Embark on an unforgettable journey through Portugal and Morocco, exploring vibrant cities, historical sites, and stunning landscapes far from the crowds. This 15-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery, taking you from the sun-kissed shores of the Algarve to the sweeping sand seas of the Sahara Desert, and the sacred city of Fez.
You will head home with unforgettable memories of your travels whether off the beaten path or discovering Europe and North Africa’s breathtaking highlights before stopping in Madrid, Spain.
Itinerary Overview
- Countries Visited: Portugal, Morocco, Spain
- Places Visited: Lisbon, Algarve, Marrakech, Skoura, Merzouga, Sahara Desert, Fez, Chefchaouen, Madrid
- Suggested Duration: 15 Days
Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Lisbon - Portugal’s Fado Flavor
Portugal’s charms culminate in the hilly capital of Lisbon nestled on the banks of the sparkling Tagus Estuary. After arriving, you will join a local guide for a walking tour of the Mouraria neighborhood, one of the oldest in Lisbon and the birthplace of the traditional Fado movement. Your accommodation lies in one of the city’s vibrant districts alongside the pastel-colored Portuguese buildings typical of its coastal skylines.
Today, chic bars and stylish cafés host visitors who peruse the Portuguese city in search of the best authentic cuisine to tuck into while listening to the sweet melodies of Fado music.
Day 2: Lisbon - Lisbon’s Highlights at Your Leisure
Rest of the day free to start discovering this wonderful city. Begin your day contemplating the incredible Belem Tower and the “Padrão dos Descobrimentos” before heading to the church of the Jerónimos Monastery, home to the tomb of Vasco de Gama and the famous poet Camões. Next, try the Pasteis de Belem during a mouth-watering pastry tasting, this typical, delicious Portuguese Tart is perhaps the most famous pastry in the country.
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Your tour will end with a fascinating stroll around Alfama quarter, one of the oldest areas in the city, perched upon the hillside with spectacular views across the sprawling cityscape. Why not explore the Praça do Comercio and Rossio Square area, always a hive of activity perfect for sightseeing or grabbing a bite in a local café!
This evening we recommend a fun optional dinner with fado show* to fully immerse yourself in Portuguese culture. Overnight stay in Lisbon.
Day 3: Algarve - Sipping Cocktails to Surreal Seascapes
Day 4: Algarve - Set Sail Across the Sparkling Seas
Day 5: Algarve - Worry-Free Moments on the Portuguese Coast
Head south to the Algarve, where you'll go wine tasting at an estate before admiring the dramatic coastline on a sailing and snorkeling trip that includes stops at the Benagil Caves and Carvoeiro Beach.
Day 6: Marrakech - The Multicultural Melting Pot of Djemaa el-Fna
A walk through the Medina allows you to enjoy the best of its architecture and the unique, colorful atmosphere of the city. Dinner and overnight stay in Marrakech.
Today, embark on an eye-opening tour of the wonders of Marrakech, starting with the Minaret of the Koutoubia, from the 13th century and the spiritual centre of Marrakech. Visit the Palace of the Bahia, the residence of the old vizir, and known for its intricate tile and wood carving decoration.
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Discover how spices and argan oil are made in a local school before you head to the Jamaa el Fna square home to the bustling souks, so typical of the city and full of fruit vendors and stalls selling wicker baskets, traditional sweets and authentic souvenirs.
Day 7: Marrakech - Moroccan Observations in Old Medina
Greet the sunrise on a hot-air balloon ride over the city, then get a closer look on a guided tour of the historical landmarks, including the Bahia Palace and the Jewish Quarter.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech, Morocco 🇲🇦
Day 8: Skoura - Journey to the Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou
Embark on a visit to the Kasbah of Taourirt, the former residence of the Pacha Glaoui called the Lord of the Atlas Region. Continue to the majestic Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This Kasbah, dotted with crenellated towers, is considered one of the most beautiful in the country and has often been a filming location for movies.
