Madrid to Marrakech

15 Days
From CAD $5,575
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Enjoy a first-hand experience of Spanish, Portuguese and Moroccan lifestyles on this 15-day adventure through three vibrant countries. Travelling from Madrid to Marrakech, immerse yourself in the history of each destination, exploring ancient cultures through art, design, language and religion, trying local delicacies along the way. Experience a collision of old and new, European and African when you visit Seville (the birthplace of flamenco), sail to an island off the Algarve coastline and see fascinating Islamic architecture in Morocco. See a traditional Fado performance, explore museums, watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean and discover bustling medinas that overwhelm the senses.

Highlights

  • See the highlights of medieval Salamanca by day on a guided walk with your expert local leader, then wander around the illuminated Plaza Mayor by night.
  • Enjoy an unforgettable Fado performance in Coimbra. Fado is an emotional form of Portuguese music which often expresses the hard realities of daily life, balancing both resignation and hopefulness.
  • Spend two days exploring Seville, home to flamenco, delicious tapas and the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Visit the Alcazar (royal palace), then maybe head to the Plaza de Espana or taste your way through as much gazpacho and jamon iberico as you can!
  • Buy fresh local produce at the morning market during your stay in the Algarve and soak up the sun on the beaches. As the day winds down, experience the magic of an unforgettable sunset over the vast Atlantic Ocean.
  • Explore the colourful, twisting streets of the Fes and Marrakech medinas with local guides to lead you to all of the best spots and ensure you don't get lost!

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 3244

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: Train, Ferry, Metro, Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Travel StylesTravel Styles: Explorer, Budget

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: ZMSH

StartStarts: Madrid, Morocco

FinishFinishes: Marrakech, Morocco

DurationDuration: 15 days

DeparturesDepartures: Not Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (13), Lunch (1),
Accommodation: Hotel (14 nights)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5575 (CAD $372 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Madrid

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Spain. Your adventure begins in Madrid, the central capital known for its boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your group and local leader. After the meeting, head out for an optional group dinner where you can get to know your fellow travellers. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, consider flying in a few days early to explore and maybe while away the hours along the Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) or discover more about the modern Spanish masters like Picasso and Dali in the Museo Reina Sofia.

Optional Activities:

  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (13 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo del Prado (15 EUR)
  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico (6 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia (12 EUR)
  • Madrid - Royal Palace (14 EUR)
  • Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure (99 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

2
Day 2: Salamanca

Say farewell to Madrid this morning and head north-west by public transport to the university town of Salamanca. Sitting among pastures and rolling green hills on Spain's northern plateau, the medieval town of Salamanca is great to explore on foot. Your leader will take you on an orientation walk when you arrive, where you can explore the central Plaza Mayor and the Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The rest of your afternoon and evening is free. You could explore the Casa de Las Conchas (House of the Shells), named for the 300 shells decorating its facade, or see the contrasting Old and New Cathedrals, where you can climb to the top to get a view across the terracotta-coloured rooftops. Thanks to the large student population, this town has a vibrant nightlife, so maybe soak up the vibe tonight, go dancing or grab a couple of drinks.

Included Activities:

  • Salamanca - Orientation walk

Optional Activities:

  • Salamanca - Art Nouveau & Art Deco Museum (5 EUR)
  • Salamanca - Unamuno House Museum (4 EUR)
  • Salamanca - New Cathedral (5 EUR)
  • Salamanca - Old Cathedral (5 EUR)
  • Salamanca - University of Salamanca (10 EUR)
  • Salamanca - Casa de Las Conchas - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

3
Day 3: Coimbra

Head further west on your private bus today and cross the border into Portugal, headed to the laidback city of Coimbra – your base for the next two nights. Sitting on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the capital of the country, and its royal heritage can be felt in its ancient streets. When you arrive, your leader will take you on an orientation walk through the maze of alleyways. Half the fun of Coimbra is wandering and exploring, so maybe spend your free time getting to know the city on foot. Coimbra features many white stone buildings with excellent examples of the colourful azulejos tiling. This evening, you’ll watch a traditional Fado performance. Fado songs must follow a particular structure, and though this traditional music can really be about anything, it popularly features mournful tunes with lyrics about the sea or the life of the poor. In Coimbra, university students would often serenade their sweethearts with this music!

Included Activities:

  • Coimbra - Orientation walk
  • Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

4
Day 4: Lisbon

This morning is free for you to explore Coimbra. Some of the city’s historical structures were originally built in the 12th century (like the Cathedral Se Velha), and you can find some of Portugal's best examples of Romanesque churches and elegant museums here. The University of Coimbra – the oldest in Portugal – and the famous baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina are great places to start. Or maybe head into the countryside in search of ancient Roman ruins – the ruins of Conimbriga are rich in well-preserved mosaics and offer a great insight into Roman life. You could also take a short boat tour to see Coimbra from a different angle or head out to Porto for the day. Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities, known for its medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes. This afternoon, take a train to Lisbon, where you’ll have a free evening. One of Europe's most affordable capital cities, Lisbon offers delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. If you want to jump into the local nightlife, head to Barrio Alto.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

5
Day 5: Lisbon

This morning, set out on a leader-led walk through Belem, one of Lisbon’s most historic and enchanting districts. Wander past grand riverside monuments and ornate Manueline architecture that speaks to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the city’s most famous treat – the warm and flaky pasteis de nata, fresh from a centuries-old bakery. From early afternoon, your day is free. Explore more of Lisbon or take a 45-minute train ride out to the mountainous region of Sintra – a jewel of Portugal where you’ll see the Pena Palace. This area offers great walking opportunities, cliff-top palaces and unique Moorish architecture. The 8th-century Castle of the Moors looks down on the Old Town, and the views from the battlements across the Serra de Sintra Mountain Range make it well worth the trip.

Included Activities:

  • Lisbon - Belém district leader-led walk
  • Lisbon - Pastéis de nata tasting

Optional Activities:

  • Sintra - Palacio Nacional (13 EUR)
  • Sintra - Palacio da Pena (20 EUR)
  • Sintra - Return Train Ticket (10 EUR)
  • Sintra - Castelo dos Mouros (12 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Naval Museum (7 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Oceanarium (25 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner (50 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum (10 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Folk Art Museum (5 EUR)
  • Lisbon - National Art Museum (8 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Puppet Museum (5 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Traditional Boat Tour (15 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Canned Fish Tasting (7 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

6
Day 6: Algarve

Take a train to the southern coastline of Portugal – the Algarve, known for fertile plains rich with orange and olive groves, fig trees, almonds and maize fields. Your base will be in Faro – the capital of the region known for its Old Town, which you enter through the neoclassical Arco da Vila. When you arrive, check into your home for the next two nights and use the rest of the day to explore. Maybe wander the cobbled streets, see the 13th-century Faro Cathedral or head to the Municipal Museum set in a 16th-century convent, which displays prehistoric and medieval artifacts as well as religious art.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

7
Day 7: Algarve

Faro is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a series of barrier islands, creating a beautiful landscape of canals, salt pans, lagoons and sandbanks. Today, you’ll board a local passenger boat and head out to one of these islands where you can wander along a series of boardwalks leading away from the fishermen’s settlements. You'll cross over dunes and lagoons to beaches that are so long that they disappear into the horizon. Return to Faro in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. Maybe use the area's great walking paths to access some of the Algarve's lesser-known spots or find a good place to watch the sunset.

Included Activities:

  • Algarve - Island Day Trip by Boat

Optional Activities:

  • Algarve - Birdwatching Tour (35 EUR)
  • Algarve - Marine Wildlife Watching Tour (45 EUR)
  • Algarve - Boat Trip Rio Formosa (30 EUR)
  • Algarve - Fishing Trip (40 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

8
Day 8: Seville

Leave Portugal behind and return to Spain, travelling by private vehicle to the city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules, and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. To the Romans it was Hispalis, and to the Moors it was Isbiliya. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World' and today it's the largest city in southern Spain, well-known for its oranges, tapas and flamenco. When you arrive, head out for a short orientation walk around the main sites, including Alcazar. Then enjoy some free time in the late afternoon and evening to explore at your own pace.

Included Activities:

  • Seville - Real Alcazar
  • Seville - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

9
Day 9: Seville

Spend a full day exploring Seville your way. A flamenco performance is a must-see while you’re in town – this traditional Spanish style of dance originated here in the Andalusia region sometime between the 9th and 14th centuries and is still thriving today. Recognised by UNESCO for its Intangible Cultural Heritage, this art form incorporates poetry, cante (song), baile (dance), guitar, finger snapping and polyrhythmic handclapping to create a truly captivating performance. It’s highly recommended you visit La Giralda (a 12th-century bell tower with 24 bells) or the Seville Cathedral – the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, with its impressive gilded wood altarpiece. The Plaza de Espana is a great spot to see azulejos (decorative ceramic tiles typical of this region) and the 48-tile mosaic representing each of Spain’s provinces. This evening, why not seek out some typical local fare like salmorejo (cold tomato soup), pescaito frito (fried fish) or berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant drizzled with honey). Ask your leader about the best spots to eat.

