Grand Spain & Portugal (Small Groups, End Barcelona, 18 Days

Guide

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.

Meals

5 Dinner with Wine (DW) 17 Breakfast (B) 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 travelers over a beautiful evening of delicious food and wine. Lisbon: Delight in a taste of the famous Portuguese delicacy, Pastéis de Belém. Madrid: Honest culinary traditions and a fiesta of fresh ingredients are the hallmarks of your Spanish Highlight Dinner. The perfect accompaniment to good conversation and a chilled glass of beer or wine. Rueda: Some of Spain's finest wines hail from the Rueda region. During your tasting, learn about the Verdejo grape and what to look for in a fresh white. Gijon: Meet Flor, a local of Gijón, for a delicious meal of locally sourced produce that she has prepared just for you. Barcelona: At a typical Catalan restaurant, savor a delicious Celebration Dinner that incorporates classic cooking with the freshest produce.

Others

Choose between two carefully selected activities Seville: Stroll through Barrio de Santa Cruz with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Seville. Seville: Explore Seville's top sights on a panoramic city 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. 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. 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. 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. San Sebastián: Uncover the important maritime cultural heritage of the Basque country on a neighborhood walking tour in the old harbor area. 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. Lisbon: Visit Jerónimos Monastery with its beautiful Manueline architecture, reflecting Portugal's trade over the centuries and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions or see the basilica. Salamanca: See the golden stone buildings and handsome arcades of Plaza Mayor for which this city is famous for. Avila: Walk within the ancient walls of this unique town. Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, traveling 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. 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 Savior. 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. Pamplona: Spend free time exploring this city, known for its annual Running with the Bulls festival. Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive down Las Ramblas and the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture. Journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família. Barcelona: Venture inside Gaudi'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.

Transport

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.

Accommodation

1 night at Hotel Riu Plaza De Espana, Madrid 1 night at Vincci Albayzín, Granada 2 nights at Ayre Hotel Sevilla, Seville 2 nights at Turim Saldanha Hotel, Lisbon 1 night at Hotel Alameda Palace, Salamanca 2 nights at Barceló Torre de Madrid/Melia Serrano Madrid 2 nights at NH Collection Santiago de Compostela 1 night at Barceló Oviedo Cervantes 1 night at Eurostars Hotel Real, Santander 2 nights at Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastian 2 nights at Kimpton Vividora Hotel, Barcelona

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Insight Vacations 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. While highly recommended, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are no longer required for guests traveling with us from January 1, 2023 onward. It is your client’s responsibly to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destinations visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than the above. No refunds will be given if they are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to failure to comply with these requirements.

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Flights

Flights are not included.

