Premium Portugal and Spain in Depth

Get swept up in the colours, tastes and delights of two of Europe’s most beloved countries - Spain and Portugal - on an epic 27-day Premium journey through the Iberian Peninsula. See flamenco in Seville, feel the history of the Alhambra in Granada, visit the famous Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, dine with locals at an exclusive gastronomic society in San Sebastian, bask in the beauty of Barcelona, discover the birthplace of port and the treasures of the Douro Valley, and get to the heart of glorious Lisbon. Travel with passionate local leaders eager to share the magic of their homelands as you discover a land of rich history, vibrant regional cultures, stunning landscapes and refined cuisine.

Itinerary

Day 1: Lisbon

Ola! Welcome to Portugal. When you arrive at the Lisbon airport, you’ll be picked up by an Intrepid representative and taken to your centrally located hotel. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe head to one of the many outdoor cafes and soak up the city’s energy. After your meeting, you’ll join your leader and small group for a welcome dinner at one of Lisbon’s thriving restaurants. Going out to eat is one of Portugal’s great pleasures, and tonight, your leader will introduce you to traditional Portuguese recipes and a culinary scene that’s exploding with regional flavour.

Day 2: Lisbon

This morning, join a local guide for a walking tour through the city of Lisbon. First, take a ride on the historic Gloria cable car – this bright yellow funicular is one of Lisbon’s most photographed images! Then, explore the trendy neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, the popular Chiado area and the narrow, cobbled streets of Alfama, dotted with hole-in-the-wall eateries and old homes. Pop into a local establishment to try a pastel de nata – a sweet and delicious custard tart and Portugal’s most famous pastry. Visit Lisbon Cathedral and hear how it was built on the site of an old mosque in 1150 by Lisbon’s first bishop, Gilbert of Hastings. It wouldn’t be a tour of Lisbon without stopping off to sample some ginjinha – Portugal’s iconic cherry liqueur. The rest of your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace.

Day 3: Cascais / Cabo da Roca / Sintra / Coimbra

Head outside the city for a full-day excursion to Sintra – a resort town in the foothills of the mountains. Your leader will explain how the cooler climate made Sintra a summer retreat for royalty and why it has drawn and inspired many poets, writers and travellers for centuries, including Lord Byron. Spend some time exploring Sintra’s colourful Pena Palace before continuing to the town. You’ll have a free afternoon to explore these picturesque surroundings at your own pace. Grab some lunch, then maybe visit the National Palace or Quinta da Regaleira – this castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great spot for a gorgeous photo!

Day 4: Coimbra

Sitting on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the medieval capital of the county, and its royal heritage can be felt in its ancient streets and buildings. Get to know the city as your leader guides you through the lanes and squares of the Old Quarter this morning. The real star of the show is Coimbra’s prestigious university – one of the oldest in the world. You’ll visit the Joanine Library within the university, then this evening, get to know more about this nation’s cultural heritage by heading to a traditional Fado music show. Portugal’s version of the blues is hauntingly beautiful and hearing it performed live is an experience to remember. Your leader can recommend some superb spots to eat after the show.

Day 5: Douro Valley

Travel from Coimbra to the Douro Valley today. Famous for its scenery, the Douro Valley is also known for producing some of the world’s most delicious wine. Today, you’ll head out for a tasting tour at one of the region’s best wineries. You can’t spell Portugal without Port, and to taste this iconic fortified wine is to taste thousands of years of Portuguese history. Learn the story of its origins and the history of wine production in the area while discovering which locally produced vino is your tipple of choice. Sit down to a light picnic lunch of rustic regional specialities prepared with fresh local ingredients (and paired with more wine, of course!). Then continue to your Feature Stay accommodation – tucked away between the rolling hills and terraced vineyards of the spectacular Douro Valley, your home for the night boasts unbeatable views of the Douro River. When you arrive, you might like to make the most of your hotel's scenic outdoor pools, or maybe grab dinner on the terrace and soak in the scenery.

Day 6: Porto

This morning, enjoy a gentle boat ride on the Douro River, stopping by the riverside village of Pinhao. From here, make your way to Porto – a romantic city on the banks of the river. When you arrive, join your leader for an orientation walk through twisting alleys, crisscrossing staircases and baroque churches. Pass old bridges, cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes and explore at your own pace. In the evening, head to the nearby city of Vila Nova de Gaia to end the day with some sunset drinks.

Day 7: Porto

Learn about the history of tiles in Portugal this morning with a tile-painting workshop. Steeped in centuries of tradition, hand-painted tiles can be seen on the facades of buildings and churches, telling the stories of Portugal’s past with vibrant colours and designs. Then, your afternoon is free. Maybe head to one of the city’s riverfront cafes for a coffee and pastry overlooking the colourful rows of old houses or take a walk around the World Heritage listed Ribeira district. Another option is to take the local train to the seaside city of Matosinhos where you can relax on the beach, dine at the fresh seafood restaurants or stroll along the promenade. Regroup tonight for a final dinner at one of Porto’s local restaurants.

Day 8: Madrid

Today you will travel to Madrid, where you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. You'll have another welcome meeting at 6.30 pm tonight. If you have time to spare, you might like to visit the Museo del Prado and then wander the works of Picasso and Dali in the Museo Reina Sofia. After your meeting, you’ll join your local leader and small group for dinner at a local restaurant that showcases Madrid’s famous tapas.

Day 9: Madrid

Travel to the city of Toledo this morning. The Old Town here sits on a high craggy rock and is encircled by the Tagus River. As a former capital of Spain, Toledo has immense historic significance and holds many architectural treasures. Examples of buildings from most architectural periods in Spain’s history can be seen here, from the Gothic to the Baroque. Today, you’ll experience Toledo’s culture with a marzipan tasting. While a few countries compete for the rights, the Spanish argue that marzipan was invented in Toledo. Either way, the sweet treat made from almond meal, honey and sugar has been produced in this city for generations. Return to Madrid for a free afternoon – you might like to check out the Royal Palace or stroll around the Parque del Retiro.

Day 10: Seville

Travel from Madrid to Seville by train this morning. The largest city in southern Spain, Seville is famous for its cultural vitality and architecture. When you arrive, check into your Feature Stay accommodation – a gorgeous family-run boutique hotel housed in 27 Sevillian cottages with patios and corridors connecting them. The hotel celebrates its roots with its decor and antique furnishings and walking through the hotel's interior is like taking a stroll through centuries-old parts of the city, with its statues, columns, jugs, all creating the impression of a living museum. Personal touches can also be found all throughout the hotel, like the hand painted details in each room and the owner’s great-grandmother’s shawl hanging in reception. Tonight, join your group for a live flamenco show – a traditional Spanish style of dance with roots in Seville.

Day 11: Seville

This morning, meet with a local expert on all things Seville and get to know the city during a walking tour. Explore narrow streets, hidden squares filled with orange trees and flower-adorned patios as your guide provides local insight into the history of the city. Visit the Alcazar of Seville – a grand royal palace. Known as one of the most beautiful in Europe, the Spanish royal family still use the Alcazar as their residence! The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Maybe take an optional visit to the Giralda Tower and the famous Seville Cathedral – one of Europe’s largest cathedrals and home to Christopher Columbus’ elevated tomb.

Day 12: Cordoba

Today, journey to the city of Cordoba, where Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences are present in the architecture, culture and cuisine. Cordoba is also home to the Mezquita – a rare site which has served as both a mosque and a cathedral throughout the centuries. Today, a cathedral stands within the centre of the mosque – an interesting example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in Spain. Discover this supreme example of Islamic architecture on a comprehensive guided tour with your leader which continues outside of the Mezquita and explores the charming quarters and hidden corners of Cordoba.

Day 13: Granada

Depart Cordoba and travel to Granada. Along the way, you’ll learn more about the importance of olive oil production in the Andalucia region by visiting an oil mill. Let the passionate owner of the family-run business walk you through the process of olive oil production and taste some different variations of the final result yourself, along with olives, olive marmalade, olive pate and wine. This evening, maybe head out to explore Granada’s drinking and dining scene with your group.

Day 14: Granada

This morning, take an orientation walk of Granada with your leader. Learn the history of the city and discover Islamic architecture and Arab influences at every turn. Then, you’ll have some time for your own explorations – maybe head to a local teahouse to sample some Moorish pastries. In the afternoon, join an expert local guide for a tour of Alhambra and its perfectly manicured gardens. Dating back to the 11th century, Alhambra represents Muslim art in its final European stages. Tonight, join your group for an included dinner at a nearby restaurant. Then, you’ll return to the Alhambra after dark and explore the famed Nasrid Palaces with your local guide. By now, the crowds have dispersed and you’re free to explore the site in all its glory. Your guide will bring history to life and provide expert insight as you explore the dominating red fortress towers, opulent palace decor and a multitude of architectural styles through the intricate Nasrid Palaces.

Day 15: Valencia

Depart Granada and travel to Valencia. Along the way, you’ll travel through the countryside through Elche – the capital of the region of Bajo Vinalopo. The historic quarter of Elche preserves part of its Muslim past and Baroque splendour. Walk around palm tree grove – one of the largest and the only one in Europe. Your leader will explain how the grove was established by the Phoenicians and expanded by the Arabs in the 8th and 9th centuries. Then it's on to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city. When you arrive, you’re free to explore the Old Town centre that dates back 2000 years. Discover the harmonious mix of Roman, Muslim and Christian influences in its buildings, monuments and gardens.

Day 16: Valencia

Start the day with a short drive south of Valencia to discover Albufera Lake – an important ecological site of the region. The lake is surrounded by beach, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest and is home to six small islands. You’ll visit the island of El Palmar and its typical ‘barraca’ houses. Travel by boat to the middle of the lake and learn about the important agricultural crop of the area, namely the local rice. Finish off with a lunch of the most famous Valencian dish – paella. The rest of the day is yours to explore Valencia at your own pace. You might like to visit the city's major landmark, the City of Arts and Science – a large and futuristic museum complex designed by Calatrava. Or, head out to a local cafe to enjoy the treats that Valencia has to offer – from horchata to artisan chocolates, the city is a gastronomical heaven.

Day 17: Barcelona

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Valencia and travel to Barcelona. The character and fabulous Catalan cuisine of this city mixes in seamlessly with a ground-breaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife, making it a city you won't soon forget. After a walking tour with your leader, you’ll have dinner at a local restaurant with your group. Celebrate the final night of your trip as you dine on some of the region’s most delicious foods like olives, pickled garlic, lomo Iberico de Bellotta (pork loin), Catalan cheeses, olive oil and sweet desserts.

Day 18: Barcelona

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Spain. When you arrive in Barcelona, you’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of town. This city features iconic sites, Catalan cuisine, a dynamic art scene, Gothic architecture and a non-stop nightlife, so there’s plenty to explore if you arrive early. Maybe visit Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia Basilica or head to one of the many cafes and watch the day pass you by. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. After, join your leader and group members for a welcome dinner and discover why the heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre.

