Best of Spain and Portugal (19 Days)

Tour highlights

Are you ready to discover the delights of Spain and Portugal? This 19-day adventure promises an unforgettable Iberian experience – from devouring delicious feasts on rooftops in Seville, sampling port in Porto, uncovering grand Moorish architecture in Córdoba & Granada, admiring pretty palaces at Sintra, savouring seafood dishes in Lisbon and stumbling across countless UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll also explore some iconic cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville and more! Get ready for a thrilling mix of culture, food and colour.

Tour itinerary

Day 1 Start Madrid
Gather round Madrid and welcome to Spain! Make memories with your newfound friends by indulging over an authentic Spanish dinner which will be the perfect way to introduce you to the magical city of Madrid. A day full of adventures awaits so make sure to get plenty of rest at your hotel before embarking on a journey that you will never forget.

Day 2 Madrid to Pamplona via Burgos
This morning ushers the start of our Iberian journey as we drive north towards Burgos and Pamplona! Let’s begin with Burgos, a Medieval town boasting an adorable town square. Next up is vibrant Pamplona where we’ll enjoy a tour around the beautiful city followed by some free time for you to explore on your own. To round off the day, an included dinner awaits us this evening.

Day 3 Pamplona via Bilbao and San Sebastián
Up and at it, Spanish adventurers! Get ready for two different cities today – but first, let’s have some breakfast. Perhaps you’ve heard of Bilbao, a city that is becoming increasingly known for its culture and vibrant atmosphere. It’s also home to the acclaimed Guggenheim Museum; use your morning to appreciate the artistry or explore the beautiful architecture! Afterwards, it’s time for San Sebastián. Wander through winding streets towards the stunning beaches here in this postcard-worthy town. Shop around, take in some pintxos (Basque tapas) or sit back and relax at a bar – whatever you prefer! We’ll finish off where we began: Pamplona. Slip away into sweet dreams filled with modern art as you catch up on restful sleep at nightfall.

Day 4 Pamplona to Barcelona
Voyage to BarcelonaThis morning we set off on an unforgettable journey towards the exuberant city of Barcelona. Zaragoza is the first stop along our adventure and it’s loaded with spectacular sights such as a gorgeous cathedral and street vendors serving up delectable churros – sure to tantalize the taste-buds! The old town is packed full of stunning historic architecture, making for plenty of photo opportunities. With two nights spent soaking up all that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll soon feel like a local. We’ll begin our exploration with a leisurely stroll through the Gothic Quarter & La Rambla district, allowing us to appreciate the beauty this place holds within moments.

Day 5 Barcelona
Why not make your day an adventure and explore the beauty the city of Barcelona has to offer? There are a variety of exciting places to visit, such as Parc Güell – home to some amazing architecture created by Gaudi – or for beach lovers there are plenty of seaside spots along the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 6 Barcelona to Valencia
Ready for a change of scenery? Then Valencia is the place to be! Not only does it boast breathtaking beach views, but you can also explore its bustling culture. There’s no better way to get a taste of the city than by joining a guided bike tour in the morning. By night, take advantage of an optional paella-making class – after all, Valencia is famous for inventing paella! It’s too good of an opportunity to pass up – who’s ready to join?

Day 7 Valencia to Granada
Adios Valencia! We’ve had a great time here, and we won’t soon forget the memories we made. As today kicks off, let’s take a stroll around Granada to take in the unique atmosphere here. What an incredible place where you can find Arab and Spanish influences all in one location! This city is oozing with romance that you just can’t get anywhere else. Andalusia never ceases to amaze us! Join us tonight for a delectable dinner with the group as our grand finale before bidding farewell to this wonderful land.

Day 8 Granada
Kick off the morning by discovering all that Granada has to offer. There is a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real available, and it’s an excellent chance to sample some of their delicious food like Arab pastries. After lunch, spend time at Spain’s top-rated attraction: Alhambra Palace. Immerse yourself in its beauty and history with breathtaking patterns and intricate architecture; you’ll be left amazed at why you hadn’t been here sooner. You can also marvel at Granada from incredible views offered at this majestic palace. End the day dancing the night away as you experience authentic Spanish culture by attending a flamenco show & tapas night with your Contiki family. ¡Que bueno!

Day 9 Granada to Madrid
Bright and early this morning, our scenic journey to Madrid begins. From the hill town of Toledo we will explore its gorgeous gothic cathedral, the home of Renaissance sculptor El Greco, as well as sites with a rich history of sieges, revolutions and treason. This is just one stop on our memorable experience in Spanish culture. We have been here for ten days already and it’s been life-changing! Later on tonight you can take part in Madrid’s vibrant nightlife – enjoying the local tapas, sangria and dancing your way through the evening.

Day 10 Madrid to Cordoba
As our Madrid journey begins to reach its end, the majority of us will embark on a drive towards Córdoba. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this incredible city radiates beauty with its numerous balconies and narrow alleyways. Our exploration of Cordoba starts off by visiting The Great Mosque of Córdoba, or Mezquita, that is sure to enchant history enthusiasts. As evening falls upon us, we shall settle into our special stay for the night – a fifteenth century monastery featuring vaulted ceilings and an internal courtyard with an outdoor pool; where we shall come together for an included dinner.

Day 11 Cordoba to Seville
Our journey continues this morning as we leave Córdoba and make our way to Seville, the passionate capital of Andalucía. With its 13th century architecture and awe-inspiring cathedrals, it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Southern Spain. Upon arrival, we will be treated to a guided tour of the city’s beautiful river, Mudéjar palaces and aristocratic mansions. To top off the perfect day, an optional EatWith experience awaits us tonight; a rooftop feast with all the traditional flavors of Seville.

Day 12 Seville
Exploring Seville with a free day? A plan we can definitely get behind. Start by taking a leisurely stroll through Barrio Santa Cruz, replete with its charming architecture – and don’t forget to check out the Alcazar, which served as a Game of Thrones location! Let your feet lead you through winding Medieval lanes before settling down for an included dinner experience together this evening.

Day 13 Seville to Lisbon
It’s time to leave Spain and make our way west on the Iberian Peninsula, ready for new adventures in Portugal. The Algarve awaits us with petiscos and pastéis de nata! Who knew two countries could be so nearby yet contrastingly unique? As soon as you arrive in Lisbon, you can’t help but admire the vintage trams that roll down cobbled streets, marveling at the small intricate tiles adorning the architecture. It’s a city begging to be explored – why not try one of its many side streets cafés or restaurants for dinner tonight?

Day 14 Lisbon
With an entire day to spare, you can make the most of your Portugal holiday by visiting some iconic attractions. Start off by journeying to Christo Rei (Christ the King) before heading over to Rossio Square. Then, explore the Belém District and marvel at its famous tower with the same name.

Day 15 Lisbon to Porto
This morning we’ll begin our journey up the coast, stopping first at Cascais and then at Sintra. The latter is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town with a fairytale atmosphere; at Quinta da Regaleira you can experience its enchanting castle for yourself. Our coastal destination of Cascais offers beautiful beaches and scrumptious seafood. Make your way to the marina to join MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ – an experience hosted by local residents that gives you a look into the culture of the neighbourhood through its street art galleries. Porto is the perfect destination for art connoisseurs and foodies with its array of cafes, restaurants showcasing unique cuisine. You’ll have plenty of time to explore more on your own, or why not take advantage of their Eating Europe Food Tour, sampling traditional delicacies in authentic establishments? Take a trip back in time as you ride on one of the city’s old wooden trams and wander down UNESCO-protected alleyways like Riberia. Plus, don’t miss some iconic sights such as São Francisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa along the picturesque coastline.

Day 16 Porto
Porto is truly a spectacular destination; with its plethora of galleries and coffee shops, it’s an amazing place to explore. Today you’ll be able to take the time to experience all that this city has to offer. From the old wooden tram rolling through historical streets, recognized by UNESCO, to the grandiose São Fransisco Church and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa, there’s plenty of sights waiting for us.

Day 17 Porto to Salamanca
As our journey comes to a close in Portugal, we are filled with gratitude for the amazing sights it has revealed. Our next stop – Salamanca, Spain – is only two hours away from Madrid but is like stepping into a different universe. Here, we find the 13th century University, ornamented with strange gargoyles and decorated with an indoor sky fresco. The Cathedral here boasts intricate stone shells carved onto its walls. After acquainting ourselves with the city’s wonders, we have some spare time to savour delectable local delicacies like cheeses, cured meats and almond cookies; further exploring this enchanting evening.

Day 18 Salamanca to Madrid
Though we had a wonderful time in Salamanca, it’s time to continue our journey to Madrid with one final stop in Ávila. The 11th century city walls are perhaps the most famous aspect of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town and well worth admiring. We’ll take a break here for lunch before getting back on board and heading for Madrid. There you can enjoy your last night together, possibly by trying some delicious Spanish cuisine at an iconic restaurant near the Plaza Mayor – all part of the quintessential experience!

Day 19 End Madrid
As we load our bags into the car, the sadness of saying goodbye for now is inescapable. Pledges and promises to reunite soon are exchanged between teary eyes and hugged shoulders; creating a feeling that will linger well beyond this departure. Commit to living life fully, ensuring your next Contiki journey isn’t too far away.

What’s included

Accommodation
15 nights in Hotels, 3 nights in Special Stays

Guide
Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

COVID-19 Health & Safety Measures
All guests travelling with Contiki through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022.
For guests travelling with Contiki from 1 January 2023, Covid-19 vaccinations and boosters are highly recommended, but no longer required. Please note that regardless of time of travel guests will need to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destination visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than above. It is guests’ responsibility to ensure that they comply at all times with these requirements. No refunds will be given if guests are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to their failure to comply with these requirements.

Meals
6 Dinner (D)
18 Breakfast (B)

Additional Services
Pamplona: Your Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of the city and give a brief orientation talk. After that, you’re free to explore this quirky and colourful city in your own way.
Bilbao: Home to world famous art museums and architecture that’s grander than grand. Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, taking in the mountains and the skyscrapers.
San Sebastián: Where better to admire the sunset than on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián? This resort town is known for its fantastic food too – so make sure you’re hungry!
Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!
Granada: Probably the most Instagrammable palace that’s ever existed. Tour this Moorish marvel with an expert.
Toledo: This medieval city is a cultural melting pot, with a mix of Spanish, Arabic and Jewish influences. Get some pics of the Alcázar Fortress and the gothic Cathedral.
Córdoba: This ornate World Heritage site was built by the Moors after they conquered Iberia. And it’s still one of the world’s biggest mosques.
Lisbon: Take an orientation in Lisbon’s ‘museum district’. See the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the best places to taste a pastel de nata.
Lisbon: Get to grips with Portugal’s coastal capital. See all the sights, including Castelo de São Jorge, the Praca do Comércio, Rossio Sqaure and Praça da Figueira.

Transport
Coach

What’s not included

Flights

Insurance
Insurance is not included.

Optional
Enjoy a cooking class & lunch at Espai Mescladis, a not-for-profit using food and drink as a way to foster social cohesion (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)
EUR 35.00
Take a cooking class and whip up paella in its home of Valencia
EUR 35.00
Guided Tour of Albaicin & Capilla Real
EUR 19.00
Traditional Flamenco and Tapas
EUR 48.00
Guided walking Tour
EUR 20.00
Eat with the locals on the rooftops of Seville and be serenaded with Spanish guitar
EUR 36.00
Tastes of Lisbon
EUR 43.00
Lisbon Like a Local Dinner
EUR 38.00
Cascais Street Tour
EUR 15.00
Walking tour of Lisbon with local port tasting
Eat a traditional Madrilenos feast including jamon and tortilla, Madrid
EUR 37.50

Additional Services
Other activities and services are not included.