Spain & Portugal Explorer

Spain Portugal Andorra

Discover a tour that perfectly connects two epic European countries: Spain and Portugal. Take to the streets of Madrid, Barcelona and Seville to feel the rhythmic vibe of the Iberian Route. Discover UNESCO sites in the Old City of Salamanca, Toledo and Segovia. Stroll along the cobbled lanes of Granada and Zaragoza. Stop for tastings at tapas bars, seafood tavernas and local port wine cellars. You’ll even make your way to Andorra, a tiny principality that straddles France and Spain. This is your chance to follow the sun and enjoy a taste of the serene European lifestyle!

If you're looking for a shorter tour of Spain and Portugal, the first and second parts of this itinerary are available as individual tours - take a look at the Taste of Spain tour (click here) and the Highlights of Spain & Portugal tour (click here).

  • Explore the historic old town of Segovia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Enjoy free days to explore Barcelona, Seville and Lisbon
  • Visit Pamplona, Valencia, San Sebastian, Granada and Ronda
  • Enjoy port wine tasting in Porto and a traditional paella dinner in Valencia
Spain & Portugal Explorer (ESX)

Accommodation

  • 14 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Experiences

  1. Explore Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital
  2. Enjoy a welcome dinner in Madrid
  3. See the historic town of Segovia
  4. Enjoy free time for a night out in San Sebastian
  5. Explore Pamplona; made famous by “the running of the bulls”
  6. Sample local Spanish wines
  7. Explore Zaragoza on a guided walking tour
  8. Visit Andorra la Vella; Europe’s highest capital city
  9. See Barcelona’s spectacular architecture on a driving tour
  10. Enjoy lunch in picturesque Peniscola
  11. Embark on a guided tour of Valencia
  12. Enjoy a paella dinner in Valencia
  13. Wonder the medieval halls of Castillo de Belmonte
  14. Visit Toledo; a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  15. Tour Granada and learn about the legacy of the Spanish Moors
  16. Admire the views from Puente Nuevo in Ronda
  17. See Seville’s highlights on a driving tour
  18. Explore Seville on a guided walking tour
  19. Relax on the beaches of the Algarve
  20. Enjoy a driving tour of Lisbon; Portugal’s vibrant capital city
  21. Visit Obidos, a charming medieval town
  22. Explore picturesque Porto on a driving and walking tour
  23. Sample Port wine; one of Portugal’s most famous exports
  24. Visit Ciudad Rodrigo, a 12th-century fortified town
  25. Explore the streets of Salamanca
  26. Enjoy a farewell dinner in Salamanca
  27. Visit Avila; famous for its medieval walls

Extras

  • Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
  • Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

Transport

  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
  • Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

DAY 1: Start of tour in Madrid

Welcome to Madrid and the start of this exciting 15-day tour of Spain and Portugal! Arrive at the hotel this morning and meet your tour leader. Then it’s time for the travel fun to begin! The tour kicks off with an orientation tour of Madrid to learn more about Spain’s beautiful capital city and its highlights. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the city this afternoon. This evening, meet up with your tour leader at the hotel for an included welcome dinner. Enjoy the delicious tastes of Spain and get to know the rest of the travellers on this group tour.

DAY 2: Segovia - San Sebastian

Depart Madrid this morning and travel to San Sebastian on Spain’s northern coast. Along the way, stop off in Segovia, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site which is home to the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in Europe, as well as an incredibly well-preserved Roman aqueduct that runs into the heart of the city. Arrive in San Sebastian in the late afternoon. San Sebastian is a charming city with a beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife. A foodie’s paradise, San Sebastian is known for its Basque gastronomy, so this evening is best spent exploring the beachfront bars and indulging in pintxo, northern Spain's version of tapas!

DAY 3: Pamplona - Zaragoza

Today’s first stop is Pamplona - the historic city made famous by “the running of the bulls” during the San Fermin festival. Pamplona is packed with history! Enjoy free time to explore the beautiful medieval city centre and see the city walls and citadel. After seeing Pamplona, travel to Zaragoza and enjoy a wine tasting along the way. Arrive in Zaragoza and take a locally guided walking tour of the city. The city has experienced a long and varied history, with Roman, Moorish, Jewish and Christian communities leaving their marks over the centuries. The storied history of Zaragoza can be seen in the architecture of the Basílica del Pilar cathedral, Aljafería Islamic palace, the Roman theatre and more.

DAY 4: Andorra - Barcelona

It’s time to hit the road to Barcelona! Today’s first stop is the tiny principality of Andorra. Enjoy free time to explore Andorra la Vella, the highest capital city in Europe and a popular ski resort. Arrive in Barcelona in the late afternoon. The cosmopolitan capital of the Catalonia region is bursting full of beautiful sights and fascinating things to see and do. The hotel for the next two nights is located in Sant Cugat, just outside the city. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.

