Compare Highlights of Spain and Portugal by Globus vs Spain and Portugal Adventure Tour by Discovery Nomads
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Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4.5 | Great
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Duration | 9 days | 7 days |
Price From | $ 2,499 | $ 1,532 |
Price Per Day | $ 278 | $ 219 |
Highlights |
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Trip Style | Small group tour | Private guided tour |
Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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Travel Themes |
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Countries Visited | ||
Cities and Attractions |
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Flights & Transport | No | Ground transport included |
Activities |
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Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
Description | Like the blue Azulejo-tiled walls on Portugal’s beautiful buildings, homes, and churches, we’ve pieced together the best experiences of two sun-washed countries for those looking for an enlightening getaway. On this 9-day tour of Spain and Portugal, you’ll spend two nights each in four legendary cities spanning from the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the golden coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, Madrid’s artistic energy, Seville’s medieval past, and Lisbon’s tiled and cobbled charm await your arrival and exploration. With immersive sightseeing, you’ll dive into the history, culture, and cuisine of each city during the must-see, must-taste, and must-hear experiences, from Portugal’s sweet red port and mournful fado music to Spain’s dry Rioja wine and lively flamenco performances. |
Take an incredible week to experience the best travel highlights of Spain and Portugal: art, culture and nightlife. Take a ride on iconic Lisbon tram, marvel at fantastic views of Lisbon Bridge, try Porto wine, explore majestic Madrid and see Gaudi's masterpieces in Barcelona. |
Day 1: ARRIVE IN BARCELONA, SPAIN
Welcome to Barcelona! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (Dinner)
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Day 2: BARCELONA
Gaudi’s Masterpiece BARCELONA Guided sightseeing includes the Palau de La Musica and panoramic views of the city and harbor from Montjuïc Hill. Stop at Sagrada Familia Basilica, Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluna, and Paseo de Gracia. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL GEM The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia stands in Barcelona as a monument to the Holy Family and a testament to the masterwork of Antoni Gaudi. Built on the reliance of donations since the first stone was laid more than 130 years ago, the iconic church remains an unfinished masterpiece and the world’s longest-running construction project – slated for completion in 2026 on the 100th anniversary of the architect’s death.
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Day 3: BARCELONA–MADRID
Splendid Spain Scenic drive through the Catalonian and Aragonian countryside en route to Madrid. (Breakfast)385 mi / 620 km
FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE The city of Madrid is filled with intriguing stories and hidden secrets. Stroll around the streets and take pictures of “El Osoy el Madrono”(The Bear and the Strawberry Tree), the biggest symbol of the city. See the Statue of the Fallen Angel, depicting Lucifer’s expulsion from Heaven.
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Day 4: MADRID
Masterpieces in Madrid MADRID Guided sightseeing includes the Prado Museum and sights of the Cibeles Fountain and Calle Alcala. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.
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Day 5: MADRID–CORDOBA–SEVILLE
Treasures of Cordoba CORDOBA Guided walking tour includes the Mosque of the Caliphs. Free time to browse before departing for Seville. (Breakfast) 354 mi / 570 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHTANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque’s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city.
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Day 6: SEVILLE
Dance Steps in Seville SEVILLE Visit Plaza de España. Guided sightseeing includes the Casa de Pilatos and a walk through the Santa Cruz quarter. Enjoy [LF] dinner with local specialties at El Palacio Andaluz restaurant with Flamenco entertainment. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & TRADITION Be moved by the soulful sounds and steps of the Flamenco. You’ll see the very best display of this passionate Flemish dance performed by award-winning dancers who’ll add some spice to your dinner at El Palacio Andaluz restaurant in Seville. Ole!
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Day 7: SEVILLE–SETUBAL–AZEITÃO, PORTUGAL–LISBON
Painting the Town in Portugal SETUBAL Free time for lunch in the vibrant food market.AZEITÃO [LF] Visit a traditional tile workshop.LISBON Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast) 273 mi / 440 km
LOCAL FAVORITE ART & ARTISTRY Enter a world of authentically handmade Portuguese tiles at the São Simão Arte workshop and gallery in Azeitão. It is here that distinguished antique collector Antonio Soares Franco creates his ceramic masterpieces by hand in the style of his ancestors.
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Day 8: LISBON
Lovely Lisbon LISBON Guided sightseeing includes Jeronimos Monastery and cloister with a photo stop at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Join a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces. Lisbon is home to the 16th-century Monastery of Jerónimos, adorned with its 100-foot façade featuring images of St. Michael the Archangel and Our Lady of Belém. See the 16th-century Belém Tower, which served as a fortress but also as an embarkation point for sailors and was their last sight of land before the start of their journey. Lisbon’s Monument to the Discoveries pays homage to great Portuguese explorers with a spectacular carved prow of an ancient ship.
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Day 9: LISBON
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
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Day 1-2: Lisbon
Accommodation: Novotel Lisboa or similar
Arrival at any time. Learn about important areas in Lisbon’s history as you explore its most interesting neighborhoods. Discover Chiado and Bairro Alto and admire the views from Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara. Ride the Eleléctrico tram and visit the Alfama district.
Day 2-4: Porto
Accommodation: Mercury Porto Centro or similar
Experience a walking tour through the streets of the historical center of Porto, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Marvel at the fantastic views of the Crystal Palace Gardens, walk along the famous Aliados Avenue, catch a glimpse of the Douro River from Louis I Bridge, descend down the narrow streets and staircases of the Miragaia neighborhood, learn about Porto's founding and formation.
Day 5-6: Madrid
Accommodation: Mercury Lupo de Vega or similar
Enjoy a walking tour around this beautiful city, additionally visit the Prado Museum or Reina Sofia Museum where you will see the works of Picasso and Dali or ancient Toledo.
Day 6-7: Barcelona
Today you will fly to Barcelona, exploring this beautiful city, visiting the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas, Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell, and in the evening go to try tapas and Spanish wine. You will have free time to relax on the Barcelonetta beach or go shopping.