14 minute read
SPAIN & PORTUGAL
Explore Spain and discover Moorish palaces and Baroque squares in Andalucia, colorful Gaudí creations in Catalonia, the tiled terraces of Park Guell, and the incredible Alhambra in Granada. In Portugal, explore the cobbled streets, grand cathedrals and river views of places such as Lisbon and Porto. Taking the train makes it easy to combine any number of these fantastic destinations in one amazing holiday.
DAY 1 - MADRID
Welcome to Madrid! On arrival make your way to your hotel and check-in for one-night. Perhaps pop into the Prado museum to see one of the world’s best art collections?
DAY 2 - GRANADA
Take the direct train to Granada and head to your hotel. Explore the winding narrow streets and in the evening perhaps wander up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for a breath-taking view of the Alhambra Palace at dusk.
DAY 3 - GRANADA
Today discover the iconic Alhambra Palace and Generalife gardens on your included tour, then in the evening enjoy Flamenco and Tapas in the Sacromonte neighbourhood, the home of Flamenco.
DAY 4 - CORDOBA
Depart Granada on the direct train to Cordoba where you will be staying for three-nights. Take a stroll around the city and in the evening head to Plaza de la Corredera for some delicious tapas in the most unique and breath-taking surroundings!
DAY 5 - CORDOBA
Enjoy a walking tour today taking in the gems of this ancient city. The famous arches of the Mosque-Cathedral are mesmeric, whilst the old
Jewish Quarter and the Alcazar are rich in stories. Enjoy an ice cream whilst crossing the ancient Roman bridge, or just relax and soak up the history of this great city.
DAY 6 - JAEN DAY TRIP
Take the scenic rail line to Jaen, where you will be met by a guide who will show you all you might need to know in this secret Andalusian highlight. Renowned for its Olive oil production and beautiful architecture, a visit to the cathedral and vast Arab baths are a must! Take the train back to Cordoba for your final night here.
DAY 7 - CADIZ
After breakfast hop onto the train again, and head south to Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in the world inhabited since around 1100 BC. The city is surrounded by water so the seafood here is the freshest there could be and dinner on the beach is a lovely way to spend the evening.
DAY 8 - CADIZ
Tour the city today with your included Hop-onHop-off pass, learning about the 1000’s of years of history in these romantic, windy streets. Be sure to check out the Museo de Cadiz for an amazing selection of ancient artefacts, and the recently refurbished Roman theatre.
15 Days
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
• Rail Travel as per the itinerary
• 14 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast ‘
• Alhambra Palace guided tour
• Flamenco show and dinner in Granada
• Half day walking tour in Cordoba i
• Jaen day trip with guided tour
• Hop-on-Hop-off pass in Cadiz
• Small group tour of Seville
• Small group full day tour to Ronda
• Hop-on-Hop-off pass in Malaga
Featured Accommodation
Madrid - NH Collection Madrid Suecia
Granada - Hospes Palacio De Los Patos
Cordoba - NH Collection Amistad
Cadiz - Occidental Cadiz
Seville - H10 Corregidor Boutique
Malaga - NH Malaga
Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
DAY 9 -SEVILLE
Board the train to Seville today and make your way to your hotel for a three-night stay. Its vast history steeped in Spain’s colonial riches and Islamic heritage make the city an artistic and cultural centre of southern Spain, with a very comfortable climate.
DAY 10 - SEVILLE
Discover the key sights of this great city today with a small group tour, including entrance to the Royal Alcázar, cathedral and towering Giralda. You also get to experience the grand Plaza de Espana and the evocative Jewish quarter. Later, the Mercado Lonja del Barranco is an easy fix for dinner by the river.
DAY 11 - RONDA DAY TRIP
Embark on a fascinating day trip today to one of Spain’s oldest and most beautiful cities, Ronda. On the way explore Andalucía’s White Villages and wonderful wildlife, sample local olive oil before learning all about the amazing mountain top location and its incredible impressive Bull ring. Return to Seville and enjoy your final night here.
DAY 12 - MALAGA
Head to the coast today for two-nights in Malaga and settle in to enjoy the beautiful beaches and rich layers of history.
DAY 13 - MALAGA
Enjoy learning about this great destination today with your Hop-on-Hop-off pass. head up to the Alcazaba and ruined Gibralfaro to discover its Moorish history and be sure to check out the impressive Roman Amphitheatre. In the evening wander through the old town and take your pick of the local tavernas for some local wine and tapas.
DAY 14 - MADRID
After breakfast take the train to Madrid for a one-night stay in the Spanish capital. Take a stroll through the picturesque Puerta del Sol and stop by the impressive Royal Palace.
DAY 15 - END OF TOUR
Make your way to the airport for your flight home.
DAY 1 - WELCOME TO BARCELONA
Upon arrival into Barcelona, make your own way to your hotel and check in for a three-night stay. Bask in the sun amidst the mosaics of the Parc Guell, catch a boat out on the ocean, or ride the cable car to the top of Montjuïc hill.
DAY 2 - BARCELONA
After breakfast embark on a tour of Gaudi’s 2 master pieces; Casa Batlló and the spectacular Sagrada Familia.
DAY 3 - BARCELONA
Art lovers also won’t want to miss a visit to the Picasso Museum to view a huge collection of the famous artist’s work.
DAY 4 - BARCELONA TO MÁLAGA
Travel to Málaga, the capital of Andalusia. This evening enjoy a Flamenco show full of colour and passion!
DAY 5 - MÁLAGA
On your second day in Málaga, stroll along the vibrant port and climb the Gibralfaro for some spectacular views and the Alcazaba fortress. Entrance to the Picasso Museum here is included.
DAY 6 - MÁLAGA TO GRANADA
Relax onboard the train ride from Málaga to Granada, the land of a thousand castles.
DAY 7 - GRANADA
This Andalusian city in southern Spain is famous for a single monument — the Alhambra. Use your skip the line admission to the incredible Moorish fortress and experience it for yourself. The UNESCO World Heritage site houses breathtaking 13th- to 15th-century palaces and gardens, grand archways and delicate ornamental mosaics.
DAY 8 - GRANADA TO SEVILLE
Take train to Seville via Antequera Santa-Ana. Seville is a stunning city with grand, Moorish influenced architecture and a vibrant Andalusian culture.
DAY 9 - SEVILLE
Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to discover this beautiful city.
DAY 10 - SEVILLE TO LISBON
Ride the bus from Seville to Faro, then catch your train to Lisbon. Portugal’s historic capital city is draped over seven hills overlooking the mouth of the River Tagus.
DAY 11 - LISBON
Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to get to know the city.
DAY 12 - LISBON
Enjoy your included guided day trip to both Sintra and Cascais.
24 Days
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THIS TRIP
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
• Rail travel as per itinerary
• 23 nights hotel accommodation
• Tour of Casa Batlló and Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
• Skip the Line tickets to the Picasso Museum in Malaga
• Flamenco show and a drink in Malaga
• And more
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Barcelona - NH Sants
Malaga - NH Malaga
Granada - Hospes De Los Patos Granada
Seville - H10 Corregidor Boutique
Lisbon - Hotel Marques de Pombal
Vigo - Occidental Vigo
Porto - NH Collection Porto Batalha
Vigo - Occidental Vigo
Santiago de Compostela - NH Collection Santiago
Leon - NH Collection Leon Plaza Mayor
Bilbao - Barcelo Bilbao Nervion
Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
DAY 13 - LISBON TO PORTO
Catch a direct train from Lisbon to Porto. Spend the next two days at leisure in Porto, the beautiful, historic city on the banks of the River Duoro.
DAY 14 - PORTO
Enjoy the views of this beautiful city and its famous bridges with a 50min cruise along the Duoro river.
DAY 15 - PORTO TO VIGO
Take a morning train from Porto to the fishing port town of Vigo.
DAY 16 - VIGO TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
Board a direct train to Santiago de Compostela, the final stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail.
DAY 17 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
Today, a 2hr tour of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela will surely be a highlight.
DAY 18 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA TO LEON
Travel by train to Leon. Visit the Basilica de San Isodoro and Gaudi’s Casa Botines.
DAY 19 - LEON TO BILBAO
After breakfast, catch a direct train from Leon to Bilbao, surrounded by rolling green hills and a breath-taking coastline.
DAY 20 - BILBAO
Spend your day exploring and in the evening embark on a Chef led walking tour around this world famous hub of gastronomy.
DAY 21 - BILBAO TO MADRID
Catch a direct train from Bilbao to Madrid. Stroll around the impressive Buen Retiro Park, one of the largest parks in all of Madrid.
DAY 22 - MADRID
Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to continue exploring the city.
DAY 23 - MADRID
Head out to one of the world-famous museums that make up Madrid’s ‘Golden Triangle of Art,’ including the iconic Prado Museum.
DAY 24 - YOUR HOLIDAY ENDS IN MADRID
Enjoy breakfast and then check out of your hotel and continue with your travels.
DAY 1 - BARCELONA
Take the train Paris, then change onto the direct train to Barcelona where you can check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Once settled into your hotel perhaps take an evening stroll down the tree-lined Las Ramblas, for dinner.