Optional

CORDOBA & THE MEZQUITA Join your local expert for a walking tour of the perfectly preserved Moorish city of Cordoba. The highlight is undoubtedly the magnificent Mezquita, an 8th-century mosque with a Cathedral built inside. Walk with your local expert through the forest of horseshoe shaped arches to the Baroque choir stalls of the Cathedral and the richly ornamented Mihrab prayer niche. ADULT PRICE: EUR 45.00 DINNER IN SEVILLE WITH A HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDE Seville is Spain's most majestic city and an evening out is a must! Tonight we'll enjoy a lovely array of traditional Andalusian specialities, served in a local restaurant with wine, beer & soft drinks included. As well as a wonderful meal, we'll experience a magnificent horse & carriage ride through the old town of Seville, which is especially magical in the evening. ADULT PRICE: EUR 66.00 FADO EVENING Known as ''the soul of the Portuguese identity'', Fado is the emotive national song. Take in an unmissable performance of this UNESCO-recognised art in one of the country's famed fado houses. To complete the experience, savour a typical Portuguese dinner with wine included. ADULT PRICE: EUR 66.00 LISBON BY NIGHT Drive to the Bairro Alto, the old quarter of Lisbon, to admire the beautiful views over the city. Then take a funicular ride to the downtown Baixa area where cobblestones sparkle in the light of the shops, bars and cafes. Returning to your hotel, you'll pass monuments and buildings, lit up in all their glory. ADULT PRICE: EUR 19.00 SEAFOOD DINNER BY THE TAGUS RIVER Across the mighty Tagus River await Lisbon's famous seafood restaurants and wonderful views of the city. Board your ferry to cross the wide blue waters for a delightful evening of Portuguese seafood and fish specialities. After dinner, encounter more sweeping views over the Portuguese capital, as you return to your hotel via the impressive suspension bridge. ADULT PRICE: EUR 55.00 EXCURSION TO THE ROYAL PORTUGUESE RIVIERA Like the Kings of Portugal before you, travel to the glamorous resort of Cascais, a veritable jewel in the crown of Portugal. Via the wealthy playground of Estoril, with its famous Casino, we'll continue with our Local Expert to the Portuguese Riviera and through the forest of Sintra to visit one of the Royal summer palaces before heading back to Lisbon. ADULT PRICE: EUR 46.00 MADRID ROYAL PALACE The Royal Palace of Madrid is Spain's most sumptuous and impressive royal residence, jam packed with the riches and glory of Spanish history. Join a local historian to explore the extensive collection of armoury, porcelain, tapestries, gilt mirrors, works of art and period furniture. Highlights include the gold and scarlet Throne Room and magnificent State Apartments. A rare and enlightening look into the history and lifestyle of the Spanish monarchy. ADULT PRICE: EUR 31.00 EXCURSION TO SEGOVIA Drive to the fortified city of Segovia where a local expert leads you through the medieval streets from the ancient aqueduct to the magnificent Alcazar, one of the inspirations for Walt Disney's Cinderella castle. Inside this 14th century palace, experience the paintings, tapestries, weaponry and armoury of the Spanish medieval era. Then take a panoramic drive outside the walls to admire stunning views over the Eresma valley, the Roman aqueduct and picturesque buildings of this medieval jewel. ADULT PRICE: EUR 45.00 MADRID BY NIGHT An evening drive to the most historic area of Madrid including stops for wonderful views of the city and a walk through the lively streets and squares of old Madrid. Enjoy free time for dinner in one of the many restaurants and return home along the grand Avenida Castellana with its spectacular fountains. ADULT PRICE: EUR 19.00 MADRID BY NIGHT WITH DINNER Enjoy an evening out in the nation's stately capital city. Tonight we'll enjoy a wonderful dinner out on the town in a carefully chosen venue, accompanied by Spanish wine and great local entertainment. What a wonderful introduction to Madrid ADULT PRICE: EUR 61.00 RÍAS BAIXAS Travel southward to the Ría de Arousa, one of the deep fjord-like estuaries of Galicia to see where they farm local mussels. This beautiful coastal scenery is lined with beaches, vineyards, palm trees, grand villas and old stone houses. During our journey we'll also visit a typical Galician granite 'Pazo'; a grand manor house of the old aristocracy. ADULT PRICE: EUR 35.00 DINNER IN GALICIA Tonight we'll have the chance to sample a wonderful variety of Galician dishes, complemented with fantastic locally-produced wine. Discover the Celtic influence in the cuisine and enjoy ingredients fresh from the Atlantic. Having experienced the heart and soul of this wonderful region, tonight is the perfect opportunity to experience Galicia through your taste buds! ADULT PRICE: EUR 59.00 DONOSTIA BY NIGHT WITH DINNER View the beach and fishing port as we head to the lively heart of the old town of Spain's gourmet capital for a sumptuous supper in one of the city's boutique restaurants. Wine and soft drinks included. On Friday and Saturday nights, the selling price will be €66.00 ADULT PRICE: EUR 61.00 SAINT-JEAN-DE-LUZ, JEWEL OF THE BASQUE COUNTRY With your local expert, explore Saint-Jean-de-Luz, jewel of the Basque Country and visit the church where Louis XIV "The Sun King" married the Spanish princess Maria Theresa. An extra surprise awaits us next as we drive to the famous Biarritz summer residence of Napoleon III with its sophisticated spa resort. ADULT PRICE: EUR 40.00 GAUDÍ'S PARK GÜELL AND PORT OLYMPIC Enter a strange fantasy world at Parc Güell, Spain's most impressive public park! Here Gaudí designed mushroom-like houses, "bird nest" pillars and a stunning mosaic dragon. The huge central terrace is enveloped by a ceramic-encrusted serpentine bench (reputedly the world's longest seat) and offers panoramic views of Barcelona and the bay. We then head to the coast and Port Olympic, built for the athletes of the 1992 Olympics, where we'll have free time to try one the numerous waterfront restaurants. ADULT PRICE: EUR 40.00 MONTSERRAT & THE BLACK MADONNA We'll enjoy a stunning drive to Montserrat, the mystical sacred serrated mountain, with its unique formations and spectacular views. It's home to the Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria de Montserrat and the ‘Virgin of Montserrat’, one of the most-venerated Black Madonna’s of Europe. Catalan landscapes unfold before us, as our Local Expert introduces us to this place of immense beauty and significance. ADULT PRICE: EUR 40.00 GAUDI'S PARK GUELL AND THE MARITIME FRONT Enter a strange fantasy world at Parc Güell, Spain's most impressive park! Here Gaudí designed mushroom-like houses, "bird nest" pillars and a stunning mosaic dragon. The huge central terrace is enveloped by a ceramic-encrusted serpentine bench (reputedly the world's longest seat) and offers panoramic views of Barcelona and the bay. We then head to the Maritime Front, why not try one of the numerous waterfront restaurants? ADULT PRICE: EUR 40.00

Insurance

Insurance is not included.