Spain & Portugal Grand Tour

Arrive in Madrid and dive into Spain’s vibrant capital, where grand boulevards, iconic landmarks, and world-class museums await. Stroll through historic neighborhoods like La Latina and Malasaña, explore the Royal Palace and Retiro Park, or enjoy tapas in a lively plaza. With its rich blend of old-world charm and cosmopolitan energy, Madrid is the perfect launchpad for your Iberian road adventure.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star VP Plaza España Design

Depart the city and cruise southwest into the untamed beauty of Extremadura. The route winds past rolling hills, ancient Roman roads, and quiet reservoirs like Burguillo. Climb the Puerto del Pico mountain pass for panoramic views, then descend through charming medieval villages and valleys as you make your way to Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cobbled streets, Moorish towers, and Renaissance mansions.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Hospes Palacio de Arenales & Spa

Head northwest across the Spanish countryside and into Portugal’s Serra da Estrela mountains. Drive through pristine national parks, scenic river valleys, and high-altitude passes like Portillo and Peña de Francia. Stop in Ciudad Rodrigo, a walled fortress town near the border, before crossing into Portugal for an unforgettable climb into the country’s highest mountain range, surrounded by dense forests and glacial valleys.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Casa de São Lorenço

Start the day with a mountain run through the dramatic peaks of Serra da Estrela. Visit glacial lakes and Portugal’s highest summit before descending into wine country. Enjoy winding roads through the Dão region’s vineyards and stop for a gourmet lunch at a local estate. End your day in Porto, where historic riverside architecture and vibrant culture meet world-famous Port wine cellars.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star The Rebello Hotel & Spa

Spend your morning exploring Porto, then follow the scenic N222 along the Douro River—one of the world’s most celebrated driving roads. Pass terraced vineyards, charming villages, and hillside wineries as you cruise deeper into Portugal’s famed wine region. Stop for lunch with a river view or take an optional winery loop for a deeper dive into the valley’s rich viticulture.

Overnight Stay: Quinta São José do Barrilário

Wind through the final stretches of the Douro Valley before entering Arribes del Duero National Park, where dramatic river gorges and towering cliffs define the landscape. Stop at scenic overlooks, marvel at hydroelectric dams like Almendra, and cross the border into Spain. Arrive in Salamanca, one of Europe’s great university cities, where Gothic cathedrals and golden-hued sandstone buildings glow at sunset.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star Hospes Palacio de San Esteban

Choose between a quick return to Madrid or a scenic route through Segovia and the Sierra de Guadarrama. Visit Segovia’s Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle before climbing twisting mountain passes like Puerto de Navafría and Navacerrada. End the day descending into Madrid, where you can toast the journey with rooftop views, fine wine, and the city’s buzzing energy.

Overnight Stay: 5-Star VP Plaza España Design

Wrap up your tour with a relaxed morning in Madrid. Wander through the Mercado de San Miguel, shop along Gran Vía, or visit a final museum before your departure. Whether you’re heading home or extending your stay, the final moments in Spain’s capital provide the perfect conclusion to a week of unforgettable driving, food, and cultural discovery across Spain and Portugal.