Compare 19-Day Complete Spain and Portugal Tour Package from Madrid by Tours4Fun vs Premium Spain & Portugal by Intrepid Travel

Day 1 Madrid - Zaragoza - San Sebastian

After meeting at the bus terminal at 8:30am, located in the underground parking of the Plaza de Oriente, we'll begin our Spain and Portugal tour, heading towards Zaragoza. Upon arrival we'll have free time visit the Basilica of Our Lady of The Pilar, patroness of Hispanity and stroll through the old streets of Zaragoza. In the afternoon we will continue to San Sebastian, it’s one of the most famous tourist destinations where they hold the International Film Festival. Enjoy a panoramic, San Sebastian city tour of this marvel style bourgeois city, seeing the extraordinary landscape dominated by the bay and the magnificent La Concha beach.

Day 2 San Sebastian - Bilbao - Castro Urdiales - Santander

After breakfast we'll continue our Spain tour and approach Mount Igueldo, enjoying the marvelous views of the city and then proceed towards Bilbao. Panoramic driver in Bilbao and free time on the esplanade where The Guggenheim Museum is located in order to admire this modern architectural building. Next we'll proceed to the old fishing village “Castro Urdiales” where we'll have free time to explore. Then we'll travel to Santander, a port city located between the sea and the mountains, well known for its Sardinero Beach, one of the best known beaches in Spain. Free time to stroll through this elegant city.

Day 3 Santander - Santillana - Covadonga - Oviedo

Today we'll travel to Santillana, it’s one of the most important historical artistic towns in Spain. It contains architectural treasures such as the Collegiate of Santa Juliana, a Jewel of the Romanesque Architecture in Cantabria. Continue to Covadonga, where you will have free time to see the Sanctuary and the Grotto where you will see the patroness of Asturias our Lady of Covadonga. In the afternoon, departure to Oviedo, where you will see on a series of hills the beauty of Saint Maria de Naranco Church, Jewel of the pre romanic asturian architecture. Free time to explore Oviedo, many of their streets are pedestrian, where you will be able to see World Heritage sites like The Cathedral, a splendid example of gothic asturian architecture.

Day 4 Oviedo - Lugo - La Coruna

After breakfast our Spain tour will lead us to the Galician region. We'll arrive at Lugo and enjoy free time to be able to contemplate the Roman remains that still retains like its walls, declared World Heritage. Next we'll continue to La Coruna where we'll take a short panoramic drive through the main avenues of this fabulous town driving by the Marine Avenue to admire the elegance of this city with the typical Galician architecture of glass house galleries. Brief stop at one of the wonders of the world: the oldest working lighthouse, the “Tower of Hercules,” dating back from the roman period. The afternoon is free for you to explore on your own or join an optional tour to the Rias Altas.

Day 5 La Coruna - Santiago de Compostela

Following breakfast we'll travel to Santiago de Compostela, which was declared a World Heritage as it is one of the most important center of Christian Pilgrimages in Spain as the end of the Camino de Santiago route, built during the Roman Empire. Enjoy a Santiago de Composetla tour where we will see the main square called Obradoiro and also the Cathedral (entrance included) dedicated to the Apostle Santiago. Afternoon free at leisure to explore the narrow cobblestone streets and get the feel of the student atmosphere.

Day 6 Santiago de Compostela - Rias Bajas - La Toja - Vigo

After breakfast we'll journey to one of the most marvelous areas of Galicia, the Rias Bajas (Spanish Fjords). Driving through this magnificent landscape we will arrive to La Toja Island, universally known for its spa. Free time and continue to the Ria de Arosa, passing through Pontevedra to arrive to Vigo, situated in the middle of the Rias Baixas.

Day 7 Vigo - Viana do Castelo - Braga - Porto

Following breakfast we'll continue on to the next half of our trip, our Portugal tour! First we'll arrive at Viana do Castelo, city located between the mouth of the river Mino and Porto. Free time and continue to Braga. Short stop and continue to Porto, where we'll spend the night.

Day 8 Porto

After breakfast we'll enjoy a panoramic Porto tour to introduce you to this stunning city, considered World Heritage city. We'll admire the Cathedral, Stock Exchange building and Santa Clara church. In the afternoon, you can join an optional visit to a famous winery with tasting of its world-famous “port wine”.

Day 9 Porto - Coimbra - Fatima

Today we'l say farewell to Porto and continue our Portugal tour to Coimbra. This city is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and the birthplace of Fado. Enjoy free time here. Next we''ll travel to Fatima, center of the Christian Faith and World Pilgrimage Sanctuary with its impressive Basilica and the Cova da Iria place where the Virgin Mary appeared. We'll also encoutner Chapel of the Apparitions, heart of the sanctuary, with the tombs of the three shepherds, Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta. At night you may have the option to attend the procession of the candles.

Day 10 Fatima - Batalha - Nazare - Alcobaca - Lisbon

After breakfast we'll travel to the Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of Gothic and Manueline style considered a World Heritage place by UNESCO. Continue to the picturesque fishing town of Nazare. Free time and continue to Alcobaca (World Heritage) visit the XII C. church and admire the tombs of Pedro and Ines de Castro and then to Lisbon. In the evening you can join an optional night tour to attend a show of Fado, typical Portuguese song and music.

Day 11 Lisbon

Enjoy breakfast on the last day of our Portugal tour before we take a sightseeing tour of the ancient Olissipo, driving through its main squares and avenues, past Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Coach Museum, Monument to the Discoverers, Marquis of Pombal Square, and Liberty Avenue. The afternoon is free for you to catch the nostalgic corners of Alfama Quarter, the old city gathered next to its Castle, with old buildings nested in narrow twisting “Ruas” full of color housing the genuine “tabernas” where Fado sounds as a missing past.

Day 12 Lisbon - Caceres - Cordoba

Enjoy an early breakfast before departing at 7:30am to Caceres and continuing our Spain tour. Caceras considered as World Heritage place because of the city’s blend of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic and Italian Renaissance architecture. Walk through its Plaza Mayor and the Old Town with its famous Medieval Quarter. Afterwards, continue on towards Cordoba, once the capital of the Caliphate. Dinner and accommodation at the hotel.

Day 13 Cordoba - Seville

Enjoy a filling breakfast and then take an impressive tour of Cordoba's Mosque and other sites that will ease our mind and spirit strolling through its narrow winding streets of the Jewish Quarter. In the afternoon, after a short two hours ride reach Seville. Dinner and accommodation at the hotel.

Day 14 Seville

Following breakfast we'll begin our Seville tour, visiting the exterior of the Cathedral (the second largest in the Catholic world after St. Peters in Rome), Santa Cruz quarter (a natural scenario of “Carmen” as well as a precisely where the myth of “Don Juan” developed), Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de Espana. The afternoon is free for you to discover exclusive views, specific flavors of this active full of light city. In the evening there is an optional Flamenco tour.

Day 15 Seville - Granada

Today our Spain tour will lead us east through the Caliphate road to the heart of Andalusia observing an endless number of olive trees on the way to Granada and its incredible and amazing monumental environment, last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms up to 1492. Visit the world famous Alhambra complex and Generalife Gardens that have inspired several authors with its sound and sights, such as the “Tales of the Alhambra” by W. Irving. Dinner and accommodation at the hotel. Optional Gipsy Flamenco show at Sacromonte quarter.

Day 16 Granada - Valencia

After breakfast at the hotel start driving looking for the Mediterranean coast. We'll see Via Murcia, capital of the fertile garden of the Segura river, and then continue north via Alicante, the second largest city within the region of Valencia. Next we'll reach Valencia, one of the main capitals of the Mediterranean coast with its modern Arts and Sciences Architectural Complex integrated by six elements: Hemispheric, Umbracle, Science Museum, Oceanographic, Palau de les Arts and Agora. Valencia is also the home of the internationally well renowned and delicious “Paella”.

Day 17 Valencia - Barcelona

Today we'll take a morning Valencia city tour of this bright city to introduce you to its highlights with a drive through the old city. We will then be driven past the old riverbed of the Turia to the most avant-garde complex “Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias” to watch the emblematic exteriors of the six buildings. In the early afternoon departure northward all along the Mediterranean coast to Catalunya, via Tarragona, the Roman Tarraco. Then we'll reach Barcelona, the principal Mediterranean city homeland of the famous architect Gaudi symbol of the Catalonian modernism.