Included Activities:

  • Seville - Torre del Oro
  • Seville - Museum of Fine Arts
  • Seville - Santa Paula Convent
  • Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs
  • Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre
  • Seville - Casa de Pilatos
  • Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

10
Day 10: Chefchaouen

This morning, rise early to start your long journey to Chefchaouen. You'll head toward Tarifa, then leave Europe behind as you make your way to Africa. After leaving the ferry, you'll be picked up by the Moroccan crew and make your way to a mountain town peppered with blue-washed buildings and ambient restaurants – Chefchaouen, the centre of an agricultural region. There may not be much time to explore this rural retreat by the time you arrive today, but you might just have time to look over the 15th-century Grand Mosque and the medina. Tonight, maybe tuck into some popular local goat cheese or a tajine before settling into your hotel.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

11
Day 11: Chefchaouen

Meet your local guide early in the day to explore the maze of streets in Chefchaouen. The ‘blue city’ is arguably one of the prettiest places in Morocco. Set against a wide valley and nestled between two peaks in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen’s medina has been well-preserved, with striking blue and white-washed houses, red-tiled roofs and artistic doorways. The medina is filled with handicrafts, while the main square has shops selling woven goods and sweets. Learn about general life in a small Moroccan community, visit a communal bakery and walk up to a former mosque for a great view over the town. As a popular shopping destination for handicrafts, carpets, blankets or woollen garments, you may also see the local artisans at work. After your walking tour, maybe head to a traditional Moroccan hammam to relax.

Included Activities:

  • Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

  • Chefchaouen - Hammam (public baths) (150 MAD)
  • Chefchaouen - Henna Tattoo (50 MAD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

12
Day 12: Fes

Say farewell to Chefchaouen today and travel by private minibus to the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Arrive in the city of Fes and step back in time in the medieval medina, thick with tantalising smells, tastes and sounds. Vibrant, noisy and fascinating, the medina is a feast for the senses. With your free afternoon, maybe have a glass of mint tea and some sweet Moroccan dates to refuel, then continue exploring. Tonight, you might like to try some local specialities like harira (chickpea soup) or chicken-stuffed pastilla. Watch the sunset over the medina, then head back to your accommodation for a night’s rest.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

13
Day 13: Fes

Take a guided walking tour of the Old City, known locally as Fes el Bali, and step back in time to the labyrinth of the medina. Alive with craftsmen, markets, tanneries and mosques, you’ll pass donkeys piled high with goods (this is one of the largest car-free urban zones in the world) and explore the specialty sections that divide the souks. Medieval Fes was one of the world's great centres of education and culture, both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions, libraries and mosques are of great renown. Look out for the Medersa Bou Inania, one of the city's most beautiful buildings, and pass the Belghazi Museum, Medresse el Attarine and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine – a beautifully restored 18th-century inn. You'll also see the famous tannery, known for the iconic view overlooking its dye pits, and a ceramics factory where you can see potters using traditional techniques. After the tour, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you please.

Included Activities:

  • Fes - Medina walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

14
Day 14: Marrakech

Travel by train this morning to Marrakech. When you arrive, head out with the group for a quick visit to the main square – Djemaa el-Fna. The square is filled with a hive of activity. Henna painters, performers and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar packed with stalls loaded with Moroccan delicacies. From a distance, you'll see the Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret – famous throughout the world as one of the greatest minarets and the 'sister' to the Giralda in Seville. You can have dinner here or ask your local leader for a great restaurant recommendation and celebrate a trip well-travelled with your group.

Optional Activities:

  • Marrakech - Palais Bahia (100 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Palais Badi (70 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Saadian Tombs (70 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Hamam (public baths) (250 MAD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

15
Day 15: Marrakech

After breakfast this morning, your adventure comes to an end. As there's not much time spent in Marrakech, we recommended staying another night or two. Please speak to your booking agent if you'd like to book additional accommodation (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:

  • Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage (750 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Medina & Palaces Discovery Tour (650 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch (2000 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure (640 MAD)
  • Marrakech - A Taste Of Marrakech: Inside the Medina Urban Adventure (605 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Palmery Cycling Tour (540 MAD)
  • Marrakech - Magical Marrakech City Cycling Tour (438 MAD)

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Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Reviews

 

Emily   -  Traveled, February 2024

This trip was really fun and a great way to see Spain and Portugal as well as exploring Morocco, the leaders Catarina in Europe and Abdellah in Morroco were both fantastic as well.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 02/23/2024

