15 days in the Iberian Peninsula: northern Spain and Portugal

PROPOSED ITINERARY

Day 1 – Welcome to Carameltrail!

Dear traveler,

Welcome to Carameltrail. Your adventure starts here!

We will take you beyond the touristic attractions to show you the real local taste of each destination.

We rely on a team of people that have a deep knowledge of each destination and excellent customer service. We have carefully selected all the services, unique experiences and exclusive activities that will satisfy your expectations.

As a travel agency we are always looking for the best contacts and new experiences for our travelers, putting our heart and soul in those details that make a trip a TRIP!

  • Transfer from El Prat Airport to Hotel

    On arrival to Barcelona’s airport, your chauffeur will be waiting for you to drive you to your hotel.

  • Your accommodation will be a 5* hotel

    Close to all Barcelona’s highlights. Just a step away you will find the vibrant Ramblas, the charming Gothic Quarter and the stately Rambla Catalunya. The perfect accommodation to discover Barcelona!

First Steps in Barcelona

Barcelona's Cathedral of the Sea

Today is your chance to explore the city. There are so many amazing places to check out! You definitely don’t want to miss the famous boulevard known as “Las Ramblas”, that lead you right into Colón Square.

A very interesting place you can visit is the magnificent Palau de la Musica, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and located in El Born neighborhood. The Concert Hall inside and its vibrant colors, fascinating shapes and lighting is a total feast for the senses. If you’re interested, we can help you to book the tickets in advance.

While you’re in El Born, you can take a stroll through its streets, and don’t forget to visit Santa Maria del Mar, the most breathtaking Gothic building in the city.

And if you want to do some shopping, in the Passeig de Gracia you will find the finest boutiques!

Day 2 – Barcelona’s Architectural Treasures: A Gaudí Tour Experience

Gaudí’s Architectural Splendors Tour

4 hours • Highlights of this Tour: Inside of Sagrada Familia, inside Park Güell, Passeig de Gracia and Milá House

Embark on a journey through the architectural wonders of Barcelona as our local expert unveils the legacy left by Gaudi in our “Architectural City Tour”.

Your tour will start in the iconic Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece still evolving under the hands of dedicated craftsmen. Marvel at the intricate details, soaring spires, and ethereal beauty that embody Gaudi’s lifelong vision.

At the Park Güell, you’ll step into Gaudi’s whimsical world of vibrant colors and fantastical designs while you are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona.

As you stroll along the Passeig de Gracia, you will admire the curvaceous elegance of Milá House, also known as La Pedrera, a true architectural wonder. And don’t miss the chance to encounter the mythical dragon-like facade of Batlló House, where Gaudi’s imagination runs wild and defies all conventions.

Get ready to be spellbound by the extraordinary legacy of Gaudi as you explore the city’s architectural treasures.

Barcelona Park Güell
Basílica de la Sagrada Familia

Day 3 – A Perfect Day in San Sebastián: Beaches, Pintxos, and Scenic Views

  • Transfer from Hotel to Sants Train Station

    Your chauffeur will drive you to Barcelona’s railway station.

  • Train from Barcelona to San Sebastián

    You will travel to San Sebastian by train.

  • Transfer from San Sebastián Train Station to Hotel

    On arrival to San Sebastian, a private driver will take you to your hotel.

  • Your accommodation will be a 4* hotel

    Located a step away from the city’s old center is the best location to enjoy the slow way of life of this regal city! Its rooms over the best views of the ever changing and spectacular bay of La Concha.

La Concha Beach in San Sebastian, Spain
The Peine Viento in San Sebastian, Spain

First Steps in San Sebastián

Today, in your free time, we suggest you explore the wonders of San Sebastián on your own!

Your free time in this city offers endless possibilities. Take in the iconic snapshot of Ondarreta and Concha beaches, with Santa Clara Island nestled in the bay.

Rent a bike for a unique perspective, and don’t miss the breathtaking views from Monte Igueldo or the atmosphere of the Old Town.

Indulge in the world-renowned pintxos along the lively 31 de Mayo Street.

And in the afternoon, take a stroll along the bay, where you’ll discover Chillida’s “Peine del Viento” sculpture.

San Sebastián awaits, ready to immerse you in its beauty, flavors, and memorable experiences.

