36. From Iberia to Morocco

Grand Iberia & Morocco

This comprehensive 17-day journey offers a richly layered exploration of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, seamlessly connecting Europe and North Africa in one unforgettable itinerary. Beginning and ending in Madrid, the tour is designed for travelers who want to experience iconic landmarks, diverse cultures, and a mix of guided sightseeing and relaxed free time.

In Spain, the itinerary highlights the historic university city of Salamanca, the elegance of Seville, the architectural marvel of Córdoba and its Mosque-Cathedral, the dramatic landscapes of Ronda, time to unwind on the Costa del Sol, and the Moorish splendor of Granada’s Alhambra Palace. Travelers also visit Toledo, the former imperial capital known as the “City of Three Cultures.”

In Portugal, guests discover the riverside charm of Porto, including a traditional wine cellar visit with tasting, the academic heritage of Coimbra, the spiritual significance of Fátima, and the vibrant capital Lisbon, rich with monuments from the Age of Discovery.

Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar by fast ferry, the journey continues into Morocco, where travelers experience a fascinating blend of Arab, Berber, and European influences. Highlights include Tangier, the administrative capital Rabat, the Atlantic metropolis of Casablanca, and the Imperial City of Marrakech, with its palaces, gardens, lively souks, and the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square. Historic medinas, grand mosques, and colorful marketplaces bring Morocco’s culture vividly to life.

Throughout the tour, guests travel comfortably by luxury motorcoach, enjoy selected meals, stay in well-located hotels, and benefit from professional tour escorts and expert local guides. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a classic, in-depth discovery of Iberia and Morocco, blending history, culture, scenic beauty, and authentic local experiences across two continents.

Day 1 – Tuesday | Madrid → Salamanca → Porto (560 km)

We depart Madrid early this morning at 8:00 a.m., traveling northwest through the Spanish countryside to Salamanca, one of Spain’s most beautiful and historic university cities. Known for its golden sandstone architecture and centuries-old academic tradition, Salamanca’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time to stroll through the historic center and admire the magnificent Baroque Plaza Mayor, widely considered one of the finest main squares in Spain.
In the afternoon, we continue west into Portugal, arriving in Porto, a charming city set along the Douro River. Overnight in Porto.

Day 2 – Wednesday | Porto

After breakfast, we enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage City famous for its riverside setting, tiled façades, and wine tradition. Highlights include Porto Cathedral, the elegant Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa), and the richly decorated Church of Santa Clara. We conclude our tour with a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where we learn about and taste the world-famous Port wine.
The rest of the day is free to explore Porto at your own pace - perhaps wandering along the Ribeira district, browsing local shops, or relaxing at a café by the river. Overnight in Porto.

Day 3 – Thursday | Porto → Coimbra → Fátima → Lisbon (338 km)

After breakfast, we travel to Coimbra, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and a city closely associated with Portugal’s intellectual and musical heritage. Enjoy free time to explore the historic center and university surroundings, often considered the cradle of traditional Portuguese fado music.
We then continue to Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage destinations. You will have time to visit the Basilica and Sanctuary and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred site.
Later in the afternoon, we arrive in Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital. Overnight in Lisbon. In the evening, you may choose to attend an optional traditional fado music performance.

Day 4 – Friday | Lisbon

This morning we enjoy a panoramic tour of Lisbon, beautifully situated at the mouth of the Tagus River. Our sightseeing includes scenic viewpoints, Eduardo VII Park, Rossio Square, Avenida da Liberdade, and the Madragoa district, where fado music originated.
We continue to the historic Belém area to see the iconic Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the impressive Jerónimos Monastery, masterpieces linked to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The afternoon is free. An optional excursion is available to Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 5 – Saturday | Lisbon → Mérida → Seville (480 km)

After breakfast, we cross back into Spain and travel to Mérida, a former Roman capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time to explore its outstanding archaeological complex, including the remarkably preserved Roman Theatre and Amphitheater.
Lunch is on your own. In the afternoon, we continue along the historic Silver Route into Andalusia, arriving in Seville. Dinner and overnight in Seville.

