Iberian Inspiration
Madrid
Lisbon
Iberian Inspiration
Tour summary
12 days
Spain & Portugal
16 meals
18 guests (max)
Driver
Trip leader
Luxury minicoach
Twin-share / double / double for single occupancy
11 nights in thoughtfully selected accommodation11 nights
Sevillian sun-ripened tomato gazpacho, crispy jamón Ibérico croquettes, flaky Portuguese pastel de natas... Take your tastebuds on a tantalising journey as we trace the scenic back roads of Spain and Portugal! Not just a culinary adventure, our path will reveal a heady mix of historical riches – from the Alhambra’s kaleidoscope mosaics to the eye-catching Islamic arches of Córdoba’s Mezquita. Are you ready to immerse yourself in the captivating stories and scrumptious local dishes of ancient Iberia?
Tour highlights
- Fully immerse yourself in the historic charm of Córdoba, Granada, Úbeda, Estremoz and Ronda with stays in atmospheric old town hotels
- Close your eyes as you savour succulent jamón ibérico at a traditional farm in Sierra de Aracena
- Tap your toes and clap your hands during a fiery flamenco show in Seville
- Be blown away by the exquisite beauty of the Córdoba Mezquita – a UNESCO-protected mosque
Tour itinerary
Day 1 - Madrid (Spain)
Did you know that Madrid’s ancient name was Ursaria – meaning ‘land of the bears’? While you won’t find any of these fearsome creatures roaming its streets today, you will be greeted with a glittering array of treasure-filled art galleries, elegant shopping arcades and grand royal palaces.
Meet your small group of fellow explorers in the city’s vibrant heart where we'll settle down for our very first meal together. Local specialties you might spot on the menu? Crispy patatas bravas, simple but tasty tortilla and juicy campo real green olives tossed in fragrant herbs. Buen provecho!
Did you know that Madrid’s ancient name was Ursaria – meaning ‘land of the bears’? While you won’t find any of these fearsome creatures roaming its streets today, you will be greeted with a glittering array of treasure-filled art galleries, elegant shopping arcades and grand royal palaces.
Meet your small group of fellow explorers in the city’s vibrant heart where we'll settle down for our very first meal together. Local specialties you might spot on the menu? Crispy patatas bravas, simple but tasty tortilla and juicy campo real green olives tossed in fragrant herbs. Buen provecho!
Included today
Accommodation
Hotel Quatro Puerta Del Sol (or similar)
Meals
- Dinner
Day 2 - Madrid – Toledo
After a filling Spanish breakfast and a steaming mug of café con leche, we’ll swap the country’s current capital for its ancient one as we venture an hour south to Toledo. Perched above the serene Rio Tajo, it's often called the ‘city of three cultures’ – and we’ll discover why during a guided walking tour with our history-loving Tour Leader.
Prepare to get lost in centuries of beguiling tales as we stroll beneath the horse-shoe arches of the Mosque of Cristo de Luz and gaze up at the gilded scallop detailing on the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca’s vaulted ceiling. You’ll also have a chance to roam the storied galleries of the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, which was founded by Spain’s most iconic royal duo: King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile.
The afternoon is yours to delve even deeper into this diverse city. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to seek out some intricately shaped marzipan. It's a Toledo speciality that’s been crafted by local artisans for centuries. And when you’re ready for dinner, ask your Tour Leader for the best places to try traditional Castilian delicacies like herby roasted partridge, crispy cuchifrito (deep fried pork) and paprika-spiced sopa de ajo (garlic soup).
After a filling Spanish breakfast and a steaming mug of café con leche, we’ll swap the country’s current capital for its ancient one as we venture an hour south to Toledo. Perched above the serene Rio Tajo, it's often called the ‘city of three cultures’ – and we’ll discover why during a guided walking tour with our history-loving Tour Leader.
Prepare to get lost in centuries of beguiling tales as we stroll beneath the horse-shoe arches of the Mosque of Cristo de Luz and gaze up at the gilded scallop detailing on the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca’s vaulted ceiling. You’ll also have a chance to roam the storied galleries of the 15th-century Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, which was founded by Spain’s most iconic royal duo: King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile.
The afternoon is yours to delve even deeper into this diverse city. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to seek out some intricately shaped marzipan. It's a Toledo speciality that’s been crafted by local artisans for centuries. And when you’re ready for dinner, ask your Tour Leader for the best places to try traditional Castilian delicacies like herby roasted partridge, crispy cuchifrito (deep fried pork) and paprika-spiced sopa de ajo (garlic soup).
