
Spain, Morocco & Portugal
17 days, 8 cities |
Which trip type is right for you?
Essential: Room with 3+ other travelers in conveniently located hostels. For budget-conscious extroverts who love a group moment.
Plus: Room with just one other person in 3- or 4-star hotels. Perfect for people who value privacy and recharging in their own space.
Why go?
Add some zest to your life on this sunny three-country (and two-continent!) escape. Wander Lisbon’s colorfully tiled streets and lie out on the beaches of the Algarve coast. Get lost in the markets of Marrakesh and the medinas of Fez and Tangier. Explore Spain’s palaces, art museums, and tapas spots. Culture, flavor, history—with the volume turned way up.
What you'll get
- All transportation while on the trip (Note: flights to/from your tour’s starting/ending cities are not included, but you can add them)
- 15 nights in handpicked accommodations
- Meals: 15 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 5 dinners
- Guides: Expert Tour Director and 6 insider city tours with local guides
- 24/7 support
- Guided tour of Great Mosque in Córdoba
- Entrance to Madrid’s Reina Sofia
- Round-trip beach transfer in Algarve region
Picture yourself
- Wandering the galleries of Madrid’s world-class museums
- Eating all the tapas, paella, tagine, and pastilla in sight
- Getting lost in the lively markets of Marrakesh
- Admiring the Moorish architecture of Tangier and Seville
- Hitting the beach on Portugal’s golden Algarve coast
- Exploring the beautiful maze of Lisbon’s Alfama district
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Itinerary

Day 1: Overnight flight
Board your overnight flight, bound for Spain, where food and nightlife (and Felipe VI) are king. Cafes and restaurants line the streets of Madrid, which is good because Spanish tapas are must-try. And then try again. You know, for quality-testing purposes.
Day 2: Arrive in Madrid + Welcome Dinner
Welcome to Madrid! Spain’s capital is famous for its world-class art museums, live music scene, and endless nightlife. It seems people never sleep here (except for two hours after lunch). Madrid is a city that definitely knows how to relax and have fun.
In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at an authentic local spot. Afterwards, you’re free to take the party elsewhere!
- Arrive at the airport to meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers as they arrive.
- Transfer to your hotel to check into your accommodations.
- Head out for a Welcome Dinner with your group at an authentic local spot.
Day 3: Guided sightseeing in Madrid + optional street art tour & picnic in Retiro Park
A nearly endless amounts of tapas, sangria, and Spanish Golden Age architecture will greet you in this city located at the very center of Spain. Discover many of the most popular destinations before getting cultured at one of the world’s leading art museums. And remember, there’s always room for more tapas.
- Meet your local guide and journey to the very heart of Madrid at the Puerta del Sol, aka the “Gate of the Sun.”
- Shop, walk, and enjoy the outdoors and a bronze statue of King Phillip III at Plaza Mayor (Main Square).
- Check out the Picassos and Dalís at the Reina Sofia or see the works of the old Rennaissance masters at the Prado.
Malasaña neighborhood: This area is known for a large student population and streets filled with coffee shops, bakeries, and vintage clothing stores by day, and vibrant nightlife after dark.
The Golden Triangle: See world-famous works from artists like Pablo Picasso, Diego Velázquez, and Salvador Dalí in this triangular area featuring The Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, Reina Sofia museums.
Real Madrid: Tour Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, home to Madrid’s soccer (fútbol) team, Real Madrid. Sit in the players’ seats, see trophies up close, and practice your goal celebration dance on the field below.
Day 4: Travel to Granada via Córdoba
After a few days in the big city, it’s time to see some of Spain’s smaller gems. Stop in Córdoba to see the iconic Mezquita—a stunning mix of Islamic and Christian architecture—before continuing to Granada. Spoiler alert: beautiful Islamic-era buildings, delicious food, and plenty of wine is waiting for you at the end of the day.
- Say adiós to Madrid's metropolitan energy as you head south.
