DAY 1 – BARCELONA, SPAIN
Breathe in the cultural heart of Catalan; an elegant blend of high energy and undisturbed tradition. Muse over the origins of captivating Gaudi architecture within the enchanting labyrinth that is the Gothic Quarter.
Savour the flavours of fresh tapas and crisp cava in breezy plazas, tranquil terraces and coveted cafés, or glide down to a shimmering beach club to unwind. Imagine a visit to peaceful Passeig de Gracia, where modernist buildings merge to showcase iconic global labels.
And, as dusk falls, prepare for urban action and swing by the lively bohemian bars to fiesta on the leafy stretch of La Rambla. If you’re serious about style, this colourful city provides plenty to celebrate.
Barcelona
DAY 2 – AT SEA
Choose between the stylish bar and lounge areas or relax by one of the pools and enjoy all that Explora Journeys II has to offer.
Crema Cafe
DAY 3 – MALAGA, SPAIN
Enjoy the epitome of Spanish charm. Slowly discover Andalusian riches to reveal Picasso’s birthplace, the Alhambra in Granada, Mezquita in Cordoba and the Ronda valley.
Explore ancient heritage sites, dance the flamenco, dare to hike the Caminito del Rey trail and delve into white villages sprinkled amongst mango groves and avocado orchards. Sip cocktails by day and sangria by night. And as you watch the sun slip down, reflect upon this gateway of delights.
Malaga
DAY 4 – GIBRALTAR
Rising from the sea like a titanic fin, the Rock of Gibraltar is a primordial sentinel that guards the entrance to the Mediterranean; the European Pillar of Hercules faces its African twin across the Strait of Gibraltar.
From its top, the coast of Morocco shimmers in a desert haze, and eagle eyes spot dolphins dancing below.
Criss-crossed by centuries-old siege tunnels and UNESCO-listed caves, the Rock has captured the imaginations of artists and would-be conquerors for centuries. A cable car makes short work of the journey to the top, where old artillery batteries and panoramic lookouts are guarded by legions of Barbary macaques.
Gibraltar
DAY 5 – AT SEA
Enjoy one of the ocean-inspired wellness options of Explora Journeys whether it is at The Spa or Fitness spaces, you are sure to find something perfect for you.
The Spa
DAY 6 – LISBON
Enjoy the rich buzz of Lisbon. Dip into the city’s strong architectural, cultural and historical connections. Wander charming-cobbled streets, colourful buildings, the river Sado and endless nature. Pilgrimage to Fatima, tour hilly villages, learn Portuguese cooking techniques and listen to the Lisbon blues.
Slip to charming Cascais for quieter energy and golden beaches. And as you bathe in the captivating light, enjoy plates of petiscos which – like fado – you’ll soon discover is vibrant, warm and most appealing.
Lisbon
DAY 7 – PORTIMAO
Portimão captures the true essence of the Algarve – uninterrupted, calm and so very Portuguese. Cherish breath-taking beaches, Moorish and Gothic architecture, beautiful mosaics and, of course, piles of sardines.
Roam in jeeps through green headlands and amble through peaceful old fishing villages that spill into harbours. Hike above amazing red cliffs or escape to sandy shores for an array of water sports.
Linger for long lunches of grilled sardines, tuna and mackerel as you appreciate Portugal’s capital canning market. And relax, as you sip local red wine, dolphin gaze and listen to passionate vocal locals.
Portimao
DAY 8 – TANGIER, MOROCCO
At the crossroads of Europe and Africa, this once rakish, countercultural Moroccan city has retained its bohemian, beguilingly artistic feel. People watch the demi-monde from the Petit Socco, heart of Tangier’s seductive café scene, before strolling the Kasbah and cobblestone Grand Socco among a tangle of streets saturated in colour from tiles and painted cedarwood shutters and doorways.
Iconic must-visits might include the 64-year-old Librarie des Colonnes, a sumptuous bookshop of literary greats; Café Hafa, for sunset sweet mint tea overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar; and El Morocco Club, for a nightcap on its rooftop terrace or in the city’s only piano bar.
Tangier
DAY 9 – AT SEA
Experience vibrant cosmopolitan life aboard, with European luxury, 5-star dining, ocean wellness experiences, and tech-savvy comforts in sophisticated suites, all while enjoying beautiful sea views.
Atoll Pool and Bar
DAY 10 – IBIZA
Experience the magnetic vibes of Ibiza while you sip sangria by the beach and discover its quieter side. Unwind in your choice of a wellness spa that are renowned for yoga, massages and healing.
As darkness falls, cavort in bars and clubs at arguably some of the most famous party destinations where international DJ’s are set to make some noise.
Ibiza