Day 4 – San Sebastián, a Unique Journey Through Culture and Culinary Delights

San Sebastián City & Pintxos Tour

3 hours 30 mins • Highlights of this Tour: walking the Old Town and Romantic area & gastronomy

Get ready to unveil the charms of San Sebastián in a truly unique way!

Your experience begins with a private walking tour, where you’ll be captivated by the city’s most intriguing monuments and landmarks. Enjoy Concha Beach, marvel at the Cathedral, and behold the modern Kursaal Palace.

But the real highlight awaits you in the Old Town, where you’ll embark on a exciting Pintxos tour, immersing yourself in the Basque culinary culture.

Your guide will lead you off the beaten path, revealing hidden plazas and tucked-away streets, taking you to the very best Pintxos bars beloved by locals.

From the rich traditions of “txikiteo” to the history of gastronomic societies, your local gastronomy expert will unlock the secrets and flavors of Basque cuisine, both modern and traditional!

Basque food: pintxos in San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian Food: Pintxos

Day 5 – Exploring La Rioja: LaGuardia’s Medieval Treasures and Wine Traditions

  • Transfer Day trip to La Rioja

    In this day trip, your transfer will drive you to discover La Rioja wine region.

Day Trip to La Rioja

8 hours 30 mins • Highlights of this Tour: Walking the Old Town of LaGuardia & visiting tradition

Prepare for a journey into the heart of La Rioja as you set your sights on the medieval town of LaGuardia. Perched atop a hill, this destination offers amazing vistas of the vineyards that blanket the landscape.

Step into a bygone era as you wander the cobblestone streets and explore the well-preserved medieval walls. Behold the Pórtico of Santa Maria de los Reyes as well, adorned with polychrome paintings—a rare gem of Gothic art.

Enjoy the winemaking traditions as you visit traditional cellars, where families continue to craft their wines.

Today, you’ll also embark on a wine region cruise, indulging in the modern architecture of famous wineries that grace the area.

Let La Rioja captivate your senses, immersing you in a world of history, culture, and flavor!

Tasting of the famous wine of La Rioja, Spain
Traditional vineyards of La Rioja

Day 6 – Discovering Bilbao: A Journey Through Urban Transformation and Artistic Treasures

  • Transfer to Bilbao

    Your private transfer will drive you from your hotel in San Sebastián to Bilbao.

  • Your accommodation will be a 4* hotel

    The hotel is close to the Guggenheim Museum and just a few minutes from Bilbao’s Golden Mile and some of the city’s best restaurants.

Exploring Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum Tour

3 hours 30 mins • Highlights of this Tour: Inside of Guggenheim Musem & walking the city

Today you will dive into the vibrant Bilbao. Your guide will unveil the heart and soul of this city that has gone through a major urban makeover in recent decades.

You’ll discover the hidden gems that make this city so special: the Doña Casilda Park, the iconic Gran Vía, the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza Moyua, the Alhondiga Bilbao Building and the old City, also known as the Seven Streets.

You will also visit the Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece designed by Frank O. Gehry. You’ll feast your eyes on incredible paintings by the likes of Mark Rothko and Andy Warhol, and sculptures by Richard Sierra and Eduardo Chillida.

Get ready to soak up the creativity, history, and pure awesomeness of Bilbao on this tour!

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain
Arriaga Theatre Bilbao, Spain

Day 7 – Journey to Santiago de Compostela: Unveiling the Spiritual Heart of Galicia

  • Transfer from Hotel to Bilbao Airport

    Your chauffeur will be waiting for you in the lobby to take you from your hotel to the airport.

  • Flight from Bilbao to Santiago de Compostela

    From Bilbao you will travel to Santiago de Compostela by plane.

  • Transfer from Santiago de Compostela Airport to Hotel

    airport, your chauffeur will be waiting for you to drive you to your hotel.

  • You will stay in a 5-star hotel or inn

    The hotel is located It shares the Obradoiro Square with Santiago’s Cathedral and it is a blend of history, art and tradition and an emblem of Santiago. You will live a magical experience!

St James Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Santiago de Compostela Guided tour

3 hours 30 mins • Highlights of this Tour: Inside of the Cathedral & walking the old city

Embark on a journey to Santiago de Compostela accompanied by our knowledgeable local guide!

