Tour Best Of Spain And Portugal (Summer2023, 22 Days)

Transport

Coach

Accommodation

19 nights in Hotel, 3 nights in Contiki Special Stay

Others

Guide

Experienced Trip Manager & Driver Team and Local Guides

Meals

27 Meals: 21 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners

Flights

Flight to the famous island of Ibiza *** International flights are not included.

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Contiki through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. For guests travelling with Contiki from 1 January 2023, Covid-19 vaccinations and boosters are highly recommended, but no longer required. Please note that regardless of time of travel guests will need to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destination visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than above. It is guests’ responsibility to ensure that they comply at all times with these requirements. No refunds will be given if guests are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to their failure to comply with these requirements.

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Optional

Explore the baroque beauty of Barcelona with a bike tour EUR 24.00 Enjoy a cooking class & lunch at Espai Mescladis, a not-for-profit using food and drink as a way to foster social cohesion (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience) EUR 35.00 Experience the passion of a flamenco show then top off the evening with dinner EUR 64.00 Take a cooking class and whip up paella in its home of Valencia EUR 35.00 Guided Tour of Albaicin & Capilla Real EUR 19.00 Guided walking Tour EUR 20.00 EatWith locals on the rooftops of Seville & enjoy an authentic feast EUR 36.00 Tastes of Lisbon EUR 43.00 Lisbon Like a Local Dinner EUR 38.00 Discover local culture & support the Cascais community on a resident-guided street art tour (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience) EUR 15.00 Eat a traditional Madrilenos feast including jamon and tortilla, Madrid EUR 37.50

Insurance

Insurance is not included.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Start Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Start Madrid

Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first Spanish dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you’ll be thankful for your hotel sleep.
Day 2 Day 2: Madrid To Bilbao
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Madrid To Bilbao

The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Bilbao. We couldn’t race to our night’s stop without letting you in on the pretty medieval town of Burgos. We’ll marvel at the French Gothic cathedral with its intricate spires before rolling on to Bilbao. Bilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn’t diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you’re free to use your afternoon to play art critique and absorb Bilbao’s pretty surrounds and architecture. Tonight we’ll join up for an included dinner, feasting on regional delicacies at one of Bilbao’s local restaurants.
Day 3 Day 3: Bilbao To Pamplona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Bilbao To Pamplona

Adiós Bilbao! Thanks for a delicious evening in your super cozy, culture buzzing nest. Next stop, ocean hangs. What a way to start your day - dipping in the Bay of Biscay. San Sebastian is a postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a dip, do some shopping, or sit in a bar eating endless plates of pinxtos (the basque word for tapas). Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We will venture through the well-preserved old town and its incredible gothic cathedral on our walking tour, maybe ending the historical fix with a spot of fresh trout and red peppers - a regional specialty.
Day 4 Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona

This morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona. A colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki. With 2-nights in Barcelona, you’ll be pronouncing Barcelona’s C with a "tthh" like a true local by the time we make tracks. We’ll kick things off with a walk through the Gothic Quarter & La Rambla district - two of the city’s must-do’s for an instant look at this pretty spot, and a sure way to feel like a local in no time.
Day 5 Day 5: Barcelona
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Barcelona

Today is up to you to explore your way. You could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi’s iconic Parc Güell, beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, or those wanting to explore the city can sign up for an optional bike tour. At lunchtime you’ll have the option to join a cooking class at Espai Mescladis, one of our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ experiences here in Barcelona. Not just a cute cafe, this is the flagship project of a social enterprise using food and drink as a way to foster social inclusion and hospitality training.
Day 6 Day 6: Barcelona To Ibiza
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Barcelona To Ibiza

Today is a complete change of scene as we take flight to the legendary island of Ibiza, where the crystal clear waters, music and chilled out vibes are calling us for the next two nights. Worshipped worldwide as the party destination to end all party destinations, here you’ll find super clubs, super DJs & super strobes like you’ve never seen them before, and that’s just the island’s 3am drawcards. For those that like to take the chilled approach, Ibiza’s beaches, coves, and local markets need to be seen to be believed.
Day 7 Day 7: Ibiza
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Ibiza

Although this seems to be an island that never sleeps, you’re going to need to drag that head out of bed so you can see the incredible beauty of the place when drenched in daylight. Go snorkelling, explore Ibiza’s cute old town and its little souvenir shops, take a trip to spiritual Es Vedra, or continue the night before with an optional boat party before watching the sun set on another perfect day with your Contiki crew.
Day 8 Day 8: Ibiza To Valencia
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Ibiza To Valencia

It’s been a magical time on this island, but we have the rest of Spain to explore. With Ibiza ticked off our bucket list, we’ll hop on a ferry back to the mainland. Touching down in Denia we’ll jump on our coach, headed for Valencia. It’s hard to not be enchanted by the port city of Valencia, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who’s in?
Day 9 Day 9: Valencia To Granada
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Valencia To Granada

It’s been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won’t forget you, but this morning we’re seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country? Granada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave! We’ll join up tonight for an included dinner with the crew.
Day 10 Day 10: Granada
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Granada

We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you’re at it, fill up on some of Granada’s incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain’s number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We’ll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven’t been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!
Day 11 Day 11: Granada To Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Granada To Madrid

Bouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid. Mosques, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We’ll uncover the city’s gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain. Here we are, back where the party started 10 life-changing days ago. You’re free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid’s nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.
Day 12 Day 12: Madrid To Cordoba
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Madrid To Cordoba

Leaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us will drive onwards to Córdoba. Flowers adorn storybook balconies & charming little lanes will take your breath away in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, overflowing with history. We’ll start with a walking tour to fall head over heels with Córdoba, and a trip to the Mezquita (Mosque of the Caliphs) will be the perfect way to spend our day. This evening we’ll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.
Day 13 Day 13: Cordoba To Seville
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Cordoba To Seville

Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we’ll leave historical Córdoba with our sights set on sun-soaked Seville. 13th century architecture and one of the world’s biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain’s capital, Seville. We’ll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city’s river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast on Seville’s rooftops.
Day 14 Day 14: Seville
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Seville

Another day free to explore Seville? Don’t mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart’s delight, before settling down to an included dining experience together tonight.
Day 15 Day 15: Seville To Lisbon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Seville To Lisbon

We couldn’t think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian penninsula to Portugal. Crossing the border, spirits are high as we cruise along the Algarve, where petiscos and pastéis de nata await. Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you’re free to take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner. Or you can opt for the Lisbon like a Local experience and fall head over heels for bohemian bars, riverside clubs and cute boutiques.
Day 16 Day 16: Lisbon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Lisbon

Starting to feel fully immersed in all things Portugal, this morning we’ll get guided around the city and check out all the hotspots including Portugal’s Christo Rei (Christ the Redeemer), Rossio Square, the Belem District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama’s tomb is held. With free time this afternoon, real foodies will want to opt for out Tastes of Lisbon experience. Tonight, you’ll be able to join an optional food walking tour.
Day 17 Day 17: Lisbon To Leiria
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Lisbon To Leiria

After breakfast this morning we’ll head up the coast to Leiria, but not before stopping en route at Sintra and Cascais. We couldn’t leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. This fairytale town features turreted pastel-coloured palaces and charming castle ruins, with the star of the show being the insta-famous Pena Palace. Our first stop this morning is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world. You may not have heard of Leiria before, but we promise it’ll soon charm you. A medieval old town, an iconic castle, outdoor restaurants and sweet Portuguese cakes greet us in this modest town between Lisbon and Porto. We’ll come together tonight for an included dinner and a chance to swap stories about everything we’ve seen today.
Day 18 Day 18: Leiria To Porto
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Leiria To Porto

Saying ’Tchau’ to Leiria after breakfast, we’ll take the coach towards Porto, via Aveiro. This mini-Venice is a gorgeous town built on canals, with colourful houses and a rich history. Cruising into the terracotta washed city of Porto, you’ll have the chance to join an optional (but must do) experience this evening: a walking tour of Porto complete with port tasting.
Day 19 Day 19: Porto
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Porto

Alive with galleries & coffee shops, the city of Porto is basically a dream. We’ll find heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets & in the UNESCO stamped alleys of Ribeira. You’ll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time today, seeing all the main sites like the lavish São Fransisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa and wandering the picturesque coastline.
Day 20 Day 20: Porto To Salamanca
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: Porto To Salamanca

See ya Portugal, you’ve shown us all your best places and we’re feeling very thankful! Rolling back over the border to Spain, we’ll settle for the night in Salamanca. We’re just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a Cathedral dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we’ll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.
Day 21 Day 21: Salamanca To Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 21: Salamanca To Madrid

Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we’ll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila. Ávila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We’ll stop to admire them and find ourselves some lunch before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid. Back where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you’ll be able to make the most of our final night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.
Day 22 Day 22: End Madrid
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 22: End Madrid

Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.

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22 days tour

Best Of Spain And Portugal (Summer2023, 22 Days)

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Best Of Spain And Portugal (Summer2023, 22 Days)

Day 1: Start Madrid

Day 2: Madrid To Bilbao

Day 3: Bilbao To Pamplona

Day 4: Pamplona To Barcelona

Day 5: Barcelona

Day 6: Barcelona To Ibiza

Day 7: Ibiza

Day 8: Ibiza To Valencia

Day 9: Valencia To Granada

Day 10: Granada

Day 11: Granada To Madrid

Day 12: Madrid To Cordoba

Day 13: Cordoba To Seville

Day 14: Seville

Day 15: Seville To Lisbon

Day 16: Lisbon

Day 17: Lisbon To Leiria

Day 18: Leiria To Porto

Day 19: Porto

Day 20: Porto To Salamanca

Day 21: Salamanca To Madrid

Day 22: End Madrid

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