The Ultimate Southern Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Stroll a lively and wide boulevard that is also Seville's oldest public garden.

The Alameda de Hércules is a lively boulevard is adorned with Roman columns and statues of Hercules and is a hub of local culture and nightlife. It was established in 1574 as Seville's oldest public garden, but today it's an ideal spot to experience the city's vibrant social scene amidst locals and to enjoy various cafes and bars.

Tour one of Seville's most magnificent architectural gems, the Casa de Pilatos.

The splendid Casa de Pilatos is a 16th-century palace renowned for its exquisite Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural elements. The palace features a stunning courtyard, richly decorated rooms, and a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts and artworks. It's a masterpiece of Seville's architectural heritage.

Admire Spanish masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts.

The Museum of Fine Arts' extensive collection of Spanish art is housed in a former convent. Established in 1839, the museum boasts works by renowned artists such as Murillo, Zurbarán, and Goya. The 17th-century building itself is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with tranquil courtyards and ornate interiors.

Casco Antiguo Norte

The northern part of Seville's Casco Antiguo (Old Town) offers captivating historical attractions as well as a strikingly modern landmark in the Setas de Sevilla. This area, with its mix of cultural landmarks and lively atmosphere, provides a unique perspective on Seville's heritage, while also offering a glimpse into the city's life beyond the most touristed quarters. For instance, this is where you'll find the Alameda de Hércules, a vibrant boulevard filled with cafes and nightlife, where the locals often head for an evening out on the town. You can explore two of Seville's most beautiful architectural masterpieces, the majestic Duenas Palace with its rich history and stunning gardens, and the Casa de Pilatos, which is a showcase for exquisite architecture and art. Art lovers should also not miss the Museum of Fine Arts for an impressive array of Spanish masterpieces. For some visitors, the highlight of their visit to the city is the contemporary Setas de Sevilla, also known as the Metropol Parasol. It offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Seville's innovative spirit.

Walk above the rooftops of Seville on this strikingly modern wooden parasol.

Discover the contemporary Metropol Parasol, also known as "Las Setas," a striking wooden structure that offers panoramic views of Seville and covers one of the city's main squares. Completed in 2011, it features a lively market, archaeological museum, and rooftop walkway. It's a modern architectural icon blending history and innovation in the heart of the city.

Explore the lavish Duenas Palace and its breathtaking gardens.

Although overshadowed by the Royal Alcazar and Casa de Pilatos, you may find the opulent Duenas Palace is your favorite place in Seville. The palace is a stunning example of Andalusian architecture with beautiful gardens, an excellent art collection, and an interesting history that dates back to the 15th century. This palace, once home to the Duchess of Alba, showcases a mix of Renaissance, Gothic, and Moorish styles that are not only beautiful, but perfectly preserved, creating a magical setting.

Guided Highlights & Alcazar

Walk with your private guide and discover the long, eventful history of Seville. From Roman walls built at the command of Julius Caesar to the Royal Alcazar Palace of the Caliphs, from and St. Mary's Cathedral, a repurposed mosque, to the General Archive ofthe Indies containing the early records of New World exploration, this tour will amaze you. Your guide will help you skip the lines for the Alcazar, one of the triumphs of Moorish architecture, to illustrate the many winds of history that have blown through Seville's streets.

The Seville Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Originally a 10th-century fortress, it features the exquisite Patio de las Doncellas, the grand Salón de Embajadores, and lush, expansive gardens.

The Seville Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Spain's rich cultural history and architectural prowess. Originally built in the 10th century as a fortress for the Cordoban governors of Seville, the Alcázar was later transformed into a magnificent royal palace. This evolution resulted in a unique blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, creating a visually stunning and historically significant monument. Visitors can explore the enchanting Patio de las Doncellas, a courtyard renowned for its intricate tilework and lush greenery. The Salón de Embajadores, once the site of grand state affairs, dazzles with its elaborate decoration and regal ambiance. The Alcázar's expansive gardens are a highlight, featuring tranquil fountains, fragrant orange trees, and meticulously maintained landscapes. These gardens offer a serene escape and a vivid glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of Spain's Moorish and Christian rulers.

Guided Highlights & Alcazar

Walk with your private guide and discover the long, eventful history of Seville. From Roman walls built at the command of Julius Caesar to the Royal Alcazar Palace of the Caliphs, from and St. Mary's Cathedral, a repurposed mosque, to the General Archive ofthe Indies containing the early records of New World exploration, this tour will amaze you. Your guide will help you skip the lines for the Alcazar, one of the triumphs of Moorish architecture, to illustrate the many winds of history that have blown through Seville's streets.

The Seville Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Originally a 10th-century fortress, it features the exquisite Patio de las Doncellas, the grand Salón de Embajadores, and lush, expansive gardens.

The Seville Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Spain's rich cultural history and architectural prowess. Originally built in the 10th century as a fortress for the Cordoban governors of Seville, the Alcázar was later transformed into a magnificent royal palace. This evolution resulted in a unique blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, creating a visually stunning and historically significant monument. Visitors can explore the enchanting Patio de las Doncellas, a courtyard renowned for its intricate tilework and lush greenery. The Salón de Embajadores, once the site of grand state affairs, dazzles with its elaborate decoration and regal ambiance. The Alcázar's expansive gardens are a highlight, featuring tranquil fountains, fragrant orange trees, and meticulously maintained landscapes. These gardens offer a serene escape and a vivid glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of Spain's Moorish and Christian rulers.

Experience the grandeur of Plaza de Toros, Spain's oldest and most iconic bullring.

Built in 1785, this Neoclassical bullring is renowned for its monumental architecture and historical significance as a birthplace of modern bullfighting. Explore the ring’s sandy arena, follow the path of bulls and bullfighters through the arena complex, and wander through its museum to learn about the art and tradition of bullfighting.

Marvel at the iconic Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda, where breathtaking views of the New Bridge and a stunning waterfall come together in a perfect scene.

This vantage point offers a dramatic perspective of the 18th-century Puente Nuevo, soaring 320 feet (98m) above the El Tajo gorge, with the Guadalevín River cascading into a beautiful waterfall below. The combination of the bridge’s architectural grandeur, the rushing water, and the gorge’s rugged cliffs creates an unforgettable panorama.

Ronda Guided Excursion

Ronda, perched dramatically above a deep gorge in the Andalusian mountains of Spain, is a city intergrated with its natural beauty. This ancient town, famously split by the El Tajo gorge, over which the impressive Puente Nuevo bridge stands, offers breathtaking views that have inspired artists and writers for centuries. Ronda is known for its historic bullring, one of the oldest in Spain, and boasts writer Earnest Hemmingway and dircetor Orson Welles as devotees. This private guided excursion to Ronda will allow you to visit Spain's oldest bullfighting ring, explore winding cobbled streets, discover local wines and tapas, and immerse themselves in a place where every corner reflects the millennia of Spanish history.

Experience the grandeur of Plaza de Toros, Spain's oldest and most iconic bullring.

Built in 1785, this Neoclassical bullring is renowned for its monumental architecture and historical significance as a birthplace of modern bullfighting. Explore the ring’s sandy arena, follow the path of bulls and bullfighters through the arena complex, and wander through its museum to learn about the art and tradition of bullfighting.

Taxi to Airport

The Aeropuerto de Seville rests about a 15-minute taxi ride from town (depending on your precise location). If you leave from your hotel 2 hours and 45 minutes before your flight, you should have a good amount of time to deposit bags and pass through security.  In heavy traffic, the ride can last up to 40 mins.  Depending on time of day, the ride will cost between 30 and 45 euros. Uber has a limited presence in Seville, but it is available.

Taxi to Airport

The Aeropuerto de Seville rests about a 15-minute taxi ride from town (depending on your precise location). If you leave from your hotel 2 hours and 45 minutes before your flight, you should have a good amount of time to deposit bags and pass through security.  In heavy traffic, the ride can last up to 40 mins.  Depending on time of day, the ride will cost between 30 and 45 euros. Uber has a limited presence in Seville, but it is available.

Taxi to Airport

The Aeropuerto de Seville rests about a 15-minute taxi ride from town (depending on your precise location). If you leave from your hotel 2 hours and 45 minutes before your flight, you should have a good amount of time to deposit bags and pass through security.  In heavy traffic, the ride can last up to 40 mins.  Depending on time of day, the ride will cost between 30 and 45 euros. Uber has a limited presence in Seville, but it is available.

Taxi to Airport

The Aeropuerto de Seville rests about a 15-minute taxi ride from town (depending on your precise location). If you leave from your hotel 2 hours and 45 minutes before your flight, you should have a good amount of time to deposit bags and pass through security.  In heavy traffic, the ride can last up to 40 mins.  Depending on time of day, the ride will cost between 30 and 45 euros. Uber has a limited presence in Seville, but it is available.

Discover the historic Castelo de São Jorge with its impressive fortifications and panoramic views over Lisbon.