DAY 5: Barcelona: Free Day

This morning, embark on a driving tour with your tour leader and become acquainted with Barcelona’s vibrant energy. Look out for top sights including the Sagrada Família, Plaça d’Espanya and Parque de Joan Miró. The rest of the day is free to explore Barcelona! A fantastic way to see the city is on the Highlights of Barcelona optional excursion. See Palau Güell, the famous La Boqueria market, the Gothic Quarter and, of course, the magnificent Sagrada Família! Alternatively, visit the Old Town, stroll along Las Ramblas or relax in one of the city’s parks. Why not join the optional Flamenco show and dinner excursion tonight for a vibrant Spanish music and dance experience?

DAY 6: Peniscola - Valencia

Leaving Barcelona behind, travel along the south coast towards Valencia. En route, stop for lunch in Peniscola. Home to a historic old town, a beautiful promenade and sandy beaches watched over by an imposing castle built by the Knights Templar - this is surely one of the most picturesque spots in Europe to enjoy a lunch stop! Arrive in Valencia and enjoy a guided tour of this thriving port city. Discover Valencia’s uniqueness in how it retains plenty of historic charm despite the decades of development that have given it a distinct space-age feel. Enjoy dinner in the city tonight Look forward to tasting paella - one of the dishes Valencia is famous for!

DAY 7: Valencia - Madrid

Today, it’s time to travel onwards to Madrid. Journey through the historic La Mancha region, made famous by the legend of Don Quixote - an ageing knight who, inspired by his literary heroes, sets off with his squire in search of chivalrous adventure. Next up, explore Castillo de Belmonte. Located on the hill of San Cristobal, tour the medieval castle and discover grandly furnished rooms and dungeons, and learn more about the intriguing history. Arrive in Madrid later in the afternoon. This evening, enjoy an included dinner where travellers from the Highlights of Spain & Portugal tour will join the group.

DAY 8: Toledo - Granada

This morning, say farewell to Madrid and head to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Toledo, an ancient city in central Spain. Fall in love with this charming medieval town, complete with Gothic architecture and an impressive cathedral. The tour continues south to the Moorish city of Granada, which was the last stronghold of the Spanish Moors, and the legacy is evident all around! Arrive and set off on an orientation tour of the city. Discover top attractions and gain great insight into this beautiful region of Spain. Tonight, taste local cuisine on the Granada Local Food & Wine Evening optional excursion. This unmissable culinary experience must be booked prior to the start of the tour - click here to book!

DAY 9: Ronda - Seville

This morning offers the opportunity to join our optional excursion to the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace. As Granada’s most iconic sight and a highlight of any Spain tour, the Alhambra excursion must be booked prior to the start of the tour - click here for more information. This afternoon, travel to Ronda and admire the spectacular views from the ‘Puente Nuevo’ (New Bridge) before enjoying free time for lunch. Later in the afternoon, arrive in the enchanting city of Seville and get to know the city’s sights on a short driving tour. Afterwards, enjoy free time at the beautiful Plaza de Espana and sit down for an included dinner before checking into the hotel for tonight.

DAY 10: Seville

A full day in Seville awaits! Start off with a locally guided walking tour of the city and soak up the culture, sights and sounds of Seville! Later, explore this beautiful and pleasingly compact city at your own pace. This is a town steeped in history, found in the architecture, culture and general atmosphere. Legend has it that Seville was founded by Hercules, many thousands of years ago! Seville is famous for its flamenco dance, tapas bars and orange trees. You could visit the Metropol Parasol for amazing views, tour the Seville Alcázar of Seville or visit the Museum of Flamenco. Tonight, opt-in to join the Flamenco dinner show excursion for vibrant Spanish culture and flavours!

DAY 11: Algarve - Lisbon

Today, cross the border and travel to Lisbon in Portugal! En route, visit the Algarve, the stunning southern coastal region of Portugal that features golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Make a comfort stop at one of these beautiful beaches and enjoy the impressive views, golden sand, and azure blue waters. Arrive in Lisbon and it’s time to set out on an orientation tour of Portugal’s capital city. See Lisbon’s top sights and attractions from the imposing Sao Jorge Castle to the pastel colours of the old town - Lisbon has it all! Take note of any spots you would like to explore on the free day tomorrow!

DAY 12: Lisbon: Free Day

Today is a free day to explore Lisbon at your leisure. See iconic landmarks including the Monument to the Discoveries and the Belém Tower, or discover the wonderful hilltop district of Bairro Alto. Be sure to taste a delicious pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tart) during your free time! Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Fátima - Portugal’s most famous pilgrimage site. Or, visit colourful Sintra for a tour and lunch; this charming UNESCO World Heritage Site village is known for its strikingly colourful monuments and was once the summer retreat for Portugal’s royal families! This evening, find a spot to enjoy one of Portugal's cultural highlights; Fado music which is some of the oldest urban folk music in the world!

DAY 13: Obidos - Porto

Say tchau to Lisbon this morning, as Porto awaits! The first stop today is Obidos, a classic fortified town with narrow cobbled streets, picturesque houses and an imposing hilltop castle. Enjoy free time to explore. Continue the tour of Portugal and arrive in Porto - the second largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest European centres - for a driving and walking tour. See sights including Ponte de' Luis, the Clerigos Tower and many other famous landmarks. One of Portugal’s famous exports is Port wine, which you will have the opportunity to taste this afternoon at an included tasting. Tonight, join the Evening on the Douro optional with a cruise along the picturesque Douro River and an unforgettable gastronomical experience.

DAY 14: Ciudad Rodrigo - Salamanca

It’s time to wave goodbye to Portugal and travel back across the border to Spain. Journey through the countryside this morning and make a stop in Ciudad Rodrigo, where you can enjoy an orientation tour and some free time. Ciudad Rodrigo has been inhabited since the Neolithic period and is most famous for its 12th-century city walls. Arrive in Salamanca in the afternoon and set off on a guided tour with a local guide. Visit the Casa Lis museum, old and new cathedrals, the University and much more. End the tour with some free time in the Plaza Mayor. Finally, enjoy an included farewell dinner, offering three courses of delicious food from around the province of Salamanca.

DAY 15: Avila - Madrid

It’s the last day of the tour and time to travel back to Madrid. Depart Salamanca this morning and travel to Avila to enjoy some free time. Nestled amongst rolling hills in Spain’s countryside, Avila is notable for its many Romanesque and Gothic churches as well as its famous and incredibly well preserved medieval walls. Finally, continue on to Madrid, where this amazing 15-day tour of Spain and Portugal concludes.

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06/04/2025 20/04/2025 £1,885 Book
04/05/2025 18/05/2025 £1,935 Book
18/05/2025 01/06/2025 £1,935 Book
01/06/2025 15/06/2025 £1,935 Book
15/06/2025 29/06/2025 £1,845 Book
29/06/2025 13/07/2025 £1,845 Book
13/07/2025 27/07/2025 £1,885 Book
27/07/2025 10/08/2025 £1,785 Book
10/08/2025 24/08/2025 £1,885 Book
07/09/2025 21/09/2025 £1,935 Book
05/10/2025 19/10/2025 £1,935 Book
12/10/2025 26/10/2025 £1,825 Book
19/10/2025 02/11/2025 £1,935 Book
08/03/2026 22/03/2026 £1,645 Book
22/03/2026 05/04/2026 £1,645 Book
05/04/2026 19/04/2026 £1,645 Book
19/04/2026 03/05/2026 £1,875 Book
03/05/2026 17/05/2026 £1,715 Book
17/05/2026 31/05/2026 £1,645 Book
31/05/2026 14/06/2026 £1,715 Book
14/06/2026 28/06/2026 £1,645 Book
28/06/2026 12/07/2026 £1,645 Book
12/07/2026 26/07/2026 £1,645 Book
26/07/2026 09/08/2026 £1,645 Book
09/08/2026 23/08/2026 £1,645 Book
23/08/2026 06/09/2026 £1,645 Book
06/09/2026 20/09/2026 £1,645 Book
20/09/2026 04/10/2026 £1,645 Book
04/10/2026 18/10/2026 £1,715 Book
18/10/2026 01/11/2026 £1,715 Book

Please contact Global Coach Tours for a list of the latest optional activities available.

Barcelona - €90

Enjoy a vibrant Flamenco performance along with a buffet dinner serving up Spanish delights and unlimited drinks!

Barcelona - €110

See Barcelona’s iconic highlights including the Sagrada Família and Parque Güell! Visit the famous La Boqueria market and the historic Barrio Gótico.

Granada - €50

Enjoy a four-course wine and food pairing experience at a premier Granada gastro bar! Learn about the history of the local cuisine and wine production.

Granada - €80

Explore the Alhambra, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes a palace, fortress and beautiful gardens. 

Seville - €70

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Alcázar of Seville and the Seville Cathedral! Explore these sites in depth with a guided tour. 

Seville - €85

Enjoy a live flamenco show along with a four-course Spanish dinner in Seville, the birthplace of flamenco!

Lisbon - €100

Take a half-day trip to Sintra, a gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage village! This optional excursion includes entrance to Pena Palace and lunch.

Lisbon - €55

Explore the Fátima, the most famous religious pilgrimage site in Portugal! Tour the Coin Caves, the Sanctuary of Fátima and more.

Porto - €60

Cruise along the picturesque Douro River and enjoy an unforgettable gastronomical experience at a local restaurant with stunning Douro views!

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