Included today
Accommodation
Hotel Carlos V (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
Day 3 - Toledo – Valdepeñas – Córdoba
We’ll be greeted by the waving arms of traditional windmills today as we weave our way through the golden-hued valleys of the lush La Mancha plateau. We’ll pause in the sleepy town of Puerto Lápice that’s best known as the setting of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote adventures. They’ll be time to uncover more about the suave fictional gentleman at the dedicated museum. Or you could seek out a local cafe to try a slice of tarta de flor: a moreish milk tart featuring layers of ruffled, flaky pastry.
Then, it's onwards to Valdepeñas where we’ll savour the fruits of this fertile region at a local bodega. As well as sipping three sumptuous natural wines, we’ll tuck into a tasty homecooked lunch. You’ll also have a chance to purchase some wine in the bodega’s shop; the perfect souvenir to remind you of the day’s culinary adventures.
Afterwards, our path will lead us to Córdoba: a city of jaw-dropping Moorish architecture, exhilarating equestrian events and fantastical fiestas. Spend the last few hours before dusk getting lost in its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town or enjoying a little downtime by the pool in your hotel’s sun-dappled courtyard. Eager to experience more of Córdoba’s local culture? Venture to the city’s 16th-century Royal Stables to watch its evening showcase that merges expert horsemanship with a touch of flamenco. ¡Olé!
We’ll be greeted by the waving arms of traditional windmills today as we weave our way through the golden-hued valleys of the lush La Mancha plateau. We’ll pause in the sleepy town of Puerto Lápice that’s best known as the setting of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote adventures. They’ll be time to uncover more about the suave fictional gentleman at the dedicated museum. Or you could seek out a local cafe to try a slice of tarta de flor: a moreish milk tart featuring layers of ruffled, flaky pastry.
Then, it's onwards to Valdepeñas where we’ll savour the fruits of this fertile region at a local bodega. As well as sipping three sumptuous natural wines, we’ll tuck into a tasty homecooked lunch. You’ll also have a chance to purchase some wine in the bodega’s shop; the perfect souvenir to remind you of the day’s culinary adventures.
Afterwards, our path will lead us to Córdoba: a city of jaw-dropping Moorish architecture, exhilarating equestrian events and fantastical fiestas. Spend the last few hours before dusk getting lost in its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town or enjoying a little downtime by the pool in your hotel’s sun-dappled courtyard. Eager to experience more of Córdoba’s local culture? Venture to the city’s 16th-century Royal Stables to watch its evening showcase that merges expert horsemanship with a touch of flamenco. ¡Olé!
Included today
Accommodation
Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 4 - Córdoba
Prepare to step back in time to the days of Islamic Iberia during this morning’s locally guided tour around Córdoba Old Town. The highlight will be the spectacular UNESCO-protected Mezquita where we’ll marvel at the former mosque's mishmash of architectural styles – walking beneath orange and white striped Islamic arches and across glass floors which reveal the remains of ancient Roman mosaics.
We’ll follow this up with a stroll around Córdoba’s Jewish Quarter. Wander past the bronze Maimónides Monument – dedicated to a famed medieval philosopher – and revel in the vibrant atmosphere of the artisan souk (known locally as El Zoco). Nestled in a small courtyard around the corner from the city’s 14th-century Synagogue, it’s the perfect spot to pick up local keepsakes like intricate silver filigree jewellery and hand-carved wooden puppets.
Then, you’ll have another afternoon free to slow down and soak up Córdoba’s treasures. Tuck into some sugar-dusted churros at a cafe in Plaza del la Corredera: the site of the city’s bullring in the 16th century. Or settle down at a bodega to sip on a fifty-fifty – a heady local cocktail made with equal parts white wine and sweet sherry. Delicioso!
Prepare to step back in time to the days of Islamic Iberia during this morning’s locally guided tour around Córdoba Old Town. The highlight will be the spectacular UNESCO-protected Mezquita where we’ll marvel at the former mosque's mishmash of architectural styles – walking beneath orange and white striped Islamic arches and across glass floors which reveal the remains of ancient Roman mosaics.
We’ll follow this up with a stroll around Córdoba’s Jewish Quarter. Wander past the bronze Maimónides Monument – dedicated to a famed medieval philosopher – and revel in the vibrant atmosphere of the artisan souk (known locally as El Zoco). Nestled in a small courtyard around the corner from the city’s 14th-century Synagogue, it’s the perfect spot to pick up local keepsakes like intricate silver filigree jewellery and hand-carved wooden puppets.
Then, you’ll have another afternoon free to slow down and soak up Córdoba’s treasures. Tuck into some sugar-dusted churros at a cafe in Plaza del la Corredera: the site of the city’s bullring in the 16th century. Or settle down at a bodega to sip on a fifty-fifty – a heady local cocktail made with equal parts white wine and sweet sherry. Delicioso!
