Gaudi to Galicia & Portugal - 12 days (20 destinations)

Your adventure begins in vibrant Barcelona, where you depart early in the morning, setting out for the storied city of Zaragoza. After a brief pause to admire its remarkable landmarks, the journey continues through the picturesque Aragonese countryside to Pamplona. Famous for its exhilarating festival and charming historic center, Pamplona welcomes you for an evening of relaxation. Dinner is included at your hotel (Catalonia 505 or similar), ensuring a comfortable and flavorful end to your first day.

After a hearty breakfast in Pamplona, you travel to the elegant resort city of San Sebastian, where you can stroll along the iconic La Concha Beach. The journey continues to Bilbao, a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, highlighted by a visit to the striking Guggenheim Museum. The day concludes in the coastal city of Santander, where you can unwind along the promenade or explore the lush Magdalena Peninsula. Dinner is provided at your hotel, ensuring a restful evening.

Begin your day with a scenic drive to the enchanting village of Santillana del Mar, renowned for its medieval charm. Continue through the lush Asturian hills to the revered Covadonga Shrine, a site steeped in history and spirituality. The day concludes in Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, where you can explore its atmospheric old town and marvel at its pre-Romanesque architecture.

After breakfast, set out for Galicia, arriving in La Coruna for a panoramic city tour that showcases its coastal beauty and rich heritage. The journey continues to Santiago de Compostela, a city revered by pilgrims and travelers alike. Settle into your hotel for a two-night stay, with dinner included, and take the opportunity to begin exploring this legendary city.

Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Santiago de Compostela with a guided exploration of its most iconic sites, including the majestic Plaza del Obradoiro and the awe-inspiring Cathedral, believed to be the resting place of Saint James. The afternoon is yours to wander the winding lanes of the old town, soak up the unique atmosphere, or relax in a local café. Optional excursions are available for those seeking further adventure.

After breakfast, journey to the breathtaking Rias Bajas, known as the Spanish Fjords, with a brief stop at the picturesque La Toja Island. Continue to O Grove, where you have the option to embark on a catamaran cruise to visit local oyster and mussel farms, complete with a tasting of fresh seafood and regional wine. The day ends in the lively city of Vigo, where you can explore at your own pace or join an optional excursion to Santa Tecla.

Crossing into Portugal, your day begins in the charming town of Viana do Castelo, nestled between mountains and the sea. Enjoy free time to explore its historic center before heading to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, celebrated for its religious heritage and elegant streets. The journey concludes in Porto, renowned for its riverside beauty and world-famous wine.

Discover Porto’s highlights on a panoramic morning tour, visiting the imposing Cathedral, the ornate Palácio da Bolsa, and the delicate St. Clara Church. The tour culminates with a visit to a traditional port wine cellar, where you can savor a tasting of the city’s most famous export. The afternoon is yours to explore Porto’s winding streets, enjoy a Douro River cruise, or relax by the scenic Ribeira waterfront.

Travel south to Coimbra, a city renowned for its academic legacy and musical traditions. Once the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. After lunch, enjoy free time to wander the university district, marvel at the Joanina Library, or listen to the soulful notes of Fado drifting from local cafés.

Journey south to Fatima, a revered pilgrimage site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children. Spend time exploring the Sanctuary and its tranquil grounds before continuing to Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital. In the evening, consider joining an optional night tour featuring a traditional Fado performance.

A morning tour introduces you to Lisbon’s most celebrated sights, including the verdant Eduardo VII Park, lively Rossio Square, and the stylish Avenida da Liberdade. Explore the atmospheric Madragoa district before heading to Belem, the cradle of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Here, you’ll visit the iconic Belem Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery. The afternoon is free for you to relax or join an optional excursion to Sintra and the coastal gems of Cascais and Estoril.

Bid farewell to Portugal as you cross back into Spain, stopping in the beautiful city of Merida. Here, you’ll have time to explore its remarkable Roman ruins, including the UNESCO-listed amphitheatre. After a final Spanish lunch, continue to Madrid, where your unforgettable journey concludes with a drop-off near Plaza de España.