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Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2024/2025

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2024/2025

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19 Days From

$3359

$2360

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2024/2025

19 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain

Visiting: Madrid, Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Córdoba, Seville, Lisbon, Porto, Salamanca

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

WEIMA19

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3359 $2360 Operator discount: -$999 -30%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant cultures of Spain and Portugal with the "Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2024/2025" tour. This cultural adventure begins and ends in Madrid, taking you through iconic cities like Barcelona, Granada, and Lisbon. Discover the artistic allure of Bilbao, the culinary delights of San Sebastián, and the architectural wonders of Gaudi in Barcelona. Experience the historical richness of Toledo and Córdoba, and the enchanting beauty of the Alhambra Palace in Granada. In Portugal, explore Lisbon's coastal charm and Porto's artistic vibrancy. With guided tours, orientation walks, and expert insights, this tour offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and savor local cuisines, with optional activities like a paella-making class or a traditional flamenco night to enhance your experience. This tour promises a rich tapestry of experiences, leaving you with cherished memories of the Iberian Peninsula.

Highlights

  • Pamplona: Explore this quirky and colourful city with a brief orientation talk.

  • Bilbao: Home to world-famous art museums and grand architecture.

  • San Sebastián: Admire the sunset on beautiful beaches and enjoy fantastic food.

  • Barcelona: Visit the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece.

  • Granada: Tour the Instagrammable Alhambra Palace with an expert.

  • Toledo: Discover the cultural melting pot with Spanish, Arabic, and Jewish influences.

  • Córdoba: Visit the ornate World Heritage site, one of the world’s biggest mosques.

  • Lisbon: Explore Portugal’s coastal capital, including Castelo de São Jorge and Belém Tower.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first group dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you'll be thankful for your hotel sleep.

Day 2: Madrid To Pamplona Via Burgos

Location: Pamplona

Accommodation Name: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Pamplona. We couldn't race to our night's stop-off point without letting you marvel at the pretty medieval town of Burgos first. For real, just wait till you see the gorgeous town square. Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We’ll start with a brief orientation tour of this well-preserved town, and then you'll have some free time to explore in your own way.

Day 3: Pamplona (Including Bilbao And San Sebastián)

Location: Pamplona

Accommodation Name: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two new cities await us today, but not until we’ve had breakfast. Bilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn't diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you're free to use your morning to play art critique and absorb Bilbao's pretty surrounds and architecture.�� Next stop, San Sebastián! This is a pretty postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a walk, do some shopping or just sit and chill in a bar, enjoying endless plates of pintxos (the Basque version of tapas). Our day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you’ll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams.

Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona Via Zaragoza

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona. A colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki.  With 2-nights in Barcelona, you'll be pronouncing Barcelona's C with a "tthh" like a true local by the time we make tracks. We'll kick things off with an orientation tour, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Barcelona

Location: Barcelona

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you’ll have the chance to join a guided bike tour of the city. Afterwards, you could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi's iconic Parc Güell or beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 6: Barcelona To Valencia

Location: Valencia

Accommodation Name: NH Valencia Las Ciencias (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we're ready for a change of scene -  the port city of Valencia is calling, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible.  It’s hard not to be enchanted by Valencia as we explore the city during our orientation walk. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who's in?

Day 7: Valencia To Granada

Location: Granada

Accommodation Name: Macia Condor (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won't forget you. Today, we're seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country? Granada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave! We'll join up tonight for an included dinner with the crew.

Day 8: Granada

Location: Granada

Accommodation Name: Macia Condor (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you're at it, fill up on some of Granada's incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain's number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We'll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven't been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!

Day 9: Granada To Madrid Via Toledo

Location: Madrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid. Synagogues, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We'll uncover the city's gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain. Here we are, back where the party started. You're free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid's nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.

Day 10: Madrid To Córdoba

Location: Córdoba

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Leaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us (along with some new friends) will drive onwards to Córdoba. With storybook balconies & charming little lanes, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is sure to take your breath away. We'll start out by finding our feet here in Córdoba, only to be swept off them again with a trip to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Córdoba). History buffs, this is basically your perfect day. This evening we'll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.

Day 11: Córdoba To Seville

Location: Seville

Accommodation Name: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we'll set our sights on sun-soaked Seville. 13th Century architecture and one of the world's biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain's capital, Seville. We'll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city's river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast.

Day 12: Seville

Location: Seville

Accommodation Name: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Another day free to explore Seville? Don't mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart's delight.

Day 13: Seville To Lisbon

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We couldn't think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian peninsula to Portugal. Petiscos and pastéis de nata await! Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you're free to take to the streets but we suggest you indulge in a Portuguese feast on your first night here!

Day 14: Lisbon

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

A free day gives you plenty of time to explore all the hotspots including Portugal's Christo Rei (Christ the King), Rossio Square, the Belém District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama's tomb is held.

Day 15: Lisbon To Porto Via Sintra & Cascais

Location: Porto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast this morning we'll head north to Porto, but not before stopping en route at Cascais and Sintra. We couldn't leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. Here in this fairytale town, expect to feel fully enchanted with free time to visit Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra’s mesmerising castle. Our second stop today is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world. Alive with galleries and coffee shops and amazing food culture, the city of Porto is basically a dream for art lovers and foodies alike. You’ll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time, discover heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets and in the UNESCO stamped alleyways of Riberia. Walk along the picturesque coastline, and view the main sites like lavish São Francisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa.

