LAST DAY OF FLASH SALE! 15-day Complete Spain & Portugal Escorted Tour (Madrid to Barcelona)

Note: your itinerary will change depending upon the day of the week you depart.

DAY 1: Wednesday - Arrive in Madrid (D)

Welcome to Madrid, Spain’s vibrant and sophisticated capital city. Transfer to your hotel with time to rest and relax or, get acquainted with this beautiful city. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting meeting at approximately 7 pm with your Tour Manager on the extraordinary journey that lies ahead in Spain and Portugal, followed by a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travellers

Overnight: Madrid

DAY 2: Thursday - Tour of Madrid (B)

The discovery of Madrid begins with a drive along the Gran Via through the Opera District and Plaza de Colon to the magnificent Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. View the Puerta del Sol, the most famous square in Madrid, and the Plaza de España dominated by the monument to Cervantes, famed author of Don Quixote. Then, on to the renowned Prado Museum – stand before an astonishing collection of masterpieces by Velazquez, Goya, El Greco and more. The rest of the day is yours to explore this city of great monuments and museums on your own or, join the optional afternoon tour to Toledo. Enjoy a walking tour among the most famous monuments, visiting the St. Tome Church with its El Greco masterpiece and Santa Maria la Blanca Synagogue with its beautiful Moorish architecture, the oldest synagogue in Europe still standing. Tonight, opt to explore Madrid’s fabulous restaurants and non-stop nightlife

Optional: Half Day Toledo (PM)

Overnight: Madrid

DAY 3: Friday - Segovia, Avila, Salamanca (B, D)

Travelling across the rugged Sierra de Guadarrama, you reach historic Segovia. View the preserved 1st-century Roman aqueduct, symbol of the city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the fairy-tale Alcazar with its soaring turrets, moats, and magical towers. On to the powerful Gothic Cathedral that took almost 200 years to complete before walking through the Jewish Quarter. Afterwards, continue to Avila, best known for its imposing city walls, one of Spain's best-preserved bastions; its convent pays homage to St. Theresa, founder of the Order of the Carmelites. The drive then takes you to Salamanca, one of the most picturesque cities in Spain, declared a UNESCO World Heritage City. On the way to the hotel, view the beautiful Plaza Mayor, ancient sandstone buildings and the striking old 12th-century Cathedral with its mysterious carvings. Dinner together in Salamanca

Overnight: Salamanca

DAY 4: Saturday - Portugal’s Coastal City of Porto (B)

Crossing the border from Spain into Portugal, stop first in Vila Real where you will view the extraordinary exterior of Casa de Mateus as you stroll around its gardens. Then, arrive in the coastal city of Porto, dramatically set on the banks of the Douro River, a region famed for its production of Port stored in the vast cellars stretching along the river banks. Leisure time in the afternoon to wander on your own along the narrow cobbled streets in the medieval Ribeira district, past merchants’ houses and lively cafes. Tonight, join an optional Douro River Cruise with dinner, that passes under Ponte Luis I bridge and offers panoramas of the city from a new perspective. A meal of local specialties and drinks follows at a typical country restaurant

Optional: Douro River Cruise with Dinner (PM)

Overnight: Porto

DAY 5: Sunday - Tour Historic Porto (B)

The get acquainted tour of historic Porto begins with a walking tour in the Ribeira district. Visit the Church of Sao Francisco, known for its lavishly gilded carvings and the palatial 19th century Palacio de Bolsa, embellished by an exquisite neoclassical façade. At a welcoming Port Wine cellar, stop for a tasting of this Portuguese favourite. Wander on your own this afternoon in Porto, or join the optional Medieval Portugal tour. Head inland to the heart of Minho province to enjoy the former Roman 'Bracara Augusta'. Here, drive to the top of the 1,300-foot high hill of Bom Jesus, from where you can overlook the city of Braga and admire the famous Holy Way staircase, the most popular place of pilgrimage in the north of Portugal. Proceed to the town of Guimaraes for a walk through the medieval alleys. Savor a delicious dinner before returning to the hotel

Optional: Medieval Portugal (PM)

Overnight: Porto

DAY 6: Monday - Visit to Sacred Fatima, Arrive in Lisbon (B)

Today, an inspiring visit to Fatima, a central Portuguese town home to the Sanctuary of Fatima, a Catholic pilgrimage site. Millions of pilgrims visit this sacred sanctuary that attracted the attention of the world when apparitions of Our Lady of the Rosary appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. Here, view the great Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary built in neoclassical style, flanked by colonnades linking it with the extensive convent. Afterwards, travel to Lisbon, one of Europe's most captivating and picturesque capitals, built on a series of hills with scenic vistas from every angle. Tonight, attend the optional Dinner with Fado Music. Travel to one of Lisbon's oldest districts for a traditional dinner of Portuguese favourites with entertainment by soulful Fado singers