- Stop in Córdoba, once the heart of Islamic Spain, and still home to plenty of palm trees and charm.
- Step inside the Mezquita, a 1,300-year-old masterpiece that just might outshine every other building in Spain.
- Arrive in Granada, the city of pomegranates, flamenco, and Moorish magic.
Day 5: Sightseeing in Granada
Lucky you, a whole day in Granada! First things first—join a local guide for a VIP tour of the city. There’s heavy North African and Arabic influence here, and you’ll see it all around you in the intricate architecture, fusion food, and even the music of Granada. Get ready to be dazzled by the Alhambra palace and fortress, the real highlight of Granada.
- Meet your local guide and explore Albayzin, Granada’s old Moorish quarter, where a maze of narrow cobblestone streets twist past whitewashed houses while the Alhambra towers above.
- Take everything in as you wander the vast grounds of the Alhambra, a sprawling Moorish palace and fortress filled with intricate tilework, carved arches, and peaceful courtyards. Once home to sultans, it’s a masterpiece of Islamic art with sweeping views of the city and Sierra Nevada beyond.
- Walk along the Darro River to the Paseo de los Tristes promenade and grab a table at a nearby café.
Day 6: Travel to Morocco
Another day, another continent. Casual. Morocco, on the northwest coast of Africa, blends Berber roots with Arab and European influences. Once ruled by Phoenicians, Romans, and Islamic dynasties, it became a center for trade and culture linking Africa, Europe, and the Middle East thanks to its strategic location on the Gibraltar Strait. Now it tops every traveler’s bucket list, and you’re on your way.
- Head to Tarifa and board your ferry to Tangier, Morocco, across the Strait of Gibraltar.
- Board your private coach from Tangier to Fez—home to over a million people, and namesake to the tasseled hat that Aladdin wears.
- Spend the night in Fez how you see fit. Make sure to snap some dramatic shots of mosques and markets while the sun goes down, then hit the medina to take on a taste of the nightlife.
Day 7: Explore Fez + optional Moroccan dinner & music show
Fez is Morocco’s oldest imperial city, but don’t let the history fool you—it’s still buzzing with life. Founded in the 9th century, Fez is home to the world’s oldest university, colorful souks, and centuries-old tanneries. Its historic medina, (the old-town center of a North African city, often walled, with mazes of narrow, car-free streets) feels like stepping into another world. Follow your Tour Director for an in-depth look at how Fez has changed throughout its millennium-plus period of existence.
- Be dazzled by Fez’s ornate Moorish architecture like the Royal Palace Gate and the Bab Bou Jeloud.
- Visit the Old Jewish Quarter, known as the Mellah, and learn about the rise and fall of Fez’s once-numerous Jewish population.
- Attend an immersive ceramics demonstration. Fez is famous for its blue and white ceramic pottery, called Fassi, made with cobalt and featuring intricate geometric and floral patterns.
- Visit one of the world’s oldest tanneries to learn all about the history and process of creating leather.
Day 8: Travel to Marrakesh
Today is for Marrakesh today, and Marrakesh IS Morocco. Literally. In many languages, the name for Morocco is just “Marrakesh.” The Red City is easy to get lost in, but don’t worry. There’s excitement around every corner, and your local guide is here to make sure you get a real taste of Morocco.
- Feast your eyes on the pseudo-European floral beauty of the Gueliz District—designed by the French during the 20th century colonial period that left its mark on the city’s boulevards, buildings, and gardens. It’s a stark contrast to the old medina of Marrakesh.
- Explore bustling souks, vibrant squares, and stunning palaces that tell Marrakesh’s layered story.
- See the iconic Koutoubia Mosque with its iconic 250-foot minaret. Over 800 years old, it’s a masterpiece of Almohad architecture and a landmark visible from across the medina.
- Admire the beautiful geometric architecture of Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the medina.
