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Visit Spain and Portugal on a tour via the beaches, barrios and bars.

Tour Spain and Portugal's pin-up attractions on this 22-day western European adventure. Soak up art and history in Madrid, be staggered by the grandeur of Alhambra Palace in Granada and take in the dramatic spectacle of a flamenco performance in Seville. Travel to Portugal to chill out in the Algarve, get loco with Lisbon locals in the Bairro Alto and taste some delectable port wine in Porto. Back in Spain, visit Santiago de Compostela and Salamanca en route to Barcelona – the epitome of all things stylish, cultural and fashionable – before continuing on to Pamplona, Longrono and the glorious beaches of San Sebastian.

Start
Madrid, Spain
Finish
Madrid, Spain
Destinations
Portugal, Spain
Style
Original
Theme
Explorer
Code
ZMSJC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • Gaze in awe at the artistic feats of the Spanish masters in Madrid, and experience a different sort of mastery with a fiery flamenco performance in Seville.

  • Unwind in a laidback fishing village in the Algarve on Portugal's scenic south coast. Soak up the sun on a beach and enjoy a cocktail-coloured sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

  • People from all over the world come to Spain to walk the famous Camino de Santiago. Join pilgrims along the last leg of the journey, as they reach the historic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

  • The fortified medieval city of Pamplona is a great place to discover on foot. Weave through the city's winding alleyways to the immense Gothic Cathedral and walk down the street of the famous bull run.

  • Logrono is bursting with delicious local produce and wine, just waiting to be enjoyed on an included tapas crawl. Delicioso!

Is this trip right for you?

  • Please note that this trip covers a lot of ground. The majority of travel between destinations on this trip is done by trains and local buses. Time estimates are given in the day-to-day itinerary. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. It's also a perfect opportunity for local interaction.

  • Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be very high in Spain and Portugal (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water.

  • As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, solo travellers will share a room with other travellers of the same gender. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it! Please note that a single supplement is not available on this trip. Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite. Please note that only selection of our hotels will have Air-Conditioning in all rooms.

  • Some hotels and train stations don't have lifts, and you will need to walk up and down some stairs carrying your luggage. Please make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'What to Take' section of the Essential Trip Information.

  • Please note that shops, attractions, sights and businesses may be closed for up to 5 hours in the middle of the day for siesta time. This gives the locals time to escape the heat and spend time with their families, eat a large lunch or simply sleep through the most uncomfortable time of day. This means of course that people work later into the evening and dinner time can seem quite late – 9.30 pm is not uncommon for family dinner time.

Map of Classic Spain & Portugal including Portugal and Spain
Looking down on stairs heading to Camilo Beach, Lagos, in the Algarve, Portugal
A group of three travellers stand on a balcony overlooking the city in Lisbon, Portugal
Boats in the harbour at San Sebastian, Spain, with the city and mountains behind
A traveller enjoying the sun in the streets of Seville, Spain
Close up of custard tarts in Lisbon, Portugal
Barcelona, Spain, cityscape seen from one of Gaudi's mosaic-tiled buildings
A bartender pours a glass of wine in Seville, Spain

Itinerary
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Welcome to Madrid, the sassy Spanish capital is known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at either 6 or 7 pm, depending on common area availability. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, booking a few extra days isn't a bad idea. After the welcome meeting, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja with your fellow travellers.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR12
  • Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15
  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6
  • Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia - EUR10
  • Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR11
  • Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR82
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a day or two early. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Take a bus to Granada today (approximately 5 hours). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real, or watch the world go by as you indulge in some tapas at a bar. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of Nasrid Palace and the Gardens. The Alhambra was first built by the Moors as a fortress during the Muslim rule of Spain. A walk through the compound's luxurious rooms and gardens gives you an idea of the decadent lifestyle enjoyed by the Moorish kings. The Alhambra is made up of three main parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. This evening, unearth the restaurants in the tangled streets of the Albaicin and dine with the best views of the Alhambra or head out for tapas in the town centre.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Granada - Alhambra Visit & Guided Tour
Optional Activities
  • Granada - Jose Guerrero Centre - Free
  • Granada - Mirador de San Nicolas - Free
  • Granada - Science Park - EUR7
  • Granada - Science Park Planetarium - EUR2
  • Granada - Catedral de Granada - EUR5
  • Granada - Capilla Real - EUR5
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Due to high demand and in order to be able to control visitor numbers, local authorities have implemented a timed ticket slot system for the Alhambra Palace. This system requires each visitor’s full name, passport number, nationality and date of birth. As tickets sell out months in advance we need these details from you at least 60 days prior to the trip’s departure. Failing to provide these details may result in us not being able to secure tickets for you. Please also remember to carry your passport with you at the time of the visit, as details will be counter checked at the entrance gate.