Day 6 – Sunday | Seville

After breakfast, we enjoy a guided tour of Seville, the passionate capital of Andalusia. Highlights include María Luisa Park and the spectacular Plaza de España, famous for its grand design and colorful ceramic tiles. We also see the exterior of Seville Cathedral—one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world—and its iconic bell tower, the Giralda.
We then stroll through the charming Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and hidden plazas. Optional activities include a cruise along the Guadalquivir River with views of the Torre del Oro and Expo ’92 site, or a visit to the historic Maestranza bullring. Lunch is on your own. Optional flamenco show in the evening. Overnight in Seville.

Day 7 – Monday | Seville → Córdoba (145 km)

After breakfast, we depart for Córdoba, once the capital of Moorish Spain. Our walking tour begins at the Puerta de Almodóvar and continues through the atmospheric Jewish Quarter. The highlight of the visit is the interior tour of the Mosque-Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with its striking forest of red-and-white arches and unique blend of Islamic and Christian design.
Enjoy free time afterward. Dinner and overnight in Córdoba.

Day 8 – Tuesday | Córdoba → Ronda → Costa del Sol (322 km)

After breakfast, we travel along the scenic White Villages Route to Ronda, dramatically perched above a deep gorge. Enjoy free time to explore its historic center and admire breathtaking views from the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge.
Later, we continue to the Costa del Sol, Spain’s famous Mediterranean coastline. Dinner and overnight.

Day 9 – Wednesday | Costa del Sol

Half-board included. Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax on the beach, explore seaside towns, or take advantage of the Costa del Sol’s many restaurants, cafés, and leisure options.

Day 10 – Thursday | Costa del Sol

Half-board included. Another free day to enjoy the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, whether by the pool, along the promenade, or exploring nearby coastal attractions.

Day 11 – Friday | Costa del Sol → Tangier → Rabat → Casablanca (Ferry) (560 km)

We depart early for Tarifa, where Europe nearly touches Africa, and cross the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry to Tangier. Upon arrival, we explore the port area, traditional souks, and historic neighborhoods, experiencing the city’s unique cultural blend.
We continue to Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital, visiting the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. After lunch, we proceed to Casablanca, Morocco’s Atlantic metropolis. Dinner and overnight.

Day 12 – Saturday | Casablanca → Marrakech (245 km)

After breakfast, we enjoy a panoramic tour of Casablanca, highlighting its cosmopolitan character and oceanfront avenues. We stop outside the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world (interior visit optional).
We then travel inland to Marrakech. The afternoon is free to explore the medina and experience the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna Square, the heart of local life. Dinner and overnight.

Day 13 – Sunday | Marrakech

After breakfast, we enjoy a comprehensive tour of Marrakech, another of Morocco’s great Imperial Cities. Highlights include the elegant Bahia Palace, the Menara Gardens, and views of the Koutoubia Mosque. We explore the colorful souks and arrive at Jemaa el-Fna Square, where musicians, storytellers, and food stalls create a vibrant spectacle.
Lunch is included. The afternoon is free. Optional Fantasia dinner show in the evening. Overnight in Marrakech.

Day 14 – Monday | Marrakech → Mohammedia → Tangier (578 km)

After breakfast, we travel north with a stop in Mohammedia, a pleasant coastal town known for its beaches and fresh seafood. Enjoy free time for lunch overlooking the Atlantic.
We continue to Tangier, arriving around sunset. Enjoy the evening strolling along the harbor boulevard or relaxing at the hotel. Dinner and overnight.

Day 15 – Tuesday | Tangier → Tarifa → Costa del Sol (Ferry) (186 km)

After breakfast, we cross the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry back to Spain. Upon arrival in Tarifa, we continue by coach to the Costa del Sol. Dinner and overnight.

