Barcelona, Madrid, Porto & Lisbon
On this 11-day coach tour of Spain and Portugal, discover four of the most popular city destinations of the Iberian Peninsula with guided sightseeing in Barcelona, Madrid, Porto, and Lisbon. Cruise the picturesque Douro River, tuck into authentic Tapas, and sample local Port wine on a visit to a Port wine cellar. Explore Aveiro and Salamanca, attend a Fado show in Porto, and stop in Merida, home to ancient Roman ruins.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Barcelona
Day 1 Welcome to Barcelona
Upon arrival at the airport, we transfer to our hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore.
Day 2 Exploring Barcelona
Day 2 Exploring Barcelona
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a morning tour of Barcelona. We'll drive along the city's main avenues, taking in Gaudí’s modernist marvels like La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. Enjoy stunning views from Montjuïc Park, including the Olympic Ring, the Columbus Monument, and the Olympic Port.
Our exploration continues with a visit to Barcelona's most iconic landmark, the Sagrada Familia (Entrance included). With our expert local guide, we’ll admire Gaudí’s magnum opus in all its splendour. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. We’ll return to our hotel for the night.
Day 3 Barcelona & Madrid
Day 3 Barcelona & Madrid
Barcelona - Madrid. After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the train station to board the high-speed train to Madrid. On arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel. Later, we’ll gather with our fellow travellers for an authentic Welcome Tapas Dinner, diving into Madrid's vibrant culinary scene. We’ll settle into our accommodation for the night.
Day 4 Madrid City tour
Day 4 Madrid City tour
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on an immersive guided tour of Madrid's highlights. We’ll explore the historic Barrio de la Morería, the Habsburgs District, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa, while discovering the architectural grandeur of the Madrid of the Bourbons and Charles III’s town planning.
We’ll marvel at the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains, and the Puerta de Alcalá, before diving into the modern vibrancy of Gran Vía, Castellana, and the Salamanca district, not to mention the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. Along the way, we’ll savour the quintessential Madrid treat chocolate with churros. The afternoon is yours to further explore the city’s wonders at your own pace. We’ll return to our hotel for the night.
Day 5 Madrid to Salamanca & Porto
Day 5 Madrid to Salamanca & Porto
Madrid - Salamanca - Porto (Portugal). After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Portugal, driving towards the historic city of Salamanca. Here, we’ll have time to explore this renowned University City and World Heritage Site, celebrated for its rich architectural and artistic heritage.
We’ll then continue towards the Portuguese border, arriving in Porto. Nestled along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities and was honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Day 6 Porto City Tour
Day 6 Porto City Tour
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a guided tour of Porto, taking in the majestic Cathedral, the stunning Stock Exchange building, and the historic Santa Clara Church.
Following this, we’ll set sail on a scenic Douro River cruise and explore the renowned Port Wine Cellars, where we’ll enjoy a delightful wine tasting experience. The rest of the day is yours to unwind or explore further at your leisure.
In the evening, we’ll come together for a memorable dinner accompanied by a traditional Fado show, sharing an authentic taste of Portuguese culture with our fellow travellers.
Day 7 Aveiro & Coimbra
Day 7 Aveiro & Coimbra
Porto - Aveiro - Coimbra. After breakfast, we set off for Aveiro, famously known as "The Venice of Portugal" due to its charming canals. We’ll enjoy a ride on a vibrant Moliceiro, a traditional boat that glides through the scenic waterways.
Following our canal adventure, we journey to Coimbra, where a local guide will lead us on an immersive tour. Discover Coimbra’s rich history, from its prestigious university, one of Europe’s oldest to its enchanting medieval streets and picturesque riverfront.
Day 8 Coimbra to Lisbon
Day 8 Coimbra to Lisbon
Coimbra - Batalha - Nazare - Lisbon. After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for the magnificent Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Gothic and Manueline architecture. Next, we head to the picturesque fishing town of Nazaré, where you’ll have time to explore and soak in its charm. We then continue our journey to Lisbon.
Upon arrival in Lisbon, we’ll cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas and indulge in a delightful seafood dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the flavours of the sea in a vibrant setting.
Day 9 Lisbon City Tour
Day 9 Lisbon City Tour
After breakfast, we embark on a morning city tour of ancient Olissipo, discovering its vibrant squares and grand avenues. We’ll visit iconic landmarks including Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries, Marquis of Pombal Square, and Liberty Avenue.
In the afternoon, we have free time to delve into the nostalgic charm of the Alfama Quarter. Wander through the narrow, winding "ruas," where historic buildings are adorned with vibrant colours and traditional "tabernas" beckon with authentic local flavours. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, immersing yourself in the captivating allure of this magnificent city.
Day 10 Merida & Madrid
Day 10 Merida & Madrid
Lisbon - Merida - Madrid. Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman ruins, including the majestic Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre. We’ll delve into its rich historical heritage before heading to Madrid. In Madrid, we’ll gather with our fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner.
Day 11 Madrid
Day 11 Madrid
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
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
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
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 Coimbra Aeminium offers a perfect blend of contemporary comfort and historical charm in the heart of Coimbra. Situated near the city’s vibrant cultural and academic centre, this elegant hotel provides easy access to iconic landmarks such as the University of Coimbra and the historic old town. Unwind in tastefully designed rooms that feature modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Enjoy the delightful restaurant serving a range of local and international dishes, and relax in the cosy lounge area perfect after a day of exploration.
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.
Opposite Cuzco metro station in Madrid's business district, this contemporary hotel is an 8-minute walk from Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid football club. The modest rooms, equipped with soundproof windows, feature 49-inch flat-screen TVs, desks, Wi-Fi, and minibars. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas. The hotel boasts a casual Mediterranean restaurant and a lounge/bar, as well as a fitness centre and 9 meeting rooms.
Tour Reviews
Firstly can I say our guide Laura and our driver Alberto were exemplary and did a fantastic job. My Feedback about the Tour does not reflect upon them at all. The accommodation was great everywhere, great service and breakfasts at all hotels were good. Was disappointed no welcome drinks on the first night to get to know fellow travellers. We met on the Saturday morning for a tour of Barcelona then next thing we are all on a train to Madrid. On previous tours, with other companies but in a cheaper price bracket, our luggage was left outside our rooms on departure and re-appeared in our room at the next destination. On this tour we had to schlepp them ourselves. Checking in was a cattle call with all of us in the lobby accompanied by all our luggage, which felt more like a budget tour than a small group tour. a lot of free time in every place with no optional extras. We had two dinners included, which were average. The first one was acceptable but not amazing, the Fada show was lovely but the food was awful and some of the staff seemed to resent our being there, it felt like very touristy rather than a unique local experience. In all honesty, next time I would probably not choose a tour with your company which was recommended by my travel agent and I will certainly be looking for more value for money when paying such a premium
We absolutely enjoyed the tour. It was easy to book the tour and directions were very clear. Local guides were very knowledgeable and our tour leader was detail orientated and flexible. One unexpected event was that our local tour guide in Barcelona was 1 hour late to pick us up from the hotel for the city tour, We frantically tried to call the 24 hour help line but had a hard time getting anyone to pick up the phone. She eventually showed up saying she did not have the correct hotel information and went to the wrong hotel.
Extras and add-ons
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