Included today
Accommodation
Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
Day 5 - Córdoba – Úbeda – Granada
As we wave goodbye to Córdoba and dive deeper into the Andalusian countryside, you’ll notice one thing dotted across the landscapes: olive trees!
We'll be sampling some authentic Spanish olive oil in Úbeda: a World Heritage-listed town bursting with elegant Renaissance palaces. Take a moment to admire the blue and white tiled tower of the Hospital de Santiago before we step inside the town’s Centro de Interpretación Olivar y Aceite. This museum is entirely dedicated to the cultivation of extra virgin olive oil. As well as enjoying a masterclass in olive harvesting with a local expert, we’ll savour the subtle differences between several oils during a tasting session.
If that whets your appetite, they’ll be time to grab lunch before we continue our journey. Seek out ochíos con morcilla: a regional speciality featuring soft, paprika spiced bread rolls filled with savoury black pudding. Then, intriguing tales of revolution and the Reconquista await us in Granada – another of Spain’s UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Here, we’ll be snoozing like royalty in a former palace at its very heart. Dulces sueños...
As we wave goodbye to Córdoba and dive deeper into the Andalusian countryside, you’ll notice one thing dotted across the landscapes: olive trees!
We'll be sampling some authentic Spanish olive oil in Úbeda: a World Heritage-listed town bursting with elegant Renaissance palaces. Take a moment to admire the blue and white tiled tower of the Hospital de Santiago before we step inside the town’s Centro de Interpretación Olivar y Aceite. This museum is entirely dedicated to the cultivation of extra virgin olive oil. As well as enjoying a masterclass in olive harvesting with a local expert, we’ll savour the subtle differences between several oils during a tasting session.
If that whets your appetite, they’ll be time to grab lunch before we continue our journey. Seek out ochíos con morcilla: a regional speciality featuring soft, paprika spiced bread rolls filled with savoury black pudding. Then, intriguing tales of revolution and the Reconquista await us in Granada – another of Spain’s UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Here, we’ll be snoozing like royalty in a former palace at its very heart. Dulces sueños...
Included today
Accommodation
Sercotel Palacio de los Gamboa (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
Day 6 - Granada
Pomegranates are traditionally symbols of success and abundance – so it’s no surprise that Granada was named after this sweet, ruby-red fruit. The city has stood proudly at the foot of the soaring Sierra Nevada mountains for over 2,000 years, with its tapestry of incredible monuments a testament to its immense history.
No visit would be complete without stepping foot in the ancient walled Alhambra fortress: one of the world’s best examples of Islamic architecture. The corridors of this intricately decorated complex whisper of enthralling stories – from the expulsion of the Moors in the late 15th-century to the bombardment of its towers by the French during the Napoleonic Wars. We’ll enjoy a guided tour around a few sections, remembering to pause and feast our eyes on the Alhambra's sweeping outlook across Granada’s Moorish old town.
Then, you’ll have the rest of the day to weave your own path through Granada’s historical streets. Get lost in Albayzin's tangled web of lanes, admire the sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows of Granada Cathedral or clap your hands along to some flamenco at a cave bar in Sacromonte.
There’s no better way to complete a day in Granada than settling down in a cosy local tapas bar. It’s still common for drinks to be served with complimentary tapas, too. A glass of full-bodied Tempranillo paired with fried anchovies or potatoes dipped in garlicky aioli? Yes, please!
Pomegranates are traditionally symbols of success and abundance – so it’s no surprise that Granada was named after this sweet, ruby-red fruit. The city has stood proudly at the foot of the soaring Sierra Nevada mountains for over 2,000 years, with its tapestry of incredible monuments a testament to its immense history.
No visit would be complete without stepping foot in the ancient walled Alhambra fortress: one of the world’s best examples of Islamic architecture. The corridors of this intricately decorated complex whisper of enthralling stories – from the expulsion of the Moors in the late 15th-century to the bombardment of its towers by the French during the Napoleonic Wars. We’ll enjoy a guided tour around a few sections, remembering to pause and feast our eyes on the Alhambra's sweeping outlook across Granada’s Moorish old town.
Then, you’ll have the rest of the day to weave your own path through Granada’s historical streets. Get lost in Albayzin's tangled web of lanes, admire the sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows of Granada Cathedral or clap your hands along to some flamenco at a cave bar in Sacromonte.
There’s no better way to complete a day in Granada than settling down in a cosy local tapas bar. It’s still common for drinks to be served with complimentary tapas, too. A glass of full-bodied Tempranillo paired with fried anchovies or potatoes dipped in garlicky aioli? Yes, please!
