SPAIN & PORTUGAL
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Portugal and Spain await! Experience coastal charm, world-famous art & rich culture on an epic journey from Lisbon to Málaga and Barcelona.
Program Overview
On this program, you’ll dive into the vibrant cultural heartbeat of the Iberian Peninsula — a region that celebrates life through sun-drenched coastlines, rich history, soulful music and world-class food. Over 10 unforgettable days, you’ll explore three of Southern Europe’s most captivating cities: the tiled hills and maritime charm of Lisbon, the seaside warmth of Málaga and the artistic energy of Barcelona. From painting traditional azulejo tiles and discovering masterpieces by Picasso in his hometown to exploring Gaudí’s architectural wonders and paddling along the Mediterranean coast, you’ll experience the unique spirit and rhythm that make Portugal and Spain truly unforgettable.
On GLA’s Spain & Portugal: Coast to Coast Adventure program you will:
- Explore the tiled hills of Lisbon on an iconic Tram 28 scavenger hunt through historic quarters
- Paint your own traditional ceramic keepsake during a hands-on azulejo tile workshop with a local artisan
- Take a paddleboarding class on Málaga’s beaches and explore the works of Picasso in his hometown
- Take part in a Spanish cooking class, mastering local flavors like tapas and paella
- Travel to Barcelona where you’ll visit Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, ending your adventure by swimming in the Mediterranean Sea
Program Menu
SPAIN & PORTUGAL
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
SPAIN & PORTUGAL
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
June 23 – July 02, 2027
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Every GLA Program is Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Recommended by Students and Parents
Jade S. | 2026 Alumni Student
“GLA is a perfect opportunity to go out of your personal space bubble and really explore the world for what it truly is. The connections we made and the places we saw are lifelong memories that will never leave us. Everyone who attended is leaving a different person than who they were when they arrived.”
The Program Experience
Exploratory Travel
Immerse yourself in authentic Iberian culture as you journey through Lisbon, Málaga and Barcelona. Master the secrets of Spanish gastronomy during a hands-on paella cooking class, paint your own traditional ceramic keepsake in a Portuguese azulejo tile workshop and experience local traditions firsthand. Explore centuries of art and architectural innovation through visits to the Picasso Museum in Málaga, as well as Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, the iconic Sagrada Família and Park Güell in Barcelona. While this program does not feature formal language classes, you’ll have daily opportunities to practice conversational Portuguese and Spanish with locals, fully supported and encouraged by bilingual GLA staff.
Adventure
Experience the best of Portugal and Spain by land and water as you journey across Lisbon, Málaga and Barcelona! Explore the coastal charm of Lisbon on an iconic Tram 28 scavenger hunt, navigating the historic, winding hills of Alfama. Head south to the sun-drenched coast of Málaga to take a stand-up paddleboarding lesson in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. In Barcelona, go for a scenic bike tour along the Mediterranean coastline, exploring historic seaside trails and vibrant beach promenades. From coastal adventures to taking in sweeping panoramic views across multiple regions, non-stop outdoor exploration is in every step of your Iberian journey.
Country Spotlight
Discover the energetic rhythms, rich architectural legacy and world-renowned food culture of Spain and Portugal.
Lodging: Enjoy dedicated, secure spaces exclusively reserved for GLA students and staff across Málaga, Lisbon and Barcelona. Accommodation is hosted in modern hostels featuring air-conditioned rooms shared by 2-4 students, each equipped with private en-suite bathrooms.
Meals: Food is central to Spanish life, where long, shared meals form the heart of local tradition. Sample the rich culinary diversity of the Iberian Peninsula, from fresh coastal seafood to an endless variety of regional tapas, creating unforgettable dining experiences with your group.
SPAIN & PORTUGAL
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
Photo Gallery
SPAIN & PORTUGAL
COAST TO COAST ADVENTURE
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