Iberian Odyssey: Spain and Portugal Unveiled

• Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona, the Catalan Capital

Touch down in the trendy city of Barcelona, the sun-drenched capital of Catalonia. This evening, kick off your Iberian adventure with a welcome dinner at a chic waterfront restaurant, getting your first taste of Spain's world-famous tapas and wines.

• Day 2: Gaudí's Artistic Masterpieces

No Barcelona visit is complete without immersing yourself in the whimsical genius of Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at his artistic masterpieces like the fairy-tale Casa Batlló, the curvaceous Casa Milá, and most famously, the awe-inspiring La Sagrada Familia basilica (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Lose yourself in the dreamy landscapes of Park Güell before an afternoon tapas and wine tour through the hip El Born neighborhood.

• Day 3: Barcelona's Vibrant Soul

Dive deeper into Barcelona's vibrant soul by exploring the city's historic Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral, and bustling public squares like Plaza Cataluña. After a visit to a lively local food market, indulge in a ham and wine tasting experience to sample the flavors of celebrated Spanish cured meats and Catalan wines.

• Day 4: Paella and Architectural Wonders in Valencia

Travel to the coastal city of Valencia, Spain's birthplace of paella. After a guided tour of its historic sights like the Cathedral and Serranos Towers, roll up your sleeves for an authentic paella cooking class. Learn the art of this iconic Spanish dish before savoring the fruits of your labor.

• Day 5: Journey to Moorish Granada

Leave the coast for the storied city of Granada in Andalusia. En route, marvel at the scenic towns of Alicante and Murcia, a glimpse into authentic Spanish living away from the tourist trail.

• Day 6: The Magnificent Alhambra

Granada's crown jewel is the breathtaking Alhambra, a stunning Moorish palace and UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its lush Generalife gardens, opulent Nasrid Palaces, and ornate Islamic architectural details. End your day in Granada with a stroll through its historic Albayzín quarter.

• Day 7: Córdoba's Exquisite Mezquita

Continuing through Andalusia's Moorish history, discover the Great Mosque of Córdoba or La Mezquita, an iconic Islamic landmark blending Moorish and Renaissance design. Wander through the winding streets of the old Jewish quarter before heading to the lively city of Seville.

• Day 8: Seville's Colorful Heart and Soul

Seville captivates with its vibrant spirit and historic gems like the grand Gothic Seville Cathedral and the exquisite Alcázar palace, residence of Spanish royalty. Cap off your day taking in the passionate flamenco dance over tapas and regional wines.

• Day 9: A British Outpost - Gibraltar

On an excursion to the British territory of Gibraltar, encounter the famous Barbary macaques (the only wild primates in Europe), looming Rock of Gibraltar, and the engineering marvel of the Great Siege Tunnels.

• Day 10: Portuguese Pleasures in Évora and Lisbon

Cross into Portugal and delve into the historic charms of Évora, an exceptionally well-preserved medieval city with Roman and Gothic highlights. Journey onward to the coastal capital of Lisbon, bursting with maritime history and culture.

• Day 11: Lisbon's Age of Discovery

Lisbon's postcard-perfect Belém district puts Portugal's golden Age of Discovery on full display, from the iconic Belém Tower to the heroic Monument to the Discoveries. Tour the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery before exploring Sintra's whimsical palaces, like the UNESCO-listed Pena National Palace.

• Day 12: Coimbra's Academic Heritage to Porto's Wine Tradition

Travel north to the historic university town of Coimbra, home to one of the world's oldest universities dating to 1290. Continue to Porto, where a guided tour spotlights its Ribeira riverfront district, the splendid São Francisco church, and iconic wine cellars for coveted Port wine tastings.

• Day 13: Rivers and Rabelos of Porto

Cap your Porto experience cruising along the scenic Douro River, watching the iconic rabelo boats used to transport Port wine cargo in the past. Spend the rest of the day wandering Porto's colorful historic center at your leisure.

• Day 14: The Douro Valley's Delights

Consider exploring the verdant Douro Valley wine region on an optional tour highlighting its celebrated vineyards and wineries, a nature lover and oenophile's dream escape.

• Day 15: Salamanca's Golden Cityscape

Cross back into Spain and bask in Salamanca's "Golden City" charm, a harmonious vision of Renaissance architecture anchored by the historic University of Salamanca and Plaza Mayor square.

• Days 16-17: Madrid's Regal Beauty and Tapas Crawls

Continue to the regal Spanish capital of Madrid for guided tours of its world-class museums, royal palaces, vibrant plazas, and scenic parks. Experience its lively tapas culture and buzzing nightlife before a farewell dinner.

• Day 18: Depart Madrid

Bid adiós to Spain and Portugal as your Iberian journey concludes, armed with memories of stunning Moorish wonders, seaside splendors, historic cities, and the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality.