Best of Spain and Portugal – Spain | Portugal Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers

Best of Spain and Portugal Tours for Young Adults

The one that’s 19 days of in-depth exploration in Spain & Portugal

Want to truly get to know Spain & Portugal? On this 19-day trip we’ll immerse ourselves in everything Iberian, from feasts on Seville’s rooftops to tasting port in Porto, to uncovering Moorish architecture in Córdoba & Granada, exploring charming pastel palaces at Sintra, feasting on fresh seafood in Lisbon and stumbling across UNESCO World Heritage sites around seemingly every corner. Hitting up all the iconic cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Granada, Lisbon & Porto – a maze of culture, food & colourful experiences awaits.

“70 percent join our trips solo”

“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)

“Most popular youth travel company in the world”

Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”

Reviews by tour participants:

out of 5 stars ()* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page

Target age group:

18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)

Trip duration and price:

19 days, 2 countries from about $ 2868* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)

Destinations:

Europe > Spain | Portugal

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Planned Itinerary:

Day 1: Madrid

Day 2: Madrid

Burgos

Pamplona

Day 3: Pamplona

Bilbao

San Sebastián

Pamplona

Day 4: Pamplona

Zaragoza

Barcelona

Day 5: Barcelona

Day 6: Barcelona

Valencia

Day 7: Valencia

Granada

Day 8: Granada

Day 9: Granada

Toledo

Madrid

Day 10: Madrid

Córdoba

Palma Del Rio

Day 11: Palma Del Rio

Seville

Day 12: Seville

Day 13: Seville

Lisbon

Day 14: Lisbon

Day 15: Lisbon

Sintra

Cascais

Porto

Day 16: Porto

Day 17: Porto

Ciudad Rodrigo

Salamanca

Day 18: Salamanca

Avila

Madrid

Day 19: Madrid

Day 1: Start Madrid

Madrid
Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first group dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you’ll be thankful for your hotel sleep.

Hotel Praga (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerDay 2: Madrid to Pamplona via Burgos

MadridThe first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Pamplona.

BurgosWe couldn’t race to our night’s stop-off point without letting you marvel at the pretty medieval town of Burgos first. For real, just wait till you see the gorgeous town square.PamplonaOur next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We’ll start with a brief orientation tour of this well-preserved town, and then you’ll have some free time to explore in your own way. Later this evening, we’ll regroup and sit down to a delicious included dinner.

AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceGet to Know PamplonaYour Trip Manager will escort you into the heart of the city and give a brief orientation talk. After that, you’re free to explore this quirky and colourful city in your own way.

Day 3: Pamplona via Bilbao and San Sebastián

PamplonaRise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two cities await us today, but not until we’ve had breakfast.

BilbaoBilbao might get bragging rights to being an up-and-coming cultural hub of Spain, but that hasn’t diminished its uber laid back spirit. Home of one of the world’s most famous museums, the Museo Guggenheim, you’re free to use your morning to play art critique and absorb Bilbao’s pretty surrounds and architecture.

San SebastiánNext stop, San Sebastián! This is a pretty postcard town where cobbled lanes slope towards pristine beaches. Take a walk, do some shopping or just sit and chill in a bar, enjoying endless plates of pintxos (the Basque version of tapas).PamplonaOur day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you’ll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams.

AZZ Pamplona Norte (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceDay Trip to BilbaoHome to world famous art museums and architecture that’s grander than grand. Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, taking in the mountains and the skyscrapers.
Included ExperienceDay Trip to San SebastiánWhere better to admire the sunset than on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián? This resort town is known for its fantastic food too – so make sure you’re hungry!
Pintxos for AllYou cannot visit San Sebastian and not go on a pintxos tour. This Basque tradition of going from bar to bar and tasting delicious morsels of food is synonomous with the city itself. You will learn about the Basque Country’s unique culture, get to know how the locals live and eat and feel a real sense of community – and yes, you’ll understand why they are not called tapas here.
Additional costs apply

Day 4: Pamplona to BarcelonaMake Travel Matter®

PamplonaThis morning we spread our wings and take metaphorical flight once again, this time in the direction of Zaragoza with an end goal of none other than bustling Barcelona.

ZaragozaA colourful cathedral & traditional Spanish churros will set our hearts aflutter in Zaragoza, as we roam the casco (old town) soaking up historic architecture and good vibes aplenty. Even the pit stops are amazing on Contiki. BarcelonaWith 2-nights in Barcelona, you’ll be pronouncing Barcelona’s C with a “tthh” like a true local by the time we make tracks. We’ll kick things off with an orientation tour, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Make Travel Matter®Eat Dinner at Mescladis (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience) Enjoy an included dinner at Mescladis – a non-profit that’s all about social cohesion, doing their bit to enrich coexistence, with rights and opportunities for all.

Day 5: Barcelona

Barcelona
Today is up to you to explore your way. You could take a wander through the colourful buildings & gardens of Gaudi’s iconic Parc Güell or beach lovers could head to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 6: Barcelona to Valencia

BarcelonaThis morning you’ll have the chance to join a guided bike tour of the city, before getting ready for a change of scene – the port city of Valencia is calling, where beach meets culture in the happiest way possible. ValenciaIt’s hard not to be enchanted by Valencia. With one night here in the land that invented paella it would be crazy not to sign up for an optional paella-making class tonight with the crew. Who’s in?

NH Valencia Las Ciencias (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Explore Barcelona on Two WheelsExplore Barcelona like a local & join us on a guided bike tour. You’ll cycle past famous sites & also get off the beaten track to places where most tourists don’t go. Along the way your guide will explain the history of the city to make it all come to life.
Additional costs apply

Paella Making Class & Dinner Valencia is the true home of the most Spanish of all dishes, Paella! Pay homage to this most delicious of dishes as we visit a cooking school, where we’ll learn how to make true Paella the Spanish way & then enjoy a sumptuous Spanish meal with drinks included. Buen Apetito!
Additional costs apply

Day 7: Valencia to Granada

ValenciaIt’s been short but sweet, Valencia, and we won’t forget you. This morning we’ll take a orientation walk before seeking the very different vibes of Granada. How are all these places in just one country?GranadaGranada is brimming with romance and offering an eclectic mix of Arab and Spanish feels only to be found in Andalusia. This is one place you may never want to leave!

Macia Condor (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 8: Granada

Granada

We start the morning with free time to explore. You can fill yours by opting for a guided tour of the Muslim quarter of Albaicin & the Capilla Real, and while you’re at it, fill up on some of Granada’s incredible food, like its famous Arab pastries. This afternoon we head to Spain’s number 1 visited attraction, the Alhambra Palace. We’ll discover the breathtaking beauty and history of this Moorish Palace, with its intricate patterns and detailed architecture that will leave you spellbound, and wondering why you haven’t been here sooner. To top it off, Alhambra offers the best views of the city. Feel the Spanish rhythm and style by opting for a traditional flamenco and tapas night with your Contiki family. Que beuno!

Macia Condor (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceTour Alhambra with a Local Guide Probably the most Instagrammable palace that’s ever existed. Tour this Moorish marvel with an expert. Guided Tour of Albaicin & Royal ChapelExplore the historic Muslim Quarter of Granada & soak up the atmosphere as our Local Guide leads the group through the labyrinth of narrow lanes, courtyards, hole-in-the-wall shops & walled gardens. Get the background on Granada’s Moorish history & check out amazing views of the Alhambra from this hillside district, before visiting the Royal Chapel, its extravagant church & the tombs of King Ferdinand & Queen Isabella.
Additional costs apply

Tapas & Traditional FlamencoIt doesn’t get more authentic than this. In the hills above Granada, tucked away in old gypsy caves, you have the chance to see a heart stopping, intense flamenco show. Be transported to another world by the passion of the dancers & the sounds of the Spanish guitar. Then top off the evening with some delicious traditional tapas.
Additional costs apply

Day 9: Granada to Madrid

GranadaBouncing out of bed should be no problem this morning, given the scenic adventures we have planned today on route to Madrid.

ToledoSynagogues, churches and medieval buildings sit atop the hill town of Toledo. We’ll uncover the city’s gothic cathedral, the famous Renaissance sculptor, painter and architect El Greco’s house and the site of sieges, revolutions and treason. Just another pit-stop in our life in glorious Spain.MadridHere we are, back where the party started 10 life-changing days ago. You’re free to spend the evening your way tonight and Madrid’s nightlife is pumping, so grab some tapas, sangria and your dancing shoes for a night out on the town.

Hotel Praga (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included Experience Explore Toledo This medieval city is a cultural melting pot, with a mix of Spanish, Arabic and Jewish influences. Get some pics of the Alcázar Fortress and the gothic Cathedral.

Day 10: Madrid to Cordoba

MadridLeaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us will drive onwards to Córdoba.

CórdobaWith storybook balconies & charming little lanes, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is sure to take your breath away. We’ll start out by finding our feet here in Cordoba, only to be swept off them again with a trip to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Cordoba.) History buffs, this is basically your perfect day. Palma Del RioThis evening we’ll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.

Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceVisit the Great Mosque of CordobaThis ornate World Heritage site was built by the Moors after they conquered Iberia. And it’s still one of the world’s biggest mosques.

Day 11: Cordoba to Seville

Palma Del RioReady to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we’ll set our sights on sun-soaked Seville.Seville13th century architecture and one of the world’s biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain’s capital, Seville. We’ll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city’s river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast.

YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Walking Tour & Bull RingOur Local Guide will bring the passions of Seville alive! Visit the Plaza de Toros & Bullfighting Museum (entry to Bullring & Museum included), then visit the Santa Cruz district & learn about traditions relating to castanets & fans.
Additional costs apply

EatWith SevilleTonight something different – we escape the masses & take dinner with the locals. We will split in to several smaller groups where a local host will take us to dine with them in this magical city – we won’t just ‘eat local’… we will ‘meet local’ & enjoy the laid back Spanish lifestyle with the experts of laid-back!
Additional costs apply

Day 12: Seville

Seville
Another day free to explore Seville? Don’t mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart’s delight.

YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 13: Seville to Lisbon

SevilleWe couldn’t think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian penninsula to Portugal. Crossing the border, spirits are high as we cruise along the Algarve, where petiscos and pastéis de nata await.LisbonWelcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you’re free to take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner.

VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Lisbon like a LocalIt’s all about getting local tonight. Explore the affinity the Portuguese have with food & feast on some of their most delicious fare in a local Portuguese restaurant! You’ll get the true local experience dining on some the country’s best delights.
Additional costs apply

Day 14: Lisbon

Lisbon
A free day gives you plenty of time to explore all the hotspots including Portugal’s Christo Rei (Christ the King), Rossio Square, the Belém District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama’s tomb is held.

VIP Executive Zurique Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceGet to know LisbonGet to grips with Portugal’s coastal capital. See all the sights, including Castelo de São Jorge, the Praca do Comércio, Rossio Sqaure and Praça da Figueira.
Included Experience Get to know Belém Take an orientation in Lisbon’s ‘museum district’. See the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the best places to taste a pastel de nata.

Day 15: Lisbon to PortoMake Travel Matter®

LisbonAfter breakfast this morning we’ll head up the coast to Porto, but not before stopping en route at Sintra and Cascais.

SintraWe couldn’t leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. Here in this fairytale town, expect to feel fully enchanted with an optional visit to Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra’s mesmerising castle.

CascaisOur second stop this morning is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world.PortoWe’ll arrive at the home of…you guessed it…Port. Relax and chat about tomorrow’s Porto plans over dinner this evening.

Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Make Travel Matter®Cascais Street Art Tour (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)Take a stroll with Locals through Cascais & hear the stories through a local how this community has rebuilt itself through its artwork. A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience initiative that gives back to the community that we are visiting.
Additional costs apply

Day 16: Porto

PortoWe have a free day in Porto today which you can choose to fill with any activity that’ll fill your hearts’ desires! Head to the beach for a laze about in the sun and a dip in the sea, explore Porto’s culture through art museums and tours of the winding streets. Or maybe you want to join the group and set off for a fabulous food tour to get your fill of all that Portuguese goodness! Hang out with your friends, take it solo – the day is 100% yours.

Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Tastes of PortoWe’ll hop between two bars and a restaurant on this delectable food tour. Soaking up local beverages, food and knowledge as we go.
Additional costs apply

Day 17: Porto to Salamanca

PortoSee ya Portugal, you’ve shown us all your best places and we’re feeling very thankful!

Ciudad RodrigoWe’ll have an hour to check out a fortified city on the Spain/Portugal border – that dates back all the way to the Roman Empire (true story!)SalamancaRolling back over the border to Spain, we’ll settle for the night in Salamanca. We’re just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a Cathedral dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we’ll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.

Hotel Bardo Recoletos Coco (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 18: Salamanca to Madrid

SalamancaSatisfied with our time in Salamanca, we’ll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila.

AvilaÁvila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We’ll stop to admire them before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid.MadridBack where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you’ll be able to make the most of our final night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.

Hotel Praga (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Enjoy a Traditional Madrilenos DinnerOn the famous 17th century square in the heart of Madrid, get a feel for Old Spain in this historic & atmospheric restaurant. Eat like the locals do and wash it all down with some tasty local wine.
Additional costs apply

Day 19: End Madrid

Madrid

Tears and tissues and pinky swears for a reunion trip will mark the blur of sadness that is our morning departure. These are the memories that will stay with you a life time; make sure your next Contiki adventure is just around the corner.

Included Meals:

Breakfast

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page

Some of the Highlights:

Included Experience
Day Trip to Bilbao

Home to world famous art museums and architecture that’s grander than grand. Today you’ll have plenty of time to explore Bilbao, taking in the mountains and the skyscrapers.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Day Trip to San Sebastián

Where better to admire the sunset than on the beautiful beaches of San Sebastián? This resort town is known for its fantastic food too – so make sure you’re hungry!

INCLUDED

Explore Barcelona on Two Wheels

Explore Barcelona like a local & join us on a guided bike tour. You’ll cycle past famous sites & also get off the beaten track to places where most tourists don’t go. Along the way your guide will explain the history of the city to make it all come to life.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Tapas & Traditional Flamenco

It doesn’t get more authentic than this. In the hills above Granada, tucked away in old gypsy caves, you have the chance to see a heart stopping, intense flamenco show. Be transported to another world by the passion of the dancers & the sounds of the Spanish guitar. Then top off the evening with some delicious traditional tapas.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Make Travel Matter®
Cascais Street Art Tour (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience)

Take a stroll with Locals through Cascais & hear the stories through a local how this community has rebuilt itself through its artwork. A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience initiative that gives back to the community that we are visiting.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Trip Highlights

The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list

You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page

FAQs:

You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page

Included Meals:

18 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Team:

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Group Size:

Maximum 51 people

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Transfers:

Coach

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

More Details:

You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page

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(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?

By booking an organized Spain | Portugal tour for young adults or other Europe trips for young people you can not only reduce planning hassle, but often also save money, as tour operators can buy accommodations, transportation, etc. in larger contingents in advance and thus get special conditions. You will also benefit from the experience of the tour operator, professional tour guides (whose stories you can enjoy…) and have the easy opportunity to meet nice fellow travelers when traveling in a group. Anyone who has traveled before will know that travel companions or other traveling acquaintances are one of the most essential factors for unforgettable experiences. In addition, you usually have enough individual freedom even with organized tours and you can, if the arrival and departure is not included, additionally extend your stay individually before or after the group tour with young adults. If you still prefer to organize your trip completely on your own and travel independently, then you’ll find all the practical tools you need to plan and book quickly & cheaply on our individual travel page.