Portugal and Spain - A Tale of Two Cultures

Portugal and Spain - A Tale of Two Cultures

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14 Days From

$4386

Portugal and Spain - A Tale of Two Cultures

14 Days

Tour operator:

Titan Travel

Tour code:

TTPLB

Physical rating:

Moderate

From:
$4386 (USD) including Flights from the UK

NB: Prices correct on 04-May-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

On our 14-day cultural tour of Portugal and Spain, we'll journey from Porto to Barcelona, discovering how history, religion, cuisine, art, and music have shaped these countries into what they are today. In Portugal, we'll try its famous port and cruise on the Douro River. Marvel at Moorish, baroque, and Gothic churches and, of course, indulge in some delicious pasteis de nata (sweet custard tarts). In Spain, we'll explore Roman ruins, castles, and medieval fortresses. Admire some of the world's most incredible art, including iconic monuments designed by Gaudí - and indulge in some tasty tapas.

Highlights

  • VIP door-to-door travel service

Places You'll See

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Portugal And Spain - A Tale Of Two Cultures

Itinerary

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Day 1

Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home for your flight to Porto. Upon arrival we’ll transfer to the first hotel on our culture tour of Portugal and Spain.

Day 2

We’ll spend the day in Porto, known for its rich history, traditional heritage, stunning architecture, and its famous port wine. It's a food lover's paradise, offering dishes like Francesinha (a hearty sandwich with cured meats and spicy sauce), bacalhau (salted codfish), and delicious local pastries.
On this morning’s walking tour, we’ll explore Porto's historic centre, strolling through its narrow streets, passing by colourful houses, and traditional buildings. We’ll visit São Bento Railway Station, renowned for its beautiful azulejo panels (painted ceramic tiles), illustrated with scenes from Portuguese history. After our tour, we’ll head to one of Porto's oldest port wine cellars to sample three different port wines and learn more about the grapes and wine making process.

Day 3

This morning, we'll drive to Regua, a lovely town in the heart of the Douro Valley. We'll visit a family-run winery (quinta) for a tour of their vineyard. After sampling some wine and enjoying a traditional lunch, we'll head to Pinhão to board a historic Rabelo boat for a relaxing cruise on the Douro River. Relax as you sip local Porto wine while taking in the views.

Day 4

Our destination today is Coimbra, a historic city in central Portugal, on the banks of the Mondego River. Known as the second home (after Lisbon) to Fado music and for its deep ties to academia, Coimbra earns its nickname as the City of Students thanks to its prestigious University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During our tour, we'll wander through the city's historic centre, a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with musicians and well-preserved medieval buildings, including Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery and Coimbra Cathedral. After some free time to explore, we'll make our way to our hotel in Lisbon.

Day 5

Today we’ll explore Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in the world, pre-dating other European capitals such as Paris and Rome by centuries. First, we'll take a short tuk-tuk ride to the historic Belem district where we’ll have a guided tour. It's a fantastic way to soak in the waterfront views and the old buildings. We’ll stop to enjoy a tasting of some of the city’s favourite treats: pasteis de nata (sweet custard tarts).
We’ll also have some free time to explore central Lisbon before heading back to the hotel to get ready for a traditional Fado dinner show in a local restaurant.

Day 6

You have a day at leisure to head back into central Lisbon to explore the museums, take a tram across the city, or take your pick from the incredible restaurants and bars the city has to offer. Or join an optional excursion to royal Sintra, where you’ll join a local resident for an in-depth cultural tour of the region. There’ll be mountain-top palaces, medieval castles, music, and a food experience in an eclectic restaurant with its own Troubadour, that’ll take you on a flavourful journey through Portugal.

Day 7

Say goodbye to Portugal as we make our way to Spain. But first, there’s one more adventure waiting for us in Évora, Alentejo. We’ll explore this UNESCO-listed city, uncovering everything from ancient Roman spots to Renaissance wonders. We’ll visit the Temple of Diana, believed to date back to the 1st century AD. Take a stroll around Évora Cathedral and climb up to the roof for stunning views of the golden plains that stretch out around the city.
In the early afternoon, we’ll cross the border to Zafra in Spain, located in the heart of Baja Extremadura. It’s often referred to as, ‘Little Seville’, due to its architectural resemblance to the capital city of Andalucia. The town's main attraction is the impressive Castle of Zafra. This 15th-century fortress, perched on a rocky outcrop, provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The castle gained fame as a filming location, representing the Tower of Joy in the TV series Game of Thrones.

Day 8

We’ll head to Mérida, with a short stop in Talavera de la Reina on the way, a town famous for its ceramics. Mérida’s well-preserved Roman ruins have earnt it UNESCO World Heritage status - the city was founded in 25 BC by the Roman Emperor Augustus and many structures still stand today.
We’ll visit the Temple of Diana and the Teatro Romano de Merida (Roman Theatre) - one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world. We’ll then continue to Madrid where we’ll stay for the next three nights.

Day 9

Madrid is a fantastic city, from incredible art and delicious food to captivating history and welcoming locals, the culture here is remarkable. On our city tour, we’ll navigate through Madrid’s famous avenues and squares, including the Gran Vía, Castellana and Plaza de España. Our tour passes The Royal Palace and Prado Museum as well as the historic quarters, famous parks, and the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium - the home turf of Real Madrid’s football team. This evening we’ll enjoy a traditional tapas dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 10

Today, there’s a choice to relax at the hotel or to explore Madrid independently. Or you can also join an optional excursion to Castle Manzanares el Real, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Constructed in 1475, it showcases a blend of Gothic and Mudejar architectural styles, with a rectangular layout and four corner towers. Originally serving both military and residential purposes, the castle has undergone restoration and is now a fascinating museum.

Day 11

Today, we're hopping on a train from Madrid to the incredible city of Barcelona - our home for the next three nights. Barcelona is a hub of iconic architecture, museums, and favourite artists - Gaudí, Miró, Picasso and Dalí have all had deep connections to this city.
In the next couple of days, we'll get to soak in all that this colourful city has to offer. But for now, let's enjoy the journey - a roughly two-and-a-half-hour train ride through the Spanish landscape. We'll pass by villages, towns, and farmlands before immersing ourselves in the hustle and bustle of Barcelona.

Day 12

Today is free - or you can keep exploring with an optional excursion to Girona, a charming medieval town nestled in north-eastern Spain. Picture narrow cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and the stunning Gothic Cathedral of Saint Mary. During the tour we’ll visit the Cathedral of Girona, the Museum of Jewish History, and the Arab baths. We'll also have some free time to visit the Pont de les Peixateries Velles bridge, crafted in Gustav Eiffel's traditional style.

Day 13

It’s the last full day of the tour, but it will be a memorable one. We’ve got a city tour of Barcelona planned, taking in all the key sights and more. We'll begin by heading to Mirador del Alcalde at Montjuic for the best views of the city. From there, we'll make stops at the National Palace to see the Magic Fountain, Arenes (the old bullfighting ring), and enjoy panoramic views extending all the way to Tibidabo hill.
We’ll continue with a stroll through the Gothic Quarter, allowing us to marvel at medieval architecture. We’ll visit Las Ramblas, a lively boulevard where we can watch street performers, living statues and musicians, before navigating the narrow streets of Barri Gòtic in the heart of Barcelona's historic city centre.
In the afternoon, our adventure takes us to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. We'll visit Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera - the most important monuments designed by local architect Antoni Gaudí, whose iconic and distinctive work dominates the cityscape. Our day ends with a farewell dinner at the hotel.

Day 14

It's the end of our culture packed tour and we’ll transfer to the airport for the return flight home. Upon arrival your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.

What's Included

  • 13 nights in hotels

  • International flights. Prices are based on return flights with British Airways from London Heathrow or Gatwick.

  • Titan tour manager

  • 21 meals: 13 breakfasts 1 lunch 7 dinnersundefined excursions and visits

  • Winery tour and tasting

  • Walking tour of Porto and port tasting

  • Rabelo boat cruise on the Douro River

  • Walking tour of Coimbra

  • Guided tour of Lisbon and Belem district

  • Fado dinner show

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Check out our Q&As

  • Do I have to pay a Single Supplement?

    In most cases a single supplement will apply. If the price for a Single room for sole occupancy is not shown, please ask our team for details and we will be able to check the details for you.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We've been taking our customers across the world on escorted tours for more than 40 years

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Our commitment to sustainable travel is part of our ethos. We love exploring the world and hope that, alongside our customers, we can be part of a bigger change in respecting the people and wildlife on our planet and minimising the impact we have on our environment.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    With some COVID-19 rules and restrictions still in place there are a few details that you need to know. This information is subject to change. It’s your responsibility to monitor changes and ensure you fulfil all relevant criteria for travel. Rest assured that we’re on hand to help and answer any questions you might have.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    You’ll receive your Final holiday documents via email approximately 14 days prior to your departure.

Reviews of this operator

Brian Jones (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from the great...

08-Apr-2024

Recently returned from the great Indian rail journey.My wife and I could hardly believe the value for money.From pick ups from Durham to Heathrow and back,to the number of coach and train journeys , quality hotels, great choice of food throughout and our first night in Heathrow Hilton. What really made our trip a success was our guide, Prashant,who managed a party of twenty four very varied, sometimes a little unpredictable travellers with ease.Nothing was too much trouble for him and as a group we gelled and warmed to Prashant as he kept us safe, well informed and a little entertained by his mix of authority and humanity.Where do I begin with the tour itself ? India,a country of extremes.Poverty,wealth,order,chaos.Sometimes bleak,often breathtakingly beautiful.The people,the cities,art, architecture,flaura and fauna.Delhi,Jaipur, Amritsar,Agra, Ranthambore, Chandigarh and the icing on the cake that is Shimla. An absolute masterclass of man versus nature,the railway and buildings are an unbelievable feat,but wait until you see the dual carriageway being built on the mountainside.🤯I could go on for a very long time but I'll just post some photos.Thanks to Titan,thanks to the excellent Prashant and and a massive thanks to the other twenty two travellers who helped shape our holiday of a lifetime.🏁💜

Odile Lawen (Google Reviewer)  

I have booked the Icelandic...

11-Mar-2024

I have booked the Icelandic Adventure holiday with Titan Travel, the Booking Staff was pleasant throughout. What I love about Titan Travel, transfer from your home to the airport and vice versa is included in the holiday.

Thomas Fisher (Google Reviewer)  

Danube cruise was great value....

13-Sep-2023

Danube cruise was great value. Well organised. Clear instructions from Titan prior to travel. Door to door service great.

Sarah Hoad  

Exceptional trip and service by Titan

04-Oct-2022

Just returned from a fabulous tour of California & the golden west. It’s a full on tour with early starts but you see so much varied landscape from the ocean to the desert to Yosemite. My 2nd tour with Titan & my first solo tour. Thoroughly enjoyed it & met some great people. Grand Canyon was amazing would definitely recommend

Trustpilot
Ms Margaret Aldgate  

Not merely a holiday, rather a memorable experience

29-Dec-2022

I have used other travel operators; this was the 1st time of touring with Titan----Israel, The Holy Land, from being collected from home and returned at the end of the holiday this was an unforgettable experience; the Tour Manager, a PhD Archaeology made the whole tour so interesting, he enlightened us throughout each day from an historical, archeological and Biblical viewpoint, bringing each site we visited come to life, and went over and above his remit escorting us for evening trips around the local area; thanks also to our very patient driver who coped with the very busy traffic; our hotels were good, professional and pleasant staff and really good food; I would recommend Titan to anyone looking for a fascinating tour with excellent efficient service thank you Titan nor just for a holiday for a memorable experience

Trustpilot
Sella Shan (Google Reviewer)  

We had a 2 weeks...

05-Dec-2023

We had a 2 weeks fantastic holiday arranged by Titan to Vietnam and Cambodia. Excellent,well organised Throughly enjoyed. Very good service by Vietnam Airlines, if you could afford book it in premium economy. We had a door to door service , picked up to airport from home and then dropped at home from airport, very convinient. Particular credit goes to our guide THI who is a caring, knolegeable, friendly down to earth man who made our trip a memorable one. I will not hesitate to book another holiday through Titan, their staff are friendly and helpful

Eileen Bulsara (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic holiday...

26-May-2023

We had a fantastic holiday in Mississippi. Right from our chauffeur driven car picking us up to the return journey, we had a great time. The first hotel The Gaylord was amazing,absolutely huge,first class. The second The Double tree in Memphis unfortunately wasn't, the hotel was tired and very basic, the only plus was where it is situated in the centre of town, we were only there two nights so it wasn't to bad. The American Queen Steam Boat was first class all the way, thoroughly enjoyed the seven nights sailing down the Mississippi. The last hotel the Sheraton New Orleans was very comfortable too. Our guide throughout our time away was Laura Tuttle. she was amazing, very knowledgeable, and helpful. We also had a coach driver Guil, who went over and beyond to give you the best time. Other coach guides included Jim,who was so funny, and also very knowledgeably. Very entertaining throughout. The entire itinerary itinerary was very well thought out, included a huge variety of visits to different Interesting locations. Highly recommend using Titan for all your holiday destinations.

