Grand Spain & Portugal (Classic, End Madrid, 18 Days)

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Description

Summary

Starts
Madrid
Duration
18 days
Languages
English
Minimum age
5 years

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 18-day journey through the heart of Spain and Portugal, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the enchanting Alhambra in Granada, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of guided exploration and leisure time. Discover the artistic treasures of Barcelona, the medieval charm of Évora, and the spiritual allure of Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy authentic culinary experiences, including a farm-to-table lunch in Asturias and a taste of traditional Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon. With expert guides and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises an enriching adventure through the Iberian Peninsula's most iconic destinations. Whether you're strolling through the cobblestone streets of Santillana del Mar or admiring the modern architecture of Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum, each day brings new discoveries and unforgettable moments. Join us for a journey that captures the essence of Spain and Portugal's rich heritage and vibrant cultures.

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Included

17 Breakfast (B)

1 Dinner (D)

4 Dinner with Wine (DW)

1 Lunch with Wine (LW)

Madrid: Join your Travel Director at 18:30 for a Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant and get to know your fellow travellers over a beautiful evening of delicious food and wine.

Lisbon: Delight in a taste of the famous Portuguese custard tart, Pastéis de Belém, made in a 19th century bakery with the original secret recipe.

Madrid: Honest culinary traditions and a fiesta of fresh ingredients are the hallmarks of your Spanish dinner. The perfect accompaniment to good conversation and a chilled glass of beer or wine.

Barcelona: At a typical Catalan restaurant, savour a delicious Celebration Dinner that incorporates classic cooking with the freshest produce.

jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat

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Choose between two carefully selected activities

Seville: Stroll through Barrio de Santa Cruz with a Local Expert and hear how the Jewish community has shaped the city's history.

Seville: See the city's top sights on a panoramic tour with your Local Expert.

Santiago de Compostela: Join a city tour with a Local Expert and visit Praza do Obradoiro to admire the cathedral facade festooned with architectural frills.

Santiago de Compostela: Embark on a scenic walk on part of the Way of St. James with a Local Expert, through parks and gardens that transform with the seasons.

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

Madrid: Witness the world's finest collection of Spanish paintings, plus an impressive international collection, as you tour the Prado Museum with an art historian.

Toledo: At a Damascene workshop, meet a master artisan for a personal insight into this ancient craft. Witness firsthand their precision as they inlay gold and silver into iron, using a chisel and a hammer.

Granada: Visit the famous Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens. While others wait in line, you'll be exploring accompanied by a Local Expert, keen to share insights into this Moorish landmark.

Seville: The Cristina Heeren Foundation aims to promote the teaching and conservation of flamenco and is a beneficiary of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Meet the students of the foundation, learn some basic flamenco steps, and then feel the passion as they perform an emotional show. The school enables students access to cultural education that otherwise may not have occurred. TreadRights sponsorship has helped students to complete their studies in advanced guitar, singing and dance. As students complete their training, they will carry on and safeguard the traditional flamenco dance, contributing to the protection of Andalusia and Spain’s cultural heritage. The Cristina Heeren Foundation advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education and UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Gijón: Meet locals for a delicious farm to table meal of locally sourced produce that has been prepared just for you. This experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Pamplona: In Barcelona, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during a visit to a biodynamic farm whose secrets have been handed down through four generations. Take in the views of Catalunya and taste the flavour of the valley 'Terroir' in the form of a sparkling wine. Sample this light refreshment and follow the process from the vine to your glass, learning about the unique sustainable methods employed. Sparkling wine is essential to Catalan culture, flowing freely during celebrations it is the perfect way to start your adventure into Catalunya. This experience contributes to UN Global Goal 12: Responsible Production and Consumption.

Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, travelling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.

Toledo: Explore this magnificent ancient city with your Local Expert and visit the Church of Santo Tomé to see an El Greco masterpiece.

Seville: Visit the Seville Cathedral with your Local Expert. Pass the altarpiece dripping with gold and see the Tomb of Columbus, held aloft by four kings.

Lisbon: Explore with your Local Expert, from the Lower Town, beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco. Visit the Belém Quarter to see the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the medieval Belém Tower.

Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions and see the basilica.

Salamanca: See the golden stone and arcades of Plaza Mayor, and learn about the unique traditions of this historic university city.

Avila: Explore within the ancient walls of this unique town.

Oviedo: Led by your Local Expert, see 1,000-year-old wall paintings in some of Europe's oldest churches. Admire the incredible altarpiece, one of the finest in Europe, when you visit the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour.

Picos de Europa: Visit the holy cave of Covadonga and see the tomb of Pelayo who is celebrated for winning the Battle of Covadonga against the Muslim Moors in 722 and later became the first King of Asturias.

Picos de Europa: Venture into this magnificent national park to admire the stunning picturesque scenery and rocky trails.

Santillana del Mar: Step back in time when you visit this perfectly preserved and 'most beautiful village in Spain.'

Getaria: See the rock known as El Ratón or the mouse.

San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.

Pamplona: The city is home to Café Iruña, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway.

Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerising Sagrada Família.

Barcelona: Venture inside Gaudí's extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Família and marvel at the contrasts of architecture. Above see its giant, tree-like pillars and spectacular vaulting. Admire the wonderful rainbow of the incredible stained-glass windows.

Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

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From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

Évora: With your Travel Director explore the ancient city of Évora and visit the fascinating Capela dos Ossos, meaning the Chapel of Bones, a chapel decorated with human remains.

Bilbao: See the spectacular modern Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry and sites of this Basque region gem during your orientation with your Travel Director.

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Granada: The 4-star Vincci Albayzín is located in the centre of Granada and is typically Andalusian in style. It boasts a magnificent enclosed patio that bathes its rooms in natural light.

Salamanca: The centrally located Hotel Alameda Palace is close to a range of restaurants and shops and only a short walk to the Plaza Mayor. The spacious rooms all have marble bathrooms and antique-style furniture.

Madrid: Located on Madrid’s most chic avenue, the Hesperia Madrid is a centrally located, modern hotel offering comfortable and contemporary rooms.

Santiago de Compostela: The NH Collection Santiago De Compostela delivers modern luxury in a timeless setting, just minutes from the historic Plaza del Obradoiro.

Oviedo: The Barceló Oviedo Cervantes is situated in the heart of Oviedo, 10 minutes from the Old Town and cathedral. This striking and stylish designer hotel is restored from an early 20th century mansion.

Santander: The luxury 5-star Eurostars Hotel Real is at the heart and soul of Santander and is a hallmark of excellence and prestige, facing the Playa de los Peligros beach.

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Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

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Destinations

Santillana del Mar
Photo of the aerial view of Plaza de Toros in Pamplona, the capital of Navarre province in northern Spain.Pamplona
Granada, Andalusia,Spain Europe - Panoramic view of Alhambra.Granada
Scenic aerial view of the Agbar Tower in Barcelona in Spain.Barcelona
Photo of panoramic aerial view of San Sebastian (Donostia) on a beautiful summer day, Spain.Donostia / San Sebastián
Évora - city in PortugalÉvora
Batalha
Photo of Santander city beach aerial panoramic view.Santander
Ávila - city in SpainÁvila
Toledo - city in SpainToledo
Photo of the Cathedral of Oviedo, Spain, was founded by King Fruela I of Asturias in 781 AD and is located in the Alfonso II square.Oviedo
Photo of view from the top of the Space Metropol Parasol (Setas de Sevilla) one have the best view of the city of Seville, Spain.Seville
Photo of Lisbon City Skyline with Sao Jorge Castle and the Tagus River, Portugal.Lisbon
The Puerta del Sol square is the main public space in Madrid. In the middle of the square is located the office of the President of the Community of Madrid.Madrid
Salamanca - city in SpainSalamanca
Cordova - city in SpainCórdoba
Photo of aerial view of Bilbao, Spain city downtown with a Nevion River, Zubizuri Bridge and promenade. Mountain at the background, with clear blue sky.Bilbao

