Spain and Portugal
Madrid, Sevilla, Lisbon, Sintra and Porto… AND MORE!
September 23- October 5, 2020
Total package price:
starting at $2752/pp
Airfare not included
This package includes ground transportation, accommodations, tours, some meals ...
and more...
*Prices and availability are subject to change and are not guaranteed until completed through the booking process.
September 23:
DEPARTURE
(self arranged airfare)
EWR-MAD
September 24:
Arrive in Madrid
You'll arrive in Madrid this morning and be met by your driver at the airport to take you to your hotel.
After checking into your hotel, start exploring the city!
Madrid is not as large as it might seem—especially the central districts. Right in the middle of the city lies the Puerta del Sol, a traffic nexus that is the point from which all distances are measured. Also, the house numbering on every street starts at the end nearest the Sol. West and south of the Sol, are the oldest areas of the city, Los Austrias, which contain the royal palace (Palacio Real) and the historic and well-trodden square, Plaza Mayor.
The triangular area to the east and south of the Sol—with the Plaza de Cibeles, Atocha Station and the Sol at its corners—is one of the liveliest districts in Madrid, containing countless bars and restaurants. This is also where the three big museums stand in a row, and beyond them, the largest park in central Madrid, Parque del Buen Retiro.
Directly south of the Sol is Lavapiés: formerly a working class area, but now the most ethnically interesting part of the city thanks to a significant influx of immigrants from Africa and Asia.
North of the Puerta del Sol and the parade avenue of Gran Vía are the Malasaña and Chueca districts. The former is an old residential area that has been cleaned up in the last twenty years, whilst remaining one of the city’s most relaxed bar districts. The latter has also undergone a rebirth: today it is Madrid’s hippest quarter, a centre for a culture of clubbing, restaurants and clothing shops. Originally a gay district, it is now best described as broad-minded.
This evening you’ll have reservations at Sibrino de Botin for their famous Suckling Pig.
September 25:
Tour Madrid
From palaces to museums to churches to great tapas.
We will explore the most emblematic spots in the city- including the Royal Palace!
Plaza Mayor is one of the main sights as well. It was the social and commercial hub of Madrid for many centuries.
In its surrounding streets we discover the origins of the city, remnants of the Medieval Ages, the glory of becoming the Capital of the Spanish Kingdom and the changes that took place with the arrival of a new dynasty. A past that has remained engraved in the city's monumental buildings, squares and narrow streets, fiestas and social and cultural celebrations. We can complete our tour trying some local food.
September 26:
Depart for Seville
This morning, you'll check out of your hotel and travel to Seville, making stops at Toledo and Consuegra!
Toledo
Settled since pre-Roman times, the city has held an important position for every major empire of the past 2000 years, including being the seat of supreme power under Charles V. Toledo’s harmonious cultural history is what makes it such a unique attraction today.
Here, visitors can see the Santa María la Blanca, the oldest remaining synagogue in Europe, before heading to see the military museum in a 10th century Moorish fortress.
Perhaps even more impressive than the hilltop citadel is the city’s cathedral - the second largest in Spain. Built during the 13th century, many consider it Spain’s finest example of High Gothic style. Inside, the Cathedral is practically its own museum with an altarpiece by El Greco and its own gallery exhibiting works by the likes of Rubens, Van Dyck, and, of course El Greco.
Consuegra
Settled since Roman times, Cosuegra’s historic countryside has been famous since the 16th century. Today, Cosuegra’s windmills are the best examples in the country, with 5 of them still retaining their complete mechanisms. One has been restored and In the distance, the 12th century castle beckons visitors to explore its halls, and get an alternative view of the giant windmills. The city center also offers its own attractions, such as the Renaissance town hall in the scenic Plaza de España square. If the windmills are still on your mind - look up!
September 27:
Private Guided tour of Seville
(with lunch and a flamenco show)
The Phoenicians arrived in this area first, establishing a number of trade colonies by the river. They taught the locals how to work with iron and created a new way of processing gold.
