Across Spain and Portugal with Paradores & Pousadas

September 29 - October 15, 2024

Length: 17 days

Region(s): Europe

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Land

Fortified cities and tiny fishing villages, rugged Atlantic coastline and commanding Pyrenees peaks, iconic shrines to both religion and fine art, and intimate lodgings in historic paradores and pousadas – it all awaits on this singular small group journey from Lisbon across the north of Spain, ending in vibrant Barcelona.

Operated by Odysseys Unlimited

Tour Highlights

Discover historic Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, with its iconic Belém Tower and the National Palace of Queluz just outside the city.
Stay in a pousada in lovely Oporto, Portugal’s second largest city and a UNESCO site.
Take a cruise on the Douro River and sample the port wine exclusive to this region at a port lodge.
At Santiago de Compostela, the last stop on the celebrated pilgrimage route, experience this culturally rich and eminently walkable UNESCO city during a two-night stay.
Experience other stops along the Way of St. James pilgrimage route.
In vibrant León, encounter the city’s impressive historical and architectural heritage, including the beautiful 12th-century León Cathedral.
Stop in the elegant port city of Santander for a tour and lunch.
Tour Bilbao’s Guggenheim and Fine Arts museums as well as its medieval Old City.
Spend an entire day exploring the beautiful, rugged Basque coastline.
Stop in fabled Pamplona, known for its annual Running of the Bulls tradition.
With two nights in Bielsa in the rural Pyrenees, take in the stunning scenery at the region’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Enjoy a three-night stay in vibrant Barcelona, where you’ll pay homage to its native son Antoni Gaudí and have time to explore this world-class city independently.
Stay in distinguished historic lodgings throughout the tour.
Discover more of lively, spirited Barcelona on an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.

If you would like to view a digital copy of this trip’s brochure, please click on the “Digital Brochure” under Additional Resources (follows directly below Itinerary at a Glance) on this webpage.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 3

What to expect: These trips feature long touring days with travel via motor coach, ship, zodiac, all-terrain vehicle, or train. Travelers are required to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain for extended periods of time. Some tours may include optional higher-intensity activities and travel at higher altitudes with steep ascents and descents. Outings last four to six hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk four to six miles, or 6,900–9,200 steps, each day.