As the most significant city in Galicia and the final destination of the Way of St. James pilgrimage, Santiago holds a profound place in Christian history, standing alongside Rome and Jerusalem.

Legend has it that the sacred remains of the Apostle St. James lie within the hallowed grounds of the Santiago Cathedral. Today, you have the opportunity to unravel the secrets of the rich tapestry of history that enshrouds this city.

Let the echoes of the pilgrims’ footsteps inspire your own journey of discovery!

Day 8 – Trip to Finisterre: Discovering the End of the World

  • Transfer Day trip Costa da Morte

    Your chauffeur will be waiting for you in the lobby to take you on this day trip to discover the Costa da Morte.

Day trip to Costa da Morte

8 hours • Highlights of this Tour: visiting Finisterre, Cape Vilán lighthouse & English Cemetery memorial

Prepare to unveil the beauty of one of Europe’s most exquisite coastal landscapes. Today, you will venture to the legendary Finisterre, a place that earned its name as “the end of the land” in the ancient tongue of the Romans.

At the Finisterre Cape, you will tread upon the hallowed ground that marks, for many, the culmination of the St. James Way pilgrimage. As you head to the sea, you will meet Cape Vilán lighthouse, a beacon standing tall against the power of the sea. Pause for a moment of reflection at the English Cemetery memorial, a reminder of a shipwreck that unfolded in 1890.

Today, you will witness nature’s untamed grandeur and forge a connection with a place that carries the weight of history. Get ready to be captivated by the wonders that await you at the edge of the world!

Day trip to Costa da Morte

Day 9 – Exploring Porto through its history and architectural wonders

  • Transfer to Porto

    Your chauffeur will be waiting for you in the lobby to take you from your hotel to Porto.

  • Your accommodation will be a 5* hotel

    The hotel is located just a stone’s throw from the heart of Porto’s historic centre. With a privileged location on the banks of the Douro River. A perfect accommodation to enjoy Porto

Porto City Tour

3 hours 30 mins • Highlights of this Tour: walking Riveira, Sé & Vitoria neighborhoods

Embark on a journey through Porto, guided by your expert companion!

The historic center of Porto stands as a testament to urban development across the ages Romans, Medieval and Almadas.

Its diverse architecture showcases the cultural values of each era, from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque, and neoclassical to modern.

Positioned strategically, Porto’s geographical location has played a pivotal role in its trade history. Today, it stands as one of Portugal’s most important cities, boasting one of Europe’s oldest city centers.

Let your guide unlock the secrets, stories, and architectural marvels that define Porto’s charm, as you explore this destination!

Porto in Portugal
Dom Luis I bridge. Porto, Portugal

Day 10 – A journey through the picturesque wine region of the Portuguese Douro Valley

Day trip to Douro Valley

8 hours • Highlights of this Tour: visiting a Quinta & the Douro Valley landscapes • Wine tasting & food included

Discover the Douro, a world-renowned wine region nestled along Portugal’s northeastern landscape!

Journey through its Douro River valley, where iconic landmarks and traditional wineries await.

Taste the wines that have made Douro famous as well, immersing your senses in their unique flavors. As you indulge, behold the breathtaking views of the Douro River, which meanders through Spain and Portugal, embellishing the surrounding landscapes with unrivaled beauty. Spend a day enveloped in the natural treasures of Portugal, finding solace amidst this enchanting setting.

Allow the essence of Douro to weave its spell, leaving you with an unforgettable connection to this wine region!

Vineyards in the Valley of the River Douro, Portugal
Boat trip on the Douro River in Portugal

Rabelo Boat Ride

Boat tour on an unspoiled stretch of the Douro River.

You will observe the terraced vineyards and the century-old buildings of the famous wineries in this unique landscape included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO.

Day 11 – Porto, a UNESCO Heritage City of History and Culture

Free Time to Explore Porto on your own

Today, in your free time, we suggest you explore on your own the city of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996!

Nestled along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, Porto boasts a 2,000-year history that has shaped its urban landscape.

For the best city views, ascend the Clérigos Tower, the oldest in Portugal, and contemplate the panoramic vistas that unfold before your eyes. Nearby, don’t miss the Lello e Irmao Bookstore, a true architectural gem.

A visit to Sao Bento Station is a must, even if you don’t plan to catch a train. Admire the history of Portugal depicted on the station’s walls through over 20,000 exquisite tiles.

