Contiki - Book Now, Travel Later - Save up to 25% on 2022-23 travel

from 

£1,136

per person
 
Duration: 11 Days
Tour Provider: Contiki
Deal Code: DTU05PD

 

 

Description

 

 

 


 

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Spain & Portugal Highlights 

Visiting : Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Lisbon, Cascais, Sintra, Leiria, Aveiro, Porto, Salamanca, Avila

Travel Date : 6th Spetember 2022 {Multiple dates available, rates may vary}

Contiki Selling Price from £1,136 per person

About this trip :

With just over two weeks under the Iberian sun, this trip will guide you through the rich and unique culture of both Spain & Portugal. Explore Cascais on a street art tour, see a Flamenco show, and enjoy a Special Stay night in a 15th century monastery in Córdoba. Plus, explore the UNESCO-listed sites of Porto & Sintra, tick off a Game of Thrones filming location in Seville, and dine on traditional Spanish & Portuguese dishes in the ultimate treat for the senses.

  • Duration : 11 days
  • Places : 11 places
  • Meals : 10 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners
  • Transport Style : Coach
  • Group Size : Maximum 51 people
  • Team : Experienced Trip Manager & Driver Team and Local Guides

Book With Confidence : 

  • Only £60 deposit to book - Reserve your space now with a deposit, pay the rest 45 days before departure
  • No booking fee, no change fees - Change your travel dates or even your trip for free
  • ABTA & ATOL Protected - Your travel is always protected

Stay in Spain & Portugal : 

All accommodation is included on this trip

1 night in Contiki Special Stay, 10 nights in Hotel

Day wise itinerary

DAY 1 - MADRID TO CORDOBA

Madrid

Welcome to Spain! Join up with your new crew today and we'll start our adventure by heading to Córdoba.

Cordoba

Flowers adorn storybook balconies & charming little lanes will take your breath away in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, overflowing with history. We'll start with a walking tour to fall head over heels with Córdoba, and a trip to the Mezquita (Mosque of the Caliphs) will be the perfect way to spend our day. This evening we'll stay in for an included dinner together at our Special Stay for the night, a 15th Century monastery with vaulted ceilings, outdoor pool and internal courtyard.

Stay : Monasterio de San Francisco

DAY 2 - CÓRDOBA TO SEVILLE

Cordoba

Ready to explore more of Andalucía? This morning we'll leave historical Córdoba with our sights set on sun-soaked Seville.

Seville

13th century architecture and one of the world's biggest cathedrals wait for us in the passionate arms of Southern Spain's capital, Seville. We'll be seduced with a guided stroll of the city, admiring the city's river, Mudéjar palaces & aristocratic mansions, before settling down to an included dining experience together tonight.

Stay : YIT Via Seville (or similar)

DAY 3 - SEVILLE

Seville

Another day free to explore Seville? Don't mind if we do. Take a wander through picturesque Barrio Santa Cruz, visit the Alcazar (a Game of Thrones location for those in the know) and explore winding medieval lanes to your heart's delight. Just be sure to save some energy for our optional EatWith dining experience tonight, an authentic feast on Seville's rooftops.

Stay : YIT Via Seville (or similar)

DAY 4 - SEVILLE TO LISBON

Seville

We couldn't think of a more perfect way to say goodbye to Spain, and say goodbye we must, because our agenda today sees us moving westwards on the Iberian penninsula to Portugal. Crossing the border, spirits are high as we cruise along the Algarve, where petiscos and pastéis de nata await.

Lisbon

Welcome to yet another example of incredible Europe – how can countries sit so geographically close yet be so distinctly different? Here in Lisbon, vintage looking trams roll down cobbled streets and tiny intricate tiles make everything beautifully picturesque. With plenty of time for exploring tomorrow, you're free to take to the streets and check out some of the sidestreet cafes or restaurants for dinner, and real foodies won't want to miss the optional Tastes of Lisbon experience to discover the best authentic food spots around the city.

Stay : VIP Inn Berna (or similar)

DAY 5 - LISBON

Lisbon

Starting to feel fully immersed in all things Portugal, this morning we'll get guided around the city and check out all the hotspots including Portugal's Christo Rei (Christ the Redeemer), Rossio Square, the Belem District, home to the famous tower of the same name, and feel some Moorish vibes at a monastery where Vasco de Gama's tomb is held. With free time this afternoon, those looking for local vibes will fall head over heels for bohemian bars, riverside clubs and plenty of cute boutiques. Tonight, you'll be able to join an optional dinner experience at Al Faro restaurant.

Stay

VIP Inn Berna (or similar)

DAY 6 - LISBON TO LEIRIA VIA CASCAIS AND SINTRA

Lisbon

After breakfast this morning we'll head up the coast to Leiria, but not before stopping en route at Cascais and Sintra.

Cascais

Our first stop this morning is in the coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and tasty seafood. Stroll along the marina or opt in for a Contiki Cares experience hosted by local residents: a street art tour showcasing the culture of a neighbourhood shaking off old perceptions by creating an urban art gallery unlike anywhere in the world.

Sintra

We couldn't leave Lisbon without a visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra. This fairytale town features turreted pastel-coloured palaces and charming castle ruins, with the star of the show being the insta-famous Pena Palace.

Leiria

You may not have heard of Leiria before, but we promise it'll soon charm you. A medieval old town, an iconic castle, outdoor restaurants and sweet Portuguese cakes greet us in this modest town between Lisbon and Porto. We'll come together tonight for an included dinner and a chance to swap stories about everything we've seen today.

DAY 7 - LEIRIA TO PORTO VIA AVEIRO

Leiria

Saying 'Tchau' to Leiria after breakfast, we'll take the coach towards Porto, via Aveiro.

Aveiro

This mini-Venice is a gorgeous town built on canals. We'll have an optional traditional boat tour to cruise the winding canals, admiring the colourful houses and learning about the area's history.

Porto

Cruising into the terracotta washed city of Porto, we'll enjoy a free evening tonight with plenty of time to explore tomorrow.

Stay : Ibis Porto Gaia

DAY 8 - PORTO

Porto

Alive with galleries & coffee shops, the city of Porto is basically a dream. We’ll find heritage in the old wooden tram that rattles along the streets & in the UNESCO stamped alleys of Ribeira. You'll have the chance to explore Porto in your free time today, seeing all the main sites like the lavish São Fransisco Church and 19th century Palácio de Bolsa and wandering the picturesque coastline, before an optional but must to experience this evening: a walking tour of Porto complete with port tasting.

Stay : Ibis Porto Gaia

DAY 9 - PORTO TO SALAMANCA

Porto

See ya Portugal, you've shown us all your best places and we're feeling very thankful!

Salamanca

Rolling back over the border to Spain, we'll settle for the night in Salamanca. We're just 2 hours from Madrid but somehow Salamanca feels like a whole other world, with a 13th century University, mysteriously futuristic gargoyles, a painted indoor sky fresco, and a Cathedral dotted with carved stone shells. After orienting ourselves to the city we'll have some free time to find some food (think cheeses, cured meats, wine & sweet almond cookies) and explore more this evening.

Stay : Hotel Vincci Ciudad De Salamanca

DAY 10 - SALAMANCA TO MADRID VIA ÁVILA

Salamanca

Satisfied with our time in Salamanca, we'll make our way back to Madrid with a stop in Ávila.

Avila

Ávila is best known for its perfectly preserved 11th century medieval walls, protecting the medieval UNESCO World Heritage-listed city inside. We'll stop to admire them and find ourselves some lunch before jumping back in the coach, bound for Madrid.

Madrid

Back where it all began, again! Here in Madrid you'll be able to make the most of our final night together with an optional dinner of traditional food at an iconic Spanish restaurant near the Plaza Mayor.

Stay : Hotel City House Florida Norte (or similar)

DAY 11 - DEPART MADRID

Madrid

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. 


Best of Balkans

Visiting : Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia

Travel Date : 31st May 2022 {Multiple dates available, rates may vary}

Contiki Selling Price from £1,721 per person

About this trip :

Hit up an incredible 6 countries in just one trip and take in the best sights the Balkans has to offer. Whether it's exploring the beautiful city of Dubrovnik, partying until the early hours in Belgrade or strolling around the historic sights Sarajevo has to offer, this trip has something for everyone.

  • Duration : 15 days
  • Countries : 6 Countries
  • Meals : 14 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
  • Transport Style : Coach
  • Group Size : Average 38 people
  • Team : Experienced Trip Manager & Driver Team and Local Guides

 

Book With Confidence : 

  • Only £60 deposit to book - Reserve your space now with a deposit, pay the rest 45 days before departure
  • No booking fee, no change fees - Change your travel dates or even your trip for free
  • ABTA & ATOL Protected - Your travel is always protected

Where You'll Stay :

  • All accommodation is included on this trip
  • 14 nights in Hotel
  • Live it up in hotels every night of the trip, one with a rooftop pool overlooking the sparkling Bay of Lapad in Dubrovnik. Sleep twin or triple share, or upgrade to your own room for a bit of extra cash.

Day wise itinerary :

DAY 1 - BUDAPEST TO LJUBLJANA

Budapest

This morning meet up with your Trip Manager - meet the squad and then we'll be ready for the road to Ljubljana, a name you'll be able to pronounce by the time we're leaving for Croatia.

Ljubljana

Although you might find nods to neighbouring countries within Slovenian culture, a distinct identity has evolved from this melody of influences. After our guided walking tour, explore the bohemian art district of Metelkova Mesto, sit by one of the cities atmospheric watercourses & try all the incredible food on offer.

Stay : Holiday Inn Express Ljubljana (or similar)

DAY 2 - LJUBLJANA

Ljubljana

You've probably seen pictures of Lake Bled, but nothing will prepare you for the real thing. With its fairytale medieval castle reaching out of an islet, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Julian Alps and the turquoise waters of the lake itself, it really is like something out of a Disney movie. After a morning of swoonin  at all that beauty, we'll head back into Ljubljana for a free evening to grab dinner. We recommend our Bitemojo FTA, which allows you to head to local eateries and try authentic cuisine, guided by an app on your phone.

Stay : Holiday Inn Express Ljubljana (or similar)

DAY 3 - LJUBLJANA TO PLITVICE LAKES

Ljubljana

Next up is something altogether drop dead gorgeous....

Plitvice

A strong introduction to Croatia is on the cards today with cascading teal forest pools at Plitvice Lakes. Why this place is not famous world over as one of the prettiest places in Europe, we have no idea.

Stay : Bellevue Hotel (or similar)

DAY 4 - PLITVICE TO SPLIT VIA KRKA

Plitvice

We'll hit the road this morning for Split.

Krka National Park

On the way we'll have an option to experience even more natural beauty at the famous Krka Waterfalls. As well as being one of the most photogenic places you've ever seen, you'll also have a chance to cool down and take a dip in the azure river as tumbling waterfalls spray all around you.  These 7 magnificent falls are some of the most beautiful in the world. The best part? Unlike Plitvice, you can actually take a dip in the azure waters. 

Split

After a day of swimming and plenty of selfies, it's time to head onto split, where we'll enjoy an optional farm-to-table Croatian feast, washed down with local wine.

Stay : Hotel Split Inn (or similar)

DAY 5 - SPLIT

Split

What better place to get acquainted with your new squad then here on the coast of Croatia. Spend a free day roaming around or flop in your hotel room before we crack on with the rest of our day!

Stay : Hotel Split Inn (or similar)

DAY 6 - SPLIT TO DUBROVNIK

Split

Split it's been fantastic, but we have to leave for other Croatian gems further down the coast.

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Dubrovnik

The drive along the Dalmatian coastline to Dubrovnik is a sightseeing must do all on its own. On arrival in the city you'll be greeted by limestone walls; an Old Town filled with quintessentially Croatian cafes and plenty of clubs; and a mountain meets sea situation will see you falling in love within seconds. Tonight over dinner with the crew, spirits will no doubt be high and the show's not over yet!

Stay : Petka Hotel (or similar)

DAY 7 - DUBROVNIK

Dubrovnik

The city of Dubrovnik is so much more than just a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Game of Thrones location - not that either of those claims to fame are even mildly mediocre. After you've been guided around the city with intricate detail with our local guide you'll be armed with the knowledge to pick out a waterside rock bar where you can swim and indulge 'til your heart's content.

Stay : Petka Hotel (or similar)

DAY 8 - DUBROVNIK TO BUDVA VIA KOTOR

Dubrovnik

Now that we've done all things Dubrovnik, we'll coast our way to Montenegro via the dramatic Adriatic Coastline.

Kotor

All good journeys are broken up by fjords, steep mountain landscapes & a trot in a town that meets old and new. Our journey between Dubrovnik and Budva will tick all the boxes,  stopping in the super-yacht spot of pretty Kotor.

Budva

If you tire of European coastal towns, you have tired of life. Take it easy tonight with the assurance that you have all day tomorrow in Montenegro's seaside beauty of Budva.

Stay : Hotel Tatjana (or similar)

DAY 9 - BUDVA

Budva

Just what does one do with a whole day free to explore the 2,500 year old town of Budva? Well - you could start with a dip in the dreamy Adriatic Sea, continue with coffee in a café draped in vines down a narrow cobbled stone road, finish with the Church of St. Ivan, and eat some milk-soaked lamb and buttered polenta along the way. That should get you started.

Stay : Hotel Tatjana (or similar)

DAY 10 - BUDVA TO SARAJEVO VIA MOSTAR

Budva

The time has come to farewell our ocean hangs in exchange for rivers, countrysides and captivating culture, which means a sad goodbye to beautiful Budva.

Mostar

Mostar is home to the world's cutest bridge. According to us. But still - we've seen a lot of bridges. You'll have plenty of time to oohh and aahh before we kick on to our 2-night site of Sarajevo.

Sarajevo

Later on in our perfect day, we'll skip into the brimming with lively culture town of Sarajevo, also known as Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital. With all the day's explorations you may just want to hang out and take on the city with the fresh eyes of a new day.

Stay : Hollywood Hotel (or similar)

DAY 11 - SARAJEVO

Sarajevo

The only way to uncover the town of Sarajevo is with the wisdom shared on a guided walking tour. We'll help you tap into history & understand the magnitude of our destination before leaving you to lighten the mood with an evening of bars and nightlife, should you so choose.

Stay : Hollywood Hotel (or similar)

DAY 12 - SARAJEVO TO BELGRADE

Sarajevo

Rise up, roamers! We're departing for the town of Belgrade to continue our epic frolic through the Balkans. 

Belgrade

Another border crossing is on the agenda as we wave our way into Serbia en route to Belgrade. Medieval meets modern in this bustling, pure white city. Zen folk can go sit on the Hill of Contemplation or stroll Sava rivers, others can see the fortress of Beogradska Tvrđava & enjoy the lively mood of Belgrade by night. 

Stay : Hotel Prag (or similar)

DAY 13 - BELGRADE TO BUDAPEST

Belgrade

Leaving Belgrade behind, today we're onto beautiful Budapest. 

Budapest

Fast becoming one of the hottest destinations in Europe, Budapest is on our beeline. Despite having all day tomorrow to get cosy with this city, we'll get stuck into it today checking out the likes of the royal palace, the famed chain bridge & the stunning parliament building. Later you'll have the option to take a cruise and make the most of your first Hungarian evening. Later, you'll no doubt want to keep things moving at one of the city's famous ruins bars, that need to be seen to be believed!  

Stay

Ibis Budapest City South (or similar)

DAY 14 - BUDAPEST

Budapest

This morning we'll set out along the cobbled streets of Budapest for a guided walking tour to explore what this city has on offer. We'll see St Stephen's Basilica, a grand neo-Classical Roman Catholic affair named after the first King of Hungary, and the largest church in the country. The rest of the day will be yours to lounge about at the famous thermal baths and soak up the city alfresco. This evening we'll join forces as a group for an included dinner in town to try some more Hungarian delicacies. 

Stay : Ibis Budapest City South (or similar)

DAY 15 - DEPART BUDAPEST

Budapest

That's a wrap! Our love affair with the Balkans has sadly come to an end! But perhaps we can get the squad back together for a reunion trip?


Note : 

Contiki welcomes anyone from ages 18 – 35 and we had everyone that covered all ages: youngest to oldest.

Ever Wondered Why the Contiki age Is Exclusively 18-35? This Is Why

The social side of things

We pride ourselves on the social element of our trips; we love connecting people and building a community. We’ve found that travellers want to meet people their own age and build lasting connections when they’re in the same circles or want the same things out of a trip. Also, do you know how many couples have met on Contiki’s?! #JustSayin.

Same same, but different

Stemming on from the social thing is that people in the same age group tend to be more like-minded and have similar interests, meaning connections are built easier AND everyone wants to generally go and do the same things. Someone in their 60’s probably doesn’t want to dance until 4am with an 18-year-old (but hey, you never know).

How about that stamina

Speaking of dancing, the ‘youth’ age range is just that… youthful. They’re ready to go out and see everything (and maybe party the night away), whereas people who are older may want an early night, a romantic evening with their partner or even have children. Keeping it strictly 18-35 helps us give the majority of the group what they want.

Great for first time travellers

You may have also heard that Contiki is a ‘right of passage’ for people, and without sounding too braggy, we agree! Contiki is the perfect option for first time travellers for a number of reasons, including safety, the social side and what you get to see. Most first time travellers will be between 18-35, and this way they can all experience it for the first time together!

But also great for more experienced travellers

Yeah, we know what we just said but hear us out! We can also show more seasoned travellers a different side of the world that’s a bit more off the beaten track and maybe harder to explore solo. A lot of younger peeps want to do Latin America but don’t know where to start, and that’s where we come in. That’s why depending on the region you travel with us, you’ll find ages shift a bit. Many people tick off Europe, and then as they move into their late-twenties and early-thirties they still want the social element of Contiki, but somewhere new.

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Terms & Conditions

Prices listed are per person in Great British Pound, based on twin occupancy, rates for single occupancy may differ, Rates offered are including all discounts unless otherwise stated. All bookings are subject to availability. Other travel periods may be available. Some block out dates may apply. Rates may alter depending upon the dates requested and surcharges if applicable. Final booking confirmation only provided once payment has been processed. Contact our travel team for more details. Our Holiday Centre reserves the right to withdraw this promotion without notice at any time. Flights are not included. Pricing correct as at 21st December 2021.