The Romans came next and founded the town of Hispalis a few hundred years BC. Hispalis grew into a beautiful and prosperous city, but it never managed to emerge from the shadow of nearby Córdoba, until the Visigoths transformed Hispalis into a provincial seat and a centre of learning.
In the 11th century, the Moors captured the city and re-named it Ishbiliya, but they too chose to make the grander city of Córdoba their capital. They even named it the Córdoba Caliphate.
After almost 400 years of civil war battles between Christians and Arabs, the Moors withdrew from their beloved Al-Andalus. Soon after, the inhabitants of Seville finally struck gold.
When Christopher Columbus discovered a new continent in 1492, the exclusive trade rights were given not to Córdoba, but to Seville. The city quickly became the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan city in Europe, and retained that position for several hundred years.
This eclectic mix of influences over the centuries have shaped the city we see today, and Seville's fascinating history is visible at every turn.
You will visit the most important places of Seville:
Ancient Jewish Section
Royal Palaces (Alcazar)
Cathedral including the Giralda Tower
Bullring including its museum
River Bank (including a River Cruise ride ).
Roman Ruins of Hispalis (Anticuarium) right at the wonderful contemporary Metropol Parasol.
Lunch in a local bar (one of those choosen by locals)
The Purest Flamenco Show of the City
The Spanish square
September 28: Depart for Lisbon
This morning, you'll check out of your hotel and find your private driver waiting for you in the lobby of your hotel. On the way, you’ll stop at Merida and Cristo Rei!
Merida
Founded in 25BC, this “mini Rome” was designated by the Emperor for Roman legionnaires and their families. Eventually it evolved into the capital of Lusitania, which was arguably the most important province in the western empire. Over the centuries, the region passed between Christian, Moorish and Portuguese control, influencing the city’s culture and architecture. For a taste of Rome, visitors can see the amphitheatre, theatre, Circus Maximus, bridge, aqueducts, and National Museum of Roman Art. The city is also home to the 6th century Visigothic Basilica of Santa Eulalia, and 9th century Moorish castle.
Cristo Rei (Christ the King)
Located in Almada, just across the Tagus river from Portuguese capital of Lisbon, the statue of Christ the King is one the most popular sights in the area. The construction of the statue dates back to 1959, when then authoritarian leader of Portugal Antonio de Oliveira Salazar gave permission for the structure to be built. Built on the highest point overlooking the city, visitors can take an elevator to an 82-meter high (269ft) pedestal to enjoy even more spacious views of Lisbon, River Tagus, and the Atlantic Ocean in the background.
September 29:
Tour Lisbon
Walking through the city's neighborhoods, narrow streets and the most ancient parts will make you feel like a true local.
Lisbon is set on hills filled with history. It's foundation goes back 3000 years ago and we can still imagine how the different people lived .
The city has many features from different periods that we will be able to see in this tour. Majestic squares like the commerce square is the biggest in Europe, maze like streets from the time of the romans and moors, old walls still preserved till today, tiled facades, medieval buildings and impressive views.
If you feel tired we can always stop for coffee and a pastry.
You’ll start the tour at the Rossio Square, the very heart of Lisbon. Walk along the pedestrian street through the downtown area completely reconstructed after the earthquake of 1755, admire the Elevator Santa Just. Go up the Hill of Saint George and visit the cathedral, romanesque church dating back to the 12th century.
Continue uphill to the viewing points of Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol (Gate of the sun) to admire the view over Alfama.
If time allows, you may possibility to visit Saint George's Castle.
Go downhill to Alfama to discover the core of Lisbon, moorish influenced district.
Continue to the Commerce Square, built after the earthquake, one of the most majestic squares of Lisbon where we end our tour, not far from your hotel.
September 30:
Guided tour of Sintra
Your full-day tour of the Sintra region begins with pickup at your hotel, where you'll climb aboard a comfortable tour vehicle and meet your guide for the day.
