Madrid to Marrakesh

Itinerary

Day 1 Madrid

Admire 900 years worth of art in the Museo del Prado or find a shady spot to relax in the Parque del Buen Retiro. Perhaps stay up late to experience Madrid's electric nightlife.

Day 2 Salamanca

Head west to snappy Salamanca to spot the lucky frog and check out the Casa de las Conchas with its unique scallop shell facade. This is a real university city, so soak up the student vibe on a stroll around the town. Listen to the locals speak the 'purest' Spanish dialect and polish up on those language skills.

Days 3-4 Coimbra

Cross the Spanish border into Portugal and sample rich red wines and deliciously spicy fare. A number of historical buildings in this city were originally constructed in the 12th century and Coimbra displays some of the best examples of Romanesque churches in Portugal.

Days 5-6 Lisbon

Against a backdrop of deep blue skies, explore this multicultural capital. Start with the towering medieval citadel then perhaps check out the art galleries or stroll the tree-shaded boulevards. Later, feast on some rib-sticking braised squid then join the locals in a Lisboan bar pulsing with the sounds of Portuguese fado music.

Days 7-8 The Algarve

Bask in the sun on the glorious beaches of the Algarve. Change the pace with a coastal walk to cliff tops overlooking the colourful villages and beaches.

Day 9 Jerez

Discover the secrets to the perfect aperitif on a bodega tour then be dazzled by fiery flamenco while enjoying the drink that is the city's namesake.

Days 10-11 Chefchaouen

Cross the Strait of Gibraltar and explore a town where photographers will delight in snapping the blue-washed streets. Get lost in the charming medina and enjoy free time to browse the tiny gift shops. Perhaps take a hike up into the Rif Mountains for glorious views over the white sprawl of Chefchaouen.

Days 12-13 Fes

Step back in time into a huge medieval medina thick with exotic smells, tastes, sights and sounds. Stop for a glass of mint tea and munch on sweet Moroccan dates. Unwind with an evening drink at the Palais Jamai while the melodic call to prayer floats over the city.

Days 14-15 Marrakech

Find everything from genie lamps to brass ornaments to perfumes to leather slippers in this exotic city of souqs. Take a refreshing walk through the lush Majorelle Gardens or visit the lavishly decorated Saadian tombs. End the adventure among the crazy bustle of Marrakech's Djemaa el-Fna.