Travel approximately 2.5 hours by bus and train to the vibrant city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today the capital of Andalucia and the largest city in southern Spain. Known for its important monuments and fascinating history, Seville is universally famous for being a joyous town. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that currently there are track works on the train line between Granada and Seville. We will therefore travel by both train and bus on this stretch of our journey.

Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for ‘Game of Thrones’. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group (included). Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance
Optional Activities
  • Seville - Torre del Oro - EUR3
  • Seville - Santa Paula Convent - EUR3
  • Seville - Indias Archive - Free
  • Seville - Museum of Fine Arts - EUR2
  • Seville - Archaeological Museum - EUR3
  • Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre - EUR3
  • Seville - Guided Tour including Alcazar - EUR13
  • Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs - EUR2
  • Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower - EUR9
  • Seville - Casa de Pilatos - EUR8
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Today board a bus and cross the border into Portugal. Travel through fertile plain landscapes of orange orchards, olive groves and maize fields to the Algarve, Portugal's stunning southern coast, where your destination is the seaside town of Lagos (approximately 5 hours). Set on the banks of the Rio Bensafrim, Lagos is gifted with a temperate Mediterranean climate, a bounty of beaches and a rich heritage. On arrival, you might want to take a walk around town. Wandering around Lagos’s old town enclosed within 16th century walls, on pretty cobbled streets and picturesque plazas and churches, is definitely a good thing to do. In the evening, why not head to feast on freshly caught fish at a restaurant or cafe overlooking the water and behold a golden sky at sunset, before throwing yourself into Lagos' pumping nightlife.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Most of today is free to enjoy Lagos and its surrounds. At some point during the day (depending on availability) you will enjoy an included boat tour around Algarve’s rocky cliffs. Explore the jagged, weathered rockface of Pinta da Piedade, full of arches, towers, grottoes and caves that have been eroded into this fabulous limestone coast. Your leader will inform you about the exact time in advance so you can plan other activities around that. For the rest of the day, perhaps pack a book and towel and head to the beach. The vast sands of Meia Praia stretch for over four kilometres, and it is peppered with beach bars, cafes and sun lounges. Also, plenty of water sports are on offer in the summer. In addition, there are numerous boat trip options, focusing on birdwatching, fishing, or even spotting the Algarve dolphins. Praia do Porto de Mos and Camilo Beach are also good options, lovely water and sands surrounded by great rock formations. Take a stroll through the quaint alleys of central Lagos, or head down to the waterfront to watch the boats come in. Just ask your leader for any tips if you’re unsure.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today head north by public bus to Lisbon (approximately 4 hours). As one of Europe's most pleasant and affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering fantastic architecture, a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. On arrival to the city, head out on an orientation walk of Lisbon to find your feet. There are some great modern and ancient art museums to check out, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Coach Museum. Your afternoon and evening is then free, so perhaps head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. You can roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. Maybe simply sit back in one of many outdoors restaurants and cafes – watching the life go by is definitely one of the best ways to relax in Lisbon. As the sun goes down, some of Lisbon's best nightlife centres on the neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy an emotional fado performance (traditional Portuguese music).
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner - EUR50
  • Lisbon - Sunset Fado & Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR70
  • Lisbon - Experience Lisbon Walk Urban Adventure - EUR45
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today is a free day to further discover Lisbon, which is located on the banks of the Tagus (Tejo) River and is truly one of Europe’s great cities. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Perhaps head out this morning on a tour to visit to the medieval citadel in the city centre of Lisbon. Discover the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. From the citadel, this makes a contrasting panorama when viewed against the deep blue of the sky and ocean. With the rest of your free time today, perhaps catch a tram or hire a bike and cycle along the water to the historic neighbourhood of Belem. Make sure you try a sumptuous custard tart at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem. Relax at a cafe in hilly Alfama, or check out the fascinating street art spread throughout the city.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Lisbon - Naval Museum - EUR5
  • Lisbon - National Art Museum - EUR6
  • Lisbon - Folk Art Museum - EUR3
  • Lisbon - Oceanarium - EUR17
  • Lisbon - Puppet Museum - EUR5
  • Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum - EUR10
  • Lisbon - Citadel - EUR9
  • Lisbon - Belem Tower and Monastery - EUR13
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Continue north on a local bus to Porto, the capital of the north that sits between a river and the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 4 hours). Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing; surprise surprise – Porto is the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Indulge in an included group tasting of some famous tawny and ruby ports at one of the many wine houses across the river. Most of the grapes are grown and harvested in the nearby Douro Valley. If sampling the best from the region piques curiosity, why not learn more about the history of wine and port making at the Museu do Vinho later on in the afternoon. Alternatively, spend the evening soaking up the atmosphere of this coastal city in numerous cafes and restaurants that Porto has to offer.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Porto - Port Wine Tasting
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today is a free day to explore Porto. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower). Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings, then make a turn for Bolhão Market. This is the city’s most famed market, bursting with fresh produce and other goodies. Up in the cathedral area you’ll find the oldest neighbourhood in Porto and a place where you’ll see its true soul. Boat cruises along the Rio Douro operate several times a day, offering insight into the history of Porto's six famous bridges. A cruise is also a great chance to snap some great photos of the colourful tiled houses lined up along the riverbank. For dinner, make sure you try the country’s most famous sandwich – the francesinha – then head to Galerias Paris Street for nightlife.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Porto - Lello Library - EUR6
  • Porto - Experience Porto's Bites and Sights Urban Adventure - EUR52
  • Porto - Clerigos Tower - EUR5
  • Porto - Serralves Foundation - EUR5
  • Porto - Bolhao Market - Free
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today board a bus bound for Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain (approximately 3 hours). The capital of Galicia became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam and is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. Soak up the religious energy in the cathedral where St James, one of the 12 Apostles, is purportedly buried. The cathedral was consecrated in 1211 and is the central point within the medieval walls of the old town, standing majestically on the Plaza del Obradoiro with its towers soaring above the town. Elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas, full of pilgrims and locals spending their day in this atmospheric place. Perhaps join them in one of the cafes, sitting back and listening to many of the street artists performing on the streets of the old town. Visit the cathedral and do as pilgrims do – circle the main altar admiring the greatness of the place. Tonight, maybe and explore the streets close to the cathedral for Galician specialties. Perhaps try peppers of Padrón, and empanadas (Galician pies, filled with meat or seafood).
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today you'll have the opportunity to join pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Take an early bus to Amenal village where the 18-kilometre walk begins. The trek will take you through the villages, fields and rivers of Galicia. In Lavacolla village you'll cross the river where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed in the river to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city. From here, ascend again to the Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), so called for the feeling when pilgrims would catch their first sight of the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Embrace the atmosphere up here on the mount, alongside some walkers who may have trekked over 800 kilometres to be here. The entire walk takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete. It is important that you wear comfortable footwear and bring a rain coat, as weather in this region of Spain can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. Once back in Santiago the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Santiago de Compostela is a World Heritage site, an open-air museum that holds many delights within its walls – the lively squares, the market and the University buildings are must sees. For you final night in town, maybe wander down the streets of Rua do Franco and Rua da Raina to try some tapas.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike
Optional Activities
  • Santiago de Compostela - Visit to a Local Cheesemaker - EUR20
  • Santiago de Compostela - Bike Hire - EUR10
  • Santiago de Compostela - Pilgrimage Museum - EUR2
  • Santiago de Compostela - Cathedral - Free
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Today's hike on the Camino de Santiago will take in the section between Almenal village and Santiago. It's about 18 kilometres, and can be completed in 4-6 hours, depending on group's fitness level. You will walk on a mix of uneven terrain and gravel roads, with some steep climbs and descents. We recommend sturdy shoes. Please speak to your leader if you are unsure whether this activity is suitable for you. For those not wanting to do in the walk, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in town for the day. Please note that this activity is subject to weather conditions.

Today take a short flight from Santiago de Compostela to Barcelona. The city’s quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a groundbreaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife. Enjoy a free afternoon to wander the labyrinthine streets of the old Gothic Quarter or navigate your way through the throngs of tourists along La Rambla, Barcelona's famous tree-lined boulevard. Grab a fresh juice at the colourful La Boqueria market while you're there. You can take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of the city. Perhaps pay a visit to the Picasso Museum or the Museum of City History to brush up on your local knowledge. A visit to Gaudi's masterpiece, the modern basilica of La Sagrada Familia, is a must, even if it's just to see the outside. Gaudi was the master of the unique Catalan Modernista architecture for which Barcelona is famous, and his work is dotted all over the city. In the evening, why not head to the funky neighbourhood of El Born for some tapas crawl with the group, and toast to your adventure.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
We recommend you book entrance tickets to the main attractions in Barcelona in advance to avoid queuing or missing out on tickets. If you would like to visit La Sagrada Familia, it’s best to pre-book your tickets well in advance. To do so, please visit tickets.sagradafamilia.org for updated information on available times. On this trip the best time to visit is this afternoon or any time tomorrow.

