Best of Spain & Portugal | Classic | Summer | 2026 - From £2,275

Europe Spain
OVERVIEW
Want to truly get to know Spain & Portugal? On this 19-day trip we'll immerse ourselves in everything Iberian, from uncovering Moorish architecture in Córdoba & Granada to exploring charming palaces at Sintra, feasting on fresh seafood in Lisbon and stumbling across UNESCO World Heritage sites around seemingly every corner. Hitting up all the iconic cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Granada, Lisbon & Porto - a maze of culture, food & colourful experiences awaits.
EXPERIENCES
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.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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
DEPARTURE DATES AND PRICES
Tour
Departs		 Tour
Returns		 Starting From
(price per person)		 Definite Departure
What's this? 		Book Now!
24/04/2026 16/05/2026 £2,857 Book
22/05/2026 13/06/2026 £2,875 Book
12/06/2026 04/07/2026 £3,055 Book
26/06/2026 18/07/2026 £3,595 Book
10/07/2026 01/08/2026 £3,125 Book
24/07/2026 15/08/2026 £3,125 Book
07/08/2026 29/08/2026 £2,825 Book
21/08/2026 12/09/2026 £2,825 Book
04/09/2026 26/09/2026 £2,725 Book
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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.

Time to switch from ancient streets to strobe lights. Today, we’ll head south along the coast to Ibiza.  Ditching the coach for a ferry, we’ll hit the coast of the party capital of the world.  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. Flowers adorn storybook balconies & charming little lanes will take your breath away in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, overflowing with history. We'll make our way to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Cordoba), the perfect way to spend a few hours. We’re keeping it cosy this evening, with a tasty included dinner. Good food, great company!

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. Looking for things to do in this fairytale town? We recommend 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.

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. But if you wanna experience the ultimate welcome to Porto, join us for a traditional Fado show tonight (with local wine!).

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!

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.

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.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 1: AC Hotel Madrid Feria (or similar) - Meals: Dinner
DAY 2: AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 3: AZZ Pamplona Norte (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
DAY 10: Macia Condor (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11: Crowne Plaza Madrid Airport (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12: Crisol Jardines De Cordoba (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: Hotel Vila Galé Tavira (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 16: Hotel Vila Galé Tavira (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 17: Hotel Roma (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 18: Hotel Roma (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
DAY 19: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar) - Meals: Breakfast
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
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