Your Itinerary
¡Bienvenido! Welcome to Madrid! Transfer to your hotel, where this evening you will meet your tour leader and fellow travellers, and spend the evening at leisure.
Special InformationArrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
This morning, meet your tour guide and the rest of your group. Enjoy breakfast before heading out to explore Madrid on a guided city tour.Explore Barrio de la Morería, the Habsburgs District, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa; the Madrid of the Bourbons and the complex town planning schemes of Charles III, the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains and the Puerta de Alcalá. We continue on to contemporary Madrid with areas such as Gran Vía, Castellana, the district of Salamanca, Plaza Castilla and Parque del Oeste, as well as commercial and financial areas of Modern Madrid, and the emblematic Las Ventas Bullring.Tonight, join your fellow travellers for an authentic Tapas dinner at a local restaurant.Inspiring HighlightsBarrio de la MoreríaPuerta del SolPlaza MayorPlaza de la VillaGran VíaCastellanaPlaza CastillaParque del OesteLas Ventas BullringTapas Dinner
Day 3 - Madrid [Bus] Segovia [Bus] Avila [Bus] Salamanca
Your Iberian adventure commences today after breakfast, as we drive into the Castilla region towards Salamanca.
En route, the first stop will be the city of Segovia, known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Aqueduct of Segovia, which dates back to Roman times. Whilst here, you will have time to explore at your own pace before we continue west towards Avila.
One of the most well-preserved fortifications in Spain, the UNESCO-listed town of Avila has a fully fortified town centre, parts of which can be walked atop. Here you will have enough time to enjoy lunch and explore the fortifications at your leisure.
This afternoon, we will arrive in Salamanca – renowned for its architectural heritage, historical University of Salamanca and a popular stop on the Vía de la Plata path of the Camino de Santiago. The night will be spent at your leisure to enjoy this wonderful city.
Inspiring Highlights
Aqueduct of Segovia
Avila
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Day 4 - Salamanca [Bus] Pinhão [Bus] Porto
Today, Portugal beckons.Departing after breakfast, our first stop in Portugal is the quaint town of Pinhão. Nestled on a bend of the Douro River, surrounded by terraced hillsides, the regions around Pinhão are known as being the centre of port production and home to some of the best wines in the world. It is worth mentioning the beautiful train station ornate with vintage harvest images.Heading west, we will arrive in Porto, one of the oldest European cities. Be in awe of the beautiful buildings that line the Duoro River, the iconic Portuguese trams and the double-deck metal arch Luís I Bridge.Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.Inspiring HighlightsPinhãoSpecial InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
Today after breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Porto.
The tour starts at Avenida dos Aliados, heading toward the iconic Clérigos Tower and the famous Livraria Lello for an outside view and historical introduction to both sites. You will then pass by the University of Porto and the lush Cordoaria Garden, continuing past the historic old Relação Prison before reaching the breathtaking lookout at Miradouro da Vitória. From there, take a scenic walk down Rua das Flores to São Bento Railway Station to admire its world-renowned tilework and learn about its history. The guided portion concludes at the magnificent Porto Cathedral (view from outside).
The remainder of the day will be free to further explore this beautiful city, and enjoy all that it has to offer.Inspiring Highlights
Porto Walking Tour: Avenida dos Aliados, Clérigos Tower (exterior), Livraria Lello (exterior), University of Porto, Cordoaria Garden, and Miradouro da Vitória viewpoint.
Day 6 - Porto [Bus] Coimbra [Bus] Lisbon
Departing Porto after breakfast, we head south en route to Lisbon via Coimbra – birthplace of the folk music genre, fado. Whilst in Coimbra, embrace the historic centre, the cathedral and famous University of Coimbra, all whilst hearing the traditional music through the city.
In Coimbra you will witness how student traditions and symbolic practices are preserved. Students in their long black coats enter monumental buildings that still serve as study houses. Walk through the narrow beautiful streets and admire the Roman ruins, the city walls and the special nooks and crannies of the typical neighbourhoods of the historical centre.
Continue onto Lisbon. Spread across seven hills and known for its decorative arts, Lisbon is one of Europe's most interesting capital cities.
This afternoon is at your leisure, however we recommend venturing to the Alfama Quarter, the old city, and marvelling at the Arco da Rua Augusta.
