Itinerary

Day 1 Lisbon, Portugal

Your journey starts in Australia. On arrival into Lisbon you will be transferred by car to your hotel where you will spend the next 2 nights.

Day 2 Lisbon, Portugal

After breakfast, enjoy the day at leisure.

A glorious mosaic of beauty, freedom, and authenticity, Portugal's capital is a stirring artwork of a city. Known for the seven hills it spreads across, and its stirring fado music, Lisbon is a pastel-coloured blend of houses and beautiful tile artworks - and this creative city strikes a perfect harmony between natural and manmade beauty. Stroll along Alfama's steep, cobbled streets as you explore one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods - where each house and door could be its own photograph. Look for the decorative tiles, with the distinctive blues and whites of Azulejo ceramics, and visit the dedicated museum to learn more. Afterward, wind up to Sao Jorge Castle, where views out across Lisbon's red rooftops unravel. Just one of many majestic viewpoints, you can also seek out Miradouro da Graca for perhaps Lisbon's finest panorama, with the copper-coloured suspension bridge stretching over sparkling water beyond the sea of buildings. The elegant Tower of Belem rises in the Tagus estuary and is a historic defender of these shores. The grand, carved cloisters of Jeronimos Monastery spread out close by, and there's another UNESCO-recognized location close by at Sintra, where a colourful town is set amid thick gardens and towering mountains - capped by the royal Pena Palace. Later, relax and take a quick break to drink Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur made from chocolate cups instead of coffee. Lisboetas have a sweet tooth, and the famous Pastel de Nata's crumbling pastry and caramelized custard topping is the essential accompaniment to any coffee stop.

Day 3 Lisbon, Portugal - Embarkation day

After breakfast, enjoy the day at leisure before being transferred by private car to the port for embarkation. Ship sets sail at 7pm.

Day 4 Portimao, Portugal

Sprawl out and relax across thick wedges of glorious, golden sands, in Portugal's sun-worshipping paradise. Portimao is a beachy heaven and a perfect encapsulation of the Algarve's Atlantic appeals, offering easy access to the wonderful Praia da Rocha. Head straight for the long and wide expanse of this famous beach, where you can kick back and enjoy soft, honey-colored sands and gentle waves rolling ashore. A spectacular and spacious sandy expanse – located at the point where the Arade River unloads into the Atlantic – relax, or wander the wooden boardwalk to a string of neighbouring beaches, as you explore among dramatic, tank-like rock formations. Taste juicy hauls of sardines, cooked over open fires, with glasses of wine pressed from the vineyards nearby - as you lavish under the sunshine of the Algarve's prime holiday region. Surrounded by offbeat fishing villages, stunning coastlines, and quaintly tiled old towns, there is a rich medley of life, culture, and flavours to indulge in. Attractive mosaics pattern the scenic Ribeirinha promenade, breathing new life into Portimao's rugged old docks, and creating a charming riverside stroll that leads to the showpiece beach. Elsewhere, the arches and sea-eroded limestone stacks of the monumental Ponta da Piedade coastline are close by, or you can make for Silves, a historical former capital of the Kingdom of the Algarve, crowned with a soaring sandy castle. The Moorish trading outpost of Lagos is also within reach, where you can visit a coastline dotted with gaping sea caves, set below crumbling coastal fortresses.

Day 5 Cadiz, Spain

More than a hundred watchtowers gaze out across the waves surrounding this ancient Andalusian city. Sprinkled with evocative cobbled side streets, you'll explore 3,000 years' worth of history, while stumbling across palm-tree-lined plazas of shaded coffee sippers. Cadiz claims the mantle of Western Europe's oldest city, and every piece of architecture - and every wrong turn - offers a chance to discover fascinating new tales. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1100 BC, Christopher Columbus used the city as a base for his exploratory, map-defining voyages of 1493 and 1502. The port grew in importance and wealth as Cadiz's strategic location close to Africa's northern tip helped it blossom into a centre for New World trade. Catedral de Cadiz, is a display of the city's wealth and importance, looming spectacularly over the Atlantic's waves, with cawing seagulls sweeping between its twin bell towers. Inside, treasures from the city's trading exploits in the West Indies and beyond - which helped fuel the growth of this historically prosperous city - are on display. Enveloped by ocean on almost every side, Cadiz has something of an island feel, and you can cool off from southern Spain's unrelenting sunshine on the sweeping golden sand beach of Playa Victoria. The two towers of the new El Puente de la Constitucion de 1812 mark a contemporary landmark in this most ancient of cities, in the form of a spectacular new road bridge. Torre Tavira, meanwhile, is the most famous of Cadiz's army of watchtowers, and the highest point in the city. Reach the top for a view of the ocean fringing the city's expanse, and to learn about the towers - constructed so trading merchants could survey the harbour from their lavish homes. The Central Market is a chaotic place of bartering, where flashing knives dissect fresh fish. Stop in at the orbiting bars to enjoy tapas, freshly prepared with the market's produce.

Day 6 Day at sea

Day 7 Cartagena, Spain

On the crossroads of mighty cultures, this Murcian port has endless ancient stories to share. A valuable natural harbour attracted many civilizations to this sun-bathed, south-easterly setting - following its foundation by the Carthaginians in 227 BC. Blending the imprints left by countless cultures on this global junction, the presence of everyone from the Vandals to the Phoenicians and Moors can be felt as you explore, walking between ruins and celebrated modernist architecture along Calle Mayor. Cartagena is crowned by the soaring Castillo de la Concepcion - rise to the stout castle aboard a panoramic lift. Inside, look through reams of archaeological treasures, or admire the rolling views down over the port and across the waters. Watch out for the electric blue peacocks who strut flamboyantly. Cartagena's emergence as a visitor destination coincided with a stunning discovery in 1988 - the bowl of a gloriously preserved Roman Theatre. Enter to sit among the grandiose ancient venue, so evocative, you can't help but imagine the historic performances that have graced its stage. Wander the breezy waterfront, looking across the narrow strait towards Africa's distant haze, and spotting gleaming warships. Cartagena's perfect harbour means it has been one of Spain's oldest strategic navy positions since the 16th century. Settle to enjoy the joys of tapas in lively bars - sampling crisped paella, squid and honeyed-eggplant. Easter's Semana Santa festivities are typically lively here, as hooded processions, lavish floats, and sombre fiery displays roll through the streets.

Overnight in port

Day 8 Cartagena, Spain

Day 9 Gibraltar, United Kingdom

A curious slice of Britain - picked up and plonked into the sun, sea, and sand of southern Spain - Gibraltar is a unique and historic peninsula, crowned by the iconic Rock of Gibraltar mountain. Bright red phone boxes gleam, Union Jacks flutter in the breeze, and cones of fish and chips are scoffed in the sun in this most British of outposts. At times a surreal and strange juxtaposition, you can be gazing at the African shoreline from the beach one moment, and carefully treading across the runway of a crammed-in international airport the next. Gibraltar's cathedral-like Rock towers 400 meters above the waves and the stark limestone mountain watches out across a narrow, strategic strait between the European and African continents. The pointed Rock is a symbol of this unique place, and you can hike it - or take the convenient cable car - to enjoy the views and meet the mischievous colony of Barbary macaques who live on its slopes. Europe's only wild monkeys roam free and loose on the mountain - so be sure to hang onto your sunglasses and cameras. The Siege Tunnels bring to life the struggles for this land, with the plucky British boring tunnels through the rock by hand, effectively converting it into a giant watchtower, capable of defending the distant territory. Natural caves inside droop with stalactites, while a squat Moorish castle stands proudly at its summit. Gibraltar packs a lot into this two-and-a-half square miles of territory, which has fallen under British jurisdiction since 1713. Grand Casemates Square is a sunbathed plaza, and drizzly old Britain feels a world away, as you sit back and sip ice-cold beers and cocktails in Gibraltar's historic centre.

Day 10 Malaga, Spain

Bathing in the Sunshine Coast's stunning subtropical climate, and laying out endless spectacular beaches, it's no surprise that Malaga is one of Spain's most popular cities. The already impressive cultural appeal of this holiday city has skyrocketed over recent years, and with a storied old town and Moorish fortifications, Malaga has a lot to offer. Nearby, you can recline on the renowned beaches of the Costa del Sol, or venture inland to discover the Moorish treasures of Granada and Cordoba. La Malagueta beach is Malaga's spacious urban beach, perfect for a sunbathe and a dip in the warm water, before enjoying seaside cocktails or seafood tapas in the restaurants nearby. Malaga and the Costa del Sol may be best known for glorious weather and beaches, but Malaga can now stake a genuine claim as an artistic powerhouse too. Visit the renowned Picasso museum - housed in the artist's birthplace - before exploring the freshly opened outpost of the Pompidou Centre. The art also spills out onto the streets in the colourful Soho district - splashed with vibrant street paintings. Known as La Manquita - or the one-armed woman - the city's cathedral rises over the historic old town. Its huge bell tower stands tall, but an accompanying second tower was never completed - hence the nickname. The Alcazaba fortress palace looms over the waterfront and forms a spectacularly preserved remnant from the era when the Moors controlled the Andalusia region. Discover more of the Arabic influence by visiting Granada's Alhambra palace, or Cordoba's La Mezquita mosque. Together with Seville's converted cathedral, the cities form Andalusia's Golden Triangle of Moorish wonders.

Overnight in port

Day 11 Malaga, Spain

Day 12 Day at sea

Day 13 Lisbon to Cairo

Upon disembarkation you will be taken by private car transfer to the airport for your onward journey to Cairo.

Welcome to Cairo Arrive in Egypt and start your journey with comfort and a warm welcome. Meet & assist at Cairo International Airport by special representative. Private transfer to your 5-star hotel (Marriott Omar El Khayam or similar). Free time to relax or explore nearby surroundings. Welcome dinner at your hotel restaurant. Overnight in Cairo.

Day 14 Cairo, Egypt

Saqqara, Grand Egyptian Museum & VIP Giza Pyramids Tour Step back in time at Saqqara, visit the world's largest archaeological museum, and enjoy a VIP tour of the Great Pyramids - all in one unforgettable day. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a visit to Saqqara, the royal necropolis of ancient Memphis: See the Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the oldest stone building in the world. Explore the Serapeum, a mysterious underground tomb complex for the sacred Apis bulls. Continue to the Grand Egyptian Museum, where you'll explore thousands of ancient artefacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun. Head to the Giza Plateau for a Private VIP Fast Track Tour through the VIP Hall, offering exclusive access and a smooth entry experience. Discover the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and enjoy time for photos or an optional camel ride. Lunch at Khufu's Restaurant, with direct views of the pyramids. Return to your hotel and overnight in Cairo.

Day 15 Alexandria, Egypt

Full-Day Trip to Alexandria 

Spend a day in Alexandria, the Mediterranean city full of history and sea breeze. 

Early breakfast and private transfer to Alexandria. Visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey's Pillar, and the Qaitbay Citadel. Explore the Greco-Roman Museum, showcasing rare finds from the city's unique past. Lunch included at a local seafood restaurant. Visit the famous Alexandria Library (Bibliotheca Alexandrina) a modern architectural wonder and one of the leading cultural centres in the Middle East. Return to Cairo and overnight at the hotel.

Day 16 Cairo, Egypt

Journey Through Sacred Cairo 

Dive deeper into Cairo's rich history, explore iconic landmarks, and end your day with a relaxing dinner on the Nile. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Old Cairo, including the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Explore the impressive Citadel of Mohamed Ali, with panoramic views over the city. Free time for shopping and exploration at Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Cairo's most famous market. Enjoy lunch at Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant, located in the heart of Khan El Khalili, offering a traditional Egyptian dining experience. Discover the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, home to the royal mummies and key moments of Egypt's heritage. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful farewell dinner on a private Nile Felucca ride. Return to your hotel and overnight in Cairo.

Day 17 Cairo, Egypt

Checkout and Departure

 A smooth goodbye with memories to last a lifetime. 

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Private transfer to Cairo International Airport. Assistance with luggage and airport procedures.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 06 May 2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. From price is based on a Vista Suite - VI Category. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.