OUR STORY IBERIA

2027 PROGRAM DATES

March 29–April 6 | Portugal Only

April 5–April 14 | Spain & Gibraltar Only

March 29–April 14 | Full Itinerary

Our Story Iberia can be connected with Our Story Morocco in March 2027

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Join us on an unforgettable journey through the Iberian Peninsula, where the remarkable story of the Jewish people comes to life. Discover the intellectual and cultural brilliance of the Golden Age, reflect on the trials of the Inquisition, and witness the inspiring revival of Jewish communities today. This immersive heritage experience blends history, resilience, and renewal, offering a meaningful and enriching travel program for participants of all backgrounds.

Our Story Iberia offers up to 17 days of immersive, professionally guided exploration through Portugal (Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto & Belmonte), Spain (Toledo, Granada, Córdoba, Malaga & Seville), and Gibraltar. Guests may choose a Portugal-only program, a Spain & Gibraltar journey, or the complete cross-border experience.

PORTUGAL HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the romantic palaces and hilltop fortresses of Sintra and the medieval walled village of Trancoso
Savor iconic Portuguese flavors, from pastéis de Belém and cherry ginja to world-renowned port wine
Explore Lisbon’s maritime legacy during the Age of Discovery
Connect with the living heritage of Belmonte’s Crypto-Jewish descendants
Visit a traditional olive estate and winery in the scenic Portuguese highlands
Welcome Shabbat in the historic Jewish atmosphere of Porto

SPAIN & GIBRALTAR HIGHLIGHTS

Admire masterpieces by Pablo Picasso
Wander through the magnificent Alhambra Palace in Granada
Meet the famous Barbary macaques on the Rock of Gibraltar
Experience a meaningful Shabbat celebration in Gibraltar
Indulge in relaxation at a traditional Andalusian hammam
Taste authentic Manchego cheese
Trace the footsteps of Rambam and Ibn Gvirol
Reflect beside the legendary windmills of Don Quixote

Our Story Spain is guided by a knowledgeable Jewish educator alongside experienced local European guides. For a more personal and comfortable journey, participation is limited to just 28 adult travelers.

PROGRAM ITINERARY

The following is our projected itinerary, subject to reasonable change. Our Story Iberia can be connected with Our Story Morocco in March 2027

DAY 1 | MONDAY | MARCH 29, 2027

GETTING ORIENTED IN LISBON

NOTE: Those arriving on Sunday evening can be accommodated at the Lisbon hotel based on our group rates.

Arrival at Lisbon’s Portela Airport with transfer to our centrally located hotel in the heart of the city
Group Meeting #1 – 10:00 AM
Discover Lisbon’s celebrated Age of Discovery heritage at the iconic Belém Tower, the fortress that once guarded the city’s harbor entrance
Visit the Monument to the Discoveries honoring Portugal’s great explorers
Enjoy a tasting of the famous pastéis de Belém, freshly baked and served warm
Lunch break at the vibrant Time Out Market, sampling a variety of Portuguese culinary specialties from local vendors
Explore the elegant Baixa district, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake
Learn about Lisbon’s Jewish community during the Inquisition, including a visit to the 1506 Easter Massacre Memorial
Group Meeting #2 – 5:00 PM
Wander through the historic Alfama neighborhood, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric quarter
Dinner featuring authentic Portuguese cuisine accompanied by a live Fado performance, Portugal’s soulful traditional folk music

OVERNIGHT: LISBON, PORTUGAL

Meals Included: Dinner

DAY 2 | TUESDAY | MARCH 30, 2027

SINTRA’S FAIRY TALE BEAUTY

Travel to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its romantic palaces and lush mountain landscapes
Enjoy a scenic nature walk up to the Moorish Castle, taking in sweeping panoramic views over the surrounding hills and coastline
Discover the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira estate, exploring its symbolic gardens, hidden tunnels, mysterious grottoes, and the iconic Initiation Well
Evening cultural encounter with Lisbon’s Portuguese-Jewish community, including dinner at the Maccabi country club and an opportunity to connect with local members

