Portugal and Spain Upgraded

Portugal and Spain Upgraded

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Portugal and Spain Upgraded

15 Days Starting in Lisbon and ending in Seville

Visiting: Lisbon, Evora, Coimbra, Porto, Madrid, Córdoba, Granada, Seville

Tour operator:

G Adventures

Tour code:

25705

Recommended For:

Couples, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 16

Physical rating:

2 - Light

Age range:

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans

Tour operated in:
English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

This in-depth adventure of the Iberian Peninsula will bring you forever closer with southern Spain and Portugal. Check a handful of UNESCO World Heritage sites off those travel lists, learn the historic significance of these areas from local experts, wander the fairytale castles of Sintra, visit the walled city of Toledo, sip wine in Porto, and let your body move to the vibrant rhythms of flamenco in Granada. Be prepared to fall in love with these places as you discover the charm of two Western European countries all in one trip.

Highlights

  • Sit down for a traditional meal and Portuguese folk music performance in Lisbon.

  • Visit the fairytale castles and hills of Sintra.

  • Tour the famous Chapel of Bones in Évora.

  • Venture into Portugal’s countryside to learn about the production of cork.

  • Hop on a boat and float down Portugal’s Douro River in Porto.

  • Wander through the Alhambra in Granada.

  • Enjoy a guided walking tour of the colourful city of Seville.

  • Dance your heart out during a private Flamenco lesson.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive at any time. Bring your appetite for this evening’s traditional Portuguese dinner in one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Enjoy delicious food while listening to a fado performance by local folk singers.

To ensure you are able to join the group for dinner, please arrive in Lisbon by 6pm at the latest.

Additional Information: For trips departing April 2020 onwards: If you wish to explore Lisbon before your tour begins, consider booking pre-tour accommodation with us. Please speak to a G Adventures representative about booking accommodations in Lisbon before Day 1 of this itinerary.

ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

ACTIVITY: Sit down to a traditional meal and lend your ears to the sound of a performance by Portuguese folk music artists.

Day 2 : Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the 19th-century resort town of Sintra, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set your eyes upon a landscape that inspired the English poet Lord Byron. Then, spend the afternoon as you wish to discover more of Lisbon’s lively atmosphere. Maybe decide to be a daredevil and take the Santa Justa lift to the highest point in Portugal.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Situated in the hills of Sintra, Pena Palace and its surrounding park are one of the greatest expressions of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal. With clear Manueline influence and Moorish architectural styles, the palace is built in a such a way as to be visible from any point in the park. Tour the Palace and park and learn about the Palace's origins and influences throughout Portuguese history.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 3 : Lisbon/Évora
Location: Lisbon, Evora
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Be prepared to witness something you may have never seen before as you travel to medieval Évora home to the haunting Chapel of Bones. Yes, that’s right bones. This chapel was built in the 16th-century and the walls are covered with human skeletons, but for a worthy reason. Afterwards, you’ll visit ancient Diana’s Temple which is very well preserved for its age.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Visit the most famous sight in Évora, the Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones. Take care if squeamish – built in the 1500s by a Franciscan monk, the walls are covered with human skeletons as a reminder to fellow monks that life is fleeting.

ACTIVITY: Take a visit to the best preserved Roman structure on the Iberian Peninsula, assumed to have been constructed in 1 AD.

Day 4 : Évora
Location: Evora
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Travel into the Montemor-o-Novo countryside to a traditional farm and learn about cork harvesting from an expert. Afterwards, sit down to a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Once you return to the city centre, explore more on your own, taking some time to walk around. Maybe head to the Clock Museum to take a peek at watches from different eras, or visit the Cathedral of Évora, which is considered the most important local monument.

ACTIVITY: Since this is the region where most of Portugal's cork is grown you'll learn about cork harvesting and production from a local expert at a traditional cork farm in the Montemor-o-Novo countryside, home to centuries-old cork forests and about 30 minutes from Évora. After the guided walk of the farm sit down for a traditional cork stripper's lunch at a local restaurant in town.

Day 5 : Évora/Coimbra
Location: Evora, Coimbra
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s on to Tomar today to learn about the Crusades era in Portugal. A local expert will take you on a guided walk through the Convent of Christ and Templar Castle, teaching you a bit of the history as you go. Then you'll arrive in the riverfront city of Coimbra in the evening.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: In Tomar, 14th-century Portugal’s headquarters for the Knights Templar Order, take an expert-led walk to learn about the country during the time of the Crusades. Visit the impressive Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 6 : Coimbra/Porto
Location: Coimbra, Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Tour the centuries-old University of Coimbra in the morning, entering through the Porta Férra. You’ll stop at the Joanina Library, the Chapel of São Miguel, and the Botanical Garden before catching the train to Porto.

ACTIVITY: Portugal's most prestigious university, the University of Coimbra is a must see landmark. Explore the World Heritage Site as you enter through the Porta FĂ©rra, the old entrance to the citadel of Coimbra constructed in the 10th century. Walk through the campus along mosaic cobblestone paths, explore it's botanical gardens and Chapel of S. Miguel and opt to visit the ornate Joanina Library.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.

Day 7 : Porto
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Porto has a lot to offer, but first and foremost let’s have a drink. Hop aboard a boat and cruise down Portugal’s “river of gold”, which also happens to be the ancient trade route for port wine. You’ll learn about this rich tradition at a local wine cellar and finish the tour with a tasting of this delicious vino. For the rest of the day explore Porto’s Ribeira district and admire the architecture and atmosphere of this coastal city.

ACTIVITY: Board a boat down Portugal's Douro River, or "river of gold". Float along this ancient route used for centuries as a port wine shipper's route. Marvel in the beauty of the terraced hills along the way.

FREE TIME: Enjoy all the gems of this coastal city. Visit the medieval Ribeira district with its narrowed cobbled stone streets. Marvel in the baroque architecture of São Francisco Church and discover the palatial 19th century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, built to impress potential European investors. But most importantly, make sure to try a glass of port wine.

ACTIVITY: Finish off the day with a tour of the cellars of the region's famed export - Port wine. Learn about the art of Port making and the processes that render its rich taste. Indulge in a tasting and raise a glass to a day well spent. SaĂşde!

Day 8 : Porto/Madrid
Location: Porto, Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: No Meals

Transfer to the airport and catch a short flight to Madrid. Explore Spain’s bustling capital on your own. Wander around Plaza Mayor or people watch over a coffee at an outdoor café.

Today, new travellers may join you for the rest of your adventure. You are welcome to join them at a group meeting this evening, followed by an optional dinner.

TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Day 9 : Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive south to Toledo—a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Tagus River. Once here embark on a guided tour, walking past churches, synagogues, mosques, and plazas. Then it’s back to Madrid where you’ll have free time to gaze at artworks in the Museo del Prado, find a fun restaurant to try, or look for some enticing nightlife spots.

Other options for exploring the city include the Palacio Real, Real Jardin Botánico or Escorial. Experience more nightlife at the Plaza del Dos de Mayo, in the area known as Malasaña. Taste some sangria and dance to the latest music.

Additional Information: Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Prado Museum.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

ACTIVITY: With a local historian, we explore the World Heritage city of Toledo and the old quarter, which is considered an open-air museum. Known as the “city of three cultures,” Toledo conserves its artistic and cultural heritage behind its walls, featuring historic churches, palaces, fortresses, mosques, and synagogues.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

FREE TIME: Opt to visit the Museo del Prado, the Gran VĂ­a or Plaza Mayor.

Day 10 : Madrid/CĂłrdoba
Location: Madrid, Córdoba
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Córdoba was once the largest city in Europe, known for its mosques, palaces, and libraries and today you’ll be taking a high-speed train there to check out its medieval centre. Once you become acquainted, walk the maze of winding lanes in the Jewish quarter and in the evening opt to try some of the delicious cuisine like, “ajo blanco” or “caldereta de cordero”. We bet these dishes will only leave you wanting more.

Córdoba’s gastronomy features cuisine steeped in Roman, Moorish, Christian, and Jewish traditions. Head out tonight to sample some local food. Try the thick, hearty stew called "caldereta de cordero" or cool off with "ajo blanco," a hearty white gazpacho soup.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

ACTIVITY: Be amazed by the diverse and stunning architecture of CĂłrdoba's most famous monument, the extraordinary Mezquita. Built as a mosque in 785 by the Moors, the Mezquita was converted in the 16th century by the remarkable addition of a Christian cathedral inserted into the centre of the building. We highly recommend booking a guided tour to get a fuller understanding.

ACTIVITY: Wander among narrow winding lanes, traditional houses, and charming cafés in Cordoba's historic medieval Jewish quarter. Discover one of Spain’s three remaining synagogues.

Day 11 : CĂłrdoba/Granada
Location: Córdoba, Granada
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Arrive in the birthplace of Flamenco and enjoy an orientation walk around the city of Granada. Opt to see the Granada Cathedral or the Royal Chapel and then take part in a private Flamenco dance class. Tonight, put your new moves to the test, head out on the town, and experience Granada’s vibrant nightlife.

Opt to visit the Granada Cathedral of the Incarnation or the Royal Chapel before your Flamenco class.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

ACTIVITY: As the birthplace of flamenco, Spain is the perfect place to learn some new steps. Flamenco is one of the most recognizable elements of Spanish culture and incorporates three key elements: guitar, song and dance. Embrace the culture as we visit a studio in the heart of the ancient Albaicin quarter of Granada to enjoy a private lesson from a professional dancer – the perfect introduction for when you head out later that evening.

Day 12 : Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s all about immersing yourself in the Alhambra today, a Moorish fortress residing on a hilltop overlooking Granada. You’ll receive a guided tour of yet another World Heritage site and then explore more on your own time as twilight begins to descend on this 13th-century palace. If you’re looking for a perfect spot to catch the sunset, consider the fantastic views and narrow lanes of Albaicin. Then opt to venture back out for some more lively nightlife at popular local tapas bars.

After visiting the Alhambra, opt to wander through the whitewashed historic quarter of the Albaicin, with its narrow lanes and fantastic views. This is a great place to go to catch the sunset.

In the evening, opt for a night on the town. The city is filled with trendy tapas bars and has a lively music scene.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy a guided visit of the Alhambra, one of the greatest accomplishments of Islamic art and architecture. Learn about Granada’s reign as one of the region’s most regal cities during the Muslim rule of Spain, which is captured in time within the Alhambra.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Free time to explore with the option to take a bike tour or visit the cathedral.

Day 13 : Granada/Seville
Location: Granada, Seville
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to Seville and enjoy a CEO led orientation walk of one of Spain’s most colourful cities. Afterwards, choose to visit Casa Pilatos, or climb Giralda’s bell tower, and then opt to catch a glimpse of traditional gypsy culture with a flamenco performance.

Additional Information: Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.

ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

ACTIVITY: Visit the true heart of Seville, the Santa Cruz quarter. A charming area with winding alleys, picturesque lime-washed houses, flowery patios, and small squares, you can wander, shop, or just soak in the neighbourhood's quaint atmosphere while enjoying a refreshing drink (sangria, perhaps) at one of the local restaurants.

FREE TIME: HALF DAY Start wandering around this charismatic city.

Day 14 : Seville
Location: Seville
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Your final full day on this trip consists of free time to further get to know Seville. Go off on a jaunt through winding alleys, take pictures in the squares of Santa Cruz quarter, or opt to visit another World Heritage site and former filming place of Game of Thrones. Along the way don’t forget to grab a Serranito to curb your appetite.

Have a chance to savour some tapas at the city's many bars and cafés.

Additional Information: Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville.

FREE TIME: AFTERNOON After your CEO has taken you on a short orientation walk to get your bearings, you will have time to take in all this great city has to offer.

Day 15 : Seville
Location: Seville
Meals Included: Breakfast

Depart at any time.

Additional Information: We recommend staying a few extra nights to better explore Seville at your leisure.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

What's Included

  • Meals
    13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

  • Guided tour of Palace of Pena in Sintra

  • Lisbon orientation walk

  • Chapel of Bones tour in Evora

  • Diana's Temple visit in Evora

  • Guided tour of Coimbra University

  • Porto orientation walk

  • Douro River boat cruise

  • Explore Cordoba including the Mezquita (mosque) and the medieval Jewish quarter

  • Granada orientation walk including a guided visit of the Alhambra

  • Internal flight

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Accommodation

Hotels (14 nts).

Transport

Public bus, train, walking.

Meals Included

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Check out our Q&As

  • Itinerary Disclaimer

    While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

  • Joining Instructions

    Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to the city on day 1 (or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation), please make your way to the joining hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon). Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. Getting to the city centre from Lisbon airport: Via Taxi A taxi cost is 20 EUR during the hours of 07:00am to 09:00pm from Lisbon Airport to Lisbon City Center. During the hours of 09:00pm to Midnight, the cost is 25 EUR. Journey time should be roughly 20 minutes give or take. Note that prices are indicative only. Surcharge can apply on weekends, bank holidays, and per pieces of luggage. Always reconfirm the price just in case vouchers are not "available". *If you need a taxi in order to visit the city during your stay, ask the hotel how much it should cost to get to where you want. Then deal with the driver. This way no bad surprises occur with less than honest drivers! Via Aerobus Shuttles run every 20 minutes, every day of the week, from 7:45am to 8:15pm. The Aerobus (Carris n. 91) runs between the Airport and the city centre. Tickets can be purchased on board. Fare is 1.20 EUR for one ride, 3.10 EUR per 1 day ticket, and 2 EUR for a 1 day TAP Voucher. Journey time is roughly a 35-40 minute ride. To arrange an arrival or departure transfer, we recommend you book through our preferred transfer provider - HolidayTaxis. Choose from a range of transport options including both private and shared transfers at a discounted rate. We advise that you book both your arrival and departure transfers in advance. Please make sure you have the following details before booking: - Flight number - Flight Arrival Time and Date - Flight Departure Time and Date - Passenger's Name - Number of Passengers - Email - Valid Mobile Telephone Number - Drop off and/or Pick Up Address

  • Dossier Disclaimer

    The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

  • Highlights

    Sit down for a traditional meal and Portuguese folk music performance in Lisbon,Visit the fairytale castles and hills of Sintra, Tour the famous Chapel of Bones in Évora, Venture into Portugal’s countryside to learn about the production of cork, Hop on a boat and float down Portugal’s Douro River in Porto, Wander through the Alhambra in Granada, Enjoy a guided walking tour of the colourful city of Seville, Dance your heart out during a private Flamenco lesson

  • Important Notes

    1. ALHAMBRA Due to revised regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at least 30 days prior to departure in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. If your booking for this trip is confirmed after that period (with less than 30 days prior to departure), we will do our best to secure a ticket for your guided Alhambra tour. However, please note that due to high demand for tickets, we are not able to guarantee this inclusion if your booking is confirmed within 30 days prior to departure. In the event we cannot secure a guided tour of the Alhambra for you, alternative options such as a self-guided visit of the Alhambra (with reduced access), or visits to the nearby districts of AlbaicĂ­n and Sacramonte will be arranged. 2. LOCAL GUIDES It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places. 3. LUGGAGE In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times. 4. COMBO TRIP Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes. 5. RESERVE TICKETS IN ADVANCE Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially in high season May-September when it could be a question of hours!), it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. There may be the possibility of arranging tickets on arrival on Day 1, with the help of your CEO, but availability cannot be guaranteed at such short notice. We recommend advanced ticket-purchase for the following sites and activities: Madrid: Prado Museum Seville: Alcazar Palace

  • Packing List

    Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (required) • Hand sanitizer (required) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) • Rubber gloves Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear

  • What's Included

    Your Foodie Moment: Fado Night with Traditional Portuguese Meal, Lisbon Your Hands-On Moment: Port Wine Cellar Visit, Porto. Lisbon orientation walk. Guided tour of Palace of Pena in Sintra. Chapel of Bones tour in Evora. Diana's Temple visit in Evora. Guided tour of Coimbra University. Porto orientation walk. Douro River boat cruise. Explore Cordoba including the Mezquita (mosque) and the medieval Jewish quarter. Granada orientation walk including a guided visit of the Alhambra. Internal flight. Transport to/from all included activities and between all destinations.

  • Joining Hotel

    For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

  • Minimum Age

    You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

  • Meals Included

    13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

  • Group Leader Description

    This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use a local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the place we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.

  • Itinerary Notes

    Due to revised regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at least 30 days prior to departure in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. See "Important notes" under Tour Details for more information.

  • Visas and Entry Requirements

    Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. All visitors to the EU (European Union) and EEC (European Economic Community) countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand passport holders do not need a visa to visit the Schengen area (see below), however they may not stay longer than three months in any 6-month period. For other nationalities, travelling in Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa. As a visitor to the Schengen area (Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Finland, Italy, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland) you will enjoy the many advantages of this unified visa system. Generally speaking with a Schengen visa, you may enter one Schengen country and travel freely throughout the Schengen region during the validity of your visa. There are limited border controls at Schengen borders, if any at all. Please note that the UK and Ireland are NOT part of the Schengen agreement. A Schengen visa is applied for at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country in which you will be spending the most nights on your trip to the Schengen space. If you are only visiting one country on your trip then you apply for your visa at the Consulate of this Schengen country.

  • Emergency Fund

    Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

  • Feedback

    After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

  • International Flights

    Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

  • Laundry

    Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your CEO where the closest laundromat is. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

  • Emergency Contact

    Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBER G Adventures UK office:
 +447817262559 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, from calls within North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from within UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from within Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from within Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from within New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

  • About Accommodation

    On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations. Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.

  • Health

    Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

  • A Couple of Rules

    Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

  • Meals

    Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

  • Optional Activities

    Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle (10EUR per person) - Rossio Square (Free) - Santa Justa Lift (6EUR per person) - Alfama District Visit (Free) Évora - Clock Museum - Évora Cathedral Porto - Lello Bookstore (5EUR per person) - Ribeira Square (Free) - Sao Bento Railway Station (Free) - Palacio da Bolsa (10EUR per person) Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico Visit (2EUR per person) - Museo Nacional Del Prado Visit (15EUR per person) - El Retiro Park (Free) - Royal Palace (Palacio Real) Visit (17EUR per person) - Plaza Mayor Visit (Free) Granada - Royal Chapel of Granada (4EUR per person) - Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit (5EUR per person) - Albaicín (El Albayzín) Visit (Free) - Realejo of Granada (Old Jewish Quarter) - Church of San Juan de Díos (4EUR per person) - Flamenco Show (20-60EUR per person) - Granada City Center and Tapas Gourmet Tour Seville - Alcázar Palace Visit (13EUR per person) - La Giralda Visit (9EUR per person) - Casa de Pilatos (10-12EUR per person) - Flamenco Show (18-30EUR per person)

  • Tipping

    While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. At the end of each trip, if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.

  • Group Size Notes

    Max 16, Avg 12.

  • Transport

    Public bus, train, walking.

  • Arrival Complications

    We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.

  • My Own Room

    Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Please be aware that single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller, and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (14 nts).

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    G Adventures was established in 1990

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Gary  

Portugal and Spain Upgraded

04-Oct-2021

the group experience

it is perfect to be in the GAdventures family and will keep on making new friends for ever on more gadvantures
June  

Portugal and Spain Upgraded

10-Nov-2021

Need more time in Madrid but I don?t know what I would give up to get it. Would have been nice to know that swimming pools were available.

Excellent!
Richard  

Portugal and Spain Upgraded

12-Oct-2021

Both CEOs were incredibly attentive to provide a seamless enjoyable and educational experience. Two destinations on the itinerary were less interesting. The farm in Portugal was disappointing in that the harvest of cork was not in season. Otherwise it was just a farm visit and quite small. The second unnecessary item scheduled was flamingo lessons. None of our party chose to attend. Probably all would have enjoyed just witnessing the dance itself. Otherwise I would have scored the trip as a 10.

Our two tour groups of 6 and 7 allowed a festive close fellowship. This enhanced the tour making it a shared trip with new friends. The pleasures of the culinary experience were greater than expected. Both CEOs were well versed and genuine.
Beverly  

Portugal and Spain Upgraded

24-Nov-2021

The style of travel usually with ?off the beaten track? compared with other operators.

The upgraded hotels were very much appreciated. If this had been my first G Adventures experience, I would not be too impressed because of the itinerary. Not enough time in some places, too much in others. This was my first ?developed? country G Adventur

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 45 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    G Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform g adventures, 45 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

  • Travel With Confidence Policy

    Our Travel with Confidence policy was created to highlight the measures G Adventures has taken in
    response to the increased focus on health and safety, mask-wearing, hygiene and physical distancing
    coming out of the pandemic. This policy complements our Book with Confidence policy - which
    provides additional flexibility and freedom for your travellers during the booking phase - and will, we
    believe, provide additional reassurance to those considering travel to travel with us. The safety of
    your travellers has always been our top priority, which is why new physical distancing and cleaning
    measures have been put in place on all of our tours. Our Travel with Confidence policy features
    health and safety procedures from the moment your travellers arrive on tour to the moment they
    leave, without taking away from having the time of their lives. While on tour, it is a requirement that
    your travellers follow the directions of their CEO at all times to help keep their fellow group-mates
    safe, as well as local residents. The policy will evolve as time goes on and as we continue to monitor
    local public health recommendations, but what won’t change is our commitment to keeping your
    travellers safe as they explore our big, beautiful world.

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