Head for Pena Palace, which sits on a hilltop with a view of Sintra National Park and the Atlantic Ocean. Learn about the 19th-century Romantic style of the palace, then continue through Sintra National Park to see the flora and fauna, the Chalets, the Montserrate Palace and the Moorish Castle.
Then, visit the old town of Sintra where you can shop and enjoy a wonderful port wine tasting and taste local treats.
Afterwards you’ll walk to Quinta da Regaleira (ticket not included), stroll through the exotic gardens and hear about the mysticism wrapped up in the secret wells, caves and Masonic architecture.
earn about the alchemy behind the architecture and art, with origins in the Templars, the Rose Cross, and the Masonry.
At the end of your day, you’ll enjoy some wonderful local fish and seafood at a local seaside restaurant. (at your own expense)
End the tour by passing by Cabo a Roca and/or Cascais and Estoril before returning to your hotel in Lisbon.
October 1:
Depart for Porto
Today you’ll depart Lisbon and travel to Porto, making a couple stops along the way to visit Óbidos and Fatima.
Óbidos
The maze of cobblestoned streets that make up Óbidos’ striking historic centre are lined with whitewashed houses, accented with splashes of vivid yellow and blue paint, and garnished with flowers, all ensconced within the walls of its medieval castle.
Since Queen Urraca was given the title of the village by King Afonso II in 1210, the several royal consorts enriched the village with donations, making it into one of the most scenic in the country.
The hilltop castle has been converted into one of Portugal’s most luxurious hotels, and now offers stunning views of the city as well as incomparable accommodations.
For history buffs with a sweet-tooth, the tile-bedecked main gate, Porta da Vila, leads directly into the main street, Rua Direita, which is lined with chocolate and cherry-liqueur shops. The best way to enjoy the town’s signature ginja liquor is in a small edible chocolate cup.
Fatima
Fatima is a town and Parish located 142 km (88 miles) North of Lisbon. Fatima is one of the most important catholic shrines in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Fatima’s Sanctuary welcomes millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Fatima’s fame is due to the Apparitions of Our Lady of the Rosary that appeared to three shepherd children; Lucia dos Santos and her two younger cousins, Francisco and Jacinta. Between May and October of 1917, the three children witnessed several apparitions. The last one, on October 13th, was confirmed by a miracle witnessed by 60,000 people known in the catholic world as “the day the sun danced”.
Fatima now attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the world, particularly on the pilgrimage days in May and October.
The large torch-light processions in the evening are particularly impressive, often lead by Cardinals and Bishops. The pilgrims gather in Cova de Iria an enormous plaza where a little chapel was built and where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to the children.
Around the plaza are a considerable number of shops and stalls selling various religious articles.
On the far side of the plaza rises the great basilica, built in the in neo-classical style, with a central tower 65 meters high, the construction of which was begun on 13 of May 1928. It is flanked by colonnades linking it with the extensive convent and hospital buildings. In the basilica are the tombs of two of the three visionaries, siblings Francisco and Jacinta Marto, who died in 1919 and 1920 respectively, and were beatified in 1970. The third seer, Lucia dos Santos, died in 2005.
October 2:
Tour Porto
Time has seemingly failed to touch some of the hidden corners of Porto, with many of its typical winding alleys full of shops and restaurants looking like a scene straight out of a medieval history book. The city is so soaked in the past that the historic area of Ribeira has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Considering the backdrop of wrought-iron balconies full of flowers, the daily washing and an array of fresh white and blue ‘azulejos’ tiles, you will have the perfect city for aimless wandering. However, the city does have a few key landmarks that are worth a visit, including the elaborately decorated Palacio da Bolsa (=the Stock Exchange Palace), the medieval Cathedral and Clérigos Tower.
The other big draw for tourists is the tour of the Porto wine cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side of the Douro River.
The surrounding suburbs of the city are also compelling: Matosinhos offers great seafood eateries and small beaches stretching down the coastline. Amarante invites to a particular colorful shape. Foz do Douro is known as the wealthier area, with nightclubs and restaurants just 5 kilometres northwest of Porto.
Exploring on foot, you will visit the UNESCO Historic Centre, Aliados Avenue (main square and City Hall), Clérigos Church & Tower, Lello Bookshop, São Bento Train Station, Sé Cathedral, the Stock Exchange Palace & Ribeira Square (beautiful esplandade on the river) and several other important locations.
October 3:
Explore Porto on your own
In Porto there is so much to see and do, and its beautiful surroundings are particularly spectacular.
Make sure to visit the port wine caves, different markets and many museums.
October 4:
Travel to Lisbon
Today you’ll depart Porto and travel back to Lisbon, making a couple stops along the way to see Coimbra and Nazaré.
Coimbra
The town's long history is visible by the Roman Cryptoporticus on display in the town’s Museu Machado de Castro.
When the Moors conquered the city in the early 8th century, it served as a trading center for almost three hundred years – today’s Arco de Almedina gateway marks the entrance to a former Moorish medina. Shortly after the Christian Reconquista of 1064, Coimbra became the country’s capital. During this time, the Sé Velha was built, along with the Convento de Santa Cruz.
The Universidade de Coimbra opened it doors in 1290, and is reputed to be the second oldest university in the world, producing many nationally and globally acclaimed academics. Immerse yourself in medieval houses "sobrado" cascading down a hillside on the east bank of the Rio Mondego: it's a multicoloured collage of buildings spanning nearly a millennium.
Nazaré
For much of its history, Nazaré was a tiny fishing village perched atop a cliff to protect its inhabitants from raids by everyone from the Vikings to Dutch pirates. In the 19th century, it finally expanded to its famed beachfront, which is now a popular weekend and holiday destination.
But step back from the bright-colored umbrellas, and you’ll find a network of cobbled streets lined with pleasant colored houses, and maybe a traditionally-dressed fisherman roasting his latest catch.
A modern funicular brings visitors up to the old town (Sítio) where you’ll find historic churches, such as the Shrine to Our Lady of Nazaré, where the town’s namesake Byzantine Black Madonna is enshrined.
Venture from the picturesque town center to the lighthouse point for stupendous views of the coast. If you’re visiting in winter, you may catch Nazaré’s infamous 100-foot-high waves, and maybe see the brave surfers trying to tackle them.
October 5:
Depart for Home
Today, you'll depart from Lisbon and board your plane for home.
Your hotel will have an airport shuttle (at your own expense- payable onsite) for your convenience.
(self arranged airfare)
LIS-EWR
TRAVEL DETAILS
PRIVATE TRANSFERS:
ARRIVAL Transfer
September 24:
Madrid Airport
to
Hotel
Booking #: TBD
Private Van/Bus Transfer
September 26:
Madrid
to
Seville
Booking #: TBD
September 28:
Seville
to
Lisbon
Booking #: TBD
October 2:
Lisbon
to
Porto
Booking #: TBD
October 4:
Porto
to
Lisbon
Booking #: TBD
HOTELS
*THESE HOTELS OR SOMETHING SIMILAR
Madrid, Spain
September 24-26
Dear Hotel Madrid
Gran Via 80, Madrid, 28013
Confirmation #: TBD
Seville, Spain
September 26-28
Hotel Casa Imperial
Imperial, 29, Old town, Seville, 41003
Confirmation #: TBD
Lisbon, Portugal
September 28-October 1
TBD
Confirmation #: TBD
Porto, Portugal
October 1-4
Pestana Porto – A Brasileira
Rua de Sá da Bandeira 91, 4000-427 Porto, Portugal
Confirmation #: TBD
Lisbon (LIS), Portugal
October 4-5
TBD
Confirmation #: TBD
REGISTRATION FORM
PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.
flight information
Please submit this form with your flight information REGARDLESS of if you purchase travel insurance
Pricing details
price Per Person:
$2752 (double occupancy)
$4321 (single occupancy)
*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.
INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE
Ground Transportation
Arrival: Madrid
Madrid to Sevilla
Sevilla to Lisbon
Lisbon to Porto
Hotel accommodations**
2 nights in Madrid, Spain
2 nights in Sevilla, Spain
3 nights in Lisbon, Portugal
3 nights in Porto, Portugal
1 night in Lisbon (by airport)
Tours
Madrid Tour
Toledo Tour
Consuegra Tour
Sevilla Tour (MEAL INCLUDED) and Flamenco Show
Merida Tour
Cristo Rei Tour
Lisbon Tour
Sintra Tour
Óbidos Tour
Fatima Tour
Porto Tour
Coimbra Tour
Nazare Tour
Most taxes and fees
Tour taxes and fees
Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)
**Most hotel reservations require you to pay taxes, VAT and resort fees onsite
NOT INCLUDED
Airfare
Local taxis
Most meals/beverages (unless included in hotel and/or tour)
Some hotels may require payment of city taxes, VAT and resort fees onsite
Some entrance fees must be paid in person and onsite
Tips to guides, drivers and hotel staff
Departure airport transfer (due to hotel directly)
Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING
Basic (starting at $189/ea)
Cancel for Any Reason (starting at $373/ea)
SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE
There are two payment options available to you.
*payment schedule does not include insurance costs. Insurance is due with initial payment.
Option 1:
(most secure, least likely to change in price and availability)
Full payment due now (plus insurance)
Option 2:
(prices and availability are subject to change and are not guaranteed until completed through the booking process and payment is in full)
(an additional 10% fee per payment is applicable with this option, additionally there is a $50/pp fee added to the bill for this delayed payment option)
Double Occupancy:
(price per person)
March 15: $555 + insurance
April 15: $505
May 15: $505
June 15: $505
July 15: $505
August 15: $505
Single Occupancy:
March 15: $843 + insurance
April 15: $793
May 15: $793
June 15: $793
July 15: $793
August 15: $793
REGISTRATION
A completed registration form (per person)
Photo copy of picture/information page of each traveler passport emailed to: christian@zone-travel.com
FINAL PAYMENT
Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.
Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.
Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.
CANCELLATION
Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on each individual airline policy.
30 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost
Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.
Travel Insurance
TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT
Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.
Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."
Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.
BASIC PLAN:
The Basic Plan is so affordable you can have your fun and protect it too - all while staying within your budget. The plan has a wide-variety of covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and it can also include coverage for existing medical conditions so you can book your trip with complete confidence.
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $10,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $50,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $500.00
Baggage Delay: $200.00
Travel Delay: $300.00
24-Hour Hotline Assistance: Included
CANCEL ANYTIME:
(NY RESIDENTS-PLEASE ENQUIRE ABOUT SIMILAR OPTIONS)
You can enjoy the extra flexibility of knowing you can cancel your trip for almost any unforeseen reason that the Classic plan does not already cover at 100% and receive 80% of their non-refundable trip cost back in cash. With features like comprehensive trip cancellation, primary emergency medical coverage and 24-hour travel assistance, the Classic with Cancel Anytime plan is there if life throws an unexpected wrench in your travel plans. Plan must be purchased within 10 days of the first payment date and must cover the full non-refundable trip cost ($10,000 maximum).
Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost
Trip Interruption: Trip Cost
Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $25,000.00
Emergency Medical Transportation: $500,000.00
Baggage Coverage: $1,000.00
Baggage Delay: $300.00
Change Fee Coverage: $500.00
Loyalty Program Redeposit Fee Coverage: $500.00
Travel Delay: $800.00
24 Hour Hotline Assistance Plus: Included
F.A.Q.
How can I make a payment?
You can make a payment (Mastercard, Visa, Discover or American Express) by clicking one of the payment buttons above
or, if you prefer a check, you can make checks payable to "Zone Travel LLC"
Address:
P.O. Box 44098
Columbus, OH 43204
Please ensure checks are mailed early to arrive by the required payment deadline.