Lisbon to Barcelona

Oh hello, travellers. Meet your Contiki crew here in the lovely city of Lisbon, then we’ll hit the road and head north along Portugal’s coastline with those Atlantic views keeping us company.We can’t leave Portugal without tasting some authentic local wine, can we? That’s why we have the opportunity of visiting the 19th century vineyards to see, swirl, sniff, sip, and savour some of it, if you so choose. Alive with galleries and coffee shops and amazing food culture, the city of Porto is basically a dream for art lovers and foodies alike. So, it's a good thing you've got a free evening here to spend however you like. Then, it's time to tuck in for tomorrow.

Wakey wakey... You get to decide the agenda for today. Discover heritage in the old wooden tram in Riberia. Or walk along the picturesque coastline, and view the main sites like lavish São Francisco Church, Porto Cathedral and 19th century Palácio da Bolsa. And if you're on the hunt for things to do, you can join us for a tour of some of the local foodie hotspots! Or catch a traditional Portuguese singing show. You do you.

See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful! We'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!). We'll settle for the night in Salamanca, a city that feels like a whole other world, with a 13th-century university, mysteriously futuristic characters, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a house decorated with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city you'll have the option to learn more about the history and architecture on a walking tour before having some free time to find some food this evening. Think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies!

Salamanca’s been a stunner, but it’s time to hit the road and head north towards Pamplona.We 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. After lunch, we'll make our way to our homebase for the next two nights.After an orientation to the city, known for its medieval streets, lively plazas, and deep-rooted traditions, we'll check into the hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to ease in, explore nearby spots, or grab dinner and recharge.

Rise and shine, Spanish explorers! Two new cities 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 version of tapas). Our day ends where it started in Pamplona, where you’ll sleep soundly with a head full of modern art-themed dreams.

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.And we’re back where it all began. Tonight, you’ll have the option to enjoy a flamenco performance with dinner — a lively send-off in one of Spain’s most electric cities.

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.