Castelo de São Jorge, perched atop one of Lisbon's highest hills, is a testament to the city's rich history, dating back to the 11th century. The structure was built by the Moors upon fortifications going back to at least the Roman Empire. The castle has been a royal residence and military stronghold over the centuries. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ramparts, towers, and courtyards, while enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River, making it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and sightseers.

Meet some Portuguese notables and heros...

Most likely, we don't know the names of many of the people who are buried here, memorialized in the National Pantheon of Portugal. But we probably could learn something from their lives. The Panteão Nacional is sacred space. Step in here to make a deeper understanding of the Portugal, and its people.

Visit the tombs of the Royal Family at this church and monastery

Discover the historic São Vicente de Fora Church and Monastery, a masterpiece of Mannerist architecture that stands as one of Lisbon's most significant religious sites. Built in the late 16th century under the orders of King Philip II of Spain, this complex is dedicated to Saint Vincent, the patron saint of Lisbon.The monastery, still partially active, houses the royal pantheon of the Braganza dynasty and offers visitors a peaceful cloister and a museum showcasing religious art and historical artifacts. The terrace provides stunning views over the Alfama district and the Tagus River.

Graca & Alfama

The heights of Alfama draw visitors from all over to look out upon Portugal, the broad, broad River Tejo, and the Atlantic shining beyond. Leave it to the Moors, er, Germanic tribes, uh, Iranian tribes (What?!), er, Romans, I mean, Phoenicians, uh, Celts, and heck, maybe even earlier cultures to choose such views... People have been staring at the sea, dreaming and thinking for untold thousands of years. Retaining a maze of streets dating back to the Moors or before, Alfama draws visitors in and lets them wander out, dazed by the beauty. Graça remains slightly less discovered than it's neighbor; understandably so, it's slightly higher in elevation. Its views are no less spectacular. You probably won't be alone when you visit the viewpoint (miradouro) in front of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mountain, but just take a look at the river and ocean: dreams come all the same.

Start or end your day with the spectacular views from the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mountain.

This scenic viewpoint The Chapel of Our Lady of the Mountain, known in Portuguese as Capela da Senhora do Monte, is situated at one of the highest points in Lisbon, providing an exceptional vantage point over the city. Built in the late 18th century, the chapel is dedicated to Our Lady of the Mountain, a revered figure among locals. The simple yet charming interior houses a revered statue of the Virgin Mary. Outside, the chapel's terrace offers a breathtaking panoramic outlook over the city, including the Castle of São Jorge, the River Tagus, and the downtown area. It's a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the sunset.

Discover the historic Castelo de São Jorge with its impressive fortifications and panoramic views over Lisbon.

Castelo de São Jorge, perched atop one of Lisbon's highest hills, is a testament to the city's rich history, dating back to the 11th century. The structure was built by the Moors upon fortifications going back to at least the Roman Empire. The castle has been a royal residence and military stronghold over the centuries. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ramparts, towers, and courtyards, while enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River, making it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and sightseers.

Get a little sun and ocean in Cascais, but you won't be alone.

Praias (Beaches) da Rainha, da Conceição, & da Duquesa are all within 7 minutes walking of Cascais Train Station. As such, they are quite popular with visitors and locals alike. Da Rainha is the closest and smallest beach, da Conceição, & da Duquesa lay on the other side of da Rainha heading away from town. Hidden inside the bay, all three generally have calm water, and all boast restaurants and bathrooms.  Enjoy the chance for some sunshine and meeting new people!

Admire this very aesthetically pleasing lighthouse.

Santa Marta Lighthouse is a picturesque beacon located on the edge of Cascais, guiding ships along the rugged coast since the 19th century. The lighthouse, with its distinctive blue and white tiles, also houses a museum that offers insights into the history of Portuguese maritime navigation. The surrounding area provides stunning views of the Atlantic, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Discover artistic depths away from the ocean at the Casa das Histórias--Paula Rego

Casa das Histórias--Paula Rego Casa das Histórias is a contemporary art museum dedicated to the works of Paula Rego, one of Portugal's most celebrated artists. Located in Cascais, the museum's unique architecture, designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura, complements the bold and expressive nature of Rego's art. Visitors can explore a wide range of her works, including paintings, drawings, and prints, in this thoughtfully curated space.

Excursion to Cascais

Enjoy beaches fit for a queen, See the "Mouth of Hell," or get a nice meal and a glass of wine. They're all options in Cascais. This long famous beach-town boasts the Praia da Reinha, "The Queen's Beach." The queen in question: Amelia, the last of her status in Portugal. If this one is full, there will be space at the neighboring beaches, one titled "Beach of the Duchess." On the opposite side of this city, the oceans isn't so calm, and it roars and erupts under a natural bridge -- giving rise to the name, "Boco do Inferno." With a heritage of royalty, the standard of food has to be high. Whether in the center,  or beyond the Boco, you'll find a wide selection of restaurants and demur bars for a regal time.

