Best of Southern Spain & Portugal
This 14-day tour covers Spain and Portugal's highlights. In Barcelona, we explore Gaudi’s works and enjoy a catamaran cruise. We visit Valencia, Granada’s Alhambra, and Seville’s cathedral. In Madrid, we see the Royal Palace, enjoy free time to explore at leisure and tuck into tapas. Then it's onwards to Portugal, where we explore Porto and take a river cruise, ride boats along the canals of Aveiro, and tour Coimbra’s university. We visit Batalha Monastery and Nazare, and end our journey in the capital, Lisbon.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Barcelona
Day 1 Barcelona
Welcome to Barcelona, Spain! You will be collected at the airport and transferred to our hotel. Join our tour leader for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of good food and wine.
Day 2 Barcelona City Tour
Day 2 Barcelona City Tour
We start our morning with a city tour of Barcelona, driving along the main avenues to admire Gaudi’s iconic modernist buildings, including La Pedrera and Casa Batllo. We see Montjuic Park for panoramic views of the city and harbour, and see the Olympic Ring, the Columbus Monument, and the Olympic Port.
We also explore Barcelona's most famous landmark, the Sagrada Familia, which by the time of its completion will have been under construction for 100 years. Next, we head to Port Vell to board a catamaran and sail along Barcelona’s stunning coastline. Onboard, we are welcomed with music, a complimentary drink, and a traditional tapa. We can relax in the shaded seats or sunbathe on the forward nets. The rest of the afternoon is yours to continue discovering the city.
Day 3 Peniscola & Valencia
Day 3 Peniscola & Valencia
Barcelona - Peniscola - Valencia. After breakfast, We set off towards Valencia, following the Costa Dorada and the Ebro Delta until we reach Peniscola, where we can visit the filming locations of "El Cid" and "Game of Thrones." We then continue to Valencia, where we sample traditional "horchata" (tiger milk) and have the chance to explore the city.
Valencia, a major Mediterranean coastal capital, is renowned for its modern Arts and Sciences Architectural Complex, which includes the Hemisferico, Umbracle, Science Museum, Oceanographic, Palau de les Arts, and Agora. We will also have time to explore the old town and view the exterior of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.
Day 4 Valencia & Granada
Day 4 Valencia & Granada
Valencia - Granada. After breakfast at the hotel, we continue towards Andalusia, arriving in Granada, a city nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, between the Darro and Genil rivers. Granada is a gem of Andalusia, where the impressive Alhambra showcases the region's Andalusian heritage alongside Renaissance architectural treasures.
We will have the opportunity to learn flamenco dancing before enjoying dinner with a flamenco show at one of Granada’s traditional venues. After dinner, we can take the chance to admire the stunning views of Granada from one of the city’s viewpoints.
Day 5 Granada & Seville
Day 5 Granada & Seville
Granada - Seville, after breakfast, we visit the renowned Alhambra complex and the Generalife Gardens, the highlight of Andalusia for many visitors. We then travel through olive groves and white villages to Seville, the capital of Andalusia. This evening, we have the chance to enjoy a typical dinner with our fellow travellers and sample traditional Andalusian cuisine together.
Day 6 Seville City Tour
Day 6 Seville City Tour
We start with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a morning city tour of Seville, the Andalusian capital. We visit the Cathedral, the second largest in the Catholic world after St. Peter's in Rome, and explore the Santa Cruz quarter, famously associated with Carmen and the legend of Don Juan. We also see Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de Espana, the city's elegant main square. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy and explore the city at your own pace.
Day 7 Seville & Madrid
Day 7 Seville & Madrid
Seville - Cordoba - Madrid. We begin with breakfast at the hotel before departing for Cordoba, the historic capital of the caliphate. Upon arrival, we tour the impressive Mosque and wander through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter.
We then continue to Madrid, travelling through the natural border of Despenaperros and across La Mancha, the land of Don Quixote. We arrive in Madrid later in the day, and the remainder of the afternoon and evening is at leisure.
Day 8 Madrid City tour
Day 8 Madrid City tour
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a guided city tour to discover Madrid’s highlights. We take in the Barrio de la Moreria, the Habsburgs District, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa. We can admire the Madrid of the Bourbons and Charles III’s town planning, including the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains, and Puerta de Alcala.
We also visit contemporary areas such as Gran Via, Castellana, the Salamanca district, and the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Football Stadium, home to Real Madrid. During our tour, we enjoy a typical Madrid snack of chocolate and churros. The afternoon is free for you to further explore the city’s attractions. In the evening, we gather with our fellow travellers for a tapas dinner at a local restaurant.
Please note that in Madrid, some travellers may leave the tour, and others may join. The tour guide may also change.
Day 9 Salamanca & Porto
Day 9 Salamanca & Porto
Madrid - Salamanca - Porto (Portugal). After breakfast at the hotel, we head towards Portugal, stopping enroute in Salamanca. We have some free time to explore this historic University City and World Heritage Site, known for its architectural and artistic treasures.
We then continue to the Portuguese border and arrive in Porto. Situated along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Day 10 Porto sightseeing, port wine & Fado
Day 10 Porto sightseeing, port wine & Fado
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Porto, where we can admire the Cathedral, the Stock Exchange building, and Santa Clara Church. We then enjoy a Douro River cruise and visit one of the city's many Port Wine Cellars, for an included port wine tasting experience.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore at leisure. In the evening, experience an included traditional Fado show with dinner alongside our fellow travellers. This traditional Portuguese music style originated in Lisbon but remains popular throughout the country.
