27 Day Premium Portugal and Spain Exploration

Embark on a 27-day Premium excursion of the Iberian Peninsula, featuring two of Europe’s most delightful countries: Spain and Portugal. From experiencing flamenco dances in Seville to exploring the history of the Alhambra in Granada and marvelling at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, this trip is filled with cultural attractions. Additionally, you’ll have a chance to join an exclusive gastronomic society in San Sebastian and witness the beauty of Barcelona. Furthermore, you will also visit Portugal’s port city birthplace as well as enjoy the riches of Douro Valley. Travellers are guided by passionate local leaders who aim to bring out the true essence of their homelands through its rich history, colourful culture, magnificent scenery, and delicate cuisine.

As you make your way around the exciting cities and sites of this trip, please remember to bring along appropriate attire. Comfy clothes and sturdy walking shoes are essential for navigating cobblestone streets, while in summertime the temperatures can reach over 40°C so be sure to wear layers and use sun protection. Remember to also drink lots of water! At certain religious sites it is important to show respect by ensuring your clothing covers the arms, with pants or skirts going past the knees – a lightweight scarf can often help combat the heat while also covering any exposed shoulders or arms. Your leader will let you know when such clothing is required.

Tour highlights

Day 1 Lisbon
The time has finally come – you have arrived in the wonderful city of Lisbon, Portugal’s thrilling capital. You will be taken from the airport to a hotel right in the centre. At 6pm, gather with your tour leader and other travellers for an introduction to what lies ahead on your journey. Spend some extra time taking in all that Lisbon has to offer – why not visit one of its many outdoor cafes? Later, join your guide and group for dinner at a fabulous restaurant which specialises in traditional Portuguese dishes bursting with unique flavours. Going out to eat is always a fantastic experience when visiting Portugal – enjoy!
Accommodation: Figueira by The Beautique Hotels

Day 2 Lisbon
The Portuguese capital, one of Europe’s great cities, is renown for its stunning refurbished structures, elegant boulevards and remarkable palaces and churches. Why not join a local guide on a walking tour around the city? Start off your trip by riding the Historic Gloria cable car – arguably the most photographed image in the whole of Lisboa. After that uncover the upmarket borough of Bairro Alto, take a look around Chiado district as well as meander through Alfama’s small labyrinth streets full of rustic cafes and quaint old homes. It’s impossible to embark on a journey in Portugal without visiting one of its flagship buildings: The Cathedral of Lisboa built back in 1150 by Gilbert de Hastings, it stands on what was formerly an Arab mosque. And last but not least make sure to taste some Ginjinha – Portugal’s renowned cherry liqueur. As your journey in Lisbon comes to an end, make sure to bid farewell to your guide and allow your leader to take you to the remarkable Sao Jorge Castle. There may not remain much of its original structure, but some walls and 18 towers still stand tall today. Let yourself marvel at the view of the city beneath; white houses and buildings with terracotta rooftops all spread out before you. When the afternoon arrives, explore more of what Lisbon has to offer – why not wander around local neighbourhoods for a unique experience or pay a visit to Belem Tower or Monastery of Jeronimos?
Accommodation: Figueira by The Beautique Hotels

Day 3 Cascais / Cabo da Roca / Sintra / Coimbra
Escape the hustle and bustle of Lisbon on a full-day tour to Coimbra. Your first stop will be Sintra, a stunningly beautiful destination known for its magical hills and lush vegetation. Listen as your leader tells you how the cooler climate has made this place popular since centuries with royalty, poets, writers and travellers, including Lord Byron. Spend some time exploring Sintra’s vibrant Pena Palace before heading off to Cabo da Roca (around 1 hour away). Here you’ll find yourself at the westernmost point of mainland Portugal and continental Europe. Afterwards, make your way to Cascais; once a small fishing village which grew into an elegant resort town in the 19th century. Enjoy wandering around the quaint restaurants here and tasting local delicacies before setting off again on your journey to Coimbra with an expected late arrival.
Accommodation: Hotel Vila Gale Coimbra or similar

Day 4 Coimbra
Overseeing the majestic River Mondego is Coimbra, a city renowned for its medieval grandeur. Your guide will lead you through the city’s Old Quarter, showcasing its historic streets and buildings. But it’s the centuries-old university that really takes center stage – one of the oldest in the world! Afterwards, an included Fado music show awaits this evening; Portugal’s unique style of blues is truly captivating, making for an unforgettable experience. For dinner, your leader can point out some excellent local restaurants you may want to try.
Accommodation: Hotel Vila Gale Coimbra or similar