Day 16 – Wednesday | Costa del Sol → Granada (180 km)

After breakfast, we travel along the coast and inland to Granada. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided visit to the spectacular Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s greatest Moorish masterpieces.
Dinner and overnight in Granada. Optional evening visit to the Sacromonte caves for a traditional zambra flamenco show.

Day 17 – Thursday | Granada → Toledo → Madrid (446 km)

After breakfast, we depart for Toledo, Spain’s former imperial capital and the historic City of Three Cultures. Lunch is included, followed by panoramic views from the Valley Viewpoint and a walking tour through the old town.

We then continue to Madrid, where the tour concludes.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 2435 €

Single Supplement: 825 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 135 €

Supplement for departure on April 10 and April 17 (Feria): 120 € 

-----

Here you will find commonly asked questions regarding our tours.

1. Are the tours for individuals, families, or small groups of friends?

- Yes. Our tours are for single travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends whom we put together with other travelers to form a larger group.

2. How many people are normally included on a tour?

We cannot guarantee an exact number per tour. Normally, it ranges from 10 to 25 people per group, but these numbers can vary greatly depending on the time of year. In summer, groups tend to be larger as this is a popular time of year, while the winter season usually attracts fewer people, thus smaller groups are formed. There are certain tours that combine travelers if the destinations follow the same routes; e.g., you may be on a 10-day tour package with companions traveling on a 5-day package. The tour will cover the same areas, and the 5-day package guests will break off thereafter. Also, more people may be joining in for the other part of the package.

3. Is there a guide or tour leader on the bus?

- Yes. An accompanying guide (tour leader) always travels with the group during the entire tour. An exception may occur when there are minimal numbers signed up for a particular tour. These small groups will travel with an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide. In all major cities, we use local professionals and licensed guides.

4. What languages do the guides use?

English and Spanish. All our tour guides speak both languages fluently. If a tour group consists of an English-speaking group only, the tour will run in English. But most of the tours will have both English and Spanish (from Latin America and Central America) passengers, so the guides will explain in both languages.

5. Do your tours run during certain times of the year?

Most of our tours run all year. Some tours, e.g., those running to the northern regions of Spain, only run from March until October. Each tour's description provides all the relevant information needed. For example, ''Sundays all year'' means that a tour will start on every Sunday of the year, regardless of the numbers. Just look up the calendar for the specific dates Sundays are falling on, and make sure you arrive in Spain a day before.

6. What cities do the tours start from?

Tours start in Madrid or Barcelona.

7. Where are the meeting points for the tours?

In Madrid, it is Calle Ferraz 3 (Ferraz Str., 3). This meeting point is in the city center, right off Plaza España.

In Barcelona, it is in the reception of the Hotel ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' (Carrer de Muntaner, 505, 08022, Barcelona).

8. Do you pick them up from the hotels on the first day of the tour?

By default, no. We do not pick up from hotels because that would delay the tour launch time. However, if your hotel is en route, using the same bus route on launch day, we will pick you up. A week before travel, we require the name of your hotel in Madrid and will inform you if you can be picked up directly from your hotel or need to head over to the meeting point at 7.45 a.m.

In Barcelona, the meeting point is always in the reception of the ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' hotel.

9. What type of vehicles do you use?

We use buses for larger groups and minibuses for smaller ones. Vehicles are comfortable, modern, and equipped with air conditioning.

10. If there is Wi-Fi on your buses,?

There is Wi-Fi on all our buses in Spain and Portugal. But please keep in mind that sometimes during the transfers between the cities, the Wi-Fi signal can be weak or intermitting due to poor coverage from the main operators. Please do not expect very high Internet speed (to download or stream movies during the transfers).

11. Are meals included?

Buffet breakfasts with all the drinks are included every morning in all hotels our guests occupy during their tour.

