Spain & Portugal Highlights | Classic | Summer | 2025
Spain & Portugal Highlights | Classic | Summer | 2025
Spain & Portugal Highlights | Classic | Summer | 2025
12 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Córdoba, Seville, The Algarve, Algarve, Lisbon, Porto, Salamanca, Madrid
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBEPAMA20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Spain and Portugal with the "Spain & Portugal Highlights" tour in summer 2025. This cultural adventure begins in Madrid, taking you through the historic streets of Córdoba, where you'll marvel at the Great Mosque. Experience the vibrant energy of Seville, relax on the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve, and explore the enchanting town of Sintra. Discover Lisbon's rich history and indulge in a wine tasting at Quinta do Sanguinhal Vineyard. In Porto, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant art and food scene. The tour concludes with visits to Salamanca's ancient university and Ávila's medieval walls before returning to Madrid. Travel comfortably by coach, enjoy guided tours, and stay in charming accommodations, including a special night at a 15th-century monastery. With included meals and optional activities, this tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Madrid To Córdoba
Location: Córdoba
Accommodation Name: Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew today and we'll start our adventure by heading to Córdoba. Flowers adorn storybook balconies & charming little lanes will take your breath away in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, overflowing with history. We'll start with an orientation tour to fall head over heels with as we make our way to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Cordoba) will be the perfect way to spend our day. This evening we'll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.
Day 2: Cordoba To Seville
Location: Seville
Accommodation Name: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we'll leave historical Córdoba with our sights set on sun-soaked Seville. 13th century architecture and one of the world's biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain's capital, Seville. We'll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city's river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast.
Day 3: Seville
Location: Seville
Accommodation Name: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day free to explore Seville? Don't mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart's delight.
Day 4: Seville To The Algarve
Location: The Algarve
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
We couldn't think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian penninsula to Portugal. Crossing the border, spirits are high as we cruise along the Algarve, where petiscos and pastéis de nata await. Remarkable coastlines. Show-stopping seafood. Pastel-coloured streets. And a sunny Atlantic breeze. Welcome to Portugal. Our first destination in this wonderful country is the breathtaking beaches of The Algarve. You’ll drop your bags off at our hotel and join us as we search for the best dinner spots. And so begins the second part of our adventure…
Day 5: The Algarve
Location: Algarve
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Folks, it's beach time. But not just any beach, we’ll visit the stunning sun-kissed beaches of Algarve. So wake up, get some of that included breakfast, and put on your swimsuits. You’ve got the ENTIRE day to spend as you please. Soak in the sunlight. Dive into the water. Grab a book and chill. Taste some fresh seafood. Wow. For dinner, we’ll walk around the colourful streets and get some dinner on the way. Pure bliss.
Day 6: The Algarve To Lisbon Via Sintra And Cascais
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation Name: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Good morning, it’s time to say goodbye to the Algarve. Don’t worry. We’ve still got more coastal spots to explore. So, fill up on some breakfast and hop onto your coach! Our first stop this morning is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world. Stop two? The incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. Here in this fairytale town, expect to feel fully enchanted with a stop-off at Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra’s mesmerising manor house. Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe’s historical cities. Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. You’ve got plenty of time for exploring tomorrow. So why not take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner?
Day 7: Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation Name: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
A free day gives you plenty of time to explore all the hotspots including Portugal's Christo Rei (Christ the King), Rossio Square, the Belém District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama's tomb is held.
Day 8: Lisbon To Porto Via Quinta Do Sanguinhal Vineyard
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Lisbon, you’ve been incredible. But the show must go on. Today, we’ll make our way further up north, along the stunning coastline. We can’t leave Portugal without tasting some authentic local wine, can we? That’s why we’re visiting the 19th century vineyards to see, swirl, sniff, sip, and savour some of it. Alive with galleries and coffee shops and amazing food culture, the city of Porto is basically a dream for art lovers and foodies alike. So, it's a good thing you've got a free evening here to spend however you like. And if you're on the hunt for things to do, you can join us for a tour of some of the local foodie hotspots! Then, it's time to tuck in for tomorrow.
Day 9: Porto
Location: Porto
Accommodation Name: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wakey wakey. You get to decide the agenda for today. You can choose to try local food (if you're still craving some from last night). Discover heritage in the old wooden tram in Riberia. Or walk along the picturesque coastline, and view the main sites like lavish São Francisco Church and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa.
Day 10: Porto To Salamanca Via Ciudad Rodrigo
Location: Salamanca
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful! We'll have an hour to check out a fortified city on the Spain/Portugal border - that dates back all the way to the Roman Empire (true story!) We'll settle for the night in Salamanca. We're just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a Cathedral dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we'll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.
Day 11: Salamanca To Madrid Via Ávila
Location: Madrid
Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we'll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila. Ávila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We'll stop to admire them before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid. Back where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you'll be able to make the most of our night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.
Day 12: End Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.
What's Included
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Meals
Included meals such as breakfast and dinner on various days of the tour.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in cities like Seville and Cordoba.
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Special Stay
Special stay at a 15th Century monastery in Cordoba.
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Wine Tasting
Wine tasting experience at Quinta do Sanguinhal Vineyard.
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Transport
Travel by coach through Spain and Portugal, with stops in cities like Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, and Porto, providing a comfortable and scenic journey.
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Accommodation
Accommodation in hotels such as Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco, YIT Via Sevilla Mairena, VIP Executive Zurique Hotel, Ibis Porto Gaia, and Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the EatWith dining experience in Seville.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from Madrid are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included.
Dining Summary
- 2 Dinner (D)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- Madrid: Do the included meals have a set menu? Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
- Madrid: I need to refrigerate my medication. Can I do that on the coach? Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.
Included Experience
- Córdoba: This ornate World Heritage site was built by the Moors after they conquered Iberia. And it’s still one of the world’s biggest mosques.
- The Algarve: Roll out your sarong on the golden sands and take in the salty sea air and rugged scenery. And relax...
- Lisbon: Get to grips with Portugal’s coastal capital. See all the sights, including Castelo de São Jorge, the Praca do Comércio, Rossio Sqaure and Praca da Figueira.
- Lisbon: Take an orientation in Lisbon’s ‘museum district’. See the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the best places to taste a pastel de nata.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in a variety of hotels, including a special stay at a 15th Century monastery in Cordoba. Other accommodations include Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco, YIT Via Sevilla Mairena, VIP Executive Zurique Hotel, Ibis Porto Gaia, and Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes meals such as breakfast and dinner on various days. However, not all meals are included, so you will have opportunities to explore local dining options.
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Is there a wine tasting experience included in the tour?
Yes, there is a wine tasting experience included at the Quinta do Sanguinhal Vineyard.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour involves traveling by coach through Spain and Portugal, providing a comfortable and scenic journey with stops in cities like Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, and Porto.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as the EatWith dining experience in Seville.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights to and from Madrid are not included in the tour package.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
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Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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We look after you every step of the way.