Guide to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco Tours

Comprehensive Guide to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco Tours

Spain and Portugal can easily be added as an extra stop on most Morocco tours. And several companies offer full-on tours of Spain/Portugal that include days in Morocco. So which do you prefer, Moroccan spice markets, stunning Moorish architecture with mud, clay and brick buildings, wonderful hospitality of the Berbers and friendly Moroccans, camel rides into the Sahara desert, kids at Ilfrane, the Moroccan ‘Switzerland’, and skiing in the Atlas mountains? Or the Spanish tapas, stunning European architecture with historical buildings, wonderful hospitality of the Spaniards, flamenco shows in Andalusia, friendly Portuguese at the Douro Valley wine tours, ‘quick getaway’ to Tangier for lunch on the beach?

But what if you want to do both Spain/Portugal tours as well as Morocco? And which is a perfect natural home base? Too many travelers on Spain tours as well as those doing Morocco tours either way miss visiting the fascinating cities and towns in the border regions of sunny Andalusia in Southern Spain, and Northern Morocco along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coast. The easy answer is, don’t make a beeline either way to or from the other country. Most of the itineraries of tour companies usually are designed to do exactly the opposite – you either do a hop-skip-jump from Fez to Tangier, and then Tarifa, and on to Seville or Cordoba, or the other way as travelers often do to avoid the long drive. Instead build a customized itinerary on your own with some selected sights in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco that work for you!

Planning Your Tour

Traveling through Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, one can experience three splendid cultures embedded in three historic, beautiful, and still evolving countries. Each given country has a personality and highlights of its own, yet together they make for a wonderful visit at every season and for every budget. How much time can you spend? How do you choose where to go? What should you place on your must-see list? What tour company should you use? How do you eliminate a trip nightmare? Hopefully, this can help you answer these questions and assist you in the tasks of planning and carrying out your journey, whether it is for three days or three months.

The greatest riches of these three cultures flow from their respective traditions of art, architecture, and craftsmanship. Very few people can understand Moroccan hospitality without spending some time personally experiencing it. The abundant golden light of an Andalusian sunset will appeal to all your senses but the taste. One of the great pleasures of traveling is your freedom to choose how you will see, hear, touch, and taste the places on your itinerary. Thus, your ideal trip to these three countries may be entirely different from someone else’s, even if you both plan to spend exactly the same length of time wandering the same narrow streets.

You may travel with friends or family, go it alone, or join a tour. You may want to choose the fancy hotels or the simple ones and really get a feel of Spanish as life has been for centuries. Once the groundwork for the trip is laid, most people find traveling throughout these countries a delight. You meet fellow travelers, chat with local people, try out your Spanish skills, visit the many sights, sample the foods, and send back countless snapshots to your friends who are stuck at home.

 Best Time to Visit

Given its position in the Mediterranean, most of Spain and Portugal are warm, even hot, in the summer and very mild in the winter, although the north coasts and high mountains can be cold and wet at any time of the year. The climate in Morocco varies quite a lot between the coast, the inland plains, and the mountains – often featuring blistering summer heat – so the best time for touring varies from region to region too. In general, the most pleasant months for travel are mid-spring and mid-autumn. Winter, extending from December to April, is the wet season for Spain and Portugal, but only along the northern coast; the south is warmer and dryer. Indeed, Lisbon is one of the sunniest cities in Europe. Winter is also the best time to visit lower-elevation areas of southern Morocco. In the coastal areas, the warm season extends from July to September or early October; inside Morocco, particularly in Marrakech, it starts a little earlier and both begins and ends more abruptly. The winter cools off quickly in November, and already by April, during the midspring, temperatures soar again.

Outside of the beach resort areas, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco have their tourist peaks during the hotter months. The beaches of southern Spain and Portugal, and of the Atlantic coast of Morocco are the most popular in summer, particularly among people from northern Europe. The coast is a convenient haven for those vacationing in the south; otherwise, it’s best to avoid the resort areas and head inland for a real cultural experience. In late summer, parts of southern Portugal and southern Spain are blistering and dry and don’t become pleasant again until mid-October, when temperatures drop.

 Duration of the Tour

Two or three weeks is the recommended duration for a good tour through Spain and Portugal, and less than that is certainly better than nothing (as each of these locations merits much more time). Both are medium-sized countries, though each has differing pros and cons, but a comprehensive tour is nonetheless ambitious. If you do a shorter tour (roughly one week), then it is recommended to visit either southern Portugal / southern Spain or northeast Spain / western Portugal, because of the distance. Otherwise, a shorter duration would fit best if you prefer to stay within either Spain or Portugal. The separate itineraries at the end of each chapter can help for that. The best tour takes you from Lisbon then to the south of Portugal, then to the east of Spain, including Madrid, the North-central, then up to the northeast, then down the French border, back to the South and finally to the South of Spain with coastal options, ending back in Lisbon. Along the tour, visits to the Atlantic coast or the Mediterranean coast in the South of Spain can be included. Depending on your interests, the duration of your stay can be extended inside these special areas or along the main tour, by visiting places in your itinerary that you are particularly interested in: If it’s heritage tourism, perhaps by visiting nearby places from the cities included in the itinerary, if it’s beaches, by adding days to the southern coastal area, either on the Atlantic coast or the Mediterranean coast, or both, if it’s sun & beach or other types of tourism like hiking or gastronomic tourism, etc.

Budget Considerations

Spain, Portugal, and Morocco are very different countries, and the cost of traveling in each one varies a lot. Tours can be done with little planning for three weeks or a few days for a price of up to $10,000 or more — for a large family or group, it usually makes sense to get a private guide, as it can save money and time. Families, in particular, should consider a guide, since keeping a group of young children or teenagers traveling through three countries happily and learning can be a tall order. Spain and Portugal have stringent regulations on traveling by car with children, and a minivan might be necessary. Certainly this would help with luggage. In Spain and Portugal, budgeting is straightforward, as both countries use the euro. A basic double-room in a decent hotel can cost €65 to €75 in the cheap off-season; rates may double during peak summer season and are hardest to predict around major religious and national holidays. Most tourist craziness is centered on these holidays, the summer months, and the days leading up to and following. Morocco, on the other hand, has a wide range of prices. Student hotels charge as little as $4 for a dorm room in the off-peak season, but rooms are scarce; basic double-rooms with a private bath go for $7 to $15 in most towns. Since kids don’t eat much, families are usually better off just sharing. Meals may cost $2 to $3 each for a dish of tajine cooked by the local women; dining in a fancy or touristy restaurant can blow your whole budget for the day, charging $20 or more for a full meal with drinks for two.

Travel Requirements

3.1. Visa Information Traveling to Spain and Portugal from elsewhere is generally very simple. For U.S. citizens, no visa is required for business or vacation trips of 90 days or less; however, you need a valid passport to return home, and it should have at least a 90-day validity left on it. U.S. passports must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Morocco, as well. For U.S. citizens, Morocco is the only country in the region that requires a visa before you arrive, even if you are just traveling from Spain or Portugal. If you need to apply for a visa, you may do so at the Moroccan embassy or consulate nearest you. Documents required for your visa application may include a passport valid for six months beyond your date of planned entrance, a passport application form containing passport-size pictures, tickets confirming your round-trip reservation, and proof of accommodations. Other citizens of countries not exempt from visa fees may expect to pay approximately $25 to $35. You are exempt from the fees if you can send a government-issued document with your visa application stating the reason for your stay as diplomatic, consular, or international organization work, or that you are a tourist whose arrival is arranged by a Moroccan travel agency.

3.2. Health and Safety Precautions The biggest health concerns about travel to both Spain and Portugal these days seem to be accidents and food poisonings. As anywhere else, you should not drink tap water, but bottled water should be easy to find. In Morocco, medical care is not always adequate. If you feel you may need medical help during your vacation, do not hesitate to travel with your own physician, a friend, or family members. In any case

3.3. Travel Insurance Recommendations It is highly recommended that for all trips you purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage, as well as coverage for cancellation, or for loss of luggage or travel documents.

Visa Information

Passport holders from Europe, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan do not require a visa to enter Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. However, travelers from these countries are restricted to 90 days of tourist activities. Passport holders from all other countries require a visa; for entry into Spain and Portugal, check with the embassy/consulate if visas are available at the airport. For travelers planning to cross the border from Spain or Portugal to Morocco, it is better to get a visa for Morocco in your home country, as things may be complicated in the visa application process in either Spain or Portugal. As of the end of 2022, Visa Schengen rules will be in effect, and visa-exempt travelers from visa-exempt countries are advised to fill in the ETIAS information before travel. If you are crossing the border from Spain into Morocco by land, please check with your travel agent or the embassy/consulate in your area if the ETIAS is required. In addition, starting in January 2023, travelers to Spain from visa-exempt countries will be requested to pay a fee for using the VIS system for scanning the fingerprints and taking the digital photo when entering Spain at the airport. Please check with your travel agent or the Spain embassy/consulate in your area about more details of the VIS fee.

Health and Safety Precautions

International travelers who are planning an exciting two-week adventure along the sunny coasts of Spain and Portugal will be delighted to have the opportunity to take an excursion into vibrant Morocco. Before you embark upon your tour, however, it is important to make sure that you are aware of special safety considerations as well as health requirements. This will ensure that your trip is free of incident and that you spend your time enjoying the beauty, culture, and cuisine unique to each of these areas.

Europe is known for its particularly high levels of health and safety. Therefore, it is not generally necessary for travelers to be vaccinated against any diseases. However, vaccines for hepatitis A and C, rabies, and typhoid fever are recommended because of the increased risk in these areas. Water contaminated by human or animal waste has been known to erupt hepatitis A, so travelers should ensure that they drink bottled or sanitized water during their trip. Rabies is also becoming more common in England and Spain, especially among pets, so animal control is essential. Some diseases are also concerned with the hot sunny climate. Tick-borne encephalitis, which is transmitted through tick bites, has been on the rise in Spain. However, this is a rare risk that can be prevented through the use of anti-tick measures like insect repellent. Additionally, ensure that you take precautions against the sun by avoiding the midday heat and using sunscreen.

Although health insurance will cover most expenses, travel insurance is also important for covering unexpected costs. However, be aware that most travel insurances require that patients be treated by affiliated medical practitioners, so be sure to check your policy to clarify this requirement. Some credit cards offer travel insurance or can help arrange it for you, so this may be a good option if you’re booking travel through them. Most credit cards will allow travelers to use their emergency assistance services whenever they need help.

Travel Insurance Recommendations

While some type of travel insurance is a good idea on any trip, if you are planning a trip that includes adventure activities, it is critical to get travel insurance that covers your specific activities, health issues, and your trip as a whole. Travel insurance is often arranged in one of two ways. You either buy it through a travel insurance provider, which specializes only in travel insurance, or you select insurance through a company that you already work with for your regular insurance.

Most or all health insurance will only cover your health treatment costs in your home country. Medicare beneficiaries may receive no reimbursement for medical bills incurred abroad, and Medicare will not pay to return you to the U.S. for treatment. Under certain circumstances, Medicare may pay for medical services received outside the U.S. So check your personal health insurance policy if you are not sure if yours covers health-related expenses incurred while traveling abroad. If you have existing health issues that may require attention while you are on your travels, then it is a good idea to also get a ‘pre-existing condition’ travel insurance option. This option can be limited, so make sure to read the fine print. If you are over 70 or 75 years old, it is also especially important to check the age-related limits in the travel insurance conditions. Even some medical evacuation companies will not cover travelers over a certain age.

Transportation Options

There are numerous methods of touring around Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. You can cover considerable distances in reasonable time with the both country’s good railway services. Trains have generally more comfort than buses, and travel about everywhere at about the same prices as bus fares. Only on some really long sections like Madrid – Lisbon, or Valencia – Algeciras, the consolidated services provide faster travel and it’s usually the same (or a lot more) for the internal flights in Morocco.

In the Iberian Peninsula, airlines have a limited impact. The most interesting places are revealed by train. Distances are far from overwhelming. With good overnight services, you can enjoy remarkable trains. But with buses serving smaller or lesser-known spots, there still remains the chance to travel in regions off the beaten tracks without having to personalize your visit on quite long self-driving detours.

4.1. Flights and Airports

Travel is generally fast and clean. You won’t have to bother with Moroccan internal flights. But airlines have put many combo flights in place in Portugal, Spain, and North-West Africa, and does it with many small airports along the Spanish coastline. Flight-shopping can really help deal-hunters. The oldest airline is the leader. You can find interesting combo deals that can encourage you to fly from Lisbon to the Balearics and major costeastern Spanish metropolises, or enjoy a week-end in northern Morocco. Many short couriers fly round Spain. Please avoid flying internally unless you have a good deal, as it just costs you the normal service for a without-kids flying operation.

4.2. Train and Bus Services

There are a lot of regional train services, even some local ones, all in hands of the private operator, it’s almost impossible to check in, let alone purchase tickets. Buses are ubiquitous and are the best way to get through Morocco and to pile out the harder-to-reach spots in Portugal and Northern Spain. You can check their services by going through various platforms.

Flights and Airports

The Iberian Peninsula has an excellent network of air services and major cities such as Lisbon, Madrid, Porto, Barcelona, and Seville are served by large international airports. Combined with air shuttles from many European cities to the capitals, many visitors travel to Portugal and Spain by air. You will find other direct flights from Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Bogotá, Mexico City, and Caracas, at least to Madrid or Barcelona.

Spain has several transport companies that operate long-haul international flights. Some airlines share routes between Miami, New York, and Madrid, while others offer services connecting Dallas Fort Worth with Barcelona. Other airlines of some importance include British Airways, Austrian Airlines, Swiss Air, Scandinavian, Alitalia, and several companies that operate only chartered flights. Direct flights by charter companies are available from various US cities to Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Thus thanks to aviation and charter flights, Spain can now be reached from anywhere in five to twelve hours. Portugal is less well covered, although some airlines operate the Lisbon and Porto routes with stopovers in Spain. These flights may be devoured by other airlines with stopovers. So be sure to check them out as well.

Generally, the most important airports for international traffic in the Iberian Peninsula are the following: in Portugal, those of Lisbon and Porto; in Spain, those of Madrid and Barcelona. The airports of Málaga, Seville, Valencia, Alicante, Santiago, Bilbao, Ibiza, La Palma, Palma, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Santiago, and Oporto, although less frequented, have direct connections with the United States.

Train and Bus Services

The Spanish high-speed train is one of the marvels of the modern world. It is fast, clean, cool, on time, and relatively inexpensive. Spain’s ever-expanding high-speed rail network is destined to be one of the largest in the world. Trains, conventional and high-speed, are important forms of transportation in Spain. The trains link virtually every part of the country because they go into every corner. So, without thinking of flights, find your trains at a different level of comfort.

Trains generally have first and second class, and high-speed trains have tourist (standard) class and preferential class. Both classes typically have assigned seats. Reservations are required on all high-speed trains and generally necessary for long-distance conventional routes, especially during the busy summer season and on Fridays, Sundays, and holidays, when the business traveler is also out. But reservations are not necessary for short-haul travel on the regional trains and on almost all of the narrow gauge trains. Discount fares are available for reservations made 15 days in advance.

The bus network is extensive and reasonably efficient. Long-distance buses traverse virtually every corner of Spain, serving cities and populations that aren’t served by the train. Modestly convenient schedules are available, with night travel recommended for many long-distance routes. While the comfort of these long-distance buses is not as good as that of high-speed trains, it is better than that of conventional trains. Only express service (with limited stops) is offered on some particularly vital routes, including major city connections.

Car Rentals

Regardless of your travel destination, using a rental car is considered the best way to explore Spain or Portugal, especially if you plan to cover the basics in a short amount of time. The stunning scenery, rural towns, quaint villages, and famous landmarks – Europe’s variety is one of its main attractions, and by opting for car hire services, you can see a lot of these unique attractions at your own pace. If you wish to pass through some small villages or mountains while avoiding the touristic crowd going to shake hands in the same monuments, you can choose a rental car as the best option to see what you want, when you want it, driving through spectacular scenic landscapes. All the big car hire companies have the best offer for you and they also have the best price. Generally speaking, the best way to guarantee yourself lower prices and a good vehicle is to book your rental car in advance. There are also small companies within the destination that offer competitive prices and reliable services. If you want to drive around in a motorhome rented from a specialized company, the bigger the better, so be sure to investigate beforehand. Self-driving tours are recommended for Spain and Portugal, the small winding roads through scenic countryside landscape are great. However, do not forget that you will have to deal with parking problems in cities; they are not as popular at all. You should often only park at hotels (if you can) and then wander around neighborhoods and see the important sites on foot when visiting cities.

Cultural Insights

Visiting Spain, Portugal and Morocco provides a wonderful opportunity to be immersed in the beauty and richness of their respective languages, customs, and traditions. In your interactions with locals whilst on tour or in the evenings, show an appreciation for the world we live in; it will be very much appreciated. Do try to speak Spanish (or at least pick up a few useful words or phrases). Dinner times may be relatively late compared to what you may be used to (around 9.00pm in Spain and Portugal) and if the dining location has an outside area facing a main street, it is quite common to see families dining al fresco as the sun is going down. Tapas is of course a feature of dining culture in Spain. If you are joining a ‘Friends’ Dinner’ while on tour, be it in the home of a local family or in a restaurant, give them a call if you are running late – it will seem extremely rude if you don’t.

Language and Communication Spain and Portugal While local people may have a good command of English, it is polite to learn a few basic phrases in the native language. Asking a simple phrase in the local language opens up all kinds of avenues for communication and demonstrates a willingness to engage and appreciate their culture. Learning the language, even a few basic words or phrases, allows mutual conversation and sharing of experiences between locals and visitors.

Spanish – various spellings “gratias” / “gracias”, “por favor”, “de nada” or “¡No hay de qué!”, “salud”, “adios” or “hasta luego”, “el conjo” or “el concha”. Portuguese – “obrigado/a”, “por favor”, “de nada”. English When meeting locals, it is often best not to attempt to speak in English, as you run the risk that your recent attempt at conversational likely Spanish or Portuguese has raised questions in the minds of your audience, and they will seriously reply at length in English!

