This 13-day tour takes you on an immersive journey through the captivating cities and landscapes of Portugal and Spain. Begin in Lisbon, exploring its historic landmarks and enjoying local delights like Pastéis de Belém. Continue to Óbidos, Nazaré, and Fátima before venturing into the scenic Serra da Estrela and Coimbra, home to Portugal’s oldest university. Discover the charming Costa Nova, Aveiro, and Braga, then cross into Spain to visit Santiago de Compostela and the medieval towns of Ávila and Segovia. Finish with a deep dive into Madrid’s cultural offerings, including the Royal Palace and Prado Museum, before concluding your adventure.
DAY 1: Arrival in Lisbon
Arrive at Lisbon airport, situated near the Tagus River. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
DAY 2: Lisbon
Discover Lisbon’s unique charm during a panoramic tour, featuring historic neighborhoods and landmarks like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Enjoy a Pastéis de Belém pastry tasting. The afternoon and evening are free for personal exploration or optional tours.
DAY 3: Lisbon
Spend the entire day exploring Lisbon at your own pace or join optional tours.
DAY 4: Lisbon > Óbidos > Nazaré > Fátima
Depart for the medieval town of Óbidos, followed by a visit to the fishing village of Nazaré, famous for its giant waves. Enjoy a gastronomic lunch before heading to Fátima, where you can visit the Sanctuary and join the Candlelight Procession.
DAY 5: Fátima > Serra da Estrela > Sabugueiro > Coimbra
Travel to Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain, known for its stunning views and traditional Serra cheese. Visit the quaint village of Sabugueiro for a gastronomic lunch, then proceed to Coimbra, home to Portugal’s oldest university. Tour the city, including the renowned University Library.
DAY 6: Coimbra > Costa Nova > Aveiro > Guimarães > Braga
Begin with a visit to Costa Nova’s iconic striped houses, then enjoy a boat ride in Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” complete with a local sweets tasting. Continue to Guimarães for a walking tour of its UNESCO-listed historic center, then arrive in Braga for overnight accommodations.
DAY 7: Braga > Santiago de Compostela > Valença > Porto
Visit Braga’s Bom Jesus Sanctuary and continue to Santiago de Compostela, a major pilgrimage site. After touring the famous Cathedral, return to Portugal with a stop in Valença, known for its well-preserved military structures. End the day in Porto.
DAY 8: Porto
Explore Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include Clérigos Tower, São Bento Station, and a Port wine cellar tour with tasting. Free time in the afternoon and optional tours are available.
DAY 9: Porto > Amarante > Douro Valley > Peso da Régua > Salamanca
Visit Amarante, famous for its association with St. Gonçalo, before continuing through the breathtaking Douro Valley. Stop at Peso da Régua before heading to Salamanca, Spain, celebrated for its Renaissance architecture.
DAY 10: Salamanca > Ávila > Segovia > Madrid
Tour Salamanca’s historic highlights, then visit Ávila’s medieval walls and Segovia’s Roman aqueduct. After a gastronomic lunch, travel to Madrid for overnight accommodations.
DAY 11: Madrid
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Madrid, exploring its vibrant neighborhoods and landmarks like Paseo del Prado, Retiro Park, and the Royal Palace. The afternoon and evening are free for personal exploration.
DAY 12: Madrid
Spend the day at leisure, with opportunities to visit the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, or Reina Sofía Museum.
DAY 13: Departure from Madrid
After breakfast, enjoy free time before transferring to the airport for your departure.