20. Northern Spain & Portugal

Northern Spain & Portugal Highlights: Culture, coastlines and historic cities.

This immersive 8-day journey traces a spectacular route through northern Spain and into Portugal, revealing a rich mosaic of landscapes, cultures, and centuries of history. Traveling from Spain’s historic heartlands to the Atlantic coast and across the Douro River into Portugal, the itinerary blends iconic cities, medieval villages, dramatic scenery, and deep-rooted local traditions.

Along the way, you’ll experience grand pilgrimage destinations, elegant coastal resorts, and some of the Iberian Peninsula’s most beautifully preserved historic centers. Highlights include Roman and medieval heritage, renowned Gothic and Baroque landmarks, sacred pilgrimage routes, and vibrant old towns shaped by centuries of commerce, faith, and seafaring life. Scenic drives lead through green valleys, rugged mountains, and Atlantic shorelines, offering constant visual variety.

The journey balances guided sightseeing with free time, allowing you to explore at your own pace - whether strolling atmospheric old quarters, enjoying regional cuisine and wine, or relaxing along seaside promenades. From renowned architectural masterpieces and UNESCO-listed sites to lively cafés, tapas traditions, and riverside vistas, this tour offers a rewarding blend of history, culture, and everyday life.

Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to northern Spain and Portugal, this itinerary delivers unforgettable moments across two countries connected by culture, landscape, and timeless charm.

Day 1: Madrid – Zaragoza – Pamplona (575 km / 357 miles)

Your journey begins early in the morning with an 8:00 a.m. departure from Madrid, traveling northeast through Spain’s interior toward Zaragoza, the historic capital of the Aragón region. Strategically located along the Ebro River, Zaragoza is a city shaped by Roman, Islamic, and Christian civilizations, all of which have left a visible mark on its architecture and character. During your visit, you will have time to explore the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, one of Spain’s most important pilgrimage sites and a stunning example of Baroque architecture. According to tradition, this is the place where the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint James, making it a site of deep religious significance. Just outside, the medieval Stone Bridge offers classic views across the river and toward the basilica’s skyline-defining domes.
In the afternoon, we continue north to Pamplona, arriving in the early evening. Known worldwide for the San Fermín festival and the famous Running of the Bulls, Pamplona also charms visitors with its compact old town, historic walls, leafy parks, and lively tapas scene deeply rooted in Basque and Navarrese culture. Dinner and overnight in Pamplona.

Day 2: Pamplona – San Sebastián – Bilbao – Santander (205 km / 127 miles)

After breakfast, we travel toward Spain’s northern coast, stopping first in San Sebastián, one of the country’s most elegant and scenic coastal cities. Framed by the sweeping curve of La Concha Bay, the city is celebrated for its refined atmosphere, beautiful beachfront promenade, and exceptional Basque cuisine. Time here allows for a relaxed walk along the sea or exploration of the old town, where traditional pintxo bars line narrow streets filled with local life.
We then continue to Bilbao, a city that has become an international symbol of cultural renewal and bold modern design. Our visit focuses on the exterior of the Guggenheim Museum, Frank Gehry’s iconic titanium-clad landmark that transformed Bilbao’s global image. Time is provided for photos and to enjoy the surrounding riverside promenade and public art.
In the evening, we arrive in Santander, the elegant coastal capital of Cantabria. Spread around a natural bay, Santander offers a refined atmosphere, scenic promenades, and beautiful seaside vistas. Free time allows for a gentle walk along the waterfront, time near the beaches, or a visit to the Magdalena Palace area before dinner and overnight.

