Grand Spain & Portugal - End Barcelona, Classic Group
Grand Spain & Portugal - End Barcelona, Classic Group
Grand Spain & Portugal - End Barcelona, Classic Group
18 Days Starting in Madrid, Spain and ending in Barcelona, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Seville, Évora, Lisbon, Salamanca, Ávila, Santiago de Compostela, Oviedo, Santander, San Sebastián, Barcelona
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E930ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishActivities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Spain and Portugal with the "Grand Spain & Portugal - End Barcelona, Classic Group" tour. This luxurious adventure begins in Madrid, where you'll explore the city's elegant boulevards and historic sites. Travel through the enchanting landscapes of Toledo, Granada, and Seville, experiencing the rich tapestry of cultures and history. Discover the architectural marvels of the Alhambra Palace and the Seville Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of flamenco. In Portugal, visit the medieval town of Évora and the bustling city of Lisbon, savoring local delicacies like the famous Pastéis de Belém. Continue your journey through the picturesque regions of Santiago de Compostela, Oviedo, and the stunning Picos de Europa. Conclude your adventure in the vibrant city of Barcelona, marveling at Gaudí's masterpieces. With expert guides, authentic dining experiences, and a focus on sustainable travel, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Barceló Emperatriz, Madrid.
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza España, Madrid, Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana
Meals Included: Dinner
While in Madrid, explore the elegant boulevards, expansive parks and varied architectural styles. Join your Travel Director for dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy the opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers over a delightful evening of good food and wine.
Day 2: Toledo And On To Granada
Location: Toledo
Accommodation: Vincci Albayzín, Granada.
Accommodation Name: Vincci Albayzín, Granada
Meals Included: Breakfast
Venture south to meet a master artisan in a Damascene workshop for a personal insight into this ancient craft handed down by the Moors centuries ago. Continue to the fascinating city of Toledo, situated high above the River Tagus. This was Spain's capital during the golden era, where Arab, Jewish and Christian cultures flourished side-by-side through the Middle Ages. Walk within the city walls, through the narrow cobbled streets, led by your Local Expert. Visit the Church of Santo Tomé, housing El Greco's famous painting, ‘The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.' Your journey continues to Granada.
Day 3: The Alhambra Palace
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Meliá Sevilla, Seville.
Accommodation Name: Meliá Sevilla
Meals Included: Breakfast
'Give him alms, woman, as there is nothing in life as the sadness of being blind in Granada', cries the inscription on the walls of the Alhambra. Bathed in morning light, the Alhambra Palace awaits - a fantasy of arabesque gardens, fountains and stone cut like lace. Explore with your Local Expert and also visit the exotic water gardens of the Generalife, the royal summer residence. Take a moment to relax in the sunshine as you enjoy the fine views over the town and its three verdant hills. Embark on a scenic drive to Seville and 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 4: Free Time In Seville And Flamenco Relaxed Start
Location: Seville
Accommodation: Meliá Sevilla, Seville.
Accommodation Name: Meliá Sevilla
Meals Included: Breakfast
This is a free day, so take your time to bask in the city’s romantic aura and explore as you wish. 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. Visit Cristina Heeren Foundation, a beneficiary of a TreadRight Foundation grant, for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This private dance school is dedicated to promoting the conservation of flamenco and supports young enthusiasts from all over the world with a special focus on new talent from the Andalusian region. Feel the passion behind the choreography as you put your rhythm to the test during a dance lesson before witnessing emotions come to life in a flamenco performance.
Day 5: Évora And On To Lisbon Relaxed Start
Location: Évora
Accommodation: Turim Saldanha Hotel, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Turim Saldanha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue to the lively university town of Évora, one of the best preserved medieval towns in Portugal, with architectural styles dating back to Roman Times. Visit the fascinating Capela dos Ossos, a chapel decorated with 5000 bones, before making your way to Lisbon.
Day 6: Lisbon Relaxed Start
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Turim Saldanha Hotel, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Turim Saldanha
Meals Included: Breakfast
During your stay, a guided orientation of the city with your Local Expert takes you along the 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 and enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same, secret recipe for almost 200 years. View the Monument to the Discoveries and the more ancient 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 beautiful Portuguese Riviera?
Day 7: Holy Fátima And Salamanca
Location: Salamanca
Accommodation: Hotel Alameda Palace, Salamanca.
Accommodation Name: Alameda Palace, Salamanca
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel into the green hills north of Lisbon to visit Fátima, the most celebrated place of pilgrimage in Portugal. Visit the chapel commemorating the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three children in 1917. Cross the border, returning to Spain and continue to Salamanca, famous for its golden stone buildings and the handsome arcades of the Plaza Mayor. Across the River Tormes, see the Puente Romano with 15 of its 26 arches dating from the time of the ancient Romans.
Day 8: Ávila And Madrid
Location: Ávila
Accommodation: Barceló Emperatriz, Madrid.
Accommodation Name: Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana, Barceló Torre de Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the rock-strewn hills of the Castile, to arrive at Ávila. Admire the impressive city still entirely enclosed within its 11th-century walls, a unique occurrence in Europe. Return to Madrid to explore more of the capital with your Local Expert. At a local restaurant, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a lively dinner.
Day 9: Madrid Of The Bourbons
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Barceló Emperatriz, Madrid.
Accommodation Name: Canopy by Hilton Madrid Castellana, Barceló Torre de Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy sightseeing with your Local Expert as they take you along the main historical areas in the Capital of Spain known as Madrid of the Bourbons. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter discovering the origins of the city. A highlight of your escorted journey will be a visit to the Prado Museum. Discover countless works by Velázquez, Goya, Titian, Rubens and others as you are guided by a local art historian. The afternoon is free for you to relax at a cafe or shop in the boutiques.
Day 10: Through Guadarrama Mountains To Santiago De Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: NH Collection Santiago de Compostela.
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Santiago de Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the Guadarrama Mountains to the infinite horizons of Old Castile and continue past the impressive Castillo de la Mota, conquered by Queen Isabella. Travel on to Santiago de Compostela, where the tomb of the Apostle St. James was miraculously discovered in the Middle Ages.
Day 11: Santiago De Compostela Relaxed Start
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: NH Collection Santiago de Compostela.
Accommodation Name: NH Collection Santiago de Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Santiago de Compostela with Insight Choice. Choose to join a city tour with a Local Expert and visit Praza do Obradoiro to admire the cathedral facade festooned with architectural frills. Alternatively, embark on a scenic walk on part of the Way of St James, through parks and gardens that transform with the seasons. Relax during your free time or explore the narrow streets and old squares of this city.
Day 12: The Costa Verde To Oviedo Relaxed Start
Location: Oviedo
Accommodation: Barceló Oviedo Cervantes.
Accommodation Name: Barceló Oviedo Cervantes
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pass through the ancient forests of Galicia and cross to the Green Coast of Asturias - one of Spain's most beautiful, named after the color of the sea and the pine and eucalyptus trees that line the shore. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience for lunch. Very popular with locals, enjoy a homemade farm to table meal and learn about traditional cider product, including a tasting. Your route reveals glorious coastal vistas before turning inland to travel through old villages and deep valleys en route to Oviedo. Continue on to Oviedo where a Local Expert will show you the 9th century churches built when the city was the capital of Christian Spain. Visit the Cathedral of the Holy Savior in the stately square of Plaza Alfonso II. Admire the incredible altarpiece, one of the finest in Europe.
Day 13: Picturesque Santillana Del Mar And On To Santander
Location: Santander
Accommodation: Eurostars Hotel Real, Santander.
Accommodation Name: Eurostars Real, Santander
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the Holy Cave of Covadonga, a shrine to Pelayo, who achieved the first Christian victory over the Moors in 722. See the unique Roman bridge in Cangas de Onís as you head into the foothills of the Picos de Europa, a national park boasting spectacular mountain and gorge scenery. Enjoy views of the Costa de Cantabria while traveling to Santillana del Mar, arguably the most beautiful village in Spain. Stroll through the rustic cobblestone streets, admiring stone houses decorated with carved, heraldic symbols and reach the delightful church square. Continue on to the sophisticated beach resort of Santander where you have free time in the evening to enjoy this luxurious hotel.
Day 14: Bilbao And San Sebastián Relaxed Start
Location: San Sebastián
Accommodation: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián.
Accommodation Name: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián
Meals Included: Breakfast
In nearby Bilbao, admire the striking modern architecture of the Guggenheim Museum, one of the world's most spectacular buildings. Enjoy the views as you are driven along part of the Costa Vasca, dotted with small coastal fishing villages and pause in the seaside city of Getaria to see 'El Ratón', the mouse-shaped rock. Continue to San Sebastián and admire its beauty during a city tour with a Local Expert. Explore the secrets of the harbor area and uncover the forgotten Basque maritime cultural heritage.
Day 15: The Cantabrian Coast Relaxed Start
Location: San Sebastián
Accommodation: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián.
Accommodation Name: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a day at leisure to stroll along San Sebastián's boardwalk and with the city harbor filled with fishing boats and pleasure crafts, you can enjoy a number of sporting activities on its large sandy beach. Perhaps you'll want to explore the nearby French village of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, also known as Little Paris? Maybe stroll the promenade of the famous La Concha bay or enjoy the boutiques of the Old Town?
Day 16: Pamplona And On To Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hilton Barcelona.
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the famed town of Pamplona, known for its Running of the Bulls festival. With time free for you to explore, perhaps take a stroll to the famous Estafeta Street or visit Café Iruña, immortalized by Ernest Hemingway in his novel 'The Sun Also Rises.' Your travels continue to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, a land that retains its own distinctive language, culture and traditions.
Day 17: Barcelona, City Of Gaudí
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hilton Barcelona.
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to embrace the city’s artistic heritage. Join a Local Expert 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. With the afternoon at leisure, you are free to relax or continue your exploration on your own. In the evening, join your Travel Director and newfound friends at a local restaurant. Raise your glass and toast your travels during your delightful Celebration Dinner.
Day 18: Depart Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey along Spain and Portugal as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Choice Highlights
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Seville and Santiago de Compostela with a Local Expert.
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Top Rated Highlights
Explore cities like Madrid, Toledo, Seville, Évora, Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca, Avila, Oviedo, Picos de Europa, Santillana del Mar, Bilbao, Getaria, San Sebastián, Pamplona, and Barcelona with Local Experts.
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Make Travel Matter
Participate in experiences that support sustainable development goals, such as visiting the Cristina Heeren Foundation in Seville and a biodynamic farm in Pamplona.
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Authentic Dining
Enjoy local culinary experiences, including a Welcome Dinner in Madrid, tasting Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon, and a Celebration Dinner in Barcelona.
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Dining Summary
Includes 17 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner, 4 Dinners with Wine, and 1 Lunch with Wine.
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Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, porterage charges, and complimentary Wi-Fi are included.
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Insight Experiences
Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid, a Damascene workshop in Toledo, and the Alhambra Palace in Granada with Local Experts.
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Well-being
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a visit to the ancient city of Córdoba are not included in the tour package.
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Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
Transfers are only available at scheduled times.
If your flights are outside these times, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own arrangements.
Dining Summary
- 17 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Dinner (D)
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 1 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.
- Toledo: At a Damascene workshop, meet a master artisan for a personal insight into this ancient craft. Witness firsthand their precision as they inlay gold and silver into iron, using a chisel and a hammer.
- 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.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey across Spain and Portugal, with complimentary Wi-Fi and onboard washroom facilities.
Accommodation
Experience luxury and comfort with stays at renowned hotels such as Riu Plaza España in Madrid, Vincci Albayzín in Granada, and Hilton in Barcelona, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural 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. In Gijón, you will enjoy a farm-to-table meal with locally sourced produce. In Barcelona, you will visit a biodynamic farm and taste sparkling wine while learning about sustainable production methods.
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What are some of the key historical sites visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites including the Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Seville Cathedral, the Church of Santo Tomé in Toledo, and the Capela dos Ossos in Évora. You will also explore the ancient city of Ávila, which is still enclosed within its 11th-century walls.
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Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several special dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Madrid, a taste of the famous Portuguese custard tart in Lisbon, and a Celebration Dinner in Barcelona at a typical Catalan restaurant.
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What opportunities are there for leisure and exploration on your own?
There are several opportunities for leisure and personal exploration, including free time in Seville, Lisbon, San Sebastián, and Barcelona. You can explore the cities at your own pace, visit local attractions, or relax at cafes and shops.
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What kind of expert guidance is provided during the tour?
The tour provides expert guidance from Local Experts who will accompany you to various sites, offering insights and historical context. Additionally, a Travel Director will be with you throughout the tour to ensure a smooth and enriching experience.
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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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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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