Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2025
Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2025
Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2025
12 Days Starting and ending in Madrid
Visiting: Madrid, Córdoba, Seville, The Algarve, Cascais, Sintra, Lisbon, Quinta do Sanguinhal Vineyard, Porto, Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca, Avila
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBEPAMA20
Recommended For:
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishFrom:
$3140
$2512 (USD)
Operator discount: -$628
-20%
Tour Overview
With 12 days under the Iberian sun, this trip will guide you through the rich and unique culture of both Spain & Portugal. Explore Cascais on a street art tour, see a Flamenco show, and enjoy a Special Stay night in a 15th century monastery in Córdoba. Plus, explore the UNESCO-listed sites of Porto & Sintra, tick off a Game of Thrones filming location in Seville, and dine on traditional Spanish & Portuguese dishes in the ultimate treat for the senses.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Madrid To Cordoba
Location: Madrid, Córdoba
Accommodation: Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew today and we'll start our adventure by heading 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 an orientation tour to fall head over heels with as we make our way to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Cordoba) 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 2: Cordoba To Seville
Location: Córdoba, Seville
Accommodation: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 3: Seville
Location: Seville
Accommodation: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 4: Seville To The Algarve
Location: Seville, The Algarve
Accommodation: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Remarkable coastlines. Show-stopping seafood. Pastel-coloured streets. And a sunny Atlantic breeze. Welcome to Portugal. Our first destination in this wonderful country is the breathtaking beaches of The Algarve. You’ll drop your bags off at our hotel and join us as we search for the best dinner spots. And so begins the second part of our adventure…
Day 5: The Algarve
Location: The Algarve
Accommodation: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Folks, it's beach time. But not just any beach, we’ll visit the stunning sun-kissed beaches of Algarve. So wake up, get some of that included breakfast, and put on your swimsuits. You’ve got the ENTIRE day to spend as you please. Soak in the sunlight. Dive into the water. Grab a book and chill. Taste some fresh seafood. Wow. For dinner, we’ll walk around the colourful streets and get some dinner on the way. Pure bliss.
Day 6: The Algarve To Lisbon Via Sintra And Cascais
Location: The Algarve, Cascais, Sintra, Lisbon
Accommodation: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Good morning, it’s time to say goodbye to the Algarve. Don’t worry. We’ve still got more coastal spots to explore. So, fill up on some breakfast and hop onto your coach!
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.
Stop two? The incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. Here in this fairytale town, expect to feel fully enchanted with a stop-off at Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra’s mesmerising manor house.
Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe’s historical cities. Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. You’ve got plenty of time for exploring tomorrow. So why not take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner?
Day 7: Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
A free day gives you plenty of time to explore all the hotspots including Portugal's Christo Rei (Christ the King), Rossio Square, the Belém 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.
Day 8: Lisbon To Porto Via Quinta Do Sanguinhal Vineyard
Location: Lisbon, Quinta do Sanguinhal Vineyard, Porto
Accommodation: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Lisbon, you’ve been incredible. But the show must go on. Today, we’ll make our way further up north, along the stunning coastline.
We can’t leave Portugal without tasting some authentic local wine, can we? That’s why we’re visiting the 19th century vineyards to see, swirl, sniff, sip, and savour some of it.
Alive with galleries and coffee shops and amazing food culture, the city of Porto is basically a dream for art lovers and foodies alike. So, it's a good thing you've got a free evening here to spend however you like. And if you're on the hunt for things to do, you can join us for a tour of some of the local foodie hotspots! Then, it's time to tuck in for tomorrow.
Day 9: Porto
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wakey wakey. You get to decide the agenda for today. You can choose to try local food (if you're still craving some from last night). Discover heritage in the old wooden tram in Riberia. Or walk along the picturesque coastline, and view the main sites like lavish São Francisco Church and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa.
Day 10: Porto To Salamanca Via Ciudad Rodrigo
Location: Porto, Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca
Accommodation: Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful!
We'll have an hour to check out a fortified city on the Spain/Portugal border - that dates back all the way to the Roman Empire (true story!)
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 11: Salamanca To Madrid
Location: Salamanca, Avila, Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel Praga (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 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 night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.
Day 12: End Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Check out our Q&As
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this Operator
Dates & Availability
Tuesday - Saturday
May 06, 2025 - May 17, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 14, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jul 08, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Jul 22, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Aug 05, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Aug 19, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025Tuesday - Saturday
Sep 16, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions