As former imperial superpowers, Spain and Portugal have centuries of history and captivating culture to draw upon. You, on the other hand, have only 21 days. Make ‘em count! This comprehensive adventure across the Iberian Peninsula presents travellers with the chance to explore these two nations through their cuisine, architecture, and idyllic countryside. Here, you’ll wander the wondrous streets of Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona, and Madrid, step up into the Pyrenees, relax in glorious San Sebastián, and live the local culture alongside the locals themselves. Spain and Portugal: Europe’s greatest two-for-one deal!
Day 1: LisbonArrive at any time.
If visiting the historic district of Belém is on your bucket list, we recommend arriving early on this day to explore its major sites like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Most attractions in Belém are closed on Mondays.
Day 2: LisbonEnjoy a CEO-led orientation walk of Lisbon. The rest of the day is free for exploration. In the evening enjoy a Fado performance and traditional Portuguese dinner in one of Lisbon's oldest neighbourhoods.
Day 3: Lisbon/CoimbraLeave Lisbon behind and head north to the small hill town of Batalha, best known for its ornate gothic monastery built to commemorate Portugal's victory in the infamous battle of Aljubarrota. Visit the historic Monastery of Batalha with free time to wander the grounds. Continue to the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra.
Day 4: CoimbraEnjoy a free day to explore Coimbra. Opt to visit the famous Coimbra University, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 (and also the inspiration for Harry Potter's Hogwarts). Explore the winding streets and the riverfront filled with restaurants and bars, or opt for a day trip to the nearby coastal town of Aveiro or the pilgrimage sites of Fátima.
Day 5: Coimbra/PortoContinue to the historic and vibrant coastal town of Porto in the morning, and take an orientation walk upon arrival.
Day 6: PortoFree day to explore Porto. Opt to take a cruise down the Douro River, or explore the city which gained UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1996. In the evening enjoy a visit to the port wine cellars and a tasting.
Day 7: Porto/MadridCatch a flight to Madrid and spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace.
Day 8: MadridTake a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a full day to explore this bustling capital. Discover Plaza Mayor or opt to visit the famous Royal Palace. Indulge in delicious Spanish tapas or get your art fix at the Prado Museum.
Day 9: Madrid/GranadaJourney south to Granada. Upon arrival enjoy an orientation walk. Wander through the whitewashed historic quarter of the Albaicin; with its narrow lanes and fantastic views, it's a great place to watch the sunset.
Day 10: GranadaEnjoy a guided visit to the architectural masterpiece, the Alhambra. In the evening, opt to go for a stroll and check out the local tapas and wine bars.
Day 11: Granada/Cordoba/SevilleTravel to Seville via picturesque Cordoba. Go for a stroll through the historic Jewish quarter and visit the iconic Mezquita de Cordoba (mosque). In the early evening, continue towards Seville and end your day with free time to get to know the city.
Day 12: SevilleSpend a day enjoying this city and its Moorish influence. Opt to explore the district of Santa Cruz, the Alcázar palace or the world's largest Gothic cathedral. In the early evening, end your day with a dramatic flamenco performance.
Day 13: Seville/BarcelonaHop on the train and get comfortable on the journey north to Barcelona. Take an orientation walk, including visits to the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas. In the evening participate in a G Adventures supported paella cooking class, followed by a group dinner to round out the day.
Day 14: BarcelonaGet out and explore all that Barcelona has to offer, or choose to journey further afield to the surrounding beaches and countryside to get a true taste of Catalan life.
Day 15: Barcelona/PyreneesTake the morning to explore beautiful Barcelona. Head to the Pyrenees region for 2 nights in a 'casa rural'. Enjoy home-cooked meals and hiking.
Day 16: PyreneesEnjoy the day in the scenic Pyrenees. Opt for some hikes in the area or head to Ainsa to explore. Spend another night in the 'casa rural'.
Day 17: Pyrenees/BilbaoTravel to Bilbao, the first stop in the unique Basque region of Spain. Arrive in the early afternoon. Opt to visit the stunning Guggenheim Museum, or climb the Mallona Stairs to Parque Etxebarria for beautiful views over the city.
Day 18: Bilbao/San Sebastian/BilbaoTake a day trip to San Sebastian. Opt to take a pintxos (tapas) tour and learn about the fascinating culture of the area. Return to Bilbao for the night.
Day 19: Bilbao/LogroñoTravel to Logroño and enjoy an included wine tasting in the Rioja region.
Day 20: Logroño/MadridTravel to Madrid and enjoy free time in this capital city.
Day 21: MadridDepart at any time.
