travel map spain portugal

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!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

3 Weeks in Spain and Portugal: 2 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Spain and Portugal are two countries that many people assume to be similar. While it’s true in some parts, there are huge differences between these two places, whether it’s culture, history, food, and of course, language.

Spain and Portugal are located in Southwest Europe, near France and Italy. Both countries have coastlines on the North Atlantic and territories in Northwest Africa.

When I considered visiting Portugal and started planning, it made me realise how close Spain and Portugal are to one another and how easy it is to travel between them . Since I’ve never been to Spain, including it on my Europe trip sounds exciting.

I spent 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal. Since I’ve been to Portugal before, I decided to spend 9 days there and 11 days in Spain. Below, I’ll show you how I planned my trip to give you some ideas and tips on curating a suitable itinerary.

You can also make the most out of your time in Europe by spending 3 weeks in Spain, France, and Italy.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

Before booking your flights, knowing these basic but important things about visiting Spain and Portugal is important. This information will help you decide when to go, get an idea of how to get around, what mode of payment is acceptable, the cost of the trip, and more.

When is the best time to go

There’s no one answer to this question because the best time to travel to Spain and Portugal depends on what you plan to do and your budget. For example, if you’re on a budget, you want to avoid the high season from May to August or Christmas.

If you want to avoid the busy season and the rainy months, the best time to go to Spain and Portugal for a 3-week trip is from January to April or September to October . The water will be a bit cold, but the southern you go, the better if you want to do water activities.

Here is more information about the seasons in Portugal and Spain:

• Summer Season : June to August. Warm temperatures, particularly in inland areas.
• Peak Season : July and August. Tourists flock to beaches, cities, and cultural sites. Accommodations and attractions are the busiest, and prices can be higher.
• Low Season : November to February. Fewer tourists, cooler temperatures, especially in northern areas. Accommodations are generally cheaper and attractions less crowded.
• Winter : December to February. Mild on the coast, colder inland, and snow in mountainous regions like the Pyrenees in Spain.
• Rainy Season : Primarily in northern Spain and Portugal (Galicia, Asturias). The heaviest rainfall is from October to December but varies by region.

Are 3 weeks enough for Portugal and Spain

Yes, although you can’t visit all fantastic areas, you can still explore 5-6 cities , especially if you don’t plan to go to the Canary Islands since that trip alone will take out a full travel day.

The flight is not long, but considering the time you have to arrive at the airport, it’s hard to plan an activity during the day you are flying.

Arranging good and reliable transportation is the key to making sure you make the most of your trip here. We’ll discuss more about transportation in a little bit.

What to pack

Pack what you normally bring for a 3-week trip, but make changes depending on the season. A few things that you must really have are clothing for sacred places . You have to dress modestly for churches.

That includes covering your shoulders, down to your knees, and even your head for women. Make sure you bring a lightweight scarf that can be used as a beach towel and head coverage or an impromptu skirt.

And the fact that this is Europe, you definitely want to bring comfortable walking shoes .

We have lots of packing lists for a 20-day trip, such as a spring packing list , a winter packing list , an autumn packing list, and of course, a summer packing list .

How to get around

The main modes of transportation both in Spain and Portugal are buses, trains, planes, and cars. To get around the cities, you can use ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Bolt, Moovit, and Cabify . Make sure these apps are downloaded on your phone, and the payment is set before you arrive here.

Here are some more tips about transportation in Portugal and Spain :

• Fastest Way : Both countries have well-connected domestic flight networks. The common airlines are TAP Portugal, Iberia Airlines, Air Europa, and Ryanair. High-speed trains, like Spain’s AVE, also link major cities swiftly.
• Cheapest Way : Buses are generally the most economical mode for long distances. Both countries have extensive bus networks with companies like ALSA (Spain) and Rede Expressos (Portugal). Trains, especially regional ones, can be affordable when booked in advance.
• In cities, parking can be a challenge and expensive.
• Both countries use toll roads, which can add to travel costs.
• Familiarize yourself with local driving customs and regulations.
• Most rental vehicles both in Spain and Portugal have manual transmissions. You can find automatic for a higher price.
• Local Transportation : Major cities in both countries have efficient metro, bus, and tram systems. Madrid and Barcelona in Spain and Lisbon and Porto in Portugal have particularly extensive metro networks.

Recommendation : If your itinerary covers major cities, rely on trains and local transportation. Rent a car for specific legs of your journey where public transport might not be convenient or for exploring countryside areas.

I mostly travelled by plane and bus. However, for intercities, I walked a lot and used apps if the walk was longer than an hour, it was raining, or I was running late. We were two people travelling together, so using the ride-hailing app was more convenient than the local bus.

Language and currency

In Spain, the main language is Spanish (Castilian Spanish) , while in Portugal it’s Portuguese . Tourists will find that in major cities and popular tourist destinations, many locals speak English, especially the younger generation.

Most attractions, hotels, and restaurants in these areas often have English-speaking staff . Although navigating both countries using English is typically straightforward, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to use basic local phrases. However, in rural regions, English proficiency might be more limited.

The primary currency in both Spain and Portugal is the Euro (€) . USD is not commonly accepted, and tourists are generally expected to pay in Euros. While many establishments in cities and tourist hubs accept credit and debit cards, cash is preferred, especially in smaller towns and for smaller transactions.

It’s advisable for foreign visitors to carry a mix of both cards and cash . ATMs are widely available, and for the best exchange rates, it’s recommended to withdraw or exchange money at local banks.

Average travel cost for Spain and Portugal for 3 weeks

Travel cost in Spain and Portugal for 3 weeks varies a lot. It’s advisable to set a budget and then have emergency money for 5 days’ worth of expenses.

I personally budgeted for €80 per day, but actually ended up spending around €1,200 , minus the flights and travel insurance. I stayed in a mixture of hostels and budget/mid-range hotels.

These numbers exclude international flights and travel insurance, but it’s advisable to book these in advance to avoid expenses at the end of your trip:

• Stay: Hostels, budget guesthouses.
• Food: Street food, local markets, self-catering.
• Transport : Public buses, walking, and occasional regional trains.
• Activities : Free attractions, self-guided tours.
• Stay : 3-star hotels, boutique guesthouses.
• Food : Mid-range restaurants, some fine dining.
• Transport : Intercity trains, domestic flights, local public transit.
• Activities: Guided tours, and entrance fees to attractions.
• Stay : 4-5 star hotels, luxury resorts.
• Food : Fine dining, gourmet experiences.
• Transport : Private transfers, first-class trains/flights.
• Activities : Private guided tours, exclusive experiences.

If you plan to travel with your children, you have to factor in that they need their own tickets for flights, but for hotels, if they’re under 18 years old, they can share a room with you.

Spain and Portugal are part of the EU and implement the visa policy of the Schengen States. This means that visitors with passports from the EU are free to enter and travel around these two countries for a longer time.

Foreign travellers with a passport from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and most places in Latin America can enter and travel in Spain and Portugal for 90 days in a 180-day calendar period .

The rest of the world must apply for a visa in advance (it can be done as early as 6 months prior to your trip). The visa will be valid for both countries for the number of days you have been granted.

Other travel tips

Pinned map of must-see places in spain and portugal.

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL ITINERARY

I love many things about these two countries, but I’m eager to find out what makes them different from one another. During my trip, I decided to mix both renting a car and driving by bus, train, and domestic flight.

If you want to go to the Canary Islands (Northwest Africa), you need to take a short flight (around 2-3 hours).

When creating your own itinerary, make sure to check if there are direct bus or train routes between the cities to make it easier to get around. And finally, you don’t have to start and end in the same city since many cities in Spain and Portugal have many international flights.

This itinerary is suitable for people visiting Portugal and Spain for the first time, love to learn about history and culture, do outdoor activities, visit castles, and enjoy mouthwatering local dishes and wines.

ALSO READ: 3 weeks in Southern Europe itinerary

Itinerary #1: First-timer (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Algarve, Porto, Lisbon)

This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors to both countries . It highlights the must-see sites and balances historical locations, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Start in Madrid, Spain and finish the trip in Lisbon, Portugal.

Visit Spain and Portugal to experience its interesting culture, history, and natural beauty. Madrid offers world-class museums and exciting nightlife. Barcelona features Gaudí’s architectural marvels and beachfront vibrancy.

Seville, with its historic Alcazar and passionate flamenco. Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, combines coastal charm with ancient fortresses. The Algarve’s stunning coastline is highlighted with golden beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Porto is known for its port wine and historical Ribeira District. Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is surrounded by its hilltop views, tram rides, and trendy neighbourhoods.

If you have 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal, you can’t miss each country’s capital cities . Not only rich in history and a melting pot of culture, using these cities as a travel hub to enter and exit is very convenient.

If you want to rent a car, I only recommend you do this in Portugal. The distances between the cities in Spain are too great. Unless you plan an itinerary and choose cities near one another, driving on your own is a good choice.

Madrid for 3 days

Madrid, Spain’s capital, is a blend of old history and modern energy . It has world-renowned museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia , showcasing impressive art collections. The city’s life is in its grand plazas, notably Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor.

With its Royal Palace, verdant Retiro Park, and Gran Vía, Madrid offers a unique mix of cultural experiences, green spaces, and urban dynamism, all complemented by its yummy cuisine.

Use this time to arrange your car rental if that’s your plan and get some local currencies, a local sim card with data, and book transportation between cities or to your next destination.

Barcelona for 3 days

Barcelona is located between mountains and the Mediterranean and is a feast for the senses. It is celebrated for Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces like Sagrada Família and Park Güell and offers a unique blend of historic and avant-garde.

Explore the historic Gothic Quarter to the bohemian El Raval. Barcelona’s beachfront boardwalk, traditional markets, and rich Catalonian cuisine makes its a must-visit destination.

If you’re driving, travelling between Madrid and Barcelona takes 6 hours and 30 minutes. For those using the train, it takes less than 3 hours. You can also fly, which is around 1 hr and 20 minutes.

Seville or Malaga for 4 days

I recommend you choose between these two cities ; one is on the south coast, and the other is more on a landlocked city. You can’t go wrong. Both these Andalusian cities offer unique history, culture (especially Moorish), and tasty local dishes (hello tapas!).

Malaga, a sunny coastal city, is the gateway to Spain’s Costa del Sol. Beyond its beaches, it’s Picasso’s birthplace , housing a museum showcasing his works. The Alcazaba fortress offers panoramic city views, while the Roman theatre is a reminder of its ancient roots.

Seville, the heart of Andalusia, captivates with its rich Moorish heritage . Here, you can stop by the Alcázar Palace and Giralda Tower. The city also has traditional festivals, like Feria de Abril. Enjoy a leisure walk at the Santa Cruz Quarter and at the Plaza de España if you’re looking for an easy day of exploring.

Both are too far from Barcelona, so booking a flight or train is the best choice. From Barcelona to Seville or Malaga, the train is less than 6 hours; both choices stop in Madrid and might require a change of train. If flying, both destinations are a 1 hr and 40-minute direct flight.

Lisbon for 4 days

It’s time to bid goodbye to Spain and time to explore Portugal. The first destination is Lisbon, the capital city.

If you want to rent a car, this is an excellent mode of transportation for this part of the itinerary . Driving between Lisbon to Porto, to Algarve, and back to Lisbon gives you freedom of your time, and the drive is no more than 3 hours each.

Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital offers hilltop vistas and historic tram rides. I don’t think I’ve been to a hillier city (with cobbledstones) in Europe . A city of seven hills, its neighbourhoods, from the bohemian Bairro Alto to the historic Alfama are the places to go where you can enjoy the traditional Fado music.

Don’t miss the beautiful Belém Tower . It was raining when I got there, but still worth the visit. You can also visit Jerónimos Monastery, but on the way to the Belem Tower, I stopped by Padrão dos Descobrimentos.

To reach Lisbon from Malaga or Seville , there’s a direct flight that takes an hour. You can pick up your car rental at Lisbon Airport (Humberto Delgado Airport) and set the drop off here too when you catch your flight home.

Porto for 3 days

Porto is along the Douro River, is a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Come for its port wine, stay for its locals and beautiful sceneries. You can explore wine cellars and sample exquisite varieties. Don’t forget to join a vineyard tour with wine tasting.

The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge offers breathtaking views , while the Ribeira District, with its colourful and narrow streets. Don’t forget the Livraria Lello bookstore, and then head down to Bolhão Market are a great way to finish your day.

Getting to Porto from Lisbon is easy and you have plenty of options . The bus is the cheapest choice which will take 3 hr and 30 minutes. The train travel is the same, but it’s more scenic and comfortable. Driving will be around 3 hours. There’s also a domestic flight for an hour.

Algarve for 3 days

As the final leg of your trip, it’s the Algarve region. Portugal’s southernmost region is a sun-drenched haven of golden beaches and turquoise waters.

With its stunning and dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and historic fishing villages, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers and adventurers alike. The region is filled with charming towns like Lagos and Tavira, where you will also find signs of the Moorish history.

The Algarve is the best place to end your trip because you can enjoy the beach and water activities here. You can fly from Porto to Faro airport; it’s a non-stop 1 hr and 10-minute flight. The drive will take 5 hours, the bus is around 7 hours.

When you’re ready to leave, you can take a bus to Lisbon or a direct flight from Algarve. If you rent a car, the drive is 2 hr and 45 minutes.

Itinerary #2: Hiking and Beaches (Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza, Lisbon, Algarve, Madeira Islands, Tenerife)

There are so many good things Portugal and Spain offer to its foreign visitors. But if you’re after exciting hiking trails and pristine beaches, that’s also possible. I personally love this itinerary because it offers an amazing opportunity.

My own itinerary was a mixture of Itinerary #1 and #2. I visited during the autumn/fall season, so I didn’t get to enjoy the water that much. The water temperature was around 20°C, it was not bad, but I don’t enjoy cold water.

3 weeks in Spain and Portugal, you can’t miss the Canary Islands, which both countries have territories. Namely Madeira Islands, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria. I did a lot of hiking both in the Madeira Islands and Tenerife.

You can definitely do both. Go to 3 cities in Spain and 3 cities in Portugal. If you want to save a bit of money, choose only one between Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Madeira Islands and swap it with a city on the mainland.

Barcelona for 4 days

Barcelona offers the best of both worlds for nature enthusiasts. It’s right between the Montserrat Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea , and it provides avid hikers with trails leading to panoramic city views, like those from Montjuïc and the Collserola range.

The city’s coastline has lots of beaches such as Barceloneta and Nova Icaria, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Just a short journey away, the rugged Costa Brava coastline offers secluded coves and scenic coastal hikes.

From Barcelona, the Pyrenees region is only 3 hour’s drive , so that’s another option for hiking. Popilar areas includes Parc Natural del Cadí-Moixeró, Parc Natural de l’Alt Pirineu, and Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park.

Valencia or Ibiza for 3 days

You should choose between these two locations because going to both will cost you time. Go to Valencia if you want to stay on the mainland and have the option to do day trips around the city. You should also skip Ibiza if you don’t want to take the ferry.

Valencia, on Spain’s eastern coast , is a haven for those drawn to nature and the sea. Its pristine urban beaches, like Malvarrosa and Patacona, are amazing places for relaxation and water activities. The nearby Albufera Natural Park has some exciting and easier hiking trails, plus birdwatching opportunities.

For the avid hiker, the mountainous regions around Valencia , such as the Sierra Calderona, present challenging trails with breathtaking views.

For those looking for a classic party island, Ibiza is the place for you . Ibiza, a jewel of the Balearic Islands, has very clear waters and stunning beaches. From the serene coves of Cala d’Hort and Cala Salada to the lively beach clubs of Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza caters to both tranquil sun-seekers and lively beach parties.

The island’s pristine sandy stretches and rocky coastlines are perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, or watching the iconic Ibiza sunset. Its coastal beauty truly epitomizes Mediterranean allure.

The fastest way to get to Valencia from Barcelona is the train , around a 3-4 hour’ ride. The drive is around 4 hours. There’s a flight, but requires a connection to Palma or Madrid.

Barcelona to Ibiza by plane is a non-stop 1-hour trip only. I don’t recommend getting to Valencia, then from there taking a ferry. This will take too long and most likely won’t be cheaper than flying.

Tenerife or Gran Canaria for 4 days

The first thing you should know is that Tenerife has 2 airports , one in the north and the other in the south. So, book your flight depending on where you plan to stay. Gran Canaria only has one airport.

Choose between these two places in the Canary Islands. You can’t go wrong as both are charming, but when it comes to hiking, Tenerife has marked trails, perfect if you’ve never been here before.

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands has a variety of landscapes. There are golden sand beaches, like Playa de Las Teresitas and Playa Jardín. On the other hand, for hiking enthusiasts, the UNESCO-listed Teide National Park offers trails across volcanic terrains at Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak.

From the lunar landscapes of Llano de Ucanca to the Anaga Mountains, Tenerife combines beachfront leisure with thrilling trekking adventures.

On the other hand, Gran Canaria is a gem in the Canary Islands. It offers a range of nature’s wonders. Its coastline has varied beaches from the Playa del Inglés to Güigüí, which is accessible only by foot or boat.

Inland, the island’s rugged landscapes with trails leading to Tamadaba Natural Park and the ravines of Barranco de Guayadeque.

From Valencia or Ibiza, you can get to Tenerife by catching a fligh t. There’s a connection in Madrid. Choose and book a flight wisely so you don’t spend more than 5 hours travelling between the two places. From Ibiza or Valencia to Gran Canaria, the flight connects either in Madrid or Barcelona.

Madeira Islands for 4 days

You’re now heading to Portugal’s territory. Madeira Islands is easily one of my favourite hiking regions in Europe (well, Northwest Africa) when it comes to unique ecosystems

I hiked 3 trails and experienced 3 different environments ; desert, semi-tropical, and mountain. The beaches here are not as stunning as Tenerife or Gran Canaria, but the lava pools are super cool.

Madeira Islands is a Portuguese archipelago, located in West Africa along the Canary Islands. Its beaches, like Praia Formosa, offer volcanic black sands and serene ocean views. There are also natural lava pools to spend some time in the water.

The island’s “levadas” (irrigation channels) provide unique hiking paths , where you can trek through landscapes, waterfalls, and cloud-kissed peaks. From the coastal charms of Porto Santo to the mountainous terrains of Pico Ruivo, Madeira offers a combo of beach relaxation and hiking escapades.

From Gran Canaria or Tenerife to Madeira Island s, there’s a flight that connects to Madrid. It’s not a cheap flight, so make sure not to book last minute.

Lisbon for 2 days

You can choose between Lisbon and Algarve as your next destination. There’s a direct flight to Lisbon from Madeira Island. If you go to Algarve, you need to connect in Lisbon. These two locations offer different experiences.

But then, the travel between Lisbon and Algarve can be done by bus, driving, or plane. You decide if you want to end your trip in a city or near beautiful beaches.

When it comes to beaches and hiking, Lisbon doesn’t have much to offer, but its historical city is definitely worth a visit. Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, is more than just a busy city. Beach enthusiasts can visit the nearby Cascais and Estoril, while Costa da Caparica offers surf-friendly waves.

For hikers, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park presents trails through forests, leading to panoramic viewpoints and Moorish Castles.

Finally, the Algarve. It’s a region in Portugal, not a city. The main airport here is located in Faro District and the most popular place to stay is around Lagos.

The Algarve, Portugal’s sunlit southern coast is honestly an exciting way to wrap up your 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal trip if you enjoy the beach and water activities. Two of its top destinations are Praia da Marinha and Benagil Cave.

The bus drive between Algarve and Lisbon is only 3 hours, the bus is 4 hours and the flight is 50 minutes. I personally like to end my trip in a relaxing place such as Algarve, where I can spend hours on the beach or going for a spa.

MUST-TRY SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE DISHES AND DRINKS

Eating and drinking are two things you can’t skip when visiting and spending 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal. Here’s a list of the top dishes from countries.

I love bacalhau and pasteis de nata from Portugal. While paella and churros are my favourites from Spain – yep, I’m very cliche! Make sure to try at least 4-5 dishes, desserts, and drinks and see which ones you like the most:

• Paella – A rich rice dish often featuring saffron, vegetables, and a variety of proteins such as chicken, rabbit, or seafood.
• Tapas – Small appetizers ranging from albondigas (meatballs) to patatas bravas (spicy potatoes).
• Gazpacho – A cold tomato-based soup made with fresh vegetables, perfect for hot days.
• Tortilla Española – A thick Spanish omelette with potatoes and onions.
• Fabada Asturiana – A hearty bean stew with sausages and bacon, typical from Asturias.
• Pisto – Spanish ratatouille made with tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, onions, and eggplant.
• Churros con Chocolate – Fried dough pastries served with a thick chocolate dip.
• Tarta de Santiago – An almond cake from Galicia, often topped with powdered sugar and the cross of Saint James.
• Crema Catalana – Catalonia’s version of crème brûlée, a creamy dessert with a caramelized sugar top.
• Sangria – A fruity wine-based drink mixed with various fruits, sugar, and sometimes brandy.
• Horchata – A sweet and creamy drink made from tiger nuts, typical from Valencia.

• Bacalhau à Brás – Shredded cod mixed with finely chopped straw fries and bound together with scrambled eggs.
• Caldo Verde – A green soup made with thinly sliced collard greens, potatoes, and chorizo.
• Frango Piri-Piri – Spicy grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri chili.
• Arroz de Marisco – Seafood rice loaded with a mix of fresh seafood.
• Cozido à Portuguesa – A hearty stew made with various meats, sausages, and vegetables.
• Açorda – A traditional bread soup made with garlic, coriander, olive oil, and sometimes seafood.
• Pastéis de Nata – Creamy custard tarts with a crispy, flaky pastry and a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar.
• Bolo de Bolacha – A rich biscuit cake made with layers of Maria cookies soaked in coffee and interspersed with creamy butter filling.
• Arroz Doce – Portuguese rice pudding, often decorated with cinnamon patterns.
• Vinho Verde – A young, slightly effervescent green wine unique to Portugal.
• Ginjinha – A cherry liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestive in Lisbon and Óbidos.

THINGS TO DO PER CITY

Now that you have some ideas on where to go, how many days to spend in each city, and even a list of food to try, it’s time to show you a list of must-do and must-see activities in each country. I also included a list of recommended tours to book to make your trip more convenient:

• Royal Palace – get your fast-access ticket
• Plaza Mayor
• Museo Nacional del Prado – purchase your ticket in advance
• Parque Natural de Peñalara and Sierra de Guadarrama National Park
• Visit Real Madrid’s Stadium (Santiago Bernabéu Stadium) – join a Bernabeu Stadium tour
• Buen Retiro Park and the Crystal Palace
• Puerta del Sol
• Fuente de Cibeles and Gran Via
• Temple of Debod
• Basilica de San Francisco el Grande
• Enjoy wine and tapas tasting – join a group tour
• Puerta de Alcala
• Watch a flamenco show with dinner
• National Museum of Romanticism
• Day trip to Avila and Segovia and visit historical sites or go to Toledo with a local guide
• Mount Tibidabo
• Barceloneta Beach
• Basilica de la Sagrada Familia – skip the online and explore with an audio guide or combine with Parc Guell
• Barcelona Aquarium – suitable for young children, buy your ticket in advance
• Palau de la Musica Catalana
• Park Güell- get your ticket in advance , there’s a limit per day ticket sold for Parc Guell
• Casa Batllo
• Enjoy tapas and wine – book a walking tour
• Bogatell Beach/Playa de Bogatell
• Magic Fountain of Montjuic – ride a round-trip cable car
• Museo Picasso de Barcelona
• Explore Montserrate – join a half-day tour
• Trio-day trip and cover Spain, France, and Andorra – check the itinerary
• Walk around Barri Gotic
• Go kayaking and snorkelling in Costa Brava – book an affordable tour
• La Lonja de la Seda
• Oceanografic – perfect for young children, get your entrance ticket
• Albufera Natural Park
• La Ciutat de les Artes i les Ciencies de Valencia
• Cuevas de San Jose – sign up for a half-day guide tour
• Mercado Central
• Plaza de la Virgen
• Hike and swim at Montanejos – book a group tour
• Bioparc Valencia
• Torres de Serranos
• Playa del Saler
• Sail on a Catamaran Cruise – check the tour price
• The medieval town of Requena
• Enjoy wine and tapas tasting in an 11th-century historical monument – check this trip
• Join a cooking class
• Join an all-inclusive boat party
• Platja de Cala Xarraca – Paul
• Cala Salada
• Platja d’en Bossa
• Cala Benirras
• Cala Bassa – book a 6-hour boat trip around Ibiza
• Cala d’Hort
• Ses Salines
• Hike Camino Al Faro De Moscater
• Faro de Punta Grossa
• Tore de Companitx
• Castell d’Elvissa/Castle of Ibiza
• Book a snorkelling and SUP paddle tour
• Enjoy a flamenco show in a cave restaurant – book your table
• Alcazaba de Malaga
• Malaga Old Town/Marbella Urban Wall
• Jardin Botanico-Historico la Concepcion
• Caminito del Rey – book a guided tour to cross the suspension bridge
• Playa de la Malagueta
• Museo Picasso Malaga – get your ticket with an audio guide tour
• Centre Pompidou Malaga
• Do tapas tasting – join a walking tour
• Festival de Malaga
• Day trip to Gibraltar – book a day trip including a St Michael Caves visit
• Alhambra (G)
• Sacromonte (G)
• Alhambra (G) – check the tour price or do a day trip from Malaga
• Nasrid Palaces (G)
• Salobreña Beach
• Sierra Nevada National Park
• Boat trip to Paseo de Los Delfine – check the price
• Torre Vigía De Cerro Gordo – sign up for a snorkelling and kayak tour
• Royal Alcazar of Seville
• Catedral de Seville
• Punta Umbria Beach
• Cascadas del Hueznar
• Real Alcazar
• Parque de Maria Luisa and Plaza de Espana
• Barrio de Santa Cruz
• Museo del Baile Flamenco
• Real Maestranza de Caballeria de Sevilla
• Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija
• Metropol Parasol
• Torro del Oro
• Save money by getting a Lisbon card that allows you to enter top attractions and the public transport system
• Go sightseeing – either on a walking tour or a tuk-tuk tour or an electric bike
• Belem Tower
• Pena Palace – you can do a combo tour that includes Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais
• Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge
• Sintra – day trip from Lisbon , including Quinta da Regaleria
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon Cathedral
• Learn about Portuguese cuisine – food and wine tour or half-day food tour or wine-tasting tour
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol
• Day trip to Fatima, Nazare, and Obidos – check the tour price
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Tagus River – go on a Catamaran sunset tour or a cruise on a traditional boat
• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
• Jardim do Torel
• Explore Porto – by electric bike or street art tour or tuk-tuk tour or walking tour
• Luís I Bridge
• Duoro Valley – boat tour with wine tasting and lunch or wine tasting, lunch, and optional cruise
• Clerigos Church and Tower
• Livraria Lello
• Vila Nova de Gaia – board a sunset sailboat along Duoro River or 6 Bridges Cruise
• Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
• Day trip to Braga and Guimaraes – check the itinerary and cost
• Porto Cathedral
• Day trip to Aveiro, Paiva Walkways, and Arouca 516 Footbridge – read tour reviews
• Palácio da Bolsa
• Peneda-Gerês National Park – visit waterfalls, lagoons, and old villages
• Casa da Música
• Food tours – 3-hour food and wine tour or 10-dish food tour or pastel de nata cooking class
• Parque Natural do Alvão
• Wine and drinks tours – 7 port wine lodges or pub crawl
• Serra do Pilar
• Go Off-Road Buggy – join an adventure
• Punta de la Piedad – boat cruise from Lagos
• The Strip/Rua da Oura
• Benagil Caves – go kayaking or a speedboat or from Vilamoura or from Portimao via a pirate ship
• Praia do Camilo
• Faro District / Ilha do Farol
• Golden Coast – cruise from Lagos
• Praia da Falésia
• Albufeira District – book a beach, bbq, and cruise
• Lagos District
• Ria Formosa – catamaran tour from Faro
• Praia de Dona Ana
• Family Golf Park
• Adventure activities – Off-Road Quad Tour from Albufeira or Jeep Safari
• Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina
• Dolphin watching – join a dolphin tour with caves from Albufeira or from Portimao

Madeira Islands

• Old Town Walking Tour
• Explore Madeira Island – join west tour or east tour or a west tour on a jeep or book a 2-day guided tour to save time or get a hop-on, hop-off bus pass
• Hike Punta de Sao Lourencio
• Madeira Botanical Garden
• Ride the Cable Car at Funchal – check the price with Monte Toboggan and the botanical garden tour
• Swim at the Lava Pools / Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools – book a combo tour with Skywalk and Fana
• Hike Pivo Areiero to Pico Ruivo – do a sunrise tour with a transport service or a guided hike with a transport
• Day trip to the Nuns Valley, Monte, and a Sleigh ride – read the tour reviews
• Hike from Baloes (PR11) to Ribeiro Frio (PR10) to Portela or the other way around
• Dolphin and whale-watching – via an eco catamaran
• Porto Moniz – join a 4×4 tour
• Hike PR13 Verada do Fanal
• Go Scuba Diving – check dive price
• Santa Catarina Park
• Join a food and cultural tour
• CR7 Cristiano Ronaldo Museum
• Rancho Cable Car
• Levada Rbacal – tour with 25 fountains
• Nova and Moinho Waterfall
• Adventurous Activities – off-road buggy ride or go canyoning or level 2 canyoning
• Lago Martianez
• Playa de Las Teresitas
• Mount Teide National Park
• Siam Water Park – get your tickets
• Whale and dolphin watching
• Museum of Science and the Cosmos
• Fuerteventura – do a 4×4 tour
• Cueva del Viento
• Masca Village
• Tabaiba Shipwreck/Pecio de Tabaiba
• Bajamar Natural Pools/Piscina Natural de Bajamar Teneriffa
• Sign up for a whale and dolphin watching tour or do a kayak tour while looking for dolphins and turtles

Gran Canaria

• Pico de las Nieves
• Reserva Natural Especial de las dunas de Maspalomas
• Go scuba diving – book a tour
• Playa Puerto Rico
• Drive an ATV – enjoy a tour
• Roque Nublo
• Enjoy a submarine tour – read the reviews
• Palmitos Park
• Sign up for a morning cruise – check the price

ACCOMMODATIONS PER CITY

Finally, you need a place to stay. You must book your accommodations at least 6 months in advance if you’re visiting between May to September or December . The good hotels with reasonable prices get booked up so fast. Here’s a quick list of places to stay in Portugal and Spain:

• Affordable: Olblanc Plaza de Espana or Hostal Arrate
• Mid-range: II Castilla Madrid or Hotel Liabeny
• Luxury: Pestana CR7 Gran via Madrid or Palacio de Atocha
• Affordable: Unite Hostel or Factory Hostel
• Mid-range: Sixties Ramblas or Violeta Boutique
• Luxury: Vincci Gala or Ohla Barcelona or ME Barcelona
• Affordable: Hostal Antigua Morellana or Colors Rooms
• Mid-range: Ad Hoc Carmen or Venecia Plaza Centro
• Luxury: Vincci Lys or Petit Palace Plaza de la Reina
• Affordable/Mid-range: Hotel Florencio or Lux Isla
• Luxury: Aparthotel Duquesa Playa or THB Los Molinos (adults only)
• Affordable: COEO Pod Hostel or Hotel Zeus
• Mid-range: Petit Palace Plaza Malaga or Be Mate Malaga Centro
• Luxury: Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina or Vincci Seleccion Posada del Patio
• Affordable: Urban Dream Nevada or Pension Venecia Gomerez
• Mid-range: Nest Flats Granada or Room Mate Leo
• Luxury: Candil Suite Origen or Hospes Palacio de Los Patos or Palacete (adults only)

You can also check this list of best boutique hotels in Seville with swimming pools.

• Affordable: Hostel A2C or Pension Javier
• Mid-range: Hotel Casona de San Andreas or Cool Sevilla Hotel
• Luxury: Hotel Rey Alfonos X or Hotel Dona Maria
• Affordable: Be Lisbon Hostel or Living Lounge Lisbon
• Mid-range: Lisbon 5 Hotel or Garden Boutique Guest House
• Luxury: Turim Boulevard Hotel or Epic Sana Marques Hotel
• Affordable: Supernova Hostel or Change The World Hostel or Portuense Alojamento Local
• Mid-range: Zero Box Lodge or Yotel Porto or Ribeira do Porto Hotel or
• Luxury: PortoBay Flores or Turim Oporto Hotel
• Affordable: LC’s Guesthouse or Dona Ana Garden
• Mid-range: Apartamentos Turisticos Marsol or Dom Pedro Lagos or Charming Residence (adults only)
• Luxury: Hotel Marina Rio or Lagos Avenida Hotel or Boavista Golf & Spa
• Affordable: Pensao Residencial Vila Terensinha or FX Pena or 29 Madeira Hostel
• Mid-range: Villas Quinta da Lapa/Analodges or Aqua Natura Bay or Guesthouse Vila Lusitania
• Luxury: Sentido Galomar (adults only) or Calheta Beach/Savoy Signature (all-inclusive) or Saccharum/Hedonist Design Resort
• Affordable: Albergue San Jose de Los Llanos or Hotel Las Canadas
• Mid-range: Hotel Adonis Plaza or Alua Tenerife
• Luxury: Hotel Hacienda del Conde or Gran Melia Palacio de Isora Resort & Spa
• Affordable: La Hoyilla Hostel or Mountain Hostel Finca La Isa
• Mid-range: La Cason Canaria or Hotel Rural Hacien del Buen Suceso
• Luxury: Hotel the Lumm or Hotel Cordial or Wavia Hotel (adults only)

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL ITINERARY

Visiting two places in a single trip is always a good thing, especially if they’re right next to each other and you have plenty of time. Spain and Portugal is a great sample of this. Both countries might seem to be similar, but that can’t be further from the truth.

3 weeks in Spain and Portugal means you can visit museums, explore each country’s capital, try our local cuisines, go hiking, enjoy the beach, and more. At the end of your trip, you’ll discover why they are very different countries but equally worth visiting.

I hope this itinerary guide has helped you plan your own trip.

SAVE THIS TRAVEL ITINERARY ON YOUR PINTEREST:

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.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: March 20, 2024

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & RECEIVE A FAMILY VACATION PLANNING KIT!

We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting [email protected] . By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

Start typing and press enter to search

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!

Read More Travel Blogs:

• Discovering the Cheaper, Quieter, Hippie Side to Ibiza 
• Best places to visit in Europe

Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido: Best Beaches, Areas & Hotels (2024)

My pick of the best horse riding holidays in the uk.

Related posts

My pick of the best yoga retreats in ibiza, spain (2024), my guide to anjuna beach, goa, why you should visit girona – the heart of the costa brava, 11 comments.

[…] 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 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Spain Rail Map and Transportation Guide

This map is intended to be used for travel planning and to get an idea of the extent of Spain's rail network. It shows the major Spanish cities and rail lines. The lines in blue show high-speed train routes. The red lines are only suitable for slower trains. 

Spain is also well served by bus service. The bus is often cheap and slow, the train sleek and fast(er). Check out the expert's opinion:  Everything you need to know about public transport in Spain .

Types of Trains

In Spain the highest speed trains are called  AVE - Alta Velocidad Española . The line that runs from Madrid to Sevilla takes 2.5 hours to complete, much of the distance traveled at nearly 186 miles per hour.

The Euromed is a high-speed train that operates between Barcelona, Valencia and Alicante.

A reservation is necessary to travel on any train other than Regional Exprés or Cercanías (suburban train).

You may also wish to check out the special  touristic trains .

Spain Rail Passes and Discounts

A variety of different Spain rail passes are available, including the two-country France-Spain Pass and Spain-Portugal Rail Pass.

If you have achieved 60 years of age or more, you can purchase a  Tarjeta Dorada Card  for €6 at Renfe stations, Ticket Offices and Travel Agencies. It offers a considerable discount on all trains, ranging from 25% to 40%.

You can book many tickets online, including the AVE trains: AVE Booking Center.

Don't understand which of the many rail passes might be for you? See  Rail Passes - Which Eurail Pass is Right for You?

Where You Should Go

If you are unfamiliar with European train travel, you might be surprised at the places you can get to by rail. Damian Corrigan, About's expert on Spain, offers his choice for the best rail trips:  Best Train Journeys in Spain .

How to Get from City to City in Spain

Visit the East Coast of Spain

How to Travel From Seville to Cordoba by Train, Bus, and Car

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

Getting Around Madrid: Guide to Public Transportation

Navigating Valencia's Bus and Train Stations

Guide to Bus and Train Travel in Spain

Your Trip to Madrid: The Complete Guide

Eurostar High Speed Trains Through the Channel Tunnel

Top 25 Valencia Sights and Day Trips

Youth Discounts on the Eurail Pass

Your Trip to Barcelona: The Complete Guide

How to Travel From Barcelona to Bordeaux by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The 12 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

AVE Trains in Spain

World Map » Portugal » Large Detailed Map Of Spain And Portugal With Cities And Towns

Large detailed map of Spain and Portugal with cities and towns

You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific research or e-book, you must place a hyperlink (to this page) with an attribution next to the image used.

Portugal maps

• Portugal map

Cities of Portugal

• Praia da Rocha

Regions of Portugal

Maps of Spain

Autonomous communities

• Coasts (Costas)
• Mapas de España

Cities of Spain

• Palma de Mallorca
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• CANARY ISLANDS
• - Gran Canaria
• - Fuerteventura
• - Lanzarote
• - La Gomera
• - El Hierro
• BALEARIC ISLANDS
• - Formentera
• Basque Country
• Valencian Community
• ALL AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITIES
• North America Map
• South America Map
• Oceania Map

Popular Maps

• Australia Map
• Germany Map
• Singapore Map
• United Arab Emirates Map
• United Kingdom Map
• United States Map
• New York City Map
• Los Angeles Map

U.S. States

• California Map
• Colorado Map
• Florida Map
• Georgia Map
• Illinois Map
• New York Map
• North Carolina Map
• Virginia Map

Get our Rail Planner app

Plan your trip, get extra discounts, and show your Pass as you go.

Our favorite spring routes

Celebrate spring with these 7 off-the-beaten-path train routes

All about seat reservations

Everything you need to know about booking your seats

Alternatives to Busy Routes

Travel between popular European cities without seat reservations

Through our Chatbot in the bottom right corner.

Ask the Community

Browse questions from fellow Eurail travellers, or ask your own!

• Plan your trip
• Suggested Itineraries

Spain and Portugal itinerary

• Order overview
• Reservations overview
• My Trips & Travelers
• {{translatedTraveler}} {{#promotional}} {{currencySign}} {{standardPrice}} {{/promotional}} {{quantity}}x {{currencySign}} {{finalPrice}}
• Child {{childPasses}}x FREE
• {{translatedPassType}}
• {{translatedValidityPeriodDescription}}
• {{translatedClass}}
• Remove Pass(es)
• {{variant.localizedTravelPackDescription}} {{quantity}}x Free
• {{variant.localizedPassUpgradeDescription}} {{quantity}}x {{currency}} {{price}}
• Your order will arrive by {{expectedDeliveryDate}} 1 x {{currency}} {{price}}

Your cart is empty

Dream of your Iberian adventure

Spain and Portugal are ideal rail partners. These countries, part of the Iberian peninsula, are packed full of beautiful cities, fascinating history and plenty of attractions - both day and night. With comprehensive rail networks and easy international rail links in the north, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t follow this Spain and Portugal itinerary for the ultimate Iberian adventure.

Itinerary in short

Cities visited on this trip:.

1. Vigo, Spain

Once inhabited by Romans, the Spanish city of Vigo is a coastal destination with a rich maritime history. It also has a burgeoning gastronomic scene. It's a major fishing port, so you can expect an abundance of fresh seafood. Museums, galleries and water-related activities will keep you busy throughout the day.  

How to get there

It’s possible to reach Vigo by train from anywhere in northern Spain. You can also take a direct Alvia train from Madrid (Chamartin station), which takes just over 6 hours.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vigo 😍 (@vigotoday) on Aug 21, 2017 at 1:38pm PDT

2. Porto, Portugal

Porto is a beautiful vibrant city set on the banks of the Douro River. You'll be treated with several stately bridges, a medieval district packed with winding streets and quaint houses, beautiful parks, an abundance of Port wine and a vibrant artistic scene and nightlife. This Portuguese city is an unmissable part of any Spain and Portugal itinerary.  

There are two direct InterCity trains between Vigo and Porto daily — one at 08:58 AM and another at 07:56 PM. The journey takes 2 hours 22 minutes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Porto (@visitporto) on Aug 25, 2017 at 1:21pm PDT

3. Coimbra, Portugal

This riverfront city is rich in history, owing to its previous status as the capital of Portugal. It's also home to the famed University of Coimbra. This historic university still gives it a youthful charm, and the medieval buildings make it one of Portugal’s most architecturally beautiful destinations.  

There are regular direct InterCity trains between Porto and Coimbra throughout the day, which take approximately one hour.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Universidade de Coimbra (@ucoimbra)

4. Lisbon, Portugal

The Portuguese capital is understandably the most visited city in the country - and it never fails to disappoint. The rolling hills, accessible history in Alfama, delectable food and all-night parties make this one of Europe’s greats. You also have a range of day trip options to the likes of Sintra, Belém and Cascais.  

There are regular direct daily trains from Coimbra to Lisbon. Depending on the train, the journey takes between 1 hour 30 mins and 2 hours.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hakan M (@hakan.mhmd) on May 8, 2020 at 11:12am PDT

5. Faro, Portugal

Faro lies in the far south, in Portugal’s Algarve region. In summer months, this is the main hub from which to explore the area. It offers easy accessibility to beaches, waves and the laid-back coastal vibes and hedonistic jaunts that define this popular part of the country.  

There are several daily InterCity trains between Lisbon and Faro that take about 3.5 hours.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Portugal (@visitportugal) on Aug 17, 2017 at 7:55am PDT

6. Seville, Spain

Seville is the capital of Andalusia. Its history, culture and favourable climate have made it a major hub for rail travellers in Spain. Flamenco dancing, tapas bars, Roman ruins, a massive cathedral, the Alcázar palace complex, and river views combine to make it an impressive stopover.  

There are no train routes between Portugal and Spain in the south. The quickest and easiest way to get from Faro to Seville is via bus, of which there are at least four daily. Please note that this bus isn't included in your Eurail Pass, and a one-way journey costs around €15 - €20.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sevilla Lens (@sevilla_lens) on May 3, 2020 at 12:48pm PDT

7. Cadiz, Spain

Cadiz in southwestern Spain is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions of Europe. This shows through in the classic architecture, quaint eateries and quiet, winding alleyways. It also benefits from a laidback coastal atmosphere and stunning ocean views.  

There are several daily trains between Seville and Cadiz. The journey time is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝖢𝖺𝗅𝗅𝖾 𝖲𝖺𝗅𝗏𝖺𝖽𝗈𝗋 (@sergiopayan_oficial) on May 11, 2020 at 1:12pm PDT

8. Granada, Spain

Granada, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is home to the Alhambra — one of the most celebrated attractions in Europe. The Moorish palace and castle sit on a hill above the town, and though it’s the primary reason for most visits, the surrounding city is full of life as well.  

There are four daily trains between Cadiz and Granada that connect in Dos Hermanas. The total journey time is approximately 5 hours 30 minutes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AVIATRAVΞL 🌐 WORLD (@aviatravelworld) on May 11, 2020 at 1:02pm PDT

Related Pages

1 week in Portugal by train

Spain Itinerary

Portugal Itinerary

Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

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.

Save for later

You might also like

Europe by train: Five great one-week rail trip routes

Tiles and tapas: The best things to do in winter in Seville, Spain

A scenic day trip by train from Palma to Soller, Mallorca

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.

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Buy new: .savingPriceOverride { color:#CC0C39!important; font-weight: 300!important; } .reinventMobileHeaderPrice { font-weight: 400; } #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPriceSavingsPercentageMargin, #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPricePriceToPayMargin { margin-right: 4px; } -16% $12.60 $ 12 . 60 FREE delivery Thursday, May 9 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35 Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com

Return this item for free.