- Prepare to have your definition of “supermarket” blown out of the water as you haggle your way through the Marrakesh Souk, the city’s biggest market and meeting place.
Day 9: Free day + optional hot air balloon ride + optional Moroccan cooking class
While most of Marrakesh is awake in time for the early Call to Prayer, we’re guessing you’re up early, too, in anticipation of the day ahead. Yesterday you saw the must-sees of Marrakesh, and today is all about the hidden gems. Feel free to spend the day exploring, eating, or for the truly daring, learning to charm snakes.
Majorelle Garden: Visit three different museums at the Majorelle Garden, named for the French painter who designed the sprawling grounds and lived in the shockingly blue villa on the property. The cactus-laden complex also includes the Islamic Art Museum, the Berber Museum, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
Bab Agnaou: Not to be confused with the similarly named mashed eggplant dish, Bab Agnaou is a 12th century city gate that once represented Marrakesh’s doorway to Sub-Saharan Africa. These days it’s mostly just a cool spot to take pics.
Day 10: Travel to Tangier via Casablanca
Swap Marrakech’s vibrant medina for the coast as you travel to Tangier with a stop in Casablanca. Yes, the same Casablanca of classic-movie fame. As for Tangier, this Mediterranean gem has inspired writers like Jack Kerouac and Tennessee Williams with its whitewashed streets, views of the Strait of Gibraltar, and a vibrant mix of African and European influences.
- Say beslama to Marrakech and board your private coach bound for Casablanca.
- Explore Casablanca’s highlights, including its modern streets, colonial architecture, and the iconic Hassan II Mosque.
- Enjoy an included traditional Moroccan lunch in Casablanca, featuring local flavors and spices.
- Continue to Tangier and raise a glass in honor of your final night in Africa. Tomorrow, it’s back to Europe.
Day 11: Return to Spain
Time to trade Moroccan medinas for Spanish plazas, couscous and tagines for tapas and paella, and Moorish history for, well...no, actually Spain has a ton of Moorish history, too. Seville, Spain is the birthplace of flamenco music and dance, and its also known for its unique Islamic architecture and bitter oranges, which are prized for making marmalades, liqueurs, and perfumes (hint hint souvenirs!).
- Cross the Strait of Gibraltar via a morning ferry and watch for some of the world’s best kitesurfers as you approach the shore in the Spanish port town of Tarifa.
- Travel to Seville, Spain’s fourth largest city and the capital of the Andalucia community.
Day 12: Sightseeing in Seville
Today is all about you, Seville, and a local guide. Your guide will show you the best of the best when it comes to the Pearl of Andalusia.
- Meet your local guide to experience the city’s highlights by bus and foot.
- Wander through the lavish Plaza de España and admire the Neo-Moorish architecture.
- Visit the Real Alcázar, a historic palace built in the 14th century for a king named Pedro the Cruel. Taking a wild guess that the people of Seville weren't huge fans of Pedro.
- Wind your way through Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter and most picturesque neighborhood in Seville.
Day 13: Travel to Portugal's Algarve coast + free time
A trip to Portugal is not complete without a couple of days to relax on the beach. Which is why you’re headed the Algarve region on the Portugal’s southern coast, a place that’s as straight-out-of-your-sun-worshiping-dreams as anywhere can get. It dazzles with golden beaches, rugged coastline, turquoise waters, bustling seaside villages, and cuisine plucked straight from the sea to your plate.
- Hop on a bus bound for the breathtaking Algarve coast in southern Portugal.
- Spend the rest of the day exploring sun-drenched streets, eating fresh seafood, and sipping Port wine and Vinho Verde complete with ocean views.
Day 14: Free day on the Algarve coast
Enjoy a free day in the Algarve Region to lay out on one of the many beaches, shop for souvenirs, or learn a bit more about the region's Moorish history.
Local wine: You can’t leave Portugal without trying some of the excellent local wine, like Port and Vinho Verde.