Lunches and dinners are included anywhere that's mentioned in the itinerary (sections ''Itinerary'' and ''Included in Tour''). Normally, dinners are held in the hotel's restaurants, but many times they will be buffet (''eat as much as you want''), and only drinks will be at an extra cost. Also, sometimes lunches and dinners will be held in the restaurants.

12. If I am a vegetarian or allergic to certain products, is there any problem?

No problems at all. Inform the tour leader, and he will assist you. On a side note, many dinners are buffet-type, so you can simply choose what you prefer. For those with allergies, if in doubt, please remind the tour leader during mealtimes. Alternatively, ask the restaurant staff about the content of the dishes.

13. What time do you arrive in Madrid on your last day of travel? Can I book a flight on the same day, flying out of Spain?

Normally, we return to Madrid between 17.00 and 19.00 on the last day of the tour. However, it is not recommended to book the flight out on the same evening or night, as traffic jams in Madrid or other possible events may delay your arrival. Feel free to talk to us before starting the tour, and we'll organize your overnight stay in Madrid after the tour.

14. I need a night in the hotel or a transfer from or to the airport to be booked before or after the tour.

Sure. Just let us know at the time you organize it.

15. Can I just show up for the trip without a reservation and pay directly in the office, on the spot?

Unfortunately, not. The tour must be booked in advance, as we need to make all the arrangements beforehand.

16. How long in advance should I book a trip?

If you book at least 2 weeks in advance, the trip is guaranteed for you, though we recommend booking even earlier, if possible, as in these cases we have a wider range of hotels to accommodate the early reservations—better options.

17. Can I customize one of the tours for myself?

No, as there are more people traveling with you on the tour. However, if you represent an agency or the leader of a group of people, contact us; we'll take care of a private and customized tour for your party only.

18. What is the booking process?

It is simple. Once you have chosen the tour, there are six steps:

1. You confirm the tour by e-mail, indicating the starting date, tour code, number of persons traveling, and their names, as well as the types of rooms preferred (single, double, or triple).

2. We will send you an invoice.

3. You pay 10% to book the tour.

4. We issue the confirmation.

5. Three weeks before the starting date, you pay the rest of the money due, and

6. You show up for the tour on the appointed date and time.

19. How much should I pay and when?

We require a 10% deposit during reservation and the remaining 90% no less than 3 weeks before the tour commences.

20. How would I pay?

You can pay in one of four ways:

1. Bank wire to our company’s bank account. Our banking details are included on the invoice that you receive.

2. We can charge your credit card. Please keep in mind that, in this case, we charge an additional 2% on top of the amount (bank charges).

3. Transferwise.com is an online system allowing the transfer of funds. There is a small commission attached.

4. Western Union (normally for short-notice reservations and when the amount needs to be received urgently).

21. What is the cancellation and refund policy?

10% paid at the time of reservation is non-refundable. The other 90% is fully refundable if cancelled in no less than 2 weeks (e.g., if you paid 100% upfront, you get the whole amount right away). There are no refunds for cancellations made with less than 3 weeks to go before the trip.

22. Are there any discounts or surcharges?

Yes. Discounts are listed under the section ''Prices'', under each package.

23. Are taxes included in the tour prices?

Yes, VAT and tourist taxes for different cities are included.

24. How do I know if I need a visa for Spain or Morocco?

- Please check the visa information for Spain here. The visa requirements for Morocco can be found here. Please note that all trips to Morocco will require your Schengen visa to be of an ''multiple entry'', as you will enter Spain for the second time.

25. I am ready to go ahead and book one of your tours, but I need a visa to enter Spain.

Yes, we do help our customers get their visas after a trip is confirmed. As we are a fully licensed tour operator in Spain, after the deposit is paid, we can issue a confirmation, which you can later bring to the Spanish Embassy or Consulate. In this letter, we confirm that you booked and partially (or fully) paid for a tour with us. Please note that we do not guarantee the issue of a visa and cannot influence the process. The decision is up to the Embassy, as they have their own rules and regulations for each country. At the same time, we do our best to ensure we provide assistance where possible.