Spain & Portugal Encompassed (Starts Madrid)
13 day tour

Day 1

• Uncover the fusion of cultures that shaped Toledo, the former capital of Spain
• Travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the backdrop for Don Quixote’s adventures

You leave the heart of Spain and head south to the former capital of the country, Toledo.

Sitting atop a hill and overlooking the Tajo River, this city used to be known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’. To get the real feel of the place, wander through the cobbled streets and try to spot the Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues, and Christian cathedrals.

You travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the setting for the adventures of the literary hero Don Quixote. Next, we enter one of Spain’s most luscious regions: Andalucía. Mountains, deserts, plains, beaches – there's a reason we can’t get enough. We’ll keep this afternoon flexible, stopping along our way for photos and spectacular wow-moments before arriving at our overnight destination.

Córdoba, your home for the night, welcomes you with its bustling squares and delightful architecture.

 

Accommodation

NH Cordoba Califa or similar, Córdoba

Day 2

• Explore La Mezquita, an immense mosque-cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage site

In the morning, you visit La Mezquita, one of the most spectacular mosques constructed by the Moors in Spain. This world-famous construction boasts countless rows of decorated arches, a serene interior, and is large enough to have a cathedral built inside it!

Next, we travel through rolling hills blanketed with the silvery-grey-green leaves of olive trees. It’s a sign you’ve entered the oil-producing province of Jaén.

We continue our journey south to the ruined hilltop fortress of Fortaleza de la Mota and arrive in Granada early evening, our base for two nights.

 

Included Activities

• Entrance to La Mezquita
• Entrance to Fortaleza de la Mota

 

Accommodation

Hotel Porcel Alixares or similar, Granada

Day 3

• Become entranced by the ornamentation of the Alhambra Palace
• Uncover the unique neighbourhood of house caves in Gaudix

You wake up in a city adorned with the most sensual palace of Europe, the Alhambra.

Your morning is blessed with a visit to this famous monument. When you look at it, you’re transported to the tales of 1,001 Nights. Originally a fortress and then a palace, this UNESCO World Heritage site will seize your imagination.

In the afternoon you'll uncover the unique Barrio de las Cauevas of Gaudix (neighbourhood of house caves in Gaudix). Choose to learn more about the history and evolution of this intricate maze of homes at the Gaudix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre, located inside several original cave dwellings.  

There may be time for a photo stop of the Sierra Nevada mountains before you head back to Granada.

Use your evening in Granada to discover tapas restaurants and more of the culinary delights.

*Sometimes this day will be reversed, and you will visit the Alhambra in the afternoon.

 

Included Activities

• Entrance to the Alhambra with audio guide included

Optional Activities

• Entrance to the Gaudix Cave Dwellings Interpretation Centre

Accommodation

Hotel Porcel Alixares or similar, Granada

Day 4

• Discover the charm of Ronda, the most stunning of the pueblos blancos

Today is all about exploring the other faces of Andalucía; the beautiful wilderness and iconic pueblos blancos.

Your adventure then takes you through the landscapes of Malaga’s ‘Lake District’ before you reach Ronda. Precariously clinging to a steep cliff of the El Tajo Gorge, this commune captures your imagination with its literary connections and history full of outlaws. Stroll along the city walls, explore picturesque plazas, and enjoy your lunch.

Before making your way to Seville, you'll have the chance to learn how Spain’s ‘liquid gold’ is made at an olive oil farm.

Cast a last glance over the Andalusian countryside and start your journey to Seville, your home for two nights.

 

Included Activities

• Entrance to an olive oil farm 

Accommodation

Hotel Exe Sevilla Macarena or similar, Sevilla

Day 5

• Soak up the grandeur as you stroll through the Plaza de España
• Try the finest sherry in Jerez de la Frontera

Seville signifies the essence of Spain. This city will seduce you with its rich Moorish heritage, the orange trees, tapas, and passionate flamenco.

Today it’s up to you to decide how to spend the day.

You can dedicate your time to discover the best gems of the city’s 80 chapels at the Seville Cathedral and marvel at La Giralda. Or go for a stroll along the bank of the Guadalquivir to admire the iconic Torre del Oro, a military tower dating back to the 13th century.

Alternatively, you can join our half day tour and travel to Jerez de la Frontera. This elegant town is the heartland of sherry and Spanish brandy.

Whichever option you choose, spend the evening strolling through the shaded arches of the grand Plaza de España. Warning: with the hypnotic Flamenco performances, delicious tapas, and buzzing bars, this city can keep you entertained till the small hours.

