Explore Spain & Portugal

Intrepid Travel · 15 days
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
Explore Spain & Portugal
15 Days
From AUD $5755
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

Explore Spain & Portugal

Explore Spain & Portugal

Intrepid Travel · 15 days
4.2
20 Reviews
View Map
Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Follow an enticing trail of delicious tapas, avant-garde art, architectural triumphs and dramatic history on this 15-day tour through Spain and Portugal.

Highlights

  • Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicin in Granada before crossing the river to visit the imposing Moorish fortress of the Alhambra.
  • Unwind in a laidback fishing town in the Algarve, soaking up the sun on the beach and enjoying an included boat trip around the rocky cliffs of the coast.
  • Join pilgrims along the last leg of the famous Camino de Santiago journey as they reach the historic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
  • Sit back, relax and watch the water flow by in one of Porto’s river restaurants while you sample a couple of varieties of the city’s signature wine – port!
  • Start and end your adventure in Madrid, home to art galleries, colourful architecture and some of the best restaurants in Spain.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Train,Public bus,Metro,Taxi

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Madrid, Portugal

Finishes

Madrid, Portugal

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Madrid
Hola! Welcome to Madrid, the Spanish capital known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, booking a few extra days isn't a bad idea. After the welcome meeting, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja with your fellow travellers.

Optional Activities:

  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (13 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo del Prado (15 EUR)
  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico (6 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia (12 EUR)
  • Madrid - Royal Palace (14 EUR)
  • Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure (99 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Granada
Today morning catch a train to Granada. Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real, or watch the world go by as you indulge in some tapas at a bar. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition.

Included Activities:

  • Granada - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Granada
Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of the Palace and the Gardens. Discover this 11th-century marvel and its dominating red fortress towers, palace decor, architectural styles, and magnificent gardens. It's all set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With fountains, impeccably maintained hedges and pools, centuries-old defensive walls, turrets, and views overlooking Granada, this renowned palace will not disappoint. Make sure you allow enough time as the Alhambra is made up of three parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. After your visit ask your leader to take you deeper into Granada’s Moorish Albaicin quarter and to the area of traditional tea houses. The view from this area across to the Alhambra Palace is not to be missed. Tonight, perhaps meet up again with the group for dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Granada - Guided Visit to Alhambra Palace & Gardens

Optional Activities:

  • Granada - Mirador de San Nicolas - Free
  • Granada - Science Park (7 EUR)
  • Granada - Science Park Planetarium (2 EUR)
  • Granada - Catedral de Granada (6 EUR)
  • Granada - Capilla Real (6 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Seville
Travel by bus this morning to the vibrant city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today the capital of Andalucia and the largest city in southern Spain. Known for its important monuments and fascinating history, Seville is universally famous for being a joyous town. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.

Included Activities:

  • Seville - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Seville
Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for ‘Game of Thrones’. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group. Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight!

Included Activities:

  • Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance

Optional Activities:

  • Seville - Torre del Oro (3 EUR)
  • Seville - Santa Paula Convent (5 EUR)
  • Seville - Indias Archive - Free
  • Seville - Museum of Fine Arts (2 EUR)
  • Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre (3 EUR)
  • Seville - Real Alcazar (14 EUR)
  • Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs (2 EUR)
  • Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower (12 EUR)
  • Seville - Casa de Pilatos (12 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Algarve / Lagos
Today board a bus and cross the border into Portugal. Travel through fertile plain landscapes of orange orchards, olive groves and maize fields to the Algarve, Portugal's stunning southern coast, where your destination is the seaside town of Lagos. Set on the banks of the Rio Bensafrim, Lagos is gifted with a temperate Mediterranean climate, a bounty of beaches and a rich heritage. When you arrive, you might want to take a walk around town. Wandering around Lagos’s old town enclosed within 16th century walls, on pretty cobbled streets and picturesque plazas and churches, is definitely a good thing to do. In the evening, why not head to feast on freshly caught fish at a restaurant or cafe overlooking the water and behold a golden sky at sunset, before throwing yourself into Lagos' pumping nightlife.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Algarve / Lagos
Most of today is free to enjoy Lagos and its surrounds. At some point during the day (depending on availability) you will enjoy an included boat tour around Algarve’s rocky cliffs. Explore the jagged, weathered rockface of Pinta da Piedade, full of arches, towers, grottoes and caves that have been eroded into this fabulous limestone coast. Your leader will inform you about the exact time in advance so you can plan other activities around that. For the rest of the day, perhaps pack a book and towel and head to the beach. The vast sands of Meia Praia stretch for over 4 km, and it is peppered with beach bars, cafes and sun lounges. Also, plenty of water sports are on offer in the summer. In addition, there are numerous boat trip options, focusing on birdwatching, fishing, or even spotting the Algarve dolphins. Praia do Porto de Mos and Camilo Beach are also good options, lovely water and sands surrounded by great rock formations. Take a stroll through the quaint alleys of central Lagos, or head down to the waterfront to watch the boats come in. Just ask your leader for any tips if you’re unsure.

Included Activities:

  • Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Lisbon
Today head north by public bus to Lisbon. As one of Europe's most pleasant and affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering fantastic architecture, a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. There are some great modern and ancient art museums to check out, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Coach Museum. Your afternoon and evening is then free, so maybe head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. You can roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. Maybe simply sit back in one of many outdoors restaurants and cafes – watching the life go by is definitely one of the best ways to relax in Lisbon. As the sun goes down, some of Lisbon's best nightlife centres on the neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy an emotional fado performance (traditional Portuguese music).

