Best of Spain, Portugal and Morocco

Europe Spain
OVERVIEW
Ready for a month-long adventure of culture, food & colourful experiences? Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in Porto. Party in Ibiza. And even check out the magical markets of Marrakesh. This is your chance to explore the ins and outs of ALL of Iberia and Morocco’s iconic hotspots – with local guides to give you the inside scoop.
EXPERIENCES
Barcelona: Combat boots at the ready, folks! Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas are so cool, you won’t know what to photograph first!

Barcelona: Enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis – a non-profit that’s all about social cohesion, doing their bit to enrich coexistence, with rights and opportunities for all.

Bilbao: Home to world famous art museums and architecture that’s grander than grand. Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, taking in the mountains and the skyscrapers.

Chefchaouen: Morocco’s ‘blue pearl’ is one of the world’s most Instagrammable places. Marvel at the medina of turquoise, azure and sky blue.

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.

Erfoud: Stay at an authentic Moroccan hotel that’s like an oasis in the desert, with a pool, aircon, and sun loungers.

Fes: Get to know the city through the eyes of a local. See the Medina, Royal Palace, and visit a co-operative for handmade carpets.

Granada: Probably the most Instagrammable palace that’s ever existed. Tour this Moorish marvel with an expert.

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 Praça 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.

Marrakesh: Get to know this crazy but beautiful city, with a local to show you the hidden gems. Plus, more mosques, palaces and riads than your camera phone can handle.

Marrakesh: Step into the heart of the action in this bustling square. Get a taste of local life and do a bit of people watching.

Merzouga: Saddle up and get ready for a sand-filled adventure atop an actual camel. A total bucket list moment!

Ouarzazate: Enjoy a traditional tea ritual with a nomad family. It’s a hallmark of Moroccan hospitality.

Ouarzazate: Get to know the local women behind the production of Morocco’s ‘liquid gold’ and see the work being done by this social enterprise.

Pamplona: Your Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of the city and give a brief orientation talk. After that, you're free to explore this quirky and colourful city in your own way.

Rabat: Stroll around the Moroccan capital and check out the Hassan Tower and Dar al-Makhzen: the official royal palace. (entry not included)

San Sebastián: Where better to admire the sunset than on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián? This resort town is known for its fantastic food too – so make sure you’re hungry!

The Algarve: Roll out your sarong on the golden sands and take in the salty sea air and rugged scenery. And relax...

Todra Gorge: Nestled in the divine beauty of the Dades Valley, we'll meet the women of Tatefy to listen to their stories and enjoy their tea and cakes.

Toledo: This medieval city is a cultural melting pot, with a mix of Spanish, Arabic and Jewish influences. Get some pics of the Alcázar Fortress and the gothic Cathedral.

Valencia: Stand in awe of this medieval wonder. It’s said to be the home of the Holy Grail

Volubilis: See another side to colourful Morocco, as you explore the Ancient Roman ruins at this archaeological site.
DEPARTURE DATES AND PRICES
Tour
Departs		 Tour
Returns		 Starting From
(price per person)		 Definite Departure
What's this?		 Book Now!
13/06/2025 14/07/2025 £6,315 Book
27/06/2025 28/07/2025 £5,577 Book
25/07/2025 25/08/2025 £5,893 Book
08/08/2025 08/09/2025 £6,525 Book
05/09/2025 06/10/2025 £5,991 Book
24/04/2026 25/05/2026 £5,006 Book
22/05/2026 22/06/2026 £5,222 Book
26/06/2026 27/07/2026 £5,406 Book
24/07/2026 24/08/2026 £5,406 Book
21/08/2026 21/09/2026 £5,214 Book
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 1: AC Hotel Madrid Feria (or similar) - Meals: Dinner
DAY 1: Hotel Praga (or similar) - Meals: Dinner
DAY 10: Macia Condor (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11: Crowne Plaza Madrid Airport (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11: Hotel Praga (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12: Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 13: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 14: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 15: Vila Gale Atlantico (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 16: Vila Gale Atlantico (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 17: Hotel Roma (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 17: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 18: Hotel Roma (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 18: VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 19: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 2: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 20: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 21: Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 22: Crowne Plaza Madrid Airport (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 22: Hotel Praga (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 23: Hotel El Andalous (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 24: Hotel Diwan (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 25: Hotel Madrid (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 26: Hotel Arena (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 27: Hotel Arena (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 28: Kasbah Tizimi Hotel Erfoud (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 29: Auberge La Caravane (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 30: Les Jardin De Ouarzazate (Or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 31: Hotel El Andalous (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6: Ryans Lolas (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7: Ryans Lolas (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8: Hotel Mas Camarena Valencia (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9: Macia Condor (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
ITINERARY

Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first group dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you'll be thankful for your hotel sleep.

The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Pamplona. We couldn't race to our night's stop-off point without letting you marvel at the pretty medieval town of Burgos first. For real, just wait till you see the gorgeous town square. Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We’ll start with a brief orientation tour of this well-preserved town, and then you'll have some free time to explore in your own way.

Rise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two new cities await us today, but not until we’ve had breakfast. Bilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn't diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you're free to use your morning to play art critique and absorb Bilbao's pretty surrounds and architecture.  Next stop, San Sebastián! This is a pretty postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a walk, do some shopping or just sit and chill in a bar, enjoying endless plates of pintxos (the Basque version of tapas). Our day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you’ll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams.

This morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona. A colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki.  With 2-nights in Barcelona, you'll be pronouncing Barcelona's C with a "tthh" like a true local by the time we make tracks. We’re off for an included dinner at Mescladis, a non-profit restaurant that works to foster social cohesion in Barca and beyond.

Today is up to you to explore your way. You could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi's iconic Parc Güell, beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, or those wanting to explore the city can sign up for an optional bike tour.

Switching from ancient streets to strobe lights, we’ll head south along the coast to Denia where we'll then travel to the world’s party capital of Ibiza.  Worshipped worldwide as the party destination to end all party destinations, here you'll find super clubs, super DJs & super strobes like you've never seen them before, and that's just the island's 3am drawcards. For those that like to take the chilled approach, Ibiza's beaches, coves, and local markets need to be seen to be believed.

Although this seems to be an island that never sleeps, you're going to need to drag that head out of bed so you can see the incredible beauty of the place when drenched in daylight. Explore the UNESCO world heritage old town or chill on the nearby beaches.

It's been a magical time on this island, but we have the rest of Spain to explore. With Ibiza ticked off our bucket list, we'll hop on a ferry back to the mainland. Touching down in Denia we'll jump on our coach, headed for Valencia. It's hard to not be enchanted by the port city of Valencia, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who's in?

It's been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won't forget you. This morning we'll take an orientation walk before seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country? Granada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave!

We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you're at it, fill up on some of Granada's incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain's number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We'll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven't been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!

Bouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid. Synagogues, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We'll uncover the city's gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain. Here we are, back where the party started. You're free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid's nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.

Leaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us (along with some new friends) will drive onwards to Córdoba. With storybook balconies & charming little lanes, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is sure to take your breath away. We'll start out by finding our feet here in Córdoba, only to be swept off them again with a trip to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Córdoba). History buffs, this is basically your perfect 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.

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.

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.

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…

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. Take a buggy adventure. Wow. For dinner, we’ll walk around the colourful streets and get some dinner on the way. Pure bliss.

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! Stop One? 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. 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 neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world. 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?

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.

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. Then, it's time to tuck in for tomorrow.

Wakey wakey...You get to decide the agenda for today. 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, Porto Cathedral and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa. 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! Or catch a traditional Portuguese singing show. You do you.

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 characters, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a house decorated with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city (with the option of learning about the women who shaped its history) we'll have some free time to find some food this evening. Think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies!

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.

Madrid, you've been great. But it's time to say goodbye to Europe, because we're flying a bit further down south to soak in the intoxicating vibes of Morocco. It's time to let our senses guide us as we arrive in the colourful city of Marrakesh. We'll spend the evening enjoying North African aromas and spices ahead of a full day exploring tomorrow.

Today we'll get to explore the sights and sounds of Marrakesh on a sightseeing tour and discover what this city is all about. You'll be sure to see the likes of Koutoubia Mosque, Jemaa El-Fna and Bahia Palace (tickets are available at an extra cost if you'd like to explore the Palace). Then its time to move on to our next destination... Welcome the Casablanca, the iconic city of Hollywood legend. For our first adventure, we'll wander the cornice and soak up all of those coastal views.

Today we'll get to explore the elegant city of Casablanca and admire the Moorish buildings. We'll also we'll pay a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque, the largest functioning one in all of Africa. More astounding architectural sights are in store in Rabat, as we visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum, tour Hassan and see the gilded royal palace. We then make our way to Chefchaouen, keeping our eyes peeled for the iconic blue buildings. Cameras at the ready: we'll explore Chefchaouen's most iconic insta spot - the 'Blue City' - whilst also uncovering the likes of Place Outa Hamam, Kasbah, and the local markets.

After breakfast this morning, we’ll make our way to Fes… with a stop-off in Volubilis along the way. Welcome to Volubilis – once a Roman settlement, and Morocco’s largest ancient attraction to this day (it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site). We’ll get to explore this marvellous site on a walking tour with a local guide. We'll travel through the Rif mountains to the cultural capital of Fes and Check in to our hotel, ready for a full day of exploration tomorrow.

Welcome to Fes, Morocco's famed cultural capital - known for its medieval architecture and old-world atmosphere. Today you'll see the sights while also learning about the art of making carpets, handicrafts and how to shop medina style. Tonight, we’re off for an optional Moroccan feast… with live entertainment too.

Today we drive into the High Atlas Mountains, North Africa's highest mountain range as we make our way over to Erfoud. Expect to see some staggering peaks and breath-taking views, whilst making some pit stops in the gorgeous towns of Ifrane and Midelt, sitting between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountains. All before making base and enjoying some dinner in Erfoud, an oasis town situated in the mist of the Sahara Desert.

Erfoud, it's been a blast, but move on we must! We'll be making a charming stop for a home visit where we'll enjoy local Berber hospitality and plenty of Moroccan mint tea. Back on the road but we'll be making a stop in Rissani for a lazy lunch and maybe a cheeky swim (just what we need)! We've arrived, but we're not stopping yet. Enjoy an optional visit to the Barber Music Center for some culture. Then in the evening, we'll swap the coach out for some camels and trek into the Sahara Desert for some beautiful sunset views. For dinner you'll be treated to a traditional Berber feast inside a traditional Berber tent before settling in for the night.

We're back on the road, and today it's time to unleash your inner Gladiator. After driving the iconic 1000 kasbahs and eating lunch at the beautiful oasis of Tinghir, we’ll head off to Todra Gorge. Here you’ll have the chance to do some hiking, visit a Date Palmerie, and also try out rock climbing at Todra Gorge depending on the time of year. Afterwards, you can visit Tatefy, a local women’s cooperative on the edge of the Dades Valley, known for its tea and baked goods (a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience). Once you're full and ready to go we will explore Ouarzazate - an iconic city you'll recognise from films including Kingdom of Heaven and Gladiator.

It's the final full day and time to head back to Marrakesh. But first we'll enjoy some traditional treats, including stopping at a local traditional argan oil cooperative to learn the different techniques and traditional ways of producing this fragrant oil - which helps to support the ladies of the cooperative and their families (a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience). Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened. And besides, we're not done yet. Before you bid farewell to magical Morocco, you’ll have the chance to take a cooking class with a local family learning all about Moroccan hospitality and even have the chance to get a traditional Hammam Spa treatment.

You've seen the sights, tasted the culinary delights - It's been emotional! But all good things must come to an end. It's time for all the hugs and most likely a few tears as we bid a farewell and start planning the reunion!
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