A journey to Portugal and Morocco is a study in contrasts, a perfect pairing of neighboring worlds separated by a narrow strait yet worlds apart in culture, color, and rhythm. It's a trip that takes you from the fragrant spice souks and bustling medinas of Marrakech & the breathtaking coastal town of Essaouira, Morocco to the tiled facades and melancholic fado music of Lisbon and Porto and to the warm & sunny region of the Algarve in Portugal.
Airfare & all flights are included in your trip package. Departure will be from one of the three Washington DC area airports.
The ancient walled city, or Medina, is the historic center and home to Marrakesh's most famous sights.
Jemaa el-Fna: This is the unmissable, beating heart of the city. By day, the vast square is filled with snake charmers, fruit juice stalls, and henna artists. By night, it transforms into a massive open-air restaurant with dozens of food stalls, surrounded by storytellers, musicians, and crowds of people.
The Souks: Just off Jemaa el-Fna, you'll find the famous souks, a labyrinthine network of markets. Each alley specializes in different goods. You can find everything from fragrant spices and colorful babouches (slippers) to leather bags, intricate lanterns, carpets, and metalwork.
Koutoubia Mosque: The city's most famous landmark, this 12th-century mosque features a stunning minaret that is visible from miles away. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, the exterior and its surrounding gardens are a beautiful sight, especially when lit up at night.
Experience the vibrant spirit of Marrakech, a city where ancient charm and bold flavors come together like nowhere else. Wander through its bustling markets, where the scents of saffron and mint fill the air, and discover why Marrakech is a true paradise for food lovers. From richly spiced tanginess to sweet, honey-drenched pastries, every bite reflects the fusion of North and West African traditions.
Essaouira, known as the "Windy City of Africa," is a charming and relaxed coastal town in Morocco that offers a refreshing contrast to the intensity of cities like Marrakesh. Its UNESCO-listed medina, historic sea ramparts, and vibrant arts scene make it a captivating destination.
The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region, is world-renowned for its stunning coastline, golden beaches, and dramatic natural landscapes. It's a diverse destination offering everything from bustling resort towns and vibrant nightlife to historic villages, pristine nature reserves, and world-class golf courses.
The central and western Algarve is defined by its spectacular limestone cliffs, which hide some of Europe's most beautiful beaches and sea caves.
Ponta da Piedade: Located near Lagos, this is arguably the most breathtaking feature of the Algarve coast. It's a headland of towering rock formations, sea stacks, and hidden grottoes carved by the sea.
Benagil Cave (Algar de Benagil): This world-famous sea cave is a natural wonder. It features a massive dome with a "skylight" hole in its ceiling, illuminating a small, sandy beach inside.
Praia da Marinha: Often voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this beach is the poster child for the Algarve. It's known for its iconic M-shaped rock arch and crystal-clear turquoise waters, all set against a backdrop of steep golden cliffs.
Lisbon, the vibrant, hilly capital of Portugal, is a city of historic charm, stunning viewpoints, and fantastic food. Its highlights are clustered in distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character.
Here are the essential highlights of Lisbon that our local guide will show us:
This waterfront district is a monument to Portugal's golden Age of Discovery. It's a must-visit, though it's located just west of the city center (easily reachable by tram or bus).
Jerónimos Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this monastery is the absolute pinnacle of Manueline (Portuguese late-Gothic) architecture. Its intricate stone carvings and breathtaking two-story cloister are unforgettable.
Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): The iconic 16th-century fortress sitting in the Tagus River. This UNESCO site was the ceremonial gateway to Lisbon and a symbol of Portugal's maritime power.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries): A massive, ship-shaped monument celebrating Portugal's explorers. You can take an elevator to the top for a fantastic view of the monastery and the river.
Pastéis de Belém: The original home of the world-famous pastel de nata (custard tart). Be prepared for a line, but it's worth it to taste the original, secret recipe, served warm and dusted with cinnamon.
This is the oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood in Lisbon. As one of the few areas to survive the 1755 earthquake, it's a labyrinth of steep, narrow, cobbled streets, colorful houses, and hidden squares.
Sintra is a a magical, mist-shrouded town set in the hills of the Serra de Sintra, just a short day trip from Lisbon. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its "cultural landscape," a fairytale collection of 19th-century Romanticist palaces, an ancient castle, and mystical estates, all surrounded by lush, exotic forests.
Aveiro, often called the "Venice of Portugal," is a charming coastal city defined by its network of picturesque canals, vibrant boats, and unique architecture. It's a relaxed and beautiful destination, perfect for a visit on the way to Porto.
Porto, the vibrant, hilly city that gave Portugal its name, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Set on the banks of the Douro River, its historic core is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colorful, time-worn houses, baroque churches, and, of course, Port wine.
The Douro Valley is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful wine regions. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a breathtaking "cultural landscape" of steep, hand-built terraces covered in vineyards that plunge down to the winding Douro River. It's the birthplace of Port wine and a must-visit for anyone interested in wine, food, and dramatic scenery.
ALL AIR TRAVEL TO & FROM WASHINGTON DC. , AND FROM MARRAKESH TO FARO, PORTUGAL
ALL TRANSFERS & PRIVATE BUS IN PORTUGAL
ALL ACCOMMODATIONS
5 STAR LUXURY RESORTS IN MARRAKESH & ESSAOUIRA
UPSCALE BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN PORTUGAL
ALL BREAKFASTS & DINNERS (SOME LUNCHES)
ALL FOOD TOURS & SPECIAL ACTIVITIES (CAMEL RIDE, DOLPHIN WATCHING, WINE TASTINGS, ETC.)
ALL ADMISSIONS & TICKETS
LOCAL GUIDES
$7495 -- Based upon Double Occupancy
$8495 -- Singe Occupancy
15% OFF FOR EARLY FULL PAYMENT BY NOVEMBER 23, 2025(DISCOUNT CODE 15)
10% OFF IF REGISTER ON/BEFORE NOVEMBER 15, 2025 (ENTER DISCOUNT CODE 10)
5% OFF IF REGISTER ON/BEFORE NOVEMBER 23, 2025 (ENTER DISCOUNT CODE 5)
(ONLY ONE DISCOUNT CODE PER TRIP)