Best of Spain & Portugal (Winter)

Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew tonight over your first Spanish dinner in the metro magic of Madrid. Tomorrow will be a whole world of discovery, so you'll be thankful for your hotel sleep. (D) Stay: Occidental Castellana Norte (or similar)

The first leg of our Iberian roadtrip kicks off this morning as we travel north in search of Burgos and Pamplona. We couldn't race to our night's stop without letting you in on the pretty medieval town of Burgos. We'll marvel at the French Gothic cathedral with its intricate spires before rolling on to Pamplona.

Our next stop is the colourful Pamplona. We'll venture through the well-preserved old town and its incredible gothic cathedral on our walking tour, maybe ending the historical fix with a spot of fresh trout and red peppers – a regional specialty – before we bed down for the night. (B/D) Stay: El Toro Hotel and Spa (or similar)

Rise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two day trips await us today, but not until we've had breakfast. Bilbao 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. 

Next 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 word for tapas). Our day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you'll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams. (B)

This 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. A 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. 

With 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 a walk through the Gothic Quarter & La Rambla district - two of the city's must-do's for an instant look at this pretty spot, and a sure way to feel like a local in no time. (B) Stay: Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona (or similar)

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. (B)

This 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.  It'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? (B) Stay: Hotel Mas Camarena Valencia (or similar)

It'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? Granada 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! We'll join up tonight for an included dinner with the crew. (B/D) Stay: Macia Condor (or similar)

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! (B)

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

Here 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. (B) Stay: Ibis Budget Madrid Centro Lavapies (or similar)

Leaving some of our group to finish their adventures here in Madrid, the rest of us will drive onwards to Córdoba. Flowers adorn storybook balconies & charming little lanes will take your breath away in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, overflowing with history. We'll start with a walking tour to fall head over heels with Córdoba, and a trip to the Mezquita (The Great Mosque of Cordoba) will be the perfect way to spend our day.

This 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. (B/D) Stay: Hotel el Monasterio de San Francisco (or similar)

Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we'll leave historical Córdoba with our sights set on sun-soaked Seville. 13th 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 on Seville's rooftops. (B) Stay: YIT Via Sevilla Mairena (or similar)

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, before settling down to an included dining experience together tonight. (B/D)

We 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.

Welcome 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. (B) Stay: VIP Inn Berna (or similar)

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. (B)

After breakfast this morning we'll head up the coast to Porto, but not before stopping en route at Cascais and Sintra. We couldn't leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. Here in this fairytale town, expect to feel fully enchanted with a stop-off at Quinta da Regaleira – Sintra's mesmerising castle.

Our first 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. Alive with galleries and coffee shops and amazing food culture, the city of Porto is basically a dream for art lovers and foodies alike.

You'll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time, and for those especially keen you can embark on the Eating Europe Food Tour for the occasion to try local food in local spots. Discover heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets and in the UNESCO stamped alleyways of Riberia. Walk along the picturesque coastline, and view the main sites like lavish São Francisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa. (B) Stay: Ibis Porto Gaia (or similar)

Alive with galleries & coffee shops, the city of Porto is basically a dream. We'll find heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets & in the UNESCO stamped alleys of Ribeira. You'll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time today, seeing all the main sites like the lavish São Fransisco Church and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa and wandering the picturesque coastline. (B/D)

See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful! Rolling 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. (B) Stay: Hotel Vincci Ciudad De Salamanca (or similar)

Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we'll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila. Ávila 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 and find ourselves some lunch before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid. Back 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. (B) Stay: Occidental Castellana Norte (or similar)

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. (B)