 

Optional Activities

• Sherry winery visit in Jerez with wine tasting and snack

Accommodation

Hotel Exe Sevilla Macarena or similar, Sevilla

Day 6

• Soak up the sun in Huelva on the Costa de la Luz
• Wander through Tavira, one of the most charming towns of the Algarve

Say farewell to Seville and enjoy the last glimpses of the Andalusian countryside as you travel west towards the Costa de la Luz, a land of bright sunlight and golden sandy beaches.

You stop in the seaside city of Huelva, where Christopher Columbus planned his trip to find a western sea route to China and India. Here you'll visit the waterside exhibition, Muelle de las Carabelas, where you can see life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships.

Next, you cross the Portuguese border and stop at Tavira in the Algarve. Set on the River Gilão, this town exudes an irresistible charm and makes you want to discover its hidden corners. Wander through the cobblestone streets, cross an old Roman bridge, and sample some delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Take in the last views of the Algarve and journey north where laid-back Lisbon awaits you in the evening.

*Please note: This Spain & Portugal Encompassed (Starts Madrid) tour is a combination of two tours: The South of Spain & Treasures of Andalucia, and The Charms of Portugal & North West Spain. Today you finish the first part.  

 

Included Activities

• Entrance to Muelle de las Carabelas

Accommodation

Hotel Zenit or similar, Lisbon

Day 7

• Catch a ride on the iconic 28 tram in the Alfama district
• Get mesmerised by soul-stirring fado music

Bom dia! You have a free day to explore Lisbon; a European capital boasting a wonderful waterfront location, a balmy climate, and loads of charm.

This inspiring place was shaped by four cultures, colonial riches, a catastrophic earthquake, and a period of restoration.

Start the day delving into the oldest part of the city; the Alfama district. Here, you can visit the iconic São Jorge Castle, an ancient Moorish fortification that rises from a hill. If Lisbon’s hilly terrain is a bit too much to brace, jump on the legendary yellow tram 28 or get on a guided hop-on hop-off bus.

In the afternoon, head to the charming district of Belém. It used to be the docks and shipyards’ district. And it was here Vasco da Gama sailed from on his voyage to reach India. Stroll along the promenade, cast your eyes on the mighty Tagus River, and admire the Belém Tower.

Spend your evening enjoying delectable food and wine accompanied by the haunting Fado music in the Alfama or Bairro Alto district. And don’t forget that tomorrow is the next leg of your tour.

*Please note: This is a free day for you to explore the city at your own pace and there will not be a guide on hand. The second part of the tour begins tomorrow (day 8) - please see tomorrow for more details.

 

Optional Activities

• Ticket for a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus

Accommodation

Hotel Zenit or similar, Lisbon

Day 8

• Marvel at the Moorish architecture in the town of Óbidos
• Learn about the thinkers of the past in one of the oldest universities in the world in Coimbra

*Please note: This Spain & Portugal Encompassed (Starts Madrid) tour is a combination of  two tours: The South of Spain & Treasures of Andalucia, and The Charms of Portugal & North West Spain. Meet your new guide and group in the hotel lobby at 8:15am today, to begin the second part of the tour.

You say ‘bom dia’ to your guide and fellow travellers, leave the coastal capital city of Lisbon, and travel the short distance to Óbidos.

This quaint walled town has a wealth of wonders for you to discover. You can study the sturdy walls of their Moorish Castle; amble through the little cobbled shopping lanes; or combine two of your favourite guilty pleasures in a drink of Ginjinha d’Óbidos, a sweet liqueur served in a chocolate cup.

Back on the road, you venture further north to Coimbra. This former Portuguese capital is famous for being the home of one of the oldest universities in the world. You will explore this magnificent institution, whose roots go back to the 13th century, before finding some local food for lunch.

Your final stop of the day is in Porto, your home for the next two nights, and we’re arriving here in the afternoon to give you time to explore this incredible city. How might you spend your afternoon and evening? Perhaps with a cheeky glass or two of port wine at one of the local bars. Maybe you’ll wander Porto’s Ribeira district with a Pastel de Nata in hand, you’re sure to appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage site of winding streets, colourful buildings, and historic architecture. Whatever you choose, you’ll see why we love Porto so much as the sun sets over this many-tiered town.

 

Included Activities

• Entrance to Coimbra University Library

Accommodation

Grande Hotel do Porto or similar, Porto

Day 9

• Peruse shops and restaurants of Porto’s cobbled lanes
• Marvel at the terraced vineyards on the banks of the Douro River

Today, you have an important decision to make.

Do you lounge around and take in the cathedrals, cellars, and cuisine of beautiful Porto? Or do you hop on the mini-coach with us and venture through the Douro Valley?

Lucky for you, there’s no wrong option.

When you join our optional half-day excursion, you travel to Pinhão by coach to enjoy an optional river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat. Once you’ve arrived at this small port-producing town, it’s time to savour its delicious tipple and admire the stunning vistas. 

Next you drive to Peso de Regua to a local winery where you can partake in an optional wine tasting with a range of local delicacies from smoked sausages to olives. Alternatively, spend a little time exploring the town. 

Before returning to Porto mid-afternoon, you'll stop off at Mesão Frio viewpoint for stunning views of the river Douro and its banks.

The rest of the day is yours to discover more of the city and indulge in its wines and flavours in your own style. And if you’re a fan of live music, don’t miss out on a performance of Fado, Portugal’s emotionally stirring traditional music.

 

Optional Activities

• River Douro boat cruise and wine tasting
• Wine tasting at winery in Peso de Regua

Accommodation

Grande Hotel do Porto or similar, Porto

Day 10

• Cross the border into Northern Spain

You leave Porto behind and venture north to Braga where you'll visit the famous Bom Jesus Sanctuary. This place of religious, cultural, and architectural heritage was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.

At the foot of Mount Espinho, you'll admire the Baroque staircase as it zig-zags upwards with ornate granite fountains and statues on display. Perched at the top is a neoclassical church with stunning views over the city. To get to the top you can purchase a ticket for the special elevator. Or, if you're feeling fit, you can tackle the almost-600 steps by foot.

Your next stop is Guimarães, known as the 'birthplace of Portugal'. The historic centre is of the city is part of UNESCO World Heritage. As well as learning more about the city, you'll have some free time here to enjoy lunch. For a must-see glimpse into the 15-16th century life of the Braganza Dukes, you can opt to visit the Palace of Braganza.

And now, it’s over the border and into Spain. You arrive in Santiago de Compostela, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in the world, where you stay for two nights. 

 

Optional Activities

• Ticket for Bom Jesus do Monte Funicular (elevator)
• Entrance to Palace of Braganza

Accommodation

Hotel Gelmirez or similar, Santiago de Compostela

Day 11

• Explore the architecture, atmosphere, and history of Santiago de Compostela
• Journey to Cape Finisterre, the furthermost edge of ancient Europe

Today, you can relax and enjoy the sights of Santiago de Compostela at your own pace or come on an adventure with us.

If you join our trip, the day will start with a drive along the Costa da Morte, ‘the Coast of Death’. And no, this isn’t a shoreline infested with pirates and cannibals, it’s a place that was once notorious for shipwrecks. You'll arrive first at the town of Noia, then continue on for a photo stop of Galicia's largest beach - Playa de Carnota.

You'll then visit the Ézaro waterfall. Here, you go for a small walk to take in the views of a rare wonder - the Ézaro River tumbling straight into the sea.

After you’ve enjoyed the waterfall, we travel to the ‘End of the World’ at Cape Finisterre. Ancient civilisations believed this was the end of the earth. You have time here to admire the lighthouse and look out over the wild Atlantic Ocean.

Your next stop is in Muxía. This lovely, historic harbour town is the perfect spot to sample the fresh seafood that this region is famous for and watch the ships set off to sea.

When you arrive back in Santiago de Compostela, the evening is yours to try Galician specialities or admire the famous cathedral built over the remains of St James, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ.

 

Accommodation

Hotel Gelmirez or similar, Santiago de Compostela

Day 12

• Roam upon the ramparts of the ancient Romans in Lugo
• Survey the other-worldly landscapes that were created by the Roman gold excavating technique, ruina montium (wrecking of mountains)

Your first stop of the day is in Lugo. This town has a lot to be proud of. Apart from a stunning cathedral and oodles of charm, it has the only fully intact Roman city walls in the world. So feel like a Roman Legionnaire and take a stroll along the defences.

You continue to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Romans and travel to Las Médulas. Strange red pinnacles and holes in the mountains make this landscape look and feel otherworldly. The Romans created what you see before you by boring into the earth in their quest for gold.

You explore this area and enjoy your lunch before continuing the journey to Salamanca for your overnight stay. This mesmerising city is adorned with the riches of the Spanish Golden Age and boasts a great culinary scene.

 

Accommodation

Hotel Artheus Carmelitas or similar, Salamanca

Day 13

• Admire the artistic achievements of the Spanish Golden Age in Salamanca
• Become envious of the lifestyle of kings in the palace of El Escorial

You have time in the morning to marvel at the golden-hued landmarks of Salamanca’s Old Town and university. Or you can have a lie-in if you enjoyed the famous nightlife a little too much the night before.

Cast a last glance at the stunning architecture of the city before we head off, and you continue the journey through the vast plains of Castile and León.

You'll have a lunch stop and some free time in the city of Ávila before visiting El Escorial, the remarkable residence of the Spanish Royals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After having been immersed in the riches of Spain, we take you to Madrid in the evening.

 

Included Activities

• Entrance to El Escorial