Coastal Cities of Spain & Portugal

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Barcelona

   Barcelona is a city with a big historic legacy. Its origins can be traced back to the 1st-century BC when it became the Roman colony of Barciro. Today Antoni Gaudí’s Modernist architecture has become the main attraction for visitors from all over the world. Barcelona has two UNESCO listings covering nine buildings. Seven of them are by Gaudi! Despite its age, a youthful, energetic city vibe can be felt in all Barcelona’s quarters. Embrace your hidden love of Gothic aesthetics followed by Catalan cuisine with a private chef and finish your evening with a ramble on La Rambla, the heart of social Barcelona. So whether you feel like a picnic overlooking the beach-fronted La Estrella Herida, a private tapas tour throughout the city, or a stroll through the Gaudi-inspired Park Güell, there is something for everyone!

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Barcelona's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the transfer is about 30 minutes.

   Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.

   

   Ramble on La Rambla

   Embrace the authentic Catalan spirit with an evening stroll along La Rambla on your first night in Barcelona. Spanning nearly a mile, this historic street is the sole avenue in the old part of the city, running parallel to the historic city wall. Unlike the bustling downtown, La Rambla offers a broad and spacious expanse, serving as an ideal meeting place for both locals and visitors alike. Flanked by bars, bistros, boutiques, and galleries on either side, La Rambla stands as a distinctive microcosm of Barcelona's charm.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Get a grounding in Barcelona

   Today, you'll receive the perfect introduction to Barcelona with a private tour exploring the historic Ciutat Vella, including the charming Gothic and Born neighborhoods, led by a knowledgeable and personable guide. You will enjoy a comprehensive introduction to Barcelona and Catalunya and crown the experience with tasting tapas and wine in a traditional restaurant.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Barcelona Tapas, Taverns & History Group Tour

   During this tour, you will learn about Barcelona's history and its relation to Catalan cuisine. Fifty minutes of this tour are walking with your guide while they pass on interesting information and historical notes. The other time is spent in various bars and small restaurants where you will indulge in many different tapas and drinks. Drinks will often be paired with cured meats, cheeses, and more. One of the stops originally opened in 1945 and has served the same four tapas ever since! You'll finish the tour with a classic dessert – the Catalan precursor to crème brûlée.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Paella Group Cooking Class

   You'll start this cooking class by visiting Barcelona's vibrant La Boqueria Market (except on Sundays and public holidays). Right after your stroll through this colorful market, you're ready to start cooking with the help and guidance of an expert chef. But only after you sample some traditional Spanish sangria and delicious tapas first. Then, the chef will show you how to prepare the iconic paella. Once you're done cooking, you're ready to savor the authentic paella you helped create.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Barcelona

   

   Complete Gaudi Group Tour - Park Guell and Extended Sagrada Familia Visit

   Gaudí is inseparable from Barcelona, embodying the city's vibrant style and natural roots. This tour provides the most comprehensive look at his work, including visits to Casa Batlló (morning tour only), Casa Vicens (afternoon tour only), Park Güell, and La Sagrada Familia. You'll see the exteriors of Casa Milà, a.k.a. "La Pedrera", Casa Amatller, and Casa Lleó i Morera, and you'll explore four neighborhoods, combining walking, public transport, and a private transfer for efficiency. With pre-reserved entrances, you’ll skip the lines and experience Gaudí's masterpieces in just half a day.

   • Activity Level : Strenuous
   • Duration : 5 hours 30 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Sagrada Familia Is Not Barcelona’s Only Church

   While Sagrada Familia finally received its consecration from Pope Benedict in 2010, Barcelona boasts more than just this iconic church. Locals often favor Santa Maria del Mar as their top place of worship. Despite enduring a significant earthquake in 1428 and a devastating 11-day fire in July 1936, evident in the lingering scorch marks, the church stands resilient. With towering columns set 43 feet apart and expansive stained glass windows, the interior creates a celestial ambiance. Barcelona Cathedral offers another unique encounter, reflecting centuries of history with Nordic-inspired elements dating back to the 11th century and recent reconstructions using the original Montserrat stone. Explore the cloister with 13 contented geese and the crypt dedicated to the 13-year-old martyr Eulàlia. For stunning views of the Old City, it's worth paying the small fee to take the lift to the cathedral's roof.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to San Sebastian by Airplane / Arrival in San Sebastian

   

   From Barcelona to San Sebastian (EAS), you can take a flight on one of the low-cost airlines. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations in Barcelona and take you to the airport for your flight. The duration of the flight is 1 hour 15 minutes. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:

   
   

   Please note that the flight included in your package is in Economy Class (or similar). This includes one cabin bag (17-22lb) and one checked bag (up to 50 lbs) as well as assigned seats. If you’re interested in upgrading to a higher class (which is possible only on certain airlines), just let us know—we’ll be happy to check availability and cost.
Please also keep in mind that the included flight is not flexible, and flight prices are subject to change until the trip is confirmed.

   San Sebastián is rightfully known as one of the most beautiful cities in northern Spain. It flourished in the early 20th century as a holiday resort for aristocrats and to this day attracts visitors to its famed beaches. San Sebastian is also a haven for foodies. A landmark for gastronomy, San Sebastian has more Michelin Star restaurants per capita than anywhere else in Europe! But it’s not all about white table cloths and silver service. The bars in the quaint Old Town have the most delicious pintxos – the local take on tapas – which you must try while in San Sebastian. San Sebastian’s best-kept secret might be its cider houses. The cavernous sidrerias are where the locals can be found of an evening.

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at San Sebastian EAS airport and take you directly to your accommodations in San Sebastian.

   

   To the Ocean

   Begin your first night's adventure by heading towards the Atlantic Sea. Whether your lodging is close to La Concha Bay or the chic Gros district, embark on a discovery stroll in the direction opposite to your accommodation. Cross the river, encountering enticing bars and restaurants along the way. Take a seat, relish a couple of pintxos paired with fine wine or beer, and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of San Sebastián's nightlife.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in San Sebastian

   

   San Sebastian Sightseeing Private Tour

   This tour will give you an in-depth introduction to the top San Sebastian sights. Discover the local culture, history, and architecture. Visit the old part of town and finish with a pintxo and a drink in one of its famous bars. San Sebastian has been blessed with an incredible natural setting, and there is no better place to start this tour than Mount Igueldo, admiring the city's best views. From Mount Igueldo, you will hop on an over 100-year-old wooden funicular that will take you down to the neighborhood of Antiguo. You will continue along La Concha beach to the foot of Mount Ulia in the Gros district. It will then be time to leave the car and enjoy a walk along Zurriola beach, just as the locals do! Finally, it is time to discover the Old Town - the gastronomic epicenter of San Sebastián, where you will find the pintxo bars and the famous Basque food clubs; of course, you’ll end the tour in the purest Ikusnahi style: with a pintxo, a glass of wine, and a toast.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Relaxing or Staying Active at the Beach

   Playa de la Concha, celebrated as one of Europe's most exquisite urban shorelines, boasts a perfect arch and earned favor with Queen Regent María Cristina, who dubbed it the summer capital of Europe. The scenic promenade along the Cantabrian Sea offers tranquility and stunning vistas. Playa de Ondarreta, the second beach, stretches west of Miramar Royal Palace, featuring a vast 100-meter-wide shoreline extending a kilometer toward Monte Igueldo. Playa de la Zurriola, the third beach, attracts global surf enthusiasts with its excellent waves and hosts a variety of sports and beach competitions, including volleyball, football, beach tennis, bodyboarding, surfing, and skateboarding.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your Second Full Day in San Sebastian

   

   Hondarribia, San Juan and San Pedro Small Group Tour

   On this tour, you will visit the Basque coast and explore some coastal towns that are surprisingly close to the city. First of all, you will arrive at Hondarribia, a medieval town with hundred-year-old walls where the sobriety of its old area contrasts with the joy of the fishermen's quarter. Later, you will cross Mount Jaizkibel to see a panoramic view of the area and see the Bidasoa River that separates the two countries. Finally, you will arrive at the bay of Pasajes, with San Juan on one side and San Pedro on the other, where time seems to have stopped.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Pintxo Tasting Paired with Spanish Wines Small Group Tour

   On this tour, you will be immersed in the charming and wonderful Parte Vieja (Old Town) of San Sebastian. You will be guided to taste the best pintxos in town paired with five Spanish wines from different Denominations of Origin and the local cider. Throughout the experience, you will feel like a donostiarra (city native). Taste the best gastronomic art pieces combined with some of the best Spanish wines. In between pintxos, you will have the chance to discover the details of this amazing area full of history while you mix with the local people through the route that the guide will take you.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

7. Day 7 Traveling to Porto / Arrival in Porto

   Our driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport in plenty of time for your departing flight.

   As the name suggests, Portugal’s second-largest urban area is a port city, located in the north of the country along the Douro River estuary. A small Celtic hamlet until a Roman invasion in the 4th century, Portus Cale, as it became known, distinguished itself as a major trading port for not just the region but the entire country. The old city center, Ribeira, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. It is an urban landscape with over 2,000 years of remarkably well-preserved history. Traversing the narrow streets, you can’t help but notice that the spirit of local life still remains despite the increasing number of tourists.

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Porto's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the drive is about 20 minutes.

   Find Your Feet on the Street of Flowers

   Embark on a magical first night in Porto along the captivating Rua das Flores. Begin with an intimate dinner at its charming restaurants, savoring authentic Portuguese flavors. Wander along the beautifully lit street, marveling at the historical architecture. Complete the night by discovering hidden gems like local wine bars, where you can unwind with a glass of exquisite Port wine. Rua das Flores sets the stage for an enchanting introduction to Porto's culinary and cultural delights.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Porto

   

   Secret Porto Group Walking Tour

   Porto, with its medieval roots, is a resilient city proud of its rich history and enduring charm. Known as the "Undefeated City," it invites you to explore its narrow alleyways, enchanting staircases, and vibrant historic quarters. On this group tour, discover hidden viewpoints, serene gardens, and the lively riverside contrasting with the city's organic, unplanned beauty. Experience the unique "Tripeiro" spirit and be captivated by Porto's extraordinary magic.
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : Up to 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Porto

   

   Peneda-Geres National Park Group Tour

   On this full-day Peneda-Gerês National Park group tour from Porto, you can immerse yourself in Portugal’s wild landscape. You will explore the only Portuguese National Park and hike in incredible mountains while admiring local fauna and flora, amazing viewpoints, and mesmerizing waterfalls. You will be guided through this wonderful location with all the safety and quality we have provided our guests over the years. You will also enjoy a traditional picnic lunch in one of Gerês most iconic viewpoints while resting with the mountain at your feet and admiring the gorgeous surrounding scenery.

   • Activity Level : Strenuous
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Douro Small Group Tour

   On this tour, you can taste some of Douro’s products, like olive oil, honey, and wine, in selected estates that show you the best of this region in terms of tradition, uniqueness, and quality. Douro Valley has one of the most stunning landscapes in the world, rich for its sinuous terracing, a place where man overcame the land slopes to plant vines. While visiting the village of Pinhão, the heart of the Douro valley, you will be shown the historic railway station, well known for its 24 tile panels portraying the Douro landscapes and aspects of the traditional harvest. You will experience Portuguese gastronomy and awarded DOC and Port wines blended with knowledge, relaxation, and fun throughout the day.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

10. Day 10 Traveling to Lisbon by Train / Arrival in Lisbon

    

    Today you will travel to the Portuguese capital Lisbon. We will arrange for a driver to transfer you from your hotel to Porto Campanha Train Sation. From there you will take the train to Lisbon. Your package includes the tickets with seat reservations. The journey takes about 3-3.5 hours, depending on the stops.
    If you'd prefer to make a day of it and see some countryside up close, rather than from the train, we can arrange for a private transfer which also offers the convenience of door-to-door service.

    

    You can upgrade your transfer

    Lisbon by Private Transfer with a Stop in Aveiro and Obidos

    Upgrade for an additional cost

    The capital of Portugal since 1255 when King Alphonse II moved the court from Coimbra, Lisbon is not only regarded as one of the sunniest of the European capitals but one with a rich history on display. The soft white limestone facades of the oldest neighborhood, Alfama, welcome tourists, and locals, calling to them through the medium of Fado music drifting wistfully from the abundance of bars, or the smell of petisco (Portuguese tapas) wafting from a myriad of restaurants. Like its ancient rival Porto, Lisbon rests on mighty rivers originating from the eastern Spanish highlands. Remnants of human settlements in the vicinity of the city date back to the Neolithic period and since that time successful invasions have resulted in occupation by Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. The rich tapestry of Lisbon’s history has been woven into the very fabric of the city.

    When you arrive at Lisbon's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

    

    First Steps in the City

    Upon your arrival in Lisbon, the optimal way to acquaint yourself with the city is by strolling to Praça do Comércio and exploring the elegantly reconstructed Baixa neighborhood, which emerged after the earthquake. For a direct route to the Bairro Alto and Chiado, the most bohemian districts with lively nightlife and top-notch restaurants, take a ride on the Santa Justa elevator, an iron structure dating back to 1902.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

11. Day 11 Your First Full Day in Lisbon

    

    Discover The City Of Seven Hills

    Sit back and enjoy the ride in your private tuktuk. Your guide will show you the sights of Lisbon from various angles, but especially from the viewpoints where you can admire the city's most beautiful vistas. With pickup at your hotel, this is easily the most effortless way to see the best of Lisbon.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 2 Hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Take a Sunset Cruise

    Set sail for two hours, drinking wine and tasting some Portuguese snacks as you wrap up the day in style on a sailboat with a small group of likeminded travelers. You will enjoy the sunset over Lisbon from a sailboat in the Tagus River. Discover the old city from a unique point of view, just when the special light wraps the city in magic! An unforgettable experience!

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 2 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Take a Time Out at Mercado da Ribeira

    Mercado da Ribeira, housing Lisbon's Time Out Market, serves as the city's primary food market. Within this bustling marketplace, traditional stalls showcase fresh local produce and fish, operating from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, the food hall, introduced to visitors in 2014, presents a diverse array of culinary options, spanning sandwiches and hamburgers to sushi and ice cream. Operating daily, the food hall welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. until midnight.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

12. Day 12 Your Second Full Day in Lisbon

    

    Sintra & Cascais Small Group Tour

    On this tour, you will head towards Sintra Mountain and start the day by visiting the fantastic Sintra village. You will have some free time to explore the town. Next, it is time to cross the mystic mountain of Sintra towards the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see the quaint Colares village and learn more about local wines dating back to the 13th century. You will also stop at a midpoint in the wild Cabo da Roca. After a lunch break, you'll enjoy beautiful roads toward Cascais, a former fishing village. Then, you'll go to the Pena Palace. Then, it will be time to head back to Lisbon.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 9 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

    

    Sesimbra, Arrabida and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour

    On this captivating tour from Lisbon, you will cross the Tagus River to witness the grandeur of the colossal Christ the King statue erected in gratitude after World War II. Traverse the scenic Albufeira Lagoon, a sanctuary blending pine forests, pristine beaches, and diverse birdlife. Explore the historic Espichel Cape, adorned with 18th-century structures and steeped in centuries-old tales. Continue to the charming fishing town of Sesimbra, featuring a medieval Moorish Castle with panoramic ocean views. Conclude your adventure amidst the serene Arrabida Mountain, indulging in delightful local wines at a family-owned cellar amidst breathtaking vineyard vistas.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 8 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

13. Day 13 Departure Day

    The driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport for your departing flight. The duration of the drive is about 20 minutes.