Luxury Gold: Spain & Portugal in Style
Day 1 - Welcome to Barcelona
Your Spain and Portugal luxury tour begins with a private chauffeur to your luxury boutique hotel. Upon arrival, enjoy exquisite city views from the rooftop bar and infinity pool before dining on traditional Spanish delights.
Accommodations: Ohla Eixample Barcelona.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 - Catalonia’s Creative Capital Relaxed Start
Wind your way along Barcelona's grand boulevards, taking in the city's elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere, before visiting Gaudí's breathtaking Sagrada Família, a masterpiece of intricate design and soaring towers. Later, stroll through the colorful mosaics and playful designs of Park Güell with a Local Expert, uncovering Gaudí’s unique vision.
Accommodations: Ohla Eixample Barcelona.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 - Valencia and the Orange Blossom Coast
Follow the golden Costa Dorada through olive and orange groves along the Mediterranean coast to seaside La Galera. Savor a creative Mediterranean menu made from fresh seasonal produce at Vicent Guimera's Michelin-starred L’Antic Molí before arriving in Valencia. Explore this vibrant city, rich in history with your Travel Concierge.
Accommodations: Hospes Palau de La Mar, Valencia.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 - Granada and the Alhambra Palace
Discover Granada’s 13th-century Alhambra Palace, with its intricate Islamic designs, exotic gardens and tranquil pools. Conclude with a decadent stay at a renovated 19th-century palace.
Accommodations: Hospes Palacio de los Patos, Granada.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 - Córdoba and Seville Relaxed Start
Step back in time at Córdoba’s Old Roman Bridge and great Mosque-Cathedral, strolling beneath delicate arches and pillars. Arriving in Seville, enjoy a cocktail before dining at an elegant restaurant.
Accommodations: Gran Meliá Colón, Seville.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 - Seville, the City of Carmen Relaxed Start
Discover the rich Andalusian culture of Seville with its orange-scented streets and lively plazas. Explore the intricate details of famous masterpieces at the Fine Arts Museum. Embrace the passionate Flamenco with a private dance lesson.
Accommodations: Gran Meliá Colón, Seville.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 - The Flavors of Andalucía Relaxed Start
After a Relaxed Start, immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and scents of Andalusia with a morning market visit to Mercado de Abastos. Your cooking experience awaits. Learn the secrets to Spain's popular dishes and dine on your creations.
Accommodations: Gran Meliá Colón, Seville.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 - Across the Alentejo to Lisbon Relaxed Start
Greet Portugal in the charming hilltop town of Serpa. Over lunch you’re treated to a performance of Cante Alentejano, a traditional polyphonic singing style recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Accommodations: Pousada de Lisboa, Lisbon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 - Lisbon and the Age of Discoveries Relaxed Start
Enjoy another Relaxed Start before viewing Lisbon’s Monument to the Discoveries and the Belém Tower. Continue with a visit to the National Coach Museum before marvelling at the architectural detail of the Queluz Palace. Finish the day enjoying local specialties as you dine in style this evening.
Accommodations: Pousada de Lisboa, Lisbon.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 - Forever Évora Relaxed Start
Bask in Évora’s flavors at Herdade da Calada winery where you’ll explore the estate, learn about their winemaking process and have the privilege to sip on a selection of their tantalising local wines well-known to the Portuguese but largely undiscovered further afield. Discover the charming, historic town of Evora', a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tonight, enjoy a delicious dinner of Alentejo specialties.
Accommodations: Convento do Espinheiro, Évora.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 - The Roman Ruins of Mérida and Madrid
Make your way across green and golden farmlands to Mérida’s well-preserved Roman Theater. From Roman ruins to a vibrant, modern city, journey through the sunbaked landscapes of Extremadura to Madrid. As the city lights up, the evening is yours to stroll along Calle Serrano, Madrid’s most famous and elegant shopping street.
Accommodations: Gran Meliá Fénix, Madrid.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 - Madrid of the Bourbons Relaxed Start
Begin with a stroll among the city's historic sites with your Local Expert admiring the statue of Cervantes and the Cibeles Fountain that exhibits a rush of movement leaving you eager for sites to come. Personalise your day joining an art historian at the Prado Museum, or, explore the maze-like old town. Celebrate your travels over a final decadent dinner.
Accommodations: Gran Meliá Fénix, Madrid.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13 - Depart Madrid
After breakfast, bid farewell to your travel companions before your private transfer to Madrid Barajas Airport.
Meals: Breakfast
Evora
Evora is considered a seat of learning with its University founded in 16th Century by Cardinal Dom Henrique. Within the surrounding wall the most prominent feature is the 2nd or 3rd Century ruins of a Roman Temple dedicated to Goddess Diana. Another attractive feature is the 15th Century Convento dos Lóios. The city’s 13th century cathedral took 50 years to build and is reminiscent of a fortress. The main square with its 16th Century fountain has a sad history. Among other events, Dom João II witnessed the beheading by his orders of his brother-in-law. Equally unpleasant were the sights caused by the Inquisition in this public place. A macabre reminder is the Capela dos Ossos in the 15th Century Igreja de São Francisco - where the bones of 5,000 monks lie. There are several museums - the Museu de Arte Sacra, Galeria de Arte Casa Cadaval, the Museu de Artes Decorativas Religiosas and the Museu de Évora. The museum, formerly the palace of the Bishop, built with many worked stones from previous buildings in the city, has some outstanding religious items.
Excursions
A Royal Invitation
A Royal Invitation
Overview: Immerse in a fascinating rendezvous with Princess Diana d'Orléans, Cadaval Duchess. Embracing with passion the mission of transmitting her ancestor's History and Heritage, Dona Diana Álvares Pereira de Melo authored several Portuguese history and architecture books. In an enchanting palatial setting, engage in an intimate lunch and conversation at the magnificent 14th-century palace and uncover intriguing stories about the Portuguese monarchy.
Duration: 2 Hours
Lisbon
Portugal’s capital is an 18th-century city - elegant, open to the sea and carefully planned. Most places of interest are within easy walking distance. Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon since medieval times, is an ideal place to start exploring. Many rebuilt houses with original façades provide stores and restaurants with modern interiors. High above Baixa is Bairro Alto - with its teeming nightlife. There are many monuments and museums, such as San Jeronimos Monastery, Royal Coach Museum and Gulbenkian Museum. Two well-known landmarks are the Monument to the Discoveries and the Tower of Belem. A statue of Christ looms above Europe’s longest suspension bridge. Madragoa, Bica and Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s older sections, offer a variety of sights: the Church of Sao Roque, with its beautiful tiles; St. George Castle, which offers a splendid view from its location above the Alfama quarter; the botanical gardens, featuring an unusual, cold greenhouse; and the cathedral, stunning with its Moorish design. Renowned Gulbenkian Museum is the cultural center of Portugal.
Excursions
An Exploration of Lisbon (8 hours)
An Exploration of Lisbon (8 hours)
Highlights:
Lying north of the River Tagus estuary and stretching over seven hills, Portugal's capital city has much to offer. Receive a warm welcome at the port by your private guide and driver and from here commence your engaging tour of Lisbon.
Explore the Belem district with its magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, an extraordinary example of Portugal's 'Manueline' style of architecture. Once populated by monks, the UNESCO-listed monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I to celebrate Vasco da Gama's discovery of a sea route to India in 1498. Time permitting, visit Torre de Belém (Belém Tower), one of Lisbon's most iconic buildings and symbolic of Portugal's great Age of Expansion.
Next, it's time for a refreshment stop, where you may wish to sample the famous and scrumptious Pastéis de Belém (Portuguese custard tarts). From here you return to your cruise ship.
- Discover the beautiful Belem district with its magnificent Jeronimos Monastery
- Behold the priceless treasures on display at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and try the exquisite pasteis de nata local pastries
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Queluz, Sintra and Estoril (8 hours)
Queluz, Sintra and Estoril (8 hours)
Highlights:
Venture outside of Lisbon to explore Queluz, Sintra and Estoril during your private shore excursion. Take the short driver to the sumptuous 18th-century Queluz Palace, where you can admire the magnificent formal gardens and azulejo-lined canals.
Afterwards visit Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and Moorish emirs before them. Today, this town, nestling on the north side of the Sintra Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stroll through the town where charming streets are filled with fine handicraft shops. You then descend to Guincho beach for a fabulous view of Cape Rock, the westernmost point of the European continent and continuing to the resort town of Estoril on the scenic coastal road with fantastic views, en route back to your cruise ship.
- Explore Queluz Palace, the summer residence of the Portugese Royal Family
- Take a short drive to Sintra, the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs and a UNESCO Word Heritage Site
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Highlights of Lisbon (4 hours)
Highlights of Lisbon (4 hours)
Highlights:
See Belem Tower, one of Lisbon's iconic buildings and symbolic of the nation's Age of Expansion. Admire the impressive collection of painted and gilded Baroque coaches at the National Coach Museum.
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Granada
Granada is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Andalusia, Spain. Granada has been inhabited by many empires for 2,500 years from the Greeks, Romans, Visigoths and the Moors. Remainder of each reigning era is prominent in Granada’s cultural and architectural influences. Imprints of the past can be found in Albaicin, an old Arabic quarter paved with cobble stoned streets, ogee arches, voussoirs, and decorative tile work. When the sun sets, Alhambra is at its most beautiful and radiant complimenting Byzantine courtyards and muqarna details. Homes also reflect the Mediterranean and Renaissance elegance long past. Present-day Granada attracts visitors by recapturing the past and evoking the co-existence of different cultures.
Excursions
Granada with Flavors of Sturgeon (Optional Dive In)
Granada with Flavors of Sturgeon (Optional Dive In)
Overview: Immerse yourself in a private guided visit to the world's first certified Organic caviar farm, nestled in a serene village in the mountains. Experience the thrill of diving into a sturgeon pool with the utmost safety and guidance led by our expert technicians. Prepare to be enchanted by an exclusive tasting session, where you can relish the distinct flavors of the organic caviar, promising a gastronomic journey like no other.
Duration: 3 Hours
Barcelona
Barcelona, the self-confident and progressive capital of Spain, is a tremendous place to be. Though it boasts outstanding Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, and some great museums – most notably those dedicated to Picasso and Catalan art – it is above all a place where there's enjoyment simply in walking the streets, stopping in at bars and cafés, drinking in the atmosphere. A thriving port and the most prosperous commercial centre in Spain, it has a sophistication and cultural dynamism way ahead of the rest of the country. In part this reflects the city's proximity to France, whose influence is apparent in the elegant boulevards and imaginative cooking. But Barcelona has also evolved an individual and eclectic cultural identity, most perfectly and eccentrically expressed in the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. Scattered as Barcelona's main sights may be, the greatest concentration of interest is around the old town (La Ciutat Vella). These cramped streets above the harbor are easily manageable, and far more enjoyable, on foot. Start, as everyone else does, with the Ramblas.
Excursions
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Art and Architecture in Barcelona (8 hours)
Highlights:
An architectural delight awaits you today in Barcelona, one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Receive a warm greeting at the port by your private guide and driver and commence your full-day tour with a visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be complete until 2028!
Next, visit Parc Guell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi's most colourful creations. Continue along Passeig de Gracia, to view Gaudi's Casa Batlló and Casa Mila from the outside, with its brilliant wave-like façade.
After lunch, lose yourself in the narrow streets of the true heart of the city - the medieval Gothic Quarter. Here you will visit the magnificent 13th-century Cathedral, and the Picasso Museum, where some of the painter's earliest works are housed. At the end of your tour you are transferred back to the port.
- Walk the labyrinthine alleys of the medieval Gothic Quarter to find architectural gems like the Church of Santa Maria del Mar
- Admire the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum, where some of the artist's earliest works are housed.
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)
Gaudi’s Barcelona (4 hours)
Highlights:
Receive a warm greeting at the port from your private guide and driver and commence your half-day tour with a visit to Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece; the impressive, but unfinished Sagrada Familia. Although work started on this project in 1882, this iconic church is not expected to be completed until 2028!
Continue on to Parc Guell, a beautiful municipal garden with a superb panoramic view over the city; the focal point is a colourful sea-serpent-shaped central terrace. Visit the gatehouse where Gaudi lived during his later years which is now a museum dedicated to him. Transfer back to the port at the end of your tour.
- Visit the impressive, but still unfinished Sagrada Familia, masterpiece of the Catalan architect
- Wander through Parc Guell, the UNESCO World Heritage Site considered Gaudi's most colourful creation
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning/Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Not Included:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Authentic Barcelona by Bike
Authentic Barcelona by Bike
Overview: Uncover the most authentic side of Barcelona riding the world's best folding bike, a Brompton. Be led by an expert bike guide and venture into a unique and exclusive experience. Connect with your local guide by sharing and listening to trivia stories about Barcelona. Embark on a ride to explore the least touristy Eixample and Gracia districts. Glimpse the Plaça d'Espanya, the Hospital de la Santa Creu, Sant Pau, and modernist estates.
Duration: 3 Hours
Barcelona Sailing Journey
Barcelona Sailing Journey
Overview: Experience the thrill of sailing the Barcelona Coastline. Glimpse the Barcelona skyline from a different perspective and spot some landmarks, including Frank Gehry Golf Fish Sculpture and the Twin Towers", Torres Venecianas. Immerse yourself in the serene deep blue while seeping your glass of wine. Weather permitting, anchor and venture in a short swim.
Duration: 4 Hours
Exploring Cavas' Origin
Exploring Cavas' Origin
Overview: Uncover the dedication of a biodynamic winegrowers family committed to excellence in long-aged wines. Venture on a stroll around the winery's iconic vineyards to discover the distinctive features of a unique spot in the Penedès region. Sheltered by the woods, taste a base wine paired with a light snack. Elevate your experience by savoring three long-aged sparkling wines, a limited-edition white wine, and an extra-virgin olive oil.
Duration: 4 Hours
From Market to Home with a Top Chef
From Market to Home with a Top Chef
Overview: Led by a top Chef who graduated from the prestigious Cordon Bleu School in Paris, embark on an exclusive gourmet journey at her private penthouse. Head to a 19th-century local market and thoroughly select the finest ingredients for your recipe. Dare to partake in the cooking process while you uncover some secrets of high-end cuisine. Savor the combination of flavors paired with a premium selection of Spanish Wines.
Duration: 4 Hours
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Hike a World of Nature (7,5 miles)
Overview: Step away from the bustling Barcelona and embrace Catalonia's unique landscape with La Garrotxa and Fageda d'en jordà. Venture into an exciting 7,5 miles hike through the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa. Engage in a circular route through La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Ascend to the inside of Santa Margarita volcano and discover a chapel lying on its crater. Dive into Fageda d'en Jordà, a unique beech forest that grows on the lava flow of Croscat Volcano. Finalize your trail with a stop at the Croscat Volcano grederes.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Montserrat Discovery Hike (5 miles)
Overview: Ancient Wonders and hidden gems await you on the famous needles of Montserrat Mountain. Venture into an exciting and intimate hike connecting you to Montserrat's outlandish and most authentic elements. Uncover the region of Agulles and the north face of Montserrat, passing between the needles, having to take some steps climbing ropes, and ending up visiting emblematic places such as Cadireta or Foradada.
Duration: 4 Hours
Montserrat from the Skies
Montserrat from the Skies
Overview: Marvel at Montserrat Mountain's impressive scenic views. With a bird' s-eye view, witness these massive conglomerates, which form unexpectedly imposing sculptures due to their geological evolution. They all have names related to their shapes, and we find caves, chasms, and torrents in their shelter.
Flying over the Montserrat mountain, the spiritual Center of Catalonia is undoubtedly one of the most surprising and impressive experiences.
Duration: 1 Hour
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Barcelona: A Walk Through Barcelona and The Sagrada Familia Park Guell for Families- 6 Hours
Your chauffeur and your guide will
be waiting for you at the port. They will be at disposal for 8 hours. Your chauffeur will drive you to the city center of Barcelona.
A Walk Through Barcelona
You will start your day by an exciting 2-hour walking tour of the oldest parts of Barcelona: the Barri Gothic and Born neighborhoods. You will follow your guide as he/she leads you into the small, narrow streets to discover the vibrant, trendy ambiance of Born and the historical atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter. You will see the Santa Maria Del Mar church, the Royal Palace and the world famous “Las Ramblas” avenue. The fun facts and stories
told by our guide will keep your children highly engaged. The children will each get a game booklet to keep them engaged and entertained. After this tour, you will enjoy a
lunch break. Your guide will be there to give recommendations depending on your taste.
Included:
- A Walk Through Barcelona:
- Private certified guide
- 2 hour walking tour
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 2-hour experience
The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a 3-hour tour inside the two iconic Gaudi sites in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia and the Park Güell. You will follow your guide inside the
jaw-dropping and daring church and listen to the stories about its architecture, construction and future. After 1,5 hours spent in the Sagrada Familia, you will head out to
Park Güell. There you will witness the beauty of Gaudí’s mosaics as well as enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Barcelona. To keep the children entertained during this 3-hour tour, they will all get their own fun-filled game booklet. A perfect way to combine both educational discovery and fun!
The Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell:
- Private certified guide
- Skip-the-line tickets to
- Sagrada Familia and
- Park Güell
- Transfer in a private
- mini van
- Game booklet for
- each child
- 3-hour experience
At the end of the tour, depending on your cruise departure time, your chauffeur will drive you back to the port.