Inspiring Highlights
Coimbra
University of Coimbra
Lisbon
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
After breakfast, join a city sightseeing tour of the ancient Olissipo. Drive through Lisbon's main squares and avenues, visiting Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, the Coach Museum, Monument to the Discoverers, Marquis of Pombal Square and Liberty Avenue.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Belem Tower
Jeronimos Monastery
Coach Museum
Monument to the Discoverers
Marquis of Pombal Square
Liberty Avenue
Day 8 - Lisbon [Bus] Merida [Bus] Seville
Today after breakfast, we bid farewell to Portugal as we make our way to Seville via Merida. Enjoy the heritage bequeathed by the city's inhabitants over the centuries. Its streets and buildings reflect the passage of Roman, Visigoth, Arab and Christian culture, transporting us to the past. Augusta Emerita archaeological site stands a symbol of great Roman city features, including the amphitheatre, the circus and the theatre.
In the afternoon, our journey continues towards Seville, capital of Andalucía, and the essence of Spanish tradition. On arrival (approx. 5:30pm), you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore this wonderful city.
Inspiring Highlights
Merida
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
Explore the city on a morning tour of the Andalusian capital, Seville.
Today you'll explore romantic Seville on a city tour, including the largest Gothic cathedral in the world (please note, the visit will be limited to the exterior unless an optional interior tour is booked). It is a testament to the historic health and importance of Seville. Continue to the barrio de Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter of Seville. From here, we continue to Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de España.
This afternoon is at leisure for you to enjoy the city of light.
Inspiring Highlights
Sevilla Cathedral (outside)
Barrio de Santa Cruz
Maria Luisa Park
Plaza de España
Day 10 - Seville [Bus] Cordoba [Bus] Granada
We will leave Seville after breakfast, with a stop at Cordoba to explore its Jewish Quarter, narrow winding streets and also Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.
Afterwards, we continue onto Granada at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. On arrival (approx. 5pm) the remainder of the day will be yours to explore.
Inspiring Highlights
Cordoba
Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
The time has come to explore the famous Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. Given the vastness of this sprawling complex, this involves approximately three hours on foot – don't forget your walking shoes!
The Alhambra is the contemporary history of Granada's Arab past. Its buildings, towers, palaces, patios and gardens make this palace and fortress complex one of the most visited monuments in Spain. It towers over Granada's historic Arabic quarter. Within the fortress you'll find exquisite palaces and serene pathways weaving through amazing gardens and courtyards. The detail is next level – sumptuous interiors, beautiful Islamic geometric patterns, exquisitely carved wood, incredible ornamental features. First built by the Moors as a fortress during the Muslim rule of Spain, the complex is testament to their decadent lifestyle.
The rest of the day is free for you to see more of Granada at your own pace. The city is home to a huge number of tapas bars – what better way to pass the time?
Inspiring Highlights
Alhambra
Day 12 - Granada [Bus] Toledo [Bus] Madrid
Today after breakfast, we bid farewell to Granada, and set our sights on Madrid, but not before stopping in Toledo en-route.
The Imperial City of Toledo, where the Moors, Christians and Jews have lived together for centuries, invites you to a guided city tour, including its iconic Old Town.
Inspiring Highlights
Toledo
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today will be the last full day as a group, as some travellers will complete their journey with Inspiring Vacations tomorrow, while others will continue onwards to Morocco. Tonight you will enjoy a farewell group dinner to bid farewell to Spain and to the group members who will be departing.
Day 13 - Madrid [Plane] Casablanca
This morning, we will head to Madrid Airport for our flight to Casablanca, Morocco.
On arrival into Casablanca, join a transfer to the hotel and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner with your group tonight will be at your hotel.
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
On your departure from Spain you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a new tour leader in Morocco, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Day 14 - Casablanca [Bus] Rabat
After breakfast, we'll embark on a scenic morning tour of Casablanca, Morocco's bustling seaside city with a blend of modern elegance and historical charm. Begin along the Anfa Boulevard, where stylish boutiques and lush palm trees frame the streets, and continue to Nation's Square, a vibrant hub of local life. Our tour concludes with the exterior the impressive Hassan II Mosque, a marvel of Moroccan craftsmanship perched on the Atlantic coast. Its vast courtyard and intricate interiors accommodate over 200,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosques in the world.
In the afternoon, we'll travel north along the scenic coastline toward Morocco's capital, Rabat. Upon arrival, you'll have the remainder of the day to immerse yourself in Rabat's captivating mix of ancient history and cosmopolitan charm.
