best season to visit spain and portugal

The best time to go to Spain

Jul 10, 2023 • 4 min read

Season after season, Spain offers a rich and diverse range of experiences © leonov.o / Shutterstock

Spain consistently ranks as one of the most-visited destinations in the world for good reason. This vibrant and multifaceted European country has attractions that resonate with every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast seeking to immerse yourself in  art and architecture , a sun worshipper looking for spectacular beaches and islands , a passionate gourmand embarking on a culinary tour  or even a spiritual adventurer wishing to retrace the footsteps of pilgrims , Spain is one of those rare destinations that offers a rich and diverse range of experiences, season after season.  

Consider what you’re looking for in a visit to Spain  and plan ahead. Are you traveling on a shoestring budget? Looking for the best time to soak up the sun on a sandy coastline, or eager to feast in a harvest festival?

Here are some of the best times to visit this fascinating Iberian destination. 

April to May and September to October are the best times for perfect weather

In central Spain and on the Mediterranean coast, the spring and autumn seasons are marked by sunlit days and pleasant weather perfect for strolling and outdoor dining in terrazas , with temperatures cooling down by nightfall. 

Conversely, the summer months of July to August are scorching, with temperatures in central and southern Spain reaching the mid-to-high 40s°C. Madrid empties out in August , as locals go on summer holidays and many establishments close to avoid the oppressive heat. These summer months are ideal for visiting the  northern regions , such as  Asturias ,  País Vasco (Basque Country),  Galicia and  Cantabria , which have milder temperatures.

May to September is the best time to hit the beach

Spain is blessed with nearly 5000km (3107 miles) of coastline, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Archipelagos in the Balearic Sea and off the northwestern African coast cap off the country’s maritime allure.

When the weather starts warming up in the wake of spring, Spanish beach destinations come to life, hitting their peak in August.  Ibiza reaches its peak party atmosphere in July and August, when top DJs fly in to play in its world-famous clubs. If you wish to avoid crowded shorelines, opt for going in May and June. 

April to May and September to October are the best times to walk the Camino de Santiago

The popular period for walking this thousand-year-old pilgrimage route towards  Santiago de Compostela is between May and September, for favorable weather and longer daylight hours. To avoid those busy months, opt for the spring and autumn shoulder seasons when trails are less crowded, offering a more tranquil and introspective experience.

September to October is the best time for enjoying wine-harvest festivals 

Oenophiles will particularly enjoy visiting Spain’s most famous wine-making regions, such as  La Rioja and  Ribera del Duero , during the traditional harvest season that starts in September. Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, kicks off its San Mateo festival, where you can take part in grape-crushing activities, parades and, of course, exquisite wine tasting for astoundingly low prices per copa . 

For an off-the-tourist-radar experience, visit Valdepeñas in the  Castilla-La Mancha region on the first week of September, when the entire town takes its love of vino to a whole new level with the annual harvest festival, featuring a wine tunnel and wine-tasting events in subterranean bodegas (wineries). There’s even a wine bus to take you home after a whole day of Dionysus worship. 

November to February is the best time for budget travelers 

Spain’s winter season attracts fewer tourists, so prices are generally lower on accommodations and flights. Winter can actually be a great time to bundle up and visit  Madrid and  Barcelona , which come alive with Christmas lights, outdoor markets and holiday festivities. 

November to January is the best time to indulge in olive-oil festivals

The annual olive harvest season is celebrated with olive-oil festivals all over the country, especially in the regions of  Andalucía and Catalonia. Check out the gastronomic agenda for the Martos Olive Festival in the city of Jaen, which takes place annually on December 8, while the Siurana Olive Oil Fair happens every November.  

January to February and July to August are the best times for sales shopping

Usually held after Christmas and the during summer holidays, when people have time to shop, the traditional rebajas  (sales) periods in Spain is regulated by the Spanish government to protect consumers and local businesses. During these winter and summer sales seasons, bargain hunters can  stretch their shopping budget, as stores use this time to clear their inventory and offer significant discounts reaching up to 70% off.

January to April is best time to try calçots

La Calçotada is a yearly gastronomic festival in the  Catalonian region , where large groups gather to eat grilled calçots – a type of green onion harvested in the winter – dipped in delectable sauces. 

January to March are the best times for skiing

Ski resorts usually open in December and close right after Easter in April. Peak snow conditions run from January to March in the  Pyrenees  and January to February in Central Spain. In southern Spain near Granada, the  Sierra Nevada  has a surprisingly longer ski season that can sometimes last until May. 

This article was first published April 2021 and updated July 2023

Explore related stories

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Summer is just around the corner in the northern hemisphere. Here's where the Lonely Planet team is going.

Mar 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 17 min read

Mar 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 28, 2024 • 3 min read

Weather & Climate

One-Week Itinerary

Driving Tips

Places to Visit

Islands to Visit

Douro Valley

Peneda-Geres National Park

Best Things to Do

Foods to Try

Most Beautiful Beaches

Top Road Trips

Things to Do with Kids

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Portugal

It may be a relatively small country, but to determine the best times to visit Portugal, you have to take into consideration the great variety of landscapes that influence weather, events, activities, and peak times. Between the mountains of the Estrela Range in the north, the beaches of the Algarve in the south, and the island groups of the Azores and Madeira in mid-Atlantic, each region has its own perfect time to visit.  

Portugal, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Spain, has a Mediterranean climate with, generally speaking, the best times to visit being spring (March to early June) and fall (September to late November). Meanwhile, Madeira and the Azores are influenced by the Gulf Stream, which accounts for a subtropical climate. The summer months of July and August are the hottest and, especially at the beach resorts of the Algarve, most crowded and expensive.

Best Time to Visit Northern Portugal

The north of Portugal is a lot cooler than the south which makes it an ideal part of the country to visit if you like sightseeing, road trips and hiking. The best times to visit are spring and fall.

In the spring, the mountains and valleys of the north are covered with wildflowers, and the almond trees are in full bloom. This time of year is ideal for hiking and exploring the fabulous cities of Porto, Sintra, Coimbra, and Braganza in the far north.

Fall is harvest time (mid-September to mid-October) when the valleys of the Douro and Dao become a hive of activities during the grape harvest. Chestnut trees are blooming, giving the countryside a lot of lovely colors. If you like to hike in the mountains, fall is the time to visit the Minho and Tras-os-Montes regions with average temperatures of 55 degrees F.

It’s a lot colder in the winter (between January and March), especially in the Estrela Range, where it will snow, so skiers head to one of several sports centers in the region. If you are a keen surfer, head for Ericeira or the Atlantic coast (Costa Verde) in the months from November to February, where waves reach records heights of 80 feet.

If you are looking for a beach holiday in the north, the summer months are ideal and less hot than the south because of the fresh Atlantic breeze. There are plenty of beaches to choose from in the north. Just be prepared that the water temperature is lower than in the south, and there may be an occasional rain shower. Book well in advance if you can only visit in the summer because prices can be high as the beaches in the north are also popular with the Portuguese who have their vacations in the summer.

Best Time to Visit Southern Portugal

The south of Portugal includes the Algarve, from Lagos to Tavira, and the border with Spain and inland to Monchique. You’ll find more sunshine and warmer air and water temperatures than in the north .

Again, the best times to visit are spring and fall. The summers in the Algarve get very hot, easily up to 104 degrees F and crowded, which is reflected in the highest prices for accommodation and food. Winter, which lasts from Dec. 21 to March 20, is the season where costs are lowest. There are the occasional rainy days, especially in winter, but the Algarve has a mild and pleasant climate year-round even for a visit to the beach, so avoid the peak season if you can.

Apart from a beach holiday, the Algarve is a golfers’ paradise with nearly 40 golf courses . It’s, of course, much more pleasant to play golf in spring or fall than in the heat of summer. There is also sightseeing in Faro, Lagos, and Monchique and delightful boat trips to the Nature Reserve of Ria Formosa and the islands, all of which can be enjoyed year-round.

Best Time to Visit Madeira

Madeira does its nickname, ‘Island of Eternal Spring’, justice with a subtropical climate and average temperatures of 77 degrees F in July and 62 degrees F in January.   Rain falls in the months of March, April October, and November, due to the location in the Atlantic, 600 miles off the coast from Lisbon. You can visit Madeira year around if you don’t mind a bit of rain in the offseason (and cheaper) months of rainfall with the best price cuts from April to mid-June.

The island, which of of volcanic origin, has a lush vegetation and is famous for flowers and fruit such as guava, mango, and anona. Depending on your taste in activities, you can swim in lava pools, go windsurfing (September to February), birdwatch, laze on the beaches, explore the Laurisilva Forest, or watch whales (April to October).

Best Time to Visit the Azores

The Azores are a group of nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic, at a distance of around 900 miles from Lisbon.   Some of the islands are hardly ever visited, and the rest of them are still more laid back and peaceful than the rest of Portugal. The best time to visit is from May to October. May to September is also the best time for whale watching, which is big in the Azores. Each morning, boats set out from Faial and San Miguel.

Summertime runs from June to September with the highest air and water temperatures. March, April, May, and October are the months with the most unstable weather; sunny days can alternate with plenty of rain. It is said that each of the four seasons can be experienced in a single day because the weather can change so quickly. 

November to March is winter and the peak of the rainy season. Temperatures don’t reach freezing point, but the dampness will make it feel colder than it is. Still, there are things to do and enjoy, like relaxing in the thermal springs—just bring the right clothes, and take advantage of the low prices for accommodation.

Like Madeira, the Azores are volcanic, which makes for a wild landscape and the chance of exciting hikes. Pico has the highest mountain, Pico Volcano, with a rather tricky climb to the peak that you don’t want to do in the rain—June would be the best time.

Key Festivals & Events

• The Madeira Flower Festival is probably the island's most well-known festival. To celebrate the arrival of spring in April and May, the festival spans several days with a variety of attractions. It takes place in Funchal.
• Angra do Heroismo , Portugal’s leading jazz festival takes place in October in one of the most beautiful towns of the Azores on the island of Terceira.
• Carnival of Loule Carnival is a big event in Portugal and among the oldest. It's a three-day party in the Algarve town of Loule in February.
• The Rose Festival in Vila Franca do Lima is a tradition going back to 1622. Highlights include are huge baskets filled with roses in the shape of coat of arms.
• The Fiesa Sand Sculpture Competition is an event not to be missed in Pera, near Algarve. This massive creation and exhibition of sand sculptures runs from March through November.

To visit the mainland of Portugal, the best seasons are spring and fall. April to mid-June and September to early November typically have comfortable temperatures and low-season prices.

Summer is the busiest time to visit Portugal, especially in major tourist areas like Lisbon, Porto, or the southern Algarve region. Prices spike beginning in mid-June and through the beginning of September.

July and August are the hottest months in Portugal, but this Mediterranean country sees mild temperatures throughout the year. If you want a warm getaway in the middle of winter, consider visiting the Portuguese islands of Madeira or the Azores.

Britannica. "Portugal - Climate." Retrieved February 16, 2021.

Weather Atlas. "Madeira, Portugal - Detailed climate information." Retrieved February 16, 2021.

Azores. "Azores Islands Information." Retrieved February 16, 2021.

The Best Time to Visit Spain

The Best Time to Visit the U.S. Virgin Islands

The Best Time to Visit Morocco

The Best Time to Visit Boston

The Best Time to Visit Kauai

The Best Time to Visit Japan

The Best Time to Visit Cape Town

The Best Time to Visit the Bahamas

The Best Time to Visit the Maldives

The Best Time to Visit Taiwan

The Best Time to Visit Dubai

Weather in Portugal: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Top Islands to Visit in Portugal

March in Portugal: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Travel Guide to the Azores Islands

May in Portugal: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

• Deutschland

Best Time To Visit Spain

Experience the magic of spring and fall in Spain

A whole lot of sunshine, beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, delectable cuisine and some of the world’s most popular religious and cultural festivals – what’s not to love about Spain?

There is a vibrancy to the country, which extends across its culture, nightlife, and cuisine, making it arguably among the most popular destinations in Europe. Exploring Barcelona, sampling Basque cuisine or hiking in Andalusia are some of the top acitivities in Spain for visitors, all of which is best done during the warmer months.

While its beaches are a huge draw in the summer and one of the top attractions of Spain, it can get crowded and hot around this time. The best time to visit Spain is usually during Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October). The weather in Spain is pleasant during those months – it is not as hot as it is in summer (when temperatures usually average in the 80s) and not as crowded as well. Before you start planning your Spain vacations , learn more about the weather and highlights by month, from our destination experts.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

• Enjoy the festivities of Dia de Los Reyes Magos (Epiphany/Three Kings Day)
• Head to the Canary Islands for some sun
• Enjoy the flamenco festival in Jerez and the Carnival festivities in Cádiz
• Enjoy the vibrant Las Fallas festival in Valencia 
• Explore the museums and other sights and sounds of Madrid
• Participate in some of Spain’s biggest festivals: the Holy Week festivities or Semana Santa, in the week leading up to Easter, as well as the Feria de Abril festivities in Seville, two weeks after Semana Santa
• Visit the Alhambra and other popular attractions in Granada
• Go on a walking tour of Barcelona
• Take in the sights of Cordoba
• Enjoy sunbathing on the beaches of Spain and a range of watersports
• Maximize your time indoors by visiting museums in Barcelona and Madrid
• Head out on an evening food tour in Barcelona or Madrid
• Watch a football match in Barcelona
• Go on a culinary tour in San Sebastian  
• Head to the town of Bunol to participate in the La Tomatina festivities, one of Spain’s biggest celebrations
• Head to Catalonia to participate in two big festivals: La Mercé and Festa de Santa Tecla
• Enjoy a wine tour in the La Rioja region, as this is the start of the wine harvest season in the country
• Take advantage of the fewer crowds and explore popular attractions in Barcelona and Madrid 
• If you enjoy surfing, head to places such as the Basque region and Bilbao to make the most of the great swells
• Take advantage of the cooler weather and go on a walking tour in Seville
• Go skiing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
• Enjoy Christmas festivities across the country, especially the Christmas markets in Madrid’s Plaza Mayor

What to Pack for Spain

Irrespective of when you travel, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must, as you will likely embark on walking tours and many of the smaller towns have cobbled stone streets. If you plan to visit churches and museums, make sure that your stomach and shoulders are covered to show respect for local customs. Spanish people love wearing sunglasses and you’ll find this a useful practice too, especially in the scorching summer months!

Spring:  Carry layers – light cotton clothes to wear during the day and a sweater or jacket for chilly evenings and nights. Carry an umbrella for the occasional spring showers.  

Summer:  It gets very hot in Spain during summer especially in cities such as Madrid. Carry lightweight breathable clothing, a hat/cap, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen. Summer dresses, shorts, and short-sleeved clothes are a good idea around this time. 

Fall:  Carry layers – lightweight clothes for the day and a warm shawl or sweater for the evenings. This is also the time Spain experiences a fair amount of rainfall, so carry adequate rain gear. 

Winter:  Winters can get cold and rainy, so make sure you pack adequate warm clothes. Temperatures average in the mid 50s, though the rainfall and grey conditions make it seem much colder. Carry layers, including plenty of raingear as Spain sees a good amount of rainfall during winter.

From beautiful landscapes and cultural hotspots to culinary gems, there’s much to explore in Spain. Plan your vacation now!

Popular Trips to Spain

Portugal and Spain: Iberian Highlights

Discover the best of Portugal and Spain on this 14-day tour across the two countries. Start your vacation in Porto, a laidback coastal city in Portugal, before stopping to soak up the beauty of Lisbon, the capital. In Spain, learn the art of flamenco, sample wines and tapas and take in the incredible history of…

Portugal and Spain: Historical Wonders

Dive deep into the historical and cultural highlights of the Iberian Peninsula on a combined tour through Portugal and Spain. Start your journey in Lisbon with a guided trip to the city’s main attractions. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of the Fado as you have an elegant dining experience with the most authentic Portuguese…

Simply Spain: Madrid, Seville & Barcelona

Discover Spain’s three major highlights on this classic tour! Beginning in the capital city of Madrid, take in an eclectic blend of tradition and modernity as you explore the city on a guided tour and visit its world-famous museums. Armed with a local expert in Seville, follow in the footsteps of the Moors at magnificent…

Best of Spain: Flavors, Flamenco and Fiestas

Discover the highlights of Spain on this private tour. Beginning in cosmopolitan Barcelona, delve deep into Catalan art and culture with a personalized visit to landmarks by Antoni Gaudi such as La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. Discover everyday life in Barcelona as you visit a bustling local market. Next in the Andalucian beauty, Seville,…

Grand Tour of Spain

Take an epic journey through the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of Spain with this private tour. Discover the most popular tourist destinations in the country on personalized, guided tours – from Antoni Gaudi’s best works in Barcelona to Moorish palaces and gardens in Andalusia and the stunning Guggenheim in Bilbao. Discover the countryside on…

Andalusia's Golden Triangle

Delve into the unique charms of Andalusia – from its clifftop cities in the Sierra Nevada to its gastronomy, flamencos and fiestas! Begin your tour in Madrid, sampling the culinary gems of the city as you hop across popular eateries with a local food expert. In the Andalusian city of Seville, take a personalized walk…

Best Places To Visit

Barcelona is the global traveler’s dream come true. Expect to encounter a flamboyant cosmopolitan city with a history encompassing Roman catacombs and magnificent medieval cathedrals to modernist architecture and street art.

Bilbao is a sunny port city celebrated for its urban architecture of soaring skyscrapers, cultural centers and museums such as Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, offset by a coastal landscape and towering cathedrals.

Cordoba’s colorful historical past and an equally vibrant present brought together with a medieval Islamic heritage delights travelers from all over the world.

Comfortably ensconced at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain, the grand Andalusian city of Granada is best known for the Alhambra, the symbol of Europe’s colorful Moorish history from the middle ages.

La Rioja Region is marked by idyllic vineyards watered by the Ebro River, the lovely Cantabrian Mountains with the river valley below, and vast open blue skies.

La Rioja Region

The beautiful city of Madrid serves the global traveler an amalgamation of Spain’s glorious history and modern culture on a platter.

Spain, like most countries in Europe, is extremely safe and welcoming, every year millions of people visit and enjoy the country incident-free. Here are a few things you should always keep in mind.

Travel Guide

Whether you’re interested in medieval palaces or treating your taste buds with exceptional food and wine, expect a fantastic vacation with an abundance of things to experience. Here’s our travel guide to see you through the journey.

If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country, you’ll be spoiled for choice with its many restaurants, cafes, and markets serving up all sorts of sizzling and seasonal delights. Eat your way through Spain with our tips!

What Our Guests Say

The Enchanting Difference

Authentic & unique.

Our award-winning, licensed local guides provide incredible insights and exclusive experiences for you.

Personalized & Private

Our experts completely customize your private tour to match your interests and preferences.

High-Quality Experiences

All our accommodations and services are personally tested by our team.

Fully Supported Travel

You’ll have a personal and dedicated trip coordinator, backed by 24/7 support in case of emergencies while you’re traveling.

Financial Protection & Flexibility

Your booking is flexible and completely secure with us.

Safe & Secure

Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Do you have a vacation in mind? Personalize your itinerary with our Trip Builder.

Change location

• Call us today until 8pm 01993 838 925 01993 838 081 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

When is the best time to visit Spain?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Spain is in late spring (April to May) or early autumn (September to October), due to the pleasant temperatures and lighter crowds. However, the country’s diverse offerings mean you can find something to enjoy at any time of year.

Spain has a relatively mild climate, staying mostly dry year-round. Summers can be quite hot, especially in the south, and see a greater influx of European visitors heading to the popular beach resorts. Lower temperatures in the north make it a great option during the summer if you are worried about the heat.

Winter temperatures rarely drop below 10°C. It can get cold and wet in the north, but the south remains pleasant.

• Make an enquiry
• Request a brochure

Month-by-month guide for travelling in Spain

Visiting Spain in January - February

The beginning of the year can be rather quiet in Spain, with thinner crowds and less activity, though most businesses are still open. This time of year, especially January, is known as ‘rebajas’ season, when items at most stores are heavily discounted after Christmas, offering great deals.

Events & Festivals

• Three Kings’ Day (6th January): Spaniards celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, or Three Kings’ Day, with street parades where public figures dressed as the Three Wise Men throw treats to the children.
• Carnival (February): Leading up to Lent, Spain’s carnival sees some Spaniards celebrating with large parties involving lots of sangria and fancy dress.

Visiting Spain in March - April

As the weather starts to warm up, the streets of Spain begin to buzz with more activity, though they aren’t as crowded as the summer months. Many people venture out for Semana Santa, Holy Week, to watch the parades that take to the streets. The warmer, but not overly hot, temperatures make it a very pleasant time to visit.

• Semana Santa (March/April): Holy Week is celebrated with parishes joining together throughout the week for elaborate parades featuring glittering statues carried by hooded men.
• Festival de Jerez (March): Over a couple of weeks, people flock to Jerez for one of Spain’s largest celebrations of flamenco music and dance, to learn from masters as well as watch some of the best dancers in the business perform.
• Feria de Abril (starts two weeks after Easter in April/May): Seville hosts its annual fair, filled with carnival rides, dancing, along with plenty of food and drink. Men traditionally sport a traje corto (long tight pants and a short jacket), while women don flamenco garb.

Visiting Spain in May

Temperatures continue to rise in May, when the country comes alive with vibrant flowers and locals begin spending more time outside in the sunshine. May is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking or heading to the beaches before they’re overrun with visitors. Temperatures are warm and tend not to have reached the uncomfortable levels of high summer.

Visiting Spain in June - August

The summer months can be hot and crowded and, like many other Europeans, Spaniards will flock to the coast to enjoy cooler weather and relax on the beach. Despite the heat, this time of year shouldn’t be avoided altogether. Buoyed by the longer days, Spaniards look for ways to unwind at night, so these months see a greater number of lively festivals and more evening revelry. Many festivities surround Spain’s food and wine and can be a real highlight of the summer.

• Batalla del Vino, or ‘Battle of Wine’ (29th June): In a lighthearted ‘battle’, locals in La Rioja douse each other with the province’s red wine.
• International Festival of Music and Dance (June/July): Granada hosts one of Spain’s largest and most important arts festivals, dedicated primarily to flamenco but showcasing other forms of music and dance, with several events taking place against the backdrop of the Alhambra.

Visiting Spain in September - October

Spain begins to quieten down after the rush and crowds of the summer. Temperatures return to pleasanter levels and most visitors have gone home, leaving the country in a more peaceful state, though still vibrant with daily Spanish life. Taking advantage of the pleasant weather and smaller crowds, this is a recommended time for exploring the country.

• Bienal de Flamenco (September): Held every other year in Seville, this festival is one of Spain’s largest and most important celebrations of flamenco and attracts professional performers from all over the country.
• Fiestas de San Mateo (September): A week of parades and concerts in La Rioja as the Feast of Saint Matthew coincides with the grape harvest.

Visiting Spain in November - December

Spain becomes cool again as winter approaches, but there is still plenty to enjoy. In November, jazz festivals are held in many major cities while in December, Spain’s streets are decorated for Christmas.

Spain Climate Guide

Why travel with audley.

• 100% tailor-made tours
• Fully protected travel
• Established for over 25 years
• 98% of our clients would recommend us

Travel advice

Practical tips for travelling to Spain, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest FCDO travel advice.

Request our brochure

Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.

Trip ideas and travel guides for exploring Spain

Basque Country by car & ferry: Bilbao, La Rioja & San Sebastián

7 days from £3,445pp

Best of Morocco & Southern Spain

10 days from £7,525pp

The taste of Spain: a Spanish food guide

In and around Madrid: our highlights

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

Best Time to Visit Spain - Full Month by Month Guide

Spain is consistently ranked one of the top travel destinations in the world, but if you're considering travelling there, you'll need to decide when is the best time to visit.

The thing is, your trip to Spain will look and feel completely different depending on which region you visit and what time of year you travel.

After all, Spain is the second largest country in Europe, with a wide diversity of climate and landscape - which means the weather can vary hugely from region to region.

It's also the second most mountainous European country after Switzerland.

In order for you to decide when to visit Spain, keep in mind each season's perks (lively festivals, sunny weather) and downfalls (crowds of tourists, hiked up hotel rates), as well as what it is you want to get out of your holiday.

The best time to visit Spain is either in late spring or early autumn - especially if you're going to Andalucia or the Mediterranean coastal areas. Northern Spain is at its peak in the summer months (July and August), and central Spain is best visited in October or May.

Winter weather isn't amazing anywhere in Spain, with some parts of the country even experiencing snow and ice.

Visiting Spain in winter is great, however, if you're not too bothered by drab weather and you're looking to save money, as hotel rates and restaurant prices tend to go down then.

Here's when you should visit Spain, depending on what you consider to be the most important part of your trip.

When to go to Spain if you want…

Warm weather.

Contrary to popular belief, not all of Spain is sunny and warm all year long. Likewise, summer is beautiful in parts of Spain, but it can be unbearably hot in other areas.

If your main reason for visiting Spain is to bask in the sunshine and warm weather, consider travelling to the beaches of Costa Brava in northeastern Spain during the summertime.

This region is easily accessible from Barcelona, and the average high is a pleasant 76° Fahrenheit (24° Celsius) in June and 80° F (27° C) in July and August.

Meanwhile, the super popular Mediterranean coast (home to Barcelona, Valencia and Malaga) has lovely weather in late spring and early autumn - think May-June and late September-October.

However, beware that it gets extremely hot in southern Spain at the height of summer - we're talking upwards of 100° F (37-40° C) in August.

A summertime phenomenon locals call El Terral - a hot, dry wind that blows over the Mediterranean coast like a hairdryer - only adds to the discomfort!

Cheap prices

September to late November and January to March are known as the 'shoulder seasons' in Spain, which means they're less popular times for tourists to visit.

This is great news for travellers who are trying to stay on a budget; Spain thrives on the tourism industry, so during shoulder season the majority of hotels and restaurants will slash their prices in order to attract more people.

Even the cost of flights to Spain is lower in the off-season, with November in particular seeing the cheapest prices.

So if you're trying to save money, time your trip so that it falls outside of the normal summer and winter holiday periods.

Lively events

If there's one thing Spain is famous for, it's the energy and spirit that seems to emanate from everyone and everywhere in the country.

Want to truly immerse yourself in the Spanish way of life? Then plan your Spanish trip to coincide with one of the countless festivals and events that take place year on year.

For something a little different, plan a trip to the town of Buñol in Valencia at the end of August to attend La Tomatina.

This wild and one-of-a-kind festival sees tens of thousands of people throwing tomatoes at each other, turning the town into one big pile of red pulp.

If you'd rather something a little less messy, consider going to Seville two weeks after the Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week).

This is when the city hosts the Feria de Abril, a week-long celebration featuring lots of dancing, drinking and eating interspersed with fireworks, traditional horse riding and bullfighting.

For more must-see Spanish festivals, read on!

Peace and quiet

Crowds not your thing? Then January - February is probably the best time for you to visit Spain.

Seeing as it's off-season, you won't find throngs of tourists invading some of the most popular destinations like Granada, Seville and Barcelona.

That means less queuing and an overall more authentically Spanish experience.

Unless you go to the Canary Islands, you probably won't be able to do any sunbathing in January and February.

But the weather in southern Spain is fairly dry and manageable at this time of year, making it the perfect place to visit for a winter break.

The best time to visit Spain: A month-by-month guide

If you hate crowds, don't mind iffy weather and would rather not spend lots of money, January is a fine time to visit Spain.

Since it's outside of peak tourist season, you'll likely get more bang for your buck no matter which region you go to, as hotel room rates and restaurant prices go down across the country after the Christmas holiday.

There's also a handful of festive events going on at this time of year, including Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes) on the 6th.

This holiday, which is also known as Epiphany, is Spain's version of Christmas day, with many families opening their gifts then rather than on 25 December.

Many cities around Spain including Madrid and Barcelona also host a boisterous Three Kings Festival, with people parading through the streets on the evening of the 5th and well into the next day,

Members of the local council will march through the city, throwing sweets into the crowds for children and adults to catch.

Despite the lack of beach weather, January is a merry - and relatively tourist-free - time to visit Spain.

The weather in Spain in February is much like it is in January - some degree of chilly.

Even in Andalucia, the highest temperature is about 60° F (16° C), and evenings can get down to the 40°s F.

That being said, there are plenty of good reasons to visit Spain in February, including some lively carnival parties in Cadiz, Madrid, and the Canary Islands to celebrate the beginning of Lent.

And if you're into your music, plan a February trip to the city of Jerez, which hosts a massive two-week-long flamenco festival every year starting in February and finishing in early March.

While the evenings are still cool in March, this is the month when things begin to warm up in Spain.

The sea may not be quite warm enough to swim in - even the Mediterranean - but walking on the beach should be pleasant around this time of year.

Plus, there are lots of cultural events and festivals to experience in March, including Valencia's unique Las Fallas festival in mid-March.

During this riotous week, the city is -quite literally - set ablaze with fireworks, gunpowder and bonfires, while live music and a healthy dose of satire give the festival a fun and humorous touch.

The main event sees hundreds of ninots (dolls made from papier-mache, wood or cardboard) set alight in a mass fire called La Cremà (the burning).

Keen to get stuck into the real-life culture and traditions of Spain? Then you could do much worse than Spain - and Valencia in particular - in March.

In our experience, April is one of the best months to visit Spain, for numerous reasons.

By April, the majority of mainland Spain's most popular beach towns - Marbella, Alicante, Malaga - are warm enough to do some sunbathing.

And things tend to be pretty sunny and dry in the Balearic Islands as well, with Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca ushering in the springtime.

Seville's Feria de Abril is enough of a reason to travel to Andalucia in April, as the city comes to life with traditional flamenco music and dancing.

Meanwhile, at the end of April, the town of Trujillo in Spain's Extremadura region hosts the Feria del Queso - a three-day-long festival celebrating all things cheese.

If you consider yourself a foodie - or a cheese fan, in particular - you'll be blown away by the sheer number of cheese varieties available to sample.

In terms of weather, May is yet another gorgeous month to visit Spain, with temps on the rise and the sun shining more and more.

Clear, sunny skies and warm days are the norm by now in Barcelona, with average temperatures reaching about 20°C (68°F).

It also roughly marks the beginning of bullfighting season in Spain, a centuries-old tradition that's either thrilling or horrifying, depending on your personal standpoint.

If bullfighting isn't your idea of a good time, there's plenty of other activities going on in May, including the Primavera Sound Festival in Barcelona, the San Isidro Festival in Madrid, and the WOMAD World Music Festival in Caceres.

Plus, since the official summer holiday hasn't begun yet, most destinations are less busy in May than they are in June, July and August.

Now that many schools have broken up for the summer holidays, expect flights, hotels and food in Spain to be pricier than before.

However, it's worth spending a bit more to take advantage of the sheer variety of fun things going on - not to mention the sublime weather you'll experience across the country.

By June, Madrid will already be pretty hot and dry. If you're visiting the capital then, consider making air conditioning a priority when looking for accommodation.

And if you're considering visiting Spain to do some surfing or kite-surfing, now is a fantastic time to go to Tarifa - one of the most popular destinations in the world for wind sports.

You'll enjoy balmy days, cool evenings, and the city's laid-back surfer lifestyle, before the masses of late-summer visitors pile in.

July is the absolute busiest month for most Spanish destinations, which makes it both a good and a bad time to visit.

On the plus side, all the restaurants, bars and hotels will be open and fully functioning, and you can expect a lively, fun-filled atmosphere across the country.

But visiting Spain in the high season also means you'll probably have to spend more on hotel rooms, and you can expect to hear lots of English wherever you go.

In any case, if you do decide to visit Spain in July, you'll definitely need to book your accommodation well in advance, before hotels fill up completely.

At the height of summer, some of Spain's most popular destinations are simply too hot to visit (Malaga, Granada and Seville - we're looking at you!)

Instead, head north to Galicia, Asturias and the Basque country, where the weather is pleasant (in the high-teens to mid-twenties Celsius) without being unbearable.

August is the perfect time to go on a road trip through northern Spain , sampling all the delicious pintxos you can manage along the way.

For a unique cultural experience, time your trip to coincide with the Semana Grande, which takes place in Bilbao and San Sebastian every August.

During this festival, you can expect to see traditional Basque sports, giant puppet dances, and a spectacular fireworks competition lighting up the night sky every evening.

With temps beginning to cool down again in September, Spain's fiery summer destinations like Madrid and Cordoba are no longer too hot to handle.

Now's your chance to take advantage of those amazing cities without feeling like your face is about to melt off!

September is also a great time to sample some of Spain's finest wines during the harvest season.

If you love wine or simply want to immerse yourself in the country's wine culture, book a trip to Logroño, Spain - the capital of the La Rioja region - in the third week of September.

This is when the San Mateo festival takes place - a week of celebrating the local wine harvest with music, festivities, and lots of drinking.

