Iberian Explorer
Iberian Explorer
Iberian Explorer
13 Days Starting in Barcelona and ending in Madrid
Visiting: Barcelona, Peñíscola, Valencia, Guadix, Granada, Costa del Sol, Gibraltar, Seville, Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca, Madrid
Tour Overview
Add a dash of emoción to your journey across the Iberian Peninsula, following an enticing trail of tapas, architectural triumphs and centuries-old art on this 13-day adventure through Spain and Portugal. You'll ramble through Barcelona, people-watch in Madrid, and stroll along the golden beaches of Costa del Sol. Other famous highlights along the way include the ancient cave dwellings at Guadix, Lisbon's iconic Belém Tower and the world's greatest Gothic Cathedral in sizzling Seville.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Campanile Sud - Cornella
Accommodation Name: Campanile Sud - Cornella
Meals Included: Dinner
Bienvenido a España! The golden shores of Barcelona kickstart your exhilarating visit to Spain and Portugal. Check in to your hotel, then take some time to recharge siesta-style before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers this evening for a glimpse of what lies ahead. There's boundless energy to Barcelona and you'll want to soak it all up on your first evening in the capital of Catalonia.
Day 2: Barcelona Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Campanile Sud - Cornella
Accommodation Name: Campanile Sud - Cornella
Meals Included: Breakfast
Gear up for an exciting morning of sightseeing in Barcelona, joining your Local Specialist who knows all the best spots in town. Capture the sights and sounds of Las Ramblas, Passeig de Gràcia and façade of the ornate La Sagrada Família as you tour the city. Spend the rest of your day exploring on your own. Head to the Gothic Quarter or seek out the fanciful façades of Spanish Art Nouveau architect Antoni Gaudí, whose plentiful works of art and architecture lend a fairy-tale feel to Barcelona's skyline. Consider joining a Choice Experience to Montserrat with its hidden monastery, home to the revered La Moreneta, and later opt into a scenic drive of Montjuïc, host to the 1992 summer Olympics, before indulging in a delightful Catalonian feast with drinks.
Day 3: Barcelona – Peñíscola – Valencia
Location: Barcelona, Peñíscola, Valencia
Accommodation: NH Las Ciencias
Accommodation Name: NH Las Ciencias
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll skirt along the Costa Dorada, a gleaming strip of the Mediterranean coastline, traveling past expansive orange groves to Peñíscola. You'll see its imposing 13th-century Templar Castle, famed as the dramatic backdrop for the Hollywood classic El Cid. Then continue to Valencia, catching a glimpse of the iconic highlights of this bustling modern metropolis on your orientation tour with your Travel Director. View the Art Nouveau, Train Station Estación del Norte, the Towers of Serrano and Quart. Next, leave the present behind and admire the futuristic ‘City of Arts and Sciences', a cultural complex built into the Turia riverbed.
Day 4: Valencia – Guadix – Granada
Location: Valencia, Guadix, Granada
Accommodation: Macia Condor
Accommodation Name: Macia Condor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we journey to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and pass by a hidden underground world of cave houses. You'll have the chance to capture this curiosity on camera, then continue your scenic travels to Granada, the last stronghold of the Moors in Spain.
Day 5: Granada – Costa Del Sol
Location: Granada, Costa del Sol
Accommodation: Málaga Alameda Centro by Meliá
Accommodation Name: Sol Principe
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embrace the laid-back spirit of your Spanish hosts and enjoy a slow start to the day on your Mediterranean tour. Spend your free morning exploring Granada and its Moorish influences on your own. There's even time for a quick tea break at a traditional tetería or you may choose to join an Optional Experience to the Albaicín Quarter, one of the oldest centers of Islamic culture in the city. Later, we head to the golden beaches of the Costa del Sol. Set your watch to siesta time or don your sandals and sunglasses for a leisurely stroll to soak up the fresh sea air.
