal town of Nazaré, where you may get to see some of the world's biggest waves! After arriving in Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, join an expert guide for an informative driving and walking city tour. See the city's top attractions, including the famous Ponte Dom Luis crossing the River Douro. Then, say “saúde”(cheers) to an included Port tasting and discover why it's Porto's most famous export. Enjoy an included group dinner before hotel check-in.
Experiences
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Visit Obidos; a medieval fortified town
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Watch the waves in Nazaré
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Enjoy a driving and walking tour of Porto
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Taste Portugal’s most famous drink – Port!
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Peruse Porto with a free day devoted to exploring its historic sites and vibrant local culture. As one of Portugal's oldest cities, Porto is filled with architectural and scenic wonders to uncover. Experience Porto's most stunning scenery around the Ribeira on the banks of the Douro. For the most breathtaking views, cross the Ponte de Dom Luís I Bridge or climb the Clérigos Tower. Why not explore the lush Porto Botanical Garden or the bewitching Parque de São Roque? This evening, consider an optional experience featuring a live Fado show paired with a three-course feast of local delights overlooking the Douro River.
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Depart Portugal this morning and cross back into Spain. Stop in the historic and artistic city of Ciudad Rodrigo before journeying to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Salamanca for the night. Once there, take a guided tour unveiling the golden architecture and spellbinding tales of this ancient city. One of Europe's oldest universities, the University of Salamanca, as well as the city’s 12th and 16th-century cathedrals are just some of the breathtaking buildings to behold. This evening, enjoy an included three-course dinner featuring tasty local delights.
Experiences
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Visit Ciudad Rodrigo, a 12th-century fortified town
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Explore the streets of Salamanca with a local guid
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Enjoy a local dinner in Salamanca
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Today marks the final stop on the Spain and Portugal portion of this incredible journey! Before returning to Madrid, visit Avila – Spain's highest provincial capital at 1,130m above sea level – and marvel at the awe-inspiring countryside views. The city is also home to famous medieval city walls, as well as gorgeous Romanesque and Gothic churches. Back in Madrid, join a local guide to experience this buzzing city's charm as you tick off landmarks like the bustling Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel and the stately Royal Palace. This evening, enjoy a final Spanish dinner with the group before answering Morocco's call.
Experiences
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Visit Avila; home to incredible Romanesque architecture
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Explore Madrid, Spain’s capital, with a local guide
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Enjoy a local dinner in Madrid
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
After 12 days of uncovering Portugal and Spain’s most spectacular sights and hidden gems, the Spain & Portugal portion of this journey comes to an end following breakfast this morning. Bid farewell to your tour leader, as a new tour leader will join you on the Moroccan leg of the journey. Then, head to the airport to catch a flight from Madrid to Morocco. Arrive in Casablanca in the late afternoon and transfer to the hotel for tonight. This evening is free to unwind or begin exploring the vibrant local scene.
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Enjoy your first full day in Morocco! After breakfast, meet up with new travellers joining the tour. Then, set off on an informative orientation tour with your tour leader to experience some of Casablanca's top attractions. Made famous by the 1942 filmCasablanca, this city still embodies the old-world charm of the time. Enjoy photo stops at Rick's Café and the Hassan II Mosque before free time to grab lunch. Then, depart to Rabat, one of Morocco's Imperial Cities and the coastal capital. Arrive and become familiarised with the sights on a city tour. Rabat has a rich cultural and historical past to explore. Check into this evening's hotel before sitting down for a Moroccan feast at a local restaurant.
Experiences
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Enjoy a city tour of Casablanca
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Sightsee around Rabat, Morocco's capital city
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Enjoy a local dinner of mouthwatering Moroccan delights
Meals Dinner
After a good night's rest in Rabat, head north to Chefchaouen, the famous blue city. But first, admire the gorgeous coastal town of Asilah en route. Set out on a sightseeing expedition, including a tour of the Medina (Old Town), marvellous murals and extraordinary ocean views. Once in Chefchaouen later this afternoon, get acquainted with the "Blue Pearl" of Morocco on a guided tour and behold the blue-hued houses giving this city its colourful nickname. This evening, enjoy a night amid the iconic blue buildings of Chefchaouen and soak up the mesmerising Moroccan sunset before grabbing some dinner wherever you wish.
Experiences
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Embark on an orientation tour of awe-inspiring Asilah
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Experience a guided tour of Chefchaouen
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Spend a night in the magical Blue City
Meals Breakfast,
Look forward to exploring another Moroccan Imperial City today! Leave Chefchaouen behind and journey to the 13-century city of Fes, affectionately called the "Yellow City". With over 9,000 streets, this is one of the world's oldest and biggest urban pedestrian zones. This UNESCO-listed gem is also home to the world's oldest universities. Learn more about them on a guided tour, plus tick off top Fes attractions like Seffarine Square from the Middle Ages and the 18th-Century tiled Nejjarine Fountain. Morocco is also known for its breathtaking handicrafts, which you can see and shop for at a local tannery. End an incredible day with a buffet dinner at the hotel.
Experiences
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Discover Fes's top sights on a guided tour
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Take full advantage of a free day to familiarise yourself with the culture and history of Fes! There are options aplenty, including souvenir shopping, tasting delicious Moroccan delights and diving deeper into the Fes Medina. Alternatively, choose to take a trip to Volubilis on today's optional excursion. This is Morocco's best-preserved archaeological site and home to must-see Berber-Roman ruins! Join a local guide on a tour through ancient Roman archaeology before setting off to a popular regional winery for an idyllic lunch and wine pairing topped off with picture-perfect views.
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Say goodbye to Moroccan city life and travel to the desert today! The town of Ifrane, also called "Little Switzerland" thanks to its Alpine architecture, is the first stop of the day. Next up is an unforgettable photo opportunity of the expansive Atlas Mountains as the tour travels through Ziz Valley towards Erfoud. Once there, take a 4×4 trip through the rugged terrains to Merzouga. Tuck into one of Morocco's tastiest foods, the Berber-style "pizza" called Medfouna. Warm up in the heat of a bonfire and feel the beat of traditional music before heading to your idyllic desert camp under the desert sky.
Please Note: Luggage cannot be carried on the 4×4. Passengers are encouraged to pack a small bag for the evening.
Experiences
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Enjoy a scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains
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Take a 4×4 drive to the Merzouga desert
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Sleep under the desert stars in a comfortable tent
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, the early bird catches the most sensational views of the sun rising over the stretching desert landscapes – an unforgettable highlight of Morocco desert tours. Even more stunning scenery awaits at the next destination, the city of Ouarzazate. On the way, take a moment to marvel at the mesmerising Todra Gorge with its striking limestone canyons and overhead cliffs. Then, travel to this evening's hotel in Ouarzazate with a rest stop in the rosy Kalaat M'Gouna on the way. Tonight, join the group for an incredible, included dinner at the hotel.
Experiences
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Marvel at the towering cliffs at Todra Gorge
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Bid Ouarzazate farewell this morning with a driving tour highlighting breathtaking sights like the exquisite Taourirt Kasbah. This stunning destination has also been used as the setting for several films and shows. Then, take a trip into another world as the tour continues to the village of Aït Benhaddou. This type of fortified village is called a "Ksar" and provides a fascinating glimpse into pre-Saharan times. Journey through the twists and turns of the Tizi n' Tichka mountain pass, known for its jaw-dropping scenery which delights at every turn. Arrive in Marrakesh and feast on an included dinner; a slow-cooked meat stew called tangia offering a true taste of Marakkesh cuisine.
Experiences
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Explore Ouarzazate on an orientation tour
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Visit the historic fortified village of Aït Benhaddou
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See the dramatic Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass
Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Marrakesh, one of Morocco's most famous Imperial cities, is your playground for the next two days. Start with a city tour ticking off top sights like the Koutoubia, Jemaa el Fna Square and various souks with a local guide. This is an unmissable, authentically Moroccan experience! Then, this globally sought-after city is yours to explore as you wish. Marrakesh is a masterpiece of architecture and cuisine with rich culture and history seeping into every building and bite. Today's culinary optional excursion is highly recommended. Moroccan cuisine is unique for its cooking and hosting styles, so why not learn how to make a Moroccan meal of harira, tagine and dessert as you uncover more of this vibrant country's age-old stories?
Experiences
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Explore Marrakesh, the 'Red City' with an expert guide
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Enjoy free time in Marrakesh to explore at your own pace
Meals Breakfast,
Make Moroccan memories aplenty with a full free day in Marrakesh! From souk souvenir shopping to more detailed discoveries of the city's top attractions, you'll be spoiled for choice today. To make the most of your time in Marrakesh, join today's Marrakesh+ optional excursion to tour the magnificent Jardin Majorelle gardens, its Musée Berbère and the Medersa Ben Youssef in the Medina. Tonight is the perfect opportunity to savour a variety of Moroccan dishes and capture the essence of its culture and performance arts at a remarkable Fantasia and folklore show!
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Depart Marrakesh following breakfast this morning and begin the journey towards the port city of Essaouira. Rock fans might already know that Jimi Hendrix famously stayed here before Woodstock. On the way, visit an Argan Oil collective and enrich your knowledge of this incredible natural treasure. Once in Essaouira, it's time to kick back and enjoy tranquil seaside bliss after your Marrakesh adventures. This city is known for its far-stretched beaches and peaceful, fortified town. Set out on a city tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, including the magical Old Medina. This evening, why not marvel at the seaside views and delight in fresh fish on an optional Evening in Essaouira?
Experiences
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Explore the coastal city of Essaouira on an orientation tour
Meals Breakfast,
This morning, the tour travels back to where your Moroccan adventure began. Before returning to Casablanca, soak up some of the last Moroccan sights. This afternoon, take some time to explore more must-see Casablanca locations such as the Central Market. This evening, capture the last bit of Casablanca and say farewell to the tour group with an optional farewell dinner. Tuck into traditional delights, mingle with your newfound travel family and reflect on the memories made over the last 23 days!
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,
Following 24 memorable days of adventure, relaxation, sightseeing and cultural immersion across Spain, Portugal and Morocco's top destinations, natural splendour and local treasures, this Best of Spain, Portugal & Morocco tour concludes after breakfast. We hope you’ve made life-changing memories and lifelong friends on tour with us. Expat Explore wishes you many incredible adventures ahead and even more memories than you bargained for!
Experiences
Meals Breakfast,