Portugal and Spain: Historical Wonders

Enjoy a tour of Lagos as well as the spectacular grottos off the west coast. Even before you reach Lagos, there is something to catch your eye - the unique pottery of this region at an en route craft center. Arrive at Lagos to discover its ancient history and seafaring traditions, evident in robust coastal defenses, ruins of a 15th century slave market, the Baroque Church of Santo António and artifacts at the local museum. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the city center, pausing at quaint stores and charming cafes for a light lunch break. Later, set out on a boat tour that takes you through the caves of Ponta da Piedade. Marvel at the ochre hued rocks and azure blue sea water which lights up grotto walls with shimmering reflections. You can extend this sensory delight even further with a spot of swimming and sunbathing on the rocks. (Duration: Full Day; Private Lagos Tour & Transfer; Shared Grotto Tour; Time: 1000 – 1700 hrs; Guests are requested to bring bathing suit, windbreaker and sneakers as well as water and sunscreen; Fitness level: easy)

Explore the highlights of sun-drenched Seville as you traverse its historical neighborhoods. Soaking up the Andalusian vibe, begin your tour with a visit to the Seville Cathedral that houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Marvel at the expansive structure that showcases stunning late Gothic architecture, and features dozens of chapels inside. Drop by Giralda bell-tower next door, which is a minaret of the former mosque on this site, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the city. Continue onward to the 14th century Royal Alcázar of Seville that is still in use by the Spanish royal family. Strolling through ornamental gardens and beautiful courtyards of this palace complex, admire the Mudéjar, Islamic, and Gothic styles of architecture. Finally, navigate the maze of narrow streets at Seville's former Jewish quarter Santa Cruz that features colorful houses, and intimate plazas dotted with orange trees. (Duration: 3.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Alhambra palace complex and the city of Granada. Learn about the history of the Alhambra that was built by the Nasrid emirs in 1238. Symbolic of the end of 800 years of war against the invading Moors, it is also known for being the place where Columbus got permission from the Queen to set sail to America. Marvel at the distinctive features of the monument - an Alcazaba (fortress), an Alcázar (palace) and a small medina (city), all in one. After lunch, continue on your own to the Royal Chapel – an Isabelline style, 16th-century building, which was the burial place of the Spanish and Catholic monarchs. Learn why this location was chosen for its construction and the socio-political factors that led to it. (Duration: 6 hours; Private Activity and Transfers; Fitness level: Easy; A tour guide, entrance fees, and taxi from your hotel to Alhambra and to Sacromonte.)

Admire the historic architectural highlights of Cordoba that hark back to the time when it was the capital of Islamic Spain. Visit the multi arched La Mezquita mosque-turned-Catholic church with its columned prayer hall, Byzantine mosaics, and the Renaissance-style nave. Admire the iconic Roman Bridge that was originally built in the early 1st century BC across the Guadalquivir river. Take a trip back in time as you stroll through the fascinating narrow lanes in the Jewish Quarter past well-preserved Medieval-era buildings including the Calle Judios is Casa de Sefarad museum and the city’s traditional flower-adorned patios. Drop into the famous Alcazar that was once the residence of monarchs, a defense fortress, and was even a garrison for Napoleon Bonaparte's army. Admire the distinct Mudejar architecture of the oldest remaining synagogues which survived the Spanish inquisition. (Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity; Fitness level: Easy; Tour guide, and entrance fees included.)