Spain & Portugal for Second Timers: Aveiro Madeira Nerja

What to expect on this itinerary
During this 10-day off-the-beaten-path tour of Spain and Portugal, glide along the picturesque canals of the small Portuguese town of Aveiro as the sweet sounds of Fado music drift through the air. Delight in the natural beauty of Nerja as magnificent cliff faces rise from the sea, uncover these countries’ hidden treasures, and venture to locales that are rarely frequented, even by the locals. From the indulgent flavors of Madeira wine to the medieval charm of Salamanca, this journey will offer you a unique experience in two of Western Europe’s most spectacular countries.
Customizable Itinerary
Aveiro – Explore the Picturesque Canals
A country with much to discover, Portugal will delight you with its forgotten towns, hidden beaches, and splendid wine country. You will arrive in the city of Aveiro, which is Portugal’s charming version of Venice and where you will be met by your private driver at the airport’s baggage claim. You will be transferred to your luxurious accommodation that was formerly an intricate palace. Today, you will have the wonderful opportunity to glide through the charming canals that crisscross through the city in a private Moliceiro. These are long, narrow, and colorful boats that were traditionally rowed along Aveiro’s canals. On your leisurely ride, you will float through the entire city, finding yourself entirely enchanted by the colorful buildings and charming streets.
What's Included:
Aveiro – Tour the City and Visit Costa Nova
Madeira – Enjoy Breathtaking Views of Funchal
Madeira – Uncover the Magic of Fado
Madeira – Discover the Birthplace of Madeira Wine
Nerja – Relax at the Beach
Nerja – Luxuriate with a Day on the Mediterranean Coast
Madrid – Discover the Old-World Charm of Salamanca
Madrid – Private Tour of Segovia
Madrid – Visit Temple of Debod
Trip Highlights
- Discover the charming canals of Aveiro and be amazed by this hidden gem of a city, which is Portugal’s version of Venice
- Enjoy a private tour of Aveiro and visit the colorful, seaside neighborhood of Costa Nova
- Be delighted by breathtaking views of Aveiro when you ride the magnificent Funchal Cable Car in Madeira
- Marvel at the sounds of Fado as you watch a private show that is accompanied by a gourmet meal
- Discover the lesser-known, Spanish beach town of Nerja, where you will be absolutely stunned by the area’s serene beauty
- Luxuriate on a cruise around the shores of Nerja on a private yacht
- Delight in an excursion to the age-old town of Salamanca
- Immerse yourself in the town of Segovia and learn of the town’s rich history that dates back to ancient times
Detailed Description
From the gorgeous town of Frigiliana on Spain’s southern coast to the tropical vineyards of the Portuguese island of Madeira, Spain and Portugal are home to some of Europe’s most unique treasures. You will uncover the ancient secrets of Salamanca and Segovia, which are located only a short distance outside the Spanish capital of Madrid. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of Aveiro’s charming canals and winding streets, which are lined with colorful homes and cafes. On this luxurious, 10-day adventure of Spain and Portugal, you will venture off the beaten path to discover the very best of the hidden treasures that lie within these splendid countries.
Your tour will begin in Aveiro, which is Portugal’s version of Venice and where you will be enchanted by the lovely canals that wind through the city. You will enjoy exploring the town and learning about history on a private tour. Afterward, you will continue to the Portuguese island of Madeira, which is the birthplace of world-famous Madeira wine. You will indulge in a private excursion to the tropical vineyards of the island and experience a specially curated wine tasting. You will find yourself completely captivated by the melancholy sounds of Portuguese Fado music when you attend a private show. Your show will be accompanied by a gourmet dinner with wine pairing.
The following day, you will arrive on Spain’s southern coast, where you will have the unique opportunity to explore the stunning beach town of Nerja. Here, you will discover the unparalleled town of Frigiliana, which has often been renowned as the most beautiful town in Spain. Soon after, you will arrive in the Spanish capital of Madrid, where you will delight in excursions to the nearby towns of Segovia and Salamanca. On this off-the-beaten-track, 10-day adventure of Spain and Portugal, you will traverse these magnificent regions in utter luxury as you uncover the abundant hidden gems that exist within them.
Starting Price
$3,900 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
The starting price is based on travel during the low season for a minimum of two travelers staying in shared 3-star accommodations. Please inquire for a custom trip quote based on your travel preferences and travel dates.
Verified Traveler Reviews
Based on 3143 reviews
This was one amazing trip. This was very well put together. Zicasso’s travel company was very responsive to all our needs when we planned our trip together. They also responded to all our questions when we had questions about the itinerary. The app with all of the information in one location was amazing. Guides at each of the locations were amazing, with wonderful explanations. We didn't have one bad experience during the whole trip. This was a trip that was a celebration of a milestone birthday, so I am extremely happy that this was planned so well. We strongly recommend this company and will choose to go with them for our future trips!
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Oh my goodness, everything was so well done! There was not one moment of uncertainty. From the moment we landed off the plane, our very helpful, friendly driver/guide was there to assist. We had a total of three tour guides all week and each one of them was professional, friendly and fun! They were incredibly knowledgeable as they shared their true love for their country. The tours were well planned, thought out, and executed. We never felt scattered. We felt relaxed and knew we were in very capable hands.
The accommodations were perfectly located, close to everything, but not in the middle of it. We could not be more pleased with literally everything. Well done!!!
Thank you to Zicasso’s travel agent for his patience in the beginning. Us girls had a few challenges in the planning phase, but he stayed with us with grace and patience. Your professionalism is much appreciated!
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Zicasso’s travel agent did a fantastic job. We had so much fun. The guides for our trip were very knowledgeable. Both my son and I wanted to understand the history in-depth of what we were seeing; the guides were able to do that. Everyone who was to meet us was on time. The restaurants the travel agent recommended were outstanding. The hotels were well located. In this age of internet travel booking, I am sold again on the great value a knowledgeable and thoughtful travel agent can provide.
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Our trip exceeded our expectations! Zicasso’s travel agent really listened to what we were interested in seeing and doing. He put together a great itinerary, with a balance of guided/planned activities and unscheduled time because we like to explore on our own sometimes.
All of the hotels were beautiful, ideally located, and had attentive staff.
Whenever we had a question or concern before or during the trip, our travel specialist was very responsive and helpful. It was our first visit to Spain and thanks to the travel company, it was stress-free and wonderful. We highly recommend!
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Our trip was phenomenal, mostly because of our outstanding agent. She planned an itinerary that was perfect for our needs and she was able to manage a couple of minor glitches through her well-developed and user-friendly app. We had lovely hotels, punctual, friendly, and safe drivers, train tickets at our fingertips, and just about everything we needed.
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We had an excellent experience before and during the trip. Guides were informative and hotels were in great locations to the sites we wanted to see. Travel was well outlined and transfers were smooth. The cooking class was great. We would recommend Zicasso's travel company.
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