Lisbon & Marrakesh: A Chilling Adventure in Color

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Marrakesh

   

   Welcome to Marrakesh! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

   Suggestion for the day: Marrakesh's Ancient Medina

   Start this adventure by exploring the bustling souks overflowing with spices & crafts, all beneath the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. Wander ancient palaces & lose yourself in Marrakesh's feast of senses! We strongly advise adding early check-in to your accommodation to make your arrival more comfortable.

   Uncover Marrakesh’s ancient Medina. Here you’ll find yourself surrounded by architectural masterpieces from different historical periods.

   • Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
   • Koutoubia Mosque
   • Souks
   • Ben Youssef Madrasa
   • Bahia Palace
   • Saadidian Tombs
   • Le Jardin Secret
2. Day 2 Marrakesh

   

   Suggestion for the day: Enchanting Gardens and Cultural Wonders

   Start your day by visiting Majorelle Garden, a stunning botanical garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. Wander through the vibrant blue pathways, exotic plants, and serene water features. Don’t forget to check out the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, located nearby, for a touch of fashion history.

   In the afternoon, explore:

   • Marrakech Museum, housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace that showcases traditional Moroccan art and artifacts
   • Medersa Ben Youssef, a stunning 14th-century Islamic school known for its intricate architecture and tranquil courtyards.

   Wrap up your day with a stroll in Jardin de la Menara, where you can enjoy views of the Atlas Mountains while watching the sunset over the olive groves. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the magical atmosphere of Marrakesh.

3. Day 3 Marrakesh

   

   Suggestion for the day: Desert Excursion and Cultural Immersion

   Go on an exhilarating ride through the stunning Agafay Desert, located just outside Marrakesh. As you traverse the arid landscape, enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains, and take a moment to relax at a local tent, sipping traditional mint tea and Moroccan pastries.

   Afterward, dive deeper into Morocco's rich culture with a visit to the Dar Si Said Museum, where you can explore a fascinating collection of traditional crafts, including textiles, ceramics, and intricate woodwork.

   As evening falls, choose to unwind with a rejuvenating hammam experience—a traditional steam bath and scrub that will leave you feeling refreshed. Alternatively, embrace your culinary skills by joining a cooking class with a local chef, where you'll learn to prepare classic Moroccan dishes like tagine or couscous.

4. Day 4 Flight to Lisbon

   

   Welcome to Lisbon! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Suggestion for the day: Stroll Around Downtown Lisbon

   Lace up your walking shoes and embark on a journey through Lisbon's captivating historical neighborhoods. It’s time to explore Lisbon's vibrant neighborhoods on foot. 

   • Start in Chiado, a charming district with elegant shops and cafes. Don't miss Livraria Bertrand, a historic bookstore.

   • Move to Baixa, the bustling downtown area with Praça do Comércio, a grand waterfront square. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for city views.

   • Immerse yourself in Bairro Alto's lively nightlife scene. Wander its maze-like streets filled with bars, restaurants, and traditional Fado music venues.

   Can't-Miss Sights:

   • São Roque Church: Admire its opulent interior.

   • São Pedro de Alcântara Garden: Relax and enjoy panoramic views.

   • Ruins of Carmo Church: Reflect on Lisbon's history.

   • Santa Catarina Viewpoint: Capture stunning cityscapes.

   • Luís de Camões Square: Pay homage to Portugal's literary icon.

   • Terreiro do Paço: Soak in the lively atmosphere of this vast waterfront square.

   • Santa Justa Lift: Enjoy a unique perspective from this neo-Gothic elevator.

5. Day 5 Lisbon

   

   Suggestion for the day: Unveiling Belém's Maritime Marvels

   Head to Belém, a UNESCO site showcasing Portugal's maritime past. See the iconic Torre de Belém and Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and savor Pastéis de Belém, a delicious custard tart.

   Don’t Miss:

   • Torre de Belém (Belém Tower): Start your exploration at this imposing 16th-century fortress. Marvel at its Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style characterized by nautical motifs and intricate stonework. Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries): A short walk away stands this impressive monument commemorating Portugal's Golden Age of Exploration. 

   • Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery): Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this magnificent 16th-century monastery. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, showcasing intricate stonework and stained-glass windows. 

   • Pastéis de Belém: No visit to Belém is complete without indulging in the world-famous Pastéis de Belém, a traditional Portuguese custard tart. This iconic bakery, established in the 18th century, follows a secret recipe that has been passed down through generations. 

   • MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology: If you have extra time, consider visiting the MAAT, a contemporary museum housed in a striking modern building on the waterfront. 

   Tips:

   • Belém is easily accessible by tram or train from Lisbon's city center.

   • Consider purchasing a Lisboa Card for discounted entry to attractions and free public transportation.

   • Arrive early at Pastéis de Belém, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.

6. Day 6 Lisbon

   

   Suggestion for the day: Day Trip to Fairytale Sintra

   A short 28-kilometer drive whisks you away from the bustling capital and into a world of enchanting palaces, captivating gardens, and romantic charm. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a mesmerizing cultural landscape, characterized by winding mountains, lush forests, and remarkable architectural wonders. In the 19th century, Sintra emerged as the epicenter of Romantic architecture in Europe, renowned for its distinctive palaces and whimsical designs that could easily inspire fairytales.

   Don’t Miss:

   • Early Start & Pena Palace: Start your exploration with the iconic Pena National Palace, a vibrant masterpiece perched atop a hill. Marvel at its eclectic architectural styles, ranging from Romanticism to Moorish Revival. 

   • Quinta da Regaleira: If you have time and a taste for adventure, delve into the mysteries of Quinta da Regaleira. This enigmatic estate features a labyrinth of hidden grottoes, tunnels, and secret passages waiting to be discovered. 

   • Moorish Castle: For history buffs, the Moorish Castle offers a glimpse into Sintra's medieval past. 

   • Sintra Village & Lunch: Head back to the charming village of Sintra. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets lined with colorful houses and quaint shops. Explore the Sintra National Palace, the former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. 

   • Monserrate Palace: For those seeking a different architectural style, consider visiting Monserrate Palace. This 19th-century palace boasts a captivating blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian influences. 

   • There’s More of Sintra! Add Cabo da Roca to your itinerary. Experience the stunning views from the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean. This natural landmark, located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, is perfect for breathtaking scenery, sunsets, and a touch of adventure.

   Tips for Your Trip:

   • Consider booking a guided tour to Sintra ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on the top sights—we can help arrange this for you.

   • Purchase your tickets to Sintra attractions in advance, especially during peak season.

   • Consider purchasing the Sintra Card for discounted entry to several attractions and public transportation within Sintra.

   • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.

   • Pack a light jacket or sweater as the weather in Sintra can be cooler than Lisbon, especially in the mornings and evenings.

   • The drive from Lisbon to Sintra takes about 30 to 40 minutes, while the train journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

7. Day 7 Lisbon

   

   Suggestion for the day: A Day Trip to Fátima & Óbidos

   Explore the spiritual sanctuary of Fátima and the medieval charm of Óbidos on a day trip from Lisbon. Here’s a suggested itinerary highlighting the key attractions of each destination:

   Fátima's Spiritual Heart

   Embark on your day trip with a visit to Fátima, a town renowned for its religious significance. In 1917, three shepherd children witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary, an event that transformed Fátima into a major pilgrimage site.

   Don’t Miss:

   • The Sanctuary of Fátima, a complex of religious buildings that includes the Chapel of the Apparitions, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity. Walk along the Via Crucis, a path lined with 14 stations depicting the Passion of Christ. Feel the serene atmosphere and immerse yourself in the spiritual significance of this hallowed place.

8. Day 8 Return Flight Home

   

   We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

   Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!