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$3229 $3068

Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this program with a $350 deposit. Final payment is due 60 days before departure.

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      We are also running this program as two separate halves: Portugal on June 22–28 and Spain on June 28–July 5.

      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 06/22/2025 - 07/05/2025

      • Max Participants: 16

      • 14 Days / 13 Nights

      Overview

      Immerse yourself in the best that the Iberian Peninsula has to offer. Wander the hilly streets of coastal Lisbon; get your fill of history and culture at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Batalha Monastery, Coimbra University, and the picturesque town of Sintra (optional). Explore Porto and the majestic Douro Valley before heading over to sunny Spain. See the major highlights of Andalucia (Southern Spain): the ornate palace of Alhambra in Granada, Córdoba (an architectural mainstay of Islamic culture), and the Andalucian capital of Seville, home of flamenco dancing. Pair it all up with time in Madrid and Barcelona, and you’ll never run out of fun things to do, eat, or see.

      What's Included:
      • Orientation walks in Lisbon, Granada and Barcelona
      • Batalha gothic monastery entrance and visit
      • Batalha gothic monastery entrance and visit
      • Porto orientation walk
      • Albaicin quarter visit
      • Alhambra guided tour
      • Albaicin quarter visit
      • Mezquita mosque and Jewish quarter visit in Cordoba
      • Flamenco show performance
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout
      • 13 breakfasts, 2 dinners – allow $340-445 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels (13 nights)
      • Internal flight (Porto to Madrid)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by ferry, public bus, taxi, private vehicle, and train
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admissions
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      Day 1: Lisbon Arrive in Lisbon at any time. Meet your group for a welcome meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.

      You may arrive in Lisbon at any time today. The nearest airport is Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS). Due to the potential for flight delays or cancellations—and to give you more time to explore the city—we recommend that you consider arriving in Lisbon at least a day in advance. This will also give you time to adjust to the time difference and overcome any jet lag. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Lisbon before and/or after the trip. Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting Please note that check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to have dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to get to know one another further. Joining Instructions When you arrive at the airport, you can either take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the hotel. Via Taxi A taxi costs €20 EUR during the hours of 7:00 am to 9:00 pm from Lisbon Airport to Lisbon City Center. During the hours of 9:00 pm to midnight, the cost is €25 EUR. Journey time should be roughly 20 minutes, give or take. Note that prices are estimates only. A surcharge can apply on weekends, bank holidays, and per piece of luggage. *If you need a taxi in order to visit the city during your stay, you can ask the hotel how much it should cost and then deal with the driver. This way, no bad surprises occur with less-than-honest drivers! Via Aerobus Shuttles run every 20 minutes, every day of the week, from 7:45 am to 8:15 pm. The Aerobus (Carris n. 91) runs between the Airport and the city center. Tickets can be purchased on board. Fare is €1.20 EUR for one ride, €3.10 EUR per 1-day ticket, and €2 EUR for a 1-day TAP Voucher. Journey time is roughly a 35-40 minute ride. Use Google Maps to figure out where you should get off the bus. We often use Residencial Florescente hotel. If that is the case, get off the bus at the “Restauradores” stop. Cross the square to the red “Correios” (post-office) building and take the street next to it. This will lead you directly to Rua Portas de Santo Antão. Turn left and you will find the hotel on your left. Accommodation: Residencial Florescente (or similar) * For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

      Enjoy an orientation walk of Lisbon. The rest of the day is free for exploration. See our optional activities section further below for our suggestions on what to do with your time. If you have already explored Lisbon on the previous day, you could opt to take a day trip to Sintra in the foothills of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, enjoy a Fado (Portuguese folk music) performance and traditional Portuguese dinner in one of Lisbon's oldest neighborhoods. Accommodation: Residencial Florescente (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      Leave Lisbon behind and head north to the small hill town of Batalha. Visit the Bathala Monastery, which was built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. The elaborate, Gothic-style architecture of this UNESCO site is considered to be one of the masterpieces of the region. If time permits, make a stop in the medieval town of Óbidos. If you're interested in visiting this town during your tour of Portugal, we recommend waiting to make arrangements for a day tour to Óbidos until Day 4. Later, continue to the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra. Approximate travel time: 2 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Coimbra (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Enjoy a free day to explore Coimbra. Explore the winding streets and the riverfront filled with restaurants and bars. You may choose to visit the famous Coimbra University, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 (and also the inspiration for Harry Potter's Hogwarts). Portugal's most prestigious university, the University of Coimbra is a must-see landmark. The Joanina Library (Biblioteca Joanina) is one of the most ornate libraries in the world with it's breathtaking frescoes, intricate carvings and gold-leaf touches. Also in Coimbra you will find Conimbriga, the best-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. If you feel you have the time, you can opt for a day trip to the Templar city of Tomar. Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Coimbra (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Continue to the historic and vibrant coastal town of Porto in the morning, and take an orientation walk upon arrival. Set aside the Douro River, Portugal's second city is one of the most interesting destinations in Europe. With its Medieval architecture, it's Dom Luis I Bridge and Art Nouveau cafes, there's something for everyone. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs by train Accommodation: Ibis Porto Centro São Bento (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Enjoy a free day to explore Porto. Opt take a cruise down the Douro Valley, or explore the city which gained UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1996. Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings. Bargain at the Bolhão Market. Wander the city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district, visit São Francisco church, the palatial former 19th-century stock market Palácio de Bolsa or head to the Clerigos Tower for a panoramic view of the city. We will finish off the day with a tour of the cellars of the region's famed export, Port wine. Learn about the art of Port making and the processes that render its rich taste. Indulge in a tasting and raise a glass to a day well spent. Saúde! Accommodation: Ibis Porto Centro São Bento (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Hop on a plane to your next destination, the capital of Spain: Madrid. Lively, passionate Madrid is a treasure trove of art and architecture, with its royal palaces and works by masters including Goya, Picasso, and Dalí. Be sure to take in some tapas. Madrid is one of the richest culinary capitals of Europe, and showcases food from all over Spain. Kindly note there is a 20kg luggage weight restriction on this internal flight. Please make sure to plan your packing with this in mind. See our optional activities list further down on this page for our suggestions on what to see in Madrid. Approximate travel time: 1.5 hours by plane Accommodation: Hotel Europa (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Take a brief orientation walk with your tour leader, then enjoy a full day of free time to explore this bustling capital. See our optional activities list further down on this page for our suggestions on what to see in Madrid. Accommodation: Hotel Europa (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Depending on the time of our bus, you will most likely have a bit more free time this morning to explore Madrid. We then travel by local bus south to Granada. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief orientation walk to get a feel for the city. We will wander through the historic quarter of the Albaicin and try to take in a sunset. With its narrow lanes and fantastic views back to the Alhambra, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular color-washed skyline when the sun goes down. Approximate travel time: 4-4.5 hrs by local bus Accommodation: Hotel Casa Palacio Pilar del Toro (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Enjoy a guided visit of the Alhambra, one of the greatest accomplishments of Islamic art and architecture. Learn about Granada’s reign as one of the region’s most regal cities during the Muslim rule of Spain, which is captured in time within the Alhambra. (Visits to the Alhambra may vary and take place on Day 3 or 4, depending on ticket availability, special events or holidays in Spain.) After visiting the Alhambra, opt to take a wander through the historic city. In the evening, opt for a night on the town. The city is filled with trendy tapas bars and has a lively music scene. Accommodation: Hotel Casa Palacio Pilar del Toro (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Today we travel to Seville via picturesque Cordoba. Upon arrival in Cordoba we visit the city's most famous monument, the extraordinary Mezquita. Built as a mosque in 785 by the Moors, the Mezquita was converted in the 16th century by the remarkable addition of a Christian cathedral inserted into the center of the building. We highly recommend booking a guided tour to get a fuller understanding. Afterward, we will wander among narrow winding lanes, traditional houses, and charming cafés in Cordoba's historic medieval Jewish quarter. Discover one of Spain’s three remaining synagogues. We will then travel to Seville by train. After checking into our hotel we will have free time to get to know the city. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Cool Sevilla Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Spend a day enjoying Seville and its Moorish influence. Opt to explore the interiors and gardens of the Alcázar, a magnificent palace dating from Moorish times, or the true heart of Seville, the Santa Cruz quarter— a charming area with winding alleys, picturesque lime-washed houses, flowery patios, and small squares. Seville is home to the world’s largest gothic cathedral — climb the adjoining tower for great views of the city. Other attractions include the Museo Arqueológico, the Casa de Pilatos and the Parque de María Luisa, which has a maze of paths, garden beds, pretty little patios, fountains, and shaded lawns. At the end of the day, enjoy a flamenco performance in the city known for the energetic dance. Be swept away by the flamenco's passion, fire, and grit! Please note that if you wish to visit popular sites and want to avoid waiting in line, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. We recommend pre-arranging your visit to the Alcázar of Seville. Accommodation: Cool Sevilla Hotel (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Hop on the train and get comfortable on the journey north to Barcelona. Take an orientation walk, including visits to the Gothic Quarter, the Boqueria market and Las Ramblas. In the evening participate in a G Adventures-supported paella cooking class served and prepared by migrant students, followed by a group dinner to round out the day. Mescladis, Catalan for "Mixed Space," is a migrant training kitchen and cafe in the heart of Barcelona that features a unique feel that fuses old Catalan favorites and migrants' home recipes. With the help of migrant students, learn how to make paella with the resident chef, accompanied by a discussion that promotes social reflection - with the kitchen and food at the center of it all. Then enjoy the fruits of your labor! Approximate travel time: 6 hrs by train Accommodation: Hotel AA Viladomat Barcelona (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Barcelona at any time. The nearest airport is Barcelona's Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). If you wish to extend your stay in Barcelona, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off the lesser-value program(s) (up to three programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can help you find a trip from our partner tour's much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any of their tours, and you would still receive GEEO's fast and attentive customer service. Meals included: Breakfast

      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please read our general FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Portugal and Spain
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important to review our Terms and Conditions before signing up for a GEEO program.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation Policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in writing by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires.
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      Trip Notes
      1. LUGGAGE: In Europe, it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels, or other public places. We use some public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses, etc. and possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. You should be able to comfortably walk for 10-30 minutes at a time with your luggage. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage that is compact and lightweight. Carrying your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.
      2. Due to revised regulations for Alhambra's ticketing system, your passport information must be provided to G Adventures at least 30 days prior to departure in order to guarantee your guided tour of the Alhambra. If your booking for this trip is confirmed after that period (with less than 30 days prior to departure), we will do our best to secure a ticket for your guided Alhambra tour. However, please note that due to high demand for tickets, we are not able to guarantee this inclusion if your booking is confirmed within 30 days prior to departure. In the event we cannot secure a guided tour of the Alhambra for you, alternative options such as a self-guided visit of the Alhambra (with reduced access), or visits to the nearby districts of Albaicín and Sacramonte will be arranged. Visits to the Alhambra in Granada may vary and take place on Day 3 or 4, depending on ticket availability, special events or holidays in Spain.
      3. ORIENTATION WALKS: The orientation walking tours on this trip are often on cobblestone roads at steep grades and can last several hours. Feel free to opt-out of these walking tours if you wish to, as they can be very physically taxing. In some cases, on the other side of the coin, they may move a bit too slow for you. If you have a map, a travel app, or a guidebook, feel free to go off on your own. GEEO wants you to have the experience you desire, and sometimes that means separating yourself at times from the group.
      4. GUIDES: In Europe, all guiding is based around local guides, all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks that will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are legally unable to share historical facts and figures in public places. Your tour leader will be able to help you find a local guided tour in each location if you would like one.
      5. ACCOMMODATION: It is important to note that accommodation in Europe tend to be quite different to other areas of the world you may have traveled in. Buildings and rooms are generally old and may not have been renovated or maintained to the highest standard. Often downtown hotels in Europe were not build to be hotels but rich owners houses, which have been changed into hotels. Therefore unusual room sizes are common as large rooms have been partitioned in the past, resulting in rather "thin" walls. On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions, which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations. Important: Single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller, and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.
      Group Leader Description
      All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Fitness Level
      This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go at your own pace.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room.
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures regional office (weekdays 9:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. GST): +44 20 7243 9870 For emergencies after office hours: +44 7817 262 559 If you are unable for any reason to contact the local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with the 24-hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Suggested Checklist
      • Raincoat and/or umbrella
      • Personal clothing for cool weather (lows in the 40s–50s, highs in the 60s–70s)
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Daypack
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Sun hat
      • Water bottle
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Toiletries – important: some hotels do not give you soap and shampoo
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit including lip salve, aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
      Optional Checklist
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can also buy snacks when you get there, so don’t go crazy
      • Ziplock bags
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      • Light fleece top
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Travel insurance (with photocopies)
      • Airline tickets (with photocopies)
      • EUR/USD cash
      • Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
      • G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information, and dossier
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent 10-30 days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. You can also use a local laundromat, if necessary.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO programs require the participant to have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching here. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to Portugal or Spain. Non-American participants should check with their government and local embassy to find out if they need visas.
      Money Exchange
      Portugal and Spain are both part of the Eurozone and use the common currency, the euro (EUR). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
      Tipping
      It is customary in Europe to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service (€1-2 EUR for snacks or 10% of a meal bill). Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from €3-5 EUR per person per day, depending on the quality and length of the service. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. The amount is entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline, €30-40 EUR per person per week would be appropriate.
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90-120 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins in Lisbon and ends in Barcelona. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Lisbon. You may want to arrive in Europe one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart Barcelona any time on the final day of the program.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. Portugal has type F outlets for two circular prongs (type C and E plugs also work), and the voltage is 220-240V. Spain has type C outlets for two circular prongs, and the voltage is 220-240V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
      Expectations
      Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
      • The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe, well-located place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury, however, as our priority is keeping our programs as affordable as possible.
      • The same goes for transportation. We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      • You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
      • We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      • Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
      Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
      Weather
      The entire country of Portugal basks in the sunshine in the summer, with only slight temperature variations from one region to another. Cooling breezes off the Atlantic Ocean buffer the heat (highs in the upper 70s F) in the coastal towns of Lisbon and Porto, especially at night. Summer in Spain is hot and dry. Expect highs in the upper 80s in Madrid and Barcelona, whereas Seville and Granada will be hotter, often in the upper 90s.

