Paradores & Pousadas of Spain & Portugal - Premier Collection

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To book or for more information please call: 0330 341 1117 and quote RTA

Paradores & Pousadas of Spain & Portugal - Premier Collection

Newmarket Holidays is offering 10% off tours until Sunday, 9 November.

An Iberian heritage escapade from Lisbon to Malaga with stays at a collection of historic, luxury and culturally significant boutique hotels. Stays at unique accommodation promises complete immersion into the rich heritage of two countries, from dining on regional cuisine to admiring historic architecture. A guided tour of Lisbon’s cobbled streets, with their colourful assortment of tiled buildings, will be followed by visits to the coastal town and royal haven haunt, Estoril, and UNESCO-listed Sintra, renowned for its 19th-century Romanticist architecture. A coffee break and pastéis de nata (custard tart) will be enjoyed in the district of Belém before the option to experience a Fado dinner and dance show will further enhance your cultural itinerary. Leaving the flurry of the city behind, the tour will travel south to the coastline of the authentic village of Vila Real de Santo António on the Algarve, making stops in charming Alcácer do Sal and Alentejo for a wine tasting at a local vineyard. You'll also have the chance to explore the lively towns the Algarve, with an optional excursion to Olhão, Tavira, and Cacela Velha. You'll then cross the Spanish border with Seville serving as your first destination. Survey its grand monuments and orange-tree-ringed piazzas and take part in a sherry tasting at a bodega in Jerez de la Frontera, where you'll gain insights into the production process. Enjoy another optional excursion, taking in the religious wonders of charming Cáceres, before heading back across the Portuguese border for an included tour of Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region. Round out your tour with a final overnight stay in artistic Cascais, a charming town nestled on the Estoril Coast.

Holiday Highlights

Embark on a guided tour of Lisbon, built across seven hills and along the Atlantic Ocean and Tagus River
Visit Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its 19th-century Romanticist, whimsical architecture
Embrace the lively rhythms of Flamenco city Seville with a walking tour around its most impressive landmarks
Travel south to the Algarve, stopping at Alcácer do Sal and Alentejo for a wine tasting at a local vineyard
Stay in a hand-picked collection of decadent historic paradors and pousadas
Discover the coastal town of Estoril, a haven for royal families with its golden sandy beaches and sprawling promenade
Savour a coffee break and pastéis de nata (custard tart) in the historic district of Belém
Join an optional Fado dinner and dance show, where you’ll feast on Portuguese delicacies while enjoying traditional music
Visit Monte Gordo's long, sheltered sandy beach as the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean
Take part in a sherry tasting at a bodega in Jerez de la Frontera and learn about the production process
Marvel at Cáceres’ impressive Roman-era landmarks on an optional excursion
Spend time amongst the lively markets Olhão, the riverside town of Tavira, and Cacela Velha on an optional tour
Enjoy a more intimate and smaller group experience of 16 to 24 travellers

What's Included

Seven nights’ mixed-board accommodation
Seven breakfasts and four dinners
Tour of Lisbon with a coffee break in Belém
Excursion to Estoril and Sintra
Scenic drive from Lisbon to the Algarve with visits to Alcácer do Sal and a wine tasting in Alentejo
Excursion to Seville and a sherry tasting in Jerez de la Frontera
Return flights to Lisbon and from Malaga
Comfortable, air-conditioned coach travel throughout
Fully escorted by friendly, experienced Premier Collection tour managers

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Lisbon - Arrive in Portugal’s capital, where you’ll be welcomed by a Newmarket representative. You’ll then be driven to Palmela, located outside of Lisbon, to your first historic pousada hotel. This afternoon will then be free to settle into this former convent, perhaps taking in the views of the ocean from the terrace. You can also do some exploration of the town with its cobbled streets and white-washed houses, backed by vines. Later this evening, get to know your fellow guests over a welcome dinner.