Local Customs and Etiquette Although Spain and Portugal share common roots within the tapestry of their respective countries and diverse regions, they remain distinctive as one country is Catholic and the other Protestant, and their indigenous languages are different. In both countries, everyday life and local cuisine are still much influenced by the seasons such as harvest time, and the events of the Catholic Church, and a visit or tour during Holy Week will still find much closure of transportation services.

Language and Communication

Language, of course, helps connect travelers to locals. While the two main languages are spoken in Spain: Castilian and Catalan, other co-official languages in Spain are Basque and Galician. Locals generally appreciate attempts to communicate in their language, and many will go out of their way to help travelers who do so. Spanish and Portuguese are closely related and derived numerically from their parent languages, and fluent speakers may have little problem communicating. However, travelers should be aware that Portuguese speakers may find it difficult to understand Spanish with a heavy accent.

In Spain and Portugal, one does not use the formal address with one another unless it is for cultural or social reasons. In both Spain and Portugal, it is not uncommon to see men kiss each other on both cheeks when they meet or embrace one another for a hug. English is widely spoken, but it is a good idea to learn at least a few essential sentences or phrases in advance. This will also help the traveler communicate more easily on the trip.

French is also spoken in northern Spanish regions bordering France. In Spain, Catalan is the co-official language alongside Spanish. It is used in Catalonia and Valencia and has many similarities with the Occitan language spoken in southern France, making it intelligible for speakers of Occitan French. Basque is the language used by the Basque people in the Basque region of northern Spain. It is unrelated to any other languages, making it a unique linguistic treasure. In Galicia, the Galician language is co-official, alongside Spanish. It is a variation of the Portuguese language and is very close and often intelligible to Portuguese speakers.

Local Customs and Etiquette

When visiting Spain, Portugal, or Morocco, it is essential to understand local customs and etiquette to avoid misunderstandings and respect the unique cultures of each country. Spanish and Portuguese people tend to be open and friendly but may seem closed and formal at first. People in Portugal, and to a lesser extent Spain, tend to be reserved and avoid intrusive behavior. Body language is also culturally specific: In Spain, some people like to maintain physical distance while speaking and may feel uncomfortable with other people being too close. Spaniards also tend to use a lot of gestures in their communication, while in Portugal, people prefer keeping their arms in their laps or crossing them. In contrast, Moroccan people are typically warm and welcoming and may show curiosity about foreign visitors. A friendly smile will usually encourage Moroccan people to approach you first.

When greeting people, a handshake is common among men, while people of opposite genders may shake hands or kiss on the face. It is common in Spain and Portugal for close friends and family to kiss once or twice on the cheeks, starting with the right cheek. Depending on the country and region, business people and acquaintances usually shake hands when arriving or leaving. People working in offices in tourist centers usually speak English. When entering a shop, café, or bar, it is polite to greet the owner or staff with a greeting and say farewell when leaving. In Morocco, you greet most people with a common greeting, the latter being more common for strangers. Moroccans like to shake hands, and when departing, they use phrases that convey well wishes. However, greetings in Morocco may be more complex: You would typically greet a person first with questions about their family, health, and finances before moving to business topics.

Cuisine and Dining Etiquette

Spain, Portugal, and Morocco provide a different journey of culture and tradition through their cuisine. The influence of geography and climate creates a menu filled with essential succulent bites. In addition, an unforgettable dining experience summarizes the way a visitor is to be treated when on the land of another. Every meal served is a sign of welcoming. Spain comprises its climate, geography, and history’s influence and the different civilizations that intertwined over years and centuries. Tradition and culture intertwine in Spanish cuisine, famous for its Mediterranean flavor. Cordiality and friendliness are also consecrated around the dining rituals and habits of the Spaniards. Spaniards enjoy the late hours on an entire day dedicated to meals. If you are fortunate to be invited to somebody’s house, do not forget to take a gift for the owner, and flowers are usually a good choice. Conversely, in preparing the table, several etiquettes must be followed. Paella is the most traditional dish, usually served as a single plate for all diners. Reserved for a special occasion, do not forget to praise the owner for the good food. Though Portugal may be small, it boasts such a rich and varied cuisine that one could eat in a different place every day for a whole year, without having to eat the same dish more than once. Meals are more than mere sustenance in Portugal; they are oftentimes lengthy affairs, passionately prepared and enjoyed. While the Portuguese have a reputation for being a bit stagnant and reserved, many will break through their reserves once you converse with them about food. Sharing a meal is also important for breaking the ice and establishing a good rapport.

Top Destinations in Spain

Spain is a country full of wonderful and diverse cities that are truly one of a kind. Unfortunately, many of these top-destination cities are often compared to one another, making it more difficult to choose one for your next vacation in Europe. Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Valencia are some of the most popular cities that travelers flock to, and they each offer something more unique than the other. They all have their major attractions that lead tourists on the exciting journey through Spain that they are hoping for. However, when the dust settles and you take a step back to look at the bigger picture, it is clear that each city offers something very different for their visitors.

6.1. Barcelona Highlights

Barcelona is the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region and one of the largest cities in the country. It is located on the northern eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. Barcelona’s architecture is largely influenced by a 19th-century Catalan architect known for his unique imaginative style. Some of his works include La Sagrada Familia church, which remains unfinished, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Santa María del Mar, among others. Additionally, of the major attractions in his work, La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà are declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other synergistic creations that earned Barcelona the UNESCO World Heritage City title are the Palau Güell, Casa Vicens, the Colònia Güell and the Cripta de la Colònia Güell, and the Pavilion of the Republic.

6.2. Madrid Must-Sees

Madrid is the capital of Spain and the largest city in the country. It is located in the center of the Iberian Peninsula and is the geographical and political center of Spain. Madrid is known for its cultural and artistic heritage, especially the rich collection of European art at one of the most important museums in the world. The museum is located on the Art Walk, next to other equally important museums including another major museum and a museum home to a collection of European paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Other famous monuments in Madrid include the Royal Palace, located next to the Plaza de España, the Plaza Mayor, and the Puerta del Sol.

6.3. Seville’s Rich Heritage

Seville is a city in the south of Spain that forms part of Andalusia. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, especially for its influence on Flamenco music and dance. One of its most famous attractions is the Alcázar, a Moorish castle built in the 10th century. The Alcázar is the oldest royal palace in continuous use in Europe, and is currently the official residence of the royal family in Seville. The Cathedral of Seville, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located next to the Alcázar. Here you can also find La Giralda, a bell tower that offers an incredible view of the city. Other monuments in Seville include the Plaza de España and the Metropol Parasol.

6.4. Valencia’s Attractions

Valencia is a city on Spain’s east coast, located between the Mediterranean Sea and a national park. It is the birthplace of paella, a Spanish rice dish that most of us are already familiar with. The city is known for its mix of historic architecture and modern structures, such as the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, the site of a science museum, aquarium, and planetarium. This complex is not only known for its architectural value but also for its cultural activities, which are as varied as concerts, opera shows, and film cycles. Other attractions in Valencia are the Valencia Cathedral, the Mercado Central, and the City Hall, to name a few.

Barcelona Highlights

With influences from Catalonia’s distinct personality and great Mediterranean position, Barcelona is one of the most vivid and intriguing cities in Europe. Also known as the “ciutat comtal” (or “duchy city”), it has been the capital of Catalonia since the 14th century. Today it is one of the largest cities in Spain, and the second most populous one, after Madrid. The wide boulevards are lined with trendy shops and good restaurants, some of them with gourmet food. The great harbor and beautiful beaches bring lightness and colors to the city scene, particularly during the summer.

Apart from the enchanting charm of its cultural and festive activities, Barcelona is famous for its excellent climatic conditions and for being a cosmopolitan city invested with great artistic and architectural legacy. Its skyline is absolutely distinctive with the profile of the Sagrada Familia basilica, amongst other important church towers. Its monuments, museums and art galleries treasure some of the finest collections in Spain. The artistic creation in unconventional spaces, the so-called “street art,” is also a huge attraction.

The Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudi, was one of the most important exponents of Modernisme architecture. His contribution to this movement is amazing thanks to his famous temple and its towers, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Casa Vicens and so on; and to the park and the center street. His unique creations offer a dreamlike quality that constitutes the identity of Barcelona. He built his capital in demonstration of light and color, for which you’re invited into Gaudi’s modernist world. Gaudi has left an indelible mark in Barcelona and a proof of its magnificence is that several of his works have been declared World Heritage Sites.