Day 18 Barcelona

Discover today one of the most beloved cities in Spain with a Barcelona city tour. Drive along the main avenues with impressive modernist buildings by Gaudi such as La Pedrera, Casa Mila, and much more! We'll see the Montjuic Park with spectacular views of the city, Olympic Ring, the monument to Columbus and the Olympic Port. The rest of the day is yours to get to know Barcelona's sights, sounds, and flavors on your own.

Day 19 Barcelona - Zaragoza - Madrid

On the final day of our combined Spain and Portugal tour we'll continue our sightseeing adventure southwest along an industrial and agricultural area with certain relevance within Europe. We'll arrive atZaragoza, capital city of Aragon, within the banks of Ebro river the most copious within the Iberian Peninsula. Zaragoza, known as Cesar Augusta during the Roman period, had an important role in Spanish history. Some free time to see the impressive Baroque architecture of the Basilic-Temple of Our Lady Pilar. Finally, we'll arrive back in Madrid and end our Spain and Portugal tour.

Day 1 Madrid

Beinvenido – welcome to Spain! Your adventure begins in Madrid, a city filled with elegant boulevards, manicured parks and superb cuisine. You will be collected from the airport on arrival and transferred to your hotel, where you will meet your leader and small group for a welcome meeting this evening. If you arrive early, you may like to visit the Museo del Prado, then discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia. Finish at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which displays eight centuries of European painting.Your Spanish adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:30pm. Once the formalities are out of the way get to know your leader and group over dinner at a wonderful restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.

Day 2 Madrid

Travel to the city of Toledo this morning. The unique old town of this city sits on a high craggy rock and is encircled by the Tagus River. As a former capital of Spain, Toledo has immense historic significance and holds many architectural treasures. Examples of buildings from most architectural periods in Spain’s history can be seen here, from the Gothic to the Baroque. Today you’ll experience Toledo’s culture in the form of a marzipan tasting. While a few countries compete for the rights, the Spanish argue that marzipan was invented in Toledo. Either way, the sweet treat made from almond meal, honey and sugar has been produced in this city for generations, and is some of the world’s best. Find out how it’s made, its significance to Toledo, and taste some yourself. Return to Madrid for a free afternoon – you may like to check out the Royal Palace, or stroll around the Parque del Retiro.

Day 3 Seville

Travel from Madrid to Seville by train.The largest city in southern Spain,Seville is famous for its cultural vitality and dazzling architecture.On arrival, check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, a gorgeous family-run boutique hotel.Housed in 27 typical Sevillian cottages with patios and corridors connecting them,the hotel celebrates its roots with its elegant décor and antique furnishings.Walking about the hotel's interior is like taking a stroll through centuries-old parts of the city: statues, floors, columns, amphorae, jugs, all create the impression that you are in a living museum.Personal touches are everywhere, from incredibly friendly service to hand painted details in the rooms and the owner’s great-grandmother’s shawl hanging in reception. Not to mention, the hotel boasts an unbeatable location on the Alameda de Hercules, lined with cafes, restaurants and music venues. This evening, join your group for a live flamenco show – a traditional Spanish style of dance with roots in Seville. This colourful, lively and rousing performance will certainly be one to remember.

Day 4 Seville

This morning, meet with a local guide who’s an expert on all things Seville and get to know the city during a walking tour. Explore narrow streets, hidden squares filled with orange trees and flower-adorned patios as your guide provides local insight into the history of the city and how it’s enjoyed today. Visit the Alcazar of Seville, a grand royal palace, and uncover its secrets with your guide. Known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Spanish royal family still to this day use the Alcazar as their residence in Seville. The rest of the afternoon is yours for further discoveries - you may wish to take an optional visit to the Giralda Tower and the famous Seville Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest cathedrals and home to Christopher Columbus’ elevated tomb.

Day 5 Cordoba

Today you will journey to the city of Cordoba, where Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences are present in the architecture, culture and cuisine, via a private transfer. Cordoba is also home to the Mezquita – a rare site which has served as both a mosque and a cathedral throughout the centuries. Today a cathedral stands within the centre of this amazing mosque – an interesting example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in Spain. Discover this supreme example of Islamic architecture on a comprehensive guided tour with your leader which continues outside of the Mezquita and explores the charming quarters and hidden corners of Cordoba.

Day 6 Granada

Depart Cordoba and travel to Granada. Along the way, you will learn more about the importance of olive oil production in the Andalucia region by visiting an oil mill. Let the passionate owner of the family-run business walk you through the process of olive oil production, and taste some different variations of the final result yourself, along with olives, olive marmalade, olive pate and wine. On arrival, check in to your hotel. This evening, perhaps head out to explore Granada’s drinking and dining scene with your group.

Day 7 Granada

This morning you will get acquainted with Granada during an orientation walk with your leader. Learn the fascinating history of the city and discover Islamic architecture and Arab influences at every turn. Enjoy some time for your own explorations of the city – perhaps head to a local teahouse to sample some Moorish pastries. In the afternoon, join an expert local guide for a tour of Alhambra and its perfectly manicured gardens. Dating back to the 11th century, Alhambra represents Muslim art in its final European stages. With ancient defensive walls, turrets and fountains set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, touring this magnificent site is an experience that will stick with you. After seeing the monumental Alhambra during the day, join your group for an included dinner at a nearby restaurant. After this break you’ll return to the Alhambra after dark and explore the famed Nasrid Palaces with your local guide. By now the crowds have dispersed and you are free to explore the site in all its glory. Your guide will bring history to life and provide expert insight as you explore the dominating red fortress towers, opulent palace decor and a multitude of architectural styles through the intricate Nasrid Palaces.

Day 8 Valencia

Depart Granada and travel to Valencia. Along the way you will travel through the distinctive countryside of the region and pass through Elche, capital of the region of Bajo Vinalopó. The historic quarter of Elche preserves part of its Muslim past and Baroque splendour. Walk around palm tree grove, one of the largest and the only one in Europe. Your leader will explain how the grove was established by the Phoenicians and expanded by the Arabs in the 8th and 9th centuries. The palmeral consists of several parts spreading across downtown. Then it's on to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, to soak up its unique cultural identity and explore the old town centre that dates back 2000 years. On arrival, you’re free to explore the city and discover the harmonious mix of Roman, Muslim and Christian influences in its buildings, monuments and magnificent gardens.

Day 9 Valencia

Start the day with a short drive south of Valencia to discover Albufera Lake, an important ecological site of the region. The lake is surrounded by beach, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest, and is home to six small islands. You will visit the island of El Palmar and discover its typical ‘barraca’ houses. Travel by boat to the middle of the lake and learn about the important agricultural crop of the area, namely the local rice. Finish off with an included lunch of the most famous Valencian dish – paella. The rest of the day is yours to explore Valencia. You may like to visit the city's major landmark – the City of Arts and Science, a large and futuristic museum complex designed by Calatrava. Or perhaps head out to a local cafe to enjoy the treats that Valencia has to offer – from horchata to artisan chocolates, the city is a gastronomical heaven.

Day 10 Barcelona

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Valencia and travel to Barcelona. We arrive into Barcelona early afternoon. Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a ground-breaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget.  After a walking tour with your leader,  you’ll get to enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant with your group. Celebrate the final night of your trip as you dine on some of the region’s most delicious foods like olives, pickled garlic, lomo Iberico de Belotta, Catalan cheeses, olive oil, and sweet desserts.

Day 11 Lisbon

Welcome to Portugal! Your trip starts today with your arrival in Lisbon, Portugal’s joyful capital city. You will be picked up from the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel. In the evening, meet your tour leader and fellow travelling companions for a 6pm welcome meeting, where you will be given a briefing of what lies ahead on the tour. If you arrive with time to spare, perhaps head to one of many outdoor cafes to soak up the city’s energy. After your meeting, join your leader and small group for a welcome dinner at one of Lisbon’s magnificent restaurants. Going out to eat is one of Portugal’s great pleasures, and this evening your leader will introduce you to traditional Portuguese recipes and a local culinary scene that’s exploding with regional flavour.