Day 2

Included tour of Lisbon, visits to Estoril and Sintra, coffee in Belém and optional traditional Fado dinner and dance show - After breakfast, you’ll travel to Lisbon for a guided tour. As you wander the narrow, steep cobbled and colourful streets, lined with the tracks of yellow historic trams, you’ll encounter centuries-old cathedrals, Moorish influences in architecture, and colourful tiles known as azulejos that tell stories of Portugal's past.  Starting with the Alfama district, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, you’ll see Lisbon Cathedral, and the winding staircases leading up to the Moorish São Jorge Castle, or St George’s Castle. The Rua Augusta Arch, a stone memorial-like arch on Praça do Comércio is another highlight, as well as Rossio Square and Figueira Square, historic squares bustling with open-air cafés. The coastal town of Estoril on the Portuguese Riviera is next, with its golden sandy beaches and sprawling promenade. One of Europe’s largest casinos can also be found here, and the town boasts a glamorous history as a haven for royal families and spies during World War II. Numerous luxury hotels, restaurants and entertainment options sit alongside a pristine seafront, which you’ll have time to discover. Sintra set in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, is next, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts visitors with its 19th-century Romanticist, whimsical architecture, and lush, manicured gardens. A resort town and former royal sanctuary, Sintra is made up of a wooded landscape adorned with palaces, historic estates, and pastel villas. Sintra National Palace is the best-preserved medieval royal palace in Portugal with a minimalist Gothic façade and incredibly ornate rooms. You’ll also see Plácio Nacional da Pena, a multi-hued structure, ringed by enchanting gardens, and perched on a hilltop and Castelo dos Mouro, a walled Moorish fortress dating back to the 8th century. The historic centre of Sintra will be explored, with some time to admire the traditional Portuguese architecture. Upon returning to the city, stop for a coffee break in the district of Belém. It was from here that explorers set sail during the Age of Discovery. This area is also home to Torre de Belém and UNESCO-listed Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Don’t miss trying the famous pastéis de nata (custard tart) at the Pastéis de Belém bakery – these treats are a local speciality.  Later in the day, you’ll return to your hotel in Palmela, and you can opt to relax or join an optional Fado dinner and dance show. During this excursion, you’ll get to feast on Portuguese delicacies while enjoying the traditional genre of music, Fado, known for its heartfelt songs. Sitting in a softly lit venue and listening to soulful singing and strumming of a classic guitar will serve as a memorable and moving experience. 

Day 3

Travel via Alcácer do Sal and Alentejo to the Algarve - Following breakfast, check out of the hotel, leave Lisbon and travel south towards the Algarve. This scenic journey involves crossing the famous Vasco da Gama Bridge, a marvel of modern engineering that spans the Tagus River. The longest bridge in Western Europe, this striking cable-stayed structure connects the northern and southern regions of the Greater Lisbon metropolitan area. Alcácer do Sal, your coffee stop on route, is a charming town of white-washed buildings with roots tracing back to the Roman Empire. You’ll have some time to meander around its historic centre and observe its well-preserved medieval castle, which sits on a hill looking out over the city and the Sado River.  As the afternoon progresses, you’ll also pause in Alentejo, a region often referred to as ‘Portugal’s Tuscany’ because of its picturesque countryside laden with vineyards. The coach will pass by Roman ruins, ancient castles, and pretty villages before calling at a winery to sample the local wine labels and learn about the production process. In the evening, you’ll pass Monte Gordo, a coastal town, fronted by a stretch of sandy beach and promenade. Shortly afterwards, arrive in Pousada Vila Real de Santo Antonio, a delightful historic building. When you’ve settled in, you have a free evening, perhaps to swim in one of the outdoor pools before settling in for dinner at the parador.  

Day 4

Day at leisure with optional visit to Olhão, Tavira, and Cacela Velha - Today, you’ll be free to spend the day as you see fit with a leisurely breakfast in San Antonio. If you’d prefer a more structured day’s exploration, you can delve even deeper into the real Algarve on an immersive optional tour. The first stop will be Olhão, with its local market, a bustling hub of activity, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Portugal's fishing communities. You can walk along its waterfront promenade admiring views of the Ria Formosa lagoon and browse the vibrant market stalls brimming with fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and artisanal crafts. Tavira, your next destination, is a pleasant riverside town with a 13th-century castle, a Roman bridge, and collection of Moorish churches. At the centre, the Praça da República is bounded by cafés and restaurants, where you can sip on a drink while people watching. The area is also known for its salt production, and you can see the surrounding salt flats. Your last visit of the day will be Cacela Velha, a small, quiet village bounded by walls, with rows of white-washed houses built in a typical Algarve style. From the hill it’s located on, you can view the nearby Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Atlantic Ocean. You can also see the 16th-century church and the ruins of a medieval fortress. Monte Gordo's long sandy beach, where you'll end the day, is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It's the perfect spot to lounge, swim, and savour the beauty of the Algarve coastline as the sun sets.