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

Save with Used - Acceptable .savingPriceOverride { color:#CC0C39!important; font-weight: 300!important; } .reinventMobileHeaderPrice { font-weight: 400; } #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPriceSavingsPercentageMargin, #apex_offerDisplay_mobile_feature_div .reinventPricePriceToPayMargin { margin-right: 4px; } $7.03 $ 7 . 03 $3.99 delivery Wednesday, May 15 Ships from: Goodwill of Orange County Sold by: Goodwill of Orange County

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Spain and Portugal Map (National Geographic Adventure Map, 3307) Map – Folded Map, January 1, 2022

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Waterproof • Tear-Resistant • Travel Map

National Geographic's Spain and Portugal Adventure Map is designed to meet the unique needs of adventure travelers with its detailed and accurate information. Cities and towns are clearly indicated and easy to find in the user-friendly index. A road network complete with distances and designations for motorways, expressways, and secondary routes will help you find the route that's right for you. Specialty content to include hundreds of diverse and unique recreational, ecological, cultural, and historical destinations, make this map invaluable to travelers hoping to experience all the attractions the countries have to offer.

The eastern half of the Spain/Portugal map shows the eastern half of Spain from its northern borders with France and Andorra south along its Mediterranean coastline to Almera. Portugal and the western half of Spain including the Canary Islands are covered on the other half of the map.

The neighboring countries of Spain and Portugal were both powerful empires at one time whose discoveries, conquests, and cultures greatly influenced the course of world history. With the opening of trade routes and the colonization of the Americas, Spain and Portugal not only brought their languages, religion, art, literature, music, and architecture to regions across the globe, they introduced new agricultural products, spices, and knowledge of the geography and peoples of the world to Europe. Vacationers enjoy Spain and Portugal's lovely islands and extensive coastal beaches, as well as the plethora of historical sites, museums, and striking architectural masterpieces found in their sunny cities.

Every Adventure Map is printed on durable synthetic paper, making them waterproof, tear-resistant and tough — capable of withstanding the rigors of international travel.

• Map Scale = 1:1,000,000
• Sheet Size = 25.5" x 37.75"
• Folded Size = 4.25" x 9.25"
• Print length 2 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Natl Geographic Society Maps
• Publication date January 1, 2022
• Dimensions 4.25 x 0.16 x 9.25 inches
• ISBN-10 1566955394
• ISBN-13 978-1566955393
• See all details

Frequently bought together

More items to explore

From the Publisher

National Geographic’s Adventure Maps — Essential travel tools for destinations across the globe

With over 100 available titles, these detailed travel maps are the perfect companion for the trip of a lifetime. Sometimes an accurate, tough, waterproof map is the best travel tool you can carry. In areas without cell coverage, or when the data plan is running low, a National Geographic Adventure Map will quickly become an essential travel tool. Featuring detailed road networks, key points of interest, UNESCO World Heritage sites, a place name index, and beautifully rendered shaded relief these travel maps are perfect for pre-trip planning and on the ground navigation.

Perfect for Domestic or International Travel

• Tear-Resistant
• Nearly Indestructible
• Clean Cartographic Design for Easy Navigation

Your Purchase Has Purpose

Every purchase helps support the National Geographic Society, an impact driven, nonprofit organization with global reach that uses the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Natl Geographic Society Maps; 2022nd edition (January 1, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Map ‏ : ‎ 2 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1566955394
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1566955393
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 3.21 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.25 x 0.16 x 9.25 inches
• #3 in General Portugal Travel Guides
• #8 in General Spain Travel Guides
• #19 in Maps (Books)

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

© Adrian Seliga/Getty Images

Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden beaches: the Portugal experience can be many things. History, great food and idyllic scenery are just the beginning.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Portugal. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Mosteiro de Santa Maria da Vitória

Estremadura & Ribatejo

The extraordinary monastery of Batalha was built to commemorate the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrota (fought just south of here). Most of the monument was…

Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Alcobaça

One of Iberia's great monasteries utterly dominates the town of Alcobaça. Hiding behind the imposing baroque facade lies a high, austere, monkish church …

Convento de Cristo

Wrapped in splendour and mystery, the Knights Templar held enormous power in Portugal from the 12th to 16th centuries, and largely bankrolled the Age of…

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Belém’s undisputed heart-stealer is this Unesco-listed monastery. The mosteiro is the stuff of pure fantasy: a fusion of Diogo de Boitaca’s creative…

Palácio Nacional de Sintra

The star of Sintra-Vila is this palace, with its iconic twin conical chimneys and lavish, whimsical interior, which is a mix of Moorish and Manueline…

Castelo de São Jorge

Alfama, Castelo & Graça

Towering dramatically above Lisbon, these mid-11th-century hilltop fortifications sneak into almost every snapshot. Roam its snaking ramparts and pine…

Wander downhill (to save your legs) through Alfama's steep, narrow, cobblestoned streets and catch a glimpse of the more traditional side of Lisbon before…

Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga

Set in a lemon-fronted, 17th-century palace, the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is Lapa’s biggest draw. It presents a star-studded collection of European…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 of the best things to do in portugal.

Observatório do Lago Alqueva

Offers two-hour open-air sessions taking in the marvellous star-filled skies of the Alentejo. You'll get an overview of constellations visible with the…

Parque Arqueológico do Vale do Côa

Most visitors to Vila Nova de Foz Côa come for one reason: to see its world-famous gallery of rock art. Although the park is currently an active research…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From wine tasting to stargazing, experience the best of Portugal with this guide to the top things to do.

Things to Know

From what to wear to restaurants to the best way to get around, our Porto resident gives you the lowdown on things to know before you go to Portugal.

Transportation

From coastal train rides to DIY exploration with a hire car, here's how to get around Portugal.

Visa Requirements

All the info you need about getting a visa for Portugal, how long you can stay and the new visa-waiver program coming in 2024.

Money and Costs

From free museums to wonderful medieval architecture, it's possible to get by on as little as €50 a day in Portugal. Here's how.

Traveling with Kids

Children are welcomed everywhere you go in Portugal. Check out our top tips and the coolest experiences for your next family trip in Europe.

Best Road Trips

Throw together an Iberian soundtrack and you're ready to hit the open road in Portugal. Here are our top Portuguese road trips, from the hills to the coast.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Portugal

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Portugal

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Destination Practicalities

Feb 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 18, 2023 • 5 min read

Dec 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Oct 24, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 15, 2023 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Portugal

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Portugal with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Portugal and beyond

Map of Portugal

Places of interest detailed in our guide, portugal travel guides & maps.

If you are planning your trip to Portugal, in the interactive map on this page you can find all the places of interest that we recommend you visit and other useful points for your trip. You can then view cities of art, attractions, beaches, coastal villages and other tourist sites, as well as places of interest such as airports, covered on our sitei: simply click on the placeholders on the map, or in the list just below, to go to the in-depth tabs on the individual point of interest.

Traditional guides to Portugal

However, if you are used to organising your itineraries with a traditional paper guide, we recommend purchasing one of the following directly from Amazon.

Road Map of Portugal

If you are about to discover Portugal by car and want to always have a detailed paper map at hand, there is nothing better than the good old road maps. On Amazon you will find the best-selling road maps of Portugal at prices often discounted compared to those you can find in bookshops or petrol stations.

Tourist map of Portugal

The Portuguese Tourist Board has produced tourist maps with the main points of interest and links, in PDF format. Click on the button below to download it and, if you wish, print it out.

Where Portugal is located

Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is the westernmost nation in continental Europe and also includes the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores .

With a population of around 10 million, the country borders Spain to the north and east and the Atlantic to the south and west. Lisbon , the capital of Portugal, is one of the oldest cities in Europe and is located on the west coast of the country. Portugal is a country with a rich history and culture, and its language is the only official language of the European Union that is not spoken by any other member country.

• Airport transfers
• Airport parking

The Perfect France, Spain And Portugal Road Trip Itinerary For 10 Days

(This article has affiliate links to products which we may make commission from at no extra cost to you.)

Are you planning a road-trip through France, Spain and Portugal and wondering where to start from? This 10-day itinerary is the perfect quick trip through Southern Europe that hits all the hotspots and popular cities. Enjoy incredible beaches, immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the history of these beautiful places.

With wine tastings and traditional foods, this road-trip itinerary takes you to all the culinary hotspots and will make you fall in love with France, Spain and Portugal. Definitely add these incredible cities to your bucket list.

When Is The Best Time For France, Spain And Portugal Road Trip?

Are 10 days enough to see france, spain and portugal on this road trip, where to stay on your road trip, day 1 – mont-saint michel, day 2 – beaches along the coast, day 3 – bordeaux, day 4 – san sebastian, day 5 – porto, day 6 – porto, day 7 – lisbon, day 8 – lisbon, day 9 – algarve and seville, day 10 – sevilla.

We highly recommend doing this road-trip in summer, preferably between the months of June to September. During this time the weather will be warm and you’ll be less likely to encounter any rain. This is also the high season for tourism so expect some higher accommodation prices. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

If you want some more affordable options consider going in the shoulder season sometime around May or October. Temperatures will be cooler and you’ll encounter fewer tourist crowds. You can also go on this road-trip in winter but expect some rainy days which could impact your trip.

A 10-day road-trip through France, Spain and Portugal will give you a great overview of what this area has to offer but, of course, you’ll be spending a large portion of your time driving. If you can you should definitely extend your trip a few more days or even weeks which will give you a lot more freedom to explore the cities on this itinerary.

Most of the stops on this southern Europe road-trip itinerary are larger cities so staying at a hotel or Airbnb is highly recommended. That way you can enjoy being at a central location and not having to worry about going in and out of the city every day. If you’re travelling on a budget you could also consider camping, however, you’ll most likely struggle to find campsites close to the city. Make sure you book your accommodation in advance so you get the best deals on rooms.

For information on hotels rates and to book, click here.

France, Spain and Portugal 10 Days Road Trip Itinerary

Start your day off in Mont-Saint Michel, one of France’s most popular tourist destinations. This tiny island lies just 1 kilometre off the French coast and is connected to the mainland via a bridge. It’s the perfect place to see in just one day because it is so small.

Try to go early in the morning to avoid the tourist crowds. If you’re not up for walking to the island you can take one of the free shuttle buses. Make sure to visit the Mont-Saint Michel abbey and explore all the small side-streets for the best hidden spots.

Read our complete guide to visiting Mont-Saint Michel here .

The next morning drive along the French coast of the Bretagne to explore some of the best beaches in France. This is a true road trip day and the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the area. Stop in places like Brest, the Crozon Peninsula, Concarneau and the Pointe du Raz for some of the best photo opportunities. This area has incredible beaches so make sure you pack your swimsuit.

Take a few hours to drive further down the coast of France until you reach Bordeaux. This is a really popular wine area so make sure to go to the countryside to visit a traditional château and take part in a wine tasting.

Visit Saint-Émilion , a small wine village which produces the world’s best wines. You can walk through the old town and even buy tickets for a little train that will take you around the vineyards. In the evening go for dinner in Bordeaux and walk through the historic old town. This is a very beautiful city so don’t forget to pack your camera.

The next day you’ll be crossing the border into Spain. San Sebastian is only a 3 hour drive from Bordeaux and one of Spain’s best cities. This is the perfect place for a beach day so pack your swimsuit. The water is crystal clear and perfect for water sports or swimming. Take a boat out to Santa Clara Island which lies in the bay of San Sebastian. Afterwards, go for lunch or tapas in one of the many small restaurants. San Sebastian is world-famous for its cuisine so if you’re a fan of seafood this is the place to go.

Take the funicular up to Monte Igueldo to watch the sunset over the bay. These are some of the best views you’ll find on this road trip through Spain, France and Portugal.

After a long day of driving, you’ll finally arrive in Porto. Use the evening to walk around the boardwalk along the Douro River and have a glass of Port wine to finish your day. Tomorrow will be a busy day of exploring so make sure you get to bed early.

There is plenty to see and do in Porto so get up early and have breakfast at a cafe by the riverfront. Take the cable car for some of the best views of the city and then cross the river on the Dom Luís I Bridge. Explore the old town of Porto and all its famous blue churches. After visiting the National Museum have a Francesinha for lunch which is a traditional sandwich served in beer sauce. It is a specialty that can mainly be found in Porto so the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

In the afternoon buy tickets for a boat tour to take you around the river and enjoy Porto’s beauty. Afterwards, go to one of the famous port wine cellars for a wine tasting. Enjoy the sunset by the river in the popular Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood with a three-course meal served with port wine.

Click here to read about 37 more unusual things to do in Porto.

After saying goodbye to Porto you’ll reach Lisbon today, Portugal’s capital city. Just like Porto it lies by the river but is far busier and feels more like a large city than a town. Head to the Capela de Nossa Senhora do Monte, a popular viewpoint for sunset. You’ll love the incredible views of downtown Lisbon.

To end the night go to the Barrio Alto, Lisbon’s nightlife district. This neighborhood has narrow alleyways with little bars and restaurants scattered around. Prices are cheap and the food is amazing.

Start your morning by the riverbanks and walk along the boardwalk to Time Out Market. This indoor food market is Lisbon’s best-kept secret and the perfect place for food lovers. After a quick breakfast head into town to see the Santa Just a Lift for a great view of the city. Walk past the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara another amazing viewpoint to the Botanical gardens of Lisbon to get away from the tourist crowds.

After lunch you’ll most likely be tired of walking so why not take the historic Tram Line Number 28? This route takes you to many popular tourist hotspots and you can get on and off at any time. End your day in the famous Alfama district which has incredible architecture and a great selection of little restaurants. If you’re still feeling up for it have a few drinks at one of Lisbon’s popular rooftop bars.

On your way from Lisbon to Seville, you need to stop in the Algarve, Portugal’s incredible south. This area has the best beaches and beautiful scenery. Visit the Benagil Beach to admire the beautiful sea caves and white-sand beaches before you arrive in Seville in the late evening.

You’ll be spending the last day of your road-trip through France, Spain and Portugal in Sevilla. Spend your morning sightseeing and visiting places like the Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, the Plaza de España and the Real Alcázar. Explore the small alleyways of the Triana neighborhood and have lunch in a traditional Spanish restaurant. Escape the busy city by spending the afternoon in Maria Luisa Park, Sevilla’s beautiful park.

Visit some of Sevilla’s incredible museums like the Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum before having a traditional Paella for dinner. Enjoy your last evening by making the most of Sevilla’s famous nightlife and enjoying a traditional Flamenco show.

This Guest Post Is Contributed By Victoria Heinz Of Guide Your Travel .

• 5 Places To Visit In The South Of France That Must Be In Your Bucket List
• 25 Top Things To Do In Spain – Bucket List
• 15 Incredible Places To Visit In Europe This Summer
• 10 Stunningly Beautiful Cities To Visit In Italy

Share this:

• 12 Most Charming Romantic Getaways In Southern California For Couples (2024)
• 19 Perfect Places For A California Summer Vacation (2024)

cheerfultrails

Anjali Wadhwa (cheerfultrails) is a travel consultant and enthusiast who has traveled to 15+ countries. She shares about her explorations through her writings. You will find detailed itineraries, best travel tips and well experienced recommendations for food, transportation and hotels on her blog.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from Cheerful Trails

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

The Perfect Spain, Portugal, Morocco Itinerary for 2 Weeks

• Post author By Melissa
• Post date March 15, 2024
• 11 Comments on The Perfect Spain, Portugal, Morocco Itinerary for 2 Weeks

Trying to plan the perfect vacation in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco? We’re here to help! This 2-week Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary is a whirl-wind adventure. It takes you from the tiled streets of Lisbon, Portugal to the dreamy pueblos blancos in southern Spain , ending in the majestic, maze-like medinas in Morocco. 

We’ve planned it, personally traveled it, and have laid out the details of our Portugal, Spain, Morocco itinerary to make your trip-planning a breeze.

About this Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary

A vacation to the Iberian peninsula, which encompasses Portugal and Spain, is sure to be filled with fun, sun, and lots of sangria and tapas.

With only a mile of water separating the southern tip of Spain from Morocco, the north African country makes for an easy addition to any Iberian itinerary.

Although we planned and did everything on our own, if you prefer a guided tour over a self-guided one, there are a variety of tour companies that offer similar itineraries for Spain, Portugal and Morocco. 

For example, this multi-day guided Spain and Portugal itinerary can be paired with this Morocco itinerary to create a full 2 week itinerary for Portugal, Spain and Morocco.

Another option is to do a portion of the trip self-guided and then take a few day trips or guided adventures for the other destinations. You may feel totally fine doing the European portion on your own, but prefer a guided tour of Morocco .

How to get around using this Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary

Following this itinerary will take you by plane, train, metro, bus, rental car, taxi, and even ferry. The transportation element of this itinerary was the most confusing aspect when planning our Spain, Portugal, Morocco trip. 

So, we’ve taken the headache out of the equation, providing links to all the places where you can book transportation and when you will need it. 

First, if following this Portugal, Spain, Morocco itinerary, plan to fly into Lisbon, Portugal and out of Tangier, Morocco .

We use Google Flights to find the cheapest flight information. 

Be sure to search for both open-jaw flights and one way flights to see which option is the cheapest. Once you find the flights that work best, we always recommend booking flights directly through the airline itself. 

You’ll be able to travel around Lisbon and to the mountain town of Sintra using public transportation that you can book when you arrive in Lisbon. However, you’ll need a rental car to travel between Lisbon and Albufeira and Faro, Portugal . 

It is possible to take a bus from Lisbon to Faro, but you will want a car to travel freely along the Algarve coast.

We use DiscoverCars to compare rates and book cars when road tripping in Europe . 

Keep in mind, many of the cheapest cars to rent in Europe are manual transmissions, so if you cannot drive a stick-shift vehicle, be sure to select automatic only when searching for cars.  

From Faro, Portugal to Seville, Spain you will need to take a bus , as there are no trains connecting the two cities. 

Driving your rental car to Seville is an alternative option, but there are significant fees added when you drive a rental car across a border and drop it off in a different country than you picked it up in.

You’ll save hundreds of dollars by taking the bus. The buses are nice and roomy.

You can check the bus times, ticket costs and book directly at FlixBus . 

In Seville, you can get by mainly on foot since you will primarily be exploring the city center and old town area if you follow our Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary.

When you leave Seville to head to Cordoba, Ronda, and to Tarifa to board the ferry to Morocco, you will travel by train. You will take the train from Seville to Cordoba, Cordoba to Ronda, and Ronda to Tarifa .

You can review the train timetables and book your tickets at RailEurope.com .

Read our full review of Rail Europe HERE

The ferry is the easiest way to get between Spain and Morocco. There are two ferry ports in Spain and two near Tangier, Morocco. You want to be sure to go to the right one, which will save you a lot of time and frustration. 

Book your train ticket through to Tarifa, Spain rather than Algeciras. You will catch the ferry in Tarifa.

Both Tarifa and Algeciras have ports with ferries that take you to Morocco, but Algeciras is a much longer ordeal, as the ferries are primarily transporting those in vehicles driving onto the ferry. 

The port in Tarifa is primarily for those walking onto the ferry, so the wait time and process is much smoother. 

You will have to transfer trains in Algeciras to get to Tarifa but it is well worth the extra stop and could potentially save you hours of time. The ferry from Tarifa will drop you off at the port in Tangier , as well, whereas the Algeciras ferry docks at Tangier Med which is located about 30 minutes outside of Tangier.

You can book your ferry from Tarifa on Viator.com .

Taxi/Private Transfer

When you arrive in Morocco, the easiest way to get between cities is to take a taxi or private transfer service.

You can book your transfer to Chefchaouen directly online , or when you arrive at the ferry port, you’ll find plenty of taxi drivers who will also be willing to make the trip to Chefchaouen.  

Safety and Health Information

Health and safety are the most important things to consider when booking a family trip. Fortunately, we felt safe in every part of Portugal, Spain and Morocco that we visited.

Personal Safety

Although Morocco can be intimidating for solo female travelers who might experience unwanted attention from men, it is a different story if visiting Morocco with kids .

Moroccans are very family-oriented and children are doted on, stopped on the street, and blessed, particularly by Moroccan women. This may be somewhat disquieting for children who do not like attention or have a fear of strangers, however we never felt unsafe. In fact, our daughter loved the extra attention. 

Vaccinations

Any time you travel internationally, you’ll want to make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date. You’ll also want to check each country’s entry requirements regarding vaccinations, as those may differ and change over time. 

Drinking water

The drinking water or tap water in Portugal and Spain is safe to consume, but you will want to stick to purchasing bottled water in Morocco and avoid eating raw fruits that have been washed in the tap water. We even used bottled water to brush our teeth, although that isn’t considered necessary. It was more of a precaution we took to avoid “traveler’s tummy”.

Unfortunately, it is quite common to experience tummy issues like traveler’s diarrhea in Morocco, and we were not taking any chances.  For this reason, we recommend purchasing travel insurance through a reputable company like Hey Mondo .

Again, health and safety information is always changing, so we always recommend checking with the state department in your country for travel advisories for each location.   

Spain and Portugal both use the Euro and credit cards are widely accepted . Although, some places have a minimum purchase amount required if using a credit card.

When getting cash in a new currency, we recommend using an ATM and paying the minimal foreign transaction fee rather than using a currency exchange kiosk. Your bank will typically give you a much better exchange rate. 

In Morocco, you will want to take out some Moroccan dirham , as many businesses and vendors in the medinas don’t accept credit cards when purchasing Moroccan souvenirs . You’ll find an ATM at the ferry ports, as well as the airports if you choose to fly. 

Be sure to check the currency exchange so you have a general idea on how much money to withdraw. 

Visa requirements

Visa requirements will vary depending on your country of origin. Travelers from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and the European Union do not need visas for a Spain, Portugal, Morocco trip. 

Your passport and proof of onward travel is all you will need to visit any of these three countries.

However, beginning in 2024, US citizens will have to register and pay a fee to travel to Europe .

Best time of the year to travel to Spain Portugal and Morocco

We did this 2-week Spain, Portugal Morocco itinerary during the summer months – in July and August specifically. It was the peak tourism season in Europe, so many places were crowded.

Additionally, summer in southern Spain and Morocco can be extremely hot. 

Although the off-season would be more pleasant and less crowded, it isn’t always feasible for families like ours with school-aged children.

Late spring or early fall would be a much more pleasant time to visit these three countries, if your schedule allows.

2-week Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary in a nutshell

Although this 2-week itinerary for Spain, Portugal and Morocco takes you to all three countries, you will only get a small taste of each country.

You could easily spend 2 weeks in Spain alone marking incredible experiences off your Spain bucket list and visiting some of the many hidden gems of Spain .

You could also spend a full 2 weeks exploring all the best places to visit in Morocco or Portugal and still not cover them all.

With a limited time split between three destinations, here is a breakdown of our 2-week Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary.

• Lisbon, Portugal: 3 days (with a day trip to Sintra)
• Albufeira and the Algarve coast: 2 days
• Seville, Spain: 3 days
• Cordoba, Spain: 2 days
• Ronda, Spain: 1 day
• Chefchaouen, Morocco: 2 days
• Tangier, Morocco: 1 day

We have included other alternative itineraries at the end of this post so you can choose the route for your Spain, Portugal, Morocco trip that is right for you.

Places to visit on a 2-week Spain Portugal Morocco trip

Now to a full overview of what you will see and where you will visit on this Morocco, Spain and Portugal itinerary. 

To further help you plan your trip to Portugal, Spain and Morocco, we have written entire posts on many of the destinations included on our itinerary. This will give you a deeper look at the best things to do in each place and how to spend your time.

Here is a quick overview of the main stops on our Spain Portugal Morocco itinerary.

Lisbon, Portugal

Where to stay in Lisbon :  Hotel LX Rossio

Lisbon is your first stop of your 2 week trip to Portugal, Spain and Morocco. As the capital city of Portugal, Lisbon is both modern and historical. With steep, narrow streets, tiled buildings and red roofs, the city has a historical charm that is hard not to love. 

The coastal city also boasts some of the best street art in Europe and even one of the most famous statues in Europe , a replica of Christ the Redeemer in Brazil. 

When in Lisbon, wander through the Alfama District, the oldest district in Lisbon, visit the ancient Castel de St. Jorge and venture to Belem to see the Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower.

If visiting Lisbon with kids , the city is home to one of the largest aquariums in Europe, Oceanarium . 

Here are a few of the highlights and things to see in Lisbon:

• Alfama District 
• Castelo de St. Jorge 
• Praca do Comercio
• Rossio Square
• Barrio Alto
• Jeronimos Monastery
• Belem Tower

READ OUR COMPLETE LISBON ITINERARY

Sintra, Portugal

Plan to give yourself at least three days in Lisbon, with one of those days being a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra . You can get there within about 45 minutes by train from Lisbon or take a guided day trip .

Sintra is a beautiful mountain town that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Known for its magical palaces, castles, and magnificent estates that dot the hills, this picturesque community located an hour northwest of Lisbon is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon .

The town, with its multiple famous landmarks, is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Once a popular summer home for Portuguese royalty, Sintra has a long history that dates back to the 8th century when the Moors settled the area. 

Now, one of the wealthiest cities in Portugal, it is a tourist destination with ruins, well-preserved palaces, and beautiful estates shrouded in mystery. 

Here are a few of the highlights and things to see in Sintra:

• Castle of Moors 
• Pena Palace to Sintra
• National Palace
• Old Town Sintra
• Quinta da Regaleira

READ OUR COMPLETE SINTRA DAY TRIP ITINERARY

Algarve Coast, Portugal

Where to stay along the Algarve Coast: Hotel Sol e Mar Albufeira

From Lisbon and Sintra, you’ll head to the Algarve Coast. You’ll want to pick up a rental car to drive to southern Portugal where you’ll have a relaxing couple of days at the beach. 

Remember to compare rental car prices online before you book. When picking up a rental car in Lisbon, keep in mind the city is very hilly, so an automatic transmission is beneficial unless you are very comfortable driving a standard transmission.

The Algarve Coast in southern Portugal is a popular beach destination in Europe. You can spend a couple days relaxing on the beach, playing in the ocean, and enjoying seafood and refreshing drinks in the picturesque seaside villages.

The Algarve is known for its pristine white villages perched upon low cliffs overlooking beach coves of white sand . Some popular beach towns to visit and explore include Lagos and Albufeira. 

If you rent a car and drive from Lisbon, take a scenic drive along the southern coast, stopping to visit various beaches like Praia Da Rocha and Praia Da Marinh a. 

To top off your short time in the Algarve, book a guided tour to Benagil Cave , a stunning seaside cave accessible by boat. It is one of the most popular attractions in Portugal. 

Additionally, if you have more time and enjoy traveling at a slower pace, you could tack on a few extra days in this peaceful coastal area. 

Here are a few highlights along the Algarve Coast:

• Beach hopping
• Benagil Cave
• Albufeira 

Seville, Spain

Where to stay in Seville, Spain:   Eme Catedral Hotel

Your next destination on this Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary takes you to the beautiful Andalusia city of Seville. You’ll want to give yourself at least 3 days in Seville , as well.  

The city is known for its tapas, flamenco shows, and relaxed atmosphere. In the heart of the city, you’ll find an extravagant Moorish royal palace, the Real Alcazar , that dates back to 1248. 

Seville is also home to one of the largest and most famous cathedrals in Europe if not the world. Climb the Giralda Tower at the Seville Cathedral for panoramic views of Seville.

You’ll also want to build in some time to explore Plaza de Espana and relax at the neighboring Maria Luisa Park . 

Additionally, you will also want to spend time simply wandering the streets of the lovely Santa Cruz neighborhood, or book a guided walking tour to learn more about the history of the area. Once the old Jewish quarter of the city, Santa Cruz is notable for its winding alleys with rod iron balconies and hidden squares.

After your days of sightseeing, enjoy some free time during the Spanish siesta in the afternoons to regain your energy and avoid the peak heat hours. 

In Spain, it is important to build in downtime during the siesta hour . Not only do many businesses shut down for a few hours during the afternoon, but you’ll likely be staying up later than usual in Spain. 

Most people in Spain do not eat dinner until after 8. This is also when many flamenco shows and tapas tours take place. 

Plan for at least one or two late nights of delectable tapas, sangria, and flamenco performances. 

Here are a few highlights and things to do in Seville, Spain:

• Seville Cathedral
• Real Alcazar
• Plaza de Espana
• Barrio Santa Cruz
• Flamenco Show

READ OUR COMPLETE SEVILLE ITINERARY

Cordoba, Spain

Where to stay in Cordoba, Spain:   NH Collection Amistad Cordoba

From Seville, you’ll continue exploring the region of Andalusia on the Spain portion of your Portugal, Spain, Morocco itinerary. Head to the town of Cordoba via train ( BOOK HERE ), where you’ll spend two days. 

Although Cordoba can be done as a day trip from Seville, giving yourself two days in Cordoba allows you to explore the city without feeling rushed. 

Cordoba is home to one of the oldest mosques in Europe. Although it is now a Catholic church, the Mosque of Cordob a , or Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba,  still maintains much of its original Islamic architecture. You can tour the Mezquita on your own or with a local guide. 

Of course, Cordoba is known for its flower-filled streets and quaint patios that are the perfect place for a late breakfast, relaxing lunch, or evening dinner.

Spend some time wandering through the Jewish Quarter and enjoying the beautiful streets.

Here are a few highlights and things to do in Cordoba, Spain:

• Jewish Quarter
• Calle de las Flores
• Viana Palace Gardens
• Roman Bridge
• Mosque of Cordoba
• Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs

READ OUR FULL 2 DAY CORDOBA ITINERARY

Ronda, Spain

Where to stay in Ronda, Spain:   Luxury apartment with wonderful views

One of the most beautiful places in Spain and even the real-life setting for a Disney movie , Ronda, Spain is a great place to relax with a glass of wine and an epic view.

Ronda is home to one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe . 

Puente Nuevo extends nearly 400 feet across the Tajo Gorge. The picturesque bridge, which took 3 decades to build, is the primary draw to the small white village in Spain , but there are a lot more things to do and see if you want to spend more than one day in Ronda, Spain .  

The old bridge, Puente Viejo, and Casa del Rey Moro are must-visits in the charming cliffside village. 

You can join a walking tour or roam at your leisure to explore the beautiful streets. The town is also the original home of bullfighting. If you are interested in learning the history behind it there is a museum and bullfighting arena in the center of town.

Here are a few highlights and things to do in Ronda, Spain:

• Puente Nuevo
• Puente Viejo
• Casa del Rey Moro
• Baños Arabes
• Plaza de Toros

READ OUR COMPLETE RONDA ITINERARY

Chefchaouen, Morocco 

Where to stay in Chefchaouen, Morocco:  Riad La Santa

After two nights in Ronda, it is time to catch a train, and then a ferry from Spain to Morocco.

As an alternative, you could also take the train back to Seville and fly to Morocco instead, if you don’t want the hassle of the ferry. This might be a better option particularly if you are planning to visit Morocco with kids , as long travel days tend to wear out children quicker. 

If you prefer to fly, consider flying in and out of Fes instead of Tangier. Fes is the cultural capital of Morocco and one of the best places to visit in the country .

Once in Tangier (or Fes), you’ll want to have pre-arranged transportation to Chefchaouen . 

 Known as the Blue Pearl of Morocco, Chefchaouen is one of the prettiest cities in the north African country. Situated in the Rif Mountains, the city is known for its charming, pastel blue medina. 

Spend a day letting yourself get lost in the narrow streets of the medina, take photos of the beautiful doors and eye-catching nooks and side streets.

Shop and haggle in the souk market for your souvenirs from Morocco , and then hike to the old Spanish Mosque for enchanting views overlooking this blue city. 

To get the full Moroccan experience, book your stay in a riad, which is a traditional Moroccan home with a shared interior courtyard. 

Here are a few highlights and things to do in Chefchaouen, Morocco:

• Explore the blue medina
• Do a photo shoot
• Visit the souk market
• Hike to the Spanish Mosque
• Stay in a riad

READ OUR COMPLETE CHEFCHAOUEN ITINERARY

Tangier, Morocco

Where to stay in Tangier, Morocco:   Royal Tulip City Center

One of the most fascinating facts about Morocco is just how close it is to the continent of Europe. And Tangier is so close to the southern tip of Spain that you can even visit Tangier as a day trip from Seville .

Located right on the coast, Tangier is a great place to end your whirlwind Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary. You can spend the day relaxing at the beach, or exploring Tangier’s medina and Kasbah. 

Just outside of town, Hercules Caves are a popular tourist site.

To maximize your time in Tangier, it’s worth booking a full-day tour with a guide who can show you the highlights of Morocco’s gateway town to Europe.

Here are a few highlights and things to do in Tangier, Morocco:

• Wander the streets of the medina
• Relax at the beach
• Visit the Kasbah museum
• Discover Caves of Hercules

Other Spain Portugal Morocco itinerary ideas

We considered several different itineraries for Spain, Portugal, Morocco, so we wanted to provide a few additional options that might better suit your travel style.

#1 Alternative itinerary for Spain Portugal Morocco trip (staying in fewer places with day trips)

This itinerary allows you to skip the rental car and bus, and take an overnight sleeper train from Lisbon to Madrid, although you’ll be missing the scenic beaches along the Algarve coast. 

