Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 1/17
Itinerary for Spain & Portugal Explorer • Expat Explore
Start Point: End Point:
Hotel Elba Madrid Alcala, Madrid,
Calle de Alcalá, 476, 28027 Madrid, Spain Central Train Station
10:00 hrs 13:00 hrs (traffic dependent) Hotel Elba
Madrid Alcala,
Calle de Alcalá, 476, 28027 Madrid, Spain
14:00 hrs (traffic dependent)
DAY 1: Arrive in Madrid
Welcome to Madrid and the start of this exciting 15-day tour of Spain and Portugal! Depending on
when you arrive, there may be time to see some of the city. Explore the streets or simply relax at
the hotel. This evening, meet up with your tour leader as well as the rest of the group in the hotel
lobby. Tonight, there will be an included dinner with the tour group. Enjoy the delicious tastes of
Spain and get to know the rest of the travellers on this group tour.
Depending on arrival times, a complimentary airport shuttle will be available to transport travelers
to the hotel. Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 2/17
Experiences
Welcome dinner in Madrid: Look forward to your first taste of Spain and celebrate the first night
of the tour with a welcome dinner! Meet the rest of the tour group who you will be travelling with for
the next two weeks and enjoy some delicious Spanish cuisine.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel Elba Madrid
Sercotel Madrid Aeropuerto
DAY 2: Segovia - San Sebastian
Depart Madrid this morning and travel to San Sebastian on Spain’s northern coast. Along the way,
stop off in Segovia, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site which offers the highest
concentration of Romanesque churches in Europe, as well as an incredibly well-preserved Roman
aqueduct that runs into the heart of the city. Arrive in San Sebastian in the late afternoon. San
Sebastian is a charming city with a beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife. A foodie’s paradise, San
Sebastian is known for its Basque gastronomy, so this evening is best spent exploring the
beachfront bars and indulging in pintxo, northern Spain's version of tapas!
Experiences Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 3/17
See the historic town of Segovia: Explore the historic old town of Segovia, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. Highlights in the old town include the ancient Roman aqueduct, the Alcazar (royal
palace) and Segovia Cathedral.
Enjoy a night out in San Sebastian: Enjoy some free time to relax on the beach, stroll the
charming city streets and then get to know the locals as you hit the beachfront bars for traditional
pintxo!
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Ibis Irun
Today’s first stop is Pamplona - the historic city made famous by “the running of the bulls” during
the San Fermin festival. Pamplona is packed with history! Enjoy free time to explore the beautiful
medieval city centre and see the city walls and citadel. After seeing Pamplona, travel to Zaragoza
and enjoy a wine tasting along the way. Arrive in Zaragoza and take a walking tour of the city. The
city has experienced a long and varied history, with Roman, Moorish, Jewish and Christian
communities leaving their marks over the centuries. This storied history can be seen in the
architecture of the Basílica del Pilar cathedral, Aljafería Islamic palace, the Roman theatre and more. Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 4/17
Experiences
Explore the city of Pamplona: Visit the historic city that was made famous by the “running of the
bulls” and see top sights including the Baroque facade of the town hall in Plaza Consistorial, the
Gothic church of San Saturnino and Cámara de Comptos (the oldest building in the city, dating back
to the 13th century).
Sample local Spanish wines: Drive through the popular wine-growing regions of northern Spain
and enjoy a tasting of local Spanish wines. Typical Spanish grape varieties include Tempranillo,
Garnacha, Albariño and Macabeo.
Wander through the streets of Zaragoza on a walking tour: Experience the legacy of the
many different cultures that have influenced the city’s history. The city centre is compact and easy
to walk around; perfect for an evening stroll.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Ibis Zaragoza Centro
DAY 4: Andorra - Barcelona Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 5/17
It’s time to hit the road to Barcelona! Today’s first stop is the tiny principality of Andorra. Enjoy free
time to explore Andorra la Vella, the highest capital city in Europe and a popular ski resort. Arrive in
Barcelona in the late afternoon. The cosmopolitan capital of the Catalonia region is bursting full of
beautiful sights and great things to see and do. Embark on a driving tour with your tour leader and
become acquainted with the city’s vibrant energy. Look out for famous La Sagrada Familia and other
examples of eclectic art and architecture. The hotel for the next two nights is located in Sant Cugat,
just outside the city. Enjoy an included dinner with the group tonight.
Experiences
Visit Andorra and Andorra la Vella: This tiny, independent principality has a population of just
85,000 and is located in the southern peaks of the Pyrenees Mountains, between Spain and France.
Explore Europe’s highest capital city - Andorra la Vella - and enjoy free time in this beautiful city.
Orientation tour of Barcelona: In this city renowned for its art and architecture, you’ll see
incredible sights such as the fantastical Sagrada Família, which is unlike any building you will have
ever seen, and other spectacular modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí. See Barcelona’s
top attractions and gain insight into this vibrant city on a driving tour led by your tour leader.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Sant Cugat Hotel
DAY 5: Barcelona: Free Day Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 6/17
Enjoy a free day in Barcelona today! See more of the city’s incredible architecture, visit the Old
Town, stroll along Las Ramblas, enjoy authentic tapas or simply relax in one of the city’s parks. The
best panoramic city views can be found in Park Guell, another creation by Antoni Gaudí. Barcelona is
home to many of Gaudi’s designs and you could spend the whole day simply locating each one! Las
Ramblas is a street lined with shops, restaurants, market stalls, museums, theatres, art galleries,
street performers and more! For an unforgettable evening, join the optional Flamenco show and
dinner excursion tonight. The dance of passion is performed with style, flair and energy, and is a
real experience not to be missed.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Sant Cugat Hotel
Optional Excursions
Flamenco Show & Dinner: € 75
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 6: Peniscola - Valencia Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 7/17
Leaving Barcelona behind, travel along the south coast towards Valencia. En route, stop for lunch in
Peniscola. Home to a historic old town, a beautiful promenade and sandy beaches watched over by
an imposing castle built by the Knights Templar - this is surely one of the most picturesque spots in
Europe to enjoy a lunch stop! Arrive in Valencia and enjoy a driving tour of this thriving port city.
Discover Valencia’s uniqueness in how it retains plenty of historic charm despite the decades of
development that have given it a distinct space-age feel. Enjoy dinner in the city tonight Look
forward to tasting paella - one of the dishes Valencia is famous for!
Experiences
Enjoy lunch in picturesque Peniscola: Visit and enjoy lunch and the amazing views! This
fortified seaport on a rocky headland with only a narrow strip of land connecting it to the mainland.
The scenery is sure to take your breath away! The castle built in the early 14th century served as
the home of the Avignon pope Benedict XIII from 1415 to 1423.
Orientation tour of Valencia: Embark on a driving tour of Valencia with your tour leader.
Experience the bold architecture (both contemporary and Art Nouveau) of spots like the City of Arts
and Sciences complex, Colón Market, Turia Gardens, and the Cathedral.
Paella dinner: Tuck into Valencia’s most famous dish! Paella, a hearty rice dish, is one of the most
well-known dishes in Spanish cuisine.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Silken Puerta Valencia Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 8/17
DAY 7: Valencia - Madrid
Today, it’s time to travel onwards to Madrid. Journey through the historic La Mancha region, made
famous by the legend of Don Quixote - an ageing knight who, inspired by his literary heroes, sets off
with his squire in search of chivalrous adventure. Next up, explore Castillo de Belmonte. Located on
the hill of San Cristobal, tour the medieval castle and discover grandly furnished rooms and
dungeons, and learn more about the intriguing history. Arrive in Madrid later in the afternoon. This
evening, enjoy an included dinner where travellers from the Highlights of Spain & Portugal tour will
join the group.
Experiences
Welcome dinner in Madrid: Look forward to your first taste of Spain and celebrate the first night
of the tour with a welcome dinner! Meet the rest of the tour group who you will be travelling with for
the next two weeks and enjoy some delicious Spanish cuisine.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel Elba Madrid Alcala Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 9/17
DAY 8: Toledo - Granada
This morning, say farewell to Madrid and head to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Toledo, an
ancient city in central Spain. Fall in love with this charming medieval town, complete with Gothic
architecture and an impressive Cathedral. The tour continues south to the Moorish city of Granada,
which was the last stronghold of the Spanish Moors, and the legacy is evident all around! Arrive in
the afternoon and set off on an orientation tour of the city. Your tour leader will point out top
attractions including the famous Alhambra and share great insight into this beautiful region of
Spain.
Experiences
Experience the historic city of Toledo: Experience the Gothic architecture in this UNESCO World
Heritage Site and learn more about its varied history. Toledo is known as the city of three cultures
due to Christian, Islamic and Jewish influences. The history of this region goes all the way back to
the Bronze Age!
Orientation tour of Granada: Learn more about the Moorish influence in southern Spain. Granada
is often called "Damascus of the West." First an Iberian settlement, it came under the influence of
the Moors who travelled there from North Africa in the 8th century. The neighbourhood of Albaicin
offers original narrow winding streets and many fine examples of Moorish and Morisco architecture.
Included Meals Accommodation Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 10/17
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Macia Condor Hotel
DAY 9: Ronda - Seville
The journey through Andalusia continues! Spend the morning exploring the city of Granada, or join
our optional excursion to the Alhambra Palace (please note: this excursion must be pre-booked). In
addition to a rich Moorish and Medieval history, Granada is a fascinating city that is packed with
street art, culture and the best restaurants. This afternoon, travel to Ronda and take in the
spectacular views from the ‘Puente Nuevo’ (New Bridge) before enjoying free time for lunch. Later in
the afternoon, arrive in the enchanting city of Seville. Sit down for a traditional tapas dinner
followed by a tour accompanied by a local guide. Soak up the culture, sights and sounds of the city
as you walk through the streets!
Experiences
Visit the town of Ronda: Stopover in Ronda and see the towering ‘Puente Nuevo’ (New Bridge).
Located on both sides of the El Tajo Gorge, Ronda is a unique little town. Here, you’ll get to take in
some truly breathtaking views!
Explore Seville on a guided walking tour: Join a local guide on a tour of the city and learn more
about its history, culture and architecture. See the historic centre complete with gothic churches,
Mudéjar palaces and medieval streets. Seville is where some famous scenes for TV series and films Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 11/17
were shot. These include Game of Thrones, Star Wars and Lawrence of Arabia.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel Virgen de los Reyes
Optional Excursions
Alhambra Palace & Gardens: € 80
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 10: Seville: Free Day
Enjoy a free day in Seville! This is a town steeped in history, found in the architecture, culture and
general atmosphere. Legend has it that Seville was founded by Hercules, many thousands of years
ago! With a full free day, you will have time to properly explore this beautiful and pleasingly
compact city. Seville is famous for its flamenco dance, tapas bars and orange trees. The cobbled
streets of the Old Town make for a pleasing morning stroll, while in the afternoon you may wish to Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 12/17
visit the Metropol Parasol for amazing views, the palaces of Alcázar Casa de Pilatos or the Museum
of Flamenco. Tonight, opt-in to join the Flamenco dinner show excursion for vibrant Spanish culture
and flavours!
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel Virgen de los Reyes
Optional Excursions
Flamenco Dinner Show: € 60
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
Today, cross the border and travel to Lisbon in Portugal! En route, visit the Algarve, the stunning
southern coastal region of Portugal that features golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Make a
comfort stop at one of these beautiful beaches and enjoy the impressive views, golden sand, and
azure blue waters. Arrive in Lisbon and it’s time to set out on an orientation tour of Portugal’s Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 13/17
capital city. See Lisbon’s top sights and attractions from the imposing Sao Jorge Castle to the pastel
colours of the old town - Lisbon has it all! Take note of any spots you would like to explore on the
free day tomorrow!
Experiences
See the stunning Algarve region: Drive through the southern coastal region and make a comfort
stop at one of the Algarve’s gorgeous beaches. Enjoy some time relaxing by the ocean!
Driving orientation tour of Lisbon: Drive alongside the Tagus river and along some of Lisbon's
most famous streets and learn all about the history, the culture and Portuguese lifestyle. Sights like
the Sao Jorge Castle and the colours of the Old Town are not to be missed. There are seven
miradouros (viewpoints) dotted around the city - all offering glorious views of the city and its
surrounds!
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel Roma Lisboa
DAY 12: Lisbon: Free Day Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 14/17
Today is a free day to explore Lisbon at your leisure. See Lisbon's iconic landmarks including the
Monument to the Discoveries and the Belém Tower, or discover the hilltop district of Bairro Alto
which is home to narrow streets filled with dozens of restaurants and bars. Be sure to taste a
delicious pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tart) during your free time! Alternatively, join an
optional excursion to Sintra, a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site village and the capital of
Romanticism in Portugal, known for its strikingly colourful monuments. It was once the summer
retreat for Portugal’s royal families! This evening, find a spot to enjoy one of Portugal's cultural
highlights; Fado music - some of the oldest urban folk music in the world!
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel Roma Lisboa
Optional Excursions
Sintra Half-Day Trip: € 50
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 13: Obidos - Porto Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 15/17
Say “tchau” to Lisbon this morning, as Porto awaits! First stop of the day is Obidos, a classic fortified
town with narrow cobbled streets, picturesque houses and an imposing hilltop castle. Enjoy free
time to explore. Continue the tour of Portugal and arrive in Porto - the second largest city in Portugal
and one of the oldest European centres. Head out on a driving and walking tour with your tour
leader. See sights including Ponte de' Luis - a stunning bridge which crosses the River Douro, the
Clerigos Tower and many other famous landmarks. One of Portugal’s famous exports is Port wine,
which is named after Porto, and you will have the opportunity to taste it this afternoon at an
included Port wine tasting.
Experiences
Explore the town of Obidos: Enjoy some free time to explore the well-preserved, picturesque
medieval streets of this charming town. The main gate into Obidos, Porta de Vila, contains a
beautifully tiled chapel depicting the passion of Christ, and the walls of the town can be walked in
approximately one hour.
Driving and walking tour of Porto: See picturesque Porto from the coach and on foot. Learn
about the history of the architecture, sights and the culture of this city and its UNESCO World
Heritage Site historical centre.
Enjoy a Port wine tasting: Try Portugal's most famous drink - Port! It's a sweet, fortified red wine,
often served as a dessert wine in dry, semi-dry and white varieties.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Hotel ibis Porto Gaia
Optional Excursions
Douro River Cruise: € 12
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 14: Guarda - Salamanca Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 16/17
It’s time to wave goodbye to Portugal and travel back across the border to Spain. Journey through
the countryside this morning and make a stop in Guarda, where you can enjoy some free time.
Guarda was founded in the 12th Century by King Sancho I, and many of the fortified towers and
defensive walls he built survive to this day. Arrive in Salamanca in Spain, and check into the hotel.
Enjoy free time this afternoon to see more of the magnificent city. A visit to the Old Town and the
Cathedral Bell Tower is highly recommended. To cap off the evening, enjoy an included farewell
dinner, offering three courses of delicious food from around the province of Salamanca.
Experiences
Visit the town of Guarda: Enjoy free time to explore the highest city in Portugal. At its heart is a
Cathedral built in a mix of Gothic and Manueline styles. In addition to the medieval castle and
fortified walls, highlights include the Guarda Museum, Jewish Quarters and the Corgas da Matança
Dolmen, a portal tomb that provides a window into the lives of the people who lived across the
Iberian Peninsula during the Neolithic Period.
Farewell dinner in Salamanca: It’s the last night of the tour! Enjoy a three-course, authentic
Salamanca meal at the farewell dinner.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Gran Hotel Corona Sol Expat Explore - Version: Sun Sep 26 2021 16:29:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 17/17
DAY 15: Avila - Madrid
It’s the last day of the tour and time to travel back to Madrid. Depart Salamanca this morning and
travel to Avila to enjoy some free time. Nestled amongst rolling hills in Spain’s countryside, Avila is
notable for its many Romanesque and Gothic churches as well as its famous and incredibly well
preserved medieval walls. Finally, continue on to Madrid, where this amazing 15-day tour of Spain
and Portugal concludes. A complimentary airport shuttle will be available to transport travellers to
the airport in Madrid.
Experiences
Visit the city of Avila: Make a comfort stop in Avila. This walled town and its Cathedral are a
UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll have some free time to explore the main sights in the historic
centre, such as San Vicente de Ávila, a church that is one of the best examples of Romanesque
architecture in the whole of Spain.
Included Meals
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: