On this 11-day coach tour of Spain and Portugal, discover four of the most popular city destinations of the Iberian Peninsula with guided sightseeing in Barcelona, Madrid, Porto, and Lisbon. Cruise the picturesque Douro River, tuck into authentic Tapas, and sample local Port wine on a visit to a Port wine cellar. Explore Aveiro and Salamanca, attend a Fado show in Porto, and stop in Merida, home to ancient Roman ruins.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Barcelona
Upon arrival at the airport, we transfer to our hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore.
Overnight: Barcelona
Exploring Barcelona
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a morning tour of Barcelona. We'll drive along the city's main avenues, taking in Gaudí’s modernist marvels like La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. Enjoy stunning views from Montjuïc Park, including the Olympic Ring, the Columbus Monument, and the Olympic Port.
Our exploration continues with a visit to Barcelona's most iconic landmark, the Sagrada Familia (Entrance included). With our expert local guide, we’ll admire Gaudí’s magnum opus in all its splendour. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. We’ll return to our hotel for the night.
Overnight: Barcelona | Breakfast
Barcelona & Madrid
Barcelona - Madrid. After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the train station to board the high-speed train to Madrid. On arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel. Later, we’ll gather with our fellow travellers for an authentic Welcome Tapas Dinner, diving into Madrid's vibrant culinary scene. We’ll settle into our accommodation for the night.
2024 departures: In 2024, Tapas dinner is not included.
Overnight: Madrid | Breakfast, Dinner
Madrid City tour
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on an immersive guided tour of Madrid's highlights. We’ll explore the historic Barrio de la Morería, the Habsburgs District, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de la Villa, while discovering the architectural grandeur of the Madrid of the Bourbons and Charles III’s town planning.
We’ll marvel at the Royal Palace, Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains, and the Puerta de Alcalá, before diving into the modern vibrancy of Gran Vía, Castellana, and the Salamanca district, not to mention the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. Along the way, we’ll savour the quintessential Madrid treat chocolate with churros. The afternoon is yours to further explore the city’s wonders at your own pace. We’ll return to our hotel for the night.
2024 departures: In 2024, chocolate and churros tasting are not included.
Overnight: Madrid | Breakfast
Madrid to Salamanca & Porto
Madrid - Salamanca - Porto (Portugal). After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Portugal, driving towards the historic city of Salamanca. Here, we’ll have time to explore this renowned University City and World Heritage Site, celebrated for its rich architectural and artistic heritage.
We’ll then continue towards the Portuguese border, arriving in Porto. Nestled along the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities and was honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Overnight: Porto | Breakfast
Porto City Tour
After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a guided tour of Porto, taking in the majestic Cathedral, the stunning Stock Exchange building, and the historic Santa Clara Church.
Following this, we’ll set sail on a scenic Douro River cruise and explore the renowned Port Wine Cellars, where we’ll enjoy a delightful wine tasting experience. The rest of the day is yours to unwind or explore further at your leisure.
In the evening, we’ll come together for a memorable dinner accompanied by a traditional Fado show, sharing an authentic taste of Portuguese culture with our fellow travellers.
2024 departures: Please note that in 2024, the included Fado show and dinner takes place while in Lisbon on day 9.
Overnight: Porto | Breakfast, Dinner
Aveiro & Coimbra
Porto - Aveiro - Coimbra. After breakfast, we set off for Aveiro, famously known as "The Venice of Portugal" due to its charming canals. We’ll enjoy a ride on a vibrant Moliceiro, a traditional boat that glides through the scenic waterways.
Following our canal adventure, we journey to Coimbra, where a local guide will lead us on an immersive tour. Discover Coimbra’s rich history, from its prestigious university, one of Europe’s oldest to its enchanting medieval streets and picturesque riverfront.
2024 departures: Please note in 2024 we visit Fatima instead of Aveiro and enjoy guided sightseeing of the Basilica and the Cova da Iria. The night will be spent in Fatima instead of Coimbra.
Overnight: Coimbra | Breakfast
Coimbra to Lisbon
Coimbra - Batalha - Nazare - Lisbon. After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for the magnificent Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Gothic and Manueline architecture. Next, we head to the picturesque fishing town of Nazaré, where you’ll have time to explore and soak in its charm. We then continue our journey to Lisbon.
Upon arrival in Lisbon, we’ll cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas and indulge in a delightful seafood dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the flavours of the sea in a vibrant setting.
2024 departures: Please note in 2024 our departure will be from Fatima instead of Coimbra and dinner is not included this evening.
Overnight: Lisbon | Breakfast, Dinner
Lisbon City Tour
After breakfast, we embark on a morning city tour of ancient Olissipo, discovering its vibrant squares and grand avenues. We’ll visit iconic landmarks including Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries, Marquis of Pombal Square, and Liberty Avenue.
In the afternoon, we have free time to delve into the nostalgic charm of the Alfama Quarter. Wander through the narrow, winding "ruas," where historic buildings are adorned with vibrant colours and traditional "tabernas" beckon with authentic local flavours. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, immersing yourself in the captivating allure of this magnificent city.
2024 departures: Please note that in 2024, the included Fado show and dinner takes place tonight
Overnight: Lisbon | Breakfast
Merida & Madrid
Lisbon - Merida - Madrid. Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we set off for Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved Roman ruins, including the majestic Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre. We’ll delve into its rich historical heritage before heading to Madrid. In Madrid, we’ll gather with our fellow travellers for a memorable farewell dinner.
2024 departures: Please note in 2024 we will visit Caceres instead of Merida. Here we will explore the Old Town and the Plaza Mayor main square.
Overnight: Madrid | Breakfast, Dinner
Madrid
Tuck into a final breakfast in the hotel before our tour comes to an end. There is an included transfer to the airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 1 person. Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. The 'Single' price applies for solo travellers who require their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
BessaHotel Boavista, Porto
Located in Porto's popular Boavista district, the BessaHotel Boavista is just a few minute's walk from the Casa da Musica concert hall and other attractions. Bright and spacious guest rooms offer private bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, air-conditioning and TV. There is an onsite gym and dining options include the BRestaurant & Bar, where Head Chef Vitor de Matos serves impeccable Iberian cuisine. Breakfast is served buffet style and there is also an outdoor terrace serving an array of cocktails and regional Douro Valley wines. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also offered.
Hotel VIP Entrecampos, Lisbon
Hotel Vip Entrecampos is a spacious and bright hotel located within a 4 minute walk of the Entrecampos metro station. From the hotel you can take a stroll to Campo Grande Garden in one direction or Gulbenkian Park the other. The hotel boasts a large swimming pool as well as offering free wifi. The hotel restaurant offers delicious Portuguese and international cuisine.
At a Glance