Day 5

Cross the Portugal/Spain border, tour of Seville, visit to Jerez de la Frontera and sherry tasting - Have breakfast, check out and board the coach to make the journey across the border into Spain in the middle of the Guadiana River. You’ll then arrive in Seville, a lively, colourful city, abounding with grand monuments, and famed for flamenco dancing, which will be soaked up with the help of a guided walking tour. Traverse its narrow lanes, bordered with tightly packed shops, cafés, and bars by foot, pausing to rest in the shade of an orange tree-ringed piazza. Towering over Seville, the Giralda bell tower is unmissable, as is the Royal Alcázars of Seville, a royal palace in Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its chambers, towers, and gardens adorned in vibrant Moorish tiles. The Cathedral of Seville, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the largest churches in the world, as well as the largest Gothic church, and houses 80 chapels. The city’s biggest and most eye-pleasing piazza, Plaza de España, built in 1928, will also be sought out, with its canal, mosaic-lined alcoves, trickling fountains, and Venetian-inspired bridges. You’ll then have a break for lunch, which is best enjoyed in the tapas bars of the old town and complemented by a cold beer or glass of wine – tapas is an integral part of life in Seville after all. Later, the tour will continue to Jerez de la Frontera, a lesser-known city, and a hidden gem rich in history with a beautifully preserved old town. At its historic centre, you’ll discover Alcázar de Jerez, a Moorish fortress, which was built in the 11th century and is bounded by a pretty estate. The Catedral de Jerez is another highlight and was only built in the 17th century, despite looking medieval with its bell tower. You’ll then partake in an activity to celebrate the city’s long heritage of port and sherry production. Visit a popular sherry bodega for a tasting and to learn about the fermentation process and the different styles.  As the day ends, you’ll check into the Parador de Mérida, a vast baroque hotel based in a 17th-century Franciscan monastery. After a brief siesta, settle in for dinner at the parador’s restaurant in the company of your fellow guests.

Day 6

Day at leisure with optional excursion to Cáceres - Rise this morning ahead of another full day at leisure. After breakfast, you’ll have the freedom to explore nearby Badajoz or make the most of your pousada’s well-appointed facilities. Alternatively, you can embark on a full-day optional exploration to historic Cáceres, a hilltop town originally founded by the ancient Romans. Here, you’ll join your Tour Manager for an in-depth introduction to the town’s colourful past and the architectural wonders that dot its cobbled streets. Start at the Plaza Mayor, the heart of Cáceres’ old town and one of the largest squares in Spain, with some time to explore its porticoed arcades. Overlooking the city’s old town is the magnificent Cathedral of Santa María, a 15th-century Gothic co-cathedral, which offers panoramic views over Cáceres from the top of its imposing bell tower. Inside, you can admire the cathedral’s vaulted ceilings, intricate frescoes and carved 16th-century altar or perhaps pay the ecclesiastical museum a visit. Next, you’ll learn about the city’s vibrant cultural heritage with a stop at the Bujaco Tower, once a bastion which housed the Order of the Knights of Santiago, which has stood watch over Cáceres for over 1,000 years. While here, you can walk around the Three Cultures visitors’ centre which showcases the confluence of Islamic, Christian and Jewish cultures that have coexisted in the town for centuries. Finish your day’s exploration taking in the elegant facades and opulent interiors of the Palace of Golfines de Abeja, which was built to commemorate the death of Queen Isabella I. Once an estate for Caceres’ nobility, this 15th-century residence features a rich collection of period furnishings and artworks. This evening, reconvene at the hotel.

Day 7

Included tour of Evora and drive to Cascais - Depart Badajoz this morning after breakfast at the parador and head west across the Portuguese border. En route to your final heritage hotel, the Pestana Cidadela Cascais pousada, you’ll have the chance to explore picturesque Evora, the capital of Portugal’s Alentejo region. Stop first at the ruined Temple of Diana, a pillared roman structure which has stood watch over the city’s UNESCO-listed old town for almost two millennia. Next, marvel at the spectacular Cathedral of Evora, the largest medieval church in Portugal, with time to explore under your own steam. Admire the building’s palatial exterior, including its exquisite rose windows, manicured courtyards and turreted roofs, before heading inside for views of its opulent altar and remarkable granite cloisters. Crown your time in Evora with a brief stop at the bustling Giralda Square, one of the best places in the city to find traditional artisanal handicrafts, and you’ll be free to browse its markets and cafés at your own pace. Back on the road, you’ll continue west to glittering Cascais, a coastal suburb on the outskirts of Lisbon. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a final included dinner at the pousada.

Day 8

Morning at leisure and fly back to the UK - Enjoy your last breakfast, and depending on the time of your flight, take advantage of the hotel’s amenities, visit the beach in front of the hotel or the nearby Plaza Mayor shopping centre. A transfer will then collect you and take you the short distance to Lisbon airport for your flight home. 

