Journey through Portugal & Spain

Vibrant tiles, sparkling coastlines, and aromatic wines—all these and more awaits you in Northern Portugal and Spain. Say olá to Porto, a coastal Portuguese city whose robust spirit far outshines its modest size. Allow your eyes to drift along the brightly coloured buildings, built of immovable stone and opulent facades. Resembling an outdoor museum, you will feel the inscrutable pull of history as you meander down the cobblestone streets, along the tile-sided storefronts, and under the striking red rooftops. Breathe in the captivating energy of the scenic Ribeira waterfront before getting a taste of the culture at a local restaurant. Today’s dinner will be included. 

Hotel accommodation at Pestana Porto Goldsmith, Porto.

Pass by the neighbourhood’s friendly faces as you discover the city’s hidden secrets on a walking tour with a local expert. The bright, blue and white tiles of Carmo Church contrast with the overcast grey lining, creating a larger-than-life painting that appears to be lifted straight out of a storybook. Marvel at the intricate ironwork of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Spanning the River Douro, this double-decker structure was constructed by a protégé of Gustave Eiffel, famed creator of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Watch the famous rabelo boats coast by as you gain insight into this city’s history of transport and port wine. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish; you may choose to take a scenic stroll across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the many port wine cellars for a tour and tasting. Today’s breakfast will be included. 

Leave Porto behind as your journey then takes you to Aveiro, a stunning waterfront town where hand-painted boats pass through the canal. Allow your eyes to drift along the nouveau architecture of this quaint fisherman village; perhaps you’ll pause for a bite of ovos moles, a “soft egg” pastry that the city is known for. Continue to the Douro River Valley, a region of Northern Portugal known for its lush, serpentine hillsides and delicious port wine grapes. Be welcomed to the Quinta da Pacheca, an estate that has been actively producing wine since the 1700s. Settle in for a leisurely 2-night stay in the midst of the vineyard’s scenic paths and warm hospitality. After touring the grounds, enjoy a wine tasting and dinner made up of fresh Portuguese ingredients. For true connoisseurs of wine, consider raising your accommodations* to the next level with an innovative wine barrel room, allowing you to admire the vineyard rows from the comfort of your own bed. Today’s breakfast and dinner will be included. 

Hotel accommodation at The Wine House Hotel – Quinta da Pacheca.

With vineyards by your side and endless beauty ahead, enjoy a day at leisure. Perhaps you’ll picnic in the vineyards, meander along the green hills, or venture into the nearby town of Regua. Or, consider an optional tour to Lamego where you’ll travel to the peak of the town via coach before hopping on a bike and exploring coast down the winding streets, perhaps stopping for a delicious bola sandwich, and enjoy the downhill ride back to the quinta. No matter how you choose to spend your time, you will close out the day with a cooking class at your winery home. Allow the fresh air to gently float around you as the kitchen walls slide open, creating the feeling that you are preparing food directly in the vineyard. Indulge in traditional Portuguese recipes – all paired with enticing vintages from the estate. Today’s breakfast and dinner will be included. 

This morning, discover Pinhão, a charming town along the Douro River featuring tranquil vistas, sloping hills, and delicious port wine. Wander the vineyards and olive groves on your own, following the directional plaques along whatever path your heart desires. This afternoon, travel east to Burgos, known as the cradle of the Castile region. Situated on the Pilgrim’s Road, Burgos stands on the banks of the Rio Arlanzon with the slender, elegant spires of its famous cathedral rising into the sky. Today’s breakfast and dinner will be included. 

Hotel accommodation at Hotel Almirante Bonifaz, Burgos.

Join a local expert on a leisurely paced walking tour of Burgos’ beautiful medieval town centre. Spend time at the Cathedral of Burgos (UNESCO), a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture. The cathedral, the third largest church in Spain, offers such masterpieces as the filigree work in the spires of the towers; the starry dome; the choir; the sarcophagi and the golden staircase. Next, visit the 12th-century Monastery of Santa María Real de las Huelgas. Founded as a Royal Pantheon and a spiritual retreat for society ladies and royalty, the complex consists of the church, monastery and the enclosed premises of the Cistercian nuns. Today’s breakfast and dinner will be included. 

Today, board your coach for the port city of Santander where you will be free to explore independently. You may consider taking a relaxing stroll in the gardens of the Palacio de la Magdalena or explore the historic district of El Sardinero. Later, gather together as you make your way to San Sebastian. The sophisticated coastal city of San Sebastian welcomes you to indulge in its myriad charms.  Today’s breakfast and dinner will be included. 

Hotel accommodation at Barcelo Costa Vasca, San Sebastian.

This morning, it’s your choice! Join a guided tour of the city’s fascinating old town. Enjoy a ride onboard a funicular (beautiful views of La Concha Bay surround you on your ascension to the apex of Mount Igueldo) or set out for a guided walk through the farms, vineyards, and villages along the Coastal Camino. Spend a little time mingling with the locals before making your return to San Sebastián. Today’s breakfast will be included. 

Spend your day at leisure in Biarritz, the European surfing headquarters and the heart of the French Basque country. Spend your day at leisure taking in the beautiful scenery on this playground for the rich and famous. Join your fellow travellers for dinner as you toast to an incredible adventure. Today’s breakfast and dinner will be included.  

Tour ends. Head home with wonderful memories as your tour comes to a close.