Ultimate Spain & Portugal Adventure Tour

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!

Max Pax  

16

Local Dress  

When in churches or other places of religious worship travellers are expected to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered.

Optional Activities  

Lisbon
- Rossio Square (Free)
- Sao Jorge Castle (15EUR per person)
- Santa Justa Lift (6EUR per person)
- Alfama District Visit (Free)
- Visit to Mercado da Ribeira Market (aka Time Out Market)
- Belém District Visit (Free-10EUR per person)
- Belém Tower (8EUR per person)
- Visit to Sintra
- Lisbon Food Tour

Coimbra
- Joanina Library
- University of Coimbra Visit
- Conimbriga Ruins (8EUR per person)

Fátima
- Fátima Visit

Aveiro
- Aveiro Visit

Porto
- Ribeira Square (Free)
- Sao Bento Railway Station (Free)
- Porto Cathedral (Free)
- Porto Ribeira Cruise (20EUR per person)
- Clerigos Church and Tower (8-6EUR per person)
- Lello Bookstore (8EUR per person)
- Palacio da Bolsa (12EUR per person)

Madrid
- Museo Nacional Del Prado Visit (15EUR per person)
- Plaza Mayor Visit (Free)
- Royal Palace (Palacio Real) Visit (12EUR per person)
- El Escorial Visit (10EUR per person)
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (13EUR per person)
- Reina Sofia Museum (12EUR per person)
- Taurino Museum (15-20EUR per person)
- Gran Vía Visit (Free)

Granada
- Albaicín (El Albayzín) Visit (Free)
- Granada Cathedral (Cathedral of the Incarnation) Visit (5EUR per person)
- Granada City Center and Tapas Gourmet Tour

Seville
- Santa Cruz Quarter Visit (Free)
- La Giralda Visit (9EUR per person)
- The Golden Tower (Torre del Oro) (3EUR per person)
- Casa de Pilatos (10-12EUR per person)
- Santa Paula Convent (2EUR per person)
- Alcázar Palace Visit (13.50EUR per person)

Barcelona
- Gothic Quarter Visit (Free)
- Montjuïc Visit (5EUR per person)
- La Barceloneta Visit (Free)
- Casa Batlló (25-30EUR per person)
- Las Ramblas Visit
- La Sagrada Família Visit (17-37EUR per person)
- Parque Güell Visit (10EUR per person)

Pyrenees
- Hiking (Free-20EUR per person)

Bilbao
- Parque de Etxebarría Visit (Free)
- Basilica of Begoña Visit (Free)
- Guggenheim Museum Visit (13EUR per person)
- Casco Viejo Visit (Free)

San Sebastian
- Pintxos (Tapas) Experience (100-150EUR per person)
- Beach Visit with Surfing
- Monte Igueldo Visit (2EUR per person)
- Cathedral of Buen Pastor (Free)
- San Sebastian Bicycle Tour (40-60EUR per person)

A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Money Exchange  

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Western Europe. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of euros, travellers cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don\'t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Departure Tax  

Usually included in international air ticket, check with your air travel agent.

What to Take  

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.)

Packing List  

Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Trip Specific Safety  

Always keep an eye on your belongings especially in major cities, bus and train terminals.

Accommodation  

Hotels (18 nts), casa rural (2 nts).

My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

Please be aware that single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller, and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.

Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Tipping  

While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.

Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

At the end of each trip, if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.

Health  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Minimum Age  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Highlights  

Explore Moorish palaces and great Iberian cities, capture photos of stunning countryside and age-old cathedrals, devour tapas at a local haunt, listen to fado music and learn to Flamenco dance, live like a local in a "casa rural" in the Pyrenees, experience the Basque way of life

Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Mescladis Paella Cooking Class and Dinner, Barcelona
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Fado Night with Traditional Portuguese Meal, Lisbon
Your Hands-On Moment: Port Wine Cellar Visit, Porto
Your Discover Moment: Barcelona
Your Foodie Moment: Rioja Region Wine Tasting, Logroño. Orientation walks in Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, Granada and Barcelona. Batalha gothic monastery entrance and visit. Albaicin quarter visit. Alhambra guided tour. Mezquita Mosque and Jewish quarter visit in Cordoba. Flamenco show performance. "Casa rural" stay with traditional meals (Pyrenees). San Sebastian day trip. Internal flight (Porto to Madrid). All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Itinerary Notes  

Due to revised regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at least 60 days prior to departure in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. See "Important notes" under Tour Details for more information. Visits to the Alhambra may vary and take place on Day 9 or 10, depending on ticket availability, special events or holidays in Spain.

For Christmas and New Year's departures: Your itinerary over these holiday periods may include some variations depending on holiday closures. Alternative arrangements will be provided.

Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds. On this trip we include a local guide at the Alhambra in Granada

Meals  

Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however this may vary depending on the city. Should breakfast not be included, your CEO can suggest some local options.

Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. While trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients.

For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

About Accommodation  

On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations.

Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.

The address of the joining hotel in Lisbon is the following:

Hotel Dos Reis
Av. Alm. Reis 34, 1150-018 Lisboa

Meals Included  

20 breakfasts, 4 dinners

Local Flights  

Please be advised that any flights noted on the G Adventures Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by G Adventures during the tour. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary, for which Day 1 is equal to the start date noted on the Invoice under Land Services: Tour. If flight information is required in advance for visa purposes, please contact G Adventures.

Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your CEO where the closest laundromat is. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

Group Size Notes  

Max 16, avg 12

Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Important Notes  

1. ALHAMBRA
Due to regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at the time of booking in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra.

If your booking for this trip is confirmed with less than 60 days prior to departure, we will do our best to secure a ticket for your guided Alhambra tour. However, please note that due to high demand for tickets, we are not able to guarantee this inclusion if your booking is confirmed within this time period. In the event we cannot secure a guided tour of the Alhambra for you, alternative options such as a self-guided visit of the Alhambra (with reduced access), or visits to the nearby districts of Albaicín and Sacramonte will be arranged.

Visits to the Alhambra in Granada may vary and take place on Day 9 or 10, depending on ticket availability, special events or holidays in Spain.

2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

3. LOCAL GUIDES
It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.

4. LUGGAGE
In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.

5. RESERVE TICKETS IN ADVANCE
Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially in high season May-September when it could be a question of hours!), it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. There may be the possibility of arranging tickets on arrival on Day 1, with the help of your CEO, but availability cannot be guaranteed at such short notice. We recommend advanced ticket-purchase for the following sites and activities:

Barcelona:
La Sagrada Familia
Park Guell
Casa Battlo
Casa Mila

Madrid:
Prado Museum

Seville:
Alcazar Palace

6. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.

Transport  

Public bus, train, plane, walking.

About our Transportation  

Intercity transport on this trip will be mainly by public bus and train. The bus and train systems in Spain and Portugal are generally very good, most offer seat reservations, some buses have toilet facilities and others don't, but drivers often stop en route for service station breaks.
Please note that we use public transport such as metro and taxis to get to train and bus stations. It is important that you are able to carry your luggage comfortably and that it can be packed into a relatively small space.
Between transport and hotels you may be required to carry your luggage short distances (up to 15mins walk), occasionally the group will take taxis to and from hotels.