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Grand Circle River Cruises Reviews

1 - 10 of 28 Grand Circle River Cruises Reviews

Sail Date: July 2023

Review for a Europe - River Cruise Cruise on River Adagio

Some friends suggested this cruise and since I had never river cruised before I thought I give it a shot. The cruise staff was exceptional and made the trip delightful. My program director Szabe Borberly was outstanding and salvaged the trip for us. I score the cruise a solid 9 as many other cruise companies were at the same ports and it created some congestion with our daily tours. I consider ... Read More

Sail Date: June 2023

Review for a Europe - River Cruise Cruise on River Harmony

Wanted to take a river cruise. Interesting ports of call. Captain and crew top notch. Waiters Stefan, Alessandra, Jessa and Olena efficient, courteous and “fun” to interact with. Our cabin attendant, Liudmyla, did a great job keeping our cabin clean and in order. Helena Petkovic, front desk, went out of her way to help me with jewelry purchase. Upon return from tours and excursions, Captain Martin ... Read More

In 2000, I had driven alongside the Mosel (from Koblenz to Trier) and the Rhine north of Koblenz, and at the time I promised myself I'd go back and do the trip on the rivers...so this trip on River Harmony was a long-awaited fulfillment of that promise to myself, and this trip on the rivers did not disappoint! The Mosel was especially lovely, as was the pre-trip extension in Lucerne, during which ... Read More

Response from AnnS, Manager

Thank you for the kind words! We’re very glad to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us. We post Physical Requirements for all adventures and reserve the right for Trip Experience... Read more

I chose this trip because my mother wanted to do the Christmas markets. It sounded fun too. She has taken 16 Grand Circle trips in the past and had always had nothing but amazing things to say about them. As a matter of fact she would always compare regular cruises to her “wonderful” Grand Circle River Cruises. She would criticize every cruise line we traveled on again with Grand Circle being so ... Read More

Sail Date: November 2019

This was our 3rd river cruise, the first and last on Grand Circle, The river boat is in desperate need of a makeover, cabin decor is worn looking at best. Mattress was in need of replacement. Disappointing that we rarely docked close enough to a town to walk on our own. This was a 14 day trip from Basel, Switzerland to Antwerp, Belgium. For the money we could have gone on a better river boat ... Read More

Sail Date: May 2019

Review for a Europe - River Cruise Cruise on River Rhapsody

The Springtime beauty of the Great Rivers of Europe mingled with the excellent and caring of the River Rhapsody staff made for an amazing trip! From airport to airport and every river in-between, safest travels without any worries. The dining and hotel staff were patient, gracious and went above and beyond every day. I traveled with my Mother, at 50, I was the youngster among the ... Read More

We're so glad that you enjoyed your travels with us! We look forward to having you back on another cruise.... Read more

Sail Date: April 2019

Let me say the service on their ships The Melody and The Rapsody were impeccable. Gracious and hospitable on both. I say both because due to low water we were bused from one to another. We anchored in Strasbourg, France for 3 days and bused to the cities. One city alone we rode 3 hours one way and 2 1/2 hours back. Given a mere 3 hours for the walk around part of the town and then the markets ... Read More

Sail Date: November 2018

Chose this cruise to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. It became a bus tour because Grand Circle did not give us the option to postpone this cruise to a time when the water level would not be low. We did not cruise and had a bus tour for $12,000. They were aware of the water level problem because they had a prepared presentation regarding the water level. Terrible disappointment and we ... Read More

Sail Date: August 2018

I have cruised before with Grand Circle. They offer a relaxed, affordable way to see various river cities in comfort. These cruises are for people who want to see things, not be entertained, overeat, or have extravagant luxury. The passengers are generally older and have cruised before. The ships are appropriate for river cruising where the ships have to be small enough to fit under bridges. This ... Read More

Sail Date: June 2018

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We will be there with GCT for the month of December. It is our forth GCT tour. Will let you know the results when we get home. We also wish to go to Morroco but will do it on our own.

I will be interested in hearing from you. We (a group of 6 women) were going to go with GCT but decided to go on our own and now have a 2 week tour of Andalucia planned. We are planning on going to Morocco overnight. We are still planning that but think we will get a package once we are there for guide, hotel, etc. Looking forward to your post

Hi Priscilla,

the two hotels you mentioned are both very good, my parents stayed at the don pablo and it was very good, food was fantasitic, the melia is also very good but dont know what the foods like, the apts are also very nice but youd have to do your own breakfast, there are plenty of bars and cafes as you step out of apts, all three are next to each other, i dont think you can go wrong with any. Personaly i would go for the don pablo as i have also eaten here and can deffinalty recommend the food (i live about 5 mins from the mentioned hotels).

Regarding Morroco, its a must see, there are plenty of travel agents who can organise this for you, my neighbour also has a travel agent who specializes in morroco, ill find out if he has a web page for you.

Happy Holidays

WE have traveled with Grand Circle for many enjoyable trips. I especially loved their trips to Turkey!They make travel easy and fun. Have been to the Bajondillo on our own over 20 years ago to visit my parents who used to spend the entire winter there. They loved it and so did we. Now as seniors my husband and I are going there for four weeks in mid-January. I definitely recomend Grand Circle for quality and value!

Just got back from Torremolinos-Bajondillo. GCT is great! They are there to help at any time. This is the first time we used them and will again. The Bajondillo is a wonderful place to stay. The rooms are very nice and very clean. Used the refrigerator all the time and warmed up leftover dinner for lunch on the stove. The staff is wonderful. This was one of our best trips ever - can"t stop talking about it. (Be sure to take in all of the GCT programs, lectures, included tours, etc.)

In Torremolinos we stayed at Banjodillo apartments but think Don Pablo Hotel would have been worth the extra cost. Breakfasts at Banjodillo were excellent and dine around worked great. Our favorite restaurant was Guadalope.

We did all tours. As usual, some were better than others but we had a wonderful tourguide which is always most important. We did the overnight to Morocco and it was well worth the cost.

You are going to have a great time!

We have been with GCT on Rhine River Cruise and did Seine River Cruise this past October. We love their river cruises too.

