23. Galicia & Portugal

This 10-day journey offers a meaningful and scenic exploration of northern Spain and Portugal, following historic pilgrimage routes, Atlantic coastlines, and cities shaped by Roman heritage, medieval faith, and maritime discovery. Beginning in Madrid and traveling northwest through Castilla y León, Asturias, and Galicia before crossing into northern Portugal, the route highlights the spiritual, cultural, and natural richness of Iberia’s Atlantic regions.

From the Gothic splendor of León and the refined elegance of Oviedo to Galicia’s windswept coast and the timeless pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela, the journey is deeply rooted in history and tradition. The route continues along the scenic Rías Baixas to Vigo, then into Portugal’s historic and religious heartlands, including Porto, Coimbra, and the great sanctuary of Fátima. Lisbon’s Age of Discovery legacy provides a vibrant finale before returning to Spain via the exceptionally preserved Roman city of Mérida.

Designed with a balanced pace, the itinerary blends guided sightseeing with time for reflection and personal exploration. It is ideal for travelers seeking spiritual depth, cultural authenticity, and the landscapes and stories of Iberia’s northern and western regions.

Tour Highlights

• Castilla y León Heritage – Discover León, a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, renowned for its magnificent Gothic cathedral with luminous stained glass, the Basilica of San Isidoro, and Gaudí’s Casa Botines.

• Asturias’ Refined Capital – Stay in Oviedo, known for its elegant old town, cider culture, and gracious atmosphere.

• Galicia’s Atlantic Coast – Explore A Coruña, home to the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse, and continue to Santiago de Compostela, the legendary endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

• Pilgrimage & Spiritual Tradition – Experience the profound atmosphere of Santiago’s cathedral and historic center, shaped by more than a thousand years of pilgrimage.

• Rías Baixas Landscapes – Travel through the scenic Rías Baixas, with stops in O Grove and La Toja Island, known for fishing traditions, seafood cuisine, and coastal beauty, before arriving in Vigo.

• Northern Portugal’s Historic Towns – Cross into Portugal to visit Viana do Castelo and Braga, highlighting religious heritage and the dramatic Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

• Porto & the Douro River – Enjoy a guided visit to Porto, including the Ribeira district, Porto Cathedral, Palácio da Bolsa, Dom Luís I Bridge, and a tasting at a traditional port wine cellar.

• Portugal’s Academic Heart – Explore Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and the exquisite Joanina Library, blending centuries of scholarship with youthful energy.

• Pilgrimage Sanctuary of Fátima – Visit Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage destinations, known for its vast sanctuary and contemplative atmosphere.

• Lisbon: City of Discovery – Discover Lisbon, featuring Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the atmospheric Alfama district, birthplace of Fado music.

• Roman Hispania Finale – Conclude with Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Roman theatres, amphitheaters, bridges, and aqueducts remain exceptionally preserved.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites – A journey rich in globally recognized landmarks spanning Roman, medieval, and early modern history.

• Balanced & Reflective Pace – A thoughtful blend of guided touring, free time, coastal scenery, and spiritual landmarks.

This itinerary is especially well suited for travelers drawn to pilgrimage history, Atlantic landscapes, and the quieter yet deeply resonant cultural heart of Spain and Portugal.

Day 1: Madrid – León – Oviedo (446 km / 277 miles)

We depart Madrid at 8:00 a.m., traveling northwest through the open landscapes of Castilla y León toward León, one of Spain’s great historic cities and a key stop along the Camino de Santiago. Free time allows you to explore León’s elegant old town at your own pace. Highlights include León Cathedral, a magnificent French Gothic masterpiece celebrated for its vast stained-glass windows that flood the interior with vibrant color. You may also visit the Romanesque Basilica of San Isidoro, home to the Royal Pantheon, renowned for its remarkably preserved medieval frescoes. Admire Casa Botines, designed by Antoni Gaudí, or stroll past the former Convento de San Marcos, a monumental Renaissance complex overlooking the Bernesga River. After lunch and exploration, we continue to Oviedo, the refined capital of Asturias, known for its clean streets, traditional cider culture, and gracious atmosphere. Dinner and overnight in Oviedo.

Day 2: Oviedo – A Coruña – Santiago de Compostela (347 km / 216 miles)

After breakfast, we travel west toward Galicia’s Atlantic coast, arriving in A Coruña, a city shaped by the sea and centuries of maritime history. A panoramic visit introduces its highlights, including the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to Roman times. We also see the city’s famous Galerías - glass-enclosed balconies that line the harborfront and reflect A Coruña’s adaptation to Atlantic weather. Time allows for a brief walk along the oceanfront promenade or a pause at a café overlooking the water. In the afternoon, we continue inland to Santiago de Compostela, arriving early evening. Dinner and overnight in the legendary pilgrimage city.

Day 3: Santiago de Compostela

Today is devoted to Santiago de Compostela, one of Europe’s most important spiritual destinations and the historic endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes. For over a thousand years, pilgrims from across the continent have journeyed here on foot, creating a city atmosphere shaped by faith, reflection, and joyful arrival. We visit the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, believed to house the relics of Saint James the Apostle. From the surrounding squares, you can sense the emotion of pilgrims completing their journey. We continue through the UNESCO-listed historic center, exploring arcaded streets, quiet stone squares, monasteries, and traditional cafés that have served travelers for generations. The afternoon is free to continue discovering the city at your own pace - browse artisan shops, relax in Alameda Park with fine views of the cathedral towers, or enjoy traditional Galician cuisine and local wines. Dinner and overnight in Santiago de Compostela.

Day 4: Santiago de Compostela – Rías Baixas – Vigo (90 km / 56 miles)

After breakfast, we travel through the scenic Rías Baixas region, known for its deep Atlantic estuaries, fishing villages, seafood traditions, and Albariño wines. The landscape alternates between rugged coastline, green hills, and small harbors. We stop in O Grove and nearby La Toja Island, where you may see the shell-covered chapel and enjoy peaceful coastal views over the estuary. In the afternoon, we arrive in Vigo, Galicia’s largest city and a major Atlantic port. Free time allows you to stroll through the historic old town, with its granite buildings and sloping streets, before dinner. Overnight in Vigo.

Day 5: Vigo – Viana do Castelo – Braga – Porto (220 km / 137 miles)

Crossing into Portugal after breakfast, we arrive in Viana do Castelo, a graceful coastal town known for its harmonious blend of medieval streets, Baroque churches, and azulejo-tiled façades. Free time allows a relaxed walk through the historic center and a look at traditional Portuguese gold filigree jewelry. We continue to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities and an important religious center. A highlight is Bom Jesus do Monte, famous for its monumental Baroque staircase rising through landscaped terraces. In the early evening, we arrive in Porto. Dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Porto

Today is dedicated to discovering Porto, a city of dramatic hills, layered history, and riverside beauty along the Douro River. Our guided tour begins in the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, where colorful houses cascade down toward the waterfront and traditional rabelo boats glide along the river, evoking Porto’s long maritime and commercial past. We visit Porto Cathedral, a fortified Romanesque landmark set high above the city, offering sweeping views across rooftops and the river below. We then step inside the elegant Palácio da Bolsa, once the heart of Porto’s commercial life, famed for its lavish interiors and richly decorated Arab Hall. Crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge provides unforgettable panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the historic wine lodges. A highlight of the day is a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where we learn about the centuries-old port wine tradition and enjoy a tasting.
The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace - browse the famous Livraria Lello, admire azulejo-covered churches and railway stations, or relax at a riverside café soaking in Porto’s relaxed atmosphere. Overnight in Porto.

Day 7: Porto – Coimbra (120 km / 75 miles)

After breakfast, we travel south to Coimbra, a former Portuguese capital and one of the country’s most atmospheric cities. Set above the Mondego River, Coimbra has been shaped by academic life for more than seven centuries. Free time allows exploration of the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include historic courtyards, panoramic viewpoints, and the magnificent Joanina Library, renowned for its gilded Baroque interior and rare manuscripts. Wandering the old town reveals medieval streets, quiet squares, and a youthful energy created by generations of students. Lunch and overnight in Coimbra.

Day 8: Coimbra – Fátima – Lisbon (222 km / 138 miles)

After breakfast, we depart Coimbra and travel south to Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage destinations and a place of profound spiritual significance. Upon arrival at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, we visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, where the tombs of the three shepherd children are located, and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity, built to accommodate the large number of pilgrims who gather here throughout the year. The vast open esplanade, surrounded by religious buildings and devotional spaces, creates a powerful atmosphere of reflection, faith, and quiet contemplation. Time is provided to walk the sanctuary grounds at your own pace, attend a moment of prayer, or simply absorb the unique spiritual ambiance.
In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Lisbon. Arrival, hotel check-in, and overnight in the Portuguese capital.

Day 9: Lisbon

Today we explore Lisbon, a city of rolling hills, golden light, and deep maritime heritage overlooking the broad waters of the Tagus River. Our guided tour begins in the Belém district, an area closely associated with Portugal’s Age of Discovery, when explorers set sail to chart new worlds. Highlights include the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an extraordinary masterpiece of Manueline architecture rich in nautical symbolism, as well as the iconic Belém Tower, which once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. Nearby, we admire the Monument to the Discoveries, honoring the navigators and visionaries who shaped Portugal’s global legacy.
We then continue into Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest quarter, where narrow winding streets, colorful tiled façades, hilltop viewpoints, and the echo of traditional Fado music reveal the city’s enduring soul and everyday rhythms. The afternoon is free to enjoy Lisbon at your own pace - ride one of the historic trams, browse lively markets, stroll along the riverfront, or relax at a café while tasting the famous pastel de nata. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 10: Lisbon – Mérida – Madrid (613 km / 381 miles)

After breakfast, we cross back into Spain and travel through the wide landscapes of Extremadura to Mérida, founded in 25 BC as Emerita Augusta. One of Europe’s best-preserved Roman cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mérida feels like an open-air museum. Roman theaters, amphitheaters, aqueducts, and bridges remain strikingly intact and integrated into modern life, offering a vivid glimpse into ancient Roman Hispania. Time allows you to absorb its historic atmosphere before we continue to Madrid. Arrival in the Spanish capital marks the conclusion of our journey.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1445 €

Single Supplement: 435 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 85 €

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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.