IBERIAN TOUR

After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport, we will be greeted and transferred to our hotel.

We will have the rest of the day to relax and begin enjoying the capital of Spain.

Madrid, lively and awake at all hours, is famous for being an open city where people of all kinds and from anywhere come together.

In addition to its well-known museums, lively avenues with all kinds of shops, world cuisine restaurants, and incomparable nightlife, Madrid surprises with quiet historic corners full of charm for strolls.

There, we will find centuries-old taverns with family traditions where friends gather for a drink, neighborhoods of all styles, and alternative cultural centers away from the more touristy circuits.

At the same time, this city has an authenticity that is hard to match. It is hospitable, diverse, and undoubtedly one of the most interesting in Europe.

Greca Tip: As in any other large city, the center of Madrid offers a diverse variety of gastronomic venues to suit all tastes, where you can taste the traditional local tapas.

After a tasty breakfast at the hotel, we will meet our guide to enjoy our panoramic tour of Madrid. We will get to know the most emblematic points of the city with an official local guide and admire monuments such as Puerta de Alcalá, Plaza de Cibeles, Puerta del Sol and Bernabéu Stadium.

Our route will start in the city centre, very close to the Royal Palace. From here, we will take a walking tour through the streets of the historic centre of Madrid. We will discover emblematic places that you cannot miss during your visit to the city, such as Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol or Plaza de la Villa.

After an hour's walk through the centre of Madrid, we will board one of our air-conditioned buses for a tour of Madrid's most outstanding monuments. Starting at the Plaza de Oriente, we will have the opportunity to discover the history of the city as we drive through it. From the bus we will be able to see the oldest bridge in Madrid, have a spectacular view of the Royal Palace or see the Manzanares river.

We will visit one of the most important streets of Madrid: La Gran Vía. As we head towards the Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, we will pass by the Cibeles Fountain and the Puerta de Alcalá, the most famous of the five ancient gates that gave access to Madrid.

To finish the tour, we will pass by the Santiago Bernabeu, Real Madrid's stadium, which has recently been refurbished. On the way back, we will pass through Calle Serrano and Atocha Station, concluding at the Plaza de Oriente car park, just in front of the Royal Palace.

Greca Tip: The Royal Palace of Madrid, with an extension of 135 000 m² and 3418 rooms, is the largest royal palace in Western Europe and one of the largest in the world.

After a tasty breakfast, you will depart towards Zaragoza. You will have free time to visit the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, the Patron Saint of Hispanics. This building is a jewel of Baroque art where we will find the beautiful works of Francisco de Goya and the Holy Chapel, the work of Ventura Rodríguez, which houses the image of the Virgen del Pilar.

The Main Altarpiece, made of alabaster, and the Renaissance choir are also interesting. Along with the Santiago de Compostela Arch cathedral Basilica, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is one of the most important spiritual destinations in Spain. It is also a first-rate artistic center that brings together works of great value from different periods.

You will continue the journey towards the Basque Country to reach San Sebastián.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss visiting the old Dominican convent, which today is the San Telmo Museum, whose archeology, ethnography, and painting collections deserve a careful visit.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel to start the day with energy. Then, we will take a panoramic tour of this elegant and refined coastal city, known for its natural beauty and stately atmosphere. The tour will allow us to admire the famous La Concha Bay and its iconic beach. We will ascend Mount Igueldo, from where we will enjoy a spectacular view of San Sebastian and its coastline.

The rest of the day will be at your leisure to explore the city's charms at your own pace—from its old town filled with pintxos bars to its sophisticated shops and seaside cafés.

In the afternoon, you will have the option to join an optional excursion to the picturesque villages of Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, located in French territory, where you can experience the charm of the French-Basque coast in an unparalleled maritime setting.

Greca Tip: Don’t leave San Sebastian without trying a selection of pintxos paired with a chilled glass of txakoli—a culinary experience that will delight your palate.

