Have you been browsing the web looking for your next travel destination but indecisive about what to choose? Let Lori and Stephen share their 2-week trip across Portugal and Spain and that may help you decide!
From the colourful neighborhoods of Lisbon to the historic streets of Toledo, and from the lively tapas bars of Seville to the stunning architecture of Barcelona, they embraced every moment with curiosity and excitement. Their adventure was a tapestry of rich cultures, delectable cuisine and spectacular landscapes, punctuated by countless joyful experiences. In their own words: “My husband and I just returned from a wonderful trip to Portugal and Spain. We went through TourTailors to plan our trip and it was amazing!”
Join us as we follow Lori and Stephen’s itinerary, made from scratch with the expert guidance of TourTailors, featuring scenic train rides, cultural sightseeing and leisurely explorations!
A Journey Through Lisbon’s History and Flavours
Eager to discover Portugal and Spain’s treasures, Lori and Stephen decided to reach out to TourTailors to create their own personalized itinerary, allowing them to travel to unfamiliar cities completely hassle-free. Lisbon was their first stop, the city of seven hills, where Lori and Stephen embarked on a walking tour through the historic centre.
As they wandered through the charming streets, they were captivated by the architecture, colourful tiles everywhere and lively atmosphere. They passed by iconic landmarks like the Sé Cathedral, the oldest church in Lisbon, and the São Jorge Castle, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The tour continued to the main Commerce Square, where they learned about Lisbon’s maritime history.
From there, they ventured to the Belém district, known for its impressive monuments! Lori and Stephen were awe-struck by the grandeur of the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, and the nearby Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. As they soaked in the history and beauty of the area, they stopped for a taste of the famous Pastéis de Belém, savouring the sweet custard tarts that have become synonymous with Lisbon’s culinary heritage.
To end their day in the best way possible, they had dinner in a Fado restaurant in Alfama, where they were able to fully immerse themselves in the soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics of this Portuguese musical genre.
Sintra, a fairytale escape
After getting to know every nook and cranny of Lisbon, Lori and Stephen had a private driver take them to the enchanting town of Sintra, nestled in the hills just outside the city. Their first stop was the magnificent Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched atop a hill overlooking the town. The palace's lively colours, intricate architecture and lush gardens transported them to a magical realm straight out of a fairy tale!
Continuing their journey through Sintra, they visited the Quinta da Regaleira, a romantic estate with hidden tunnels, secret passageways and a mysterious initiation well. Exploring Regaleira's grounds feels like stepping back in time and being part of ancient stories and legends that have surrounded this place for centuries.
A visit to Porto and its wine cellars
On their 4th day in Portugal, a smooth 3-hour train ride took Lori and Stephen to Porto, the land of the famed Port Wine. Here, they visited notable landmarks like the Carmo Church, Carmelitas Descalços Church and the Livraria Lello, a majestic bookstore known for its ornate architecture. For spectacular panoramic views of the city, climbing the Torre dos Clérigos and its church is a must!
In the afternoon, Lori and Stephen took a ride on the Funicular dos Guindais to Ribeira, an alluring riverside neighborhood. From here, they crossed the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, and delve into the world of Port Wine, participating in an informative guided tour through a Port Wine cellar, learning about the production process, and sampling the different flavours of this Portuguese beverage.
A day of art and culture in Madrid
The following day, Lori and Stephen headed to Madrid, where more adventures awaited! Landmarks such as the Royal Palace, with opulent interiors and expansive gardens, and the Prado Museum, housing an impressive collection of masterpieces by renowned artists like Velázquez, Goya and El Greco, were mandatory points of interest in any trip to Madrid.
And to take a break from the museums, they enjoyed a leisurely stroll through Retiro Park, a beautiful green park with gardens, ponds, and the Crystal Palace. For a taste of local life, churros con chocolate offered a delicious moment!
Toledo’s medieval allure
While in Madrid, Lori and Stephen took the opportunity to get to know Toledo, a historic city renowned for its rich tapestry of cultures and stunning medieval architecture, just a short train ride from Madrid.
Their first stop was the magnificent Toledo Cathedral, an amazing example of Gothic architecture. Inside, they marveled at the intricate stained-glass windows and the impressive altar. Next, they wandered through the winding cobblestone streets to the Alcázar of Toledo, a fortress that has stood for centuries. As the sun begins to set, the Mirador del Valle is a viewpoint that offers wondrous views of Toledo's skyline illuminated in the golden hour and the perfect way to say farewell to this amazing city.
Embracing the heart of Andalusia
Arriving in Seville, the vibrant capital of Andalusia! To start right, our travelers had a private tour of the Alcázar and the Cathedral, to learn all about the Moorish history and its current influences in the region, and to admire the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and its beloved bell tower. The Plaza de España, a stunning architectural masterpiece with colourful tiled benches and a canal, is another must-visit while in Seville.
Lori and Stephen meandered through the charming streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, a maze of narrow alleys and whitewashed houses, and the Triana quarter, known for its pottery and flamenco heritage. For a taste of Andalusian culture, a flamenco performance in one of the city's traditional tablaos was the ideal way to immerse themselves in the passionate music, dance and singing that characterize this unique art form. It is a truly captivating experience!
A final adventure in Barcelona
Lori and Stephen spent the last days of their travel in Barcelona! Known for its jaw-dropping architecture and vibrant culture, the couple had a private tour to ensure they could see the highlights and hidden gems of the city!
The iconic Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, and Casa Batlló, are some of the unmissable sites of Barcelona, like Park Güell, where Gaudí’s unique mosaics, colourful structures mix with lush gardens, provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll and stunning panoramic views of the city. Besides these architectural wonders, Barcelona also offers possibilities to experience Catalonian cuisine, such as seafood and delicious tapas. It is the ideal way to end this incredible journey!
Ready to embark on your dream journey?
We are very happy to hear that Lori and Stephen's multi-country tour exceeded their expectations and that it was a memorable trip, brimming with delicious culinary experiences and fun activities. “It's the perfect combination of an organized trip with transportation and tours included and free time for us to be on our own and explore!”, said Lori. The couple were equally impressed by their travel consultant’s dedication and responsiveness. And we are especially thankful to them for sharing their wonderful photos and experiences with us!
If you are yearning for your own adventure filled with unforgettable memories, you only have to contact TourTailors and together we will create your own tailor-made experience! Are you checking your calendar already?
