1. Home
  2. Europe
  3. Spain
  4. Premium Spain & Portugal
Map of Premium Spain & Portugal including Portugal and Spain

Discover the stories of Spain and Portugal on an in-depth adventure

Get swept up in the colours, tastes and sounds of two of Europe’s most beloved countries on an 18-day Premium journey through Spain and Portugal. See flamenco in Seville, taste paella in Valencia, feel the history of the Alhambra in Granada and uncover the hidden corners of Cordoba. Discover the birthplace of port and the treasures of the Douro Valley, take a step back in time at the ancient university of Coimbra, learn the secrets of Porto’s backstreets and get to the heart of glorious Lisbon. Travel with passionate local leaders eager to share the magic of their homelands.

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

Why you'll love this trip

premium accommodation

Our best accommodation and highest level of service.

premium experiences

Unusual, exceptional and authentic on-trip experiences.

premium knowledge

Led by our most experienced and highest rated local leaders.

  • See the enchanting Alhambra Palace in Granada by night with an expert guide, a Premium Exclusive Experience. Avoid the crowds as you receive special insight into the complex’s fascinating history.

  • Taste the best of local cuisine during Exclusive Experiences – sample olive oil at a family-run farm in Andalucia, try delicious marzipan in Toledo and take a wine-tasting tour in the Douro Valley.

  • Spend two nights in a converted 18th-century mansion for your Feature Stay in Seville, and enjoy the best of the Douro Valley at a fabulous hotel nestled within the famous wine-growing region.

  • Soak up the glamour and the sun while winding along the stunning Bay of Cascais on a full-day exploration of Lisbon’s surrounds, including Sintra’s bewitching Pena Palace, a Premium Exclusive Experience.

  • Cruise the tranquil Albufera Lake by boat during an Exclusive Experience and learn how fishermen and rice growers ply their trade here. Visit the island of El Palmar and discover its typical 'barraca' houses.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Many of the wonderful cities and sites of this trip are explored on foot. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes, plus suitable luggage for navigating cobblestone streets.

  • Summer temperatures can be extreme (over 40°C), so it's important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please consider your suitability to the season you are travelling in.

  • During your discoveries you will visit a numerous religious sites. You will need to bring clothes that cover the arms, and pants or skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot. Your leader will advise when such clothing is necessary.

Peregrine Adventures spain seville flamenco dancer
spain_food_paella
Peregrine Adventures spain toledo tagus river bridge
Peregrine Adventures spain barcelona decorative tile art
Portugal Lisbon Street
Portugal Feature Stay: Villa Gale Douro Vineyards aerial view
Portugal Feature Stay: Villa Gale Douro Vineyards hotel interior
Portugal Feature Stay: Villa Gale Douro Vineyards - standard room interior
Portugal Feature Stay: Villa Gale Douro Vineyards people enjoying wine on rooftop
Portugal Feature Stay: Villa Gale Douro Vineyards outdoor pool area
Portugal Douro boats

Itinerary
Expand All Collapse All

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. Tonight, get to know your leader and group over dinner at a wonderful restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Soho Boutique Congreso or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Madrid - (Tapas) Welcome Dinner
Optional Activities
  • Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR11
  • Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15
  • Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR82
  • Madrid - Abono Paseo del Arte (3 museum combo voucher) - EUR30
  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6
  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR12
Meals Included
  • Dinner

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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Soho Boutique Congreso or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Toledo - Marzipan Tasting
  • Toledo - Day Trip
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s driving time is approximately 2 hours.

Drive 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. Converted from an 18th-century mansion, the hotel celebrates its roots with its elegant décor and antique furnishings. 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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Sacristia de Santa Ana or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Seville - Evening Flamenco Show
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s travel time is approximately 5.5 hours.

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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Sacristia de Santa Ana or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Seville - Alcazar Visit
  • Seville - Walking Tour with Local Guide
Optional Activities
  • Seville - Indias Archive - Free
  • Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower - EUR10
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

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.
Accommodation
  • Soho Boutique Cordoba or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cordoba - Walking Tour of the Mezquita & Cordoba City with Local Guide
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s travel time is approximately 3 hours.

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.
Accommodation
  • Sercotel Gran Hotel Luna de Granada or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Andalucia - Olive Oil Mill Visit & Tasting
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.

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.
Accommodation
  • Sercotel Gran Hotel Luna de Granada or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Granada – Alhambra Alcazaba and Generalife Gardens Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Dimar or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Valencia - Sagunto Castle - Free
  • Valencia - Treats & Tastes of Valencia Urban Adventure - EUR55
  • Valencia - Street Art in Old Valencia Urban Adventure - EUR35
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s driving time is approximately 5.5 hours

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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Dimar or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lake Albufera - Boat Tour & Barraca Visit
  • Valencia - Paella Lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Today’s driving time is approximately 2 hours.

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Valencia and travel to Barcelona. 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, today is yours to explore the city your way. You might like to head to one of the city’s galleries or historic corners or perhaps lose yourself in the wonders of Gaudi's bizarre La Sagrada Familia Basilica. The heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre and this evening you’ll get to enjoy it during 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.
Accommodation
  • Catalonia Eixample 1864 Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Barcelona - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Dinner in Restaurant - Barcelona
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
Today’s driving time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Transfer to the airport for an unescorted flight to 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 new 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.
Accommodation
  • Figueira by The Beautique Hotels (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lisbon - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will likely change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary. We suggest you attend, as this is also a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers. It’s important that you attend the welcome meeting as your new group leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

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.
Accommodation
  • Figueira by The Beautique Hotels (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lisbon - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Lisbon - Castle of Sao Jorge
Optional Activities
  • Lisbon - Belem Tower - EUR8
  • Lisbon - Jeronimos Monastery - EUR10
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Head outside of the city for a full-day excursion from Lisbon. First drive to cosmopolitan town of Cascais (approximately 2 hours). 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. Continue to Cabo da Roca (approximately 1 hour), a cape which forms the westernmost extent of mainland Portugal and continental Europe. Then on 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 making the journey to Coimbra with a late arrival (approximately 2.5 hours).
Accommodation
  • Hotel Vila Gale Coimbra or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sintra - Pena Palace
  • Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Roca - Day Trip
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Vila Gale Coimbra or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Coimbra - Fado Show
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

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!). Enjoy a gentle boat ride on the Douro River, stopping by the lovely little riverside village of Pinhao, 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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Vila Gale Douro Vineyards (feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Douro Valley - Douro River Boat Ride
  • Douro Valley - Wine Tasting & Lunch
  • Douro Valley - Day Trip
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 5 hours.

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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Moon & Sun or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Porto - Sunset Drinks in Vila Nova de Gaia
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s total driving time is approximately 4 hours.

Take the local train to the seaside city of Matosinhos where you’ll have some time to relax on the beach, dine at the fresh seafood restaurants or stroll along the promenade. Return to Porto and 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. Regroup in the evening for a final dinner at one of Porto’s excellent local restaurants.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Moon & Sun or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Matosinhos - Half Day Trip by Local Train
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

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).
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

17 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, High-Speed Train, Local Train, Plane

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (14 nights), Feature Stay (3 nights)

Included activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Madrid - (Tapas) Welcome Dinner
  • Toledo - Marzipan Tasting
  • Toledo - Day Trip
  • Seville - Evening Flamenco Show
  • Seville - Alcazar Visit
  • Seville - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Cordoba - Walking Tour of the Mezquita & Cordoba City with Local Guide
  • Andalucia - Olive Oil Mill Visit & Tasting
  • Granada – Alhambra Alcazaba and Generalife Gardens Tour
  • Lake Albufera - Boat Tour & Barraca Visit
  • Valencia - Paella Lunch
  • Barcelona - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Dinner in Restaurant - Barcelona
  • Lisbon - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
  • Lisbon - Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Lisbon - Castle of Sao Jorge
  • Sintra - Pena Palace
  • Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Roca - Day Trip
  • Coimbra - Fado Show
  • Douro Valley - Douro River Boat Ride
  • Douro Valley - Wine Tasting & Lunch
  • Douro Valley - Day Trip
  • Porto - Sunset Drinks in Vila Nova de Gaia
  • Matosinhos - Half Day Trip by Local Train

Premium Inclusions

  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
  • Luggage transfer
  • Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
  • 24/7 on-ground support

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Premium Spain & Portugal trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

Prices may go up, so secure your trip today!
Jump to a departure month

Important notes

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. There are a limited number of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 
3. Travel is always an adventure and, as destinations reopen, there are a few challenges as everyone gets back up to speed and adjusts to the new normal. Our leaders are experts when it comes to dealing with anything unexpected along the journey, so pack your understanding and flexibility, sit back and relax while they take care of the rest.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

Reviews

Go to dates