Tour Best Of Spain And Portugal (19 Days)

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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.

Accommodation

15 nights in Hotels, 3 nights in Special Stays

Hygieneprotocol

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)

Guide

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

Transport

Coach

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Insurance

Insurance is not included.

Flights

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

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Start Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Start Madrid

Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first Spanish dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you’ll be thankful for your hotel sleep.
Day 2 Day 2: Madrid To Pamplona Via Burgos
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Madrid To Pamplona Via Burgos

The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Pamplona. We couldn’t race to our night’s stop-off point without letting you marvel at the pretty medieval town of Burgos first. For real, just wait till you see the gorgeous town square. Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We’ll start with a brief orientation tour of this well-preserved town, and then you’ll have some free time to explore in your own way. Later this evening, we’ll regroup and sit down to a delicious included dinner.
Day 3 Day 3: Pamplona Via Bilbao And San Sebastián
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Pamplona Via Bilbao And San Sebastián

Rise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two new cities await us today, but not until we’ve had breakfast. Bilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn’t diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you’re free to use your morning to play art critique and absorb Bilbao’s pretty surrounds and architecture. Next stop, San Sebastián! This is a pretty postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a walk, do some shopping or just sit and chill in a bar, enjoying endless plates of pintxos (the Basque version of tapas). Our day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you’ll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams.
Day 4 Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona

This morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona. A colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki. With 2-nights in Barcelona, you’ll be pronouncing Barcelona’s C with a "tthh" like a true local by the time we make tracks. We’ll kick things off with a walk through the Gothic Quarter & La Rambla district - two of the city’s must-do’s for an instant look at this pretty spot, and a sure way to feel like a local in no time.
Day 5 Day 5: Barcelona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Barcelona

Today is up to you to explore your way. You could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi’s iconic Parc Güell or beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 6 Day 6: Barcelona To Valencia
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Barcelona To Valencia

This morning you’ll have the chance to join a guided bike tour of the city, before getting ready for a change of scene - the port city of Valencia is calling, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. It’s hard not to be enchanted by Valencia. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who’s in?
Day 7 Day 7: Valencia To Granada
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Valencia To Granada

It’s been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won’t forget you. This morning we’ll take a orientation walk before seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country? Granada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave! We’ll join up tonight for an included dinner with the crew.
Day 8 Day 8: Granada
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Granada

We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you’re at it, fill up on some of Granada’s incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain’s number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We’ll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven’t been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!
Day 9 Day 9: Granada To Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Granada To Madrid

Bouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid. Synagogues, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We’ll uncover the city’s gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain. Here we are, back where the party started 10 life-changing days ago. You’re free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid’s nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.
Day 10 Day 10: Madrid To Cordoba
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Madrid To Cordoba

Leaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us will drive onwards to Córdoba. With storybook balconies & charming little lanes, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is sure to take your breath away. We’ll start out by finding our feet here in Cordoba, only to be swept off them again with a trip to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Cordoba.) History buffs, this is basically your perfect day. This evening we’ll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.
Day 11 Day 11: Cordoba To Seville
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Cordoba To Seville

Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we’ll leave historical Córdoba with our sights set on sun-soaked Seville. 13th century architecture and one of the world’s biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain’s capital, Seville. We’ll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city’s river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast on Seville’s rooftops.
Day 12 Day 12: Seville
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Seville

Another day free to explore Seville? Don’t mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart’s delight, before settling down to an included dining experience together tonight.
Day 13 Day 13: Seville To Lisbon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Seville To Lisbon

We couldn’t think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian penninsula to Portugal. Crossing the border, spirits are high as we cruise along the Algarve, where petiscos and pastéis de nata await. Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you’re free to take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner.
Day 14 Day 14: Lisbon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Lisbon

A free day gives you plenty of time to explore all the hotspots including Portugal’s Christo Rei (Christ the King), Rossio Square, the Belém District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama’s tomb is held.
Day 15 Day 15: Lisbon To Porto
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Lisbon To Porto

After breakfast this morning we’ll head up the coast to Porto, but not before stopping en route at Cascais and Sintra. We couldn’t leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. Here in this fairytale town, expect to feel fully enchanted with a stop-off at Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra’s mesmerising castle. Our first stop this morning is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world. Alive with galleries and coffee shops and amazing food culture, the city of Porto is basically a dream for art lovers and foodies alike. You’ll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time, and for those especially keen you can embark on the Eating Europe Food Tour for the occasion to try local food in local spots. Discover heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets and in the UNESCO stamped alleyways of Riberia. Walk along the picturesque coastline, and view the main sites like lavish São Francisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa.
Day 16 Day 16: Porto
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Porto

Alive with galleries & coffee shops, the city of Porto is basically a dream. We’ll find heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets & in the UNESCO stamped alleys of Ribeira. You’ll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time today, seeing all the main sites like the lavish São Fransisco Church and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa and wandering the picturesque coastline.
Day 17 Day 17: Porto To Salamanca
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Porto To Salamanca

See ya Portugal, you’ve shown us all your best places and we’re feeling very thankful! Rolling back over the border to Spain, we’ll settle for the night in Salamanca. We’re just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a Cathedral dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we’ll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.
Day 18 Day 18: Salamanca To Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Salamanca To Madrid

Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we’ll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila. Ávila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We’ll stop to admire them and find ourselves some lunch before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid. Back where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you’ll be able to make the most of our final night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.
Day 19 Day 19: End Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: End Madrid

Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.

+16

19 days tour

Best Of Spain And Portugal (19 Days)

This tour includes:

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Best Of Spain And Portugal (19 Days)

Day 1: Start Madrid

Day 2: Madrid To Pamplona Via Burgos

Day 3: Pamplona Via Bilbao And San Sebastián

Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona

Day 5: Barcelona

Day 6: Barcelona To Valencia

Day 7: Valencia To Granada

Day 8: Granada

Day 9: Granada To Madrid

Day 10: Madrid To Cordoba

Day 11: Cordoba To Seville

Day 12: Seville

Day 13: Seville To Lisbon

Day 14: Lisbon

Day 15: Lisbon To Porto

Day 16: Porto

Day 17: Porto To Salamanca

Day 18: Salamanca To Madrid

Day 19: End Madrid

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