16. Spain & Portugal Week

Tour Overview

This carefully crafted 7-day journey through Spain and Portugal blends iconic cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultural depth, and memorable landscapes into one seamless experience. Beginning in Madrid and ending back in Spain’s capital, the tour takes you through historic university towns, vibrant coastal cities, sacred pilgrimage sites, and some of the Iberian Peninsula’s most atmospheric neighborhoods.

Along the way, you’ll explore Salamanca’s golden Old Town, cross into northern Portugal’s charming river and coastal regions, and spend immersive time in Porto, famed for its riverside beauty, historic architecture, and world-class port wine. The journey continues through Coimbra, Portugal’s academic heart, and Fátima, one of the world’s most important pilgrimage destinations, before arriving in the dynamic capital city of Lisbon.

In Lisbon, discover the legacy of the Age of Discovery in Belém, wander through the timeless streets of Alfama, and enjoy free time to experience the city’s food, music, and viewpoints at your own pace. On the final day, the tour returns to Spain with a stop in Mérida, where remarkably preserved Roman ruins offer a powerful glimpse into ancient history before concluding in Madrid.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time, historic depth paired with local atmosphere, and a thoughtfully paced route that showcases the very best of Spain and Portugal - from medieval universities and baroque sanctuaries to riverfront districts, coastal charm, and living traditions.

Day 1: Madrid → Salamanca → Vigo (590 km / 366 miles)

We begin our journey bright and early at 8:00 a.m., departing Madrid and traveling northwest through the Castilian countryside. As the urban landscape fades, rolling plains and historic towns set the tone for the adventure ahead. Our first stop is Salamanca, one of Spain’s great cultural gems and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built almost entirely from golden Villamayor sandstone, the city glows beautifully in the sunlight. You’ll have time to explore the Old Town on foot, discovering layers of history at every turn. The Old and New Cathedrals stand side by side, offering a fascinating contrast of architectural styles from Romanesque to Baroque. We’ll also visit the University of Salamanca, founded in 1218 and considered one of the oldest universities in Europe. Keep an eye out for its famous hidden frog - a local symbol of good luck. Afterward, enjoy free time in Plaza Mayor, a grand and elegant square that serves as the city’s social heart. Before departing, don’t miss Casa de las Conchas, a striking palace decorated with more than 300 carved stone shells.
In the afternoon, we continue west toward Galicia, passing through changing landscapes as we approach the Atlantic coast. We arrive in Vigo in the evening, where a warm dinner and comfortable hotel provide a well-earned rest after a full and rewarding day.

Day 2: Vigo → Viana do Castelo → Braga → Porto (150 km / 93 miles)

After breakfast, we leave Vigo and cross the border into Portugal, where the scenery becomes greener and the pace slightly more relaxed. Our first stop is Viana do Castelo, a charming coastal town nestled between the Minho and Lima rivers. Here, you’ll stroll through the historic center, discovering a blend of medieval streets, elegant squares, and colorful façades. The town is especially known for its traditional gold filigree jewelry, and you’ll have time to browse local shops and soak up the relaxed northern Portuguese atmosphere.
We then continue to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities and an important religious and cultural center. The highlight is the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, famous for its monumental baroque staircase climbing the hillside — a striking and unforgettable sight. We’ll also visit Braga Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Portugal, before enjoying free time in the lively city center, where cafés and shops buzz with local life.
By early evening, we arrive in Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. After checking into the hotel, you’ll have time to settle in and enjoy a restful night.

Day 3: Porto (Exploration Day)

After breakfast, we spend the day discovering Porto, a city full of character, history, and riverfront charm. Our exploration begins in the Ribeira District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful houses stacked along the Douro River and its vibrant, lived-in feel. We’ll visit Porto Cathedral, perched high above the river, offering beautiful views of the city below. Inside, centuries of Portuguese history unfold through cloisters, chapels, and stonework. Next, we explore the Palácio da Bolsa, a former stock exchange whose lavish interiors reflect Porto’s mercantile past, followed by the Igreja de Santa Clara, renowned for its intricate gilded woodwork. From the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, enjoy panoramic views over the river and city before heading to a traditional wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. Here, you’ll learn about the production of Porto’s famous port wine - and, of course, enjoy a tasting.
The afternoon is free to explore at your leisure. You may wish to visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, admire Porto’s signature azulejo tilework, or relax at a riverside café. We spend a second night in Porto.

Day 4: Porto → Coimbra (120 km / 75 miles)

Leaving Porto behind, we travel south to Coimbra, a historic city often overlooked by visitors but rich in culture and charm. Once the capital of Portugal, Coimbra has long been the country’s academic heart. The city’s highlight is the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through its historic courtyards and buildings, and visit the magnificent Joanina Library, an extraordinary baroque library adorned with gilded shelves and rare manuscripts. As you explore, you’ll feel the youthful energy of the city, shaped by generations of students who continue traditions centuries old. You may even spot students wearing black academic capes, which are said to have inspired the costumes in the Harry Potter films.
We’ll enjoy lunch together, followed by free time to wander the streets, visit small shops, or relax along the river before settling in for the evening.