We used GCT for the first time last week in a Christmas Market tour down the Danube river from Nurnberg to Vienna (12 days total). It was absolutely wonderful. We were very hesitatnt about going with a 'tour' group since we don't consider this 'our thing' but what a great job GCT does. Actually, I can't understand how they do it for the price. The ship was beautiful, our state room was very nice. The food was absolutely superb and plentiful. The program directors awesome and the staff friendly and helpful. I was impressed that they did not try to 'jab' us with extra cost and the beer, wine, and mixed drinks at the bar were very reasonably priced. The wine at dinner was complimentary and they kept your glass full. They employed local guides at many of the stops for walking tours through the small towns and you could either do things on your own or go with the guides. We did some of both. The trips into each town were great with the local history and the events they planned from the dinners on shore to the concerts, etc. were marvelous. I have no reservations recommending them to you.

Interesting to read info from people who have been to Banjodillo apartments.

My husband and I are going for a 3 week stay there in mid January. This is our first trip with GCT.

Is there a laundromat on premises?

Is ther a coffee pot in the room?

What kind of public transportation is nearby if you want to go somewhere on your own?

I'd appreciate any info.

Thanks in advance.

There aren't any laundromats in Torremolinos as far as I know.

Laundry can be sent out through GCT at the hotel.

The rooms at the Bajandillo have cooking utensils though we have never used them.

There is a bus nearby that goes into town.

We have found it easier to walk into town to the train or bus station.About 5 to 10 minutes.

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Spend A Perfect 12 Days with This Amazing Grand Circle Road Trip

The Grand Circle is one of the American Southwest’s top road trips showcasing some of the region’s most iconic sights along its 1,500 miles. Some of the things you’ll see along the way include Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend and Bryce Canyon National Park. That list is just touching the surface, though. If you are considering a road trip to the Southwest (and if you’re only considering, I’m going to go ahead and say do it!), I’ve already done most of the work for you with this 12-Day Grand Circle itinerary!

I’ve already detailed many of these places in other posts. If you want more information about a given location, simply click the links that I’ll provide throughout this article.

Lastly, you might be asking yourself if 12 days is really enough time to do this trip. I assure you that it is! However, there are a handful of changes we could have made to allow for more time in some places. At the end of this article, I’ll explain those changes as well as discuss which places would be worth staying longer in than what my itinerary allows.

Updated November 2023

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will earn a small commission. This occurs at no added cost to you.

Table of Contents

What You’ll Need for Your Grand Circle Road Trip

U.s. park pass.

This annual park pass, interchangeably called the National Park Pass, is absolutely vital to your trip. Most of the stops on this itinerary require entrance fees of around $30. This $80 pass will grant you entry to most of the stops on this route except for Goblin Valley State Park and Horseshoe Bend. Since all six national parks on this itinerary require fees, you can easily see how the U.S. Park Pass is an excellent value!

Further, these passes last for a year from the date of purchase and will grant you access to over 2,000 federally owned sites during that time.

Learn More : Reasons the National Park Pass is an Amazing Value

An RV or Car

The number one thing you will obviously need since this is a road trip is some form of transportation. I recommend an RV for two big reasons. One, staying in RV campgrounds for most places will get you closer to nature which is the reason behind this trip. Two, you’ll save money since you won’t have to pay for hotels or meals.

Keep in mind as you read this itinerary that all the places I recommend staying at are for RV’s. If you end up using a car rental, you will have to find other accommodations.

Related : Why You Need an RV for Your Road Trip

GPS and Maps

I talk about this in my post about RV’s, but I think it’s important enough to mention again here. When you’re driving through the Southwest there are many areas that don’t have reliable cell service. It’s very important to have a separate GPS unit or paper maps on hand in case you get lost.

Most car and RV rental companies offer GPS rental options making this an easy add-on to your trip.

Hiking Gear

This one might go without saying considering the places you’ll be visiting, but you should bring gear appropriate for hiking. That includes a good, lightweight backpack; a first aid kit; shoes with good tread; and reusable water bottles.

If you are traveling in fall or early spring you should also bring some warm clothes. Much of this itinerary is at high elevation so you need to prepared in case you encounter any cold weather while traveling.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #1 – Arrival in Las Vegas

We used Las Vegas as our starting point for our trip. Other common starting points are Salt Lake City and Phoenix, but Vegas is a little more direct than both. It’s also a nice way to have a little fun and relaxation before all of the hiking you’re about to do.

Try to arrive at least by mid-afternoon so you have time to rest on the first day, especially if you have a time zone change. I also recommend staying somewhere in the middle of the Strip. Since you will only be here for a short time, it makes it easy to get around if you’re centrally located.

Use this day mostly to rest from traveling. You can explore your hotel and do a little gambling if you’re into that. Another good option for today would be to check out a show at a venue close to your hotel.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #2 – Las Vegas

For more info: What To Do With Just One Day In Las Vegas

Tips for Today

Today is your day to relax, have your favorite adult beverage and just have some fun!

If you were able to find a hotel near the center of the Strip, you should have more than enough time to check out some of Vegas’s top attractions.

Unless you have been to Las Vegas before or really love gambling, I would not spend too much time at the slots. There’s much more to Las Vegas than blowing your money. We enjoyed just walking around some of the nicer casinos and people watching on the Strip.

Planning Your Day

Grand circle road trip day #3 – zion national park.

For More Info: Fall In Love With Zion In 1.5 Days , Practical Info For Visiting Zion National Park

Travel Time: 2.5 hours, 160 miles

Where to Stay: Zion Canyon Campground

Now that all of the partying is out of your system, it’s time to get out in the desert and start seeing some of America’s greatest natural sights! Try to pick up your rental vehicle as early as possible to start heading towards Zion National Park. Also, keep in mind that once you enter Utah you will lose an hour of the day due to a time zone change.

If you are RVing for the rest of your trip, you should purchase groceries while in or near Las Vegas. We waited till we arrived in Zion National Park which was a big mistake. Groceries inside the parks are much more expensive and you have less variety.

Once you arrive in Zion, you should pick up an e-bike to maximize the time you have throughout the rest of the day. You can’t drive your vehicle into the park so the e-bike will let you get around quickly. There is a shuttle system, but it’s a ton of fun to bike through the canyon so save the shuttle for tomorrow.

We used Zion Adventure Company for our e-bike rentals. You can visit their website to look at their offerings and reserve a bike for your stay.

Related : A Visit to New River Gorge National Park, America’s Newest National Park

Starting April 1, 2022, Zion National Park will require a permit to hike the famous Angels Landing trail. Visit Recreation.gov for more information and to enter the lottery for a permit.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #4 – Zion National Park

Wake up early! The main thing you are doing today is hiking the Narrows. Due to how unique of a hike the Narrows is, it is VERY popular. We woke up around 6:00 a.m. to beat the crowds and it was so worth it! Hiking through the canyon on our way in with barely anyone else was a vastly different experience compared to when we returned later in the morning as the area was getting crowded.

Plan ahead and reserve hiking gear for the Narrows at Zion Outfitter . The one item I definitely recommend is a walking stick. Other than that it depends on the time of year you’re visiting. If the weather is cold, you should consider renting waterproof pants and shoes. Otherwise, you can probably made due with just the walking stick.

I recommend hiking Watchman Trail at the end of the day to watch the sunset. I think that trail is way underrated; however, part of our decision to do this hike was because other popular trails like Hidden Canyon, Weeping Rock and Observation Point were all closed due to trail damage. If those hikes are open, you may want to change my itinerary around a bit for this day.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #5 – Bryce Canyon National Park

For More Info: How To See The Best of Bryce Canyon In A Day

Travel Time: 1.5 hours, 70 miles

Where to Stay: Ruby’s Inn RV Park & Campground

This tip is a common theme for this whole trip: Wake up early to get on the road! Bryce Canyon is only 90 minutes away from Zion and easy to experience in a day, but you do need to get there by 10:00 a.m. to get the most out of your day.

Bryce Canyon is relatively small as far as national parks go. It packs a lot of beauty in its small area, though, so you’ll want to have a lot of time to just sit and admire what’s there.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #6 – Capitol Reef, Goblin Valley, Canyonlands and Moab

For More Info: Quick Detours to Add to Your Grand Circle Trip , How to Make the Most of A Short Time in Moab

Travel Time: 6.5 hours total with several stops, 355 miles

Where to Stay: Canyonlands RV Resort & Campground

I won’t sugarcoat it, today is a ton of driving. Even if you decide to skip the state park (which you shouldn’t!) it is still a lot of driving.

That said, there are three stops if you follow this itinerary and you’ll pass through lots of superb desert landscapes to keep the drive interesting. You should try to eat your breakfast and lunch while driving to save whatever time you can to allow for more time at the parks along the way.

If you visit Goblin Valley (which, again, you definitely should!), keep in mind that this is one of the stops that the U.S. Park Pass does not cover. The $20 entrance fee is worth it.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #7 – Arches National Park and Moab

For More Info: How to Make the Most of A Short Time in Moab

If you’re in decent shape, you can do all of the hikes I recommend at Arches in just a few hours. You could skip exploring the town of Moab to spend more time in the park. Personally, we were exhausted from doing so much hiking at this point so we welcomed the rest.

Reservations

Starting April 3, 2022, Arches National Park will be piloting a reservation system to prevent overcrowding. Visit Recreation.gov to plan your tip.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #8 – Drive Through Monument Valley to Page, AZ

For More Info: Quick Detours to Add to Your Grand Circle Trip

Travel Time: 5 hours, 275 miles

Where to Stay: RV Park at Lake Powell (Antelope Point Marina)

Today is the second longest day of driving you’ll have on the trip. It’s a little tougher than the drive across Utah, too, because there aren’t any stops until you get just outside of Page. You’ll stop briefly at Monument Valley to take pictures, but it shouldn’t take you much more than several minutes.

Just outside of town you should stop at Horseshoe Bend for a breathtaking view of the Colorado River as it winds around the canyon floor. You will have to pay a fee of $10 that your U.S. Pass does not cover.

Once you get to Page, I recommend hiking the Hanging Gardens Trail near town. It doesn’t have any grand scenery like many of the things you will have seen so far. Nevertheless, what it lacks in grandeur it makes up for in its solitude.

If you’d rather not hike, you could visit Glen Canyon Dam or else do some boating in Lake Powell. Otherwise, there isn’t much to do in Page itself.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #9 – Lake Powell and the Grand Canyon

For More Info: Quick Detours to Add to Your Grand Circle Trip , Explore the Grand Canyon In A Day and A Half

Travel Time: 2.5 hours, 130 miles

Where to Stay: Trailer Village RV Park

Plan to do a morning kayak tour of Lake Powell and Lower Antelope Canyon this morning. We booked our tour with Hidden Canyon Kayak . It was so much fun! It is a three hour tour so it is kind of long but totally worth it!

After your kayak trip is over, you’ll spend the next few hours driving to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. After parking at either the RV park or wherever it is you’re staying, make your way to the South Rim Trail. It’s crowded near the bus drop-off so hike a half mile or so in either direction to escape the crowds.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #10 – Grand Canyon National Park

For More Info: Explore the Grand Canyon In A Day and A Half

Today will be a day of extremes: very strenuous hiking in the morning followed by rest and relaxation all afternoon and evening!

We hiked about 4.5 miles down into the canyon via Bright Angel Trail before turning around. You can go as far as you like into the canyon, but it is not recommended to do the entire hike in one day. Regardless of how far you plan to go, make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks.

After your hike, pick up some pizza from the Village Market near the RV park. Maybe it’s just because I was hot and exhausted from hiking all morning, but this pizza was surprisingly delicious!

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #11 – Drive to Lake Mead

Travel Time: 3.5 hours, 250 miles

Where to Stay: Lake Mead RV Village

Unless you have a lot of outdoor activities planned for Lake Mead, you can take your time today. Today is really just for rest and relaxation before you have to go back home tomorrow.

The time and distance noted above is the most optimal route. However, you could take Route 66 which, if you don’t stop anywhere, adds about an hour to the drive. That’s what we did. The towns you pass through were relatively unremarkable, but there are some pretty landscapes you’ll pass along the way.

You can also stop at the Hoover Dam for a quick detour before getting to Lake Mead. Unless you are really into engineering and have a lot of time on your hands, I wouldn’t bother doing an actual tour. Head to the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for some good views of the dam. This stop should only take around 30 minutes including parking and walking to the bridge.

Grand Circle Road Trip Day #12 – Return to Las Vegas and Depart

Travel Time: 45 minutes, 30 miles

The end of your trip. Take some time today to reflect on all of the amazing things you’ve seen over the past several days. It doesn’t take long to get back into Vegas so spend some time in the morning just relaxing by Lake Mead to get some last moments with the Southwest desert.

There’s not a whole lot to consider for today. Enjoy your morning before you return to Las Vegas. Once you return your RV or car, get a taxi to take you to the airport. There are slot machines in the airport for you to play if you want some mindless entertainment while you wait for your flight.

Changes to Consider

As is, both Michelle and I absolutely loved this trip and the itinerary that we laid out. That said, there are some changes you could make if you wanted to spend more time in certain locations.

So, what are those locations that are worth spending more time in? There are several that I would have liked to see more of had we had some extra time:

• An extra night in Zion to see more of the park
• Drive through and do some hiking in the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada
• Hike all the way down to the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon and camp for the night
• Another night in Moab so we could do some hiking in Canyonlands
• Stay a night near Capitol Reef to see more of the park

To make more time to do any one of those activities there are two main changes that you could reasonably make and not miss out on too much. First, skip the full day in Las Vegas, especially if you have already visited there before. Neither of us had ever been to Vegas so we figured this trip would be a good way to spend at least a day there. We had a lot of fun, but if we ever do this trip again, I just want to get out to the parks as soon as possible!

Second, pass straight through Page on your way to the Grand Canyon. Like Las Vegas, we enjoyed Page, but it was a little lackluster compared with everything else. You could still see Horseshoe Bend and possibly even do some kayaking without staying for a whole night to save nearly a full day’s worth of time that could be spent at one of the parks.

Resources to Book Your Grand Circle Road Trip

Whether you’re looking for tours, hotels or flights, here are some tools to help get you started planning your trip to the Grand Circle!

Look for activities and tours offered through GetYourGuide or Viator !

Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Check out my travel essentials pages for more of my recommendations.

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28 comments, designflagstore.

What a great article! I learned a lot & it was very interesting & informative! designflagstore https://www.designflagstore.com

Jack (Nomad Tactics)

It’s almost always fun if you rent an RV and travel with a bunch of friends…

paulexplorestheworld

That would be fun with a big group! We saw a few groups like that at some of the campgrounds. I definitely came away from this trip dreaming about an RV to the point that I bought a new car capable of hauling a small rig. Just need to buy the rig now!

Retirestyle Travel

You had an amazing trip. That’s a long distance to cover in 12 days, but you packed in great stops along the way. Now that I am retired, I hope I can take this trip.

If I were you (and retired) I’d probably extend it out by at least 3-4 days so you can take more time. This itinerary is doable and actually never felt rushed except for the one day with so many stops (and even that day didn’t really feel rushed) but there’s just so much to see that more time would have been nice!

The National Parks Pass is a great tip as it clearly saves a ton of money if used well. I’m a lover of passes for saving money so it hits the spot with me. Good that you have included some links for eg the bike rental as I would have no idea where to go for that when out of the RV, The Kayak tour sounds incredible – I can imagine the slititude on small lakes and rivers in the middle of the desert. I like the idea that the trip can include the Hoover Dam (always wanted to see that) and not just rural scenes only. This is a great info guide on how to do all you mention

Thanks, Barry! The National Parks Pass has been a godsend! We went to 10 national parks over the past year for the cost of that one pass. Next to the Paris Museum Pass (which is an AMAZING value), it’s the best type of pass like that that I’ve come across.

Chalk and cheese travels

What a great guide Paul. I only went to Vegas but flying in it made me want to explore and see more of Nevada and Arizona. Will keep this guide saved

Thanks! It is a pretty impressive flight over the Rockies and SW desert as long as it isn’t cloudy.

Kristen and Sam

What an awesome road trip! We kind of did a similar one but only stopped at the Utah parks. It would have been a blast to see the Las Vegas, Grand Canyon and Monument Valley too. Those are on our bucket list. Great info about the park pass, we love ours! I love how detailed this post is, very informative and super helpful!

Thanks! Monument Valley was really impressive. I’m not sure if Navajo Nation has opened back up for tourists yet or not, but if not you should wait till they do. We didn’t get to do any hiking there but I’d love to get that chance1

meekooonline

Everyone looks fabulous! The blog you posted is very good. I love so much.

meekooonline https://www.meekooonline.com

Colin and Mitch - Very Tasty World

What spectacular landscapes! Thanks for this guide for what looks to be a wonderful itinerary. There’s also loads of practical information which is really helpful, especially the info about the park pass. This is something we would absolutely love to do as a road trip.

The Park Pass is an absolute must have! It’s shocking that it’s so cheap. I wouldn’t be surprised if they raise the price of it at some point in the future because of how overcrowded the parks are becoming. Thanks for the positive feedback about the guide!

Katie • Dating B.

I took a very similar trip a few years back but I did it in 1 week instead of 2. (I skipped all of Day 6 on your itinerary plus the lakes.) Arches and Bryce are two of the coolest parks in the US, though.

It’s kind of crazy to think that so much unique geology exists in a, relatively, small area. The hike to Delicate Arch in Arches is my favorite hike anywhere, and Bryce Canyon at sunset is so different from anything else I’ve ever seen.

This is such an amazing itinerary! I’d love to do a big road trip like this in the future! If only I didn’t have to work full-time, I’d definitely spend about 2-3 weeks just driving around and exploring different locations.

Work does get in the way of our fun unfortunately! You could easily spend a month doing this road trip if you had the time.

Sara and Josh

Great article and thanks for the tips.

We haven’t done this trip before but it is on our bucket list. Good tip about bringing a paper map or GPS unit. We were recently in Montana and Wyoming exploring the NPs there and needed the paper maps. No cell service in a lot of areas.

Thanks for sharing this post. Look forward to reading more!

Cell service is definitely something that we on the East Coast take for granted. I’d love to hear about your Montana/Wyoming trip! That’s probably going to be my next big NP trip.

Steven Jepson

I hadn’t heard of this loop referred to as the Grand Circle before. I hit all 5 Utah National Parks + the Grand Canyon over the course of the pandemic, but 6 different road trips from Salt Lake. Would have certainly driven a lot less had I done the Grand Circle. Nice Overview!

I bet you got to see lots of fun places and unique landscapes on those six trips, though!

Anna Mitchell

Absolutely an amazing itinerary. My husband and I really do want to take some time to visit out west, but it’ll be a wee bit, but it’ll be worth the wait.

It’s definitely worth the wait. Ironically, lockdowns are what allowed us to go because we had to cancel our international trips. The Southwest was always something I wanted to do but didn’t have time. Lockdown changed that!

Wanderingkellers

Great Post. We are headed out to a few of these in April so ill make sure I encorportae some of the great suggestions here.

paulpassingthrough

Great to hear! Where will you be going?

Jamieadstories

What a great journey this is. Thanks for the detailed suggestions.

Thanks for reading 🙂

The Perfect 7-Day Grand Circle Road Trip (USA)

The Grand Circle road trip (USA) has always been a dream of mine. Ever wanted to visit the Grand Canyon , and the famous Horseshoe Bend ? Some have the luxury of time to explore, but if you only have 7 days here’s how to maximize time to experience national parks in Southwest Utah and the famous Grand Canyon in Arizona, and even enjoy Las Vegas in Nevada.

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This is one the most popular road trips in the US because of the spectacular views and scenic drive. I am so thankful for the opportunity to do this with my family during spring. We rented an SUV for this trip, which was perfect for 4 of us.

Another cool thing to do would be renting an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy , a peer-to-peer camper rental community. That way, you can try out van life without committing to buying one, and it will already be built up for you. Check out the options near your location or Las Vegas and book in advance for the best prices and options !

• How To Choose The Best Car Rental – Turo, Zipcar, Hertz
• 7 Scenic Road Trip Ideas For Nature Lovers
• Yosemite 2-Day Itinerary: The Best Sights For Weekend Warriors

Best time to do the Grand Circle Road Trip

The best time for a Grand Circle Road Trip is just outside summer – from March to May, or September to November. This is when the weather is mild, which we experienced when we visited in May.

At night, the temperatures were just above freezing, but it felt alright when we were out camping. During the day, it was sunny and we felt warm but not weighted down by the heat while hiking.

For example, you can check the monthly temperature ranges at different parts of the Grand Canyon here . If you’re there closer to winter time, you may even get to see some snow!

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Las Vegas can be reached via a flight or drive. If you only have 7 days, I recommend resting from the jet lag, and choose to fly in to Vegas rather than drive. On this first night, have a good dinner and rest up before the hiking and exploration begins. Hit up any of the restaurants in Vegas, such as the Gordon Ramsay Burger place, or Sekushi Japanese Restaurant , etc. If you arrive early enough, consider having a sumptuous buffet, since many of them open till 9pm.

In terms of budgeting, I suggest going for a cheaper hotel at the start, and splurge at the end of the Grand Circle road trip loop. We stayed at Excalibur Hotel , a 3.5-star hotel in the heart of the Strip. Check latest prices on Booking.com or Agoda .

Day 2: Zion National Park

The first hikes in our Grand Circle road trip will start today. Zion National Park is a short 2.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. You could easily do a day trip to Zion National Park if you want to do 1 short hike during the day. If you have time, I suggest making a 1-hour detour to drive through the Valley of Fire State Park , a route that promises breathtaking scenery and towering rock formations.

Lower Emerald Pools trail (2 hours) is perfect for a family, as it is easy enough but also exposes you to the spectacular landscape of Zion every way you turn. Other popular trails are the Angel’s Landing, and hiking the Narrows , which are more time consuming and spending more than 1 day in Zion might be a better idea for those who are up for the challenge.

If you’re looking for hotels near Zion National Park , here are some cool places to consider:

• Best for Luxury Glamping: Zion Glamping Adventures
• Best for Convenient Location : Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites

We opted to stay in Glendale, Utah for 2 nights, as it is conveniently situated between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park . This way, it can be our base before and after we explore Bryce Canyon. It’s also more affordable compared to staying near the National Parks’ entrances.

Check out this tiny home – Apple Hollow Cabins !

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is a slightly smaller park, but there are many lookout points (sunrise point, sunset point, etc.) that are worth stopping by on the way to hiking trails. Hoodoos are the highlight of this park, pillar-like structures that have been brought about by various forms of erosion. Truly a geography lesson.

The most popular and doable trail is the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trail (2-3 hours), where you descend down into the canyon, allowing you to get up close and personal with the Hoodoos, and view them from a different perspective. The landscape is almost unearthly, but very interesting to explore.

Day 4: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend

The Antelope Canyons are split into the upper and lower section, with the upper being more expensive and crowded because of the light rays and the opportunities to photograph sand falling into the canyon. The lower section has fewer people (still crowded) and is generally cheaper, and the canyon itself descends deeper (more stairs).

In my opinion I think both would be great, and if you are not too picky, it would not make a huge difference as you will have a great time in either.

Do note that you will need to join a tour to enter the Antelope Canyons , you do not have access to them on your own. I booked my tour for $50 USD per pax with Ken’s Tours for 1-1.5 hours. One advantage of having a tour is that the guide might show you good photo spots and help you take pictures.

You can also browse more Antelope Canyon tour options on platforms like GetYourGuide , such as:

• Lower Antelope Canyon tour
• Upper Antelope Canyon tour

Alternatively, consider this variation of the Grand Circle tour from Las Vegas : Antelope Canyon + Horeshoe Bend day trip from Las Vegas

Also consider the time of day you choose for the tour, as you want to have optimal sunlight shining into the canyon. Most sources say that mid-day is the best. If it is too late in the day, the canyon could look dark in pictures.

Overall a very fun place to explore and take pictures in, but the crowd makes it difficult to take good photos and you might feel rushed.

In between our mid-day tour to Antelope Canyons and sunset viewing at Horseshoe Bend , we bought frozen yoghurt in the nearby supermarket to cool off. Then, we headed to the Glen Canyon Dam nearby where The Chains hike starts. We chose to stay near the parking lot, exploring rock formations and taking pictures. It was unexpectedly fun, and you can even see people fishing and going really close to the water.

Last but not least, a beautiful sunset to end the day. Aim to arrive at the observation area about 1 hour before sunset so that you can enjoy golden hour. You can also watch the colours of the sky change if you stay a while after the sun sets.

