5. Spanish North & Portugal

Departure point: Barcelona
Every Sunday from March 23 to Oct 19
Duration: 12 days

Price from: €1695
Duration: 12 days, 11 nights

Tour starts on every single SUNDAY between March 23 to Oct 19

 

Tour Code: C-71202

Included in tour:

- accommodation in **** hotels

- 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners

- modern and air-conditioned bus

- multi-lingual tour escort

- sightseeinng tours with local guides in Santiago, Porto & Lisbon

- tickets to Santiago's Cathedral

- visit to wine cellar with a tasting of Porto wine

- travel insurance

- free Wi- Fi on board

- municipal tax in Porto 

- tips 

Discover the Wonders of Peninsula: Iberica Travel's Ultimate Northern Spain & Portugal Tour.

Join Iberica Travel on a remarkable journey through Northern Spain and Portugal, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes come together in perfect harmony. Beginning in the lively heart of Barcelona, this unforgettable tour takes you through some of the most captivating corners of the Iberian Peninsula.

We’ll start by heading northwest to Zaragoza, a city steeped in history and home to the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, one of Spain’s most iconic Baroque landmarks.

From there, we dive into Northern Spain, where rolling green hills and coastal charm await. Discover the culinary delights of San Sebastián, the artistic energy of Bilbao with its stunning Guggenheim Museum, and the timeless beauty of Santillana del Mar and Covadonga - two postcard-perfect villages full of character.

Winding through the dramatic scenery of the Picos de Europa National Park, we arrive in La Coruña, perched on the rugged Galician coast. Then it's on to Santiago de Compostela, the legendary final stop of the Camino de Santiago and a place filled with deep spiritual resonance.

Our adventure then crosses into Portugal, where we'll journey from north to south. We begin in the vibrant city of Porto, known for its charming riverside district, iconic bridges, and world-famous port wine. Then it's off to Coimbra, home to one of the world’s oldest universities, where centuries of knowledge and tradition echo through its cobbled streets.

In Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, wander through the atmospheric Alfama, take in panoramic views from hilltop miradouros, and admire historic treasures like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Savor traditional Fado music and indulge in the flavors of authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Before wrapping up in Madrid, we’ll stop in the enchanting city of Cáceres, a medieval gem of narrow lanes, ancient walls, and stone mansions - a living tapestry of Spain’s past.

From vibrant cities and sacred sites to coastal villages and mountain vistas, this tour is a celebration of Iberia’s northern soul. Travel with Iberica and experience the very best of Northern Spain and Portugal - one unforgettable moment at a time.

Please click here to see a route on a map.

Day 1: Barcelona – Zaragoza – San Sebastián

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Barcelona, as we head toward Zaragoza, a historic gem nestled between Madrid and Barcelona. Here, you'll explore the grand Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, a magnificent Baroque masterpiece that holds deep spiritual significance. Walk across the charming Stone Bridge for panoramic views of the city and river below.
In the afternoon, we travel north through scenic landscapes to San Sebastián, a jewel on Spain’s northern coast. Known for its sweeping bay, elegant architecture, and outstanding food scene, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a delicious Basque dinner and settle in for the night.



Day 2: San Sebastián – Bilbao – Santander

After breakfast, we set off for Bilbao, a dynamic city where tradition and modernity meet. The iconic Guggenheim Museum, with its striking titanium curves, stands as a symbol of the city's artistic transformation. Take time to explore its unique architecture or stroll along the lively riverfront.
Later, we continue to Santander, the refined capital of Cantabria. With its elegant coastal charm, sandy beaches, and royal heritage, you’ll have free time to relax by the sea, visit the Palacio de la Magdalena, or wander through the vibrant Old Town before enjoying dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.



Day 3: Santander – Santillana del Mar – Covadonga – Oviedo

Today we journey through the breathtaking Picos de Europa, a region of soaring mountains and lush valleys. Our first stop is Santillana del Mar, often described as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, with its cobbled streets and medieval stone houses.
Next, we head into the mountains to Covadonga, a spiritual site set within a dramatic natural setting. Visit the Holy Cave and the small chapel tucked into the cliffside, a deeply revered place for many Spaniards.
In the evening, we arrive in Oviedo, capital of Asturias and a city of rich heritage, known for its Gothic cathedral and charming historic quarter. Enjoy a relaxing dinner and rest.



Day 4: Oviedo – La Coruña

After breakfast, we travel west to La Coruña, a vibrant port city perched on the Galician coast. Upon arrival, enjoy a panoramic tour to get your bearings, then take time to explore at your own pace.
Don’t miss the Tower of Hercules, the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world and a symbol of the city’s Roman past. Wander along the marina, lined with unique glass-fronted balconies that glisten in the Atlantic light, and soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere. Finish the day with a delicious Galician dinner and overnight stay.



Day 5: La Coruña – Santiago de Compostela

This morning we head to the legendary Santiago de Compostela, final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. On a guided tour, visit the majestic Santiago Cathedral, a marvel of Romanesque and Baroque architecture believed to house the remains of Saint James.
Afterward, stroll through the historic city center, with its winding alleys, ancient churches, and lively plazas. Let the spirit of this sacred city wash over you before dinner and a restful night in Santiago.



Day 6: Santiago – Rías Baixas – Vigo

Today we explore the stunning Rías Baixas, a region known for its dramatic inlets, seafood, and unspoiled beaches. We’ll stop at O Grove and Isla de la Toja, where charming chapels and quiet shorelines invite peaceful exploration.
Later, we continue to Vigo, a lively fishing port with a strong maritime identity. Walk through the Old Town, enjoy local oysters, or simply take in the sea breeze before dinner and overnight.



Day 7: Vigo – Viana do Castelo – Braga – Porto

Crossing into Portugal, we begin our day in the picture-perfect town of Viana do Castelo, with its elegant architecture and coastal charm. Then it's off to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest and most spiritual cities. Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, famous for its ornate stairway and panoramic views.
By evening, we arrive in Porto, a city of winding streets, colorful riverside houses, and rich wine traditions. Enjoy a relaxed evening as you settle into your hotel.



Day 8: Porto

Get to know Porto on a guided tour that takes you through its most iconic sights. Explore the atmospheric Ribeira district, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and visit the elegant Palácio da Bolsa.
No visit to Porto is complete without a stop at one of its famed wine cellars, where you can sample the local Port straight from the barrel. In the afternoon, enjoy free time - perhaps visit the charming Lello Bookstore or admire the city’s famous blue-and-white azulejos. Dinner and overnight in Porto.



Day 9: Porto – Coimbra

After breakfast, we head to Coimbra, a city steeped in history and home to one of the oldest universities in the world. Wander through its picturesque campus, visit the exquisite Joanina Library, and feel the academic spirit that has shaped Portugal’s culture for centuries.
Take time to enjoy the town’s relaxed rhythm before dinner and an overnight stay.



Day 10: Coimbra – Fátima – Lisbon

Today begins with a visit to Fátima, one of the most revered Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Explore the peaceful Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, and perhaps light a candle or simply reflect in its serene atmosphere.
Later, we continue to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant, sunlit capital. Arrive in time to enjoy your first glimpses of the city before checking in for the night.



Day 11: Lisbon

Discover Lisbon’s top attractions on a guided tour. Visit the striking Belém Tower, the grand Jerónimos Monastery, and the imposing Padrão dos Descobrimentos, all set against the backdrop of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
In the afternoon, wander the maze-like streets of Alfama, savor a pastel de nata at a local bakery, and perhaps catch a soulful Fado performance in the evening. Overnight in Lisbon.



