trip to barcelona and portugal

Portugal and Spain Itinerary: A 14-Day Iberian Journey

Trying to squeeze in the highlights of Spain and Portugal into a two-week trip can be tricky. Both are incredible countries with rich culture, varied landscapes, vibrant cities, and architectural wonders. After traveling all over the Iberian Peninsula, I’ve come up with a route that hits every city efficiently and makes the most out of your time. This two-week Portugal and Spain itinerary will cover the must-see landmarks in each city, activity suggestions, restaurant and hotel recommendations, and my personal favorites.

As a Portuguese-American woman, I’ve visited these Portuguese cities countless times and, after living in Seville for four months and traveling the country, I have combined all of my favorite things into one trip. Plus, I’ve included hidden gems that most tourists would miss!

Best Times to Visit Spain and Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal and Spain is either early summer or fall. The months of May through early July are less busy than the following summer months. You’ll still get nice weather and less tourism around you. If you choose to visit in the fall, the weather will be just as good, and you’ll get to experience even less tourism. Keep in mind that summer in Southern Spain is incredibly hot and November and April are both rainy months in Portugal.

Portugal and Spain Itinerary Overview

This itinerary starts in Porto, Portugal and ends in Barcelona, Spain. You can also flip this itinerary if you prefer to visit Spain first!

• Douro River cruise and wine tasting
• Dinner and a view
• Livraria Lello and Majestic Cafe for Harry Potter lovers
• The Praça de Liberdade (Liberty Square) 
• Michelin star restaurant
• Medieval town
• Castle of Óbidos
• Pousada do Castelo de Óbidos hotel
• Nazare beach
• Commerce Square and Alfama
• Tuk Tuk tours
• Cable car 
• Miradouro S. Luiza scenic spot
• Castelo S. Jorge
• 25 April Bridge
• Rossio Square
• Torre de Belém
• Sunset boat cruises on the Tagus River 
• Fado show 
• Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira
• Cabo da Roca 
• Albufeira and Lagos
• Epic Sana Hotel or the Pine Cliff Resort 
• Martinhal Sagres Family Resort 
• Benagil Cave 
• Vila Joya and Bon Bon fine dining 
• Hotel Alfonso XIII or Hotel Palacio de Villapanes
• Cathedral of Seville
• Royal Alcazar
• Setas de Seville
• Plaza de Espana & Maria Luisa Park
• La Carbonería 
• Triana Market
• Paella cooking class
• Casa Manolo Lèon 
• Hotel Neri and Ohla 
• Gothic Quarter
• Las Ramblas
• Gaudi houses
• Park Güell
• Sagrada Família
• Paella and Catalan dishes 
• Montserrat mountains 

This map was created using Google My Maps and covers my suggested Portugal and Spain itinerary. You can click on the star next to the title and save this to your Google Maps account or click on the share icon to send it to yourself via email.

14-Day Portugal and Spain Itinerary

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

For this itinerary, I recommend that you fly into Porto and out of Barcelona (or vice versa). It may be easiest if you rent a car to drive from city to city, but if you want, you can take the train or bus from place to place and then fly from Seville to Barcelona. Keep in mind that parking in cities like Lisbon and Porto can be quite challenging, so you could also consider just picking up a rental car for a portion of your trip.

Day 1-2: Porto, Portugal  

Once arriving in Porto, you should check into the PortoBay Flores Hotel or The Yeatman. Both are 5-star hotels but provide different experiences. PortoBay Flores is in the heart of Porto’s historic district. The hotel has an historic charm to it but still has plenty of modern luxuries, such as an indoor swimming pool. People who want to fully immerse themselves into the history and culture of Porto should stay here. The hotel is the perfect walking distance from plenty of landmarks such as Ribeira Square, the historical square of Porto.

The Yeatman Hotel is a luxury wine and spa hotel in the Vila Nova de Gaia historical district. For those who want to relax but also sightsee, this hotel is the best fit. You’re also able to have city views from the hotel of the famous Douro River. 

If you are starting in Porto and arriving after an overnight flight, you will want to start off by exploring some of the city’s highlights on a self-guided walking tour . Begin by walking around and experiencing what Porto has to offer from stores, cafés to the historical districts.

Harry Potter fans and those with children, should visit Livraria Lello and Majestic Cafe. The Livraria Lello is the book store that gave J.K. Rowling inspirations for Harry Potter’s world, such as the moving staircases in Hogwarts. Majestic Cafe is where Rowling hung out and wrote.

The Praça de Liberdade (Liberty Square) is Porto’s main square that connects the old town with the modern part of the city and also a great place to walk around. Be sure to following the narrow streets down to the Douro River and cross over the Luis I Bridge to the Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood where you can visit the World of Wine, sample some port, and enjoy the fun vibe along the riverfront.

Finish up your first day with dinner at Terra Nora. Terra Nora is an intimate dining experience with traditional Portuguese cuisine. When making your reservation, request to sit at a window in order to see the Douro River as you dine. For sunset lovers, reserve a time a few minutes before it sets in order to see the sun set on the river. 

For your second day, no trip to Porto is the same without doing a cruise or tour through the Douro Valley to see vineyards and breathtaking scenery. There are so many options, but I always prefer the tours that last all day for a full experience. The authentic Douro River tours last about 9 hours, including travel time to and from the Douro Valley.

The ideal Douro River excursion would include winery visits and tastings of both authentic Port wine and the other wines grown in the region. The wine tasting would then be followed by a cruise on the Douro River and ending with a typical Portuguese lunch made with Douro region products. If you don’t want to spend a full day in the Douro Valley, you can also take a cruise on the river in Porto on an authentic boat that used to carry wine barrels down the river.

For the final night in Porto a perfect meal is needed. For those staying in the Yeatman Hotel, there is a Michelin Star restaurant downstairs that has amazing reviews. Seafood lovers should make a reservation for the restaurant Gruta . After dinner, Porto nightlife is something you don’t want to miss out on. But don’t stay out too late as we prepare for a travel day tomorrow. 

Day 3: Óbidos, Portugal

From Porto, you can travel to Óbidos by bus, train, or rental car. Óbidos is known for its medieval town surrounded by the Castle of Óbidos. For the one night you have here, stay at Pousada do Castelo de Óbidos hotel. The hotel is housed within the 12th-century medieval castle.

If you have a car, you can stop in Nazare on your way to Óbidos. Nazare’s beach is popular with surfers and known for its epically tall waves. Plus, there is a beautiful look-out point. 

Days 4-6: Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal

After your night in Óbidos, take a bus/train or drive to Lisbon. You should stay in the center of Lisbon by Commerce Square or the older part in Alfama. The Bairro Alto Hotel is a charming, centrally located stay that has a great restaurant within it. Another option is the Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa that is a large property out of the noisy city center on the tree-lined Avenida Liberdade.

The best way to see Lisbon is to just walk. Some streets are so narrow and steep that cars won’t fit through or get up. Lisbon’s infamous Tram 28 is a great tourist option to get explore the city. Tuk Tuk tours are also very popular for seeing Lisbon.

When going to popular scenic spots, it’s best to go early in the morning before 9:00 a.m. The Miradouro S. Luiza scenic spot has great views of Lisbon’s port and cathedral. It will be full of tourists the entire day, so get there early to get your picture. 

Once you’ve gotten all your pictures, make your way to the Castelo S. Jorge that is only a five-minute walk away. The views from the castle are, in my opinion, the best it gets. You can see multiple landmarks such as the 25 April Bridge that was inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge as well as the Sanctuary of Christ monument.

For clothes, shoes, and trinket lovers; Rossio is a great shopping area with high-end stores. I highly recommend checking out shoe stores, any you can find around there are great quality and affordable. Once you get tired from shopping so much, take a quick walk to Rossio Square for a place to relax and people watch. Some alternative must see sights for the remainder days in Lisbon are; Commerce Square, Torre de Belém, and Jerónimos Monastery. 

A sunset boat cruise on the Tagus River is my favorite activity to do in Lisbon by far. Nothing can beat being on a vintage sailboat with champagne in hand while eating Portuguese cheese and prosciutto. The sunset cruise I took was about two hours long, and I was able to sit right in the front of the boat on bean bag chairs while listening to the water and soft music. 

After the appetizers you consumed on the cruise, it’s now time for dinner. My top four restaurants in Lisbon are; BAHR , Alma , Solar dos Presuntos , and JNcQUOI Asia . All are traditional Portuguese dishes of meat and fish, except JNcQUOI Asia. Although I love Portuguese food, on this long of a trip I tend to want something different. JNcQUOI Asia offers four types of Asian cuisine: Indian, Thai, Chinese and Japanese.

Another option is to book a dinner and Fado show. Fado is a Portuguese music genre that consists of folk guitars, hand clapping, and singing. Parreirinha de Alfama is a small Portuguese restaurant that has Fado singing. The restaurant is very quaint in order for it to feel like a homespun restaurant. All the food is cooked in a tiny kitchen by one woman. 

After spending a day or two in Lisbon, it’s worth making a day trip to Sintra and the seaside town of Cascais. Sintra is known for the Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira. The town is very small and can be seen in a few hours. On the way back from Sintra, make a stop in Cascais for the Cabo da Roca which is the cape of Portugal and the most western part of Europe. 

For more suggestions, see my 3 Day Lisbon Itinerary .

Days 7-8: Algarve, Portugal

Once you’ve seen everything I listed for Lisbon, it’s now time to head south to the Algarve for some relaxation. If you have a rental car, it’ll only be a three-hour drive to pure beauty. If you want to take the train, you would take the Lisbon to Faro train to stay in either the Albufeira or Lagos area. Both are easy to get to via Uber or bus from the station.

The Epic Sana Hotel or the Pine Cliff Resort are both nice hotels, followed by the Martinhal Sagres Family Resort , which is a great family resort great for those with children.

The first thing you have to do is head out to the beaches. Algarve beaches are tucked between stunning sandstone cliffs on one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe. The most famous tourist attraction is a boat ride to visit the Benagil Cave, but there are many ways to explore the coastline.

Albufeira and Lagos both have spectacular beaches and shopping and nightlife. There are little villages all over to explore. If you’re lucky, some sort of festival will be held downtown that is full of great music, food, and drinks. There’s always something to celebrate in Algarve. Two popular restaurants are Vila Joya and Bon Bon for fine dining. 

Days 9-11: Seville, Spain

Enough relaxation, it’s time to get back into exploring and sightseeing and move on to Spain! The easiest way to get to Seville from Algarve is to drive or take a three-hour bus ride. Seville is the gateway to visiting the Andalusia region of Spain.

Choose to stay at either Hotel Alfonso XIII or Hotel Palacio de Villapanes . Both hotels are in the old town of Seville surrounded by history. Hotel Alfonso XII is the most famous hotel to stay at and has been around since the 1900s. The regal rooms and decor make this hotel stand out from others. 

Since you’d already be in the city center, you should visit the Cathedral of Seville as well as the Royal Alcazar. The Royal Alcazar is a historical royal palace with beautiful tile work and stunning gardens, which have been featured in many films and shows.

From there, Seville’s beauty is often found just while wandering around. After living there for four months, my favorite places were the ones I stumbled upon, even just a favorite bench. The center also has hundreds of stores to choose from for clothes, shoes, and souvenirs. While wandering around, you can’t miss the Setas de Seville. This large wooden structure is the best way to see the city from high up, the views are unbeatable. 

A 10-minute bus ride or 20-minute walk will take you to the Plaza de Espana. The Plaza de Espana is my favorite place in all of Seville. The square is beautifully built with authentic tiles all around.

The Maria Luisa Park is connected to the plaza and is a large garden made for lounging and relaxing with multiple fountains and benches. You’re able to rent a row boat to cruise on the river for an hour at your own pace or take a boat cruise.

Seville is also home to the famous dance of flamenco. There are multiple places that host flamenco performances, but you should have an authentic flamenco experience at a local restaurant. La Carbonería is a tavern with flamenco performances in an old coal warehouse. They have three flamenco shows every night, running from 8:30-10:30. 

Another activity to do is a paella cooking class. The Triana Market is a fresh food market with vendor stalls selling produce, meat, and prepared meals. Within the market, Taller Andaluz de Cocina , hosts cooking classes and a tour of the market. The cooking class is held in a makeshift kitchen with everything you need. The class consists of three authentic Seville courses such as gazpacho, paella, and spinach and chickpeas. 

The best restaurants in Seville are the Abantal, El Pinton , and Casa Manolo Lèon . Abantal is known for their fine dining with modern variations on Andalusian cuisines. El Pinton is well known tapas restaurant. Casa Manolo Lèon is my personal favorite, with authentic Andalusian cuisine and an outdoor patio filled with flowers and greenery. 

Also see things to do in Seville with kids .

Days 12-14: Barcelona, Spain & Montserrat 

From Seville, take a quick flight to Barcelona for Spain’s most famous city. Hotel Neri and Ohla are my picks for your stay. Both are located in the Gothic Quarter. I personally recommend always staying in that area because it’s in the center of all the landmarks, shopping, and restaurants.

You’re able to walk around and get to any place if you stay there. From the Gothic Quarter you’re able to see the Cathedral and the Las Ramblas scenic area. 

If you’re interested in art or architecture, you should book tickets to see the Gaudi houses. Casa Battló is one of Gaudi’s creations that we’re able to visit. The house belonged was lived in by Gaudi and his family. The design takes inspiration from the environment and its animals. Park Güell is an attraction I always go to when I’m in Barcelona. The park consists of Gaudi’s artwork within the framework and architecture of the gardens and buildings. 

The following day, you should visit the Sagrada Família. When booking tickets for the Sagrada, you will have to do it relatively very early and also try to get skip the line passes . This is Barcelona’s biggest attraction, and it gets very crowded in there.

After spending a few hours in the Sagrada Família, I would take the rest of the day to walk around the Gothic Quarter. The last time I was in Barcelona, wandering around, I stumbled upon a fashion show at a park as well as a music video in the streets. This city is filled with vibrant energy and people, just appreciate what’s around you. 

Barcelona is known for having some of the best restaurants. Disfrutar is considered as the top restaurant in Europe. Its experimental tasting menus are Mediterranean seafood based and more on the pricey side. Estimar is a hidden restaurant with an open kitchen view from your tabel. They’re known for their seafood and delicious seafood. If you’re tired of paella yet, Mana 75 specializes in paella and Catalan dishes. 

On your last day before flying back home to the U.S., I recommend taking a day trip to Montserrat in the mountains. It’s the perfect escape from the intense city life you’ve experienced the last few days. Montserrat is known for its stunning mountain views, historic buildings, and hiking trails.

Also see things to do in Barcelona with kids .

Read more about Portugal and Spain

• One-week Portugal itineraries (4 options)
• Portugal trip planning tips
• How much does a trip to Portugal cost?
• 3 Days in Lisbon
• Things to do in Madrid with kids
• Day trip to Segovia
• Day trip to Toledo

Emma Da Silva is a journalism major at the University of Rhode Island and an aspiring Travel Writer. Her love for photography and experience studying aboard have led her to want to write for other adventurers and inspire them to go out and make lasting memories.

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Publish Date: March 20, 2024

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Your Perfect Spain and Portugal Itinerary for 10 to 14 Days

February 1, 2023

Welcome to the complete Spain and Portugal itinerary planner. Enjoy the best of the Iberian peninsula and get ready for your next trip.

Table of Contents

Planning Your Trip Through Spain and Portugal

Many describe Spain and Portugal as some of the most beautiful destinations in the world. And what’s not to like about them? They have gorgeous beaches, centuries-old buildings, delicious food, and a mild climate that attracts tourists even in the winter.

Best of all, they sit next to each other, so you can easily create an amazing Spain and Portugal itinerary and see all the best places in one trip.

I lived in Spain for years and frequently crossed the border into Portugal. But I know that it can seem overwhelming when you’re sitting down to plan out an itinerary for the first time.

So, if you are not sure where to start, here’s a complete guide, including the best cities to visit, top hotels and restaurants, as well as some ideas for day trips in case you have extra time. Follow it as it is or adapt it to your budget and interests and have a fabulous time!

Disclosure: if you book or buy through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

• I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
• My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
• Out of the big accommodation machines, I use Expedia and Booking.com the most
• I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

How Many Days Do You Need for a Spain & Portugal Trip?

There’s so much to see in Spain and Portugal that you’ll probably need months or even years to explore everything. However, you can see the main cities and taste a bit of the local culture in about 14 days. Some people race through both countries in seven days but that is a push and you will feel rushed. Spending around 10 days in Spain and Portugal is a decent amount of time but you will still be moving pretty quickly.

How to Tour Spain & Portugal

All the big towns in Spain and Portugal are connected through direct flights that are shorter than 1 hour and 30 minutes, so if you want to travel fast, it might be worth adding in some flights. You can find some tips to get cheaper plane tickets here.

However, flights bring problems, from having to turn up early to possibly losing your luggage to missing out on all the landscapes and smaller places between the big cities. Plus, the costs (and time) adds up travelling out and back to airports all the time.

Instead, I’d recommend looking at some of the sleek, fast trains and hiring a car in a few places for a great Iberian road trip.

Top Tip: Don’t forget about travel insurance . When you are visiting so many cities in a row, the chances of losing your luggage or experiencing a delay increase.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Spain & Portugal?

The summer months are extremely hot in Spain and Portugal, so it can be uncomfortable to hop from one city to another at 40 degrees Celsius (or higher in Seville.) Having said that, there are plenty of things to be enjoyed during a summer in Spain .

It is better to visit in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is still warm, the crowds are smaller, and the hotel prices are that bit lower.

Or, you could be unusual and see what it’s like to visit Spain in winter.

Your 14-Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary

This itinerary starts in Madrid, continues to two big cities in Portugal, and returns to Spain for more splendid destinations full of history and colour.

Madrid – 3 Days

The capital of Spain, Madrid, is a beautiful city, combining the charm of the old streets and churches with a more modern architectural vision. It is the first destination on your 14-day itinerary, and you have 3 days to explore its attractions and surroundings.

What to Visit in Madrid

One of the best ways to discover the main attractions in Madrid is to take a tour with a local guide. But you can also visit everything on your own if you are organised. We recommend using public transportation, as the streets are quite busy for a rental car.

Puerta del Sol

As soon as you arrive, head to the city centre to discover one of its most famous sites. Puerta del Sol is the square where all major streets meet. Check out the famous clock that’s the centre of attention on New Year’s Eve, when locals and tourists gather in the square to celebrate.

Plaza Mayor

Grab a coffee or have a bite to eat in Plaza Mayor, a magnificent square in the centre of Habsburg Madrid. This is the oldest part of the city, thronging with souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, and street artists and musicians.

Mercado de San Miguel

Tasty and well-heeled, this much loved madrileño market sells fresh produce and tasty snacks, everything from pastry to charcuterie, Venezuelan corn, and vermouth.

The Palacio Real de Madrid

The Royal Palace in Madrid was inspired by Bernini’s sketches for the Louvre, rejected in France but put to good work in Spain, where this architectural jewel was built. The structure has more than 3,000 rooms, some with special themes. Take the Royal Chemist’s room filled with natural medicine cabinets, for example (you can check out the prescriptions the medics wrote to the members of the royal family.) Or the Royal Chapel, home to a magnificent collection of string instruments made by Antonio Stradivarius.

Catedral de la Almudena

Step out of the Royal Palace and enter the grand Catedral del la Almudena, consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. It is the most important cathedral in Madrid and houses a museum with objects related to the life of the local patron saints. If you’ve got a good pair of lungs, climb the stairs to the dome for a splendid view of the city.

Prado Museum

A huge art hub, the Prado houses over 8,600 paintings, so whatever you do, don’t plan on seeing them all. I would highly recommend booking a guide to help you understand and focus. Alternatively, Prado’s website suggests three itineraries that can help you find your way. Do not miss the highlights: the galleries dedicated to El Greco and the extended Goya collection.

El Retiro Park

In the afternoon, stroll around this huge park, recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes a large number of gardens and monuments spread across 125 hectares.

Snap a picture of the only statue in the world dedicated to the devil, the Fallen Angel, which sits at 666 meters above sea level, and check out the rare plants in the botanical garden. There’s also a puppet theatre that still holds shows, great for kids and adults.

Find out more fun facts about Madrid here.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Pick a hotel close to the centre to access the main attractions on foot. The Centro and La Latina areas are close to everything, including tapas bars and restaurants, and it’s easy to find a good stay here. You can also stay in Lavapiés or Huertas for a more colourful and bohemian atmosphere.

SLEEP’N Atocha and Petit Palace Triball come highly recommended.

Where to Eat in Madrid

La Latina is the best area for eating in Madrid, especially when you only have a few days. Check out Casa Lucas to try their famous black cannelloni, or take a seat at La Perjila for a plate of delicious tapas. If you fancy a steak, don’t miss Casa Lucio – it’s been sizzling since 1974.

Day Trips from Madrid

Dedicate one of the days when you’re based in Madrid to one of the nearby towns or villages for a taste of how life is outside the capital. We suggest Salamanca or Toledo.

A university city located 214 km from Madrid, Salamanca has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list due to its splendid cathedral, the Monterrey Palace, and huge Plaza Mayor.

Only 73 km from Madrid, Toledo is the former capital and something of a museum city reflecting the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian heritage of the people who built it. You can visit the Cristo de la Luz Mosque, El Transito Synagogue, and the Toledo Cathedral to see how cultures crossed in this city that attracted Goya and Picasso.

Getting from Madrid to Porto

• Plane: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Train: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Car: 5 hours 50 minutes

Porto – 2 Days

Cross the border and stop in Porto, a magically romantic city famous for its harbour and wines. See also our fun guide on unusual things to do in Porto.

Top Attractions in Porto

You only have one day to explore the city, if you choose to do a day trip on the next one, so you will need to concentrate on the big attractions only.

Livraria Lello

Book lovers will be delighted to discover the impressive number of novels, poetry books, scientific and historic treatises and so on, all gathered in what seems to be a reader’s paradise. But even those who haven’t read a book in a while shouldn’t miss this place for its exquisite neo-gothic façade and stunning interior. It’s said to have inspired Harry Potter.

Igreja do Carmo

The next stop on your 2-day Porto itinerary, Igreja do Carmo, consists of two buildings connected through a very small home. It used to be a convent, with one building housing the nuns and the other the monks of the Carmelite Order in Porto. The narrow house between them was built to help preserve the chastity of the nuns and the monks’ vow of celibacy. Today, it’s a museum.

Check out the ‘azulejos’ on the exterior of Igreja do Carmo, which are hand-painted blue and white tiles specific to the area.

Sao Bento Train Station

A masterpiece of azulejo art, the palace-like Sao Bento Train Station unravels its imposing façade just a few steps from the Cathedral of Porto. Inspired by the “Beaux-Arts” style, it has a large vestibule covered in almost 20,000 tiles that depict scenes of daily life in Northern Portugal. The grandeur of the vestibule, along with its large glass ceiling, is simply fascinating. And you’ll see plenty of people hanging out here, trying to get that instagram shot.

Chapel of Souls

Probably the most photogenic building in Porto, the Chapel of Souls sits in the middle of the main shopping street. You will immediately recognise its impressive exterior covered in the popular blue and white azulejos depicting different religious episodes like the death of Saint Francis of Assisi or the martyrdom of Saint Catherine.

Porto Cathedral

The Sé do Porto is the oldest cathedral in the city, built in the 12th century and expanded over the centuries. It combines the Romanesque style with Baroque and Gothic influences and is designed more like a fortress with massive walls. Spend a moment of peace in its beautiful forecourt and then head inside to admire its baroque interior. The star is the Baroque loggia, lovely decorated with azulejos.

Ribeira Promenade

Spend the evening in the dreamy Ribeira neighbourhood, discovering the historic centre and admiring the sunset from the Dom Louis I Bridge which connects the two banks of the Douro River. This area of Porto was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And a beautiful one it is too.

Where to Stay in Porto

The Centro-Baixa and Ribeira are the best areas to stay in Porto due to their proximity to the main attractions. The PortoBay Flores is a popular hotel for its luxurious rooms and great service, but if you are looking for mid-range accommodation, Hotel Mercure Porto Centro Aliados offers everything you need at an excellent price.

Where to Eat in Porto

Porto is famous for its tapas, fish, meats, pastel de nata, and wine. Stop by A Bolina for a nice glass of wine over a plate of tapas, and visit O Caseirinho if you want to try an authentic Portuguese fish-based dish. For the best pastel de nata, Confeitaria do Bolhão is your place.

Day Trip from Porto: Douro River Cruise

On your second day in Porto, cruise along the Douro River and visit the Douro Valley, the region famous for producing grapes for the Porto wine. The river cruises start at Porto’s Ribeira pier and can last from a few hours to a whole day.

Porto to Lisbon

• Plane: 55 minutes (plus airport time)
• Train: 3 hours 23 minutes
• Car: 3 hours 10 minutes

Lisbon – 3 Days

A 3-day Lisbon itinerary is the right amount of time to explore the city itself and take a road trip to one of the nearby cities. But if you have less time, you can skip Sintra or Cascais and head directly to Seville.

What to Visit in Lisbon

Lisbon is an acquired taste. Her joy lies in the tumbling ruins and steep streets, her shareable food and her people far more than her checklist of sights. So, don’t rush your first day in the city. Instead, try to connect to the general vibe.

São Jorge Castle

Dating back to the 5th century, this huge castle sits on the summit of São Jorge hill, the highest point in Lisbon. It will take several hours to see it all, along with the small museum inside, so try to be there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Climb to the top of the fortress for a magnificent view of the city.

Next to São Jorge Castle, you will find the Alfama district with its massive cathedral, the St. Vincent Monastery, and the National Pantheon. Stop by the Lisbon Cathedral to see where St Anthony was baptised. And, if you are a literature lover, don’t miss Casa dos Bicos, where you will find an exhibition space dedicated to Nobel Prize winner Jose Saramago.

Santa Justa Lift

Step on this historic lift, which takes you from the Baixa neighbourhood to Bairro Alto. It has a wonderful observation deck that reveals the views over Baixa.

Chiado and Bairro Alto

Stroll around these picturesque neighbourhoods. Chiado is elegant and bohemian, with gorgeous cafes and theatres, whilst Bairro Alto is famous for its great fado restaurants and graffiti art.

Parque das Nações

If you still have time, spend the rest of the day at this modern park, which manages to include an oceanarium with over 25,000 sea creatures, the Vasco da Gama bridge and tower, the Lisbon Casino, and the Vasco da Gama Centre, a huge mall with stores and spaces for entertainment. Other iconic buildings to visit here are the Oriente Station, the turtle-like Altice Arena, and the Portugal Pavilion.

Day 2 – Belem

On your second day in Lisbon, leave the city centre and visit the Belem district at the mouth of the river Tagus. This is the place from where many Portuguese explorers set sail to other parts of the world, returning with incredible riches. Visit the Jeronimo Monastery (another UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Belem Tower and stop at the Pastéis de Belém, the place where the delicious Portuguese egg tarts were invented.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Baixa is the most popular neighbourhood in the city, with lots of accommodation options. But the Rossio, Chiado and Cais do Sodre are close to the biggest attractions as well. If you want a 5-star hotel, book a room at the Avenida Palace, or go for Hotel Santa Justa for something more mid-range.

• Look at our guide on the best places to stay in Lisbon here.

Where to Eat in Lisbon

The food in Lisbon is simply divine, and there are plenty of restaurants cooking it to perfection. Choose Invicta if you crave fish or langoustines plucked fresh from the ocean.

Food writers say that the best octopus in town is served at Frade dos Mares, and Floresta Das Escadinhas is genius when it comes to ribs.

For more about what to eat in Lisbon, check out our Lisbon food guide here.

Day Trips from Lisbon

If you can spare one more day, take a short trip to the nearby spots of Sintra or Cascais. The easiest way to get there is by car or bus, although you can manage a train and bus combination to Sintra, if you don’ t mind a steep climb at the end.

Sintra is a sight to behold, full of colourful whimsy, history and heritage. UNESCO World Heritage. Visit Vila Palace, the former summer resort of the Portuguese kings, and then stop at the glorious Pena Palace which overlooks the town from its hill.

Even if you don’t have much time, you can pay a quick visit to the fishing village of Cascais, which is only half an hour from Lisbon. Lots of shops and restaurants and sunny beaches make this place worth visiting. It is also famous for its fresh fish and shellfish, so you are in for a feast.

• Recommended reading: the best souvenirs from Porto

Lisbon to Seville

• Train: 6 hours 45 minutes
• Car: 4 hours 25 minutes

Seville – 2 Days

Cross the border again, this time to discover Southern Spain, where sun-kissed beaches and century-old buildings are only two of the best things to explore.

Seville Tourist Attractions

Seville cathedral and la giralda.

All visits to Seville find themselves in front of the Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede, or simply the Seville Cathedral. Only by St Paul’s Cathedral in London and St Peter’s Basilica in Rome surpasses this monumental building in size.

The main point of focus is the tomb of Christopher Columbus, but the collection of gold and jewellery is something to behold.

The main cathedral tower is the landmark of the city and nicknamed La Giralda. The geometric patterns give away its youth: it was first part of a mosque which once stood upon this land.

Real Alcázar of Seville

Next on, the Royal Alcázar of Seville is a spectacular palace with a lush garden and sumptuous decorations. It was here that Columbus applied for funding for his voyage to “India” and here, too, where the Game of Thrones filmed their palace in the Kingdom of Dorne. Today, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, although for the former rather than latter fact, I believe.

Barrio Santa Cruz

Leave the grand buildings behind and wander through Seville’s most tight-streeted neighbourhood, the former Jewish Quarter in the city. Step by the Centro de Interpretacion Juderia de Sevilla to learn more about their tragic history. And elsewhere, enjoy the bodegas and boutique shops which have sprung up around this lively part of the city.

Casa del Pilatos

The second most beautiful palace in Sevilla, Casa del Pilatos, was inspired by Pontius Pilate’s house in Jerusalem. It combines the Gothic, Italian Renaissance, and Mudéjar styles in an architectural masterpiece decorated with marble columns, azulejos, and flowers. Spend some time in the garden before ending the day on the Guadalquivir River waterfront.

Plaza de Espana and Maria Luisa Park

On the next day, visit Maria Luisa Park, which displays a spectacular collection of Mediterranean trees and plants. It is an oasis of peace in the middle of the town, providing a sweet relief for locals and tourists alike during the summer.

Next to the park, you will find the Plaza de España, a grand affair built for the 1929 Ibero-American exhibition.

Museum of Fine Arts

Probably the second most important museum in Spain after the Prado, the Museo de Bellas Artes in Seville sits in an old monastery building. The façade of the building, as well as the interior, is exquisite, and the collections are not something to miss. Here’s a taste: El Greco, Velásquez, Zurbarán, and Murillo.

Where to Stay in Seville

As in most cities, the city centre is the best place to stay, and you have some fabulous hotels here that seem to be the smaller copies of the palaces in town – the Boutique Hotel Casa del Poeta and the Hotel Gravina51, for example. For a picturesque view and more affordable prices, you can book a room in Barrio Santa Cruz – we recommend H10 Casa de la Plata.

Where to Eat in Seville

Sevilla is home to lots of upscale restaurants where you can try divine dishes in a gorgeous venue, often decorated with plants and small trees. Ispal Restaurante is one of the most popular places in town, and you will have a lovely time here, but if you want a royal experience, try the Michelin-starred Restaurante Az-Zait.

• Check out our guide to the best tapas bars in Seville.

Day Trips from Seville

Andalusia, the region around Seville, deserves a road trip of its own. And that’s why we wrote one here. However, if you don’t have time for that, you can arrange for some absolutely spectacular day trips to three of the south’s big hitters: Cordoba, Granada, or Malaga.

The Mezquita in Cordoba is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Cordoba itself is a fragrant, picturesque Andalusian town. It’s the perfect place to sip on a lemonade or tinto de verano and watch a flamenco performance on one of the lively terraces. But it’s the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Mezquita, a mosque turned into cathedral, which will linger in your memory for decades to come.

At the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains lies the wonderful city of Granada. It’s lively, it’s pretty, it’s fun. And it’s the closest city to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Alhambra, a masterpiece of a Moorish palace and a symbol of defeat and despair. See this Alhambra quote Do not weep like a woman…

Beach lovers should head to Malaga for a relaxing day in the sun. It’s not all about the beach (although it can be if you want it to be.)

Malaga is also the birthplace of Picasso, with a museum dedicated to the artist, and an extremely lively town offering tapas and nightlife galore.

Seville to Barcelona

• Plane: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Train: 5 hours 54 minutes
• Car: 9 hours 15 minutes

Barcelona – 3 Days

The last stop on your Spain-Portugal trip, Barcelona is the heart of the autonomous region of Catalunya, and a popular spot, receiving over 8 million visitors each year.

Barcelona Tourist Attractions

Sagrada familia.

The most iconic building in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia, is still under construction. And it has been since 1882.

It is the work of the famous Antonio Gaudi, and like no religious building you’ve ever seen. The best way to visit the basilica is to take a walking tour with a local guide who will give you more information on Gaudi’s vision and the history of the place. Also, book in advance, as tickets to the Sagrada Familia quickly become sold out.

Sant Pau Recinte Modernista

This complex was built at the beginning of the 19th century to serve as a garden city for nursing the sick. It is an exceptional architectural ensemble built in the Art-Nouveau style and declared a World Heritage Site in 1997. A visit here will take you through the history of medicine in Barcelona whilst you admire an outstanding architectural piece.

Barcelona and Gaudi are two inseparable entities. Barcelona left its mark on Gaudi, and Gaudi left his mark on the city. And Park Guell is a prime example. Spend a few hours in this park, considered one of the most iconic Modernist works in the world, and visit the Gaudi House and Museum to learn more about the most loved architect of Barcelona.

A temple for football worshipers, Camp Nou is the mythical stadium of the beloved FC Barcelona. You can take a tour of the stadium and then visit the museum inside. It is the best place to buy yourself a nice FC Barcelona souvenir.

If you are not a big football fan, you can skip Camp Nou and head to Tibidado, a 520-meter mountain. Besides the dramatic views, it is a place of fun, housing an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster.

Casa Batlló

Start your second day in Barcelona at Casa Batlló, another famous Gaudi masterpiece built between 1904 and 1906. Admire the colourful façade and step in to visit the former residence of the Batlló family bathed in light.

Also known as Casa Milà, La Pedrera got its name from its rocky exterior. At the time, the neighbours found this quite unusual, if not downright ugly. When it was built, it completely broke with the conventions of the time. And, yes, it is another fine piece of work from Gaudi.

Montjuic and the Magic Fountain

For an impressive show with music and lights, visit the magic fountain of Montjic in the evening. It usually plays classical music, and is a great place to relax.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

The best neighbourhoods to book a room in Barcelona are Barri Gòtic, La Rambla, and El Raval since they are close to the centre. For a luxurious experience, you can stay at the Serras Barcelona or Seventy Barcelona.

Where to Eat in Barcelona

Bodega Biarritz 1881 has a long history of serving delicious tapas and local dishes, so it’s worth visiting. We also recommend L’Antic Bocoi del Gotic if you want to try a Barcelona fish speciality.

Day Trips from Barcelona

On one of your three days in Barcelona, visit Costa Brava or Sitges for a more small-town vibe.

Costa Brava

Barcelona has a wonderful beach, but Costs Brava is an entire coast of beaches, with inland mountains, volcanic craters and more. You can spend a full day driving around the coast, stopping to visit the medieval city of Girona, zipping off to Michelin starred museums and taking in the surreal nature of the Dali Museum.

At only 39 km from Barcelona, this town is fully surrounded by nature and has a charming historic quarter. It is once again a beach destination that attracts sun worshippers every year. It has an overall bohemian vibe and used to be a meeting point for poets and artists at the end of the 19th century.

More Ideas for Your Spain and Portugal Itinerary

As you can see, this Portugal and Spain itinerary takes in a lot in two weeks. But it also misses a lot out.

There are so many more wonderful road trips through Spain to take. So many more city breaks to enjoy.

In the north, you can visit the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and discover the religious (and foodie) heritage of San Sebastian. A road trip through Asturias reveals magical mountains and delicious food, and the coast of Galicia can keep you entertained as well.

In the south, you can spend one or two weeks driving around Andalusia in southern Spain or spend a week roaming through the Algarve or walking the overlooked Costa Vicente in Portugal.

Looking for a slightly different experience? Check out our r eview of the Avalon Alegria Douro River Cruise .

More Travel Articles about Spain

• The Spain quiz for curious people
• 49 Interesting facts about Spain
• Spain in one week: an itinerary for your first time in Spain
• How to plan a road trip through Andalucia
• Galicia: how to travel through the salty north of Spain
• The best road trips in Spain
• How to spend a summer in Spain

The Perfect 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary (+ Essential Tips!)

Tempted by the cultural charm and natural beauty of the Iberian Peninsula and hoping to plan the perfect 2 week Spain and Portugal itinerary?

If so, we’ve designed this itinerary for Portugal and Spain for you!

Tucked away in the southwest corner of Europe, planning a combined trip to Spain and Portugal over 2 weeks is as invigorating as it is challenging.

After more than a year of living in Lisbon as American ex-pats and more trips to Spain than we can count, we have quite a few opinions about planning the perfect 14 days in Portugal and Spain!

These two countries–both of which feature a list of bucket-list destinations that could take months to see if given the opportunity–are fascinating and engaging places, though with more differences between them than might be immediately apparent on the surface.

If you’re hoping to enjoy a whirlwind, fast-paced, crash-course in what makes traveling in Spain and Portugal special, this itinerary is for you.

Here’s how to make the most of 14 days in Spain and Portugal!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Getting around during your 14 days in portugal and spain, the ultimate 2 weeks in spain and portugal itinerary, possible alterations to this 14 day itinerary for spain and portugal, the best time of year to enjoy this portugal and spain itinerary, how to extend your iberian peninsula vacation (+ morocco advice), what to pack for your 2 weeks in portugal and spain, faq about planning a spain and portugal vacation, more portugal and spain travel tips, your 14 day spain and portugal itinerary map.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We structured this 14 day itinerary for Spain and Portugal as a “U” shaped route beginning in Barcelona and ending in Porto.

In addition to those 2 cities, we also cover stops in Seville , Cordoba , Granada, the Algarve, Lisbon , and Sintra .

In other words, this is a very, very fast-paced itinerary!

While very doable, I’ll be perfectly honest: this is a mildly exhausting pace, and if you prefer a more relaxed itinerary, trimming the stop that appeals to you the least is a very reasonable option.

We agonized over what destinations should make the cut (and it took me a long time to come to the conclusion Madrid wasn’t doable on top of everything else, though you could easily swap it for Barcelona or Porto if you prefer), but ultimately, we decided to suggest an ambitious but realistic plan that is as varied as possible.

Major cities, legendary architecture, stunning coastlines, and small towns all feature on this itinerary for Spain and Portugal, and we truly believe that you’ll walk away from this trip with a wonderful snapshot of both destinations.

In order to fit it all in, though, be prepared to lace up your most comfortable shoes, plan your transportation in advance, and squeeze lots of sightseeing into one day!

Oh, and pack as light as you can–trust me, unpacking and re-packing this many times in a row is not a blast.

What About Morocco?

When planning a combined vacation to Spain and Portugal, there’s another country that tends to draw the eye: Morocco, which sits a tantalizingly short ferry trip or plane ride away from the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula.

We opted not to include Morocco here due to sheer logistics.

The reality is that 14 days is barely enough time to do justice to Spain and Portugal, let alone add on a whole additional country (with a wildly different culture, packing list, and attractions to consider, too).

When you add in the fact that Tangier, the Moroccan port city reachable by ferry from the Iberian Peninsula, isn’t typically the favorite destination of visitors to Morocco, it simply doesn’t make sense to add it to this route.

Now, that being said, Morocco is unforgettable–we still count our time there camping in the Sahara Desert as one of our favorite travel memories of all time.

If you have 3 weeks to work with instead of 2, you might consider adding a Morocco leg onto your trip.

We wouldn’t recommend a day trip, though: about 5 days, enough to see the Sahara Desert overnight as well as Marrakech and/or Fes, is enough to give you a solid taste of the country (though of course, 7-14 days would be even better).

With more time, the Blue City of Chefchaouen and the coastal city of Essaouira offer wonderful experiences.

This itinerary for visiting Spain and Portugal in 2 weeks is best accomplished with a mix of transportation.

Between each Spanish city, the best way to get around is typically via high-speed train, though a flight is an option on one route.

In order to pull this itinerary off effectively, you’ll want to purchase tickets in advance and make sure you’re using the most direct routes!

Spain’s high-speed AVE trains, like many high-speed trains around Europe, use dynamic pricing–in other words, you should lock down your fares as soon as you can commit to dates.

(Be sure to show up early, too, as high-speed train routes in Spain require a security check before boarding).

We use and recommend Omio , a ground transportation aggregate that is popular for traveling in Europe, for checking timetables and purchasing tickets.

For traveling between Spain and Portugal, which in this itinerary means traveling from Seville to Lagos, you’ll want to book a bus ( you can also do this through Omio , and the journey takes around 5 hours).

While it is possible to rent a car for this part of the route too, one-way drop-off fees between countries are generally astronomical.

Once you’re in Portugal, depending on your travel style, you might prefer to rent a car for the Algarve portion of your trip and then drive the car to Lisbon, or to do without and take the train to Lisbon.

Taking the train between Lisbon and Porto is very simple, but if you’d rather step off the beaten path and visit somewhere like Óbidos , the Alcobaca Monastery, or Tomar along the way, driving can also be fun!

This guide for traveling between Lisbon and Porto breaks down your options in detail.

Shop rental cars  and  train tickets  for your 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal today!

Here on Our Escape Clause, we have written (and continue to write) extensively about traveling to Spain and Portugal.

Those guides include (but are far from limited to) standalone trip itineraries for Spain , Portugal , and Andalucia , as well as detailed itineraries for most cities covered in this itinerary (for example, here are our suggestions for Madrid , Seville , and Lisbon ).

For that reason, I’ll try to keep the descriptions of each day semi-brief, as this Portugal and Spain travel guide will no doubt be extremely long regardless!

For more detailed day-to-day advice, I’ll continue to link to additional relevant guides throughout the itinerary, and you can also peruse all of our Portugal blog posts here and/or Spain blog posts here .

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona and hit the ground running.

For the purposes of this 2 week Spain and Portugal itinerary, we’ll assume you arrive in Barcelona in the morning, jet-lagged but excited to start exploring!

(This is an extremely common schedule for flights from North America to Spain).

Once you drop off your language at your hotel (most are more than happy to store bags for you until check-in), it’s time to explore Barcelona’s iconic architecture.

On your first day in Barcelona, start with a visit to either  Casa Milà  or  Casa Batlló , two of the most famous homes designed by Gaudi!

They’re fairly close together, but given how much there is to see in Barcelona, we recommend only going inside one and seeing the other from the outside.

Personally, we recommend  pre-booking tickets for Casa Batlló  for as early a time in the day as possible.

After hitting up your first major attraction, take some time to explore the Gothic Quarter, including the Barcelona Cathedral, the Santa Caterina Market, the famous Las Ramblas, and Plaça Reia.

If you have time (and energy) Catalunya Plaza and Mercado de la Boqueria are also worth a look.

If you’re excited about all of Barcelona’s Catalan modernism architecture, we can also heartily recommend a visit to  Palau de la Música Catalana .

Though not designed by Gaudi, it’s an amazing (and compared to much of Barcelona, uncrowded) example of the style and a memorable place to visit!

Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf is also only a 10-minute walk away, and Ciutadella Park is just beyond it.

From there, depending on your energy, it might be time for a (brief) afternoon nap!

If you can pull together enough energy in the late afternoon or early evening, though, heading down to Barcelona’s coastline and soaking up some sunshine on the beaches (whether that means a swim or just grabbing a bench and enjoying the environment) is a memorable way to close out your first day on the Iberian Peninsula.

Where to Stay in Barcelona, Spain

When deciding where to stay in Barcelona, it’s important to keep in mind that this sprawling city requires some effort to move around.

In other words, there’s no way to stay near all the best things to see in Barcelona, but it’s best to stay by some of them!

We recently stayed at  Citadines Ramblas Barcelona  and were extremely satisfied–to the point that we may just keep going back on additional trips.

Our room was spacious, complete with a kitchenette, and extremely quiet despite the hotel being located in a prime spot right along Las Ramblas.

The view of the Barcelona Cathedral from the rooftop deck of the  Colón Hotel Barcelona  is pretty incredible too, though, and we have it bookmarked for a possible future trip.

If you’re traveling on a bit more of a budget,  Hotel Nouvel  also gets excellent reviews and is in a wonderful location.

Check rates & book your stay in Barcelona today!

Day 2: Dive deeper into Barcelona.

After your first full day of exploring, it’s time to dive even deeper into Barcelona!

Today, plan to head further afield, starting with a visit to  Park Güell  and/or Tibidabo for one of the best views over sprawling Barcelona!

(Keep in mind that these are a bit of a trek from the city center, especially Tibidabo, so plan on using a chunk of time for transportation).

Later on, the incredible Picasso Museum (which holds over 4,000 of the artist’s works), is a must-see for art lovers in Barcelona, while Camp Nou is a popular pilgrimage for football lovers.

And, of course, we can’t forget  the Sagrada Familia : Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece of a cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Barcelona!

We visited in the early evening after hearing that the interior’s light was at its best then, and we were not disappointed–the colors were phenomenal.

If you wrap up at the Sagrada Familia before sunset and would like to enjoy the Mediterranean while in Barcelona, consider wrapping up your evening with  a sunset catamaran cruise .

Book skip-the-line tickets to visit the Sagrada Familia  today!

Day 3: Enjoy a morning stroll in Barcelona and then head to Seville.

After a last look at Barcelona–perhaps one more pass through the Gothic Quarter, a stroll along the beach, or a leisurely breakfast in a cafe–it’s time to head south to Andalucia!

Seville, the capital of Andalucia and one of the best places to visit in Spain, is a 6+ hour train ride from Barcelona.

Alternatively, it’s about a 2-hour flight between the 2 cities.

While we personally find the train more comfortable and pleasant (and it saves you the time and hassle of getting to and from the airports), there’s another factor to consider: flying is sometimes cheaper than traveling by train.

We recommend considering and pricing out both options, but either way, most of day 3 will be eaten up with getting to Seville!

Once you arrive, meander through Barrio Santa Cruz, grab dinner (or just a bunch of tapas– this popular tapas crawl is a fun option if you want to find the best spots with ease) and rest up for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow.

Shop train tickets from Barcelona to Seville today!

Where to Stay in Seville, Spain

When deciding where to stay in Seville, location is key as ideally, you’ll want to stay within walking distance of Seville’s best attractions.

We had a fantastic experience at  Petit Palace Puerta de Triana  on our most recent trip to Seville.

The hotel  has a fantastic location (central but also quiet–a far-from-guaranteed combination in Spain), a delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms.

Looking for something a bit different?

The incredibly popular  Hotel Rey Alfonso X  is an excellent choice, and its rooftop views are sublime!

If you’d like to stick to more of a budget,  Hotel America Sevilla  gets wonderful reviews and doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of location.

Meanwhile, for the height of luxury, you can’t beat the absolutely stunning  Hotel Alfonso XIII !

Check rates & book your stay in Seville today!

Day 4: See the best of Seville.

Today, it’s all about appreciating the beauty of colorful, vibrant Seville!

Don’t miss the chance to visit the gilded and glamorous Seville Cathedral (with a side of dark history: you’ll find the tomb of Christoper Colombus here).

Climbing the cathedral’s bell tower (Giralda) for incredible views of the city is also incredibly memorable, and included with your ticket for visiting the Seville Cathedral .

The tiled Plaza de Espana, which is one of the most photographed spots in the city, is also a must-see!

One of Seville’s top attractions, the Royal Alcazar of Seville , is definitely worth experiencing–but depending on your sightseeing style, you may prefer to skip it and enjoy relaxing in the city more.

The Alcazar, with its complex of intricate palaces and beautiful gardens, is incredible… but it is outshone by the Alhambra in Granada , which you’ll be seeing in a couple of days when following this itinerary for Spain and Portugal.

If you’re a traveler who likes to leave no stone unturned, we recommend visiting the Alcazar first thing in the morning–otherwise, you have a more leisurely pace to work with.

Regardless of what you decide about the Alcazar, though, we highly recommend ending your evening with this wildly popular flamenco show , which is held in a venue dating to the 15th century and will give you an excellent taste of flamenco culture.

Flamenco is widely associated with Spain as a whole, but it originated in the south of Spain–and, according to some sources, it originated in Seville itself, making this the perfect place to pause for a show!

Book your flamenco show in Seville today!

Day 5: Take a half-day trip to Cordoba.

Less than  an hour from Seville by train  or car, you’ll find the captivating Andalucian city of Cordoba–which happens to be one of our favorite places in the region!

Once the most powerful city in Islamic Spain, the Cordoba of today is small and manageable, a bite-size tourism destination that nonetheless leaves a big impact on visitors.

Cordoba is most famous for its incredible  Mosque-Cathedral –literally a former mosque with a cathedral built into its center–which is one of the most memorable buildings we’ve had a chance to visit anywhere.

The Mosque-Cathedral should absolutely be your top priority when visiting Cordoba, but beyond that, there’s still plenty to see within a short walk!

Snapping photos of the picturesque Calleja de las Flores, relaxing in the Patio de los Naranjos, wandering through the Jewish Quarter, and checking out some of  the beautiful patios of Cordoba  should also be on your to-do list.

After enjoying the best of Cordoba, head back for a relaxing night in Seville.

You’ll need the rest: tomorrow will be one of the busiest days during your Spain and Portugal vacation!

Day 6: Experience the legendary Alhambra.

Today is all about enjoying one of the giants of tourism in Spain: Granada’s legendary Alhambra.

This collection of centuries-old palaces (plus a fort, gardens, ruins of a medina, and more), is one of the most unique groupings of architecture in Europe, and the most-visited tourist attraction in Spain!

We wrote about  visiting the Alhambra extensively here , so I’ll try to keep this (kind of) brief, but the long and the short of it is that this is a place you need to plan ahead for.

Tickets often sell out, but coming from Seville for the day, we highly recommend booking an organized day trip (and as a bonus, that means you won’t need to book as far in advance as travelers hoping to score tickets independently).

Why take a tour?

While the Alhambra is absolutely worth seeing–it’s truly one of the most incredible places to visit in Spain, and worth going out of your way for–it’s in Granada, which is 3 hours, each way, from Seville.

Add in getting to and from the Alhambra itself and wanting to leave a small amount of time to sample the rest of Granada (we love this city!), and letting someone else take the lead will make your life much easier.

If that doesn’t appeal, there are two alternatives.

First, you could spend the previous night in Granada ( we stayed here and loved it )–but that will add on hours of travel to your journey to Portugal tomorrow.

Alternatively, you could opt to enjoy the Royal Alcazar in Seville instead, perhaps take a half-day trip to a closer town like Ronda or Setenil de las Bodegas, and save the Alhambra for another trip.

If you don’t expect to be back in Andalucia soon, we believe the Alhambra and Granada are worth the headache–but with only 14 days to visit Spain and Portugal, it’s completely understandable if you’d rather slow down a bit, too.

If you do want to experience the Alhambra, this day trip gets great reviews and covers transportation, the Alhambra (including the essential tickets to the Nasrid Palaces), and time in Granada’s beautiful Albayzin neighborhood.

Don’t miss the view from the Mirador de San Nicholas!

Book your day trip to the Alhambra in Granada today!

Day 7: Say goodbye to Spain and hop over to Lagos, Portugal.

As you hit the halfway point of your Iberian adventure, it’s time to trade Spain for Portugal!

The simplest and most efficient way to travel from Seville to Lagos will be to travel by bus , which takes about 5 hours.

Unfortunately, with no trains between Seville and the Algarve, and no direct flights, there are limited transportation options to work with.

However, the good news is that if you haven’t been on a bus since you were school-aged, these buses are likely much more comfortable than you may think!

Considering driving?

Unfortunately, picking up a rental car in one country and dropping it off in another tends to incur extreme fees–think around 1000 Euro, give or take.

Once you arrive in Lagos, check into your hotel and head to the sea!

If you’re ready to stretch your legs (and have enough time in the day–summer visitors will likely have better luck here than winter ones ), consider hiking the Ponta da Piedade coastal trail to one of Portugal’s most famous viewpoints.

It takes a bit over an hour each way, though you can trim time on the way back by simply hiking along the road instead of the trail (though it’s much less scenic).

Want to enjoy the views from Ponta da Piedade, but without the hike?

Calling a ride share (we tend to use FreeNow in Europe, though Uber works too) will get you there from the historic center of Lagos in just a few minutes.

Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal

Lagos’ central location, beautiful beaches, and convenient town center make it a fantastic place to base yourself during your time in the Algarve!

Each of these properties boasts excellent reviews and a prime location within walking distance of many of the top things to do in Lagos.

For budget travelers, a fantastic included breakfast, private room, and free parking are all waiting for you at Dream Lagos B&B  –and as the rave reviews indicate, you won’t be disappointed.

The trade-off is staying a bit further from the town center, though still within walking distance.

For mid-range travelers, Hotel Lagosmar features excellent reviews and a perfect location right across from the Lagos Marina, plus a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the sea and town.

If you’d like to splash out a bit (and by the standards of much of Europe, the Algarve is a very affordable place to do so outside of the peak summer months), Tivoli Lagos makes a wonderful base in Lagos.

We adored our stay at this 4-star resort and would be thrilled to return to enjoy the beautiful property, gorgeous pool, restaurants, and delicious included breakfast again.

With free parking (almost) on-site, comfortable rooms, and incredibly easy access to Lagos’ attractions, Tivoli Lagos is a fantastic place to stay.

Check rates & book your stay in Lagos today!

Day 8: Soak up Algarve views.

With one full day to enjoy the Algarve, the best way to spend your time depends on a few factors, including your travel style, the season, your energy levels now that you’re past the halfway point of your 2 week trip through Spain and Portugal, and whether you feel like driving.

First things first, though: want to find a beach and spend all day on it?

You’re in a great place for that (though fair warning for those who grew up in hot climates like us: the water is quite chilly in the Algarve, even in summer).

Praia Meia, Praia do Camilo, Praia dos Estudantes, and Praia do Pinhão are just a handful of the many dreamy beaches in the immediate vicinity of Lagos (some within walking distance) that are excellent places to relax.

Praia do Camilo in particular is so scenic that it’s worth stopping by just to admire it for a minute!

Craving more activity?

Heading back to Ponta da Piedade, this time from the water, is an incredible experience!

Whether you want to kick back and relax on a boat ride or join an adventurous kayaking tour , you’ll be treated to unforgettable coastal views.

With any luck, you may spot a few dolphins, as well (though if that’s your focus, a dolphin spotting cruise might be more your speed).

Willing to head 30-45 minutes away from Lagos by taxi, ride-share, or rental car?

The famous Benagil Cave can be visited from the charming town of Carvoeiro, and the magnificent Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and Marinha Beach can also be accessed nearby!

If you want to actually walk inside Benagil Cave, though, prepare to sweat for it: popular boat tours like this can enter the cave but can’t land there.

If you want to land… you’ll need to visit by kayak or SUP (but don’t worry–it’s only a 200m distance or so from the shore).

Book your Benagil Cave kayaking tour  or  small boat tour  today!

Day 9: Make your way to Lisbon.

After a last breakfast, a local beach stroll, and possibly even a quick morning visit to Ponte da Piedade, it’s time to say goodbye to the Algarve and head north to Lisbon–our former home for more than a year and a downright delightful city to visit.

The fastest way to get to Lisbon from Lagos is to drive, however, since you won’t need a car once you arrive (and you’ll incur a one-way drop-off fee for returning the car to a different city), you’ll likely want to opt for a train or bus instead.

The train is the most comfortable option, but generally takes between 4 and 5 hours and requires you to make a change, as there are no direct routes between Lisbon and Lagos.

The bus, while less comfortable, is cheaper, doesn’t require a change, and is a bit faster.

You can check both train and bus prices and times here.

Once you arrive in Lisbon, it’s time to check into your hotel and then hit the ground running with sightseeing!

We loved this food tour , which starts later in the afternoon, and it is an excellent way to get introduced to the city.

Alternatively (or in addition!), head to the top of Lisbon to enjoy the gorgeous views from the remains of Castelo de São Jorge , and meander through Alfama.

Here, you’ll see many Lisbon postcards come to life, including the views from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, the famous Tram 28 (though we don’t recommend riding it–just snap photos from outside) and the Lisbon Cathedral.

As you head downhill from the heart of Alfama, you’ll reach the riverside neighborhood of Baixa (where the food tour starts).

Be sure to check out Praça do Comércio, Rossio Square, and the Church of São Domingos while there!

If you’re interested in experiencing an evening Fado show in Lisbon, tonight is a great opportunity to do so.

Book your Lisbon food tour today!

Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal

While there are plenty of excellent neighborhoods to stay in throughout Lisbon, we recommend picking somewhere central with good transportation connections around the city.

Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Principe Real, and Barrio Alto are great names to keep an eye out for when browsing places to stay.

For a budget-friendly hostel experience (with private rooms available), the  Sunset Destination Hostel  is a great, centrally located option.

At a mid-range price tag, you can’t beat the location or rave reviews for  Tempo FLH Hotels Lisboa .

Looking for a splurge?

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa  is part of the much-acclaimed Small Luxury Hotels of the World Collection, and offers stunning views that you won’t forget anytime soon!

Check rates & book your stay in Lisbon today!

Day 10: Enjoy sightseeing in Lisbon.

Today is all about sightseeing in Lisbon–and wear some comfortable shoes, because it will be a long (and hilly) journey!

First things first: if you didn’t visit Alfama yesterday, take a quick stroll through there and the neighborhood of Castelo (and stop for some pasteis de nata at Pastelaria Santo António while you’re at it).

If you’ve already visited Alfama, start your morning in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto (high town) and Chiado, exploring a corner of the historic center that you didn’t get to see yesterday!

Highlights include the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara, the overwhelming Church of São Roque, the Carmo Convent, and a stop at Livraria Bertrand , the oldest still-operating bookstore in the world.

If you’re a fan of glitzy cafes, consider also grabbing a coffee and pastry at A Brasileira.

From there it’s time to head over to the popular riverside neighborhood of Belém (taxi or ride share will be the easiest way to get there).

Here, you’ll find the famous Jerónimos Monastery and accompanying church (the church is free to enter, the monastery is not), the gorgeous Belém Tower (you don’t need to go in, but it’s worth seeing the exterior), the Monument of the Discoveries, and stunning views of the Tagus River.

You’ll also find the wildly popular Pastéis de Belém, which serves up the original pastéis de nata.

Yes, they are worth the long line (hint: the table service line is often much shorter than the takeaway line!), but if standing in line for carbs isn’t your thing, Manteigaria, another popular Lisbon bakery, has a location just down the street.

Meanwhile, the Jerónimos Monastery, while a must-see, is home to some of the longest lines for any tourist attraction in Portugal!

Pre-book your ticket and, since you’re visiting Belém in the afternoon, consider going close to closing time.

In the evening, close out your day with a sunset boat cruise on the Tagus River, soaking in some of the best views of Lisbon, the Tagus, and the Ponte 25 Abril Bridge from the water.

We absolutely loved our sunset cruise experience in Lisbon and highly recommend it–kicking back and relaxing with beautiful views is the perfect way to end a busy sightseeing day.

Book your sunset cruise in Lisbon today!

Day 11: Take a day trip to Sintra.

Set in the hills just outside of Lisbon, the beautiful town of Sintra–complete with several fantastic palaces–is easily among the most popular places to visit in Portugal.

From the beauty of the distinctive yellow-and-red Pena Palace to the quirky Alice in Wonderland vibes of Quinta da Regaleira to the stunning views from the Moorish Castle and beyond, visiting Sintra is incredibly memorable and worth the effort.

… But, its popularity also has another side effect: the palaces of Sintra are among the most crowded places included on this Iberian Peninsula itinerary, so be prepared for that.

With only 2 weeks to cover both Spain and Portugal, you’ll want to visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon, and that essentially leaves you 2 options: travel by public transportation, or on a guided day trip like this .

This day trip is one of the most popular tours in Portugal and includes visits to Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira as well as Cabo da Roca (long believed to be the westernmost point of mainland Europe, now simply a stunning viewpoint), and a short stop in the resort town of Cascais .

The pros of taking a tour are simple: as the palaces in Sintra are far enough apart that you can’t walk between most of them and parking is very tricky, it saves you time and allows you to see more.

The cons are simple too: with so many stops to make, you won’t have much time to linger.

If you’d rather travel independently, you can absolutely do that as well, though we recommend nabbing your tickets for Pena Palace and other popular places in advance.

The train takes about 40 minutes from central Lisbon.

Once you arrive in Sintra, you’ll board one of 2 buses that will take you to your first palace, and then (depending on which palaces you choose to see) another to your second and maybe third, depending on how fast you explore.

When you’re finished, you can head back to Lisbon via train or simply call an Uber (which is what we tend to do).

Book your day trip to Sintra today!

Day 12: Make your way from Lisbon to Porto.

All aboard to Porto!

The final destination of this itinerary for 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal, the beautiful city of Porto is compact and memorable, featuring stunning river views, endless port (and if you don’t think you like port… try it here before you commit to that opinion), and oodles of azulejos .

Easy sightseeing and a relaxed vibe make it the perfect final destination of your trip–but first, you need to get there!

The easiest way to travel from Lisbon to Porto is to take the train, which travels directly between the 2 cities and takes about 3.5 hours.

Most trains leave from Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia Station and run consistently throughout the day.

We go into more detail on managing the journey between the 2 cities in this blog post .

We recommend booking your train tickets for the earliest time you feel comfortable with–the sooner you get to Porto, the better!

Once you arrive in Porto, drop your bags off at your hotel (if it’s not time for check-in yet, they should be able to hold them in the lobby for you) and get ready to explore!

If you’re looking for a quick lunch, the roast pork and soft cheese sandwich at Casa Guedes is a great place to start.

From there, we recommend checking out some of Porto’s attractions that are further from the river, such as the Chapel of Souls, the Church of Saint Ildefonso, and Rua Santa Catarina.

If you have time, head over to the Church of Carmo, as and soak up the view from Miradouro da Vitória (and if you don’t have time to visit the Church of Carmo today, add it to your list for tomorrow).

And, of course, you can’t forget the very first attraction you’ll see as you arrive in Porto: the interior of the São Bento train station is magnificent!

Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal

We’ve visited Porto several times now, and have made a habit of staying at Pestana Porto – A Brasileira or NH Hotel Porto Batalha during our visits.

Both hotels are beautiful, with excellent customer service and incredibly central locations that both make it easy to explore Porto on foot and easy to check in when arriving by train.

(They both also welcome Ranger, a must for us).

If you’re traveling Spain and Portugal on a budget, the Zero Box Lodge Porto gets excellent reviews.

Check rates & book your stay in Porto today!

Day 13: Get to know Porto (and Vila Nova de Gaia).

After a leisurely brunch (we can heartily recommend Floresta Cafe and Esquires Coffee, both of which we’ve eaten at many times), make your way to Clerigos Tower to enjoy one of the most stunning views of Porto!

From there, check out the Porto Cathedral–while the church is free to enter, it’s well worth forking over a few Euro to explore the cloisters and attached museum, too.

Meander down toward the gorgeous Bolsa Palace (if you want to go inside, you’ll need to book a 30-minute guided tour ) and the Church of San Francisco, which is home to a downright stunning interior!

At this point, you’ll be very close to Porto’s vibrant, famous, and colorful riverside, also known as the Ribeira District.

Once the haunt of fishermen and sailors, and now the haunt of tourists, the Ribeira district is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy views of Porto.

Like many picturesque neighborhoods around the world, the restaurants here tend toward being expensive and mediocre, but you can find occasional gems (we enjoyed our meal at Grupo Desportivo Infante D. Henrique, which has a great view but is a bit out of the hustle and bustle).

From Ribeira, make your way across the (lower level of the) Dom Luis I Bridge, to Vila Nova de Gaia.

This charming riverfront destination is technically a separate city from Porto, but it’s also home to all of the port lodges, and no trip to Porto is complete without a port tasting!

This port cellar tour and tasting will give you a good idea of what to expect from a typical tasting, and you can either opt for an organized tour or a build-your-own adventure experience ( Quinta dos Corvos is a personal favorite lodge of ours).

This is also where you can hop on a 6 Bridges Cruise to experience Porto from the water for an hour–a delightful experience in and of itself.

Once you wrap up exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, ride the cable car back up to the top of the Dom Luis I Bridge, where you’ll be treated to gorgeous views over the city and an easy walk back to your hotel.

Day 14: Say goodbye to the Iberian Peninsula and head home.

As you come to the close of 14 (hopefully) perfect days spent exploring Portugal and Spain, there’s one more challenge ahead: getting home!

By far the simplest method for closing out this itinerary is to fly out of Porto, however, for many North Americans, there’s a chance that will be a less ideal option due to scheduling, price, or both (Porto’s airport is much smaller than Lisbon’s).

It’s worth considering, but most likely, you’ll want to head back to Lisbon either the night of day 13 or this morning in order to catch a flight home.

However you say goodbye, be sure to make time for at least one more pastel de nata as you bid adios and adeus to the Iberian Peninsula!

I mentioned this above, but it bears repeating here: while realistic, this itinerary is jam-packed, and one of the fastest-paced itineraries that we’ve published here on Our Escape Clause.

If you’re a traveler who loves to move fast, doesn’t mind changing hotels, and is hoping to see as much variety as possible on their Spain and Portugal vacation, you’ll love it (and be very excited to get home to your own bed afterward).

If you prefer a slower pace, or are enjoying 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal as part of an even longer adventure, you’ll likely want to slow it down a bit.

Here are a few good options for personalizing this itinerary.

Skip Porto to spend longer in Lisbon and the Algarve.

I debated for a long time whether or not to include Porto in the original itinerary above, as it adds quite a bit of travel time!

However, Porto is a small city that can be thoroughly sampled in a day, and it’s a very different city from the other cities featured on this itinerary.

Plus, port!

However, while we definitely consider Porto well worth a visit, if you’re flying out of Lisbon and want to limit your train time toward the end of the trip (it’s about 3 hours each way by train), skipping northern Portugal is definitely a valid option.

If you decide to spend longer in Lisbon, you might even want to add on an easy additional day trip to see a different side of Portugal, such as to Cascais or Óbidos ( here are the best day trips from Lisbon ).

Start your itinerary in Seville.

While Barcelona is wonderful, there’s no doubt that you can cut your travel time significantly by flying straight to Seville to start your trip!

The downside of this route is that you’ll only see one region of Spain ( Andalucia ), but the upside is, you’ll move at a much slower pace.

Skip the Algarve and head right to Lisbon.

We decided to include the Algarve in this 14 day itinerary as it is not only beautiful and an incredibly fun place to visit, but a great change of pace from the more city-sightseeing-and-history-focused stops that make up most of the itinerary.

However, while swapping city streets for sandy beaches and seaside hikes is a wonderful addition to this trip, you can definitely save time by heading right from Seville to Lisbon.

If you’re more interested in cities than coastlines, or the weather isn’t cooperating for your trip, this might be a great option.

Visiting Cabo da Roca from Lisbon as part of your day trip to Sintra, or taking a day trip to Cascais , will also give you a small chance to appreciate the beauty of the Portuguese coastline offers without leaving the Lisbon area.

Swap Barcelona for Madrid.

This change isn’t a matter of timing, but of taste (and flight schedules).

We included Barcelona in this itinerary over Madrid as there’s only room for one of Spain’s two most famous cities, and Barcelona is both the most popular and arguably the most unique.

However, while Barcelona’s Gaudi architecture, Catalan culture, and seaside location are phenomenal, Madrid also has a lot to offer!

If you’re a big fan of art museums and royal palaces, you might prefer the Spanish capital ( our recommended Madrid itinerary is a great guide to what to expect).

Not sure which you’d prefer?

Let flight deals dictate which city you visit!

Spain and Portugal are both the definitions of year-round destinations, and that includes this Spain and Portugal itinerary!

That being said, though, if you have flexible dates and are trying to pinpoint the ideal time to travel Portugal and Spain, we recommend enjoying this itinerary in the spring or fall.

Summer in Spain in particular, especially in Andalucia, can be brutally hot (we shudder to think of  visiting the Alhambra  at noon in July).

Winter is perfectly doable, but the weather can be rainy and less predictable than in spring or summer (it is, however, a fantastic time to go hiking in the Algarve, as long as you don’t mind skipping the swimming).

On the plus side for winter, though, you’ll experience few crowds, low prices, and still have a decent chance at soaking up some sunshine, albeit with a jacket at hand.

The sweet spot for this 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary, though, which travels across a decent swath of both countries and therefore needs to take multiple climates into account, is the spring and fall.

We have spent time in both Portugal and Spain in every season, and while each trip was a delight, we have a special place in our hearts for the spring and fall!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal, you have a chance to do two things: first, add Madrid to this itinerary (it was very hard leaving it off!).

And, second, slow down as much as you can: every one of the destinations included in this itinerary has plenty more to see, and also boasts far more incredible day trip options than there is time to cover in 2 weeks.

A day trip to Toledo from Madrid , to Monserrat from Barcelona, to Ronda from Seville, to Cascais from Lisbon , or to the Douro Valley from Porto, just barely scratches the surface of the options out there!

For even more ideas, here are the best day trips from Lisbon , and here are the best day trips from Barcelona .

By adding day trips instead of overnights, you’ll be able to slow down the pace of travel and enjoy your trip even more.

If you have close to 3 weeks on the Iberian Peninsula, that’s when I would start to potentially consider adding on a Morocco leg, if that’s something you’re interested in.

As I mentioned at the beginning of the post, we’d recommend concentrating on the Sahara Desert , Marrakech and/or Fes, and if you have time, Chefchaouen and/or Essaouira.

Taking the ferry from Spain or Portugal to Tangier, Morocco, is a cool experience (though if you have a tendency toward seasickness like me–fair warning, it was also a nauseating experience), but Tangier is quite far from the most popular places to visit in Morocco.

Unless you’re particularly interested in traveling overland for its own sake, flying will likely make more sense, and there are tons of budget airline routes between Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

Our detailed packing lists for visiting Europe in the spring ,  summer ,  fall , and  winter  cover just about everything you’ll need to bring on your 14 day Spain and Portugal vacation!

To get you started on your list, though, here are a few essentials to add to your packing list:

Travel Adaptors for Spain and Portugal  — If you’re coming from outside of mainland Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics!

Spain and Portugal use the same plugs/voltage, so you won’t need anything different when moving between them.

Travel Insurance  — No one like to think about the possibility of canceled or interrupted trips, let alone accidents on the road.

Anything can happen while traveling, though–and that’s where travel insurance can help.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices with  Safety Wing  for your trip here.

Camera  — We completely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use   Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Sunglasses  — The sun in Spain and Portugal is famous for a reason!

I find myself regularly reaching for sunglasses even in the winter when on the Iberian Peninsula.

Apple Air Tags  — Air Tags are a relatively new addition to our packing list, but we’ve absolutely loved having the extra security when checking our luggage!

They’ll be coming with us from now on.

Reusable Water Bottle  — Save both money and plastic during your 14 days in Spain and Portugal and add a reusable water bottle to your packing list for Europe!  I love this metal one .

Portable USB Charger  — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing in Portugal and Spain: bring a USB charger along for the ride.

How many days do you need for Portugal and Spain?

Personally, we recommend visiting for a minimum of 2 weeks if you want to have a solid overview of both Spain and Portugal.

If you have less time to work with, consider sticking with fewer destinations, and perhaps sampling one city in each country instead.

Can you do Spain and Portugal on the same trip?

Yes, you can absolutely visit both Spain and Portugal on the same trip!

As next-door neighbors located in the far southwestern corner of Europe, Portugal and Spain make a great combination when planning a European vacation .

Is it possible to visit Spain and Portugal in 7 days?

Yes, you can visit both Spain and Portugal in 7 days–but don’t expect (or try) to see everything!

If you have a week in Spain and Portugal, we recommend picking one city in each country to focus on, with a possible day trip from each.

You’ll likely want to fly between the two countries in this scenario as well unless you happen to pick Lisbon and Seville, which are fairly close together (about 4.5 hours by car).

Can you drive a rental car from Spain to Portugal?

Typically, yes, you can drive rental cars between Spain and Portugal.

Be sure to confirm with your rental car company, though, and as always, make sure you tell them you plan to cross borders!

Can you rent a car in Spain and return it in Portugal (or vice versa)?

Yes, it’s technically possible to rent a car in one EU country and return it to another, but be prepared for an eye-watering fee for doing so!

One-way rental fees are almost always a bit pricey, but when it comes to crossing borders, it can get very expensive: we’ve been quoted around 1000 Euro (not a typo) more than once for the privilege.

If you plan to rent a car for your trip to Spain and Portugal, be sure to build extra fees into your budget… or just plan on returning it to the same country you picked it up in.

Check prices and shop rental cars for your Spain and Portugal road trip today!

Which is cheaper to visit, Spain or Portugal?

We go into this in a bit more detail in our Spain vs Portugal comparison post , but the basic answer is that while online resources and blog posts tend to state that Portugal is cheaper to visit than Spain, the reality on the ground is a bit more complex.

The cost of travel in Spain (and Portugal, for that matter) varies dramatically based on where you visit.

Barcelona, for example, clocks in as a pricey destination on par with  Paris  or  Milan , while other regions like Andalucia can be  far  less expensive–including less expensive than popular places in Portugal’s Algarve.

Overall, from the perspective of planning a vacation, I would say that the Spain leg of this trip and the Portugal leg probably cost about the same, with the most expensive destination (Barcelona) being balanced out by Andalucia being among the more affordable stops.

Can you take the train between Spain and Portugal?

Technically, you can take trains between Spain and Portugal… but for this trip, you probably won’t want to.

Spain and Portugal are not well-connected by train, and doing so requires going out of your way from most major tourist destinations (there’s a train from Porto to Vigo in the north, and alternatively, with multiple stops, you can cobble together a very long route through the center of Portugal into Spain).

Lisbon and Madrid used to be connected via a night train, but that was discontinued in 2020 and talk of bringing it back (or installing a high-speed rail) is stalled at rumor level indefinitely.

There are no trains connecting the Algarve to Andalucia.

Looking for more tips for visiting Spain and Portugal?

We’ve written about both countries extensively, with many more blog posts to come in the future!

You can scroll through all of our Portugal articles here , our Spain articles here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary
• Visiting the Alhambra in Granada: 21 Important Tips (FAQ + Tour Info!)
• 17 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal (+ Nearby!)
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Madrid Itinerary
• How to Travel From Lisbon to Porto (By Train, Car, or Bus!)
• 19 Best Day Trips from Barcelona (+ How to Get There!)

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “The Perfect 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary (+ Essential Tips!)”

This Spain and Portugal itinerary is a fantastic guide for planning my upcoming trip – it covers all the highlights I’ve been dreaming of! 🌍🌟

Thanks so much! Have a great trip. 🙂

Wonderful info in this guide. Planning our Portugal and Spain trip for April/May 2024 including 10 day Portuguese Camino de Santiago walk. I will be using lots of the tips you have included in this itinerary. Thank you.

Thanks so much, Glenda–hope your Camino is wonderful!

Hi. Thanks for the tips & advice. What’s the best way to visit sights in each city? Uber? And did you book your accommodation in each city in advance?

Within each city, a combination of walking, tram/metro, and occasional taxi or Uber is best–it depends on which city and which specific sites you’re trying to visit! We have written detailed itineraries on several of the included cities that break those steps down in more detail. For example, here’s one of our Lisbon itineraries: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-lisbon-itinerary/

We do recommend booking your accommodation in advance. Personally, we never choose to arrive in a city without knowing where we’re staying. 🙂

Any suggestions re: going “counter clockwise” from Barcelona to Lisbon? We’d like to catch San Sebastian/Bilbao and maybe part of the Camino on the way to Porto then head home from Lisbon (2-3 weeks). Thank you for sharing your great insight!

My understanding is that you’re wanting to cover Barcelona, San Sebastian/Bilbao, some of the Camino (we’ll call that 5-7 days), Porto, and Lisbon–but nowhere else on this itinerary.

If so, that’s doable over 3 weeks, though I’d consider trimming one stop (probably the Camino, as it’s a bit of a commitment even when doing a section) if you need to trim the trip down to 2 weeks.

You’ll also be in the lucky position of being able to take the train from Spain to Portugal, which is typically out of the question for most standard itineraries! There is a route from Vigo (you can connect there from Santiago de Compostela in Spain) to Porto that will get you across the border.

Great insight. Thank you!

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Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 14 Days Guide 2024

Are you planning a trip to Spain and Portugal, but not quite sure where to start?  

Having lived in Spain for several years , I’ve had plenty of opportunities to explore the country and its neighbour.

So what can you expect in this two weeks Spain and Portugal itinerary? 14 days of cultural immersion , that’s what. It includes the two capitals; Madrid and Lisbon, fairy tale castles in Sinatra, the UNESCO heritage sites of Cordoba, the awe-inspiring Alhambra and a whole lot more.

I tell you exactly how to get the most out of each destination in the most efficient way as well as insider tips in this detailed travel guide.

Read on and discover the best itinerary for Spain and Portugal in just two weeks.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

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This 14 day Spain and Portugal trip starts in Barcelona, Spain and finishes in Porto, Portugal. However, there’s no reason why you can’t do it in reverse.

No time to read? Then download this day breakdown, map and attraction checklist covered in this article straight to your inbox.

14 Days in Spain and Portugal Overview 

• Day 1 & 2: Barcelona, Spain
• Day 3 & 4: Madrid, Spain
• Day 5 & 6: Granada, Spain
• Day 7: Cordoba, Spain
• Day 8 & 9: Seville, Spain
• Day 10, 11 & 12:  Lisbon, Portugal
• Day 11: Day trip to Sintra from Lisbon
• Day 13 & 14: Porto, Portugal

📍 Trip Highlights: The Best of Spain and Portugal 📍

• La Sagrada Familia and Gaudi’s Landmarks (Barcelona)
• The Gothic Quarter (Barcelona)
• Museo Nacional del Prado (Madird)
• Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Madrid)
• Palacio Real de Madrid (Madrid)
• The Alhambra Complex (Granada)
• Mosque-Cathedral (Cordoba)
• Cathedral of Seville and Giralda (Seville)
• Real Alcazar (Seville)
• Plaza de España (Seville)
• Alfama District (Lisbon)
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Lisbon)
• Belém Tower (Lisbon)
• Pena Palace (Sintra)
• Porto Old Town (Porto)
• Douro Valley Vineyards Tour (Porto)

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Map

This map shows all the cities I’ve included in this 2 week Portugal and Spain itinerary. I’ve chosen these cities because they are well connected by public transport.

I go into detail on how to get around the two countries in the next section.

Downloadable Spain & Portugal Itinerary Planner

This Portugal and Spain trip does involve a full-on schedule and although doable, if you have a longer time scale, or prefer a slower style of travel, then extend this itinerary to suit.

Use this itinerary planner to help organise and plan a trip to Portugal and Spain.

The cost of this trip will vary a lot based on your travel style. If you’re travelling on a budget, then you could do it for less than Є2000, but if you’re looking to splurge a bit then I would budget around Є4000 for two weeks. To work out how much this Portugal and Spain travel itinerary might cost, use my trip cost calculator . 

Planning Your Perfect Itinerary for Spain and Portugal

Before you start planning your itinerary for Spain and Portugal , here are some things you’ll want to think about.

How Many Days Do You Need in Spain and Portugal?

Spain and Portugal are two of the most popular destinations in Europe.

You could easily spend at least 2 weeks in Spain and 2 weeks in Portugal as individual trips, and barely scratch the surface.

I’ve put this two week guide together so that it covers the highlights of both countries in the quickest way possible.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Spain and Portugal?

If you are planning to visit Spain and Portugal, the best time to go is during spring or autumn.

The weather during these seasons is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for exploring and sightseeing.

Winters in parts of central Spain and western Portugal can be cool and wet – especially in Madrid, Lisbon and Porto. Whereas in summer, places like Seville, Cordoba and Granada can get insanely hot.

These two weeks in Spain and Portugal have been based on public transport to get around and use a mix of;

I’ve included information on how to do this in each section. To get the best deals, it’s better to book transport early. I use the Omio App which can compare travel times and prices of bus, train and flights.

Alternatively, you could opt to do this route as a road trip – however, I suggest extending this Spain and Portugal 2 weeks itinerary into a 3 week, or even a month-long trip due to the distances travelled.

The Best 14 Days Itinerary for Spain and Portugal

Day 1 & 2: barcelona, top things to do in barcelona.

• Gaudi Architecture: Casa Milà, Casa Batlló and Park Güell
• La Sagrada Familia
• Montjuic Hill
• Mercado de La Boqueria
• Gothic Quarter
• Nightlife at El Raval and El Born

Your 2 week Spain and Portugal itinerary starts in the beautiful city of Barcelona. It’s home to some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe.

Allow two days in the city of Barcelona. This will give you enough time to see the highlights of Barcelona and get a feel for one of Spain’s most cosmopolitan cities.

Day 1 in Barcelona: Gaudi Day

Spend the first day visiting some of the iconic Gaudi buildings. Start with La Sagrada Familia .

Building work on the started in 1882.  When Gaudi died in 1926, only about a quarter of the construction was complete. It’s still incomplete and clad in scaffolding although they are hoping to finish construction in 2026 to make the centenary of Gaudi’s death.

The UNESCO World Heritage site is heavily decorated in a mixture of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles . It’s covered in hidden and subliminal messages concealed in the details.

From Sagrada Familai visit Casa Milà, Casa Batlló and of course, Park Güell . All three of these get extremely busy, so start early in the day and book tickets in advance to skip the queue.

👉 Insider Tip: I’d definitely recommend booking your tickets for La Sagrada Familia as soon as you know your travel dates; they sell out fast! There are different options for tours, go for the tour with roof access to see the details on the roof up close.

I also suggest starting your day early to beat the crowds at any of Gaudi’s masterpieces. They are all popular, so expect queues and crowds.

📖 Read More: Barcelona Bucket List: 32 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

Day 2 in Barcelona: Explore Old Town

Before the heat of the day, head to Montjuic Hill . If you’re not feeling energetic, then take a cable car up instead for amazing city views. It’s a great spot for photos!

In the afternoon wander down La Ramblas , a lively street full of shops and performers. Then, dive into Mercado de La Boqueria for authentic Spanish street food – as a vegetarian traveller, there were plenty of options for food here.

Finish the afternoon by exploring the Gothic Quarter with its narrow streets and old buildings.

In the evening I recommend the districts of El Raval and El Born where you’ll find plenty of cool bars and nightlife.

📖 Read More: 38 Most Famous Landmarks in Spain

Getting to Barcelona from Barcelona Airport

After arriving at Barcelona Airport, here are the best ways to get to the city centre.

• Taxi: I recommend this if you’re after convenience. Pre-book your taxi to take you straight to your hotel.
• Train (RENFE): Runs every 30 minutes from the Barcelona Airport to Barcelona Sants Station (Sants Estació).
• Aerobus: Quick and regular, with Aerobús A1 and A2 being your go-to options for the best service. This is usually the option I choose.

5* Monument Hotel, Barcelona

✅ Swimming Pool

✅ Central Location

✅ Sauna and Fitness Room

Primavera Hostel, Barcelona

✅ Private or Dorm Room Option

✅ 8 minutes from La Sagrada Familia

✅ Wide range of facilities

Day 3 & 4: Madrid

Top things to do in madrid.

• Museo Nacional del Prado
• Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
• ‘Point 0’ in Puerta del Sol
• Plaza Mayor
• Mercado de San Fernando and San Miguel.
• Parque El Retiro
• Palacio Real de Madrid

You’ll be spending 2 days in Madrid . This gives you enough time to explore some of the best museums in Spain as well as delve into some of the city’s beautiful architecture and cool hipster districts .

Day 1 in Madrid: Iconic Landmarks

Start your day at Puerta del Sol . This is the heart of the city (and Spain!), known as Point 0 . You’ll find a plaque on the ground to show you the exact position.  Then look up, and you’ll see the iconic Tio Pepe sign.

From there, walk to Plaza Mayor . This public square dates back to the late 1500s, and was once home to Madrid’s main city market. If you’re interested in finding out more about the history of the city by joining a guided city tour .

One of the most opulent buildings in Madrid is the Palacio Real de Madrid (Royal Palace of Madrid). This is the official residence of the Spanish Royal family. It dates back to the 1700s, and if you’re into over-the-top grandeur, then it’s certainly worth a tour inside.

Opposite the Royal Palace, you’ll find the Almudena Cathedral (Santa Maria la Real de La Almudena) . Construction on this building started in 1879, although it wasn’t finished until 1993! Check out the interior. I loved the vibrant paintwork here giving it a Pop Art kind of feel.

In the evening I recommend checking out the food market scene. San Fernando in Lavapiés or the hipster and upmarket one in San Miguel are both great options. Then finish off at the bars in the trendy Malasaña District .

👉 Insider Tip: If you’re after something a little more quirky, then I think you’ll love Cahmberi/Anden0. Especially if you’re visiting the city in the off-season and looking to escape the cold, then this is one of the best things to do in Madrid in winter .

This abandoned metro station was closed off until recently. It’s now been reopened as a museum and looks just as it did back in the 1950s!

📖 Read More: Best Madrid 2 Day Itinerary: By A Local!

Day 2 in Madrid: City Culture

Start by exploring the city’s cultural scene. Three art galleries make up Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art;  the Prado Museum , (Spanish and South American Art) the Reina Sofia Museum (modern art, including Picasso’s Guernica masterpiece), and the Thyssen-Bornemisza for classical to modern European art.

After explore Parque El Retiro . It’s the biggest park in the city before heading down Calle Gran Vía – don’t miss the iconic Schweppes Building .

Finish your day in Barrio La Latina known for its lively atmosphere, and a great selection of bars – it’s also popular with the locals.

👉 Insider Tip: When you know your travel dates for Madrid, I strongly suggest booking your museum tickets early, especially for the Prado and Reina Sofía. These places are super popular and get crowded.

Madrid is also a sprawling city, so to make the most of your time I do recommend using the metro. This is the cheaper option. Alternatively, use the Madrid hop-off bus which stops at all the major attractions without the hassle of navigating the metro system!

Getting to Madrid from Barcelona

It’s about 500km between Madrid and Barcelona . For this leg of the 2 week itinerary, you have a couple of options to make this journey.

• Train (RENFE): I recommend taking the train.  The train is quick, around 2 hours 40 minutes , and leaves from Barcelona Sants to Madrid Atocha . Book your Madrid to Barcelona train ticket in advance for the best prices.
• Plane:   Flights are roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes . However, keep in mind that you will have to factor in time for getting to the airport, check-in, security, etc. So overall travel time may not be much shorter than taking the train.
• Bus: Skip the bus; it takes over 7 hours. I don’t recommend this unless you are on a tight budget or have plenty of time to spare.

5* Gran Hotel Ingles, Madrid

✅ Central location

✅ On-site spa and fitness centre

✅ 24-hour front desk

Ok! Hostel, Madrid

✅ Wifi in all rooms

✅ Option for private or dorm room

Day 5 & 6: Granada

Top things to do in granada.

• The Alhambra Complex
• Mirador San Nicolas
• Albaicín District
• Alcaiceria Bazaar
• Granada Cathedral
• Hammam Al Ándalus Arab Baths

Granada is home to one of the most stunning landmarks in Spain ; the UNESCO Heritage Site and the Moorish complex of the Alhambra. I’ve allocated two days 14 day Spain Portugal itinerary to really do it justice.

Day 1: The Alhambra Complex

The complex is huge and there’s a lot to see in one day at the Alhambra .

It gets insanely busy, so I suggest starting early, having your Alhambra tickets booked in advance and being at the gate before it opens to avoid the crowds.

Your ticket will give you entrance to different areas of the complex. You can enter once at a time of your choice. For the Nasrid Palace, you’ll be given a time-allocated slot .

When I visited, I started my day at the Generalife so I could get gorgeous photos of the gardens without people in them.

After I did the Alcazar , I then had my timed Nasrid Palace visit – which is when you get to see the famous Patio de Los Leones , before finishing off with the Palace of Charles V and the remainder of the gardens.

📖 Read More: Complete 2 Days in Granada Itinerary

Day 2: Explore Granada City

Start your day two in Granada with a visit to Mirador San Nicolas . This viewpoint is where you get that stunning picture of the Alhambra complex against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains . I’m not a morning person, but it was worth the early start to walk up there to take the photo and enjoy the lookout point without the crowds.

From there take a slow and meandering walk through the Albaicín District . This is one of the oldest parts of Granada, and another designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s easy to get lost here, in the narrow streets, but you’ll stumble on beautiful Arabic-inspired architecture.

In the afternoon focus on the city centre and the enormous Granada Cathedral .

If you’re looking for souvenirs, then I recommend the Old Silk Market, also known as Alcaiceria Bazaar – it’s opposite the cathedral.

Then finish your day with a relaxing soak at the Hammam Al Ándalus Arab Baths .

👉 Insider Travel Tips: I 100% recommend booking your Nasrid Palace and Alhambra tickets as soon as you know the data you’ll be in Granada The Nasrid Palace only has a limited number of admissions a day and is done on a time slot basis.

My other recommendation is to use the shuttle bus – it’s only a few euros and has a regular timetable. It departs from Granada town centre and drops off at the entrance of the site.

Getting to Granada from Madrid

• Train: This is the fastest way. It takes about 3.5 hours . About three services a day do the route from Madrid Atocha to Granada Train Station . I recommend booking early for the best prices .
• Bus: This is the cheaper but slower option. It takes over 4.5 hours and departs from Madrid Estacion Sur to Granada Bus Station . There are several services a day, some are direct, and others have a change. I’d only opt for this if you’re on a tight budget or not in a rush.

5* Haxaris Casa Boutique, Granada

✅ Panoramic city views

✅ Full living facilities

TOC Hostel, Granada

✅ Private or dorm room option

✅ On-site bar and social areas

✅ Great location close to attractions

Day 7: Cordoba

Top things to do in cordoba.

• Mosque-Cathedral and Patio de Los Naranjos
• Historical Centre and Jewish Quarter.
• Colourful flower-laden patios and alleys
• Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos
• Roman Bridge

Cordoba is blessed with an abundance of historical sites. These include the UNESCO-listed historical centre, the beautiful Alcazar stunning Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba – also known as the Mezquita .

Although there are loads of things to do in Cordoba , you can see the highlights in one day.

Start with Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral. It seamlessly combines Moorish and Christan architecture. It’s filled with columned archways – 856 of them – which feature red and cream-coloured blocks.

Two of my favourite places here were the Capilla Mayor with its gigantic central dome and the intricate Marsura Dome .

📖 Read More: What To See In Cordoba in One Day

Don’t miss the Patio de Los Naranjos , which is one of the oldest parts of the building, and then go up the tower for a view looking down over the city.

After you’ve visited the Mezquita, explore the historical centre and the Jewish Quarter .

I recommend spending a couple of hours exploring the quaint cobblestoned alleyways and courtyards – don’t miss the Calleja de las Flores .

If you visit Cordoba at the start of May, then your visit will coincide with the Los Patios festival. During this time every courtyard, alleyway, and square is heavily decorated with flowers.

Another not-to-miss landmark is the Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos . Historically, this building has served both as a fortress and a palace. A few highlights to look out for here are the Hall of the Mosaics , the Arab baths and the Mudejar courtyards .

As the sun starts to set, walk over the Roman Bridge for a fantastic panoramic photo of the city.

👉 Insider Tip: To get the most out of a day in Cordoba , I recommend booking your tickets for Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral ahead of time – it can get insanely busy. Arrive early to beat the beat the crowds.

You can opt to explore the Mosque at your own pace, however, the downside I found was that there was a real lack of information about anything. The audio-guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral is a great option if you prefer to explore at your own pace, but want the detailed insight of a guide.

Getting to Cordoba from Granada

• Train: This is the best option and takes around 1.5 hours . There are several departures a day leaving from Granada station and arriving at Cordoba Central . This is my go-to choice. Book trains in advance to secure the best price.
• Bus: The bus takes a bit longer, roughly 2.5 hours. There are a few departures per day from Granada Bus Station and arrive at Cordoba Bus Station .

Balcón de Córdoba

✅ Rooftop terrace with Mezquita views

✅ Located in the historic centre

✅ 3 secluded patios for relaxation

Eurostars Patios de Cordoba

✅ Set in a 12th century building

✅ Centrally located

✅ Mezquita views

Day 8 & 9: Seville

Top things to do in seville.

• Cathedral of Seville and Giralda
• Real Alcazar.
• Barrio Santa Cruz
• Plaza de España
• Parque de Maria Luisa
• Watch a Flamenco show
• La Casa de Pilatos
• The Metropol Parasol

Seville is a city bursting at the seams with beautiful architecture, and stunning landmarks. It’s home to plenty of UNESCO World Heritage sites and of course the home of flamenco.

I’ve lived in Seville for several years, and although I’ve dedicated two days in this Portugal Spain itinerary to the Andalucian capital, I do recommend spending at least three days in Seville to absorb everything.

Day 1: Historic Seville

Spend day 1 exploring the historical centre. This includes Seville Cathedral and the Girlada, Real Alcazar and Barrio Santa Cruz; the old Jewish District.

The Real Alcazar is my favourite landmark in Seville, so I suggest putting it at the top of your Seville Bucket List as it gets extremely busy.

The Alcazar has a limit of around 750 visitors a day, so at peak season, these do sell out. So make sure you book your ticket tickets for the Real Alcazar in advance. 

Inside the Alcazar, my favourite places were the Salón de Embajadores (Ambassador’s Hall), and the Patio de las Donacellas (The Courtyard of the Maidens).  The gardens are also huge, so I’d allow at least 2 or 3 hours to do this the Real Alcazar justice.

📖 Read More: A Local’s Guide To Seville

After the Real Alcazar, visit Seville Cathedral . Here you’ll find the tomb of Christopher Colombus . You’ll also get to climb the Giralda Tower . This part of the cathedral dates back to when Seville was under Arab rule and used to be the minaret of a mosque.

👉 Useful to Know: If you love ornate cathedrals, like the one in Seville, and you’re visiting Spain for an extended amount of time, then check out the equally stunning cathedral facade of San Sebastian in the Basque country.

Spend the remainder of the day exploring the labyrinth-like streets of Bario Santa Cruz .

Seville has deep roots in its folklore. This heavily influences its music and dance. If you want to experience Spain authentically, then take the opportunity to watch a Flamenco show in its birthplace in the evening.

📖 Read More: 35+ Best Things To Do In Seville

Day 2: Seville Landmarks

On your second day, starting at the gargantuan Plaza de España. It was built in 1929 as part of an Expo, it’s free to enter – there is talk of charging for entry – and features beautiful tile work depicting all the provinces in Spain.

If you love the tile work in Seville, then I recommend adding in a trip to Triana district across the river, to see the factory where they were traditionally made.

Next to Plaza de España, you’ll find Parque de Maria Luisa.

To finish the afternoon, explore some of the photogenic old palaces dotted around the city; La Casa de Pilatos is my top suggestion.

As the sun sets, go up the Metropol Parasol – affectionately known as Las Setas or “the Mushrooms” in English thanks to their shape. Then head up to Alameda de Hercules for tapas and drinks. 

👉 Alternative Suggestion: If this 14 day itinerary feels too rushed, then you might prefer this 7 day road trip in Andalucia , and sticking to just one region instead.

An alternative plan; because Cordoba is a city near Seville , you could skip staying overnight in Cordoba. Stop in Cordoba for the day en route from Granada to Seville.

If you’re craving the sea and sand, then use one of the days in Seville to check out some of the coastal regions – Cadiz is a great option, but there are plenty of other great beaches close to Seville .

Getting to Seville from Cordoba

• Train: The quickest way to Seville from Cordoba, taking under an hour. Trains depart several times a day from Cordoba Central to Santa Justa Station in Seville. I recommend booking early for cheaper tickets . Santa Justa is a little way out of Seville city centre, so when you arrive take either a taxi or a bus to the centre the airport shuttle makes a stop here – look out for the AE service.
• Bus: A slower option, taking just under two hours. Buses go from Cordoba Bus Station to Plaza de Armas in Seville. There are several services a day.

5* Hotel Alfonso XIII Hotel, Seville

✅ Rooftop swimming pool

✅ Centrally located historic building

✅ Variety of on-site bars and restaurants

Petit Palace Vargas, Seville

✅ Modern and clean decor

✅ Great location

✅ Excellent breakfast

👉 Good to Know: Did you know that you can see Morocco from Spain’s southern coast ? They are a mere 14km apart.

If you’ve enjoyed the Moorish architecture of Granada, Cordoba and Seville, then I highly recommend visiting Morocco.

And if you have time, then you could tag on a day trip to Morocco from Spain. To get there, take the ferry from Tarifa on the south coast for the 90-minute crossing to Tangier.

Alternatively, check out this organised day tour to Morocco from Seville .

Day 10, 11 & 12: Lisbon and Sintra

Top things to do in lisbon.

• Praça do Comercio
• Arco de Rue Augusta
• Lisbon Cathedral
• Alfama District
• São Jorge Castle
• Santa Justa Lift
• E28 Yellow Tram
• Eat Pastel de Natas
• Carmo Convent
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
• Belém Tower

You’ve finally made it to the Portuguese leg of this 2 week itinerary.

I’ve allocated three days in the nation’s capital. You can easily see the main highlights of Lisbon in 2 days , and then there’s one day dedicated to a Sintra.

Day 1: History and Culture

If you wondering why visit Lisbon , you’ll be glad to know that in this relatively small city, you’ll find an abundance of history, adorable barrios and delicious food.

On your first day in Lisbon , start in the Praça do Comercio (Commerce Square). This is one of Lisbon’s most recognisable landmarks with the iconic yellow Arco de Rue Augusta on one side and the Targus River on the other. This square is also where most of Lisbon’s wa l king tours start.

👉 Insider Tip: I f you’re lucky and time it right, you can get a gorgeous photo of the yellow Arco de Rue Augusta with one of Lisbon’s signature yellow trams trundling past. Another of my favourite photo spots is on the corner of the cathedral – wait here and you’ll get a photo of the yellow trams going past.

From here visit Lisbon Cathedral and meander your way up through the oldest part of the city; Alfama District . You’ll probably spend a decent amount of time getting lost in these streets which ooze with history. Eventually, if you keep heading upwards, you’ll come out to São Jorge Castle .

From there, head back down going via Bairro Alto where you can find street art. I also recommend taking a ride on the famous E28 Tram .

After, visit the Santa Justa Lift. Take the lift to the upper part of town and visit the ruins of the Carmo Convent .

In the evening catch the metro over to the Time Out Market to eat your way around stalls selling local artisan foods.

📖 Read More: The Best 2 Days in Lisbon Itinerary

Day 2: Sintra Day Trip

Sintra is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful castles in the whole of Europe and one of the easiest day trips from Lisbon.

I’ll go into Sintra in more detail in the section below.

Day 3: Lisbon Landmarks

On the third day, pick up the local train to two of Portugal’s most beautiful landmarks : Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the Belém Tower.

Both sites have UNESCO World Heritage status.

Start with the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos – it’s one of the most important monasteries in Portugal and a must-visit for history lovers.

Make sure to also try the famous Pastéis de Belém while you’re in the area.

Hang about Belem Tower until sunset – it looks stunning in this light and is popular at this time of day with locals and tourists.

👉 Insider Tip: Lisbon is a hilly city, and lots of the attractions in Lisbon are fairly spread out.

If you’re not keen on walking to each of the landmarks or navigating the metro system then opt for the Lisbon hop-on-hop-off bus which will pick up and drop you off at all the locations I’ve mentioned.

📖 Read More: 36 Most Famous Landmarks in Portugal

Getting to Lisbon from Seville

The city of Seville is well connected to Lisbon, by bus and plane – there is no direct train route .

• Bus: Catch an overnight bus from Seville’s Plaza de Armas to Lisbon Oriente . This direct bus takes about 7 hours, saves a night’s accommodation, and is super budget-friendly. I recommend booking early to get the best deals.
• Flight: For a quicker option, you can fly from Seville Airport to Lisbon Portela . It’s just over an hour and there are several flights daily. Use the airport shuttles at both ends to get to and from the city centres easily. Booking in advance to get the best prices.

4* AlmaLusa Baixa, Lisbon

✅ Renovated 18th century building

✅ Located next to Rossio Square

✅ Each room has unique decor

This Is Lisbon Hostel

✅ Roof terrace with panoramic views

✅ Daily breakfast, and kitchen facilities

Day 11: Sintra Day Trip From Lisbon

Top things to do in sintra.

• Pena Palace and Gardens
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Sintra Old Town
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Palácio de Monserrate

Just a short distance from the capital, you’ll find thick and luscious green forests and rolling hills, Dotted between you’ll find fairy-tale castles which look like they’ve been plucked straight from a Disney film set.

Start your day trip to Sintra early as it does get very busy.

Start with Palacio da Pena .  Spend time exploring the incredible interior of this 19th-century Romanticist palace. It mixes vibrant colours with geometric patterns and sits within well-manicured gardens.

📖 Read More: How to Do a Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip

After visiting the palace, head over to the visit the Castelo dos Mouros . This Moorish Castle dates back to the 8th century and gives stunning panoramic views of Sintra and its surroundings – on a clear day you can see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean .

From the Moorish Castle, head back down to Sintra Old Town and straight through to Quinta da Regaleira.

I absolutely loved it here and spent far too long exploring the gardens and the house. Quinta da Regaleira features Gothic-style architecture. Gargoyles, balconies and grottoes fill the grounds.

It was designed as an aristocrat’s playground with terrace gardens, folly castles and towers, underground mazes and the iconic Initiation Well. Head to the Initiation Well first.

If you have any time left on your day trip to Sintra, then I also recommend a quick visit to the Moorish-influenced Palácio de Monserrate .

Finish off at Sintra Old Town – although it’s small, it has some very cute little alleyways. Finally, catch the train back to Lisbon.

👉 Insider Tip: To avoid the queues at Sintra, I recommend booking skip-the-line tickets in advance! 

Several full-day tours include transportation and priority access which is a more efficient way to visit the area. 

Bus: Take the train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station ; it’s about a 40-minute ride. Once in Sintra, take the shuttle buses 434 or 435 to get to the main attractions without wasting time.

Organised Tour: If you’re after an easier way to do it, then take a look at this full day tour from Lisbon to Sintra , it includes all your transportation.

Day 13 & 14: Porto

Top things to do in porto.

• Porto Old Town
• Livraria Lello
• Clérigos Church
• Azulejo tiles at Porto Sao Bento Train Station
• Luis I Bridge
• Douro Valley Vineyards Tour

We’ve reached the last stop on your 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal itinerary: Porto!

This city is all about exploring by foot with plenty of stops to sip on a glass of delicious local port wine.

Day 1: Porto Old Town

Start in the Porto Old Town

Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, after Lisbon, and is a hub for great food and drink.

It’s best to explore the historical centre on foot so it gives you plenty of opportunities to stop off and try the local wine.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then don’t miss Livraria Lello. It’s said that it was part of the inspiration f or JK Rowling’s magical world. Even if you’re not a fan of the series, the iconic library is still worth a visit to see the pretty spiral staircase and ancient books on the shelves.

From there, I recommend visiting the Clérigos Church –  an ornately decorated Baroque church. Climb up the narrow tower for a fantastic view of Porto.

From the church, head up towards Miradouro da Vitoria, for a different panoramic lookout point. If you love beautiful architecture, then it’s also worth taking a guided tour of the Palácio da Bolsa .

Another must-see in Porto is the beautiful Azulejo tiles at the Porto Sao Bento Train Station .

Finish your day with a walk across the Luis I Bridge.

This is one of the top landmarks in Portugal . The bridge has become a bit of an icon to the city, which connects the two sides. You have the option of walking across on the upper level or the lower level – both give great views of the city, especially at sunset.

Day 2: Douro Valley Wine Tour

The best way to experience the Douro Valley is by booking one of the full-day wine tours from Porto .

There are typically two ways to do one of these small group tours, by mini-van or by riverboat  – I opted for the boat tour.

Both types of tours will stop at various vineyards where you’ll have a short tour of the vineyard or factory and then get to try a variety of their locally produced wines and ports. You can then buy bottles (or cases) directly from the sellers to enjoy back home.

👉 Insider Tip : Make sure to pack some snacks and water for the boat tour for starters, it can get quite warm on the river.

Also, I know after all the samples of wine – I definitely got the munchies way too early in the day. Don’t make my mistake, eat a huge breakfast AND bring snacks.

Getting to Porto from Lisbon

• Trains: Catch the direct train from Lisbon Oriente to Porto Campanh. The journey time is about 3 hours . Book tickets in advance for the best prices. 
• Bus: These depart from Sete Rios Station and arrive at Oporto Campo 24 Agosto . The direct bus takes just over 3 hours . Compare prices for bus and train .
• Plane: The flight takes around 1 hour and departs from Lisbon Portela Airport. departs Porto Airport . There are shuttle services between the city centres and the airports.

5* Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments

✅ Exceptional breakfast

✅ Rooms come with a patio or city views

Being Porto Hostel

Spain Portugal Itinerary 14 days – FAQs

The answer depends on your travel style and of course, how long you have to travel. Generally speaking, spending at least 10-14 days in these two countries will allow you to see the major highlights.

This two-week itinerary for Spain and Portugal is designed to help you explore the highlights of both countries efficiently. If you prefer a slower pace, you can extend this itinerary to a month.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Spain and Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal and Spain is during the spring (March to May) and autumn  (September to November) months.

Peak prices and crowds are in July and August and Easter in March/April is also busy. Winters can be cold and even wet in places like  Madrid, Lisbon and Porto.

How Much Will This Spain Portugal Trip Cost?

This will vary greatly depending on your travel style and if you’re travelling on a budget or plan to splurge a bit. I would budget anywhere between Є2000 to Є4000 for two weeks.

For a more accurate idea, use my trip cost calculator to work out how much it will cost. 

Should I Visit Spain or Portugal First?

Essentially it doesn’t really matter if you travel to Spain or Portugal first. I would say, check which airports are the easiest to get to and base it on that. It might be easier for you to do this itinerary from Portugal to Spain instead, and then work backwards.

Can I Do This Itinerary as a Spain and Portugal Road Trip?

I don’t recommend doing this exact itinerary as a road trip in Spain and Portugal unless you want to spend a large portion of the two weeks behind the wheel. Although the two countries share a border, the overall Spain to Portugal distance this itinerary covers is too much for just 14 days.

You could follow the same route, but plan for extra days and stop off in lots of the smaller towns in between the main cities.

Head over to Andalucía Explored , which is a site dedicated to road-tripping in the Iberia region for some great ideas.

What Is Driving Like in Spain and Portugal?

Driving in both of these countries is straightforward. Roads are generally well maintained with good signposting and outside of the cities traffic is minimal. Some roads do have a toll on them, which is something you should be aware of.

Before you get behind the wheel, it’s worth reading up on the highway code if you’re not familiar with driving in Europe.

📖 Read More: Road Trip Essentials Checklist

What’s the Best Way to Get Around Portugal and Spain?

Spain & Portugal have a well-developed public transport system, making it easy to get around the countries without a car.

Both countries have an extensive network of trains, buses, subways, and flights that connect major cities and towns. One app that I’m obsessed with for comparing transport times and prices is Omio .

Packing for This Trip

The weather in Portugal and Spain varies a lot – this goes for the different locations as well as the time of year. Even in summer, I would say it’s wise to take a lightweight jacket, and in winter you’ll definitely need a thick jacket – it can snow in Granada and Madrid!

When you travel to Spain and Portugal, I suggest checking the weather in each location before you pack. 

Are There Any Small Group Tours That Offer a Similar Trip?

Yes. If you’re not into solo travel, or you prefer the convenience of everything done for you, then small group tours are a great way to travel.

Here are two great options for Spain and Portugal tours: 14 Day Best of Spain & Portugal Small Group Tour 21 Day Ultimate Spain & Portugal Small Group Tour

Yes! You can easily tag on a trip to Morocco , especially from the South of Spain. From Seville, you can fly to Morocco in less than an hour, or if you’re driving, catch the ferry over from Algeciras or Tarifa on Spain’s southern coast, and arrive in Tangier in the north of Morocco.

Final Thoughts: Portugal and Spain Itinerary 14 Days

And there you have it, a whirlwind two weeks in Spain and Portugal.

As I said at the start, this is a fast-paced trip which packs in so many highlights from both these countries in the most efficient way. I hope this itinerary for Portugal and Spain helps you make the most out of your trip. 

Curious to explore more? Dive into these other articles to start planning your trip.

👉 More Travel Tips and Inspo for Travel in Spain

Best Montserrat Day Tour With Tapas and Wine From Barcelona: Review 2024

Best madrid 2 day itinerary: by a local, the best cordoba in one day itinerary 2024, best 2 days in granada itinerary 2024, 23 best day trips from seville, spain in 2024, how to do a seville to cordoba day trip in 2024, where is the nearest beach to seville, spain, south spain itinerary: best 7 days in andalucia, one day in granada, spain: a complete visitor’s guide, ultimate spain bucket list: 50+ best experiences in spain, how many days in spain and portugal, ultimate 10 days in spain itinerary (guide for first-timers), can you see morocco from spain, lisbon vs barcelona: should you visit barcelona or lisbon, best seville 3 days itinerary (by a local) + map & tips, madrid in winter 2023/24: over 30 things to do in winter in madrid, 46 most beautiful fairytale castles in europe , most famous landmarks in spain: 38 spanish landmarks to visit in 2024, madrid vs lisbon comparison guide: should i visit lisbon or madrid, ultimate madrid bucket list: 28 best things to do in madrid, spain, is segovia worth visiting how to visit segovia from madrid in a day, is madrid worth visiting 16 great reasons to visit madrid, the best barcelona 5 day itinerary for first-time visitors, barcelona bucket list: 32 best things to do in barcelona, spain, a day trip to toledo from madrid, the complete seville bucket list: 35+ great ideas for your seville itinerary, 9 winter getaways that will cure your seasonal blues.

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The Best 2 Days in Lisbon Itinerary: How to Spend Two Days in Lisbon, Portugal

Guide to lisbon on a rainy day: 18 best things to do in lisbon in the rain, most famous landmarks in portugal: 36 portugal landmarks to visit, how to do a lisbon to sintra day trip: one day in sintra itinerary, ultimate one day lisbon itinerary – see the best of lisbon in one day (2023), is lisbon worth visiting 16 great reasons to visit lisbon.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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Spain and Portugal Itinerary | 10 Days in Spain and Portugal

Spain and Portugal are beautiful destinations that are both worth visiting, however, if you happen to be on a time crunch, I suggest this Spain and Portugal Itinerary. With many of us out there with jobs and schools that deter us from visiting every country on our bucket list, I always recommend at least a week itinerary for 7 days or a 10-day vacation within Spain and Portugal. If you are planning a trip to Spain or Portugal, here are some of my highlights included in my 10-day Itinerary to Spain and Portugal. These 2 countries are quite different from each other, but it’s the perfect combination because they are quite unique compared to the rest of the European countries.

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Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Travel planning resources  .

• Flights :  Skyscanner , Google Flights , and  Expedia  are the best sites to search for the cheapest flights and great deals from your home country.
• Accommodation :  Booking.com ,  Agoda , and  HostelWorld are the only platforms you need to book hotels and hostels anywhere in the world.
• Travel Insurance : The best travel insurance available are  World Nomads  or  SafetyWing .  Safety Wing is also perfect for expats or remote workers.
• Transportation : To book trains, Trainline is the best and cheapest website. To book buses within the US and Europe, try using FlixBus . For travel in Asia, we use  12Go .  
• Car Rental :  Expedia is a reliable platform to book rental cars.
• Tours :  Get Your Guide   &  Viator  are the only platforms you will need for most countries. If traveling to Asia, I suggest using Klook or Trazy .
• Luggage : It depends on what type of bags you like. If you are looking to backpack around Europe, I highly recommend the Osprey Fairview 40L .
• What to Pack : Use this ultimate Carry On Essentials list for things you should pack for every trip.
• Send Money Anywhere:  WISE  is the best account for transferring funds abroad.
• Stay Connected:  Staying connected abroad is important for safety and travel. Using Airalo will save you time and money for your trip by getting an eSIM right from the start. Use NordVPN to keep access to websites in your home country or shows on Hulu abroad!

Planning a trip to Spain and Portugal? This is the best place to start.

To make the most of your trip you will have to decide when and where you want to travel to these destinations. This Itinerary for Spain and Portugal is best for 10 days, however, if you have more time you can easily add to it. I will add some other destinations and things you can possibly do during your trip closer to the bottom for you to decide how to continue your travels. Whether you are planning 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal or 10 days, this will be a great base itinerary to add and incorporate more ways to travel within the 2 countries.

Spain and Portugal are filled with hundreds of UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth checking out and I’ve included many of them in this Spain Portugal Itinerary post.

Are you LGBTQ+? Be sure to read this guide about gay-friendly cities in Spain .

Best time to visit Spain and Portugal

The best time to visit for your 10 days in Portugal and Spain is from March through May and September – October.  These months are not considered hot and will have more manageable and comfortable weather to walk around in. You may be able to avoid tourists during these months.  Moreover, the busiest months to visit Spain and Portugal are between June – August.  The summer months can get quite hot, although the weather in Portugal was very comfortable when we visited in August.

Pro Tip: Save money on flights by flying in on a weekday or during the off-season. Base your itinerary on the most affordable rates you can travel.

Travel Insurance – Don’t forget to get insurance for your trip! I highly recommend getting travel insurance from World Nomad .  

The language of Portugal is Portuguese and of Spain is Spanish.  Additionally, we found it easy to communicate in Portugal with many of the locals speaking English. English was easy in Spain as well, but there were times, especially in Madrid, where some of the locals primarily speak Spanish. Of course, if you travel to a less touristy area, you may have more difficult times communicating in English.

Form of Currency

Both Portugal and Spain use the Euro and is part of the European Union.

How to get around Spain

Spain has a lot of great forms of public transportation including buses, subways, taxis, Uber, and more. Many of the major cities have great forms of public transportation which are great for travelers. Additionally, traveling from major cities to cities around Spain varies based on the location you would want to visit. Some I would take the train such as taking the train from Barcelona to Montserrat, however, I would suggest taking a flight from Barcelona to Madrid since the flights are about the same price as taking the train. Traveling solo to Spain? Check out this Barcelona Solo Women Travel Guide.

RELATED: 2 Weeks in Spain

How to get around Portugal

In Lisbon, there are buses and subways, but unless we were going somewhere far, we found it easier to travel by Tuk Tuk. To travel from Lisbon to Sintra, I suggest you take the train. Once you arrive in Sintra you can travel by Bus or Tuk Tuk depending on what you find more comfortable. Traveling by Tuk Tuk is costlier but more time-efficient.

The Best way to travel from Portugal to Spain

There are several ways to travel between Spain and Portugal and I’ve listed those options below.

• Flying – In my opinion, this is the best way to travel from Spain to Portugal. I suggest this especially if you are the type short on time and making the most of your trip.
• Bus – There are several itineraries on how to travel from Spain to Portugal by Bus . This is another option to take if you want to save money.
• Car Rental – If you have plenty of time, this is the best way to plan a trip and be able to take your time and see everything.
• Train – Unless you have a train pass within the EU, I felt the price of the train was about the same as a plane ticket. I regret taking the train and wish I chose to fly instead. If you love trains, I highly suggest you check out this Europe train itinerary .

Tips to save money in Spain and Portugal

There are a lot of ways to save money in Spain and Portugal including taking advantage of many of the free things to do in each destination such as wandering the Alfama District, visiting the Parco dom Pedro, and visiting many of the museums at the last 2 hours of the day. Additionally, taking public transportation overtaking a Tuk Tuk or Taxi and bringing your own water bottle from home, and buying a large bottle of water at a corner store to refill will save on time and money during your  1 week in Spain and Portugal.

Where you will visit in 10 Days in Spain and Portugal

I have chosen some of the most popular places to visit for this Portugal and Spain Itinerary, however, it can easily be adjusted for a Spain and Portugal Itinerary for 14 days or more. Check out the additional Spain itinerary locations and Portugal itinerary locations.

• DAY 1: LISBON – Arrive in Lisbon. Explore, rest, for half a day.
• DAY 2: SINTRA – Full day of highlights in Sintra including the palace
• DAY 3: LISBON – Full day of exploring and eating your way through Lisbon
• DAY 4: LISBON TO MADRID – Travel day to Madrid, half-day experiencing Madrid
• DAY 5: MADRID – Unique Madrid City Highlights
• DAY 6: MADRID TO BARCELONA – Travel day to Barcelona, half-day in Barcelona
• DAY 7: BARCELONA – Full day in Barcelona
• DAY 8: BARCELONA – Sightseeing in Barcelona
• DAY 9: MONTSERRAT – Day trip and hiking to Montserrat from Barcelona
• DAY 10: BARCELONA – Half day in Barcelona and leaving to your next destination

Additional Spain Itinerary Locations

• Valencia – Read about things to do in Valencia

Additional Portugal Itinerary Locations

• Porto – If you have more time, be sure to read more about how to spend one day in Porto .

Unsure whether to visit Madrid or Barcelona ? Read this post on which is better to visit Madrid or Barcelona.

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 1 | Arrival in Lisbon

To start your Spain and Portugal Itinerary, it’s best to arrive in Lisbon. I felt started in Portugal was something that was necessary. If you haven’t traveled abroad to a country that doesn’t speak English starting in Lisbon was important. Everyone we met spoke English here, while in Spain, it was hit and miss on who spoke English. Now if you plan to make a longer excursion than this one, you can start your trip to Porto and work through this 10 day Spain and Portugal itinerary.

Arrival and getting to your hotel in Lisbon

• Private Transfer – You can easily request a private transfer from the airport to your hotel which makes it a lot easier and just a bit less stressful when you get there. You can book a private transfer from Lisbon Airport here.

Things to do in Lisbon on your first day

Portugal was one of my favorite countries to visit in Europe. I wanted to stay longer and visit more places, but I decided to visit the most important places. This trip was mostly focused on visiting Spain but a chance to visit Portugal as well. Lisbon is a hilly city with lots of slippery tile sidewalks, beautiful paths, and delicious foods. Although I don’t expect you to explore much of Lisbon on the first day of arrival, there are plenty of things to do.

PRO TIP: Most places are closed on Sundays including restaurants so if you are on a short time limit, you may want to consider that when planning your itinerary.

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 2 | Sintra

Sintra, Portugal is one of the most famous cities to visit in Portugal because of its beautiful Pena Palace.  Pena Palace is a UNESCO Portugal world heritage site . Sintra is a wonderful day trip from Lisbon with only a  30-40 minute train ride. There are a lot of monumental sites to visit in Sintra such as the Palace of Sintra, Belem Tower, and more. The locals who live in Sintra we found polite and charming which made us love this destination even more. Finally, I feel that Sintra deserves two days of exploring

READ: Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip

Recommended things to do in Sintra

• Pena Palace
• Palace of Sintra
• Moors Castle
• Monserrate Palace
• Bar do Binho

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 3 | Lisbon

I suggest you start your day early to get to the Pasteis de Belem. Pasteis de Belem is known for its amazing Pastels also known as an egg tart. Ultimately, this place is large with a lot of seating, but it gets busy fairly quickly with lines wrapping around the corner. After you enjoy your breakfast, you will near many locations such as the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belem, and Jeronimos Monastery.

If you want to extend your trip in Portugal, you can easily spend 2 days in Porto or head down to Faro and also to Lagoa, where you can kayak the caves of Bengali .

READ: One day in Lisbon

Recommended things to do in Lisbon

• Drinking Ginja
• Praca dom Pedro
• Monument to the Discoveries
• Jeronimos Monastery
• Tower of Belem
• Mercado da Ribera
• Pasteis de Belem

RELATED: Gay Lisbon Travel Guide

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 4 | Lisbon to Madrid

Now you will be traveling to Madrid, a beautiful city in Spain which is a must for your Spain and Portugal Itinerary. We found Madrid to be our favorite in Spain although we have a lot more to discover. Depending on what time you arrive in Madrid, there are still a lot of things to do including at night! Finally, if you arrive late and happen to have a sweet tooth, I highly suggest you visit the Chocoleteria san Gines.

READ: 2 Days in Madrid

Recommended things to do in Madrid Day 1

• Crystal Palace in Retiro Park
• Plaza de Cibeles
• Temple of Debod
• Madrid Food Tour or Tapas Tour
• Chocoleteria San Gines

RELATED: Tapas in Madrid | 15 cheap tapas in Madrid

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 5 | Madrid

Today you will have plenty of time to see everything Madrid has to offer. If there was something you weren’t able to see on day 1, don’t you worry we will see plenty of items today.  Madrid is one of my favorite places to visit in Spain and less fast pace in comparison to Barcelona. The official residence for the Royal Family in Spain is at the Royal Palace of Madrid.

READ: Places to Visit in Northern Spain

If you want to add more time to your Itinerary, you can head down and spend one day in Seville .