Day 12 Lisbon

Lisbon is one of Europe’s great cities, famed for beautifully renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Join a local guide for a walking tour through the city. First, take a ride on the historic Gloria cable car – this bright yellow funicular is one of Lisbon’s most photographed images. Then explore the trendy neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, the popular Chiado area and the narrow, cobbled streets of Alfama, dotted with hole-in-the-wall eateries and charming old homes. Pop into a local establishment to try a pastel de nata, a sweet and delicious custard tart and Portugal’s most famous pastry. Visit one of the most symbolic buildings in the city, Lisbon Cathedral. Hear how the cathedral was built on the site of an old mosque in 1150 by Lisbon’s first bishop, Gilbert of Hastings. It wouldn’t be a tour of Lisbon without stopping off to sample some ginjinha, Portugal’s iconic cherry liqueur. Finally, say goodbye to your local guide, then your leader will take you to the fantastic medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle and share stories of its history. Although much of the original castle has been destroyed, some sections of walls and 18 different towers remain today. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. The afternoon is free to make further discoveries of Lisbon – perhaps roam through the delightful streets of distinct local neighbourhoods, visit Belem Tower, or the spectacular Monastery of the Jeronimos.

Day 13 Cascais / Cabo da Roca / Sintra / Coimbra

Head outside of the city for a full-day excursion from Lisbon to Coimbra. First drive to Sintra, a bewitching place set amidst lush vegetation and rugged, mystical hills. Your leader will explain how the cooler climate made Sintra a summer retreat for royalty, and why it has drawn and inspired many poets, writers and travellers for centuries, including Lord Byron. Spend some time exploring Sintra’s colourful Pena Palace before continuing to Cabo da Roca (approximately 1 hour), a cape which forms the westernmost extent of mainland Portugal and continental Europe. Then, head to the cosmopolitan town of Cascais. Once a quiet fishing village, later Cascais became a residence of the Portuguese royal court in the 19th century and is now a glamorous holiday destination. Take some time to explore the fabulous little restaurants and try some local delicacies before making the journey to Coimbra with a late arrival.

Day 14 Coimbra

Sitting dignified on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the medieval capital of the county, and its royal heritage can be felt in its ancient streets and buildings. Get to know the city as your leader guides you through the lanes and squares of the Old Quarter. The real star of the show is Coimbra’s prestigious university – one of the oldest in the world. This evening, immerse yourself in Portugal’s cultural heritage by heading to an included traditional Fado music show. Portugal’s version of the blues is hauntingly beautiful and hearing it performed live is an experience to remember. Your leader can recommend some superb spots to eat after the show.

Day 15 Douro Valley

Travel this morning from Coimbra to the Douro Valley. Famous not only for its sublime scenery, the Douro Valley is known for producing some of the world’s most wonderful wine. Today you will have the chance to find out why as you head out for a tasting tour at one of the region’s best wineries. You can’t spell Portugal without Port, and to taste this iconic fortified wine is to taste thousands of years of Portuguese history. Learn the story of its origins and the history of wine production in the area while discovering which locally produced vino is your tipple of choice. Sit down to a light picnic lunch of rustic regional specialities prepared with fresh local ingredients (and paired with more wine, of course!). Then continue on to your Feature Stay accommodation, tucked away between the rolling hills and terraced vineyards of the spectacular Douro Valley, boasting unbeatable views of the Douro River. On arrival, you may like to make the most of your hotel's scenic outdoor pools, or perhaps grab a meal on the terrace and soak in the scenery.

Day 16 Porto

This morning, enjoy a gentle boat ride on the Douro River, stopping by the lovely little riverside village of Pinhao.Make your way to Porto, a romantic city on the banks of the Douro River. On arrival, join your leader for an orientation walk of the city’s collection of twisting alleys, crisscrossing staircases and baroque churches. Pass majestic bridges, explore the riverside district’s cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes. In the evening, head to the nearby city of Vila Nova de Gaia to end the day with some sunset drinks.

Day 17 Porto

Learn about the history of tiles in Portugal and Porto this morning with a tile - painting workshop. Steeped in centuries of tradition, hand-painted tiles can be seen on the facades of buildings and churches, telling the stories of Portugal’s past with vibrant colors and designs. Enjoy a free afternoon, perhaps head to one of the city’s riverfront cafes for a coffee and pastry overlooking the colourful rows of old houses, or take a walk around the World Heritage listed Ribeira district. Another option is to take the local train to the seaside city of Matosinhos where you can relax on the beach, dine at the fresh seafood restaurants or stroll along the promenade. Regroup in the evening for a final dinner at one of Porto’s excellent local restaurants.

Day 18 Porto

There are no activities planned for today, and as such, you are free to leave at any time. If you wish to spend some more time exploring Porto, we will be happy to arrange additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).