Day 12: Lisbon – Cáceres – Madrid

We return to Spain, stopping in the enchanting city of Cáceres, a medieval marvel where Roman walls, Moorish towers, and Renaissance palaces sit side by side. Take time to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, where every alley feels like a step back in time.
From there, we continue to Madrid, Spain’s capital, where the tour comes to a close. Rest and reflect on the memories of your journey across the Iberian Peninsula.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1695 €

Single Supplement: 545 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 100 €

-----

Discounts:

- Children under 4 years old: Free; no granted seat on the bus.
- Children between 4 and 7 years old: 25% discount off the adult price; they share a room with adults.
- Teenagers between 8 and 18 years old: 5% discount off the adult price.
- Seniors (65+ years old): 5% discount off the adult price.
- Third person in a triple room: 5% discount.
- Discounts cannot be combined.


Booking Process:

1. Choose the desired tour and confirm it via email. Provide the starting date, tour code, number of travelers, their names, age and preferred room types (Single/Double/Triple).
2. Receive an invoice from us.
3. Make a 15% deposit to secure the booking.
4. Receive confirmation from us.
5. Three weeks (21 day) before the tour starts, pay the remaining balance.
6. Arrive for the tour on the scheduled date and time.


Payment Information:

- A 15% deposit is required during reservation.
- The remaining 85% must be paid at least 3 weeks before the tour starts.
- Payment methods:
   1. Bank wire to our company's bank account (details on the invoice).
   2. Credit card payment (additional 2% charge, the link will be sent to you). 
   3. Western Union (for urgent, short-notice reservations).
   4. Wise.com – a cost-effective online currency transfer system. Ask us for an ''invitation'' if you're not a member.


Cancellation and Refund Policy:

- The 15% deposit at the time of reservation is non-refundable.
- If you paid 100% upfront and canceled at least 3 weeks before the trip, the remaining 85% is fully refundable.
- Cancellations made less than 3 weeks before the trip won't receive any refunds.

San Sebastián

Experience the best of San Sebastián at the Silken Amara Plaza Hotel, ideally located at the start of a scenic walk leading to the breathtaking La Concha Bay and the vibrant Old Town. Famous for its delicious "pintxos" - the local version of tapas - the Old Town offers a delightful culinary adventure just a stroll away.

The hotel is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, comfort, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every guest enjoys a unique and memorable stay. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel's commitment to the arts, as it proudly showcases a collection of paintings, sculptures, and photographs by various modern artists.

With 162 rooms, the Silken Amara Plaza blends contemporary style with traditional Basque charm, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Guests can unwind with cocktails at the La Ola bistro-bar or indulge in the culinary delights of the Plaza Restaurant, which serves an enticing mix of pintxos, international dishes, and traditional Basque cuisine.

-----

Santander

Just 150 meters from the beautiful El Sardinero Beach and the renowned Casino of Santander, the Hotel Santemar combines sophisticated charm with a cozy atmosphere. It's the perfect destination for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

The hotel offers 348 rooms across eight different types to cater to every preference. Each room is thoughtfully equipped with amenities like a desk, television, telephone, air conditioning, minibar, free safe, complimentary Wi-Fi, parquet flooring, and a selection of pillows for personalized comfort. The marble-adorned bathrooms feature either a shower or bathtub, magnifying mirrors, and hairdryers.

The décor alternates between inspired designs and mountain-themed aesthetics, adding a unique touch to your stay. Many rooms offer stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea, ensuring a spacious and comfortable experience. Guests can also stay active at the on-site gym and enjoy diverse dining options at the hotel's restaurant.

-----

Oviedo

Located just a five-minute walk from Oviedo's historic center and its magnificent cathedral, the Iberik Santo Domingo Plaza Hotel is a modern four-star establishment offering contemporary comfort in a convenient setting. The hotel features 101 rooms - including double, triple, family, executive, and superior options - all designed with modern décor.

Each room comes equipped with an en-suite bathroom, minibar, telephone, high-power hairdryer, toiletries, electronic safe, and television. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Guests can take advantage of facilities like a small gym, luggage storage, a 24-hour open bar, and enjoy the serene ambiance of a striking natural indoor garden.

-----

La Coruña

Situated next to the Cuatro Caminos Shopping and Leisure Center, Hotel Exe La Coruña offers both convenience and comfort in the heart of the city. Just a 15-minute walk from La Coruña's historic center and 20 minutes from the Riazor and Orzán Beaches, it's an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore local attractions.

Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, parking facilities, a gym, air conditioning, and family-friendly activities. The hotel also provides laundry services, daily housekeeping, a fitness center, a business center, and meeting rooms. Bright and spacious rooms enhance guest comfort, making Hotel Exe La Coruña a popular choice for visitors seeking a well-rounded experience.

-----

Santiago de Compostela

The four-star Hotel Oca Puerta del Camino is conveniently located near the Santiago de Compostela Conference Center, making it perfect for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel is well-equipped for hosting events, offering lounges, a garden, a piano bar, a business center, catering services, and an outdoor swimming pool.

With 164 spacious, naturally lit rooms offering scenic views, the hotel provides modern amenities like a minibar, telephone, hairdryer, safe, LED TV with international channels, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can relax in comfort and style while exploring the historic city.

Note: For departures on May 21 and June 11, the overnight stay will be in Santiago de Compostela instead of La Coruña.

-----

Vigo

Located in a pleasant and quiet area near Plaza de América and Balaídos Stadium, the Hotel Hesperia Vigo is just a seven-minute drive from the city center. This makes it a convenient base for exploring Vigo's attractions, including the picturesque Cíes Islands and Rías Baixas.

The hotel offers a variety of rooms to suit different needs: standard rooms with city views, balcony rooms for added relaxation, double suites filled with natural light, and family rooms with extra space. Services include a 24-hour reception, multilingual staff, free Wi-Fi, room service, a breakfast buffet, event facilities, and a gym - catering to both business and leisure guests.

-----

Porto

Situated in the heart of Gaia, the Holiday Inn Porto Gaia is a versatile hotel perfect for leisure trips. It's just minutes away from the famous Port Wine Cellars and a short drive from Porto's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests can enjoy rooms offering stunning views of Porto and the Douro River.

The hotel boasts a range of facilities, including meeting rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a large congress center, a spa, a gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The spa provides a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering soothing massages that promise a tranquil experience.

-----

Coimbra

Perched on a hilltop near Praça da República and close to the Machado de Castro and Bissaya Barreto Museums, the Hotel Coimbra Aeminium affiliated with Meliá, is just a 15-minute walk from the historic University of Coimbra. The hotel provides bicycles for guests to explore the city in an enjoyable and convenient way.

Air-conditioned guest rooms are decorated in a modern style with soothing pastel colors, creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment. Amenities include cable TV, a minibar, a work desk, and private bathrooms equipped with hairdryers.

For dining, the Baga Restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including Portuguese, international, and vegetarian options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all guests.

-----

Lisbon

Hotel Lutecia in Lisbon is a distinguished four-star establishment known for its smart design and modern amenities. Renovated in 2014, the hotel is located in a quiet residential area near Avenida de Roma, providing easy access to popular tourist attractions and shopping areas.

Celebrated for its nine uniquely themed floors, the hotel offers guests diverse and novel experiences during their stay, adding a touch of creativity to the accommodations. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, a spa, free Wi-Fi, and the Fusion Restaurant, which serves delectable Portuguese cuisine.

With its blend of innovative design and comprehensive amenities, Hotel Lutecia offers a unique and luxurious stay in the heart of Lisbon, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking comfort and an exceptional experience.

----------

Please Note: All descriptions are based on information provided by the hotels. Iberica Travel does not guarantee the accuracy of this material in the future. For the most up-to-date information, please visit each hotel's official website.

Additionally, the hotels listed above may be replaced by similar properties of the same category.

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.