Day 5: Coimbra → Fátima → Lisbon (222 km / 138 miles)

After breakfast, we travel to Fátima, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the world. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima is a peaceful and expansive complex that draws visitors from all backgrounds, religious or not. You’ll have time to explore the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Chapel of Apparitions, and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity, whose contemporary design contrasts beautifully with the older structures. The atmosphere here is calm and reflective, offering a meaningful pause in the journey.
In the afternoon, we continue south to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital. After checking into the hotel, the evening is relaxed, with a group dinner and time to enjoy your first impressions of the city.

Day 6: Lisbon (City Tour)

Today is dedicated to exploring Lisbon, a city known for its rolling hills, soft Atlantic light, and effortless blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Our guided tour begins in the historic Belém district, where Portugal’s Age of Discovery comes vividly to life. We’ll visit the Monument to the Discoveries and admire the iconic Belém Tower, standing proudly along the Tagus River as a reminder of the country’s great maritime past. The highlight of the morning is the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, richly detailed and deeply connected to Portugal’s golden age of exploration. Later, we head into Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood. As you wander through its narrow streets, tiled façades, and hidden courtyards, you’ll feel the soul of the city at every turn. The afternoon and evening are free to enjoy Lisbon at your own pace - sample a freshly baked pastel de nata, browse local boutiques, enjoy live Fado music, or simply relax at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the red rooftops and river below. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 7: Lisbon → Mérida → Madrid (613 km / 381 miles)

On our final day, we depart Lisbon and return to Spain, with a meaningful stop in Mérida, a city celebrated for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman heritage. Founded in 25 BC, Mérida was once one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire on the Iberian Peninsula, and its history remains vividly present today. You’ll have time to explore the historic center and admire ancient landmarks that continue to shape the city, where Roman ruins are seamlessly woven into the modern urban landscape. Walking through Mérida feels like stepping back in time, with traces of classical civilization appearing around every corner.
After this final cultural highlight, we continue on to Madrid, where our journey comes to an end. We return with lasting memories of remarkable cities, ever-changing landscapes, and unforgettable experiences across Spain and Portugal.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 965 €

Single Supplement: 315 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 65 €

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Discounts:

Here you will find commonly asked questions regarding our tours.

1. Are the tours for individuals, families, or small groups of friends?

- Yes. Our tours are for single travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends whom we put together with other travelers to form a larger group.

2. How many people are normally included on a tour?

We cannot guarantee an exact number per tour. Normally, it ranges from 10 to 25 people per group, but these numbers can vary greatly depending on the time of year. In summer, groups tend to be larger as this is a popular time of year, while the winter season usually attracts fewer people, thus smaller groups are formed. There are certain tours that combine travelers if the destinations follow the same routes; e.g., you may be on a 10-day tour package with companions traveling on a 5-day package. The tour will cover the same areas, and the 5-day package guests will break off thereafter. Also, more people may be joining in for the other part of the package.

3. Is there a guide or tour leader on the bus?

- Yes. An accompanying guide (tour leader) always travels with the group during the entire tour. An exception may occur when there are minimal numbers signed up for a particular tour. These small groups will travel with an experienced, English-speaking driver-guide. In all major cities, we use local professionals and licensed guides.

4. What languages do the guides use?

English and Spanish. All our tour guides speak both languages fluently. If a tour group consists of an English-speaking group only, the tour will run in English. But most of the tours will have both English and Spanish (from Latin America and Central America) passengers, so the guides will explain in both languages.

5. Do your tours run during certain times of the year?

Most of our tours run all year. Some tours, e.g., those running to the northern regions of Spain, only run from March until October. Each tour's description provides all the relevant information needed. For example, ''Sundays all year'' means that a tour will start on every Sunday of the year, regardless of the numbers. Just look up the calendar for the specific dates Sundays are falling on, and make sure you arrive in Spain a day before.

6. What cities do the tours start from?

Tours start in Madrid or Barcelona.

7. Where are the meeting points for the tours?

In Madrid, it is Calle Ferraz 3 (Ferraz Str., 3). This meeting point is in the city center, right off Plaza España.

In Barcelona, it is in the reception of the Hotel ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' (Carrer de Muntaner, 505, 08022, Barcelona).

8. Do you pick them up from the hotels on the first day of the tour?

By default, no. We do not pick up from hotels because that would delay the tour launch time. However, if your hotel is en route, using the same bus route on launch day, we will pick you up. A week before travel, we require the name of your hotel in Madrid and will inform you if you can be picked up directly from your hotel or need to head over to the meeting point at 7.45 a.m.