 

Leanne   -  Traveled, January 2024

The Madrid to Marrakech trip was a great introduction to Spain, Portugal and Morocco. I met some amazing people, saw some incredible sights, ate some wonderful food and expanded my horizons. The leaders, Catering and Abdellah were so knowledgeable and kind. I highly recommend!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/31/2024

 

Sarah   -  Traveled, December 2023

Spain & Portugal sections were well organised & a nice taster to these countries. Luke, our leader on this leg, was awesome, so helpful and catered to individual interests. Morocco was an amazing experience, recommend the south for the differing culture, environment & history. Accomodation in Morocco was a bit rough & very basic.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/09/2024

 

Anne   -  Traveled, December 2023

Fabulous trip. Fast paced but well organised and interesting. Both leaders (Luke in Europe and Mouhcine in Morocco) were wonderful. Intrepid trips are always the best and this one lived up to expectations.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/26/2023

 

Valerie   -  Traveled, November 2023

A fabulous and highly recommended tour. Spain and Portugal were a surprising delight as we had anticipated Morocco to be more of a highlight. Both trips were fabulous

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/19/2023

 

Marion   -  Traveled, October 2023

We have just completed the Madrid to Marrakesh trip. We enjoyed it very much and our two leaders Tiago and Salim were excellent. We learned a lot about each country and had a wonderful time. Highly recommend the trip and if you, like me and perhaps not as fit as you might be it is still a wonderful trip and you will not be disappointed.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/05/2023

 

Sarah   -  Traveled, October 2023

The Madrid to Marrakesh trip was fantastic! Our tour leaders were knowledgeable, approachable, and very keen to ensure we had a great trip.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/05/2023

 

William   -  Traveled, October 2023

We recently travelled in two tours (one basic and one premium) to Spain, Portugal and Morocco with Intrepid. Our overall experience was excellent and Intrepid delivered what their travel brochures described (and more). The level of knowledge of the team leaders was good and our accommodation was excellent and well placed. They took the stress out of travelling to a foreign country. We felt safe and secure with them and will definitely book with them again.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/27/2023

 

Beverley   -  Traveled, October 2023

I thoroughly enjoyed our Madrid to Marrakech tour and what made it extra special were the opportunities to travel on public transport with the locals, having a small group to travel with, great local knowledge from our guides and enjoying the local culture of each new place we visited.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/27/2023

 

Rachel   -  Traveled, October 2023

Had a great time and saw and experienced a lot in a short amount of time, with downtime too. Loved our guides.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/06/2023

 

Cynthia   -  Traveled, September 2023

Great itinerary for Spain, Portugal and Morocco. I would recommend booking an extra day in Madrid and in Marrakech to spend a little more time in those locations. A good mix of structured activities and free time. Great experiences and memories every day.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/21/2023

 

Adam   -  Traveled, September 2023

Elhoussain and Sophie were brilliant leaders. They were considerate of all people, kind and caring. What an absolute pleasure! Europe was better because of Sophie and Morocco was better with Elhoussain.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/05/2023

 

Fiona   -  Traveled, September 2023

Luv every minute of it so far. Weather has been great . Tour guides very helpful and knowledgeable. Will to another tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/05/2023

 

Andrew   -  Traveled, September 2023

Travelling in small groups provides time to know your companions, with different points of view and similar motives. Intrepid provides that and I would definitely attend one again.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/09/2023

 

Nicole   -  Traveled, September 2023

The was my first international trip on my own and it was amazing! The tour guides were friendly and knowledgable. A good balance of group activities and solo time to explore. Excellent!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/01/2023

 

Terry   -  Traveled, September 2023

This well paced trip represented great value for money, was brilliantly lead by 2 very accomplished tour guides. Thank you Elena and Abderrahim.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/23/2023

 

Dawn   -  Traveled, September 2023

Intrepid is a brilliant way to see the country and knowing you have such experience in your guides for your travel, accommodation and food plus history knowledge of the region

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/21/2023

 

Georgina   -  Traveled, September 2023

I think this trip covered some amazing cities and really got you deeper into each of the 3 countries and their cultures. I would recommend this tour for this!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/17/2023

 

Peter   -  Traveled, August 2023

Well organised and balanced trip, actually perfect. Planned to perfection, got to see and learn lots, tour leader was a gem.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/06/2023

 

Myles   -  Traveled, August 2023

First tour completed with intrepid was amazing, our guides were faultless and catered for us faultlessly

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/25/2023

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