La Coruna is a busy port on the Atlantic Ocean that provides a distribution point for agricultural goods from the region. It was the arrival of democracy in Spain after the death of Francisco Franco that caused a major growth in the city. The city is the site of the Roman Tower of Hercules, a lighthouse that has been in continuous operation for nearly 2,000 years. The city is also well-known for its characteristic glazed window balconies, called galerías.
Journey through the soul of Spain on an extraordinary overland exploration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, timeless cities, and enduring cultural treasures. From the ancient Tower of Hercules on the Atlantic coast to the Roman splendor of Mérida and the graceful architectural masterpieces of Salamanca and Seville, each stop reveals a new chapter in Spain’s rich and layered past. Enhanced by exceptional regional cuisine, elegant accommodations, and immersive local experiences, this thoughtfully curated journey offers a captivating encounter with the historic beauty of Spain.
NOTE:
•This tour is not recommended for guests with walking difficulties or for those who use a wheelchair, walker or scooter due to the amount of walking, many steps, cobbled surfaces and areas that are not accessible.
•There are long segments of driving on this program.
DAY 1 – August 9, 2027
After disembarking in La Coruña, begin your overland journey with an introduction to the dramatic Galician coast. Your first stop is the iconic Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest functioning Roman lighthouse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where sweeping Atlantic views set the tone for the days ahead.
Continue inland to Melide, where a guided stroll through the historic centre is paired with a tasting of one of Galicia’s signature dishes: traditional pulpo á feira (Octopus), delicately prepared and served with paprika and olive oil.
Later, continue to Monforte de Lemos for check-in at the magnificent Parador de Monforte, an 18th-century Benedictine monastery thoughtfully transformed into a luxury hotel. Perched above the town, it offers commanding views across the Ribeira Sacra valley.
This evening, enjoy dinner at the Parador before retiring for the night.
DAY 2 – August 10, 2027
After breakfast, check out and depart for Astorga, a historic town set along the Camino de Santiago.
On arrival, enjoy a walking tour featuring the striking Episcopal Palace, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most remarkable creations beyond Catalonia.
You will also savour one of the region’s most traditional specialties: León-style cocido, or Cocido Maragato, a hearty and emblematic stew regarded as one of northern Spain’s defining culinary experiences.
In the afternoon, continue to Salamanca, one of Spain’s most beautiful cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
Later, set out on a guided walk through Salamanca’s historic centre, taking in the magnificent Plaza Mayor, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most elegant Baroque squares, the venerable University of Salamanca, and the city’s extraordinary cathedral complex, where Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles converge with remarkable harmony.
This evening, dinner is at leisure.
DAY 3 – August 11, 2027
After breakfast, check out and depart for Cáceres, whose beautifully preserved medieval heart, known as the Ciudad Monumental, showcases a captivating blend of Roman, Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture. Its exceptional heritage earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1986.
Upon arrival, explore the historic old town of Cáceres, an exquisitely preserved medieval ensemble of palaces, towers, and cobbled lanes that reflects centuries of layered history. This visit is followed by lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, continue to Mérida for a guided tour featuring its spectacular Roman Theatre, among the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world and part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage ensemble, evoking the grandeur of ancient Lusitania.
After checking in at your hotel, the evening and dinner are at leisure.
DAY 4 – August 12, 2027
After breakfast, check out and depart for Monesterio, a charming historic town in Extremadura set along the ancient Vía de la Plata, or “Silver Route.” Celebrated for its exceptional Jamón Ibérico, Monesterio offers an authentic introduction to one of Spain’s most prized culinary traditions.
Upon arrival, visit a traditional Iberian livestock estate in the heart of the dehesa, where free-ranging pigs feed on acorns, a defining element behind the celebrated quality of Spain’s finest ham.
The visit includes an expert introduction to the museum, curing cellars, and production process, followed by an exclusive tasting of Iberian ham and a traditional gourmet lunch overlooking the beautiful Tentudía reservoir.
In the afternoon, continue to Seville for a walking tour that includes a visit of the majestic Cathedral of Seville and the enchanting Santa Cruz Quarter, a maze of narrow lanes, orange trees, whitewashed façades, and hidden plazas.
This evening, experience an authentic flamenco performance at Palacio Andaluz, one of Seville’s most prestigious venues, where accomplished dancers and live music bring the spirit of Andalusia vividly to life. A tapas dinner is included during the performance.
After the performance, proceed to your hotel for check-in and overnight.
DAY 5 – August 13, 2027
After breakfast and check-out, begin the day with a visit to the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s oldest royal palaces still in use, renowned for its exquisite Mudéjar architecture and serene gardens.
You will then depart for Jerez de la Frontera, internationally renowned as the birthplace of sherry, the region’s celebrated fortified wine, aged through the traditional solera system that has defined local winemaking for centuries.
On arrival, visit a traditional bodega for a guided tasting that introduces the distinctive styles of sherry and their enduring connection to Andalusian culture and gastronomy. A regional lunch is served afterwards.
In the afternoon, continue to Cádiz, the final destination of your journey and one of Western Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, celebrated for its maritime heritage, Atlantic vistas, and vibrant historic centre.
Here, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of the historic old town, including the cathedral and the city’s evocative coastal atmosphere, before this memorable journey through some of Spain’s most iconic and authentic destinations comes to a close. At the port of Cádiz, you will re-board the ship.
Land Program Step by Step:
Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details and the timings indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
DAY 1
10:30am Disembark the ship in La Coruña
11:00am Photo stop Tower of Hercules (UNESCO)
11:45am Depart for Melide
1:00pm Lunch in Melide
3:00pm Walking tour Melide
5:00pm Depart for Monforte
6:15pm Check in at your hotel
8:00pm Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the Parador de Monforte or similar hotel
DAY 2
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:00am Check-out and depart for Astorga
10:15am Astorga walking tour and visit to the Episcopal Palace
1:00pm Lunch at a local restaurant in Astorga
3:00pm Depart for Salamanca
5:15pm Check-in at your hotel
6:00pm Walking tour of Salamanca
8:00pm Arrival back at your hotel
Dinner is on your own
Overnight at the Grand Hotel Don Gregorio or similar hotel
DAY 3
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Check-out and depart for Cáceres
10:45am Visit the historic old town of Cáceres (UNESCO)
1:00pm Lunch at local restaurant in Caceres
3:00pm Depart for Mérida
4:00pm Guided tour of Mérida with its Roman Theatre (UNESCO)
7:00pm Check-in at your hotel
Dinner is on your own
Overnight at the Parador de Mérida or similar hotel
DAY 4
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Check-out and depart for Monesterio
10:45am Visit to Monesterio livestock farm, ham tasting, and meal.
2:30pm Depart for Seville
3:30pm Walking tour of Seville, including the Cathedral and Santa Cruz Quarter
7:00pm Flamenco show with tapas dinner
8:30pm Check-in at your hotel
Overnight at Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza or similar hotel
DAY 5
AM Breakfast at your hotel and check-out
9:30am Visit the Alcázar of Seville
11:30am Depart for Jerez de la Frontera
12:45pm Bodega visit with wine tasting and lunch
3:30pm Depart for Cádiz
4:00pm Cádiz walking tour with cathedral visit
6:30pm Re-board the ship
Expected Weather
In August, the average temperature in this region is approximately 25º C / 77º F.
What to Bring
We recommend light, breathable clothing that can be layered as needed, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sun protection, and a light rain jacket or umbrella.
Currency
Euro
Electricity
220 volts. We recommend bringing your own travel converter for electric devices.
Documents and Visa Requirements
A valid passport is required. Please be sure to bring it with you.
Accommodation:
Parador de Monforte de Lemos
Plaza Luis de Góngora y Argote, s/n, 27400 Monforte de Lemos, Lugo, Spain
Phone: +34 982 41 15 50
Grand Hotel Don Gregorio Salamanca
Calle San Pablo, 80, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
Phone: +34 923 21 44 88
Parador de Mérida
Calle Almendralejo, 58, 06800 Mérida, Badajoz, Spain
Phone: +34 924 31 38 00
Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza
Plaza Jesús de la Redención, 2, 41003 Sevilla, Spain
Phone: +34 954 56 14 96
* If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes:
•1 night at the Parador de Monforte de Lemos or similar hotel (standard double room) including breakfast and dinner
•1 night at the Grand Hotel Don Gregorio or similar hotel (Superior Deluxe Room) including breakfast.
•1 night at the Parador de Mérida or similar hotel (standard double room) including breakfast
•1 night at the Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza or similar hotel (Superior Room) including breakfast
•English-speaking tour escort
•Luggage handling at hotels (maximum 2 pieces of luggage per person)
•Entrance fees per the itinerary
•Beverages at included lunches or dinners: water, soft drinks, and a choice of wine or beer
Program excludes:
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Meals and beverages not listed in the program details
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
Please note:
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.
Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