After a full breakfast, you will leave for the city of Bilbao, the capital city of the province of Vizcaya. You will have a brief stop to admire the avant-garde building of the Guggenheim Museum. This Museum is one of the most amazing examples of 20th-century architecture, since Frank Gehry used 33,000 very fine titanium plates to create his curious curved shapes.

You will continue towards Castro Urdiales, a typical fishing village where we will have free time.

The route continues towards the city of Santander. Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore the historic center, where you will be able to see the majestic buildings that the aristocracy and royalty of the late 19th and early 20th centuries used to spend their vacations.

The title of jewel of the city is undoubtedly for the Palacio de la Magdalena. The visit to this emblematic building, located at the highest point of the peninsula of the same name, is one of the essentials of Santander and allows you to contemplate (and photograph) an impressive panoramic view of "the bride of the sea", as it is popularly known the city, framed between the beach and the mountains.

Greca Tip: In the most modern area of ​​the city, we can find the Botín Center, an avant-garde museum designed by Renzo Piano.

After enjoying your breakfast, you will depart for Santillana del Mar, a city renowned as a National Monument. This picturesque medieval town flourished around the Collegiate Church of Santa María. The presence of numerous defensive towers and Renaissance palaces has transformed Santillana into one of Cantabria's most significant historical complexes.

Continuing your journey, you will arrive at Covadonga, where you will have ample free time to explore and acquaint yourself with its Sanctuary. Covadonga holds immense historical significance as the birthplace of the reconquest under King Pelayo, whose resting place lies in the cave alongside Santina.

Serving as the gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park, this locale also houses a basilica that holds profound religious importance and attracts pilgrims from across Asturias. The neo-Romanesque-style basilica, adorned with two towering structures flanking its main entrance, enshrines the revered image of La Santina. Within its walls, you will find treasured artworks, including a canvas by Madrazo. The square adjacent to the basilica proudly displays the statue of King Pelayo.

Later on, you will resume your journey towards Oviedo, a city brimming with remarkable monuments and captivating attractions. Notably, the Cathedral of San Salvador stands as a testament to Asturian Gothic architecture and is considered one of its most significant achievements.

Greca Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to savor the delightful Asturian carbayones, a traditional dessert from Oviedo. These elongated, almond and egg yolk cakes feature a puff pastry base and are delicately coated in sugar. The name "carbayones" derives from the Asturian word for "oak," known as "carbayu."

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you will set off toward the beautiful Galician Region. Along the way to Lugo, we will make a stop in the charming city of Mondoñedo.

During your visit, you will have some free time to explore the grand 12th-century Cathedral and indulge in the delightful "Mondoñedo cake."

Continuing our journey, we will arrive in the city of Lugo, situated inside the province, along the banks of the Miño River. Here, you will discover one of the most well-preserved Roman Ruins in existence today. Notably, the magnificent Lugo Wall, constructed during the 3rd and 4th centuries and referred to as Lucus Augusti, stands as a testament to the city's ancient history.

This remarkable stone structure has withstood the test of time and serves as the primary architectural attraction, bridging the gap between the ancient and modern aspects of the city. Its exceptional condition and excellent preservation have earned it the distinction of being the only Roman fortress declared a World Heritage site.

We will conclude our journey in the captivating city of Santiago de Compostela, celebrated for its historic cityscape, proudly designated as a prestigious World Heritage site. Also, the city stands as a paramount Christian pilgrimage center, symbolizing the culmination of the historic Way of St. James (in Spanish, el Camino de Santiago), originally forged by the Roman Empire.

Greca Tip: Besides its winding streets and stunning stone palaces, the modern side of Santiago thrives around the university area, art galleries, and, most notably, two key locations: the Galician Centre of Contemporary Art and the Cidade da Cultura.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you'll join our guide for a city tour of Santiago. Our first stop will be the Plaza del Obradoiro and its magnificent Cathedral. As you explore this square, you'll likely encounter pilgrims with their iconic walking sticks and scallop shells.

