Overview
Bring your ensemble to perform amid the vibrant cities of Lisbon, Guarda, and Madrid. Your musicians will explore all the can’t-miss sites, including the Lisbon Cathedral, Coimbra University, and Plaza de España in-between performances at iconic venues for international audiences.
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.
Lisbon choir performance
Take the stage and perform for local audiences in a venue that captures the spirit of the city.
Day 4
Sintra excursion
Journey to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by wooded hills and dotted with historic palaces. Visit the National Palace of Sintra, one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval royal residences, then explore Quinta da Regaleira, a fantastical estate filled with gardens, hidden tunnels, ornate architecture and the famous Initiation Well.
Day 5
Travel to Mérida
Roman theater and Amphitheatre 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.
Temple of Diana photo stop
Day 6
Travel to Madrid
Salamanca guided sightseeing tour
This guided sightseeing tour introduces Salamanca, a historic city shaped by scholarship, religion, and pilgrimage. Visit the Casa de las Conchas, now a public library, known for its façade decorated with more than 300 scallop shells, the symbol of the Camino de Santiago. Explore the Catedral Nueva (New Cathedral), noted for its unexpected modern carvings added during a 1992 restoration, and the adjoining Catedral Vieja de Santa María (Old Cathedral), dating to the 14th century. The tour also includes the University of Salamanca, founded in 1134, where Christopher Columbus once presented his plans for a new route to the West Indies.
Day 7
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.
Reina Sofia Museum guided visit
Officially recognized as Spain's National Museum of 20th-Century Art, the Reina Sofía is home to an outstanding collection of works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and other leading modern artists. Highlights include Picasso's "Guernica," along with extensive collections celebrating the evolution of 20th-century Spanish art.
Day 8
Madrid choir performance
Take the stage and perform for local audiences in a venue that captures the spirit of the city.
Flamenco lesson
Learn how to dance Flamenco from local dancers in a lesson.
Day 9
Return 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
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and 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)
Free academic credit for eligible Ontario-based students. Ask your Program Consultant for details.
Scenes from Spain and Portugal
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.