Spain, Portugal & France

three nights Paris

Days 1-2 We depart New Zealand with a one-night stopover enroute to Paris, renowned for its classic style and arguably still the capital of couture. This evening on arrival in Paris we meet our local guide and transfer to our hotel, heads full of anticipation for what the days to follow will reveal. (D)

Day 3 After a good night’s sleep it’s time to explore some of the greatest sights of this romantic city, including the Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, and Notre Dame. We’ll drive along the famous boulevard, Champs Elysees, and take an afternoon cruise along the enchanting river Seine. We’ll experience some of the city’s finest districts, be awed by her majestic parks and learn a little of the expansive history of Paris as we go. This evening there’s an optional excursion to the world’s most famous cabaret, Moulin Rouge. (B.D)

Day 4 A full day in beautiful Paris to do as you please. (B)

three night Avignon

Day 5 What adventure awaits us today, as we catch the legendary high speed TGV train to the south of France, where on arrival, we’ll meet our local guide and see some of the outstanding features of the region including the Papal Palace and Pont du Gard. (B)

AVIGNON – NIMES – (Les Baux de Provence)

Day 6 An exciting day beckons, with our local guide showing us highlights of Nimes including Maison Carrée and Carré d’art before we embark on one of the most picturesque drives to Baux du Provence, where you’ll have time to explore this charming medieval town before we enjoy dinner overlooking an impressive valley, then we’ll take you to an art gallery like no other at the Carrières des Lumières, where vivid images come to life on every surface of this now disused limestone quarry, and you’re immersed in sound – you won’t want to leave. (B,L)

Day 7 A free day to explore the wonderful city of Avignon. (B)

two nights Madrid

Day 8 Travelling via Marseille we catch our plane to Madrid, lined with elegant boulevards and manicured parks. We’ll enjoy an introductory tour with our guide, pointing out some of the more fascinating sights and providing an orientation of the city. (B)

Day 9 This morning we’re off to explore more of this great city including the Cervantes Memorial, Plaza de España, Gran Via, Puerta del Sol and Parque del Buen Retiro. We’ll also drive by the famous Prado and Reina Sopia museums where you’ll have time to explore more at your leisure tomorrow should you wish. This evening we’re off to a special dinner, the highlight of which is a performance of passionate Flamenco dance accompanied by local musicians. (B,D)

Day 10 Today is another full day to yourself. Museums, palaces, plazas, and parks abound, not to mention some excellent shops and cafes, so live like a Spaniard today. (B)

one night Salamanca

Today we travel from Madrid to Salamanca, home to the 3rd oldest University in all of Europe and boasting one of the most beautiful squares in Spain, the Plaza Mayor. It may only be one night, but Salamanca is an absolute highlight and one of the ‘jewels’ in Spain’s crown. (B,D)

two nights Porto

Day 12 Today’s an exciting day, as we travel from Spain into Portugal for the first time, and what better place to start than Porto, on the river Duoro, famous for many things, but none more so than facilitating the transportation of Port Wine. (B)

Day 13 Our morning sightseeing introduces us to the many splendours of this fine city including the historic Ribeira District, the engineering genius of the Dom Luis l Bridge and the ornate St Benedict railway station, recognised as a world heritage site. We’ll pass the unmistakable Majestic café, frozen in a bygone era and see where some of the world’s finest Port’s come from on our distillery tour. (B,D)

three nights Lisbon

Day 14 Departing Porto this morning we make our way to the nation’s capital Lisbon. A wonderful mix of history, tradition, great architecture, passionate locals and fine cuisine among other things. (B,D)

Day 15 Today we board our coach and meet our guide to see more of this fine city including the Belem Tower and nearby, Jeronimo’s Monastery. We’ll walk over the plaza depicting the world in mosaic to the Monument to the Discoveries, and enjoy a casual walk through the historic Alfama qtr. From St George’s castle we’ll see the city laid out below and plot where our afternoon’s adventures might lead us. (B)

Day 16 A free day today to do as you please. Tonight we’re off to immerse ourselves in culture, local cuisine, dance and song in a passionate performance of traditional Fado. (B,D)

three nights Seville

Day 17 We venture southeast toward Seville and our home for the next two nights. Seville is the administrative capital of the Andalucian region, and boasts up to 320 days of sunshine a year! We may make a stop at a ‘mystery’ destination, conditions permitting. (B,D)

Day 18 Our city sightseeing today includes one of the most striking buildings you’re ever likely to see, the imposing Alcazar Palace, which transcends description. We’ll also see the towering minaret of Giralda, and the Santa Cruz quarter with its beautiful flower boxes and vibrantly decorated facades. Capping off our sightseeing is the impressive and ornate Plaza Espana, a sight to be seen. (B)

Driving amongst a varying landscape of farmlands intermingled with expansive farms of a different nature, solar farms, we make our way to captivating Cordoba to see the impressive Mezquita, a unique blend of Mosque and Cathedral in one. (B,D)

two nights Costa del Sol

Day 20 Leaving the beautiful city of Seville this morning, our first stop of the day is at the fascinating mountaintop city of Ronda, where you’ll have time to get some lunch and go exploring, before continuing on to the southern coast of Spain, aptly named the Costa del Sol. (B,D)

Day 21 A free day at leisure to indulge personal passions. (B)

three nights Barcelona

Day 22 Another exhilarating experience lays in store for us today as we board the Bullet Train to travel from Malaga to Barcelona. AVE bullet trains travel at speeds up to 300 kph. This evening after dinner we have a special treat in store for you.

Day 23 Today’s sightseeing is filled with highlights, including some of the finest creations of celebrated designer/architect Antoni Gaudi, such as his grotesquely beautiful Sagrada Familia Cathedral and spectacular Parc Guell. We’ll drive the picturesque streets of the Gothic quarter and Example District. We’ll also allow plenty of time for you to stroll at your leisure along one of the world’s most iconic pedestrianised streets, Las Ramblas. (B)

Day 24 Our last day in Spain sadly, but it’s all yours to enjoy as you please There are a multitude of excellent galleries and museums on offer for the art lover, wonderful shopping for those who can’t get their fill, and for others a bit of everything and some time to watch the locals from the comfort of a nearby café or bar will likely round off the day nicely. Tonight we dine at a special location to celebrate our wonderful journey together and reminisce over great food and fine wine. (B,D)

We depart Barcelona for New Zealand with an overnight stopover enroute to assist in arriving home feeling refreshed and with wonderful memories etched in your mind. (B)