Intrepid Travel
Classic Spain & Portugal
Classic Spain & Portugal
Tour Spain and Portugal’s pin-up attractions on this 22-day western European adventure. Start in Barcelona – the epitome of all things stylish, cultural and fashionable – before continuing on to Pamplona, Longrono and the glorious beaches of San Sebastian. Then soak up art and history in Madrid, be staggered by the grandeur of Alhambra Palace in Granada and take in the dramatic spectacle of a flamenco performance in Seville. Travel to Portugal to chill out in the Algarve, get chatty with Lisbon locals in the Bairro Alto and taste some sweet port wines in Porto. Back in Spain, visit Santiago de Compostela en route back to Madrid.
Activities
- Park Guell
- Barcelona – Walking tour: Explore Gaudi and Modernist Architecture Urban Adventure
- Pamplona – Leader led walk
- San Sebastian – Monte Igueldo Funicular (Igeldo Funikularra)
- San Sebastian – Orientation walk
- Logrono – Txikiteo of Pintxos (Tapas Crawl)
- Logrono – Orientation walk
- Laguardia – Winery Visit & Wine Tasting
- Laguardia – leader led town visit
- Granada – Orientation Walk
- Granada – Guided Visit to Alhambra Palace & Gardens
- Seville – Orientation Walk
- Seville – Evening Flamenco Performance
- Lagos – Algarve Cliff Boat Trip
- Lisbon – Orientation walk
- Porto – Port Wine Tasting
- Porto – Orientation walk
- Santiago de Compostela – Orientation walk
- Santiago de Compostela – Camino de Santiago Hike
- Madrid – Orientation Walk
- Madrid – Orientation Walk
Highlights
- Gaze in awe at the artistic feats of the Spanish masters in Madrid, and experience a different sort of mastery with a fiery flamenco performance in Seville.
- Unwind in a laidback fishing village in the Algarve on Portugal’s scenic south coast. Soak up the sun on a beach and enjoy a cocktail-coloured sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
- People from all over the world come to Spain to walk the famous Camino de Santiago. Join pilgrims along the last leg of the journey, as they reach the historic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
- The fortified medieval city of Pamplona is a great place to discover on foot. Weave through the city’s winding alleyways to the immense Gothic Cathedral and walk down the street of the famous bull run.
- Logrono is bursting with delicious local produce and wine, just waiting to be enjoyed on an included tapas crawl. Delicioso!
| Day 1 |
To visit Barcelona is to embrace both the past and the future. There is much to do and see in this cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, from medieval structures to beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites by Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner. FC Barcelona, the professional football club, is also a huge draw here.
Gaudí is responsible for many of Barcelona's must-see attractions, including iconic church La Sagrada Familia, the arts center Casa Mila, and public park system Park Güell. Culture, economics, architecture, and gastronomy all combine to make Barcelona a magical and unparalleled experience. Stroll pedestrian walkways in the old quarter, soak in the green spaces, and gaze at the Mediterranean, gelato in hand! |
| Day 2 |
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| Day 3 |
San Sebastián, or Donostia, is a gem nestled on Spain's northern coast, renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. With its picturesque bay, La Concha, often ranked among the world's most beautiful city beaches, this Basque city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. A stroll along the promenade or a relaxing day sunbathing on the golden sands provides a quintessential San Sebastián experience. The city is a culinary haven, celebrated for its pintxos—Basque-style tapas that burst with flavors. The Old Town, or Parte Vieja, is lined with bustling bars where you can savor these delectable bites paired with local wines. San Sebastián's gastronomic reputation extends to its Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Arzak and Martín Berasategui, which consistently place the city on the global culinary map. Cultural enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in San Sebastián. The city hosts the annual San Sebastián International Film Festival, one of Spain's most prestigious film events, attracting stars and cinephiles alike. Additionally, the picturesque old town is home to the historic San Telmo Museoa, which explores Basque society through art and exhibits. A fun fact: San Sebastián is also known for its unique "bocadillo de calamares," a squid sandwich that's a local favorite and a must-try for visitors. Whether you're indulging in its culinary delights, enjoying its cultural offerings, or simply soaking up the sun, San Sebastián promises a memorable and enriching travel experience. |
| Day 4 |
San Sebastián, or Donostia, is a gem nestled on Spain's northern coast, renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. With its picturesque bay, La Concha, often ranked among the world's most beautiful city beaches, this Basque city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. A stroll along the promenade or a relaxing day sunbathing on the golden sands provides a quintessential San Sebastián experience. The city is a culinary haven, celebrated for its pintxos—Basque-style tapas that burst with flavors. The Old Town, or Parte Vieja, is lined with bustling bars where you can savor these delectable bites paired with local wines. San Sebastián's gastronomic reputation extends to its Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Arzak and Martín Berasategui, which consistently place the city on the global culinary map. Cultural enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in San Sebastián. The city hosts the annual San Sebastián International Film Festival, one of Spain's most prestigious film events, attracting stars and cinephiles alike. Additionally, the picturesque old town is home to the historic San Telmo Museoa, which explores Basque society through art and exhibits. A fun fact: San Sebastián is also known for its unique "bocadillo de calamares," a squid sandwich that's a local favorite and a must-try for visitors. Whether you're indulging in its culinary delights, enjoying its cultural offerings, or simply soaking up the sun, San Sebastián promises a memorable and enriching travel experience. |
| Day 5 |
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| Day 6 |
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| Day 7 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Day 8 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Day 9 |
Granada, nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in southern Spain, is a city where history and culture converge in a mesmerizing blend. The jewel of Granada is the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 13th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the city's Moorish past, showcasing intricate Islamic art and architecture. Wander through the Generalife Gardens, where you can admire lush greenery and the tranquil sounds of water fountains while gazing at breathtaking views of the city below. But Granada is not just about its Moorish heritage. The city is also a lively hub of Spanish culture, where flamenco music and dance are deeply ingrained in local life. The Albaicín, Granada's oldest neighborhood, offers a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that lead to traditional tapas bars and viewpoints like Mirador de San Nicolás, which provides unparalleled views of the Alhambra against the backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada. The Cathedral of Granada, with its striking Renaissance architecture, stands as a reminder of the city's transformation following the Reconquista. A visit to Granada isn't complete without experiencing its culinary delights. The city is famous for its free tapas culture—order a drink, and you'll receive a complimentary tapa. This tradition allows you to sample a variety of local dishes, from the savory jamón serrano to the hearty tortilla española, as you explore the city's vibrant nightlife. For a more immersive experience, consider visiting a traditional flamenco show in the Sacromonte district, where the art form was born in the caves of the Roma community. Fun fact: Granada is one of the few cities in Spain where you can enjoy a day at the beach and ski on the same day. The Mediterranean coast is just an hour's drive away, while the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort offers some of the best skiing in Spain, making Granada a unique destination for year-round outdoor activities. |
| Day 10 |
Granada, nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in southern Spain, is a city where history and culture converge in a mesmerizing blend. The jewel of Granada is the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 13th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the city's Moorish past, showcasing intricate Islamic art and architecture. Wander through the Generalife Gardens, where you can admire lush greenery and the tranquil sounds of water fountains while gazing at breathtaking views of the city below. But Granada is not just about its Moorish heritage. The city is also a lively hub of Spanish culture, where flamenco music and dance are deeply ingrained in local life. The Albaicín, Granada's oldest neighborhood, offers a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets that lead to traditional tapas bars and viewpoints like Mirador de San Nicolás, which provides unparalleled views of the Alhambra against the backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada. The Cathedral of Granada, with its striking Renaissance architecture, stands as a reminder of the city's transformation following the Reconquista. A visit to Granada isn't complete without experiencing its culinary delights. The city is famous for its free tapas culture—order a drink, and you'll receive a complimentary tapa. This tradition allows you to sample a variety of local dishes, from the savory jamón serrano to the hearty tortilla española, as you explore the city's vibrant nightlife. For a more immersive experience, consider visiting a traditional flamenco show in the Sacromonte district, where the art form was born in the caves of the Roma community. Fun fact: Granada is one of the few cities in Spain where you can enjoy a day at the beach and ski on the same day. The Mediterranean coast is just an hour's drive away, while the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort offers some of the best skiing in Spain, making Granada a unique destination for year-round outdoor activities. |
| Day 11 |
In Southern Spain, the beautiful capital city of Seville invites travelers to its alluring, centuries-old dance. This gem of the Andalusia region has a rich history — it was first established as Hispalis by the Romans, weathered the Spanish Civil War, and hosted both the Ibero-American Exposition (1929) and the Universal Exposition of Seville (1992).
Must-sees in Seville include the landmark palace Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Gothic, bell-towered Catedral de Sevilla, and Plaza de España, an architectural marvel with Moorish, Baroque and Renaissance influences. Meanwhile, Museo del Baile Flamenco is the place to learn about flamenco dancing culture. |
| Day 12 |
In Southern Spain, the beautiful capital city of Seville invites travelers to its alluring, centuries-old dance. This gem of the Andalusia region has a rich history — it was first established as Hispalis by the Romans, weathered the Spanish Civil War, and hosted both the Ibero-American Exposition (1929) and the Universal Exposition of Seville (1992).
Must-sees in Seville include the landmark palace Royal Alcázar of Seville, the Gothic, bell-towered Catedral de Sevilla, and Plaza de España, an architectural marvel with Moorish, Baroque and Renaissance influences. Meanwhile, Museo del Baile Flamenco is the place to learn about flamenco dancing culture. |
| Day 13 |
The economic and cultural center of Nigeria located on the Gulf of Guinea in southwest Nigeria. It was the capital until independence in 1960. |
| Day 14 |
The economic and cultural center of Nigeria located on the Gulf of Guinea in southwest Nigeria. It was the capital until independence in 1960. |
| Day 15 |
Lisbon, the enchanting capital of Portugal, entices sightseers with its vibrant color, stunning Gothic architecture, and temperate weather. Easily traversed by foot or tram, the city’s distinct quarters and vivid cultural landmarks make Lisbon an excellent spot for exploration.
The Alfama district’s notable red roofs beckon you. Its cobblestoned roads lead to the Castelo de São Jorge, once a Roman and Moorish stronghold, as well as a number of charming cafés and clubs. Alfama’s Museo do Fado offers fascinating exhibitions on the Fado genre of Portuguese music, whose melodic sounds can be heard throughout the neighborhood. A trek northeast of the Alfama district will bring you to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, a museum displaying the intricate and colorful Portuguese tiles that line the city’s buildings. Be sure to venture south of Alfama to the central Baixa district, where the magnificent Rua Augusta Arch entices visitors to stroll the Praça de Comércio square. Head to the city’s waterfront Belém neighborhood for a spectacular view of the sparkling Tagus River and incredible beaches. Lisbon's two UNESCO World Heritage sites are also located in the Belém district: the mighty Belém Tower and the sumptuous Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Located on the water’s edge, Belém Tower is a small castle that once welcomed Portuguese explorers. The Monastery of St. Jerome was constructed to exalt Vasco de Gama’s exploration of India. There is so much to discover in captivating Lisbon! |
| Day 16 |
Lisbon, the enchanting capital of Portugal, entices sightseers with its vibrant color, stunning Gothic architecture, and temperate weather. Easily traversed by foot or tram, the city’s distinct quarters and vivid cultural landmarks make Lisbon an excellent spot for exploration.
The Alfama district’s notable red roofs beckon you. Its cobblestoned roads lead to the Castelo de São Jorge, once a Roman and Moorish stronghold, as well as a number of charming cafés and clubs. Alfama’s Museo do Fado offers fascinating exhibitions on the Fado genre of Portuguese music, whose melodic sounds can be heard throughout the neighborhood. A trek northeast of the Alfama district will bring you to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, a museum displaying the intricate and colorful Portuguese tiles that line the city’s buildings. Be sure to venture south of Alfama to the central Baixa district, where the magnificent Rua Augusta Arch entices visitors to stroll the Praça de Comércio square. Head to the city’s waterfront Belém neighborhood for a spectacular view of the sparkling Tagus River and incredible beaches. Lisbon's two UNESCO World Heritage sites are also located in the Belém district: the mighty Belém Tower and the sumptuous Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Located on the water’s edge, Belém Tower is a small castle that once welcomed Portuguese explorers. The Monastery of St. Jerome was constructed to exalt Vasco de Gama’s exploration of India. There is so much to discover in captivating Lisbon! |
| Day 17 |
Porto is a spectacular and inviting city, and one of Western Europe's rising travel destinations. History, nightlife, attractions and excellent tourist accommodations distinguish this coastal city.
Narrow cobbled streets, the São Francisco Church's baroque wonders, port wine aging in huge cellars along the river... there's so much for visitors to delve into here. Visit the labyrinthine Ribeira district, walk the Trindade district's grand plaza, and be sure to take a boat tour on the Douro for an enchanting perspective of this Portugal gem. |
| Day 18 |
Porto is a spectacular and inviting city, and one of Western Europe's rising travel destinations. History, nightlife, attractions and excellent tourist accommodations distinguish this coastal city.
Narrow cobbled streets, the São Francisco Church's baroque wonders, port wine aging in huge cellars along the river... there's so much for visitors to delve into here. Visit the labyrinthine Ribeira district, walk the Trindade district's grand plaza, and be sure to take a boat tour on the Douro for an enchanting perspective of this Portugal gem. |
| Day 19 |
Santiago De Compostela, Spain |
| Day 20 |
Santiago De Compostela, Spain |
| Day 21 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Day 22 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
04/19/25 - 05/10/25 |
Starting At $6,813 |
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|
05/10/25 - 05/31/25 |
Starting At $6,264 |
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|
06/07/25 - 06/14/25 |
Starting At $7,425 |
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|
06/28/25 - 07/19/25 |
Starting At $7,345 |
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|
07/19/25 - 08/09/25 |
Starting At $7,235 |
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|
08/09/25 - 08/30/25 |
Starting At $7,940 |
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|
08/23/25 - 09/13/25 |
Starting At $7,520 |
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|
09/06/25 - 09/27/25 |
Starting At $8,055 |
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|
09/10/25 - 09/20/25 |
Starting At $7,520 |
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|
09/27/25 - 10/18/25 |
Starting At $7,725 |
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|
10/04/25 - 10/25/25 |
Starting At $7,235 |
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|
10/11/25 - 11/01/25 |
Starting At $7,465 |
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|
10/18/25 - 11/08/25 |
Starting At $6,960 |
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|
04/18/26 - 05/09/26 |
Starting At $7,130 |
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|
04/25/26 - 05/06/26 |
Starting At $7,415 |
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|
05/09/26 - 05/16/26 |
Starting At $7,700 |
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|
06/06/26 - 06/27/26 |
Starting At $7,415 |
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|
06/13/26 - 08/08/26 |
Starting At $7,130 |
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|
08/22/26 - 09/12/26 |
Starting At $7,415 |
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|
09/05/26 - 09/26/26 |
Starting At $7,700 |
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|
10/03/26 - 10/17/26 |
Starting At $7,415 |
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|
04/17/27 - 10/16/27 |
Starting At $7,130 |
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