Madrid to Porto

This morning you’ll head outside of Madrid to explore the grand palace at El Escorial and the controversial Spanish Civil War memorial at the Valley of the Fallen. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring Madrid on your own.

Today you’ll leave Madrid and head north to Salamanca, known for its prestigious university, the oldest in Spain. You’ll have a walking tour through the city where you can take in the fascinating blend of architectural styles throughout.

Today you move on from Spain to Portugal as your private driver takes you from Salamanca to the Upper Douro Valley. Along the way you’ll stop in the small town of Belmonte, home to the only population of Jews in Portugal to survive the Inquisition.

You’ll have the morning and afternoon at leisure today to relax at your hotel, taking advantage of the spa or meandering through the surrounding area. This evening you’ll venture out to the Côa Valley to get an up-close look at some pre-historic rock art, accompanied by a picnic dinner.

Continuing through Portugal you’ll move on from the Douro Valley to Porto, stopping along the way for wine tastings and lunch in the Lower Douro Valley. Arriving in Porto you’ll check into your hotel and have the evening at leisure.

Get to know Porto today on a half-day walking tour exploring the highlights of the city, including the Livraria Lello and the azulejo-tiled São Bento train station. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, perhaps venturing across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia to explore some of the port wine caves.

Head out from Porto today to the countryside where you’ll enjoy a cooking class and learn to prepare a traditional Portuguese country meal. You’ll also be able to have a tour around the property, including beautiful hedge mazes and two black swans.

Bid Portugal farewell as your private driver takes you to the Porto airport. Your return flight will arrive the same day.