Contiki, Best of Spain and Portugal

Day 1 - Madrid
Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first Spanish dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you'll be thankful for your hotel sleep.
Stay
Ibis Budget Madrid Centro Lavapies (or similar)

Day 2 - Madrid to Bilbao via Burgos
The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Bilbao.
Burgos
We couldn't race to our night's stop without letting you in on the pretty medieval town of Burgos. We'll marvel at the French Gothic cathedral with its intricate spires before rolling on to Bilbao.
Bilbao
Bilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn't diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you're free to use your afternoon to play art critique and absorb Bilbao's pretty surrounds and architecture. Tonight we'll join up for an included dinner, feasting on regional delicacies at one of Bilbao's local restaurants.
Stay - Holiday Inn Express Derio (or similar)

Day 3 Bilbao to Pamplona via San Sebastian
Bilbao
Adiós Bilbao! Thanks for a delicious evening in your super cozy, culture buzzing nest. Next stop, ocean hangs.
San Sebastian
What a way to start your day - dipping in the Bay of Biscay. San Sebastian is a postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a dip, do some shopping, or sit in a bar eating endless plates of pinxtos (the basque word for tapas).
Pamplona
Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. Opt to venture through the well-preserved old town and its incredible gothic cathedral on our walking tour, maybe ending the historical fix with a spot of fresh trout and red peppers - a regional specialty.

Stay - El Toro Hotel and Spa (Special stay)
 

Day 4 – Pamplona to Barcelona via Zaragoza
Pamplona
This morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona.
Zaragoza
A colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki.
Barcelona
With 2-nights in Barcelona, you'll be pronouncing Barcelona's C with a "tthh" like a true local by the time we make tracks. We'll kick things off with a walk through the Gothic Quarter & La Rambla district - two of the city's must-do's for an instant look at this pretty spot, and a sure way to feel like a local in no time.

Stay - Park Puxtet (or similar)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Explore Barcelona's Gothic beauty on a walking tour including Las Ramblas

Day 5 - Barcelona
Today is up to you to explore your way. You could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi's iconic Parc Güell, beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, or those wanting to explore the city can sign up for an optional bike tour. At lunchtime you'll have the option to join a cooking class at Espai Mescladis, one of our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ experiences here in Barcelona. Not just a cute cafe, this is the flagship project of a social enterprise using food and drink as a way to foster social inclusion and hospitality training.
Stay - Park Puxtet (or similar)

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Explore the baroque beauty of Barcelona with a bike tour

EUR 24.00

Enjoy a cooking class & lunch at Espai Mescladis, a not-for-profit using food and drink as a way to foster social cohesion (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)

EUR 35.00
 

Day 6 – Barcelona to Ibiza
Barcelona
Today is a complete change of scene as we take flight to the legendary island of Ibiza, where the crystal clear waters, music and chilled out vibes are calling us for the next two nights.
Ibiza
Worshipped worldwide as the party destination to end all party destinations, here you'll find super clubs, super DJs & super strobes like you've never seen them before, and that's just the island's 3am drawcards. For those that like to take the chilled approach, Ibiza's beaches, coves, and local markets need to be seen to be believed.

Stay - Innside Ibiza (or similar)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Flight to the famous island of Ibiza

Day 7 - Ibiza
Ibiza
Although this seems to be an island that never sleeps, you're going to need to drag that head out of bed so you can see the incredible beauty of the place when drenched in daylight. Go snorkelling, explore Ibiza's cute old town and its little souvenir shops, take a trip to spiritual Es Vedra, or continue the night before with an optional boat party before watching the sun set on another perfect day with your Contiki crew.

Stay - Innside Ibiza (or similar)

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Let loose at a base-thumping Ibiza Boat Party

Day 8 – Ibiza to Valencia
Ibiza
It's been a magical time on this island, but we have the rest of Spain to explore. With Ibiza ticked off our bucket list, we'll hop on a ferry back to the mainland. Touching down in Denia we'll jump on our coach, headed for Valencia.
Valencia
It's hard to not be enchanted by the port city of Valencia, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who's in?

Stay Hotel Mas Camarena (or similar)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
See the medieval cathedral & bell tower in Valencia

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Take a cooking class and whip up paella in its home of Valencia

EUR 35.00

Day 9 – Valencia to Granada
Valencia
It's been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won't forget you, but this morning we're seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country?

Granada
Granada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave! We'll join up tonight for an included dinner with the crew.

Stay - Los Angeles Hotel Granada (or similar)

Day 10 Granada
We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you're at it, fill up on some of Granada's incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain's number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We'll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven't been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!

Stay - Los Angeles Hotel Granada (or similar)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Locally Guided Tour of the Alhambra

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Guided Tour of Albaicin & Capilla Real

EUR 19.00

Traditional Flamenco and Tapas

EUR 48.00

Day 11 Granada to Madrid via Toledo
Granada
Bouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid.
Toledo
Mosques, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We'll uncover the city's gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain.
Madrid
Here we are, back where the party started 10 life-changing days ago. You're free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid's nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.