Recommended things to do in Madrid Day 2

• San Miguel Market
• Palace of Madrid
• Cathedral of Alemundo
• Museum del Prado
• Flamenco Show
• Plaza de Espana

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 6 | Madrid to Barcelona

Next on your Spain and Portugal Itinerary is Barcelona. There is so much to do in Barcelona, but I must warn you that there are a lot of tourist traps especially when it comes to food in Barcelona (I feel that is something that is common in any major city). Moreover, we found a ton of delicious food, don’t get me wrong, but there are a few places that do not have great or authentic Spanish dishes. Furthermore, I suggest another food tour to get the best places to eat.

If you plan to arrive in Barcelona in the evening time, I suggest you at least visit La Sagrada Familia or Park Guell since both locations are beautiful during the evening. La Sagrada Familia is a beautiful cathedral filled with gorgeous stained glass windows that are perfect to see during sunset. The light comes shining through the glass and creating colors on the floor of the cathedral.

READ: 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona

Recommended things to do in Barcelona Day 1

• La Sagrada Familia – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Casa Mila – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Casa Batllo – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Casa Amatler – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 7 | Barcelona

Now you get to explore for your first full day in Barcelona. Keep in mind that the Mercado de la Boqueria is closed on Sundays. I suggest you take a stroll down La Rambla and explore all the cute shops and more. This day is a great day to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of Barcelona. If you have time or it’s not too cold, be sure to visit Barceloneta Beach. If you are looking to enjoy some delicious food, be sure to read more about Catalan food and food at Opera Samfaina .

Recommended things to do in Barcelona Day 2

• Bunkers de Caramel
• Mercado de la Boqueria
• Barceloneta Beach

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 8 | Barcelona

This is the perfect time to visit the Gothic Quarter and the Picasso Museum. There are many narrow cobblestone streets and a lot of art shops in the area. Furthermore, if you aren’t a big fan of art or just don’t care to see the Picasso Museum, continue to visit Montjuic.  Afterward, explore the beautiful Ciutadella Park and stroll down the path and view the Arc de Triomf. In addition, there are a lot of street performers during the evening hours. We found it relaxing to explore and just be in the presence of Barcelona.

Recommended things to do in Barcelona Day 3

• Gothic Quarter
• Picasso Museum
• Ciutadella Park
• Arc de Triomf

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 9 | Montserrat

Furthermore, Montserrat is a beautiful day trip away from Barcelona. It is the perfect place to visit when you need to escape the busy city life. Furthermore, if you enjoy hiking, this is a great location to do an uphill hike and get a great view of the mountainside. In addition, the path is paved and easy to walk. My best friend and I actually hiked the path in sandals and found it bearable, although I don’t suggest it. I think by the end of our Spain and Portugal trip, we definitely needed something outdoors and a bit more quiet from the big crowds.

RELATED: Montserrat Day Trip from Barcelona

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Day 10 | Leave Barcelona

Today is the day to venture back home or if you want to continue your Spain and Portugal itinerary you can continue to Bilbao, Valencia, Seville, or Grenada.  There are so many places to discover in Spain. So if you can continue your ventures, but this post is a great starting point for your first visit to Spain and Portugal.

If you have more time, add Mallorca, Spain to your itinerary and learn more about things to do in Mallorca, Spain.

Finally, please let me know in the comment below what you think of this Spain and Portugal Itinerary. Is there anywhere you would add that I might have forgotten?

Did you like this article? Support this blog by donating to the button below. 

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RELATED POSTS:

• Spain in August
• 2 Days in Madrid
• Madrid or Barcelona
• Tapas in Madrid
• 3 Day Itinerary Barcelona
• Top 10 Places to see in Barcelona
• Barcelona to Montserrat
• Things to do in Madrid

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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32 Comments

Wow, thanks for such a detailed post! I would love to visit Portugal someday (and go back to Spain), so I’m definitely saving this for later!

What a wonderfully detailed guide! I love Spain and haven’t seen nearly as much as I’d like, and am yet to visit Portugal but it’s high on the list! Definitely like the sound of a tapas tour in Madrid, it’s so delicious there!

Spain and Portugal. Both are on my bucket list and it’s great to know that I still have a few months to get there during the prime seasons. I better get booking! Thanks for such a great post, its super helpful! I never even considered some of the places you mentioned but it all looks incredible so I’m adding them to my travels.

That’s a lot of ground to cover in just 10 days! But definitely some of the highlights of the region there. Barcelona is one of my favorite cities and I could easily spend ten days there alone! Did you use a lot of overnight transportation to fit this all in?

I didn’t check out any overnight transportation. Although, the train tickets were the same price as flying and most of the destinations you could get there in an hour or less by flying. I didn’t see an overnight transportation necessary. ?

Wow, great post! You really have all the information I need, including an amazing itinerary.

This guide is so detailed and awesome for someone to use on a first visit . I have never been to Europe, but hope to make it there in the next year. Great images too! ‘ Valerie

This is such a great resource and is perfectly timed. My husband and I have been looking into visiting Spain and Portugal. Thanks for the great tips!

I love this!!

So, my brother in law has been dating a Portugese lady for a while now, so my husband and I have a feeling that he might pop the question to her soon…so we are hoping when/if he does we’ll be able to have a holiday in Portugal (and Spain) to see them get hitched! I will totally keep this blog in mind if/when we get to plan our travels(!!)

It was a wonderful guideline for all the traveler, which will make all the adventure lovers best traveling experience in Spain and Portugal. I an enjoyed a lot to read it. I never visit Spain, but I want to explore Spain this October. Barcelona will my main target and never miss the beach and the La Sagrada Familia. Thanks for this motivating post.

This is such a great plan! I’ve haven’t been in Portugal yet but it’s on my list! Do they really have tuk tuks there ? Are they as cool as those in Thailand ? I’ve visited Spain few times but never made it to Madrid , however I Love Barcelona and I would love to go back ! Great post !

Awesome itinerary! Spain and Portugal are both such lively destinations and have such great food! Your photos show how vibrant and lively these places are. I’d love to visit someday.

Barcelona and Montserrat are such beautiful places! I have been 2 times in Barcelona and I still want to go back! Thanks for sharing this awesome article!

Thanks for such a detailed itinerary, Portugal is amazing and I hope I get to visit Portugal again. I’ve been to Portugal twice on tour with the band I played in, on one of these trips we played 19 concerts in 18 cities, so as you can imagine – there wasn’t much time to really check out Portugal and all the places it has to offer.

Sintra is probably one of my most favorite places I’ve ever been. Such a nice hidden gem. And glad you got to see some flamenco in Spain! I lived there for 4 years. Great article, great photos!

woow this is such detailed guide post on portugal and spain would love to visit it someday.bookmarking it for future reference

Both destinations are worth to explore. Very informative and detailed itinerary. Within 10 days so many places to explore and I’m loving all architectural design the most.

All the places look awesome. Your itinerary is perfect and covers important aspects of both Spain and Portugal. Thank you for sharing.

This looks like a quick trip but a great introduction to these two countries that will leave travelers eager to get back and see more!

I’m in Portugal now and this guide is amazing! In Madeira but will be in Lisbon next week and will definitely use these tips. Would love to do Spain soon!

I’ve been to Spain a few times, but have been dying to go to Portugal! Very much appreciate your tip about Sundays, if we plan a trip we’ll be sure to keep that in mind. Thanks!

wow this post is very ambitious! i prefer splitting up the two countries… did 14 days in Portugal and 10 days in Spain last year. I personally like smelling the roses and not packing my days. You’ve covered all the highlights here though ! xo, natalie

I missed Spain and Portugal on my last trip to Europe and this post is making me realize just how much I missed out! These two countries will definitely be at the top of my list when I return. I’m going to pin this post for future reference – thank you! 🙂

Detailed and thorough itinerary! I’d love to visit these 2 countries. A week may be too short and jam packed though. I’d say 10-12 days would be great to fully appreciate everything!

Hi NieNie! Thanks for sharing all the beautiful photos and awesome guided details. I am leaving with my girlfriends in mid Nov for 11 days. Arriving into Barcelona in the morning. What do you advise on my itinerary if to travel to Lisbon because I need to return to Barcelona for my departure flight? Hope you hear from you soon 🙂

Blessings !

Have you read my guide on 24 Hours in Lisbon?

http://adventureswithnienie.com/a-24-hour-guide-to-lisbon-portugal/

Spain and Portugal have been on my list for a few years now! I went to Italy a couple years ago and absolutely loved the coast. What time of year would you recommend going?

I would probably go in the fall or spring, we went during the summer and it was pretty hot but nothing compares to how hot it is in Korea haha. So honestly it depends on what suits you. There were a lot of people as well, so if you don’t mind crowds.

I want to go in July after 10 from Uk so can u send me the date and price with what included

This varies from person to person and what things you plan to do. If you follow this to a t, it depends on where you book your trips to. I believe this overall cost us about $500 for the week but it does not include flights and hotels.

great article.. thanks for the information…

I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere thanks for the comprehensive and thorough information you have shared with me. Your attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that I have the information I need is truly remarkable. I cannot thank you enough for your time and effort in providing me with such valuable insights.

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The Best Spain and Portugal Itinerary to Take Now!

Spain and Portugal

Planning a trip always takes the longest.

Where to go, how long to stay, should I do this city or that one. We decided to do a Spain getaway at the last minute and then added on Portugal at even later minute and found it helpful to read Rick Steves , Lonely Planet , forums and blogs to ultimately decide which cities to linger in and which to skip altogether.

We’re now back from our trip to Spain and Portugal so we thought we’d share a summary of our itinerary. We had 2 weeks and visited Spain’s 2 main cities, Madrid and Barcelona, then headed south to see the Andalusian cities before heading west for a taste of Portugal.

Below is my day by day itinerary featuring  Instagram photos from the trip! You can check out the whole photo series by exploring the hashtag  #shershegoes_spain

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Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Here’s a summary of the Spain and Portugal itinerary that we did. We would recommend at least 2 weeks if you want to visit both Spain and Portugal. If you have less time, say 10 days, then concentrate on Madrid and Barcelona in Spain!

2 Weeks in Spain

Keep reading below for a day by day city   itinerary of must-see sights, things to eat and where to stay! I’ve also included day trip suggestions below.

Days 1-2: Madrid

We arrived first in Madrid, Spain’s capital city.

The streets are narrow, the apartments all have beautiful shuttered balconies and the charm is everywhere. We settled in for a couple days of sightseeing, healthy doses of tapas, rioja wine and laid back nights that ended with churros con chocolate.

The Best Things to Do in Madrid

Main Attractions: Royal Palace, Museo del Prado, Retiro Park

Don’t Miss: a night hopping from bar to bar sampling tapas and pinchos. Recommended dishes:

• gambas al ajillo (shrimp in hot garlic and oil)
• jamon iberico bellota (fancy coldcuts of iberico pigs fed on acorns)
• calamares a la romana (fried squid rings)
• my special favorite, patatas bravas (fried potato wedges served with a mayo aioli)!

Where to Stay in Madrid

I recommend 2 days, 3 nights. Perhaps the best neighborhood to stay in Madrid would be the Centro district, to stay centrally located near the main sights and attractions. Other solid neighborhoods: La Latina, Chueca and Barrio de las Letras.

We recommend  Catalonia Plaza Mayor , a comfortable hotel that's centrally located in the heart of old Madrid.

Check rates:   Booking.com ,  Hotels.com ,  Expedia  

Read reviews:   TripAdvisor

Best Day Trips from Madrid

We stayed in Madrid an extra couple nights in order to do some day trips in Castille La Mancha. I couldn’t decide on one, so we visited a couple (images above from left to right).

Here are the best day trips from Madrid that I’d recommend!

• Segovia an ancient town famous for its Roman aqueduct ruins
• Toledo a medieval city
• El Escorial  a monastery and entombment for ancient Spanish kings

You can browse more fun day trips from Madrid here .  

Day 4: Cordoba

After thoroughly explored Spain’s capital, we headed south for a loop through Andalusia . First up, Cordoba!

The small town was once a regional capital for the Roman and Moorish empires so today, it bears characteristics of each. The historic sights are all located within the compact Old Town and easily walk able.

We got lucky and timed our visit for their spring festival, the Patio Festival! Patio means inner courtyard in Spanish, and it’s a really pretty time to visit because the entire town comes alive, locals are happy to show off their homes and everywhere you look there are stunning flowers are in bloom. 

Best Things to Do in Cordoba

Main Attractions:  Mezquita-Cathedral, Palacio de los Reyes Cristianos, Roman Bridge

Don’t Miss: a visit in Spring, when this beautiful town comes alive with flowers. The Patio Festival is an opportunity for proud locals to exhibit their version of ‘Best Lawn’ and visitors can see traditional Moorish style patios decorated with a profusion of beautiful pink, red and green blooms.

Where to Stay in Cordoba

The city deserves 1 full day – unless you're in town for the Cordoba Patio Festival when you won't be able to get enough with even two or three days!

For a beautiful hotel, stay at  Eurostars Palace Hotel  which has a gorgeous inner courtyard and gives a true feel for Cordoba's patios. Inner courtyards are usually hidden to outsiders so this hotel is a treat!

Check rates:   Hotels.com ,  Booking.com , Expedia  

Read reviews:  TripAdvisor

Days 5-6: Seville

From Cordoba, we hopped back on the high speed train for Seville.

Flamboyant Seville is home to the fiery flamenco, stadium roaring bull fights and the most delicious tapas bars of my entire trip! We did a bit more sightseeing, although by this point I was thoroughly wow’ed by the cathedrals and had pretty much reached my limit.

Best Things to Do in Seville

Main Attractions:  Cathedral, Alcázar, Barrio Santa Cruz

Don’t Miss:  the gardens in the Alcázar are breathtaking – you might recognize them as ‘Dorne’ from Game of Thrones!

Seville is a fantastic town for foodies. In Madrid, you have lots of old, historic bars, while in Barcelona you’ll find trendy, beautifully decorated restaurants with fantastic fusion food. But in Seville? Expect small, authentic and delicious, with a bit of flair. Essentially, it felt like it offered the best of everything in one compact town. 

Where to stay in Seville

The city is worth at least 2 days & 2 nights – so you can eat all the affordable and tasty tapas you can find! Book a room at  Hotel Alfonso XIII , a luxurious property featuring gorgeous Moorish architecture and every comfort imaginable. Hotel Alfonso is located in a prime spot next to Seville's Real Alcazar.

Check rates Hotels.com ,   Booking.com ,   Expedia  

Read reviews  TripAdvisor

Days 7-8: Granada

After thoroughly exploring Seville, we hopped on a (10 euro!) bus to explore Granada, once the Moorish stronghold of the west. Today the city retains much of its North African flavor and is an absolute must see on any southern trip through Spain.

The main attraction in Granada is the breathtaking Alhambra, an old fortress and palace with extensive gardens. Tickets sell out quite fast so you’ll need to book this in advance. You can read about everything you need to know regarding Alhambra tickets in this post here .

Or, skip the mess entirely and take a guided tour that bypasses the queue altogether here .

I ended up extending our Granada stay for an extra half day so that I could grab the only ticket option remaining during my trip.

Best Things to Do in Granada

Main Attractions:  the Alhambra !

Don’t Miss: a relaxing retreat at the Arabian baths , or Hammam Al Andalus . The current baths are built over the ancient bath site and gorgeously decorated.

There are a number of different pools at different temperatures as well as some fun massage options. We loved how relaxing this experience was! Budget around 3 hours to fully enjoy the experience.

Where to stay in Granada:

Budget 2 full days in order to fully explore the city, with a full 1/2 day devoted to the Alhambra . We stayed at  Anacapri Granada , an affordable, clean hotel within walking distance from the Alhambra.

The Anacapri Granada is located in the heart of Old Town and also conveniently near the local bus stop, should you wish to explore Granada's farther sights.

Check rates:  Hotels.com ,   Booking.com ,   Expedia  

Days 9-12: Barcelona

From Granada, there are a couple ways to get to Barcelona including via car, high speed rail or plane . We decided to fly after hearing unimpressed reviews of the overnight train service.

Barcelona was by far one of the highlights of my trip – I enjoyed it a lot more than Madrid! The city is cosmopolitan, proudly Catalan and lively with some of the most impressive and unique sights in Spain.

After almost two weeks of sightseeing, lots of churches and an abundance of small town charm, the genius works of architect Antoni Gaudí were so distinctive and colossal that I couldn’t help but be awed.

Best Things to Do in Barcelona

Main Attractions:   La Sagrada Familia , Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (aka La Pedrera), Park Güell

Don’t Miss:  a full day dedicated to Gaudi’s works: the modernist mansion Casa Batlló and the still under construction Sagrada Familia church .

Day Trips:  Barcelona had some of the most innovative tapas bars that I tried in Spain – don’t miss a good evening out trying various Spanish small plates  or try a cooking class . Die hard soccer / football fans will want to see FC Barcelona’s stadium and see a match or two.

Where to stay in Barcelona:

Royal Ramblas  is a great hotel to stay in, as it's located right on the main shopping and pedestrian road, Las Ramblas. There's so much to see in Barcelona (and the city makes a great base for nearby day trips in Catalonia) so budget at least 3 full days!

Best Day Trips from Barcelona

Near Barcelona are a couple cities worth visiting. Montserrat is a religious pilgrimage site for many Catalans and a breathtaking change of scenery for tourists – the monastery is actually high up in the mountains!

Also within an easy day trip from the city are Girona , a walkable old city famous for its historic Jewish quarter of narrow cobblestone streets, and Figueres, where Salvador Dali built his museum and personal shrine.

Trains connect all three towns within easy access of Barcelona Sants rail station. We decided to do the first two and left Figueres for another trip simply because the train schedules weren’t as convenient.

• Montserrat :  a dramatic mountaintop monastery where the Black Madonna was discovered
• Girona :  a quaint medieval town very similar to Dubrovnik and currently the set of King’s Landing for the Game of Thrones series

Days 13-14: Lisbon

Portugal’s capital Lisbon feels a lot like San Francisco .

Both have rolling hills, quaint trolleys and well worn cobblestone streets. Lisbon has some amazing seafood spots and charm, but also a sad air of neglect to the magnificent tiled apartment buildings.

I first visited Lisbon on a fun long weekend trip in college, where we spent the days sipping on Sangria and the nights partying in Chiado and Bairro Alto.. with nightly stops at McDonalds in Rossio Square for CBO sandwiches and McFlurrys. 

This time, I focused a bit more on sightseeing and managed to fit in a wonderful day trip to nearby Sintra.

Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Main Attractions:  São Jorge Castle, Alfama walk (medieval district) and Baixa walk (downtown with major squares)

Don’t Miss:  dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro, a local favorite of Anthony Bourdain that completely lived up to my seafood heavy anticipation. Get the garlic shrimp in olive oil and large grilled prawns and wash it all down with beer and buttery garlic bread.

Where to stay in Lisbon:

Hotel Santa Justa is an affordable luxury hotel with an amazing location right by the famous lift. We opted for 2 nights in Lisbon, with an extra day to check out the wacky, beautiful mansions at nearby Sintra !

Check rates:  Hotels.com ,  Booking.com ,  Expedia  

Day Trip from Lisbon to Sintra

A couple friends recommended Sintra as a must do while in Lisbon. After a major earthquake and tsunami hit Lisbon in 1755, Portuguese royalty permanently left the city in favor of this mountain retreat.

On a day trip, you can explore the national palace, Pena palace and a number of extravagant private mansions. It’s a unique town and ended up being my favorite day trip of the entire trip!

Best Things to Do in Sintra

Main Attractions:  National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Palace of Queluz, Arab Walls

Don’t Miss:  the Pena Palace , which is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s vision of Cinderella Castle!

Stay:  1 days, 1 night to see the highlights, a 2nd day if you want to see the exotic mansions like Montserrate Mansion that are farther from the town square.

Getting Around Spain

We took a combination of transportation to get around Spain, including

• local flights
• the high speed train

Spain by Train

Mostly, we used the high speed train service, as it was the most convenient.

To book tickets, use Omio . It’s the largest distributor for European train tickets and accepts international credit cards. Spain does have its own train website, but its in Spanish and meant for local Spanish citizens to book.

The Omio site is much more user friendly – you can both browse train schedules and keep track of all your purchased tickets by making an account. They charge a nominal booking fee for the process, I believe around 1-3 euro per transaction, so try to organize your route first then buy all the tickets in one go.

Train routes typically are published 3-6 months out so if you can’t find the schedule for your dates, you might be looking to early. Just check back in a couple weeks or so. Ticket prices will get more expensive with time, so book in advance to save.

Check  train schedules for Spain here .

I got a lot of questions about how we got around. If following my itinerary, here’s the breakdown:

• We flew into Madrid, and spent a couple days exploring the area. From Madrid, we took the high speed train down to Cordoba and again from Cordoba to Seville.
• From Seville , you can take either the train or bus . We found a steal bus fare (~10 euro per person), so we tried the bus. If you can’t find a bus deal, just use the train as it’s much easier to navigate!
• From  Granada , we chose to fly up northeast to Barcelona. You can take the train, but it’s historically been offered as an overnight train option, and friends who took it said it was very uncomfortable. Granada has been doing construction on its train station, so double check whether a train is available for your dates. Personally, we recommend flying. 
• In Barcelona, we booked day trips to nearby Montserrat and Girona using the train. After fully exploring the Catalonia region, we flew to neighboring Portugal to visit Lisbon and Sintra.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April – May) and Fall (September – October) are the best times to visit Spain and Portugal. There’ll be less crowds and more comfortable temperatures!

What Not to Miss

Here are some highlights you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Spain and Portugal!

Exploring Southern Spain’s Moorish history

• the Cathedral Mosque in Cordoba, the Alhambra Palace in Granada and the Alcazar in Seville, where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed

Visiting Spain’s political and cultural capitals

• Madrid: home to 
• Barcelona: home to Gaudi’s masterpieces: the unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral, the UNESCO World Heritage Casa Battlo site and colorful Park Guell

Portugal’s Legendary Food & Culture

And there you go! My trip report after visiting Spain and Portugal for the first time. 

I hope my 2 week itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 10 days or 1 week, I would cut out Southern Spain . You could save Andalusia for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

Are you planning a trip to Spain, Portugal or both? Let me know any questions in the comments below!

Visiting Spain – Travel Checklist

To make the most of our time, we booked open jar flights, flying from NY to Madrid and departing from Lisbon. Check flight deals for your dates here .

For getting around within Spain, we recommend the local train system. Both fast and slow options are available, so Spain train travel is easy and effective! The only catch? It's difficult for non Spanish users to book. Instead, book your tickets on Omio , which is much more convenient for English speakers and accepts international credit card holders. Check train schedules for Spain here .

We mixed up our accommodation throughout the trip, alternating between Airbnb and hotels. You can browse last minute Spain hotel deals here . 

Lastly, be sure to visit Spain with travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Spain Vacation Planning Articles

Spain and Portugal: A Perfect Itinerary to Explore Both Countries!

Headed to Andalusia? Check out this 7 day Southern Spain travel guide

How We Spent 3 Incredible Days in Granada

Insider Tips for Visiting the Alhambra Palace

The Best Things to Do in Seville

A Spain Food Guide: Important  Tapas + Food Names in Spanish!

Spain's Hidden Gem: The Quaint Town of Cordoba

Don't Miss Cordoba's Patio Festival ! Here's Why

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Cordoba and Grenada look gorgeous. I love all the flower shots in Cordoba, what a great time to go! I love all your pictures & travel style too! I might be planning a Spain trip for this summer, I’ll bookmark this and avidly follow all your recommendations haha

Gah you’re making me so jealous, girl!!!! I studied abroad in Salamanca in high school and spent a lot of time in Barcelona and Madrid, but I haven’t been back since. I desperately want to go back and go down to Granada to see the Alhambra!

Wow, so much information & this is so detailed! I may be going to Lisbon in November, so this is cool to know it’s like San Fran. I have my list of must-sees made after reading this post!

Wow, what an incredible trip and your pictures are absolutely stunning! I want to go now!

Nice tips! I will going to Spain later in the summer, so this will help a lot.

Your photos are stunning! Now I want to visit :)

Your photos are absolutely stunning! I’ll be moving to Spain in the fall and will definitely refer back to this.

Aw, thanks for the kind words Colby!

Hey there thanks for the awesome guide! Can you share approx how much you spent for the two weeks. I’m trying to plan a budget and I have no clue how much to plan for

Hi May – glad it was helpful! Since it’s not a packaged tour, the trip cost will depend on what you want to do! Hotels, restaurants, flights, sights etc – it just depends how luxury or budget you go :) You can get an idea upfront by booking your flights and hotels first. Some of the more famous sites in Spain can be booked online in advance too.

Your vacation looks AH-Mazing!!! And the photos!!! Makes me want to book a trip asap!

Thanks Melissa! It was an amazing trip, I hope you have a great summer!

Wow I can’t wait to visit Spain someday, what a great post! Thanks for sharing x

Yes, Spain is amazing! Hope you visit soon. xoxo

Great pictures!! Amazing photos!!!

Thank you Trang!

Excellent review and nicely planned trip. Pictures of Granada and Cordoba look very nice. Too bad you didnt see Porto, such a nice city as well. Many thanks for the inspiration.

Thanks Julian! Yea – I keep seeing Porto all over now. Wish I had gone but it was nearing 3 weeks at that point and I had to get back to work! If only haha.

Fantastic and comprehensive post! I always appreciate a post catering to first timers, as that is quite often what I am, myself! Beautiful photos, thanks for the insight into such spectacular places!

Your photos are simply stunning!! Awesome trip!

i did portugal a couple of years ago! i loved it, sintra was unreal.

All these places are amazing,I definitely have to visit them someday!

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I am absolutely in love with Spain and Portugal but haven’t visited all of these places you’ve listed. This is a beautiful and helpful guide. Thanks so much for sharing and happy travels :)

Love your list! And what amazing photos. I just googled the Patio Festival in Cordoba and it looks so nice! The houses look amazing then. Nice tip

Hey Andra! Yes the patio festival is amazing. I recently posted about it with tons of photos, have a look! :)

A very well arranged guide for the travel you have experienced. I found this clear and easy to understand with structure of information and pictures coming along with. I have printed it for the trip to Spain in next two years. Thanks.

First of all I have to say I LOVE your photos and the way they are set up in this post. Haven’t been to all these places in Spain but definitely have to get back so I can visit more.

Hi Natasha! Thanks so much for the kind words. xx Sher

I will be going to Granada in autumn for 5 night and I am very looking forward to it. Thank you for the tickets tip, I will keep it in mind and book them at least 2 months in advance. :)

Wowwww I’m just in love with Sintra because of your photos <3 I have a thing for colorful cities. Beautiful….

Thank you Renne! Yes I’m so glad I took a detour to Sintra on this Portugal trip, it was a really fun day trip and actually 2 days would have been better!

Love the itinerary and the photos! I’ve been to all these cities and I can say that you pretty much covered everything for a first time trip.

I’m also more a fan of Barcelona than Madrid. In the highlights there, I would add the palace of the Catalan Music – one of my favourite places with the Sagrada Familia – and la Boqueria, the market on the Ramblas. Great guide!

Yes! I loved La Boqueria too – had a great seafood brunch there. Can’t believe I forgot to add that, thanks for the note Stephanie!

I love this :) I did this trip exactly back in 2012 with the addition of Porto. Your photos are beautiful!

That is a concise and well planned itinerary. Very useful and am bookmarking it for my future trip.

All of these places are must-visits, especially Sintra… and Grenada… and Madrid… I think adding the day trip to Segovia is brilliant.

I really enjoyed your post and the pictures look amazing. Lisbon has a lot to do and see, 2 days might not be enough if you want to visit Sintra as well, but that’s my opinion :)

Did you enjoy Belem as well? I can see that you went there because of the picture of the famous Pasteis de Belem :D

Yes! I wish I had spent an extra day in Sintra – there was a lot more to see than I had realized!

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Hi! I am planning an 8 day trip to Europe in April and am torn between two different itineraries: 1. Fly into Barcelona, explore Barcelona, and do monterassat, and then take a flight to Lisbon and explore Porto and sintra

2. Fly into Madrid, do Sevilla and Granada with day trips to Córdoba and Sevilla

Any insight you have would be wonderful!!

Hi Tara – either itinerary would be amazing, it really depends on what you’re looking to do on your trip? Between Madrid & Barcelona, I liked Barcelona a lot more (personally) as it’s a larger, vibrant city with amazing restaurants, lots of sights (mostly of Gaudi’s works) and Montserrat was very different.

Madrid is more historic and I really loved South Spain. Andalusia has Moorish history so there’s lots of beautiful arabic-influenced sights like the Alhambra. Tapas are really good in Sevilla! Cordoba really comes alive in early May for the flower festival.. Either way there’s lots to see in both options you outlined! Maybe you can extend your trip for 2 weeks?? :)

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Hi Sher! Im in love with your photos! Im also planning a same trip for July. I just want to ask a few questions , I hope you don’t mind. your first stop was Madrid right? then from barcelona did you fly to lisbon? And was it easy to travel via trains also? I don’t drive so I’ll probably be commuting my entire trip. Im already thinking of flying to Madrid from Singapore(where i come from) and do the same itinerary as yours then go back to Singapore either from Barcelona or Lisbon( I cant decide yet). Thanks for reading my comment . Any advice is a great help thanks;)

Hi Sheena, aw thank you! Happy to help. Yes I flew in to Madrid and yes also flew from Barcelona to Lisbon. In between I took trains from Madrid down south to Seville/Cordoba/Granada. All of those train rides are very doable and you can find the train schedule on renfe.com The site doesn’t fully translate from Spanish to English but the time schedules are easy enough to read. To actually book the tickets I used rail europe (i have a link to that in the post) because it’s easier to pay – with renfe you pretty much need a spanish credit card or it won’t work.

I didn’t rent a car so to get from city to city I took the train or flew. I felt like walking in any of the Spanish cities was very doable and walked pretty much everywhere! Even 30 minutes in some cases but I also don’t mind to walk. There are local buses and taxis to get around too so no need for a car!

I definitely really liked Lisbon but I went with family and they were kind of tired after 10 days in spain, so if you decide to go home after Barcelona that could be fine too. Lisbon is very hilly (kind of like San Francisco if you have been there?) and you mostly have to walk around for sights and such but there’s also the trolley to take which is fun. If you do go to Lisbon, I highly recommend Sintra! There are some colorful palaces and mansions there which are really unique.

Let me know if you have any other questions and thanks for reading :)

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We’re planning to go visiting Spain and Portugal departing from the UK for 13 days, wondering what would be the best itinerary be for our first time visit on these both countries and we need to head back to Hong Kong after, need your suggestion to see if we’re able to fly direct either from those countries or get back to the UK first. FYI, we don’t drive.

Many thanks for your help in advance.

Wow! your itinerary is perfect! ;) Great choice of places and I also loved your pictures.

Love this itinerary! I’m planning a trip now hoping to hit most of these places, but I only have about 14 days. How many days total was your trip?

Hey Sara! Glad you like it :) I took about 2 weeks so it sounds like you have plenty of time. With shorter time the day trips from Madrid are probably easy to cut and maybe less time in Cordoba if the patio festival isnt going on

Hi Sher, I love everything you posted here, especially the itinerary and the photos. its so easy to understand and the photos are all amazing. I’ll be doing Spain and Portugal trip for 16 days this May, adding few days to spend in Porto and Barcelona. Im planning to do the whole exact thing as yours, I can’t wait to visit Cordoba for the flower festival and Sintra! Thank you so much for your itineraries :)

Hi Sher your blog was really insightful! I have a question. I’m planning to buy train tickets in advance (traveling to Spain and Portugal) but since my itenerary is not finalized so how do I go about making reservations? Is it hard to make same day /2dayreservations in advance for train seat reservation? Thanks for your help!

Hi Namrata, glad my posts were helpful! Hm, it depends. When are you planning to go?

If spring/summer I would recommend you finalize your itinerary and buy the tickets online before you go. Spain gets quite crowded as early as May and certain popular places will sell out. For example, the Madrid day trip to Toledo is strangely very popular!

I booked all of my trains ahead of time, except my Portugal day trip to Sintra. the line at the train station was very, very long the day of. In hindsight I would have bought it ahead of time to save time.

If you are visiting in the fall/winter its probably less important to book ahead.

For the Alhambra you absolutely need to buy a ticket ahead of time (I have a whole post on that). In general the high speed train runs pretty frequently, you just might not the time or seat you want if you buy the day of. Hope that helps!

Hi Sher Your website is so informative and I;m glad that you’re doing well because of it. We are planning a 11 day trip, flying into Barcelona on Aug 10 and flying out of Lisbon on Aug 21st. We are currently scheduled to fly out of Barcelona on Aug 16th and spend 1 night in Seville, and the remaining time in Lisbon. We are a relaxed family (2 adults, 2 teens 13-15) who like to soak it all in and enjoy nights out exploring the town etc. Would you recommend that we cut 1 day short in Barcelona and spend 2 nights in Seville ?

Thank you..

Hi Monica, thanks for the sweet words! Hm it sounds like you have 6 days planned for Barcelona and 1 for Seville. In that case because you have so much time in Barcelona, I would recommend an extra day in Seville, just to get an extra taste for south spain (which is quite different from the two big cities up north)

There’s lots to see, do and eat in Barcelona. You mentioned your family likes to go out and explore at night, I think you’ll really love Barcelona for that.

Seville is much quieter and smaller, but there’s enough to fill 2 days. The tapas bars were my favorite – they have some very authentic “stand at the bar and order” type of tapas bars and more modern, fancier tapas restaurants so you could easily spend the full 2 days eating! If you get bored (which i dont think you would, but just if, Cordoba is a very cute small town only a quick day trip train ride away) that I really loved. Hope that helps and have a fantastic trip!

Hi! Sher, I’m so glad I spotted your travel blog. It has been very helpful so far, very detailed and organized. I was wondering if you could help me plan a better itinerary for a trip my husband and I are planning. It will cover Southern Spain (Andalusia: Seville, Córdoba, Granada, Malaga) to Tangier, Morocco then to Portugal (Lisbon, Fatima, Sintra, maybe Porto) then back to California. This will be for Sept 25-Oct 18. My plan is to fly into Seville first (4 nights) then take the train to Córdoba (2 nights), Granada (3 nights), Malaga (2 nights), ferry to Tangier (2 nights), back to Seville to fly to Lisbon. We have no specific itinerary for Portugal yet except to be in Fatima by Oct 11-14 for the Fatima Centennial events. We plan to take the train between cities in Spain. Do you have a better suggestion in which order should we visit the 4 cities in Andalusia? I’m stuck with the train routes. There’s no direct train route to Granada from the other 3 cities, so we’ll have to keep on backtracking to Córdoba or Seville to get to Granada and Malaga which will be a waste of time. any thoughts? Thank you.

Hi Regina – thanks for the kind words! Hm.. I see what you mean. Granada has an airport as well, which might be convenient if you haven’t already booked your flights.

The train routes in Spain are set, so like you said you sometimes have to backtrack. There is a very affordable and comfortable bus between Seville + Granada. Book through the company Alsa and if you book enough in advance, it’s only 10-15 euro per person.

Perhaps you might split up your time in Seville into 2 night, then Cordoba for 2 nights, then back to Seville for 2 nights so that it’s a more comfortable journey. Sometimes I do that and pick a different neighborhood / hotel to stay at and find that I get a completely different experience! Or you might want to visit Cordoba on a day trip when you’re in Seville. Some people feel Cordoba is small and that the highlights can be seen in a day trip.

I am currently researching and planning a trip to both Portugal and Spain and found your information helpful. Thank you!

Thanks for this incredible detail – it’s amazing. I’m planning a 11-day trip to Spain and, possibly, Portugal. I’d love your input on a planning dilemma I’m having.

We are SUPER adventurous and active, but really want to take in each city.

Ideally, I’d do 4-5 days in Barcelona, then 2 days in each of Granada, Seville, and Lisbon (with the Sintra day trip). It feels like too much. If you had to choose between Granada, Seville, and Lisbon – which would you choose? What about between just Granada and Seville? There’s not enough time for all the things!! :-)

Thanks in advance for your input.

Hi Sarah – I know what you mean! It’s always a challenge between seeing as much as possible and soaking it in. I would recommend cutting out lisbon. I’m not sure of the route you’re taking but flying to Portugal from Spain usually involves flights out of Barcelona, so you would go Barca > Andalusia > back to Barca just to get to Lisbon, which adds extra time.

I liked the small town feel of Seville more and the excellent local tapas scene, but Granada has more sights so usually people do at least 2 days in seville and 3 in Granada. Out of them all, I loved Barcelona – I’m definitely a city person – so I would do 5 days in Barcelona if you have time. There’s lots of sights and then fun nearby day trips to take advantage of. Hope that helps!

That’s extremely helpful. Thank you – I think you just helped make my decision!

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Hi Sher – In the Sintra section of this post, where was your 1st and 4th photo posted above taken? Is this a specific palace in Sintra? Thanks! :) (P.s. super helpful blog post!!!)

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I love your blog! I am planning at trip to Spain (Barcelona, Madrid, and Lisbon) for my birthday in April. I’m a bit overwhelmed with the planning. How long did it take you to plan this trip?

Hi Marcie! So glad you like it :) What a great birthday trip!! You’ll love Spain.

I know what you mean, it takes a loooong time to plan because I like to customize my itinerary to things I like to do, plan the transportation myself and also keep things within budget! What I find helpful is to get a guidebook first, like Rick Steves or Fodors for europe, scan it through to get a general outline and then read blogs and forums for the details.

In the beginning it was really hard and there wasn’t much info out there so I started writing these posts to help other people who like to plan their own trips too!

This is wonderful. Curious for your trip, what was your budget? In planning stages so trying to get a sense. Also are you able to “beach” it anywhere along these stops?

Hi Jessica, Hm I don’t remember exactly what we spent but what I usually do is book the flights, hotels & transportation first – those are usually the bulk of the trip cost. If you’re booking in advance things are much much cheaper, especially flights and trains. In the larger cities hotels are more expensive so you can look into AirBnB for a more budget friendly option.

For sights – Barcelona has some really great sights but the tickets can be expensive if you see them all. The nice thing is you can buy them online in advance and get a sense of budget. I booked those last minute the day of and I think if you book earlier, it is cheaper.

Food in Spain is average priced (compared to New York). Lisbon is budget friendly but again, just depends how you travel. I spent all my time/money at the bars when I was younger but re-visiting Lisbon this time, I spent more on sights and food. So, it really depends!

There are beaches in Barcelona! I’ve heard great things about Portugal’s beaches but haven’t personally been.

Hey Sher, loved your pics and your details so useful. I need an advice. i am planning for a trip on the end of January(16 days).First i will be with prepaid guided tour France-Switzerland-Italy(6 days) and back to Paris, but instead of going back to Paris i was thinking of traveling from Avignon to Barcelona. I was this close to cancel Barcelona and go straight to Madrid then Andalusia then Portugal than after reading your post , i think i can do it. what do you suggest?! What is the best way to manage my time and to see all these cities!

Sounds like an amazing European tour! Not sure how much time you have but if you can fit it all in then great!

Hi Sher! Great pics!! I am planning to do Spain/Portugal in May for 7 days. We were thinking of staying in Barcelona for 4 nights and then heading out to Libson. I also wanted to check out Sintra(day trip). Do you think three nights will be enough in Libson? Unfortunately, I already booked my tickets from/to Barcelona.

Hello Sher! Thank you for a very detailed post- very useful for our Spain Portugal trip in late May!

I might follow your itinerary too :)

I was planning to make Cordoba only a day trip from Madrid (or Seville?) so we wont be dragging our luggage behind. What can you suggest?

I noticed that you don’t have separate posts for Madrid and Barcelona unlike the 3 Andalusia cities which you discussed very thoroughly (you even included day to day itineraries!).

Can you suggest links For Madrid and Barcelona very similar to your Andalusia posts?

Can we travel Madrid-Cordoba-Seville-Granada-Lisbon-Barcelona?

What routes are better traveled by train and those by plane?

Thank you for your help.

With best regards, Ann

Hi Ann – glad you found the posts helpful! I covered transportation in my posts but for specific detailed advice, I highly recommend Rick Steves’ Spain book – relied on it heavily to plan my own trip – or a travel agent to plan all the little details!

This is an amazing itinerary! I’m doing one similar to it when I go to Portugal and Spain in October. I’m doing Spain for five days, Madrid for four days and Seville for three…then an extra day in Lisbon on my way home. Did you fly to a majority of the places? Like Madrid to Cordoba? I’m worried about feeling rushed lol

Thanks! We did a mix of flights and trains – you can see the specific breakdown in my individual spain posts! In general train is easier :)

A couple of points. Citing $300 a night hotels as ‘affordable’ is not something most people would consider a reasonable statement. Only other point is with your assertion that the Pena Palace inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. That is incorrect. The inspiration was Neuschwanstein castle in Germany.

Hi Tim – The hotels I mentioned are recommendations based on my trip. Keep in mind that rates fluctuate dramatically depending on the time of year that you’re searching for.

Pena Palace is widely believed to have inspired Disney – in addition to Neuschwanstein.

I am so glad that I encounter your website, your photos are all beautiful, your itinerary is very detailed and very helpful that I will consider following some of it and add 2 things: 1st, From Barcelona – I will avail the “Three Countries in One Day: France, Andorra and Spain” 2nd, I am also keen to include “Morocco Day Trip” either from Seville or from Granada going to Malaga or Costa del Sol as there are 2 options a) Morocco Day Trip from Malaga to Tangier b) Morocco Day Trip from Costa del Sol to Tangier what do you think about the possibility of this?

My other question are: 1.How did you travel from Madrid to Cordoba? By bus, I guess? 2.How about BUS from Cordoba to Seville? 3.How did you travel from Barcelona to Lisbon? By plane, I guess?

Awaiting for your replies… Thank you in advance.

Hi Pia – glad you found the post helpful! The 3 countries in one day tour sounds incredible as does the Morocco day trip. It’s up to you, whichever tour best fits your schedule (malaga or costa del sol)

From Madrid, I took the high speed train down to Cordoba and then again the train from Cordoba to Seville. I didn’t take the bus but you can check the Spain bus website if you prefer to take the bus. It will be much slower.

Yes I took a flight from Barcelona to Lisbon. I think that is the easiest way. Even though Spain and Portugal are neighbors, it’s not the easiest to get from one to the other. I heard once that it’s because of mountains.. but I’m not sure. Flight is easiest.

Sher, your post is very helpful and sounds like a wonderful trip. I wish we had time to follow your itinerary. We will be traveling to Spain for 5 days before heading to Portugal for a group trip. We’d love to see as much as possible, where would you recommend we go if we only have 5 days? We prefer exploring the cities over spending lots of time in museums. Would it be doable to fly into Barcelona and spend 2 nights there, flying out to Madrid and exploring Madrid for a couple of days (3 nights) including a day trip before heading to Portugal? Or are we better off going to just Barcelona and doing day trips or Madrid and doing day trips? Thanks!

Hi ZD! If you have a short time, Madrid and Barcelona are definitely the 2 cities you want to visit! Regarding where to spend your 5 days, it depends on how you prefer to travel.

I spent 5 days in just Barcelona, since its a big city and there are lots of sights to see. I also took day trips to Montserrat and Girona which I really liked. For Madrid, I felt like there was a bit less to see, and that the city had a older / historic vibe. I guess you could compare Barcelona to NYC and Madrid to Washington DC? So it just depends on the kind of atmosphere you like.

I think for me, if it was my first time, I would visit both cities just so I could see them both. Now that I’m looking back and can compare them, I enjoyed Barcelona more (but am still glad I went to both!)

Hi Sher Your post is just amazing!! It felt like you wrote this for me…we also are going for exact 14 days and intend to cover Spain and Portugal, have taken a note of all your recommendations:)

I have one question- do you suggest any particular operator for Baixa and Alfama walk in Lisbon? I am travelling with a 4 year old so looking to cover both separately on two dates…

Thanks again Nidhi

Hi Nidhi – so glad it’s been helpful for you! hm what do you mean by a particular operator? like a tour guide? i usually book guided tours through viator and they connect to a local company. hope that helps!

Hi Sher, We are planning to visit Granada from Seville and loved your itinerary. Can you please share which bus company you used for the journey?

Hey Sher! The pictures looks absolutely fantastic!!!. Thanks for the detailed itinerary. I guess for anyone travelling for the first time, the usual dilemmas are always the same – Which places to consider and their relevance, though it might vary from person to person but your post gives a good comparative view of the places to visit.

Just yesterday while talking to a friend, who cover Spain and Portugal starting from Portugal and then moving on the Spain. She found Portugal better than Spain with the exclamation most the places look the same in Spain. She even advised me considering either of Barcelona or Madrid as they both are very similar.

I would be travelling from Bombay and would like to ask which place should be the starting point – Portugal or Spain and am considering around May. Which month did you visit and as per you which would be the ideal time to travel to these places?

Hi Romesh – thanks for the kind words! Hm, I had a different opinion. I found Portugal and Spain to be quite different. I did like Portugal better, I think the food and the people really stand out there. It’s up to you for Madrid vs Barcelona. Personally I think they are very different cities (similar to Washington DC vs NYC). If you have the time I would do both, but if you only have time for 1, it depends what you think you’d like more.

Barcelona has great food, lots of nightlife, impressive architecture, shopping, a cosmopolitan feel. Madrid is older, more historic, government buildings and classic museums. For example, if you want trendy Spanish tapas = Barcelona. If you want old school tapas bars = Madrid. That’s a generalization, of course, but that was my experience.

We went in Spring and loved it. Good weather, less crowds. For starting point, go with whatever transportation is easiest from Bombay and is cheaper!

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This itinerary is awesome! My friend and I want to spend 14 days in Spain and Portugal end of the year. What was the cost for your trip? I know prices change, but a ball park estimate will help with our planning. Thank you so much!!

Hi Kate – so glad you like it! I don’t remember the exact cost but for you can do the trip as budget or as luxury as you want. What I usually do is price out the cost of flights + hotels and that’s usually the two most expensive things. And then I know if I can splurge day to day or if I need to set a limit for how much to spend when I’m there. Hope that helps!

Hi Sher. I am from Singapore and am looking to holiday in Spain In June. As this is my first time I was wondering how to go About it. Your itinerary is so detailed. I think I am going to follow it to the tee. Including staying at the same hotels. I want to do some shopping as well. Heard that Zara is all over. I plan to leave on 10 June and return on 24 June. Are there any tips you can give me. Thank you. Faye.

Hi Faye – You’ll have a great time! Thanks for the kind words about my itinerary :) Zara is AMAZING in Spain (at least compared to the US), plus they have Zara Home stores that I love because we don’t get them in New York! June will be pretty hot in Spain, especially in the South, so try planning your day to get up early and sight see, take a siesta at your hotel in the afternoon, and then go out again after. Have a fantastic trip!

Hi Sher. As we do not want to be too stressed on the trip. Please let me know which areas I can skip. And can u please help me to customize an itinerary including how I get from one place to another. I am not a frequent traveler and this is the first time I am venturing so far out in my own. And if there are cheaper hotel options. I will fly into Barcelona and out of Seville. Is that ok? Thank you. I appreciate your help.

Hi Faye – I’ve shared my itinerary and included lots of options for how to customize it to fit your trip length and interests. Feel free to include or exclude whatever you like :) I think if you read through all my posts on Spain, pick up the Rick Steves guidebook and read through a couple other Spain blogs, you can easily find all the answers to your questions and create your perfect Spain & Portugal vacation.

I love trip planning and planned the entire trip listed in my post but I understand not everyone likes to do the same. If you would like me to review your itinerary, answer questions in depth or plan your trip I offer travel consultations where you can hire me for a one hour call.

I don’t make the bookings though – If you want a completely hands off experience, I have friends who are travel agents who you can hire to create a completely custom itinerary.

Pls send me a contact of a travel agent who can help me with the train and other bookings. Do let me know the charges as well. Tks.

This is WONDERFUL! Thank you so much, I was worried I wouldn’t get the most out of my stay in Barcelona until now!

Hi! I love this post and am largely basing my trip to Spain off it, so thanks for a great article!

Just wondering if you could please clarify how many days you spent in Barcelona and Madrid with day trips.

Did you spend two days in Madrid and then 1 day trip visiting Segovia, Toledo and El Escorial all in one day?

Likewis, did you spend 3 days in Barcelona and then 1 day trip visiting Montserrat and Girona in the same day?

Thanks for your help!

Hi Milli – glad the post is helpful! The itinerary above is just an example and I structured it so that if you have more/less time you can consider the day trips – essentially you can spend however many days you wish in each city!

For Madrid I’d recommend 2 days, longer if you’re interested in the day trip options. For Barcelona, I’d recommend 3 full days, with extra time if you want to add the day trips. Each day trip option would take 1 full day though, it’d be very tight to squeeze 3 different cities in a day trip :)

Personally, I enjoyed Barcelona more and think you could even spend a week just there!

Hello, I am planning a trip to Spain and Portugal in Spring of 2019. I will be traveling for 10 days. I will be visiting Barcelona and Madrid. Would it be better to start at Madrid to the little towns in the south then over to Portugal and then head up to barcelona? Or would it better to start Barcelona, then over to Portugal and then to Mardrid and fly home from there?

Hi Jackie – It depends! What I suggest is checking out the transportation options for your trip dates.

First go to Google Flights here and see if flights are available and how much they cost. Then go to Rail Europe here and see how much train rides cost for each long leg. That’s how I plan my trips!

Even though Spain + Portugal are right next to each other, I found for my trip dates that surprisingly flight connections were not that convenient. So, we did Madrid, train south, flight to Barcelona, flight to Lisbon. Hope that helps!

Hi, I’m planning a trip for 4 people (active “seniors”) to Spain and Portugal for Fall 2019. We were thinking of driving. I see you used train, and planes.Why did you choose planes versus trains? Would you not recommend driving? I see you only visited Lisbon with day trip to Sintra, where else in Portugal do you recommend? My thoughts are Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Seville, possible beach stop in Costa del Sol, then onto Portugal, Lisbon and ….How long do you recommend for this itinerary? Thank you.

Hi Anna – If there are trains available, I prefer trains. They’re MUCH more convenient and often cheaper. Train stations are usually in or near the town center so I can just hop on, get off and go sight see. Whereas airports are outside the city so they require additional transportation to & from, plus I need to factor in at least an hour to go through security and if I have carry on suitcases, domestic airlines will often charge extra per piece.

Spain has a pretty great train network so it’s fast, convenient and affordable. Head to Rail Europe and plug in the cities you want to visit and check the times/ rates.

Driving in Spain is tough, but I think you can see even more if you drive! I’ve heard great things about Cascais in Portugal – check that out.

Thanks for a great article. I was wondering if you could please break down your visit to Madrid and Barcelona into days spent in the cities themselves vs day trips (and what/ how many places you visited for each day trip)?

Hi Milli – I’d recommend at least 2 days in Madrid and at least 3 full days in Barcelona. If you want to do the day trips, add on an extra day for each, or a 1/2 day if you want to go from the day trip on to another city. Hope that helps!

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Hi..your trip looks amazing. Do you recommend driving in Spain and Portugal to do similar trips?

Thanks, Kavita

Hi Kavita – if you’re comfortable driving then it could be a great idea to see some smaller towns! For me, I had limited time (2 weeks) and the main cities are easily connected via train/flights so that’s what we did.

I am traveling to Barcelona solo for nine days in mid October. I am looking for a week of being in one spot to unwind and be near a beach. I have been looking non stop and can’t seem to find anything great that is priced right. Either what I have found it extremely expensive or seemingly too inexpensive for what is being offered. I will have completed Ironman Barcelona (hard endurance triathlon race) and I am normally very curious yet I know that I will want a beach and relaxation with some culture and fun. That said, I am more interested in unwinding rather than exploring…. Do you have any ideas? Thank you!

Love reading your post before planning my travels. I wanted to know, would you recommend doing Barcelona first and the Southern Spain or the way you did it. We are flying in and out of Madrid so i cant decide what would make more sense. Any input would be grateful.

Thanks, Sumaiya

Hi Sumaiya – check the flight + train schedules for your dates! I usually decide the order of our route based on the times tables + fares.

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We are two couples from India who are planning to visit Spain and Portugal during September. However we would like to see more of country side, small towns and beaches . We would not like to spend too much time in Madrid/ Barcelona. We are planning 12 to 14 days tour. Could you recommend some places

Thank you for your informative post! I’m sooooo happy to chance upon it! Your photos are so nicely taken as well!

I’m planning a trip for 4 adults in February. Have you heard of Barcelona carnival before? Do you think it is worth going?

Also, we are there for 11 days 10 nights, flying in and out from Barcelona. Do you think it’s possible to do Barc-> Madrid -> Cordoba -> Grananda -> Seville -> drive to Lisbon -> drive back to Spain -> take train back to Barc? Or is it too ambitious?

Thank you so much for your time and help!!

Hi Charmaine – No problem! So glad you found it helpful.

I’ve never been to Barcelona for carnival but it sounds like a lot of fun! I haven’t driven in Spain or Portugal, so unfortunately wouldn’t have any advice on that.

Thanks so much for an amazing summary. You helped me a lot. I hope you continue to do and that you get to travel the world.

Ah, thank you for the nice comment! Have a great trip to Spain / Portugal!

Hi Sher, I am so pleased to have found your blog! Your photos and descriptions of each city and places of interest are absolutely inspiring! Our itinerary goes something like this at this stage: 1 – fly into Madrid from Australia. Explore the city and visit Segovia and Toledo on day trips 2 – trying to decide whether to train to Cordoba, Malaga or Grenada. I’m not sure how we can make this work. Is it possible to stay in one of these as a base and visit each of these places in day trips from one of these? Say 5 days spent between these three cities? 3 – Train to Seville for a few days 4 – Fly [?] from Seville to Lisbon. From Lisbon we will go to Sintra then Porto [by train?] 5 – We will then travel to Vigo [train or fly?] to join one of the Camino routes finishing at Santiago de Compestela. 6 – From here we will go to Barcelona for a few days before flying home. I would really appreciate any thoughts you might have Sher. Thank you so much, Jenni

Hi Jennifer – thanks for the kind words! your proposed itinerary sounds great. yes, it is possible to choose a city as a base and then take day trips from the train.

i haven’t been to malaga, but cordoba + seville are quite close together. granada is a bit farther. so, you could either go from madrid down to cordoba and explore the city, then continue onwards to seville, or you can go from madrid to granada and double back on a day trip to cordoba.

check flight schedules for your dates here . for my trip and dates, i found that flying to lisbon was easier from Barcelona, as it was a larger hub.

walking the camino route sounds incredible, i’ve heard great things! have a great trip!!

Hi Sher! I’ve been wanting to visit Spain and Portugal together for years so this guide was fantastic! My only on concern is that other blogs mentioned that doing too much can be overwhelming and rushed. Did you feel you got adequate time everywhere or were you just concerned with the planning and packing process to get to the next place? I definitely want to do them all but don’t want anything to feel rushed or missed because I’m on a strict itinerary. Thanks!!

Hi Stephanie – glad you found my article helpful! It depends how much time you have – we spent 2 weeks and felt like it was all very comfortable. But, we also are the kind of people that like to do a lot on vacation :) You can use our itinerary above as a starting point and adjust depending on your time frame!

Hi! So how is it taking so many flights within a trip? I’ve never actually flown from one European city to another and am curious about the pain of checking in/out of airports and going through security multiple times. I am going to Lisbon later this year but it’s WAY cheaper to fly into Barcelona so I’m thinking of adding it into the itinerary. I just know the boyfriend isn’t going to be thrilled about “schlepping” luggage to and from airports within a day or so of each other. But we’re talking a $1000 price difference here! :O

Hi Elizabeth,

I feel your pain – I hate to fly and it is definitely annoying to schlep bags. We had a long enough trip to Spain / Portugal that we wanted to see as much as possible, and so for us, a mix of trains, flights + bus were good. We didn’t do fly back to back though. I think it depends on where you want to go and how much time you have! as i get older, i find I care more about convenience then price, ha

Haven’t been to San Fransisco but I heard a lot of people comparing Lisbon to SF. I traveled almost two years ago around Portugal and Lisbon reminded me a lot of some neighborhoods of downtown Athens. Lisbon is such a wonderful and vintage city -and the food is terrific. Thanks for sharing your itinerary :)

I am thinking about Spain and/or Portugal for a family vacation this summer (my sons are in their early 20’s). I’ve been to Madrid and Toledo already, so I am OK missing these. We are certified scuba divers and not sure if we can fit in a day of diving to break up the city experience. I also wonder if we should consider taking a ferry over to Moracco/Gibraltor. I’d appreciate any/all suggestions – thanks!

Hi Sher, Are there any good beaches in Portugal? We want to relax more rather than sightseeing from point A to B. Any suggestions?

Hi Felicia, I haven’t personally been to any beaches in Portugal, so can’t say!

Thanks so much for putting this together, very helpful! We were thinking of a very similar itinerary but were thinking of not going to Barcelona instead possibly visiting Valencia and islands and also a couple additional days in Portugal. Any thoughts or recommendations if we did that? Thanks in advance!

You could definitely do that! I haven’t been to Valencia but heard good things. And Barcelona is a big city, so it’s definitely easy to catch a flight back and explore in the future

Please could you give more information on this tour

We can travel around march 29 2020

for two people from LA to madrid

Hi Lorna – this is just the itinerary we took, not a tour. Sorry!

Thank you for sharing your wonderful itinerary. Me and my daughter with 2 other friends are planning to go to Portugal and Spain this coming November for 2 weeks. We would like to include Fatima. When do you think is best to insert Fatima for a day or a day and a half? Your recommendation is highly appreciated. Thank you so much.

Hi Pinky – sounds like a great trip! I haven’t been to Fatima unfortunately, so don’t have any advice.

Hoping you would be kind enough to recommend an agency to help us with logistics and reservations for Portugal and Spain trip I am planning for four people. Very much enjoyed your posts and experiences…but I desire to chat with someone and help me set up.

Sure – happy to refer you to my travel adviser. Shoot me an email with some more details about what you’re looking for specifically!

Sher than you for sharing your wonderful itenerary. Me and my friend are planning to go Portugal and spain in November. Where to include Marrakesh in the 14 days itnerary.

Hi Mona – Not sure what your specific plans are but you could fit it in before or after!

Hi and thanks for this post. I’m planning on landing in Barcelona in March and plan on spending a month, so it would be nice to get your advice on how the wife and I should break up our time in Spain and Portugal. Looking forward to your advice.

wow! A very comprehensive itinerary. I am totally impressed. I’m planning a trip there for my 25th wedding anniversary. My husband loves soccer so we might stay longer in Barcelona. Thanks for sharing your trip.

Your Itinerary and comments are very helpful. We are planning a 2 weeks trip to Spain and Portugal in early July 2020. My questions, I have many.

1. what is the easiest way to get to your airbnb from airport? i am overwhelmed by the choices, Aerobus, Barcelona train, taxi, Uber?

2. Is Uber and Cabify the same concept?

3. Did you buy the Barcelona City pass? It seems really over the top in terms of cost.

4. Do you recommend doing the tower at the Sagrada Familia?

Thank you so very much, Sonal

Thanks Sher, great itinerary. What was your rough cost of the trip. We traveling in end of March, 16 days, similar itinerary..Did you visit the San Sebastián and region, I would like to know if it a mast see as we can add days.

Thanks, Gila

Definitely pre-book your tickets to the Alhambra in Granada. Tickets sell out fast! This was a costly lesson for us. Cordoba and Seville are very much worth seeing.

What a very well written article. So full of all the relevant details and informational. So helpful. Thank you.

Oh thank you!

Do u recommend we rent a car? We are 4 friends wanting to tour Spain, Portugal and Morocco for 14 days. We are fine with just 2-3 days spent in Morocco

Hm, depends where you’re going! Spain and Portugal are pretty big, probably inconvenient to drive.

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The Best 10 Days In Portugal and Spain Itinerary

Planning a trip to Portugal and Spain? Here’s my guide to taking a fantastic 10 day road trip in southern Portugal and southern Spain.

This 10 day Spain-Portugal itinerary takes you from Lisbon Portugal to Granada Spain. This popular road trip route is dense with exciting cities, must visit medieval villages, Moorish architecture, UNESCO-listed landmarks, and loads of old world charm.

This ten day itinerary begins in Lisbon, Portugal’s sultry capital. Lisbon is an exciting sun-kissed city with glistening azulejo facades and stunning vistas. 

It’s a compact and lively collection of small villages, tapas bars, and some of Europe’s most important palaces.

From Lisbon, you’ll travel through beautiful Evora Portugal en route to Seville in sunny southern Spain. You’ll finish the Andalusia portion of your trip in Granada.

The city of Granada is home to the mighty Alhambra, the world’s greatest existing Moorish fortress.

Andalusia is a dreamy sun-kissed place. From flamboyant Seville to gritty Granada, you’ll discover a well-balanced blend of must see hotspots, hidden gems, tiny whitewashed villages, and natural wonders.

Here’s my recommended 10 day itinerary for a self drive road trip from Lisbon to Granada. You can always reverse the order and start in Granada and travel west to Lisbon. This would work if you are already in Spain visiting Barcelona or Madrid .

READ : Guide To 24 Hours in Barcelona

With this Spain-Portugal itinerary, you don’t need to pick up your rental car until day 4. You won’t want a car in Lisbon unless you have a roomy space to park.

Overview of 10 Day Spain-Portugal Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see with 10 days in Spain and Portugal:

• Day 1 : Lisbon
• Day 2 : Lisbon and Belem
• Day 3 : Sintra Day Trip
• Day 4 : Drive from Lisbon to Seville, stop in Evora
• Day 5 : Seville
• Day 6 : Seville
• Day 7 : Day Trip to Cordoba or Ronda
• Day 8 : Drive to Granda, stop in Antequera
• Day 9 : Granada
• Day 10 : Granada

Length : 10 days

Start and End Points : Lisbon and Granada

UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Jeronimos Monastery, Tower of Belem, Cultural Landscape of Sintra, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira Palace, Royal Alcazar, Seville Cathedral, the Mezquita, Roman Bridge of Cordoba, Medina Azahara, Antequera Dolmens, the Alhambra, the Albaicin

For this Spain-Portugal road trip, you’ll have three bases: Lisbon (3 nights), Seville (4 nights), and Granada (3 nights).

This trip is best done by car. I give you tips on where to stay for each city.

But this Lisbon to Granada itinerary also also works by train. Just make sure you pre-book/catch an early high speed ATV train when moving from city to city.

A car is superior because it gives you more flexibility over your schedule and the ability to make pit stops (planned or unplanned) along the way.

There are plenty of great destinations to explore in this Portugal to Spain road trip. This super detailed 10 day itinerary is perfectly adjustable.

You can make it shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace. I’ve tried to give you a mix of cities and leisurely villages, with day trip options as well.

Here’s my guide with tips for renting a car and driving in Europe .

10 Day Itinerary for Portugal and Spain

Day 1: lisbon.

Welcome to the start of your 10 day tour of Spain and Portugal! 

You’re likely going to arrive in Lisbon in the early to mid afternoon. To get oriented, you may want to book a  guided walking tour .

Begin by exploring the main city squares. Start in the Pombaline-designed Rossio Square, also known as Praça Dom Pedro IV.

It’s a lively place with flower vendors and eye catching sidewalks with an optical illusion wave style. Two Baroque fountains stand at each end.

Then head down the main drag, Rua Augusta, to the Praça de Comércio, the showy 18th century square with a triumphal arch.

But don’t dine or shop here; the squares are mostly filled with tourist traps. Be sure to walk through the arch so you can take in the views from the other side.

After poking around, head to Lisbon’s adjacent Chiado neighborhood. It’s a rather arty upscale neighborhood filled with lovely cafes, chic art galleries, bookshops, and tony boutiques. You can also book a  3 hour guided walking tour  of Chiado.

Be sure to pop into the world’s oldest bookstore, Livraria Bertrand. And check out one of the most beautiful azulejo facades in Lisbon — the House of Ferreira das Tabuletas.

Take in the evocative Carmo Convent . It’s probably Lisbon’s best historical site Lisbon and a open air memorial to the worst day of Lisbon’s history, when the 1755 earthquake demolished much of the city.

After visiting Carmo Convent, settle in at an authentic eatery in Chiado, like Taberna da Rua das Flores or Cantinho do Avillez.

If you want a Michelin experience, try Alma . This tony restaurant claims to serve up “emotions, identity, knowledge.”

Then head to Alfama, Lisobn’s most charming must see neighborhood. Steeped in history, immortalized in Fado, and rising over Lisbon, Alfama is Lisbon’s most authentic district. It largely escaped the earthquake’s wrath.

Alfama is city outside a city. Steep stairways tumble down to Baixa below and Castelo São Jorge (St. George’s Castle) stands guard above on Lisbon’s highest hill. As a result, Alfama is incredibly beautiful and photogenic.

You can follow a my walking tour for the Alfama. You can book a  3 hour guided walking tour of this historic neighborhood

Or just surrender to the lively chaos and get lost in the maze of tangled streets, decorated with street art, flowers, and the residents’ laundry.

Day 2: Lisbon and Belem

On day 2, head to the architecturally-rich suburb of Belém. You’ll be cast back to the Age of Discoveries, when the world was Portugal’s colonial oyster.

This neighborhood could take up your entire day, if you’re so inclined. Here’s my guide to the top attractions in Belem .

Your top priority in Belem is Jeronimos Monastery. It’s a 500 year old UNESCO site and a mandatory destination in Lisbon. Jeronimos Monastery is the premiere example of Manueline architecture in Portugal and the #1 site in Lisbon’s Belem district.

You must pre-book a  skip the line ticket   or you’ll wait in incredibly long lines. You can also book a  3 hour guided walking tour of Belem  that includes a skip the line ticket to the monastery.

There’s nothing like the moment you walk into the monastery’s two level cloister, honey colored and dripping with organic detail.

You’ll be wowed by the delicately scalloped arches, twisting turrets, and columns intertwined with leaves, vines, and knots. And the gargoyles and beasties on the upper facade.

READ : Complete Guide To Jeronimos Monastery

You can also visit the Tower of Belem and the Monument to the Discoveries. Both are included in Belem’s UNESCO designation.

You can admire them from the outside or explore inside. Be forewarned, crowds will be intense and there will be long lines to visit the interiors. You can also book a  2 hour skip the line guided tour  the includes both the monastery and the tower.

Belem Tower is a fortress-like structure also built by Manuel I. It had a very Game of Thrones like feel to me with its filigree stonework. A very narrow spiral staircase leads you to the top for fantastic views.

>>> Click here to book a ticket for Belem Tower

When you’re done gorging on Manueline architecture and Belem’s famous Pasteis de Belem custard tarts, travel back to Lisbon.

At night, head to Lisbon’s nightlife spot, the hilly neighborhood of Bairro Alto for food and drink.

Or, take in a dinner and Fado sho w . Here’s a good list of Fado places in the Alfama and another with places in Bairro Alto.

Day 3: Day Trip To Sintra

On day 3, you’ll venture to Sintra Portugal , the most popular day trip from Lisbon. Sintra is rock star glamorous. The town is chock full of UNESCO-listed castles and palaces.

It’s dazzling, colorful, and romantic. Even the town itself is quaint, filled with artisan shops, and well worth exploring. Sintra packs a punch and delivers on its hype.

There are so many amazing things to do and see in Sintra, that I’ve written a guide with tips for visiting Sintra . You need to have a specific strategy and manage your time well to make the most out of one day in Sintra.

To avoid the wait and lines, you may want pre-book a  guided skip the line tour for Pena Palace, the top attraction. Or go on a  guided tour of the Sintra’s highlights with a historian .

If you don’t want to worry about transportation, book a  guided tour full day tour from Lisbon  or a  guided day tour that includes the coastal Cascais and Cabo da Roca .

The three sites in Sintra that you can’t miss are: (1) Pena Palace, (2) Quinta da Regaleira, and (3) the Moorish Castle.

1. Pena Palace

Pena Palace is an operatic romantic palace. It’s intensely colorful, a heavy handed mish mash of different architectural styles.

The palace looks like several castles smooshed together. It’s a schizophrenic whirlwind of onion domes, turrets, crenellation, and fanciful sneering gargoyles.

Pena Palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II in 1842. The project was possibly in an attempt to rival the Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria .

Ferdinand was strongly influenced by German Romanticism, a style that emphasized the subjective, the irrational, the imaginative, and the spontaneous.

>>> Click here to pre-book a Pena Palace ticket

2. Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleria is a stony Gothic palace built by eccentric and superstitious millionaire Antonio Monteiro.

It’s an eerie romantic place with stunning gardens featuring grottos, fountains, towers, and tunnels. It’s a short 10 minute walk from the historic center of Sintra.

The gardens feature a startling “initiation well” that was used for secret initiation rites. You walk 90 feet down the spiral (and somewhat slippery) staircase. Then, you enter underground tunnels that take you into the gardens.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to Quinta da Regaleira

3. Moorish Castle

The Moorish Castle is an ancient 9th century fortress perched high on the hills of Sintra. It’s only a 10 minute walk from Pena Palace. It has astounding 360 panormic views.

There aren’t a lot of good food options in Sintra for dinner. So, it may be better to head back to Lisbon where you’ll have a plethora of choices.

>>> Click here to book a ticket for the Moorish Castle

Where To Stay In Lisbon

I would recommend staying in or near the Chiado neighborhood. The  Verride Palacio Santa Catarina  is a boutique hotel in a renovated palace with incredible views.

LX Boutique  is a pretty luxury hotel with a maritime themes and blue colors. The  Memmo Principe Real   is a historic hotel in a quiet area. It has limestone floors and original paintings.

Day 4: Drive From Lisbon To Seville, Stop in Evora

The drive from Lisbon to Seville is 4.5 hours. En route, to break up the journey, stop in the UNESCO town of Evora. Evora is a 1:15 drive from Lisbon and then it’s another 3.5 hours to Seville.

If you want another stop between Evora and Lisbon, pull over in Merida . Merida is an ancient Roman city and UNESCO-listed site.

The UNESCO-listed Evora is tucked away in the Alentejo region of central Portugal. Evora was untouched by the great earthquake of 1755 and its historic center is well preserved. You can book a guided walking tour of the historic city center .

Evora is topped by a grand 14th century cathedral, commonly refered to as Evora Cathedral. But its official name is the Cathedral Of Nossa Senhora Da Assuncao.

While not particularly pretty itself, it’s worth it to go inside just for the beautiful vistas over Evora from its balcony.

The star of Evora is an ossuary, the Chapel of Bones, attached to the large Royal Church of St. Francis. Franciscan monks slaved away in the early 17th century building this unusual site when cemeteries were overflowing.

Evora was also an important Roman town, lying on a trade route to Rome . In Evora’s center, you’ll see 14 Corinthian columns rising to the sky.

After you’ve seen the sites, leave Evora and head to Seville, your base for the next four nights.

Day 5: Explore Seville

On day 5 of your 10 days in Portugal and Spain itinerary, you’ll explore Seville. Seville is one of my favorites cities in Europe and and a must visit destination in Andalusia.

Seville is known for its Moorish architectural flourishes. The city is guarded by one of the world’s most colossal Gothic cathedrals. It’s a seductive mix of Mudéjar palaces, ornate baroque churches, colorful azulejo tiles, and shady cobblestone lanes.

And you can feast on inventive tapas, ice cold beer, and sweet sherry. At any hour of the day, no less.

On your first day in Seville, plan on seeing Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, and the Royal Alcazar.

1. Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral is a massive Gothic affair, an odd to excess. It’s the largest cathedral in the world. It’s essential to pre-book a skip the line ticket  in advance.

Tickets include an audio guide. You can also book  tickets + a guided tour of the cathedral and explore its rooftops.

Tickets include an audio guide. To enter the cathedral, you walk through the lovely Patio of the Orange Trees, decorated with a Moorish gate.

The Main Chapel, Capilla Mayor, is a glittering affair. It houses one of the world’s finest high altars, elaborately detailed and finished in gold leaf. There are over 1,000 carved biblical figures.

Along the aisles of the cathedral, there are 80 side chapels to explore. You’ll find spires and reliefs depicting biblical events dedicated to saints.

There’s a large mirror reflecting the intricate ceiling, which you’ll have to queue up to peer into. Lighting up the interior are 75 stained glass windows from the 16th to 19th century.

The Cathedral houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus in the south transept. Many places lay claim to Columbus’ bones.

But apparently DNA tests have confirmed that, in fact, a bit of him is in Seville, maybe a shin bone or something.

2. La Giralda

La Giralda, or the bell tower, dates from 1184. It’s the symbol of Seville and the oldest part of the cathedral complex.

The tower was originally constructed as the minaret of the Almohad Mosque that previously stood here, and was used to call Muslims to prayer. It was modeled after the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh.

You access the 100 meter high Giralda in the far right corner. It’s an easy climb, 35 sloping ramps to reach the top.

There are ramps instead of stairs so that horses could be ridden to the top. You’ll be rewarding with sweeping views of the cathedral and Seville.

3. Royal Alcazar

I’ve written at length about my adoration of the UNESCO-listed Royal Alcazar in Seville. It’s my very favorite spot in Andalusia, even above Granada’s incandescent Alhambra .

It’s essential to pre-book a slip the line ticket  in advance or you’ll have long wait in line. You can also book a   guided tour  of the alcazar with priority entrance.

The Alcázar is one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures. The Alcazar is a centuries old complex of palaces and fortifications, lovely courtyards, and extensive gardens bursting with orange, purple, and green colors.

You cannot help but feel catapulted back in time.

The crown jewel of the Alcazar is the sumptuous Mudéjar Palace of King Pedro the Cruel, built around the iconic Maiden’s Courtyard.

The Ambassador’s Hall, or Throne Room, is the big showstopper. It’s nicknamed the “Half Orange” Room, in honor of its gilded cedar domed ceiling.

But perhaps the best part of visiting the Alcazar is its amazing gardens. They’re a lush, exotic, labyrinthian paradise, encompassing 80% of the Alcázar grounds.

The Baths of Dona Maria de Padilla are perhaps the most striking and frequently visited spot in the Alcázar Gardens.

4. Dinner & Drinks

In the evening, amble up to the hipster haven of La Alameda. This is Seville’s trendy bohemian district, situated around the Plaza Alameda de Hercules.

This not-so-touristy neighborhood of Seville has lively local pubs, parks, boutiques, chic galleries, and Roman era columns.

My pick for dinner in Alameda is Duo Tapa s , where you get delicious tapas under fairy lights. It’s popular and a great value.

You can also try La Taberna de Panduro Baños or the nearby Eslava , hidden behind the Basílica de Jesús del Gran Poder.

In lieu of a restaurant, you could also go on a  3 hour tapas crawl . I did this tour when I was last there and I loved everything except the orange wine. Or try this  “10 tasting of Seville” walking tour  or this  4 hour gourmet food tour .

Day 6: Seville

1. plaza espana.

Start your second day in Seville at the magnificent Plaza Espana. It’s a famous architectural landmark, photogenic spot, and a must visit attraction in Seville .

The plaza was built for the Ibero-American World Fair of 1929, where Spanish speaking countries enjoyed a year long mutual admiration festival. It’s open to the public and there’s no entry fee.

The park’s highlight is the Spanish Pavilion, the sweeping half circle structure with rose gold brick buildings. Designed in an Art Deco style with some Moorish touches, the Plaza has the expected Spanish flair — lots of color and lavish embellishment.

There are 49 alcoves, each decorated with tiles. They show historical scenes and maps from the 49 provinces of Spain arranged in alphabetical order.

2. Barrio Santa Cruz

Then head to Barrio Sant Cruz, Seville’s popular medieval district. The neighborhood is a mass of tangled cobbled streets with tiny palazzos and tile covered patios.

You may want to book a  guided walking tour  of the pretty barrio.

Some streets are so impossibly narrow, they’re called “kissing lanes.” There are also orange trees everywhere. You can get lost and stumble across secret squares, pretty churches, and tapas bars.

Plaza de la Santa Cruz is the heart of the barrio. But I liked Plaza de Dona Elvira best, and stopped for a delicious lunch there at Vinela Street Food.

Be sure to stroll along the winding and romantic Calle Agua, which runs along the walls of the Alcazar to Plaza Alfaro. In Plaza Alfaro, you’ll see a Juliet balcony said to have inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet .

If you like old masters, pop into the Hospital de los Venerables. The pretty baroque building was founded in 1675.

Now, it’s a museum with a few carefully guarded masterpieces by Zurburan, Murillo, and Velasquez. And some gorgeous ceilings.

In the afternoon, cross the Puente de Isabel II bridge over the Guadalquivir River and head to the colorful Triana neighborhood. Triana is a small soulful village within a big city and the old gypsy quarter of Seville.

What was once considered the “wrong side” of the river, is now the fun and funky part of town. Locals still call it the “Independent Republic of Triana.”

Triana is steeped in romance and myth. It was home to many of Spain’s best flamenco dancers and bullfighters.

Once over the bridge, you’ll be greeted by the Capilla del Carmen with its bell tower and chapel. The main commercial street in Triana is the pedestrianized Calle San Jacinto where you’ll find shops and cafes.

For lunch, get off the main drag and head left. Have some modern fusion (Venezuelan and Spanish) tapas at Vega 10 in Triana.

Located at Calle Rosario, its specialty is bull’s tail cannelloni. Or, get some tapas at Casa Cuesta or Las Golondrinas.

If you want to assemble your own dinner, head to Triana’s famous Mercado de Triana, or covered market, located on Capilla del Carmen in the Plaza del Altozano.

Stroll the stalls filled with meats and cheeses. Or try a smoothie or fresh squeezed juice. When you’re done, take a stroll along the river on Calle Betis.

>>> Click here to book a flamenco show in Triana

Where To Stay In Seville

Air Bnb is a good option in Seville. There are also some beautiful boutique hotels.

My picks would be:  Hotel Colon Gran Melia ,  Suites Machado , or  Hotel Casa del Poeta .

I also think Barrio Santa Cruz is a great, and more quiet, place to stay. In this area, you could book at  Hotel Casa 1800 Seville  (timeless elegance) or the  EME Catedral Hotel  (sumptuous hotel with a roof terrace, Michelin restaurant, and spa).

Day 7: Day Trip to Cordoba or Ronda

On day 7, take a day trip to Cordoba or Ronda. If you want a city with a lot of attractions, pick Cordoba. If you want to experience a classic white pueblo village, pick Ronda.

I’d recommend Cordoba just to see the UNESCO-listed Mosque Cathedral called the Mezquita .

1. Option 1: Cordoba

You can take the train from Seville. Or you can book a full day guided tour from Seville . Or a guided tour that includes both Cordoba and Carmona .

Cordoba is an exotic stone paved city with both a Roman and Moorish past. Cordoba is a natural film set, it’s just so beautiful. Cordoba has an authentic Spanish vibe with fewer tourists than Seville or Granada.

Most people come just for Cordoba’s #1 site: the magnificent Mezquita , the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. Dating from the 10th century, it’s a UNESCO site and one of the world’s most well-preserved Islamic buildings.

Here’s my one day in Cordoba itinerary . Click   here  to pre-purchase a ticket. Click  here  to book a 1 hour guided tour of this magnificent edifice.

The courtyard is free to visit. And you can climb the minaret for views.

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted the interior of the mosque into a cathedral, calling it the Cathedral of Our Lady of Assumption.

I expected the combination to be discordant and perplexing. But I found it a fascinating place, a snapshot of the sophisticated dual culture that once existed in Spain.

You walk into the Mezquita from a courtyard of orange trees via the Porte de las Palmas. You’re immediately amidst an overpowering forest of 1,000 candy cane horseshoe arches.

They’re constructed from granite, onyx, jasper, and marble. A highlight is the Mihrab, or high altar. It’s a prayer niche covered in an intricate design of gold leaf and mosaic fragments.

The Renaissance cathedral is built right in the center, sharing marble and space with the Islamic arches. The soaring vaulted ceilings are stunning.

Be sure to go up the minaret for spectacular views of Cordoba. You buy tickets for the tower at a separate ticket booth below the bell tower.

But there’s so much more to Cordoba than the Mezquita. Just downhill from the Mezquita is the Guadalquivir River. Stroll across the stunning Roman Bridge , both a UNESCO site and a Game of Thrones filming location.

Amble around the narrow languid streets of the charming old Jewish Quarter, with its brilliantly white walls and delicate filigreed window grills. You may even want to a  2 hour guided walking tour  of this romantic area.

Skip the Instagram popular Calleja de las Flores, or just stroll by. It’s overrated and crammed with tourists. There are beautiful flowers and patios everywhere in Cordoba.

Go into the Jewish synagogue. Say hello to the nearby statue of Maimonides, an influential medieval Jewish philosopher.

Visit the beautiful Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. This Alcazar can’t hold a candle to Seville’s UNESCO-listed Royal Alcazar, but I thought it was still well worth a visit. Click  here  if you’d like to book a 1 hour guided tour of the alcazar.

2. Option 2: Ronda

Ronda is Andalusia’s third most visited city. It’s one of Andalusia’s most beautiful towns .

You can take the train from Seville. Once there, you may want to take a 2 hour guided walking tour to get oriented.

If you’d prefer to leave the transportation to someone else, you can book a guided day tour from Seville . You can also book a guided full day tour of the white pueblo villages that includes Ronda .

