Explore Spain & Portugal
Experience Overview
Follow an enticing trail of delicious tapas, avant-garde art, architectural triumphs and dramatic history on this 15-day trip through Spain and Portugal. Travel the scenic route from Madrid, relax on the beach in the Algarve and sip wine in Porto. Explore the rolling green hills of Granada, see the masterpieces of Picasso, Dali and Gaudi, and embrace the culture of these two spirited countries with a local leader to show you the way.
Highlights
- Journey through the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicin in Granada, then cross the river and visit the imposing Moorish fortress of the Alhambra.
- Unwind in a laidback fishing town in the Algarve, soak up the sun on the beach and take a boat trip around the rocky cliffs of the coast.
- Join pilgrims along the last leg of the famous Camino de Santiago journey as they reach the historic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
- Sample a couple of varieties of Porto’s signature wine (port) as you sit back, relax and watch the water flow by from one of the city’s riverside restaurants.
- Explore Madrid – home to art galleries, colourful architecture and some of the best restaurants in Spain.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3245
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Public bus,Metro,Taxi
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMSI
Starts: Madrid, Portugal
Finishes: Madrid, Portugal
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14),Accommodation: Hotel (14 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4224 ($282 /day)
Itinerary
Hola! Welcome to Madrid, the Spanish capital known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe visit the Museo del Prado or see the works of Picasso and Dali in the Museo Reina Sofia. After your meeting, you’ll join your local leader and small group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.
Optional Activities:
- Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (13 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo del Prado (15 EUR)
- Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico (6 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia (12 EUR)
- Madrid - Royal Palace (14 EUR)
- Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure (99 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a local bus to Granada. Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the Alcaiceri (old silk market area) to see the craftworks on sale, like ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. The rest of today is free for you to explore Granada at your own pace – maybe climb the streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra, check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real or watch the world go by as you indulge in some tapas at a bar.
Included Activities:
- Granada - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, visit Granada's Alhambra Palace on a guided tour. Wander the dominating red fortress towers of this 11th-century complex set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The palace is made up of the Alcazaba – the 11th century Muslim wing, which has great views from the towers – and the Palacio Nazaries and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. After, maybe head deeper into Granada’s Moorish Albaicin quarter and check out some of the traditional tea houses. Tonight, maybe meet up again with the group for dinner.
Included Activities:
- Granada - Guided Visit to Alhambra Palace & Gardens
Optional Activities:
- Granada - Mirador de San Nicolas - Free
- Granada - Science Park (7 EUR)
- Granada - Science Park Planetarium (2 EUR)
- Granada - Catedral de Granada (6 EUR)
- Granada - Capilla Real (6 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel to the vibrant city of Seville, known for its oranges, tapas and flamenco. This morning, set off on a walking tour through Seville with your leader. Explore narrow streets, hidden squares filled with orange trees and flower-adorned patios and learn about the city’s history. Then, visit the Alcazar of Seville – a grand royal palace. Known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Spanish Royal Family still use the Alcazar as their residence!
Included Activities:
- Seville - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for ‘Game of Thrones’. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group. Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight!
Included Activities:
- Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance
Optional Activities:
- Seville - Torre del Oro (3 EUR)
- Seville - Santa Paula Convent (5 EUR)
- Seville - Indias Archive - Free
- Seville - Museum of Fine Arts (2 EUR)
- Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre (3 EUR)
- Seville - Real Alcazar (14 EUR)
- Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs (2 EUR)
- Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower (12 EUR)
- Seville - Casa de Pilatos (12 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Cross the border into Portugal and travel through fertile plain landscapes of orange orchards, olive groves and maize fields to the Algarve – Portugal's southern coast. When you arrive in the seaside town of Lagos, maybe walk along the cobbled streets around Lago’s Old Town and explore the plazas and churches enclosed within 16th century walls. This evening, maybe feast on freshly caught fish at a restaurant or cafe overlooking the water, before dancing your way into Lagos' nightlife.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Most of today is free to enjoy Lagos and its surrounds. At some point during the day (depending on availability) you’ll go on a boat tour around Algarve’s rocky cliffs. Explore the jagged, weathered rockface of Pinta da Piedade, full of arches, towers, grottoes and caves that have been eroded into this limestone coast. Your leader will let you know what time you set sail in advance so you can plan other activities around it. For the rest of the day, maybe take a stroll through the alleys of central Lagos, take a boat trip and look for the Algarve dolphins or pack a book and a towel and head to Praia do Porto de Mos and Camilo Beach.
Included Activities:
- Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, travel to Lisbon – the capital of Portugal known for its architecture, seafood and non-stop nightlife. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk of Lisbon to find your feet. There are some great modern and ancient art museums to check out, like the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Coach Museum. The rest of today is free for you to continue exploring.Maybe visit the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation, or roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. As the sun goes down, maybe visit one of Lisbon's best nightlife centres in Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy an emotional fado performance (traditional Portuguese music).