Madrid Must-Sees

Spain’s national capital is a rather spacey city that boasts some of the finest boulevards and grand squares in Europe. It is home to an interesting selection of museums, galleries, and all the paraphernalia of make-believe royal splendour and centuries of mad, mad history. Madrid’s reputation can require some hard-selling, especially when you’re struggling to stave off sleep after last night’s wild flamenco revelry. But as soon as you’ve shaken off the cobwebs, there’s no denying the sheer pleasure of strolling through Madrid. Being Spain’s most populous city and its capital, it is easy to get lured away into the Madrid mayhem of detours and traps. But for a first visit, here are the must-sees in Madrid. It is easy to get sidetracked, but with two or three days there is still enough time to really enjoy this vibrant metropolis of tapas bars, Flamenco clubs, and nightclubs. Madrid can be easily explored by foot, although the metro is the quickest way to get from one attraction to the other. There is regular traffic, as well as bus tours that include the principal attractions. Most museums are closed on Mondays and open late on Wednesdays. The Museo del Prado is closed every January 1, and December 25; on May 2, its opening hours are reduced. Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s main square, and it is an obligatory stop for tours through the city. Secondly, no tour would be complete without the Palacio Real, the magnificent Royal Palace and most popular tourist attraction in Madrid. You cannot tour Madrid without visiting at least one of its many museums. The Museo del Prado is the world’s premier Spanish art gallery; Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza is mainly 19th and 20th century works; and the Museo Reina Sofia is dedicated to 20th century paintings. Retiro Park is the largest and most popular park in Madrid. It is a great place to stroll around, sit on the grass and people-watch from the shade or enjoy a boat ride on one of its two ponds. The park is always buzzing, especially in the afternoons and on weekends.

Seville’s Rich Heritage

Seville’s dazzling blend of Mudejar, Gothic and Baroque architecture speaks of a long and glorious past. It was once the thriving capital of a vast empire and has been favored by writers and operatic composers. Today it is an easy-going city with a rich treasure-trove of sights and remains an exhilarating place to visit.

Seville, Spain’s fourth largest city, is an important cultural center in southern Spain. It is located on the banks of the Guatalquivir River, in the region of Andalusia. Modern Seville is a city defined by layers of history, and exploring its Moroccan streets, moorish architecture and Jewish influences is a profitable pursuit. Visitors find some of Spain’s finest churches and landmarks here — perhaps none more memorable than the enormous Cathedral of Santa Maria, built on the site of a former mosque. The largest Gothic cathedral in the world is a tad ostentatious in the way it combines its various styles, with a fat Renaissance bell tower and a whole bunch of Baroque chapels, but it would still take a jaded traveler to be bored by the sheer size and beauty of the place. An enormous wooden structure in La Encarnacion Square, called Metropol Parasol, has become a symbol of the city’s artistic ambition in the 21st century.

Valencia’s Attractions

Valencia, Spain’s third largest metropolis, with a lovely beach, few tourists, and plenty of attractions, is finally getting tourist attention after being a business destination for many years. Valencia’s attractions include the gorgeous Central Market Hall, a stunningly beautiful Gothic-fronted building filled with countless booths selling fresh produce and regional specialties, as well as the nearby short Gothic-style Silk Exchange. Close by, the recently renovated Cathedral, built on the foundations of a Roman temple, houses an eclectic collection of artwork, among which is an allegedly authentic Holy Grail.

La Albufera, located a mere twenty minutes south of the city, is a lovely nature park with a large shallow lagoon and wetlands, where thousands of migrating birds stop at different times during the year and that has an important population of local birds year-round. Tall, quiet reed beds surround the lagoon, and boats take visitors to enjoy the fresh air and views of the wetlands and of the La Albufera of Valencia Nature Park coastline at sunset. Although one can combine the day trip to La Albufera with a visit to Valencia, located only twenty kilometers to the north, the best way to experience it is to stay over and enjoy dinner at one of the eateries specializing in paella, which was invented here. Valencia tourism has been strongly promoted in recent years, and travelers are beginning to flock to this delightful city, which is at its best in the cool fall or the spring due to hot and humid summers.

Top Destinations in Portugal

Portugal is a country that offers visitors a great variety of destinations, in a really small surface. Each region has its own charm, from the north to the south, including the islands of the Atlantic. The major attractions in Portugal are: Lisbon, the capital; Porto, the second greatest city in Portugal famous for its wine; the Algarve region well-known for its beautiful beaches; and Sintra, a destiny of romanticism, with enchanting palaces and gardens.

7.1. Lisbon’s Charm There’s a lot to see and do in Lisbon, from its historical monuments to its museums, neighborhoods, and nightlife. So many neighborhoods and diverse places to see, that you probably need at least three days to see Lisbon highlights… Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhoods, where the music of fado was born. Bairro Alto, famous for its nightlife, or Belem, which houses Portugal’s most famous pastry shop, and the Lisbon’s most visited attractions, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém.

7.2. Porto’s Wine Culture The northern region of Portugal has many interesting cities and is famous for its wine culture. Wine lovers should not miss Porto and its cellars. Porto is a must-see beautiful city in an area classified as World Heritage.

7.3. The Algarve’s Beaches The Algarve is Portugal’s most famous region thanks to its marvelous beaches and sunny weather, and it offers visitors a great variety of activities like golf, water sports, nightlife, and much more… Algarve has several beach resorts to suit all budgets and visitors. The most popular touristy resorts are: Albufeira, Lagos, Vilamoura, Portimão… The Algarve can be visited year-round. The best time to visit the Algarve is during the shoulder seasons, spring or fall, to enjoy the sun without the crowds. During winter, temperatures can be milder than in Northern Europe, but rain and windy days are not uncommon.

7.4. Sintra’s Fairy-Tale Palaces Just a short ride from Lisbon, Sintra looks like taken out of a fairy tale. Nowadays, the town is one of the most popular touristy trips from Lisbon thanks to its picturesque palaces and Romantic architecture. Its proximity to the capital makes it possible to visit Sintra on a day trip, but if you want to make the most of it we recommend spending at least one night in town.

Lisbon’s Charm

As far as big cities go, you are not likely to find a more exquisite one than Lisbon. Stretching along the banks of the River Tagus and on to the Atlantic Ocean, this full-bodied city with its impressive monuments, quaint houses, and eclectic neighborhoods repeatedly draws visitors back. Short of a full tour of Portugal, it is hard to say whether you will find an architectural capital more graceful, a maritime center more historical, or a colonial city more maritime than the Portuguese capital. But this compact city’s greatest appeal may lie in the feel of neighborhoods integrating expertly together, a function of Lisbon’s unique topography troubled only by the river’s low-water levels. Fewer places anywhere harmonize their sites, transmissions across levels, variety and detail of blocks and buildings, and pattern of parks better than the Chiado and Bairro Alto plus the wide Baixa and the river together.

The Tagus not only gave Lisbon its life but also provided the city’s great event at which Europe meets Africa and the New World: the celebrations of the Month of June. The fair built on the riverside is the background for a furious evening party. Each evening presents some unique feature: a crowd of “botadores” from all sites tossing their medicated drinks, their spirits high, crying for the Marie Little Fish of Baixa. Lisbon’s most diverse festivities beside its river are not yet there. Lisbon’s neighborhood bars are everywhere. From Paço de Arcos to Belem to Cais do Sodré, some bar does the most to flamboast these celebrations every month of June—those in Belem Full Moon’s night, less because of the fish-eating booths and more because of the jitters that are sadly gone.

Porto’s Wine Culture

Like Lisbon, Portugal’s second most populous city has had its ups and downs, suffering its fair share of problems and neglect during the nation’s economic difficulties. However, in the past few years, Porto has undergone major redevelopment and tourists have returned to admire its atmospheric medieval Ribeira quarter, unique architecture, and famed port wine.

Porto, or Oporto as it is sometimes called, nestles above the shimmering blue waters of the Douro River at the point of its convergence with the Atlantic. Although there has been a settlement here for thousands of years, Porto as we know it, with its beautiful bridges, tall buildings, cobbled streets, and mix of colorful tiles, has been shaped by its prominence in the wine trade. Merely to cross the majestic new bridge has become an irresistible draw for tourists making the trip to and from nearby Gaia, the city across the river, where most of the wine lodges and over a hundred bars selling port are located. Within attractive granite buildings and a maze of cellars, you can go deeper into the history of the wine business, visiting some of the most famous names within it. You will hear the stories of founding fathers and learn how they helped to build the present structure of the trade. You will discover the secrets of the different types of ports: vintage port; tawny port; ruby port; white port; late bottled vintage port; and find out how to tell a good port from a mediocre one. You can even attend special tastings to test your (and your guide’s) abilities at distinguishing the different varieties and vintages.

The Algarve’s Beaches

The Algarve is particularly privileged when it comes to beaches. There are over a hundred of them, and you couldn’t see them all in a month. They come in all shapes and sizes. In the west they are steep and rocky; in the east they are sandy but low, and there are even some excellent beaches on islands. They are quite spectacular too and twice as popular; when the surf is up, the waters of the western beaches can change from azure to gunmetal gray within seconds. In the summertime, the best-known beaches along the coast are crowded with people and lined with restaurants with prices to match. The very west, along the Costa Vicentina, is a protected area that is not easy to get to and not warm and safe enough for bathing by early summer, yet if you are keen on wild and lonely spots, then you’ll find some magical places, with species of grouse and cut-throat anglers sharing them with you.

Beaches on the Algarve do not all have the same profile at the same time. This depends on the season, the hour, and the wind. There are beaches that have all sorts of shades of gold, ocher, and brown; most of the time, they are not huge, but they can be, depending. Their form evolves and changes according to the moon phases, the tides, and the seasons. The waves summer after summer wear down the sands that form the beach, but they are also responsible for the continual depositing of millions of sand grains on the various beaches. Beaches on the western Algarve are some of the most beautiful in the country and are also some of the least visited. Here you have long stretches of sand, usually with dramatic cliffs as a backdrop.

