Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Your Travel and Accommodation Arranged For You
Tips Included for Driver, Restaurant Staff, Local Guides
Authentic Local Experiences With Lots Of Inclusions.
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Optional Single Supplement: $750 USD (number of singles limited).
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Day 1 Arrival in Spain
Welcome to Spain! Arrival in Santiago de Compostela, one of Spain's most beautiful cities, built of golden granite and declared a national monument in its entirety. It's a wonderful place to walk with its arcades and flagstone streets.
Overnight in Santiago de Compostela.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Santiago de Compostela: City Tour
This morning we have a walking city tour of Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Our tour begins at Obradoiro Square where some of its more prominent monuments can be seen: the Archbishop's residence which preserves some 12th century lounges; the Town Hall, former Raxoy Palace, with its classical facade; the San Jeronimo College, whose facade shows Roman influences.
We also include the city's famous cathedral, a truly grand building adorned with many statues of St James in his familiar pilgrim guise with staff, broad-brimmed hat, and scallop-shell badge.
We also visit the Cathedral Museum, the Cloister and finally, the Platerias Gate, the only Romanesque one that is still preserved; and we take a guided tour of the Cathedral roofs,* which allows us to climb to the very top of the building and look out over the historic centre from the heights. To do so we make for the Gelmirez Palace, located to the side of the Cathedral in the Plaza del Obradoiro square. We pass through the interior of the Gelmirez Palace, past the Cathedral gallery (above the Gloria doorway) and up to the roof of the cathedral.
* Impending maintenance on the roof has been announced starting from late winter 2018, and it is unclear as to how long a closure may last. Please be advised that this element may not be possible if the roof tour is unavailable for your chosen departure.
Overnight in Santiago de Compostela.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
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Day 3 Santiago de Compostela - Leon
This morning we take the train (2nd class) to Leon.*
On arrival in Leon we visit the San Isidoro Collegiate Church, an important piece of western Romanesque, where 23 kings and queens are buried. The cathedral was built in the middle of the 13th century in a gothic style similar to the French cathedrals and is famous for the beauty of more than 100 glazed windows. Our Leon sightseeing continues with the old quarter of the city, which conserves a large part of the medieval wall and some remains of the original Roman wall. One can also find the Casa de Botines, a neo-gothic building and an excellent example of the architecture of Antoni Gaudi.
* NOTE: We use the rail system quite extensively on this tour (except tours ES1 qnd PS2, which feature only ONE rail journey). YOU MUST BE ABLE TO MANAGE YOUR OWN BAGS ONTO / OFF TRAINS AND IN TRAIN STATIONS. Packing lightly is essential.
Overnight in Leon.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4 Leon - Cave of Altamira - Bilbao
Today we travel by road to Bilbao, via a stop at the museum connected with the Cave of Altamira. Dating from 12000 BC, the caves are full of prehistoric paintings of wild animals and impressions of human hands. When discovered in the 1870s the vivid and evocative paintings were nearly perfectly-preserved. Even Picasso commented on the paintings here: "After Altamira, everything is decadence." (We will be visting a museum and a replica of the cave paintings; the actual cave has been closed to visitors in the interest of conservation).
We continue deeper into Basque country and toward Bilbao, tucked into the deep lush folds and clefts of Euskadi's coastal range. The name is "Bilbo" in Basque, but its inhabitants prefer to call it the "botxo," Basque for hole, or orifice. The orifice was originally a scattering of fish hamlets, huddled on the left bank where the hills offered some protection from the Normans and other pirates.
Overnight in Bilbao.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5 Bilbao: The Guggenheim
Today we explore the Old Town of Bilbao on a walking tour. We travel back in time to Medieval Bilbao with its cobbled streets, charming corners and squares, and trace its development through the centuries.
