Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Travel through centuries of history alongside your students on this adventure that will take you from Lisbon to Madrid. Your students will visit the Jerónimos Monastery, wander the colourful streets of Sintra, and explore the Roman Temple of Evora. Your group can also look forward to exploring the Mezquita of Córdoba and enjoying an authentic Spanish cooking class.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Portugal (Lisbon)
Day 2
Arrive in Lisbon
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Lisbon city walk
Explore Lisbon on a guided city walk through neighborhoods shaped by centuries of global trade. Wander the narrow lanes of the Alfama quarter, spend time in lively Rossio Square, and explore the Chiado quarter’s cafés and shops before strolling along Avenida da Liberdade, the city’s grand, tree-lined boulevard.
Day 3
Lisbon guided sightseeing tour
Explore Portugal’s capital city as you visit the Monument to the Discoveries and consider Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Tour Mosteiro dos Jerónimos to study Manueline architecture and the legacy of Vasco da Gama, then examine Belém Tower’s defensive role along the Tagus River. Discuss the engineering of Ponte Vasco da Gama and take in panoramic views from the Mirador de Santa Justa while reflecting on Lisbon’s blend of medieval heritage and modern growth.
Fado evening
Portugal's version of the Blues, Fado means "fate" or "destiny," and its songs generally tell the tale of lost love or glory. Head to a Fado house in the Bairro Alto and see the singers swathed in black, accompanied by 12-stringed guitars, crooning their hearts out.
Day 4
Sintra, Cape Roca, and Cascais guided excursion
Explore beyond Lisbon on a guided excursion to Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. Visit the National Palace of Sintra, a remarkably preserved royal residence, then stand at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Continue to Cascais and Estoril to see scenic beaches and the historic citadel, once a royal retreat.
Day 5
Travel to Extremadura via Evora and Jerez de los Caballeros
Évora city walk
Explore Évora on a guided city walk through one of Portugal’s most historic cities. See the remarkably preserved Roman Temple, built in the 1st century, and visit São João Evangelista Church. Step inside the Chapel of Bones, where walls lined with human remains offer a powerful reflection on history, belief, and the passage of time.
Jerez de los Caballeros city walk
Explore Jerez de los Caballeros, a hilltop town in Extremadura known for its whitewashed streets and rich heritage. Visit the historic fortress for views across the countryside, and step inside San Bartolomé and San Miguel churches to see ornate towers and intricate design that reflect the town’s artistic and architectural legacy.
Day 6
Roman theater visit
Delve into the rich history and architectural brilliance of one of Spain's most iconic archaeological sites. Marvel at the well-preserved structures and learn about the theater's historical significance.
Artisanal cheese workshop
Experience a traditional goat cheese farm and learn about their process and the distinctive qualities of their products while sampling a variety along the way.
Travel to Seville
Day 7
Seville guided sightseeing tour
Explore Seville with a local guide as students discover the city’s rich history and architecture. Walk through the Old Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz and San Bartolomé, visit the impressive Seville Cathedral and ascend the Giralda Tower, and explore Casa de Pilatos, a model of Andalusian palace design. The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Plaza de España.
Flamenco class and show
Work with skilled instructors to learn about the history, rhythms, and moves of this famous gypsy dance and then admire the professionals as they put on a special show for you.
Day 8
Travel to Madrid via Córdoba
Stop in Córdoba to visit one of Spain’s most remarkable landmarks, the Moorish Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, dating from the 8th to 10th centuries. Wander narrow whitewashed streets lined with tile-covered patios and colourful flowers, and explore the city’s beautiful historic quarters.
Mezquita guided visit
The Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba is a breathtaking monument that blends Moorish and Christian architecture. Its forest of columns and horseshoe arches creates a striking visual rhythm, while intricate mosaics and the gold-adorned mihrab add to its beauty. Dating from the 8th to 10th centuries, the Mezquita reflects the rich and complex history of Córdoba.
Travel to Madrid via AVE train
Madrid city walk
Discover Madrid’s lively spirit with your Tour Director on a walk through its bustling streets. Begin at Puerta del Sol, the vibrant city centre, then continue to Plaza Mayor, where centuries of history have unfolded from royal weddings to bullfights. Conclude at Plaza de España, a favourite spot for outdoor cafés and people-watching in the heart of the city.
Day 9
Madrid guided sightseeing tour
Experience Spain’s capital with a licensed guide. Visit the Royal Palace, Europe’s largest, to see lavish halls and frescoes. Stroll lively Gran Vía with its theatres, shops, and cafés. Admire the Cibeles Fountain depicting the earth goddess Cybele. See the Neoclassical Puerta de Alcalá in Plaza de la Independencia, a ceremonial gateway to the city. Conclude at Columbus Square, a hub of monuments and museums.
Traditional Spanish cooking class with dinner
Create and enjoy some of Spain's most popular and iconic dishes and discover firsthand what makes these dishes enduring classics of Spanish cuisine.
Day 10
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Barcelona
Travel on the high-speed AVE train to Barcelona and take part in a Las Ramblas scavenger hunt. See the best of the city on a guided sightseeing tour featuring Plaza de España, Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, Montjuïc Hill, and Park Güell. End your adventure with a flavorful paella dinner before heading home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Lisbon, Seville and Madrid
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.