26. Northern Spain & Lusitania

If the previous tour (#25) was dedicated to western and southern coasts of the Iberian Peninsula, then this one is the perfect opportunity to travel through western and northern coastlines - a sophisticated twelve-day tour.

The north of Spain not only has a unique landscape and raw beauty, but the area also houses amazing cities with lots of hotspots: charming San Sebastian and its sandy beaches; Bilbao with its world-famous Guggenheim Museum; enchanting villages that are typical for this northern area, like Santillana de Mar and Covadonga, as well as the National Park Picos de Europa.

Then, moving along the coast, we'll reach Galicia - the region in the northwestern corner of Spain, above Portugal. With its spectacular rugged coastline, rolling green hills and soaring mountains, it's no wonder that this part of Spain's is home to many beautiful towns and villages. Galicia is also famous for its excellent seafood (especially the octopus and the shellfish).  

Next we'll continue to the south, crossing the whole Portugal - a country with a rich history and gorgeous landscapes - seeing all the best places on our way: the old fisherman’s town of Oporto - nowadays the second largest city in the country; Coimbra with its ancient university, Fatima - one of the main pilgrimage centers in Europe, and of course, splendid Lisbon - the capital of Portugal, as well as some smaller places like Viana do Castelo and Braga.  

Beautiful Spanish cities of Zaragoza and Caceres are added to the trip in the beginning and before the end of the tour, respectively. 

Please click here to see the route on a map.

Day 1. Madrid - Zaragoza - San Sebastian (575 km ~ 357 miles)

Departure from Madrid at 08am towards Zaragoza. Spain's fifth largest city,  Zaragoza is the capital of the Aragón region. Located south of the Pyrenees, it sits roughly half-way between Barcelona and San Sebastian, and is home to a range of fascinating sights, from Roman ruins to magnificent Islamic architecture and a striking Baroque cathedral. We will stop in the city center so you can have free time to explore the most notorious sights of Zaragoza: Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar and Puente de Piedra (the Stone Bridge).

• A striking Baroque Basilica, it is here that many believe that Santiago - one of Jesus’ disciples and referred to as James in the Bible – saw the Virgin Mary ascend a marble pillar. A chapel was built around that pillar and later added to and renovated, until it became the stunning cathedral it is today. If you want, you can head inside to look around at its magnificent interior, then take the elevator to the top to enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the city.
• The Puente de Piedra (the Stone Bridge) is the oldest of all the bridges across the Ebro River. It was built in 1401 following a Gothic style. Measuring about 225 meters in length, the entire stone structure is held by seven arches, with cutwaters that help to break the water flow. It is very close to the Plaza del Pilar, so its silhouette with the Basilica del Pilar in the background has become one of the iconic images of the city.

After some free time in Zaragoza we'll continue to San Sebastian. Arrival in the early evening, dinner and accommodation.

Hotel: Silken Amara Plaza. 

Day 2. San Sebastián - Bilbao - Santander (205km ~ 127 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer to Bilbao. This city is particularly well known for its avant-garde contemporary designs and fascinating architecture, especially as it is home to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, where we will make a stop to walk around and make pictures of this gorgeous and wicked structure.

• Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum is the most emblematic building in the city, towering above the river like an undulating titanium ship. The celebrated modern art museum, designed by the architect Frank Gehry, resembles a huge metal ship, covered in shiny wavy patterns and quirky structures, and is just as impressive from the outside as it is from the inside. Surrounding the museum, you’ll find Bilbao’s Art District, home to world-famous artworks such as Louise Bourgeois’ Mamen spider sculpture, Jeff Koons’ Puppy and Anish Kapoor’s Tall Tree and the Eye. 

