Lisbon to Madrid Escape

Welcome to Lisbon! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Lovely Lisbon This morning, discover the historic grandeur of Lisbon when you join your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing drive complete with photo stops at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. See important landmarks including Jerónimos Monastery. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to explore more of the city. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOT The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces. Along the banks of the River Tagus see the 16th-century Belém Tower, which served as a fortress and an embarkation point for sailors, it was their last sight of land before the start of their journey. Lisbon’s impressive sculpture, the Monument to the Discoveries pays homage to great Portuguese explorers with a spectacular carved prow of an ancient ship.

Templars & Sanctuaries First stop this morning is the stunning town of Tomar. Enjoy free time to browse the historic center and discover the town’s strong links to the Knights Templar. Continue to Fatima, one of the most important Marian shrines, and visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. Later, arrive in the beautiful waterfront city of Porto and spend an evening at leisure. (B) 236 mi / 380 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT MIRACULOUS EVENTS In 1928 the Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary was built to celebrate the 1917 apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children and the “Miracle of the Sun.” Today Fatima is a principal pilgrimage destination and welcomes multitudes of pilgrims from around the world.

Panoramas & Port Wine Uncover the beauty of Porto when you follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to the mouth of the Douro River, plus a walk in the center including visits of the Church of São Francisco, and the Stock Exchange with its Arabian Hall. Enjoy a Port wine tasting at a local Port Wine Cellar. This afternoon and evening, explore the city at leisure. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT LOCAL TASTES The grapes from the vineyards in the Douro Valley surrounding Porto provide the main ingredient for one of the world’s most recognized fortified wines. Visit a local wine cellar and taste centuries of tradition in a glass of Port wine in the city that bears its name. Saúde!

Good-Bye Portugal, Hello Spain! Bid farewell to Portugal as you cross the border into Spain. Enjoy a scenic drive before arriving to Salamanca, a city with a rich cultural heritage. Take an orientation walk to the magnificent Plaza Mayor, which throughout history has hosted many events including executions, bullfights, and Christmas Markets! Later, [LOCAL FAVORITE] enjoy a wine tasting followed by dinner. (B,D) 286 mi / 460 km LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Salamanca is a captivating city with a unique blend of history and culture. It is also known for its culinary traditions and wine production. Experience gastronomic delights and a wine tasting in the cellars of a blissful vineyard retreat in the Duero Valley.

Spectacular Spain This morning drive to Madrid, Spain’s capital city. Join your Local Guide for a panoramic drive and discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Enjoy a guided visit to the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Spend an evening at leisure exploring more of this captivating city. (B) 137 mi / 220 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT ART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.

Marvelous Madrid Enjoy a free day in Madrid, absorb more art and culture in one of the many museums, browse the stores, sample local specialties, or join an optional excursion. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE The city of Madrid is filled with intriguing stories and hidden secrets. Stroll around the streets and take pictures of “El Oso y el Madrono” (The bear and the strawberry tree), the biggest symbol of the city. Don’t forget to note the statues of the Fallen Angel, representing Lucifer, the Angel who was expelled from Heaven for rebelling against God.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)