Day 16: Porto

Location: Porto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We have a free day in Porto today which you can choose to fill with any activity that'll fill your heart's desires! Head to the beach or the famous Livreria Lello, explore Porto's culture through art museums and tours of the winding streets. Or maybe you want to join the group and set off for a fabulous food tour to get your fill of all that Portuguese goodness! Hang out with your friends, take it solo - the day is 100% yours.

Day 17: Porto To Salamanca Via Ciudad Rodrigo

Location: Salamanca

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful! We'll have some free time to check out a fortified city on the Spain/Portugal border - that dates back all the way to the Roman Empire (true story!). Rolling back over the border to Spain, we'll settle for the night in Salamanca. We're just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles and characters on a 16th century Cathedral, and a Palace dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we'll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.

Day 18: Salamanca To Madrid Via Ávila

Location: Madrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we'll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila. Ávila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We'll stop to admire them before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid. Back where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you'll be able to make the most of our night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.

Day 19: End Madrid

Location: Madrid

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Meals including breakfast and dinner on various days throughout the tour.

  • Orientation Tours

    Orientation tours in cities such as Pamplona, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Toledo, Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, Porto, Salamanca, and Avila.

  • Expert Guides

    Guided tours of significant landmarks such as the Alhambra Palace in Granada and the Mezquita in Cordoba.

  • Transportation

    Transportation between cities including stops at notable locations such as Burgos, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Zaragoza, and more.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in hotels such as Hotel Praga, AZZ Pamplona Norte, Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona, NH Valencia Las Ciencias, Macia Condor, Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco, YIT Via Sevilla Mairena, VIP Executive Zurique Hotel, Ibis Porto Gaia, and Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a guided bike tour in Barcelona, paella-making class in Valencia, guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin in Granada, traditional flamenco and tapas night in Granada, and EatWith dining experience in Seville.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks not included in the tour package.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 5 Dinner (D)
  • 18 Breakfast (B)

FAQs

  • Madrid: Do the included meals have a set menu? Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
  • Madrid: I need to refrigerate my medication. Can I do that on the coach? Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.

Included Experience

  • Pamplona: Your Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of the city and give a brief orientation talk. After that, you're free to explore this quirky and colourful city in your own way.
  • Bilbao: Home to world famous art museums and architecture that’s grander than grand. Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, taking in the mountains and the skyscrapers.
  • San Sebastián: Where better to admire the sunset than on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián? This resort town is known for its fantastic food too – so make sure you’re hungry!
  • Barcelona: We’ll check out the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s world-renowned masterpiece. Work began on the church in the 1880s and while it was technically never finished, it’s still a wonder to behold.
  • Barcelona: Enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis – a non-profit that’s all about social cohesion, doing their bit to enrich coexistence, with rights and opportunities for all.
  • Granada: Probably the most Instagrammable palace that’s ever existed. Tour this Moorish marvel with an expert.
  • Toledo: This medieval city is a cultural melting pot, with a mix of Spanish, Arabic and Jewish influences. Get some pics of the Alcázar Fortress and the gothic Cathedral.
  • Córdoba: This ornate World Heritage site was built by the Moors after they conquered Iberia. And it’s still one of the world’s biggest mosques.
  • Lisbon: Get to grips with Portugal’s coastal capital. See all the sights, including Castelo de São Jorge, the Praca do Com??rcio, Rossio Sqaure and Praca da Figueira.
  • Lisbon: Take an orientation in Lisbon’s ‘museum district’. See the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the best places to taste a pastel de nata.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of meals are included during the tour?

    The tour includes meals such as breakfast and dinner on various days throughout the journey. Typically, a buffet is arranged for included meals, and vegetarian options are available upon request.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities available, including a guided bike tour in Barcelona, a paella-making class in Valencia, a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin in Granada, a traditional flamenco and tapas night in Granada, and an EatWith dining experience in Seville.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    Accommodation is provided in hotels such as Hotel Praga, AZZ Pamplona Norte, Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona, NH Valencia Las Ciencias, Macia Condor, Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco, YIT Via Sevilla Mairena, VIP Executive Zurique Hotel, Ibis Porto Gaia, and Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco.

  • Is transportation between cities included in the tour?

    Yes, transportation between cities is included, with stops at notable locations such as Burgos, Bilbao, San Sebastián, Zaragoza, and more.

  • Will there be guided tours of significant landmarks during the trip?

    Yes, the tour includes guided tours of significant landmarks such as the Alhambra Palace in Granada and the Mezquita in Córdoba.

  • What should I do if I need to refrigerate my medication during the tour?

    You can refrigerate your medication on the coach by informing your Trip Manager. However, the fridge is turned off overnight, so you should take your medication with you into your accommodation. It's recommended to bring a cooler bag as a backup.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Wednesday - Sunday

Dec 18, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025
$3663 $2564

Operator discount: -$1099

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Jan 05, 2025 - Jan 23, 2025
$3663 $2574

Operator discount: -$1089

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$3359 $2360

Operator discount: -$999

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Operator discount: -$924

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2025/2026

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$3610 $2706

Operator discount: -$904

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2025/2026

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Operator discount: -$904

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2025/2026

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$3800 $3040

Operator discount: -$760

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2025/2026

Sunday - Thursday

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$3506 $2805

Operator discount: -$701

Best of Spain & Portugal | Winter | 2025/2026

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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