DAY 2 - BARCELONA
Enjoy breakfast then embark on a tour of Gaudi’s 2 masterpiece’s: Casa Batlló and the spectacular Sagrada Familia. After, explore the atmospheric Gothic Quarter or why not visit the Picasso Museum to view a huge collection of the famous artist’s world.
DAY 3 - BARCELONA TO MADRID
Travel from Barcelona to Madrid on the highspeed AVE train and upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend two days sightseeing in this energetic capital.
DAY 4 - MADRID
After breakfast explorer the city to its fullest with your Hop-on-Hop-off Pass. Why not head to the contemporary Museo Reina Sofía with its fascinating installations and impressive collection of works by Picasso and Dali.
DAY 5 - SEVILLE
Make your way to Atocha station and take the train to Seville for a 2-night stay. (Overnight on the train).
Once settled in take a stroll along the riverside perhaps, or head to the top of the Metropol Parasol for a unique view of this great city.
DAY 6 - SEVILLE
This morning join a small group tour of the absolute highlights of Seville, including the impressive Plaza de España, San Telmo Palace, Royal Alcázar and huge Cathedral and see the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
DAY 7 - LISBON
Take the scenic coach ride from Seville to Lisbon and here check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Visit the city’s most iconic sights such as the impressive medieval castle of Sao Jorge, the National Museum of Contemporary Art and the Estrela Basilica.
DAY 8 - LISBON
Portugal’s historic capital city is draped over seven hills overlooking the mouth of the River Tagus. As one of the oldest cities in the world it has a huge amount to explore. Your guided walking tour included is the best way to enjoy these and more, including a stop for one of Lisbon’s delicious Pasteis de Nata.
DAY 9 - LISBON TO PORTO
After breakfast, travel from Lisbon to Porto by train. On arrival, check in at your hotel for a twonight stay. Once settled at the hotel, why not take
11 Days
Click Here For More Information On This Trip
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
• Rail travel in standard class throughout
• 10 nights hotel stay with breakfast
• Skip the Line: Sagrada Familia Tour in Barcelona
• Hop-on-Hop-off pass in Madrid
• Small group tour of Seville including skip the line
Royal Alcázar, and Seville Cathedral
• Walking tour of Lisbon
• 6 bridges cruise in Porto
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Barcelona - NH Sants Barcelona
Madrid - NH Collection Madrid Suecia
Seville - H10 Corregidor Boutique Hotel
Lisbon - Hotel Marques de Pombal
Porto - NH Collection Porto Batalha a cruise along the River Duoro and marvel at the beautiful scenery from the water.
Hotels are subject to availability.
Alternatives may be used.
DAY 10 - PORTO
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Porto. Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old town, enjoy your 1hr river cruise included at a time of your choosing, and don’t miss a tour of the Fundação de Serralves, a contemporary art gallery housed in a beautiful Art Deco building with lovely gardens. No visit to Porto would be complete without a tour around the Port Wine cellars.
DAY 11 - DEPART PORTO
After breakfast this morning, check out of your hotel head to the airport for your flight home. If you wish to extend your holiday, perhaps with an additional day in a different city, one of our Rail Specialists would be happy to help you with the details.
DAY 1 - ARRIVE IN BARCELONA
Arrive in Barcelona for a three-night stay. Once you’ve settled in, head down the tree-lined boulevard of Las Ramblas and mingle with the street performers and peruse the market stalls.
DAY 2 - BARCELONA
Create your very own city tour today with your hop-on, hop-off passes, included with your vacation. From the beaches to the myriad mosaics of the Parc Guell and the bohemian Gothic Quarter, discover the highlights of the city at your own pace.
DAY 3 - BARCELONA
Be sure to visit Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia, one of the city’s most famous attractions. Included in your vacation is a Priority Access Sagrada Familia Tour.
DAY 4 - BARCELONA TO SEVILLE
Enjoy breakfast in your hotel and then take the high-speed AVE service to beautiful Seville, boasting ancient architecture and fragrant orange groves. Make use of your included City Card for free entry to many of the city’s attractions.
DAY 5 - SEVILLE
When in Seville, the Royal Alcazar Palace is simply a must-do! Avoid waiting with your included Skip the Line tour. You also have a three-hour walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide included in your vacation.
DAY 6 - SEVILLE TO MADRID
After breakfast, ride the rails to Madrid aboard an AVE service directly from Seville. Settle into your hotel and then head out to explore the city using your City Card. The card gives you entry to more than fifty museums, discounts on shopping and a guided walking tour.
9 Days
Click Here For More Information On This Trip
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
• First class train travel as specified in the itinerary
• 8 nights hotel stay with breakfast
• Skip the Line: Barcelona Sagrada Familia Tour
• Barcelona hop-on, hop-off tour
• Hop-on, hop-off bus pass and choice of walking tours in Seville
• Skip the Line: Alcazar Guided Tour in Seville
• Tapas and Wine tasting tour in Madrid and much more
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Barcelona - NH Sants Barcelona
Seville - H10 Corregidor Boutique Hotel
Madrid - NH Collection Madrid Suecia
Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
DAY 7 - MADRID
Take advantage of your included skip-the-line tour of the Prado Museum. Your guide will take you through this large collection of European art.
DAY 8 - MADRID
Continue your exploration of the city on your included open-top, hop-on, hop off tour, featuring 37 stops along two routes transporting you to the city’s main sights with onboard commentary.
DAY 9 - YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN MADRID
Check out of your hotel after breakfast and depart Madrid.
DAY 1 - YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN LISBON
Welcome to Lisbon! On arrival head to your hotel for check-in, then get out to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Aside from being packed with history, character and culture, the city also boasts colourful, century-old wooden trams and iron funiculars that travel up and down the charming, narrow streets.
DAY 2 - LISBON
Use your Lisbon Card to save both time and money while discovering the best attractions and experiences the city has to offer. Featuring free entry to more than 20 museums and attractions and unlimited public transport, it is the perfect way to get to know Lisbon. The Praca do Comercio is the unmissable heart of the city, and from here why not head to the Pradao dos Descobrimentos and impressive medieval Belem Tower. From here it is just a short stroll to the iconic Pastéis de Belem bakery for some delicious, traditional tarts, then perhaps pay a visit to the world heritage listed Jerónimos Monastery nearby.
DAY 3 - SINTRA, CABO DA ROCA, CASCAIS & ESTORIL DAY TRIP
Join a very small group tour today to Sintra – a village of UNESCO World Heritage. The former summer residence of the Portuguese Kings is home to the Pena Palace. Dating from the 16th century it is considered one of the world’s most beautiful castles. Following lunch, you will slowly return to Lisbon via the coast and following stops at Cabo da Roca – the most westerly point of Europe, the pretty fisherman village of Cascais and the beaches of Estoril. In the evening be sure to wander the historic Barrio Alto neighborhood for a great selection of local bars and restaurants for dinner, as well as some fantastic views of the city to match.
DAY 4 - PORTO
Travel by highspeed train to Porto and enjoy the wonderful scenery as the line follows the coastline. Famous for its delicious wine and cuisine, historic city centre, and friendly locals, this is one destination that does not disappoint. Once settled head out and start making use of your 2-day sightseeing pass.
DAY 5 - PORTO
Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to create your own itinerary and explore the city! Popular stops include Villa Nova de Gaia, Sé Catedral, Clérigos Church, Teleférico, and traditional wine cellars. In the evening perhaps feast of a Francesinha? The sauce-soaked meat sandwich is a local favourite!
8
HOLIDAY INCLUDES:
• Rail travel as per itinerary
• 3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Lisbon
• 3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Porto
• 1 night’s accommodation with dinner and breakfast in the Douro Valley
• Lisbon Card
• Day trip to Sintra and Cascais
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour in Porto
• Douro river cruise from Porto to Pinhão including lunch.
• Tour of Douro wine estate including tastings and lunch.
• Local train from Pinhão to Porto
FEATURED ACCOMMODATION
Lisbon – Hotel Marques de Pombal
Pinhão - Pousada Barão de Forrester
Porto – NH Collection Porto Batalha
Hotels are subject to availability. Alternatives may be used.
DAY 6 - THE DOURO RIVER
Make your way down to the river this morning and enjoy breakfast onboard as your boat sets sail upstream along the picturesque Douro river. Sit back and enjoy the fantastic views as the river winds around beautifully steeped hills. Lunch is served on board to the sound of nearby crickets, and the boat navigates its way through several impressive dams before arriving in Pinhão, from where you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the Douro Valley. Dinner is included this evening.
DAY 7 - THE DOURO VALLEY
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then visit a nearby Quintas. Here, explore the spectacular gardens and vineyards before tasting some of the wines this land produces. You will be served a delicious lunch cooked the traditional way in iron pots and be treated to some wonderful local music. Following lunch, you are transferred to Pinhão station for your scenic train ride back to Porto but be sure to explore the small station before you leave as it is recognized as being Portugal’s most beautiful!
DAY 8 - YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN PORTO
Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home, or continue your travels elsewhere.