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Vacations with Personality

NORTHERN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

Escorted Tour

17 days / 16 nights
  • About Tour
  • Tour Itinerary
  • Whats Included
  • Important Info
  • T&C
Languages English Duration 17 days / 16 nights Airline
Uncover the best of the north of the Iberian Peninsula on an unforgettable 17-day journey full of breathtaking landscapes, charming towns and historic cities. From vibrant Barcelona to cosmopolitan Madrid, via the sophisticated Basque Country, the green mountains of Asturias, the sanctuaries of Galicia and the cultural treasures of Portugal, this itinerary immerses you in the cultural and natural roots of two nations. 

Explore the elegance of San Sebastián, the Atlantic air of Santiago de Compostela, the authenticity of Porto and the spirituality of Fátima. Visit World Heritage cities such as Coimbra and Lisbon, and travel through iconic regions such as the Rías Baixas and the Douro wine region. An experience rich in history, faith, tradition and natural beauty, ideal for those who want to get to know the most authentic side of Spain and Portugal, away from the usual tourist circuits.

• Travel peacefully through the Iberian Peninsula with an expert guide, accommodation in selected hotels and breakfast included.
• Discover Barcelona with a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter and enjoy the breathtaking views from Montjuïc, passing Gaudí's masterpieces.
• Explore the elegance of San Sebastián and Santander, admire the Bay of Concha and appreciate the charm of the fishing village of Castro Urdiales.
• Explore the north of Spain with cultural visits to Oviedo, Lugo and the pilgrimage centre of Santiago de Compostela, with a local guide.
• Discover the beautiful city of Porto, sail the waters of the Douro on a panoramic cruise and savor a Port wine in a traditional city cellar.
• Be enchanted by the university city of Coimbra and feel the spirituality of Fátima, one of the largest pilgrimage centres in the world.
• Marvel at World Heritage monuments such as the monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaça and the Cathedral of Santiago.
• Enjoy the natural beauty of the Rias Baixas and the island of La Toja, with its maritime landscapes and well-preserved Galician traditions.
• Let yourself be enchanted by Lisbon with a tour of its most emblematic neighborhoods, including Belém and its monuments dedicated to the Discoveries, Alfama and the Pombaline downtown.
Highlights
• Departure flight onboard WestJet on a direct flight from your Halifax Airport to Barcelona Airport on the selected flight class (*)
• One free personal item, one free Carry-on included on all flight classes
• Checked luggage can be added ($) when booked on Economy Class (Y)
• 2 pieces of checked luggage included on Premium (W) and Business (J) classes
• Transfers on arrival and departure
• Daily activities as per chosen itinerary.
• Accommodation on the selected room category and plan. 
• 24/7 personalized assistance by our professional staff in destination.
• Option to buy additional local excursions and entrances to attractions.
• Returning flight onboard WestJet from Barcelona to selected airport on a direct flight.

* Please note that some flight classes may already include either carry-on or checked bags on your price. Please make sure to check flight class on your booking before proceeding to pay for extras:
 Economy: Personal item + carry-on. Checked bags can be added online - after bookings are completed - for a fee.
• Premium: One personal item, one carry-on and 2 pieces of checked bags included
• Business: (Available on selected routes). One personal item + one carry-on + 2 pieces of checked bags included
The Tour on Map Tour map image path

Itinerary

Tour day #1 photo
Day 0 Departure from Canada
Arrive at your departing Halifax Airport on time for your direct flight to Barcelona Airport. 

Hop aboard your WestJet flight and brace yourself for the adventure!


Tour day #2 photo
Day 1 Barcelona
Arrival at Barcelona airport and transfer to the selected hotel.

Rest of the day free to explore the Catalan capital at your own pace, between the vibrant modernity and strokes medieval historical centre.

Overnight: Barcelona


Tour day #3 photo
Day 2 Discover Barcelona
After breakfast, presentation at the Julia Travel store, next to the Estación del Nord, to start the tour of the main attractions of Barcelona. 