OVERNIGHT: LISBON, PORTUGAL
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 3 | WEDNESDAY | MARCH 31, 2027

ALONG PORTUGAL’S ATLANTIC COAST

Depart Lisbon and journey north along Portugal’s breathtaking Atlantic coastline, enjoying scenic ocean views along the way
Pause in the medieval walled town of Óbidos for a tasting of traditional ginja, the beloved Portuguese cherry liqueur often served in edible chocolate cups
Continue to Nazaré, a picturesque fishing village dramatically set above towering cliffs, internationally famous for some of the largest waves ever recorded
Travel onward with a stop in Tomar to visit the historic Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal
Learn about Abraham Zacuto of Tomar, the distinguished Jewish astronomer and mathematician whose astronomical calculations supported Portuguese maritime exploration during the Age of Discovery
Arrive in Coimbra, Portugal’s former medieval capital, followed by hotel check-in and dinner

OVERNIGHT: COIMBRA, PORTUGAL
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 4 | THURSDAY | APRIL 1, 2027

TREASURES OF MEDIEVAL COIMBRA

Morning visit to the historic University of Coimbra, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious centers of learning
Tour the magnificent Baroque Joanina Library, renowned for its gilded woodwork and priceless collections
Stroll through the University’s Botanical Gardens, home to diverse plant species from around the world
After lunch, depart Coimbra and travel north toward Porto
En route, stop at a traditional quinta estate for a guided port wine tasting, discovering the region’s centuries-old winemaking traditions
Arrive in Porto and enjoy an introductory cruise along the scenic Douro River, offering panoramic views of the city’s iconic bridges and riverfront architecture
Free evening to explore at your leisure and dine independently

OVERNIGHT: PORTO, PORTUGAL
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 5 | FRIDAY | APRIL 2, 2027

WANDERING PORTO

Morning visit to the Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue, the largest active synagogue in the Iberian Peninsula, with an in-depth look at its history and architecture
Continue next door to the Porto Holocaust Museum for a meaningful exploration of Jewish resilience and remembrance
Afternoon discovery of Porto’s vibrant character, beginning with a walk through the colorful Ribeira district along the Douro waterfront
Admire the striking azulejo tile panels inside São Bento Train Station, illustrating key moments of Portuguese history
Visit the atmospheric Livraria Lello bookstore, famed for its ornate interior and often associated with inspiring J.K. Rowling
Evening opportunity to participate in Kabbalat Shabbat services, followed by a traditional Shabbat dinner shared with the local Jewish community

OVERNIGHT: PORTO, PORTUGAL
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 6 | SATURDAY | APRIL 3, 2027

INTO THE HIGHLANDS OF PORTUGAL

Journey eastward into Portugal’s scenic mountainous heartland, a region rich in rural charm and layered history
Explore the medieval walled town of Trancoso, once a flourishing center of Jewish life before the Expulsion and Inquisition
Visit a traditional olive oil estate to discover time-honored cultivation and pressing techniques, followed by a tasting of distinctive regional varieties
Continue to Belmonte, one of Portugal’s most meaningful Jewish heritage destinations, where descendants of Crypto-Jews preserved Jewish identity and rituals in secrecy for more than five centuries
Upon arrival, check in to our accommodations and enjoy a free evening with dinner at your leisure in Belmonte

OVERNIGHT: BELMONTE, PORTUGAL
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 7 | SUNDAY | APRIL 4, 2027

BELMONTE’S CRYPTO-JEWISH HERITAGE

Morning excursion into Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal’s highest mountain range, for a guided nature walk amid sweeping panoramas, granite peaks, and dramatic glacial valleys
Return to Belmonte for a visit to the Belmonte Synagogue and Jewish Museum, exploring the town’s enduring spiritual heritage
Engage in a meaningful conversation with members of Belmonte’s Jewish community, who will share personal stories of their families’ Crypto-Jewish past and the inspiring reemergence of openly practiced Judaism in recent decades
In the evening, visit Quinta dos Termos Winery to taste distinctive high-altitude wines, followed by a farm-to-table dinner featuring fresh regional ingredients at the estate

OVERNIGHT: BELMONTE, PORTUGAL
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 8 | MONDAY | APRIL 5, 2027

CROSSING INTO SPAIN

Depart Belmonte and cross the border into Spain, transitioning from Portugal’s mountain landscapes to the historic heart of Castile
En route, stop in Salamanca to admire its elegant Renaissance architecture and stroll across the ancient Roman bridge spanning the Tormes River
Continue to Madrid, arriving in the afternoon and checking in to our centrally located hotel
Travelers joining the “Spain Only” program will meet the group here and are advised to schedule arrivals by 1:00 PM
Late afternoon guided walking tour introducing Madrid’s grand boulevards, historic plazas, and vibrant atmosphere
Evening group dinner at a local kosher restaurant

OVERNIGHT: MADRID, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 9 | TUESDAY | APRIL 6, 2027

GOLDEN AGE OF SEPHARDIC SPAIN IN TOLEDO

Morning departure for a comprehensive full-day excursion to Toledo, the famed “City of Three Cultures,” where Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities once flourished side by side in medieval Spain
Take in sweeping panoramic views from Mirador del Valle, offering a breathtaking introduction to Toledo’s dramatic hilltop setting
Enter the ancient city walls and explore the imposing Alcázar de Toledo, a historic fortress dominating the skyline above the old quarter
Free time for lunch, with the opportunity to taste Toledo’s renowned marzipan and other regional specialties
Visit the remarkable El Tránsito Synagogue, a 14th-century Mudéjar architectural gem, followed by Santa María la Blanca Synagogue, reflecting a striking blend of Islamic design and Jewish heritage
Wander through the winding lanes of the historic Judería (Jewish Quarter), once home to leading Jewish thinkers and poets such as Yehudah Halevi
Return to Madrid in the evening for leisure time and dinner independently

OVERNIGHT: MADRID, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 10 | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 7, 2027

LEGENDS OF LA MANCHA

Depart Madrid and travel south across the wide-open plains of La Mancha, the storied landscape that inspired Spain’s literary imagination
Pause to admire the legendary windmills associated with Don Quixote, famously depicted in Miguel de Cervantes’ classic novel, and tour the nearby hilltop Consuegra Castle overlooking the countryside
Visit an authentic Manchego cheese farm to discover traditional production methods and enjoy a tasting of this celebrated regional specialty
Continue into Andalusia, where the scenery shifts to rolling hills, olive groves, and sun-drenched vistas
Arrive in Granada and take in unforgettable views of the Alhambra set against the Sierra Nevada Mountains from the scenic Mirador de San Nicolás in the historic Albayzín quarter
Evening at leisure to wander Granada’s charming streets and experience its vibrant tapas culture

OVERNIGHT: GRANADA, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 11 | THURSDAY | APRIL 8, 2027

ALHAMBRA PALACE AND ITS FATEFUL DECREE

Morning guided exploration of the magnificent Alhambra Palace complex, regarded as the finest expression of Islamic architecture in Europe and the historic site where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella issued the Alhambra Decree that set the Spanish Inquisition in motion
Stroll through the serene Generalife Gardens, once the summer retreat of Nasrid rulers, filled with fountains, courtyards, and fragrant greenery
Free time for lunch at Mercado San Agustín, offering a variety of local Andalusian specialties
Afternoon visit to the Sacromonte district, long associated with Granada’s Gitano (Romani) heritage and known as the birthplace of cave-style flamenco
Evening immersion in an authentic flamenco performance held within Sacromonte’s historic cave dwellings, showcasing the powerful art form shaped by Romani, Moorish, and Andalusian cultural influences, followed by dinner

OVERNIGHT: GRANADA, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 12 | FRIDAY | APRIL 9, 2027

MÁLAGA AND COSTA DEL SOL

Depart Granada and journey toward the Mediterranean coast, arriving in the vibrant port city of Málaga
Explore landmarks associated with Ibn Gvirol, the distinguished 11th-century Jewish poet and philosopher born in Málaga, whose writings left a lasting mark on Jewish thought
Visit the Picasso Museum, honoring Málaga’s most celebrated native son and showcasing an exceptional collection of his works
Free time for lunch along Málaga’s lively Costa del Sol promenade, with views of the sparkling Mediterranean
Continue along the scenic coastline to Gibraltar, the British Overseas Territory at the southernmost edge of the Iberian Peninsula
Evening opportunity to join Kabbalat Shabbat services with the Jewish community of Gibraltar, one of the world’s oldest continuously active Jewish communities and an integral part of Gibraltar’s modern identity
Shabbat dinner shared with members of the Gibraltar Jewish community

OVERNIGHT: GIBRALTAR
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 13 | SATURDAY | APRIL 10, 2027

THE ROCK OF GIBRALTAR

Free morning with the option to attend local Shabbat services or independently visit the tranquil Gibraltar Botanical Gardens
Enjoy a shared group Shabbat lunch
Afternoon exploration of the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, ascending by cable car for sweeping views across the Strait of Gibraltar toward the coast of North Africa
Encounter Europe’s only free-roaming monkey population at Apes Den
Tour the Great Siege Tunnels to gain insight into Gibraltar’s strategic military importance, including its role as a refuge during World War II
Descend to explore the distinctive British character of Gibraltar’s Old Town, with its red phone booths, narrow lanes, and lively squares
Evening at leisure to dine independently in Old Town

OVERNIGHT: GIBRALTAR
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

DAY 14 | SUNDAY | APRIL 11, 2027

HIGHLAND TOWNS OF RONDA AND LUCENA

Depart Gibraltar and travel north into the scenic Andalusian highlands, a region celebrated for its picturesque pueblos blancos — whitewashed villages perched against rugged hillsides
Stop in Ronda, a spectacular mountaintop town dramatically divided by a deep gorge, and admire its iconic 18th-century bridge soaring above the ravine
Continue to Lucena, once known as the “Pearl of Sepharad,” a distinguished center of Jewish life that was home to a renowned Talmudic academy during the medieval period
Visit a local winery for a guided tour and tasting, sampling distinctive Andalusian vintages
Arrive in Córdoba and check in to our hotel located in the atmospheric old town
Evening relaxation at a traditional Arab hammam, immersing yourself in thermal baths inspired by the refined bathing traditions of medieval Al-Andalus

OVERNIGHT: CÓRDOBA, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 15 | MONDAY | APRIL 12, 2027

SEVILLE – ANDALUSIA’S TRADITIONAL CAPITAL

Full-day excursion to Seville, the dynamic capital of Andalusia and a city layered with Jewish, Christian, and Moorish history
Walk through the atmospheric Santa Cruz quarter, once the center of Seville’s medieval Jewish community
Free time for lunch at Mercado de Triana, a bustling market built on the former site of the local Inquisition headquarters
Visit the awe-inspiring Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and view the Tomb of Christopher Columbus housed within its grand interior
Discover Spain’s bullfighting heritage with a guided tour of the historic Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza
Return to Córdoba in the evening and enjoy dinner featuring traditional Sephardic-inspired cuisine at Casa Mazal Restaurant

NIGHT: CÓRDOBA, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 16 | TUESDAY | APRIL 13, 2027

TREASURES OF CÓRDOBA

Trace the legacy of Córdoba’s illustrious Rabbi Moses ben Maimon, known as Maimonides (Rambam) one of the most influential Jewish philosophers, legal scholars, physicians, and astronomers of the medieval world
Visit the historic Synagogue of Córdoba, one of only a few surviving medieval synagogues in Spain, and explore the Casa de Sefarad Museum to gain deeper insight into Sephardic Jewish life and culture
Enter the extraordinary Mezquita of Córdoba, originally the Great Mosque, renowned for its striking forest of red-and-white arches and the cathedral later constructed within its walls
Travel just beyond the city to Medina Azahara, the evocative ruins of a 10th-century palace-city commissioned by the Caliph as a symbol of power and refinement
Depart Córdoba in the afternoon and return to Madrid
Conclude the journey with a reflective wrap-up discussion and festive farewell dinner in Madrid

OVERNIGHT: MADRID, SPAIN
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 17 | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 14, 2027

HASTA LUEGO!

Say your farewells to Iberia and our traveling community following breakfast at the hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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SIGN UP EARLY AND SAVE

Sign up at least five months in advance for $100/person early registration savings. Your deposit is fully refundable up to four months prior, so the savings are commitment-free.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

A professional guide/educator leads the group on a 24/7 basis and expert city guides join our group most days
Centrally located 4* and 5* hotels with porterage included
Breakfast daily and additional meals according to the itinerary (kosher and vegetarian)
Private air-conditioned touring vehicle
All programming and site entrances according to the itinerary
Wireless touring headsets
For groups with 20+ travelers

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

Flights to/from Europe
Airport transfers
Travel insurance (optional) Insure your investment, and plan ahead for the unexpected with a travel insurance plan
Gratuities (suggested $150-$250/traveler)
Hotel incidentals, and meals not marked as included