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

Following breakfast, we journey through green valleys and rolling hills toward Santillana del Mar, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Perfectly preserved, the village feels frozen in time, with cobbled streets, noble stone houses, coats of arms, and the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa María anchoring its historic center. Free time allows you to wander through quiet lanes and experience the timeless medieval atmosphere.
We then continue into the mountains of Asturias to Covadonga, a site of profound historical and spiritual importance. Set within a dramatic natural grotto surrounded by forested peaks, the Sanctuary of Covadonga is closely linked to the beginnings of the Spanish Reconquista. The combination of history, legend, and natural beauty makes this a deeply moving stop.
In the evening, we arrive in Oviedo, the elegant capital of Asturias, known for its refined old town, traditional cider culture, and graceful public spaces. Dinner and overnight in Oviedo.

Day 4: 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 centuries of maritime history. A panoramic visit introduces highlights such as the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest working lighthouse and a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to Roman times. You’ll also notice the city’s distinctive glass-fronted balconies lining the harbor, designed to capture light while protecting against Atlantic winds. Time allows for a short walk along the seafront promenade or a pause at a café overlooking the ocean.
In the afternoon, we continue inland to Santiago de Compostela, arriving in the early evening. Dinner and overnight in this legendary pilgrimage city.

Day 5: Santiago de Compostela

Today is devoted entirely to Santiago de Compostela, the historic endpoint of the Camino de Santiago and one of Europe’s most important spiritual destinations. For centuries, pilgrims from across the continent have arrived here on foot, creating a unique atmosphere of reflection and celebration. Our visit centers on the magnificent cathedral, believed to house the relics of Saint James the Apostle. Its monumental façade and layered Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture reflect centuries of devotion. We explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, discovering arcaded streets, stone squares, monasteries, and traditional cafés shaped by pilgrim life.
The afternoon is free to enjoy the city at your own pace - relax in Alameda Park with views of the cathedral towers, browse artisan shops, or enjoy Galician cuisine and local wines. Dinner and overnight in Santiago de Compostela.

Day 6: Santiago de Compostela – Rías Baixas – Vigo – Porto (90 km / 56 miles)

Day 7: Porto

Today is dedicated to discovering Porto, a city of steep hills, layered history, and timeless riverside beauty set along the Douro River. Our guided tour begins in the historic Ribeira district, a UNESCO-listed area where colorful houses tumble down toward the waterfront and traditional rabelo boats drift quietly along the river, recalling Porto’s long maritime and trading past. Walking these lively streets offers a wonderful sense of the city’s daily rhythm, shaped by centuries of commerce and seafaring life. We continue to Porto Cathedral, dramatically positioned above the city, where terraces offer sweeping views across tiled rooftops and the Douro below. Inside the elegant Palácio da Bolsa, once the heart of Porto’s commercial world, we admire richly decorated interiors that reflect the city’s prosperity during the 19th century. Crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge is a memorable moment, providing breathtaking panoramic views over Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the city’s historic wine lodges.
A highlight of the day is a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where we learn about the production of world-famous port wine and enjoy a tasting. The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace - browse the legendary Livraria Lello, admire azulejo-covered churches and railway stations, or relax at a riverside café soaking in Porto’s distinctive charm. Overnight in Porto.

Day 8: Porto – Salamanca – Madrid (566 km / 352 miles)

After breakfast, we leave Porto and cross back into Spain, traveling through changing landscapes toward Salamanca, one of the country’s most elegant historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built almost entirely from warm golden sandstone, Salamanca glows in the sunlight and is renowned for its centuries-old academic tradition. During free time, you may stroll through the beautifully preserved Old Town, where history unfolds around every corner. Highlights include the Old and New Cathedrals standing side by side, the ornate façade of the University of Salamanca - one of the oldest universities in Europe - and the Casa de las Conchas, decorated with its distinctive shell-covered exterior. Be sure to spend time in Plaza Mayor, widely regarded as Spain’s finest main square. Lined with arcaded façades and lively cafés, it offers the perfect setting for a relaxed coffee, lunch, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere alongside students and residents alike. 

In the evening, we continue to Madrid, where our journey comes to an end after an enriching exploration of northern Spain and Portugal.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1195 €

Single Supplement: 340 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 85 €

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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.