Later we'll move further to the west, along the Atlantic coast, to Santander. Santander is the capital of Spain's region of Cantabria and offers a whole host of attractions for visitors, from history museums to art centers and beaches. You can spend your time shopping in the Mercado de la Esperanza, visiting the Palacio de la Magdalena or browsing the works in the new Centro Botín. Some highlights not to miss in your free time in the city:

• Santander has two beaches - Playa de los Bikinis and Playa de la Magdalena, both are perfect for sunbathing in summer or strolling along in winter.
• The Palacio de la Magdalena is situated on the vast Magdalena Peninsula, on the edge of the city, and has become somewhat of a symbol of Santander. Built between 1908 and 1912, it’s one of the best examples of this style of architecture in the whole of northern Spain. The palace was used as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family between 1913 and 1930, and today is open for visitors and grand events.
• One of the most impressive buildings in the city is the Santander Cathedral, which simply can’t be missed. It was originally built in the 13th century, although the upper part of the cathedral dates from the 14th century, and the cloisters were built in the 15th century. Inside, you can find the tomb of the writer, literary critic and historian Menéndez Pelayo.

Arrival, dinner and night in Santander.

Hotel: Santemar. 

Day 3. Santander - Santillana del Mar - Covadonga - Oviedo (320 km ~ 199 miles)

Breakfast. This day you'll be travelling throughout one of the most beautiful Spanish National Parks - Picos de Europa, characterized by high massifs, deep ravines, lush mountain meadows and vast glassy lakes. First our stop for today is in Santillana de Mar.

• This town, that has often been referred to as one of the most beautiful villages in the whole of Spain, let alone just Cantabria. Sitting on the coast and surrounded by verdant green mountains, it offers the best of both worlds. Think caramel-colored architecture and steep, cobbled streets, perfect medieval stone and timber houses. Santillana del Mar was built around the collegiate church of Santa María and is also dotted with old defense towers and Renaissance palaces.

After some free time, we'll continue to Covadonga, - a place, located at the western edge of Picos de Europa, and is visited by thousands of people every year. We'll stop at Sanctuary of Covadonga (the Holy Cave).

• The Sanctuary of Covadonga is located in a mountain grotto and features an image of the Virgin Mary - Virgin of Covadonga. This sight is an important site in Christian history. It was where Christian forces in Iberia defeated a Muslim army at the Battle of Covadonga, marking the beginning of the Spanish Reconquista. But though the cave is now linked to Christianity, it’s believed it was first a site for prehistoric pagan worship.

Some free time to admire the Holy Cave. Later continuation to Oviedo. Arrival, dinner and overnight.

Hotel: Oca Santo Domingo Plaza. 

Day 4. Oviedo - La Coruña (295 kms)

Breakfast and departure to the very northwest corner of Spain - La Coruna (or A Coruna - how locals say). A Coruña sits in the very northwest corner of Spain, in the autonomous community of Galicia. A vibrant coastal city with plenty in the way of culture, history, gastronomy (it's also famous for its seafood) and natural sights. Enjoy a panoramic city tour upon arrival and, later - a free time. Sights you’ll see during the city tour, and on same you can take a closer look later, while exploring city on your own: 

• Torre de Hercule - the oldest working lighthouse in the world, the Tower of Hercules has become somewhat a symbol of the city. Built in Roman times, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also some lovely nature walks around the area.
• Galerias - A Coruña is known as the ''Glass City'' - due to its unique architectural style of constructing galerías - enclosed glass balconies - onto the side of its buildings. Most date back to the 19th century and feature patterns, as well as colors and embellishments.
• Castillo de San Anton, a 16th century fortress set on a small island, connected to the mainland via a bridge. Today the castle houses the Museo Arqueológico e Histórico - Museum of Archeology and History.
• Estrella Galicia is one of Spain’s best-loved beers and its home is here in A Coruña. Founded in 1906 by Jose Mª Rivera, it’s possible to visit the original location of the first Estrella Galicia brewery in the neighborhood of Cuatro Caminos. The site is now the brewery-restaurant Estrella de Galicia, and you can enjoy food and fresh, unpasteurized beer straight out of the brewery.

Accommodation, dinner and night in La Coruna.

Hotel: Melia Maria Pita.

Day 5. La Coruña - Santiago de Compostela (75 km ~ 47 miles)

Breakfast in a hotel in La Coruna, then transfer to Santiago de Compostela. In Santiago we'll have a proper city tour including the visit to the Cathedral. City is renowned for its shrine of Saint James the Great and was built to accommodate the thousands of pilgrims that would, and still do, gather there every year. The architecture and atmosphere of the city are impregnated with history and visitors may feel like they've taken a step back to the medieval times. Some highlights of the tour:

• The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela - you simply cannot go to Santiago and not visit its cathedral. Built during the 1300s, the changes over the subsequent centuries have added Gothic and Baroque features to its Romanesque architecture. The grand Plaza del Obradoiro leaves enough room to admire the Cathedral’s impressive size and design, and through the front doors you will find the Portico de Gloria, the Corticela chapel and the relic of Saint John. 
• Casco Historico (or Historical Center). We’ll take time to explore the little streets around the cathedral and you will find lots of hidden squares, like the Plaza de Cervantes, with beautiful statues and intricate fountains. The district is alive with activity, and as you walk around the old streets you are likely to chance upon a mass or the gathering of a procession. There are also lots of cafés and restaurants where later on during the day you can sit down to enjoy some Spanish tapas and watch the world go by.

On your free time in the afternoon you can visit:

• San Francisco Convent - if you’re feeling hungry you should head over to the San Franciscan convent, which housed Franciscan monks in the 18th century. The monks have now moved to a more modern building and the old convent serves as a restaurant. The food is delicious, and they offer a special Pilgrim menu with typical convent or monastery dishes. The unique food, combined with the architecture and décor, will make for an unforgettable experience. If you have time, check out the chapel and Holy Land museum next door.
• Alameda park - this is a beautiful park with wonderful views of the cathedral and the old town from the Ferradura walk. Alameda park is great place to seek peace and quiet away from the busy center. One of the park’s many statues is Las dos Marias (''the two Mary''), which depicts a fun piece of local history, when two women became famous during the 1950s and 1960s by walking through the city center every day at 2pm sharp, dressed and made up in what was considered an eccentric manner, and flirting with the university students.
• San Martin Pinario Monastery - this 10th-century baroque Benedictine monastery and church has a beautiful stairway and its walnut choir stalls made by Mateo de Prado are considered the most impressive in Galicia.

Dinner, accommodation and overnight stay in Santiago de Compostela.

Hotel: San Lazaro. 

Day 6. Santiago de Compostela - Rias Bajas - Vigo (90 km ~ 56 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer through the beautiful area of Rias Baixas (''lower rivers'').

• Rias Bajas is a set of largest estuaries in the area. The coastline of the province boasts three magnificent inlets surrounded by cliffs, islands, ports, hills, beaches and stunning landscapes that make it a perfect destination to visit. On both the coast and inland, you’ll definitely enjoy unforgettable views.

First stop - at a small town, called O Grove, in the Isle of Toja (a small peninsula in the area). O Grove is a privileged location, a place that stands out for its history and traditional fishing. Highlights to see on your free time:

• Chapel of the Shells - it was built for San Caralimpio and the Virgen del Carmen. It stands out because its structure is decorated with scallop shells and its conservation level is very high.
• Aldea dos Grobits Village - the ''Grobits'' are fictional creatures, that story tells were living in the depths of the thermal waters in the Island of the Toja. On some special days, the soil of the well is transformed into water and the grobits rise up the well. They walk among the centenary pines, playing among them and when they are tired, they go to these houses to rest.
• O Grove Beaches offer the ideal complement with international prestige. Starting from one of the most famous beaches for surfers, such as A Lanzada, we continue with recognized and appreciated sites such as ''Dogs beach''. The other beaches are: Pipas in Reboredo, Area Grande, Area da Cruz and Raeiros. Most of them have plenty of places to eat nearby and spectacular views.

Later we will continue to Vigo. Arrival and accommodation. Feel free to wander around Vigo's Old Town. 