Day 6: Costa Del Sol – Gibraltar – Seville
Location: Costa del Sol, Gibraltar, Seville
Accommodation: Vértice, MA Congresos
Accommodation Name: Vértice, MA Congresos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore a slice of Britain when you cross the border into Gibraltar, the much-contested gateway to the Mediterranean Sea. Maybe join a Choice Experience to get up close to the Barbary apes and visit the cave of St. Michael at the Rock of Gibraltar, the Roman and Greeks' former pillar of the “known world”. Next, we return to Spain, traveling north through the Andalusian countryside to sizzling Seville.
Day 7: Seville Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Seville
Accommodation: Vértice, MA Congresos
Accommodation Name: Vértice, MA Congresos
Meals Included: Breakfast
A Local Guide is on hand today to reveal Seville's special allure and, standing amidst the pavilions and fountains of Maria Luisa Park, you'll hear all about the elaborate Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 which put this sleepy Spanish city on the global map. See the world's largest Gothic Cathedral and its Giralda Bell Tower, then consider joining a Choice Experience to the Alcázar, built by a Christian king who loved Mudéjar architecture. This lavish palace complex has witnessed key moments in Spanish history and welcomed great Spanish kings and queens over the centuries. Tonight, you might consider a Choice Experience to see the whirling skirts and fiery passion of a flamenco show. This foot-tapping extravaganza is not to be missed.
Day 8: Seville – Lisbon
Location: Seville, Lisbon
Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham
Accommodation Name: Ramada by Wyndham
Meals Included: Breakfast
The highlights of your Spain and Portugal value tour just keep on rolling and for now it's adiós Sevilla and a warm olá to Portugal, as we journey through the golden and green plains of the Alentejo to Lisbon. Pastel and azulejo-clad façades line the Portuguese capital's narrow streets which ramble across and over its seven hills from St. George Castle to the Tagus River. You'll be drawn to the city's vibrant nightlife in the Bairro Alto and beyond, so head out with new friends for a night on the town or join your Travel Director for a poignant Choice Experience including a traditional meal accompanied by the authentic sounds of Fado.
Day 9: Lisbon Sightseeing And Free Time
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham
Accommodation Name: Ramada by Wyndham
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the banks of the Tagus River this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a guided sightseeing tour that will take you past the iconic Hieronymite Monastery and Belém Tower, built in the 16th century to defend the city. Later, you'll want to hop on one of the signature trams to explore the city's hilly bairros or find a corner café to sample some of the local pastries – pasteis de nata anyone? You could choose to leave the city limits behind this afternoon and visit the beach playgrounds of Estoril and Cascais, as well as Sintra, on a Choice Experience of the iconic Golden Triangle – the choice is yours.
Day 10: Lisbon – Fátima – Salamanca
Location: Lisbon, Fátima, Salamanca
Accommodation: Bardo Recoletos Coco
Accommodation Name: Bardo Recoletos Coco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rub shoulders with visiting travelers who have made the journey to the Catholic pilgrimage center of Fátima. It was here in 1917 that the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children. Today this humble village has been transformed into a place celebrating a religious miracle. There's time to explore the Basilica and Sanctuary before venturing east and crossing the Spanish border bound for Salamanca where your Travel Director will take you to one of Spain’s most beautiful plazas - Plaza Mayor with its golden baroque facades. Spend the evening your way amidst the historic monuments and honey-hued façades for which this ancient university town is famous.
Day 11: Salamanca – Madrid Sightseeing
Location: Salamanca, Madrid
Accommodation: Praga
Accommodation Name: Praga
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave Salamanca behind, with Madrid firmly in our sights. Our scenic drive takes us through the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains before arriving in the Spanish capital. With a Local Specialist at your side, you'll embark on a sightseeing tour to view the Cibeles Fountain, Gran Vía and Paseo de la Castellana. Admire views of the Royal Palace and El Retiro Park, originally created as a retreat for the Royal Family. The evening is yours to discover why the Madrileños adore their nightlife, so resist the urge to set an early curfew and perhaps join an optional dinner and discovery in downtown Madrid.
