Flavors of Portugal & Spain: featuring the Douro and Rioja Wine Regions (Lisbon to San Sebastian) (2024)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 16-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Northern Portugal and Spain. This multi-day tour offers an immersive experience into the rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine of these two countries. From the sparkling coastlines to the historic cityscapes, you'll be swept away by the charm of Lisbon, the elegance of Porto, and the allure of San Sebastian. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, indulge in local wines, and savor the flavors of traditional Portuguese and Spanish dishes. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, this tour promises a treasure trove of experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Included
14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
Coach
Day 1 to 3: Turim Boulevard Hotel
Day 4 to 6: Turim Porto Hotel
Day 7 to 8: The Wine House Hotel - Quinta da Pacheca
Day 9: NH Collection Palacio de Castellanos
Day 10 to 11: Eurostars Fuerte Ruavieja
Day 12 to 14: NH Collection Aranzazu
hotel: 14 night(s);
Guide is included
Must-See Inclusions:
Stroll along the scenic Ribeira waterfront of Porto, famous for their Port wine.
Visit the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, hailed as a true icon of architectural culture.
Cultural Experiences:
Visit a bullfighter’s family home in Pamplona and learn about this iconic Iberian tradition.
Call a picturesque quinta estate in the Douro River Valley your home for 2 nights.
Climb to “Bom Jesus de Braga” UNESCO site and walk the streets of Braga’s historical downtown.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Northern Portugal and Spain
Day 1: Welcome to Northern Portugal and Spain
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.
Day 2 – Day 2: Arrival in Lisbon
- Lisbon
- More
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.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Lisbon
- Lisbon
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- Monumento Natural dos Lagosteiros
- Sanctuary of Christ the King
- Praça do Comércio
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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.
Day 4 – Day 4: Free Day in Lisbon
- Lisbon
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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.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Lisbon to Porto via Tomar
- Lisbon
- Tomar
- Porto
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- Convent of Christ
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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.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discovering Porto
- Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- More
- Convento dos Loios
- Bolsa Palace
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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.
Day 7 – Day 7: Journey to Braga
- Porto
- Braga
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- Bom Jesus do Monte
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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.
Day 8 – Day 8: From Porto to Douro River Valley via Amarante
- Porto
- Amarante
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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.
Day 9 – Day 9: Leisure Day in Douro River Valley
Day 9: Leisure Day in Douro River Valley
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.
Day 10 – Day 10: From Douro River Valley to Salamanca
- Salamanca
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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.
Day 11 – Day 11: From Salamanca to La Rioja via Burgos
- Salamanca
- Burgos
- Lardero
- More
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.
Day 12 – Day 12: From La Rioja to Pamplona and Back
- Lardero
- Pamplona
- More
- Parque de la Ribera, Logroño
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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.
Day 13 – Day 13: From La Rioja to San Sebastian
- Lardero
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
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.
Day 14 – Day 14: Exploring San Sebastian and Surrounding Villages
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Zumaia
- Getaria
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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.
Day 15 – Day 15: From San Sebastian to Bilbao and Back
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
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- Guggenheim Museum
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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.
Day 16 – Day 16: Farewell
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
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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.
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