Included Activities:
- Lisbon - Orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner (50 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to further discover Lisbon. Maybe head out this morning on a tour to the medieval citadel, Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. Maybe catch a tram or hire a bike and cycle along the water to the historic neighbourhood of Belem – make sure you try a pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tart) at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem! Maybe relax at a cafe in hilly Alfama or check out the street art spread throughout the city.
Optional Activities:
- Lisbon - Naval Museum (7 EUR)
- Lisbon - National Art Museum (8 EUR)
- Lisbon - Folk Art Museum (5 EUR)
- Lisbon - Oceanarium (25 EUR)
- Lisbon - Puppet Museum (5 EUR)
- Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum (10 EUR)
- Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle (15 EUR)
- Lisbon - Belem Tower and Monastery (20 EUR)
- Lisbon - Canned Fish Tasting (7 EUR)
- Lisbon - Traditional Boat Tour (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a train to Porto – the capital of the north that stretches along the banks of the River Douro, known as the birthplace of the fortified wine (port) and for its medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets and merchants’ houses. When you arrive, join a group tasting of some tawny and ruby ports at one of the many wine houses across the river. Then visit the Museum do Vinho and learn about the history of wine and port making. The rest of the evening is free for you to spend how you like – maybe head out for dinner at a local restaurant – your local leader will have the best recommendations.
Included Activities:
- Porto - Port Wine Tasting
- Porto - Orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to explore Porto. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower). Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings, then make a turn for Bolhão Market. This is the city’s most famed market, bursting with fresh produce and other goodies. Up in the cathedral area you’ll find the oldest neighbourhood in Porto and a place where you’ll see its true soul. Boat cruises along the Rio Douro operate several times a day, offering insight into the history of Porto's six famous bridges. A cruise is also a great chance to snap some great photos of the colourful tiled houses lined up along the riverbank. For dinner, make sure you try the country’s most famous sandwich – the francesinha – then head to Galerias Paris Street for nightlife.
Optional Activities:
- Porto - Livraria Lello (8 EUR)
- Porto - Clerigos Tower (8 EUR)
- Porto - Serralves Foundation (24 EUR)
- Porto - Bolhao Market - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, board a bus bound for Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. The capital of Galicia became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam and is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. When you arrive, visit the cathedral where St James (one of the 12 Apostles) is supposedly buried. The cathedral was consecrated in 1211 and is the central point within the medieval walls of theOlTown, standing on the Plaza del Obradoiro with its towers soaring above the town. Elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas, full of pilgrims and locals spending their day in this atmospheric place. Maybe join them in one of the cafes, sitting back and listening to many of the street artists performing, or visit the cathedral and do as pilgrims do – circle the main altar admiring the greatness.
Included Activities:
- Santiago de Compostela - Orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, maybe join the pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Take an early bus to Amenal village where the walk begins. The trek will take you through the villages, fields and rivers of Galicia. In Lavacolla village, you'll cross the river where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city. From here, you’ll ascend to Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), so called for the feeling of catching a first glimpse of the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Embrace the atmosphere alongside some walkers who may have trekked over 800 km to be here! Once back in Santiago, the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an open-air museum – the lively squares, the market and the University buildings are all a must-se. For your final night in town, maybe wander down the streets of Rua do Franco and Rua da Raina to try some tapas.
Included Activities:
- Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike
Optional Activities:
- Santiago de Compostela - Visit to a Local Cheesemaker (20 EUR)
- Santiago de Compostela - Bike Hire (10 EUR)
- Santiago de Compostela - Pilgrimage Museum - Free
- Santiago de Compostela - Cathedral (12 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you'll take a train back to Madrid. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings. Then, the rest of the day is free for you to explore how you wish. Maybe hang out in El Retiro Park or explore Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velazquez and other Spanish masters. Tonight, why not ask your leader the best spot for dinner and head out with your fellow travellers to cheers to a trip well-travelled.