TRAVELING TO/FROM EUROPE

Travelers are responsible for booking their own travel into Warsaw or Budapest on arrival and out from Krakow, Prague, or Berlin at the conclusion of their Our Story travels (depending on your route choices).
Travelers should plan to arrive no later than 2:00pm on their chosen start date and are encouraged to arrive an evening in advance to better acclimate and take advantage of the full program offerings. Group hotel rates are offered for those arriving early, subject to availability (contact us to learn more).
The program concludes following breakfast on the chosen end date and onward travel may be booked anytime in the morning and beyond – standard hotel checkout is at 11:00am.
Airport transfers at the start and end of the program are not included in the program package. Taxis and Uber rides are widely available at our starting and ending point airports.

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ENROLLMENT TERMS

A $250/person fully refundable deposit is due at the time of your registration.
The deposit is non-refundable four months prior to the program start date.
The balance is due no later than two months prior to the program start date after which all payments are non-refundable and exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis at Authentic Israel’s discretion.
Cancellations must be made in writing, and we encourage you to obtain a travel insurance policy.
Payments may be made by check or credit/debit card, however, a 3.50% processing fee applies for credit/debit card payments (does not apply to initial $250 deposit). Note: credit card fees are not refundable
The program is subject to a minimum participation of 15 travelers registered at least four months prior to the program start date, and we ask that you not reserve non-refundable flights until the tour. Within four months of the program start date, Authentic Israel reserves the right to cancel trip dates in extraordinary circumstances.
Authentic Israel reserves the right to deny acceptance on the tour according to its sole discretion.
All program costs are listed in US Dollars.

TRIP COSTS

Sign up at least five months in advance for $100/person early registration savings. Your deposit is fully refundable up to four months prior, so the savings are commitment-free.

TOUR ROUTE OPTIONS	TOUR COSTS/PERSON	2026 DATES
Portugal Only	Double Room: $3,450 Single Room: $4,450	March 29 – April 6, 2027
Spain & Gibraltar Only	Double Room: $3,950 Single Room: $4,995	April 5 – April 14, 2027
Full Itinerary	Double Room: $6,950 Single Room: $9,450	March 29 – April 14, 2027

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Who staffs the tour?

Our Story is led by a professional Jewish educator/guide who escorts the tour on a 24/7 basis. Our program leader is joined by expert local guides in most cities, many of whom are part of their local Jewish communities.

How active is the touring?

Our Story is an active tour designed for adults. Touring days are full and designed to provide you with as rich an experience as possible. Travelers should feel comfortable with lots of walking, including walking on uneven surfaces (e.g., cobblestones), standing for long periods of time, and generally being on their feet for most of the day. This trip is not wheelchair or walker accessible.

How many people travel in the group?

We host no more than 28 adult travelers per group, and we may host up to two groups traveling concurrently with separate staff teams and staggered itineraries.

Can I start or end the tour on a date not shown as a route option?

We offer a number of entry and exit point options to accommodate travelers with different travel interests and availability. We believe these are the optimal options based on logistical and social considerations. We do not recommend deviating from the route options offered, but you may contact us with special requests.

How is this a Jewish experience?

Our Story is a pluralistic Jewish travel experience open to all. Group meals are kosher or kosher-style (no pork or shellfish and with vegetarian options), and all touring on Saturdays is by foot. Lunches and dinners on Shabbat are all included and kosher. Breakfast is the standard buffet offered at our hotels.

How all-inclusive is the experience?

The program covers all touring, private transportation, all meals listed as included, hotel accommodations including porterage, and an educational staff team. You’ll be responsible for your connecting travel for the start/end of the program, any meals not included, gratuities, as well as travel insurance, should you wish to obtain it.

How do I get ready for the trip?

Detailed pre-trip materials are distributed 3-4 months prior to arrival. You’ll also be invited to a trip Facebook group to connect with fellow travelers before the program and stay in touch afterward.

How confirmed are the tour dates?

Program tour dates are confirmed, however, Authentic Israel reserves the right to cancel trip dates in extraordinary circumstances (e.g. security or public health-related considerations).

TRAVEL BEYOND THE EXPECTED

The power of inspiring Jewish travel extends beyond the boundaries of our name.
Discover a world of Jewish and world heritage travel opportunities in Europe and Morocco.