The Lusitanian-Moroccan Odyssey
The Lusitanian-Moroccan Odyssey
5 nights in Portugal, 7 nights in Morocco
Discover the "Iberian-Moroccan Odyssey," a tour that weaves together the vibrant cultures and landscapes of Portugal and Morocco. Start in Lisbon's lively streets, then explore Sintra's magical palaces and Cascais' coastal charm. In Porto, savor its renowned port wine. The journey continues to Marrakesh, Morocco, immersing you in its lively souks and majestic palaces. Experience the tranquility of the High Atlas Mountains and the coastal splendor of Essaouira, embarking on an unforgettable adventure across two fascinating worlds.
Sample Itinerary
we fully customize to your preferences
Day 1. Welcome to Portugal
We will meet you upon arrival to Lisbon to transfer you to the hotel. Get a good rest from the road and enjoy some free time in Lisbon. At the end of the day, treat yourself to an authentic culinary experience at a local restaurant. Indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine, savoring mouthwatering dishes such as bacalhau (salted codfish), grilled sardines, and pastel de nata, a delectable egg custard tart. Stay at: Memmo Principe Real Meals included: breakfast Services: private transfer
Day 2. Discovering Lisbon
In the morning, enjoy a private morning Lisbon Walking Food tour. You will experience real, traditional Portuguese cuisine with a Lisbon native-guide. The tour starts with a Portuguese style pequeno almoço of coffee and pastel de nata (custard tart) and a walk through Lisbon’s most characteristic neighborhoods: Old Town, aka Baixa de Lisboa, and Alfama. Next you’ll visit specialty stores and taste a variety of Portuguese petiscos, from the traditional bifana, to a gourmet Portuguese canned fish tasting. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening to continue exploring Lisbon on your own. Meals included: breakfast and food tour Services: private food tour
Day 3. Sintra and Cascais
(day trip) Embark on a captivating day tour from Lisbon to Sintra, the fairytale-like landscapes of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the town's magnificent palaces and castles, including the iconic Pena Palace. Perched on a hilltop, its vibrant colors and intricate architecture make it a sight to behold. Wander through the mystical Quinta da Regaleira estate, with its secret tunnels, beautiful gardens, and enigmatic symbolism. In the afternoon, continue your journey to the coastal gem of Cascais. Known for its picturesque beaches and charming atmosphere, Cascais offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. Meals included: breakfast Services:: private day trip
Day 4. On a way to Porto
We will assist you to get your flight or train to Porto. The train is the easiest and most comfortable connection to Porto, which lasts about 3 hours. Sit back and let us take you to the second most important city in Portugal, beautiful home of the wine of the same name. Private transfer from the train station to your hotel. Again, enjoy the afternoon on your own, but backed with our recommendations and necessary logistics. Stay at: PortoBay Flores Meals included: breakfast Services: private transfer in Porto
Day 5. Porto: riverside cafes and cruise along Douro
Begin your journey by visiting the iconic Ribeira district, where colorful houses line the Douro River. Marvel at the impressive Dom Luís I Bridge and soak up the lively atmosphere of the riverside cafes and restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of Porto's renowned port wine cellars for a tasting and learn about the city's rich wine heritage. Conclude your day with a relaxing cruise along the Douro River, taking in panoramic views of Porto's charming skyline. Meals included: breakfast Services: cruise ticket
Day 6. Porto: bookstores and rooftops
On your second day in Porto, delve deeper into the vibrant city and its cultural treasures. Start by visiting Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore renowned for its grand architecture and intricate wooden staircases. This historic bookstore served as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and continues to captivate visitors with its enchanting ambiance. Next, make your way to the Clerigos Tower, an iconic symbol of Porto. Climb the tower's spiral staircase to reach the top and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city's rooftops, river, and distant landscapes. Continue your exploration by visiting São Bento Railway Station, known for its exquisite azulejo tilework. Meals included: breakfast Services: cruise ticket
Day 7. On a way to Morocco
We will assist you with the logistics to catch a flight to Morocco. Just at the exit of the airport your English-speaking tour leader will be greeting you in the Ochre City of Marrakesh. Free night to enjoy your beautiful riad. If you wish, we will recommend and/or book a restaurant for dinner and provide all the logistics. Stay at: La Maison Arabe Meals included: breakfast Services: private transfer in Marrakesh, driver available 24/7
Day 8. Medina of Marrakesh
Embark on a city tour of Marrakesh from 9 am to 4 pm to explore its palaces, museums, and vibrant souks. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Red City as you navigate through its labyrinthine alleys and discover hidden gems. In the afternoon, indulge in a food tour, experiencing the flavors and aromas of Moroccan cuisine. Sample local delicacies and immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Marrakesh. Meals included: breakfast, food tour Services: private tour, driver available 24/7
Day 9. High Atlas where Berbers live
(day trip) After breakfast, embark on a day trip to the stunning High Atlas Mountains. Discover a beautiful valley tucked away in this rugged range, home to small villages that have preserved their traditional way of life. Experience the peacefulness of this remarkable place, where you'll hear the sweet melodies of birds, flowing streams, and cheerful wagtails. Put on your hiking boots and wander through olive groves and fruit orchards. Learn about the exquisite carpets made by local women while enjoying a cup of fragrant wild thyme tea. Enjoy a delicious lunch shared by Berbers. In the afternoon, we'll return to Marrakesh. To end the day, a local family will kindly invite you to their traditional home in the medina for a memorable dinner. Meals included: breakfast, dinner Services: private tour, driver available 24/7
Day 10. The Pearl of the Atlantic, Essaouira
Today we go to one of the most beautiful towns of Morocco–Essaouira. Back in the 1960’s the town provided a haven and inspiration for musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens. In later times Essaouira became the cultural inspiration for Orson Welles 'Othello', which was filmed on Essaouira’s streets and around the Skala area. More recently, Ridley Scotts' movie, ‘Kingdom of Heaven’, along with 'Sex and the City’ and ‘Game of Thrones’ have all been filmed in this stunning location.Enjoy the night in this ancient city. Stay at: Salut, Maroc! Meals included: breakfast Services: private tour, driver available 24/7
Day 11. Marrakesh of Yves Saint Laurent
Coming back from Essaouira, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Gueliz and Hivernage in Marrakesh. Visit the stylish boutiques and the beautiful Majorelle Gardens, and delve into the world of fashion and art at the Yves Saint Laurent museum. Marvel at the iconic designs and creativity of one of the world's most renowned fashion designers. In the afternoon, commence a street food tour, savoring the diverse and delectable flavors of Marrakesh's culinary scene. Explore the lively food stalls and try a range of street snacks and traditional dishes, ending your city adventure on a tasty note. Stay at: La Maison Arabe Meals included: breakfast, food tour Services: private tour, driver available 24/7
Day 12. Desert retreat
Lazy morning. Early afternoon, you will leave to the “Marrakesh desert”, Agafay. Nestled between city and mountains lies the Agafay Desert, a wild, stony and barren landscape of light-hued rocks–their color perhaps the reason for the desert’s name resembling the local Berber word for ‘milk’. Only a short drive from Marrakech, the area feels utterly remote and beautiful and it’s the perfect location to retreat to after time in the busy city or just to enjoy the activities on offer in this wide open space. Before sunset, put your indigo blue turban go for a camel ride and enjoy amazing colors ofgolden hour. Free evening to enjoy the landscape and silence. Dinner under the stars. Stay at: Inara Camp Meals included: breakfast, dinner Services: camel ride, driver available 24/7
Day 13. Departure
Private transfer to the airport.