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Day 1
Arrival in Madrid
Upon your arrival at Madrid International Aiport, meet and greet with our representative who will assist you with the transfer to your hotel. The Spanish capital is one of Europe’s liveliest and most elegant cities, boasting beautiful boulevards, vast parks, bustling plazas, as well as numerous historic churches and palaces. Madrid is also home to the legendary ‘golden triangle’ of art galleries, which houses some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces. Overnight in Madrid.
Hotel ( Superior): NH Manzanares 4* (or similar) -
Day 2
Madrid
Breakfast at the hotel is followed by a panoramic drive through the main avenues of Madrid. Meet your guide at the hotel´s reception and start exploring its medieval origins visiting the Arab fortress. Enjoy the walk in the Barrio de la Morería, characterized by the antiquity of its buildings and the flavours of its inn. Renaissance and Baroque architecture are characterized for the building on Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Villa. Further on you will see the Madrid of the Bourbons and the urban layout of Carlos III, the Royal Palace, the Fuente de Cibeles, Neptuno and the Puerta de Alcalá and compare this with the contemporary sites in Gran Vía, Paseo de la Castellana, Barrio de Salamanca, Plaza de Castilla, Parque del Oeste, Ciudad Universitaria, commercial and financial areas of Modern Madrid, the emblematic Plaza de Toros de las Ventas and the Santiago Stadium Bernabéu. The tour will end in the late afternoon. The rest of the day at leisure, enjoying this stunning capital on your own pace. Overnight in Madrid.
Hotel ( Superior): NH Manzanares 4* (or similar) -
Day 3
Madrid - Zaragoza - San Sebastian
After the leisurely breakfast at the hotel, board a coach for the ride to Zaragoza. Once there, enjoy some free time to stroll through the charming old streets of the city. Make sure you don’t miss visiting the Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, famously described as the ‘mother of the Hispanic peoples’ by pope John Paul II. Later, in the afternoon, hop back onto the bus to drive northwards to San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most famous tourist destinations. This vibrant city is the backdrop of the yearly San Sebastián International Film Festival. Overnight in San Sebastián.
Hotel ( Superior): Palacio de Aiete 4* (or similar) -
Day 4
San Sebastian
After breakfast at the hotel enjoy a panoramic tour of this elegant and gentrified city whose landscape is dominated by the Bay and La Concha Beach. We will go up to Mount Igueldo, from where we will be able to contemplate a magnificent view of the city. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in San Sebastian.
Hotel ( Superior): Palacio de Aiete 4* (or similar) -
Day 5
San Sebastian - Bilbao - Santander
Wake up to breakfast at the hotel and then proceed towards Bilbao. Enjoy some free time on the esplanade where The Guggenheim Museum is located in order to admire this modern work of architecte. Proceed to the quaint little fishing village Castro Urdiales, where you’ll spend some free time absorbing its charming atmosphere. Depart then to Santander, a port city located between the sea and the mountains, renowned for its Sardinero Beach, one of the best-known beaches in Spain. Free time to stroll through this elegant city before spending the night at the hotel. Overnight in Santander.
Hotel ( Superior): Santemar 4* (or similar) -
Day 6
Santander - Oviedo
After breakfast at the hotel, depart to Santillana, one of the most important historical and artistic towns in Spain. It contains a wealth of architectural treasures, such as the Collegiate of Santa Juliana, a jewel of Cantabrian Romanesque Architecture. Continue then to Covadonga and enjoy some free time to see the Sanctuary and the Grotto, where you will see the patroness of Asturias, Our Lady of Covadonga. In the afternoon, depart to Oviedo, where you will see on a series of hills the beauty of Saint Maria de Naranco Church, a classic example of Asturian pre-Romanic architecture. Then explore the city of Oviedo at your leisure; many of its streets are pedestrian, so you will be able to calmly walk towards World Heritage Sites like its Gothic Cathedral. Overnight in Oviedo.
