Explore the beauty of Green Spain & Portugal with Iberica Travel: an 8-Day Northern Spain Discovery!

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the lush landscapes and timeless charm of Northern Spain and Portugal with Iberica Travel’s Green Spain Tour. Over the course of 8 days, you’ll explore a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, from the scenic hills of Aragon to the coastal treasures of Galicia and Northern Portugal.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Barcelona, setting off northwest to Zaragoza, where the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar rises majestically over the Ebro River. From there, the journey winds into Green Spain, where dramatic coastlines and rolling green hills await.

In San Sebastián, indulge in the culinary capital of Spain, known for its world-class pintxos and beautiful bay. Then on to Bilbao, home to the striking Guggenheim Museum and a revitalized riverfront that blends art, architecture, and Basque spirit.

As you continue along the coast, discover the historic elegance of Santander and Oviedo, and step back in time in charming villages like Santillana del Mar and Covadonga, nestled among mountains and myth.

In La Coruña, you’ll see the legendary Tower of Hercules - the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world and a symbol of ancient seafaring power. The tour then takes you to Santiago de Compostela, the spiritual heart of the Camino de Santiago, where pilgrims from around the world gather at the magnificent cathedral.

Crossing into Portugal, stop in the coastal city of Vigo, famous for its lively seafood scene, before arriving in Porto, a city that brims with culture and character. Stroll through its colorful Ribeira district, admire the iconic bridges, and sample the region’s renowned Port wine in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Your journey then leads to Salamanca, a golden-hued university city steeped in history and beauty, with its grand Plaza Mayor and centuries-old sandstone buildings. Finally, the tour concludes in Madrid, where the energy of Spain’s capital offers the perfect finale to this rich and rewarding experience.

Please click here to see the route on a map.

Day 1: Barcelona - Zaragoza - Pamplona (575 km / 357 miles)

Your adventure begins with an 8 a.m. departure from Barcelona, heading towards Zaragoza, the vibrant capital of Aragón province. Nestled south of the Pyrenees, Zaragoza is a city rich in history and architecture, boasting Roman ruins, Islamic influences, and the stunning Baroque Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. Here, you’ll have time to explore this iconic basilica, believed to be the site where Saint James witnessed the Virgin Mary’s apparition. Don’t miss the panoramic views from its tower. Nearby, the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge), built in 1401, offers Gothic charm and a striking silhouette against the basilica backdrop.

From Zaragoza, we continue to Pamplona, arriving in the early evening for dinner and accommodation. Enjoy Pamplona on your own during the evening: the city is very famous thanks to its world-famous San Fermín festival, especially the iconic Running of the Bulls that draws visitors from around the globe. Beyond the festival, the city charms travelers with its historic old town, lively tapas scene, and strong Basque-Navarrese culture.

Arrival, dinner and accommodation. 

Day 2: Pamplona - San Sebastian - Bilbao - Santander (205 km / 127 miles)

After breakfast, we continue our journey through northern Spain with a stop in San Sebastián, one of the most graceful cities on the northern coast. With its sweeping La Concha Bay, atmospheric old town, and outstanding Basque cuisine, it’s an ideal place for a seaside walk and a relaxed couple of hours exploring the city center.

We then travel on to Bilbao, a city known for its creative spirit and striking modern architecture. Here you’ll see the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, the shimmering titanium landmark designed by Frank Gehry that reshaped the city’s image. We’ll spend time taking photos of the museum and nearby public art, including the much-loved Puppy sculpture.

From Bilbao, we continue to Santander, the refined coastal capital of Cantabria. With its elegant promenades, relaxed café culture, and beautiful bay views, Santander is perfect for an evening stroll. You’ll have free time to explore spots such as Playa de la Magdalena or the stately Palacio de la Magdalena, before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay in the city. Dinner and a night in the hotel. 

Day 3: Santander - Santillana del Mar - Covadonga - Oviedo (320 km / 199 mi)

After breakfast, we venture into the heart of Picos de Europa National Park, a landscape of dramatic peaks, lush meadows, and sparkling lakes. Our first stop is Santillana del Mar, often called Spain’s most beautiful village, with its cobbled streets, caramel-hued buildings, and medieval charm.

Next, we visit Covadonga, a spiritual haven nestled in the mountains. Here, the Holy Cave Sanctuary honors the Virgin of Covadonga and marks the site of a historic Christian victory during the Reconquista. After exploring this sacred grotto, we continue to Oviedo for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Oviedo - La Coruña - Santiago de Compostella (347 km / 216 miles)

After breakfast, we head to La Coruña, a coastal city in Galicia brimming with maritime heritage. A panoramic tour showcases highlights like the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the glass-enclosed balconies of the Galerías, explore the 16th-century Castillo de San Antón, or savor a pint of fresh Estrella Galicia beer at the brewery-restaurant. Enjoy free time before dinner and accommodation.

In the afternoon, we continue to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the world-famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Pilgrims from across the globe arrive here to reach the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where centuries of history, faith, and celebration come together in the heart of the city. Dinner and the rest of the evening are at your disposal.

Day 5: Santiago de Compostela (75 km / 47 miles)

Today, we visit Santiago de Compostela, the legendary endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. The city’s historical and spiritual atmosphere is epitomized by the magnificent Santiago Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Wander the Casco Histórico, filled with hidden squares, bustling cafés, and charming fountains.

In your free time, explore landmarks like the San Francisco Convent, Alameda Park, or the San Martín Pinario Monastery. Dinner and overnight in Santiago.

Day 6: Santiago de Compostela - Rías Baixas - Vigo (60 km / 35 miles)

After breakfast, we travel through the picturesque Rías Baixas, known for its scenic estuaries, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches. We stop in O Grove, a charming fishing town on the Isle of Toja. Visit the Chapel of the Shells, stroll along pristine beaches, or explore whimsical spots like the Aldea dos Grobits Village.

Later, we arrive in Vigo, a vibrant port city with a historic old town featuring granite buildings, arcaded squares, and artisan workshops. Arrival, accommodation and overnight in Vigo.

Day 7: Vigo - Leon (430 km / 250 miles)

Transfer to the city of Leon in the morning. León is a historic city in northwestern Spain, best known for its stunning Gothic cathedral with some of the finest stained glass in Europe. Once a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, León blends Roman and medieval heritage with a lively contemporary culture. Its old town - especially the Barrio Húmedo - is famous for tapas, where drinks are traditionally served with generous complimentary food. 

In your free time in León, you can explore the atmospheric old town, visiting the Romanesque Basilica of San Isidoro and its Royal Pantheon, often called the ''Sistine Chapel of Romanesque art.'' A stroll along the medieval city walls or through the narrow streets around the cathedral offers a relaxed way to soak up the city’s history. Later, enjoy the local tradition of tapas in the Barrio Húmedo or nearby Barrio Romántico, where lively bars and cafés make for an ideal, informal end to the day before your morning transfer to Vigo.

Dinner and accommodation. 

Day 8: Leon - Salamanca - Madrid (566 km / 352 miles)

After breakfast, we head back to Spain, stopping in Salamanca, a city steeped in history and charm. Explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, featuring landmarks like the Plaza Mayor, the Casa de las Conchas, and the Old and New Cathedrals. Don’t miss the historic University of Salamanca, one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world.

In the evening, we arrive in Madrid, finishing this incredible journey through Northern Spain and Portugal.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1195 €

Single Supplement: 340 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 80 €

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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.