Galicia & North of Portugal, 6 day escorted tour from Madrid

Explore Galicia & Northern Portugal on a 6-Day Guided Tour from Madrid

This 6-day escorted tour from Madrid offers a well-organized way to experience the highlights of Galicia and northern Portugal. Priced at $957.84 per person, it includes lodging, transport, guided tours, breakfasts, and dinners, making it a convenient option for those wanting to explore these scenic regions without the hassle of planning. The tour departs from Madrid’s Moncloa area at 8:00 a.m., with an average booking time of 35 days in advance.

The itinerary combines visits to iconic cities like Leon, Oviedo, Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, and Porto, along with scenic drives through landscapes, coastlines, and cultural landmarks. A highlight is the visit to Port wine cellars in Porto, paired with a tasting, offering a taste of local tradition. This tour is suited for travelers who enjoy cultural sightseeing, picturesque scenery, and guided experiences, though some reviews note that hotel locations can vary in convenience.

Key Points

• Six-day guided journey exploring Galicia and northern Portugal, starting from Madrid
• Includes transportation, accommodation, guided city tours, breakfasts, and dinners
• Visit renowned landmarks such as Oviedo Cathedral, Spanish Fjords, and Port wine cellars
• Highlights include scenic landscapes, historic cities, and a port wine tasting experience
• Tour departs at 8:00 a.m. from Madrid and recent bookings are made approximately 35 days in advance
• Some reviews mention hotel locations may be distant from city centers, and guides vary in their presence at all stops

Starting Point and Overall Tour Structure

The tour begins at C. de Ferraz, 3, Moncloa, Madrid at 8:00 a.m. The group travels by air-conditioned coach equipped with free Wi-Fi and a multi-lingual escort. The first stop is in Leon, where visitors have time at leisure to explore notable sites such as the Gothic Cathedral and San Isidoro Church. This sets a relaxed pace for the start of the journey, focusing on historic architecture.

Days are packed with sightseeing and scenic drives. The itinerary balances guided visits with optional activities, such as an optional tour of the Rías Altas villages or a catamaran trip at O Grove. The group spends nights in Galicia and Porto, with dinners included. The final day involves returning to Madrid via Salamanca, known for its monumental Plaza Mayor.

Visiting the Heart of Galicia: La Coruña and Santiago de Compostela

On Day 2, visitors arrive at La Coruña for a short panoramic tour of this historic port city. The highlight is the opportunity to explore the city’s seafaring history, with options to visit landmarks such as the Tower of Hercules and enjoy coastal views.

Day 3 features a full city tour of Santiago de Compostela, renowned as a pilgrimage destination. The Plaza del Obradoiro and Cathedral are key highlights, offering insight into the city’s religious and cultural importance. The afternoon allows for leisure time to explore at your own pace, adding flexibility to the day.

Scenic Landscape of the Spanish Fjords and Island Stops

The tour’s Day 4 centers on the Spanish Fjords (Rías Bajas). Travelers experience stunning coastal landscapes with a brief stop at La Toja Island, famous for its spa and scenic views. An optional catamaran tour at O Grove provides a chance to see local oyster and mussel farms, offering a glimpse into traditional shellfish harvesting.

These sea-influenced landscapes are among the most visually striking parts of the tour, with nature and coastline blending in scenic harmony. The landscape is perfect for photography and appreciating Galicia’s maritime charm.

Porto: The World Heritage City and Port Wine Tasting

On Day 5, the group visits Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city. The panoramic tour covers main sights such as the cathedral, Stock Exchange building, and St. Clara Church. The highlight is a visit to a local wine cellar, where guests enjoy a Port wine tasting, an essential experience for wine lovers.

Free time in Porto allows for independent exploration of its charming streets, cafes, and shops. The city’s blend of historic architecture and vibrant culture makes it a memorable stop in this scenic journey.

Final Stop in Salamanca and Return to Madrid

The last day involves a break in Salamanca, praised for its monumental architecture and Plaza Mayor. Visitors get free time to walk through the city’s historic center before the journey continues back to Madrid. The tour concludes with an arrival in central Madrid, with the drop-off point at Ferraz 3 street or Plaza de España.

This final leg provides a relaxed end to a richly varied trip, combining scenic drives with cultural exploration.

Practicalities: Group Size, Logistics, and Inclusions

This VPT Tours experience hosts up to 55 travelers, making it a comfortable group size for guided touring. Transportation is via an air-conditioned coach equipped with free Wi-Fi, ensuring smooth travel and connectivity. The tour includes local guides in Santiago and Porto, enriching the experience with expert insights.

All lodging, transport, meals (breakfasts and dinners), and guided tours are included. An optional breakfast and dinner are available in some locations. The tour’s price is around $958, with most bookings made 35 days in advance.

Considerations and Limitations Based on Reviews

While the tour receives an overall rating of 3.5/5, some reviews highlight potential limitations. Hotel locations may be distant from main attractions, which can result in some guests feeling isolated. Also, at some stops, guides may not be present, reducing the educational value at those points.

The guide, Miguel, is praised for being friendly and committed, enhancing the experience for many. However, travelers should be aware of the possible variability in guide and hotel quality, and plan accordingly if proximity to attractions is important.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Gateway to Galicia and Northern Portugal

This 6-day guided tour from Madrid offers a practical way to see Galicia and northern Portugal’s key sights with all logistics arranged in advance. The itinerary balances historic cities, scenic coastlines, and cultural experiences, including a Port wine cellar visit. Its included meals and accommodations add convenience, making it suitable for travelers seeking a comprehensive group trip.

While some hotel locations could be more central, the overall experience delivers stunning views, insightful guided tours, and memorable landmarks. This tour is a good fit for those interested in combining cultural sightseeing with scenic landscapes, especially if comfort and included logistics are priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts 6 days, with the journey beginning early morning in Madrid and ending the final day back in Madrid.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, lodging, guided city tours in Santiago and Porto, breakfasts, dinners, and a Port wine tasting at a cellar.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, there are optional tours such as a catamaran trip at O Grove and extra sightseeing at some stops.

What are the main cities visited during the tour?
Key cities include Leon, La Coruña, Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, Porto, and Salamanca.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the guide’s role during the trip?
Guides lead city tours in Santiago and Porto, sharing insights about local history and culture.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Travel is by air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi onboard.

Can I expect to be at most stops with a guide?
Guide presence varies; some stops have guided tours, while others may be without guide explanations.

What should I know about hotel accommodations?
Hotels are included, but reviews suggest some may be located away from main attractions, which could affect convenience.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are generally made about 35 days in advance, via the provider’s contact details, with options to cancel up to 6 days prior for a full refund.