The Best of Spain & Portugal

The Best of Spain & Portugal

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13 Days From

$2487

$2236

The Best of Spain & Portugal

13 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain

Visiting: Arrive In Madrid, Spain, Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Evora, Portugal, Lisbon, Fátima, Coimbra, Porto, Salamanca, Ávila, Segovia

Tour operator:

Cosmos

Tour code:

6820-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Age range:

0-0

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Budget

Interests:

Art, Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2487 $2236 Operator discount: -$251

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Spain and Portugal—two countries with rich histories and distinct cultures. Your affordable tour of Spain and Portugal reveals their fascinating highlights. In Spain, you’ll overnight in Madrid, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, and Salamanca. In Portugal, you’ll stay in Lisbon and Porto. Tour highlights include a guided visit to Toledo, a treasure chest of art and historical architecture. In Granada, enjoy an included visit to the fascinating Alhambra complex*, built in the 13th century by Moorish kings. In Avila—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and fascinating walled city founded in the 11th century, you’ll visit St. Theresa's Convent, the birthplace of St. Teresa. Admire the Moorish architecture in the historical city centers of Cordoba and Seville, both gems of Andalusia, and get to know Madrid, the elegant capital city of Spain, built on a plateau in the heart of the country. In Portugal, visit Lisbon with a Local Guide and see the Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built to commemorate the expedition of Vasco de Gama, and Porto's cathedral, built on a panoramic terrace overlooking the port wine cellars on the banks of the Douro River. Enjoy guided sightseeing in the cities of Toledo, Granada, Seville, Madrid, Cordoba, Lisbon, and Porto. Local Guides - experts in the cities' histories and cultures - will highlight the unique sights and tell you about local culture and history. All of this and more—including an olive oil farm visit with tastings—await you on this fabulous and affordable Spain and Portugal tour designed for value-minded travel lovers.
NOTE:
*Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed.

Highlights

  • Guided tours in various cities including Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, Porto, and Salamanca.

  • Visit the Alhambra Complex in Granada.

  • Explore the Mezquita in Cordoba.

  • See the Belem Tower and the Monastery of the Hieronymites in Lisbon.

  • Discover the Historic Centre of Porto.

  • Visit the Old City of Salamanca.

  • Tour the Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct.

  • Experience the Historic City of Toledo.

Places You'll See

Praga

Don Juan

Exe Las Adelfas

Don Paco

Roma

Tryp Centro

Sercotel Artheus Carmelitas Salamanca

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Madrid,Spain

Location: Arrive In Madrid, Spain

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is for you to relax or start exploring Madrid, taking advantage of the CosmosGO app. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and travel companions.

Day 2: Madrid,Toledo,Granada

Location: Madrid, Toledo, Granada

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Drive south to Toledo. Spectacularly situated on a granite hill surrounded by a loop of the Tagus River, the ancient Castilian capital is a treasure-chest of masterpieces. Visit the walled Old Town with a Local Guide and marvel at the 12th-century Church of St. Tomé, known for its large painting by El Greco of The Burial of the Count of Orgaz. Later, cross the Guadalquivir River and head for the olive and orange groves that dot the rolling Andalusian hills. Overnight in history-steeped Granada at the foot of the Sierra Nevada. Today’s Distance: 298 mi/ 480 km

Day 3: Granada,Cordoba

Location: Granada, Cordoba

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Granada was the Moors’ most treasured city, and they still mourn its loss in their prayers. With a Local Guide, visit the Alhambra Complex*, built by Moorish kings. On the way to Cordoba, enjoy more idyllic scenery as we reach an olive farm, to learn about olives and enjoy a local olive oil tasting. Today’s Distance: 143 mi/ 230 km NOTE:*Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed.