Come for the dramatic rock formation and crashing waves at Boca do Inferno, stay for a bit of cinematographic history.

Known as "Hell’s Mouth," this natural chasm on the rugged coastline is a spectacular sight, especially when waves crash into the rocks with thunderous force. It's a popular spot for photography and offers a glimpse into the power of the Atlantic Ocean. Fun fact: The Boco is the location of the world's first cinematic recording of a wave, a 1896 film called, "A Sea Cave in Lisbon," shot by Henry Short and produced by Robert Paul.  The film is silent, of course, and lasts around 13 seconds, but even if it had been two hours, it still would have been a "Short" film!

Get a little sun and ocean in Cascais, but you won't be alone.

Praias (Beaches) da Rainha, da Conceição, & da Duquesa are all within 7 minutes walking of Cascais Train Station. As such, they are quite popular with visitors and locals alike. Da Rainha is the closest and smallest beach, da Conceição, & da Duquesa lay on the other side of da Rainha heading away from town. Hidden inside the bay, all three generally have calm water, and all boast restaurants and bathrooms.  Enjoy the chance for some sunshine and meeting new people!

Porto Guided Walking Tour

Enjoy a 4 hour private guided tour of Porto, Capital of Northern Portugal and UNESCO World Heritage. Everything in this wonderful city makes this tour a memorable trip, from the Cathedral to the Port Wine Cellars, where you can enjoy two wine tastings. You will have the opportunity to discover also about Portuguese tradition and culture and important references will be given about the streets and squares of the historic centre.

Porto Guided Walking Tour

Enjoy a 4 hour private guided tour of Porto, Capital of Northern Portugal and UNESCO World Heritage. Everything in this wonderful city makes this tour a memorable trip, from the Cathedral to the Port Wine Cellars, where you can enjoy two wine tastings. You will have the opportunity to discover also about Portuguese tradition and culture and important references will be given about the streets and squares of the historic centre.

Porto Guided Walking Tour

Enjoy a 4 hour private guided tour of Porto, Capital of Northern Portugal and UNESCO World Heritage. Everything in this wonderful city makes this tour a memorable trip, from the Cathedral to the Port Wine Cellars, where you can enjoy two wine tastings. You will have the opportunity to discover also about Portuguese tradition and culture and important references will be given about the streets and squares of the historic centre.

Porto Guided Walking Tour

Enjoy a 4 hour private guided tour of Porto, Capital of Northern Portugal and UNESCO World Heritage. Everything in this wonderful city makes this tour a memorable trip, from the Cathedral to the Port Wine Cellars, where you can enjoy two wine tastings. You will have the opportunity to discover also about Portuguese tradition and culture and important references will be given about the streets and squares of the historic centre.

Canned Sardines. We know, it doesn't sound exciting. But...

Pinhais Cannery is passionate about what they do at their museum / factory. Commerical fishing is an important part of Portugal's economy, and Pinhais still produces tins by hand, providing jobs for locals and delicious fish to the rest of the world. The 90-minute tour will take you past the dilligent workers and through the history of Portugal's fishing industry; you will even have the chance to wrap your own tin in the distinct, brightly-colored paper of the Pinhais brand.

Discover Matosinhos Beach, just a metro ride and short stroll away from Downtown Porto.

This expansive beach, a 30-minute metro ride from Downtown Porto, invites locals and tourists to its golden shores Known for its lively atmosphere, Matosinhos Beach has excellent conditions for surfing, thanks to its consistent waves, and hosts numerous surf schools for beginners. Beyond the water, enjoy the bustling promenade lined with seafood restaurants, where you can savor fresh catches of the day. Matosinhos Beach provides a perfect blend of relaxation and activity, at a Portuguese pace.

It might look very old, but it holds some modern amenities to make a visit relaxed and leisurely.

Porto's largest green-space, the Parque da Cidade makes a visit, well, a walk in the park. Created in 1993. this large public space boasts three ponds, 74 varieties of trees, and a feeling called, "Rural Porto." Using traditional materials and construction techniques, the creators of the park sought to give people a sensation of another era. Cafes appear at either end of this 1km-long park, and bathrooms and water spigots make a visit comfortable and unhurried. The Pavilion of Water located in the northeast corner of the park allows children and adults to learn about H2O.

Matosinhos

Matosinhos, a happy town just a 30-minute metro-ride away from Porto, provides the beach-bum, or the traveling family, sand between their toes and the cool water of the Atlantic. But why limit yourself to an ocean breeze? The town's renowned municipal market is housed in an attractive architectural monument; Porto's largest green-space abuts the shoreline and invites passerbys to visit its aquarium, Sea Life. Get this, you can visit country's Center for Architecture and go on a tour of a working fish-tinning factory on the same street (It's better than it sounds)! There's even a fortress called "Cheese Castle" but please, don't let your kids try to bite it, and don't try yourself. So many things to see, so much sand and so little time!

Whether cured meats, fresh fish, or vegetables, this market offers it all...

Matosinhos Market hums a northern Portuguese tune with its local commerce Renowned for its fresh seafood, caught daily by local fishermen and showcased in an array of colorful stalls this exemplar of mid-century architecture can be a pleasure for all five senses. In addition to seafood, you'll find a variety of fresh produce, regional delicacies, and artisanal products, making it a perfect spot to sample the authentic flavors of the region. (Hours: Sunday, closed; Monday, 7-14:00; Tuesday- Friday 6:30-18:00; Saturday, 6:30-16:00)

Canned Sardines. We know, it doesn't sound exciting. But...

Pinhais Cannery is passionate about what they do at their museum / factory. Commerical fishing is an important part of Portugal's economy, and Pinhais still produces tins by hand, providing jobs for locals and delicious fish to the rest of the world. The 90-minute tour will take you past the dilligent workers and through the history of Portugal's fishing industry; you will even have the chance to wrap your own tin in the distinct, brightly-colored paper of the Pinhais brand.

Enter this village built between river and mountain, and enjoy a walk and meal among the vines.

Pinhão rests at one of the most picturesque corners of the endlessly picturesque Duoro River Valley. Inhabited since prehistoric times, today the village serves as a waystation for visitors exploring the crenalated landscapes of the Duoro River valley.  A delightful place to pause for lunch or even a wine-tasting.

This Museum proudly communicates the history of the Douro, and of course, port wine.

The Museu do Douro in Régua, Portugal, stands as a tribute to the region’s long history and viticultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum captures the evolution of the wine industry through a fascinating array of exhibits. Visitors can explore everything from the ancient tools used in wine production to multimedia presentations that bring the valley's scenic beauty and historical significance to life. This museum celebrates the past and present of Douro wine while providing panoramic views of the surrounding terraced vineyards, making it a highlight for anyone visiting the region.

Douro River Excursion

Travel through the stunning depths of the UNESCO-protected Douro River Valley, and discover the wines of royalty. Taking a train from Porto through the Douro River Valley is an unforgettable journey that reveals some of Portugal's most stunning landscapes. As the train winds along the river, passengers are treated to panoramic views of terraced vineyards climbing steep hillsides, traditional quintas (wine estates), and quaint villages that dot the riverbank. This scenic railway route is often considered one of the most beautiful in Europe, offering a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the heart of Portugal's famous wine country. Along the way, the train passes through historic towns and stops at various points, allowing travelers the opportunity to explore the regional culture, cuisine, and, of course, sample the region's renowned wines. Many people say, "It's about the journey, not the destination." Not here. Here the journey and destination are rolled into one on the rails connecting Porto to Pinhão.

Enter this village built between river and mountain, and enjoy a walk and meal among the vines.

Pinhão rests at one of the most picturesque corners of the endlessly picturesque Duoro River Valley. Inhabited since prehistoric times, today the village serves as a waystation for visitors exploring the crenalated landscapes of the Duoro River valley.  A delightful place to pause for lunch or even a wine-tasting.

Airport Drop-off

A Taxi ride or Uber to the airport is generally the quickest way to arrive at Porto's airport, with little hassle about luggage. The metro is certainly the least expensive route to the airport, but can take considerably longer. Read on to choose which is right for you.

Airport Drop-off

A Taxi ride or Uber to the airport is generally the quickest way to arrive at Porto's airport, with little hassle about luggage. The metro is certainly the least expensive route to the airport, but can take considerably longer. Read on to choose which is right for you.

Airport Drop-off

A Taxi ride or Uber to the airport is generally the quickest way to arrive at Porto's airport, with little hassle about luggage. The metro is certainly the least expensive route to the airport, but can take considerably longer. Read on to choose which is right for you.

Airport Drop-off

A Taxi ride or Uber to the airport is generally the quickest way to arrive at Porto's airport, with little hassle about luggage. The metro is certainly the least expensive route to the airport, but can take considerably longer. Read on to choose which is right for you.