Best of Spain and Portugal (Winter, 19 Days)

Welcome to the vibrant city of Madrid, Spain! Your adventure begins with a delightful group dinner in the heart of the city. Rest up in your hotel for the exciting journey ahead.

Our journey begins as we head north to the medieval town of Burgos. Marvel at the stunning town square before we continue to the colorful city of Pamplona. Enjoy a brief orientation tour and some free time to explore this well-preserved city.

Wake up to a day of discovery in two new cities. First, we visit Bilbao, home to the world-renowned Museo Guggenheim. Next, we head to the picturesque town of San Sebastián, where cobbled lanes lead to pristine beaches. We end the day back in Pamplona.

Today, we journey to the vibrant city of Zaragoza, where a colorful cathedral and traditional Spanish churros await. We then continue to bustling Barcelona, where we kick things off with an orientation tour before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

Today is yours to explore Barcelona at your own pace. Wander through the colorful buildings and gardens of Gaudi's iconic Parc Güell or head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea for some beach time.

We leave Barcelona behind and head to the enchanting city of Valencia, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. Join an optional paella-making class tonight to experience the culinary delights of this region.

We bid farewell to Valencia and head to the romantic city of Granada. This city offers a unique mix of Arab and Spanish influences that can only be found in Andalusia. Join us for an included dinner with the crew tonight.

Spend the morning exploring Granada at your own pace. In the afternoon, we head to Spain's number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, and enjoy the best views of the city.

We leave Granada and head to the hill town of Toledo, known for its synagogues, churches, and medieval buildings. After exploring Toledo, we return to Madrid, where you're free to enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

We leave Madrid and head to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Córdoba. Explore the city's rich history, including a visit to the Great Mosque of Córdoba. Enjoy an included dinner at our special stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery.

We leave Córdoba and set our sights on the sun-soaked city of Seville. Explore the city's 13th Century architecture and one of the world's biggest cathedrals. Join us for an optional authentic feast tonight.

Enjoy another day to explore Seville at your own pace. Wander through the picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar, and explore the city's winding medieval lanes.

We bid farewell to Spain and cross the border into Portugal. Our destination is the charming city of Lisbon. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you're free to check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner.

Enjoy a free day to explore Lisbon's hotspots including Portugal's Christo Rei, Rossio Square, and the Belém District. Feel the Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama's tomb is held.

We leave Lisbon and head to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Sintra. Next, we stop at the coastal town of Cascais before reaching the city of Porto, known for its galleries, coffee shops, and amazing food culture.

Enjoy a free day in Porto. Head to the beach for a laze about in the sun, explore Porto's culture through art museums and tours of the winding streets, or join a fabulous food tour to get your fill of all that Portuguese goodness.

We leave Portugal and head back to Spain, stopping at a fortified city on the Spain/Portugal border. Our destination is the city of Salamanca, known for its 13th century University and unique architecture.

We leave Salamanca and head to Ávila, known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls. After exploring Ávila, we return to Madrid, where you can enjoy an optional dinner of traditional food at a Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.

Our journey comes to an end in Madrid. Say your goodbyes and make plans for your next Contiki adventure. Safe travels!