Day 5 Douro Valley
This morning, prepare to embark on a journey from Coimbra to the stunningly scenic Douro Valley. Home of some of the world’s finest wines, you will have an opportunity today to get an understanding as to why this region has become renowned for its vino. On your visit to one of the area’s top wineries, gain insight into both Portugal’s and the valley’s history as you sample various local products. Understand how centuries ago wine production in this place began while finding out which type is your personal favourite. Then delight in a delightful rustic picnic lunch made with fresh local ingredients (paired with more wine, obviously!). Experience an unforgettable boat excursion on the Douro River, and stop by the charming Pinhao. Then, make your way to your Feature Stay accommodation located amidst the verdant hills and terraced vineyards of the breathtaking Douro Valley. From here, you can appreciate picturesque views of the Douro River. When you arrive, take advantage of the scenic outdoor pools in your hotel or dine on the terrace while admiring the glorious surroundings.
Accommodation: Hotel Vila Gale Douro Vineyards (feature stay) or similar

Day 6 Porto
A trip to the city of Porto promises a romantic experience on the banks of the Douro River. Start your journey with an orientation walk and be awed by its majestic bridges, cobbled streets, merchants’ houses, cafes, baroque churches and crisscrossing staircases. After exploring this collection of enchanting alleyways, travel to Vila Nova de Gaia for some sunset drinks to top off the day.
Accommodation: Hotel Moon & Sun or similar

Day 7 Matosinhos / Porto
In and around Matosinhos
A trip to the seaside city of Matosinhos is a relaxing getaway. Hop on the local train and spend the day lounging by the beach, savoring seafood dishes in restaurants, or taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Once you return to Porto, enjoy some free time. Why not enjoy coffee and pastries with a great view of colourful old homes from one of Porto’s riverfront cafes? Or walk around the renowned World Heritage listed Ribeira district?
Accommodation: Hotel Moon & Sun or similar

Day 8 Madrid
In and around Madrid
Once your stomachs are full from a hearty breakfast, prepare to leave the hotel behind for an independent flight to Spain. Madrid is the next stop on your journey! This city brims with beautiful avenues, well-kept gardens and delicious cuisine. A driver will meet you at the airport when you arrive before transferring you to your hotel where you’ll be reunited with your leader and group at a Welcome Meeting this evening. For those feeling adventurous, check out the Museo del Prado followed by admiring Picasso’s and Dali’s works in Museo Reina Sofia then finish off at Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza which has eight centuries of European paintings on show. Later tonight, become acquainted with everyone while dining at a traditional tapas restaurant in Madrid.
Accommodation: Hotel Soho Boutique Congreso or similar

Day 9 Madrid
Head off to the charming city of Toledo this morning. This city was the former capital of Spain and contains many amazing historic buildings that span across many different architectural periods, from Gothic to Baroque. Today you’ll be able to get an insight into one of Toledo’s most loved treats, marzipan. Spanish people argue that it was invented in this city but others dispute that. However, it has been crafted here for generations with almond meal, honey and sugar coming together to create a unique delicious treat which is recognised as some of the best in the world! Learn about its history and importance to Toledo while sampling some yourself before returning back to Madrid for a free afternoon – where you could visit the Royal Palace or take a walk around Parque del Retiro.
Accommodation: Hotel Soho Boutique Congreso or similar

Day 10 Seville
In and around Seville
Behold the cultural vitality and dazzling architecture of Seville, the largest city in southern Spain, by taking the train from Madrid. Upon arrival, stay at Feature Stay accommodation; a wonderful family-run boutique hotel that was once an 18th-century mansion. Its walls are alive with personal touches such as hand-painted decorations in rooms or even Great Grandmother’s shawl in reception. Perched on the Alameda de Hercules where cafes, restaurants and music venues abound, it is difficult to imagine a better situation! This evening join your group for a thrilling traditional Spanish flamenco show -a vibrant performance that you will never forget.
Accommodation: Hotel Sacristia de Santa Ana or similar

Day 11 Seville
Start your day in Seville off with a knowledgeable local guide for an eye-opening walking tour. Stroll through the city’s charming alleys, picturesque orange groves, and flower-bedecked patios as you learn about its captivating history from your guide. Make sure to visit the spectacular Alcazar of Seville, a royal palace which remains in use by the Spanish royal family today. The final hours of the day are yours to spend as you wish – why not take an optional trip to the Giralda Tower and admire one of Europe’s grandest cathedrals, famously housing Christopher Columbus’ tomb?
Accommodation: Hotel Sacristia de Santa Ana or similar