Day 9: Merzouga - On the Outskirts of the Sahara Desert
You'll then venture into the desert by visiting the famous kasbah of Aït Benhaddou and touring a movie studio in Ouarzazate en route to Boumalne Dades. Hike through rural landscapes and Berber villages before setting off for Merzouga, where you'll enjoy a sunset camel ride and a night in a Bedouin-style desert camp.
Day 10: Sahara Desert - Desert Dreams in the Sahara
Take a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle to reach the high dunes of Merzouga. Admire the magical sunset and spend the night in a typical Berber Jaima Camp, with a traditional dinner included.
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Day 11: Fez - Ancient Fossils from Erfoud to Ifrane
Depart through the gentle mountains of the Middle Atlas, until you reach the city of Midelt, known for its apple cultivation. Continue along a beautiful route and view Berber life first hand. Arrive in Erfoud, at the edge of the great Sahara desert.
Day 12: Fez - 9th-Century Spiritual Discovery
Enjoy a full day tour of Fez, considered the centre of Islam in Morocco. It is the intellectual and religious capital of the country. Begin with a panoramic view from one of the hills surrounding the city, then visit the bronze doors of the Royal Palace and walk into the medina to visit Medersas, the centre of Koranic studies.
Explore the workshops in the artisan neighbourhoods. Walk along the broad Boulevard of Mohamed V and stroll through the endless streets of the world's largest medina.
Day 13: Chefchaouen - Exploring Morocco’s Blue City
You'll then visit the "Blue City," Chefchaouen, for a wander through the blue-hued medina followed by a visit to the Grand Mosque and the kasbah (fortress).
Day 14: Madrid - Roman History in the Volubilis Ruins
Finally, head to the city of Fez. Leave in the direction of Rabat to visit the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a citadel that is located to the north of the city. This fortress retains its Arab character of narrow alleys with white and blue façades that lead to viewpoints from which there are incredible views of the Atlantic coast.
Day 15: Madrid - Postcard Memories of Portugal, Morocco, and Spain
Your journey concludes in Casablanca, where you'll tour the massive Hassan II Mosque, stroll Corniche Boulevard, and shop for souvenirs.
Trip Highlights
- Stroll the streets of Lisbon’s Mouraria neighborhood, one of the oldest districts in the Portuguese capital and the root destination of the country’s Fado movement, to chic restaurants serving authentic cuisine alongside Fado melodies
- Relax on the quiet, golden beaches of the Algarve and absorb some of Portugal’s most picturesque coastal sceneries as you dig your toes into the soft sands, swim in the crystal clear water, and sightsee from lofty, rugged mountaintop viewpoints
- Wander the bustling neighborhoods of Marrakech to the spirited and action-packed Djemaa el-Fna, the city’s world-famous square overflowing with cultural activity from storytellers to culinary hotspots, magnificent markets to acrobatic performances
- Appreciate a walking tour of Marrakech’s Old Medina neighborhood to the Jewish mellah, ancient Bahia Palace, magnificent Koutoubia Mosque, and more significant cultural and heritage highlights of Morocco
- Venture across the sand seas of Morocco and visit the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou outside of Ouarzazate before you arrive at the palm grove oasis of Skoura
- Travel across the Sahara Desert’s immense rose-gold sand dunes via 4x4 vehicles and on camelback during unforgettable desert discoveries to nomad lands and breathtaking viewpoints dotting the dreamy landscape
- Escape to the modest and magnificent historic desert towns of Erfoud and Ifrane to get a taste of the local Moroccan flavor and visit exhibits of ancient fossils found among the rugged rocky landscape
- Spend time wandering Fez’s maze of alleys and visit traditional Arabian souks, or marketplaces, in search of delectable Moroccan delicacies and cultural immersion before visiting royal mosques and the Merenid Tombs
Cost & Inclusions
- Starting Price: $5,500 per person (excluding international flights)
- What's Included:
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
Customization
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail.
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