The major highlight today is our visit to the newest and biggest attraction in Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum. The 31 329 sq m (349,000 sq foot) colossus is one of the focal points of a $1.5 billion redevelopment plan for the city. The Frank Gehry design features a 50 m- (165 foot-) high atrium, more than one-and-a-half times the height of the rotunda of Frank Lloyd Wright's Guggenheim Museum in New York. The museum is devoted to American and European art of the 20th century, featuring (on rotation) the works of such renowned artists as Kandinsky, Mondrian, Picasso, Ernst, Pollock, Lichtenstein, Oldenburg, Serra, and others.
Options for your free afternoon include: remain at the Guggenheim on your own, the Basque Museum, Fine Arts Museum, a guided boat tour of the estuary, or local bus trip to San Sebastian (+/- 1:20) etc. Your Tour Leader can help you plan your afternoon.
Overnight in Bilbao.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6 Bilbao - Barcelona: City Tour
Today we fly to Barcelona. On arrival we’ll meet our local guide and embark on a panoramic drive through Barcelona, taking in the city's vibrant atmosphere and architectural diversity.
We’ll see Plaza España, a grand square surrounded by impressive buildings, colourful mosaic fountains, and a lively atmosphere. We continue past the site of the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games and make a stop at Montjuïc viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona. Here you can capture stunning photos of the city's skyline, the Mediterranean Sea, and the iconic Sagrada Família. Continuing, we’ll see Gran Via, one of Barcelona's busiest avenues, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
Our final stop will be Park Güell, Antoni Gaudí's whimsical UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the colourful mosaic pathways, explore the iconic lizard statue, and admire the unique architectural elements that have made this park a must-see destination.
Overnight in Barcelona.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 Barcelona: City Tour
We continue our guided touring of Barcelona, starting with a discovery walk through the historic Barrio Gótico district. We’ll wander through the narrow, winding streets, marvel at the Gothic architecture, and see iconic landmarks such as the Barcelona Cathedral and the Royal Palace, immersing ourselves in the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
After exploring the Barrio Gótico, we transfer to the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece and one of the most iconic landmarks in Barcelona. We’ll have a guided tour of the basilica, admiring its intricate architecture, stained glass windows, and towering spires. Throughout we’ll learn about Gaudí's vision for this extraordinary structure and its progress over time.
After our visit to the Sagrada Família, you’ll have the balance of the day at leisure for lunch and some independent exploration.
Art lovers may choose to visit other notable attractions such as the Picasso Museum, featuring an extensive collection of works, spanning his entire career. The National Art Museum of Catalonia contains a vast collection of Catalan art, from the Middle Ages to the present day. At the Joan Miró Foundation you can discover the whimsical and surreal works of Joan Miró, one of Spain's most celebrated artists.
Otherwise you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon in one of Barcelona's many parks, such as Parc de la Ciutadella or Parc de l'Estació del Nord, and/or stroll along La Rambla, the city's most famous street, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Overnight in Barcelona.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8 Barcelona: Montserrat & Leisure Time
This morning we include a half-day guided tour of one of Spain's most sacred sites, set in beautiful mountains about one hour's drive from Barcelona. Long before we reach Montserrat, we will see the jagged silhouette of the great peak and understand how it got its name ('serrat' means 'serrated). This massive rock fortress is dotted with paths, stairs, caves, chapels, and hermitages. We drive through the Montserrat Natural Park and up to the Sanctuary, located at 725m (2,380 feet) above sea level. On a clear day you will see breathtaking panorama of the Pyrenees.
Arriving at the Sanctuary, we visit the Royal Basilica and the Chapel of Our Lady of Montserrat. Inside the chapel is the famous 12th century Romanesque carved wood statue of La Moreneta (the Black Virgin). La Moreneta is the patron saint of Catalonia and is a presence strongly felt and revered; indeed this celebrated statue has made the Royal Basilica one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Spain. The tour also includes entrance to an interesting audiovisual exhibition ("Montserrat Portes Endins"), and the chance to taste four locally-produced liquors.
We return to Barcelona with time at leisure.
Overnight in Barcelona.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 9 Barcelona - Madrid: Royal Palace
Today we travel to Madrid by fast train (+/- 3 hours).