In Barcelona, the meeting point is always in the reception of the ''Catalunya Barcelona 505'' hotel.

9. What type of vehicles do you use?

We use buses for larger groups and minibuses for smaller ones. Vehicles are comfortable, modern, and equipped with air conditioning.

10. If there is Wi-Fi on your buses,?

There is Wi-Fi on all our buses in Spain and Portugal. But please keep in mind that sometimes during the transfers between the cities, the Wi-Fi signal can be weak or intermitting due to poor coverage from the main operators. Please do not expect very high Internet speed (to download or stream movies during the transfers).

11. Are meals included?

Buffet breakfasts with all the drinks are included every morning in all hotels our guests occupy during their tour.

Lunches and dinners are included anywhere that's mentioned in the itinerary (sections ''Itinerary'' and ''Included in Tour''). Normally, dinners are held in the hotel's restaurants, but many times they will be buffet (''eat as much as you want''), and only drinks will be at an extra cost. Also, sometimes lunches and dinners will be held in the restaurants.

12. If I am a vegetarian or allergic to certain products, is there any problem?

No problems at all. Inform the tour leader, and he will assist you. On a side note, many dinners are buffet-type, so you can simply choose what you prefer. For those with allergies, if in doubt, please remind the tour leader during mealtimes. Alternatively, ask the restaurant staff about the content of the dishes.

13. What time do you arrive in Madrid on your last day of travel? Can I book a flight on the same day, flying out of Spain?

Normally, we return to Madrid between 17.00 and 19.00 on the last day of the tour. However, it is not recommended to book the flight out on the same evening or night, as traffic jams in Madrid or other possible events may delay your arrival. Feel free to talk to us before starting the tour, and we'll organize your overnight stay in Madrid after the tour.

14. I need a night in the hotel or a transfer from or to the airport to be booked before or after the tour.

Sure. Just let us know at the time you organize it.

15. Can I just show up for the trip without a reservation and pay directly in the office, on the spot?

Unfortunately, not. The tour must be booked in advance, as we need to make all the arrangements beforehand.

16. How long in advance should I book a trip?

If you book at least 2 weeks in advance, the trip is guaranteed for you, though we recommend booking even earlier, if possible, as in these cases we have a wider range of hotels to accommodate the early reservations—better options.

17. Can I customize one of the tours for myself?

No, as there are more people traveling with you on the tour. However, if you represent an agency or the leader of a group of people, contact us; we'll take care of a private and customized tour for your party only.

18. What is the booking process?

It is simple. Once you have chosen the tour, there are six steps:

1. You confirm the tour by e-mail, indicating the starting date, tour code, number of persons traveling, and their names, as well as the types of rooms preferred (single, double, or triple).

2. We will send you an invoice.

3. You pay 10% to book the tour.

4. We issue the confirmation.

5. Three weeks before the starting date, you pay the rest of the money due, and

6. You show up for the tour on the appointed date and time.

19. How much should I pay and when?

We require a 10% deposit during reservation and the remaining 90% no less than 3 weeks before the tour commences.

20. How would I pay?

You can pay in one of four ways:

1. Bank wire to our company’s bank account. Our banking details are included on the invoice that you receive.

2. We can charge your credit card. Please keep in mind that, in this case, we charge an additional 2% on top of the amount (bank charges).

3. Transferwise.com is an online system allowing the transfer of funds. There is a small commission attached.

4. Western Union (normally for short-notice reservations and when the amount needs to be received urgently).

21. What is the cancellation and refund policy?

10% paid at the time of reservation is non-refundable. The other 90% is fully refundable if cancelled in no less than 2 weeks (e.g., if you paid 100% upfront, you get the whole amount right away). There are no refunds for cancellations made with less than 3 weeks to go before the trip.

22. Are there any discounts or surcharges?

Yes. Discounts are listed under the section ''Prices'', under each package.

23. Are taxes included in the tour prices?

Yes, VAT and tourist taxes for different cities are included.

24. How do I know if I need a visa for Spain or Morocco?

- Please check the visa information for Spain here. The visa requirements for Morocco can be found here. Please note that all trips to Morocco will require your Schengen visa to be of an ''multiple entry'', as you will enter Spain for the second time.

25. I am ready to go ahead and book one of your tours, but I need a visa to enter Spain.

Yes, we do help our customers get their visas after a trip is confirmed. As we are a fully licensed tour operator in Spain, after the deposit is paid, we can issue a confirmation, which you can later bring to the Spanish Embassy or Consulate. In this letter, we confirm that you booked and partially (or fully) paid for a tour with us. Please note that we do not guarantee the issue of a visa and cannot influence the process. The decision is up to the Embassy, as they have their own rules and regulations for each country. At the same time, we do our best to ensure we provide assistance where possible.