Ronda is not so much a white pueblo town as a sophisticated city. Ronda has a dramatic setting.

It’s perched on a mountainous gash, 1000 feet above the plain below. Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo.

The famed bridge connects the old and newish parts of the town over the 328 feet El Tajo gorge. There’s a staircase leading to the floor of the gorge, for a different viewing perspective.

Ronda is also famed as the birthplace of bullfighting. The city’s Plaza de Toros is one of Ronda’s most popular attractions, thanks to its beautiful architecture. The bullring is ringed with double rows of columns, lending it a Neo-Classical look.

If you want to delve more deeply into Spain’s bullfighting culture, head to the Museum of Bullfighting. You’ll even find some sketches depicting the “art” (not sport) of bullfighting by Francisco Goya , the renowned Spanish artist.

Aside from the bridge, Ronda itself is beautiful — plenty of cozy town squares, cobblestone alleys, balconies everywhere, and lovely architecture. You can visit the Mondragon Palace and the Arabic Baths, if you’re feeling ambitious.

Day 8: Drive from Seville to Granada, Stop in Antequera

The Spanish-Baroque town of Antequera is fittingly dubbed the “Florence of Andalusia.” Antequera is a hidden gem in Andalusia. You’ll have the place mostly to yourself, which is a singular joy in southern Spain.

Since you’re day tripping, there’s a lot to do. Park your car on the outskirts of town and walk up Calle Don Infante. Antequera boasts an impressive Moorish Alcazaba, almost like a mini Alhambra.

It also has a lovely Renaissance church and a stunning medieval and baroque historical core. You’ll have an eyeful of swoonful scenery.

>>> Click here to book a guided walking tour of Antequera

Antequera’s ancient megaliths/dolmens are outside the old town. You’ll see signs. The dolmens date from the Bronze Age and are among the oldest things on the planet. They are essentially Spain’s Stonehenge.

The dolmens are ancient burial grounds that were declared a UNESCO site in 2016. They’re one of the most remarkable engineering and architectural works of European prehistory and an important example of European Megalthism.

For more details and information, check out my two guides to visiting the town of Antequera and to Antequera’s UNESCO dolmens .

History buffs may want to book a guided tour of the dolmens .

Day 9: Granada

Granada will sweep you away with its authentic Spanish vibe and dazzling attractions. Lorded over by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it’s an absolutely beautiful ancient city with historic architecture. For its size, it’s surprisingly cosmopolitan.

Granada boasts many atmospheric neighborhoods, each with an earthy distinct character. It’s home to the mighty Alhambra, a Moroccan souk, a massive cathedral, flamenco music, and — perhaps best of all — free tapas.

Start your day at Granada’s marquis site, the UNESCO-listed Alhambra. This amazing Granada attraction requires more than half a day at a bare minimum.

The Alhambra is one of the most popular and best sites in southern Spain, and even in the world. In fact, you might want to split your visit to the Alhambra in two, with separate morning and evening visits.

READ : Top Attractions In Granada

Here’s my complete  guide to visiting the Alhambra . More than any other attraction I’ve mentioned, you MUST have a  ticket to visit the Alhambra  and reserve it well (weeks) in advance. They sell out so fast.

You may want to book a guided tour of this magnificent UNESCO site. Tours are also another way to nab the valuable ticket. They also sell out fast.

Here are some guided tour options:

• a 2.5 hour small  group  guided tour
• a 3 hour private tour
• a 3 hou r tour of t he Alhambra and Generalife Gardens
• a  3 hour t our  with a historian
• a 2 ho ur ni ght visit
• a 6 hou r tour  of the Alhambra and the highlights of Granada

The Alhambra stands on a stunning piece of real estate, high on Sabika Hill, with panoramic views over Granada and the beautiful countryside. The Alhambra is a tranquil place with burbling fountains and beautiful mosaics.

The highlights of the Alhambra are the Alcazaba, the Charles V Palace, and the jaw dropping Nasrid Palace. The Nasrid Palace is the world’s finest example of the refined, intricate, and elegant architectural style of the Moorish civilization.

The Court of the Myrtles, the Hall of the Ambassadors, and the Hall of the Two Sisters are a succession of intricate tile work, honeycomb cupolas, and cursive script.

The wonder of wonders is the Court of the Lions, named for the antique fountain of 12 lions in the center. Around the edge runs an arcade of arches supported by white marble columns.

When you’re done with the lavish palaces, head over to the beautiful Generalife for its soothing water gardens.

Later, wander around and explore the old Arab neighborhood of the Albaicin, or Albayzin. Built on a steep hill, it’s an ancient area with tight tangled winding streets and a bohemian feel. The lively place was declared a UNESCO site in 1984.

The main drags in the Albaicin, which both run parallel to the River Darro, are Paseo de los Tristes and Carrera del Darro.

Amidst a jasmine scented breeze, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, tapas bars, and even street performers. You can enjoy a sunset view at Mirador San Nicolás.

To explore this beauty of the Albaicin and the neighborhood of Sacromonte, you can book a  guided walking tour . I did this tour and thought it was amazing. Sacromonte is a good place to book a  sunset walking tour .

Day 10: Granada

On your second day in Granada, visit the ornate late Gothic tombs of the ambitious dynasty-builders Ferdinand and Isabella. They reigned over the Christianization of Granada and the exploration of the “new” Americas. In the sacristy hangs Queen Isabella’s personal art collection.

10 minutes away, visit Granada Cathedral in Granada’s historic center. Click  here   to book a guided tour of the cathedral and the Royal Chapel.

The cathedral is the second largest cathedral in Spain after Seville Cathedral.It’s the fourth largest cathedral in the world.

The edifice is a mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles. Inside, there’s a towering interior, a grand altar, and side chapels.

Don’t miss Granada’s otherworldly barrio of Sacromonte, home to Granada’s Roma community. Time stands still in this unusual rustic quarter of Granada.

For centuries, Sacromonte was the home of gypsies, bohemians, artists, and foreign refuges. Sacramonte also sports one of the most mesmerizing views of the Alhambra.

Click  here  to book a flamenco show in Sacromonte, which has the best venue for performances in Granada.

Where To Stay In Granada

The  Eurostars Catedral  is a lovely hotel housed in a 16th century manor, just a short walk from the cathedral. The  Catalonia Granada  is a lovely hotel that comes complete with a plunge pool and open air terrace. 

If you want a place where tradition and avant garde style meet, check out the  Hospes Palacio de los Patos . It’s housed in a UNESCO-listed palace, with sprawling gardens, a spa, and mosaic floors.

More Time in Spain?

If you want some time to relax after your 10 day Portugal-Spain road trip, head to the Costa del Sol for a few days of beach time and coastal views.

If you want a big city, head to Malaga. If you want a more laid back beach town, try Marabella or Nerja. Don’t miss the pretty mountain villages of Frigiliana en route.

To read about these towns and other villages in Andalusia, check out my guide to the 27 most beautiful towns in Southern Spain .

You may enjoy these other Portugal travel guides and resources:

• 10 day itinerary for Portugal
• Historic landmarks in Portugal
• 4 day itinerary for Lisbon
• Guide to the Alfama neighborhood
• Guide to the Belem neighborhood
• Day trips from Lisbon
• Hidden gems in Lisbon
• Best sites and photo spots in Porto
• Best azulejo tiles in Porto

You may also enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

• 33 secret towns in Spain
• 10 day itinerary from Madrid to Seville
• 10 day itinerary from Barcelona to Bilbao
• 1 week itinerary for northern Spain
• 10 day itinerary for Basque Spain
• 2 day itinerary for Madrid
• Most Beautiful Cites and Towns in Andalusia
• 3 day itinerary for Seville

If you’d like to spend 10 days in Portugal and Spain, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on June 30, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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• Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 14 Unforgettable Days

Spain and Portugal, the two countries on the Iberian Peninsula, are known for their vibrant cities, rich histories, and stunning landscapes.

In 14 days you can see the best destinations in these two beautiful countries. From exploring the stunning architecture in Barcelona to relaxing on the golden beaches of the Algarve, and not to forget the two capital cities, Madrid and Spain.

This Spain and Portugal itinerary will take you on a journey through the highlights of Spain and Portugal, giving you a taste of both the cosmopolitan cities and the charming small towns.

I’m sure you’ll fall in love with those two beautiful countries and you’ll want to come back and spend even more time here. That’s what happened to me, I keep being drawn back to Spain and Portugal.

Table of Contents

Best Spain and Portugal Itinerary 14 Days

14 days is a good amount of time to visit Spain and Portugal, however, it’s not enough to see everything. For example, I have to completely skip the north of Spain because there simply isn’t enough time for it.

But don’t worry, I have carefully planned this itinerary to still include the main must-see places and experiences in both countries.

So let’s begin our journey through Spain and Portugal! Keep in mind that you can always change the itinerary according to your preferences and add or remove destinations as needed.

1. Stop: Barcelona

Our tour kicks off in Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia, known for the stunning architecture by Antoni Gaudi , delicious food, and lively atmosphere.

Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in Spain. I’ve been so many times now and I keep going back to Barcelona. I just love the atmosphere and the delicious vegan food in Barcelona .

Day 1: Barcelona

Start your trip by visiting Barcelona. See the famous La Sagrada Familia and Gaudi’s other masterpieces Park Güell and Casa Batlló.

Explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, one of the most iconic areas in Barcelona. You can skip Las Ramblas, it’s very overrated in my opinion.

Have a picnic in Ciutadella Park or on the beach and watch the sunset from a viewpoint in the city. If you have time, I also recommend the light show at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. It’s one of the best things to see in Barcelona for free .

🤩 Discover Barcelona’s top spots on a guided walking tour!

Day 2: Barcelona or Day Trip

On your second day, you have the choice of exploring Barcelona further or taking a day trip.

Some options for day trips include visiting the charming coastal town of Sitges , hiking in Montserrat , visiting the medieval city of Girona, or exploring the Roman ruins in Tarragona .

I did all of those day trips since I spent more time in Barcelona. My favorite two day trips were my Girona day trip and my Tarragona day trip .

🤩 Explore Girona and the beautiful Costa Brava with this incredible day tour!

In case you decide to spend the second day in Barcelona, you can visit some of the museums like the Picasso Museum or the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya.

2. Stop: Madrid

From Barcelona, we’ll head to Spain’s capital city, Madrid. Known for its lively nightlife and cultural offerings.

I’ll be completely honest with you, Madrid is not my favorite city in Spain . But it still has some iconic sights and we have time for a quick stop on the way down South.

You could even make a quick stop in Zaragoza which is about halfway between Barcelona and Madrid but to be honest I don’t think Zaragoza is worth visiting .

Day 3: Madrid

Spend the first day in Madrid exploring the Royal Palace of Madrid and the neighboring Catedral de la Almudena.

Afterward have a drink at the impressive Plaza Mayor and head to Puerta del Sol, which is the center of Spain.

In the afternoon, visit the Prado Museum , the most famous museum in Madrid. The museum is right next to the beautiful Retiro Park, so you can relax there afterward.

🤩 See the top things in Madrid on a Tuk-Tuk tour! Perfect for first-time visitors.

Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo and/or Segovia

Toledo and Segovia are two beautiful cities near Madrid that are perfect for a day trip.

In Toledo , visit the impressive cathedral and wander around the narrow streets of this historic city. Don’t forget to try the famous marzipan!

In Segovia, you can admire the stunning Roman aqueduct and explore the Alcázar de Segovia, a castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.

You can easily do a day trip to either of those cities by train, but if you want to see both Toledo and Segovia in one day , I recommend taking a guided tour.

🤩 A guided tour is a great option to see Toledo and Segovia in one day!

3. Stop: Andalusia

Our next stop is the stunning city of Seville. This will be our base for the next three days as we explore the beautiful region of Andalusia in Southern Spain.

Andalusia is such a beautiful region, you could easily spend 10 days there , but I packed the highlights into 3 days.

Day 5: Seville

Start your day by visiting the stunning Alcázar of Seville, a palace with both Christian and Moorish influences. Next, head to the Cathedral of Seville, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.

In the afternoon, stroll around the charming María Luisa Park and visit the beautiful Plaza de España.

Afterwards head to Las Setas, one of the largest wooden structures in the world, and take in the breathtaking views of Seville from the viewing platform on top.

End your day with a flamenco show or relax in an Arab Bath. While I missed those in Seville, I loved the hot water pools in Granada’s baths and enjoyed watching a flamenco show in a Granada cave house . I’m sure they’re just as great in Seville.

🤩 I love this Seville Tuk Tuk tour for the local guide!

Day 6: Day Trip to Granada

Granada is a must-visit city in Andalusia, known for its stunning Alhambra Palace. I really love the relaxed atmosphere in Granada . You can easily spend a few days in Granada, but since we only have one day, we’ll focus on the highlights.

Start your day by visiting the Alhambra Palace and its beautiful gardens. Make sure to book your entrance tickets online in advance, as they sell out quickly.

In the afternoon, wander around the charming Albaicín neighborhood and enjoy some delicious tapas. End your day with a visit to Mirador de San Nicolás for a stunning view of the Alhambra at sunset.

🤩 I love this Seville to Granada tour for the included Alhambra ticket & time in Granada city!

Day 7: Day Trip to Córdoba

Córdoba is another beautiful city in Andalusia, known for its stunning Mezquita-Catedral and historic Jewish Quarter.

Start your Córdoba day trip by visiting the Mezquita-Catedral, a unique mosque-cathedral with beautiful architecture. I was really amazed by the sheer size of the cathedral and the Muslim elements inside.

Afterward, wander around the Jewish Quarter and explore its charming streets and shops. Make sure to try the famous local dish, salmorejo, a delicious cold tomato soup.

In the afternoon, you can visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , a palace with beautiful gardens, or simply relax in one of the many plazas and soak up the atmosphere.

🤩 Explore the great city of Córdoba with a walking tour!

4. Stop: Algarve, Portugal

Our next stop is the beautiful Algarve region in southern Portugal. Known for its stunning beaches and picturesque towns, it’s the perfect place to relax after a busy trip through Spain.

Day 8: Faro

Start your day by visiting Faro, the capital of the Algarve region. Explore its charming old town and visit the Sé Cathedral and the Arco da Vila gate.

Afterward, you can take a boat tour from Faro to explore the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park or do a quick trip to Olhão to see a different side of the Algarve.

Olhão is a charming fishing town with a very authentic Portuguese atmosphere. My favorite things to do in Olhão were learning about local legends and taking a boat tour to some picturesque islands.

🤩 Visit the Ria Formosa on a boat tour from Faro!

Day 9: Lagos

Lagos is another must-visit destination in the Algarve known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and picturesque old town.

Start your day by taking a boat tour to explore the famous sea caves and rock formations near Lagos. The boat tour was my favorite thing to do in Lagos , the cliffs are so impressive, and with a small boat, you can get really close to the sea caves.

When you get back from your boat tour have some lunch in the old town of Lagos.

Afterward, visit beautiful beaches like Praia do Camilo or Praia Dona Ana for sun, sand, and relaxation. Then walk to Ponta da Piedade, famous for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, for the perfect sunset.

🤩 I took this boat cruise in Lagos and loved it!

Day 10: Benagil Caves

In case you do this Spain and Portugal itinerary by train stay in Lagos for a second day and take a boat tour to the Benagil Caves. The great thing about doing a boat tour from Lagos to the Benagil Caves is that you’ll have the chance to see some dolphins on the way.

Afterwards relax on one of the beaches before heading to Portugal’s capital, Lisbon.

If you’re on a Spain and Portugal road trip, head from Lagos to Benagil in the morning to see the amazing sea cave. In the afternoon, you can also tackle the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, known for its breathtaking coastal views.

🤩 See dolphins and the Benagil Caves on an incredible boat cruise!

5. Stop: Lisbon

Our next stop is the vibrant and charming capital city of Lisbon. You can easily spend a few days in Lisbon , but we’ll try to see the best things in the city in one day, so we can do one short day trip from Lisbon before heading to our final stop of the itinerary.

Day 11: Lisbon

Start your Lisbon day by visiting the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites with stunning architecture and history in the Belém district.

In the afternoon, take a stroll around the charming Alfama neighborhood and visit the São Jorge Castle for some amazing views of the city.

Finish your day with some delicious vegan food in Lisbon and don’t miss out on a traditional Pastel de Nata as dessert.

🤩 Tuk Tuk Tours are very popular in Lisbon due to the narrow and steep roads!

Day 12: Day Trip to Sintra and/or Cascais

For our final day trip, we have two options – Sintra and/or Cascais.

Sintra is known for its beautiful palaces and castles. The most famous ones are the colorful Pena Palace and the stunning Quinta da Regaleira. It’s truly a stunning place but it can get extremely overcrowded in summer .

Alternatively, you can visit the quaint coastal town of Cascais for some beach time, an impressive coastline, and a charming old town.

You can do each day trip easily by public transport, but if you want to see both places in one day I recommend a guided tour to Sintra and Cascais .

🤩 Check prices for a Sintra and Cascais private tour!

6. Stop: Porto

Our final stop is Porto, a beautiful city in the North of Portugal , known for its port wine and charming old town.

Day 13: Porto

Start your day in Porto by visiting the Livraria Lello bookstore, known as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Near the bookstore is the Clérigos Tower, where you can climb the stairs for a stunning view of the city.

In the afternoon, stroll through the charming Ribeira district and do a Porto boat cruise to see the city and its many bridges from a different perspective.

Afterward, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to get to Vila Nova de Gaia, famous for its port wine cellars. Have a wine tasting in one of the wine cellars and enjoy the sunset from Jardim do Morro.

🤩 Explore Porto on a walking tour to discover top highlights with insights from a local guide!

Day 14: Departure

You have a few options on your last day based on your return flight.

• If you fly back home from Porto and you still have the full day to spend in Portugal. You can do a day trip from Porto . There are several options to choose from, such as visiting the Douro Valley , Braga , and Guimarães , or a beach trip to Aveiro and Costa Nova .
• If you fly back home from Lisbon and you don’t have any time to spare, just take the high-speed train from Porto to Lisbon on your last day.
• If you fly back home from Lisbon and you do have some time to spare. You can take a one-way tour from Porto to Lisbon and see some amazing towns on the way. Tours usually stop in Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal, Coimbra, home to the oldest university in Portugal, and many others.

🤩 Check prices for a one-way tour from Porto to Lisbon!

14-Day Itinerary Spain and Portugal: How to Get Around

The best way to travel around Spain and Portugal is by using trains, buses, and day tours. You can buy your train tickets in advance to save money.

I don’t recommend taking flights within Spain and Portugal. Taking public transportation is a lot more convenient and eco-friendly.

A rental car is a good option if you want to customize this itinerary to see more remote places but it’s really not necessary to see all the stops I included in this itinerary for Spain and Portugal .

Best Time to travel to Spain and Portugal

The best time to travel to Portugal and Spain is from April to June or September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season.

However, if you’re planning on doing beach activities and want hot weather, July and August are the best months for visiting Spain and Portugal.

For a more budget-friendly trip, consider traveling during the off-season from November to March. The weather may be colder but you’ll have fewer crowds and can find better deals on accommodations and activities.

Final Thoughts: Portugal and Spain Itinerary 14 Days

This 14-day itinerary for Spain and Portugal is a great way to see the highlights of both countries. From stunning beaches to charming cities and historical sites, there’s something for everyone on this trip.

You get to marvel at Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona, explore Madrid’s royal heritage, and immerse yourself in Andalusia’s captivating blend of cultures.

In Portugal, you’ll experience the laid-back charm of the Algarve’s coastal towns, the vibrant capital city of Lisbon, and the beautiful riverfront city of Porto.

Spain and Portugal will leave you with a lifetime of memories. And remember you can always make alterations to this Spain Portugal itinerary to fit your travel preferences and schedule. If you fall in love with one city, just stay another day and skip something else.

Read more about Portugal:

• Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 10 Days You Won’t Forget
• Amazing 10-Day Portugal Itinerary by Train
• 15 Best Souvenirs from Portugal to Remember Your Holiday

One Day In Lisbon Portugal: Perfect Itinerary

• Epic Two Days In Lisbon: Ultimate Itinerary
• 11 Incredible Day Trips From Lisbon Portugal
• Lisbon and Porto Itinerary: 7 Epic Days in Portugal
• One Day In Porto Portugal: Ultimate Itinerary
• Ultimate 3 Day Porto Itinerary
• 7 Best Day Trips from Porto by Train
• Ultimate Algarve Itinerary For Different Trips

Best Time to Visit Algarve Portugal for a Perfect Holiday

• 10 Absolute Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal
• Does it Snow in Portugal? Magical Winter in Portugal
• Drinking Age in Portugal: What You Need To Know
• All Portugal Destinations

Read more about Spain:

• 10 Absolute Best Free Things to Do in Barcelona
• Barcelona 3 Day Itinerary For an Epic Weekend Getaway
• Best Gaudi Tours in Barcelona
• Is Madrid Worth Visiting? Why I Don’t Think It Is
• 15 Amazing Day Trips From Madrid To Explore Spain
• Is Zaragoza Worth Visiting? Pros and Cons
• Is Tarragona Worth Visiting? 5 Reasons Why It Is
• Is Granada Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons Why It Is
• Amazing 3 Days in Seville Itinerary: What to See & Do
• 7 Absolute Best Day Trips from Seville, Spain
• Epic Southern Spain Itinerary: 10 Days in Andalusia by Train
• Unforgettable 10-Day Itinerary in Spain by Train

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Tina Riegelnegg is the founder of Veganderlust. She started this blog in 2022 to share her experiences in order to help other travellers have the best experience and find the best vegan food while travelling. So far Tina has been to 31 countries on 5 continents.

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Portugal and Spain Tours & Trips

Find the right adventure for you through Portugal and Spain. We've got 455 tours going to Portugal and Spain, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 32 days. The most popular month to go is June, which has the highest number of tour departures.

250+ Iberian Peninsula (Spain, Portugal & Gibraltar) tour packages with 4,000 reviews

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Iberian Explorer (13 Days)

The overall experience was good. It would be better if the stays in the cities/ towns could be 3 nights and 2 nights respectively.

Spanish Ring with Lisbon

It was an incredible experience to see all of the different places in Spain! It felt like we were stepping into a movie with every new place we visited. Which made sense because a lot of those places actually were movie locations. Our tour guide, Emmanuel, was a funny and awesome guy. He was very patient, very accommodating, and informative; and he made sure that nobody was left behind.

Best of Spain & Portugal

Captivating counties, fantastic food, great guides and lots of adventures. The tour is designed to give you free time along the way so do your research before traveling. Transportation includes planes, trains, busses and shuttles so bring your flexibility with you and most importantly there’s lots of walking through difficult streets with lots of people. Fantastic adventure.

France, Spain and Portugal

Great see it all kind of tour. Albeit, demanding at times with its rigid schedule for departures and short turnarounds at some very interesting places. But we knew ahead of time what to expect considering all we saw and had to see. The best tour guide we had during all 17 days on this circuit was Luis Cebollada. He consistently went out of his way to accommodate requests and improve upon the cultural experience in each country. His knowledge of the sights and the people was insightful and very helpful during our tour. All and all...a memorable and unforgettable experience.

Spain, Portugal & Morocco

It was good, but tiring.

Portugal, Andalucia and Morocco from Madrid

Julia travels provided excellent support and communication before and during our tour. Our group really enjoyed the itinerary and support provided throughout the trip by Roxana. I highly recommend Julia Travels, Roxana, and our tour guide/driver Gabriel to anyone who is interested in Spain & Portugal travel. Hope to visit Spain again with Julia Travels!

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights of Spain and Portugal

The overall expirience was awesome. I already recommended your company to many of my people for I worked 25 years in the turism industry and was a President Sales Executive for the Marriott Vacation Club Int. andnow I'm a policy Advisor for the Government of my country.By the way Thomas was A#1. The only thing that I was very disappointed in was the internet on the bus was to cry for . No internet 90% of the time. I hope you will have this in consideration for I'm planning a trip for next year and expect some kind of consideration. Thanking you in advance . I remain. Thanya Croes +2975932999

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Andalucia & Morocco

Great tour to get around and see everything quickly, but no free time to explore any of the areas we were in and the luxurious hotels we were staying in, we arrived late and checked out early without getting to use any facilities. Motels and hostels would have been more appropriate.

Discovery of Spain & Portugal - 15 days

Happy to recommend it to other travellers

Spain and Portugal Explorer

Well organised, great tour leader and coach drivers.

Spain and Portugal Highlights (Small Group)

over all tour was very good. tour director felipe's english is not very good,but we got used to his style of english and every body knew what he was saying.his adminitration qualities are excellent and he arranged all the tours as stated in brochure.

Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas

Guide was great, most hostels were nice. Would like to have known in advance I was joining a group tour that had already started in another city.

Charming Spain & Portugal - 10 Days

We enjoyed the trip for the most part. The bus was not as luxurious as we hoped it would be. We were glad it was not a full tour as it would have been very crowded sitting side by side for hours at a time We thought there would be washroom facilities onboard. The WiFi was spotty, at best. All the tour guides were excellent. The hotels were very nice except for the one in Cordoba. The meal served was adequate but the atmosphere was not a 4 star. We changed buses twice which was an inconvenience but can only imagine the logistics of all the tours you offer. I would have preferred an English only speaking tour. At times, you were tired of listening to Spanish and Portuguese before they spoke in English. We saw some beautiful spots and the optional tours were great. I believe the Sintra tour should be part of the trip.

Delve Deep: Spain & Portugal

The tour was a great insight into Spain, Morocco and Portugal. Vincenzo was a friendly and knowledgeable guide, who also knew how to have fun with the group and include everyone.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Portugal and Andalucia from Madrid

The itinerary was very good. Thanks to Ismael for his patience, keen interest of the safety of the group. Always checking the needs of every individual member of the group. An ideal coach tour guide.

What people love about Portugal And Spain Tours

I really loved our tour guide Ana Rita Lima. She helped us through a couple rough patches and I appreciate that. Very energetic and delightful!! I loved every bit of the tour except the hotel quality on the first night of the tour. It needed a vending machine that worked and more opportunity to get snacks upon arrival. It was just very basic. Also the hotel in ( I can't remember which city) we didn't have air conditioning. Our tour guide told us of where to be cautious (pick pockets) and some things we should be aware of. I appreciate that they stopped regularly for food and bathrooms breaks. Our driver, Rui, ( proved to have great skill, navigating in traffic, fog, rain and parking!! Overall, a great tour, with important history and valuable information!! With the exception of two poor quality hotels it was a memory that will last a life time. By the way, the Best Western in Barcelona is much better than the one we stayed in on the tour.

Well organised and good pace. All went smoothly Thankyou!

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Travel and Lifestyle

Europe , Portugal , spain , Travel , Travel Destinations · May 6, 2023

10-day Barcelona and Lisbon Itinerary | Ultimate Barcelona to Lisbon Road Trip

Many dreams of traveling to Europe, but deciding where or when to travel or what to do on holiday can be hard. The Iberian Peninsula, home to Spain and Portugal, is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Some of its major cities, like Barcelona, Spain, and Lisbon, Portugal, are popular stops for tourists. We hope you will find this Barcelona and Lisbon Itinerary helpful.

Table of Contents

The Ultimate 10-day Barcelona and Lisbon Itinerary

Traveling to Barcelona and Lisbon will be incredible as you visit two amazing cities and countries. There are plenty of attractions, activities, and foods to try that will provide an exciting and memorable trip to some of the most beautiful places to exist.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about traveling to Barcelona and Lisbon. We’ll discuss everything from when you should go and how long you should stay to specific activities and events to try and see. We have created the information that you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

An Overview of Barcelona and Lisbon

Barcelona is the capital of the Catalonia region of Spain. This region of Spain is an autonomous community, so they maintain some cultural aspects that are different from what you would find elsewhere in Spain. For example, the Catalan language is spoken in addition to Spanish. While traveling there, you will be fine with knowing just a few key phrases in Spanish. 

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and the country’s largest city. While Portugal borders Spain and shares a peninsula, its official language is Portuguese. Despite being neighbors, there is very little Spanish spoken in Portugal. In fact, English is more commonly spoken than Spanish. 

Both Barcelona and Lisbon are large cities with plenty of historical museums, buildings, and attractions. Both cities are coastal and have plenty of nearby beaches. Even though these cities are relatively close and seem to have many similarities, you will understand the many differences as we discuss your future trip.  

Planning Your Barcelona and Lisbon Itinerary 

Once you have decided that your trip destinations will be Barcelona and Lisbon, it is time to start planning. Some of the first things you need to decide are how long you want to travel and when you want to go. From there, you will be able to plan the details of the trip, like accommodations and activities, to fit within your travel dates.

We recommend taking a ten-day trip to these destinations to get enough time to explore two cities. You can, of course, stay for shorter or longer amounts of time by modifying our itinerary. However, this guide will give you plenty of activities, food ideas, and lodging options for a ten-day trip to Barcelona and Lisbon, spending about five days in each city. 

Many say that the best time to visit Barcelona and Lisbon is either late spring, March to May, or early fall, September to October. These months still have warm weather but fewer crowds than you would experience if you visited in the middle of the summer, like in June or July. 

When traveling to these places, something else to consider is if you want to participate in any local festivals, events, or concerts while you are traveling. We will mention a few of these throughout the article and let you know when they usually happen so that you can plan accordingly if you are interested. 

You might also enjoy: Logroño, Spain Travel Guide

Top Activities in Barcelona, Spain

When spending about five days in Barcelona, Spain, you will want to plan one to three activities per day depending on how long you expect to spend at each location and how far apart they are. In general, Barcelona is famous for its cultural attractions and architecture . In fact, many of the attractions that we have selected are recognized as UNESCO world heritage sites.  

We have organized our recommended activities for Barcelona by:

• Architecture 
• Parks and Outdoor Areas

Barcelona Architecture

La Sagrada Família is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. It is a catholic cathedral known for its beautiful architecture and religious symbolism. You can take guided tours around the cathedral to learn about the building’s architecture, construction, and significance. Many tourists plan trips around this attraction, which is a must-see. Plan to spend at least two hours here.  

Casa Batlló is another piece of architecture designed by Antoni Gaudí, like the Sagrada Família. Originally built in 1877, Gaudí was tasked with renovating and modernizing the building from 1904 to 1906. Many say that the entire building is a work of art with architectural elements used throughout the 20th century. Plan to spend one to two hours here. 

While the Sagrada Família’s construction was started in the late 1800s, the Catedral de Barcelona started construction in 1298. This gothic cathedral still operates as a church but still allows tourists to visit at certain times . Be sure to visit this cathedral to see history, art, and beautiful architecture in one building. 

Barri Gótic, or the Gothic Quarter , is a neighborhood that used to be a Roman village. This area has experienced some modernization alongside historical architecture. Wander through this area to see historic Gothic buildings next to modern architecture. This area has plenty of restaurants, interesting shops, and places to sit and relax. You can either simply walk through the area or spend several hours here. 

Barcelona Parks and Outdoor Areas

Park Güell is a public park that has gardens and interesting architecture throughout. The park was, again, designed by Antoni Gaudí in the early 1900s. You can buy tickets in advance and then spend a few hours wandering through the park to see the beautiful art and architecture. Many tourists make a point to visit this place to take pictures and relax in an area with beautiful scenery. 

Las Ramblas is another famous landmark of Barcelona. This is a pedestrian street that is lined with trees. The street goes through downtown Barcelona’s heart and is always busy with foot traffic from locals and tourists alike. This street has plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars along the way. You can easily spend several hours walking along with the street, shopping, eating, and watching people walk by. 

The Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is a large public market with its entrance on Las Ramblas. You can find food, produce, flowers, and artisan goods in this market. You can easily spend a few hours wandering through this market, but many tourists like to visit multiple times to try foods from different vendors. 

Barcelona Events

If you follow international soccer (or fútbol), then you know that the Barcelona team is talented and well-loved. If you are a big soccer fan or just love the atmosphere of sporting events, you can try to catch a fútbol Game at Camp Nou Stadium . This stadium is famous for being home to the Barcelona team, and you can count on having a great time at any game here. 

The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys is another stadium in Barcelona. This stadium is home to an amateur soccer team but was originally built for the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona and was renovated in 1989 for the 1992 Olympics. Today, you can catch an amateur soccer game, concert, or other events. 

Events happen in Barcelona throughout the year, from music and film festivals to cultural events. You can either try to plan your trip around a fun event or see what is happening once you are there. You will likely find something fun and exciting to do on your trip to Barcelona. 

Best Foods in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is definitely known for its food. Eating in Barcelona is generally not too expensive for great meals. Famous regional foods that you should try while in Barcelona include:

• Paella . A dish made of rice and fish. You can find this dish just about anywhere in Barcelona, but try to find a “mom and pop” restaurant rather than a chain to have a more authentic experience.  
• Jamón Ibérico . This type of ham is said to be the best in the world. This ham is cured beautifully and deliciously. You should definitely try this meat while you are in Barcelona. 
• Tapas . Tapas are small dishes of snack or appetizer food that you eat as your meal. This is a great way to try many different foods while you are visiting. 

One great way to find a selection of restaurants is to do a tapas and wine walking tour like this one . We recommend doing this tour on one of your first nights in Barcelona so that you can return to any restaurants that you liked or heard about while on the tour. 

Where to Stay in Barcelona, Spain

There are so many options for places to stay in Barcelona, whether you want luxury or just the basics. You will be able to find the perfect accommodations for your needs anywhere in the city. Some hotel options include:

Hotel Arts Barcelona . This hotel on the coast has a unique architectural design and provides a luxury experience.

• H10 Hotel . This hotel chain is based in Spain and has 15 locations in Barcelona. These hotels are more affordable than some luxury locations and give you the option to stay anywhere you want in the city, considering their wide reach.

Urban Sabadell . One hotel that offers luxury accommodations at an affordable price is the Urban Sabadell, which is about 30 minutes outside of downtown Barcelona. 

Once you decide on the activities and attractions that you want to do and see while in Barcelona, you can decide which hotel to book based on location. If you plan to get around by walking, you will want to stay at a central location. If you decide to stay outside of the city, remember that you will need to find a way to get into the city and account for travel time.

Traveling from Barcelona to Lisbon

There are several options for how you can travel between Barcelona and Lisbon. You will want to decide the best option for your trip based on your budget, schedule, and preference. In general, you can travel by:

If you have limited time and want to travel between the two cities as quickly as possible, you probably want to fly to Lisbon Airport or vice versa. TAP Air Portugal is a popular  airline  for flying between the two cities. You can expect to spend between $50 and $100 per person for a Barcelona to Lisbon flight, depending on how far in advance you purchase your ticket and when you plan to fly. The flight between the two cities is about two hours long. 

Another popular transportation option is to travel by train. The journey from Barcelona to Lisbon by train usually takes a full day, so make sure you have room for this in your schedule. This option can be more expensive than flying, but you get to see more scenery between the two cities. When I did this trip, I took the overnight train and enjoyed it because it felt like I didn’t waste a full day traveling. 

Lastly, you could take a bus between Barcelona and Lisbon. This option takes the longest, though you do get to see the scenery between the two cities. You can usually find inexpensive tickets for this option, making it the most budget-friendly. Keep in mind that the trip will probably take over 30 hours, so make sure it fits into your itinerary. 

Top Activities in Lisbon, Portugal 

When visiting Lisbon, Portugal, you will want to plan a few attractions and activities to do each day for about five days, just as you did for Barcelona. The major attractions that we will describe here can be organized into: 

• Historic Landmarks
• Other Activities

Lisbon has a rich history and culture that you can learn about and experience through these attractions. 

Historic Lisbon Landmarks

The elevador de Santa Justa is an elegant wrought-iron elevator that was built in the early 1900s. The elevator goes up seven stories and can transport from the Baxia district to Largo do Carmo . This elevator used to be an important piece of transportation infrastructure, but today is more of a tourist attraction. The elevator is beautiful and offers great views of the city from the top. 

The Castelo de São Jorge is a large castle with several towers. The castle site shows evidence of humans living in the area as far back as the 7th or 8th century BC. You can visit the castle and grounds to learn more about its history and regional significance. 

The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is a large and beautiful monastery with historical significance. Vasco da Gama stayed here before his exploration of the Far East. The monastery itself is very decorative and has intricate arches and architectural elements. You should plan to spend two to three hours here because it is so large and can get crowded with visitors. 

Lisbon also has a few monuments that are replicas of others around the world. One example is Lisbon’s Christ the Redeemer statue, inspired by the same monument in Brazil. Another is the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, closely resembling the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

The  Moorish Castle  was built in the 9th century by the Moors. The castle has a unique design that combines Islamic and European influences, and beautiful gardens surround it. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and chambers and enjoy views of Lisbon from the top of the castle walls. The Moorish Castle is one of the must-see sights in Lisbon, and it is a great place to learn about Portugal’s history and culture. 

Lisbon Museums to Visit

The Museu Nacional do Azulejo is also known as the National Tile Museum in English. Portugal is known for its traditional tile. These tiles can date back to around the 13th century and can be found around the country in architecture. Learn more about the tradition and see some beautiful tile work at the museum when you visit. 

The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is an ancient art museum that is definitely worth a visit. Learn about famous Portuguese artists from history at this museum. The museum has paintings, sculptures, furniture, and gardens. To see everything, you should spend about four hours here. You can spend less time if you just want to see some of the highlights. 

The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is another art museum in Lisbon. This museum features art from all over the world. Some of the key art pieces here are over 2,000 years old and hold a lot of historical significance. Like the other museums mentioned, you could spend most of one day here or less, depending on your schedule. 

The Oceanário de Lisboa is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe. This aquarium was constructed as part of the 1998 world’s fair. Visit here to see some amazing ocean life exhibits. Be sure to spend a few hours here if you plan to visit. 

Fun Lisbon Activities

The tram is a unique way to get around Lisbon that is fun for tourists to experience the narrow streets. The tram in Lisbon has been operating since 1873 and can take you all around downtown Lisbon and its city center. Take a look at the tram map and your itinerary to see if it would be possible to take the tram to any attractions or activities. If not, you can always ride the tram throughout the city for fun. If not, reserve about an hour so you can just ride the tram for fun throughout the city. 

Belém is a neighborhood in the western part of Lisbon with many attractions. Spend a whole or half-day exploring the various attractions here. The Torre de Belém is a famous monument in the neighborhood. The tower is on the coast and, since the 16th century, has been a starting and ending point for Portuguese explorers. 

Alfama is another neighborhood in Lisbon that is popular with visitors. This region used to be a poor area of the city but is now an artsy district. There are several old cathedrals and other buildings to see in the area and narrow and interesting streets, making it a great neighborhood for a walking tour. 

Best Foods in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has a lot to offer in terms of culinary experiences. Some of the most famous dishes to try include:

• Bifana . This is a simple sandwich made with thin slices of pork that have been slow-cooked and placed into a roll of bread. Some eat this plain, while others add mustard and other sauces. Either way, it is delicious.
• Caldo Verde . If you’re looking for a dish that Portugal is famous for, this would be it. It is a kale and sausage soup that you can find in pretty much any restaurant in the country. 
• Bacalhau . This is the national dish of Portugal, and though there are many different ways to make it, the dish’s base is salted cod. 

Just as in Barcelona, we recommend taking a food tour through Lisbon on one of your first nights in the city. This will likely allow you to try some of these famous dishes while sampling and learning about famous restaurants from your local tour guides. Of all the best food tours in Lisbon to choose from, we recommend this one . 

Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal

There are many options for places to stay in Lisbon. Lisbon offers lodging options that give luxury experiences and some with basic accommodations if you would rather be out exploring all day. You will be sure to find the perfect accommodations for your needs anywhere in the city. Some hotel options include:

• Bairro Alto Hotel . This 5-star Lisbon hotel is located on the coast and offers beautiful ocean views and a luxury experience. 

• Solar Do Castelo, a Lisbon Heritage Collection . This boutique hotel is romantic and full of history. Staying here will feel like a separate attraction all on its own. 

• My Story Hotel Ouro . This hotel is in an 18th-century building in downtown Lisbon, filled with history. This hotel has a lot to offer with an affordable price tag. 

Like in Barcelona, try to book your hotel based on your itinerary. Try to find accommodations that fit your budget and are centrally located.

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Tips for Traveling in Spain or Portugal

Now that you are ready to take your trip, we have compiled a few tips to help you on your vacation. From important safety tips to cultural things you should know, these tips will help you not stand out as much as a tourist and help you have an even better time on your trip.

Safety Tips

When traveling anywhere in Europe, you should know that pickpocketing is common and that tourists are often targeted. Be sure to always be aware of your surroundings. Pickpockets will sometimes work in pairs, with one person doing a street performance or other distraction while someone else pickpockets you. 

