15-Day Grand Spain & Portugal Discovery: From Madrid to Lisbon and Andalusia’s Treasures

What you'll experience

Highlights

15 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Madrid

   Welcome to Madrid!
   We'll transfer you to the hotel and you'll have some free time. In the afternoon, you'll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.
   Check-in: Please note that hotel check-in time is usually at 02:00 p.m. 
   Optional Activities: During your trip, your guide may offer optional activities. If these activities are available on our local operator's app or through your "My Trip" link, we strongly recommend booking them as early as possible to ensure availability. Waiting until the last minute may result in missed opportunities due to limited tickets, bus seats, or other factors.
   Note: The schedules provided in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust them as needed to enhance the trip experience.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Praga(Antonio Lopez 65 CP 28019 MADRID), Praga(Antonio Lopez 65 CP 28019 MADRID)
2. 2

   Day 2 — Madrid - Tordesillas - León - Oviedo

   Total distance covered: 460 km.
   Scenery: Plains in Castile, spectacular mountain scenery while crossing the Cantabrian Range.
   08:30 a.m. – Departure from Madrid (time may vary slightly depending on the departure points). We´ll travel through Castile and León, passing through the Sierra de Guadarrama and across the plains of Castile.
   10:45 a.m. – Arrival in Tordesillas, a small town where the 15th-century treaty that divided America between Spain and Portugal was signed. You´ll have time for a coffee at its Plaza Mayor.
   11:45 a.m. – Departure from Tordesillas.
   01:30 p.m. – León. Time for lunch and a walk around this historic capital, located on the Way of St. James. Its Gothic cathedral is notable for its magnificent stained-glass windows.
   04:15 p.m. – Departure from León. We´ll enjoy beautiful scenery as we travel to Asturias.
   06:00 p.m. – Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. We´ll include a one-and-a-half-hour city tour with a local guide, either in the evening or the next morning. During the tour, we´ll visit the 9th century cathedral, the Calatrava palace, the Campoamor theater, the Rúa street and we will also learn about Asturian cider, one of the most deeply rooted traditions of this land.
   After the visit, we'll enjoy a traditional Asturian dinner at a typical cider house. Are you ready to taste and try your hand at pouring cider the local way? We'll spend the night in Oviedo, the vibrant capital of the Principality of Asturias, known for its lively atmosphere.
   Note: If there are fewer than five travelers from Madrid to León, this section might be carried out by high-speed train. In this case, you will be transferred to the railway station, but the trip will be without a guide (you will meet our main group from Galicia in León). Consequently, the stop in Tordesillas will be canceled.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Iberik santo domingo plaza(Boulevar de la Ronda Sur, s/n), Ac hotel forum oviedo by marriott(Pza. de los Ferroviarios, 1)
3. 3

   Day 3 — Oviedo - Covadonga - Santillana - Santander

   Total distance covered: 260 km.
   Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, the sea, and quaint villages along the route.
   08:30 a.m. – Departure from Oviedo, the capital of Asturias.
   09:45 a.m. - Covadonga - Time to visit the sanctuary nestled in the mountains, the historic site where the Reconquista of Spain began.
   10:45 a.m. – Departure from Covadonga. As we travel, the lush green mountains blend with views of the sea, creating stunning scenery along the way.
   12:30 p.m. - Santillana - Arrival in this charming medieval village, known for its stone streets, stately houses, and the Collegiate Church. Enjoy some time to explore and have lunch. Nearby, we'll visit the Altamira Cave Museum, which features a replica of the amazing prehistoric rock paintings found there (tickets included).
   04:00 p.m. – Departure from Santillana/Altamira.
   04:30 p.m. - Santander - Arrival in the regional capital, a coastal city offering impressive views of both mountains and beaches. We´ll enjoy a panoramic tour of a little over 2 hours with a local guide to explore this elegant city and its beautiful bay and cliffs. The tour includes a stroll through the Pereda Gardens, a visit to the Centro Botín, and a stop at the Cathedral Square. We'll then continue by bus to the Magdalena Peninsula, Sardinero Beach, the Gran Casino, Piquío Gardens, and Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, where you'll be treated to spectacular views of the city and its dramatic cliffs. Arrival at the hotel is expected around 6:45 p.m.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hotel santemar(JOAQUIN COSTA, 28 CP 39005 SANTANDER)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Santander - Bilbao - La Rioja - Zaragoza

   Total distance covered: 410 km.
   Scenery: Enjoy magnificent sea views, beautiful mountains, and lush green landscapes throughout the journey.
   09:00 a.m. – Departure from Santander, beginning our scenic route towards the Basque Country.
   10:30 a.m. – Bilbao. Arrival in the largest city of the Basque Country. We´ll embark on a brief city tour with a local guide, exploring highlights such as the Guggenheim area, the old quarter, and the Cathedral. After the tour, enjoy free time to indulge in authentic "pintxos."
   02:15 p.m. – Departure from Bilbao. Journey onwards to La Rioja, renowned for its exceptional wines.
   03:45 p.m. – Wine Culture Museum. Visit this fascinating museum and winery in the charming town of Briones. Explore the rich historical legacy and craftsmanship of winemaking, with admission and a wine tasting included.
   05:15 p.m. – Departure from Wine Culture Museum.
   07:45 p.m. – Zaragoza. Arrival and time to settle into your accommodation. We recommend taking a stroll through the old town to soak in the city´s charm.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Exe boston(Avenida de las Torres, 28)
5. 5

   Day 5 — Zaragoza - Poblet - Barcelona

   Total distance covered: 325 km.
   Scenery: Semi-desert landscapes in Aragon, and pleasant scenery in Catalonia.
   After breakfast, we'll go on a panoramic tour of Zaragoza guided by a local expert. Our first stop will be the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. We'll also delve into the works of the famous painter Goya and discover some of his masterpieces. The tour will move on to the Roman theatre and a Renaissance palace, and then we'll take a stroll by the Aljafería Palace. After the tour, you'll have free time for lunch and a walk.
   02:30 p.m. - Departure from Zaragoza.
   05:00 p.m. – Poblet Abbey. Admission is included to this walled monastery, set amidst beautiful landscapes. It is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the world.
   06:15 p.m. - Departure from Poblet Abbey. We'll cross rich agricultural regions of central Catalonia.
   08:00 p.m. - Barcelona.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hampton by hilton barcelona fira gran via(Plaza Europa 33, 08907), Front air congress(C/De les Alberades,16 cp 08830 Sant Boi de Llobregat BARCELONA)
6. 6

   Day 6 — Barcelona

   9:00 a.m. – In the morning, we take a panoramic tour with our guide or a local guide of Barcelona, one of Europe’s great cities, renowned for Gaudí and its modernist architecture. The tour passes by the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Catalunya, Paseo de Gracia, Diagonal Avenue, the Sagrada Familia, Montjuïc with its Olympic facilities, and Plaza de España. At the Sagrada Familia, we will make a stop to admire this landmark. The tour ends at the Maremagnum, a modern leisure and dining complex by the sea next to Columbus Square, where you can stroll through this lively area. After the city tour, our guide will offer the option of visiting Gaudí’s masterpiece and the city’s iconic symbol, the Sagrada Familia, as an optional activity. Afternoon at leisure.
   07.30 p.m.-Return from the Maremagnum to the hotel at the end of the day.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hampton by hilton barcelona fira gran via(Plaza Europa 33, 08907), Front air congress(C/De les Alberades,16 cp 08830 Sant Boi de Llobregat BARCELONA)
7. 7

