Spectacular Spain and Portugal Adventure *Registrations Closed
- 10 - 19 July 2022
- 9 Nights/ 10 days
- Weather 15 - 33 C
- Fitness - Med 5km per day
- Price Range - $$$
Spain and Portugal conjure images of flamenco dancers, sangria, tapas, café-lined plazas, sleepy villages with white-washed houses, olive groves, soaring cathedrals, ancient Roman ruins to vast plains and high mountain peaks. These modern countries offers top-notch museums, inventive cuisine and they never fail to open up travellers’ eyes, minds and hearts. From the country to the coast, its landscapes and varied cultures are what we will be exploring.
Oh Spain and Portugal … how you dazzle us with architectural feats and artistic treats, enrich us with historic treasures and nourish us with sangria and tapas! From charismatic cities full of lively bars and hip galleries, to sleepy villages dotted with white washed houses and olive groves, Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden beaches: the Portugal experience can be many things. History, great food and idyllic scenery are just the beginning ……
Both Portugal and Spain offer some of the richest cultural heritage to be found anywhere in Europe. There are excellent examples of Roman, Arab and Catholic inspired influences.
There’s nothing quite like losing yourself while wandering through Lisboa’s Bairro Alto with a belly full of the freshest seafood and local wine, as images of medieval charm and blue painted tiles swirl in your head, only to turn a corner and catch a glimpse of the glimmering sea. Once the world’s richest and most powerful empire and now the vibrant home to powerhouse wine regions, incredible art museums and excellent beaches, Spain and Portugal are a true traveller’s dream.
Inclusions
- Private transport throughout the tour
- 9 Nights accommodation in 4* hotels
- All breakfasts
- Private English speaking guide throughout
- Entrance fees to the Royal Palace Madrid, the Cathedral, Santo Tome Church and La Blanca Sinagogue Toledo, Alhambra, Generalife and Royal Chapel in Granada, the Cathedral and Royal Alcazares in Sevilla and the National Palace in Sintra
- Tapas tour in Madrid (visiting 2-3 bars. Total 6 tapas and 3 drinks (wine, beer, soft drink or water) – maximum 4 hours
- Flamenco show in Sevilla (includes 1 drink per person)
- Food Market Visit and Tapas cooking class in Sevilla
- Portuguese Tart making class in Lisbon
- Fado show in Lisbon
- Airport transfers on the 10th and 19th of July 2021
Exclusions
- International Airfares
- Some entrance fees not stated in the itinerary, for example the Prada Museum in Madrid, which you may or may not arrive in time to attend on the 4th of October. Extra requests to visit sites not stated in the itinerary
- Lunches and Dinners
- Personal purchases
- Drinks and alcohol purchases
- Tipping, we suggest $25 per person per day and collect this at the beginning of the trip to be distributed amongst out drivers, hotel staff and guides. Or you can add to your invoice if you prefer which would be $250AUD or if collect in Spain will be €155
- Travel Insurance, (which is compulsory). We suggest taking travel insurance within 14 days of booking your tour as your deposit is non refundable.
- Airport Transfers before the 10th of October or after the 19th of July will be €30 each way per person and can be arranged for you however please note there will be no tour guides available before the 10th of July or after the 19th of July to assist you so please take this into consideration when booking your flights.
A $500 Deposit is required to secure your spot on this tour. The remainder is due 75 days prior to departure.
Your Tour Leader
Tammie is the founder of Vibrant Women, a retreat and travel company. She spends her days creating inspirational journeys so you can travel in the security of a small group, whilst enjoying another culture. Tammie’s role is to ensure you feel well taken care of throughout your trip. She is constantly sourcing the most enchanting places to run her Inspirational Journeys, places that truly capture your heart and imagination, Spain and Portugal are definitely a must for anyone who loves exploring spectacular places, with like-minded people.
Itinerary
DAY 1: July 10 – ARRIVAL MADRID
*Option to add a Greece Tour before this tour, ask for details
Arrival Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport
Private transfers will be organised based on flights and the number of guests for each transfer
Today is set aside just for arrivals, if you are arriving early in the day, feel free to wander the local area, hang out in a local cafe or do some shopping.
This evening enjoy an included Tapas tour with an English speaking guide: Tapas are one of Spain’s biggest cultural exports to the rest of the world. When people around the globe think of Spanish cuisine, these little treats are right up there with paella and sangria. But not all tapas are created equal, and the concept itself can mean many different things. The Spanish capital is without a doubt one of the best places to experience traditional tapas firsthand. But when choosing where to go, the options can be overwhelming. Madrid has nearly 15,000 restaurants and bars—one for every 211 inhabitants—according to a recent study. This is why we need an English speaking guide with us to show us the best and yummiest places to visit. Also to help us avoid weird offal ones too (lesson from previous experience). What a delicious way to start our tour!
*Airport Transfers before the 10th of July or after the 19th of July will be €30 each way per person and can be arranged for you however please note there will be no tour guides available before the 10th of July or after the 19th of July to assist you so please take this into consideration when booking your flights.
DAY 2: July 11 – MADRID
Madrid, Spain’s capital, is a city so full of life and culture that it’s hard to do justice to it in a few paragraphs. This big European city has its fair share of hustle and bustle, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on providing visitors with an authentic Spanish experience. The Prado Museum features works by some of Spain’s most famed artists, including Velázquez and Goya. The Palacio Real (Royal Palace) is open to the public and the El Rastro flea market or the upscale shops in Salamanca provide hours of shopping.
This morning enjoy a private walking tour of Madrid, including the Palacio Real (Royal Palace). With its 2,000 rooms and it’s NeoClassical style rivals Versailles. We’ll also stop in to the Palace Armory where you’ll be able to see centuries of battle armor and tools, the Cathedral and finish at the Plaza Mayor.
After your morning tour you will have the balance of the day to explore other Madrid sites like museums: the world renowned Prado, Reina Sofia to see Picasso’s Guernica or the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. You might enjoy strolling through the Mercado de San Fernando or take a walk through the spectacular city park, Retiro Park. But if you’re drained from a long day of sightseeing, you might want to rest at an open-air cafe, especially the ones that skirt Plaza Mayor.
Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants or enjoy some free time.
DAY 3: July 12 – MADRID, TOLEDO, GRANADA
After breakfast today, board your mini bus with your tour manager for your first discovery of the day, Toledo. With your private guided tour you will visit the Cathedral, Santo Tomé church and La Blanca Synagogue.
Toledo is one of the Spanish cities with the greatest wealth of monuments. Known as the “city of the three cultures”, because Christians, Arabs and Jews lived together there for centuries and behind its walls Toledo preserves an artistic and cultural legacy in the form of churches, palaces, fortresses, mosques and synagogues. This great diversity of artistic styles makes the old quarter of the capital of Castile – La Mancha a real open-air museum, which has led to it being declared a World Heritage Site.
You then continue South to the unforgettable city of Granada, which was the last strong hold of the Moorish empire in southern Spain until it finally, fell to the catholic kings in 1492. Granada (Gáranata) was once the grandest city in Spain! Set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range it is the most visited of all Andalusian cities.
When Isabel I, the queen of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon, married in 1469, the pair united the peninsula’s two most powerful kingdoms and began a period of economic growth and religious zeal never before seen. They were the driving force behind the brutal Spanish inquisition, beginning the forceful conversion, expulsion and persecution of all non-Christian believers in what was formerly a religiously tolerant Hispania. Granada was the last city of Al-Andalus to fall to the Christian Reconquista in 1492.
Upon arrival into the city, we will check into our centrally located hotel and freshen up.
Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants or enjoy some free time.
DAY 4: July 13 – GRANADA
This morning is dedicated to the magnificent Alhambra, UNESCO World Heritage site, a breath taking Moorish palace and fortress perched on top of a steep hill adjacent to the city Centre. The Alhambra feels like it comes straight from ‘Tales of the Arabian Nights’, rising from the woods against the mountainous backdrop. A true tribute to the beauty of the North African architecture in Andalusia, the Alhambra contains a huge network of beautiful rooms, patios and gardens. The palace is close to architectural perfection, perhaps also the most refined example of Islamic art anywhere in the world and not to mention the most enduring symbol of 800 years of Moorish rule known as Al-Andalus. From afar, the Alhambra’s red fortress’s towers dominate the Granada skyline set against a backdrop of the Sierra Nevada’s magnificent peaks.