To prevent this from happening to you, make sure everyone in your party is always paying attention to your surroundings and looking out for each other. You can also purchase a money belt to keep your passport and money safe. Wear this under your clothes. Lastly, don’t leave your phone or other important items in your back pocket or in a bag that doesn’t close. 

Stay safe by being aware and keeping valuable items out of sight. You might think it won’t happen to you, but it could, and you will certainly stand out as a tourist and be more likely to be targeted. 

Eating is an Event

Before you travel to Spain and Portugal, you should know that eating generally takes much longer than what you are accustomed to in the United States. Both lunch and dinner usually take at least one hour, usually more. In these cities, eating is an event, not a necessity. Try to lean into the culture and enjoy your meals instead of trying to rush through them. 

Learn Some Spanish and Portuguese

While people living in these cities are used to tourists and will probably know some English, it is never a bad idea to learn some key phrases in the country’s language where you are planning to travel. In either language, try to learn some of these key phrases that are helpful for travelers:

• Hello and Goodbye
• I would like…
• How much does this cost?
• Where is the exit?
• I don’t know very much Spanish/Portuguese 
• I only speak English

In Barcelona, the official languages are Catalan and Spanish . Catalan is mostly spoken in official capacities, so you will likely be fine if you only speak Spanish while you are there. 

If you are learning some Portuguese, try to learn the accent for Portugal and not Brazil . While both countries technically speak the same language, the difference in accent can make the two seem like completely different languages. 

Stay at an Airbnb or VRBO Property

With the rise of the sharing economy, you have the option to stay at an apartment or condo in either Barcelona or Lisbon. This gives you many more options for places to stay. Many people also agree that staying in these accommodations makes you feel more like a local and gives you a more authentic experience. These lodging options are completely safe, and you should definitely consider them for your trip. 

Stop in Madrid During Your Barcelona to Lisbon Road Trip 

If you’re planning a road trip from Barcelona to Lisbon, one city you won’t want to miss in Madrid. Known as the “city of three cultures,” Madrid is a unique melting pot of Spanish, Arabic, and Christian influences. With its central location, Madrid makes an ideal stopover point on your journey from Barcelona to Lisbon- so be sure to add it to your itinerary.

Mercado San Miguel

Madrid is a city full of culture, history, and great food. One of the best places to experience all of these things is at Mercado San M i guel . This traditional Spanish market is located in the heart of the city and offers a wide variety of delicious food and drink. stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to regional specialties. The market is also a great place to people-watch and soak up the lively atmosphere of Madrid. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, be sure to add Mercado San Miguel to your list of things to do in Madrid.

Royal Palace of Madrid

The Royal Palace of Madrid is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Built in the 18th century, the palace was the official residence of the Spanish royal family until 1931. Today, it is open to the public and houses a number of museums, including the Museo del Prado and the Museo Reina Sofia. Visitors can also tour the royal apartments, which feature an opulent mix of art from different periods, and take in views of the palace gardens. The Royal Palace of Madrid is a must-see for anyone visiting Madrid.

Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is one of the most iconic landmarks in Madrid, and it’s easy to see why. The grandiose building dates back to the 16th century and has been a gathering place for locals and visitors for centuries. Today, the Plaza Mayor is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring. If you’re looking for a souvenir, plenty of stores sell traditional Spanish goods. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of options for grabbing a bite to eat, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Whatever your plans, a visit to the Plaza Mayor is a must-do when exploring Madrid.

Prado Museum

The Prado Museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Madrid. The museum is home to an extensive collection of Spanish art and works by other European masters. Visitors can spend hours admiring the paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts on display. In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. As a result, the Prado Museum is an ideal destination for anyone interested in learning about Spanish art and culture.

You Might Also Enjoy the Following:

• Travel Essentials List: 38 Essentials for Travel
• 28 Best Gadgets for Travelers | Best 2023 Travel Gadgets
• 50 Must-Haves Essentials for a Road Trip

Final Thoughts for your Barcelona and Lisbon Itinerary

With this fantastic itinerary, you will be ready to plan your own trip to Barcelona and Lisbon. Whether you want every day to be filled to the brim with fun activities or spend most of your time sitting at a coffee shop and experiencing the city like a local, you can plan and experience the perfect vacation for you. Happy travels! 

If you’re looking for another great 10-day trip idea, consider visiting the Hawaii Islands as your next destination.

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Grand Tour of Portugal & Spain: Porto to Barcelona

4.6 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Discover the diversity of two neighboring countries.

The seafaring history and Moorish architecture that the Iberian Peninsula is known for only tells part of the region’s story. The other half lies in the local culture, which is best experienced at a bustling Portuguese taverna or in a colorfully tiled Spanish plaza. Dive into the delights of classic destinations like lovely Lisbon and sunny Seville while also enjoying time to marvel at sites such as the captivating Chapel of Bones in Évora and awe-inspiring Alhambra in Granada.

Your tour package includes

• 13 nights in handpicked hotels
• 13 breakfasts
• 5 dinners with beer or wine
• 10 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• Stock Exchange Palace
• Monument to the Discoveries
• Évora’s Chapel of Bones
• Seville Cathedral
• Olive oil tasting

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Porto today.

Welcome to Portugal! Settle in to your hotel in the heart of this 2,000-year-old, UNESCO-listed city. Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner tonight.

Get to know Porto like a true tripeiro (Porto resident) as you follow your local guide.

• Wander through the medieval lanes of the Old-World Ribeira district and along the picturesque Douro Riverfront.
• Pass citywide icons, such as the Baroque-style Clérigos Tower, the Gothic São Francisco Church, and the wrought-iron Maria Pia Bridge.
• Step inside the city’s famed neoclassical Stock Exchange Palace.

Enjoy free a free afternoon in Porto or add an excursion.

Douro River Cruise & Port Wine Cellar

From $89 per person

Drive south and stop to explore Coimbra on a guided walking tour of the city’s chapel and the country’s first university. After, continue on to Lisbon and sit down for an included dinner.

Get to know the Portuguese capital on a tour with a local guide.

• Admire views of the city from Eduardo VII Park and pass the Praça Marquês de Pombal as you travel along Avenida da Liberdade.
• Stop at the waterfront to discover the city’s maritime heritage at the Monument to the Discoveries and Tower of Belém.
• View the outside of the church at Jerónimos Monastery, built to honor voyagers.
• Walk from Time Out Market through the heart of the city to Praça do Comércio.

Spend a free evening in Lisbon or add an excursion.

Lisbon Cooking Class & Dinner

From $129 per person

Join a local guide on a tour of UNESCO-recognized Évora, a picturesque Portuguese locale and one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.

• Take in the region’s whitewashed homes and intricate tilework.
• Pass the remains of the Roman temple and enter the Chapel of Bones.

After, continue on to Seville, Spain and sit down for an included dinner.

Uncover the beauty of Seville, the historic Andalusian capital, on a guided tour.

• View the tiled pavilion of the Plaza de España.
• Pass the whitewashed homes of Barrio de Santa Cruz.
• Enter the Gothic Seville Cathedral, the third-largest church in the world.

Enjoy free time in Seville or add an excursion.

Seville Tapas & Wine Tasting Tour

From $105 per person

Leave Seville and make your way to Granada, stopping en route to discover some of the flavors of Andalusia.

• Stop at an olive oil farm and join a local guide for a tour of the olive groves, mill, and cellar.
• Sample some orange-infused olive oil drizzled on top of chocolate gelato.
• Enjoy free time to shop.

Continue on to Granada and sit down for an included dinner.

Take a guided tour of the UNESCO-recognized Alhambra, the Moorish sultans’ last stronghold in Spain.

• Walk along the Cypress Promenade to view the upper and lower gardens of Generalife Palace, once the Nasrid dynasty’s summer home.
• Enjoy panoramic views overlooking Granada and the surrounding countryside.
• View the unique curved, Roman-style courtyard inside the Palace of Charles V.
• Admire the blend of Western art and Islamic design as you stroll through ornamented courtyards.
• Enter the Nasrid Palaces and see the Mexuar, where the Council of Ministers met.
• See where the royal family lived during visits to Comares Palace and the Palace of the Lions.

Please note: The order of activities is subject to change.

Spend a free evening in Granada or add an excursion.

Granada Flamenco Show

From $75 per person

Transfer through the Andalusian countryside to Córdoba, Europe’s largest medieval city, and discover its history on a guided tour.

• View the Calleja de las Flores.
• Enter the Mezquita, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the eighth century as a mosque and then converted into a cathedral during the Reconquista.
• Walk through the Old Town and the Jewish Quarter.

After, board a high-speed train and travel to Madrid.

Please note: Porterage is not included for the train transfers. Travelers must be comfortable lifting and carrying all luggage over steps, onto platforms, and into luggage storage.

Get an insider’s view of Madrid with a local guide.

• View the Royal Palace, Spain’s largest royal residence.
• Pass by the Temple of Debod, a reassembled temple from ancient Egypt.
• View the city’s many squares, including Plaza Colón and Plaza Neptune.
• Explore the Prado, a world-class art museum that began as the private collection of the Spanish monarchy and is home to the works of Goya, Velásquez, and more.

Enjoy a free evening in Madrid or add an excursion.

Traditional Spanish Evening

From $119 per person

Spend a free day in Madrid or add an excursion.

Board a high-speed train and travel to Barcelona. Then, enjoy a free evening in the city or add an excursion.

Park Güell & La Pedrera

From $109 per person

Follow a local on a guided tour of the Catalonian capital.

• Step inside La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s famous masterwork-in-progress.
• Drive along Passeig de Gràcia, past Gaudí’s “House of Bones.”
• Stop at Montjuïc, where the 1992 Olympic Games took place, and stroll through Mirador de l’Alcalde Park.
• Pass Plaça d’Espanya.

Celebrate your trip with your group at tonight’s farewell dinner.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or continue on to explore Basque Country.

Board a train and travel through the Aragon and Navarra regions to Pamplona, which is located in Basque Country, and get to know the old city on a walking tour

• Pass Plaza de Toros and walk along the Running of the Bulls route.
• Admire Pamplona Cathedral and Pamplona City Hall.

After, continue on to your hotel in the Basque Country.

Set off on a guided sightseeing tour of Bilbao this morning.

• Admire the architecture in Bilbao’s Old Quarter, known as Casco Viejo.
• Enter the Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum, a showplace of modern and contemporary art, and admire the unique architecture alongside a local guide.

Enjoy a free day in Basque Country or add an excursion.

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your group.

A Day in San Sebastián

From $99 per person

Transfer to the Bilbao airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.6 out of 5

3 out of 5 stars

5 out of 5 stars

Portugal and Spain was not my choice but I had some extremely great moments and experiences. We met amazing people on the tour with us. I don't know if it was our wonderful tour director, Dionysia, or the people themselves, but I felt like we all bonded! Prices were very reasonable, so souvenir s...

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We'...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This contemporary hotel is located just outside of Seville's historic center. Guests enjoy the rooftop outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa. Nearby y...

This chic hotel is located on the central Marquês de Pombal Square in Lisbon. Guests enjoy the sun terrace, an on-site restaurant and bar, and spaciou...

This charming hotel is located in the San Bernardo neighborhood. Guests enjoy Wi-Fi, laundry services, and a hotel bar. Nearby, you'll find La Giralda...

This modern hotel is located close to the shopping area of Granada. Guests enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, gym, and restaurant options. Nearby you’ll ...

This contemporary hotel is located in the La Guindalera neighborhood. Guests enjoy a bar, gym, and free WiFi. Nearby you’ll find the Lázaro Galdiano M...

This contemporary hotel is located in the Sant Gervasi Galvany neighborhood. Guests enjoy a gym, terrace, and spa. Nearby you’ll find La Pedrera, Casa...

This contemporary hotel is located in Bilbao, Spain’s business district. Guests enjoy the gym, spa and wellness center, and tapas bar. Nearby you’ll f...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Portugal and Spain, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GPS.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Porto, Portugal and depart from Barcelona, Spain (or Bilbao on the tour extension).
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Porto, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Most transportation by motor coach
• Occasional transportation by train
• About 1-3 hours of bus time daily

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Stone and marble walkways may be slippery even when dry.
• Access to Alhambra requires travelers to walk uphill, including many stairs with uneven steps
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour

Climate Considerations

• In the summer months (June-September), travelers can expect low to mid-80sF in Portugal, and heatwaves with temperatures consistently above 90F in Spain.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• This tour includes various modes of transportation including trains and private motor coach. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• Train rides from Córdoba to Madrid and Madrid to Barcelona are included in the price of your tour. The tour extension also includes a train ride from Barcelona to Pamplona.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• European train stations typically operate similarly to airports where security measures, such as baggage and body scanners, are common. Platforms are often spread out across large distances and require travelers to manage their luggage on escalators or stairs. Porterage services are not offered on train transfers and luggage storage on trains is extremely limited. Please keep in mind that trains may only be stopping at the stations for a few minutes; speed with loading and unloading may be imperative.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one personal item per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which includes a train.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels, airports, and train stations.
• Luggage storage on trains is extremely limited, and often requires travelers to lift their suitcases onto storage racks, sometimes above the seats.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three and four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes 5 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Portuguese food is fresh, hearty, and delicious. Try seafood stew cooked in a cataplana, a shell-shaped copper pan, or the national dish, bacalhau (salted cod). A couvert, or simple plate of bread, butter, and olives, is often served when you sit down to a meal—while it is free in many restaurants, some will add a charge to your bill for it.
• In Spain, breakfast like a local with just a pastry and coffee. Then, tuck into a three-course lunch featuring a Spanish staple like savory seafood paella or grilled meat and fried potatoes. Dinner is less hearty than lunch and is served late, between 9pm and midnight. Snack on small plates called tapas any time of day.
• Cuisine in Spain’s southern Andalusia region is heavily influenced by surrounding countries, and has many Arabic elements. Kebabs are popular, and desserts are often prepared with almonds, honey, and cinnamon. Be sure to try Serrano ham, which is considered a regional delicacy, as well as the famous chilled soup known as gazpacho.
• Catalan cuisine, which can be found in Barcelona, is markedly different from food in other parts of Spain. Nearly every restaurant will offer pa amb tomàquet—toasted bread with tomato and olive oil. Fresh seafood, hearty meat dishes, cheeses, and locally grown vegetables, such as wild mushrooms, are culinary mainstays.
• Pintxos, small snacks that are usually spiked with a toothpick to a piece of bread, are an especially popular sort of tapas in the Basque Country on the tour extension.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro on this tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Portugal is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET). Spain is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5pm in Portugal and 6pm in Spain.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.

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One-week Spain and Portugal by train itinerary

Posted on Last updated: October 2, 2023

Explore Spain and Portugal by train in just one week on this rail itinerary which takes you from Barcelona to Valencia, Madrid, Porto and Lisbon, with delicious food and drink along the way.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

From paella to port, churros to custard tarts – eat and drink your way through two countries as you travel across Spain and Portugal by train. This one-week rail trip takes you from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, starting in Barcelona and Valencia before heading inland to the Spanish capital Madrid and across to Porto and Lisbon.

This Spain and Portugal rail itinerary will show you which trains to take, how much they cost, how to book and what to see and do along the way – with quirky architecture, world-class artworks, golden sand beaches, river boat trips and plenty of tapas.

Day 1: Barcelona

Start your journey across Spain and Portugal by train with a full day in the seaside city of Barcelona. The Catalan capital’s 2000 years of history, impressive art and architecture, and inventive culinary scene have helped make it one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations – and it can feel like it when you’re walking down the bustling Las Ramblas.

Explore the bustling Gothic quarter with an audioguide walking tour * and discover the Barcelona’s cathedral, Roman ruins, palaces and royal squares as you get an insight into the history and legends that form the foundations of this city.

Architect Antoni Gaudí left his mark across the city with his unique take on Art Nouveau. You can see his handiwork at Parc Güell, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà and the unfinished Sagrada Família. This giant basilica has been under construction since 1882 and won’t be finished until at least 2026. But you can still take a tour * to see work in progress.

When you get hungry, stock up on local cheese and jamón at La Boqueria food market. Then take the cable car to Montjuïc to watch the sun set over the city and toast the evening with a glass of cava at a beachside bar in the seafront neighbourhood of Barceloneta.

Where to stay in Barcelona: The Motel One Barcelona-Ciutadella * is a stylish, good-value hotel near the main city sites, with a 24-hour lounge bar and a rooftop terrace overlooking Ciutadella Park. Rooms are small but bright, with splashes of colour coming from the chain’s signature turquoise details and murals by a local artist.

Day 2: Barcelona > Valencia

Next morning, take the 3.5-hour Torre Oro train journey south along the coast to Valencia, which departs from Barcelona Sants station at 08.30 and arrives into Valencia’s Estacion del Norte (north station) at 11.55. Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia hosts the famous Las Fallas festival each March to welcome spring in riotous style.

Take a walk around the Ciutat Vella (old town) for some of Valencia’s most impressive historic buildings, including the Lonja de la Seda medieval silk market, Torres de Serrano city gates and Valencia Cathedral – where you’ll allegedly find the Holy Grail, and will definitely find impressive views over the city from the top of the Micalet belltower.

Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences – a complex of buildings, bridges and turquoise pools which looks like something from a sci-fi show. It’s actually a park built in the late 1990s to redevelop an old dry riverbed. Its unique buildings are home to the Oceanogràfic aquarium, a 3D cinema, science museum, opera house and sculpture garden.

If you fancy an afternoon on the beach, Valencia has a string of wide, sandy beaches stretching north and south of the city. Admire tiled buildings in the traditional fisherman’s district of Cabanyal-Canyamelar. Then take an evening stroll along the seafront promenade before trying traditional local dishes like Fideuà (seafood noodles) and the original Paella Valenciana , made with chicken, rabbit, snails, garrafó beans and rice.

Where to stay in Valencia: The Hotel Balandret * is right on the beach, 30 minutes from the old town by public transport, with views of the ocean or marina and a sunny terrace restaurant. The owners are proud of their local heritage, with sculptures and a giant mural made of 1000 botijos (traditional water jars) decorating the reception area.

Day 3: Valencia > Madrid

The following morning, take the short 1 hour 45 minute AVE high-speed train to Spain’s capital Madrid. The 10.10 service from Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla station arrives into Madrid Atocha at 12.32. Along the way it climbs upwards from sea level to 700 metres, with views of the Contreras Reservoir and Hoces del Cabriel Nature Reserve.

Then you have the afternoon and the next morning to explore Madrid. Admire the city’s architecture in the Plaza Mayor, take a walk down the Gran Vía and people-watch in one of the cafés in Puerta del Sol square. Don’t miss a stop off for churros con chocolate – sticks of deep-fried dough rolled in sugar and dipped into thick hot chocolate.

Take a breather and stop for a picnic in one of Madrid’s parks – there’s Retiro Park with its lawns, lakes and glass Palacio de Cristal, the Parque del Oeste with its Egyptian temples, or the giant Casa del Campo park – which you can reach by cable car on the Teleférico de Madrid. Or football fans can take a tour * of Real Madrid’s Bernabéu Stadium.

Start your evening in Madrid at the Círculo de Bellas Artes, an arts and cultural centre with a rooftop terrace bar that’s the perfect spot to watch the sun go down with a cocktail. Then head out on a food and drink-filled tour * of the city’s tapas bars. Or visit the beautiful glass Mercado de San Miguel, with stalls selling treats from across Spain.

Where to stay in Madrid: Palacio Plaza Conde Miranda * apartments are in an 18th-century building in a quiet square close to San Miguel market. They’re smart and modern, with one or two bedrooms and a kitchen/lounge. Each is themed around a couple from films, TV series or books – from Elizabeth and Mr Darcy to Homer and Marge Simpson.

Read more: Visiting Madrid on a budget

Day 4: Madrid > Porto

The next morning, enjoy Madrid’s art and culture before catching the train across the border to Portugal. Art-lovers are spoilt for choice in Madrid’s ‘Golden Triangle’, with modern art at the Reina Sofia museum, European art at the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Spanish art at the famous El Prado (though you may need to book in advance *).

Or you can overdose on gold, marble and frescoes at the elaborate Palacio Real. It’s the largest palace in Europe and the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family – though they actually live outside the city and it’s only used for ceremonies. There are over 3400 rooms, 50 of which you can visit on a tour to admire the lavish interiors.

Previously we suggested taking the Lusitania overnight train from Madrid to Lisbon next, but the service has been discontinued so it’s now easier to head to Porto first, which takes just under 7 hours, changing in Vigo close to the border. Catch the 14.30 train from Madrid Chamartin to Vigo Guixar, arriving at 19.20. Then change onto the 19.56 from Vigo which arrives in Porto Campanha at 21.18, just in time for a late dinner.

Where to stay in Porto: If you fancy splashing out, the luxurious Yeatman * in Vila Nova de Gaia has one of the best views in town and five-star service. From the decanter-shaped infinity pool to the grape-based spa treatments, they’ve gone all out with the wine theme. There’s also a two-Michelin-starred restaurant and an extensive wine cellar.

Day 5: Porto

Spend the next day exploring the laid-back riverside city of Porto. Get lost in the Ribeira, Porto’s medieval old town, with its maze of narrow streets running up into the hillside alongside the River Duoro. Cool off in the shady Jardins do Palácio de Cristal gardens and grab a drink by the riverside in colourful Praça da Ribeira square.

Climb to the top of the 76-metre-high Clérigos Tower and look out across the city’s rooftops. Visit the ornate Lello Bookshop – whose lavish staircase was the inspiration for the Hogwarts library in the Harry Potter books – and admire the traditional blue and white painted azulejo tiles which cover the walls of São Bento train station.

There are six bridges across the River Duoro which which link Porto with neighbouring Vila Nova de Gaia – including the arching Dom Luís I bridge. Take a boat tour * on board a traditional rabelo port barge, which takes 45 minutes to sail below all six of the bridges, with some great views of Porto’s riverside along the way.

Vila Nova de Gaia is the home of port-making, and you can visit the cellars of well-known brands like Taylor’s, Graham’s and Croft for a tour and tasting to find out more about how its made. And make sure to try some petiscos – the lesser-known Portuguese version of tapas, perfect with a refreshing glass of white port and tonic on a warm evening.

Read more: Exploring the Ribeira: Getting lost in Porto old town

Day 6: Porto > Lisbon

Finish your trip across Spain and Portugal by train by travelling south down the Portuguese coast to Lisbon in just under 3 hours. Catch an Alfa Pendular high-speed tilting train from Porto’s Campanha station at 09.32 and you’ll arrive into Lisbon Santa Apolónia at 12.30. Then you have the rest of the day to spend in the Portuguese capital.

Wander through the grand Praça do Comércio square and explore the narrow winding cobblestone streets of medieval Alfama, the city’s oldest district, where you’ll find Lisbon’s Cathedral and the hilltop São Jorge Castle. Prepare yourself for a workout as Lisbon is one hilly city – though that does make for some fantastic views.

Climb to the top of the Miradouro São Pedro de Alcantara or the Miradouro do Graça (or you can catch the funicular or tram) to look out across Lisbon’s red roofs. You can also take a budget city sightseeing tour on board Lisbon’s bright yellow retro No 28 trams.

Take a boat trip down the Tagus River to Belém, where you’ll find the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. And make sure to try Portuguese specialities like bacalhau (salt cod), ginjinha (cherry liqueur) and of course the infamous – and delicious – pastéis de nata custard tarts. You can try dishes from top local chefs at the Time Out Market food hall.

Where to stay in Lisbon: The boutique Brown’s Central Hotel * in the Baixa Pombalina downtown district features stylish vintage-meets-modern touches like Roberts radios and retro lamps. It’s close to metro and tram stops and has a brasserie and Art Deco-style cocktail bar which plays host to exhibitions and performances.

Day 7: Lisbon

Spend the last day of your Spain and Portugal rail trip seeing more of Lisbon. Or if the sun’s shining you could visit one of the sandy beaches just outside the city – take a local train to Praia de Carcavelos from Cais do Sodré on the end of the green Metro line.

Then if you’re flying back home, Lisbon’s airport is 20 minutes by Metro from the city centre. Or you can pre-book a transfer to the airport with Welcome Pickups *.

If you’ve got more time you could add on day trips from Lisbon to the colourful palaces of Sintra or the medieval city of Évora. Or if you feel like relaxing on the beach, you could travel south to Lagos on the Algarve coast (4.5 hours) for golden sands and clear seas. And if you want to go further, a ferry connects the Algarve with the island of Madeira during the summer – taking 24 hours to travel between Portimao and Funchal.

How much does it cost?

When you’re planning a European rail trip, you can either book individual tickets or get a railpass, which can be a better deal if you’re under 28, want more flexibility or are booking late. Here’s how the prices break down for the two different options on this route.

Individual tickets

Ticket prices vary depending on how early you book, with a limited number of cheap tickets available. So book as early as possible (on most routes you can book 3–4 months in advance) but beware these tickets are non-transferable so you’re tied to a specific train. Using the cheapest fares, the cost of trains on this route starts at €76.65 per person.

• Barcelona > Valencia: from €12.35
• Valencia > Madrid: from €7
• Madrid > Porto: from €47.80
• Porto > Lisbon: from €9.50

The railpass option

There are also various rail passes available through InterRail (for European residents) and Eurail (for non-European residents), which cover individual countries or the whole region and are valid for different periods of time, varying from four days to three months.

The Spain and Portugal by train itinerary involves four travel days across two countries, so the best option is the Global Pass for 4 travel days within 1 month . This costs €246 for adults, €185 for youths (aged 12–27) or €221 for seniors (aged 60+) in second class.

As well as the pass, you also need to pay an extra compulsory reservation fee for all trains in Spain and for high-speed services in Portugal. For this trip, the reservation fees come to €28, broken down as below, meaning the overall railpass cost starts from €274.

• Barcelona > Valencia: €6.50
• Valencia > Madrid: €10
• Madrid > Porto: €6.50
• Porto > Lisbon: €5

Reservations can be made at any train station in the country or for Spanish trains they can be made online through the InterRail/Eurail reservations service for a fee of €2.

How to book

There are a variety of websites where you can book European train journeys, but often the best deals are though the official railway company sites for each country. For this trip these are Renfe (Spain) and Portuguese Railways (Portugal).

You can also book tickets for train travel in Italy with Omio * or The Trainline . The advantage is these sites are in English, you can see prices in €, £ or $, use international credit cards and print or use mobile tickets, but they do both charge a small booking fee.

Trains within Portugal can only be booked through Portuguese Railways, so you’d need to book tickets for Vigo to Porto and Porto to Lisbon separately.

Don’t want to do it yourself? You can also book this One-week Spain and Portugal by train itinerary * as a package through our partners Byway, the flight-free holiday platform, which includes transport and accommodation.

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Saturday 27th of August 2022

This may be a naive question…,what do you do with your bags while you wait to check into the hotel?

Lucy Dodsworth

Sunday 28th of August 2022

Hi Shelly, if you're staying at a hotel they will usually let you leave your bags there before check on – otherwise there are often left luggage lockers at stations of website like Stasher.com list places where you can store baggage for a small fee.

Tuesday 23rd of August 2022

Thanks for such a well written article, Lucy.

I’m hoping to fly in to Lisbon in late Dec 2022 through the first week of Jan 2023 and do the trip in reverse from Lisbon to Barcelona, and then coming back to Lisbon for my return trip to the US.

The only question is should I fly to Lisbon from Barcelona or take the train for the return trip too.

Thank you! To do the journey from Lisbon by train would mean an overnight stay in Madrid but if you have the time then no reason not to add on the extra train trip rather than fly.

Monday 4th of April 2022

When did you take this trip? I'm looking up trains and it says that there is no train service between Madrid and Porto. Only buses. This was the case on the train line and ACP rail websites.

Friday 8th of April 2022

Hi Jess, all the train details were checked and updated in March and I've just checked again today on the RENFE site. You may need to book in two sections Mardid > Vigo and Vigo > Porto and you generally can't buy tickets for Portuguese trains via third party sites like Trainline so better to try the RENFE site.

Friday 3rd of July 2020

Can you do this trip in reverse where you start in Porto stop in all the same places end in Barcelona and then take a train to Paris then down thru Italy?

Yes the timings would need tweaking slightly but yes that should work fine – it's 6.5 hours from Barcelona to Paris by high-speed train and there is also a sleeper service, and from there you can travel by day or night train to Milan and on through Italy.

Stuart Forster

Wednesday 3rd of June 2020

I saw that Portugal has reopened to UK travellers. I find it a great place to spend time and love the idea of travelling across the Iberian peninsula.

Portugal is such an underrated country – so much to see, and some fantastic food and drink too.

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14 Day Spain and Portugal Tour from Madrid to Barcelona

14 days, 2 countries and 14 cities

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Don’t miss a thing on this most exhilarating of Spain and Portugal trips, filled with the flavors of sangria and port shared with locals, life-changing pilgrimages and the legacy of the Romans, Moors, Iberian royalty and a ‘Spanish Pope’ who built a ‘City in the Sea’.

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Toledo, Madrid, Santiago de Compostela, Porto, Lisbon, Seville and Barcelona with a Local Specialist

Discover Segovia, Zamora and Valencia

Visit Santo Tomé and the synagogue in Toledo, the cathedral and Praza do Obradoiro in Santiago de Compostela, the Stock Exchange Palace and a local port wine cellar in Porto, the Hieronymite Monastery in Lisbon, Seville Cathedral, the Alhambra Palace in Granada

View the Roman Aqueduct and Alcazar in Segovia, the cathedral in Zamora, the Belém Tower in Lisbon, the Giralda Bell Tower in Seville, the cave homes of Guadix, the Serrano and Quart Towers and the city of Arts and Sciences complex in Valencia, La Sagrada Família in Barcelona and the Shrine at Fátima

See the Monument to the Discoveries in Lisbon

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An Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Portugal and Spain (2024)

From the sun-kissed shores of the Algarve in Portugal to the historic streets of Barcelona, a trip to Portugal and Spain is your gateway to discover the diverse and culturally rich Iberian Peninsula. Follow our comprehensive guide to uncover hidden gems, savor delicious cuisines, and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of both enchanting destinations.

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• 1. How Long to Spend
• 2. Spain and Portugal Itinerary
• 3. Costs for a Trip
• 4. Best Times to Visit
• 5. Which Country to Enter First
• 6. How to Travel between Portugal and Spain

1. How Many Days to Spend in Portugal and Spain?

For most first-time travelers to Portugal and Spain, it is recommended to allocate 10–14 days to cover the top attractions in both countries. This time frame allows for exploring two to three cities in each country effectively.

With a 10-day itinerary spanning Spain and Portugal, you could take in the major highlights, such as the historical capitals, Madrid and Lisbon, as well as Porto and Barcelona, spending 2 days in each city. For those seeking beach experiences, spending 3–4 days in the Algarve region of Portugal or exploring the picturesque coastal areas of Spain would be ideal.

For a richer and deeper experience delving into the cultural and historical wealth of both countries, consider extending your trip to 14–16 days. For example, by adding an extra day in Lisbon, you could embark on a day trip to neighboring towns, such as Sintra or Cascais. These enchanting destinations offer breathtaking palaces and castles waiting to be explored.

To truly immerse yourself in the wonders of Portugal and Spain, consider extending your trip to 3 weeks. Spend 10 days exploring Portugal from the northern wine regions to the southern coast and reserve another 10 days to discover the best of Spain.

Let us know your available time for travel, interests, group size, budget, and any other preferences, and our travel consultant would create a customized itinerary just for you. Feel free to contact us .

2. Choosing a Suitable Portugal and Spain Itinerary

Here are two tour options that cover both Spain and Portugal: a concise and efficient 10-day tour as well as a classic 2-week family tour.

10 Days in Spain and Portugal (Essential Highlights Tour)

• Days 1–3: Barcelona, Spain
• Days 4–5: Madrid, Spain
• Days 6–8: Lisbon, Portugal
• Days 9–10: Porto, Portugal

On this tour, you would experience the highlights of Spain and Portugal, featuring iconic cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, and Porto.

In Spain , you would visit the top destinations, including Barcelona and Madrid . Discover the architectural marvels of Barcelona with a tour dedicated to the works of Gaudí. Explore the city's history in the Gothic Quarter and savor local delicacies at Mercat de la Boqueria.

Unlock stories of Madrid with a personal guide by your side. Visit the Palacio Real de Madrid to witness opulence at the Spanish royal residence, then enjoy a walking tour of the old town with a stop for churros and chocolate. Take a day trip to Segovia from Madrid and explore the Alcázar de Segovia, which was the inspiration for Snow White's castle.

In Portugal , you would explore the iconic landmarks of Lisbon and Porto. In Lisbon, the Torre de Belém and Jerónimos Monastery are must-visit sites. Spend a day diving into Sintra's rich history and visit Cabo da Roca for stunning views. In Porto, discover key landmarks, such as São Bento Railway Station and Clérigos Tower before enjoying breathtaking views along the Douro River. Take a full-day excursion to the Douro Valley for wine tasting and a scenic boat trip.

Spain and Portugal in 14 Days (Family Tour)

• Days 1–2: Barcelona, Spain
• Days 3–4: Valencia, Spain
• Days 5–7: Madrid, Spain
• Days 8–10: Lisbon, Portugal
• Days 11–14: The Algarve, Portugal

This tour is designed for family travelers , offering a diverse and exciting blend of culture, history, food, and activities. It is perfect for keeping everyone entertained, from young children to teenagers and adults.

In Spain , adding Valencia to your family trip provides a delightful array of children's activities. You would take a private walking tour in Valencia's historic center, then have a paella cooking experience. Visit the Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium, featuring a huge collection of marine life. Discover scientific wonders at the Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe. Lastly, enjoy Gulliver's Travels with a trip to Gulliver Park, offering interactive fun inspired by the classic tale.

In Portugal , consider adding the Algarve to your itinerary to provide enriching experiences for your children. They could enjoy playing on the beach and participating in various water activities. We recommend the beaches in Lagos, which boasts an array of choices, from the serene Pinhão Beach to the striking cliffs of Ponta da Piedade and the picturesque Praia do Camilo, which is accessible via wooden steps.

3. The Estimated Travel Budget

Travel expenses in Portugal and Spain are comparable as both countries offer relatively cost-effective options within Europe.

The major part of your budget would be spent on accommodation and transport. In both countries, the hotel costs would be about 150–200 USD per night per room for a quality 4-star hotel.

The flights between the two countries would typically cost from 150 to 250 USD, depending on the type of seat you choose. The domestic flights between major cities in both countries would range from 60 to 150 USD depending on the distance.

For a private tour experience, the daily cost per person averages about 500 USD , ensuring a high-quality, hassle-free journey. This amount covers various amenities, such as airfares between the two countries, luxurious 4- or 5-star accommodation, guided tours to attractions, and convenient transfers.

Additionally, family discounts ranging from 30–50% are available for children under the age of 10, making these destinations feasible choices for budget-friendly family trips.

4. Choosing the Best Time to Visit

Spain and Portugal, as neighboring countries on the Iberian Peninsula, share similar weather conditions. For those seeking the best weather and fewer crowds, the optimal months to travel to both destinations include April, May, early June, September, and October.

In contrast, late June, July, and August mark the peak summer vacation season for both countries, offering ideal weather conditions for coastal regions like the Algarve. Travelers intending to visit during this peak season are advised to book their accommodation at least 3 months in advance.

Meanwhile, the winter season (excluding the Christmas period) serves as the off-season for trips to Portugal and Spain. You could benefit from discounts during this time but should anticipate some rainfall and a rise in prices and bookings around Christmas.

For more about what's recommended and what to expect for each month, you may want to read more about Best Times to Visit Portugal and the best months to visit Spain.

5. Choosing Which Country to Start Your Trip In

As neighboring countries on the Iberian Peninsula, both Portugal and Spain offer convenient access to international flights from major cities around the world. When planning your trip, the choice between starting in Portugal or Spain depends on your convenience in terms of flight availability, as both countries offer a similar range of options for discovery and relaxation.

If you are flying from the USA, for example, Portugal may be a slightly more favorable option due to its closer proximity compared to Spain.

6. Transportation Between the Two Countries

The most popular way to travel between Spain and Portugal is by taking a flight, which typically lasts an hour and a half. Direct flights are available between major cities, such as Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, and Barcelona.

While there are direct trains from Lisbon to Madrid, the journey could take about 10 hours, which may not be ideal for most travelers.

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Global Gallivanting

Our epic spain and portugal road trip route & itinerary.

In September 2021 we drove an epic 3,500 km in 1 month visiting 12 destinations on an amazing whirlwind Spain and Portugal road trip.

We had the time of our life exploring the beautiful cities, landscapes and historical sights, eating as many tapas and pasteis de nata as possible, visiting offbeat communities and catching up with friends who have moved out there.

We didn’t find many articles online about driving around both Spain and Portugal in one trip and I didn’t find any Spain and Portugal itinerary that started from the ferry ports in Northern Spain.

So in this blog post I’ll share our route, itinerary and tips for an epic Spain and Portugal road trip – what we loved and what we would have done differently another time.

Our 1 Month Spain and Portugal Road Trip Route

We got the ferry from the UK to Spain and this was our 1 month Spain and Portugal road trip route:

Portsmouth (UK) – ferry to – Bilbao (Spain) – San Sebastian – Madrid – Granada – Orgiva – Seville – Algarve – Lisbon – Fundao – Porto – Braga – Oviedo – Bilbao – ferry to – Portsmouth.

We had wanted to do this in 2020, but it looked too difficult with the constantly changing Covid restrictions, but in 2021 the dream finally came a reality and Covid really didn’t affect our trip too much. I’ll explain more about what it’s like traveling nowadays later on in this post.

My Top Tips for Driving in Spain and Portugal

The best time to travel around Spain and Portugal is during the shoulder seasons like May – June and September – October. During this time the weather is the most pleasant and the crowds are less than during the summer holidays.

To see all of Spain and Portugal you need at least 1 month, but you could see the highlights like Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Seville, Lisbon and Porto in 2 weeks.

We spent 1 month in Spain and Portugal, 3 weeks traveling and 10 days visiting a friend’s farm in Portugal towards the end of our trip. 3 weeks allowed us to have a few days to relax and really explore each place.

If you have time, I would recommend spending 1 month as there is plenty to see and do in both beautiful countries. If you have 1 week then just do a road trip around Andalusia or travel from Lagos to Porto or you’ll be spending more time driving than enjoying!

Car or Camper?

Whether I travel by car or campervan, my favourite way travel experiences are always road trips. Nothing can beat the freedom of exploring with your own set of wheels.

We took our own car over on the ferry from the UK, but when we’ve rented cars on previous trips to Europe we used Discover Cars because they compare all the major car hire companies and got us the best price with and no hidden fees.

A campervan or motorhome is even better for this route as your transport, accommodation and kitchen are all on wheels for the ultimate freedom! Check out Motorhome Republic to compare and find the best deals for campervans, motorhomes and RVs.

The free roads in Spain were great, but in Portugal we had to take some toll roads if we didn’t want to spend double the time driving.

Pin me for later! 🙂

To Book or Not To Book?

Europe is very popular in the summer so, especially if you are traveling in the peak season of July and August, you should book your accommodation and tickets for popular sights and attractions to avoid disappointment.

I usually prefer Booking.com to book accommodation, but for a road trip I like how Agoda has a handy filter to find hotels with car parks. The downside of taking a road trip is navigating confusing city center one way systems and finding affordable places to park.

To avoid this we stayed at hotels a little outside the city center with parking and took public transport to save us the hassle of driving in. I’ll mention the car friendly hotels with parking and easy access from the motorways that we stayed at in each destination in this post.

Be aware that tickets for some of the most famous attractions do sell out and some, like the Alhambra (a highlight of my trip) have to be arranged at least 3 days before visiting. I use Viator and Get Your Guide , to find skip the line tickets to make the most of your time and avoid queues.

There’s more practical Spain and Portugal itinerary and road trip tips at the end of the post but lets get on with my Spain and Portugal road trip route!

Our Spain Road Trip

We began our Spain and Portugal road trip taking the 24 hour ferry with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth (UK) to Bilbao (Spain). Bilbao is a buzzing port city in the Basque region of Northern Spain and home to the Guggenheim Museum.

From Bilbao we drove through the mountainous landscape to San Sebastian. Driving a British right hand drive car on the right side of the road and figuring out the different road signs, in Spanish and Basque, was a bit confusing at first!

But Spanish roads are great and we soon got the hang of driving in Europe. It was useful to have someone in the passenger seat when merging into motorways or overtaking but over all it was fine once we got used to it.

Still, I would recommend allowing time in your Spain and Portugal itinerary so that you don’t have to rush on the first day and can acclimatize to the different driving conditions.

Bilbao to San Sebastian: 127km –  2 hours

San sebastian.

