Madrid, Portugal, Northern Spain and Basque Country with Lourdes (2026)

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

We´ll leave Madrid, heading towards the capital of Extremadura: Mérida, where we´ll visit the archaeological complex of the Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre (tickets included), a World Heritage Site renowned for its excellent state of preservation. There will be time for lunch in the pleasant pedestrian historic center bustling with life and restaurants. We´ll continue to Portugal and stop in Évora, another city recognized as a World Heritage Site, with its white streets, Renaissance palaces, and cathedral. We´ll arrive in Lisbon in the evening.

Day 4

In the morning, we´ll embark on a sightseeing tour of Lisbon, exploring the Portuguese capital of the seven hills, with its charming alleys, iconic tiles, the feeling of "saudade," and the beautiful Atlantic light. We’ll also visit the Belem neighborhood, from where the great Portuguese navigators set sail to cross the oceans in the 15th century. Free time in the afternoon to walk and go to the Bairro Alto and its viewpoint; if you’d like to, you could take an optional trip to the towns of Sintra, Cascais and Estoril. In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel from the lively Restauradores Square, filled with vibrant bars and cafes.

Day 5

We’ll travel to the north of Portugal, where we’ll visit Fátima, an important pilgrimage site. We’ll then continue to Porto, the country’s second-largest city. After lunch, we’ll enjoy a 50-minute cruise along the Douro River aboard a traditional Portuguese "Rabelo" boat, offering a unique perspective of the city’s beautiful riverside. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore the lively medieval Ribeira district, known for its narrow streets lined with historic merchant houses and charming cafés, before heading to the hotel.

Day 6

Today, we´ll travel through stunning landscapes. In Braga, we´ll take a ride on the world’s oldest water-operated cable car to reach the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, where breathtaking views await. After exploring the sanctuary, we recommend descending via its picturesque staircase. Our journey continues into Galicia, where we´ll visit the historic town of Cambados in Rías Baixas. Here, we´ll embark on a glass-bottom boat trip along the Ría de Arousa, learning about mussel and oyster production. Enjoy wine and mussel tasting onboard. At lunchtime, we´ll arrive in Santiago de Compostela for a city tour led by a local guide, exploring its medieval streets and renowned pilgrimage sites dating back to the Middle Ages.

Day 7

We’ll travel along the Way of St. James, beginning with Lugo. Here, we’ll have time to explore the historic town center and its Roman walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, we’ll visit O Cebreiro, a charming Galician stone village. Our journey will continue to León, where we’ll arrive at lunchtime. In León, we’ll visit the magnificent Gothic cathedral, renowned for its stained-glass windows, and enjoy a stroll through the historic town center.We’ll then cross the Cantabrian Range on our way to Asturias, arriving in Oviedo by evening. We’ll include a tour of the city with a local guide, either upon arrival or the following morning. During this hour-and-a-half tour, we’ll visit the 9th-century cathedral, the Calatrava Congressional Palace, Campoamor Theatre, and Calle de la Rua.

Day 8

We will travel to Picos de Europa. We will visit Basílica de Covadonga which is surrounded by beautiful scenery. We will resume our journey following the coastline to SANTILLANA, one of Spain’s most beautiful towns, and we will visit its well-preserved medieval quarter. We visit the National Museum and Research Centre of ALTAMIRA (ticket included) located in the vicinity of this town. We will later travel to SANTANDER, the region’s capital city, a coastal city with amazing vistas and beaches. We include panoramic city tour to discover this elegant city and its beautiful bay. NOTE: On some high difficulty dates (especially in summer from July to mid September), some groups can be accommodated in Bilbao.

Day 9

Day 10

In the morning, we will visit the Basque Cider Museum. Free time in SAN SEBASTIAN and a pintxos tasting. In the afternoon, we travel toward Castile, with a stop in BURGOS to admire its Gothic cathedral. Arrival in MADRID at the end of the day.In the morning, after admiring the views over the Bay of San Sebastián from Mount Igueldo, we will head to the Basque Cider Museum (entrance and tasting included) to learn about the traditions and production of this popular drink. Afterwards, free time to enjoy the city’s great beach, stroll along its boulevards, or explore the Old Town.We will also include a pintxos experience, tasting these delicious small bites so typical of Basque cuisine, accompanied by a drink.In the early afternoon, we cross into France. Arrival in BORDEAUX at the end of the day. We suggest taking a walk through the city center.

Day 11

The entire center of Bordeaux has been recognized as a World Heritage Site. Prepare to be captivated by the "Water Mirror" and explore the historic old town with its charming pedestrian streets and 11th-century cathedral. Later, you´ll have free time to stroll along the Garonne River banks, lined with quaint restaurants perfect for lunch, or if you wish, you can visit Cité du Vin, an impressive interactive museum that delves into the history and production of wine. Afterward, we continue towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. You´ll have time to visit the sanctuary (we suggest attending the candlelit procession). Dinner will be included.

Day 12

Early departure from LOURDES. Today we cross the Pyrenees mountain range among high peaks and stunning landscapes. Entering SPAIN, we stop for coffee in SALLENT DE GÁLLEGO, a historic mountain village with its Gothic church and medieval stone bridge.We continue to ZARAGOZA, the vibrant capital of Aragon. Time for lunch and to explore its historic quarter, discovering the great Plaza del Pilar with its cathedral and basilica, home to the venerated Virgin of the Pilar.We then continue to MADRID, arriving around 21:00 hrs.

Day 13

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.