A highlight of this event is the crushing of the grapes, during which you're invited to squish Rioja grapes with your own feet.

Summer is well and truly over by October, which means we're back in shoulder season.

This is a lovely time to visit Andalucia, seeing as the weather is mild, the cities are a bit quieter, and the beaches are still relatively sunny.

You can even still sneak in some sunbathing if you head to Mallorca, where the temps are still in the mid-Twenties Celsius.

Sporty types might want to head to northern Spain in October, which marks the beginning of surf season.

Just make sure you wear a wetsuit!

If, on the other hand, you want to embrace the autumnal beauty of Spain, there are quite a few places to spot some stunning fall foliage.

One highlight is Irati Forest, situated on the northeastern border with France, which boasts some particularly vibrant hues around this time of year.

With its slow pace and refreshingly crisp weather, November is a fine time to go for a road trip around Andalucia , perhaps visiting some of the famous Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) in the hills.

While you're down there, make some time to visit Ronda, which Ernest Hemingway described as 'the most romantic town in Spain' and which animated film fans will recognise from 2017's Ferdinand .

You can also stop by the nearby Jerez, where they host the International Sherry Festival every November.

Fancy more of a city break than a full-blown holiday? Then book a trip to Madrid to see the autumn colours in El Retiro Park and witness the international Jazz Festival.

With Christmas on the horizon and festive spirits at an all-time high, December in Spain is almost as lively and exciting as summer.

Plus, thanks to the country's size and variety of climate, you can have any type of holiday you want in December - from ski trips to beach breaks, and everything in-between.

To get into the holiday spirit, head to Barcelona or Seville, where you'll find great Christmas markets.

Pay a visit to the city of Malaga and you'll see a seriously impressive display of fairy lights on the main street, which draws thousands of spectators to the city centre every evening in December to watch it become illuminated.

Meanwhile, December marks the beginning of ski season in Granada, with the snow-capped Sierra Nevada opening up to skiers and snowboarders alike.

And historic Zaragoza in northeast Spain is a great place to stay while visiting the nearby ski resorts in the Pyrenees.

If you've got a hankering for winter sun, book a trip to Gran Canaria, where the average December temperature hovers around the low 70s° F.

And wherever you decide to go, be prepared to take part in some Spanish New Year's Eve traditions, including eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• Travel Tips
• Best time to visit Spain: weather, seasons, and a month-by-month guide

Spain is one of the best travel destinations in the world. Besides, it is one of the biggest countries in Europe. However, before traveling there, you will need to decide where to go and when the best time to visit Spain.

Your trip to Spain will differ from one region to another. Each one has its climate, festivals , and places to discover. As well as it depends on what time of the year you travel.

Keep in mind whatever the time you chose to visit Spain. Each season has its benefits. In summer, there are vivid festivals, sunny weather, and beautiful beaches . As well as, in downfalls, you can enjoy the weather is neither too hot nor too cold.

Counting on what you consider the most important part of your trip. Here is our month-by-month guide when you should visit Spain.

1- The best seasons to visit Spain:

The best time to travel to Spain is in the spring months. From March to May or during the autumn between September and November. Especially if you decided to go to the Mediterranean coastal areas of Andalucía .

These months are known as the off-season. You will find reasonable prices, cheaper accommodation, and fewer crowds. Moreover, the spring season is known for its warm weather enough to hit the beach. Also, there are many festivals and events that you should not miss! Besides, you will enjoy the delicious food , magnificent museums, and massive architecture. That is well worth discovering.

2- The Weather in Spain:

The weather in Spain is balmy all year long. However, a typical day in summer is around 90 degrees. If you want to escape the hot weather. Go to northern Spain where temperatures are closer to 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter, the temperatures around 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the country. Which makes the temperature best for skiing in the hills.

The best seasons to visit beaches is during the late spring to early summer or from late summer to autumn. They are quieter and less crowded, and you can still enjoy the warm weather.

If you are looking for warm weather all year-round, you can find it in the Gran Canary Islands . That is an ideal spot for a beach getaway, sunbathing, and ocean swimming at any time of year!

3- Spain Travel Seasons:

Peak season:.

The summer months, especially July and August are the peak seasons in Spain. If you are planning to visit Spain at this months. Expect big crowds, long lines, busy beaches, higher prices for hotels, and expensive flights. To combat this, try to book earlier to avoid any higher prices. It will not be cheap, but it should be less expensive than planning a last-minute trip.

If you are in Spain, you can be a part of festivities, like the running of the bulls in Pamplona or the Tomatina Festival in Buñol. Besides, you will find some shops even close down completely in August.

Shoulder Season:

The shoulder season, generally from April through mid-June, and September to October. This season can be a great time to visit Spain. With an amiable temperature, perfect for sightseeing with fewer crowds, and long-enough daylight. You might be able to find some cheaper accommodation rates and flights too.

These months are the best time to enjoy several festivities. The magnificent parades and fireworks in the Las Fallas festival in Valencia . The imposing processions of the Semana Santa in Andalucía. The popular  zarzuelas throughout May in Madrid and The April Fair in Seville .

Off-Season:

The off-seasons in Spain are the winter months from November to February. The climate is generally cold and dry. That makes the temperature best for skiing in the hills. Additionally, you can discover the sights and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.

This is a good season for travelers on a budget, with accommodations and flights at their lowest of the year. This is also the time to experience some of the most important festivals in Spain.

4- Spain month by month guide: 

Spain is known for its variety of events and festivals throughout the year. It attracts visitors from all around the world. If you plan to travel to be part of one of these festivities, it is better during the spring and summer seasons.

To help you decide when the best time to visit Spain. And which festival to attend here is a month-by-month guide of what goes on in Spain:

January is Spain’s offseason. Less crowded, hotels and accommodations are cheap in this month.

For sport winter lovers, January is the ideal season to go to the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Doing some snowboarding, skiing, and enjoying the picturesque mountain views. As well as, in the Pyrenees and Picos de Europa, there is plenty of snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

Moreover, January was known by two major festivals. The Three Kings Day on the sixth, and the famous festival San Sebastian.

In February, most people opt to go south of Spain. The rest of the country is rainy and has cold temperatures. Particularly in Madrid and other northern cities like Bilbao and Galicia .

February is well known for being the month of Carnival, which celebrates the starting of Lent. As well as, the Jerez festival or flamenco festival is the most famous in Spain.

March is one of the most magnificent months to visit Spain. It marks the beginning of spring. Where trees start to bud and blossom, and flowers flourish. Besides, in this season you can enjoy museums before the tour groups roll in. And hit the hiking trails before it gets hot.

Furthermore, March famed by its unbelievable festivals like Las Fallas in Valencia. As well as, another festival called Semana Santa or Holy Week during Easter. These events cannot be missed.

April is one of the best months to visit Spain! If you booked your flight in April to Andalusia, so be ready to go and enjoy the sun on the beach.

For the activities, you can discover monuments, mountain biking, rock climbing, quad tours, and helicopter flights. Besides, April month is known by festivals. Like the Feria de Abril in Seville, a spring fair that demonstrates Spanish culture. As well as the massive music festival Festmad in Madrid.

May is the perfect month to visit Spain. It has warm weather, sunny days with long evenings, and ideal for city strolls of walks along the beach. Besides, during this mouth beaches start to fill up in the south, but the rest of the country experiences divine weather as well.

The warm weather brings with it fun festivals like the bullfighting festival and Patios Festival in Cordoba .

June is not the peak season but tourists start to roll in. Besides, it is remarkable at museums, cathedrals, and beaches. Moreover, the flight prices and hotels start raising preparing for the peak season. Thus, you had better get your reservation in advance.

If you are planning to visit Spain in June. There are some events you can enjoy your eyes out like the Water and Ham Festival in Granada .

For water sports lovers, June is the best time to head to Tarifa for some kite surfing. The water isn’t too crowded and the wind is stellar, so it’s the perfect time to take a lesson!

July is the busiest and hottest month of the year in Spain. This time the locals flee to the coast for some sea breezes and ocean views. If you are visiting Spain during this period. Be prepared for huge crowds everywhere. As well as, expensive hotels, flights, and long waits in restaurants.

During this period, there are many things to discover. As well as, festivals and events to take part. Like The San Fermin festival, the running of the bulls, and the Benicassim Festival. It worth attending if you are in the city.

August is the hottest second month in Spain. For beach lovers, Spain has magnificent beaches in Galicia, Basque county, and Asturias . That is ideal for swimming and enjoying the sun.

Moreover, Spain is known for an annual festival held during this month called La Tomatina. Thousands of people take part in a big tomato fight. That takes place in Bunol on the last Wednesday in August.

September is officially the end of summer and the peak season in Spain. Choose September as the best time to visit Spain because the busiest time of the year is winding down.

This month is still warm but it is supportable than August and July. So you can go back to visit places like Madrid, Cordoba, and Barcelona . As well as other cities without feeling as you are going to melt.

If you are heading to Spain in September, be sure to go to the La Merce festival, one of the biggest festivals. Celebrates Barcelona’s patron saint. As well as, do not forget to grab tickets to the San Sebastian Film Fest.

If you do not like the heat and crowds of summer. October is the perfect month for you to discover Spain. The weather starts to cool off and the cities begin to empty. Besides, it is the best time to explore the inland cities like Madrid, Salamanca, and Andalucía.

For beach lovers, you need to go to the north of Spain, where October brings some of the best surfing during the year.

In terms of festivals, the Bienal de Flamenco is the largest flamenco festival in Seville. Keep in mind that it only happens once every two years!

November in Spain is quiet and cold, but there is plenty of activities to do that make it a worthwhile time for a visit.

November is the best month to spend your vacation in events like the International Sherry Festival in Jerez. And the Jazz Festival in Madrid that attracts people from all over the world. As well as, Fiesta de La Almudena in Madrid.

Finally, Spain gets some peace from the summer. Also, the country prepares for the Christmas season. Besides, December weather differs from one region to another.

You can choose whether to go skiing to the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains or to enjoy lying on the beach on an island. The choice is yours.

December is the time to prepare for Christmas festivities throughout the country. To close the year, December is the best month to celebrate the New Year in Puerto Del Sol in Madrid. With huge crowds, all gathered to celebrate until the clock strikes midnight.

Spain has countless events and festivals to celebrate during the year. As you can see, each month in Spain is different from the other. So, no matter when and where to go but keep in mind to book earlier because Spain has something for everyone at any time.

Related posts:

Pin it on pinterest.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The 23 Best Places to Go in Spain and Portugal in 2023

By Redacción Condé Nast Traveler

The start of a new year offers an opportunity to draw up lists of resolutions, and in our case, that means deciding which destinations around the world we want to explore. As the editors of Condé Nast Traveller Spain , we have collectively created another list: 23 places that we want to visit, and revisit, that are close to home – in Spain and Portugal too.

At the same time, the editors of all of the Condé Nast Traveller editions around the world have been discussing, debating, and defending their choices in order to create a collective list of the top 23 places to visit around the world in 2023. We are happy that two of our picks – a Spanish province and a town in the Alentejo region of Portugal – made the global list. We also hope the double honour for these two destinations will serve as a recognition of their new cultural, gastronomic, and hospitality offerings as well as encourage readers to go visit and see them in person.

Before you read further, you might want to grab a pen and a calendar as you begin to plan a year full of travel. And don’t forget to visit our global list of international destinations to visit next year –  the best places to travel in 2023 , vetted by  Condé Nast Traveller editors, plus ideas for  places to travel in the UK ,  places to go in the USA and  destinations to book in India .

Tenerife, Canary Islands

“In whatever month you visit Tenerife, it is always warm during the day and chilly at night,” our contributor Raque Sanchez wrote in a love letter to the island that expressed sentiments we agree with 100 per cent. The largest of the Canary Islands is a good place to visit, in any and every season. While you are there you can take a dip in the Atlantic, gaze at the stars from the summit of Mount Teide (with an elevation of 12,198 feet, it’s the highest point in Spain), explore little towns, and wander along the island’s many beaches, some rocky and some sandy. Tenerife’s varied landscape includes forests, deserts, valleys, and ravines and the Anaga Rural Park is a highlight. There are also two UNESCO World Heritage sites : the Teide National Park and the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna.

An added plus is that the island has a remarkably rich and diverse choice of hotels. Among the award-winning properties are the  Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden ,  Baobab Suites ,  The Ritz-Carlton Abama ,  H10 Atlantic Sunset ,  Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora , and  Bahía del Duque . On the island’s north coast,  BeTenerife offers an excellent selection of private villas for two or four guests.

It is also one of the best destinations in Europe for cycling enthusiasts, has long been a pioneer in sustainability (it has been recognised as a Biosphere Sustainable Destination), and is decidedly LGBTQ+ friendly, with an annual  Culture & Business Pride festival in June. Looking towards the future, the island’s Artificial Intelligence Tourism Master Plan is the first of its kind to be approved in Spain, and Tenerife aspires to become an Intelligent Tourism Destination – a distinction promoted by Spain’s tourism ministry to recognise destinations with innovative technological infrastructure that have demonstrated their commitments to sustainability, accessibility, and improving the quality of life of residents.

Tenerife also sparkles with Michelin stars. Among the restaurants enjoying that distinction are  M.B and  Kabuki (at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama),  Nub , and  El Rincón de Juan Carlos . Other  highlights of the island’s dining scene include  Kensei (at the Bahía del Duque hotel),  Kiki ,  San Hô , and  Melvin by Martín Berasategui , at the Terrazas de Abama Suites, where chef Sergio Fuentes helms the kitchen. You’ll also want to visit some of the island’s traditional beach bars including Punta de Hidalgo’s  La Cofradía , known for its limpets and shrimp;  Chiringuito Pirata , on La Tejita beach, where octopus is the signature dish; and  Bollullo , on the beach of the same name, where you’ll want order the cuttlefish. Clara Laguna

Zamora, Castilla y León

Even many Spaniards are unaware of one of Zamora’s claims to fame: it is the European city with the greatest number of Romanesque buildings. Its sights in that style include 24 churches, a cathedral, a castle, a bridge, two palaces, nine manor houses, and the defensive walls that encircle the city. It is not surprising that the city is seen as a likely contender to be recognised by UNESCO in 2023. The city’s proximity to Madrid – less than an hour on the new high-speed AVE train – makes it an even more appealing and convenient destination.  

Zamora offers more, however, than just its Romanesque buildings. It also has an enormous legacy of modernista structures from the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries, the Duero River winds its way through the heart of the city and shapes the surrounding landscape, and the Lagunas de Villafáfila are a birdwatcher ’s delight, home to a dazzling variety of migratory species. It’s just one of many sights near the city. Lake Sanabria is the largest glacial lake in Europe, and a few miles away Puebla de Sanabria is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Farther south, the Sierra de la Culebra has the highest wolf population in Western Europe, although last summer’s wildfires devastated much of the area. Heading east, you will come across Toro, a beautiful wine capital where the LVMH group boasts its own winery, the excellent Numantia.

Nearby, in the heart of the vast plain known as the Tierra de Campos, the restaurant Lera has become famous as a temple to the pleasures of game and country cuisine. It draws celebrated chefs like Dabiz Muñoz who fill the tables at the restaurant in Castroverde de Campos, a small town in one of the quietest corners of Spain.

Finally, to the south of Zamora, the Arribes del Duero provide some drama. The imposing cliffs and the fjords below them act as a natural border with Portugal in an area that has attracted acclaimed international winemakers like Charlotte Allen from England, Thyge Jensen of Denmark and José Manuel Beneitez, originally from Madrid . Olive and citrus trees help to turn this corner of the region into a Mediterranean paradise. New gastronomic and hotel projects point toward the area becoming a little Tuscany in Zamora, even if, for now, few people in Spain or beyond have heard of it. David Moralejo

Sierra Calderona, Valencia

Located between the provinces of Castellón and Valencia , the  Parque Natural de la Sierra Calderona is a protected natural park that includes almost 70 square miles of pine and strawberry tree forests, ravines, sweeping vistas, and dramatic peaks. The summit of Montemayor, at an elevation of 3,320 feet, is the highest point in the park.

While the residents of Valencia know about this treasure – it is located just 12 miles from the province’s capital – it largely remains a secret in the rest of Spain. That means that visitors can still find tranquility and even a little bit of mystery alongside the park’s beauty and splendour.

A number of different civilisations and people have settled in the Sierra Calderona over the millennia. A trek through the range offers a chance not only to see all its natural wonders, but it is also a walk through history with stops at the 11 th -century Castillo de Serra, built during the Arab conquest of the region, and the Iberian hilltop fort Puntal dels Llops, which dates from the fifth century BCE.

Travellers interested in hiking and birdwatching will find a little paradise with several different routes to choose from: Garbi, which leads to the sea; the four-mile Olocau route, which starts in the village of the same name; the longer but largely flat 5.2-mile Portaceli trail, the more challenging 7.8-mile Tristán trail, and, for those who are more experienced and ambitious, the rewarding 23-mile Senda dels Cartoixos route that connects two historic Carthusian monasteries. There are also many other trails maintained by local governments and other organizations, like the Vía Verde de Ojos Negros, a popular cycling route that connects the town of Teruel and the Mediterranean.

The most visited peak in the range is Garbí, with a vista that offers spectacular views and is easily accessible. Other highlights in the area are the Serra Castle, the Portacoeli Charterhouse (a Carthusian monastery), the Santo Espíritu monastery, the Mola de Segart (a dramatic mesa), and the Font del Compte (a reservoir originally built by the Romans).

The Sierra Calderona is a natural wonder that has been passed down through the generations and from one culture to the next. If you visit, please leave it as beautiful as you found it. María Casbas

Briones, La Rioja

The walled town with 700 residents is possibly the prettiest town in the Rioja. Its secret is its cobblestone streets, palecetes (“small palaces”), and churches. Located in the la Sierra de la Demanda and near many of Rioja’s best wineries, you’ll find vines growing in many of the postcard views here.  

You can start your wine itinerary right in town at the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, considered to be one of the best in the world. Displays focus on wine’s role in Western civilisation and the museum extends over 43,000 square feet, including six gallery spaces (five hosting the permanent collection and the sixth dedicated to temporary ones). The museum’s Garden of Bacchus includes 220 different varieties of wine grapes from around the world. A stroll through it offers a unique masterclass.

A highlight of the year in Briones is its unusual  Medieval Days in mid-June, specifically 17 and 18 June 2023. Declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in 2012, the event celebrates a 1379 treaty between the kings of Castille and Navarra. Almost the entire town turns out in costume for a parade and other events when Briones turns the clock back more than six centuries. The accommodations are far from medieval, however, at the new and charming

Santa María de Briones , a 16-room boutique hotel located in a restored mansion.  Don’t leave without seeing the town’s old pharmacy, now located at the Ermita del Cristo church. After its former owner left the pharmacy to the church in his will, the church chose to move the beautiful 19 th -century cabinets, apothecary jars, and other items and reconstruct the pharmacy on church property where visitors can admire it. Cynthia Martín.

Melides, Portugal

Suddenly everyone is talking about Melides . That may cause some wistfulness on the part of some, aware that the secret is now out, but that’s how it goes. The little town on Portugal’s Alentejo coast , located a half-hour from already popular Comporta , is now the name on everyone’s lips. 

It all makes sense. There’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with Melides beginning with the nearby Galé beach, where a red stone cliff of five-million-year-old fossils creates a dramatic backdrop to a long, sweeping stretch of sand. The landscape here still feels wild, something that it is (if we are honest about it) increasingly hard to find in Comporta though that town still has its undeniable charms. Alongside with its natural beauty, the beach has the plus of never feeling crowded. It is part of a 30-mile or so stretch of sand the runs from the village of Troia to nearby Sines. The waters are rough and cold, deterring all but the hardiest swimmers, but this stretch has another plus of fewer mosquitoes (which tend to plague the beaches that sit alongside rice fields in Comporta and elsewhere).

Another reason to visit will be added to the list in 2023. The designer Christian Louboutin, who helped to put this part of Portugal on the map with a 2013 campaign shot in the photogenic port of Carrasqueira, will open the boutique Hotel Vermelho . “Vermelho” is red in Portuguese, a nod to the trademark colour of the soles of Louboutin’s shoes. It’s a much-anticipated addition of big-city style to a town with fewer than 2,000 residents.  

The village’s charm comes from its typical Alentejo architecture, set amid a green and wooded landscape in the foothills of the Serra da Grândola. Olive, oak, and cork trees frame the views from the Vermelho mansion of the surrounding countryside. Louboutin’s vision echoes a phrase uttered by Tancredi in  The Leopard  by Lampedusa: “Everything must change for everything to remain the same.” The designer hopes only to breathe new life into place while preserving its peaceful atmosphere. 

Louboutin is not alone and the Hotel Vermelho will join  Pa.te.os , an impressive new hotel and architectural beauty designed by Manuel Aires Mateus. Made up of a number of separate villas, the hotel is reimagining luxury in the middle of the countryside near Melides. At the same time,  Melides Art , an artists’ residence and contemporary art space, has also been drawn to this corner of Portugal with its bohemian air, discreet charms (many of the admittedly bourgeois), and a pervasive sense of a calm. We hope the quiet survives Melides’s new popularity. David Moralejo

Málaga, Andalucía

Recently it feels like everyone in Spain, and a good number of people beyond Spain too, has decided to move to Málaga. If you are dubious, raise the topic at any dinner party in Madrid and you’ll soon learn about someone who has recently packed up and gone to the Costa del Sol or, at least, you’ll meet someone who is dreaming of it. 

The phenomenon has not happened overnight, though the rise of digital nomads and remote work have definitely contributed to it. If you can work from anywhere, why not choose a place where the climate is pleasant, you’ll receive a warm welcome, and the culinary offerings are excellent from the first bite.

If you aren’t quite ready to move to Málaga, you can at least visit, or revisit, in 2023. In fact judging from the results of the most recent  Readers Choice Awards from  Condé Nast Traveller , we expect the city is already included in many travellers’ plans. With its ideal size, neither too small nor too intimidating; nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine each year; the ease of getting there from other parts of Spain and Europe; its rich cultural offerings, and the pleasant setting it’s easy to understand the smiles on the faces of both the tourists and locals strolling along Calle Larios (the pedestrianised shopping street), the inviting Pasaje de Chinitas, and the waterfront Palmeral de las Sorpresas.

Recent hotel openings give travellers a varied choice of options. In 2021, notable hotel additions included  Only You Málaga and  Soho Boutique Equitativa ; in 2022,  H10 Croma Málaga joined them. And more projects are in the works. The best known of them is an enormous development planned for alongside the port of Málaga while others that we are watching eagerly – and which should open or reopen soon – are the Cortijo La Reina (following a complete renovation and upgrade of the existing hotel), Le Privé, and a five-star hotel planned for the Jewish Quarter that will be managed by Marugal, who also run the  Palacio Solecio . 

The list of additions to the gastronomic scene will entice travellers who live to eat. At the beginning of 2022, chef Álvaro Saura and entrepreneur Zuzana Salamon opened  Tasca Láska while Dani Carnero, who learned his craft from chefs including Ferran Adriá and Martín Berasategui, opened his third project in Málaga,  La Cosmo (following La Cosmopolita and Kaleja). Asturian chef Marcos Granda, who already has two restaurants in Marbella, Nintai and Skina, will land in Málaga in 2023, with In-Formal, a new culinary concept designed for the reimagined Gourmet Experience in the department store El Corte Inglés. 

Málaga has also been preparing for a milestone year related to one of its most famous native sons, Pablo Picasso, with 2023 the 50 th anniversary of his death. During what has been named the Year of Picasso, there will 42 exhibits covering the painter’s work around the world, including Málaga, where he was born. 

The  Museo Casa Natal Picasso will host several exhibits:  Bernardí Roig: El último rostro y La Afonía del Minotauro  (“Bernardí Roig: The Last Portrait and the Silence of the Minotaur”) until 28 May 2023,  Las Edades de Pablo (“The Ages of Pablo”) from 21 June to 1 October 2023, and  La Imagen de Picasso (“The Image of Picasso”) from October 18 to March 3, 2024. The  Museo Picasso Malaga will host  Picasso: Materia Y Cuerpo (“Picasso: Media and Bodies”) from 9 May to 10 September 10 2023, and  El Eco de Picasso  (“The Echo of Picasso”) focused on the master’s artistic legacy. Other institutions in Málaga are organising events, from talks to musical performances, marking the milestone. Expect more announcements in the months ahead.  

In other news, the Teatro Soho CaixaBank, Antonio Banderas’s personal project in his city, is staging a production of  Godspell , produced by Banderas himself and Emilio Aragón. María Casbas

Campo de Criptana, Ciudad Real

In a corner of La Mancha, travellers will come upon one of the most beautiful scenes in Spain. The windmills of Campo de Criptana inspired Cervantes, drove Don Quixote crazy, and charm everyone who visits this part of Castilla-La Mancha.

Campo de Criptana, Mota del Cuervo, and Consuegra have a remarkable concentration of some of the most picturesque and best-preserved windmills in the region. The three towns also have other charms that justify at least a weekend exploring them. Of the three, Campo de Criptana, in the province of Ciudad Real, is said to have been the specific inspiration for the plain of windmills in Cervantes’s book, which its famous protagonist believes are giants as he heads into combat against them.

In addition to the windmills (some of which are open to the public), the most important monuments in the town date from around the 16 th century and include the Royal Granary, the Convent of the Barefoot Carmelites, and ten hermitages – the most impressive of them is the one dedicated to the Virgen de la Paz, or Virgin of Peace.  A more recent addition, the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady, dates from 1958 and stands on the site of an earlier 16 th -century during destroyed in the Spanish Civil War. The eastern part of town, known as the Albaicín, was originally settled by Moorish refugees from Granada after that city was conquered by Christians. Many houses still have original Mudejar details like tiles and wrought-iron grilles. Cynthia Martín

Comillas, Cantabria

Comillas is one of those places that is so beautiful exactly how it is today that you hesitate to share its name, for fear that word will get out. For now, fortunately, Comillas remains a traditional vacation town of northern Spain. There are more houses than hotels, and more people who are here for the season than for a week. Unlike some other similar coastal summer towns, Comillas also has a number of historic sites of interest: the buildings of the Comillas Pontifical University (the university moved to Madrid, though the buildings remain), the Sobrellano Palace (once owned by the Marquis of Comillas), the Baroque church of San Cristobal, and the archaeological site, the Cuevas de la Meaza.

And then that is also the work of architect Anton Gaudí who gave the city one of its most famous landmarks, El Capricho. This playful and elaborate house is one of Gaudí’s few works outside of Catalonia, but it isn’t the only work of modernista architecture here. In 1881, the entrance to the town’s cemetery and some of its exterior walls were redesigned by Luis Domènech i Montaner, another prominent figure in Catalonia’s modernista architectural circles He was also responsible for the town’s Parque Güell and the Fountain of the Tres Caños, or “three spouts.” A work of modernista sculpture from 1895 can also be found at the cemetery, the  Ángel Exterminador by Josep Limona. 

There are also English-style houses from the last turn-of-the-century, like the home of the Duque de Almodóvar del Río and the so-called Casas Indianas, the houses of locals who had made their fortunes in the Americas. (These houses will typically have at least one palm tree planted nearby, making them easier to spot.)  The town has even appeared in the Guinness World Records as the world’s smallest whaling port (it was active into the 18 th century). Beachgoers can choose from the city beach and ones in the nearby Parque Natural de Oyambre; shoppers will want to scour the antiques markets; and gourmets can count on eating well.  David Moralejo.

Paul Richardson

Amy Abrahams

CNT Editors

Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucía

Think of the cliches of southern Spain, and the words “wine,” “flamenco,” “horses,” and “cellars” may come to mind. Instead of running from them, Jerez de la Frontera makes the wise choice of embracing them. Bring it on, the city says, as it welcomes visitors – with the table set and wine poured. There’s no need to hurry, however. You’ll find time for everything in Jerez. In this city that embraces tradition, you’ll want to start your adventure on the right foot, with a toast.

Whether you are on your first or 10th visit to Jerez, strolling aimlessly through the historic centre is the best way to ease into this city. With each step, you’ll feel yourself become part of the place as it reveals its character around every corner and a history written by Phoenicians, Romans, Muslims, and Christians unfolds before you. Palaces and lavish city houses alternate with religious buildings like the famous cathedral and a late 12 th -century mosque inside the city’s fortified Alcazar, home to a number of historic buildings. If it takes your breath away, inhale and then follow the smell of wine in the air.

 Jerez is a leading destination for wine tourism in both Spain and the world generally thanks to its abundance of wineries, many of them belonging to the Jerez-Xérèz-Sherry denominaciones de origen or DO (the Spanish version of the French AOC for its wine regions). Among the acclaimed wineries are  Tío Pepe-González Byass ,  Sandeman ,  Emilio Lustau , and  Williams & Humbert . Oenophiles will also want to stop at tabancos, classic tavernas that are the perfect places to sample local products; a museum celebrating wine; and wine stores.

Some people might say that sherry is trending right now, but we think that’s not the right way to understand the situation. Sherry is a timeless classic that just happens to be enjoying a moment of positive attention. Jerez does offer more to visitors than its namesake wine. The Horse Fair, the Flamenco Festival, the Harvest Festival, and the Motorcycle Grand Prix all offer opportunities to dive into an aspect of local culture and celebrate with the city’s residents (who are excellent at celebrating). Whether your visit coincides with a festival or not, the city’s two Michelin-starred restaurants provide a glimpse of a lively gastronomic scene:  Lú, Cocina y Alma is led by chef Juanlu Fernández and  Mantúa by chef Israel Ramos. 

Another reason to visit Jerez de la Frontera will be inaugurated in 2023: the Museo de Lola Flores. The museum to the outspoken and beloved actor and singer will open on the 100 th anniversary of her birth in Jerez. María Casbas  

La Coruña, Galicia

This little corner of Europe, tucked above Portugal in the northeastern corner of Spain, was long described as “the end of the world.” Recently, however, it is starting to feel closer to being at the centre of the stage. One of the changes is noticeable even after a short stroll: the streets are increasingly filled with people of different nationalities, speaking different languages, and wearing different clothes. Ask one of them why they are in La Coruña, and the likely answer is “to work.” Ask where they work and what you will get in reply is likely a gesture towards the west, and the neighbouring town of Arteixo, where Inditex is headquartered. (Even if you don’t recognise Inditex as the name of an enormous multinational clothing company, you likely know some of its brands, including Zara, Bershka, and Massimo Dutti.) 

The Galician city’s increasingly cosmopolitan atmosphere is apparent not only when wandering its streets but also exploring the cultural offerings of its museums and art galleries.

One of the most important cultural initiatives has an Inditex connection via Marta Ortega Pérez, who is both the new president of Inditex and the president of a foundation that bears her initials. The MOP Foundation is structured around three pillars: La Coruña, photography, and fashion. Last year it hosted the successful exhibition  Peter Lindbergh: Untold Stories seen by 110,000 visitors.

“After that success, it was clear that we had to organise another exhibition,” Leticia Castromil, exhibition coordinator for the MOP Foundation says. “We couldn’t stop there.” At the end of November 2022,  Steven Meisel 1993 A Year in Photographs  opened its doors and the free exhibition will be up until 1 May 2023. The show is at a building on the city’s harbour, the Muelle de la Batería. Naomi Campbell, Irina Shayk, and Christy Turlington were among the fashion stars who attended the opening.

“The exhibition space is a former industrial building next to the port. It’s located in an area near the city centre but which had been closed to the public. Thanks to this initiative, part of another dock is now accessible again and people can walk around it,” Castromil adds.

In addition to the Meisel exhibition, 2023 includes a milestone for a one-time resident of La Coruña. Pablo Picasso, who lived in the city between ages 9 and 13, died 50 years ago. “Continue doing what you are doing and never doubt that you will achieve glory and a brilliant future,” a review published in  La Voz de Galicia said after seeing an exhibition by a precocious Picasso when he was only 13 years old.

During the year-long  Picasso Celebración 1973-2023 a series of events and activities will take place around the world. In the region where the young genius spent four formative years, the centre of the celebration is the  Casa Museo Picasso . The  Museo de Belas Artes da Coruña will host Picasso, Blanco en el Recuerdo Azul (“Picasso, White in the Blue Memory”) from 24 March to 23 June 2023. The Fundación Luis Seoane will organise a show on the women who shaped Picasso’s life and the  Escuela de Arte y Superior de Diseño Pablo Picasso is also planning events to mark the anniversary.

Alongside the rich cultural scene, there is an impressive gastronomic one as well, led by Árbore da Veira, Omakase, Bido, la Taberna de Miga, NaDo, Terreo, and Salitre. You’ll find specialty coffee shops, wine bars, cocktail lounges, pottery workshops, bookstores, and design stores as you make your way about the city. All this, with the Atlantic in the background serving as a reminder that while this was once the end of the world, today it is a place where new adventures begin.  María Casba

Costa da Prata, Portugal

Three Portuguese destinations are on this year’s list, and all three overlook the sea. Or, more accurately, the ocean. One of the Atlantic’s gifts to Portugal is some of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the world including the Costa da Prata. The Algarve may be more famous, Comporta and Melides may be more “cool,” and Cascais and Estoril have nostalgic charms, but the Costa da Prata has its own, undeniable appeals.   

Even the name Costa da Prata isn’t that common, yet, but some of the towns along it – Ericeira, Nazaré, Peniche, and Aveiro are better known, especially among surfers. We are stretching the Costa a little farther south than some would define it by including Ericeira, which is about 45 minutes north of Lisbon. For many it starts instead at Playa Santa Cruz, in Torres Vedras. That town, which is roughly 20 miles north of Ericeira, is the home of a hotel that is a popular seaside favourite of surfers:  Noah Surf House . The northern end of the coast is often defined as Esmoriz, a half-hour south of Porto by car.  

There’s a reason we want to pull the southern end of the coast a little closer to Lisbon, to include the new  Aethos which is reinterpreting luxury with a surfer attitude that embodies the relaxed vibe of this part of Portugal – and which is also, oddly, a driver of its imminent boom.  Immerso , the first five-star hotel in this region, has interiors that highlight brilliant local craftsmanship, giving the project a unique and very Portuguese personality. Chef Alexandre Silva (one Michelin star) leads the gastronomic offering, an ode to Atlantic cuisine. 

Nazaré is better known thanks to its record waves (it’s official: Guinness Records gives the title of world’s largest surfed wave to one at Nazaré in 2020. It was 86 feet tall and German surfer Sebastian Steudtner rode it into the record books.) Nazaré itself manages, despite the fame of its swells, to remain a low-key fishing town, where some women still wear the traditional “seven skirts.” In 2021, an appealing new overnight option opened here, the family-friendly glamping at  Ohai Nazaré .

Peniche, and especially the beach known as Supertubos, is also popular with the surfer crowd. Consolação, another beautiful beach here, is capped at one end by a 17 th -century fort. The town is also a gateway to the Islas Berlengas, a half-hour by ferry. The islands form a protected nature reserve and only 550 visitors are allowed each day. Near the northern end of the coast, Aveiro has been nicknamed the Venice of Portugal and its colourful streets offer up a bounty of Instagram moments. We know the Costa da Prata will become a favourite of travellers as word gets out, just give it some time. David Moralejo

Canfranc, Huesca

It has been four years since we first reported that the spectacular Canfranc train station, inaugurated in 1928 and abandoned for decades, was going to become a luxury hotel. Despite the pandemic and other events creating some obstacles, the moment has arrived and the  Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel will open its doors at the beginning of 2023. 

Located in Jacetania, a corner of Aragón along the French border and high in the Pyrenees, Canfranc’s main claim to fame historically has been the elaborate station which was constructed to facilitate and celebrate French and Spanish cooperation. Despite the grandeur of the inauguration, with King Alfonso XIII representing Spain alongside France’s president, traffic never lived up to the original forecasts and the station closed in 1970. Today the only train to use the station is a short-distance tourist one, the Canfranero, that travels the 117 miles from Zaragoza to Canfranc. 

A century after construction started on the original station, the building will begin its new life as a five-star, 104-room hotel in 2023 with the design studio Ilmiodesign responsible for the interiors. The developers’ goal is to make the hotel a leader in tourism to the Aragonese portion of the Pyrenees, helping to attract both national and international interest.

The project preserves the historic building and will support the local economy with the creation of around 150 jobs. Guests arriving at the hotel will find reception in the historic station lobby while the first floor also houses a wellness area, a library, and the main restaurant, which includes two carriages that have been refurbished to become elegant dining cars.

Architect Michele Corbani and industrial designer Andrea Spada, the founders of Ilmiodesign, were inspired by the aesthetics of classic stations and the luxurious world of long-distance train travel in the early 20th century, but they also wanted to add a contemporary touch, creating warm and elegant spaces that blend with subtle Art Deco elements. Wood, brass, velvet, and a palette inspired by the 1920s coexist with various elements drawn from Aragonese popular culture and colour combinations inspired by the regional costumes of the region.

Don’t fear that it will no longer be possible to reach Canfranc by train, on the Canfranero. While the hotel was being restored, a new railway station and platforms were also constructed. 

The Canfranc Estación hotel will put the Aragonese town on the radar of many travellers, but Canfranc will keep their interest thanks to the mesmerising beauty of the place, set amid the stunning peaks of the Pyrenees. While the station’s meticulous restoration allows it to begin its new life, when you hear the words “next stop, Canfranc” you’ll be adding some more lines to an ongoing story collectively written by thousands of passengers under a dizzying variety of circumstances with each leading to its own final destination.  María Casbas

Las Merindades, Burgos, Castilla and León

Alfoz de Bricia, Alfoz de Santa Gadea, Arija, Berberana, Cillaperlata, Espinosa de los Monteros, Frías, Junta de Traslaloma, Medina de Pomar are some of the 26 towns and cities that make up Las Merindades, a corner of Castilla and León that sits just to the south of the Basque region. The capital of Las Merindades is Villarcayo de Merindad de La Vieja, a town of some 4,000 residents that provides a good starting point for visiting the historic region.

Arguably the most magical settlement in the region is Puentedey, a small village with less than fifty residents. Built along the Nela river, the two sides of Puentedey are connected by a natural stone bridge. In 2022, the village’s beauty and its cultural importance was officially recognised when it was added to the list of the Most Beautiful Towns in Spain in 2022 – a club that includes 105 localities to date. Puentedey is not alone when it comes to gems in the area. Frias, located atop a mesa overlooking the Ebro river, would also have a good claim to the title of the prettiest village in Spain if not for being disqualified on a technicality. In 1435, King Juan II of Castille gave Frias, now home to only 270 people, the title of “city” making it the smallest city in Spain. 

Those are only two of the many reasons to go to Las Merindades. There’s also the natural beauty of the region, thanks to its location in the foothills of the Cantabrian Range cooled by Atlantic breezes, a sense of history that is palpable in every town, castle, and even house, and surprises like the Ojo Guareña, a karst cave complex with almost 70 miles of galleries and passageways that have been used for shelter by humans for millennia. David Moralejo

Enkarterri, Basque Region

Few people know about Enkarterri, a rich and surprising corner of the province of Vizcaya. (Enkarterri is its Basque name, in Spanish it is Encartaciones.) Those who discover it, however, tend to return. Only 35 minutes southwest of Bilbao, the sea and the mountains meet here in a land of green valleys that sits at the point where Burgos, Cantabria, and the Basque Country meet. The area also has an important “Indiano” heritage – that’s the word used in Spain to describe Spaniards who went to the Americas, or the Indies as it were, to make their fortunes. You can look inside some of the lavish Casas Indianas, mansions that are the results of 19 th -century versions of the American dream. Another important reminder of Vizcaya’s economic history is apparent in the factories and plants that dot the landscape here. One used to be dedicated to the production of that essential Basque accessory, the beret. In operation until 1992, and then converted into a museum in 2007,  La Enkartada offers a glimpse into northern Spain’s industrial past, and a lesson in how berets are made.

After exploring the factory, fill your stomach at  Casa Garras , an institution going on its fifth decade thanks to its evergreen appeal. Carnivores will fall hard for the “beef days,” which take place during the winter months, when the restaurant serves an 11-course beef-themed tasting menu with delicious creations like a rump steak tartar with roasted marrow.

And there is more. Txacolí, the sparkling white wine produced in this part of Spain, always provides a good excuse to explore different wineries set amid the region’s beautifully wild landscapes including the biggest valley in the province (Karrantza Harana/Valle de Carranza, which includes some 49 settlements along its length). There are many options for hikers, bikers, spelunkers, as well as those looking for more low-impact activities like the Japanese tradition of “forest bathing.” On a completely different topic, the area is also home to  the largest private collection of Rolls-Royces in Europe, located in a 14 th -century castle. Cynthia Martín

Oviedo, Asturias

Oviedo, the elegant capital of Asturias, is known for the distinguished neoclassical architecture surrounding the city’s imposing cathedral in a flamboyant Gothic style and its remarkable pre-Romanesque buildings from the ninth century, with five works recognised by UNESCO: the Foncalada Fountains, the city walls, and three churches: Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo, and San Julián de los Prados, known as Santullano. The city is also a top cultural and gastronomic destination.

Culture permeates life in this city thanks in large part to the Princess of Asturias Awards which are presented every year at the Campoamor Theater. In 2023, the ceremony will also celebrate the coming of age of the awards’ namesake, Leonor, the first-born daughter of the King and Queen of Spain and heir presumptive. The year ahead will bring some welcome additions to Oviedo. The Wamba Hotel from the  Sensia Hotels group will open next to the cathedral while a much-anticipated AVE high-speed train from Madrid will enter service in May, making it possible to travel from the capital of Spain to the capital of Asturias in about three hours.  This remarkable engineering project has taken years to complete and includes a 15-mile-long tunnel, one of the longest in Europe, which crosses the Cantabrian Range under the Puerto de Pajares mountain pass. 

Meanwhile, Oviedo continues to embrace its gastronomic heritage that makes it one of the great epicentres of cuisine in the country. The city can boast of nine stars from Michelin, with Casa Marcial holding two of them. In total, 43 restaurants in the city are recommended by the guide. Some local favourites include Cocina Cabal, Ca'Suso, Salazogue, Casa Fermín, Mestura, and Gloria.

Director Woody Allen captured the essence of the city when he listed its positive qualities: “Oviedo is delicious, exotic, beautiful, clean, pleasant, peaceful, and kind to pedestrians. It’s as if it doesn't belong to this world, as if it could not possibly exist. Oviedo is like a fairytale.” David Moralejo

Bajo (or Lower) Aragon

Spain constantly rewards travellers who want to venture off the beaten patch. Bajo, or Lower, Aragon is an outstanding example of this truth. Located roughly 90 minutes by car to the northwest of Valencia, Bajo Aragon is known for its processions of drummers during Holy Week while fans of motorsports head to  MotorLand , but there’s more to entice travellers. Its landscape of chasms, rivers, and marshes has been shaped by the extreme climate and the passage of time, giving rise to the area’s unique flora and fauna. In addition, the generally clear skies and the low light pollution in this largely empty part of Spain adds up to remarkable stargazing opportunities.

It is not easy to find top-of-the-line hotels here, but there are some promising new ventures like the beautiful  Torre del Marqués , while the  Parador de Alcañiz has an incomparable hilltop setting next to a castle and convent. At its restaurant, La Concordia, you can discover some of the highlights of Aragonese cuisine, often overshadowed by other regions, like migas (a dish made with stale bread, soaked and then sauteed with other ingredients), lamb, and, of course, ham from Teruel.

The ambitious ongoing project of restoring the Convent of the Desert, an 18 th -century convent that has been called the Escorial of Aragon given its enormous size, is also attracting interest while in Calanda, the birthplace of surrealist director Luis Buñuel, you can visit a museum, the  Centro Buñuel Calanda , dedicated to his films and life. Pack comfortable shoes as you’ll likely be getting in a lot of steps as you visit cave paintings (Val del Charco del Agua Amarga), Iberian sites (on the Route of the Iberians of Bajo Aragón), climb mountains (following the Route of the Stony Giants), or gaze at the stars (on the Route of Astronomical Viewpoints). Other sites are just half an hour away, like Matarraña (another idyllic rural corner of Spain) and Campo de Belchite, the birthplace of painter Francisco Goya.  Clara Laguna

Ilha do Corvo, Azores, Portugal

We like the remote and the unknown and that’s why this year we want to send you to the smallest and most remote island of Portugal’s Azores . Quite likely on your trip to the archipelago, often described as the Atlantic’s Hawaii (though with far fewer tourists), you will hop among a few islands. If that if your plan, include Corvo on your list of ports of call.

There’s only one paved road on the island. Follow it to Caldeirão, the crater of the volcano that gave birth to the island. From its viewpoint you will be able to take in its enormous size, almost 1.5 miles in circumference and almost 1,000 feet deep. At the bottom of the crater are two lakes where, according to legend, all the islands of the Azores are reflected on their surfaces. Cows and wild horses graze freely in this natural wonder, for immediately apparent reasons, the most photographed place in Corvo.

A small airport and ferries that cross daily from the island of Flores connect Corvo with the rest of the world, as does free Wi-Fi throughout its (tiny) territory. Tiny but with its own city. Fewer than 500 inhabitants reside in Vila do Corvo in a handful of whitewashed houses with red roofs. You’ll find most locals are happy to chat with curious visitors. Operators here offer a myriad of bird-watching tours – the island it is considered one of the best areas in the world to spot a variety of species; its status as the westernmost of the Azores adds to its diversity with some vagrants from the Americas landing here. Other guides offer boat trips around the island, if the sea permits, with chances to swim alongside steep cliffs that plunge into the water. David Moralejo

The capital of Spain continues its ascent to the top of lists of must-visit cities. Madrid has always extended a warm welcome, but there is a new energy and bustle as it assumes its place as a cosmopolitan, world capital. In the spring of 2022, we dedicated the cover of our 15 th anniversary issue to the city, and now it is already time to revisit it and update the list of new and upcoming openings. The reasons to visit Madrid will only increase in 2023.

 Both familiar and avant-garde; a cultural, gastronomic, and wellness centre, Madrid is a city of contrasts that never stops. Luxury hotel brands all want a presence here, and thus we have seen the recent openings of the  Mandarin Oriental Ritz and the  Rosewood Villa Magna . Only a little bit older, the  Four Seasons Madrid , the  Madrid EDITION , and  Thompson Madrid have added to the wealth of choices. And, while it’s not a new property, the renovation of the  Santo Mauro has elevated a favourite to a new level of luxury as it joins Starwood’s Luxury Collection.

Madrid, however, is far from done. The brand new  UMusic Hotel , the first hotel from Universal Music, is located in the old Teatro Albéniz building, a very short walk from the Plaza Mayor. Coming up next are the  Nobu Hotel Madrid , located halfway between the Puerta del Sol and the Paseo del Prado. The early-20 th -century landmark Metropolis building is set to be reborn with a boutique hotel, restaurants, and shopping and just a little further up the Gran Via, Brach Madrid, designed by Philippe Starck, is another much-anticipated opening of 2023. There are still rumours that Fairmont will be joining the mix soon with a property near the Congress building, and another surprising addition is a hotel on Plaza de Canalejas from Pescaderías Coruñesas, known for its critically acclaimed restaurants and gourmet fish stores. This is their first foray into hotels. All of these projects near the Puerta del Sol are earning the area the nickname, Milla de Oro, or “golden mile.” If your budget doesn’t include staying at one of these new hotels, at least visit its restaurants, spas, and rooftops (the competition is fierce in that last category). Two somewhat different options nearby are  Cool Rooms Palacio de Atocha (if you would like to stay in a 19 th -century palace given a contemporary update) and the new  https://www.thesocialhub.co/madrid/ (if you would like to stay in a co-working space, though one with incredible views and a full calendar of events. 

When it comes to shopping, stops you may want to include are the enormous Zara (the world’s largest) on Plaza de España, the revolutionary  WOW Concept store on Gran Vía, and  Galeria Canalejas , where you’ll find 11 iconic international brands including Hermès, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton). Madrid’s culinary scene continues to dazzle – if you want to visit some of the new stars, plan on making reservations far in advance. Among the most coveted tables are Leña and Smoked Room by Dani García and Amós, at the Rosewood Villa Magna, led by three-Michelin-star chef Jesús Sánchez (for his Cenador de Amós, on the Cantabrian coast). Desde 1911 is a sophisticated option and the venerated Zuara is among the best Japanese restaurants in the city.  At Zuma, Berria,  Bar Trafalgar , and the cocktail lounge  Isa (at the Four Seasons), you are guaranteed to eat  and drink well.  If you want to keep the party going into the morning, Lula Club and Medias Puri are two popular choices at the moment. Don’t be surprised if you decide you need one more weekend day, and night, with Madrid. This city, well, it can be a lot. Clara Laguna

Murcia, the city and region

Ask Spaniards of a certain age about the phrase, “Murcia, qué hermosa eres” (“Murcia, how beautiful you are”) and they will likely recall an odd television variety show from the late 1990s that promoted the region, and successfully implanted a slogan in viewers of several generations. Now many of those same people are discovering the truth of the motto.

The beauty of the province of Murcia can be experienced at  the Regional Park of Calblanque, the Monte de las Ceniza, and Peña del Aguila , perhaps one of the most beautiful and wild stretches of Spain’s Mediterranean coastline. The waters at Cabo de Palos are a favourite of divers while the lush Sierra de Espuña is the province’s green heart surrounded by vast orchards. There is also, however, a unique beauty to the region’s capital, the city of Murcia, which is the destination we are recommending for 2023.

“No tienes ni idea de lo que estás perdiendo,” or “You have no idea what you are missing,” is Murcia’s more recent tagline, and it has its truth too. The region’s history is not as well-known as that of some of Spain’s other cities, even with a cathedral that is an almost perfect example of Spanish Baroque architecture and an episcopal palace in a Rococo style that reflects Murcia’s long-running connections with Noto, Lecce, and other cities in southern Italy.

The city was established by the emir of Cordoba in 825, and Moorish influences and evocative references remain visible, including at the lavish 19 th -century Real Casino de Murcia, a glittering mix of architectural styles with an Arab patio, 20,000 sheets of gold leaf, and a neo-Baroque ballroom.

The 18 th -century Puente de los Peligros connects the historic centre with the Carmen neighbourhood where you’ll find another one of the city’s Baroque wonders, Carmen’s parish church, which was originally part of a Carmelite convent. The  Museo Salzillo focuses on the sculptural works of one of the most celebrated artists of the Spanish Baroque, Francisco Salzillo, whose works can be seen in many Murcian churches.  

The Arab medieval period in the city’s history lives on in the city walls and the Aljufía irrigation system, which was one of the first such systems in Europe and is still used to this day to irrigate much of Murcia’s farmland and orchards. Murcia’s status as the source of much of Spain’s produce is evident when you sit down to eat. The perfect freshness of the ingredients helps to make the cuisine here even more exquisite and helped to justify the city’s turn as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2021. Don’t leave without trying a traditional meat pie, a dish made with the famous bomba rice grown in Calasparra, stewed and salted fishes, zarangollo (a dish made with eggs, onion, and squash), and a Murcian salad (made with tomatoes, tuna, eggs, and olives).  David Moralejo

Mallorca, Balearic Islands

If you thought that the economic upheaval and travel disruptions of the pandemic meant that the Balearic Islands were going to suddenly become a bargain, it didn’t work out that way. At least there is a silver lining. As the destination perfects its approach to luxury, you’ll get a mix of exclusivity, exquisite service, and sustainability that justifies the price.

Mallorca’s most anticipated upcoming openings are from the Four Seasons and the Virgin Group, at opposite ends of the island. The iconic Formentor in Pollença (in the north of the island), where celebrities including Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier stayed, will reopen as the  Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor in 2024. The property, located on a 3,000-acre estate, aims to be the island’s most sustainable. The French interior design firm, Gilles & Boissier, who recently completed the renovation of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, were entrusted with the interiors of the Four Seasons as well.

Richard Branson’s much anticipated  Son Bunyola hotel is now taking reservations for dates after August 1, 2023. The luxury hotel is located in the estate’s 16 th -century finca, or manor house, and has 26 rooms. They join three existing villas – Sa Punta de S'Aguila, Sa Terra Rotja, and  Son Balagueret – on an 810-acre property with grape vines and almond, citrus, and olive orchards. Son Net is another luxury property that will open (spring 2023) in this stunning part of the island, from the owners of the impeccable  Finca Cortesin in Puigpunyent. Also nearby the  Belmond La Residencia , in Deià, offers polished luxury in one of the most picturesque parts of the island while the new  Kimpton Aysla Mallorca , just nine miles from Palma, is a contemporary retreat set amid landscaped grounds.

Sustainability is a focus of other recent openings on Mallorca as with  Can Ferrereta , in Santanyí, from the creators of the award-winning Sant Francesc hotel in Palma; the boutique hotel  Nivia Born , in Palma; the refurbished agroturismo property  Finca Ca'n Beneït , in the Tramuntana mountains; and  Es Racó d'Artà , which was recognised by Condé Nast Traveller in 2021 as the best health, sports, and wellness hotel.  HM Palma Blanc , in Palma, marries a contemporary style with local Mallorcan materials and power from solar panels. The adults-only  Vicenç de la Mar , in cala Sant Vicenç, was designed by architect Rafael Balaguer Prunés and carries the Design Hotels seal. Yurbann, a hotel group from Barcelona, also has an opening planned. You have to be quick to stay on top of Mallorca’s hotel scen e! Clara Laguna

Cáceres, Extremadura

The 2021 inauguration of the Helga de Alvear Museum, with its outstanding contemporary art collection assembled by the museum’s namesake gallerist and philanthropist, marked a turning point for the city of Cáceres in Spain’s Extremadura region, alongside the Portuguese border. The new building, and the Premio Nacional de Arquitectura that Emilio Tuñón of  Tuñón Arquitectos won for its design, announced that both the city and the broader province of Cáceres intended to compete for the attention of culturally curious travellers. 

The hospitality and culinary offerings are already waiting and continuing to improve. The 17 th -century  Hotel Hospes Palacio de Arenales & Spa is located amid olive groves but only 10 minutes by car from the city centre. There, Atrio can boast two Michelin stars while the Torre de Sande, also from the Atrio team, is located in a 15 th -century palace and is a star of Extremadura’s culinary scene which has long been an interesting region given its ties to neighbouring Portugal. Looking ahead, the Atrio team is also behind the renovation of the Casa Paredes-Saavedra, a Renaissance palace that is going to reopen as an exclusive 11-suite hotel facing the  Parador del Palacio de los Marqueses de Torreorgaz . Another palace, the Palacio de Godoy from the 16 th century, will reopen as a 72-room Hilton after having been closed for ten years.

The city of Cáceres is also a good gateway to explore the beautiful Jerte Valley and the area of Vera, part of Extremadura that is famous for its lush forest and many springs. The broader region of Extremadura has a total of six UNESCO sites that travellers will want to visit: the historic monuments of Cáceres, the archeological sites of Mérida, the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, the Monfragüe Biosphere and National Park, the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve, and the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara World Geopark. While it has yet to get the UNESCO nod, the Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste has been recognised as part of Spain’s Patrimonio Nacional and deserves a place on travellers’ lists too. 

In 2022, the landlocked Extremadura boasted an impressive eight Blue Flag beaches on its lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and streams. Baños de Montemayor and Alange have been welcoming spa-goers since the Romans built baths at both hot springs.  Clara Laguna  

Pals, Catalonia

Writer Josep Pla once wrote that the best view in the region of Empordà is from  el Pedró , the restaurant that makes the best rice dishes in the town of Pals. Located in the historic centre, the view includes the Torre de las Hores, the Church of St. Peter, and the city walls that lead to a mirador that has now been renamed in honour of the author. “The contrasts that this site offers – the ocean, beach, and the Medes Islands; the eroded peaks of the Montgrí Massif, the deep greens of evergreen, cork, and pine forests with the geological formations of the Gavarres peaks and the flat farmland; and the botanical wonders along the banks of the Ter River – it all adds up to a rich bounty of great beauty,” the journalist wrote.  

This medieval village in the Baix Empordà region, along Catalonia’s Costa Brava, offers travellers easy access to the most charming coves along this part of the Mediterranean, such as Aigua Xelida, and beaches such as the familiar and wide Pals, Gola del Ter, l'Illa Roja, and Aiguablava. The bravest swimmers can dive into the Vies Braves, a public network of marine and open water routes offering a wilder experience of the Mediterranean. Cycling through the rice fields of the area or finding a glamping site as a base for an active vacation are other options for visitors, who will also find an ideal setting for golf, a chance to enjoy the  White Summer market and music festival, or simply visit organic vineyards.  Visitors can also learn more about Catalonia’s rich Romanesque and medieval heritage following routes through the villages of Begur, Palau Sator, Peratallada, and Monells, among others.

At the  Arkhe Hotel Boutique , a contemporary focus on health, wellness, and sustainability is paired with an intimate setting in the heart of historic Pals. Beyond exploring the region’s sites, staff can arrange everything from a “conscious nutrition” workshop to a meal amid the countryside’s wildflowers. Catalonia is known for the excellence of its produce and other ingredients as well as its celebrated chefs. Not far from Pals,  El Celler de Can Roca has three Michelin stars; some critics and fans argue it is the best restaurant in the world.  Bo.Tic , with two Michelin stars, is also among the region’s best restaurants along with Vicus and Pahissa del Mas. Make sure to have at least one dish made with the famous rice from Bassess d’en Coll before you leave. Clara Laguna

Valle de Arce, Navarra

South of Roncesvalles, the Valle de Arce (or Artzibar, in Basque) is one of the best-known areas of Navarra and famous for the beech forest to its east, which is one of the largest and best preserved in Europe. This destination is full of natural and historical treasures but not people – there are barely 300 living in the village of Arce and smaller hamlets nearby. The buildings feel untouched by time and it is possible to easily access ravines, forests, and unforgettable postcard views.

A plus of the Navarra Pyrenees is that they are beautiful any time of the year, whether its peaks are dusted with snow or its alpine lakes are shimmering in the summer sun. Simply take a deep breath, walk in any direction, and be surprised by charming villages like Usoz, with its sweeping views, Azparren, or Gorráiz – with its historic houses and churches. Stop and listen to the murmur of the Urrobi and Irati rivers, which form two valleys in the region. This part of the Navarra Pyrenees is a paradise for mountain and hiking lovers, who will find routes for all levels and tastes.

The area’s Romanesque heritage can be traced in historical monuments such as the hermitage of Santa María de Arce, next to the Urrobi river, and the church of San Julián in Nagore, both from the 12th century. You can admire the 15 th -century fortified palace of Ayanz and the Torre de Liberri, at least from a distance (both are located on private property and not open to public). You can get a closer look at the 13 th -century  Torre de Uriz , however, which has been converted into a stylish and intimate 12-room hotel.

 Another charming option is the  Agroturismo Mari Cruz , which combines a warm, family welcome with organic cuisine and a lot of magic. They say that amid its cabins, which provide retreats in the woods for those who want to slow down and discover another way of seeing the world, real live elves have been spotted. First, though, you need to take the time to truly listen and look. How’s that for a goal in 2023? Clara Laguna

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

THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

The Best Time to Visit Portugal: Season-by-Season Guide

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/best-time-to-visit-portugal

When’s the best time to visit Portugal? We’re covering the broad strokes as well as when to visit for a few niche reasons, like when to avoid crowds or catch the best weather. 

Not in a reading mood? Connect with Fora to plan and book your trip to Portugal with a pro travel planner who can tailor your trip to your preferences and budget. 

Maybe you want to know the best months to go surfing at a very specific beach. Or perhaps you’re wondering when to visit the best places in Portugal for cultural immersion. No matter the reason you want to visit, we can answer all your travel questions while unlocking VIP hotel perks and other extras for you. 

Portugal’s weather in broad strokes: sunny, warm summers & wet, mild winters

Before we get to Portugal’s seasons, it helps to understand the country’s climate. Broadly, Portugal has mild highs and lows — it’s rarely sweltering, nor is it ever frigid (outside of the mountains, of course). 

Throughout most of the year, Portugal is sunny and comfortable, with only occasional showers in spring and summer. Southern Portugal is notably dryer than the country’s northern regions throughout the year, which may be something to consider if you’re planning on visiting Porto or Lisbon. 

(Love the idea of visiting Portugal’s coolest cities? Check out the top hotels in Lisbon or the top hotels in Porto . Or see both and plan a road trip from Lisbon to Porto .)

Season-by-season guide to visiting Portugal

Here’s a quick breakdown of each season’s claim for why it’s the best time to visit Portugal.

And remember: if you’d like pro advice on when to visit Portugal (for any reason), book and plan your trip with Fora .

Summer: the best time to visit Portugal for great weather & to enjoy the beach

With nearly nonstop sunshine, the scenic Atlantic coast and comfy temperatures that rarely exceed the mid-to-high 80s on the coasts, summer is the absolute best time to visit Portugal if you’re keen on checking out the country’s natural beauty and beaches. 

Northern Portugal’s beaches can still be fairly cool in early summer, and the country’s interior (like the lovely Douro Valley) can get pretty hot, but for the most part, this is the best time to visit Portugal for great weather. 

On the flip side, June through August is also Portugal’s high travel season, so you can certainly expect more crowds, especially in the major cities.

(Curious about beach resorts in Portugal? See our guide.) 

Autumn: one of the best times to visit Portugal for experienced surfers, to avoid crowds & more

Autumn is a good time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy mild temperatures and skip the worst of the travel crowds. This is Portugal’s shoulder season, so many attractions throughout the country are still open, and prices are a bit more favorable than they are during summer. 

Portugal’s Algarve region, for example, tends to see a sharp decline in travelers even though the weather is still generally agreeable. And if you’re experienced, this can be the best time to visit Portugal for surfing — the waves are much stronger in autumn, and the colder ocean temperatures discourage crowds.

However, it’s worth noting that rain becomes increasingly more common as the season progresses, particularly in northern Portuguese cities like Porto. For most, the rain typically isn’t enough to dissuade travel, but it’s worth considering if you’re planning lots of outdoor activities.

(P.S. Want to check out the Algarve? See our guide to the best hotels in the Algarve, Portugal .)

Portugal in winter: the best time to visit Portugal to experience the cities’ cultural sights (and for lower rates)

Winter is a great time to sightsee in Portugal because even though it’s noticeably cooler than it is in summer, it’s certainly not freezing, either. You can totally explore most cities and towns in light layers during the day. Winter also begins Portugal’s holiday season, so it can be an extra magical time to visit. 

Moreover, Portugal doesn’t get a ton of travelers in winter, so hotel rates are generally more affordable — except for the mountainous regions, where snow sports draw travelers from all over.

Otherwise, the only major downside is that Portugal experiences a lot of rainfall in winter, with more average rain the further north you travel. Coupled with large waves and minimal beachgoers, though, winter presents an ideal time for expert surfers.

(Need itinerary ideas? Read our guides to things to do in Lisbon and things to do in Porto, Portugal .)

Portugal in spring: a great time to visit for light crowds, blooming flowers & mild weather

Visiting Portugal in spring is comparable to doing so in autumn, except rain and cool weather obviously become less common as the season goes on. 

April to early June counts as shoulder season, too, so the crowds are generally manageable, especially outside of the busiest places to visit in Portugal.

The key difference between fall and spring in winter is that the beaches are still (for the most part) too cold to really enjoy. Beginner surfers may appreciate the smaller waves, but on the other hand, waves can be inconsistent, so it’s hard to plan for beach trips.

The best time to visit Portugal for niche reasons

Read on for quick answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best times to visit Portugal.

Or get personalized travel suggestions when you plan and book your trip with Fora .

What are the best months to visit Portugal for lower prices?

This depends on the region or city to an extent, but winter is generally the best time to go to Portugal for lower prices across the board (i.e. hotels, rental cars, meals, etc.). Spring and fall also tend to offer more affordable rates, but this is more region specific. 

When is Portugal’s rainy season? Which part of the country receives the most rainfall?

Northern Portugal, including the city of Porto, receives significantly more rainfall than the bottom half of the country throughout the year. However, Portugal’s rainy season generally extends from late fall to early spring, peaking in winter. 

When is the best time to visit Portugal for wine tasting?

Fora Advisor Eva Alcaide says, "The harvest season runs from September to October. You can witness the winemaking process, participate in grape picking activities and experience the lively atmosphere of wine festivals. Then during spring (March to May), the vineyards are lush and green with the picturesque landscapes."

• Barcelona ,
• European Cities ,

When is the best time to visit Portugal for surfing?

This depends heavily on your skill level. Summer and spring can be good for beginners, but it’s worth noting that waves can be inconsistent and crowds can make the conditions unpleasant. 

Fall and winter bring larger waves and fewer people, creating excellent conditions for experienced surfers who don’t necessarily mind the chilly temperatures.

Need more intel? Connect with Fora to plan and book your surfing trip to Portugal (or anywhere).

Is there a “worst” time to visit Portugal?

Hardly! Portugal is a gorgeous and culturally rich country — it’s hard to be bored here no matter when you visit. On the other hand, if you’re visiting for a very particular reason, there are less-than-ideal times to visit the country.

When is the best time to visit Portugal for festivals?

There’s always something going on in Portugal, so it depends on what types of festivals you’re most interested in. Music festivals are most often held in summer, while arts and culture festivals are more common in fall and spring. Gastronomy events, however, are typically held in winter. 

Ultimately, this is something that’s hyper-specific to cities or regions.

When should you go to Portugal to avoid crowds?

Portugal’s busiest season is summer, with crowds slowly dispersing from fall to winter, then gradually rising throughout spring. 

There are some exceptions, though. For instance, Portugal’s mountain regions see more travelers in winter because of the snow sports opportunities.

Need to know the best time to visit Portugal for your itinerary? Plan with Fora

Need help deciding your best time to visit Portugal? Plan and book your trip with Fora . We'll help you build a plan that fits your budget and interests — whether that’s avoiding crowds, skiing in the Azores or anything in between — while unlocking awesome travel perks along the way and providing you with one-on-one support any time you need it. 

Even better: booking with us costs the same as booking by yourself. 

Need more Portugal travel inspiration? Check out the guides below:

10-Day Glorious Autumn Itinerary in Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Sintra

The Best Area to Stay in Lisbon: 6 Exciting Options

Luxury Hotels in Lisbon, Portugal: 5 Ritzy Choices Near Baixa

Traveling From Lisbon to the Algarve by Train, Car, Bus or Plane

This article has been fact checked by Fora Advisor Eva Alcaide , an expert on travel to Portugal .

Book with Fora

Tell us more about yourself to get matched with a Fora Advisor and start planning your dream trip today.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

Best Time to Visit Portugal: A Season by Season Guide

Published: November 24, 2021

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Angela Magsajo

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

For many travelers, this southern European country is a dream destination. However, before you book your flight, ask yourself, “when is the best time to visit Portugal?” After all, it’s rather important to plan your trip around the weather in Portugal, list activities, and even plan your outfits to match the season!

The best times to visit Portugal are during the shoulder seasons from late April to early June and from September to mid-October. This is when the weather is mild and travel expenses are low. However, visit between June and August if you’re looking to sunbathe on some of the best beaches in the world. Meanwhile, the pleasant winter months welcome those looking for a bit warmer destinations and escape cold and snowy winters.

Here’s an in-depth guide on the best time to go to Portugal, with fun activities to enjoy during each season.

Best Time To Visit Portugal

Photo by Aayush Gupta on Unsplash

The best time to travel to Portugal depends on your purpose of travel. January and February months witnesses vibrant costumes and elaborate parades as the country celebrates its annual carnival. Meanwhile, late March through May sees fewer crowds and therefore the best deals on hotel accommodations.

The months of June through August bring warmth and sunshine that entices sunseekers to visit the pristine beaches in Portugal . Visit between September and October if you plan to explore the inland areas for some breathtaking views both on top of Torre Mountain or within the historic village of Piódão. November and December experience rain and cold temperatures, but you’ll be able to join festivities as cities in Portugal prepare for the holidays.

For Beach and Water Activities

Portugal has some of the best beaches in the world. If you’re looking for a fabulous tan, then the best time to go to the beach is during the summer months of July and August . Some of the most beautiful sun-kissed beaches not to miss are Praia do Guincho and Praia do Carvalhal.

Meanwhile, if you want to enjoy the diving and snorkeling scene in Azores and Madeira, the best months to do so are between April and October. These are the months when the waters are calmer and highly visible. Because of the particular Portugal October weather and the fact that it is surrounded by islands, visiting the Azores indicates higher chances of pelagic encounters. For surfers out there, December to March bring epic waves for you to catch.

For Great Weather

If you plan to enjoy outdoor activities, it’s best to plan your trip around late spring. This season offers great weather, with warm temperatures and clear skies. Fall is also another great time to visit since the weather is not too hot or cold, with balmy days and cool nights.

It’s still important, though, to keep in mind that the weather in Portugal differs per region. Areas in Northern Portugal like Costa Verde experience cool and rainy weather. And the farther south you travel, the warmer and sunnier the weather becomes.

Central Portugal , particularly in Lisbon and Coimbra, sees a mixture of cool and warm weather depending on the season. The central regions of the countries experience a combination of Mediterranean and Atlantic climates. As such, these parts see extremely hot and dry summers, but they are also the only places where you can experience the occasional snowfall. With these in mind, the best time to visit Portugal is based on your preference for the weather and your itinerary. 

For Sightseeing

The spring months between late March to May are the perfect time for sightseeing. These are the months when the country is in bloom once again. Head over to the Algarve and Alentejo for some of the most enchanting displays of wildflowers. Another season that’s ideal for exploring the natural wonders of Portugal is during autumn. Hiking is a popular activity during this season since the sun is still shining but the temperatures are milder. Try hiking at Rota Vicentina where you can experience a coastal walk or an inland trail, with stunning sceneries at every turn.

For the Budget Conscious 

Compared to other travel destinations in southern Europe , Portugal is among the most affordable travel destinations. However, if you’re looking to stretch your dollars, the best time to visit Portugal is during winter, spring, or autumn.

The Portugal winter ushers the beginning of the rainy season . The holiday season does see a spike in prices thanks to the swarm of people visiting for Christmas and New Year. Once the holiday festivities die down, prices drop and become more affordable.

More resorts start to open their doors during spring, but visitors are still few and prices are average. Meanwhile, the fall season still sees warmer temperatures perfect for beach days but has fewer tourists than summer. The thinner crowds during this time also make it the best time to visit Lisbon and other usually crowded cities.

For Shopping

Cities like Lisbon and Porto are emerging shopping meccas for locals and tourists alike. Get the best deals on Portuguese fashion, accessories, decorative items, and more, by visiting during the summer and winter. 

These two seasons are the best times to shop in Portugal since department stores and artisan shops typically host clearance sales around these times. Just note that if you’re planning to add retail therapy to your list of things to do in Porto and Lisbon, these sales also attract massive crowds. On top of that, the weather in Porto, Portugal during summer sales can get hot, though not unbearable.

Weather in Portugal by Season

Photo by Mapics on Adobe Stock

The average temperature in Portugal will depend on the region and area you are in. Generally, the Portugal climate is temperate all year round, though the weather varies from region to region. This means hot and dry summers, warm springs and fall months, and mild winters. Nevertheless, to get a better understanding of these various microclimates, let’s take a more in-depth look at the Portugal weather by month and season.

Spring in Portugal

Photo by Lsantilli on Adobe Stock

Spring in the country typically starts in late March. This is usually accompanied by rainy and chilly weather with an average low of 11 degrees and a high of 18 degrees Celsius, depending on which region or city you’re visiting. Areas in Northern Portugal see more rain and milder temperatures. Meanwhile, Portugal’s southern coasts, including the Algarve, experience warm weather with minimal rainfall.  The Portugal climate warms up slightly in April, varying between 12 to 20 degrees. Rain is still expected during this month, though you will see more dry days. The temperature goes up to an average of 22 degrees in May. The rainfall also subsides significantly, with more sunny days in the month. 

Festivals and Things to do in Spring

Notwithstanding the rain, spring is the best time to visit Portugal for outdoor activities because of its mild temperature. The weather in Algarve is still a bit too cold for swimming, but it’s the perfect time to relax by the shore. The weather in Faro, Portugal during spring allows you to admire the town’s historic streets and landmarks without breaking a sweat. Moreover, the balmy weather also makes it one of the best times to explore the vineyards and mountains of Douro Valley . Wildlife enthusiasts will love visiting the Azores where they can swim side by side with whales and dolphins, or admire the sight of migratory birds flocking the area. Festivals in the country during spring are as follows:

Porto Interceltic Festival — A ten-day celebration of Celtic folk music in late March.

Semana Santa — As a highly religious country, Portugal celebrates the Holy Week during mid-April.

International Chocolate Festival — A four-day event in late April held in the walled town of Óbidos wherein pastry chefs and chocolatiers showcase their cakes and sweets for tourists and locals to try and purchase.

Fatima Pilgrimage — Locals commemorate the anniversary of when three shepherd children allegedly saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary in the town Fatima back on May 13, 1917.

Summer in Portugal

Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

Summer brings endless sunshine to Portugal making it an excellent season to explore the best Portugal beaches . The rains will cease in June, with temperatures rising to a warm average of 25 degrees. Brace yourself for extremely dry and warm weather. The months of July and August experience a high of 28 degrees, especially if you’re staying in northern cities like Braga and Viana de Castelo. Tourists in the country’s capital should also prepare for the intense Lisbon weather during these two months. The hot weather continues all the way to September, just cooling off slightly towards the end of the month, accompanied by an increase in the likelihood of rain. 

Festivals and Things to do in Summer

Summer is probably the best time to visit Portugal for beach lovers. The perfect season for beach trips and water activities, take a dip in the cool waters or sunbathe under the hot sun. River tours are among the top things to do in the country during the summer months, as well. You can enjoy the stunning scenery along the Douro River while sampling some of the finest Portuguese wine. The Algarve, Portugal weather during the late summer season is also ideal for indulging in the area’s nightlife, especially along the strip of open-air nightclubs and bars in Albufeira. You can also experience several lively festivals across the country in the summer: 

Popular Saints Festivals — During June, the country celebrates popular saints with processions, street parties, and parades. While there are many patronal festivals, the two main ones are Festas de Lisboa which is held from June 12 to 13 to celebrate St. Anthony. Meanwhile, June 23 to 24 is when locals honor St. John.

Porto International Folklore Festival  — From July 31 to August 4, the city of Porto hosts musicians from all over the country and overseas to celebrate folk music.

Madeira Wine Festival — From August 28 to September 11, the island of Madeira celebrates its grape harvest by recreating ancient traditions of wine culture.

Autumn in Portugal

Photo by smallredgirl on Adobe Stock

Autumn brings glorious color to Portugal brought by the bountiful harvest. The Portugal weather in October is warm and pleasant, averaging around 22 degrees Celsius, though it has higher than usual humidity rates. Nevertheless, the temperatures are still more manageable for outdoor activities compared to summer. This month also brings more rainfall and less predictable weather, especially in the north.

November is officially the start of the rainy season in the country. The overall weather in Portugal in November is moderate with mild temperatures of 18 degrees. However, the north and west coast experiences cooler winds and higher chances of rain showers. Meanwhile, the southern areas of the country still get plenty of sunshine.

Festivals and Things to do in Autumn

Taking in the beautiful displays of fall foliage is one of the top things to do in Portugal during this season. During these months you typically find people visiting the historical village of Sintra, which is just outside of the country’s capital. This charming rural village becomes almost magical when gilded with fall colors. Early autumn, with its balmy temperatures, is also a great time to hike. 

If you plan to visit Porto, you’ll be glad to know that the Porto weather has moderate temperatures that are ideal for shopping during the day and wine tasting in the evening. And while the average temperature dips in the northern and central areas, the Southern Portugal climate is still warm enough for swimming. The f estivals to include on your itinerary of things to do in Portugal in autumn are the following:

Feira de Outubro — Residents of Vila Franca de Xira celebrate the 300-year-old tradition of Portuguese bullfighting and bull-running in the first two weeks of October.

Festa dos Descobrimentos —  Late October to early November sees the town of Lagos in southern Portugal celebrate the country’s maritime past with processions and locals dressing up in period costumes.

National Horse Fair — A ten-day celebration in early to mid-November that showcases the magnificent Lusitanian thoroughbred horses.

Lisbon and Sintra Film Festival — One of the country’s main film festivals held mid-to-late November, which attracts famous filmmakers and actors from all over the country.

Winter in Portugal

Photo by We Love Lisbon on Flickr

Portugal winter means fewer sunny days. Being the wettest of the year, the weather in Portugal in December brings in cool and windy temperatures of 8 to 15 degrees, with lots of rain. Though compared to other parts of Europe, the country still experiences relatively more sun and warmer temperatures. January and March usher in even colder temperatures, especially in the inland areas where it can dip to 5 degrees. The country does experience snowfall, albeit a light dusting of snow to the country’s mountainous center-north regions. Meanwhile, southern parts of Portugal see more sunshine and warmer temperatures than in the north. 

Festivals and Things to do in Winter

Since Portugal experiences less snowfall in winter than other countries in the Iberian Peninsula, it’s one of the top warm winter destinations in Europe. Those who want to escape the chilling winters, head over to Madeira, where it’s always warm all year round. The city also hosts all sorts of holiday festivities. Among the top are nativity scenes all around the island and a stunning fireworks display during the New Year. On the other hand, if you are looking for a winter getaway within the country, head over to Serra da Estrela , where you’ll find the country’s one true ski resort. Moreover, you’ll also see a slew of holiday festivities take place when you visit Portugal in December.

Christmas and New Year — From late December to early January, watch as the festive light displays for the holiday season bring merriment to the country. Add Christmas shopping to your list of things to do in Lisbon and ring in the New Year on the island of Madeira.

Carnaval — The biggest festival of the year throughout the country takes place in early February, which features vibrant costumes and elaborate parades.

Tourist Seasons in Portugal

Regardless of whether you’re traveling to Portugal from US territories or other parts of the world, knowing the different tourist seasons is crucial. If you want to avoid crowded places, overpriced accommodations, and airfare, it’s best to avoid the peak season . Visiting during the low season, however, means fewer activities and accommodations, since most lodgings are closed. Like most destinations, Portugal has its high, low, and shoulder seasons. Here’s everything you need to know about their pros and cons. 

High Season 

Summer, especially during the months of July and August , is the peak season in Portugal. As the warmest months of the year, it draws locals and tourists alike to the sunny beaches and coastal areas. That goes without saying that it is also the best time of year to visit Portugal for sunseekers. The beach towns along the Algarve coast are packed with vacationers. If you plan to brave the crowds during the summer, avoid the sky-high rates by booking accommodations in advance.

Shoulder Seasons

From late April to early June , as well as from September to mid-October mark Portugal’s shoulder seasons. Spring and fall offer travelers the best of both worlds of fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Popular places to visit in Portugal during spring and fall are still quite lively. During these two seasons, you will find local golf enthusiasts hitting the courses in the Algarve. The still sunny yet cool temperatures are also the perfect time to enjoy the slew of music festivals. Moreover, you can also find lower airfares and room rates during these seasons compared to the peak season. However, options are sometimes limited, depending on where you’re staying. 

Late October to early March is the best time to visit Portugal for those on a budget since these months are considered the low season. With the exception of the holiday season in late December and early January, these months are the most cost-effective. The low season months are also characterized by shorter days and lower temperatures with higher chances of rain. This also signals the start of a hiatus for many resorts and beach lodgings. Popular attractions and tourist sites keep shorter hours during winter, especially in smaller towns. 

Discover the Beauty of Portugal No Matter the Season 

There isn’t a bad time to visit Portugal. After all, the beautiful country experiences a great climate all throughout the year. It truly depends on what you want to see and do, as well as how much you want to spend. Nevertheless, it’s still important to know the weather Portugal will experience during your stay.

It is always a great idea to plan your activities around the weather. Summer months are perfect for tourists who want to experience the beauty of Portugal’s beaches. Meanwhile, the frequent rain showers and lower temperatures of winter offer the best deals for travelers on a budget. If you want the best of both worlds — affordable rates and pleasant weather — spring and fall are your best bets. These two seasons are the ideal time to visit if you want to explore the best places to visit in Portugal .

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• South Korea
• Indonesia (Bali)
• Central Asia
• African Safari
• South Africa
• Itinerary Ideas

Best & Worst Times to Visit Portugal 2024: How to Choose

Portugal is a year-round travel destination known for its pleasant and mild weather. When planning your visit to Portugal, it's important to consider the peak season during the hot summer vacation months as well as the cold and rainy weather during winter.

For the most pleasant experience, the ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn . During these times, you could still enjoy sunny weather and comfortable temperatures without the large crowds typically seen in the peak summer season.

In addition to knowing the best times to visit Portugal, it's also important to consider weather tips when planning your trip if your schedule doesn't align perfectly with the ideal months. In this guide, we will assist you in effectively choosing the best time for your trip and planning it according to the specific month you're traveling in.

Content Preview

Best times to visit portugal.

• Worst Time to Visit Portugal
• Portugal Travel Guide by Month

Portugal is a great destination to visit throughout the year as the weather doesn't have a significant impact on your trip unless you are going for a beach/outdoor holiday.

The country offers a wide range of attractions, particularly in the realms of history and coastal resorts. You could explore various fascinating places, such as museums, plazas, and architectural marvels even when it's cooler and rainier. Popular cities, such as Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, are ideal for year-round visits and promise unforgettable experiences.

Best Times for Weather to Visit Portugal

If you are seeking the most favorable weather when you visit Portugal, it is recommended to plan your trip during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these months, you could expect pleasant temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. Additionally, these periods tend to have fewer crowds than in summer, making it a great time to explore the country at a more relaxed pace.

Best Times for Families with School-Age Children

The summer vacation season in Portugal, which spans f rom June to August , is the busiest time of the year for travel. It attracts a significant number of domestic and foreign families who are traveling with their children.

