Spain and Portugal Photography Tours
Spain and Portugal have long ranked among the hottest photograhy tour destinations in the world—and with good reason. From their cosmopolitan capital cities, sun-drenched beaches, and medieval hilltop towns to their fascinating historical and cultural legacies and castles, fortresses and architectural treasures galore, these two countries offer endless photo possibilities for every class of photographer.
Tour Leader: David Marx
Itinerary
Day 1: Depart USA. Your fascinating photographic journey begins as you depart New York this evening on your overnight flight bound for Lisbon, Portugal.
Day 2: Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a sprawling, yet incredibly charming city set on the banks of the Tagus River. Upon arrival at Lisbon's International Airport, collect your luggage and board your deluxe motor coach to for a short orientation tour of Lisbon, en route to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the remainder of the day to meet with your photo instructor, go over your time ahead and to explore and photograph your new surroundings. Tonight, join your photo companions for a welcome dinner and at your hotel. (D)
Day 3: Lisbon. After breakfast this morning, set out on your half-day photo tour of Lisbon. You'll visit and photograph two of city's most important landmarks: the Belem Tower, a beautiful 16th century structure that served as a lighthouse and defense against pirates, and the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, a 16th century monastery that is considered to be the best example of original Portuguese architecture. The monastery also houses the ornate tombs of Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer who was the first to sail directly from Europe to India, and Luis de Camoes, Portugal's most famous poet.
In the afternoon their is a tour to Sintra, an UNESCO World Heritage site. After a scenic drive along the Estoril coast, arrive in Sintra, where you'll visit the 15th century royal palace and stroll the picturesque streets of the village. Return to Lisbon. . (B)
Day 4: Elvas & Seville, Spain. This morning, board your touring coach and embark on your scenic drive to Seville. En route, stop at Elvas, a fantastic medieval, walled city with a drawbridge entrance. Enjoy a brief tour of the castle, ramparts, and aqueduct, as well as some time for lunch on your own.
Continue driving across the border until you reach Seville, Spain's vibrant Southern city. With its narrow, winding streets, its beautiful gardens and plazas, its friendly locals, and the scent of fresh jasmine permeating the air, it's easy to become enchanted by this historic city. Hotel Ciudad de Sevilla or similar (B)
Day 5: Seville. Today's half-day tour of Seville highlights the city's must-see sites, including the famous Giralda Cathedral, one of the world's largest Gothic-style cathedrals. Inside the cathedral, you'll find four statues supporting a casket that is said to hold the remains of Christopher Columbus. Across from the cathedral is the magnificent Alcazar, a royal residence and stunning example of Mudejar architecture, characterized by arched doorways, intricate designs, colorful tiles, and a beautiful garden labyrinth of lush green shrubs. The rest of the afternoon is spent with your photography instructor reviewing your photos and giving you tips and suggestion.. (B)
Day 6: Ronda & Marbella. Depart after breakfast this morning for the Costa del Sol, a 100-mile stretch of gorgeous Mediterranean coastline which boasts some of the best beaches in Spain. Stop en route for to photogrpahy some of Ronda, a historic town famous for its dramatic views. Arrive later today in the popular beach town of Marbella. (B,D)
Day 7: Marbella, Costa del Sol. A photo tour to Gibraltar, a British Colony for over 300 years. Photograph the famous Barbary Apes and dramatic views of the Spanish and Moroccon coastline. (B)
Day 8: Granada. Granada remained under Muslim rule for more than seven centuries until 1492, when it became the last Spanish city to be conquered by the Christians. Today, the city retains much of its Islamic heritage, as evidenced in particular by the various examples of Moorish architecture throughout the city. Upon arrival in Granada, enjoy a half-day photo lesson on photographing cities and visit one of the most awe-inspiring architectural splendors in the world—the Alhambra.
Constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, the Alhambra is an impressive complex of fortresses, palaces, and gardens. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the Alhambra's walls and towers emit a red glow that transmits a mystical aura throughout the entire city. Its ornate interior—including the Court of Lions and reflecting pool—is simply unforgettable.
This afternoon, take some time to wander the streets of the Albayzin with your photo instructor, Granada's medieval quarter.(B)
Day 9: Cordoba & Madrid. Depart Granada this morning and head north to Madrid. Enjoy the scenic drive through La Mancha, the stomping ground of Spain's most beloved literary protagonist, Don Quixote. Stop en route in Cordoba, one of the most important cities in the medieval world. Your guide will lead you on a walking tour of the city, including a visit to the Mezquita, a 10th century mosque with dazzling rows of red-and-white-striped, horseshoe-shaped arches. In the 16th century, after the Spanish Reconquista, a Catholic cathedral was inserted inside the mosque, making the Mezquita a unique testament to Spain's diverse history.
Arrive later today in Madrid, Spain's cosmopolitan capital city. (B)
Day 10: Madrid. After breakfast this morning, enjoy a half-day panoramic tour of this bustling city and lively European cultural center. Your tour culminates with a visit to the Prado Museum, one of the most impressive and comprehensive art museums in the world.
You'll have the rest of afternoon free to explore on your own. Madrid is an energetic city that brims with an abundance of leisure activities. Art-lovers can continue at the Prado or head to the nearby Reina Sofia to view the work of more contemporary artists such as Picasso, DalÃ, and Miró. Or, if you are in the mood for a scenic stroll, Retiro Park and the Botanical Gardens are sure to please.
Tonight, we recommend that you take a break from photography and soak up the atmosphere and indulge in sumptuous tapas at one or more of the many excellent bars and restaurants in Madrid. (B)
Day 11: Madrid. Photo tour to nearby Toledo, a beautiful hilltop city that once served as the capital of Roman Spain. Toledo was also home to the master painter El Greco. A number of his works are displayed in various venues throughout the city.
Tonight, reminisce about your journey during a farewell dinner with your travel companions. (B,D)
Day 12: Depart Spain/Arrive USA. Your Iberian photo adventure comes to an end today as you transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA. (B)
Photo Tour Includes
- Includes: •10 lavish buffet breakfasts & 3 dinners •All transfers and ground transportation •Comprehensive photography program including entrance fees •Professional, English-speaking tour guides and professional photographer
Trip details
Start Date
8 October 2012
Package Price
$3899
Deposit
$500
Max. Number of Students
12
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