Flavors of Portugal & Spain: featuring the Douro and Rioja Wine Regions (Lisbon to San Sebastian) (2024)

Begin your journey in the captivating regions of Northern Portugal and Spain. Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes that these regions have to offer. From sparkling coastlines to historic cityscapes, prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime.

Arrive in Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, perched on seven hills and radiating a unique charm. Meet your fellow travelers at a local restaurant for a welcome dinner, marking the official start of your adventure.

Start your day with a walking tour of Lisbon, riding the public funicular to the upper side of the downtown area. Wander through historic neighborhoods and the elegant Chiado district, tasting typical Portuguese foods at a local cafe. Visit the Praça do Comercio, one of Europe's largest squares, and sail past iconic landmarks on the Tagus River. Enjoy free time to explore before returning to your hotel.

Enjoy a day at your leisure in Lisbon. Explore the city's renowned culinary scene, shop in the downtown area, or opt for an excursion to the windswept cliffs of Ericeira and the quaint palaces of Sintra. The day is yours to discover the many facets of Lisbon.

Depart Lisbon and journey to Tomar, home to the UNESCO-listed Templar Castle and Convent of Christ. Immerse yourself in the history of the warrior monks before setting off for Porto, Portugal's second-largest city. Enjoy the scenic drive through landscapes dotted with wild pine trees.

Embark on a comprehensive walking tour of Porto, visiting the striking São Bento Railway Station and the Neoclassical Bolsa Palace. Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and delve into the port wine production scene with a tour and tasting. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, or opt for a unique home-cooked dinner experience with a local Portuguese family.

Travel to Braga and marvel at the Bom Jesus do Monte, a stunning Baroque sanctuary and pilgrimage site. After lunch, explore the historic downtown with its high concentration of churches. Enjoy free time to discover the city's quaint charm and numerous shops.

Bid farewell to Porto and journey to the Douro wine region, stopping en route in the picturesque town of Amarante. Enjoy a traditional wooden boat cruise on the Douro River, marveling at the lush landscapes. Settle into your accommodation in the heart of the Douro River Valley, where you'll spend two nights on the grounds of a traditional winery. End the day with a wine tasting and a dinner featuring local Portuguese cuisine.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in the Douro River Valley. Join a cooking class and savor your creations over a light lunch of petiscos, traditional Portuguese tapas. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking in the serene beauty of the region.

Leave the Douro wine region behind and cross the border into Spain. Arrive in Salamanca, a city steeped in over two thousand years of history. Take a short walking tour to learn more about this ancient city, renowned for its sandstone architecture.

Depart Salamanca for the renowned Rioja wine region. Stop in Burgos for a walking tour, exploring its pedestrian-friendly riverside and historic Plaza Mayor. Arrive in La Rioja and enjoy a wine tasting before savoring a farm-to-table tasting menu that highlights the local cuisine.

Travel to Pamplona, famous for the Running of the Bulls festival. Take a city tour with a local guide and visit the family home of a bullfighter. Learn about bullfighting traditions and controversies over tapas and drinks. On your way back to La Rioja, stop at the Marques de Riscal Winery for a wine tasting and vineyard walk.

Set off for an extensive walking tour of San Sebastian, a coastal city along the Bay of Biscay. Explore charming neighborhoods, admire traditional architecture, and enjoy free time for lunch. Rejoin your group for a panoramic tour along the coastal road, taking in breathtaking views.

Choose your own adventure today. Opt for a guided tour of the coastal villages of Zumaia and Getaria, complete with a Txakoli wine tasting. Alternatively, take a leisurely hike along the Camino of Saint James, or spend the day exploring San Sebastian at your own pace.

Head to Bilbao to visit the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, a true icon of architectural culture. Take a walking tour of Bilbao's old town, discovering historic churches, festive markets, and quintessential Spanish squares. Enjoy free time in downtown Bilbao before returning to San Sebastian. Celebrate the end of your journey with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Your unforgettable tour of Portugal and Spain comes to a close today. Depart with cherished memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for these two beautiful countries.