Barcelona and its barrios (neighbourhoods) are all yours to explore today at your own pace. Perhaps take a visit to Montjuic or have a spot of shopping in Eixample. Otherwise, pull up a towel and laze on Barceloneta beach. Later this afternoon, meet up with your group again for a briefing of the next stage of your adventure. Afterwards, you might like to get acquainted with a self-guided tapas crawl around town – your group leader will know of some good places to go.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Barcelona - Cathedral - EUR7
  • Barcelona - Casa Batllo - EUR24
  • Barcelona - Cable car to Montjuic (one way) - EUR8
  • Barcelona - Contemporary Art Museum - EUR10
  • Barcelona - Guell Palace - EUR12
  • Barcelona - Museum of City History - EUR7
  • Barcelona - Picasso Museum - EUR14
  • Barcelona - Andean-Amazonian Ethnographic Museum - Free
  • Barcelona - Old Santa Creu Hospital - EUR10
  • Barcelona - Museum of Gaudi - EUR6
  • Barcelona - National Art Museum of Catalonia - EUR12
  • Barcelona - La Sagrada Familia (must be prebooked in advance) - EUR15
  • Barcelona - Tapas Tour in El Raval Urban Adventure - EUR70
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary so please attend, and this is also a great chance to meet the new group. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Leave Barcelona behind and travel by train to Pamplona, the heartland of the Basque country (approximately 4.5 hours). Upon arrival into Pamplona head out on an orientation walk and get acquainted with this well-preserved fortified medieval town. Pamplona, named after its founder, Pompey the Great, has served for centuries as both a military stronghold and an important point on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail. It’s also world famous as the home of the annual San Fermin, a weeklong festival that features the running of the bulls. Meander down winding alleys and step inside ornate buildings like Pamplona's Gothic cathedral – one of the most important religious structures in Spain. The city has also recently opened a museum of modern art designed by a prize-winning architect, inspired by the cultural renaissance achieved by Bilbao and its Guggenheim. Your evening is then free to do as you wish – the quality of pintxos (Basque tapas) is incredible, so be sure to tuck into some tasty morsels.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Pamplona - Gothic Cathedral - EUR5
  • Pamplona - Ciudadella Fortress - Free
  • Pamplona - Taconera Park - Free
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today, take a bus to the stunning seaside city of San Sebastian – a jewel of the Basque country and a place obsessed with food (approximately 1 hour). With its family friendly beaches and vibrant old city, San Sebastian is a fantastic place to stroll along the promenade, shop, or just to soak up the sun. When you arrive, get an overview of the most central beach, La Concha, with an included cable car journey to Monte Igueldo. Then, why not wander around the Parte Vieja (Old Town), a mix of alleyways wedged between the bay and the Urumea River? Otherwise, head to Playa de Gros and watch the surfers riding the waves of Biscay Bay. This evening make sure you hit the neighbourhood's streets and dig into the region's specialties.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • San Sebastian - Monte Igueldo Funicular (Igeldo Funikularra)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