Food lovers will find paradise at Mercado do Bolhao, a food market bursting with flavors and aromas. And don’t forget to gaze upon the Dom Luis Bridge, a symbol of the city’s grandeur!

Lello Library in Porto (Portugal)
Bridge and boats in Porto (Portugal)

Day 12 – Lisbon: A Private Tour of Chiado and Bairro Alto Cultural Heart

  • Transfer to Lisbon

    Your private transport will be waiting for you to drive you to Lisbon.

  • Your accommodation will be a 4* hotel

    The hotel is located close to the famous Avenida de Liberdade, an elegant tree-lined street full of cafés and designer shops, in the centre of Lisbon.

Lisbon Private Guided Tour

4 hours • Highlights of this Tour: walking Alfama, Baixa & Chiado neighborhoods

Get ready for a journey through this magical city filled with life, charm, and a thriving cultural scene!

Your private guided tour will take you to the most emblematic neighborhoods, including Chiado and Bairro Alto.

Experience the beating heart of the city in Chiado, where theaters, cafés, and old bookshops create an enchanting atmosphere. And what better way to soak in the local rhythm than aboard a historic tram? Feel the nostalgia as you ride through the streets, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy that flows through every corner.

Unlock the secrets of this city, where cultural delights and memorable experiences await at every turn.

Praça do Comércio is one of the most important squares in Lisbon.
April 25 Bridge Lisbon Portugal

Day 13 – Delve into the magic of Sintra and the coastal charm of Cascais

  • Transfer Day trip to Sintra & Cascais

    Your private transport will be waiting for you to drive you to Sintra and Cascais in this day trip.

Pena Palace. Sintra, Portugal
Praia das Azenhas do Mar. Sintra

Day trip to Sintra & Cascais

8 hours 15 mins • Highlights of this Tour: inside Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira & walking the old center of Sintra & Cascais

Embark on a journey with your driver-guide as you explore the quaint villages of Sintra and Cascais!

Sintra, a hidden gem, holds UNESCO World Heritage status and boasts mysterious sites like Quinta da Regaleira that are simply a “must” to experience.

Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty of Cascais, often referred to as the “Portuguese Riviera.” Its allure lies in places like Palmela Park, where nature and designed gardens intertwine. But the crown jewel is the majestic Fortress of San Julián, standing along the Portuguese Coast. Immerse yourself in the glamour and splendor that define Cascais.

Get ready for a day filled with beauty, mystery and captivating villages!

Day 14 – Discover the architectural wonders and story of the Belem neighborhood

Free Time in Lisbon: Explore Belem

Get ready to uncover the hidden corners of Lisbon!

Today, in your free time, we invite you to explore on your own the neighbourhood of Belém, a true gem of the city.

Here, you’ll encounter two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the majestic Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower.

Marvel at the intricate Manueline architecture of the monastery, and don’t forget to explore its cloister. Nearby, the grandeur of the Belém Tower awaits you.

Before you bid farewell to Belém, make sure to visit number 84 on Rua Belém, where a delectable treat awaits you. Indulge in the original Pasteis de Belem, a sweet and creamy pastry. It’s the perfect ending to your visit to Belém!

Belem Tower in Lisbon (Portugal)
The Jeronimos Monastery. Lisbon

Day 15 – Goodbye. We hope to see you again soon!

  • Transfer from Hotel to Lisbon Portela Airport

    Your chauffeur will be waiting for you in the lobby to take you from your hotel to Lisbon airport.

We wish you a lovely trip back home!

In this trip you will enjoy the culture, the traditions, the gastronomy and you will live wonderful experiences for all senses.

All Carameltrail itineraries are carefully customised and personalised for each traveler and include a full consultancy service before, during and after your trip.

We will send you all the information required to discover the essence of each destination and of course, you will enjoy 24/7 assistance during your trip.

  • Services Excluded during this trip:

    • International air and connecting flights.
    • Travel insurance (ask coverage, terms and conditions if needed).
    • Telephone charges, hard liquor or mini bar charges, laundry.
    • Tourist tax in hotels where it is required.
    • Meals (unless mentioned in inclusions)
    • Medical expenses (we recommend checking out your personal medical insurance).
    • Any service not mentioned in Inclusions.

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