Day 4: Cordoba,Seville

Location: Cordoba, Seville

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

With a Local Guide visit the magnificent Mezquita, famous for its 850 pillars of porphyry, marble, and jasper. The Mosque-Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984), is arguably the most significant monument in the western Muslim world and an amazing building in its own right. The complete evolution of the Omeyan style in Spain can be seen in different sections, alongside the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles of the Christian part. On to vibrant, festive Seville. Today’s Distance: 93 mi/ 150 km

Day 5: Seville

Location: Seville

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get to know Seville on the included city tour. The sunny capital of Andalusia has much to offer: the cathedral, the beautiful La Giralda minaret tower, a symbol of Seville; and the Real Alcázar palace, with its extravagant Moorish architecture and opulent gardens. Fun fact: the Palace of the Kingdom of Naboo, from Star Wars, and the Palace of the Kingdom of Dorne, from Game of Thrones, were filmed in Plaza de España and the Royal Alcazar of Seville. What is Seville without Flamenco? What is Flamenco without passion? Find out tonight on an optional outing to experience the click of heels and castanets in a fascinating performance.

Day 6: Seville,Evora,Portugal,Lisbon

Location: Seville, Evora, Portugal, Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy the scenery of the Sierra de Aracena before crossing into Portugal and the fertile plains of the Alentejo. Admire the forest of cork trees and make a stop to visit Evora, a delightfully attractive city. Among the highlights are the architecture of the white houses, tiles, and balconies. The city, designated UNESCO World Heritage site, inspired the style in which some Brazilian cities, such as Salvador de Bahia, were built. Continue to Lisbon. Today’s Distance: 267 mi/ 430 km

Day 7: Lisbon

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Henry the Navigator made Lisbon the 15th-century “Mistress of the Seas.” You’ll see his monument, the Belem Tower, the Moorish Citadel, the impressive Black Horse Square, and other highlights on the guided sightseeing tour. Spend the afternoon at leisure in the Alfama’s tile-decorated streets or take an optional excursion to the scenic Portuguese Riviera, head to the coast to immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside and coastline outside Lisbon. You’ll be all the richer with sights of elegant villas, palaces, and manor houses.

Day 8: Lisbon,Fátima,Coimbra,Porto

Paul Allen

Location: Lisbon, Fátima, Coimbra, Porto

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Stop in Fátima to visit the world-famous Sanctuary, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Continue to Coimbra, known for its university, one of the oldest in Europe, and to Porto on the northern bank of the Douro River. For the perfect way to round out your day, join an optional evening excursion, with a leisurely cruise on the Douro River, followed by a hearty traditional Portuguese dinner. Today’s Distance: 224 mi/ 360 km

Day 9: Porto

Paul Allen

Location: Porto

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Discover Porto’s highlights on the guided city tour. See its historical cathedral and visit a Port wine cellar along the banks of the Douro River. This afternoon, go medieval on an optional excursion to Guimarães, called the “cradle” of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 10: Porto,Salamanca,Spain

Paul Allen

Location: Porto, Salamanca, Spain

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy the plentiful woodlands and mountains on your return to Spain via the scenic Douro Valley. Reach the ancient and beautiful university town of Salamanca in the early evening, the best time to take a stroll in the Plaza Mayor. Today’s Distance: 267 mi/ 430 km

Day 11: Salamanca,Ávila,Segovia,Madrid

Location: Salamanca, Ávila, Segovia, Madrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to fortified Ávila with its many towers and visit St. Theresa’s Convent before continuing to Segovia, a medieval town picturesquely set on a rocky hill. Some say that the beautiful castle inspired Disney’s “Cinderella.” Spend some time in Segovia before crossing the boundary between new and old Castile to arrive in Madrid. Today’s Distance: 168 mi/ 270 km

Day 12: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Built 2180 feet above sea level, Madrid, capital of Spain, is the nearest thing to Heaven, according to Spaniards. Discover the main highlights of this aristocratic city on the included guided tour.

Day 13: Madrid

Location: Madrid

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at the Hotel Praga in Madrid, Gran Hotel Luna de Granada, Exe Las Adelfas in Cordoba, Hotel Don Paco in Seville, Hotel Roma in Lisbon, Portus Cale in Porto, and Sercotel Artheus Carmelitas Salamanca. Each hotel offers unique amenities and comfortable accommodations to enhance your travel experience.

  • Meals

    Buffet breakfasts daily; 4 dinners, including a dinner at a local restaurant in Porto.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours in various cities including Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, Porto, and Salamanca.

  • Local Guides

    Local guides for specific attractions such as the Alhambra Complex in Granada and the Mezquita in Cordoba.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites

    Visits to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Alhambra and Generalife in Granada, Belem Tower in Lisbon, Cathedral in Seville, Historic Centre of Cordoba, Historic Centre of Evora, Historic Centre of Porto, Historic City of Toledo, Monastery of the Hieronymites in Lisbon, Old City of Salamanca, Old Town of Avila with its Extra muros Churches, Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct, Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro, and University of Coimbra.

What's Not Included

Entrance to the Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed.

Meals

Buffet breakfasts daily; 4 dinners, including a dinner at a local restaurant in Porto

Notes

Entrance to the Nasrid Palace of the Alhambra Complex is not guaranteed.

The Alhambra complex is wheelchair accessible, but the entrance and route differ from those of the included guided visit.

UNESCO Sites

Alhambra and Generalife Granada|Belem Tower in Lisbon|Cathedral in Seville (see only)|Historic Centre of Cordoba|Historic centre of Evora|Historic Centre of Porto|Historic City of Toledo|Monastery of the Hieronymites in Lisbon|Old City of Salamanca|Old Town of Avila with its Extra muros Churches|Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct|Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro, a landscape of Arts and Sciences|University of Coimbra (See only)

Accommodation

Madrid:Praga
Granada:Don Juan
Cordoba:Exe Las Adelfas
Seville:Don Paco
Lisbon:Roma
Porto:Tryp Centro
Salamanca:Sercotel Artheus Carmelitas Salamanca

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay at various hotels including Hotel Praga in Madrid, Gran Hotel Luna de Granada, Exe Las Adelfas in Cordoba, Hotel Don Paco in Seville, Hotel Roma in Lisbon, Portus Cale in Porto, and Sercotel Artheus Carmelitas Salamanca. Each hotel offers unique amenities and comfortable accommodations to enhance your travel experience.

  • Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Alhambra and Generalife in Granada, Belem Tower in Lisbon, the Cathedral in Seville, the Historic Centre of Cordoba, the Historic Centre of Evora, the Historic Centre of Porto, the Historic City of Toledo, the Monastery of the Hieronymites in Lisbon, the Old City of Salamanca, the Old Town of Avila with its Extra muros Churches, the Old Town of Segovia and its Aqueduct, and Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro in Madrid.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes buffet breakfasts daily and 4 dinners, including a dinner at a local restaurant in Porto.

  • What activities are planned for the day in Seville?

    In Seville, you will get to know the city on an included city tour. Highlights include the cathedral, the beautiful La Giralda minaret tower, and the Real Alcázar palace with its extravagant Moorish architecture and opulent gardens. Fun fact: the Palace of the Kingdom of Naboo from Star Wars and the Palace of the Kingdom of Dorne from Game of Thrones were filmed in Plaza de España and the Royal Alcazar of Seville.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Granada?

    In Granada, you will visit the Alhambra Complex with a Local Guide. The Alhambra was built by Moorish kings and is a significant historical site. On the way to Cordoba, you will also visit an olive farm to learn about olives and enjoy a local olive oil tasting.

  • Is there any special note regarding the visit to the Alhambra in Granada?

    Yes, please note that entrance to the Nasrid Palace is not guaranteed.

  • What are some highlights of the visit to Lisbon?

    In Lisbon, you will see the monument to Henry the Navigator, the Belem Tower, the Moorish Citadel, and the impressive Black Horse Square on a guided sightseeing tour. You will also have the afternoon at leisure to explore the Alfama’s tile-decorated streets or take an optional excursion to the scenic Portuguese Riviera.

  • What is included in the visit to Porto?

    In Porto, you will discover the city's highlights on a guided tour, including its historical cathedral and a visit to a Port wine cellar along the banks of the Douro River. There is also an optional excursion to Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1961

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this operator

Mrs Susan Hyland  

We have just returned from a Cosmos…

28-Sep-2022

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday

Trustpilot
Rick  

Excellent in every respect

08-Dec-2022

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again

Trustpilot
John Lomanno  

A wonderrful experience

09-Nov-2022

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.

Trustpilot
Bruce  

Old South &Florida tour

27-Oct-2022

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can

Trustpilot
Francine Ramos  

The tour director expertise and…

18-Dec-2022

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you

Trustpilot

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

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

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

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

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