Vibrant Yellow Circle: Spain & Portugal 7-day Circular Tour

【Saturdays】Madrid (320 km) → Zaragoza

We’ll visit Madrid, the capital of Spain. Attractions includes: Cibeles Fountain, Plaza Mayor, Piazza di Spagna, Plaza de Colón & Royal Palace of Madrid. Dive into the royal history of Spain while visiting the giant castle. Next, check out the Kilometre Zero (KM 0) squared tile located on the pavement in Puerta del Sol; You can find speciality leather goods, clothing & traditional Spanish souvenirs near the plaza. Then head to Zaragoza in the afternoon and visit Plaza del Pilar, one of the most important baroque churches in Spain. The construction of the cathedral lasted from 1681 to 1878. It is reputed to be the first church dedicated to Mary in history. You will find lots of restaurants and shops nearby for a wide range of dinner options.

Overnight in Zaragoza / nearby city

【Sundays】Zaragoza (310 km) → Barcelona

We’ll head straight to Barcelona and visit Columbus Monument, La Rambla. The highlight is the visit to Sagrada Família, the symbol of Barcelona, the masterwork of Spanish Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Next we’ll take some photos outside Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona, and get some souvenirs to bring home. Then head to Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. The Montjuïc Olympic Stadium is Barcelona's main facility for 1992 Olympics. Located on Montjuïc, it’s a perfect spot to overlook the city;

Overnight in Barcelona / nearby city

(Note on visiting Sagrada Família: We strongly recommend to book entry ticket in advance via http://www.sagradafamilia.org to avoid the long queue during peak season; Please select the time slot between 2-2:30 pm.)

【Mondays】Barcelona (348 km) → Valencia (170 km) → Alicante

We’ll head to Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia, the gateway to North Africa. With a history of affluent commerce, Moorish & Arab culture ties, Valencia enjoys a level of prosperity thanks to its advantageous location. Despite its understated position nowadays, it still attracts traders from all countries. Las Fallas, it’s biggest festival, takes place every year in March. It’s also the birthplace of Paella. We’ll visit Modernisme Plaza of the City Hall of Valencia, Ancient City Gates & Valencia Cathedral, where you can see the Holy Grail, the cup believed to be used by Jesus Christ at Last Supper. Then drive to Alicante.

Overnight in Alicante / nearby city

【Tuesdays】Alicante (35 km) → Granada

Today we set off to Granada city (Andalusia province) in the morning. It was ruled by Visigoth & Arab, the last stronghold for Arab Dynasty after ruling for 800 years before King Ferdinand united Spain in the 15th century. We will visit Alhambra (the Red Palace), a Moorish citadel and palace. Its palace complex, Islamic decor & landscaped gardens are spectacular. For guests with entry tickets, you’ll explore all parts of the palace. For those without tickets, you can visit the free area & discover the old town nearby;

Overnight in Granada / nearby city;

(Note: Tickets to Alhambra often sell out months in advance (3 months or more during peak season), we strongly recommend to book tickets early at https://tickets.alhambra-patronato.es/en/ ,select time slot between 2-3 pm)

【Wednesdays】Granada (248 km) → Seville

We’ll After breakfast we’ll head to Seville, the old capital of Muslim dynasty, known as the guardian angel of culture in Andalusia & the birthplace of flamenco, a Spanish dance. It also hosted World Expo in 1992. The first stop, Seville Cathedral, was built in the 16th century, houses the remains of Christopher Columbus, as a credit to his discovery of the New World. Next we’ll visit Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO site since 1987. It used to be a Muslim palace & Spanish Royal Palace, its architecture combined Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque & Romantic elements. Then wander around Santa Cruz, Torre del Oro (the Tower of Gold) & Maria Luisa Park, where the 1992 World Expo took place. The highlight of Plaza de España (Spain Square) is the Plaza's tiled Alcoves of the Provinces, each tile is representing a different province of Spain.

Overnight in Seville / nearby city

(Note: If time permits, your tour guide may adjust the itinerary to add optional excursions: Mijas, a beautiful white Andalusian village nestled in the mountains; Or, Ronda, a mountaintop city that’s set dramatically above a deep gorge, also known as “ The City of Elopement”)

【Thursdays】Seville (463 km) → Lisbon

We’ll head to Portugal & arrive Cabo da Roca (Cape Roca) in the afternoon. It’s the westernmost point of Europe continent. Enjoy a panoramic view over Serra de Sintra & the coast. You can buy a handwritten certificate with your name as a souvenir. Next we’ll visit Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and see: Belém Tower, Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries), Jerónimos Monastery. It’s one of the most prominent examples of Portuguese Manueline style architecture. Then free time at Marquis of Pombal Square & Rossio Square. While in Lisbon, must-try the Iconic Portuguese egg tarts in the century-old bakery nearby.

Overnight in Lisbon / nearby city

【Fridays】Lisbon (588 km) → Toledo (72 km) → Madrid

After breakfast, depart for Madrid, Spain. We’ll stop by Toledo, the old capital city until 1560; Surrounded by Tajo River, the city is known for its extensive cultural and monumental heritage. Explore its mix of cultures through the winding streets, overlook the view of Alcázar & visit Toledo Cathedral. Estimated to arrive Madrid at 8pm;

Overnight in Madrid / nearby city