Brindley- Portugal and Spain

Lisbon

May 23rd   – May 26th

Upon arrival to Portugal On May 23rd, you will discover the treasures of this capital city, cradled amid several low hills at the estuary of the River Tagus.  Today, Lisbon is a lively, international city offering a fascinating combination of the old and new, with an unmistakable character and beauty of its own. The morning of May 24th, will begin with a guided city tour*, including a visit to Jeronimos Monastery* which stands with its ten towers on the hill where the original colony stood during Phoenician times. On the 25th you will make an excursion to the nearby towns of Sintra and Cascais* including a visit to the Pena Palace* and much more.  On May 26th enjoy a visit to Evora* for sightseeing including visits to the Cathedral* and Roman Temple* and other sites such as the Chapel of the Bones and ceramic studio before arriving in Seville.

 

Seville and Marbella

May 26th – May 30th

          Seville, site of the Expo ’92, provides the most complete picture of the spirit of Spain as a whole because of its wealth of art, architecture, museums, and shopping.  Some of the many sites awaiting you on your guided tour of the city on May 27th may include La Giralda, the Almond Tower with a Christian crown, Torre de Oro, Santa Cruz-Jewish Quarter, and the Moorish District, the El Alcazar* and the magnificent Seville Cathedral*, which is third in size among the churches of the Christian world. A highlight of today will be the Los Gallos Flamenco Show*. On May 28th enjoy a full day excursion to Gibraltar*, including a visit to the Caves*, including a typical regional lunch of Fish and Chips. Later this evening you will continue to Marbella to enjoy the scenic splendor of this delightful city, stopping in Puerto Banus for dinner along the way.  May 29th is dedicated at leisure to relaxation in this coastal haven and exploring the local ambience of the town.

 

Granada, Madrid and Toledo

May 30th – June 4th 

On May 30th, journey on to Granada where you will visit fascinating sights such as the Alhambra Complex* and the Royal Chapel*. On the 31st Madrid awaits you, the capital and largest city in Spain. Upon arrival you will travel to your hotel. Later this afternoon you will visit area points of interest with your tour leader including a visit to the Royal Palace* and Cathedral*. June 1st will begin with a memorable panoramic city tour*, which will focus on monuments, parks, gardens, museums, and picturesque streets and plazas.  Later this afternoon a visit is planned to the Prado Museum*.  On June 2nd travel by private coach to enjoy an excursion to Toledo* including a guided city tour* with visits to the Cathedral*, St. Tome*, and the Synagogue* before returning to Madrid this evening. June 3rd is dedicated at leisure to enjoy discovering area points of interest on your own.  Perhaps you may optionally choose to visit Retiro Park or visit one of the many museums like the Arte Reina Sofia (free to those who submit their application and deposit by September 26, 2014). Before you depart Madrid you may optionally shop at Plaza Mayor to look for suede and leather bargains and sample “tapas”, before enjoying a farewell dinner.  You will return to your own beautiful and historical city on June 4th taking with you fabulous memories of this wonderful adventure.