24. Spain & Portugal Highlights

This 11-day journey is a richly textured exploration of Spain and Portugal, tracing a cultural arc from historic university towns and Atlantic port cities to Roman capitals, Andalusian masterpieces, and Moorish palaces. Beginning in Madrid and traveling through Castilla y León and Galicia before crossing into northern Portugal, the route reveals centuries of scholarship, faith, seafaring tradition, and artistic achievement.

From the golden stone elegance of Salamanca to the Atlantic spirit of Vigo and Porto, the itinerary moves through some of Iberia’s most character-filled regions. Northern Portugal unfolds with its religious centers and river cities, before the journey turns south to Coimbra’s academic legacy, the pilgrimage sanctuary of Fátima, and Lisbon’s Age of Discovery heritage. Re-entering Spain, travelers encounter the extraordinary Roman remains of Mérida, the vibrant heart of Andalusia in Seville, the dramatic landscapes of Ronda, and the coastal ease of the Costa del Sol. The experience culminates in Granada’s Alhambra and the historic crossroads of Toledo, before returning to Madrid.

Balanced between guided sightseeing and free time, this itinerary offers a deep sense of place, uniting spiritual landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, scenic variety, and some of the Iberian Peninsula’s most iconic cities.

Tour Highlights

• Golden Salamanca – Discover Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historic university, twin cathedrals, and the magnificent Plaza Mayor, all built in luminous golden sandstone.

• Galicia & the Atlantic Edge – Arrive in Vigo, Galicia’s largest city and an important Atlantic port, shaped by maritime tradition and coastal landscapes.

• Northern Portugal’s Heritage – Explore Viana do Castelo and Braga, known for historic centers, religious landmarks, and the impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary.

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

• Academic Portugal – Spend time in Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and the exquisite Joanina Library, blending centuries of scholarship with lively student culture.

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

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

• Roman Hispania – Step into antiquity in Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Roman theatres, aqueducts, bridges, and temples remain exceptionally preserved.

• Andalusian Soul – Discover Seville, featuring Plaza de España, María Luisa Park, Seville Cathedral, the Giralda, and the intimate charm of Barrio Santa Cruz.

• Dramatic White Villages Route – Visit Ronda, perched above the El Tajo Gorge, before relaxing along the Mediterranean shores of the Costa del Sol.

• Moorish Masterpiece – Experience Granada, highlighted by the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, one of Europe’s greatest architectural achievements.

• City of Three Cultures – Conclude with Toledo, Spain’s former imperial capital, where Christian, Jewish, and Muslim heritage converge amid medieval streets and legendary craftsmanship.

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites – A journey rich in globally recognized landmarks spanning Roman, medieval, Renaissance, and Moorish civilizations.

• Scenic & Balanced Pace – A harmonious blend of guided touring, cultural immersion, free time, and landscapes ranging from Atlantic coastlines and fertile valleys to sunlit Mediterranean shores.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, meaningful journey through Spain and Portugal - one that weaves together history, faith, architecture, and unforgettable landscapes across two deeply interconnected countries.

Day 1: Madrid – Salamanca – Vigo (590 km / 366 miles)

We depart Madrid at 8:00 a.m., traveling northwest through the broad landscapes of Castilla y León. By late morning, we arrive in Salamanca, one of Spain’s most elegant historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in warm golden sandstone, Salamanca feels timeless yet vibrant, shaped by centuries of scholarship and student life. Free time allows you to explore the Old Town at your own pace. Highlights include the Old and New Cathedrals standing side by side, the historic University of Salamanca - among the oldest in Europe - and the magnificent Plaza Mayor, widely regarded as Spain’s most beautiful main square. The city’s youthful energy blends naturally with its rich past.
In the afternoon, we continue west, crossing into Galicia and arriving in Vigo in the evening. Dinner and overnight in Vigo.

Day 2: Vigo – Viana do Castelo – Braga – Porto (150 km / 93 miles)

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

Day 3: Porto

Today is dedicated to discovering Porto, a city of steep hills, layered history, and riverside beauty along the Douro River. Our guided tour explores the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, where colorful houses line the waterfront and traditional boats drift along the river. We visit Porto Cathedral, offering sweeping views over the old city, and step inside the elegant Palácio da Bolsa, once the center of Porto’s commercial life. Crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge provides unforgettable panoramic views of both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. A highlight is a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where we learn about port wine production and enjoy a tasting. The afternoon is free to explore - browse Livraria Lello, admire azulejo-covered churches, or relax at a riverside café. Overnight in Porto.

Day 4: Porto – Coimbra (120 km / 75 miles)

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

Day 5: Coimbra – Fátima – Lisbon (222 km / 138 miles)

We depart Coimbra after breakfast and travel to Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage destinations. At the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, we visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity. The vast esplanade creates a powerful sense of space and reflection, welcoming millions of pilgrims each year. Time is provided for quiet contemplation or a walk around the sanctuary grounds. In the afternoon, we continue to Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. Arrival and overnight.

Day 6: Lisbon

Today we explore Lisbon, a city of rolling hills, golden light, and rich maritime heritage overlooking the Tagus River. Our guided tour begins in the historic Belém district, closely linked to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. We visit the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture filled with maritime symbolism, and admire the iconic Belém Tower, which once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. Nearby, we see the Monument to the Discoveries, honoring the explorers who shaped Portugal’s global influence. We then continue into Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric quarter. Here, narrow winding streets, colorful tiled façades, hilltop viewpoints, and small neighborhood squares reveal the city’s enduring soul, accompanied by the haunting sounds of traditional Fado music.
The afternoon is free to enjoy Lisbon at your own pace - take a ride on a historic tram, browse local markets, relax at a riverfront café, or sample the city’s famous pastel de nata. Overnight in Lisbon.

Day 7: Lisbon – Mérida – Seville (568 km / 353 miles)

After breakfast, we cross back into Spain and travel through the wide, sunlit landscapes of Extremadura to Mérida. Founded in 25 BC as Emerita Augusta for retired Roman legionnaires, Mérida served as an important provincial capital of the Roman Empire. Today, it is one of Europe’s best-preserved Roman cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we explore, monumental remains such as the Roman Theatre, Amphitheatre, aqueducts, temples, and ancient bridges still dominate the cityscape, seamlessly integrated into modern life. Walking through Mérida feels like stepping into an open-air museum, offering a vivid glimpse into daily life in Roman Hispania. After time to absorb this remarkable ancient atmosphere, we continue south to Seville, arriving in the evening. Dinner and overnight in the Andalusian capital.

Day 8: Seville

Following breakfast, we enjoy a guided tour of Seville, a city often described as the very soul of Andalucía, where history, tradition, and daily life blend effortlessly. Our visit begins at the magnificent Plaza de España, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition and admired for its grand semi-circular design, elegant bridges, fountains, and vibrant ceramic tiles representing Spain’s provinces. From here, we enjoy a relaxed walk through María Luisa Park, a lush green oasis of palm-lined avenues, shaded pathways, and ornamental fountains that offer a peaceful contrast to the lively city streets. We continue with an exterior visit to Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, a powerful symbol of the city’s wealth during Spain’s Golden Age. Rising beside it is the iconic Giralda, originally a Moorish minaret and later transformed into a bell tower, reflecting Seville’s layered past. Our tour then leads into Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter, where narrow lanes, whitewashed houses, quiet squares, and flower-filled patios create an intimate and timeless atmosphere.
The afternoon is free to explore further - perhaps visit the exquisite Royal Alcázar, climb the Giralda for panoramic views, or cross the river to Triana, famous for its flamenco traditions, ceramic workshops, and lively tapas bars. Dinner and overnight in Seville.

Day 9: Seville – Ronda – Costa del Sol (190 km / 118 miles)

After breakfast, we travel through rolling Andalusian countryside toward Ronda, one of southern Spain’s most dramatic and unforgettable towns. Spectacularly perched above the deep El Tajo Gorge, Ronda offers breathtaking scenery and a strong sense of history. Free time allows you to explore the iconic Puente Nuevo, an impressive stone bridge spanning the gorge with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. You may also visit one of Spain’s oldest and most historically significant bullrings, where the traditions of modern bullfighting were shaped, or wander through Ronda’s atmospheric old town, discovering Moorish remains, quiet squares, and scenic viewpoints overlooking fertile valleys below.
In the afternoon, we continue south to the Costa del Sol, where the mountains give way to the sparkling Mediterranean. Arrival in Torremolinos offers time to unwind and enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere. Dinner and overnight by the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 10: Costa del Sol – Granada (180 km / 112 miles)

We travel inland to Granada, dramatically set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, where Islamic and Christian heritage meet in a truly unique setting. A guided visit introduces the Alhambra, one of Spain’s greatest cultural treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within its fortified walls, we explore the elegant Nasrid Palaces, admired for their intricate stucco work, delicate arches, and harmonious courtyards, followed by the serene Generalife Gardens, once the summer residence of Moorish rulers. Here, fountains, terraced gardens, shaded walkways, and panoramic viewpoints create a peaceful and unforgettable atmosphere overlooking the city below.
The afternoon is free to continue discovering Granada at your own pace. You may wander through the historic Albaicín, a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses with stunning views of the Alhambra, browse traditional markets and craft shops, visit the impressive Renaissance cathedral, or enjoy Granada’s celebrated tapas culture, where local bars often serve complimentary small dishes with drinks. Dinner and overnight in Granada.

Day 11: Granada – Toledo – Madrid (446 km / 277 miles)

On our final day, we travel to Toledo, Spain’s former capital and one of its most culturally significant cities. Dramatically set on a hill above the Tagus River, Toledo is often called the City of Three Cultures, reflecting centuries of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim coexistence. As we explore its historic streets, synagogues, mosques, and churches stand side by side, creating a powerful sense of continuity and shared heritage. We will see the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Toledo, one of the finest in Spain, renowned for its soaring interior and artistic treasures. We also wander through the atmospheric former Jewish quarter, where narrow lanes and preserved monuments recall Toledo’s medieval past. Time is set aside to visit traditional sword-making workshops, where the city’s legendary steel craftsmanship - famous throughout Europe since the Middle Ages - is still preserved today.

In the evening, we return to Madrid, bringing our journey to a close after an unforgettable exploration of Spain’s history, cultures, and landscapes.

Prices:

Per person in double/twin room: 1655 €

Single Supplement: 540 €

Supplement July to Oct.: 85 €

Supplement for departure on Apr 4 and 11 (Easter), April 25, May 2 (Feria): 120 € 

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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.