On hindsight, I should have brought some picnic mats/towels to put on the rocks for a more comfortable sunset experience.

You can stay somewhere between Tuba City and Moenkopi in Arizona , such as Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites (check on booking.com for latest prices). This will be on the way to Grand Canyon.

Do note that in Arizona there is time difference in the Navajo Nation regions, which includes Tuba City. The rest of Arizona follows Pacific Time.

Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park

This is probably where you will find the ‘Grand’ in the Grand Circle road trip. Our family camped 1 night in Grand Canyon National Park ( Mather campground ), giving us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the park. After all, it is one of the wonders of the world, a geographical landform visible from space. We rented camping equipment from Airbnb and collected them in Cameron, AZ on our way to Grand Canyon.

Going hiking or camping soon? Check out some of my tips and gear recommendations:

Cold weather camping gear | Camping starter kit | Affordable hiking backpacks | Weekend camping trip planning + packing list | First-timer tent camping tips | Hiking boots for women | Rooftop tents for car camping

Best lookout points in Grand Canyon National Park

There are many lookout points in the park , and here are the ones I visited and recommend. You can also find a summary of these places, including sunrise and sunset spots color-coded in this map below.

1) Along east entrance, with views of the Colorado River:

• Desert View
• Lipan Point

2) Near the village and Mather campground

• Mather Point/Amphitheatre (sunrise views, closest to campsite and has seating area)
• Rim trail views

3) West of the village along Hermit Road (accessible only by shuttle bus from Mar-Nov)

• Hopi Point (sunset views, toilets available)
• Would have also gone to Mohave Point for sunset if we had more time

Most people also recommend hiking the South Kaibab trail (near the east side of the park). However, we chose another trail called the Bright Angel Trail , and hiked down to the Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse. The round trip hike takes 2-4 hours with 1,120 ft (340 m) elevation gain. This trail would be closest to Hermit Road where we will be going for sunset.

Where to go for sunset?

• Hopi Point (red route)
• Yavapai Point (drive, walk or orange route)
• Lipan Point (drive)
• Pima Point (red route)

Day 6: Grand Canyon, Las Vegas

As mentioned earlier, Mather Point is one of the best places to watch the sunrise (shown in the picture above). We also happened to meet 2 other Singaporeans and they were smart enough to bring coffee and breakfast along.

Where to go for sunrise?

• Yavapai Point (Walk, drive or orange route)
• Navajo Point (Drive)
• Mather Point (5 minute walk)

Sunrise tips: arrive at the lookout point about 30-45 min before sunrise to watch the light slowly creep in. The photo shows the sun after it has risen. We woke up at 4:45am and waited till about 6am before leaving. Sunrise time was about 5:30am.

Cook some ramen and drink some coffee before starting the day. Head out to explore the Rim Trail to see more viewpoints of the Grand Canyon before driving to Las Vegas.

We passed through several towns and dropped by Williams to return the camping equipment. There was some decent coffee at Brewed Awakenings Coffee.

To end the day, we pigged out at a buffet place. It was perfect after many days of hiking. You could choose to watch a live show after dinner too, or simply walk around exploring the many hotels/the Strip.

Day 7: Leave from Las Vegas

On our last night in Vegas, we and booked a room in Bellagio Hotel to reward ourselves.

If you can wake up early, spend some time in the hotel pool area to soak in the sun. Spend this last day shopping at the outlet stores too. We shopped at the South outlet stores since it was nearest to McCarran airport and the car return area.

The time of the year to go to these places could play a role in several decisions. For example, camping at freezing temperatures and deciding which trail to hike as some might be closed due to snow. However, many of these places look spectacular with snow sprinkled on them, and not everyone gets to enjoy such view. I would love to visit Capitol Reef National Park and Monument Valley if we had more time.

With that, the perfect Grand Circle road trip has concluded. I hope that this has helped you in planning and getting inspired to hike a little. You can also check out these tips on how to take great photos of yourself hiking . Now let’s get packing !

What to bring for your hiking trip

To make the most of your adventure, it’s essential to come prepared. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need.

Hiking essentials and comfort items

• Hiking boots or shoes : Comfortable and supportive footwear is a must so you’ll have the best experience. Waterproof boots can be useful for muddy trails.
• Hiking day pack : It should have enough space to store snacks, water, and any extra clothing. Here are some affordable hiking backpacks below $100 to consider.
• Water : Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water reservoirs with up to 3-litre capacity are useful for longer hikes. In general, bring at least 0.5 litres for every hour of hiking.
• Map and navigation : Having a map adds an extra layer of security. Offline Google Maps also helps.
• Snacks : Pack energy-boosting snacks to keep you fueled throughout the hike. These could be energy bars, nuts, or some sweets.
• Sunscreen and cap : Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the open sections of the trail.
• Layered clothing : For example, bring a fleece sweater and wear a sweat-wicking base layer. Rain jackets can also act as a windbreaker.
• Phone tripod: If you’re hiking alone, having a phone tripod is great for filming shots of yourself.
• Trekking poles: Provide extra stability on uneven terrain and downhill sections.

Shop hiking gear

Gregory Jade 28L Backpack

A reliable hiking day pack for carrying essentials – even comes with a rain cover.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

Lightweight and warm, perfect for staying cozy in chilly weather.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

Keep dry and comfortable with a reliable waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather.

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles

Lightweight hiking poles that support you both uphill and downhill.

Columbia Benton Springs Full Zip Fleece

Insulating mid layer fleece that repels water and keeps you warm.

Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boots

Budget-friendly waterproof hiking boots for casual hikers.

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Explore Spain & Portugal

15 days | from the hills of granada to the beaches of lisbon.

Follow an enticing trail of delicious tapas, avant-garde art, architectural triumphs and dramatic history on this 15-day tour through Spain and Portugal. Travel the scenic route from Madrid, relaxing on the beach in Algarve, sipping wine in Porto, enjoying the rolling green hills of Granada and being charmed by Andalusian Seville. Admire the masterpieces of Picasso, Dali and Gaudi, experience the passion of flamenco, taste some of the best port in the world and embrace the culture of these two spirited countries with a local leader to show you the way.

Trip overview

• Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicin in Granada before crossing the river to visit the imposing Moorish fortress of the Alhambra.
• Unwind in a laidback fishing town in the Algarve, soaking up the sun on the beach and enjoying an included boat trip around the rocky cliffs of the coast.
• Join pilgrims along the last leg of the famous Camino de Santiago journey as they reach the historic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
• Sit back, relax and watch the water flow by in one of Porto’s river restaurants while you sample a couple of varieties of the city’s signature wine – port!
• Start and end your adventure in Madrid, home to art galleries, colourful architecture and some of the best restaurants in Spain.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Open Arms. Donations help them safeguard the physical integrity and rights of migrant people in imminent danger who have fled their homes across the Mediterranean Sea.
• This trip covers a lot of ground and the majority of travel is done by trains and public buses. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. Please read the Itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
• We recommend packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train stations and hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs, and across cobblestones. Train stations often don’t have lifts available.
• Summer temperatures can be extreme in this region (over 40C/104F). It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. Many hotels in Europe have fans, not air conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
• Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.

Hola! Welcome to Madrid, the Spanish capital known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, booking a few extra days isn't a bad idea. After the welcome meeting, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja with your fellow travellers.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR13
• Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15
• Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6
• Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia - EUR10
• Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR14
• Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR99

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a day or two early. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Take a bus to Granada today. Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real, or watch the world go by as you indulge in some tapas at a bar. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition.

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of the Palace and the Gardens. Discover this 11th-century marvel and its dominating red fortress towers, palace decor, architectural styles, and magnificent gardens. It's all set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With fountains, impeccably maintained hedges and pools, centuries-old defensive walls, turrets, and views overlooking Granada, this renowned palace will not disappoint. Make sure you allow enough time as the Alhambra is made up of three parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. After your visit ask your leader to take you deeper into Granada’s Moorish Albaicin quarter and to the area of traditional tea houses. The view from this area across to the Alhambra Palace is not to be missed. Tonight, perhaps meet up again with the group for dinner.

• Granada - Guided Visit to Alhambra Palace & Gardens
• Granada - Mirador de San Nicolas - Free
• Granada - Science Park - EUR7
• Granada - Science Park Planetarium - EUR2
• Granada - Catedral de Granada - EUR6
• Granada - Capilla Real - EUR6

Due to high demand and to be able to control visitor numbers, local authorities have implemented a timed ticket slot system for the Alhambra Palace. Depending on your departure date the time of your group's visit can vary. Please note that tickets are nominative, and you will need to advise us of your passport details at the time of booking as we are unable to organise tickets for you without them. Details will be counter checked at the entrance, so make sure you bring your passport with you at the time of the visit.

Travel by bus and train this morning to the vibrant city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today the capital of Andalucia and the largest city in southern Spain. Known for its important monuments and fascinating history, Seville is universally famous for being a joyous town. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Please note that currently there are track works on the train line between Granada and Seville. We will therefore travel by both train and bus on this stretch of our journey.

Today is a free day to discover Seville. Checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is a must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you might have to line up, it's well worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for ‘Game of Thrones’. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group. Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight!

• Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance
• Seville - Torre del Oro - EUR3
• Seville - Santa Paula Convent - EUR3
• Seville - Indias Archive - Free
• Seville - Museum of Fine Arts - EUR2
• Seville - Archaeological Museum - EUR3
• Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre - EUR3
• Seville - Guided Tour including Alcazar - EUR13
• Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs - EUR2
• Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower - EUR12
• Seville - Casa de Pilatos - EUR10

Today board a bus and cross the border into Portugal. Travel through fertile plain landscapes of orange orchards, olive groves and maize fields to the Algarve, Portugal's stunning southern coast, where your destination is the seaside town of Lagos. Set on the banks of the Rio Bensafrim, Lagos is gifted with a temperate Mediterranean climate, a bounty of beaches and a rich heritage. When you arrive, you might want to take a walk around town. Wandering around Lagos’s old town enclosed within 16th century walls, on pretty cobbled streets and picturesque plazas and churches, is definitely a good thing to do. In the evening, why not head to feast on freshly caught fish at a restaurant or cafe overlooking the water and behold a golden sky at sunset, before throwing yourself into Lagos' pumping nightlife.

Most of today is free to enjoy Lagos and its surrounds. At some point during the day (depending on availability) you will enjoy an included boat tour around Algarve’s rocky cliffs. Explore the jagged, weathered rockface of Pinta da Piedade, full of arches, towers, grottoes and caves that have been eroded into this fabulous limestone coast. Your leader will inform you about the exact time in advance so you can plan other activities around that. For the rest of the day, perhaps pack a book and towel and head to the beach. The vast sands of Meia Praia stretch for over 4 km, and it is peppered with beach bars, cafes and sun lounges. Also, plenty of water sports are on offer in the summer. In addition, there are numerous boat trip options, focusing on birdwatching, fishing, or even spotting the Algarve dolphins. Praia do Porto de Mos and Camilo Beach are also good options, lovely water and sands surrounded by great rock formations. Take a stroll through the quaint alleys of central Lagos, or head down to the waterfront to watch the boats come in. Just ask your leader for any tips if you’re unsure.

• Lagos - Algarve Cliff Boat Trip

Today head north by public bus to Lisbon. As one of Europe's most pleasant and affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering fantastic architecture, a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk of Lisbon to find your feet. There are some great modern and ancient art museums to check out, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the National Museum of Contemporary Art or the National Coach Museum. Your afternoon and evening is then free, so maybe head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. You can roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. Maybe simply sit back in one of many outdoors restaurants and cafes – watching the life go by is definitely one of the best ways to relax in Lisbon. As the sun goes down, some of Lisbon's best nightlife centres on the neighbourhood of Bairro Alto, where you can enjoy an emotional fado performance (traditional Portuguese music).

• Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner - EUR50

Your travel time today will b approximately 4 hours.

Today is a free day to further discover Lisbon, which is located on the banks of the Tagus (Tejo) River and is truly one of Europe’s great cities. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Maybe head out this morning on a tour to visit to the medieval citadel in the city centre of Lisbon. Discover the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. From the citadel, this makes a contrasting panorama when viewed against the deep blue of the sky and ocean. With the rest of your free time today, perhaps catch a tram or hire a bike and cycle along the water to the historic neighbourhood of Belem. Make sure you try a sumptuous custard tart at the famous Casa Pasteis de Belem. Relax at a cafe in hilly Alfama, or check out the fascinating street art spread throughout the city.