Optional: Dinner with Fado Music (PM)

Overnight: Lisbon

DAY 7: Tuesday - Lisbon City Tour (B, D)

In Lisbon, the tour begins with a stop at the top of Edward VII’s Park to enjoy a magnificent view over the hills of Lisbon and the River Tagus. Next, view the treasured 16th century Belem Tower, a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to visit the Jeronimos Monastery, an impressive symbol of the country’s power and wealth and resting place of explorer Vasco da Gama. Time for lunch on your own in this delightful setting before an afternoon at leisure. Perhaps join the optional tour to quaint Sintra, the "Glorious Eden" of Lord Byron, and summer retreat of the royal court, highlighted by lavish romantic castles and stunning monuments. Visit the Sintra Royal Palace, a 15th-century royal residence, containing one of the largest tile collections in Portugal. Then enjoy some free time in the Village Historical Centre before returning to Lisbon

Optional: Half Day Sintra Tour (PM)

Overnight: Lisbon

DAY 8: Wednesday - Drive to Seville (B, D)

Heading south, cross over the border into Spain and arrive to the great city of Seville with its astonishing layers of history. Leisure time upon arrival before dinner together. Afterwards, attend the optional Flamenco Show - Seville is the birthplace of Flamenco!

Optional: Evening Flamenco Show (PM)

Overnight: Seville

DAY 9: Thursday - Seville City Tour (B)

Begin the day at the beautiful Plaza de España and the fragrant gardens of Maria Luisa Park before enjoying a walking tour in the quaint Barrio Santa Cruz, the former Jewish Quarter of the city with its winding cobblestone streets. Continue with a visit to the Cathedral of Seville, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and legendary burial site of Christopher Columbus. The rest of the day is at leisure or, join the fascinating optional tour to Cordoba, founded by the Romans. Visit the astonishing Mezquita de Cordoba, one of the largest mosques in the world, transformed into a soaring cathedral in the 16th century. A walking tour of the city reveals the ancient Jewish Quarter with its labyrinth of winding narrow streets, shady flower filled courtyards, picturesque squares, and view of the 14th century Synagogue on Calle de los Judios

Optional: Half Day Cordoba Tour (PM)

Overnight: Seville

DAY 10: Friday - Moorish Influenced Alhambra (B, D)

The drive today takes you from Seville to Granada. Here, the highlight of your sightseeing is a visit to the 13th century Alhambra,* one of Spain’s most celebrated monuments, dramatically perched atop Assabica Hill overlooking the entire city of Granada. This imposing hilltop fortress, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the finest examples in the world of Moorish art and architecture. During the reign of the Moors, the Alhambra served as the opulent residence of the royal family. Walk along the lanes of the fragrant Generalife Gardens with its beautifully designed courtyards, waterfalls, ponds and views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Tonight, dinner is together at a local restaurant

*Alhambra visiting times, which may include evening hours, and which areas of the complex are accessible on the day of your visit, are determined solely at the discretion of the Alhambra. Your itinerary will be arranged by your Tour Manager to accommodate the designated time of entry

Overnight: Granada

DAY 11: Saturday - The “Garden City” of Valencia (B, D)

Today, head north through fragrant groves of olives, almonds, lemons and oranges to the spectacular city of Valencia. Known as the “Garden City” of Spain, it is situated on the Orange Blossom Coast where the Turia River meets the Mediterranean Sea. There are few cities like Valencia that are able to combine remnants of its past, dating back to 138 BC, with innovative and avant-garde buildings from the new millennium. Enjoy dinner together in this magical city

Overnight: Valencia

DAY 12: Sunday - Valencia City Tour (B)

Valencia is Spain's major Mediterranean port - uniquely shaped by the vastness of the sea and the closeness of the coastal mountains. On today’s tour, listen to tales about "El Cid," Spain's national hero who fought here against the Moors. Discover this treasure trove of Roman and Arabic architecture before continuing to the gates of the city, City Hall and the Gothic Cathedral. Arrive at the dramatic Arts and Science City, an outstanding scientific and cultural complex with extraordinary futuristic architecture, designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava. The rest of the day is yours to linger at this incredible site, or wander on your own. Later, perhaps participate in the optional Paella Cooking Class that includes dinner. Learn how to prepare Paella Valenciana, the popular regional dish in the city where it was created

Optional: Paella Cooking Class with Dinner (PM)

Overnight: Valencia

DAY 13: Monday - Fairy-tale Peñíscola, Penedes Wine Tasting, Arrive in Barcelona (B)

Head along the Mediterranean coast to the fortified fairy-tale city of Peñiscola crowned by the Peñiscola Castle, built by the Knights Templar. The castle stands on the highest point of a rocky headland, featured in the movie "El Cid”. View the lighthouse and the lighthouse keeper's cottage with its winding steps leading down to the sea. Then, continue through the Costa Dorada to the renowned wine region of Penedes, where a wide range of wine styles are produced including traditional (sparkling) white and rosé Cava. Visit one of the wine cellars for a tasting of the local wines before proceeding to sensational Barcelona. Upon arrival, perhaps stroll along Las Ramblas, Barcelona's most famous pedestrian walkway with its life-size animators, stalls, and people-watchers. Tonight, enjoy Barcelona's rousing nightlife and fabulous tapas bars

Overnight: Barcelona

DAY 14: Tuesday - Barcelona City Tour, Gaudi’s Architecture (B, D)

Start the day in this artistic city with a drive along the Old Harbour to the Plaza Catalunya, the city's bustling main square. Pass the famous works of Antoni Gaudi, the master architect, including the Casa Batllo, seemingly constructed from skulls and bones. Then, continue on to view the iconic symbol of Barcelona, Gaudi's masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia, a colossal church that is legendary and still unfinished. Ascend Montjuic Hill, home to the Olympic Complex, a number of sports facilities built for the 1992 Summer Olympics. The balance of the day is at leisure to explore the many galleries, museums, and sights in this magnificent city. Perhaps partake in the optional tour to Montserrat that begins with a scenic drive past picturesque villages to Montserrat Mountain. Here, visit the Royal Basilica to see the famous 12th-century Romanesque sculpture of "Virgen Moreneta." On your last night in Spain, join your fellow travellers for a festive Farewell Dinner

Optional: Half Day Montserrat Tour (PM)

Overnight: Barcelona

DAY 15: Wednesday - Depart Spain (B)

Your tour ends today.

Please note prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change without notice.

Second Traveller saves 50% and Solo Travellers Save 25% when you book your holiday by 28 Oct 2019!

Advertised price based on 10 Jul 20 departure^:

• Twin share - from $4139^ for first person / $2070^ for companion traveller in same room
• Solo Traveller - from $4266^

For pricing on the below alternative departures, please call our travel team on 1300 414 198 today!

• 27 Mar 20
• 03 Apr 20
• 17 Apr 20
• 24 Apr 29
• 08 May 20
• 15 May 20
• 22 May 20
• 05 Jun 20
• 19 Jun 20
• 10 Jul 20
• 14 Aug 20
• 28 Aug 20
• 04 Sep 20
• 11 Sep 20
• 25 Sep 20
• 02 Oct 20
• 09 Oct 20
• 16 Oct 20
• 30 Oct 20
• 06 Nov 20

^ Prices are advertised as land only unless otherwise specified. Land only does not includes international airfares, arrival / departure transfers & optional tours.

Call our local travel team on 1300 414 198 to secure your booking NOW!

Accommodation on your holiday will depend on the day of your departure.

• NH Nacional Hotel, Madrid
• Abba Fonseca Hotel, Salamanca or Alameda Palace, Salamanca
• Vila Gale Porto, Porto
• Hotel Mundial, Lisbon or AVANI Avenida Liberdade, Lisbon
• Eurostars Torre Sevilla, Seville
• Hotel Saray, Granada
• Hotel Tryp Oceanic, Valencia
• Catalonia Ramblas, Barcelona or Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona Diagonal, Barcelona

Is This Trip Right for You?

This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The pace is moderate, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, cobblestone streets, stairs, steps and significant slopes. This tour is not recommended for people who have difficulty walking. Some hotels in Porto are built in the traditional local style and have no air-conditioning. During heat waves, these hotels can become uncomfortable. This is a Classic program.

Climate & Clothing:

Spain - Spring and Autumn: 55–75°F; Summer: 75–90°F; Winter: 35–55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).

Portugal - Spring and Summer are usually sunny, with hot days during July and August. Autumn and Winter are typically rainy and windy, yet sunny days are not rare either. Spring and Autumn: 44–81°F; Summer: 63–86°F; Winter: 41–61°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).

Gratuities:

For the convenience of our Australian guests, gratuities are included for your Tour Manager, local guides, drivers, guide and/or driver assistants, hotel porters and wait staff. Since gratuities are not included for other guests, you may still hear references to tipping during your trip. Rest assured that your Tour Manager and other service providers will be correctly tipped on your behalf. However, in some instances, we are unable to include gratuities on your behalf in which case you will find recommended gratuities below. We are also unable to include tips on independent tours in which case you will find details and recommendations below. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. There may be other occasions where a tip is appropriate but, as always, tipping is a matter of personal discretion.

Spain - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.

Portugal - Tipping in restaurants is optional, as waiters earn wages in Portugal and a tip is considered a note of appreciation. It is common practice to round up the total bill to the next euro. Tipping taxi drivers and daily tips for hotel staff are not customary. However, it is important to note that in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists gratuities may be expected for good service.