Donostia San Sebastian was a perfect start to our Spain and Portugal road trip adventure!

Only 2 hours driving (avoiding tolls) from the ferry port at Bilbao is this pretty seaside town with lovely beaches, stunning views and a fab foodie scene.

San Sebastian’s Old Town is lovely to wander while sampling the delicious Pintxos (tasty tapas-like bar snacks) in the bars and the harbour treated us to a spectacular sunset.

Our highlight was taking the historic funicular railway up to Monte Igueldo to see the quirky amusement park and incredible views from there.

Best Things to Do in San Sebastian

• Wander through the Old Town or take a walking tour
• Go up to Monte Igueldo for the views and amusement park
• Taste the best pintxos in the city – we took this food tour
• Laze on La Concha Beach or stroll along the Paseo De La Concha.

Check out more things to do in San Sebastian and  book tours here.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian –  Mercure Monte Igueldo Hotel 

The Mercure Monte Igueldo Hotel has the best views over San Sebastian, a lovely outdoor swimming pool, great breakfasts and free parking.

Also Visit: Barcelona is one of my all time favourite cities in the world for it’s combination of beautiful and unique art and architecture, beaches, food and all round amazing vibes.

Barcelona shouldn’t be missed off any Spain and Portugal itinerary but as I’ve been to Barcelona many times before we skipped it on this trip, but if you haven’t been you could skip Madrid and visit Barcelona instead and then head down the coast visiting Valencia and then heading to Granada.

San Sebastian to Madrid: 471km – 4.75 hours

From San Sebastian we drove almost 5 hours through the country to Madrid, the Spanish Capital, to break up the journey south to Andalusia.

Madrid is a beautiful, classy city with grand architecture, amazing parks, some of the most impressive art galleries and museums in the world and the largest Royal Palace in Western Europe.

Our highlight was visiting the Prado and exploring the Parque de El Retiro. This huge city center park, originally a pleasure grounds for King Felipe IV in the 17th century, is one of Madrid’s most well loved hang outs. It’s full of interesting statues, monuments, palaces, gardens, museums, galleries and activities. You can even row a boat on the lake.

Best Things to do in Madrid

• Explore Madrid’s Art Triangle; the Prado Museum , the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza are considered the best art galleries. The Art Walk Pass gives you entrance and queue jump at all three.
• Marvel at Madrid’s Royal Palace – the largest in Western Europe.
• Stroll around the Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor
• Relax and explore Parque El Retiro and row a boat on the lake
• Visit IKONO and the Museum of Illusions
• Sample Madrid’s best wine and tapas – we took this fun tapas crawl tour.

Check out more things to do in Madrid and  book your tickets and tours here.

Where to Stay in Madrid – Barcelo Imagine

Not wanting to drive right into Madrid we stayed at the Barcelo Imagine. It’s close to the motorways and Chamartin metro station with parking available onsite. The stylish rooftop pool, gardens and interiors also made this hotel a winner.

Madrid to Granada: 420 km – 4 hours

After a 4 hour drive from Madrid we reached Andalusia – Spain’s most flamboyant region and somewhere not to be missed of any Spain and Portugal itinerary. If you didn’t have time to travel around the whole of Spain, Andalusia is my top choice for a short Spain road trip.

From the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Mediterranean Coast, the beautiful landscapes, sun soaked white-washed villages, Moorish forts and palaces make Andalusia one of the most bewitching regions of Spain and my personal favourite.

Granada is home to  The Alhambra , a vast palace and fortress perched imposingly on a rocky outcrop against the backdrop of the mountains.

The Alhambra’s long and storied history dates back to 899 AD. It was once home to Granada’s Nasrid rulers in the 14th century and contains some amazingly intricate architecture and palaces inside.

As one of the finest and largest Moorish Islamic buildings in Europe it’s almost overwhelming how much there is to see here. The Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, Carlos V Palace and the gardens at Generalife are all must sees.

When planning your Spain and Portugal itinerary take into account that you must book at least a few days in advance to get a time slot for the Nasrid Palaces and have your passport with you when you visit.The audio guide isn’t the best so I recommend taking a guided tour so you know more about what you are looking at!

This Alhambra guided tour has great reviews and includes the admission ticket and allows you to skip the line. I’d definitely do that next time.

Best Things to do in Granada

• Explore the magnificent Alhambra – book your fast track tickets here.
• Take a photo from the Plaza Mirador de San Nicolas for the best viewpoint of the Alhambra
• Join a sunset walking tour or a fun Segway tour of Albaicín & Sacromonte – Granada’s medieval neighbourhoods
• Visit the Sacromonte Cave Museum and see how people used to live in cave houses.
• Visit Granada Cathedral – Spain’s 2 nd largest cathedral
• Relax in a traditional Arabic Hammam

Check out more things to do in Granada and  book your tickets and tours here.

Where to Stay in Granada –  Hotel Andalusia Center 

Parking is difficult in Granada so we stayed at this comfortable, modern, good value hotel on the outskirts with a rooftop pool and on site parking only 15 minutes walk into town.

One of our reasons for taking a road trip through Spain and Portugal is because we wanted to visit some alternative communities, friends and more remote regions that would have been difficult to access by bus.

Orgiva is a small town tucked away in a beautiful valley between the Sierra Nevada mountains about 1 hour from Granada.

I’d heard about the alternative communities around Orgiva from friends in Goa and wanted to check it out for myself.

I loved how people were able to build their own unique homes and form a community in this beautiful valley. It was really inspiring for me but if you’re not into this kind of stuff and just want to focus on seeing the sights then you can skip this part for your own Spain and Portugal itinerary.

The town, and it’s interesting mixture of inhabitants, is also brought to life in the book – Driving Over Lemons by Chris Stewart which is now being made into a TV series.

Where to Stay in Orgiva –  Casa Jazmin

A lovely traditional Spanish house with beautiful swimming pool and gardens. Situated close to town with free street parking and friendly hosts

Granada to Seville: 250 km – 2.5 hours

Andalusia, and especially Seville , really captures the essence of Spain. As both the Moorish capital and later a 16th-century metropolis rich on the back of trade with the New World, flamboyant Seville has no shortage of sights and was one of the highlights of our trip.

You can see Seville’s sights on a horse and carriage ride or simply wander in the sunshine, admiring the incredible architecture and beautiful parks like Parque de María Luisa.

Don’t miss the Plaza de Espana, the Royal Alcazar and the massive Seville Cathedral – it’s the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and was even built to ‘make something so beautiful and so magnificent that those who see it will think we are mad!’

Soaking up Spanish culture, eating tapas washed down with sangria and watching flamenco is the perfect way to spend an evening in Seville.

I really fell in love with Seville, it’s became my favourite place on this trip and I already can’t wait to return. Definitely allow at least 3 days to explore Seville into your Spain and Portugal itinerary.

Best Things to do in Seville

• Marvel at The Royal Alcázar of Seville – Europe’s oldest royal palace still in continual use
• See Seville’s sights on a romantic horse drawn carriage ride
• Explore the Plaza de Espana and the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa
• Visit Seville Cathedral and climb the La Giralda Tower
• Watch a traditional Flamenco performance in the home of Flamenco
• Visit the futuristic Metropol Parasol , also known as Setas de Sevilla, at night.

Check out more things to do in Seville and  book your skip the queue tickets and tours here.

Read More: My Perfect 3 Day Seville Itinerary and Tips

Where to Stay in Seville – Exe Isla Cartuja

The historic centre of Seville is another place where it’s hard to find hotels with parking. Exe Isla Cartuja is a good value modern hotel located near the stadium with plenty of free parking. It also offers easy access from the motorway and a quick bus into town

Seville to Carvoeiro, Algarve: 250km – 3.5 hours (avoiding tolls)

We just drove straight over the bridge and crossed the border from Spain into Portugal – there were no checks or Covid documentation required.

Our Portugal Road Trip

The Algarve

We started the Portugal part of our road trip with a much needed beach day in the Algarve! If you’re following a packed Spain and Portugal itinerary like us you’ll probably want to factor in some rest days too!

Even though it was warm in the September sun, the sea was really quite cold already so it was a super refreshing swim. The turquoise water and golden cliffs, a quintessential Algarve beach scene, made a stunning backdrop.

We only had a couple of days to spend in the Algarve to we stayed in the center of the region near the fishing village of Carvoeiro.

There is still no shortage of beautiful beaches in the Algarve , but sadly a lot of this region has been blighted with developments of towering white concrete apartment blocks (which looked empty)

But Carvoeiro retains it’s charm and made a good base to explore the nearby beaches like Praia da Marinha, kayak to Benagil Caves and to walk the Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail to soak up the stunning views and rock formations that the Algarve is known for.

Best Things to do in the Algarve

• Relax on the beaches
• Take a boat tour  or kayak to visit Benagil Caves
• Take your Benagil Cave tour to the next level by travelling on a pirate ship!
• Walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
• Learn to surf by taking a surf lesson or joining a surf camp

Check out more things to do in the Algarve and find the best deals for activities and day tours here .

Where to Stay in Carvoerio –  Castelo Guest House

A unique castle themed hotel in a central location with free street parking. Soak up the stunning views over the beach from the rooms and terraces and enjoy the wonderful breakfast and hosts.

Carvoeiro, Algarve to Lisbon: 307km – 2.75 hours

(4.25 hours avoiding tolls).

Taking the toll road from the Algarve to Lisbon will cut your journey time in half.

Or, if you have more time for your Spain and Portugal itinerary and want to take the scenic route you could visit the historic town of Evora on the way from the Algarve to Lisbon.

It’s one of the most picturesque and best preserved medieval walled towns in Portugal and a UNESCO world heritage site.

One of Europe’s most distinctive, colourful and picturesque cities. Old yellow trams rattle and screech up and down along Lisbon’s cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops sprawl across the hillsides, while tile covered, pastel coloured buildings part to reveal glimpses of the shimmering Tagus river.

It’s hard not to fall in love with Lisbon. Plan to spend at least 3 days here in your Spain and Portugal itinerary.

Best Things to do in Lisbon

• Wander and explore or join a walking tour through Lisbon’s most historic and storied districts – this is the tour we took
• Ride the historic Route 28 tram through Lisbon’s most iconic districts. Or, if you’d rather avoid cramming in with the crowds take a tram tour or follow the route in Tuk Tuk!
• See the Belem Tower and marvel at the 16th-century Manueline architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery
• Take in the beautiful, heart-felt sounds of a traditional acoustic Fado show.
• Explore Lisbon from land and water in adventurous style on an amphibious vehicle
• Take a day trip to Sintra to explore the colourful fairytale castles and palaces.

Check out more things to do in Lisbon and book your skip the queue tickets and tours here.

After spending so long in Goa , and falling in love with the unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences there, it was interesting to learn about the history and culture of Portugal on a guided walking tour of Lisbon and to explore the narrow streets of Alfama (the only part of the Old city to survive the devastating 1755 earthquake)

The waterside district of Belem is definitely worth the short tram ride out of Lisbon’s city center. This was the place where many of the Portuguese maritime explorers left from to explore the world and is a lot more spacious and relaxing than the city center.

Don’t miss the marvelling at the Belem Tower and walking along the Tagus River to the Discoveries Monument. There’s also a huge world map in mosaics on the floor behind showing all the places the Portuguese explored which was eye opening to see.

The Jeronimos Monastery , also in Belem, has beautiful nautical themed details and you can try the original recipe pasteis de natas at Pasteis de Belem nearby.

Our Highlight: Lisbon’s old yellow trams have become an icon of the city and quite the tourist attraction. Riding the scenic tram route 28 as it twists like a rollercoaster through the historic neighbourhoods like Alfama, Baixa and Chiado was one of the highlights of my time in Lisbon.

You can buy a Viva Viagem 24 hour unlimited ticket for only €6.40 which includes all trams, metros, buses and elevadors in Lisbon. But you can only buy it at a metro station not on the tram. Or you could get a Lisbon Card which gives you free access to Lisbon’s top attractions as well as free public transport.

It’s so popular its actually difficult to get on! Board at Martim Moniz, where the metro meets the tram terminus, for a good chance of getting a seat. Standing is quite the experience as the tram lurches, screeches and rattles around.

Or, to be guaranteed a seat and learn something about the streets you travel though, I recommend taking the  tram tour for a better experience.

Day Trips from Lisbon

Lisbon is also a great base to explore the many beautiful places nearby. Most of these are easily accessible with a day trip tour.

Don’t miss Sintra , a town and former royal retreat in the Sintra Mountains just 30 minutes from Lisbon. The colourful, fairy-tale like castles and mansions at Sintra are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most enchanting places in Portugal. This is the Sintra day trip we took.

You could also combine Sintra with a stop at Cabo da Rocha and the seaside town of Cascais or the picturesque Azenhas do Mar.  Find more Sintra day trips here.

Visit the surfing capital of Europe – the surf reserve of Ericeria only 45 minutes away. It’s a charming historic blue and white fishing town with beautiful beaches and one of the best places to learn to surf in Portugal – more about surf camps in Portugal here.

Where to Stay in Lisbon –  Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel

An elegant hotel with free parking located near Marques de Pombal so it’s easy to drive to and also close to the metro station. Some balconies have hot tubs.

For more on the different areas of Lisbon and the best hotels check out my post on Where to Stay in Lisbon.

Lisbon to Porto: 317km – 3 hours (5.5 hours avoiding tolls)

After Lisbon we headed inland to the region of Castelo Branco to visit friends on their farm near Fundao.

If you didn’t want to go into the countryside the route up the coast from Lisbon to Porto is only about 320 km which takes 3 hours driving on toll roads, or 5.5 hours without tolls.

There’s plenty of stunning beaches, legendary surf spots like Peniche and Nazare and historic towns to visit on the way including picture perfect Obidos , the historic university city of Coimbra and Aveiro , the Venice of Portugal.

A Lisbon to Porto road trip is one of the highlights of many people’s Spain and Portugal itineraries, but this time we went inland to see what life was like on the farm so check out this blog for more about the Lisbon – Porto route.

Lisbon to Fundao: 260 km – 2.5 hours (4.5 hrs avoiding tolls)

Portuguese farm life, castelo branco.

One of our main reasons for taking this Portugal road trip was to visit friends who bought an old farm near Fundao in Castelo Branco, Central Portugal and to check out what the lifestyle is like there.

This area is pretty remote with just a few small villages and plenty of nature backed by the mountains of the Serra da Estrela . There’s alot of ruins and cheap land in this area of Portugal (find them on Pure Portugal ) and its inspiring to hear and see how people have moved out here to renovate the ruins and farms to build self sufficient homesteads and live off grid.

Some are also building eco villages, communities and yoga retreats and it’s been a dream of mine for a long time to come and see what farm life in Portugal is like for myself.

Our home for the week was this self contained cabin on our friend’s farm. It’s a beautiful area and it’s really inspiring to see what’s going on here but it’s also a reality check of how much money, time and hard work it takes to make it happen.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have a friend with a farm in Portugal but still want to have this experience you can find hosts on Worldpackers looking for volunteers and you’ll receive free food and accommodation in return for your help.

(Use the code ‘GLOBALGALLIVANTING’ to get $20 off membership with Worldpackers.) 

Where to Stay in Castelo Branco –  Natura Glamping

Natura Glamping is an amazing example of a new eco resort with white geometric domes, spa baths, infinity pool, amazing views and free onsite parking.

Monsanto, Castelo Branco

While staying on the farm we took a day trip to the historic village of Monsanto – a village in Central Portugal that won the award of ‘ the most Portuguese village in Portugal ‘ and was one of the coolest places we’ve seen in the country.

Yes, the Portuguese seem to like building settlements on steep hills, but Monsanto isn’t really your typical Portuguese village. Actually it’s quite unique and even the Game of Thrones are filming the ‘House of The Dragon’ here!

I loved exploring the historic village of cobble stoned pathways and houses built around the boulders. The ruins of Monsanto castle perch high above the village with amazing views and an old church with spooky graves cut out from the rock.

Best of all it just felt like we were exploring, it doesn’t feel like a tourist attraction. Monsanto is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the Castelo Branco region.

Due to the steep, narrow, historic lanes you can’t drive into Monsanto village. There is car parking and a shuttle bus slightly down the hill.

Where to Stay in Monsanto –  Casa Mont’Santo

A cute historic fully equipped 3 bedroom cottage, accessible by car with parking, large terraces and great views

Fundao to Porto: 259 km – 2.5 hrs (4.5 hrs without tolls)

Portugal’s 2 nd city is worth visiting just as much as Lisbon and mustn’t be missed from your Spain and Portugal itinerary!

Explore the grand cathedrals, blue mosaic covered churches and the colourful buildings of the historic Ribeira district that tumble down to the Douro River where port barges would have awaited their cargo.

Nowadays you can take a cruise along the river , ride the old trams, funiculars and the modern Gaia Cable Car to explore Porto and stop in at cellar doors to taste Port wine in the city that it was invented.

Did you also know that author JK Rowling taught English and lived in Porto for a while and found inspiration for the Harry Potter series in the enchanting bookstores here like the Livraria Lello and in the uniforms of the university students.

Best Things to do in Porto

• Cross over the river on the Ponte de Dom Luis I Bridge for magnificent views
• Take the 6 bridges cruise down the Douro River
• Visit the port wine cellars and taste the best wines of Portugal on a wine tour
• Explore the historic Ribeira district or join a walking tour.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Porto from the top of the Torre dos Clérigos
• Watch the sunset from the Jardim do Morro.
• See the places that inspired JK Rowling on a Harry Potter tour
• Visit the World of Discoveries museum 

Check out more things to do in Porto and find the best deals on tours and attraction tickets here.

Our Highlight: The iconic Ponte de Dom Luis I Bridge is rated on Trip Advisor as the best thing to do in Porto and I can see why. Whether admiring it from below or walking along the top soaking up the sweeping views of this beautiful and unique city and watching the sunset from Jardim do Morro.

Soaking up the picturesque views and riverside vibes while tasting port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia and riding the cable car up to the bridge was another highlight.

Where to Stay in Porto –  Vincci Porto 

Amazing art deco style hotel in a stylishly renovated landmark building with easy access from motorway, onsite parking and opposite a tram stop. The panoramic river views from the terrace were a highlight.

Porto to Braga: 54 km – 1 hour without tolls

We made a short stop in Braga to meet a friend’s 2 week old baby! Braga looked like a lovely, historic city but it was raining most of the time we were there so we spent most of the time inside catching up and playing with the little ones.

One thing I couldn’t miss when in Braga is the UNESCO listed Bom Jesus do Monte! The wedding cake like layered steps remind me of the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church – the famous church in Panjim, Goa.

If you’re not keen on walking up the 577 steps you can take the historic wooden funicular railway up to the top. Dating back to 1882 it’s the oldest in the world that moves using water counter balancing.

Where to Stay in Braga –  Vila Gale Collection Braga

Located in an amazing heritage building that used to be a church! With a beautiful swimming pool and gardens, fantastic central location and free onsite parking

Braga to Oviedo: 479 km – 4.5 hours (6 hours without tolls)

As we hadn’t planned enough time for our epic Spain and Portugal itinerary, after Braga we only had a few days to drive the 700km back to Bilbao for the ferry so we had to put our foot down if we were going to make it back to the ferry on time and sadly has to skip Santiago de Compostela.

We wound our way over the mountains of Northern Portugal and crossed over the border into Spain without any border checks or paperwork.

Oviedo, Spain

Northern Spain and the regions of Galicia, Asturias and Cantabria are beautiful, green and alpine-like – very different from the rest of the Spain.

We stayed 1 night in Oviedo , the unpretentious capital of the Asturias region, and had a bit of time to look around the compact and characterful old town, wander the Campo de San Francisco park and try the local food and cider.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied for a few days in Oviedo. It’s also part of the pilgrims route – the camino (way) to Santiago de Compostela and the cathedral at sunset was a mesmerising sight.

Where to Stay in Oviedo –  Exe Oviedo Centro

Great value modern hotel with spacious, comfortable rooms and free onsite parking, close to train station and 15 mins walk to the cathedral

Oviedo to Bilbao: 280 km – 3 hours

I would have loved to spend more time in Northern Spain but sadly we had our return ferry booked. The ferry departed at 8pm so the next day we drove the 3 hours along the coast from Oviedo to Bilbao.

We stopped for lunch at the pretty seaside town of San Vicente de la Barquera . The harbour, beaches, old village and castle amongst the backdrop of the mountains of the Picos de Europa make it one of the most picturesque sights on the Cantabrian coast.

Other places to visit

If we had planned our Spain and Portugal itinerary better we would have loved to visit Santiago de Compostela and spend some time walking the Camino , the historic pilgrimage route, but we didn’t have time. Plus, it feels a bit like cheating to drive there instead of walk! I’ll save it for another trip when I have enough time to walk the camino properly!

We also wished we’d had more time to explore the coastline of Northern Spain and Picos de Europa – we didn’t know the region would be so beautiful so I recommend that you leave more time in your Spain and Portugal road trip itinerary for Northern Spain than we did.

FAQs and Tips for Planning a Spain and Portugal Road Trip

Why take a road trip around spain and portugal.

There are many ways to travel around Europe – flights are cheap, an interrail pass is fun and convenient and buses are affordable.

But for this trip as we wanted to visit a lot of places in a small amount of time, including some communities and friends off the beaten track. Doing this would be difficult, time consuming and expensive without our own transport.

Nothing beats the freedom of having your own set of wheels and being able to go wherever you want, whenever you want.

Plus, there was less chance of catching Covid or dealing with Covid related paperwork when traveling in the safety of our own vehicle. When we crossed the borders between Spain and Portugal there were no checks or controls at all – we just flew straight through.

Where’s the best place to rent a car or campervan in Spain and Portugal?

We took our own car from the UK on the ferry from Portsmouth to Spain but it’s sometimes cheaper and more convenient to take a cheap flight and then rent a car when you get there.

The benefit of this is that you can drop it off in a different location from where you picked it up saving time and money on fuel (you may have to pay a one way hire charge though)

To find the best deals on rental cars I recommend Discover Cars. They compare all the best deals from the best companies which can save you alot of money – sometimes even 70%, Best of all there are no hidden fees so you can easily see the total price you’ll pay.

Traveling in a campervan, RV or motorhome is also an amazing way to explore and road trip in Europe. You can save money on accommodation and eating out when staying in a campervan or motorhome.

I use Motorhome Republic to find the best deals for motorhome and RV rental. As one of the largest motorhome rental agencies they have a price beat guarantee and the biggest choice from reputable and trusted companies.

You can find places to camp on the Park 4 Night app .  It’s easy to find places to camp for free in Spain but Portugal made wild camping illegal in 2021. There’s plenty of campsites which are still a fun, friendly and affordable option. Many have swimming pools, bars and restaurants and feel more like a resort.

How much does the fuel for a Spain and Portugal road trip cost?

We spent €300 on fuel for this 3,500 km trip.

When’s the best time for a Spain and Portugal road trip?

The Summer months of July and August are the peak season for traveling in Spain and Portugal but I think the best time for a Spain and Portugal road trip is the Spring or Autumn as it won’t be so hot and the sights will be less crowded, plus you’ll get cheaper rates on accommodation.

How to plan a Spain and Portugal itinerary? How long should we spend in each destination?

When planning an itinerary you’ll need to research what you want to see and do so you know how many days to spend in each destination.

As a general rule of thumb I usually recommend spending at least 2 nights/ 3 days  in each destination so that you have enough time to explore and relax and don’t feel like you’re spending most of your time driving.

We took 1 month for this trip but we spent 10 days with friends on their Portuguese farm, so we only had 3 weeks to travel. Although we tried to fit as much in as possible, there are still places we sadly had to skip because, to be honest, we didn’t plan our Spain and Portugal itinerary very well! So I would recommend spending at least 1 month to see the highlights of both Spain and Portugal.

If you have less time maybe just concentrate on one region like Northern Spain, Andalusia or Lisbon to Porto.

Did you use toll roads in Spain and Portugal?

To keep costs down and to see more of the countryside we tried to avoid toll roads on our Spain and Portugal road trip. This was easy to do in Spain because the free roads were so good and, on the motorways, there were petrol stations literally every 10 kms.

Portugal was a different story though and by avoiding toll roads in Portugal we would have ended spending double the time driving.

The Portuguese toll system is a bit tricky, especially if you are driving an non-Portuguese registered vehicle and don’t have an electronic transponder in your car, so it’s worth getting acquainted with it before you go for a hassle free trip . Read this article for tips.

If you rent a car in Portugal you can rent a transponder from the car hire company.

Is it more expensive to take your car on the ferry straight to Spain or to drive through France?

This is a question we spent alot of time deliberating on. Driving all the way through France looked fun with plenty to stop and see but would ultimately end up being exhausting and costly so we decided to take the car on the ferry from Portsmouth, UK to Bilbao in Northern Spain.

We estimated how much we would have spent in 5 or so days traveling through France in fuel, tolls, eating and accommodation (not to mention attractions and sightseeing) and it made more sense to take the ferry instead.

We paid £780 for return ferry tickets for 2 people, 1 car and cabins on each crossing. We found it useful to compare the routes available and get the best deal on Ferry Savers.

This 24 hour crossing is known for being rough at times but it was nice and calm and I didn’t feel sea sick at all. We had a comfortable en-suite cabin and enjoyed exploring the ferry. It felt like a mini cruise with the bars, restaurants, sun decks and even a small swimming pool.

Taking the ferry made it feel like much more of an adventure than flying!

What was it like traveling in Spain and Portugal during Covid in 2021?

The Covid situation and rules are always changing and you should always check the most up to date news before traveling.

But in our experience, in September and October 2021, Covid didn’t adversely affect our Spain and Portugal road trip too much,

We had to present either a negative test, proof of vaccination or proof of recovery and fill out a health form to enter Spain. The process of checking in and disembarking from the ferry was quick and simple. You don’t even need to get out of your car to go through immigration.

Our passports did get stamped at the Spanish border (due to Brexit UK citizens are only allowed 90 days out of 180 in the Shengen zone now.)

Apart from people wearing masks both inside and outside on the street (even though it was not a legal requirement to wear them outside) we didn’t notice many differences from traveling Europe before Covid.

Everything was open, people were friendly and happy to see tourists and, apart from wearing face masks in supermarkets and on public transport, Covid didn’t restrict or impact on our trip too much.

The restrictions had recently been relaxed in Portugal so we no longer need any tests or proof of vaccination to stay in a hotel or eat in a restaurant. There was no Covid pass in Spain.

When returning to the UK we had to fill out a passenger locator form and book a test to do on day 2 after we arrived back. We didn’t need to isolate or quarantine.

Covid doesn’t have to ruin your travels, but it’s really important these days to always check the most up to date rules before traveling!

Do you have any more tips or questions about our Spain and Portugal road trip?

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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[…] Also Read: Our 2021 Epic Spain and Portugal Road Trip – Route, Itinerary and Tips! […]

Always beautiful article.

Thanks for your really interesting blog on Spain and Portugal road trip. We are travelling over from Australia in September/October for a 6 week road trip and your blog was very insightful and informative. It will help us immensely. Thanks for making our travel plans a bit easier. Nicky

Hey Nicky! So nice to hear that my blogs been useful for you! Thank you! 🙂 Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Great blog post. Really informative. Keep up the good work.

[…] was my favourite place on our epic Spain and Portugal road trip and I hope this post will give you all the tips you need to love it as much as we […]

Thanks so much for this write up. My partner and I have just decided (literally today) to do a 25 day or so road trip through Portugal and Spain and your article is really helping us plan. We fly to Seville in a week and have absolutely zero plan. Luckily car rentals are very very cheap. I was initially feeling motivated to do Southern Spain, Andalusia, Algarve, up through Lisbon and Porto and then NW Spain to San Sebastian/Bilbao/etc. But in reading your article I’m starting to think the smart thing to do is cut out NW Spain. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. It sounds like you really enjoyed Seville. My girlfriend loves beaches, and I know that NW Spain has fantastic ones, but I also imagine that late September might be too cold. Anyways, thanks again for sharing your story!

Hi Peter Thanks so much – it’s great to hear that my blog has helped you plan what sounds like an epic trip. Andalusia and Southern Portugal were my highlights of this trip and unfortunately we stayed longer than planned and ran out of time to stop at some of the beautiful places we drove through in Northern Spain when we drove back to the ferry. If you have time I think the north is a bit of a hidden gem but you can’t miss places like Seville and Lisbon – I never wanted to leave. Hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

Am interested in a road trip tour package to spain and Portugal to include catholic pilgrimage sites. Group of 4-6 pax. September-October 2024.

Nice to hear your thinking of a group pilgrimage trip to Spain and Portugal! Sorry, I travelled independently so I don’t know any package tour operator for this. Good luck 🙂

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Second Cities: Destinations to Add onto a Trip to Barcelona

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Welcome to TPG' s series, Second Cities. The series is designed to help travelers find smaller or less-popular-but-equally-amazing places to visit that are no more than a few hours by air or land from your original destination so you can maximize your itinerary.

A trip to Barcelona, Spain, is on everyone's must-go list — and with good reason. Famous for its nearly finished Sagrada Familia cathedral and other Gaudí-designed landmarks like Park Güell, you can also easily end your day of tourism out on the city's lively Barceloneta Beach.

The downside is that Barcelona's city center can be overcrowded and full of tourists , so if you want to enjoy a more authentic escape, add another destination or two for a city break. And if you're heading to Madrid, check out the TPG recommendations for second cities to add on to a trip to Spain's capital.

Ibiza and Mallorca seem to get all the fame, but Menorca may be the most underrated island in the Balearics — and possibly the most beautiful. If you've ever been to Spain, Portugal or Italy in the summer, you know that tranquil beaches are very hard to come by. One of your best bets for serenity is Menorca, the first place in Spain to see the sunrise each day from its 137 miles of coastline.

Getting there: The flight from Barcelona to Menorca is under an hour. And with low-cost carriers like Vueling and Ryanair offering one-way flights as low as $23, you can leave your airline miles safely tucked away and pay for your ticket in cash.

Where to stay: Menorca is so small that it doesn't have many large brand hotels, except Melia. But, it does have a number of chic boutique properties. Casa Albertí is particularly quaint, housed in a former Masonic lodge with expansive views from its rooftop terrace. Head over to Hotels.com Venture using your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, which will earn you 10X miles per dollar spent through Jan. 31, 2020, and book a spot.

What to see and do: Unlike its sister islands of Ibiza and Mallorca, you shouldn't come to Menorca to party. Instead, explore some of the island's long coastline, much of it sandy beaches. The water at most of the Menorca beaches is warm and shallow, making it an ideal spot for families with young children. Explore some of the many coves, like Cala Trebaluger or Cala Des Talaier. Or sun yourself on the long sweep of golden sands backed by grassy cliffs at Playa de Binigaus.

The most popular activity on Menorca is probably beachcombing, but the entire island is considered a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. If you want to see why, head to the Albufera Natural Park, which has over 100 species of water birds flapping around its lagoons. While you're diving or snorkeling, you might spot hammerhead sharks in addition to many species of fish and coral at the Northern Marine Reserve.

The island is also dotted with over a thousand megalithic sites. The large stone structures, caves and structures were built by the Talaiotic people back in times BC. Menorca even has its own version of Stonehenge, the Torre d'en Galmés.

For epic views of the idyllic landscape, hike up El Toro, Menorca's largest mountain. Hikers should also plan to trek part of the Camí de Cavalls, a coastal path dating back to 1330 that takes you to almost every part of the island. The 114-mile route goes along cliffs, hidden beaches, grassy hills, monoliths, lighthouses, jagged rock formations and more, a perfect way to see all of what Menorca has to offer.

San Sebastián

Besides having one of Europe's best city beaches, La Concha, San Sebastián has plenty of culture, art and history to keep you entertained. But the real call is cuisine — foodies should plan to eat their way through this northern Spanish city.

Getting there: The San Sebastián Airport (EAS) is about an hour-and-15-minute flight from Barcelona on airlines like Vueling or Iberia. Build it into your itinerary with Barcelona as a multicity if you plan to fly Oneworld.

Where to stay: The opulent Luxury Collection Hotel Maria Cristina dates back to 1912 and was frequented by aristocrats and royalty (60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night). Though now refurbished, the hotel retains much of its original regal charm.

What to see and do: If your pick is high-end dining, San Sebastián has the most Michelin stars per capita in the world — 16! But if you prefer something a little less fancy, the city is famous for its pintxos (what tapas are called in the Basque country). Originally small pieces of baguette piled high with food, with a stick (pintxo) "pinching" the food to the bread, the concept has evolved immensely over the years. From toppings as simple and no-frills as Iberian ham on bread to other curated, spiced-to-perfection combinations of foods and flavors, there are pintxos to fit every taste and budget.

Although La Concha is the most famous beach, head to Zurriola Beach, just a short walk from the Hotel Maria Cristina, for a younger, surf-style vibe.

For panoramic views of the city, sea and mountains, take the funicular up Monte Igueldo. If you're traveling with a family, stop and enjoy the Monte Igueldo Amusement Park at the top of the peak. History buffs might prefer to admire views from Monte Urgull, which features a 12th-century castle and fortress.

San Sebastián is also close to some other exciting destinations you may want to visit for a day trip. It's a 50-minute drive from Biarritz, France, and just over an hour from Bilbao, where you can explore the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry.

The name of this small principality may not ring a bell, but Andorra, just 180 square miles, sits at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain.

Getting there: You can reach Andorra by car from Barcelona in under three hours. The drive, which takes you through a few national parks and past towering mountains, is stunning — but consider asking your rental company to include chains during the winter months. For those concerned about the drive, a bus will get you there in just under four hours.

Where to stay: The Hotel Palome is ideal in winter or summer, with extra space to store cycling, ski and hiking gear — even a bike garage for you to clean or work on your bike pre- or post-ride.

What to see and do: Famous for its magnificent mountains, Andorra is best for skiing and snowboarding (you can even dogsled here) during a winter visit. Ski resort areas like Grandvalira and Vallnord offer some of the best powder in all of the Pyrenees.

If you aren't an avid skier, though, a visit in summer offers all sorts of interesting activities — especially if you like the outdoors. Andorra has three national parks: the Valle de Sorteny, with 700 species of flowers and plants; the Madriu-Perafita-Claror, a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 10% of Andorra; and the Valles del Comapedrosa, home to the highest peak in the principality, Alt de Comapedrosa (almost 10,000 feet). Trekking and cycling are the most common ways to enjoy the parks' flora and fauna.

One of the most popular year-round activities is shopping, thanks to Andorra's very low tax rate of just 4.5% on most goods (and visitors from the US can get this refunded when leaving the EU if they complete the proper paperwork). Despite its tiny size, Andorra has over 2,000 shops and two shopping festivals each year with sales, discounts, contests, musical events and more.

Andorra takes spa visits to the next level at Caldea, one of the largest and most famous spas in Europe. Located over 18 floors in the tallest building in Andorra (and one of the most unique, with its mirrored, triangular architecture), the spa has separate sections for families and adults-only, both using thermal waters natural to the principality. Prices start at € 37/$41 for a three-hour entrance to the spa's baths, pools, hydromassage showers, sauna and more.

The Best of Spain & Portugal 2024 with Jamie Ferbezar

Barcelona, Spain

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About this trip

Visit Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Sevilla, and Lisbon with Jamie Ferbezar.

Download brochure here . More information about the protection plan here .  Please make sure that the participant(s) passport is valid for the passport requirements of all countries your tour will be visiting. Visit http://travel.state.gov for information, type in the country in question, then scroll down to the Quick Facts section for passport information.

Trip Specifics

Click below to view/download:

Flight schedule

Baggage requirements: Delta , Air France

Hotel list 

Pocket itinerary

Have a wonderful tour! 

What’s included

• Airfare Round-trip airfare from Pensacola, FL to Barcelona, Spain and returning from Lisbon, Portugal to Pensacola, FL on regularly scheduled commercial airlines
• Accommodations 10 nights in centrally located superior tourist class hotels
• Addt'l transport AVE train BCN – MAD
• Occupancy Based on double room occupancy
• Meals Breakfast daily, 8 dinners and 1 lunch
• Guides Professional English-speaking guides for guided tours as noted in the program itinerary
• Coaches Private deluxe air-conditioned motorcoach for transportation as noted in the program itinerary
• Entrance Fees Entrance fees to all scheduled museums and attractions as stated in the program itinerary
• Misc monies Tips, local taxes, airline taxes and gratuities
• Online access Online enrollment, account management and payment center
• Bonus Deluxe document holder (1) and baggage tags (2) per person

Available Packages

(price for 20 participants) 

Final payment deadline: 2/26/2024

Other Payments: (late fees apply only on final payment)

• $1,000.00 due 30 days after receipt of deposit

• $1,000.00 due 45 days after receipt of the first $1,000

1. Enter your enrollment information here.

2. Mail your check and make out to: TSA Tours, 6965 S. Priest Dr. #6, Tempe, AZ 85283. (minimum deposit is $600)

3. Until we receive your payment, you are NOT officially enrolled in the tour. Space is limited on ALL programs. Your application will be voided if payment not received within 14 days from today. Let us know if you have any questions about this process! (800-444-8885 or [email protected])

4. After we receive your payment, and we need to add any of the other options to your account we can do that. We will also modify your account balance here on the site for your convenience when we receive any payments outside of this site. Always refer to your paper statement for the most accurate balance.

(price for 40 participants) 

Final payment deadline (temporarily indicated until exact trip dates are established): 1/29/2024

Available options

Depart Pensacola for your international flight to Barcelona! Meal service on-board. 

Welcome to Spain! Upon arrival, meet your guide for a city tour of Barcelona to include an inside visit of Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece. Visit Parc Guell and Battló House. D

Spend the morning at the Montserrat Monastery, a picturesque Benedictine abbey perched amidst the stunning Montserrat mountain range in Catalonia, renowned for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views. Return to Barcelona and enjoy the rest of your afternoon at leisure. Dinner at a local restaurant.  B, D

After breakfast, transfer to the train station for your one-way fast train to Madrid. Your guide awaits to escort you on a Madrid City Tour. See the Plaza de España, the statue of Cervantes, the Plaza Mayor and other highlights. Visit the Royal Palace. This afternoon, savor a delicious chocolate tasting with the group. Dinner at a local restaurant.  B, D

Journey to El Escorial, site of the beautiful Monastery of San Lorenzo el Real, and visit the Valley of the Fallen, a monument built to honor those slain in the Spanish Civil War. On to the historic city of Segovia to see its magnificent Roman aqueduct. Built during the reign of Trajan in the first century, it is almost 2,000 years old and is still in operation! Enjoy local cuisine with the group in Segovia. Visit the imposing Alcázar of Segovia, standing on a steep-sided crag between two valleys, the cathedral and Juan II Tower. Before starting your Segovia city tour, have lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Madrid. B, L

Travel through La Mancha to picturesque Toledo, a town situated on a granite hill with a ring of Gothic and Moorish walls. See the masterpieces by El Greco in the splendid Cathedral. Also visit the Old Synagogue, the Church of Santo Tomé and La Blanca Synagogue. On to Consuegra for a photo opportunity. See the famous Castilian windmills immortalized in Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote. Before continuing on, sample some of Toledo’s famous marzipan dessert. Continue to Granada. Dinner at the hotel. B, D

On your guided Granada tour, visit the Royal Chapel, with amazing views of the Alhambra and Generalife. Visit the Alhambra, a fantasy of “lace in stone,” surrounded by arabesque fountains and gardens. See the gardens of the 14th century Generalife, the summer palace of the Kings of Granada, and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains. After lunch on your own, enjoy a walking tour of Albaycin old quarter. After an afternoon at leisure, transfer to a local restaurant located in a cave for a Flamenco performance with traditional dishes from Granada.  B, D 

Journey to Seville. Stop for lunch on your own at a local restaurant in the heart of the old city. Begin a guided city tour which takes you through the city and its parks, including the Parque Maria Luisa. See the Torre del Oro, the Santa Cruz Quarter, the Bull Ring Maestranza, the Alcázar, and Casa de Pilatus (Pilate’s House), a palace that is mixture of Mudejar, Renaissance and gothic styles. One of its walls dates from the XIII century. Also visit Seville’s famous Giralda, a bell tower that was once a minaret, and its 15th century Cathedral, the third largest in Europe, formerly a mosque. The cathedral is the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Dinner at a local restaurant.  B, D

Travel to Lisbon. Welcome to Portugal! Upon arrival, transfer to the city for a guided panoramic tour of Lisbon to include Jeronimo’s Monastery. See iconic landmarks, must see monuments and the Eduardo VII Park with its beautiful garden and lookout point. Stop for a taste of pasteis of Belem. Transfer to the hotel for dinner and check-in. B, D

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