Seafood: Eat fresh catches like grilled sardines, octopus, and clam, often paired with local wine.
Day 15: Travel to Lisbon + guided sightseeing
Welcome to Lisbon, the City of Seven Hills. Rising up from the banks of the Tagus River, Portugal’s colorful capital blends old-world charm with chill coastal energy. It’s one of Europe’s sunniest cities (about 300 days a year), home to winding streets paved in stone, tile-covered buildings, iconic yellow trams, and enough pastries to fuel the rest of your trip.
- Meet up with a local guide and wander Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, shaped by the Romans and Moors way before it became a hub for fishermen and traders. Its narrow streets, colorful tiles, and hidden squares reflect centuries of history, but you can also find trendy restaurants, artisan shops, and cafes (Alfama Doce on Rua da Regueira has really good coffee).
- Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening to explore on your own.
Praça do Comércio: This huge square, framed by sunny yellow buildings, was once the city’s royal center, now buzzing with restaurants and boasting views of the Tagus River.
LX Factory: Explore street art, quirky shops, cafés, and restaurants in a lively, artsy atmosphere set in a former industrial complex.
Bifanas: Stop at Bifanas do Afonso or O Trevo (visited by Anthony Bourdain) for a bifana, a soft roll piled with juicy, marinated pork. Make sure to add piri piri hot sauce!
Day 16: Free day + Farewell Dinner
The day is yours to experience Lisbon your way. Go back to some of your favorite spots from yesterday or set out on your own to hunt for souvenirs, hop around the wine bars, bakeries, or tinned fish spots, get to know another unique neighborhood, or book a Tagus River cruise. No wrong answers in Lisbon.
In the evening, it’s time for your Farewell Dinner to relive the best stories, the funniest inside jokes, and all the unforgettable moments you’ve shared.
Elevador de Santa Justa: Originally steam-powered, this outdoor elevator is the handiwork of Gustave Eiffel’s apprentice (so it might look a little familiar). A ride up gives you awesome views of the city skyline, but you can also use the stairs if there’s a line.
Bairro Alto nightlife: Nightlife in Bairro Alto centers around small, intimate bars, where the crowds spill into the streets. It’s super lively and a great area to spend an evening.
National Tile Museum: A quick bus will take you to this must-see museum that showcases Portugal’s iconic azulejo tiles, from 15th-century masterpieces to modern designs.
Tinned fish: Portugal is the canning capital of the world, and tined fish is a fun souvenir to bring home. Sol e Pesca, Miss Can, and Conserveira de Lisboa are great spots.
Day 17: Fly home
Tchau, amigos!
Translation: Goodbye, friends! Your next destination awaits—home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?
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Accommodations
We handpick every accommodation and focus on locations and properties where local culture is at your doorstep. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used properties for this tour.

WOT Lagos Algarve
This hotel is located a short walk from Pinhão beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Guests will enjoy on-site restaurant, two bars, and an outdoor pool. Nearby, you’ll find multiple beaches, the Marina of Lagos, and several...

AMC Granada
This hotel is located in the city center of Granada. Guests will enjoy access to communal spaces, a breakfast bar, and comfortable accommodations. Nearby, you’ll find Plaza Nueva, many restaurants and shops, and tapas bars.
Room 007 Chueca Madrid
This eclectic hostel is in the Centro neighborhood of Madrid. Guests will enjoy an on-site restaurant with a rooftop terrace and bar, communal spaces, and a lounge with a TV and computers. Nearby you’ll find the lively Plaza...
Customize with excursions
Enhance your experience with hand-picked optional excursions—designed to add adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments to your journey.
Weather
Granada, Nicaragua
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Granada, Spain
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Marrakech, Morocco
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Fez, Morocco
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Madrid, Spain
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Granada, Spain
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Seville, Spain
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Lisbon, Portugal
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Flights
When you include flights with your trip, our dedicated team of experts will handle all the details, so your travel experience is as seamless as possible. Just select your dates and airport to see pricing.
Perks of booking flights with us
- Airport transfers to and from accommodations
- Ability to pay for flights over time, interest free
- Convenience of travel plans all in one booking
- 24/7 guidance through flight changes or delays
- Free delayed and lost bag tracking with Blue Ribbon Bags
- Locked-in price (barring post-booking changes)
- Flexibility for pre- or post-trip travel
- Major international airlines only
Traveler photos
Reviews
FAQ
Spain, Morocco, & Portugal are calling, book the trip! We recommend booking as soon as possible, this not only secures your spot on the trip, it also allows you the most time to pay for your trip. The closer we get to departure the more challenging securing your reservation becomes.
You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you'll visit on your trip here. Simply type in the name of the tour and you'll see all of the entry requirements including passport validity, visas, and electronic transit authorizations.
Note that this information will default to US passport holders. If you hold a passport from outside the US, please make sure to consult your country's immigration and travel site to determine the best documentation needed for your travels.
This tour is a sensory overload in the best way possible—think tapas in Barcelona, spice markets in Marrakech, and sunset views in Lisbon. You’ll explore vibrant cities, coastal gems, and ancient medinas, all while soaking up the energy of three wildly different cultures. From wandering the colorful streets of Alfama to the sizzling sand of the Sahara, every day is a new adventure. It’s the kind of trip where your camera roll fills up fast and your group chat never stops buzzing.
But it’s not just about the sights—it’s about the vibe. You’ll dive into local life with cooking classes, market visits, and group dinners that turn into dance parties. Whether you're sipping mint tea in a riad or snapping pics of Gaudí’s masterpieces, this trip blends culture, connection, and unforgettable moments. It’s designed for young travelers who want to see the world, meet new people, and make memories that hit different.
Groups average around 30 travelers but can range from 20 up to 44. Generally, the average age is 25. The group size allows for plenty of opportunities to socialize and explore together, making it a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and form lasting connections. Whether you're a solo traveler or coming with friends, you'll find a supportive and energetic group atmosphere. Check out our Rules of the Road and the role all travelers play in creating a fun and inclusive group.
Traveling solo? Have no fear! Over 60% of our travelers join an Ultimate Break tour solo. It doesn't matter if you're an introvert, an extrovert, or anything in between - our tours are designed for you to build connections that will last a lifetime. With experiences like our included Welcome and Farewell dinners, we'll make sure you have time to get to know your fellow travelers. First time traveling with us? Check out our resources for first time travelers here
When you book flights with us you’ll get:
- The ability to roll the cost of your airfare into our interest free monthly payment plan.
- One checked bag per traveler included.
- Expert guidance on how to work with the airline when flight delays and cancellations occur.
- Transfers to and from the airport on your tour's arrival and departure dates.
- Flexible rebooking options if your itinerary changes.
- Flexibility around your arrival and departure airports. You’ll have the option to fly in or out of most airports if you want to add any independent travel before or after your tour.
- Assurance that you will only be booked on airlines that meet our rigorous safety standards.
If you have preferences regarding an airline or are traveling with someone and wish to be on the same flight as them, you can read more about flying with your friend here. We're always happy to look into it however we can't guarantee we will always be able to accommodate.
Flight details are released for preview 60 days before departure and your e-ticket and confirmation number will be available 30 days before you depart.
When you book flights on your own, you’re responsible for:
- Transfers to and from the airport on your tour’s arrival and departure dates.
- Rebooking your flight and any associated fees if your flight is cancelled or delayed.
- Rebooking your flight and any associated fees if your itinerary changes or the tour is cancelled.
- Arriving and departing on time; no compensation will be provided for missed tour inclusions.
We recommend you avoid checking a bag, but if that’s not possible, you should ensure that you bring extra clothes and essentials in a carry-on bag as a precaution. You'll need to refer to your airline’s website for weight limits.
For more information on flying with Ultimate Break, check out the Flights section of our Help Center
Generally, expect to depart your home gateway in the afternoon or evening on Day 1. All overnight flights from the US to Europe will arrive mid-morning to early afternoon on Day 2.
Worried about jetlag, delayed flights, or just want more time to explore, we strongly encourage extending your stay to arrive early or stay late. This way you can settle in without the stress of missing anything.
When you arrive at the airport, you'll head through baggage claim and customs before being greeted by your Tour Director. They'll set a designated place for you to meet as the trip gets closer. For travelers who booked flights through Ultimate Break, you'll then be transported to your first accommodation to freshen up before the Welcome Dinner.
Your Tour Director is with you during your entire trip. They're part logistics master, making sure you get to see all that we have planned; part rockstar, sharing with your local hotspots; and part guru, sharing and inviting you into the culture. Our Tour Directors are fully trained and ready to support you in making your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable!
In some locations you will be met by a local guide who will lead you through our traveler-inspired walking tour. You'll get some local history and culture while also making sure you hit the photo stops. You'll walk away with an insider's perspective and some great pictures.
We recommend budgeting $80-$100 per day to cover tipping, food, and shopping. You know your spending habits best, if you want to do it all budget on the higher end.
On this trip you'll use both the Euro and the Dirham. We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards (ideally with a chip), which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed. Make sure to check with your bank or credit card company about withdrawal fees and/or foreign exchange fees. While better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, ordering currency from your local bank may be an option.
On Essential trips, roommates are assigned randomly unless a specific roommate is requested in advance, you can do this at the time of booking or in your online account up to 60 days before departure. Rooms may accommodate 4+ travelers of the same gender. Please note that rooming upgrades and mixed gender rooming are not available.
Spain, Morocco, & Portugal are considered safe for travelers, but like any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow basic safety guidelines. Pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help or deals.
Here are a few additional points:
- Health and Safety: Talking with your healthcare provider about any vaccinations or medication you may want to consider. Here are some additional tips for traveling with medication and traveling with allergies.
- International Data Plan: In the event you need to get in touch with your Tour Director or Ultimate Break while abroad, it’s important to invest in an international data plan. Call your cell phone provider to understand their plans or look into purchasing a sim card.
- Transportation Safety: When getting a taxi, make sure to agree on a price before getting in. At the end of a night out, use trusted transportation like a licensed taxi, Uber of Uber like service, and always have cash on hand.
- Nightlife: As with anywhere in the world, watch your drink, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
You can learn more about our safety commitment here.
Ultimate Break trips are a welcome environment for all. While we work hard to cultivate an inclusive environment in our groups, we recognize some people may have additional reservations based on their identity that they need to consider while traveling. Check out some resources on our identity and international travel page and reach out if you have any questions.
This is your classic sightseeing tour. Think lots of walking and taking in all the sites. On these tours, be prepared to:
- Walk a minimum of 10k steps per day (more if you add excursions)
- Use public transportation
- Climb on and off a motor coach or vehicle unassisted
- Manage your own luggage (including carrying luggage upstairs if no elevator)
- Climb occasional stairs, hills and navigate various terrains (think cobblestones) to different sites
- Stand for periods of time during guided commentary and photo stops
For Essential Tours: Be able to climb a ladder for bunk beds (if applicable)
Excursions are available for purchase at a discounted rate prior to departure. Some excursions may be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app but are subject to availability and will be more expensive.
We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
When you travel with Ultimate Break, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
Learn more about EF's Impact approach here.
Your safety is priority #1
Our parent company EF has been ensuring the safety of travelers abroad since 1965 with:
- 24/7 global on-call support
- Highly trained Tour Directors
- Quality & safety checks on accommodations
- 50,000 EF staff on the ground in 50 countries































