Stay - Hotel City House Florida Norte (or similar)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Visit the charming medieval city of Toledo and see the Alcazar Fortress and Gothic Cathedral

Day 12 Madrid to Cordoba
Madrid
Leaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us will drive onwards to Córdoba.
Cordoba
Flowers adorn storybook balconies & charming little lanes will take your breath away in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, overflowing with history. We'll start with a walking tour to fall head over heels with Córdoba, and a trip to the Mezquita (Mosque of the Caliphs) will be the perfect way to spend our day. This evening we'll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.

Stay - Monasterio de San Francisco (Special Stay)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Visit the UNESCO World heritage listed Mosque of the Caliphs in Cordoba

Day 13 Cordoba to Seville
Cordoba
Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we'll leave historical Córdoba with our sights set on sun-soaked Seville.
Seville
13th century architecture and one of the world's biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain's capital, Seville. We'll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city's river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions, before settling down to an included dining experience together tonight.

Stay - YIT Via Seville (or similar)

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Guided walking Tour

EUR 20.00

Day 14 - Seville
Seville
Another day free to explore Seville? Don't mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart's delight. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast on Seville's rooftops.
Stay - YIT Via Seville (or similar)

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
EatWith locals on the rooftops of Seville & enjoy an authentic feast

EUR 36.00

Day 15 Seville to Lisbon
Seville
We couldn't think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian penninsula to Portugal. Crossing the border, spirits are high as we cruise along the Algarve, where petiscos and pastéis de nata await.
Lisbon
Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you're free to take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner, and real foodies won't want to miss the optional Tastes of Lisbon experience to discover the best authentic food spots around the city.

Stay - VIP Executive Zurique (or similar)

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Tastes of Lisbon

EUR 43.00

Day 16 Lisbon
Lisbon
Starting to feel fully immersed in all things Portugal, this morning we'll get guided around the city and check out all the hotspots including Portugal's Christo Rei (Christ the Redeemer), Rossio Square, the Belem District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama's tomb is held. With free time this afternoon, those looking for local vibes will fall head over heels for bohemian bars, riverside clubs and plenty of cute boutiques. Tonight, you'll be able to join an optional dinner experience at Al Faro restaurant.

Stay - VIP Executive Zurique (or similar)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
See the Castelo deSao Jorge, the Praca do Comercio and Rossio & Praça da Figueira

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Lisbon Like a Local Dinner

EUR 38.00

Day 17 Lisbon to Leiria via Cascais and Sintra
Lisbon
After breakfast this morning we'll head up the coast to Leiria, but not before stopping en route at Cascais and Sintra.
Cascais
Our first stop this morning is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a Contiki Cares experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world.
Sintra
We couldn't leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. This fairytale town features turreted pastel-coloured palaces and charming castle ruins, with the star of the show being the insta-famous Pena Palace.
Leiria
You may not have heard of Leiria before, but we promise it'll soon charm you. A medieval old town, an iconic castle, outdoor restaurants and sweet Portuguese cakes greet us in this modest town between Lisbon and Porto. We'll come together tonight for an included dinner and a chance to swap stories about everything we've seen today.

Stay - Palace Hotel Monte Real (Special Stay)

INCLUDED EXPERIENCES
Visit the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood

Vistit the UNESCO heritage sites of Sintra and Insta-famous Pena Palace

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Discover local culture & support the Cascais community on a resident-guided street art tour (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)

EUR 15.00

Day 18 Leiria via Aveiro to Porto
Leiria
Saying 'Tchau' to Leiria after breakfast, we'll take the coach towards Porto, via Aveiro.
Aveiro
This mini-Venice is a gorgeous town built on canals. We'll have an optional traditional boat tour to cruise the winding canals, admiring the colourful houses and learning about the area's history.
Porto
Cruising into the terracotta washed city of Porto, we'll enjoy a free evening tonight with plenty of time to explore tomorrow.

Stay - Ibis Porto Gaia

Day 19 Porto
Porto
Alive with galleries & coffee shops, the city of Porto is basically a dream. We’ll find heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets & in the UNESCO stamped alleys of Ribeira. You'll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time today, seeing all the main sites like the lavish São Fransisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa and wandering the picturesque coastline, before an optional but must to experience this evening: a walking tour of Porto complete with port tasting.

Stay - Ibis Porto Gaia

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Walking tour of Lisbon with local port tasting

Day 20 Porto to Salamanca
See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful!
Salamanca
Rolling back over the border to Spain, we'll settle for the night in Salamanca. We're just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a Cathedral dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we'll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.

Stay - Hotel Vincci Ciudad De Salamanca

Day 21 Salamanca to Madrid via Avila
Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we'll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila.
Ávila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We'll stop to admire them and find ourselves some lunch before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid.
Madrid
Back where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you'll be able to make the most of our final night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.

Stay - Hotel City House Florida Norte (or similar)

FREE TIME ADD-ONS
Eat a traditional Madrilenos feast including jamon and tortilla, Madrid

EUR 37.50

Explore Madrid’s trendiest neighbourhoods and unmissable sights on a city bike tour

EUR 23.00

Day 22 depart Madrid
Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.