This afternoon we include a tour of the Royal Palace* where we see, among other things, its principal staircase, throne, gala dining room, museum of silver, and principal courtyard. This is the official residence of the royal family, but today it is used only state ceremonies. Otherwise known in Spanish as the Palacio Real, the Royal Palace was built during the 18th and 19th centuries, and is a monumental building. It replaced the former medieval Alcazar, which was burnt to the ground in 1794. The present day Royal Palace of Madrid was decorated to the tastes of Charles III, and is extremely lavish inside.
* Please note that the palace is periodically closed without notice due to official functions. We apologize if this activity is not possible.
Overnight in Madrid.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10 Madrid & The Prado
This morning we have a panoramic tour of broader Madrid, terminating at the Prado Museum for a guided tour. Our route to the museum likely takes us past Plaza Espana point and the Cervantes Monument.
Originally opened to the public in 1819, the Prado houses all of the finest works collected by Spanish Royalty as well as Spanish paintings gathered from other sources over the past two centuries. The Prado is one of the most important repositories of art in the world, including a vast collection of Italian paintings. For the purposes of our visit, however, we will concentrate on works by Spanish masters -- Velasquez, Goya, Ribera, El Greco, Zurbaran, to name a few.
After our tour, we'll head off on foot for an informal stroll up Gran Via and into the old quarter of Madrid. You'll then have free time for lunch and an afternoon of independent exploration. Your Tour Leader can help you plan your free time, with recommended shopping, other historical sites and galleries. You may want to visit the nearby Reina Sofia for the important modern art collection, including Picasso's masterpiece, "Guernica." Or visit the Museo Naval, one of the world's most important Navy Museums, to learn about the history of the Spanish Armada.
Overnight in Madrid.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 11 Madrid: Toledo Day Trip
This morning we travel to Toledo, a city with a unique blend of Arab, Jewish, Christian, Roman, and Visigothic elements. Toledo sits on a rocky promontory isolated on three sides by a looping gorge of the Tagus River. The history of several different cultures is contained within this region, represented by the houses, synagogues, churches, and mosques.
Our excursion includes a visit to the Cathedral, as well as the Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue, which shows the influence of the Granada Moors.
We also see one of Toledo's most outstanding attractions, El Greco's masterpiece "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz" located inside the Church of Santo Tome.
After lunch and some free time in Toledo, we return to Madrid.
Overnight in Madrid.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 12 Departure
Departure from Madrid.
BUEN VIAJE!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Full-time Tour Leader services plus local guides at various locations.
Breakfast and dinner (hotels & local restaurants) daily.
All transport, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary.
Gratuities for local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters.
Airport transfers for land & air customers arriving / departing on tour dates.
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour.
Tour Leader gratuities, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international air taxes (if applicable), excursions referenced as 'optional'.
Airport transfers for Land Only customers.
Optional trip cancellation insurance.
Seasonality and Weather
The best times to visit Iberia are spring (March-May), when the country is in bloom and waking after the winter, and fall (September/October), when the weather is warm and summer crowds have dispersed.
SPRING
Our early spring date coincides with a time of year when Iberia emerges from its long winter slumber and, while there’s still the odd shower and chilly day, the first whiff of spring is in the air, with days steadily getting milder and sunnier and the countryside awash with blossom. It can also be very peaceful time to visit, as the crowds of the peak season have not yet arrived. Flights can also cost much less than they would two months later. Our later spring date (April/May) will be a bit drier and warmer - maybe even "hot" to the south and inland - and the more popular spots will start to see some crowds.
FALL
September and October are two of the best months to visit. The weather is still warm and pleasant, and the temperatures are much more manageable than summer for sightseeing or outdoor activities. Sites generally tend to be a bit busier than one may encounter in spring, especially those places where cruise ships call, but the place still has a relaxed feel away from the coastal resort areas. A big bonus this time of year is the myriad locally-grown fruits and vegetables that find their way onto local menus.
Transport and Travel Conditions
Land transport throughout by private air-conditioned motor coach, 24-36 seats depending on ultimate group size (see 'group size'). Though we will have some full bus days, road travel is not particularly arduous as there are plenty of stops of interest.
Train journeys are comfortable (2nd class). YOU MUST BE ABLE TO MANAGE YOUR OWN BAGS ON / OFF TRAINS AND IN TRAIN STATIONS.
This trip is typical of most of our European tours, which are ambitious and involve full days of travel and sightseeing. While we don't have any actual strenuous activity (ie hiking) built into the program, you will do a lot of walking on this trip. These walks will mostly be in the form of walking tours of towns and cities and short walks to dinner. Being Europe, and a hilly/mountainous area, cobbles, uneven surfaces, and slopes/stairs are common. If you are accustomed to typical "bus tours," which rely heavily on vehicular transport for all sightseeing activities, you should be aware that this tour is considerably more active.
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Activity Level: 2
These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.
To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.
Accommodation
Well-located, air-conditioned, mid-range hotels (3 star) throughout. All hotels have en suite bath, though some may have shower only. Porter service is sometimes available though you should be independent with your luggage. Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins.
Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, driver, local step-on guides in various locales.
Group Size
Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)
Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Across the sun-drenched Iberian Peninsula are two countries with a soul and history that go hand in hand.
Our Northern Spain and Portugal tours span the many cultures that have thrived in these two countries, from before the Moors' arrival in 711 AD to well after the Golden Age of Discovery that saw these two empires emerge on a world stage.
It is a culture-rich region, where around every corner is a reminder of the vast wealth and incredible charms that have been born here.
Far more than just a destination for port wine in the Douro Valley, Portugal is a land that has a varied landscape and an abundance of culture that far out numbers its small land size.
Within the compact borders are medieval castles and stately palaces as well as an inconceivable amount of churches and monasteries. In the tiny town of Braga, over 300 churches have been erected, making this the religious centre of Portugal with more churches per capita than anywhere else in the world.
Strolls along the old cobblestone streets, like that of the flower filled alleys in Urgencia or among the sounds of Fado that echo from the restaurants that line the hilly Alfama district in Lisbon, are a photographer's and traveller's dream.
Everyday life is filled with old-world wonders, from the intricate old city quarters to the small, serene fishing villages lining the Atlantic.
With all its beauty, it's hard to imagine how the sailors must have felt as they pulled anchor and set sail away from the Manueline architecture buildings of Jeronimos Monastery or Belem Tour in Lisbon.
From Brazil in the Americas to Macau in Asia and much of Africa in between, the Portuguese left their mark in the world and in their museums have many of the spoils from their colonization.
Another super power in maritime exploration, Spain has a culture that can be sampled in tapas or in their vibrant city centres across the nation.
While our journey begins at the end of the line on a spiritual pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, it is only the beginning of impressive cathedrals we'll discover on our Spain and Portugal tours.
From the Romanesque churches of Leon to the unique La Sagrada Familia of Barcelona, each is unique and offers an insight into the artistic flavour of the time.
Arts still play a dominant role in displaying the Spanish brilliance. One of the world's most wonderful collections is found at the Prado in Madrid, while a visit to the masterpiece of engineering and design at the Guggenheim in Bilbao is also a must.
For those who love the living arts, witness a dance with as much passion as the people themselves, the Flamenco, while we visit the south of Spain.
Mealtimes are always a pleasure on our Spain and Portugal tours. From the delicious vinho to the tasty tapas, we dine in local establishments to better discover the diversity found in Iberia.
For those who love culture and history by experiencing the traditions still in place in locations fit for royalty, Spain and Portugal tours are definitely the perfect travel choice.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 1 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Take an adventure through the heart of Spain on our Spain: North & South tour and see how a country that has so much to offer in terms of history, architectural achievements, natural beauty and cultural assortment not only serves as the prime location for a relaxing vacation, but also a place that satisfies many life-long desires.
The size and intricacies of the cathedrals, mosques and synagogues will compel even those who are not so easily impressed to keep their cameras at the ready.
See how the San Isidoro Collegiate Church in Leon is a perfect example of 13th century Gothic style, or examine the Baroque style of the Cathedral of San Jeronimo College in Santiago de Compostela.
Let the power of the Despenaperros Mountains or the allure of the Tagus River instill a sense of awe that might just inspire a deeper sense of appreciation of nature.
Meet those who tend the graceful horses of the quaint town of Jerez and maybe see how some make their renowned sherry wine. This adventure is a continual learning experience and never lacks excitement.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
On this Portugal & Spain tour we see how referring to history as existing in a series of layers can be an analogy taken quite literally when we see how the Colegiata de Santa Maria church was built on the foundations of what was a Roman temple and a mosque at one time.
Stepping into the capital of Portugal, Lisbon, we can observe how history, still alive through the city's ancient architecture, shines through the modern scenes of bustling markets and cafes.
The Port Wine region was established as the world's first demarcated area for wine production in 1756 and it is still where a thriving industry exists today.
Once we're in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, we can see how all the structures built out of massive granite blocks seem to blend the present with the past.
While Portugal has a mosaic of time-periods co-existing in its architecture, Toledo blends various cultures, such as Arab, Jewish, Christian and Visigothic.
In Cordoba, we see the Cathedral-Mosque, the only place in the world where a catholic cathedral stands in the centre of a mosque.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Both Spain and Morocco serve as perfect examples as to why flying to the other side of the world could be one of the most important life decisions made by anyone.
The insight gained on our Spain & Morocco tour into a distant history cannot be as easily achieved through reading history books or looking at photos in glossy travel magazines; it's a walk through a monastery in Madrid or it's meeting Moroccans who live among the rubble of the Roman Empire that really put things into perspective.
Just when we think we've absorbed all there is to absorb in these two countries, we will be faced with a natural environment that is known to overwhelm.
The sun moving along the lush forests just outside of Fes, Morocco, or the snow-capped mountains of Spain emanating a sense of perfection from top to bottom justifies those who admit, now and again, that sometimes the grass is greener on the other side.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
This extensive Spain and Morocco tour provides enough time for those who are fond of exploration to turn over as many stones as possible in the course of 31 days.
This is a perfect setting because every corner to be turned yields the chance for fresh astonishment.
The artistry visible in the architecture in both countries seems to be subject to the magnetism of the topography.
Every nuance of the land will make for the longest memory, from the sprawling lakes reflecting the mountaintops, to the vast horizon that seems to serve as perfect foundation for a setting sun.
Each sight will seem like an element of perfection that is unique to this particular time and place.
Behind every immaculate site is a story and the histories of Spain and Morocco seem fitting to the countries' physical variations.
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
Our Portugal, Spain and Morocco tour is one solid 32-day adventure that will leave us with a stronger desire to expose ourselves to more worldly experiences.
Once in Portugal, we will have the chance to see the country's collection of Gothic and Renaissance churches.
They seem to coincide with the country's natural beauty so well that it seems as if the structures were extensions of the land itself.
Glancing upon the antiquity in the halls of the Muse Archaelogique in Casablanca in Morocco can be compared to looking over a missing chapter in our history books.
The most important lesson that this journey can impart is, "discovery does not end here."
Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural
If we are to conjure up images of Portugal, we might picture white-stone balconies supporting various arrangements of flower pots.
When thinking about Spain, we might imagine towering cathedrals.
Morocco brings to mind large dunes of glowing-orange sand that slowly fades as the sun sinks behind them.
This 37-day Portugal, Spain & Morocco Tour is the perfect opportunity for those who are slightly curious to take the chance in experiencing these details first-hand rather than relying on flights of the imagination that could never do these countries justice.
Come see the streets of Lisbon, Portugal, the Gothic Cathedral of Segovia, Spain, and the majesty of the sand dunes in Merzouga, Morocco, and bring new definition to what you imagine these stellar destinations to be about.
Regions visited: Western Europe
Countries visited: Spain
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