Sintra’s Fairy-Tale Palaces

Close to the bustling capital that is Lisbon, the picturesque town of Sintra is a short train ride away in a cooler, lush green microclimate. The area offers some of the most stunning palaces in Portugal in an idyllic setting. The pastel pink and mauve towers of the Palácio da Vila are nestled in the heart of the town. The poetic Palácio da Pena looms like a marine castle above, proudly flaunting its bright colors on a rocky peak at the top of the hill. The Palácio de Monserrate – a little less known, slightly more romantic and often missed – is a little lower down on the way to the town itself.

On a visit to the majestic Palácio da Vila in downtown Sintra, the place always reminds me of a cross between Santa Fe and Fisherman’s Wharf. There is truly something otherworldly about the place that makes you think of storybook characters featuring in ancient scrolls.

As one of the very first summer houses to be built by the Portuguese royal family (and with a distinctly Moorish flavor), the Palácio da Vila is a quaint little fairy-tale palace. The built was an attempt to mix Moorish architectural style with a Renaissance flair. Lately restored, the chimney pipes are the best known feature of the palace. Towering over the other buildings in the town of Sintra, they are easily recognizable from afar.

With bright pink and blue colors, the wondrous Palácio da Pena has a unique architectural style mixing Manueline touches and English Romanticism highlights. It is a cross between a French castle, a German castle, and an Italianate estate. With big outer walls, fortified lookouts, and large turrets topped with Moorish style cupolas, it is a mix of so many styles that it is hard to label. It is worth a visit as much for what is inside as for the gardens and terraces from which you can enjoy stunning views of the area around it.

Top Destinations in Morocco

Morocco has become one of the hottest destinations in the world to visit recently; many travelers are arriving every year through flights between their countries and Morocco. Morocco is known to be colorful, different, authentic, and exotic. It has beautiful scenery from deserts to snow peaks, and it’s also a combination of different cultures of different ethnicities like Arabs, Berbers, and Europeans. What most people are not aware of or entertain always put it last on their list is because it’s far away or seems so strange. But, travelers had been so amazed when they explore this fascinating country, and they considered traveling to Morocco as one of their best memories in their whole lives. There are many cities throughout Morocco for people to experience and choose what to do and how to spend their time. The time and duration of each city vary on how much you want to explore. However, here are the top cities we recommend as must-visit destinations.

Marrakech is a vibrant city with colorful souks and narrow streets that lead to beautiful courtyards and stunning palaces. It is one of the most popular cities and a must-stop for tourists while traveling to Morocco. Fes and Meknes are relatively historic and conservative cities. Both Fes and Meknes have special significance in the history of Morocco; in past centuries, the two cities were in done political power in which the Emperors of Morocco were from. Therefore, you can find many imperial remnants in both Medina Fes and Meknes. Essaouira is the coastal city of Morocco that most visitors would drop by for a day trip or a few hours of excursions. It is an easy-going town with friendly, laid-back locals. What is more unique is the blue colors in the street. The beautiful walls of many Moroccan genuine shops are painted in different azure colors that give an instant feel of being in the ocean. Don’t ever forget the beautiful Sahara desert when visiting Morocco. It is a magic experience to stay overnight in the Berber tent and feel the sunrise and sunset in the high sand dunes.

Marrakech’s Vibrancy

Standing out of the rest of the Moroccan cities, Marrakech is a bustling metropolis shaped by blossoming gardens, high-end restaurants, and exclusive hotels, combining Moroccan cultural legacy with a voguish cosmopolitan twist. Marrakech is bordered by a dramatic backdrop of the towering Atlas Mountains. Founded as a settlement used as a stopover for traders heading towards southern cities in the 11th century, today, it represents the glory of the present-day Kingdom of Morocco. The most lively area in Marrakech is its historic medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring street food stalls in the central square and intricate tile work all around.

The city is divided into two sections: the medina and the ville nouvelle. The medina is where the authentic feel of the ancient city arises. You can find the Koutoubia Mosque with its minaret, the Saadian Tombs, and the El Badi Palace; however, the highlight of the medina is its large place filled with storytellers, snake charmers, musicians, henna tattoo artists, and all sorts of attractions, souvenirs, and street food. Jemaa El Fna is also a great place to enjoy the bold flavors of Moroccan food. Having always been a melting pot of North African and Jewish culture, you will find cuisine from various backgrounds. Make sure to sit at one of the rooftop restaurants that overlook the square, especially during the sunset.

Fes’s Historical Significance

Fes is one of those places that will fascinate you because of its deep historical roots. The city was founded in the late 8th and early 9th centuries by the Idrissids, making it the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities, and for a while its capital. The Idrissids fled to the nearby city of Meknes after being ruled by the Umayyads in Spain.

According to some accounts, Fes was the first city in the world to establish “servants” of God, which would be the first cells. Along with the Fatimid dynasty, Fes’s importance in the Muslim world grew and became famous as a center of intellectual-exponential growth. The interior of the city houses the first medersa or university of the time.

In the early 15th century, the decline of the Almohades led to a civil war between the two dynasties – the Marinids based in Fez and the Wattasids based in Marrakech – for the dominance of the country. At the end of that century, Spain’s reunification brought about the expulsion of Moroccans from the Iberian Peninsula and many found refuge in Fez, becoming important traders. Later on, the Portuguese seized Alhucemas and Tlemcen, controlling waterways and cutting trade. From then on, Fez stopped expanding its borders and was never conquered.

While this was happening, it was becoming the greatest artisan center of the Barbary Coast and whenever goods traveling to shipowners rich from conflict needed transport, they hired quality artisans in Fez. It wasn’t until the 18th century that Fez had to share its prominence with other cities.

Chefchaouen’s Blue Streets

Morocco’s most famous blue city, Chefchaouen, has become a mecca for Instagrammers seeking to fill their social channels with periwinkle-hued walls. In all honesty, the hype surrounding Chefchaouen is entirely justified—think perfect blue streets, cozy cafes, a rocky backdrop, sweeping views, and laidback vibes. Located high in the Rif Mountains, the blue city is a peaceful destination that allows you to unwind and explore at a slow rhythm. The charming little medina is one of the first in the country and the stunning blue wash is none other than the reason so many come for a visit. Mohammed ben Ali ben Haci Hassani, a descendant of the prophet Muhammad, established the town in 1471 as a small fortress against the invading forces from the Kingdom of Castile.

Before penetrating north towards the city of Fes, Spanish troops had attacked and desecrated the area surrounding the city before retreating. In 1492, it became a refuge for Jews at peace after fleeing the Spanish Inquisition. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town was chosen to paint its old town blue in order to distinguish it from other cities in Morocco by the Jewish immigrants. The combination of the Jews who fled Spain and the Moriscos later on who’ve been exiled across the Strait of Gibraltar contributed significantly to shaping culture and style here. It’s easy to see Chefchaouen’s relaxed pace when you walk around. Donkeys are still used for transport. The hustle of Marrakech doesn’t exist here. It’s a small place where you can get lost in its color. There’s so much to find in the shades of blue: carpet shops, traditional stone-built houses, breathtaking mountains, and epic views over the town.

Sahara Desert Adventures

A visit to Morocco can easily be combined with a tour of the other Iberian Peninsula countries. However, if you want a truly unique adventure, you can also see Spain, Portugal, and Morocco in a single tour. Morocco and Spain are separated only by a water gap. The border between these two countries is actually one of the shortest land borders in the world, at only 13 kilometers in some parts. Traveling between Spain and Morocco is very simple. If your travels take you to Spain’s southernmost region of Andalusia, you can easily hop on a ferry in Tarifa and in less than half an hour land on Moroccan soil. When visiting Morocco, many travelers embark on a desert adventure. Visiting the Sahara is an experience like no other. Its vastness is incredible, its sands can stunningly change color from white to yellow, all the way to reddish brown. The dunes, most easily recognizable at Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, can reach up to 300 meters high. Traveling to Erg Chebbi requires several hours of 4×4 travel through the spectacular pre-Saharan landscape of rocky desert plains and oases. The desert is harsh, but it is also home to a people who have learned how to thrive in it: the Berbers. Often seen in Morocco’s mountains, there are Berber communities in the Sahara as well.

Given their proximity to Spain, the attractions in the Moroccan Sahara are usually reached as a short excursion from southern Andalusia, usually in a 4×4 vehicle. This involves driving on the desert’s rocky or sandy tracks. Many travel providers offer you the option of spending a night camping in the Erg Chebbi dunes. However, this is not the best way to experience the desert, as you will be spending the night and day among numerous other tourists. It is best to fly from Spain to Marrakech and then join a desert trekking excursion via Morocco.

Activities and Experiences

Yes. Below is the text for section “9. Activities and Experiences”.

We have carefully selected several activities and experiences that pair well with our tours of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, but we are also happy to accommodate your own special requests. These activities and experiences include cultural tours, outdoor activities, culinary experiences, and shopping and souks.

9.1. Cultural Tours For art lovers, we can add a guided visit to the Museo del Prado in Madrid, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and/or the Centro Nacional de Arte Reina Sofía. In Lisbon, we can take you to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, and the Museu do Fado. If you’re interested in more historical aspects of this region, we can schedule tours of Las Meninas in Madrid, a fado show in Lisbon, and the Moorish architecture of the Alhambra in Granada. Visiting the historic town of Toledo, just outside of Madrid, is always a good option.