   Day 7 — Barcelona - Peniscola - Valencia

   Total distance covered: 375 km.
   Scenery: Following the Levantine coast between the Mediterranean Sea and arid landscapes dotted with orchards, citrus groves, and rice fields, we'll arrive in Valencia.
   08:00 a.m. - Departure from Barcelona. We'll travel to the Valencian Community along the touristy Levantine coast.
   10:45 a.m. – Peniscola. Dominating the sea with its imposing walls, this historic center, with its steep streets, white houses, and medieval castle, tells tales of popes and pirates. Peniscola is one of the most beautiful villages on the Spanish Mediterranean. You'll have time for a walk.
   12:30 p.m. - Departure from Peniscola.
   02:30 p.m. - Valencia. Time for lunch. Why not try the authentic Valencian paella? In the afternoon, you'll go on a guided tour of this port city on the Levantine coast, with more than 2,000 years of history, showcasing monuments from various periods that contrast with the architectural avant-garde of buildings like the City of Arts and Sciences. We'll visit the historic center, the fish market, the cathedral and the modern neighborhoods where the avant-garde City of Arts and Sciences is located. After some free time, a local cuisine traditional dinner will be included: Palle Valenciana (vegetarian option included)

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Eurostars acteon(C/ Vicente Beltrán Grimal, 2, Valencia, CP: 46023), Sercotel sorolla(Avinguda Corts Valencianes, 58)
8. 8

   Day 8 — Valencia - Alicante - Guadix - Granada

   Total distance covered: 524 km
   Scenery: We'll cross the Valencian Community before entering the region of Murcia with its arid landscapes, and finally reach Andalusian lands dominated by the silhouette of the Sierra Nevada.
   08:00 a.m. – Valencia – Departure. We begin our journey heading south.
   10:15 a.m. – Alicante – Arrival. This city, which blends tradition and modernity, is known for its seaside promenade and the impressive Castle of Santa Bárbara, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, built atop Mount Benacantil. We'll enjoy free time to stroll through its historic center and lively waterfront.
   12:15 p.m. – Alicante – Departure. We continue our trip through the arid, mountainous landscapes of the Murcia region, stopping en route for lunch (not included).
   4:45 p.m. – Guadix – Arrival. This town in Granada is famous for its unique inhabited cave houses, which give its neighborhoods a singular character. Its historic center boasts treasures such as the Renaissance cathedral and viewpoints offering unmatched views of the Sierra Nevada. Free time to walk around and discover its traditions.
   6:30 p.m. – Guadix – Departure. Short drive to our final destination.
   7:30 p.m. – Granada – Arrival. Hotel check-in and included dinner.

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Porcel alixares(Paseo de la Sabica, 40 CP 18009 GRANADA)
9. 9

   Day 9 — Granada

   Full day to enjoy Granada, a historic city filled with charming corners and dominated by the iconic Alhambra. If your tour includes admission and a guided tour of the Alhambra, we'll visit this immense palace and its beautiful Generalife Gardens, both built during the Arab era. In the afternoon, you'll have free time. We recommend a leisurely stroll through the Albaicín neighborhood or a visit to the cathedral, which houses the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs.
   
   VERY IMPORTANT NOTES:
   -The number of visitors allowed into the Alhambra is strictly regulated by law. To ensure your admission, tickets will be issued upon confirming your tour reservation. It´s essential to provide accurate personal details (full name and passport/ID number) at the time of booking. Please be aware that ticket costs are non-refundable in case of cancellation. In rare cases where the Alhambra visit is not possible, we will instead tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville, which offers similar historical and architectural significance.
   -To access the Alhambra, you must present the document used to confirm your reservation (passport or ID).

   Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Porcel alixares(Paseo de la Sabica, 40 CP 18009 GRANADA)
10. 10

    Day 10 — Departures before April 1, 2026: Granada - Malaga - Marbella - Ronda - Seville Departures on or after April 1, 2026: Granada - Nerja - Malaga - Ronda - Seville

    [Departures before April 1, 2026: Granada - Malaga - Marbella - Ronda - Seville]
    Total distance covered: 390 km.
    Scenery: Beautiful landscapes by the sea. Mountains and white villages.
    08:00 a.m. – Departure from Granada. We'll travel towards the Mediterranean Sea.
    10:00 a.m. - Malaga. We'll have time to walk through the historic district, famous for its cathedral.
    11:30 a.m. – Departure from Malaga. We'll follow the coastal highway next to the sea.
    12:30 p.m. - Puerto Banús. We'll spend some time in this exclusive area of Marbella, in the heart of the Costa del Sol. Time to stroll along its marina and shopping streets.
    03:00 p.m. – Departure from Marbella. We'll leave the coastline and journey towards the Andalusian mountains, passing through beautiful towns with great views along the way.
    04:30 p.m. – Ronda. A magical and peaceful white town, known for its alleys and the deep canyon that divides it. We'll have time to walk, explore and take in the views.
    06:00 p.m. – Departure from Ronda. We'll continue through beautiful landscapes of hills and white villages.
    08:00 p.m. – Seville. Arrival in the evening. Dinner will be included at the hotel.
    [Departures on or after April 1, 2026: Granada - Nerja - Malaga - Ronda - Seville]
    Total distance covered: 377 km
    Scenery: The Sierra Nevada mountain range, with its snow-capped peaks in winter contrasting with fertile valleys, and the radiant Tropical Coast, where the Mediterranean Sea meets lands of exotic crops.
    08:00 a.m. – Granada – Departure. We begin our journey leaving the Sierra Nevada behind and descending toward the Mediterranean coast, enjoying spectacular panoramas of mountains and sea.
    09:15 a.m. – Nerja – Arrival. This charming whitewashed town sits atop impressive cliffs that offer unforgettable views of the Mediterranean. Free time to stroll through its narrow streets and visit the famous Balcony of Europe.
    10:15 a.m. – Nerja – Departure. We continue along the Costa del Sol, known for its beaches and unmistakable Mediterranean atmosphere.
    11:15 a.m. – Málaga – Arrival. Capital of the Costa del Sol, Málaga blends tradition and modernity in a lively historic center. You may explore Larios Street, the cathedral, or visit the Alcazaba. Free time for lunch and to wander at your own pace.
    2:30 p.m. – Málaga – Departure. We head inland through the Andalusian sierras, passing olive groves, holm oaks, and white villages scattered across the landscape.
    4:00 p.m. – Ronda – Arrival. One of Andalusia's most beautiful towns, famous for its breathtaking gorge, "El Tajo," which splits the city in two and is spanned by the monumental New Bridge. We'll walk through its historic center, with Arab and medieval origins.
    5:45 p.m. – Ronda – Departure. The route leads us through rolling hills toward the capital of Andalusia.
    7:45 p.m. – Seville – Arrival. Dinner included at the hotel.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: IncludedStay: Alcora sevilla(Carretera San Juan a Tomares, km 1, San Juan de Aznalfarache)
11. 11

    Day 11 — Seville

    Our visit to Seville will be truly memorable as we blend a bus and walking tour with a scenic boat ride along the Guadalquivir River, offering the best views of the city´s monuments and landmarks.
    
    A local guide will enrich our experience with insights into the history and culture of Andalusia´s capital, starting our journey around nine in the morning. Highlights include the Cathedral and Giralda, Santa Cruz neighborhood, the Guadalquivir riverbanks, Torre del Oro, Maestranza Bullring, Cartuja Island (former Expo site and home to Isla Mágica amusement park), and María Luisa Park with its stunning Plaza de España. After the tour, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Guadalquivir River offering stunning panoramic views (included). The tour, lasting approximately 3 hours including the boat ride, will conclude with free time in the afternoon. Optionally, the guide will offer the opportunity for those interested to visit the cathedral and attend a flamenco performance at a tablao in the evening.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Alcora sevilla(Carretera San Juan a Tomares, km 1, San Juan de Aznalfarache)
12. 12

    Day 12 — Seville - Mérida - Évora - Lisbon

    Total distance covered: 490 km.
    Scenery: Attractive landscapes featuring whitewashed villages, mountain ranges, and castles.
    Note: Remember to set your watches back one hour when entering Portugal.
    09:00 a.m. – Departure from Seville. We'll travel through pleasant landscapes of gentle mountains and vast pastures toward Extremadura.
    11:30 a.m. - Mérida – Arrival in the capital of Extremadura. Admission is included to the Archaeological Ensemble of Mérida, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This site includes the largest Roman Theater and Amphitheater in the Iberian Peninsula, known for its excellent preservation and as a testament to the importance of entertainment in ancient Rome´s provinces. Mérida has a lively pedestrian historic center with many places to enjoy lunch.
    03:30 p.m. – Departure from Mérida. We'll pass through beautiful landscapes of large meadows as we cross into Portugal and enter the Alentejo region.
    04:30 p.m. (Portuguese time) - Évora. We'll arrive in the capital of Alentejo; one of Portugal´s oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time to stroll through the historic center, characterized by its whitewashed streets, cathedral, and old churches, offering a taste of southern Portugal.
    06:30 p.m. – Departure from Évora.
    08:00 p.m. - Lisbon - Arrival and accommodation.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Roma lisboa(Avenida de Roma 33, 1749-074 Lisboa, Portugal), Vip executive entrecampos conference(AV 5 DE OCTUBRO 295)
13. 13

    Day 13 — Lisbon

    Sightseeing tour of Lisbon. In the morning, you'll enjoy a city tour with a local guide lasting approximately 2 hours. You'll get to know the Portuguese capital of the seven hills, with its charming alleys, iconic tiles, the feeling of "saudade," and the beautiful Atlantic light. Our tour will include stops at the following points: Eduardo VII Park, Baixa Pombalina (Marquis of Pombal Square, Rossio with views of São Jorge Castle and Alfama), Estrela neighborhood, Estrela Basilica, the Monument of the Discoveries, Belém Tower, and the Jerónimos Monastery. The visit will conclude in the city center. You'll have free time in the afternoon to further explore the city. We recommend taking the Glória Funicular to visit Bairro Alto and the São Pedro viewpoint. Optionally, our guide will offer visits to the picturesque towns of Sintra, with its castle, and Cascais and Estoril by the seaside.
    08:30 p.m. - We'll return to the hotel from the lively Restauradores Square, filled with vibrant bars and cafes.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Roma lisboa(Avenida de Roma 33, 1749-074 Lisboa, Portugal), Vip executive entrecampos conference(AV 5 DE OCTUBRO 295)
14. 14

    Day 14 — Lisbon - Estremoz - Cáceres - Madrid

    Total distance covered: 620 km.
    Scenery: Forests, small mountains, walled villages, and Castilian hills.
    Note: There is a one-hour time difference between Spain and Portugal. When it is 11:00 a.m. in Portugal, it is 12:00 p.m. in Spain.
    07:30 a.m. – Departure from Lisbon. We'll cross the beautiful region of Alentejo.
    09:45 a.m. - Estremoz. Arrival in this charming town with a medieval castle, cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere that reflects Portuguese authenticity.
    10:30 a.m. – Departure from Estremoz. We'll pass into Spain, crossing the meadows of Extremadura.
    01:30 p.m. (12:30 p.m. in Portugal) - Cáceres. Time for lunch, followed by a walk through its historic center, one of the best-preserved medieval and Renaissance urban complexes in the world.
    04:00 p.m. – Departure from Cáceres.
    08:00 p.m. - Madrid.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Praga(Antonio Lopez 65 CP 28019 MADRID)
15. 15

    Day 15 — Madrid

    After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
    
    Note: Please be aware that the hotel check-out time is usually 10:00 a.m. You can leave your luggage in reception upon check-out, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. You can retrieve your luggage at your convenience later in the day. If you require additional time to use your room, we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your tour.

    Meals: B: Included, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Cancellation policy

Important info

Tour operator