Included today
Accommodation
Sercotel Palacio de los Gamboa (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
Day 7 - Granada – Ronda
Ernest Hemingway once described Ronda as ‘a romantic set’ – and we’ll find out just why as we meander our way south to its dramatic location in the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. Your passionate Tour Leader will take you on an orientation through its cobbled streets and bodega-lined squares, uncovering thrilling tales of bullfights and bandits as we go. Our stroll will end at Puente Nuevo: the largest of Ronda’s three bridges which hangs over the narrow, cragged chasm of the El Tajo Gorge.
Then, the afternoon’s activities are up to you. Seek out Plaza Duquesa de Parcent in the heart of the Old Town and guess how many architectural styles have influenced the exquisite yet eclectic Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor. Or amble beneath the gently swaying trees of Alameda del Tajo park, pausing at its clifftop gazebo to soak up jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
As golden hour approaches, why not regroup with your fellow travellers for a glass of local wine at the Hotel Catalonia’s rooftop bar? Clink your glasses as the sun sets over nearby Plaza de Toros de Ronda – casting fantastical shadows from the bullring’s arches and pillars. Then, it’ll be time for a delicious group dinner back at the hotel.
Ernest Hemingway once described Ronda as ‘a romantic set’ – and we’ll find out just why as we meander our way south to its dramatic location in the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. Your passionate Tour Leader will take you on an orientation through its cobbled streets and bodega-lined squares, uncovering thrilling tales of bullfights and bandits as we go. Our stroll will end at Puente Nuevo: the largest of Ronda’s three bridges which hangs over the narrow, cragged chasm of the El Tajo Gorge.
Then, the afternoon’s activities are up to you. Seek out Plaza Duquesa de Parcent in the heart of the Old Town and guess how many architectural styles have influenced the exquisite yet eclectic Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor. Or amble beneath the gently swaying trees of Alameda del Tajo park, pausing at its clifftop gazebo to soak up jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
As golden hour approaches, why not regroup with your fellow travellers for a glass of local wine at the Hotel Catalonia’s rooftop bar? Clink your glasses as the sun sets over nearby Plaza de Toros de Ronda – casting fantastical shadows from the bullring’s arches and pillars. Then, it’ll be time for a delicious group dinner back at the hotel.
Included today
Accommodation
Hotel Maestranza (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Day 8 - Ronda – Grazalema, Arcos and Jerez – Seville
A city known for fiery flamenco and juicy oranges is on our agenda today. But before we glide into stunning Seville, we’ll leisurely explore the scenic back roads of Andalusia – stopping off at several wonderful, white-washed towns in Cadiz province along the way.
Grazalema is up first – and its lofty location among the limestone peaks of the Sierra del Endrinal is truly breathtaking. Spend an hour or so wandering the village’s cobbled streets that explode with colourful potted plants throughout the spring and summer.
Next, we’ll feast our eyes on more hilltop vistas during a brief photo stop at the equally as enchanting Arcos de la Frontera. As lunchtime approaches, we’ll roll into Jerez – specifically the Bodegas Fernandez GAO where an indulgent sherry tasting and tapas feast awaits. Flutter your eyelids closed as you relish the aromatic notes of three sweet wines...
If you’re feeling merry and content, why not settle down for a siesta in the minicoach? When you wake up, we’ll be in Seville where our evening plans include a traditional flamenco show at the prestigious Museo del Baile Flamenco. Hope you’ve practised your claps and heel taps!
A city known for fiery flamenco and juicy oranges is on our agenda today. But before we glide into stunning Seville, we’ll leisurely explore the scenic back roads of Andalusia – stopping off at several wonderful, white-washed towns in Cadiz province along the way.
Grazalema is up first – and its lofty location among the limestone peaks of the Sierra del Endrinal is truly breathtaking. Spend an hour or so wandering the village’s cobbled streets that explode with colourful potted plants throughout the spring and summer.
Next, we’ll feast our eyes on more hilltop vistas during a brief photo stop at the equally as enchanting Arcos de la Frontera. As lunchtime approaches, we’ll roll into Jerez – specifically the Bodegas Fernandez GAO where an indulgent sherry tasting and tapas feast awaits. Flutter your eyelids closed as you relish the aromatic notes of three sweet wines...
If you’re feeling merry and content, why not settle down for a siesta in the minicoach? When you wake up, we’ll be in Seville where our evening plans include a traditional flamenco show at the prestigious Museo del Baile Flamenco. Hope you’ve practised your claps and heel taps!
Included today
Accommodation
Las Casas de la Judería (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Day 9 - Seville
Two words to sum up Seville? Charismatic and colourful. This ancient city has stood proudly on the banks of the tumbling River Guadalquivir for over 2,000 years, and it shimmers with architectural gems. We’ll delve into one of its most famous – the UNESCO World Heritage Alcázar of Seville – on a locally-guided tour.