• Lisbon - Naval Museum - EUR7
• Lisbon - National Art Museum - EUR6
• Lisbon - Folk Art Museum - EUR5
• Lisbon - Oceanarium - EUR25
• Lisbon - Puppet Museum - EUR5
• Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum - EUR10
• Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle - EUR15
• Lisbon - Belem Tower and Monastery - EUR20

Continue north on a local bus to Porto, the capital of the north that sits between a river and the Atlantic Ocean. Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing – as the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Indulge in an included group tasting of some famous tawny and ruby ports at one of the many wine houses across the river. Most of the grapes are grown and harvested in the nearby Douro Valley. If sampling the best from the region piques curiosity, why not learn more about the history of wine and port making at the Museu do Vinho later on in the afternoon. Alternatively, spend the evening soaking up the atmosphere of this coastal city in numerous cafes and restaurants that Porto has to offer.

• Porto - Port Wine Tasting

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today is a free day to explore Porto. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower). Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings, then make a turn for Bolhão Market. This is the city’s most famed market, bursting with fresh produce and other goodies. Up in the cathedral area you’ll find the oldest neighbourhood in Porto and a place where you’ll see its true soul. Boat cruises along the Rio Douro operate several times a day, offering insight into the history of Porto's six famous bridges. A cruise is also a great chance to snap some great photos of the colourful tiled houses lined up along the riverbank. For dinner, make sure you try the country’s most famous sandwich – the francesinha – then head to Galerias Paris Street for nightlife.

• Porto - Livraria Lello - EUR8
• Porto - Clerigos Tower - EUR8
• Porto - Serralves Foundation - EUR20
• Porto - Bolhao Market - Free

Today board a bus bound for Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. The capital of Galicia became a symbol of the Spanish Christians' struggle against Islam and is famous as the culmination point for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. Soak up the religious energy in the cathedral where St James, one of the 12 Apostles, is purportedly buried. The cathedral was consecrated in 1211 and is the central point within the medieval walls of the old town, standing majestically on the Plaza del Obradoiro with its towers soaring above the town. Elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas, full of pilgrims and locals spending their day in this atmospheric place. Maybe join them in one of the cafes, sitting back and listening to many of the street artists performing on the streets of the old town. Visit the cathedral and do as pilgrims do – circle the main altar admiring the greatness of the place. Tonight, maybe and explore the streets close to the cathedral for Galician specialties. Perhaps try peppers of Padron and empanadas (Galician pies, filled with meat or seafood).

Today you'll have the opportunity to join pilgrims on the last stretch of the Santiago de Compostela route. Take an early bus to Amenal village where the 18 km walk begins. The trek will take you through the villages, fields and rivers of Galicia. In Lavacolla village you'll cross the river where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed in the river to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city. From here, ascend again to the Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), so called for the feeling when pilgrims would catch their first sight of the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Embrace the atmosphere up here on the mount, alongside some walkers who may have trekked over 800 km to be here. The entire walk takes approximately 4 to 6 hours to complete. It is important that you wear comfortable footwear and bring a rain coat, as weather in this region of Spain can be unpredictable, even during the summer months. Once back in Santiago the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Santiago de Compostela is a World Heritage site, an open-air museum that holds many delights within its walls – the lively squares, the market and the University buildings are must sees. For you final night in town, maybe wander down the streets of Rua do Franco and Rua da Raina to try some tapas.

• Santiago de Compostela - Camino de Santiago Hike
• Santiago de Compostela - Visit to a Local Cheesemaker - EUR20
• Santiago de Compostela - Bike Hire - EUR10
• Santiago de Compostela - Pilgrimage Museum - EUR2
• Santiago de Compostela - Cathedral - EUR12

Please speak to your leader if you are unsure whether the hike activity is suitable for you. For those not wanting to do in the walk, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in town for the day. Please note that this activity is subject to weather conditions.

Today, you'll take a train back to Madrid. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings. Then, the rest of the day is free for your to explore how you wish. Maybe hang out in El Retiro Park or explore Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velazquez and other Spanish masters. Tonight, why not ask your leader the best spot for dinner and head out with your fellow travellers to cheers to a trip well-travelled.

Today your Spain and Portugal adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned so you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent.

9 breakfasts

Train, Public bus, Metro, Taxi

Hotel (14 nights)

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Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. Please provide your full name and passport details at the time of booking so that we can secure Alhambra entrance tickets for you. Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 60 days of departure. In some cases, without these details, we may not be able to obtain entrance tickets for you.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Grand Spain & Portugal

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End Madrid Classic Group

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2 countries

See the Wonders of Portugal & Spain on an 18-Day Guided Tour

This 18-day guided tour adds a personal touch as you travel from Portugal to Spain. In Lisbon, traverse the avenues of the Lower Town and learn about the city's finest square with a knowledgeable Local Expert. At Madrid's Prado Museum, an art historian will guide you through rooms of Spain's most impressive Renaissance art. Sample Spain’s most delicious wines and learn about the Verdejo grape at an exclusive wine tasting in in Rueda. Then in Barcelona, walk through the ancient Roman Gate with a Local Expert before stopping to visit the city's most breathtaking basilica, Sagrada Família. Later, join a Gijon local for an intimate and freshly prepared lunch made from locally-sourced produce.

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MAP & ITINERARY

Start Madrid, Spain. End Madrid, Spain.

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EXPAND ALL DAYS

Choose to end your tour in lively Barcelona or alternatively, return by coach to the starting city of Madrid.

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This tour version ends in Madrid with a stop made at Madrid Airport, followed by the Madrid tour hotel, and has a maximum of 40 guests.

End Barcelona Classic Group

This tour version ends in Barcelona after breakfast with a transfer to Barcelona Airport, and has a maximum of 40 guests.

End Barcelona Small Group

This tour version ends in Barcelona after breakfast with a transfer to Barcelona Airport, and has a maximum of 24 guests.

End Madrid Small Group

This tour version ends in Madrid with a stop made at Madrid Airport, followed by the Madrid tour hotel, and has a maximum of 24 guests.

TRAVELING IN A GROUP OF 10+?

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MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNSECO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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