16-day Spain & Portugal Tour
Explore ancient and modern highlights in Spain and Portugal during a 16-day tour featuring Lisbon, Porto, Aveiro, Seville, Ronda, Costa del Sol, Granada, Córdoba, Toledo and Madrid. Admire the intricate mosaic world map at Lisbon's Monument to the Discoveries, stand amid the majestic architecture of Seville's Plaza de España, and view the dramatic Tajo Ravine from the cliff-top village of Ronda. Marvel at the fascinating construction of Granada’s Alhambra, and enjoy captivating sunsets along the Mediterranean's Costa del Sol. Discover the ancient village of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and receive insightful commentary on the masterpieces housed in Madrid's Prado Museum. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the vibrant and historic landscapes of Spain and Portugal. Highest Elevation: 2,372 feet in Ronda, Spain. Walking Expectations: “Active” - An average of 3 1/2 miles per day often encountering uneven surfaces, steps and inclines.
2025 Departure Dates | Price* | |
---|---|---|
Oct-14-2025 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $4,340 pp |
Tour Year 2025
DAY 1 - Overnight Flight to Europe.
Today begins your Spain & Portugal adventure. The Image Tours “Departure Instructions” will provide guidance for airport check-in. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.
DAY 2 - SPAIN. . Arrival at Madrid Airport.
Refer to the “Arrival Instructions” for directions on where and when to meet your Tour Manager for the transfer to your Madrid hotel. This evening, meet your fellow tour members during the “Welcome to Europe” dinner. (Dinner)
DAY 3 - SPAIN . . Madrid.
To initiate your sightseeing, a local guide will provide an orientation of Madrid and an explanation of the masterpieces inside the Prado Art Museum. Three popular choices for your afternoon are the Old Town of Madrid (referred to as Puerta del Sol), EI Retiro Park (where you can rent a row boat on its Great Lake), or the Reina Sofía Museum (home to Picasso’s Guernica). Tonight’s independent dinner allows you to choose between the hotel, an outdoor café, or the optional Madrid Dinner excursion (see page 53). (Breakfast)
DAY 4 - SPAIN . . El Escorial - Salamanca.
Spend the morning exploring the impressive Renaissance buildings and courtyards at the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. After an independent guided walking tour of the old town and historic university. The evening glow of the main square provides an enchanting ambiance for your independent dinner. (Breakfast)
DAY 5 - PORTUGAL . . Aveiro.
Cross the border from Spain into Portugal and head toward the west coast. Reach Aveiro in time to have your independent lunch along one of the lively canals lined with colorful buildings. You may like to join the optional Aveiro Moliceiro Boat Ride excursion (see page 51) before transferring to the Aveiro hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 6 - PORTUGAL. . Porto - Aveiro.
A local guide will take you on a walking tour of Porto. Visit a Port Wine bodega with an explanation on the history and production, as well as a tasting. While sampling the local cuisine this afternoon, observe the activity along the Douro River. Your Tour Manager will offer a Porto Boat Ride & Dinner excursion (see page 53) before returning to your hotel in Aveiro. (Breakfast)
DAY 7 - PORTUGAL . . Fátima - Lisbon.
Travel through central Portugal to the Catholic pilgrimage site of Fátima. Following an independent lunch, continue to the hotel in Lisbon. After check-in, a local guide shows you the highlights, including the Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries honoring Prince Henry the Navigator. Admire the broad boulevards and mosaic sidewalks before returning to your hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 8 - PORTUGAL . . Lisbon.
A great way to spend your day in Lisbon is to ride a street car up to São Jorge Castle. Alluring shops offer fine Portuguese products such as hand painted ceramic tiles, pottery and figurines. Another consideration is to join the optional Sintra Palace & Cascais excursion (see page 54). This evening during your independent dinner in Lisbon, explore the narrow, winding alleys of the Moorish Alfama District. (Breakfast)
DAY 9 - PORTUGAL . . Algarve Region & SPAIN . . Seville.
During your travels today, keep in mind that more than fifty percent of the world’s cork is supplied by Portugal’s forests. Cross the Sado River at Alcácer do Sal and make a mid-day stop in the Algarve Region. Continue through southwestern Spain, also known as Andalusia, and travel through the province of Huelva. Your hotel for the next two nights is located in Seville, one of the largest historic Old Towns of Europe. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 10 - SPAIN . . Seville.
During the city tour of Seville, a local guide will introduce you to the Plaza de España, the cathedral housing Columbus’ tomb, Giralda Tower, City Hall, and the tobacco factory of “Carmen” fame. The afternoon allows time to pursue your personal interests. Explore the Alcazar Palace (admission fee), the Flamenco Museum (admission fee), or the intriguing alleys and courtyards in the former Jewish Quarter of Barrio de Santa Cruz. The friendly neighborhoods of this delightful city invite people to relax and socialize outdoors well into the evening. Tonight, dinner is on your own to experience the regional specialties, or join the optional Flamenco Show with Tapas excursion (see page 52). (Breakfast)
DAY 11 - SPAIN . . Ronda – Costa del Sol.
Wind your way past thrilling mountain vistas to Ronda, a village whose unique location creates dramatic views over the Tajo Ravine. After an independent lunch, a local guide will share the history of this special place and point out photo opportunities. Today’s final destination is Spain’s Sun Coast, the Costa del Sol, in the province of Malaga. Your seaside resort, in the town of Torremolinos, awaits you with an included dinner upon arrival. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 12 - SPAIN . . Costa del Sol.
Spend the first day of a three-night stay becoming familiar with your Andalusian paradise along the Mediterranean coast. If you join the optional morning Malaga excursion (see page 53), a local guide will introduce you to the port, castle and city center of the provincial capital. Those desiring additional exploration of the Andalusian countryside are invited to join the optional Mijas & Country Dinner excursion (see page 53). (Breakfast)
DAY 13 - SPAIN . . Granada – Costa del Sol.
This day focuses on the city of Granada, elegantly enrobed by the surrounding Sierra Navada mountains and crowned by the astounding Alhambra. In Arabic, Alhambra means “Red Castle.” Granada’s Alhambra was in fact a fortified compound, complete with protective walls, lookout towers, two palaces, a garden, and a village for the families of the nobles. Your local guide will share the fascinating stories of this area and reveal the history leading to the interwoven Arabic and Christian influences. After exploring the center of Granada, return to your Torremolinos hotel for an included dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 14 - SPAIN . . Córdoba – La Mancha – Toledo.
Travel to Córdoba, where a local guide will explain the cultural landmarks, including the Old Jewish Quarter, La Mezquita (built as an immense mosque in the 8th century and currently used as a cathedral), Viana Palace and the Roman bridge. Take a stroll through the Old Town where splashing fountains decorate the patios and floral aromas fill the air. Depart Córdoba to travel among the infinite olive groves of Jaén Province and through the region of La Mancha. Along the way, catch a glimpse of the windmills made famous by Cervantes’ story of Don Quixote. Your final destination today is the ancient town of Toledo. Due to your hotel’s unique location in the pedestrian-only center of the Old Town, you will be required to self-porter your luggage for the 200 meters between the motor coach and the hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 15 - SPAIN . . Toledo.
Within the fortified walls of this UNESCO World Heritage Site lie treasured museums, churches, synagogues and mosques representing the combination of cultures that have thrived. The guided walking tour in Toledo includes interior visits of the cathedral and synagogue. Afterwards, you will have time to explore the narrow streets of this charming ancient village built on a hill. Stop to make a photo overlooking Toledo before transferring to your Madrid Airport Area hotel for a “Farewell Dinner.” (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 16 - Daytime flight back to U.S.A.
Transfer to the Madrid Airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)
DAY 1 - Overnight Flight to Europe.
Overnight flight from the U.S.A. to Europe.
DAY 2 - PORTUGAL . . Arrival at Lisbon Airport.
Meet your tour manager and transfer (½ hr) to your hotel in Madrid. The afternoon is free for leisure and independent exploration in the attractive and lively Spanish capital (½ hr drive in each direction). Tonight, enjoy a "Welcome Dinner" within walking distance of the hotel. (Dinner)
DAY 3 - SPAIN . . Madrid.
This day focuses on Madrid starting with a two-hour tour by motor coach. The remainder of the day is yours to pursue personal interests. This evening, dine independently or join the optional Madrid Dinner excursion (½ hr transfer each way). (Breakfast)
DAY 4 - SPAIN . . El Escorial – Salamanca
This morning takes you (1½ hrs) to the monument of the Spanish Renaissance - El Escorial. From there head out (3 hrs including comfort stop) across the region of Castile and León to Salamanca and your hotel for the evening. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 5 - PORTUGAL . . Aveiro.
Cross the border (2 hrs) into Portugal. Head on (2 hrs) to the city of Aveiro; your tour manager will give you a panoramic tour (½ hr) of the city before giving you time to explore on your own. This afternoon, continue your independent exploration, or join the Aveiro Moliceiro Boat Ride to view the city from the canals. Wrap up your day (½ hr) with dinner at your hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 6 - PORTUGAL . . Porto.
Your destination (1½ hrs) is the beautiful city of Porto. A local guide will provide a walking tour to introduce you to the city, including a Port wine tasting. After a day spent exploring this historic city, join the optional Porto Boat Ride & Dinner excursion or dine independently before returning (1½ hrs) to your Aveiro hotel. (Breakfast)
DAY 7 - PORTUGAL . . Fatima - Lisbon.
Set out (2 hrs) for Fatima, renowned pilgrimage site for many. In the afternoon check into (2 hrs) your Lisbon hotel. Join your tour manager for a sightseeing tour by motor coach (3 hrs including a few stops). (Breakfast)
DAY 8 - PORTUGAL . . Lisbon.
Spend this day as you wish, with sightseeing, shopping and to pursue your individual interests. Or consider taking the optional Sintra Palace & Cascais excursion to explore the towns along the Atlantic coast (1 hr between each of the three stops). (Breakfast)
DAY 9 - PORTUGAL . . Algarve Region & SPAIN . . Seville.
Travel (2½ hrs) making two rest stops and crossing the Sado River near Alcácer do Sal as you head South through Portugal. Continue (1½ hrs) to the lunch stop in the Algarve coastal region. After crossing into Spain travel through the province of Huelva (2¼ hrs) on the way to Seville. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 10 - SPAIN . . Seville.
Three-hour City Tour of Seville by coach and on foot. Time for independent sightseeing in the afternoon. For dinner tonight, try one of the cozy restaurants or join the optional Flamenco Show with Tapas excursion (¼ hr transfer each way). (Breakfast)
DAY 11 - SPAIN . . Ronda – Costa del Sol.
The morning destination (¾ hr) is a local Olive farm. After a visit including a tasting, continue (2 hrs) to the picturesque town of Ronda for a walking tour with a local guide. Transfer through the mountains and along the coast (1¾ hrs) to your hotel in the Mediterranean resort town of Torremolinos. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 12 - SPAIN . . Costa del Sol.
Free day for relaxing on the Costa del Sol or choose to take the optional Malaga excursion (¾ hr transfer each way). Late afternoon offers the optional Mijas and Country Dinner excursion (¾ hr transfer to Mijas, between Mijas and Country Dinner restaurant, and on return to hotel).(Breakfast)
DAY 13 - SPAIN . . Granada – Costa del Sol.
Full-day included visit (2 hrs each way) to Granada, with its astounding Alhambra (Red Castle). Before dinner, return to your resort hotel along the Costa del Sol. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 14 - SPAIN . . Córdoba – Toledo.
Continue north (2 hrs) to Cordóba, with its magnificent 8th century Mosque. Then, travel (4 hrs including comfort stops) to the region of La Mancha. On through the lovely olive groves (1 hr) to your hotel in Toledo. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 15 - SPAIN . . Madrid.
Spend the day in Toledo, one of Europe's most ancient cities. In the mid-afternoon, proceed to your Madrid Airport area hotel (2 hrs) for your "Farewell Dinner" and the final opportunity to enjoy the company of your fellow tour members. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 16 - Daytime flight back to U.S.A.
Transfer (½ hr) to the Madrid Airport for your return flight home. (Breakfast)
- Receive insight on the masterpieces in Madrid's Prado Museum
- Learn about the background and process of Port wines in Porto
- Admire the mosaic world map at the Monument to the Discoveries
- Stand amid the majestic architecture of Plaza de España in Seville
- View the dramatic Tajo Ravine from the cliff-top village of Ronda
- Sample specially prepared dishes at a private Andalusian restaurant
- Marvel at the fascinating construction within Granada’s Alhambra
- Enjoy captivating sunsets along the Mediterranean's Costa del Sol
- Discover the ancient village of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Accommodations in Superior Tourist Class or First Class hotels
- 14 Breakfasts and 8 Dinners in addition to any in-flight meals
- Tour Manager for the full duration of the tour within Europe
- Land Transportation in Europe by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach
- Image Tours Touroclopedia® trip preparation tips
- Trip Documents with final details and travel guidance
Mark & Robin B.
October 12, 2023Ivan & Milagros M.
October 13, 2022The Availability, Departure Dates, and Rates are for illustration and planning purposes only. Since final pricing and single availability can only be confirmed with a travel agent, steps 4 & 5 of this on-line booking module is reserved for your travel agent only. (Please Call) indicates that we still have some tour availability; however, you should have your travel agent call our office to confirm air availability.
Select Departure Month
Upcoming Departures
Novotel Madrid Center
Madrid, Spain- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- satellite TV
- mini-bar
- free WIFI
- in-room safe
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- garden
Zenit Hall 88 Studios
Salamanca, Spain- hairdryer
- satellite TV
- free WIFI
- kitchenette
- in-room safe
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- terrace
Meliã Ria Hotel & Spa
Aveiro, Portugal- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- satellite TV
- mini-bar
- In-room safe
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
NH Campo Grande
Lisbon, Portugal- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- satellite TV
- mini-bar
- in room safe
- free WIFI
- Elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- fitness center
Hotel Silken Al-Andalus
Seville, Spain- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- TV
- free WIFI
- free in-room safe included for our groups (obtain code at check-in)
- elevators
- restaurants
- bar
- fitness center
Hotel Meliã Costa del Sol
Torremolinos (Costa del Sol), Spain- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- satellite TV
- mini bar
- in-room safe
- free WI-FI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- outdoor swimming pool
- gym
- beach nearby
Hotel Carlos V
Toledo, Spain- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- satellite TV
- mini bar
- in-room safe
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- rooftop terrace
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS DETAILS
$0.00Our tours are carefully planned to offer a comfortable balance of sightseeing, entertainment and leisure time. Optional Excursions provide the flexibility to choose between leisure time or additional guided sightseeing activities. Unless otherwise noted, optional excursions must be booked with and paid to your tour manager during the tour. Prices are in U.S. Dollars. MASTERCARD®, VISA®, or DISCOVER® (no other credit cards are accepted) are recommended to avoid carrying excessive cash and exchange rate fluctuations. You must be able to present the actual card to your tour manager. If you bring a DISCOVER® card, also bring a VISA® or MASTERCARD®, as DISCOVER® is not widely accepted in Europe. Cash payments during the tour must be in Euros. Personal checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted. The operation of all excursions is subject to sufficient participation, and some excursions are subject to favorable weather conditions. Your tour manager reserves the right to make changes or cancel excursions at their sole discretion.
PORTO BOAT RIDE & DINNER
4:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. $85.00Meet your Tour Manager for a short walk to the boarding point of your 45-minute boat ride through the River Douro. View the bridges and sites of Porto from the water. Afterwards, a waterfront restuarant hosts a dinner of local specialties including, if you like, a glass of Porto wine.
SINTRA PALACE & CASCAIS
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. $75.00Formerly a summer residence for nobility, Sintra displays an influential balance of landscape and architecture. After visiting the National Palace, explore the original town center. Drive through Sintra-Cascais NaFormerly a summer residence for nobility, Sintra displays an influential balance of landscape and architecture. After visiting the National Palace, explore the original town center. Drive through Sintra-Cascais Natural Park to Portugal’s west coast. The fishing village of Cascais provides a charming spot for an independent lunch before returning to Lisbon along the Atlantic beaches and River Tagus.
FLAMENCO SHOW WITH TAPAS
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. $85.00During a dinner of Andalusian Tapas (an assortment of several dishes typical of the area), you will be mesmerized by the performances of skilled Flamenco dancers and their musical accompaniment. The artistically precise combination of singing, dancing, hand clapping and guitar strumming is captivating.
MALAGA
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $45.00Stop at the tip of Malaga’s famous port for a striking view of the waterfront district. Then, from the vantage of the castle ruins atop the 400-foot-high Gibralfaro Hill, you have a bird’seye view of the bay. During a walk downtown, accompanied by a local guide, see the Roman Theater ruins and the Cathedral. Round it all off with a tasting of the famed Malaga wine.
MIJAS & COUNTRY DINNER
4:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. $65.00Step back in time in the whitewashed village of Mijas. Perhaps you will take a ride or photo (approximately €15) with one of the favorite locals, the burro taxi. After exploring, admire the view as the sun starts to set over the Mediterranean. In the cozy setting of a family-operated countryside restaurant, sit down to an Andalusian dinner with wine included.