Hotel ( Superior): Sercotel Oviedo 4* (or similar) -
Day 7
Oviedo - Santiago de Compostela
Charge your batteries with a tasty breakfast at the hotel and get ready for a departure towards Galicia region. On the way to Lugo stop in Mondenedo for free time to visit its imposing 12th century cathedral and try the delicious “Mondoñedo cake”. Then, depart to the mediaeval city of Lugo. Enjoy free time to take a walk along the Roman remains that still preserves in the town´s walls and was declared a World Heritage Site. Continue to Santiago de Compostela, whose ancient city is a World Heritage Site, and one of the most important monumental centers in Spain, center of Christian pilgrimage and end of the Camino de Santiago, originally built by the Roman Empire. Overnight in Santiago de Compostela.
Hotel ( Superior): Santiago Plaza 4* (or similar) -
Day 8
Santiago de Compostella
Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel, before today's city tour of Santiago de Compostela, whose ancient city is a World Heritage Site, and one of the most important monumental nuclei in Spain, a Christian pilgrimage centre. In front of the Cathedral, the world-known Camino de Santiago ends. Follow your guide for the walk around the city centre, visiting the Plaza del Obradoiro, and its Cathedral (interior visit) dedicated to the Apostle Santiago. Rest of the day at leisure, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this vivid town. Overnight in Santiago de Compostela.
Hotel ( Superior): Santiago Plaza 4* (or similar) -
Day 9
Santiago de Compostela - Porto
Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel before continuing to your following destination Porto. En route you will be passing through the most charming area, Rías Bajas, well-known as the Spanish fjords. Driving along this spectacular landscape you will arrive at the island of La Toja, famous for the wellness center and rich thermal quells. After this short stop, our panoramic drive continues along the river Arosa to Portugal. Check-in to your hotel in Porto and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Porto.
Hotel ( Superior): Vila Gale Porto 4* (or similar) -
Day 10
Porto
Wake up to breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the panoramic tour around Porto which was declared to UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its magnificent Cathedral, the stock exchange building and Santa Clara Church are just a few of the gems of this city. Afterwards, enjoy a different perspective of the city on a boat cruise along the Douro River and discover the historical heritage by visiting a well-known Port Wine Cellar with wine tasting. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Porto.
Hotel ( Superior): Vila Gale Porto 4* (or similar) -
Day 11
Porto
After breakfast at the hotel enjoy a free day in this magnificent city on the banks of the Douro. Overnight in Porto.
Hotel ( Superior): Vila Gale Porto 4* (or similar) -
Day 12
Porto - Coimbra - Fatima
Have a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, after which you will depart to Coímbra, the host city of one of the oldest universities in Europe and cradle of Fado. Enjoy this town on your own pace, stroll down its vibrant streets, and perhaps shop at the local entities. Continue to Fatima, the center of the Fe Cristiana and world pilgrimage antiques, with impressive Basilica, Iria´s cave, the place where the Virgin Mary appeared and the Chapel of the Apparitions, the heart of the sanctuary, with the tombs of the three little shepherds, Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta. At night, the possibility of attending the candlelight procession. Overnight in Fatima.
Hotel ( Superior): Santa Maria 4* (or similar) -
Day 13
Fatima - Lisbon
Wake up to breakfast at the hotel which is followed by departure towards Lisbon. En route you will stop for a visit of the Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of Gothic and Manueline style, considered a World Heritage Site. You will continue towards the picturesque fishing village of Nazaré where you will have a chance to explore this city on your own pace and afterwards, you continue to Alcobaça with its Gothic church and Cistercian monastery, whose origins date back to the 12th century. Upon your arrival to Lisbon, check-in to your hotel and the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Lisbon.
Hotel ( Superior): Lutecia 4* (or similar) -
Day 14
Lisbon
Morning breakfast are followed by the Lisbon city tour, to learn about the gems of this vivid and colorful city. You will visit the most gorgeous sites such as The Tower of Belem, the Monastery of Geronimos (exterior) and the Monument dedicated to the Portuguese discoveries’. Afternoon is at leisure, to explore this fascinating city on your own rhythm, or you can book our optional Sintra y Cascáis excursion and admire the fairytale beauty of these sites. Overnight in Lisbon.
Hotel ( Superior): Lutecia 4* (or similar) -
Day 15
Lisbon - Merida - Madrid
Wake up early in the morning to your breakfast at the hotel. Today a big farewell to Portugal as you will be heading back to Madrid. We will drive towards Merida, the capital of Extremadura. Declared a World Heritage Site, Merida is renowned for its rich historical heritage, including its well-preserved Roman ruins: the theater, the amphitheater, the Roman bridge, and more. Free time before you arrive to Madrid in the late afternoon. Overnight in Madrid.
Hotel ( Superior): NH Manzanares 4* (or similar) - Day 16 Madrid - Return Enjoy your last breakfast that is followed by the check-out from the hotel and transfer to the Madrid International Airport to continue with your travel arrangements.
Included
Operated with bilingual English/Spanish-speaking tour escort throughout the journey from day 2 to 15 (This tour is a combination of shared arrangements. The assigned tour guide might change during the itinerary)
15 night’s accommodation
15 Breakfasts
Inbound/Outbound air-conditioned transfers from/to Madrid Airport
Shared transportation in an air-conditioning bus throughout the tour
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Madrid panoramic tour (Day 2); visit of Zaragoza (Day 3); San Sebastian panoramic tour (Day 4); Santillana and Covadonga visit (Day 6); Santiago de Compostela city tour (Day 8); La Toja visit (Day 9); Oporto panoramic tour boat cruise and wine tasting (Day 10); Fatima city tour (Day 12); Bathala Monastery Nazare and Alcobaca visit (Day 13); Lisbon city tour (Day 14); Caceres visit (Day 15)
Meet and Greet
Travel Insurance
Exclusions
International nor domestic flights
Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise)
City tax not included payable on the spot
Any visit not mentioned in the program
Porterage and gratuities
Expenditures of a personal nature drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks mineral water camera/video camera fee (if any)
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays accidents etc.
TRAVELING IN PORTUGAL
Firmly oriented toward the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a country of light, contrasts, and a gentle way of life. With nearly 2,000 kilometers of coastline, it is best discovered by following the Atlantic roads, where marine landscapes, golden cliffs, and fishing villages unfold one after another. Traveling in Portugal means taking time—time to stop in Porto, a proud and authentic city shaped by the Douro River and the wine that bears its name; time to listen to fado echoing through the ancient stones of Coimbra; and time to wander through Lisbon, the city of seven hills, vibrant yet tinged with nostalgia.
In Belém, one savors warm pastéis de nata fresh from the oven, while Portuguese gastronomy also reveals itself in exceptional dining experiences such as Belcanto. Further south, the road leads to the Algarve, famous not only for its beaches but also for its historic towns such as Lagos, Tavira, Faro, and Vila Real de Santo António. Inland Portugal is equally captivating: the Alentejo and the Central regions charm visitors with their whitewashed villages, peaceful landscapes, and slow pace of life. Further north, the Douro Valley amazes with its terraced vineyards and uniquely charming hotels. And for those wishing to extend their escape, Madeira and the Azores offer a completely different, wild and spectacular face of Portugal.
Capital: Lisbon
Area: 92,212 km²
Official language: Portuguese
Currency: Euro (1 CAD ≈ €0.68 – May 2023)
International dialing code: +351
Time difference: +5 hours compared to Montreal
Electrical outlets: Type F – 230V
DID YOU KNOW…
Lisbon has not always been the capital of Portugal. Over the course of its history, the country has had five capitals: Guimarães, Coimbra, Lisbon, Rio de Janeiro, and Angra do Heroísmo, before Lisbon definitively resumed this role. The most surprising episode remains that of Rio de Janeiro, which became the capital of Portugal between 1808 and 1821, when the royal family fled Napoleon’s troops and took refuge there with the entire court.
LISBON
Lisbon enchants visitors with the softness of its light, the majesty of the Tagus River, and its proximity to the Atlantic. The city invites travelers to slow down and enjoy its viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramas over ochre rooftops and azulejo-covered façades. Each neighborhood has its own soul: Alfama with its history-filled alleys, Baixa with its classical elegance, Chiado with its cultural vibrancy, Belém with its iconic monuments, and Cais do Sodré with its contemporary atmosphere.
The city’s must-see landmarks tell the story of its glorious past: São Jorge Castle, the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. A ride aboard the iconic Tram 28 connects several emblematic neighborhoods, while the Lisbon Oceanarium and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum complete the visit. For a seaside escape, Carcavelos Beach lies just a few kilometers away.
PORTO
Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto is a city of character—both raw and elegant. Nestled at the mouth of the Douro River, it captivates visitors with its UNESCO-listed historic districts, narrow streets, and colorful houses overlooking the river. Porto exudes a unique atmosphere, balancing nostalgia and vitality.
The cathedral, the Church and Tower of the Clérigos, the famous port wine cellars, Bolhão Market, and the spectacular Livraria Lello are among the city’s highlights. Porto is also renowned for its contemporary architecture, notably the Casa da Música, a symbol of its cultural renewal.
BARCELOS
Located between Viana do Castelo and Braga, Barcelos is inseparable from its famous rooster, which has become one of Portugal’s most iconic symbols. The town is renowned for its craftsmanship and for its large Thursday market, a vibrant explosion of colors and traditions. Strolling through Barcelos means discovering an authentic, lively town deeply connected to its popular heritage.
DOURO VALLEY
The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most spectacular regions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers sweeping landscapes of terraced vineyards sculpted by the river. As travelers follow its winding roads and viewpoints, they discover small villages, traditional quintas, and breathtaking natural scenery, all the way to Miranda do Douro, where the river enters Portugal.
VILA REAL
Located inland, Vila Real is an elegant town surrounded by mountains. It preserves beautiful patrician residences adorned with coats of arms and wrought-iron balconies. Set at the confluence of two rivers, it is an excellent base for exploring the region, including the famous Casa de Mateus and the surrounding green landscapes.
COIMBRA
A former capital of the kingdom, Coimbra is the intellectual and cultural heart of Portugal. Its prestigious university—one of the oldest in Europe—overlooks the city and reflects centuries of academic tradition. Coimbra charms visitors with its timeless atmosphere, historic streets, fado serenades, and remarkable monuments. Nearby, the Roman city of Conimbriga offers an additional glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
ALGARVE
The Algarve is far more than a beach destination. Beyond its golden sands and limestone cliffs lies a region rich in traditions, nature, and authentic villages. Each town has its own personality—lively or tranquil, festive or sea-oriented. Sagres, Lagos, Albufeira, Tavira, and Faro each reveal a different facet of this sun-drenched region, ideal for both a first trip to Portugal and a longer stay.
MADEIRA
Nicknamed the “Garden of the Atlantic,” Madeira is an island of striking beauty. Steep mountains, lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and colorful villages create an exceptional natural setting. Discovered in the 15th century, the island has preserved its authenticity. Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and the Fanal Forest are among the must-see highlights of a journey to Madeira.
CUISINE
Portuguese gastronomy is generous, authentic, and deeply rooted in tradition. The country is famous for its codfish, prepared in countless ways, as well as for its slow-cooked dishes, seafood, and indulgent desserts. Each region has its own specialties, reflecting its history and terroir. From simple dishes to more refined recipes, Portuguese cuisine is a true invitation to share and enjoy.
BEVERAGES
Portugal is a land of iconic wines and spirits. Port wine, vinho verde, ginja, Madeira’s poncha, and medronho are all integral to local culture. Each beverage tells the story of a region, a craft, and a tradition passed down through generations.
SAFETY, HEALTH, AND ETIQUETTE
Portugal is a safe and welcoming country, appreciated for the warmth and kindness of its people. As everywhere, basic precautions are recommended, particularly regarding petty theft and driving. The healthcare system is reliable, and vaccinations recommended by Canadian authorities allow travelers to explore the country with peace of mind. Portuguese etiquette is based on simplicity, respect, and friendliness, and tipping is left to the traveler’s discretion.
Name: Best of Northern Spain & Portugal
Brand: tripcentral tours
Quality: Tourist Class
Tour Type: Escorted
Start City: Madrid
End City: Madrid
Vacation Overview:
From enchanting mountains to impressive beaches, natural scenery, above to the gastronomic escapade. Join our 15-day tour and discover the gems of the awe-inspiring Spanish and Portuguese heritage. Architectural exposure in Madrid opens this spectacular journey, continuing to Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia to unveil the myths and legend about the supernatural presence of elves and witches and to get a feel of the delightful local gastronomy. Spiritual visit of the Holy Virgin Mary in Fatima, wine tasting in Oporto and vivid walks around the old Lisbon city centre will take you to know the Portuguese essence of their Mediterranean way of life. Spain will conquer your heart by its rich history, and gastronomic experience in Portugal will fill this trip with the life-time memories.
