Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2024
Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2024
$2735
Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2024
11 Days Starting and ending in Madrid
Visiting: Madrid, Córdoba, Palma Del Rio, Seville, Albufeira, Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Leiria, Aveiro, Porto, Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca, Avila
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BEPMA19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 51
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Spain and Portugal with the "Spain & Portugal Highlights | Summer | 2024" tour. Begin your adventure in Madrid, exploring the historic charm of Córdoba and the vibrant culture of Seville. Cross into Portugal to experience the coastal beauty of Albufeira and the picturesque streets of Lisbon. Discover the enchanting towns of Sintra and Cascais, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Porto. As you return to Spain, visit the medieval wonders of Salamanca and the ancient walls of Ávila. Conclude your trip back in Madrid, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Madrid To Cordoba
Location: Madrid, Córdoba, Palma Del Rio
Accommodation: Hotel
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: Palma Del Rio, 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 Lisbon Via Albufeira
Location: Seville, Albufeira, Lisbon
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)
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.
We’ll make a brief stop here to check out the old town and gaze at the sea.
Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you're free to take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner.
Day 5: Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Hotel
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 6: Lisbon To Leiria
Location: Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Leiria
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Palace Hotel Monte Real (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast this morning we'll head up the coast to Leiria, but not before stopping en route at Sintra and Cascais.
We couldn't leave Lisbon without a visit to 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 mesmerizing manor house.
Our second 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 neighborhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world.
We'll come together tonight for an included dinner and a chance to swap stories about everything we've seen today.
Day 7: Leiria To Porto
Location: Leiria, Aveiro, Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Saying 'Tchau' to Leiria after breakfast, we'll take the coach towards Porto, via Aveiro. This mini-Venice is a gorgeous town built on canals, with colourful houses and a rich history. 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 8: Porto
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
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 9: Porto To Salamanca Via Ciudad Rodrigo
Location: Porto, Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca
Accommodation: Hotel
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 10: Salamanca To Madrid
Location: Salamanca, Avila, Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
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 and find ourselves some lunch 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 final night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.
Day 11: 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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Accommodation
Accommodation in hotels such as Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco, YIT Via Sevilla Mairena, VIP Inn Berna, Palace Hotel Monte Real, Ibis Porto Gaia, and Hotel Vincci Ciudad De Salamanca.
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Meals
Included meals as specified in the itinerary, including breakfasts and some dinners.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in cities such as Seville and Porto.
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Special Stay
Special stay at a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool, and internal courtyard in Cordoba.
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Orientation Tours
Orientation tours in cities like Cordoba and Salamanca.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the EatWith dining experience in Seville and the Eating Europe Food Tour in Porto.
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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.
Mode of Transport
Travel by coach through Spain and Portugal, with stops in cities like Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, and Porto, offering a comfortable and scenic journey.
Check out our Q&As
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, included meals are specified in the itinerary, including breakfasts and some dinners.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Córdoba, discovering Seville's 13th-century architecture, cruising along the Algarve in Portugal, visiting Lisbon's Christo Rei and Belém District, exploring the fairytale town of Sintra, and discovering Porto's UNESCO-stamped alleyways.
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Are visa fees included in the tour package?
No, visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included.
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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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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided in hotels such as Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco, YIT Via Sevilla Mairena, VIP Inn Berna, Palace Hotel Monte Real, Ibis Porto Gaia, and Hotel Vincci Ciudad De Salamanca.
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Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights to and from Madrid are not included.
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Is there any special accommodation experience during the tour?
Yes, there is a special stay at a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, an outdoor pool, and an internal courtyard in Cordoba.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as the EatWith dining experience in Seville and the Eating Europe Food Tour in Porto are available.
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What guided tours are included in the itinerary?
Guided tours are included in cities such as Seville and Porto.
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What is the starting and ending location of the tour?
The tour starts and ends in Madrid.
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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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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions