Best of Spain and Portugal 2026

10/06/2026
- 10/18/2026

Let us plan your vacation to two of our favorite countries!  Enjoy a 13-day trip to Spain and Portugal in 2026.  First, we will see Spain, which  offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, cuisine, and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for diverse travelers, from beach lovers to history buffs and foodies.  Then, we will travel to Portugal, which offers a compelling blend of beautiful beaches, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a fantastic destination.  We will love the ancient and modern places that these countries have to offer.

Your adventure starts as we gather and set off overnight toward Spain. There’s something special about this moment—the anticipation, the shared excitement, the sense that something unforgettable is just beginning. Meet at St. Louis airport (if you are flying from there) to depart for Spain. (I/F)

Welcome to Spain!  Enjoy a panoramic tour upon arrival. Welcome to Barcelona—a place where architecture feels alive and every street tells a story. From the top of Mirador Torre Glòries, the city unfolds beneath you—grids of golden streets, the deep blue Mediterranean, and the unmistakable curves of buildings influenced by visionary architect Antoni Gaudí. This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s your first glimpse into a culture that celebrates art, life, and beauty in everyday moments. Enjoy a 3-course welcome dinner and traditional Flamenco, a passionate, improvised art form from Andalusia, Spain, combining guitar, singing, and dance. Check in to 4 star Accommodation Sercotel Caspe  (I/F, D).

Visit the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, a one-of-a-kind temple, for its origins, foundation, and purpose.  The Sagrada Familia is not only famous for its unique blend of Spanish Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Catalan modernism architectural styles but also because this grand cathedral dominates the Barcelona skyline.   Enjoy a Food Tour with Barcelona La Barceloneta Tapas and Wine Tours today. We will have 5 stops with 5 or more tasting. Tapas here aren’t just food—they’re a way of life, meant to be shared slowly, with laughter and conversation. Sercotel Caspe  (B, L).

 This morning, we will take the train for a visit to Montserrat in Catalonia,  a unique destination offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and spiritual significance.  With its stunning views, hiking trails, and the Benedictine monastery housing the Black Madonna, Montserrat will wow us with its amazing views.  We also have an option to relax on a Barcelona beach or visit the home of Barcelona football club. Sercotel Caspe  (B).

This morning, we will have a scenic drive along the coast to Valencia with picturesque stops en route (Sitges, Tarragona, and others, time allowing).  After a leisurely lunch, we will have time to explore the town of Valencia before we check in to our 4 star hotel. This afternoon, experience a Spanish delicacy, Paella. Paella was born in Valencia—not in restaurants, but in open fields where farmers cooked rice over fire. Today, you’ll step into that tradition yourself as we will attend a paella workshop at My First Paella, where we will have a 3-hour cooking class, including a  trip to the market, all ingredients and equipment, welcome tapas, sangria, and soft drinks.  Dimar Hotel Valencia  (B, L). 

Today, we will explore Valencia at a relaxed pace on a guided bike tour, weaving through historic streets and green spaces. Then venture into the Utiel-Requena, where vineyards stretch across the landscape. Here, wine tasting becomes storytelling—each glass reflecting the land it comes from. We will have a tasting and enjoy small bites as part of the presentation. Dimar Hotel Valencia  (B, L).

Depart for Toledo with memorable stops along the way.  One of the most famous is the windmills at Campo de Criptana, Molinos de Viento de Consuegra.  Imagine seeing Don Quixote taking on the magician Freston as we travel through these majestic "giants." We will arrive in Toledo and have a guided tour of the historic city, including the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcázar. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Alcázar of Seville (Real Alcázar de Sevilla) is the oldest royal palace in Europe that is still in use today. It dates back to the 11th century when the Muslim authorities decided to build a fortress in a strategic location to protect the city. Free time to explore or shop for local crafts like damascene jewelry or perhaps buy some famous Toledo knives or swords.   Check in to 4 star Accommodation Hotel Pintor El Greco 

On our way to historic Coimbra,. stop in Plasencia.  Plasencia is a city that lies on the Jerte River.  Although there are Roman ruins at Caparra nearby, Plasencia was first known as the Moorish town since the 12th century.  You can still see the Muslim influence on the city to this day.  It has two cathedrals and is also known for tobacco curing, cotton processing, and meat canning.  Enjoy a 3-course dinner at local restaurant  Check in to our 4 star Hotel Coimbra Aeminium (B, D). 

This morning, we will have a walking tour of historic Coimbra, including the University of Coimbra and its spectacular and famous library, one of Europe’s oldest centers of learning. Its library isn’t just beautiful—it’s legendary. Gold-leafed shelves, carved wood, and centuries-old books create an atmosphere that feels almost sacred. Students here still wear traditional black capes, a living reminder that some traditions never fade. This afternoon we are on our way to Porto, we will stop in Aveiro (Portuguese Venice) and Costa Nova beach to see the colorful houses with vertical stripes that are unique to this area. When we arrive in Porto, we will partake it the city's famous export:  Port.   Enjoy the Porto Wine Classic Tour, including 2 tastings.  Check in to 4 star Accommodation Editory Garden Hotel (B)

Today, we will have a guided tour of Porto, which is situated on the Douro River estuary and the Atlantic ocean.  The colorful buildings along the river, the iconic bridges, and the rhythm of daily life create a city that feels authentic and deeply human. We will also visit Lello Bookstore is famous for its stunning neo-gothic and art-nouveau architecture which is rumored to have inspired the creation of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.  In the afternoon, we will "cruise of the bridges" of Porto for a closer look a this beautiful city.    Editory Garden Hotel (B)

This morning, we will depart for Lisbon with stop Nazaré, one of the most beautiful beach areas internationally known for big-wave surfing.   Enjoy the beaches and cliffside views.  Perhaps have a seafood lunch or try a local favortie black pig with wine and enjoy some of Portugal's best desserts like Pastel de Nata (custard tarts).  Enjoy a memorable dinner 3-course as you settle into Portugal’s vibrant capital. Check in to 4 star Accommodation Pestana CR7 Lisboa  (B, D). 

This morning we will have an excursion to Sintra home to the iconic Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. Take in the coastal gems, including the fashionable Cascais village where members of the world's monarchies have lived.  It was a meeting place of spies during WWII which inspired Ian Fleming to create James Bond. Then afterwards, we will return to Lisbon and visit Pena Park and Palace. We will end the day with a sunset cruise on the Tagus River.   Pestana CR7 Lisboa  (B, D).  Pestana CR7 Lisboa  (B, D). 

Return home with memories that will last a lifetime! 

Day 1--Tuesday 06 October 2026

Your adventure starts as we gather and set off overnight toward Spain. There’s something special about this moment—the anticipation, the shared excitement, the sense that something unforgettable is just beginning. Meet at St. Louis airport (if you are flying from there) to depart for Spain. (I/F)

Day 2--Wednesday 07 October 2026   Barcelona 

Welcome to Spain!  Enjoy a panoramic tour upon arrival. Welcome to Barcelona—a place where architecture feels alive and every street tells a story. From the top of Mirador Torre Glòries, the city unfolds beneath you—grids of golden streets, the deep blue Mediterranean, and the unmistakable curves of buildings influenced by visionary architect Antoni Gaudí. This isn’t just sightseeing—it’s your first glimpse into a culture that celebrates art, life, and beauty in everyday moments. Enjoy a 3-course welcome dinner and traditional Flamenco, a passionate, improvised art form from Andalusia, Spain, combining guitar, singing, and dance. Check in to 4 star Accommodation Sercotel Caspe  (I/F, D).

Day 3--Thursday 08 October 2026   Barcelona 

Visit the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, a one-of-a-kind temple, for its origins, foundation, and purpose.  The Sagrada Familia is not only famous for its unique blend of Spanish Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Catalan modernism architectural styles but also because this grand cathedral dominates the Barcelona skyline.   Enjoy a Food Tour with Barcelona La Barceloneta Tapas and Wine Tours today. We will have 5 stops with 5 or more tasting. Tapas here aren’t just food—they’re a way of life, meant to be shared slowly, with laughter and conversation. Sercotel Caspe  (B, L).

Day 4--Friday 09 October 2026   Barcelona 

 This morning, we will take the train for a visit to Montserrat in Catalonia,  a unique destination offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and spiritual significance.  With its stunning views, hiking trails, and the Benedictine monastery housing the Black Madonna, Montserrat will wow us with its amazing views.  We also have an option to relax on a Barcelona beach or visit the home of Barcelona football club. Sercotel Caspe  (B).

Day 5--Saturday 10 October 2026   Valencia

This morning, we will have a scenic drive along the coast to Valencia with picturesque stops en route (Sitges, Tarragona, and others, time allowing).  After a leisurely lunch, we will have time to explore the town of Valencia before we check in to our 4 star hotel. This afternoon, experience a Spanish delicacy, Paella. Paella was born in Valencia—not in restaurants, but in open fields where farmers cooked rice over fire. Today, you’ll step into that tradition yourself as we will attend a paella workshop at My First Paella, where we will have a 3-hour cooking class, including a  trip to the market, all ingredients and equipment, welcome tapas, sangria, and soft drinks.  Dimar Hotel Valencia  (B, L). 

Day 6--Sunday 11 October 2026   Valencia 

Today, we will explore Valencia at a relaxed pace on a guided bike tour, weaving through historic streets and green spaces. Then venture into the Utiel-Requena, where vineyards stretch across the landscape. Here, wine tasting becomes storytelling—each glass reflecting the land it comes from. We will have a tasting and enjoy small bites as part of the presentation. Dimar Hotel Valencia  (B, L).

Day 7--Monday 12 October 2026     Toledo

Depart for Toledo with memorable stops along the way.  One of the most famous is the windmills at Campo de Criptana, Molinos de Viento de Consuegra.  Imagine seeing Don Quixote taking on the magician Freston as we travel through these majestic "giants." We will arrive in Toledo and have a guided tour of the historic city, including the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcázar. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Alcázar of Seville (Real Alcázar de Sevilla) is the oldest royal palace in Europe that is still in use today. It dates back to the 11th century when the Muslim authorities decided to build a fortress in a strategic location to protect the city. Free time to explore or shop for local crafts like damascene jewelry or perhaps buy some famous Toledo knives or swords.   Check in to 4 star Accommodation Hotel Pintor El Greco 

Day 8--Tuesday 13 October 2026   Coimbra

On our way to historic Coimbra,. stop in Plasencia.  Plasencia is a city that lies on the Jerte River.  Although there are Roman ruins at Caparra nearby, Plasencia was first known as the Moorish town since the 12th century.  You can still see the Muslim influence on the city to this day.  It has two cathedrals and is also known for tobacco curing, cotton processing, and meat canning.  Enjoy a 3-course dinner at local restaurant  Check in to our 4 star Hotel Coimbra Aeminium (B, D). 

Day 9--Wednesday 14 October 2026   Coimbra 

This morning, we will have a walking tour of historic Coimbra, including the University of Coimbra and its spectacular and famous library, one of Europe’s oldest centers of learning. Its library isn’t just beautiful—it’s legendary. Gold-leafed shelves, carved wood, and centuries-old books create an atmosphere that feels almost sacred. Students here still wear traditional black capes, a living reminder that some traditions never fade. This afternoon we are on our way to Porto, we will stop in Aveiro (Portuguese Venice) and Costa Nova beach to see the colorful houses with vertical stripes that are unique to this area. When we arrive in Porto, we will partake it the city's famous export:  Port.   Enjoy the Porto Wine Classic Tour, including 2 tastings.  Check in to 4 star Accommodation Editory Garden Hotel (B)

Day 10--Thursday 15 October 2026    Porto 

Today, we will have a guided tour of Porto, which is situated on the Douro River estuary and the Atlantic ocean.  The colorful buildings along the river, the iconic bridges, and the rhythm of daily life create a city that feels authentic and deeply human. We will also visit Lello Bookstore is famous for its stunning neo-gothic and art-nouveau architecture which is rumored to have inspired the creation of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.  In the afternoon, we will "cruise of the bridges" of Porto for a closer look a this beautiful city.    Editory Garden Hotel (B)

Day 11--Friday 16 October 2026   Lisbon

This morning, we will depart for Lisbon with stop Nazaré, one of the most beautiful beach areas internationally known for big-wave surfing.   Enjoy the beaches and cliffside views.  Perhaps have a seafood lunch or try a local favortie black pig with wine and enjoy some of Portugal's best desserts like Pastel de Nata (custard tarts).  Enjoy a memorable dinner 3-course as you settle into Portugal’s vibrant capital. Check in to 4 star Accommodation Pestana CR7 Lisboa  (B, D). 

Day 12--Saturday 17 October 2026   Lisbon

This morning we will have an excursion to Sintra home to the iconic Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. Take in the coastal gems, including the fashionable Cascais village where members of the world's monarchies have lived.  It was a meeting place of spies during WWII which inspired Ian Fleming to create James Bond. Then afterwards, we will return to Lisbon and visit Pena Park and Palace. We will end the day with a sunset cruise on the Tagus River.   Pestana CR7 Lisboa  (B, D).  Pestana CR7 Lisboa  (B, D). 

Day 13--Sunday 18 October 2026     Lisbon 

Return home with memories that will last a lifetime! 

Optional:

I/F = in-flight meal
B= breakfast
L= lunch
D=dinner

Trip Highlights

Panoramic Tour of Barcelona
Guided Visit to La Sagrada Família
Tapas & Wine Food Tour in Barceloneta
Day Trip to Montserrat
Paella Cooking Workshop in Valencia
Bike or E-Bike Tour of Valencia
Guided Tour of Historic Toledo
Port Wine Experience in Porto

What's Included

Transportation: Private deluxe motor coach
Accommodations: Based on 2 sharing a room in 3.5-4* hotels
Meals: All breakfasts and meals listed in the itinterary
Transfers: As a group
Tips and Taxes: All services provided, including tour director, guides, and driver
Professional Tour Guides: A Tour Director who stays with the group and local expert guides
Entrances: all entrance fees as listed in the itinerary

Wnat's Not Included

Additional Meals: Not listed in the itinerary
Single Upgrade: For those not sharing a room or not finding a roommate
Travel Insurance: Options will be provided
Airfare: We will arrange for the group, or you may purchase your own
Personal Fees: Passports, items of a personal nature, etc.

Available Packages

Shared Room
$4,999
Single Room
$6,299
Don’t miss your chance to experience this amazing tour. Simply fill out the form below and submit your $200 | 2 deposit to secure your seat before the trip fills up.

Cancelation Policy

Regardless of reason, cancellations are costly. All cancellations must be in writing, and the date of postmark will determine the amount of refund due. For flight changes or cancellations, revision fees and/or airline cancellation charges will apply. Roommates canceling can result in a single supplement charge for the roommate. The Participant who cancels will be responsible for that charge if a substitute roommate cannot be found. Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is strongly recommended. From time of deposit to April 26, 2026 $ 350 cancellation penalty plus any non-refundable deposits that are incurred from the supplier will charged to the traveler.

From April 27, 2026 - May 10, 2026 $1000 cancellation penalty plus any non-refundable deposits that are owed to the supplier will be charged to the traveler. From May 11, 2026 - June 15, 2026 $2500 cancellation penalty plus any non-refundable deposits will charged to the traveler. From June 16, 2026 onwards: No refund.

Terms & Conditions

Responsibility: Explore Europe Tours, LLC, their  officers and employees, tour hosts, or any  other persons or vendors connected with the  tour shall not under any circumstances be liable to the client under or by reason of this  agreement directly or indirectly for any accidents, injury, delay, damage, or inconvenience  caused to the client by negligence of others, by  malfunctions of transportation systems or  equipment, by acts of war, terrorism, or rebel lion, strikes, theft, itinerary changes, extreme  weather conditions, or cancellations, and the  client hereby releases the above mentioned  corporation and persons from any and all such  liability. The airline/s concerned are not held  responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on their planes  or conveyances. The passenger's contract in  use by the airlines concerned, when issued,  shall constitute the sole contract between the  airlines and the purchaser of this tour and/or  passenger. Any and/or all transportation companies herein mentioned shall not have nor  incur any responsibility to any traveler aside  from their liability as common carriers. Air and  land costs are subject to change without notice.  Air transportation is via special, non-refundable airfare. Any additional airfare assessments made by the airlines for any changes  whatsoever shall be the responsibility of  the client. Other rules may also apply. Services of any A.R.C. or I.A.T.A. carrier may be  used in conjunction with this tour. If there is a  change in air prices and/or currency exchange  rates, we reserve the right to adjust the price. 

Terms & Conditions

Responsibility: Explore Europe Tours, LLC, their  officers and employees, tour hosts, or any  other persons or vendors connected with the  tour shall not under any circumstances be liable to the client under or by reason of this  agreement directly or indirectly for any accidents, injury, delay, damage, or inconvenience  caused to the client by negligence of others, by  malfunctions of transportation systems or  equipment, by acts of war, terrorism, or rebel lion, strikes, theft, itinerary changes, extreme  weather conditions, or cancellations, and the  client hereby releases the above mentioned  corporation and persons from any and all such  liability. The airline/s concerned are not held  responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on their planes  or conveyances. The passenger's contract in  use by the airlines concerned, when issued,  shall constitute the sole contract between the  airlines and the purchaser of this tour and/or  passenger. Any and/or all transportation companies herein mentioned shall not have nor  incur any responsibility to any traveler aside  from their liability as common carriers. Air and  land costs are subject to change without notice.  Air transportation is via special, non-refundable airfare. Any additional airfare assessments made by the airlines for any changes  whatsoever shall be the responsibility of  the client. Other rules may also apply. Services of any A.R.C. or I.A.T.A. carrier may be  used in conjunction with this tour. If there is a  change in air prices and/or currency exchange  rates, we reserve the right to adjust the price. 
Explore Europe Tours LLC is an international travel company specializing in adult small-group travel. Prices, dates and availability vary; booking terms apply.

Contact Info

  • Info@ExploreEuropeTours.com
  • 618 719 6948
  • 8730 Le Pere School Road
    Millstadt, Il 62260