When visiting the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela for the first time, there is a customary ritual: marvel at the Portico de la Gloria, embrace the figure of Saint James at the main altar, descend to the crypt, ascend to the rooftop (offering stunning views), and if you're fortunate, witness the botafumeiro (an enormous censer) in action. The entrance to the Cathedral is included to fully appreciate its beauty.

The remainder of the afternoon will be free for you to continue exploring all the hidden corners and secrets that this city has to offer.

Greca Tip: To experience the authentic atmosphere of Santiago, venture into Rua do Franco and Rua da Raiña, located in the heart of the old town. These streets have been a gathering place for locals and visitors to savor tapas "since forever." You'll discover a plethora of restaurants where you can indulge in the finest regional dishes and wines.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before departing towards Salamanca. Along the way, we will travel through the scenic landscapes of northwestern Spain until we reach this emblematic university city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its impressive architectural and artistic legacy.

Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore the city's main attractions at your own pace, such as the Plaza Mayor, the University of Salamanca—one of the oldest in Europe—and its exquisite cathedral.

Overnight stay in Salamanca.

Greca Tip: At sunset, take a seat on a terrace in the Plaza Mayor and enjoy a coffee while watching how the golden stone of its buildings glows in the sunlight.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Then, you will have free time to say goodbye to Salamanca and make the most of your last moments in this charming university city.

Later, we will depart towards Portuguese territory, crossing the border until we reach the vibrant city of Porto, famous for its bridges, historic center, and, of course, its wine.

Overnight stay in Porto.

Greca Tip: In the evening, head to the banks of the Douro River and discover a traditional tavern to enjoy a glass of Port wine with unforgettable views.

After a delightful breakfast, you'll embark on a half-day sightseeing tour of Porto. Our first stop will be the Stock Exchange Palace, known as Palácio de Bolsa in Portuguese.

This architectural marvel, classified as a National Monument and designated as a World Heritage Site, is situated in the historic center of the city. It was constructed by the Porto Commercial Association on the remnants of the Saint Francis Convent and has become a true emblem of Porto.

The Stock Exchange Palace has hosted distinguished visitors, including monarchs, presidents, and ministers from around the world, making it the most popular monument in northern Portugal.

We'll then proceed to one of the renowned wine cellars, where you'll have the opportunity to savor a wine tasting. Following that, we'll embark on a captivating boat excursion, which promises to be one of the highlights of your time in the city.

The afternoon is yours to explore and uncover the most enchanting corners of Porto at your leisure.

Greca Tip: One not-to-be-missed attraction is Livraria Lello & Irmão, a unique bookshop nestled in the heart of Porto. Housed in a neo-gothic building from 1906, the bookstore is exquisitely adorned with ornate wood paneling, immersing you in the ambiance of the nineteenth century.

After breakfast, you'll depart for Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities. This prestigious institution was constructed on the grounds of a former palace and is renowned for its Baroque Joanina Library and impressive 18th-century bell tower.

Coimbra is also recognized as the birthplace of traditional Portuguese music, known as fado. Take some time to explore this captivating city at your own pace and delve into its unique cultural offerings.

Next, we'll continue our journey to Fatima, a significant center of the Christian Faith and a revered World Pilgrimage Sanctuary. You'll be awestruck by the grandeur of the Sanctuary of Fatima and the sacred Cova da Iria, the site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared.

Greca Tip: As in other Portuguese cities, Coimbra is brimming with bakeries and pastry shops. It's a common sight to see locals sipping coffee in the streets while indulging in delicious traditional sweets such as pastel de Belém (also known as pastel de nata) or queijadas.

After breakfast, you'll set off for the Batalha Monastery. This magnificent Dominican Convent was constructed to commemorate the Portuguese victory over the Castilians in the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385.

Over the next two centuries, this site became the primary architectural endeavor of the Portuguese monarchy. The monastery boasts a distinctive national Gothic style, heavily influenced by Manueline art, with its crowning jewel being the exquisite Royal Cloister.

Continuing our journey, we'll make our way to Nazare, a charming coastal village that has retained its vibrant fishing traditions. It's a popular tourist destination, and you'll have the opportunity to witness the fishmongers donning the traditional seven skirts—a delightful sight to behold.

Next, we'll visit Alcobaça, home to a Gothic church and Cistercian monastery dating back to the 12th century. The monastery holds great historical significance and showcases remarkable architectural beauty.

As the day draws to a close, we'll arrive in Lisbon, where you'll be staying for the duration of your trip.

Greca Tip: To enhance your evening, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Fado music. You can easily add this captivating experience during the reservation process.

After a delicious breakfast, we will visit, accompanied by our local guide, the most important sites of this beautiful city of Lisbon, located at the mouth of the Tagus River.

Our first destination will be the Alfama district, which still retains its essence as a neighborhood with low houses and narrow streets. It is the oldest part of Lisbon and the most photogenic due to its graffiti and pastel-colored facades. Because of its labyrinthine structure, inherited from the Arabs, getting lost in its alleys is delightfully easy.

The Belém Tower, situated at the mouth of the Tagus Estuary, initially served as a defensive tower to protect the city, but later became a customs center and lighthouse. It was built between 1515 and 1519 and is the work of Francisco de Arruda. In 1983, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is located very close to the Jerónimos Monastery, where we will continue our visit. Inside this monastery, we will find a church that houses the tombs of one of the most important figures in the history of Portugal: Vasco da Gama. This Portuguese navigator and explorer was responsible for circumnavigating the African continent to reach India, opening up what became known as the spice route for the Portuguese.

We will have the afternoon free to continue exploring the most precious corners of the city, which is known for being one of the most vibrant cities in Western Europe. Its hills dazzle with the multitude of colors that paint the facades of the houses, as well as its castles and medieval constructions.

Greca Tip: Visit the National Tile Museum, where you can learn about the history of this art that is reflected in all the streets and buildings of the city.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before departing for Merida, the capital of the Extremadura region. This city, declared a World Heritage Site, is renowned for its rich historical legacy, particularly its exceptionally well-preserved Roman ruins, such as the theater, the amphitheater, the Roman bridge, and other remnants that evoke the grandeur of the Empire.

We will have free time to explore these treasures at your own pace, and then we will continue our journey to Cordoba, the former capital of the Caliphate, filled with Andalusian charm and historical depth.

Overnight stay in Cordoba.

Greca Tip: We suggest visiting the Roman Bridge of Merida at sunrise or sunset, when the light enhances the majesty of this architectural gem.

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will start the panoramic tour to Córdoba, you will visit the city including the interior of the famous Mosque/Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter.

Córdoba was an important Roman city and a great Islamic center during the Middle Ages. Its buildings and architecture reflect the coexistence of various religions throughout its history: Christian, Jewish, and Islamic.

After visiting this beautiful city, you will continue the route to Seville where you will have free time to start knowing the city and then check in the hotel where you will stay.

Greca Tip: Seville is the cradle of tapas and although many cities dispute this title, it is said that the origin of tapas goes back to the 16th century when King Alfonso XIII to prevent dirt from getting into his glass, the waiter used a slice of ham to cover the glass.

After a delicious breakfast, you will visit the city accompanied by our guide, and we will know its most important points. Seville is an emblematic city, with a great historical, cultural, and artistic past that makes it one of the favorite destinations for all visitors around the world.

You will visit the María Luisa Park, designed by the French landscaper Forestier for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929 where you will be able to appreciate the neosevillain style that served as inspiration and influence for the other Spanish public parks of the first third of the century.

You will continue our visit to the Plaza de España, which with its semi-elliptical shape symbolizes the embrace of Spain to its former American territories. It is known as the masterpiece of the Sevillian architect Anibal Gonzalez with a total area of 50,000 square meters, making it undoubtedly the most imposing square in Spain.

The tour ends by contemplating the exterior of the imposing Cathedral and the Giralda and the typical Barrio de Santa Cruz with its streets, squares, and narrow alleys.

The rest of the day will be free to continue enjoying this wonderful city.

Greca Tip: Don't miss a visit to the famous Mushrooms of Seville, contested space, contemporary architecture in the geographic center of the city, and without doubt, the best viewpoint of Seville from the terrace. In the basement is the Antiquarium, and some Roman remains of Hispalis date back to 2000 years ago.

After a tasty breakfast, we will leave through the Caliphate road​ ​to the heart of Andalusia observing an endless number of olive​ ​trees on the way to Granada and its incredible and amazing monumental environment, last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms up​ ​to 1492.

We will visit the world-famous Alhambra complex and Generalife​ ​Gardens, that have inspired several authors with its sound and​ ​sights, such as the “Tales of the Alhambra” by W. Irving. 

​​It was the largest political and aristocratic center of the Muslim West. The Palace enclosure is made up of rectangular patios of great beauty and numerous fountains, in addition to the Nasrid buildings that served as residences for kings and their servants. The oldest building is the Alcazaba.

One of the most important constructions is the Torre de la Vela, from where one of the most beautiful views of the Alhambra can be seen. The Patio de los Leones and its fountain is one of the most beautiful in the complex.

Greca Tip:​ The name Alhambra has its origins in an Arabic word that means "red castle", due to the color tone of the towers and walls that completely surround the​ ​La Sabic​a​​ hill​.

After breakfast, we will set off towards the Mediterranean coast to reach our next destination: Valencia.

The afternoon will be free to explore this city that captivates its visitors with its diverse gastronomy, excellent climate, and cultural heritage.

Valencia is perfect for discovering on foot. One of its highly recommended spots is the Plaza de la Reina, with the Cathedral and the Miguelete tower, which we can climb for the best views of the city.

In the city center, you'll also find the Silk Exchange (Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its idyllic Orange Tree Courtyard (Patio de los Naranjos), and the modernist Central Market (Mercado Central), the largest fresh product market in Europe.

Just a short distance away is the National Ceramic Museum, with its impressive facade, and the Quart and Serrano Towers. Additionally, there are museums like the IVAM and numerous corners that surprise with their street art.

A bit further from the center, the more modern face of Valencia is showcased: the Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencias. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, it has rightfully become an icon with attractions like the Oceanographic, the largest aquarium in Europe. It's impossible not to want to take a photo in front of its unique shapes.

Greca Tip: Don't miss out on enjoying a Valencian paella by the seaside.

After breakfast, you will enjoy a city tour of this bright city including a drive through the old city showing the most prominent buildings, we will then be driven past the old riverbed of the Turia to the most avant-garde complex “Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias” to watch the emblematic exteriors of the six buildings.

Early afternoon departure northward all along the Mediterranean coast to Catalonia, via Tarragona, the Roman Tarraco. Reach Barcelona, the principal Mediterranean city homeland of the famous architect Gaudi symbol of Catalonia's modernism.

The rest of the afternoon will be free to enjoy Barcelona at your own pace.

Greca Tip: Visit the Gothic Quarter to enjoy its streets filled with bars, restaurants, and shops.

After breakfast, you will visit together with the local guide some of the most famous attractions of the city such as the Montjuic park with spectacular views, the Olympic Ring, the Columbus monument and the old Gothic quarter.

The afternoon will be free to relax and continue enjoying this wonderful city.

Visit Barcelona without mentioning a work by Antoni Gaudí is almost impossible. The unmistakable style of the architect is part of the identity of the city. Its decorative elegance and colorful mosaics are found in every corner of the city.

His best known work is undoubtedly the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia. The architect transformed an initial neo-Gothic project into a temple of monumental dimensions. You can visit two of the three facades built, the naves, the apse and the museum, essential to understand the evolution of the temple.

Greca tip: Tibidabo mountain is the highest peak in Barcelona. Located in the Collserola Natural Park, it offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city.

You will be transferred to the Barcelona Airport-El Prat at the agreed time.

Having spent a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to create new, extraordinary moments that will be lovingly etched in your memory.

Have a nice trip! Or, as the locals say: "¡Buen viaje!".

Greca Tip: If you think your stay in Barcelona was too short, add additional nights on step 1 of your reservation process.