Best of Spain & Portugal - End Madrid, Small Group, Summer
Best of Spain & Portugal - End Madrid, Small Group, Summer
$6195
Best of Spain & Portugal - End Madrid, Small Group, Summer
15 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Salamanca, Porto, Lisbon, Seville, Gibraltar, Costa del Sol, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Spain and Portugal with the "Best of Spain & Portugal - End Madrid, Small Group, Summer" tour. This cultural adventure takes you through the vibrant cities and stunning landscapes of Gibraltar, Spain, and Portugal. Experience the rich history and architecture of Madrid, Segovia, and Salamanca, and savor the flavors of authentic Spanish and Portuguese cuisine. Delight in the sights of Porto's iconic bridges, Lisbon's historic Belém Tower, and the breathtaking Alhambra Palace in Granada. Enjoy guided tours with local experts, luxurious accommodations, and authentic dining experiences, including a paella cooking demonstration in Valencia and a flamenco show in Seville. Travel in comfort aboard a spacious, air-conditioned coach, ensuring a relaxing and enriching exploration of these captivating countries.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Seville: Stroll through Barrio de Santa Cruz with a Local Expert and hear how the Jewish community has shaped the city's history.
- Seville: See the city's top sights on a panoramic tour with your Local Expert.
Top Rated Highlights
- 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.
- Segovia: Visit the medieval streets of this fortified city to see the 14th-century Alcazar Palace and extensive Roman aqueduct.
- Salamanca: See the handsome arcaded Plaza Mayor, the honey-colored cathedral and the 16th century university buildings as you explore the city with your Local Expert.
- Porto: See the iconic bridges and buildings decorated in tiles.
- Obidos: Lead by your Travel Director, walk through the picturesque narrow streets up to the main square of this ancient walled town.
- Fátima: Led by your Travel Director, explore the pilgrimage site that attracts nearly seven million faithful visitors every year.
- 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.
- 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.
- Gibraltar: With your Local Expert, explore the Rock of Gibraltar, one of the pillars of Hercules, affording magnificent views and see the meeting of the Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Spanish Sierra. Visit St. Michael's Cave and see the Barbary Apes.
- Mijas: Journey to this white-washed village and stroll the streets to admire the coastal views.
- Alfarnatejo: Visit the beautiful, quiet town and walk the town center.
- Granada: Explore 'The City of the Pomegranate' with a Local Expert. During sightseeing you'll see the icons dedicated to this fruit throughout the city.
- Valencia: See the ultra-modern Center of Arts and Sciences and the huge gates of the old town, Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart.
- Peñíscola: See the seaside castle featured in the film 'El Cid'.
- Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
- Barcelona: Venture inside Gaudí'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.
Make Travel Matter
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.
Authentic Dining
Madrid: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant and get to know your fellow travelers over a beautiful evening of delicious food and wine.
Vila Nova de Gaia: Sample a selection of world renowned Port wines during a tour and tasting in the city's historic wine cellars.
Lisbon: Delight in a taste of the famous Portuguese custard tart, Pastéis de Belém, made in a 19th century bakery with the original secret recipe.
Torremolinos: Taste a selection of freshly pressed olive oils with locally made farmer bread when you stop at Almazara, the oldest olive grove in the region.
Alfarnatejo: Join a local family for a Dine-at-Home lunch featuring traditional recipes. Learn about regional customs and culture through your hosts' warm hospitality and lively conversation.
Valencia: Learn the authentic recipe of paella when you join a local chef for a Cooking Demonstration. Savor the flavors of this classic dish for dinner, washed down with a glass of Sangria, during dinner.
Barcelona: Join a wine expert when you visit Cava Dorada. Enjoy a tasting at the great Cava vineyards during your delicious Highlight Lunch.
Barcelona: At a typical Catalan restaurant, savor a delicious Celebration Dinner that incorporates classic cooking with the freshest produce.
Insight Choice
Seville: Stroll through Barrio de Santa Cruz with a Local Expert and hear how the Jewish community has shaped the city's history.
Seville: See the city's top sights on a panoramic tour with your Local Expert.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Barceló Torre de Madrid, Barceló Emperatriz, Madrid
Meals Included: Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for dinner in a local restaurant and enjoy an evening of delicious food and wine.
Day 2: Madrid Of The Bourbons
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Barceló Torre de Madrid, Barceló Emperatriz, Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Guided by your Local Expert, visit the Spanish capital’s most historic neighborhoods. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter, discovering the origins of the city. Enjoy a special visit to the renowned Prado Museum with an art historian who will guide you through the collective works of Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens and more.
Day 3: Segovia And Golden Salamanca
Location: Salamanca
Accommodation: Hotel Alameda Palace, Salamanca.
Accommodation Name: Alameda Palace, Salamanca
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to the fortified city of Segovia. Walk through the medieval streets with a Local Expert and see the magnificent Alcazar fortress, before continuing onto the historic aqueduct. Journey west, overlooking the ancient walls of Ávila, en route to Salamanca. During your guided sightseeing tour, admire the golden stone buildings the city is famous for, including the arcaded Plaza Mayor, the honey-colored cathedral and the 16th century university buildings.
Day 4: Porto, Grande Dame On The Douro
Location: Porto
Accommodation: NH Collection Porto Batalha., Infante Sagres, Porto.
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Porto Batalha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Portuguese border to reach Porto. Situated on the River Douro, the city is celebrated internationally as the capital of Port wine. Visit the Vila Nova de Gaia wine stores and walk along corridors of casks. Get to know your tawnys and vintages during a tasting. Continue your exploration of the city, admiring the multi-colored houses, churches adorned with glazed tiles and iconic bridges.
Day 5: Holy Fátima, Ancient Óbidos And Lisbon Relaxed Start
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon., Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Turim Marques, Lisbon , Corinthia, Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue to Fátima, Portugal’s most renowned place of pilgrimage. Journey to the fortified town of Óbidos and walk within its walls, exploring the narrow, medieval streets where houses are covered with flowers. Your travels continue to the Portuguese capital, Lisbon.
Day 6: Lisbon And The Age Of The Great Discoveries
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon., Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Turim Marques, Lisbon , Corinthia, Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco, the finest square in the city. Visit the Belém Quarter, from where sailing ships once set forth to discover faraway lands. Enjoy a taste of the famous Pastéis de Belém from a traditional patisserie that has managed to hold on to the secret recipe of Portugal's finest pastry for almost 200 years. View the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the historic Belém Tower. This fortress was originally set in the middle of the river, but is now left high and dry on the riverbank. Visit the National Coach Museum, featuring one of the most prominent horse-drawn carriage collections in the world. With the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps join an Optional Experience to the Portuguese Riviera, frequented by surfers, royalty and, on occasion, James Bond.
Day 7: Seville, The City Of Carmen
Location: Seville
Accommodation: NH Collection Sevilla, Seville.
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Sevilla, Seville
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Lisbon via the modern Tagus Bridge and cross the border to reach Seville. Visit the Seville Cathedral, the burial place of Christopher Columbus.Explore Seville with Insight Choice. Choose to embark on a walk through the old Jewish quarter. Alternatively, join a scenic drive around the city and enjoy panoramic views.
Day 8: Free Time And Flamenco In Seville Relaxed Start
Location: Seville
Accommodation: NH Collection Sevilla, Seville.
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Sevilla, Seville
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed start and a morning to unwind, shop or continue exploring this fascinating city at your own pace. Our suggestion is to join an Optional Experience to the ancient city of Córdoba, where you will visit the magnificent Mezquita, see the old Jewish Quarter, and enjoy some free time to shop or explore as you wish. Later this afternoon, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Cristina Heeren Foundation, a flamenco dance school and beneficiary of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Their mission is to promote the teaching and conservation of flamenco. Feel the passion behind the choreography as you put your rhythm to the test during a dance lesson.
Day 9: Head For Gibraltar, Mijas And The Costa Del Sol
Location: Gibraltar
Accommodation: Meliá Costa del Sol, Torremolinos.
Accommodation Name: Meliá Costa del Sol, Torremolinos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head south to Gibraltar, part of mainland Spain yet an overseas territory under British control since 1704. With your Local Expert, visit the Rock of Gibraltar and St. Michael’s Cave. Relax as you travel the scenic route along the Costa del Sol through high end resorts where the rich and famous holiday. Your journey continues through the green hills to the white-washed village of Mijas. Stroll through the old streets and gardens, taking in the views of the coast.
Day 10: At Leisure On The Costa Del Sol Relaxed Start
Location: Costa del Sol
Accommodation: Meliá Costa del Sol, Torremolinos.
Accommodation Name: Meliá Costa del Sol, Torremolinos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy the day at leisure on the sun-drenched Costa del Sol. Relax by the blue Mediterranean waters, stroll along the promenade, savor the specialties in the local restaurants or consider exploring Málaga, the birth city of Picasso.