Day 19: La Rioja

Travel by private vehicle to Zaragoza – the capital of Spain’s Aragon region, filled with lavish buildings and palaces. After a brief orientation walk with your leader, you’ll have time to explore Zaragoza your own way. Maybe check out the Basilica of El Pilar or visit the Goya Museum. The famous artist was born in a small town just 45 km south of here. After you’ve enjoyed the sights of Zaragoza, continue to your Feature Stay in the La Rioja region – a hotel surrounded by lush palm gardens. After you’ve checked in and freshened up, join your group for dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Day 20: La Rioja

After breakfast, join your leader for a walking tour of Laguardia – a medieval town that was founded in the 10th century and remains virtually unchanged. Famous for being one of the country’s most beautiful villages, you’ll enter the walled city through one of four grand stone gates and stroll around the streets. After you’ve explored the town, make your way to a family-owned business rich in history where you´ll have a guided tour and tasting of a couple of local wines, accompanied with small bites, followed by lunch. After lunch and perhaps another glass of wine, you’ll head back to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon.

Day 21: San Sebastian

Today you’ll drive to Pamplona, the heartland of the Basque country. When you arrive, join your leader for an orientation walk and get acquainted with this well-preserved fortified medieval town. Pamplona, named after its founder Pompey the Great, has served for centuries as both a military stronghold and an important point on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail. It’s also world famous as the home of the annual San Fermin – a weeklong festival that features the running of the bulls. Meander down winding alleys and step inside ornate buildings like Pamplona's Gothic cathedral – one of the most important religious structures in Spain. The city has also recently opened a museum of modern art designed by a prize-winning architect, inspired by the cultural renaissance achieved by Bilbao and its Guggenheim. After spending time in Pamplona continue to San Sebastian – the jewel of the Basque country where your evening is free.

Day 22: San Sebastian

Delve deeper into Basque culture on an orientation walk with your leader around San Sebastian. Discover some of San Sebastian's landmarks, the Port and the Old Town. With sunny beaches and a vibrant old city, San Sebastian is the perfect place to stroll along the promenade, shop or just soak up the sun. In the evening, you’ll have dinner at a gastronomic society. Traditionally only available via an invitation from an existing member, gastronomic societies play an important role in the social fabric of Basque communities as an important social outlet.

Day 23: Oviedo

After breakfast, drive to Bilbao for an orientation walk with your leader followed by the opportunity to visit the famous Guggenheim Museum. Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum is an eye-catching work of art in itself and home to a collection of contemporary art works. After some free time for lunch, continue to the town of Oviedo in the heart of Asturias where you’ll spend the next two nights at a comfortable hotel.

Day 24: Oviedo

Oviedo is a great town to explore on foot and today you’ll be joined by a specialist local guide who will take you on a guided walk of the city. Stroll around the handsome city centre, pre-Romanesque churches and grand houses. At the heart of the town sits the impressive Gothic San Salvador Cathedral – the birthplace of the Camino de Santiago. You’ll also get an introduction to some local products of Asturias at El Fontan market – home to fresh fish stalls and a canopy of wrought-iron and glass. This afternoon is free for you to explore your own way. Maybe take a trip up to the port city of Gijon for fresh seafood and sweet-filled bakeries, or the fishing village of Luanco for a relaxing drink on the promenade. Asturian sidra is famous throughout Spain, so tonight for dinner you’ll head to a local cidreria.

Day 25: Santiago de Compostela

Travel by private vehicle along the northern part of Asturias and after crossing the Ria de Ribadeo, enter the Spanish region of Galicia. Stop in one of the small seaside villages with time to explore and maybe grab some lunch before heading towards Santiago de Compostela – the capital of Galicia and a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam. This destination is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. Soak up the beauty of the cathedral where St James, one of the 12 Apostles, is purportedly buried.

Day 26: Santiago de Compostela

Today you'll have the opportunity to join pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Walk alongside those who may have trekked over 800 km to be here. It’s important that you wear comfortable footwear and bring a raincoat, as weather can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. When you’re back in Santiago, the rest of the day is free. Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an open-air museum, so maybe wander the squares, the market and the University buildings. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a Galician dinner and raise a glass to the last night of your adventure.

Day 27: Santiago de Compostela

After breakfast this morning, your adventure comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to arrange additional accommodation.

Departure Dates