Then, the rest of the day is free to get lost in local Sevillian life. Centuries of history make up the rich tapestry of this city and you could easily spend several hours roaming rugged Roman ruins, hunting down Moorish mosaics or ambling leisurely around the sweeping, classical-era Plaza de España. Alternatively, embrace the contemporary at the Setas de Sevilla: a series of space-age, mushroom-like structures housing the city’s archaeological museum and a sprawling marketplace.
And, finally, don’t forget to end your explorations with a refreshing glass of quintessential orange wine at one of the abundant bars in the atmospheric Santa Cruz neighbourhood.
Two words to sum up Seville? Charismatic and colourful. This ancient city has stood proudly on the banks of the tumbling River Guadalquivir for over 2,000 years, and it shimmers with architectural gems. We’ll delve into one of its most famous – the UNESCO World Heritage Alcázar of Seville – on a locally-guided tour.
Then, the rest of the day is free to get lost in local Sevillian life. Centuries of history make up the rich tapestry of this city and you could easily spend several hours roaming rugged Roman ruins, hunting down Moorish mosaics or ambling leisurely around the sweeping, classical-era Plaza de España. Alternatively, embrace the contemporary at the Setas de Sevilla: a series of space-age, mushroom-like structures housing the city’s archaeological museum and a sprawling marketplace.
And, finally, don’t forget to end your explorations with a refreshing glass of quintessential orange wine at one of the abundant bars in the atmospheric Santa Cruz neighbourhood.
Included today
Accommodation
Las Casas de la Judería (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
Day 10 - Seville – Sierra De Aracena
Today, we’ll swap the bustling streets of Seville for the tranquillity of the Sierra de Aracena – an unspoilt mountain range peppered with castles, quaint villages and sheep-filled pastures. It’s part of a vast national park crisscrossed with scenic, snaking roads which we’ll effortlessly traverse in our minicoach.
As well as soaking up all the spectacular scenery out of your window, we’ll stop off at a local pig farm to indulge in an iconic Iberian treat: jamón ibérico. Watch the resident hogs’ curly tails twirl as they run around happily in the surrounding dehesa (pastures) before paying a visit to the farm’s cellars where the cured meat is dried. Then, it'll be time for the main event: a delectable tasting of several authentic jamón varieties paired with a duo of scrumptious local cheeses.
With our camera rolls and bellies full, we’ll move onto our next hotel in the Sierra de Aracena countryside for an evening of leisure.
Today, we’ll swap the bustling streets of Seville for the tranquillity of the Sierra de Aracena – an unspoilt mountain range peppered with castles, quaint villages and sheep-filled pastures. It’s part of a vast national park crisscrossed with scenic, snaking roads which we’ll effortlessly traverse in our minicoach.
As well as soaking up all the spectacular scenery out of your window, we’ll stop off at a local pig farm to indulge in an iconic Iberian treat: jamón ibérico. Watch the resident hogs’ curly tails twirl as they run around happily in the surrounding dehesa (pastures) before paying a visit to the farm’s cellars where the cured meat is dried. Then, it'll be time for the main event: a delectable tasting of several authentic jamón varieties paired with a duo of scrumptious local cheeses.
With our camera rolls and bellies full, we’ll move onto our next hotel in the Sierra de Aracena countryside for an evening of leisure.
Included today
Accommodation
Hotel Convento Aracena (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
Day 11 - Sierra De Aracena – Monsaraz (Portugal) – Estremoz
Ready to explore the Portuguese side of Iberia? After a lazy morning at our hotel, we’ll get comfy in our luxury minicoach and continue our journey west – pausing for a quick café con leche just before the border in Rosal de le Frontera.
Then, say adiós! to Spain as we enter Portugal’s Alentejo region – gaining an hour of time back in the process. That’s a whole extra hour to enjoy the delights of Monsaraz; an impeccably preserved medieval village. You’ll wander its winding streets during an orientation tour with your Tour Leader. Keep your eyes peeled for its four historic portas (gates) and feel the sun kiss your face as you gaze out over the Alqueva Dam that sprawls for miles across the wild countryside.
After getting your first taste of Portuguese food for lunch (ask your Tour Leader for their favourite recommendations), we'll continue to Estremoz. Known as the ‘White City’ for its magnificent white marble architecture, you’ll have the remainder of the afternoon to explore its 13th-century Old Town before we reconvene for our farewell dinner. Tuck into some seasonal Alentejo delicacies and raise a toast to our Iberian adventure. Saúde!
Ready to explore the Portuguese side of Iberia? After a lazy morning at our hotel, we’ll get comfy in our luxury minicoach and continue our journey west – pausing for a quick café con leche just before the border in Rosal de le Frontera.