You’ll have a full day to explore San Sebastian, giving you plenty of time to catch the 1-hour local bus to Bilbao, if you’d like. If you do decide to venture to Bilbao, the world-famous and architecturally sublime Guggenheim Museum is a must visit. If you have enough time in the afternoon, the San Telmo Museum displays history, art and photography of the Basque country. In the evening, it might be a good idea to enjoy another night of delicious food. San Sebastian is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, most experimental chefs and a distinct food culture, so be sure to get your fix tonight.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • San Sebastian - Catedral del Buen Pastor - Free
  • San Sebastian - Grab Your Pintxo Urban Adventure - EUR73
  • San Sebastian - Hiking the St James Way (Camino de Santiago) Urban Adventure - EUR63
  • Bilbao - Guggenheim Museum - EUR16
  • San Sebastian - San Telmo Museum - EUR6
  • San Sebastian - Basque by Bike Urban Adventure - EUR43
  • San Sebastian - Catamaran Boat Trip - EUR10
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Take the short journey by public bus to the prized vineyards of the Rioja wine region and Logrono (approximately 2 hours). The town sits on the banks of the Ebro River and is the capital of Spain’s most renowned wine region. The city is rich in history and traditions, preserved since the Middle Ages. It also boasts one of the most distinguished culinary traditions in the county, home to some of the best tapas bars in the whole of Spain, all crammed into its small medieval centre. After checking in to your accommodation for tonight, the rest of the day is free to explore. Stroll the streets of this favourite stop for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela, a handsome city of medieval fortifications, where much work is being done to restore it to its full glory. This evening, head out on an included 'txikiteo' of pintxos: a Basque-style tapas crawl that will fill your senses (and stomach) with the unique tastes of the region. Don’t forget to wash them down with a signature fizzy white wine, known as a txakoli. The tapas bars right around the medieval Old Town compete to get your business which means incredibly high standards, so be ready to eat well.
Accommodation
  • Hostal (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Logrono - Txikiteo of Pintxos (Tapas Crawl)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Please note that our accommodation in Logrono is a hostal (similar to a pension), located on the top floors of a centrally located apartment building. There is no lift, so you will need to be able to carry your luggage up and down stairs. Make sure you pack accordingly.

Logrono is central to Spain’s wine industry, and their tradition of winemaking dates back to the first Phoenician settlers back in the 11th century BC. The city is not only surrounded by vines but has always treated wine with great respect. It is hard to imagine, but in 1635 the traffic of metal-wheeled carriages was forbidden in Old Town by law, as it was feared that vibration caused would disturb the wines resting in cellars below. Today you’ll head out on an included winery tour to enjoy a day of grazing on delicious local produce – all grown or made within a few kilometres of town – sampling wine and basking in the sunshine. Visit the wine museum (season depending) to learn more about this region's famous tipple. When the museum is closed, your group leader will take you on a visit to a local winery. If the weather is on your side, stroll through enchanting vineyards and learn what goes on behind the scenes.
Accommodation
  • Hostal (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Logrono - Winery Visit & Wine Tasting
Optional Activities
  • Logrono - Museo de la Rioja - Free
  • Logrono - San Bartolome Church - Free
  • Logrono - Cathedral - Free
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Journey on the bus or train to Madrid this morning, which should take between 4 and 5 hours. On arrival, after checking in your hotel, set off for an orientation walk with your group leader. There is plenty to do and see in Madrid and you’ll have time to explore at your own pace. Paseo del Arte (Art Walk) gives a great panoramic perspective of western art history. Perhaps wander through the pristine gardens of Real Jardin Botanico and then delve deeper into the art of the city at Museo Reina Sofia and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. If you're lucky enough for your trip to fall on match day, you could don a white t-shirt and head to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium to watch the mighty Real Madrid.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR12
  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6
  • Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15
  • Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia - EUR10
  • Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR11
  • Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR82
  • Madrid - Museo Taurino - EUR15
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

With no activities planned for the final day, you're able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, it's recommended that you make arrangements to stay an extra couple of days to see all you can in the city. We’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.

Meals

13 breakfasts

Transport

Train, Public bus, Plane, Metro, Taxi, Cable Car

Accommodation

Hotel (17 nights), Pension (2 nights), Hostal (2 nights)

Included activities

  • Granada - Alhambra Visit & Guided Tour
  • Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance
  • Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip
  • Porto - Port Wine Tasting
  • Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike
  • San Sebastian - Monte Igueldo Funicular (Igeldo Funikularra)
  • Logrono - Txikiteo of Pintxos (Tapas Crawl)
  • Logrono - Winery Visit & Wine Tasting

Dates & availability

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Important notes

PASSPORT DETAILS FOR ALHAMBRA VISIT
Due to high demand and in order to be able to control visitor numbers, local authorities have implemented a timed ticket slot system for the Alhambra Palace. This system requires each visitor’s full name, passport number, nationality and date of birth. As tickets sell out months in advance we need these details from you at least 60 days prior to the trip’s departure. Failing to provide these details may result in us not being able to secure tickets for you. Please also remember to carry your passport with you at the time of the visit, as details will be counter checked at the entrance gate.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
A single supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability at the time of booking. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe, only a limited number of single supplements are available on each trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement please speak to your booking agent.

Essential trip information

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