This half-day tour combines walking and panoramic bus tour, revealing the contrasts and charms of one of Spain"s most iconic cities. In the first part of the tour, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, walking through narrow streets full of history, with stops at Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza Sant Felip Neri, Arc de Triomphe, and Plaza Sant Jaume. 

Then, board an air-conditioned bus to Montjuïc Hill. Cable car ascent included to take in the dazzling views of the city. Stop at the MNAC viewpoint to enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Barcelona.

On the way back, cross the elegant Passeig de Gràcia, admiring from the outside the modernist facades of Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, Gaudí's masterpieces. Free afternoon to take advantage of the city at your own pace.

Overnight: Barcelona

(*) If, for technical reasons, the Barcelona tour cannot be conducted, it will be replaced by the 1-day Barcelona City Tour Bus excursion.


Tour day #4 photo
Day 3 Barcelona - Zaragoza - San Sebastián
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Sants station to board the high-speed train to Zaragoza. Arrival and brief reception before continuing the road trip to San Sebastian, prestigious seaside resort and scene of the famous International Film Festival.

Overnight: San Sebastián 


Tour day #5 photo
Day 4 San Sebastián
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, take a scenic drive through this sophisticated French-style seaside town, known for its refined architecture and laid-back atmosphere.

The tour includes the dazzling Bay and Playa de la Concha, as well as the climb to Monte Igueldo, from where you can see one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Basque coast.

Free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Optionally, you can take part in an excursion to the French coast with a visit to the picturesque towns of Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz.

Overnight: San Sebastián


Tour day #6 photo
Day 5 San Sebastián - Bilbao - Castro Urdiales - Santander
After breakfast, departure to Bilbao. 

During the panoramic tour, it will be possible to get to know the modern architecture of the city and have free time on the esplanade of the Guggenheim Museum, a cultural and artistic icon of the Basque Country.

Continue to Castro Urdiales, a charming fishing village with a medieval tradition, with free time to stroll through its port and historic centre. 

Continue to Santander, a coastal city between the sea and the mountains.

Visit with a local guide to discover its main attractions, such as the urban beaches, such as the popular El Sardinero and the elegance of the historic buildings in the center.

Overnight: Santander


Tour day #7 photo
Day 6 Santander - Santillana - Covadonga - Oviedo
Breakfast. 

Departure to Santillana, one of the towns of greatest historical and artistic value in Spain, where you can find authentic architectural treasures, such as the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, the main jewel of the Romanesque in Cantabria. 

Continue to Covadonga, where we will have free time to visit the Sanctuary and the cave with the image of the Virgin. In the afternoon, departure for Oviedo, a city located on hills at the foot of the Naranco, standing out for the beauty of its streets, many of them pedestrian. 

Its monuments are a World Heritage Site, with a highlight for the Cathedral, one of the most significant works of Asturian Gothic.

Overnight: Oviedo



Tour day #8 photo
Day 7 Oviedo - Mondoñedo - Lugo - Santiago de Compostela
After breakfast, departure in the direction of Galicia. 

The first stop will be in Mondoñedo, former episcopal headquarters and place of great patrimonial wealth. Appreciate the quiet atmosphere of this villa and take advantage of the free time to visit the Cathedral of the 12th century and, if you wish, try the famous Mondoñedo cake, sweet typical of the region.

It continues to Lugo, where you will have free time to contemplate the impressive Roman walls that surround the historic and unique center in the world for staying intact throughout the perimeter, and recognized as a World Heritage Site.

He continues to Santiago de Compostela, one of the most emblematic pilgrimage destinations in the Christian world. Its historic center, also a World Heritage, is a true wonder of architecture, spirituality and tradition.

Overnight: Santiago de Compostela


Tour day #9 photo
Day 8 Discover Santiago de Compostela
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit the most emblematic places of this unique city. Start in the Plaza del Obradoiro, the heart of Santiago, and admire the majestic façade of the Cathedral, dedicated to the Apostle James the Greater. 

Enter and explore the interior of this temple that for centuries marks the end of the Camino de Santiago for thousands of pilgrims. Rest of the day at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Discover the narrow streets full of history, the squares lively with musicians and students.

Overnight: Santiago de Compostela


Tour day #10 photo
Day 9 Santiago de Compostela - Rías Baixas - Porto
Breakfast and departure to the charming Rías Baixas, the most picturesque coast of Galicia, known for its Atlantic fjords and fresh seafood. 

Appreciate the beautiful landscapes to the island of La Toja, famous for its hot springs and natural cosmetic products. Take advantage of your free time to explore this charming little island.

Continue along the Galician coast, passing through the Arousa estuary region, before crossing the border into Portugal. Arrival in Porto, city with soul, on the banks of the Douro River.

Overnight: Porto


Tour day #11 photo
Day 10 Discover Porto
After breakfast at the hotel, panoramic tour of Porto, classified as a World Heritage Site. See the imposing Sé Catedral, admire the elegance of the Palacio de la Bolsa and the Church of Santa Clara.

Then embark on a pleasant cruise on the Douro River, providing a unique perspective on the city's banks and bridges. End the morning with a visit to a prestigious Port Wine cellar, with tasting included. Free afternoon to walk at your own pace or explore the corners of the undefeated city.

Overnight: Porto


Tour day #12 photo
Day 11 Porto at your own pace
Breakfast at the hotel. Take advantage of the day off to lose yourself through the lovely streets of the Historic Center of Porto, classified as World Heritage.

Discover the unique atmosphere of La Ribeira, with its colorful facades and terraces on the shores of the Douro. 

Visit (not included), the imposing Church of San Francisco, with its interior in golden size, the church of the clergy or explore the iconic Lello bookstore, one of the most beautiful in the world. Do not stop knowing the beautiful panel of tiles at the São Bento train station or having a privileged view on the houses of Porto from the outside of the Porto Cathedral

Overnight: Porto


Tour day #13 photo
Day 12 Porto - Coimbra - Fatima
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for Coimbra, a student city rich in history and traditions and home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.

Free time to explore its charming historic center, where academic legacy and cultural heritage intersect.

Continue to Fatima, an important center of the Christian faith and one of the largest Marian shrines in the world. Visit the majestic Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Cova da Iria, site of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

Feel the atmosphere of seclusion in the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the tombs of the three shepherd children are located.

Overnight: Fatima


Tour day #14 photo
Day 13 Fátima - Batalha - Nazaré - Alcobaça - Lisbon
Breakfast at the hotel and departure to the Monastery of Batalha, a jewel of Gothic and Manueline architecture, classified as a World Heritage Site. 

Continue to the charming fishing village of Nazaré, with free time to enjoy the Atlantic scenery. Continue to Alcobaça, where the imposing Cistercian monastery of the twelfth century, a World Heritage Site, stands out.

Arrive in Lisbon at the end of the day.

Night: Lisbon


Tour day #15 photo
Day 14 Lisbon
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, a panoramic visit to discover the charms of Lisbon, the former Roman olisipo, in a tour that crosses its main emblematic points. Admire the Belém tower and the monastery of the Jeronimos (exterior), two icons of the Manuelino style and witnesses of the era of discoveries. 

Contemplates the imposing monument to discoveries, symbol of the Portuguese expansion, and travels avenues and squares marked by the reconstruction of Pombal.

Free afternoon to feel the Lisbon soul in the Alfama neighborhood, between alleys and viewpoints, or, alternatively, participates in an optional excursion (not included) to Sintra and Cascais, localities of undoubted charm and historical importance.

Overnight: Lisbon


Tour day #16 photo
Day 15 Lisbon - Mérida - Madrid After breakfast, departure to Mérida, capital of ancient Lusitania and currently world heritage for UNESCO. Matarch with the Roman legacy of this millenary city, where the theater, the amphitheater and the bridge over the Guadiana River stand out. Free time to explore this authentic outdoor museum.

Then, continue the journey to Madrid.

Overnight:  Madrid


Tour day #17 photo
Day 16 Madrid - Barcelona
After breakfast you´ll have your transfer to Madrid Atocha Station for your direct train (AVE) to Barcelona

Night: Barcelona


Tour day #18 photo
Day 17 Departure home
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and be ready for your transfer to Barcelona Airport for your direct WestJet flight to your destination in Canada.
Whats Included
• Departure flight onboard WestJet on a direct flight from your selected Airport (Calgary, Halifax) to Barcelona Airport on the selected flight class (*)
• One free personal item, one free Carry-on included on all flight classes
• Checked luggage can be added ($) when booked on Economy Class (Y)
• 2 pieces of checked luggage included on Premium (W) and Business (J) classes
• Transfers on arrival and departure
• Daily activities as per chosen itinerary.
• Accommodation on the selected room category and plan, including breakfast.
• Accompaniment with multilingual guide throughout the trip.
• Panoramic and guided visits in Barcelona, ​​San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santander, Porto and Lisbon.
• Transfers from Barcelona El-Prat according to the itinerary.
• Transfers to the Sants train station in Barcelona and from the Zaragoza station.
• High speed train trip Barcelona - Zaragoza in economic class.
• Guided tour in Porto with a cruise for the Duero and Cata de Vino.
• Half -day excursion in Barcelona: mixing walking and panoramic tour
• Panoramic visit including the Bay of La Concha and Mount Igueldo.
• In Lisbon, a panoramic visit for the city, including the Belém tower and the Jeronymos monastery (outside).
• Free time in Barcelona, ​​San Sebastián, Bilbao, Covadonga, Mondoñedo, Lugo, Isla de la Toja, Porto, Fatima and Nazaré.
• Transport in luxury coach and transfers to the airport and train station, according to itinerary.
• Transfer from Madrid Atocha Station for your direct train (AVE) to Barcelona
• Travel insurance.
• 24/7 personalized assistance by our professional staff in destination.
• Option to buy additional local excursions and entrances to attractions.
• Returning flight onboard WestJet from Barcelona to selected Halifax on a direct flight.

* Please note that some flight classes may already include either carry-on or checked bags on your price. Please make sure to check flight class on your booking before proceeding to pay for extras:
• Economy: Personal item + carry-on. Checked bags can be added online - after bookings are completed - for a fee.
• Premium: One personal item, one carry-on and 2 pieces of checked bags included
• Business: (Available on selected routes). One personal item + one carry-on + 2 pieces of checked bags included
Whats Not Included
. Baggage porterage at airport/hotel
- Local tourist tax not included, to be paid directly at the hotel.
. Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
. Beverages, snacks, lunches, dinners unless otherwise noted in itinerary 
. Guaranteed early check-in
. Guaranteed late check-out 
. Any service not specifically listed under "Included"
• During the stay in Barcelona, Madrid and on the high-speed train journey to Zaragoza, there is no escort service.
• If for technical reasons the visit cannot be carried out in Barcelona, it will be replaced by the 1-day City Tour on the Barcelona City Tour tourist bus.
• Appropriate clothing may be required for religious monuments to allow access.
• In certain monuments/museums the entrance is nominative; A copy of the passport is required to be sent up to 45 days before departure.
• Radio guides are provided during the visits, whose conservation and return in good condition is the responsibility of the traveller. In the event of loss or damage, a penalty of €50 will be applied.
• On trains, baggage is limited to 1 piece of hand luggage (36x27x15 cm) and 1 piece of cabin baggage (55x35x25 cm). 
• Excess baggage may result in trip cancellation by operators or a cash penalty

In case of emergency please contact our local Representatives:
Living Tours
Barcelona:  spain@livingtours.com
Phone +34 664 101 642
(Call to Spanish landline)
 Carrer Pelai 12, 3-M
08001 Barcelona

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Please read carefully the Terms and Conditions applicable to the services offered by Living Tours (local Destination Management Company in Spain and Portugal)

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Vacations with Personality