9.2. Outdoor Activities The warmer weather in spring and summer opens the door to many outdoor activity possibilities, including cycling, hiking, and horseback riding. We have options for cycling in Toledo, Ronda, and the vineyards of Portugal. For hiking, we can go along the cliffs of Albufeira, Madeira Island, or along the Camino de Santiago. For horseback riding, we can ride through Ronda, Los Pirineos, or the Sierra Horconera. We can also help you book a golf game in one of the high-quality courses in and around the region.

9.3. Culinary Experiences Culinary experiences can include wine tasting from Jerez de la Frontera, Malaga, Ribeiro, or Ronda. If you want to take a more active role in the cuisine, we can schedule a cooking class with a local chef. Cooking classes are offered in Madrid, Malaga, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Marrakech. Lastly, we can also help you arrange tapas and wine tours through Madrid, Seville, and Lisbon.

9.4. Shopping and Souks In urban areas, you will find a number of local specialty shops, large department stores, and popular global brands. This can be a great opportunity to buy local products. We can help direct you to the best shops but also help you arrange a shopping tour with a local guide. If you are looking for something a bit different, you can visit a souk. A souk is a marketplace, with close quarters, demanding knowing the rules of bargaining and barter. The souks are an incredible chance to discover the variety of local handicrafts: leather goods, carpets, ceramics, and copper.

Cultural Tours

The Iberian Peninsula is made up of two culturally diverse countries of European origin, Spain and Portugal, and one Moroccan region of Arabic origin, in a border region of Northern Africa facing these two western European countries. Spanning such a culturally diverse territory, its rich history offers an unparalleled mix of experience. The distinctive influence from different periods of the peoples who lived in them, from ancient Roman and Ottoman to Christianity, makes this region a unique and captivating land.

Spain is considered an open-air museum, with an important number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its monumental architectural and artistic treasures are concentrated in its historic city centers. Portugal is also rich in artistic heritage, its unique architecture is characterized by a summary of several influences, all connected by the Portuguese tile, the azulejo, continuously present in the most emotive moments of life. Because of their geographical proximity, Spain and Portugal are frequently visited together. The Iberian Peninsula is also known for the beauty of its natural scenery across a variety of different climates and ecosystems, we recommend a combination of cultural visits with the many outdoor experiences available, such as hiking, or cycling through the National Parks or countryside.

Morocco is a North African country rich in culture and histories with deep Berber, Arabic and African roots. The artisanal markets of the medinas, with colors and smells tempting the senses explore the narrow streets in search of traditional cuisine, hospitable people, festive celebrations or cultural festivals. Also explore the beautiful natural parks and reserves of the long scenic routes, walking gazing at the spectacular landscapes of the Mediterranean Coast, the Atlas Highlands or the Sahara Desert.

Outdoor Activities

Gorges, hills, deserts and other vast open spaces are all included in the Iberian Peninsula itinerary. This area is not only about castles, monuments, and nice beaches, it is also a composite landscape with numerous possibilities for a wide range of outdoor activities. Here are the major options, including the most famous one of flamenco. As in other corners of the world, the refreshing and relatively cool Atlantic along with the Gibraltar strait make this hot spot ideal for sailing and windsurfing, kite surfing and boarding, deep sea and underwater diving as well as fishing.

Much further south along the Atlantic coastline, long stretches of flat beach are favourable for more leisurely surfing and body boarding, soaking in the sun and playing with the waves. The surf scene also attracts the permanent back packers, surfers and students who find relaxed and cheap lodges at various locations. The coastline is dotted with numerous bars for refreshments, some of which offer live music as well, especially in summer.

On the other hand, the gorgeous mountains of Sierra de Grazalema, Sierra de la Almijara and the southern slopes of Sierra Nevada open up opportunities for diverse trekking routes and active climbing. Starting from the village of El Bosque, a walking trail leads to the dam of Los Hurones on the river of the same name, which distinguishes itself for the crystal clear turquoise waters. Another hiking itinerary stretches from El Bosque to the unique hamlet of Benhamó, which is perched on an incredible rocky ledge above a gorge in the middle of Falcondo mountains.

Culinary Experiences

Destinations: Spain and Portugal (Most Suitable); Morocco (All Destinations);

Culinary experiences are becoming an essential part of the travel experience. Cooking classes and food tours are available in all three countries, and by joining a local family to cook a traditional meal you have the opportunity to discover how everyday life differs and compare your lives. Sampling simple but tasty local dishes is part of the experience and offers meals that you won’t find in restaurants. Looking for something more unique? Eating actively at a cooking school at a hacienda in the hills behind Valencia, an oven-baked Paella lesson in a Valencia restaurant, or a lunch of lemon chicken tajine with couscous prepared by you at Kasbah Du Toubkal: any are an equally fun way to explore the flavors of North Africa.

Moroccan cuisine is a blending of cultures and experiences reflecting its diverse history, the main influences coming, of course, from Berber. Also from the Arabo-Andalusian traditions of Al-Andalus and Andalusian Spain, from Islamic traditions and flavorful spices carried by the ancient spice caravans from Asia, and from France and Spain (who both controlled Morocco during the 20th century). Through the centuries Moroccan cuisine has been refined and integrated various dishes from every culture that has settled in the North African country.

The flavors of Spain, too, possess a unique blend expressed in delicious local dishes lovingly prepared in Basque Country and Catalonia, Galicia, the Balearics and Canaries, and both mainland and island Spain. Probably due to the Mediterranean Diet; considered a model of healthy eating (its core base consists of local and seasonal ingredients, combining grains, vegetables, seeds, and nuts with olive oil, fish, and small quantities of meat, dairy products, and wine), which has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the best cookery schools all have time-tabled courses where you’ll spend much less than if joining a Spanish-style cookery holiday.

Shopping and Souks

From elegant boutiques to tiny local artisan and specialty shops, there are so many ways to shop, and it is often said that there is something for everyone. While these can be found across the Iberian Peninsula, the best shopping is often an experience unto itself. Strolling down the cobbled streets, pausing to pop into one of the many ornate souvenir shops selling lace and ceramics and browsing their displays, followed by a peek into the food shops, smelling the wafting scent of Iberico ham or perhaps trying to resist the sweet delight of local pastries and treats. Many find their extra suitcase going home packed with goodies like hand-painted pottery from the southern Iberian Peninsula, the silk and vivid bright colors of an authentic paella from Valencia, or the delightful little glass figurines that seem to be everywhere in Spain.

Morocco takes this shopping experience to a whole new level! Going to a local souk full of bargaining, sights, sounds, and smells can be overwhelming but also exhilarating. Plus, it’s all part of the experience! Located in every Medinna is a souk or market of stalls selling a dizzying array of goods and services: from piles of spices to leatherwork curing by the entrance, from beautiful handmade carpets dangling down to gold and silver jewelers. The more popular markets in Marrakesh can cause you to bump elbows with others; however, a visit to Skoura Oasis, just an hour from Marrakesh offers a more local experience. Another less frequented destination is the ancient port city of Essaouira where you will find a relaxed atmosphere, friendly shop owners, and oceanfront stalls selling local fish specialties.

Travel Tips and Recommendations

This chapter contains some useful extra information you should know before booking your tours of Portugal, Spain and Morocco. These travel tips will help you pack for your trip, navigate the bus, train, and metro systems, connect to the internet, and get around Spain, Portugal, and Morocco safely.

10.1. Packing Essentials

Light, casual and loose clothing will go a long way when exploring Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, especially in the summers. Evenings can get chilly, however, so it is good to pack some sweaters to keep you warm. It is also best to wear comfortable shoes since you will do a lot of walking while touring the sites! You may also want to bring a few pairs of nice clothes if you plan to go out. When visiting places of worship, it is also advisable to dress modestly: women should wear skirts or dresses that cover their knees, and men and women alike should cover their shoulders as well. This is especially true of Morocco, where it is customary to remove your shoes before entering mosques.

When packing for Morocco, it’s best to leave valuable jewelry at home, as they could attract unwanted attention. Bring along sunscreen and sunglasses and keep hydrated during those scorching summer afternoons. If you plan on visiting the Sahara Desert, pack a warm jacket since desert nights can get really cold!

10.2. Navigating Public Transport

If you plan to use public transport often, investment in a multi-use travel card can save you money. For instance, a travel card works on all buses, trams, funiculars, metros, and the ferry, and can be found at machines in metro stations. In Madrid, you can use a card to buy a 10-journey ticket.

10.3. Staying Connected

If you plan to need the internet on the go while touring, an overseas travel plan offered by your local service provider is really helpful. However, if you don’t already have a travel plan, or simply have to connect to Wi-Fi, be assured that free Wi-Fi hot spots can be found across Lisbon, Madrid, and other towns. Most cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to customers. Public transport is another great way to find free Wi-Fi.

10.4. Safety Tips

Spain, Portugal, and Morocco are generally safe to travel. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing do occur in tourist-heavy areas, so it is better to keep valuables close. Stores and attractions may close their shutters during the afternoon for an hour or two, especially restaurants! In Morocco, it is advisable to avoid overly friendly locals that get too personal or close. Be cautious when you buy crafts in souvenir shops and make sure you bargain! As is the case for visiting other countries in the Middle East and North Africa, avoid alcohol and dressing provocatively in Morocco to keep out of trouble!

Packing Essentials

Visitors to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco can expect a Mediterranean climate, which means mild to rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are thinner. If you’re visiting during the summer, consider packing layers as nights can be cooler.

Spain and Portugal have similar dress codes regarding clothing. At formal occasions such as weddings, receptions, or at high-end establishments, locals expect you to wear smart clothing. Women should opt for long skirts and dresses, while men should wear pants and a formal shirt. Then at a casual outing, you can wear light, breathable clothing. Men can wear a short-sleeve shirt and cargo shorts, while women may wear a top with sleeves and shorts or a summer dress. Flip-flops are usually not recommended. While you should still avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, it’s more permissible in beach resorts. In the offices and higher-end restaurants, men should avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts, while women should avoid flip-flops, swimsuits, and overly casual clothing. Generally, men should avoid sandals, while women can wear them but without high heels when walking. Spaniards tend to dress up more than the average American and are more fashion-conscious. However, people in Costa del Sol, the Balearic Islands, and beach resorts dress more casually.

Morocco is a Muslim country, and as such, visitors must adhere to some of their cultural traditions, which means wearing modest clothing. Pack loose-fitting clothing that conceals as much skin as possible. It’s important to not wear anything too figure-hugging around men, especially the elders, while women should keep their arms covered. Generally, men can wear linen trousers and long-sleeve shirts, while women may wear long skirts and dresses with sleeves. Although, less conservative Moroccans dress freely, you should refrain from wearing clothing such as shorts and short skirts. At a casual setting, if you’re a man, don’t wear a sleeveless T-shirt, while if you’re a woman, avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. When visiting beaches, swimwear is permitted, but cover up when leaving.

Navigating Public Transport

A comprehensive inland rail, bus and metro system can be found across Spain and Portugal – even the most remote locations have some form of public transport connecting them with the more developed towns and cities. Generally speaking, buses and trains are safe, punctual and clean. They also happen to be a great way of experiencing daily life, mixing with the locals and possibly discovering hidden gems that don’t feature in guidebooks. In the big cities, metro systems tend to be the quickest and most efficient option for getting around. However, if your route takes you through any towns or cities, walking is a great way of getting to know the area better, stumbling upon small bars that serve delicious snacks and possibly leading to an unplanned adventure as you explore the back streets.

Train: Of all public transport options available, long-distance trains are the most comfortable and luxurious mode for travelling between major cities in Spain. Trains are fast, very comfortable and have good facilities. Service on the Alvia between Madrid and Barcelona is slower than that of its AVE siblings, though it makes for a more scenic tour as it passes through northern Spain. There are frequent connections between the main cities, and buying your ticket ahead will get you the best prices.

The high-speed AVE trains offer a vast improvement over the older services. Compared to air travel, you’re spared ticketing… You’re also better off on the AVE if you’re going to the Costa Brava or Madrid, as AVE’s station is in the centre of Barcelona, while the airport is located out. AVE trains are also a boon for people travelling from Madrid to the Andalusian cities, as in just over two hours, you can be in Seville or Málaga, with just minutes more to Córdoba or Toledo.

Staying Connected

As of 2023, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco all have extensive mobile coverage and most towns, cities, and tourist sites will have Wi-Fi coverage. However, there are some tourist services, such as among the souks in Moroccan cities, where you may well not have a connection. A good way of keeping track of any updates to your itinerary, such as flight changes, is to access the Wi-Fi at the airports as well as the loads of hotels, shops, and cafés in most of the larger towns in Spain and Portugal, where free Wi-Fi is offered. All major airports and some train stations in Spain are gradually activating mobile phone connections in tunnels and underground galleries.

Buying a SIM card and a prepaid plan gives you a little more independence. In Spain, there are four main mobile phone companies. In Portugal, you can buy SIM cards for prepaid plans at stores. In Morocco, there are three main mobile phone companies offering different prepaid plans and SIM cards if you want to get a Moroccan number for your phone, at the airport, in the cities or online.

Make sure that the SIM cards you buy are compatible with your phone. Check with your local provider and make sure that your mobile device is “unlocked” before you leave. And, before you leave home, change your mobile device settings to avoid high roaming charges. In general, be reasonably computer literate if you do buy a local prepaid SIM card. There are few people who speak English as they set you up at the stores. Most assistance users will have trouble too. Make sure your phone has the last software updates.

Safety Tips

As for personal safety, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco are really quite safe for the majority of travelers. Violent crime rate is low, and ordinary street crime such as theft is usually the biggest risk. However, there are a few locations notorious for violent crime: the rough parts of larger cities can be dangerous at night; and the borderlands of Morocco and Melilla, especially near certain areas, can be dangerous. It’s also not uncommon for thieves to use “overfriendly” methods to draw their victim off guard. These thieves might seem legitimately friendly; they might seem to genuinely want to help you or seriously want to “celebrate” with you. But it’s almost always a scam. If someone seems too friendly, just be wary.

In terms of sexual safety, it’s a good idea to be careful while partying, especially in larger cities. This mostly applies to women; the best wisdom seems to be, “don’t get drunk”. However, locals are accustomed to tourists engaging with local nightlife and will usually help you if something goes wrong. And in terms of medical safety, all three countries boast excellent medical care, notably including Spain, which has a world-famous public medical system. Based on personal experience, Morocco is much less reliable; specialty hospitals in Morocco can be high-priced, and some general hospitals can be suspicious. In case of urgent medical emergencies, it’s advisable to go to Spain as quickly as possible. Either way, it’s recommended to get travel insurance before you leave.

Sample Itineraries

Tours of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco come in many forms; from a private tour of family roots, a honeymoon holiday, or friends on a quest for fun and excitement piling into a van, even adventure holidays are possible. Set aside a few things to do, then at least consider taking a few days more, a good tour guide in this region is going to know a lot more and can advise as to what to put on a wish list. We have written and arranged several itineraries for these three countries. They are not set in stone but illustrations of what is possible. With added days, and your input, personalization will be very easy.

7-Day Itinerary

A standard week can get you into the rhythm of travel and contact the local culture; after that, a trip can be customized to your desires. Fly into Barcelona, tour for two days, and drive down to Valencia for a day. Head towards Granada for an overnight and tour the Alhambra; next stop is Tangier for a drink and overnight. Next day, you head towards Marrakech, popcorn for snacks along the way, and resume the slow journey settling into one of its many palaces and riads. Use the rest of the days to visit the surrounding region, Essaouira at the ocean, a walk in the mountains for a Berber lunch, or the village of Ait Benhaddou used for Hollywood movies, starting your foray back into Spain one day before flight.

14-Day Itinerary

A tour of two weeks would allow us to add some more time and locations. Flying into Barcelona, it would be natural to add nights for visits to the rest of Catalonia; on the way back, Madrid, the dehesa for game hunting. From Madrid, food tours, forays into its surroundings of Segovia, Toledo, Salamanca, El Escorial, the route to Santiago along the coast, … A southern loop of Córdoba, Seville, Granada, would be our entry door; days along the west coast to Portugal, where we could do sintra from Lisbon. Our next step will be the south at either Porto and Berça-den or Mount Pilatos.

7-Day Itinerary

This itinerary departs Lisbon, goes south to the Algarve coast and resumes to Morocco for a Moroccan experience, approximating the back to the north of Africa. From there picking a few more interesting highlights of Spain until finishing in Madrid. Here we go!

Day 1: Lisbon. Welcome to Portugal! Get familiar with the local history or adjust to the weather with a drink.

Day 2: Explore the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, arriving to Aljezur. Take a few nice pictures of the scenery and head to Arrifana. Try to catch the sunset in Arrifana. If you miss it too, catch it in Amado Beach, which is on your way to Rabat, Morocco.

Day 3: Rabat Beach. Crossing the sea, you arrive in Rabat, Morocco. You only need the travel insurance voucher and a credit card for you to be able to spend in Morocco, because you’ll probably stay 1 day in Rabat… Get the local public transportation from the port to the center and visit Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower. You won’t have the time to visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V because it’s going to be closed at lunch time and don’t make sense to wait until your return. You should visit the mausoleum when you return from Fez, maybe.

Day 4: Chefchaouen. The famous blue city. Head in the morning to Chefchaouen. It have to be a nice day and prettier if you arrive from Fez. Chefchaouen is a small town, so be relax, enjoy the whole atmosphere and take some nice pictures of this beautiful place.

Day 5: Sevilla. Go early to Sevilha. Visit a few monuments and take a few nice pictures for your friend. Sevilha have a strong influence in Portugal, especially in the south, so the monuments should be nice and similar. Enjoy your stay!

14-Day Itinerary

This itinerary provides enough time to see some of the best highlights in Spain & Portugal while also leaving some room for travel flexibility. Nice extension options include extra nights in Lisbon, or the medieval town of Avilla, mountain town of Ronda or beach town of Tarifa in southern Spain. As well, you can add to the Morocco portion of this tour by venturing to more desert areas or to the High Atlas Mountains with one of the many mountain villages. Our budget and luxury travel agents can help you with all your vacation planning.