This alternative Portugal, Spain, Morocco itinerary also allows you to stay in one place for longer and take more day trips.

You can take day trips from Lisbon , Madrid, and Seville. 

You can even book a day trip from Seville to Tangier, Morocco if you just want to visit Morocco for a day or still plan to fly out of Tangier and take a day trip to Chefchaouen . 

• Lisbon, Portugal: 4 days (with a day trip to Sintra )
• Madrid, Spain: 3 days (with a day trip to Toledo )
• Seville, Spain: 5 days (with a day trip to Ronda and a day trip to Cordoba )
• Tangier, Morocco: 2 days (with a day trip to Chefchaouen ) 

#2 Alternative itinerary for Portugal Spain and Morocco (if Barcelona is a must-visit)

It is tough to visit Spain and not visit the beautiful city of Barcelona. However, Spain is a large country and getting to Barcelona in the northeast portion of Spain takes some time. 

You can elect to fly between Madrid and Barcelona or take a train. You can also elect to fly between Barcelona and either Tangier or Marrakech, Morocco, if you prefer flights to trains or road trips.

• Lisbon, Portugal: 3 days (with a day trip to Sintra )
• Madrid, Spain: 2 days (with a day trip to Toledo )
• Barcelona, Spain: 3 days
• Valencia, Spain: 1 days 
• Seville, Spain: 3 days 

Is a 2 week trip to Spain, Portugal and Morocco enough?

If you prefer slow travel over a whirlwind trip, 2 weeks is not enough time to visit and truly appreciate Portugal, Spain and Morocco. In 2 weeks, it is a challenge to see more than a small region in each country.

It’s a challenge to get to cities like Marrakesh or Barcelona without spending too much of your time in a car or train. But this itinerary gives you a small taste of each of the countries with a good portion of your time spent in my favorite region of Spain, Andalusia.  

You’ll return home having had a wonderful trip and wanting to return to each country to explore more!

Do you have a question or comment about this Spain, Portugal, Morocco itinerary? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts or your own ideas for a Spain, Portugal, and Morocco trip in the comments below.

Like it? Pin this Spain Portugal Morocco itinerary to save it for later!

Did you know…

When you make a purchase or book hotels, tours, or other travel services, through our links, we receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only EVER recommend service providers, websites, or products we personally use when booking our own travels. Your support enables us to keep producing helpful travel content. Thank you!

• Book a  HOTEL
• Book a  RENTAL CAR
• Purchase  TRAVEL INSURANCE
• Book guided tours or excursions at  GET YOUR GUIDE   or  VIATOR
• Book  TRAIN TRAVEL IN EUROPE
• Book  BUS TICKETS IN EUROPE
• Book a  FERRY IN EUROPE
• Book a  DESTINATION PHOTOGRAPHER
• Buy  TRAVEL GEAR  on Amazon
• Buy a  PRIORITY PASS MEMBERSHIP  for airport lounge access

Sharing is caring!

Related Posts:

11 comments on “The Perfect Spain, Portugal, Morocco Itinerary for 2 Weeks”

Wonderful information! I am planning a 2023 Spain,Portugal,Morocco trip for 7 active seniors (72 average). We can go anytime of year to save money and best weather. Highlights we would like – flying into Madrid,seeing Marrakesh and Casablanca. Any thoughts? Also would it be difficult to rent a car that could accommodate 7 people?

We were able to rent a car for 7 in Portugal, so I bet it is possible in Spain, as well. We used Sixt for our car rental, if that helps. In Morocco, we hired a driver/transport service, which was also able to accommodate 7 passengers. If your trip is 14 days long, I would probably do 3 days in Madrid (with a day trip to Toledo), 4 days in Seville (with a day trip to Cordoba or Ronda), 1 full travel day from Seville to Casablanca arriving at night for a total of 2 days/3 nights, and 3 days in Marrakesh. You could also add one night in Cadiz along the south coast of Spain if you plan to take the ferry across to Tangier. Hope that helps!

Tell me more about that tour for a single man in April or may 2023.

Single heathy age 60.

Hello how do I book any of these or do you just go? Thanks Di Matthews, Qld, australia

I just read about this route and would like to know more. My wife’s 50th birthday comes up in Dec so trying to see where we could have a great celebration.

Would like to know how much and how do we get there?

Amazing post ! thanks for sharing worth visiting article us and very informative

We are very much interested in such tours. Nice and detailed post. But if we don’t have 2 weeks. How can we make it enjoyable in 10 days, plus we are 6 adults, Me, my wife and 4 children of 19 to 25 year. Thirdly how can we apply for Visa from Pakistan.

Thanks so much for this itinerary. It makes planning for our trips so much easier. I appreciate very much.

Thank you so much for this! It is SO helpful – especially for those of us with kiddos! I am wondering if you might be willing to provide an overall cost- I know this cost will vary depending on where we are flying from, cost of items today vs. when you traveled but an estimate would be helpful if even as a starting point! Thank you!

What type of transportation did you take from Portugal to Spain? Train, plane, car ? We are finding little offered between the two. Thanks

We rented a car and drove from Lisbon to the Algarve, then dropped off our rental car in Faro and took a bus from Faro, Portugal to Seville, Spain.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign me up for the newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Wall maps, travel maps, guide books, globes and more!
• Finishing Options

• Search for:

No products in the cart.

Return to shop

• Personalized Maps
• Best Selling Maps
• Political Maps
• Physical Maps
• Historical Maps
• Africa Maps
• Antarctica Maps
• Australia Maps
• Europe Maps
• North America Maps
• South America Maps
• Country Maps
• International Region & City Maps
• U.S. Region, City, County Maps
• Congressional Maps 2022
• City & County Maps
• Classroom Pull Down Maps
• Topographic Maps
• Foreign Language Maps
• Space, Science, Culture & More
• Map Accessories
• World Raised Relief Maps
• United States Raised Relief Maps
• State Raised Relief Maps
• USGS Region Raised Relief Maps
• National Park Raised Relief Maps
• Other Raised Relief Maps
• Best Selling Combo Maps
• Elementary Classroom Maps
• Middle School Classroom Maps
• High School & College Classroom Maps
• History Maps
• Custom Spring Rollers
• Spring Roller Installation
• NOAA Charts
• U.S. Folding Maps
• Regional Folding Maps
• State Folding Maps
• City Folding Maps
• Continent Folding Maps
• Country Folding Maps
• National Park Maps
• National Forest Maps
• Appalachian Trail Maps
• World Atlases
• U.S. Atlases
• U.S. State Atlases
• Folding Maps
• Professional Driver Atlases
• For Business
• For Decoration

National Geographic – Spain and Portugal – Adventure Folding Travel Map

$ 14.95

National Geographic’s Spain and Portugal Adventure Map is designed to meet the unique needs of adventure travelers with its detailed and accurate information.

Publication : 2019 || Size : 25.5″ x 37.75″

• Description
• Additional information
• Custom Maps

National Geographic’s Spain and Portugal Adventure Map is designed to meet the unique needs of adventure travelers with its detailed and accurate information. Cities and towns are clearly indicated and easy to find in the user-friendly index. A road network complete with distances and designations for motorways, expressways, and secondary routes will help you find the route that’s right for you. Specialty content to include hundreds of diverse and unique recreational, ecological, cultural, and historical destinations, make this map invaluable to travelers hoping to experience all the attractions the countries have to offer. The eastern half of the Spain/Portugal map shows the eastern half of Spain from its northern borders with France and Andorra south along its Mediterranean coastline to Almer�a. Portugal and the western half of Spain including the Canary Islands are covered on the other half of the map. The neighboring countries of Spain and Portugal were both powerful empires at one time whose discoveries, conquests, and cultures greatly influenced the course of world history. With the opening of trade routes and the colonization of the Americas, Spain and Portugal not only brought their languages, religion, art, literature, music, and architecture to regions across the globe, they introduced new agricultural products, spices, and knowledge of the geography and peoples of the world to Europe. Vacationers enjoy Spain and Portugal’s lovely islands and extensive coastal beaches, as well as the plethora of historical sites, museums, and striking architectural masterpieces found in their sunny cities. Every Adventure Map is printed on durable synthetic paper, making them waterproof, tear-resistant and tough — capable of withstanding the rigors of international travel.

We love technology and enjoy the convenience of GPS, but you can’t plan a trip on a phone screen and navigation doesn’t work where there’s no cell signal. Start your next trip on the right foot with a high-quality folding travel map. Make the most of your next adventure, even if you lose GPS or cell signals. You’ll always be on the correct route with our folding travel maps. Your adventure starts here!

What is an Adventure Map?

Adventure Maps are the most authoritative maps for touring international destinations. Each waterproof and tear-resistant map provides travelers with the perfect combination of detail and perspective, highlighting points of interest for those venturing outside city centers. From the plains of France to the top of Mt. Everest these maps cover the hottest adventure destinations.

About the Author

Founded in 1915 as the Map Department of the National Geographic Society, National Geographic Maps is responsible for illustrating the world around us through the art and science of mapmaking. Today, National Geographic Maps continues this mission by creating the world’s best wall maps, outdoor recreation maps, travel maps, atlases and globes that inspire people to care about and explore their world.

Back-Orders & Out of Stock Items

If the item is currently out of stock it will ship as soon as we can get it. This will be shown in the “Normally Ships in” section above. If the item is on backorder you will recieve an email with updates as we recieve them. Our goal is to get your products to you a quickly as possible!

We offer free returns within 30 days for this product. Contact us within 30 days of receiving your product to receive a return authorization number, which you can write on the box and ship back to us. We will issue your return within three days of receiving the product back. **We do not refund the initial shipping charges and you’re responsible for shipping charges to get the product back to us unless we made a mistake in the order.

• Continent Maps
• United States Maps
• Kids Section
• International Maps
• States Maps
• USGS Regional Maps
• Map Pins, Markers & Stickers
• Mounting Hardware
• Need Help? 704-332-5557

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Account Options

mytouristmaps.com

Travel & Tourist Maps, Utilities and Curiosities from the World

Tourist map of PORTUGAL

Interactive travel and tourist map of Portugal: click on icons and writings on the map to open web links.

In October 2020 Sebastian Steudtner has established the new Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed (26,2 meters high) in Nazarè: just one of the stunning places of Portugal like the capital Lisbona, Porto, Sintra or the Algarve’s beaches, among the most beautiful in Europe. The Douro valley, with its famous scenic railway and the centre-northwestern mountains, completes the picture of this beautiful country on the border between Europe and the Atlantic Ocean.

Population: 10.276.650 Area: 92.212 sq.km Official Language : Portuguese Currency: €uro Drivers Lane: Right When to go: from April to October

Book Now Climate Rent a Car Flights

FURTHER LINKS Portugal official tourism website Nazaré Waves / Surf forecasts Surfline.com – Surf forecasts

Discover Portugal’s best tourist attractions and top sights through our map! Which are the best places to visit in Portugal? Simply click on the map’s links to be quickly redirected to images and useful websites for accommodation, activities, transport and much more.

photo © mytouristmaps (Lisbon)

Privacy Overview

Spain Rail Line Map

Map shows major rail routes through Spain and connecting cities