Then, say adiós! to Spain as we enter Portugal’s Alentejo region – gaining an hour of time back in the process. That’s a whole extra hour to enjoy the delights of Monsaraz; an impeccably preserved medieval village. You’ll wander its winding streets during an orientation tour with your Tour Leader. Keep your eyes peeled for its four historic portas (gates) and feel the sun kiss your face as you gaze out over the Alqueva Dam that sprawls for miles across the wild countryside.
After getting your first taste of Portuguese food for lunch (ask your Tour Leader for their favourite recommendations), we'll continue to Estremoz. Known as the ‘White City’ for its magnificent white marble architecture, you’ll have the remainder of the afternoon to explore its 13th-century Old Town before we reconvene for our farewell dinner. Tuck into some seasonal Alentejo delicacies and raise a toast to our Iberian adventure. Saúde!
Included today
Accommodation
Pousada Castelo de Estremoz (or similar)
Meals
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Day 12 - Estremoz – Évora – Lisbon
After one last tasty breakfast together, we’ll venture further into the Alentejo region – stopping off in the elegant city of Évora. The Roman goddess of nature will be the star of our orientation walk as we amble past the town’s main attraction: the Templo de Diana.
You’ll also have the chance to pick up a map of the area at the tourist information office; the perfect keepsake from our mini jaunt around Portugal! Then, tuck into a bowl of local sopas de pão – an aromatic soup topped with chunks of bread – before we hit the road for Lisbon.
We’ll reach the undulating hills and tram-lined streets of the capital mid-afternoon and sadly say our goodbyes. But while the sun may have set on our Iberian journey – there’s plenty more adventures to be had in this captivating corner of Europe... Why not continue your story by hopping on our Discover Portugal tour next?
After one last tasty breakfast together, we’ll venture further into the Alentejo region – stopping off in the elegant city of Évora. The Roman goddess of nature will be the star of our orientation walk as we amble past the town’s main attraction: the Templo de Diana.
You’ll also have the chance to pick up a map of the area at the tourist information office; the perfect keepsake from our mini jaunt around Portugal! Then, tuck into a bowl of local sopas de pão – an aromatic soup topped with chunks of bread – before we hit the road for Lisbon.
We’ll reach the undulating hills and tram-lined streets of the capital mid-afternoon and sadly say our goodbyes. But while the sun may have set on our Iberian journey – there’s plenty more adventures to be had in this captivating corner of Europe... Why not continue your story by hopping on our Discover Portugal tour next?
Included today
Meals
- Breakfast
Worth noting:
On Day 6, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the spectacular Alhambra. As tickets sell out quickly, we'll need your full passport details – including your middle name – at least 6 months before your tour departs to get you booked in.
Due to last-minute closures and private events, the sections of the Alhambra you visit may differ depending on your departure date.
Things we think you'll love

A starry wine bodega
Feel all five senses tingle as the scent of smooth wine lingers in the air during a guided tour of La Bodega de las Estrellas. Sample full-bodied flavours alongside a lunch prepared by the family using local ingredients as you relax underneath the winery's shaded patio.

Fresh as can be ham
Try freshly cured jamón ibérico in the cellars of a local farm where pigs happily frolic in surrounding pastures of Sierra de Aracena.

Flamenco foot taps
Feel the burning passion of a traditional flamenco show at the Museo del Baile Flamenco in Seville.
Read the reviews
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David Jo May 2025
Wonderful, comfortable, informative
Samuel No May 2025
great itinerary, great accommodation, people and guide excellent.
Anonymous April 2025
Outstanding tour. Very well organised. Itinerary packed with interesting and varied activities. Coach trips short. Accommodation very good. Tour leader delightful. Fellow travellers great. Highly...
Read full reviewKELVIN WH April 2025
We a wonderful time on the Iberian Inspiration tour We enjoyed a small bus( it could get through narrow streets where other buses couldn’t. We enjoyed the great group of lovely companions on the way...
Read full reviewBarbara Go April 2025
The whole tour was fantastic. Fabulous places to see and Mercedes' information regarding the places was exceptional. All the hotels were first class - the driver was excellent and a lovely man....
Read full reviewJennifer Ma April 2025
The tour guide Mercedes was amazing
Mercedes knew her knowledge of the places we went to and when we had local guides, they were great to
The hotels were all different and ok
The places we visited...
Anonymous April 2025
I was very happy with the tour. The tour guide and our driver were both excellent and made the experience very special. I was able to see things I’m sure I would never have found on my own. I have...
Read full reviewAnonymous April 2025
The most interesting tour for seeing and “feeling” the authentic Spain. Our guide Mercedes and driver Francesco were exceptional. I highly recommend this tour,
Roger & Chris Gulin
Anonymous November 2024
Enjoyed it all. Nice to get off the highway from time to time.