Optional Activities:

  • Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner (50 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Lisbon
This morning, set out on a leader-led walk through Belém, one of Lisbon’s most historic and enchanting districts. Wander past grand riverside monuments and ornate Manueline architecture that speaks to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the city’s most famous treat, the warm and flaky pastéis de nata, fresh from a centuries-old bakery. From early afternoon, day is free for you to further discover Lisbon, Maybe head out on a tour to visit to the medieval citadel in the city centre of Lisbon. Discover the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. From the citadel, this makes a contrasting panorama when viewed against the deep blue of the sky and ocean. You can also catch a tram or hire a bike and cycle along the water, relax at a cafe in hilly Alfama, or check out the fascinating street art spread throughout the city.

Included Activities:

  • Lisbon - Belém district leader-led walk
  • Lisbon - Pastéis de nata tasting

Optional Activities:

  • Lisbon - Naval Museum (7 EUR)
  • Lisbon - National Art Museum (8 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Folk Art Museum (5 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Oceanarium (25 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Puppet Museum (5 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum (10 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle (15 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Belem Tower and Monastery (20 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Canned Fish Tasting (7 EUR)
  • Lisbon - Traditional Boat Tour (15 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Porto
Continue north on a train to Porto, the capital of the north that sits between a river and the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing – as the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Indulge in an included group tasting of some famous tawny and ruby ports at one of the many wine houses across the river. Most of the grapes are grown and harvested in the nearby Douro Valley. If sampling the best from the region piques curiosity, why not learn more about the history of wine and port making at the Museu do Vinho later on in the afternoon. Alternatively, spend the evening soaking up the atmosphere of this coastal city in numerous cafes and restaurants that Porto has to offer.

Included Activities:

  • Porto - Port Wine Tasting
  • Porto - Orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Porto
Today is a free day to explore Porto. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower). Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings, then make a turn for Bolhão Market. This is the city’s most famed market, bursting with fresh produce and other goodies. Up in the cathedral area you’ll find the oldest neighbourhood in Porto and a place where you’ll see its true soul. Boat cruises along the Rio Douro operate several times a day, offering insight into the history of Porto's six famous bridges. A cruise is also a great chance to snap some great photos of the colourful tiled houses lined up along the riverbank. For dinner, make sure you try the country’s most famous sandwich – the francesinha – then head to Galerias Paris Street for nightlife.

Optional Activities:

  • Porto - Livraria Lello (8 EUR)
  • Porto - Clerigos Tower (8 EUR)
  • Porto - Serralves Foundation (24 EUR)
  • Porto - Bolhao Market - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Santiago de Compostela
Today board a bus bound for Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. The capital of Galicia became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam and is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. Soak up the religious energy in the cathedral where St James, one of the 12 Apostles, is purportedly buried. The cathedral was consecrated in 1211 and is the central point within the medieval walls of the old town, standing majestically on the Plaza del Obradoiro with its towers soaring above the town. Elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas, full of pilgrims and locals spending their day in this atmospheric place. Maybe join them in one of the cafes, sitting back and listening to many of the street artists performing on the streets of the old town. Visit the cathedral and do as pilgrims do – circle the main altar admiring the greatness of the place. Tonight, maybe and explore the streets close to the cathedral for Galician specialties. Perhaps try peppers of Padron and empanadas (Galician pies, filled with meat or seafood).

Included Activities:

  • Santiago de Compostela - Orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Santiago de Compostela
Today you'll have the opportunity to join pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Take an early bus to Amenal village where the 18 km walk begins. The trek will take you through the villages, fields and rivers of Galicia. In Lavacolla village you'll cross the river where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed in the river to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city. From here, ascend again to the Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), so called for the feeling when pilgrims would catch their first sight of the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Embrace the atmosphere up here on the mount, alongside some walkers who may have trekked over 800 km to be here. The entire walk takes approximately 4 to 6 hours to complete. It is important that you wear comfortable footwear and bring a rain coat, as weather in this region of Spain can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. Once back in Santiago the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Santiago de Compostela is a World Heritage site, an open-air museum that holds many delights within its walls – the lively squares, the market and the University buildings are must sees. For you final night in town, maybe wander down the streets of Rua do Franco and Rua da Raina to try some tapas.

Included Activities:

  • Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike

Optional Activities:

  • Santiago de Compostela - Visit to a Local Cheesemaker (20 EUR)
  • Santiago de Compostela - Bike Hire (10 EUR)
  • Santiago de Compostela - Pilgrimage Museum - Free
  • Santiago de Compostela - Cathedral (12 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Madrid
Today, you'll take a train back to Madrid. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings. Then, the rest of the day is free for your to explore how you wish. Maybe hang out in El Retiro Park or explore Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velazquez and other Spanish masters. Tonight, why not ask your leader the best spot for dinner and head out with your fellow travellers to cheers to a trip well-travelled.

Included Activities:

  • Madrid - Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
15
Day 15: Madrid
Today your Spain and Portugal adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned so you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent.

Included Activities:

  • Madrid - Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:

  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico (6 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo del Prado (15 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia (12 EUR)
  • Madrid - Royal Palace (14 EUR)
  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza (13 EUR)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $5,755
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Follow an enticing trail of delicious tapas, avant-garde art, architectural triumphs and dramatic history on this 15-day tour through Spain and Portugal.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 04 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.0
Evan
Traveled, December 2023

12/30/2023

A first experience I will never forget! Our tour guide had a big heart, couldn’t find a false note anywhere. Ate hearty meals with the gang, the sights were quite grand, bus rides wound my cogs but at least they were on land!

4.0
Susie
Traveled, December 2023

12/30/2023

It was a joy to share our leader’s enthusiasm and knowledge. She was clearly someone who operated from a base of principles and values. A solid worthy human being.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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