Map

Attractions

Las Letronas, Distrito Centro, Gijón, Asturias, SpainLas Letronas
Monte Urgull mountain and port aerial panoramic view in San Sebastian or Donostia city in Spain.Urgull mendiko bista
Museo de Ávila, Ávila, Castile and León, SpainMuseo de Ávila
Sevilla Aquarium, El Prado-Parque de María Luisa, Distrito Sur, Seville, Sevilla, Andalusia, SpainSevilla Aquarium
Museum of Santa Cruz, Toledo, Castile-La Mancha, SpainMuseum of Santa Cruz
Muralla de Santander, Santander, Cantabria, SpainMuralla de Santander
Parque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa, Posada de Valdeón, León, Castile and León, SpainParque Nacional de Los Picos de Europa
Calafell Slide
Photo of Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Sobrellano Palace, Comillas, Costa Occidental, Cantabria, SpainSobrellano Palace
Photo of Cervantes Square in Alacalà de Henares, Spain, Madrid.Cervantes square
Photo of Coca Castle, Segovia. Castile and Leon (Spain) .Castle of Coca
Garden of the Island
Praia do Castelo, Costa da Caparica, Almada, Setúbal, Setúbal Peninsula, Área Metropolitana de Lisboa, PortugalPraia do Castelo
Photo of Barcelona central beach aerial view Sant Miquel Sebastian plage Barceloneta district catalonia.Barceloneta Beach
Photo of sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the most known building created by Antoni Gaudi.Sagrada Família
Photo of Plaza de toros – a bullring in the spanish city Pamplona.Plaza de Toros
San Telmo Ermita, Zumaia, Urola-Kosta, Gipuzkoa, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainSan Telmo Ermita
Photo of Generalife gardens at Alhambra, Granada, Spain .Generalife
FLY TOLEDO, Toledo, Castile-La Mancha, SpainFLY TOLEDO
Photo of Casa de Pilatos in Seville, Spain.Casa de Pilatos
Sanctuary of Covadonga, Cangas de Onís, Asturias, SpainSanctuary of Covadonga
Park Outeiro dos Cucos
Photo of the fortress and palace complex Alhambra, Granada, Spain.Alhambra
El RastroEl Rastro
“Puerto de Navacerrada” Ski Station
Photo of the Belem tower at the bank of Tejo River in Lisbon ,Portugal.Belém Tower
National Coach Museum, Belém, Lisbon, Grande Lisboa, Área Metropolitana de Lisboa, PortugalNational Coach Museum
photo of Fountain of Ceres at Jardín del Parterre in Aranjuez, Spain.Jardín del Parterre, Aranjuez
Photo of Museum of the Marine in Madrid,Spain.Naval Museum
Photo of Guggenheim, Bilbao, museum, modern art, Spain.Guggenheim Museum
Palacio de Fuensalida

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Madrid

  • Madrid - Arrival day
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  • La Alameda's Castle
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Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Madrid, where you'll explore its elegant boulevards and expansive parks. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, offering a perfect opportunity to meet fellow travelers over exquisite food and wine.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Toledo and Granada

  • Toledo
  • Granada
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  • Museum of Santa Cruz
  • Palacio de Fuensalida
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Journey south to Toledo, a city perched high above the River Tagus. Discover the ancient craft of Damascene at a local workshop and explore the narrow cobbled streets with a Local Expert. Visit the Church of Santo Tomé to admire El Greco's masterpiece before continuing to the historic city of Granada.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Granada to Seville

  • Granada
  • Seville
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  • Sevilla Aquarium
  • Generalife
  • Alhambra
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In the morning, explore the enchanting Alhambra Palace and the lush Generalife Gardens. Later, travel to Seville, where you'll visit the magnificent Seville Cathedral, the resting place of Christopher Columbus. Choose between a guided walk through the old Jewish quarter or a scenic drive around the city.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Seville and Córdoba

  • Seville
  • Córdoba
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  • Casa de Pilatos
  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
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Enjoy a free day in Seville or opt for an excursion to Córdoba. Visit the stunning Mezquita and explore the old Jewish Quarter. Back in Seville, experience the passion of flamenco at the Cristina Heeren Foundation, where you'll learn about this vibrant dance form and enjoy a captivating performance.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Évora to Lisbon

  • Évora
  • Lisbon
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  • Chapel of Bones (Évora)
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Travel to Évora, a charming medieval town in Portugal. Visit the intriguing Capela dos Ossos, adorned with thousands of bones. Continue your journey to Lisbon, where you'll settle into your accommodation and prepare for the next day's adventures.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Discover Lisbon