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon. Stroll around the historic districts of the city. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 2: Morning visit to Belem district & the Jeronimos Monastery. Afternoon, free for you to explore even more of the city. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 3: Morning coach transfer from hotel to Lisbon train station. A scenic 3 hour train ride into the charming village of Sintra where you spend the day. Afternoon return to Lisbon by train. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 4: Leave Lisbon by coach for Porto, visiting the town of Obidos enroute. Arrive in Porto late afternoon. Overnight in Porto.

Day 5: Morning walking tour of Porto’s medieval Ribeira District. Afternoon, free for you to explore more of Porto. Overnight in Porto.

Day 6: Leave Porto for Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Morning visit to the Cathedral and a tour of the medieval town. Afternoon free for you. Overnight in Santiago de Compostela.

Day 7: Leave Santiago de Compostela for the city of Oviedo. Brief afternoon walking tour of Oviedo. Continue to the coastal town of Gijon. Visit to beach during the summer months. Overnight in Gijon.

Day 8: Leave Gijon for the town of Bilbao. Free time for you to explore the city before continuing to San Sebastian, the most well-known beach area in northern Spain. Overnight in San Sebastian.

Customizable Itineraries

An alternative to the typical prepackaged trips offered during the busy season are the customizable tours that are run by a number of the tour companies that operate packaged bus tours. If you want the convenience of someone else doing the reservations, but don’t want to share your precious travel time with 40 or more people who want to experience the adventure of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco with you, then this is an option. These tours allow you to travel during the off-season and tailor the trip to your specifications. Prices are negotiable, especially among the many companies in Madrid that offer these services. Scheduled itineraries are also negotiable.

You select your cities and length of stay in each location, pick out the services you want, and the travel agency will obtain quotations from various companies and handle your reservations. Prices are usually for a minimum of five or six nights in at least two cities, with a half-day sightseeing tour included in each location, but you can customize it to include additional tours and lunches at local restaurants if you wish. You might want to compare prices by doing a little research and handling the reservations yourself if your itinerary is complicated; otherwise, using a travel agency should save you a lot of time and effort.

Accommodation Options

When planning a guided tour in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, it is essential to consider the various types of accommodation options available for your stay. Accommodation choices can significantly affect your travel experience. This section presents several types of lodging, from luxury hotels to boutique inns to dormitory hostels and everything in between. Locating budget hotels in cosmopolitan cities might not be too ambitious; however, keep in mind that you won’t always find the perfect accommodation for your travel budget, as in some regions there are not many options regardless of price ranges. In any case, the more you save on lodging, the more for the fun stuff, like tours, guides, and excursions. Consider finding a pleasant place to stay, whether expensive or cheap, because your lodging will be your home base.

The bulk of visitors to Spain and Portugal (and some in Morocco) find a bed at a hotel. The quality of hotels varies, from basic hotels that may have little more than a room and a bathroom, up to luxury establishments that provide flat-screen TVs, bathtubs, and gourmet breakfasts. Many deluxe hotels and some first-class lodgings have a variety of amenities, including swimming pools and health clubs. In Spain and Portugal, look for the hotel star classification, which signifies the amenities available: one-star hotels are the simplest and least expensive establishments, while five-star hotels are luxurious. Hotels in the subtle national ratings may, however, prove to be more of a gamble than expected; unlike other parts of the world, the Spanish and Portuguese often take their generous paperwork for granted and may simply slap a star on a pitiful dump. Some independent sources check these sorts of accommodations, so talk to other travelers or check travel forums for the current report on a given place before resigning yourself to much lesser quality than expected.

Hotels and Resorts

Spain and Portugal have fantastic hotels. Every major city has at least one five-star beauty, whether it’s a classy old palace or a shiny new behemoth. Luxury hotels are mostly located in Belem and at the seaside, but there are also some patrician hotels in the center of Lisbon. You can find travel agents in Madrid and Barcelona specializing in splendid old inns, turreted hotels in quaint wet villages, even the most covetable modern gems, sometimes with packages or deals to help you. In principle, hotels at the international chain level are very consistent in what they offer from city to city. Many mid-range tourist hotels have each expanded on the idea of “An island of calm in the city, with a friendly welcome.” Bigger tourist hotels offer a few services, often at inflated prices, with low-quota staff. Others are throbbing empires of flimsy interiors and chaotic recruitment and pricing policies, where visitors are ripped off mercilessly. But there are a few fabulously good ones, like the Princess.

Portugal’s off-season is the time to visit the theme parks. Hotels generally drop prices by 25-40 percent in low-season holidays. Also, the major airlines drop fares. Bookings get wily flexible by late September, and virtually end by late December. This is the best of the year for tourist bargains, without being too off-peak. Most banks shut on Saturday, with the main trunk branches mercifully open mornings. Major department stores and hotels usually deal in travelers cheques. The man on the street is reasonably adjusted. In Spain, the luxury hotel segment is occupied by the main international chains. The mid-range category is filled mostly by local hotels. The small super-privates have outlets like the H10 or Grupo Categala.

 Hostels and Budget Stays

In Europe, youth hostels fall under the purview of Hostelling International, which lists thousands of properties in several countries. However, the Portuguese example, Pousadas de Juventude, is somewhat different from hostels in other countries. Most hostels in Spain and Portugal do not have age restrictions; for instance, even if you’re well beyond your 20s, you can use a youth hostel and enjoy a shared dormitory with other tourists. Unlike in the United States or Canada, where youth hostels are very strictly monitored, in Portugal the quality of a youth hostel can vary from a comfortable and friendly pension to a near-rat hole. One thing they have in common is the need to pay in cash that is preferably backed up by either a group membership or an identification that indicates an advanced stage in your youth.

Association agreements have been signed in order for youth hostels to be more in sync across Europe. Membership in one national group gives access to other national groups. Those under the outstretched umbrella of Hostelling International get some of the lowest prices on the continent, but those without membership may find better stats in nonaffiliated or independent hostels. Hostels affiliated with a national group tend to be the most expensive, while those that are independently run are on average the cheapest, but despite membership policy differences, and a few exceptions, there is generally a steady lowering of price as you go from the lowest rated to the highest rated hostels. In most cases, hostel prices only include the dormitory fare. You will need to plan to pay extra for things like sheets, breakfast, other meals, showers, and towels.

Unique Lodging Experiences

In sociological terms, the answer to the question of where to stay is determined by the connections people make in the places they visit. The most rewarding trips involve good conversations, visiting private homes or, at least, local cafes, where you can see or hear and hopefully join in on lively discussions. In these situations it helps to have a friend, to break through the veil of hospitality. Friends are priceless when it comes to finding well-priced local lodging or charming guest cottages sometimes attached to a house. Just don’t forget the family structure. In Muslim cultures, some people do not greet or speak directly to women in public. Many travelers get caught up in friendly chatter without realizing that many cultures are very old-fashioned about propriety. It’s one of the reasons it has been so easy and cheap for women to travel alone in certain countries. They know the rules and respect them.

In Portugal, accommodations center around manors and houses converted into family-run pousadas or hostels, blending atmosphere with price. In Galicia, there are a growing number of rustic homes and farms that have been approved as tourist lodging, many with charming rooms and home-cooked meals. Spain has an extensive system set up in historic monasteries, castles, and palaces. They are officially run by the tourism office, and they are not cheap but in a historical setting. There are many smaller attention-grabbing hostels.

Conclusion

Hit with a careless detail of its Mediterranean coast’s colored T-shirts, oversold apartments and scruffy tasting “white-wines” and nasty “frying-spoil”, one might miss the windward and leeward blessings that make a visit to Spain, Portugal and Morocco an indescribable preciousness. Embedded in a gentle sun-saturated space, all three countries hold the cushions of marvelous natural sceneries, authentic natives, empathic cultures, ancient civilizations and scrumptious olives-peppers tastebud ticklers of mouth watering mullets, catfish and lamb. Have faith, for there is a generously huge amount of friendly captivation and tangible rewards per spent dollar in these pagodas of magic.

Cool downs or relayers of 4 days or less do warrant you a totally fitted opportunity to taste high quality folds of “time” used in Jewry. When travelling longer period-of-time, there is an opportunity to site take-off our moves in one country for at least a period-of-day. It is the purpose and intention of the relay crew to list your possible movements in country sticks per amount of day, spent in that specific window of time, creating tugging strings of intricate and interesting “paths”, winding-siding, dipping-falling, waking of enchanting Potpourri that will captivate you, resulting to leave your own trail of soul in the living sands of Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

There is not much hearing for brochures. These fragments of “travel-industry” cover up the unpleasant shiftings and variabilities of the travel tour travelling sector, tempting insatiable amounts of sick inches into their fake bosoms, intending only to profit and gain from suckers on a fixed budget. Or even worse, get the “comet-tail phenomenon” followed by their ill-smoked corrupted hollers. And yet, we must live with some of it! They do mean and deal some of a travel tour travelling sector, portioning access-time tour hole sectors, aiming to distance those that long fun-hole in the bosom of the live tour travel indulging their sour false luggage tickler.