Anonymous November 2024
Impressive tour. Most of the hotels top notch, most of the included attractions/activities definitely worth visiting. Tour leader, Mercedes, very friendly and knowledgeable. Jorge, our driver...
Read full reviewMichael Do November 2024
Fabulous trip and group to experience some of Spain
Our tour guide Eddy was fabulous and our driver Carlos was very professional
Anonymous November 2024
This tour took us through a wonderful variety of landscapes, historical sites and picturesque villages. As we drove, we learned about the civilizations that had moved into each area over thousands of...
Read full reviewAnonymous November 2024
Good size group and well paced. Our guide Pamela was professional, accommodating, friendly and knowledgeable.
We visited lots of amazing sites and learned much about the Spanish culture and Spain's...
Anne-Marie Go November 2024
I loved the back road for experience, the small groups are so much more friendly and you get to see some beautiful country, the accommodation on this tour was wonderful very unique and different...
Read full reviewAnonymous October 2024
I loved the tour through the southern part of Spain Our guide Mercedes was excellent as was our driver Jorge We definitely went on back roads to see out of the way places and tastings such as wine...
Read full reviewBeth Mu October 2024
We previously did a Tuscan Backroads Tour which we loved. We were expecting more of a backroads tour ie staying in quieter locations. For example in Granada the accommodation was very noisy with a...
Read full reviewJanet October 2024
Great guide, knowledgeable, friendly with good recommendations for food places. Answered any questions we had or if she didn’t know went and found out. Size of tour group was perfect. Liked that their...
Read full reviewElizabeth Mo October 2024
An unforgettable experience seeing lots of UNESCO places. Pam, our tour guide was very accommodating, professional and friendly, which helped make the tour so good.
Anonymous October 2024
Absolutely wonderful trip with an excellent guide and ... an excellent driver of our small bus. Hotels were unique great choices. The areas that were visited were extremely interesting and beautiful.
Donald Se October 2024
Very informative tour. It was nice to be with a small group and also have plenty of alone time where we could explore arear on our own or with a select few.
Anonymous October 2024
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Morocco. Our tour guide Brahim and driver Yusefwere exceptional. It was interesting learning about their country and seeing the country on the excursion.
Andrew La October 2024
We very much enjoyed the Iberian Inspiration tour. The itinerary gave us great insights into the historic and current culture of Southern Spain. All tour guides were passionate about their subject...
Read full reviewRoger Be October 2024
This is in excellent tour, mostly of southern Spain with just a brief couple of days in Portugal. This was our third tour with Blue Roads (Back Roads in Europe) and we've enjoyed each and every...
Read full reviewJanet Cu October 2024
Fabulous time in Spain with a great group of people. Tour leader Pam was knowledgeable, helpful and a good companion to the whole group. Tour was well organized with most visits in the AM which left...
Read full reviewAnonymous October 2024
I am sad to say this trip did not meet our expectations, especially having been on a previous trip with your company to Tuscany approximately 10 years ago. I found the tour guide Pamela to be somewhat...
Read full reviewSuzzanne Lo October 2024
The tour was well organized and allowed us to visit a number of important historical cities and venues. More importantly our tour guide, Sonia, was excellent and made the tour fun and informative.
Lindy Co October 2024
This tour ticked all the boxes. Small group, not large hotel chain accommodation (1st night accommodation could be improved), day trips with a difference and places where only smaller buses can go...
Read full reviewAnonymous October 2024
The tour met our expectations as previous backroads travellers.
The cities we visited were exceptional. Some of the hotels were not what I would consider 4 star. Especially Seville. The group we...
Anonymous October 2024
Great tour in comfortable mini bus. Small group too.
Anonymous October 2024
Great tour with only 16 people. A varied look at churches cathedrals and castles along with visits to olive tasting, winery and pig farm.
Our tour guide Sonia was knowledgeable friendly and always...
Lynn De October 2024
Fabulous tour guide, Mercedes, was a gem. She gave us history of the places we visited and stayed at, as well as funny anecdotes. All the restaurants she recommended were great. We didn’t have a...
Read full reviewAnonymous October 2024
The hotels, organised dinners & local tour guides for this trip were very good. Unfortunately our tour guide had never done this trip before & was very unsure of how things went.
Anonymous October 2024
Excellent tour, Sonia our guide was fun, intelligent, organised & very sincere. Our driver, Francis did a great job & took much care. The tours were really interesting, the guides very knowledgeable...
Read full reviewSusan Mo October 2024
A great small group tour, that was well organised . The tour guide Georgina was very knowledgable and friendly and made the tour a memorable one
There was plenty of time to explore by yourself as...
Paul Ge October 2024
Great tour, Georgina was a great tour leader and we loved our travel family..