Day 11: Dining With Locals And The Alhambra Relaxed Start
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Vincci Albayzín, Granada.
Accommodation Name: Vincci Albayzín, Granada
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue to Alfarnatejo, a quiet whitewashed village, with a population of less than 500 people, surrounded by stunning mountainous landscape. Walk the town center to see the 18th century Iglesia del Santo Cristo de Cabrilla. Travel to the oldest olive grove in the region and stop at the rural mill-factory to taste a selection of different oils, paired with locally made farmer bread. In small groups, you are invited into the home of a local family to join them for a delicious lunch made of fresh, local produce with flavors typical of the region. Continue to Granada to visit the magnificent Alhambra Palace with your Local Expert. Built as a citadel by the Moors in the 13th century, it is a wonder of beautiful gardens, fountains and stone cut like lace.
Day 12: On To Valencia
Location: Valencia
Accommodation: Barceló Valencia.
Accommodation Name: Barceló Valencia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Valencia. Pass through the Old City to see its ancient gates, and the City of Arts and Sciences. In your free time perhaps take a stroll to the Cathedral and El Miguelete? Alternatively sit back with a drink and watch the Valencians go about their day. Valencia is home to one of the world's greatest dishes, paella. Meet the chef of a local family-run restaurant in the heart of the Old City and learn how to make this local specialty during a Cooking Demonstration. Later, indulge in the delicious flavors of this classic dish at dinner.
Day 13: Along The Coast To Peñíscola And On To Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Meliá Barcelona Sarrià, Barcelona.
Accommodation Name: Meliá Barcelona Sarrià, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Follow the coast to Peñíscola to view the sea-lapped castle used in the film 'El Cid'. Continue along the Costa Dorada to the Cava Bodegas at Sant Sadurni d'Anoia. During a delicious light lunch, enjoy a tasting as you learn the sparkling secrets of Spanish bubbly. Continue along the coast to reach Barcelona.
Day 14: Barcelona Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Meliá Barcelona Sarrià, Barcelona.
Accommodation Name: Meliá Barcelona Sarrià, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
A Local Expert joins you for a drive along the Passeig de Gràcia, adorned with elegant wrought-iron street lamps and some of the most flamboyant Modernist buildings. Continue through the Eixample district to visit Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpiece, the Sagrada Família. See the central nave with its giant, tree-like pillars, spectacular vaulting and the beautiful rainbows flooding in through the intricate stained-glass windows. At a local restaurant, join your fellow travelers to toast to newfound friends and a wonderful journey, enjoying a Celebration Dinner with wine.
Day 15: Depart For Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey across Spain and Portugal as you transfer from Barcelona to Madrid.
What's Included
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Meals
5 dinners with wine, 14 breakfasts, and 2 lunches with wine are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours with Local Experts in various cities including Seville, Madrid, Segovia, Salamanca, Porto, Lisbon, Seville, Gibraltar, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included.
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Taxes and Porterage
All taxes and porterage charges at hotels are included.
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Baggage Handling
Baggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
Occasional local specialties representing the destination, provided by your Travel Director.
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Wi-Fi
Complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Welcome Dinner
A Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant in Madrid.
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Port Wine Tasting
Sample a selection of world-renowned Port wines during a tour and tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a visit to the Portuguese Riviera or the ancient city of Córdoba are not included.
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for flights not matching the itinerary start and end dates are not included.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 2 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Additional Included Highlights
- 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.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- 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.
Insight Experiences
- 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.
- 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.
Well-being
- 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.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Cristina Heeren Foundation in Seville, where you can learn flamenco steps and watch a performance. You will also have a Dine-at-Home lunch with a local family in Alfarnatejo, and a paella cooking demonstration in Valencia.
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
You will enjoy a variety of dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Madrid, a Port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia, a taste of Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon, an olive oil tasting in Torremolinos, and a Celebration Dinner in Barcelona.
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Are there any cultural or educational activities included?
Yes, the tour includes a guided visit to the Prado Museum in Madrid with an art historian, a visit to the Alhambra Palace in Granada, and a flamenco show at the Cristina Heeren Foundation in Seville.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Transportation is provided on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Physical distancing measures are in place, and hand sanitizer is available on board.
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What are some of the highlights of the cities visited on this tour?
In Madrid, you'll see the Old Town and the Royal Palace. In Seville, you can explore the Jewish quarter or take a panoramic tour. In Lisbon, you'll visit the Belém Quarter and taste Pastéis de Belém. In Barcelona, you'll visit Gaudi's Sagrada Família.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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