• Vigo’s old-town is set on a slope that meets the estuary at the old port, with alleys that lead onto handsome arcaded squares like, for example, - Praza da Constitución. This is the part of the city where fishermen’s houses and grander buildings like plush townhouses, and the 19th-century church of Santa María were set side-by-side. Almost all were built with Galician granite, which gives the old-town a dignified atmosphere distinct from many Spanish old quarters. Many of the street names correspond to old trades, and in streets like Calle de las Ostras or Rúa Cesteiros you can still find basket-weavers - the craft, locals were mastering for hundreds of years.

Dinner and night in Vigo.

Hotel: Hesperia Vigo. 

Day 7. Vigo - Viana do Castelo - Braga - Porto (220km ~ 137 miles)

Breakfast as usual. Departure towards Portugal and crosS the border to arrive to Viana do Castelo - a town, located between the mouth of the river Mino and Porto.

• Viana do Castello - a pictUresque town, who's architecture includes Baroque, Manueline, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles and influences. Especially beautiful is an Old Town with its cobbled streets and emblazoned buildings. Viana do Castelo is also an excellent spot to buy jewelry and home to many shops specializing in Portugal’s ''gold filigree'' - a form of intricate metalwork, a specialty of this area.

Free time, later continuation to Braga.

• This city, immersed in historical and spiritual surroundings and acclaimed as a youthful center. Within the café-filled center, students from the nearby university meet to socialize and discuss ideas, while a short distance away tourists will enjoy seeing the famous Bom Jesus do Monte (Bom Jesus Sanctuary) and the oldest cathedral in the country. Braga is part of the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO too, and it's the third largest city in Portugal after Lisbon and Porto.

Free time to explore Braga. Later we'll depart for Porto. Arrival, accommodation and night in Porto. 

Hotel: Eurostars Oporto. 

Day 8. Porto

Breakfast in the hotel, then we'll head to a proper city tour of Porto.

There are plenty of things that this lively and extraordinary city has to offer. Slightly timeworn and weathered, the gray skies and dated buildings add character, while the twinkling lights along the Douro River reflect off the water and illuminate a central part of the city. Pair these features with the reserved yet friendly locals, the charming trams, beautifully adorned architecture, and the wine, and Porto’s charm may put anyone under its spell. Here are some highlights of the tour:

• Porto’s bustling Ribeiro district is the most eclectic part of the city, inviting everyone to sit by its banks from locals to students and tourists. As a historical center and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is lots to see here, and the picturesque quality of the river, cafés, buildings, and statues only adds to the allure.
• Porto’s Cathedral (Sé do Porto in Portuguese) is the most important religious edifice in the city and has been declared a National Monument. It is situated in the upper part of Porto. The building looks a bit like a fortress with crenels from the outside. The Cathedral sits on a square with a column in the middle which offers impressive views over the city, the Douro River and the wine cellars on the waterfront.
• Palacio da Bolsa is a 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace - the neoclassical product of a combined effort from several architects. It was created in the late 19th century to attract European businesses but today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national monument.
• Igreja de Santa Clara - the 15^th century Santa Clara church may actually be one of the most exquisite examples of Portugal’s 17^th century woodwork, reflecting Baroque and Rococo styles.
• Dom Luís Bridge - Porto’s bridges are well known, but the Dom Luís Bridge is perhaps the most popular. This metal, double-decked arch bridge is a popular spot for photographers looking to snap a unique angle of the city and an easy way to traverse over to Vila Nova de Gaia and its wineries. Opened in the late 19th century, it was the longest arch bridge at the time.

Later we will continue our tour with a visit to an antique wine cellar, experience the wine-making process and definitely taste famous local fortified wine - Port, which in many cases gets served straight from the barrel.

 On the second half of the day feel free to explore the city on your own. Some suggestions:

• Experience Livraria Lello - this bookstore is one of the most beautiful in the world and has become extra famous as one of JK Rowling’s favorite haunts when she lived in Porto (and began developing the Harry Potter series). There is no doubt that the Livraria Lello & Irmão, which has been in business since 1906, is one of Porto’s most popular and busiest landmarks; there is even a cover charge to enter. Centrally located, near the locals’ favorite Piolho Café and a block from Igreja do Carmo, it’s easy to find, but be prepared to stand in a line to enter.
• Appreciate the city’s azulejo art - azulejo (ceramic tiles) are unique to Portugal in the way they are used to decorate buildings, streets, and homes, and this is especially noticeable in Porto. A few landmarks popular for their stunning artistic and cultural mosaics include the Estação São Bento, the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, and the Igreja do Carmo. To see some amazing displays, you won’t need to try hard because azulejos are practically everywhere in the city.
• Eat traditional and local treats - it’s impossible to visit Porto and not eat well. The gastronomy scene is among the best in the country and restaurants serve all sorts of recipes from the most traditional to modern and sophisticated. Porto is also a city that knows its comfort food.

Another night in Porto.

Day 9. Porto - Coimbra (120km ~ 75 miles)

Breakfast, then transfer to Coimbra. Coimbra was Portugal's capital for 124 years between the 12th and 13th centuries, but this classical city is still often eclipsed by metropolitan Lisbon or distinguished Porto. However, this place is mainly about its University - Coimbra's 700-year-old patrimonial jewel. Founded in 1290, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in the world. It made a UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2013. In your free time you'll have the opportunity to explore it. Some facts:

• As is the case across Portugal’s other regal cities, Coimbra and Coimbra's University showcase an exemplary mix of old vs new, modern versus traditional, and have moved forward holding strong to ancient customs while flourishing progressive initiatives. Among the University’s eight academic faculties, extra recognition is noticed towards science, technology, and medicine/pharmacy, keeping in line with the country’s focus on technological and scientific advances.
• At Coimbra University, you may first notice the student uniforms, and you’re not alone if they remind you of Hogwarts. Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling began writing the first book of the HP series in Portugal, and the similarities may hit you like a quaffle to the face.
• Coimbra University’s Joanina Library is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It seems fitting that some of Portugal’s greatest writers and poets were also alumni of Coimbra University, including Luís de Camões (the ''Portuguese Shakespeare''), José Maria Eça de Queiroz, and Almeida Garrett.

Dinner and night in Coimbra. 

Hotel: TRYP Coimbra. 

Day 10. Coimbra - Fátima - Lisbon (222km ~ 138 miles)

Breakfast in the hotel, then a tour to Fatima - one of the world's largest Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, with its Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima (Santuário de Fátima). A tour and a free time to feel and appreciate this sacred place. Some facts about the place:

• Portugal is known as a Catholic country filled with dramatic monasteries and ancient churches, but the Sanctuary of Fátima is one of the most sacred Catholic destinations that receives around 5 million visitors every year. Here, between 13th May and 13th October 1917, three shepherd children are believed to have witnessed six apparitions of the Virgin Mary, who imparted various messages and predictions about the future.  During the last of these apparitions it is said that around 50,000 observers witnessed the sun moving around in the sky in a way which defied the laws of cosmology.
• Among the various buildings associated with the sanctuary, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary (Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário) is a solid limestone church built between 1928 and 1953 in Neo-Baroque style.  The basilica has a 65-metre-high bell tower and there is a large statue of Our Lady of Fatima above the main entrance to the church. 
• Across the square from the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Basilica of the Holy Trinity (Basílica da Santíssima Trindade) is a relatively austere, modern structure built between 2004 and 2007 to accommodate the crowds who flock here on the anniversaries of the apparitions.  With a seating capacity of over 8,000 this is among one of the biggest Catholic churches in the world. 

Later we will continue to Lisbon. Accommodation, free evening and overnight.

Hotel: Lutecia. 

Day 11. Lisbon

Breakfast, followed by a tour around Lisbon with a local guide. Lisbon offers a rich and varied history, a buzzing nightlife and is blessed with a glorious year-round climate. It is a bustling and exciting city, that boasts a wide choice of activities and fascinating tourist attractions. The city has a welcoming atmosphere, while still embracing its deep-rooted heritage and extensive history.

• Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries) - this 50m tall sculpture is a monument to the Portuguese ''Era of Discovery'' and to ‘’Henry the Navigator’’, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan – total of 33 statues line the sides of the monument, each representing an important figure from that epoch: monarchs, cartographers, and scientists stand alongside explorers, artists, and missionaries.
• Belem Tower. The Torre de Belém was built in the 16th century as a military fortress and ceremonial entrance to the city. And yet, despite its primary function as a defensive structure, the tower’s delicate ornamentation, which includes arcaded windows, intricate sculptures and Moorish-style watchtowers, make it a real architectural marvel.
• Jeronimos Monastery. The undisputed highlight is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Construction of this former monastery began in 1501 and, as designs became increasingly elaborate (fueled by trade with Asia), it eventually took nearly a hundred years to complete. Today, it stands as a testament to the prosperity of Lisbon at the height of the Portuguese empire. Check out its impressive cloisters, replete with ornate sculptural details and masterful stonework, and pay your respects to the major historical figures buried here, including Vasco da Gama and celebrated poet Luís de Camões. Entrance and tour inside.
• Alfama Quarter. A maze of narrow, winding streets, Lisbon's Alfama quarter is the oldest and most historical part of the Portuguese capital, having survived the great earthquake and subsequent fires and tidal waves of 1755 almost intact. Mostly traffic-free these days except for the occasional 100-year-old tram creaking and rattling through, this ancient labyrinth of twisting lanes and cobbled stairways is in many ways the heart and soul of the Portuguese capital.

Enjoy an evening in Lisbon on your own. Please do not miss an opportuntiy to try famous pastel de nata (egg tart) - local culinary iconic pastry, who's recipe dates back to the 16th century. You can buy it in any cafe or bakery shop. 

Second night in Lisbon. 

Day 12. Lisbon - Caceres - Madrid (613km ~ 381 miles)

Breakfast. Departure towards the Spanish border to reach the province of Extremadura, and the city of Caceres - a beautiful place, founded by the Romans in 25 BC. Visit to Cáceres will bring you back to the old medieval era. The streets climb and twist among hoary palaces and mansions. As you turn your head up, you can see the skyline decorated with gargoyles, spires, and gigantic storks’ nests. The fortress has been serving as defensive walls since the 16th century. You will have a good hour and a half there, so, go ahead and check the main highlights, they are very close to each other:

• Plaza Mayor, Cáceres - town’s most-lively square. There are several must-see places located in Plaza Mayor. Climb up the steps from the Old Town and turn left. You will see the great Torre de Bujaco, or Bujaco Tower. At the top of the tower, you will be treated to a storks’ eye view of the Plaza Mayor. To climb the tower, you need to spend 2 euros.
• Next to Torre de Bujaco, at the top of the stone stairs, you will see Arco de La Estrella, (Star Archway). This archway serves as a traditional entrance to the Old Town. Built in the 18th century, this archway is considered to be the most important gate in Cáceres.
• The essential part of travelling to Cáceres is what lies inside the fortress. As you enter through Arco de la Estrella, several antique buildings greet you. If you walk left from the archway, you will find Palacio de Toledo-Moctezuma, built between the 14th and 15th centuries. Though you can only visit the palace from the outside, the front-facing architecture is worth seeing.
• Additionally, the small streets in the Old Town have different small shops selling local products, such as homemade pastries and sweets. Other local products definitely worth trying are goat cheese (Torta de Casar) and fig cake.

Continuation to Madrid. Arrival and the end of a tour. 

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Please click here to see the route on a map.

Important note:

For departures on April 18, May 16 and 23, June 6 and Sept 26 - the accommodation will be in the hotel Hotel EXE La Coruna (in La Coruna), instead of Santiago de Compostella. 

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1439€

Single Supplement: 540€

Supplement July to Oct.: 90€

Discounts:

- Children less than 4 years old: free, without granted seat in the bus

- Children between 4 and 7 years old: 25% discount off adult price, in a room with adults

- Teenagers between 8 and 18 years old: 5% discount off adult price 

- Seniors (65+ years old): 5% discount off adult price 

- Third person in triple room: 5%

Discounts cannot be combined. 

What is the booking process?

- It is very simple. Once you have chosen the tour, there are 6 steps: 

   a) you confirm the tour by e-mail, indicating starting date, tour code, number of persons travelling and their names, also types of rooms preferred (Single/Double/Triple).   

   b) we send you an invoice,

   c) you pay 10% to book the tour,

   d) we issue the confirmation,

   e) 2 weeks before the starting date, you pay the rest of the monies due, and 

   f) you show up for the tour on the appointed date and time.

How much should I pay and when?

- We require a 10% deposit during reservation, and the remaining 90% in no less than 2 weeks before the tour commences.

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 (our bank charges), and we need you to sign an Authorization form (which we will provide) and you need to send us your passport copy and copy of the credit card (the front) to verify ownership.

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

4) Transferwise.com - an online system, allowing the transfer of different currencies, with a small fees (much smaller than bank charges). Ask us to send you an invitation to join a system if you are not a member - there normally is a bonus for new members.

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 right away). There are no refunds for cancellations made in less than 2 weeks to go before the trip.

Here you will find commonly asked questions regarding our tours. 

1. Are the tours for individuals, families, 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 the year. In summer, groups tend to be larger as this is a popular time of year, while the winter season usually attracts less 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 travelling 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 is a guide/tour leader in the bus?

- Yes. An accompanying guide (tour leader) usually 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 and Central America) passengers, so the guides will explain in English and then in Spanish. 

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

- Most of our tours run all year long. Some tours, e.g., those running to the northern regions of Spain, only run from March till 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 at the Calendar the specific dates Sundays are falling on and make sure you arrive a day before. 

6. What cities do the tours start from?

- Tours start from 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 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 enroute, 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 7.45am.

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

9. What type of vehicles do you use?

- Buses for larger groups and minibuses for smaller ones. Vehicles are comfortable, modern and with air-conditioning.

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

- There is a Wi-Fi on all our buses in Spain. But please keep in mind that sometimes during the transfers between the cities, Wi-Fi signal can be weak or intermitting, due to poor coverage from the main operators. Please do not expect to downoad or to steam movies during the transfers. In Morocco's buses there is no Wi-Fi. 

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 held in the hotel's restaurants, many times it 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. I am a vegetarian or allergic to certain products, any problem?

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

13. What time do you arrive to Madrid on the 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 excursion (depending on the specific tour). However, it is not recommended to book the flight out on the same evening/night, as traffic jams in Madrid or other possible events may delay your flight. Fell 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 transfer from/to the airport to be booked before or after the tour.

- Sure. Just let us know at the time you organize the whole trip. 

15. Can I just show up for the trip without 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, though we recommend booking even earlier, if possible, as in these cases we have wider range of hotels to accommodate the early reservations - better options. 

Requests received with less than 2 weeks to go prior to launch date, usually work out 80% of the time, just contact us. 

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

- No, as there are more people travelling with you. However, if you are coming already as a group of 20+ persons, the route can be customized upon your request, as the tour could be run privately for your group. Please contact us for more information.

18. What is the booking process?

- It is very simple. Once you have chosen the tour, there are 6 steps:

   a) you confirm the tour by e-mail, indicating starting date, tour code, number of persons travelling and their names, also types of rooms preferred (Single/Double/Triple). 

    b) we send you an invoice,

    c) you pay 10% to book the tour,

    d) we issue the confirmation,

    e) 2 weeks before the starting date, you pay the rest of the monies due, and

    f) 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% in no less than 2 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), we need you to sign an Authorization form and you need to send us your passport copy and copy of the credit card (the front) to verify ownership

3) Western Union (normally for short-notice reservations, and when amount needs to be received urgently)

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

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 right away). There are no refunds for cancellations made with less than 2 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 to get their Visas, after a trip is confirmed and the deposit of 10% has been paid. As we are a fully licensed tour operator in Spain, after the deposit paid, we can issue the confirmation, which you later bring to Spanish Embassy/Consulate. In this letter we confirm that you booked and partly (or fully) paid for a tour with us. Please note, we do not guarantee the issue of 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.