  • Lisbon
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  • Belém Tower
  • National Coach Museum
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Embark on a guided tour of Lisbon, exploring the Lower Town and the historic Belém Quarter. Savor a traditional Pastéis de Belém and visit the National Coach Museum. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the Portuguese Riviera or relaxing in the city's charming neighborhoods.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Fátima to Salamanca

  • Batalha
  • Salamanca
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  • Chapel of the Apparitions
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Visit Fátima, a revered pilgrimage site, and explore the Chapel of Apparitions. Cross into Spain and arrive in Salamanca, renowned for its golden stone architecture and the splendid Plaza Mayor. Enjoy the city's historical charm and vibrant atmosphere.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Ávila to Madrid

  • Ávila
  • Madrid
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  • Puerta de la Adaja en la Muralla de Ávila
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Explore the medieval city of Ávila, famous for its well-preserved 11th-century walls. Return to Madrid for further exploration of the Spanish capital. In the evening, enjoy a lively dinner with your Travel Director and fellow travelers at a local restaurant.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Explore Madrid

  • Madrid
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  • Naval Museum
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Delve into Madrid's rich history with a guided tour of its main historical areas. Visit the renowned Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and others. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps relaxing at a café or shopping in the city's boutiques.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Journey to Santiago de Compostela

  • Madrid
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  • Castle of Coca
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Travel through the Guadarrama Mountains and the vast landscapes of Old Castile, passing by the impressive Castillo de la Mota. Arrive in Santiago de Compostela, a city steeped in history and legend, where the tomb of the Apostle St. James was discovered in the Middle Ages.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Explore Santiago de Compostela

Day 11: Explore Santiago de Compostela

  • Cervantes square
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Choose between a guided city tour with a Local Expert, visiting the iconic Praza do Obradoiro, or embark on a scenic walk along part of the Way of St James. Enjoy free time to explore the city's narrow streets and historic squares at your own pace.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Oviedo and Asturias

  • Oviedo
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  • Casa de los Hevia
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Travel through the lush landscapes of Galicia and Asturias, enjoying a farm-to-table lunch and cider tasting. Arrive in Oviedo, where you'll explore the city's 9th-century churches and visit the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour, renowned for its exquisite altarpiece.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Covadonga to Santander

  • Santillana del Mar
  • Santander
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  • Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis
  • Sanctuary of Covadonga
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Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga and admire the Roman Bridge in Cangas de Onís. Continue to Santillana del Mar, a picturesque village with charming cobblestone streets. End your day in Santander, where you can enjoy the evening at leisure in this sophisticated beach resort.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Bilbao to San Sebastián

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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  • Loretopea
  • Guggenheim Museum
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Admire the modern architecture of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Travel along the Costa Vasca, stopping in Getaria to see the unique El Ratón rock formation. Arrive in San Sebastián, where you'll explore the city's beauty and uncover its rich Basque maritime heritage.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Leisure in San Sebastián

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Enjoy a day at leisure in San Sebastián. Stroll along the boardwalk, explore the Old Town, or relax on the sandy beach. Consider a visit to the nearby French village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of La Concha bay.

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Day 16

Day 16 – Day 16: Pamplona to Barcelona

  • Pamplona
  • Barcelona
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  • Iglesia de San Lorenzo
  • Citadel of Pamplona
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Visit Pamplona, famous for its Running of the Bulls festival. Explore Estafeta Street and enjoy a coffee at the iconic Café Iruña. Continue to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, where you'll experience the city's unique culture and traditions.

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Day 17

Day 17 – Day 17: Explore Barcelona

  • Barcelona
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  • Pasaje San Juan
  • Sagrada Família
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Discover Barcelona's artistic heritage with a drive along Passeig de Gràcia, featuring stunning Modernist architecture. Visit Gaudí's extraordinary Sagrada Família and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

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Day 18

Day 18 – Day 18: Farewell to Spain

  • Barcelona
  • Madrid - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey across Spain and Portugal as you transfer from Barcelona to Madrid. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during this remarkable tour.

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