Entrance times may vary and require an afternoon tour.
**ALHAMBRA
The entrances for the Alhambra have to be reconfirmed in case of confirmation of the Trip. We can´t confirm entrances until 3 month before. We can´t guarantee, that we will get entrances for the Alhambra.In case of cancellation of the tickets the cancellation fees are 15€ per ticket.
The rest of the day is at leisure and an opportunity for great shopping at the Albycin, where you will feel like you are in a Moroccan souk. Other options are hiking up to the Sacramonte area to enjoy their winding streets and beautiful views from St. Nicholas.
Included Flamenco show: take in the passion and seduction of the art-form known as Flamenco at your included show. Flamenco is an art form that was born, and thrives, here in Spain. Spanish flamenco is the best because Spaniards start dancing when they can barely walk, and they dance every day. The stomping of the feet, the twirling of the body, and the drama of the music are simply part of their culture.
Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants or enjoy some free time.
DAY 5: July 14 – GRANADA, CORDOBA, SEVILLA
Enroute from Granada to Seville, ( around 2 hours) we will make our way to Cordoba. Let the Jewish, Moorish and Christian Córdoba seduce you. This visit (about 4h) will enable you to stroll through the historic center – registered in the list of UNESCO World Heritage – and to broaden your knowledge thanks to your English speaking guide. Discover the history of the medieval Jewish community visiting one of the three synagogues that remain in Spain. Explore famous corners like the small square of flowers, the souk, the orange trees courtyard of the Mosque Cathedral (included) and the typical Cordovan courtyards. During your walk, you will visit traditional some craftsman workshops, also registered in the list of UNESCO World Heritage, through a ceramist’s workshop, a silversmith and a saddler where you will have the opportunity to know the most old-style skills of civilizations that have inhabited this thousand-year-old city.
After your visit of Cordoba, we will proceed to Sevilla!
Historically Andalusians chose to live in fortified hilltop towns and villages called Pueblos Blancos (white villages) to escape preying bandits. These white towns are whitewashed in the Moorish tradition and today are functioning agricultural towns that will give you insight to Andalucia´s colorful past. The romantic town of Ronda, the largest of the White Villages, is the oldest town in Spain, having been established in the 9th Century BC!
Settled by the Phoenicians around the 7th century BC, later conquered by the Muslims and finally settling under Spanish rule, Ronda has had a long and varied history marked by war, trade, and geographic wonder. Ronda is also the birthplace of modern bullfighting. Perched high in the Serranía de Ronda mountains, the old town offers dramatic views over the Rio Guadalevín. The ancient part of Ronda is separated from the new by a vertigo-inducing 328-foot river gash called El Canon del Tajo. Then make your way to the city of Seville, the capital of Andalusia situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, the most cosmopolitan of its neighbors, a storied city that has been Andalucía’s seat of power and glory for nearly 1000 years.
Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants or enjoy some free time.
DAY 6: July 15 – SEVILLA
Visit of the market with your specialized guide, purchase of products and then morning dedicated to the preparation of Sevillian specialties with your chef. During this cooking class, you will discover the best way to eat in Andalusia : the tapas. This tradition allows to taste a variety of dishes in the same meal. Among the most popular: hams and Spanish cheeses, anchovies in vinegar, minced meat, ensaladilla, potatoes aliñás, Spanish larded omelette. Traditional Sevillian desserts are highly influenced by Arabic culture and are made with honey or wine. The best known are cakes and polvorones (shortbread cake). The richest Seville pastry is prepared in the convents of the city.
In the afternoon we explore the vibrant city of Seville with our expert local guide the highlights include a stroll through the Jewish quarter; the impressive cathedral of Saint Mary, burial site of Christopher Columbus and 3rd largest in the world built on top of the Almohad Mosque. Two parts of the mosque were preserved in the cathedral: the Moorish entrance court Patio de los Naranjos; and the Giralda, a minaret converted into a bell tower; the Alcazar de Sevilla, the oldest royal palace in Europe that is still in use.
The original nucleus of the Alcázar, that you will visit today, was constructed by the Moors in the 10th century as a fortified governor’s palace and is still in use today as a residence for the Spanish royal family. It is a spectacular complex of palaces, courtyards and gardens from various periods and in complementing architectural styles – all in all a dazzling trip back in time.
With a flair for drama, its own traditional dance and flamboyant modern architecture, Seville displays Spain’s most noticeable local pride. Nowhere is as quintessentially Spanish as Seville, a city of capricious moods and soulful secrets which has played a pivotal role in the evolution of flamenco, bullfighting, baroque art and Mudejar architecture.
Known as Hispalis in Roman times, Seville was taken by the Moors in 712 and remained a Muslim capital until the 13thcentury. Between 1503 and 1718 Seville had a monopoly as the only trading port between Spain and the Americas, becoming extravagantly wealthy and spawning a Golden Age of arts and literature.
DAY 7: July 16 – SEVILLE, EVORA, LISBON
This morning we will set out for Lisbon with a stop in the town of Évora, capital of Portugal’s south-central Alentejo region and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the city’s historic center stands the ancient Roman Temple of Évora (also called the Temple of Diana).
One of Portugal’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns, Évora is an enchanting place to delve into the past. Inside the 14th-century walls, Évora’s narrow, winding lanes lead to striking architectural works: an elaborate medieval cathedral and cloisters; the cinematic columns of the Templo Romano (near the intriguing Roman baths); and a picturesque town square, once the site of some rather gruesome episodes courtesy of the Inquisition. Aside from its historic and aesthetic virtues, Évora is also a lively university town.
After visiting the sites with your tour manager you will also have a little time to shop for amazing cork products before continuing onto Lisbon.
This evening enjoy an included Fado show: Fado music is a form of Portuguese singing that is often associated with pubs, cafés, and restaurants. This music genre officially originated in Portugal around the 1820s, though it is thought to have much earlier origins. Fado is known for how expressive and profoundly melancholic it is. In fado music, the musician will sing about the hard realities of daily life, balancing both resignation and hopefulness that a resolution to its torments can still occur. It can be described by using the Portuguese word “saudade,” which means “longing” and stands for a feeling of loss. This loss is generally permanent and of long-term consequence. Fado music often has one or two 12 string guitars, one or two violas, and sometimes a small 8 string bass.
DAY 8: July 17 – SINTRA AND CASCAIS
This morning leave the bustle of the city and meet the most stunning places around Lisbon on your private guided tour of Sintra and Cascais.
With its rippling mountains, dewy forests thick with ferns and lichen, exotic gardens and glittering palaces, Sintra is like a page torn from a fairy tale. Its UNESCO World Heritage–listed center, Sintra-Vila, is dotted with pastel-hued manors folded into luxuriant hills that roll down to the blue Atlantic. Leaving Lisbon’s western suburbs and climbing into Sintra feels like crossing over into another world. This town is in a green mountainscape of palaces, country estates, parks and a medieval castle. In the center, the Palace of Sintra was a residence for the Portuguese royalty, and it’s just one of many exquisite properties to win you over.
The Palace of Sintra is the oldest palace in the town, and no royal medieval residence is in a better state of preservation in Portugal. Royalty lived here on and off from the 1400s to the 1700s, and each successive occupant added a bit of their own personality. One, King Manuel I was responsible for a lot of the interior decoration, cladding the walls with eye-catching Seville azulejos. These are in the Mudéjar style (Moorish revival) and have geometric, carpet-like patterns. Another of his works was the magnificent Sala dos Brasões (Coats of Arms Hall), where the coffered ceiling sports the 72 coats of arms of the Portuguese royalty and nobility.
The day continues onto Cascais, a delightful Portuguese fishing town situated on a beautiful coastline. This coastal resort lies just outside of Lisbon, yet this pleasant town is a world away from the commotion of the bustling capital and has retained the charm of its fishing past with its daily catch still being auctioned and the colorful boats that bob in the harbor. Home to stunning sun-soaked beaches, such as Guincho – an incredible surfing beach – and picturesque ocean views, Cascais is truly a spectacular holiday destination full of heritage and history.
Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants or enjoy some free time.
DAY 9: July 18 –LISBON
Your journey will start with a half-day walking tour, discoverring the historic center of Lisbon. Starting with the Baixa and its beautiful Praça do Comércio lined with arcades and ministries or the Rossio and the Praça Don Pedro IV where stands the National Theater which is also located in the vicinity of the Elevador de Santa Justa classified as a National Monument. The Alfama, the oldest and most picturesque district of the capital, is a tangle of narrow, cobbled streets where you will find the “Sé Patriarcal”, a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral dating from the 12th century, and the viewpoint of Santa Luzia.
Then after lunch (for dessert) we will indulge in a unique cooking class. We will learn how to make the best Portuguese custard tarts ever : The famous Pastel de Nata ! The class will take place in the heart of the city, in the trendy foodcourt of Mercado da Ribeira. Duration: about 1h30.
The lets wander and walk of all those custard tarts with a stroll along the Tagus River, the district of Belem is the legacy of the great Portuguese explorers. A lot of emblematic monuments stand in this area : The famous Belem Tower from the 16 century, the discoveries monument built in 1960. The monastery of Jerónimos and the church of Santa Maria where Vasco da Gama and Luis Vaz de Camoes rest in peace. Lisbon is so lively, lets take it all in!
Dinner at one of our favourite restaurants or enjoy some free time.
“Lisbon, more than anywhere in Portugal, has an international feel. You’ll find restaurants serving food from former colonies like Mozambique, Brazil and Angola right next to those serving traditional Portuguese dishes”.
DAY 10: July 19 –DEPARTURE DAY
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Your tour concludes at 10am.
Private transfers will be arranged to the airport for your international flights.
The Trip Notes on this link are always the most up to date version. When booking a tour in advance things regularly change, please always refer to these notes on the website as the most recent version of trip notes for your tour.
Cancellation Policy – Up until 75 days before the start of the tour a $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained. For between 75 days and 45 days, 50% will be forfeited in addition to the non refundable, non-transferable deposit. For less than 45 days or for no shows the entire amount will be retained as we would have already had to pay for accommodation, transport, flights and activities, and this money will not be returned to us. Once the tour has commenced no monies will be returned to you. This is why travel insurance is compulsory.
ARRIVALS – Are to Madrid-Barajas Airport
DEPARTURES – Are from Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport. If you choose to get a return flight from your home country to Madrid you can fly ($100AUD) from Lisbon back to Madrid to meet your departing flight. If you are continuing on with us the flight from Lisbon to Madrid is approx $125AUD and we will be in touch regarding this once you have booked your tour.
Airport Transfers before the 10th of July or after the 19th of July will be €30 each way per person and can be arranged for you however please note there will be no tour guides available before the 10th of October or after the 19th of July to assist you so please take this into consideration when booking your flights.
*Flights from Australia to Madrid return around $1600AUD.
We use Kerstin Rheinlander for our flights. Contact details : Mobile: 0448 958 366 Phone: 1-300-024-856 Email: kerstin.rheinlander@travelmanagers.com.au
Website: https://www.travelmanagers.com.au/ptm/KerstinRheinlander
Facebook: @TravelManagersKerstinRheinlander Instagram: @travelmanagers_kerstinr
Kerstin knows our itineraries and can also provide you with travel insurance and additional support if you want to extend your tours.
To add Greece to the Spain and Portugal Tour you will require 1 extra nights accommodation in Madrid after the Greece tour has concluded on the 9th of July and a flight from Athens to Madrid.
We will look at flights closer to the tiem and be int ouch to suggest the best flight to book.
An extra nights accommodation in Madrid will cost $370 for a single and $210 for a twinshare including airport transfers. We can book your extra nights accommodation and airport transfers for you.
Please click HERE to read the full itinerary for your Barcelona extension. The Barcelona Extension 19 – 21 July 2022. You can add this extension on the booking form or just let Tammie know.
The single supplement is 96€ and this extension does not include transport from Lisbon to Barcelona. We will recommend flight for this closer to the time.
*Please note this is independent travel, independent of Vibrant Women, we have just arranged this for you as some people requested it. This extension requires a minimum of 4 people to proceed. You will not have a guide with you at all times but will be travelling as a group and in your itinerary attached. You have guides booked for sightseeing etc as per the itinerary who will collected you and take you back to your hotel. You also have airport transfers included, however please note the transfer on the 21st is a group transfer so if you are not all departing at the same time a transfer to the airport normally costs around 30 Euros.