Day 11 Aveiro & Coimbra
Day 11 Aveiro & Coimbra
Porto - Aveiro - Coimbra. After breakfast, we set off for Aveiro, often called "The Venice of Portugal" due to its charming canals. We will take an included ride on a moliceiro, a traditional colourful boat used for navigating these canals.
Following this memorable experience, we head to Coimbra, where we meet our local guide for a tour of the city. Coimbra is renowned for its historic university - one of the oldest in Europe, as well as its medieval streets and picturesque riverfront.
Day 12 Batalha, Nazare & Lisbon
Day 12 Batalha, Nazare & Lisbon
Coimbra - Batalha - Nazare - Lisbon. After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Gothic and Manueline architecture. We then continue to the picturesque fishing town of Nazare, where we have some free time to explore. Nazare is a famous surfing spot, known to witness some of the tallest waves in the world.
Following our visit to Nazare, we head to Lisbon. In Lisbon, we cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas, where we enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant (non-seafood options are available!).
Day 13 Exploring Lisbon
Day 13 Exploring Lisbon
After breakfast, we join a morning city sightseeing tour of ancient Olissipo (Lisbon). We drive through its main squares and avenues, seeing highlights like the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoverers, Marquis of Pombal Square, and Liberty Avenue.
In the afternoon, you have free time to explore the charming Alfama Quarter, with its narrow, winding streets, historic castle, colourful buildings, and traditional “tabernas” nestled beside the Castle. These are a great place to enjoy a drink or two on the final night of our tour.
Day 14 Lisbon
Day 14 Lisbon
Tuck into a final breakfast in the hotel before our tour comes to an end. There is an included transfer to the airport.
Tour Highlights
Included
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Prices & Dates
Hotels
Located on one of Barcelona's most famous streets, Diagonal Avenue, the Hesperia President hotel is ideally located for those looking to immerse themselves in Barcelona. Ranked as a Biosphere sustainable hotel with measures taken to save water, use renewable energy and take climate action, it's a hotel that's good for the planet too! Modern rooms are bright and spacious, with ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning, flat screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi access. There is an onsite gym and sun terrace, and a buffet breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant.
This contemporary hotel, located near Parc de Joan Miró and just 4 minutes from Espanya metro station and Fira Barcelona, offers sleek rooms with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, desks, and minibars. Upgraded rooms feature stylish decor, city views, and Nespresso machines, with some including terraces. Suites provide access to a club lounge with complimentary drinks and snacks. Enjoy a laid-back bar, a Japanese restaurant, and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views. Additional amenities include a gym, spa with wellness treatments, and versatile meeting spaces. The hotel is child and pet-friendly and offers room service, a 24-hour front desk
This upscale hotel in a modern tower is an 18-minute walk from the City of Arts and Sciences and 2.6 km from Valencia Cathedral. The sophisticated rooms feature modern furnishings, 40-inch flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, minibars, and sitting areas. Room service is available. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi in public areas, a casual bar and cafe, and a breakfast buffet for a fee. Additional amenities include a rooftop pool, fitness room, business center, conference facilities, and paid parking.
This elegant hotel is located 1.6 km from the Alhambra and 1.9 km from the 14th-century Generalife estate. The stylish, traditional rooms come with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and minibars, with some upgraded options offering private terraces with mountain views. Amenities include a casual dining area where a breakfast buffet is available for a fee, a fitness center, and a bright restaurant/bar.
Located in the financial district, this modern hotel is a 5-minute walk from San Bernardo metro and 2 km from Plaza de España. Rooms feature wood floors, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea/coffee facilities; some include whirlpool tubs and city views. Suites offer separate living areas and extra TVs. Amenities include a Mediterranean restaurant, pub, outdoor pool, gym, terrace with park views, business center, and 11 meeting rooms. Parking is available for a fee.
n Madrid's Barrio de las Letras, Casa de las Artes Meliá Collection celebrates the Spanish Golden Age's artistic heritage with modern art tributes. Positioned between Atocha and Moratín streets, it blends historical charm with contemporary creativity, offering a vibrant setting for art enthusiasts. The hotel features Maché restaurant, which offers a fusion of local and international cuisine, making it more than just a place to stay—it's a tribute to artistic expression.
Located in Porto's popular Boavista district, the BessaHotel Boavista is just a few minute's walk from the Casa da Musica concert hall and other attractions. Bright and spacious guest rooms offer private bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, air-conditioning and TV. There is an onsite gym and dining options include the BRestaurant & Bar, where Head Chef Vitor de Matos serves impeccable Iberian cuisine. Breakfast is served buffet style and there is also an outdoor terrace serving an array of cocktails and regional Douro Valley wines. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also offered.
Hotel Vip Entrecampos is a spacious and bright hotel located within a 4 minute walk of the Entrecampos metro station. From the hotel you can take a stroll to Campo Grande Garden in one direction or Gulbenkian Park the other. The hotel boasts a large swimming pool as well as offering free wifi. The hotel restaurant offers delicious Portuguese and international cuisine.
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