Mrs Crompton  

Perfect Italian Holiday…

31-Oct-2022

Just returned from a lovely week in Sorrento at the Grand Hotel Hermitage, we had an excellent guide Peter Macchristopher. we loved the hotel the staff were very nice especially in the dining rooms, the food was good and the room we had was really nice with a wonderful view. Altogether very good value holiday.we felt the trip to Pompei was very good also boat trip to Amalfi. I would recommend a walk to the village of St Agatha and a three hour ride on the Little Blue Train. Great fun.this can be booked at reception.

Trustpilot
Susan Hawken (Google Reviewer)  

THE GREAT INDIAN RAIL JOURNEY!!!!...

03-Feb-2024

THE GREAT INDIAN RAIL JOURNEY!!!! (Dreadful) Avoid Titan and Saga at all costs. False descriptions of the tour and dreadful administration Returned to the UK last evening with a great sigh of relief after the worst holiday ever. 1. No block booking of airplane seats by Titan. (Husband and I sat apart on the long, overnight flight) 2. Unable to pre-book seats as Titan reference numbers did not coincide with anything. 3. Husband and I not sat together on any of the train journeys! In fact, on one occasion I was sat, alone on a sleeper carriage, a couple of carriages away from the rest of the group who were scattered over two or three carriages. Terrifying as a female to be sat alone in the midst of noisy locals!!!!! (Eventually the guide, Rahi, did come to rescue me and found a seat near the main group) 4. The guide, Rahi, would usually get off the coach and begin walking off without waiting for all the group to disembark the coach. (Spot the guide in the crowd!) 5. The guide, Rahi, refused to use any identifying prop such as a flag, hat, jacket or umbrella. Frightening to be in the manic crowds of Delhi and other crowded places to be unable to see the guide. 6. NO AUDIO HEADSET system on any excursion 7. The guide, Rahi, didn’t face the whole group, but stood sideways on and was unable to be heard by the majority. 8. OUTRAGEOUS behaviour by the guide when he enquired as to the whereabouts of my husband, whom I explained was in bed with an upset stomach and was feeling unwell. Rahi DID A REVERSE AIR PUNCH😳😳. This was in response to an earlier conversation when my husband had complained about our separate seating arrangements. TOTALLY UNPROFESSIONAL 9. When we arrived at Heathrow to find our aircraft seats were not allocated, we were advised to speak to our guide on arrival at Delhi. Rahi merely shrugged his shoulders and said he couldn’t do anything. 10. Tour pace incorrect - gruelling pace and only half a day relaxation due to the guide, Rahi, throwing in visits to shops and factories fie him to earn his commission as I head him tell another!!!!!!! 11. When off loaded the return flight due to illness, we were unable to get in contact with Titan/Saga. Left in Delhi without an hotel or flight!!! Found accommodation but didn’t remove shoes or clothes due to the poor standard. Final summary: Poor, disappointing, inefficient, incompetent, misleading, misrepresentations, are just a few words to describe.

Linda Vokes (Google Reviewer)  

Luxury VIP door to door...

17-Jul-2023

Luxury VIP door to door travel! I don't think so....Titan sent a Toyota Prius uber to Stanstead for a return journey to Newport, S Wales. 4 adults plus luggage! the experience was anything but luxurious. Contacted Titan on the return journey and since return. They simply didn't seem interested and offered us a £300 travel discount off a future trip! After a lot of emails they converted it to a £300 cash refund. Give it a lot of thought before booking !

Dates & Availability

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

Apr 02, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025
$4386 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

May 07, 2025 - May 20, 2025
$4511 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

May 21, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$4511 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

Jun 11, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
$4511 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$4511 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

Sep 17, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$4511 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

Oct 01, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$4511 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Instant Booking Available

Wednesday - Tuesday

Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$4448 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Titan Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 75 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Titan Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform titan travel, 75 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Titan Travel requires a minimum deposit of 395 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of titan travel charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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