Day 12: Madrid Free Day
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Praga
Accommodation Name: Praga
Meals Included: Breakfast
There's every excuse to rise with the Madrileños and enjoy a leisurely start to your morning. You'll have a full free day to explore the city your way and discover the legacy of 'Madrid's Best Mayor', who helps the city become one of the most gracious capitals across Europe. King Charles III's desire to 'beautify' Madrid can be seen around every turn. Alternatively, you could take an opportunity to join a Choice Experience to the medieval city of Toledo, the country's famous sword-making center.
Day 13: Depart Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Keep that Spanish gusto in your step as you prepare to close the curtain on your epic Mediterranean journey through Spain and Portugal. It's time to say a final hasta la vista to your fellow travelers and your Travel Director.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver will accompany you throughout your holiday.
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Cherry-Picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are all tried and trusted.
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Meals Included
Many meals and daily breakfasts are included in your holiday package.
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City Orientation Tours
Enjoy city orientation tours to get acquainted with each destination.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences.
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Variety of Optional Experiences
A variety of optional experiences are available to enhance your holiday.
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Luxury Air-Conditioned Coach
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries.
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Extensive Variety of Choice Optional Experiences
Choose from an extensive variety of optional experiences to customize your holiday.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences mentioned in the itinerary are not included in the base price and can be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and other travel documentation costs are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for the Travel Director, driver, and local guides are not included.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 12 Breakfast (B)
Essentials
- Sightseeing with your Local Guide includes views of Gaudi's La Sagrada Família and La Rambla
- See the ancient castle overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
- See the Art Nouveau, Train Station Estación del Norte, Cathedral, Towers of Serrano and Quart and the City of Arts and Sciences
- See the famous Rock of Gibraltar
- View the cave homes in 'Barrio Troglodyte'
- Enjoy a scenic drive to this Moorish city
- Visit this renowned resort area
- Sightseeing with your Local Guide includes views of the Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- View Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries
- See the celebrated Shrine
- Orientation of this university city includes views of the Plaza Mayor
- See the Royal Palace, Cibeles Fountain and Retiro Park on a sightseeing tour with a Local Guide
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the Iberian Explorer tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. Specific hotels mentioned in the itinerary include Campanile Sud - Cornella in Barcelona, NH Las Ciencias in Valencia, Macia Condor in Granada, Málaga Alameda Centro by Meliá in Costa del Sol, Vértice or MA Congresos in Seville, Ramada by Wyndham in Lisbon, Bardo Recoletos Coco in Salamanca, and Praga in Madrid.
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Are meals included in the Iberian Explorer tour?
Yes, many meals and daily breakfasts are included in the tour. Specifically, the tour includes 12 breakfasts and 4 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries.
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Will there be guided tours during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes city orientation tours and sightseeing with Local Specialists in various locations such as Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Lisbon.
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers a variety of Optional Experiences. For example, in Barcelona, you can join an optional experience to Montserrat or watch the famous Dancing Fountains followed by a Catalonian feast. In Seville, you can join an optional experience to see a flamenco show or visit the Alcázar.
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What kind of activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a range of activities such as sightseeing tours with Local Specialists, visits to historical sites like the Rock of Gibraltar, the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, and the Shrine in Fátima. You will also have free time to explore cities like Barcelona, Granada, and Madrid on your own.
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Is there any free time during the tour to explore on my own?
Yes, the itinerary includes free time in several locations such as Barcelona, Granada, Seville, Lisbon, and Madrid, allowing you to explore these cities at your own pace.
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What kind of support will I have during the tour?
You will be accompanied by an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver throughout the tour. Additionally, audio headsets are provided to enhance your included sightseeing experiences.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty and joy of taking a guided vacation with Costsaver is that you get to meet, travel and make friends with people from all over the world.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Costsaver is part of The Travel Corporation, which has been in business for over 100 years.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Costsaver is proud to be a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation started in 2008. To date the charity has donated over US$2 million to assist underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives around the globe.
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Low Deposit
Costsaver 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 costsaver 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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Terms and Conditions