Dinner with your group tonight will be at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Anfa Boulevard and Nation's Square
Nation's Square
Hassan II Mosque
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
Day 15 - Rabat [Bus] Meknes [Bus] Fes
This morning after breakfast, we'll set out to explore the vibrant capital of Morocco, Rabat. Begin with a visit to the stunning Royal Palace, marveling at its impressive exterior and surrounding gardens. Next is the Mohammed V Mausoleum, where Morocco's royal heritage is honored, before admiring the intricate design of the iconic Hassan Tower, a landmark dating back to the 12th century.
After lunch, we'll journey to Meknes, a city rich in imperial history. Here, we'll visit the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismaïl, known for its ornate architecture and spiritual significance. Walk through the grandiose gates of Bab Khemis and Bab el Mansour, impressive fortifications adorned with zellij tiles and intricate carvings, symbolizing Meknes' status as a royal city. Later, we'll travel onward to Fes, a city celebrated for its medieval charm and enduring traditions, where a new adventure awaits.
Dinner with your group tonight will be at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Royal Palace
Mohammed V Mausoleum
Hassan Tower
Moulay Ismaïl Mausoleum
Gates of Bab Khemis and Bab el Mansour,
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Enjoy a full day of touring through Fes, considered the religious capital of the country. Founded in the eighth century by Idriss II, it is considered one of the four imperial capitals.
Be guided through the most emblematic places, the exterior of the Royal Palace and its seven gates, the Jewish Quarter, the fortress that has the best view of Fez el Bali, and a visit of the Medina or old city where we will access the famous Bab Bou Jeloud Gate. The city walls create a labyrinth that protect its interior formed by hundreds of organised alleys. Your senses will be almost overwhelmed by the vibrant colours, market sounds, fresh produce and fragrant spices.
Dinner with your group tonight will be at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Royal Palace
Jewish Quarter
Fes Medina
Day 17 - Fes [Bus] Midelt [Bus] Erfoud
This morning after breakfast, trade the hustle and bustle of Fes for the Middle Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert, as we reach the remote regions of the country.
We will pass Ifrane, a small mountain village known for its ski resort, before arriving at Midelt, the capital of this region. Here you will have time to enjoy the scenery of the surrounding area.
In the late afternoon, we will arrive in Erfoud, located on the edge of the Sahara Desert. Dinner with your group tonight will be at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Midelt
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Day 18 - Erfoud [Bus] Tinerhir [Bus] Ouarzazate
This morning after breakfast, we journey to the magnificent oasis town of Tinerhir, surrounded by lush palm groves and ancient kasbahs. From here, we'll explore Todra Gorge, where sheer cliffs soar over 250 meters, creating a breathtaking natural corridor.
Tonight, we'll settle in Ouarzazate, Morocco's “Gateway to the Sahara” and cinematic capital. Famous for its striking desert vistas, Ouarzazate has been the backdrop for legendary films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Kingdom of Heaven, as well as iconic scenes from Game of Thrones. Enjoy the evening surrounded by the area's film-making legacy, golden dunes, and rich Berber culture.
Dinner with your group tonight will be at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Tinerhir
Todra Gorge
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
Day 19 - Ouarzazate [Bus] Marrakech
We will depart for the Kasbah Taourirt this morning, once owned by the Pacha Glaoui, then continue to the fortified city of Ait Benhaddou for a visit to its famous ancient kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From here, cross the High Atlas Mountains at the Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass, reaching an elevation of 2,260 metres.
On arrival in Marrakech, we will enjoy a guided tour of the city, starting off in the grandiose Menara Gardens, which feature a side pavilion and countless olive trees. Visit the exterior of the minaret of the Koutoubia, twin sister of the Giralda of Seville. Once inside the semi-ancient part of the city, marvel at the Bahia Palace, owned by a nobleman of the city. Finally, reach Jemaa el Fnaa square, one of the most interesting places in Morocco from where we will access the souks and medina, home to artisans of wood, ceramics, furriers and so much more!
Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening with your fellow travellers, to celebrate your time in this magnificent part of the world.
Inspiring Highlights
Kasbah Taourirt
Ait Benhaddou
Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass
Menara Gardens
Koutoubia Minaret
Bahia Palace
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Day 20 - Marrakech [Car] Casablanca
Today marks the end of your tour. You will be transferred to Casablanca Airport in time for your departure flight.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.For your convenience, we provide a group transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca airport following breakfast. Please note that the drive to the airport takes approximately 3 hours. To ensure you can join this group transfer, your flight departure from Casablanca airport must be no earlier than 3:00pm. This allows sufficient time for the drive and the required 3-hour airport check-in. If your flights departs before 3:00pm, you will need to arrange and pay for your own independent transfer to the airport.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