Day 12 Cordoba
In and around Cordoba
Now embark on a unique journey to the city of Cordoba, an ancient Spanish settlement where traces of Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences are all visible. Your private transfer awaits! Here you will explore the distinct architecture, culture and cuisine, with a focus on visiting the Mezquita – an amalgamation of both mosque and cathedral. On this comprehensive guided tour with your leader you’ve got access to sites normally hidden from outsiders as well as uncovering the fascinating history surrounding this remarkable example of Islamic architecture. Experience firsthand how Christian and Muslim cultures have merged in one incredible space – Cordoba!
Accommodation: Soho Boutique Cordoba or similar

Day 13 Granada
Bid farewell to Cordoba and journey to Granada. On the way, make a pit stop at an olive oil mill. Here, be mesmerised by the owner of this family-run business as they take you through the process of producing olive oil. Don’t forget to sample some for yourself, together with olives, marmalade, pate and wine! Upon arrival in Granada and checking into your hotel, why not head out into town that evening for drinks and dinner with your companions?
Accommodation: Sercotel Gran Hotel Luna de Granada or similar

Day 14 Granada
Get ready for an unforgettable day in Granada! Start off your morning with a leader-led orientation walk through the city, learning about its past and witnessing the Islamic architecture and Arab influences all around. Afterwards, take some time to explore on your own – why not visit a teahouse to sample some Moorish desserts? In the afternoon join an expert local guide for an amazing tour of Alhambra – dating back to the 11th century it is home to Muslim art from its later European stages. As you wander around its ancient defensive walls, turrets and fountains set against the Sierra Nevada mountains you will be amazed by what you see. After seeing Alhambra during the day, reward yourself with an included dinner at a nearby restaurant before returning after dark for another experience – exploring Nasrid Palaces with your local guide! By now the crowds have dispersed and you are free to explore the site in all its glory. Your guide will bring history to life and provide expert insight as you explore the dominating red fortress towers, opulent palace decor and a multitude of architectural styles through the intricate Nasrid Palaces.
Accommodation: Sercotel Gran Hotel Luna de Granada or similar

Day 15 Valencia
Begin your journey in Granada and discover the vibrant city of Valencia. Along the way you’ll come across Elche, renowned for its Baroque features. While here, take a stroll around the famous palm tree grove which is one of the largest in Europe and was established by Phoenicians several centuries ago. After exploring this natural beauty, it’s time to visit Valencia – Spain’s third-largest city with an eclectic mix of architectures from Roman, Muslim and Christian influences. Discover attractions like historical monuments and gorgeous gardens that have stood proudly for over 2000 years.
Accommodation: Hotel Dimar or similar

Day 16 Valencia
Begin the day with a trip to Albufera Lake, just a short drive south of Valencia. This significant ecological site consists of beach, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest that shelters six small islands. Hop on board a boat and cruise out to El Palmar island where traditional ‘barraca’ houses are nestled among nature’s beauty. While there, you’ll learn about the important agricultural crop grown in this area – local rice! Enjoy lunch with an included Valencian paella before having your afternoon free to explore Valencia. Perhaps visit the City of Arts and Science (or CAC), which was designed by Calatrava and is one of the city’s major landmarks. Or grab some horchata or artisan chocolates from one of the delightful cafes around town for a real taste of what Valencia has to offer!
Accommodation: Hotel Dimar or similar

Day 17 Barcelona
In and around Barcelona
Say your goodbyes to Valencia and take a journey to Barcelona! This vibrant city combines stunning Gothic architecture, innovative art, incredible restaurants, and thrilling nightlife – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Join your leader for a guided walking tour and then let the rest of the day be yours to explore the area as you please. Perhaps make your way to one of Barcelona’s many galleries or historic sites, or maybe marvel over Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia Basilica. When evening comes around, get ready to celebrate the end of your trip with an included dinner at a local restaurant. Embark on a gourmet journey with some of Catalonia’s most delicious offerings such as olives, pickled garlic, lomo Iberico de Belotta, Catalan cheeses,, olive oil and sweet desserts!
Accommodation: Catalonia Eixample 1864 Hotel or similar

Day 18 Barcelona
This is your chance to experience all that Barcelona has to offer – from its iconic sites to the exceptional Catalan cuisine. At 6:00pm tonight, you’ll have the opportunity to meet other members of your group at a Welcome Meeting. Until then, use the day as an opportunity for exploration and visit the galleries, cafes and historic corners around town. Afterwards, come together with your leader and fellow travellers over a delicious welcome dinner and sample why this wonderful region of Catalonia is renowned for its gastronomic delights.
Accommodation: Catalonia Eixample 1864 or similar

Day 19 La Rioja
Venture to Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon in Spain, and marvel at its grand architectures and palaces. Your guide will provide a brief introduction of the city before allowing you to explore independently. Make sure to take a peek into El Pilar’s Basilica or take a short trip south for 45km to visit Goya Museum, where the famed artist was born. Afterwards, drive off towards La Rioja region for an overnight stay at an exquisite hotel with picturesque palm gardens. Before retiring, join your group for dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Accommodation: Parador Calahorra (Feature Stay) or similar

Day 20 La Rioja
Start your day off with a visit to Laguardia—a picturesque village that has remained largely untouched since the 10th century. You will be welcomed through one of four grand stone gates, and then begin your tour of this idyllic town. Afterwards, you can enjoy an exclusive guided tasting of local wines at a historic family-run business. This luxurious experience is accompanied by small morsels to tantalize your taste buds, followed by a traditional lunch. With the last glass of wine savored, you’ll be ready to return to your hotel for an afternoon siesta.
Accommodation: Parador Calahorra (Feature Stay) or similar

Day 21 San Sebastian
Now you’ll be heading to the gorgeous and historically significant location of Pamplona, named after Pompey the Great. Home to centuries-old military forts and a crucial part of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, it is famous for hosting the annual San Fermin festival with its Running of the Bulls. As you explore this fortified medieval city, you can view ornate structures such as its Gothic cathedral – one of Spain’s most important religious buildings. There is also a new museum dedicated to modern art created by an acclaimed architect that was one of many projects in Bilbao inspired by its Guggenheim heritage. The day will finish off with a tasty dinner at a classic cider house in nearby San Sebastian – another gem of Basque country whose gastronomic delights are best enjoyed with local brews.
Accommodation: Hotel Palacio de Aiete or similar

Day 22 San Sebastian
Delve further into the culture of Basque on an orientation walk with your leader around the beautiful San Sebastian. You’ll have a chance to explore many of this city’s landmarks, its port and old town during a relaxed stroll. With its sunny beaches and vivacious old city, you’ll be able to spend the day shopping or simply taking in all that San Sebastian has to offer. When night falls, you’re invited to an exclusive gastronomic society for dinner – something not normally available without invitation from an existing member – which serves as a significant part of Basque community’s social interactions.
Accommodation: Hotel Palacio de Aiete or similar

Day 23 Oviedo
Once your morning meal is finished, begin the journey to Bilbao for an informative tour with a guide. Then take time to explore the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, created by Frank Gehry and extraordinary in its own right, filled with impressive modern pieces of art. Conclude lunchtime with some free time and continue on to Oviedo, situated in Asturias where you will stay at a nice hotel over the course of two nights.
Accommodation: Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes or similar

Day 24 Oviedo
Discover Oviedo with a specialist local guide on a guided walk through the city. Marvel at pre-Romanesque churches, marvel at elegant streetscapes, see monuments and grand houses as you meander around the impressively beautiful San Salvador Cathedral. For an introduction to Asturias’ best products, visit El Fontan market and enjoy the canopy of wrought-iron and glass as you take in the excellent fish stalls. Alternatively, head up to Gijon for fresh seafood or Luanco for a drink on the promenade. For dinner, don’t miss Calle de la Gascona – filled with festive sidrerias (cider houses) offering an array of raciones (tastings plates). Spend your afternoon free to explore however you wish!
Accommodation: Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes or similar

Day 25 Santiago de Compostela
Venture into the Spanish region of Galicia by travelling along the northern part of Asturias and cross the Ria de Ribadeo. Make a stop in one of its small seaside villages, giving you time to explore and have lunch before heading south-west away from the coast. Your destination is Santiago de Compostela, the capital city where St James, one of Jesus’ 12 Apostles, is said to be buried beneath its famous cathedral. Gaze up at the artfully-crafted stone facades, leading onto grand plazas that are overflowing with life – both pilgrims and locals going about their daily activity. Relaxing in one of the cafes here allows you to take in this unique atmosphere while sipping on some coffee.
Accommodation: Hotel Compostela or similar

