North of Spain & Portugal: 8-day Guided Tour from Barcelona

Discover the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of northern Spain and Portugal on this 8-day guided tour from Barcelona to Madrid. Priced at $1,332.28 per person, this trip takes you through iconic destinations such as Zaragoza, San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santander, Oviedo, La Coruña, Vigo, and Porto. Group sizes are limited to 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with a multi-lingual guide leading the way. The tour includes all lodging, daily breakfast, and most dinners, providing a hassle-free way to explore these famed regions.

This tour is designed for travelers seeking a rundown of northern Spain and Portugal in just over a week. It features notable landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum, Plaza del Obradoiro, and the port wine cellars of Porto. The journey combines guided sightseeing with free time, perfect for those who want both structure and flexibility. The air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi makes travel comfortable, while hotel accommodations are generally well-received.

While the tour offers a good mix of cultural sites, scenic drives, and wine tastings, it is worth noting that some stops, such as Oviedo and La Coruña, may have locations that are less central, which could influence the convenience of certain sightseeing options. This trip provides solid value for those eager to explore the highlights of northern Spain and Portugal in a well-organized format.

Key Points

• 8-day guided tour covering northern Spain and Portugal, from Barcelona to Madrid
• Visit major cities: Zaragoza, San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santander, Oviedo, La Coruña, Vigo, Porto
• Includes guided tours in Santiago de Compostela and Porto
• Comfortable travel in an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi onboard
• All lodging, daily breakfast, and most dinners included
• Highlights include the Guggenheim Museum, Plaza del Obradoiro, and port wine cellars
• The tour maintains a maximum of 55 travelers for an intimate experience

Starting Point: From Barcelona to Zaragoza’s Charm

The journey begins early at Hotel Catalonia Barcelona, where the tour departs at 8:00 a.m. This first day takes travelers through Zaragoza, a city admired for its harmonious blend of medieval and modern architecture, offering a glimpse of Spanish urban diversity. After a short stop, the group continues to San Sebastián, known for its gourmet cuisine and picturesque bay, where dinner and overnight accommodations are provided.

Exploring Bilbao and the Guggenheim’s Architectural Marvel

On the second day, the tour heads to Bilbao, home of the famous Guggenheim Museum. The sightseeing includes a short stop to admire the museum’s distinctive design, renowned for its futuristic architecture. The afternoon allows free time in Santander, where travelers can explore the city at their leisure before enjoying dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Visiting Santillana del Mar and Covadonga’s Historic Sites

Day three offers a venture into the medieval village of Santillana del Mar, designated as a National Monument. The tour then moves through stunning landscapes to Covadonga, where visitors have time to visit the Shrine. Continuing to Oviedo, this day combines historical exploration with scenic views, capped off with dinner and overnight accommodations.

Discovering La Coruña and Galicia’s Coastline

On day four, the tour reaches La Coruña, where a short panoramic tour introduces travelers to its coastal charm. The afternoon presents an optional tour along the Rías Altas, passing through typical villages like Pontedeume and Betanzos. These spots offer a taste of Galicia’s seaside character, though some accommodations in La Coruña are less centrally located, which may affect ease of access to local sights.

The Pilgrimage City of Santiago de Compostela

Day five focuses on Santiago de Compostela, a city famous for its pilgrimage traditions. The guided tour includes the Cathedral and Plaza del Obradoiro, with the afternoon free for personal exploration. This vibrant city blends religious history with lively streets, making it a highlight of the trip.

The Spanish Fjords and O Grove’s Marine Flavors

Day six introduces travelers to the Spanish Fjords (Rías Bajas), showcasing breathtaking landscapes. A brief stop at La Toja Island offers scenic views, while the optional catamaran tour at O Grove provides a chance to see local oyster and mussel farms. The tasting of mussels and Ribeiro wine enhances the experience. The group then crosses into Vigo, with optional excursions like the Santa Teca visit, before reaching Porto.

Porto’s World Heritage Charm and Port Wine Tasting

On day seven, Porto—a World Heritage city—takes center stage. The panoramic tour highlights landmarks such as the cathedral, Stock Exchange building, and Clérigos Church. A highlight is visiting a local wine cellar for a Port wine tasting. Optional activities include a river cruise on the Duero, providing a relaxing way to see the city from the water.

Final Stop: Salamanca and Return to Madrid

The tour concludes on the eighth day with a visit to Salamanca, known for its monumental architecture and famous Plaza Mayor. After some free time, the group travels back to Madrid, ending the guided journey. The drop-off point is conveniently located at C. de Ferraz or Plaza de España.

Logistics and Practical Details

The entire trip is operated by VPT Tours with a multi-lingual guide. The tour includes travel insurance and municipal tax in Porto. While most dinners and seven breakfasts are included, travelers should plan for additional food and drinks outside the specified meals. The hotel drop-off in Madrid is not included, so some planning is advisable after the tour ends.

Value and Limitations of the Tour

The value of this tour is reflected in the inclusion of hotels, meals, guided tours, and wine tasting for the price of $1,332.28. It also boasts a well-organized itinerary with enriching sightseeing and free time at key locations. However, some reviews point out that certain hotel locations, particularly in Oviedo and La Coruña, may be less convenient, and most travelers can participate, though those with specific accessibility needs should verify lodging details.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals to those eager to see a broad array of northern Spain and Portugal’s highlights in a manageable timeframe. It suits travelers who appreciate guided excursions, wine tasting, and comfortable coach travel. It is especially suitable for those who enjoy cultural landmarks, scenic drives, and organized itineraries that balance sightseeing with free exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult to participate.

Are meals included on all days?
Most breakfasts (7) and 5 dinners are included, but additional food and drinks are at travelers’ expense.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum number of travelers is 55, providing a more intimate experience.

What stops are included in the guided tours?
Guided tours are provided in Santiago de Compostela and Porto, featuring major landmarks like the cathedral and wine cellars.

How do I cancel the tour if needed?
Cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour operated in English?
It may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, but some reviews mention language limitations; travelers should confirm with the provider.

This guided tour from VPT Tours offers a practical way to explore northern Spain and Portugal’s most celebrated sights, combining comfort, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. It presents a balanced itinerary for those wanting a rich taste of the region without the stress of independent travel.