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      Tour Company Fee
      See our price in the top right corner
      Optional Activities
      $150-350 USD
      International Airfare from the United States
      Approximately $1,000-1,700 USD If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
      Airport Transfers
      Varies depending on whether you take public transport or taxis. Anywhere from $30 to $100
      Insurance
      $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      Tipping
      We recommend €60-80 EUR ($70-90 USD) for your G Adventures tour leader, $30 for tipping local guides and drivers
      Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary
      $340-445 USD
      Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
      Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      Vaccines
      Variable. Please consult your doctor.
      Souvenirs
      Variable; at your personal discretion.
      Non-Educator Donation
      $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally, sometimes in the local currency, and you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please use them as a rough guide for budgeting your trip.
      Portugal
      LISBON
      Belém Tower: €6 EUR per person Take a trip to the coastline to see this charming fort, built to protect Lisbon from raiders invading from the sea. Climb up the tower for great views of the ocean and surrounding city. Mercado da Ribeira Market Take a wander through this traditional food market, Lisbon's main market since 1892. The stalls selling fresh produce are open between 6am and 2pm. Rossio Square: Free Stop in this lively square to get a taste of the local hustle and bustle. Santa Justa Lift: €6 EUR per person Take a ride up 147ft from the lowest to highest points of Portugal. Sit back and enjoy the views. Sao Jorge Castle: €15 EUR per person Climb up to this Moorish castle for a wander around the impressive grounds on a guided tour, and a great view over Lisbon and Tagus River. Alfama District: Free Explore Lisbon’s past in Alfama, one of the city’s oldest quarters. Wander along narrow medieval streets lined with typical tile-covered façades and take a step back in time; the area largely survived the great earthquake of 1755, and still retains much of its original layout. Listen for Portugal’s traditional music, fado, gracing the streets at night. Day Trip to Sintra Get lost exploring the colorful manors, medieval palaces, and lush gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
      COIMBRA
      University of Coimbra Portugal’s most prestigious university, the University of Coimbra is a must see landmark. Explore the World Heritage Site as you enter through the Porta Férra, the old entrance to the citadel of Coimbra constructed in the 10th century. Walk through the campus along mosaic cobblestone paths, explore it's botanical gardens and Chapel of S. Miguel and opt to visit the ornate Joanina Library. Conimbriga Ruins: €3 EUR per person Take a visit to the best-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. Convent of Christ and Templar Castle: Free, not including travel expenses (1 hour outside of Coimbra) Founded in 1160 by Gualdim Pais, grand master of the Knights Templar, the vast complex of the Convent of Christ is an incredible feat of medieval architecture. Climb up the Templar Castle for great views of Tomar. Óbidos: Free, not including travel expenses (1 hour outside of Coimbra) One of the most picturesque and well-preserved medieval towns in Portugal, Óbidos radiates Portuguese charm from the narrow cobbled streets and quaint houses, to its imposing medieval castle, which once guarded the region.
      PORTO
      Lello Bookstore: €5 EUR per person Take a wander around this incredible, and beautifully ornate bookstore built in 1906. Ribeira Square: Free Take some time to walk around this charming square and get in with the local hustle and bustle. Palacio da Bolsa: €10 EUR per person Join a half-hour guided tour of this neoclassical monument. Sao Bento Railway Station: Free The blue painted tiles on the inside of São Bento railway station makes it one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. See for yourself. Clerigos Church and Tower: €4-6 EUR per person Built by the same architect who constructed the Porto Cathedral, the Clérigos Church and Tower is a beautiful Baroque landmark in its own right. Opt to climb over 200 steps to the top of the bell tower for a panoramic view of the city and the Duoro River. Porto Cathedral: Free The Porto Cathedral (called Sé do Porto in Portuguese) is a National Monument and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Adorned with high ceilings, an exquisite courtyard and light-filled cloisters, the Sé has held deep religious and cultural significance for the people of Lisbon for centuries. Porto Ribeira Cruise: 1h-2h, €20 EUR per person Board a boat down Portugal’s Douro River, or “river of gold”. Float along this ancient route used for centuries as a port wine shipper’s route. Marvel in the beauty of the terraced hills along the way.
      Spain
      MADRID
      El Escorial: €10 EUR per person Witness the power and wealth of Spain during the 16th century with a visit to the Escorial, a magnificent palace and mausoleum constructed by Felipe II that became a great center for learning. Museo Nacional del Prado: €15 EUR per person Take in some culture with a trip to the Museo del Prado, one of the greatest art galleries in the world, and a definite highlight of any Madrid trip. Be inspired by its collections and exhibitions. The museum's main emphasis is 15th to 19th-century Spanish, Flemish, and Italian art, but there is plenty of Goya and a wealth of paintings by Diego Velázquez. Taurino Museum: €15-20 EUR per person Ever wanted to learn everything there is to know about the history of bullfighting in Spain? Here's your chance. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: €13 EUR per person The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum displays an overview of art from the 13th century to the late 20th century. Royal Palace (Palacio Real): €12 EUR per person See how kings and queens live with a visit to the Palacio Real, the official (and uninhabited) palace of the King of Spain. Wander the rooms to take in some of the most elaborately decorated and furnished rooms you'll ever see. Reina Sofia National Art Museum: €8-12 EUR per person The Reina Sofia is Spain's national museum of 20th-century art and currently boasts an art collection of over 21,000 works. Plaza Mayor: Free Enjoy some spectacular people-watching with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, the true heart of the city. Enjoy a coffee in one of the plaza’s many cafes and watch the world go by.
      GRANADA
      Granada City Center and Tapas Gourmet Tour: Price varies Explore Granada beyond the Alhambra on a guided walking tour of its historic city center, where centuries of Moorish influence, incredible architecture, and a lively university town await visitors today. Immerse yourself further in Andalusian culture by enjoying some tapas (light bar snacks and appetizers) at bars where the locals hang out. Sample local fare and the region's excellent wine - this is one of the world's gastronomic capitals for a reason! Albaicín (El Albayzín): Free Wander through the historic quarter of the Albaicin. Try to head there for sunset. With its narrow lanes and fantastic views back to the Alhambra, visitors are rewarded with a spectacular color-washed skyline when the sun goes down. Granada Cathedral Cathedral of the Incarnation): €5 EUR per person Be taken by the beauty of one of the largest cathedrals in Spain on this visit to the Cathedral of Granada. Tour its beautiful facades and interiors that house a grand altar and numerous chapels. Built by Queen Isabella, it is a masterpiece of Spanish-Renaissance style.
      SEVILLE
      Santa Cruz Quarter: Free Visit the true heart of Seville, the Santa Cruz quarter. A charming area with winding alleys, picturesque lime-washed houses, flowery patios, and small squares, you can wander, shop, or just soak in the neighborhood's quaint atmosphere while enjoying a refreshing drink (sangria, perhaps) at one of the local restaurants. Alcázar: €13 EUR per person Explore the wonderful interiors and gardens of the Alcázar, a royal palace that was originally a Moorish fort. Arrive during the evening in the summer months and enjoy a series of concerts in the beautiful setting of the Reales Alcázares. La Giralda: €9 EUR per person Climb the tower known as La Giralda, adjacent to the world's largest Gothic cathedral, for spectacular views and a walk among historic walls. The 250-ft Giralda was constructed by the Moors as a mosque between 1184 and 1197. In 1568, after the reconquest, Christians fit the minaret with its bell tower. Casa de Pilatos: €10-12 EUR per person Take time to marvel at one of the grandest mansions in Seville. The home is still inhabited by the Medinaceli family but is open for visitor tours. The Golden Tower (Torre del Oro): €3 EUR per person Dating to 1220, the Golden Tower is the last major building constructed by Seville's historic Muslim population. Santa Paula Convent: €2 EUR per person Visit this beautiful historic convent, established in 1475 and still home to the Jerónimas nuns. Infrequent tours are available in Spanish, but visitors are welcome to the modest museum displaying 16th-18th century ecclesiastical art and sculpture.
      BARCELONA
      Montjuïc: €5 EUR per person Climb to the top of Montjuïc hill for fantastic city views and a visit to a 17th-century fortress, once used as a prison and execution site. La Sagrada Família: €17-37 EUR per person Visit Gaudí’s most famous life work, the cathedral of La Sagrada Familia, an inspiring yet bizarre testament to the artist’s unique vision. La Barceloneta: Free Take a stroll on the boardwalk in the neighborhood of La Barceloneta, an area known for its beaches and waterfront walkways. Visit local restaurants and nightclubs or check out the monuments while there. Parc Güell: €10 EUR per person Get away from it all with a visit to the imaginative Parc Güell. The fantastical works of Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926) are scattered throughout Barcelona, including Parc Güell, Casa Mila, and the Crypt of La Sagrada Familia, which were all established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Stroll the tree-lined paths and admire Gaudí’s creative genius at play. Las Ramblas: See and be seen on Las Ramblas, a large tree-lined pedestrian boulevard perfect for people-watching and window shopping that ends at the harborfront facing the Mediterranean Sea. Casa Batlló: €25-30 EUR per person Deemed the crowning architectural work of Antoni Gaudí, Casa Batlló is a must-visit on any trip to Barcelona.
      🗣️ Additional Spain advice from a former GEEO staff member, Cindy:
      "I lived and taught in Spain for two years, and these are some of the iconic, must-do activities for me in Madrid and Barcelona: In Madrid, have dinner at Restaurante Botin, said to be the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world. Visit some open-air markets (el Rastro is my favorite). Visit the Prado and Reina Sofia museums. Pick up some lunch (bread, olives, manchego, and jamón ibérico, which every supermarket will have) and stroll through the Parque del Buen Retiro until you find a good spot to people-watch and have a picnic. If you have the time while in Sevilla and enjoy sherry (jeréz in Spanish), take a day trip to the home of sherry, Jeréz de la Frontera. You can tour the Tío Pepe Bodega, where some of the most famous sherry in the world is produced. In Barcelona, go to see some of the parks and buildings designed by Gaudí, including the Sagrada Familia. The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is fun to wander. I'd highly suggest taking a day trip out to Montserrat for great views and easy hiking. You can also visit a few different Salvador Dalí museums/homes on a day trip outside of Barcelona. Keep in mind while you're planning that all of Spain practically shuts down on Sundays and during the afternoon siesta, though in large cities this is less of an issue. And, of course, go out to "tapear" (bar-hop and eat tapas) whenever you can! TripAdvisor is a great place to check for current restaurant recommendations."