Paradores & Pousadas of Spain & Portugal Touring Hotels (2026)

A hilltop historic hotel in the centre of Palmela boasting impressive views over the Atlantic Ocean, lowlands and vineyards of the region. This property features cloisters from an ancient convent...

Paradores & Pousadas of Spain & Portugal Touring Hotels (2026)

A hilltop historic hotel in the centre of Palmela boasting impressive views over the Atlantic Ocean, lowlands and vineyards of the region. This property features cloisters from an ancient convent...

Hotel transfer times

On arrival and departure days, the transfer time from and to the airport from your hotel is approximately one hour and thirty minutes.

Foreign Office Travel Advice

Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find out the latest Foreign And Commonwealth Office travel advice for your holiday destination, as well as information about passports and visas.

Special requirements

If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.

Disabled access

The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the town, attraction or venue you're visiting. If you are bringing a wheelchair, please let us know at the time of booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Combining hotel transfers

We sometimes need to combine transfers to and from your hotel. We always try to keep any wait to a minimum, but you may be asked to wait at the airport for up to an hour, while other incoming flights arrive, before the transfer to your hotel. Similarly, we may need to transfer you back to the airport up to three hours before your flight home departs.

Itinerary changes

Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may have to change the order of the excursions on your holiday. The final day-by-day itinerary will be confirmed on your Final Travel Documents, which you will receive approximately three weeks prior to your departure.

Room tax

Some hotel have introduced a room tax of between 1 € and 3 € per person per night, payable directly by the guest to the hotel on check-out. You will be advised by your tour manager at your destination if a particular hotel is implementing this charge.

Visas & Passports

Rules may have changed since you last travelled to European Union countries as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The following are useful guidelines which will help you prepare for your next adventure. You do require government issued passport to travel.

Names - It is very important that all passenger names are exactly as per your passport although we do not require middle names.

Passport - Your passport must meet two requirements to travel to an EU country and to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. It must be: Less than 10 years old on the day you return home (please check the "date of issue") and valid for at least 3 months after the day you return home (please check the "expiry date").

Visa - You do not need a visa for short trips to most EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. You’ll be able to stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period.

European Entry/Exit Scheme (EES)

EES is a new digital border management system for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, each time they cross the external borders of most European countries. Once introduced, when you go through passport control on arrival, as well as producing your passport for checking, you will also have your photograph taken and fingerprints scanned. The system will register your entry on arrival and your exit when departing. You will only need to do this on your first entry into Europe after the scheme starts.

The EES scheme is not live yet - the latest information can be found at https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees_en. We recommend keeping yourself updated on the planned commencement date and, once live, ensure you are familiar with the process.

For those travelling via Eurostar, there is a dual British and French/Belgian border in operational at St Pancras International. Therefore the EES system will be in place at the station, you will not need to be checked again on arrival at the other side. For further information please visit the ABTA website here.

Please note: Irish passport holders or British Passport holders with an EU residency are currently excluded.

European Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS)

Following the UK's withdrawal from the European Union, changes have been planned which affect the eligibility of citizens of the United Kingdom to have visa free travel to the EU. ETIAS travel authorisation is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of the European Union and Schengen counties.

The ETIAS system is not live yet - the latest information can be found at www.etias.com. We recommend keeping yourself updated on the planned commencement date and, once live (and if applicable to you), apply for your ETIAS in good time prior to travel.

Newmarket Holidays will not be able to undertake ETIAS applications on your behalf, so have instead instructed the services of the Travel Visa Company to provide help, should you need it. You can find more information about this service here.

Please note: ETIAS will not be required for UK citizens travelling on our UK and Ireland tours.

Terms and conditions

Maximum 10% discount applies to a selection of tours. All other holidays and tours will have up to 10% applied. This offer applies to new bookings only booked between 1st October, 2025 and 9th November, 2025 and cannot be applied retrospectively to bookings already confirmed. This offer does not apply to child pricing. The offer does not apply to holidays with late availability pricing and excludes Festive, River Cruise, Edinburgh Tattoo, André Rieu events, Lapland and Wimbledon. This offer cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any other discount, promotion or concession. When booking a holiday as described above, prices shown will automatically have the discount applied. The discount applies to the original tour price (excluding any discounts already applied, extras and holiday insurance) at the time of booking. This offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Newmarket Holidays reserves the right to cancel, change or amend any tour. Holidays booked with Newmarket Holidays, are financially protected in accordance with ABTA, ATOL & ABTOT regulations. Newmarket Holidays Limited is a company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 02238316.

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