Included Activities:
- Madrid - Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today your Spain and Portugal adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned so you can depart the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
Included Activities:
- Madrid - Orientation Walk
Optional Activities:
- Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico (6 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo del Prado (15 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia (12 EUR)
- Madrid - Royal Palace (14 EUR)
- Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (13 EUR)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Evan - Traveled, December 2023
A first experience I will never forget! Our tour guide had a big heart, couldn’t find a false note anywhere. Ate hearty meals with the gang, the sights were quite grand, bus rides wound my cogs but at least they were on land!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/30/2023
Susie - Traveled, December 2023
It was a joy to share our leader’s enthusiasm and knowledge. She was clearly someone who operated from a base of principles and values. A solid worthy human being.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/30/2023
Justyna - Traveled, October 2023
What an amazing trip full of food, culture, history and even some beach time. The trip goes fast but allows to see so many different sides of Spain and Portugal. Our tour leader knew such much about each stop and was able to provide some extra knowledge in each area, If you are after a taster of both Spain and Portugal this is a great trip you for! had an absolutely fantastic time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/13/2023
Sally - Traveled, October 2023
I couldn’t recommend my explore Spain and Portugal trip more highly. I felt immersed in the culture of each place through the way in which we travelled and the guidance of our amazing tour leader Ana. I had an iconic two weeks!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/26/2023
Christopher - Traveled, October 2023
This Explore Spain and Portugal trip provided a wonderful snapshot of what these two countries have to offer. Our tour, led by the wonderful Ana Paula, was amazing in every respect. For anyone wanting a trip filled with delicious food, sangria, wine, culture, history, art and fun, I highly recommend this tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Po Yu Shelly - Traveled, September 2023
Had the best time visiting Spain and Portugal, the places we visited were just spectacular. On reflection of this particular trip (our 3rd time with intrepid), I’d say this trip has too many free days, lack of included activities and just way too much travelling time lost to public transport. Few accomodation places were not ideal. This trip felt a bit more of a transport trip from A to B rather than highlights of Spain and Portugal as you will need to organise your own itinerary on the many free days.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Paula - Traveled, September 2023
This trip is a wonderful opportunity to explore previously unknown destinations, culture and foods. Be prepared to be amazed and immersed. The trip is quite physically active, a plus for us. I can now check off visiting the Alhambra and more from my dream list. And our tour leader, Kami, was the absolute best. She handled everything thrown her way with aplomb and a smile, and made our trip memorable, an experience we will always cherish.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Cindy - Traveled, September 2023
Spain/Portugal trip was wonderful. Loved all the places we visited. Did feel a bit rushed at times with really only one full day in each place as much of first day lost in travel time. Could use an extra day in Lagos to catch our breath. Also an extra day in Lisbon as there is so much to see. Overall was a great experience. I highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/04/2023
Michael - Traveled, September 2023
Fantastic leader who provided a lot of useful information and tried to help all people. Great itinerary for Spain/Portugal but poorly placed hotels severely impact energy and time in each city. Lack of included meals is extremely disappointing considering some hotel departure times.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023
Nelly - Traveled, September 2023
Intrepid provides the right amount of structure, freedom & safety in exploring a new country. Freedom for those that want independence, as there is adequate time to explore & the structure of getting from A to B safely & efficiently. If it wasn’t for Intrepid we would have missed so many wonderful sights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Suzanne - Traveled, August 2023
This was a fabulous trip. Our guide, Isabel was so knowledgeable and fun. We were able to see something with the group, but there was enough time in each place to explore on our own. The accommodation was great. I would do it again tomorrow.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023
Catherine - Traveled, July 2023
Great trip if you want to see Spain & Portugal. Tour Leader Isabel was just lovely and well organised with a lot of historical knowledge. Highlights for me were definitely the Alhambra, the Alcazar and the Sagrada Familia! But doing the last 18km of the Camino trail was an incredible feeling as well. Highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
JULIE - Traveled, July 2023
The itinerary for this trip gave us the opportunity to travel through bustling, cosmopolitan cities like Madrid, Lisbon & Barcelona, as well as experience the beachside beauty of Lagos, Algarve and the picturesque city of Porto. The chance to walk part of the Camino trail in Santiago de Compostela was a unique and unforgettable experience to share with the group.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/06/2023
Glecy - Traveled, May 2023
The Spain to Portugal trip is an amazing trip with a great combination of visits to historical areas, cultural experience, strolling the city, relaxing by the beach, great food and hotel. Highly recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/10/2023
Allan - Traveled, May 2023
An excellent introduction to Spain and Portugal with a great combination of organized and free time. The use of public transport was enjoyable and at times entertaining. Pack light for the many stairs. Our tour leader Adrian is a credit to his profession.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/04/2023
Paul - Traveled, May 2023
This trip has great attractions and activities, it has a good balance of busy cities, then quiet places.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/11/2023
Eric - Traveled, May 2023
Explore Spain and Portugal covers a lot of territory in a short time as you can see a lot between the two countries. Dabith(David) our tour leader was excellent and he was very attentive to our group!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/30/2023
Dominique - Traveled, April 2023
Trip of a lifetime, fantastic experience and I thoroughly enjoyed myself, would highly recommend
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2023
Stephen - Traveled, April 2023
The explore Spain and Portugal original tour has a great itinerary, It goes to some amazing places like Lisbon , Porto to name 2 . The food in Spain and Portugal is absolutely amazing .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2023
William - Traveled, April 2023
I had an absolute blast. An amazing tour guide combined with travel buddies that were all legends combined to make for a memorable trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2023
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