To add Barcelona to your trip please contact -admin@vibrantwomen.com.au
Spain and Portugal, are members of the Schengen States, and do not require Australians citizens as tourists to obtain a visa prior to arrival. You require 6 months validity on your passport. * We are unsure at this stage of any extra entry requirements in terms of COVID 19 but will keep you informed.
*Please note this information is correct as of February 2022 and is likely to change regularly. It is anticipated by July 2022 that testing will no longer be required to enter Spain and Portugal as the country moves to a more endemic rather than pandemic response, but that remains to be seen. For the most up to date details about Greece travel advice and safety visit https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ or visit the Greece Ministry for tourism website here for their protocols on arrivals in Greece https://travel.gov.gr/#/
Entry to Spain
All travellers (including children) arriving by air and sea must complete an online Health Control Form 48 hours prior to travel to Spain.
Travellers aged 18 years and older, arriving from a country designated as ‘at risk’ must be vaccinated to enter Spain for tourism purposes.
Travellers aged 12-17 years arriving from a country designated as ‘at risk’ may enter Spain with either a negative COVID-19 diagnostic test (PCR or equivalent, rapid antigen tests are not accepted) taken within 72 hours before travel or a COVID vaccination certificate.
For proof of vaccination, Spain will accept:
- a COVID-19 vaccination certificate – stating that you have completed the full course of vaccination using one of the European Medical Agency (EMA) or World Health Organisation (WHO) approved vaccines (currently Pfizer, Moderna, Astra Zeneca, Janssen, Sinoharm or Sinovac) The certificate is only valid 14 days after the date of the final dose;
Unvaccinated travellers arriving from an ‘at risk’ country who are eligible to enter under another category (see entry requirements for Spain from third countries) must present either
- a negative COVID-19 diagnostic test result taken within 72 hours before you travel – acceptable tests are: PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), TMA (Transcription-Mediated Amplification), RT-LAMP (Reverse Transcriptase Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification) or 24 hours in the case of a RAT (Rapid Antigen Test); or
- a COVID-19 recovery certificate confirming that the holder has recovered from infection. This certificate is valid for 180 days from the date of infection.
Australia is designated an ‘at risk’ country. Unvaccinated travellers from Australia can no longer enter Spain for tourism purposes. Entry for unvaccinated travellers may be obtained under certain other categories (see entry requirements for entry in Spain from third countries).
All travellers aged 12 years and older who are eligible to arrive from a country designated as ‘high risk’ must present a negative COVID-19 diagnostic test result taken within 72 hours (24 hours for rapid antigen tests) before travel.
Vaccination certificates are valid 14 days after the date of the administration of the last dose of a full vaccination schedule. Vaccination certificates are only valid for 270 days from the administration of the last dose. If your full vaccination was more than 270 days ago you’ll need to provide evidence of a booster shot. All vaccinations should be recorded on the same certificate.
These certificates will be different if they have been issued in a country of the European Union (EU Digital COVID Certificate) or in a third country.
If you’re travelling from certain third countries (countries outside of the European Union and European Economic Area) you can enter Spain by completing only the online Health Control Form. You must travel directly from your home country or have transited exclusively through other countries included in the list.
If you’re travelling from or through another country you may be required to provide one of the certificates detailed above.
If you are entering Spain by road from either Portugal, Andorra or France you’re not required to provide any documents. However, passengers aged 12 years and older coming from ‘at risk’ countries/areas who enter Spain for tourism purposes from France by land must possess a vaccination certificate. Travellers arriving from France under another travel category must present a diagnostic test/recovery certificate in order to enter Spain.
Border measures are reviewed every seven days and travellers should check entry requirements close to their time of travel.
If you’re travelling within Spain to either the Balearic or Canary Islands you may be required to provide further information on your health status, a COVID certificate or other evidence to travel. You should research the relevant requirements for entry with the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands Tourism websites.
Departure from Spain
If you’re planning to leave Spain, be aware that some countries have implemented quarantine and other measures for travellers arriving from Spain.
Airports are open. Check with your airline or travel agent to confirm your route and health requirements. Follow the Australian Embassy social media accounts for regular updates (see Local contacts).
Staying in Spain
Outbreaks of COVID-19 continue to occur across the country, including tourist destinations. All regional authorities have implemented control measures, which vary by region. Localised movement restrictions can occur at short notice. International travel to and from Spain is still possible.
Public transport and taxi services are operating normally.
It is mandatory to wear a mask in both public indoor and outdoor spaces, except in certain circumstances when outdoors, such as in rural areas, in the countryside, on the beach or while undertaking outdoor sport.
Other measures at regional level may include curfews, limitations on gatherings and the closing times of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Restrictions vary between regions.
Some regions have introduced the requirement to present a vaccination certificate for entry into public venues such as hotels, bars, restaurants and museums.
Non-EU Digital COVID Certificates, including the Australian-issued International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) may not be accepted at some of these venues. Issues with acceptance of COVID certificates is not common but can occur. Follow the advice of local authorities.
If you’re staying in Spain:
- Follow the advice of local authorities.
- Take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19.
- Ensure you have arrangements in place for an extended stay
- Keep in contact with family and friends so they know you’re safe and well.
Entry into Portugal
Depending on where you travel from, entry into Portugal may be limited to essential trips, and you may need to isolate for 14 days on arrival. Check the rules carefully. Portuguese Immigration (SEF) provide information in English on the current entry requirements. If you need to quarantine, you can register your quarantine address online pre-departure to speed up entry procedures – if not, you’ll be asked to do so on arrival.
The list of restricted countries is subject to change and measures may change at short notice. Regulations are being interpreted inconsistently by airlines and border officials.
To enter mainland Portugal by air or sea, those aged 12 and over may need a negative COVID-19 (PCR or TRAg) test. This applies even when travelling within the EU/Schengen area. Tests must be carried out by a trained healthcare professional.
The negative test can be a:
- polymerase chain reaction test (PCR) taken in the 72 hours before the flight’s departure or entry by sea; or
- rapid antigen test (TRAg) taken in the 24 hours before the flight’s departure or entry by sea.
If you hold a recognised COVID-19 vaccination or recovery certificate, you’re exempt from obtaining a COVID-19 NAAT prior to entering Portugal.
Requirements for arriving in mainland Portugal vary from Madeira and the Azores. Please check the rules for each of these autonomous regions prior to entry.
You may need to complete a Passenger locator Card prior to entering Portugal. This is to assist Portuguese health authorities to locate passengers who may have been exposed to COVID-19. Please check with your airline.
Contact your nearest embassy or consulate of Portugal:
- for the latest information, including on travel exemptions, isolation and pre-flight COVID testing requirements
- if you ‘re unsure whether you need to quarantine on arrival
- for the rules for transiting Portugal on an international flight connection
Your airline or the Australian Embassy in Lisbon may also be able to help.
Cruises are operating in Portugal but there are bans and restrictions on arrivals from certain countries.
The land border with Spain is open. Checks by authorities are infrequent but if you’re aged 12 or over you’re required to have a negative COVID-19 (PCR or TRAg) test in most circumstances. You may be subject to fines if you don’t comply with the rules.
If you enter Portugal on a non-Australian passport, consult the website, embassy or consulate of that country.
Departure from Portugal
Australia has border measures in place to protect the health of the Australian community. Ensure you stay up to date with the latest entry information, including quarantine arrangements for each state and territory.
Check the re-entry or quarantine arrangements of any country you’re travelling to, or transiting through, and be aware that requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline, travel agent or insurance company.
Staying in Portugal
Public health measures are in force and are subject to change at short notice. If you’re staying in Portugal:
- follow the local COVID-19 rules for when you are entering Portugal, using public transport and visiting venues.
- take care to minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19 including by practicing social distancing.
- ensure you have arrangements in place for a legal extended stay by contacting the Portuguese Immigration Services (SEF)
- keep in contact with family and friends so they know you’re safe and well.
European Union (EU) Digital COVID-19 Certificate or negative COVID-19 NAAT test required to enter venues
If you’re aged 12 and over you’re required to show a negative COVID-19 NAAT test or recognised digital certificate of vaccination or recovery to enter some venues. This may include tourist accommodation, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, gyms, large events such as football matches, cultural performances and festivals, or to visit health and aged care facilities. People who have recently recovered from COVID-19 and people fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a booster dose, may be exempt from the requirement to show a test (if they have a recognised digital certificate).
Digital vaccination certificates from Australia and many other countries, aren’t officially recognised by the Portuguese government for entry into venues. However, they are accepted by most venues in practice. Enforcement is variable.
If you don’t have an EU Digital Certificate or other recognised certificate, you may need to undertake periodic COVID-19 NAAT tests while travelling in Portugal.
If you have an important event consider getting a COVID-19 test done to be sure you’ll be able to enter.
Where a negative test is required within Portugal, the following may be accepted:
- COVID-19 (PCR) test, taken within 72 hours before use;
- COVID-19 (TRAg) test taken within 24 hours before use; or in some cases
- a COVID-19 (RAT) taken at the venue
These tests are all readily available in Portugal and results are rapid. COVID-19 (RAT) tests are available at many supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores and petrol station vending machines for 4 euros or less. You can get a COVID-19 (TRAg) test done at most pharmacies for around 20 euros, with a result in around 15 minutes. There are many pharmacies across metropolitan Portugal, and at least one in almost all smaller towns. There are also COVID-19 testing tents set up around Lisbon and major cities, usually well signed and located in tourist areas. Several private testing labs offer COVID-19 (PCR) or (TRAg) tests by appointment or ‘drive through’ testing. Most labs state that COVID-19 (PCR) tests have a 24-hour turnaround, but tend to deliver results sooner. Testing sites tend to be busier around weekends, public holidays and major football games or festivals.
If you hold a vaccination certificate from another country, including the UK or New Zealand, check if it is officially accepted. (Look for “What proof of vaccination from third countries can be used?” on this page with a list of recognised certificates.)
The list of venues, required tests and entry requirements are all subject to change and enforcement varies. Check carefully and observe the latest rules. Government websites are not always up to date, especially English-language sites, so you may wish to check directly with your accommodation and venues on the latest entry requirements. You’ll have to show proof of residency and need to get a health system user number (‘numero de utente’). This can also help you access free COVID tests.
Contact the Embassy if you need assistance to navigate local vaccination certificate requirements.
Obtaining a recognised Digital COVID Certificate
If you’ve been vaccinated against COVID-19 outside of the EU and are a resident of Portugal, you should be able to register your vaccination with the Portuguese health authorities to obtain an EU Digital COVID Certificate. You should contact your local health centre to enquire about this process.
More information:
- Visit Portugal (Portuguese Government)
- Portuguese High Commission for Migration
Tipping is a firm and expected element in the tourism industry. A nominated tipping amount is not included in all group tour pricing. However, we suggest $25 a day is appropriate. We will collect approximately A$250 at the introduction session, this will then distribute the tips among your main service providers – guides, drivers and accommodation – on your behalf. You will see how hard people work for us but of course this is only a suggestion. Any other tipping, such as tips for for restaurants is at your discretion based on satisfaction of services received, as are gratuities for additional requested special services. It is suggested a 5 euro tip for your drivers to and from the airport is adequate. You can pay for your tips in AUD too totally fine $250AUD or €155 or ask us to add it to your invoice to pay before you arrive.
From the Mediterranean coast to the mountains, cities and national parks, Spain is a vast country with varying landscapes bringing different weather systems to each region. In July, the country’s generally very hot and sunny, with the warmest weather inland and on the south coasts and cooler temperatures further north. If you’re looking for a beach holiday or city break in the sun, this is a great time of year to visit Spain.
Averages
On the southern coast in Malaga, the average temperature in July is 25°C, with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. No rain is expected this month. Further north and inland, the capital Madrid is hotter, with an average temperature of 25°C and highs of a sweltering 33°C. At night, it’s much cooler than the southern coast, with temperatures dipping to 16°C.
Please complete and return your important guest information form to us 60 days before departure. Click HERE
Cool, Cultured and Contemporary with a fabulous Cuisine its no wonder that Spain and Portugal are two of the most visited countries in the world
Here’s are 10 reasons you will want to join us on this 10 day European Inspirational Journey