Day 26 Santiago de Compostela
Ready your most comfortable shoes for the final stretch of your pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. You will be walking with many other people who have travelled hundreds of kilometres to reach this historic city in Spain. Be sure to bring a raincoat, as the weather here can be unpredictable. Once in Santiago, you are free to explore its many wonderful sights – lively squares, the market and the University buildings are some places definitely worth visiting. End your night by joining your fellow travellers for an included Galician dinner – raise a glass in celebration of almost finishing your Northern Spain journey!
Accommodation: Hotel Compostela or similar

Day 27 Santiago de Compostela
At the conclusion of your breakfast, your excursion is now over. However, should you wish to prolong your stay, we would be delighted to set up extra lodgings for you (pending availability).

What’s included

Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.

Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION:

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.

TWIN SHARE BASIS:

Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.

CHECK-IN TIME:

Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.

PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION:

If you’ve purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.

FACILITIES:

Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don’t provide kettles or fridges.

Comfortable hotel (21 nights),Feature stay (5 nights)

Guide
All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Premium leaders are Intrepid’s most experienced, with in-depth knowledge and extensive local networks to make it a trip of a lifetime.

Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. When not already included in your trip, your leader will be able to recommend a local guide service who can share more detailed or specialised information at specific sites should you be interested in delving deeper.

COVID-19 Health & Safety Measures
All Intrepid travellers 18 years and older and Intrepid leaders will be required to be fully vaccinated. Travellers must provide proof of vaccination to the leader at the group meeting on day 1 of the trip.
All children 5 and above must provide proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative COVID-19 test.
Any high-risk customer who is unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons can apply for an exemption. Exemptions will be assessed on a case by case basis. Customers must provide a medical certificate from a medical professional.

Meals
26 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 11 dinners
Additional Services
Lisbon – Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Lisbon – Walking Tour with Local Guide
Lisbon – Castle of Sao Jorge
Sintra – Pena Palace
Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Roca – Day Trip
Coimbra – Fado Show
Douro Valley – Douro River Boat Ride
Douro Valley – Wine Tasting & Lunch
Douro Valley – Day Trip
Porto – Sunset Drinks in Vila Nova de Gaia
Matosinhos – Half Day Trip by Local Train
Madrid – (Tapas) Welcome Dinner
Toledo – Marzipan Tasting
Toledo – Day Trip
Seville – Evening Flamenco Show
Seville – Alcazar Visit
Seville – Walking Tour with Local Guide
Cordoba – Walking Tour of the Mezquita & Cordoba City with Local Guide
Andalucia – Olive Oil Mill Visit & Tasting
Granada – Alhambra Alcazaba and Generalife Gardens Tour
Lake Albufera – Boat Tour & Barraca Visit
Valencia – Paella Lunch
Barcelona – Walking Tour with Local Guide
Dinner in Restaurant – Barcelona
Barcelona – Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Barcelona – Welcome Meeting
Barcelona – Welcome Dinner
Zaragoza – Town Visit
La Guardia – Village Visit
La Rioja – Winery Visit with Tasting
Pamplona – Orientation Walk
San Sebastian – Traditional Cider House Experience
San Sebastian – Walking Tour
San Sebastian – Gastronomical Society Dinner
Bilbao – Orientation Walk
Bilbao – Guggenheim Museum admission
Oviedo – Walking Tour with Cathedral
Galician Coast Stop
Santiago de Compostela – Camino Walk
Santiago de Compostela – Farewell Dinner

Transport
Private vehicle, High-speed train, Local train, Plane

What’s not included

Flights
International flights are not included

Insurance
Travel insurance is not included

Optional
Lisbon – Belem Tower – EUR8
Lisbon – Jeronimos Monastery – EUR10
Madrid – Royal Palace – EUR11
Madrid – Museo del Prado – EUR15
Madrid – Tapas Urban Adventure – EUR82
Madrid – Abono Paseo del Arte (3 museum combo voucher) – EUR30
Madrid – Real Jardín Botánico – EUR6
Madrid – Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza – EUR12
Seville – Indias Archive – Free
Seville – Cathedral & Giralda Tower – EUR10
Valencia – Sagunto Castle – Free
Valencia – Treats & Tastes of Valencia Urban Adventure – EUR55
Valencia – Street Art in Old Valencia Urban Adventure – EUR35

Additional Services
Other activities and services are not included