Nicola Bl October 2024
Excellent experience
Small group tour with outstanding guide
Excellent accommodation and organized local tours
Anonymous October 2024
Well organised tour at just the right pace. Our guide Sonia was exceptional, she was well organised and ensured that everyone had a great experience. I would definitely recommend Backroads and this...
Read full reviewAllan Pe September 2024
Initially the tour was city bound due to the significance of the churches and mosques which in turn meant freeways etc. So we tolerated that for the first few days. However, tour members started to...
Read full reviewJoanne Br September 2024
Perfect tour for me. No early mornings. No long days spent on the bus and arrival at hotel in time to rest or explore before dinner. Visited beautiful villages and had amazing accommodation always...
Read full reviewSheryl Le September 2024
Too much free time where optional tours were encouraged by our tour guide. We choose backroads as everything was included we were told and the tour was expensive. Too many freeways traveled on rather...
Read full reviewAnonymous September 2024
This was an excellent tour. The accommodations were very good, and equally importantly, were interesting boutique hotels. Breakfasts were all very good.
The tour itself was at the right pace, plenty...
Karen September 2024
An excellent tour leader and driver for this backroads trip made it a wonderful experience. Hotels and included meals were very good with some very interesting hotels giving a truly Spanish and...
Read full reviewAnonymous September 2024
I would not hesitate to recommend the Iberian Inspiration tour to anyone contemplating a small group tour. Our group leader was professional, knowledgeable and went out of her way to ensure that...
Read full reviewLouise an September 2024
We thoroughly our journey through the backroads of Spain. Cities are cities everywhere in the world. The essence exists outside them.
It must be said from the outset that the success of our Spain...
Laurel He September 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed the company of interesting fellow travellers, excellent tour guide and destinations
Anonymous September 2024
We loved our tour of Spain with Backroads. Our tour leader was excellent & shared her passion& knowledge of the Iberian Peninsula. Everything was planned to perfection & we felt that our every need...
Read full reviewAnonymous September 2024
Very enjoyable tour could have had more information maps etc when left on own in cities
Anonymous September 2024
The tour was was wonderful. The towns & villages were amazing. Every hotel we stayed at was exceptional. Loved the trip. ❤️??
Anonymous August 2024
Our tour guide was very nice
Hotels not as much
Anonymous August 2024
The Tour was very good however some hotels were not up to previous standard. Very hot rooms with failed air conditioning.
Low interaction with tour guide.

Our friendly Customer Service team are available to advise you Monday to Friday.

Full tour details covering accommodation, transport and included experiences are available in our tour notes.
FAQs
Our thoughtfully selected accommodation is full of charm and historic details – expect elegant former monasteries, grand town centre hotels and even the odd palace! For this reason, rooms vary in size, and most hotels don’t have lifts – meaning you’ll likely need to access your room via stairs. Porterage will be included wherever possible.
Although air conditioning is mostly unavailable in historic buildings, fans will be provided during hot spells. Most hotels have bathtubs with overhead showers (rather than walk-in showers), so you’ll be able to enjoy a soak at the end of the day.
The weather in Spain and Portugal varies depending on the time of year. Generally, summers are hot and dry (slightly cooler as you go further north), and from mid-June to the end of August temperatures can reach 45°C (113°F). Sun hats and sunscreen are essential!
The tradition of taking a break or having a nap during the hottest part of the day still lives on in many parts of Spain, so you might find shops and restaurants close in some smaller towns during the afternoons.
Due to siestas, restaurants – especially in southern Spain – tend to open for dinner after 8pm. Meaning? Later mealtimes are a completely normal part of the local culture.
Whilst we do cover ground in our minicoach to maximise our time, the best way to truly discover Iberia is on foot! Many of the historic town centres we visit – like Toledo – are mostly pedestrian-only, inviting us to freely explore their hidden corners. For that reason, sometimes we’ll need to walk 20 minutes or so to and from our minicoach’s parking spot.
Combined with our guided walking tours, which typically last for around two to three hours and often include some hills, we’d say that’s the perfect excuse for an extra chocolate-smothered churros at the end of the day!
While we try to only venture down scenic back roads on our tours, it’s sometimes necessary to use main roads too. In Spain, there is often no suitable alternative which is why you may experience the odd motorway during your adventure.
Yes, tickets are included. However, we will need you to share your full passport details (including middle names) in advance to prebook your entry. As the Alhambra is government-owned, changes can occur at the last minute, which we unfortunately have no control over.
Following our morning walking tour of Córdoba on day 4, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. If you want to attend the magnificent equestrian show at the city’s Royal Stables, please note that you’ll need to book your tickets in advance on the official website here.
All the tour details in one handy document available to read at your leisure!
Download tour notesThis tour can be combined with
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Code: BIBML5