If you are planning a trip with school-age children, it is highly recommended to travel toward the end of May or in early June (if your school holidays allow). This time offers several advantages, including lower prices and fewer crowds compared to the peak months of July and August. During this time, the large summer vacation crowds have not yet arrived, allowing you to have a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Best Time for Lower Prices and Fewer Crowds

If you are seeking a more affordable season and less crowded experience, winter (December to February) could be a great time to save money on your trip to Portugal. The weather during this season is generally cool, with temperatures averaging from 9 to 17°C (49–63°F). Additionally, Portugal offers a delightful Christmas atmosphere that would enhance your travel experience for some of this period.

Some of the disadvantages of traveling during winter are that the weather could be rainy at times, and the low temperatures could negatively impact your beach visits. Additionally, certain attractions may have shortened opening hours during the winter.

Best Time to Visit the Islands of Portugal

If you're planning a trip to the beautiful beaches of the Azores in Portugal for your vacation, the best time to enjoy water activities is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is generally warm and the average temperature range is from 18 to 24°C (64–75°F).

During this period, you would find the most favorable conditions for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, whale watching, kayaking, and other water-based activities. The ocean temperatures are relatively mild, usually ranging from 20–¬23°C (68–73°F), making it comfortable for water adventures (maybe with a thin wetsuit).

Additionally, the summer months in the Azores are considered to be the tourist high season. As a result, there are more water activity providers operating and a greater availability of organized tours. This is a great time to take advantage of professional guidance and equipment rental services that are readily available.

Best Time for Special Events or Festivals

If you're interested in immersing yourself in Portugal's traditional festivals and events, it is highly recommended to visit Lisbon and Porto in June. These cities come alive with vibrant celebrations during this time.

In Lisbon , the Festas de Lisboa takes place throughout the entire month of June. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience street parties and cultural events that commemorate the city's rich traditions. You could also indulge in the enchanting melodies at the Fado Festival and enjoy the renowned NOS Alive music festival.

Another must-see event is the Festa do São João held on June 24th in Porto. This celebration captivates with its sensational street parties, breathtaking fireworks, and lively atmosphere.

Furthermore, Porto hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Queima das Fitas student festival and several music festivals. These occasions offer even more opportunities to explore the city's cultural and entertainment scene.

The Worst Times to Visit Portugal

Portugal generally has a mild climate compared to other European countries. However, winters could still be chilly and rainy, particularly in northern areas . If you prefer to avoid cold and rainy weather, it may not be the best time to visit between December and February.

On the other hand, summers (June to August) are typically warm and sunny, although some days could be very hot, especially in southern regions, such as Alentejo and the Algarve. This might not be comfortable for everyone. Additionally, summer is the peak tourist season, resulting in crowded attractions, longer queues, and higher prices. These factors could affect your travel experience when exploring attractions and finding accommodation without a professional advisor from a travel expert. Contact us if you want to plan a comfortable trip in the summertime.

However, there are advantages to traveling during the less-than-ideal weather periods. For instance, a winter trip allows you to enjoy less-crowded museums and take advantage of discounts or lower prices on accommodation and tour deals.

If you are unsure about choosing the best time or finding the most suitable options, feel free to contact us . We specialize in creating hassle-free tours by optimizing your itinerary, transportation, and accommodation.

Portugal Weather Month by Month

• March, April, May, September, October, and November are the ideal months to visit Portugal due to favorable weather conditions and fewer tourists.
• If you're looking for more budget-friendly options and fewer crowds, December, January, and February are good months to visit.
• On the other hand, June, July, and August are the peak season months in Portugal, characterized by hot and dry weather.

For more detailed travel and weather information for each month, please see below.

Regardless of the month you choose to visit, our tours are designed to be flexible and customizable based on your preferences and requirements. We aim to make the most of the seasonal opportunities and conditions to enhance your travel experience. Simply contact us for a tailored tour that suits your needs.

Portugal in January

• Average temperature range: 9–16°C (48–61°F)
• Typical weather: cool and moderately rainy
• Rainfall: 10 cm (4 in)
• Rainy days: 9–14

If you don't mind the occasional rainfall and cold weather, January could be a good option for traveling to Portugal.

In January, you could experience a more relaxed tour and enjoy a quieter atmosphere at popular attractions and historical sites. The advantage is that you won't need to wait in long lines, allowing you to make the most of your visit in a peaceful and leisurely way.

See more on Weather in Portugal in January .

Portugal in February

• Average temperature range: 9–17°C (48–63°F)
• Typical weather: cool and fewer rainy days
• Rainfall: 8 cm (3 in)
• Rainy days: 9–12

Similar to January, February is considered to be the low season, which means you could take advantage of great discounts and enjoy less-crowded attractions. The weather in February is similar to that of January, with damp and cool conditions being typical.

See more on Weather in Portugal in February .

Portugal in March

• Average temperature range: 11–19°C (52–66°F)
• Typical weather: mild and fewer rainy days
• Rainfall: 6 cm (2 in)
• Rainy days: 8–10

The month of March brings warmer weather and the arrival of spring, resulting in blooming flowers and green vegetation. Compared to February, March offers longer hours of sunshine. It is an ideal time to embark on hikes in natural parks or rural areas to fully embrace the beauty of spring.

See more on Weather in Portugal in March .

Portugal in April

• Average temperature range: 12–20°C (54–68°F)
• Typical weather: mild and moderately rainy
• Rainfall: 7 cm (3 in)

April brings warmer weather and an increase in sunny days. This is the month when flowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape. Although there may be occasional showers, you could still anticipate longer periods of sunshine. It is the perfect time to engage in outdoor activities and make the most of the pleasant weather. As the spring beauty unfolds, more and more tourists flock to Portugal to enjoy this enchanting season.

See more on Weather in Portugal in April .

Portugal in May

• Average temperature range: 14–22°C (57–72°F)
• Typical weather: warm and a little rain
• Rainfall: 5 cm (2 in)
• Rainy days: 5–7

The weather in Portugal during May is becomes warm by the end of the month, with frequent sunny days. While there may be occasional showers, they won't have a significant impact on your outdoor activities. This month is particularly favorable for hiking enthusiasts in nature parks, where you could enjoy the sight of beautiful mountain flowers and lush greenery in rural areas.

Additionally, if you're seeking beach relaxation and sunshine, May promises to be an excellent choice. Travel destinations along the southern coast become progressively busier as the month progresses, attracting more visitors in search of coastal bliss.

See more on Weather in Portugal in May .

Portugal in June

• Average temperature range: 17–25°C (63–77°F)
• Typical weather: warm with little rain
• Rainfall: 2 cm (1 in)
• Rainy days: 4

In Portugal, June brings sunny and warm weather, making it an ideal time to visit. Most days in June are generally warm, particularly in the southern regions, such as the Algarve. The temperature is not excessively hot, making it comfortable for exploring various parts of the country. As the month progresses, water sports and beach activities become increasingly popular. Additionally, with the arrival of the summer vacation, Portugal experiences a surge in tourists, including families with school-age children who come to spend their vacations in the country.

See more on Weather in Portugal in June .

Portugal in July

• Average temperature range: 18–27°C (64–81°F)
• Typical weather: warm/hot and arid
• Rainfall: 1 cm (0.5 in)
• Rainy days: 1

In Portugal, July is characterized by warm to hot weather across most areas. It is generally dry with very few rainy days, except in mountainous or northern regions. The dry and warm climate makes July ideal for various activities, such as nature hikes, sightseeing, beach visits, and water sports.

However, it's important to note that July is one of the busiest months in Portugal as many families go on summer vacations with their children. As a result, you could expect larger crowds and potentially long lines at popular attractions. To ensure a smooth experience, it is recommended to book well in advance.

See more on Weather in Portugal in July .

Portugal in August

• Average temperature range: 19–27°C (66–81°F)
• Typical weather: sunny, hot, and dry
• Rainy days: 2

In Portugal, August boasts extremely dry, sunny, and warm/hot weather across most parts of the country. Rainfall is rare during this month. It is a popular time for families to travel with their children and spend their vacations in beach cities, engaging in water sports and other recreational activities.

However, as August is the busiest month of the summer vacation, it is essential to anticipate longer waiting lines at attractions and larger crowds of people.

See more on Weather in Portugal in August .

Portugal in September

• Average temperature range: 18–26°C (64–79°F)
• Typical weather: sunny, warm, and dry
• Rainfall: 4 cm (2 in)

In September, the weather is typically warm, sunny, and dry in most parts of the country. There are usually only about 3–5 days of light rain, mainly around Porto and higher elevation areas. September offers great opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports.

As September follows the summer vacation season, you could expect fewer crowds of tourists throughout the country, making it an excellent time to plan your trip. You could enjoy more space and freedom, without having to wait in long lines.

See more on Weather in Portugal in September .

Portugal in October

• Average temperature range: 15–23°C (59–73°F)
• Typical weather: mild/warm and moderately rainy
• Rainy days: 10

In October, the weather in most parts of Portugal is typically mild. However, it's important to note that there are about 10 days of moderate rainfall during the month. Therefore, it is still advisable to pack a light rain jacket or carry an umbrella, especially if you plan to visit northern regions or higher-altitude areas.

Coastal regions in Portugal, including Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, experience relatively mild temperatures compared to inland areas. This allows for enjoyable beach activities, although it's worth mentioning that the water may be slightly cooler during this time.

See more on Weather in Portugal in October .

Portugal in November

• Average temperature range: 13–20°C (55–68°F)
• Rainfall: 12 cm (5 in)
• Rainy days: 11

As November arrives, Portugal experiences a shift towards cooler temperatures and an elevated likelihood of rainfall. This month marks the beginning of the rainy season, with increased precipitation anticipated, especially in the northern and central areas of the country. It is advisable to pack a waterproof jacket or carry an umbrella to stay dry while engaging in outdoor activities.

Coastal regions, such as Lisbon and the Algarve, typically maintain milder temperatures compared to inland areas during November. However, it's important to note that temperatures could still cool down, particularly in the evenings. To stay comfortable, it is recommended to dress in layers to adjust to temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

See more on Weather in Portugal in November .

Portugal in December

• Average temperature range: 10–17°C (50–63°F)
• Rainfall: 14 cm (6 in)
• Rainy days: 13

December sees the beginning of "winter" in Portugal, making it one of the coolest months, particularly in the northern and central regions. It is important to note that December is also a wet month, with an increased likelihood of rain across the country. Being prepared with a waterproof jacket or umbrella would ensure that you stay dry during outdoor activities.

Coastal regions, such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, generally experience milder temperatures compared to inland areas during December. Nevertheless, it is recommended to pack layers of clothing as coastal areas could still feel chilly, particularly in the evenings. This would help you to stay warm and comfortable throughout your visit.

See more on Weather in Portugal in December .

Travel to Portugal with Global Highlights

Want to explore the historical ruins and beautiful culture of Portugal? At Global Highlights, we could plan your dream Portugal trip complete with a tailor-made itinerary , private guide, and 24-hour customer service.

Why Global Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 7-Day Portugal Family Beach Vacation
• 10-Day Portugal Family Adventure: Explore, Create & Relax
• 10-Day Portugal Highlights: History, Food & Coastal Charm
• 7-Day Family Fun in Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Sintra Adventure
• How to Plan a Trip to Portugal in 2024
• How Long to Spend in Portugal (Top Itineraries and Side Trips)
• 7 Days in Portugal: 6 Top Itineraries for First-Timers
• How Long to Spend in Portugal, Spain, and Italy (3 Top Itineraries)
• Portugal Weather in January: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in February: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in March: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in May 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in June 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in July 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in August 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in September 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in November 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Portugal Weather in December 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Global Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Best Time To Visit Spain

What is the best time to visit spain.

March to May (Spring) and September to October (Fall) months are the best times to visit Spain. Throughout these months, you can roam around the places and enjoy some of the magnificent local festivals with much lesser crowds, a host of ideal accommodation options, and the most suitable weather conditions. There isn’t any monsoon season per se in Spain. However, late October and November are often the wettest months in the country. Summers(June-August) are warm and humid in Spain, and the temperature often rises above 113 degrees F. Also, coastal areas like San Sebastian, Costa Blanca, and Costa Brava are the most crowded and have expensive accommodation options. During winter (November-February) , Northern Spain is deserted and gloomy due to icy cold temperatures and rains, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in South is the most visited place by the tourists. It is one of the most sought-after ski destinations and here, the temperature remains cool and comfortable for all. 

Spain Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

6 Day Spain Tour Package

4 night 5 day spain honeymoon tour package, 7 nights spain tour package, spain and portugal honeymoon tour package, portugal spain tour package, spain budget tour package, more about best time to travel to spain, peak season in spain, off season in spain, shoulder season in spain, spring season in spain (march-may), summer season in spain (june - august), fall season in spain (september - october), winter season in spain (november - february), best time to visit the top destinations in spain.

Best Time to Visit Barcelona

Best Time to Visit Madrid

Best Time to Visit Seville

Best Time to Visit Ibiza

Best Time to Visit Granada

Best Time to Visit Canary Islands

Tourist Places to Visit In Spain

Canary Islands

Browse Package Collections

Top destinations for packages, nearby countries for packages.

Netherlands

Top Hotel Collections

Nearby countries.

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Direct Owners Blog

For Best Holiday Vacations

The Best Time to Visit Spain and Portugal …

The Mediterranean is one of the most magical areas on Earth, with its clear turquoise beaches, craggy islands, hidden coves and beaches, historic towns and rich culture. There is so much to explore and so many different ways to enjoy a holiday in this part of the world. Two of the most exciting countries to visit have to be Spain and Portugal.

Whilst they may be neighbours, spain and portugal have quite different and very unique traits. however, one thing they do share is their seasons, and to a certain extent a similar climate. so when is the best time to visit these two incredible countries, a blooming spring.

The spring season in both Spain and Portugal runs from March through to May and this is when the weather warms and nature wakes. Some areas will be hotter than others but in general you’ll find that the weather is sunny and pleasant and the fresh spring flowers will bring a splash of colour to brighten your time there!

It’s not just the natural world that comes to life in the spring, however. this is a season full of festivals so there is plenty of cultural flavour for you to enjoy. in spain you can partake in semana santa – the holy week – which falls between march and april. if you enjoy music and dance then the festival de jerez is unmissable as it is one of the biggest flamenco celebrations spain has to offer. and if you head to seville after the easter celebrations you can enjoy feria de abril – its annual fair filled with all the carnival fun, food and drink you could wish for., portugal also observes holy week full of street parades, and you may want to get to the country by the 25 th of april so you can enjoy their freedom day celebrations. in may, the town of sintra hosts a festival celebrating classical music and opera which is a must for any music aficionado, hot in the summer.

Summer is the most popular season in both countries so this is when you can expect the biggest crowds. As the weather heats up, most people will head to the coast where the weather is cooler and you can relax on the beach. If beach life is for you, Portugal has some of the most pristine beaches in Europe, and you can travel down the coastline to get a real taste of the country’s beauty.

Wine connoisseurs should head to la rioja for june 29 th and the batalla del vino (battle of the wine) when locals literally drench each other in wine. and for another cultural hit head to granada in june/july to enjoy the international festival of music and dance. meanwhile in portugal on the 23 rd and 24 th of june you can celebrate the festa de são joão all across the country (although porto has some of the best celebrations), harvest autumn.

From September to October you can enjoy the most comfortable temperatures in the Mediterranean. Most of the tourists have headed home by this point so both Portugal and Spain are quieter and this is the perfect season for sightseeing. Visit the stunning cities these countries have to offer, exploring the historic streets of Lisbon and art and culture of Bilbao. Take advantage of the cooler weather to explore the hiking trails in the countryside. You can take on some of the Camino de Santiago or maybe explore a national park like The Peneda-Gerês National Park near Porto. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the majesty, flora and fauna or these countries.

Autumn is also the perfect season to explore wineries while the grape harvest is in full swing., cool and cosy is the winter.

Both Portugal and Spain are ideal places to hide away from the cold winter blues as they are a bit warmer than most of Northern Europe. Spain enjoys many jazz festivals in November and both countries have gorgeous Christmas decorations up throughout December.

On the 6 th of january you can enjoy three kings’ day across both countries – in spain there area street parades that see the three kings throwing treats out for the children to enjoy whilst in portugal carollers sing outside the houses and children receive their christmas gifts (also from the three kings)., in february you can experience carnival. spanish carnival sees parties everywhere, people in fancy dress and the sangria flowing portugal’s carnival is all about the elaborate street parades and extraordinary costumes, holiday accommodation advice for spain and portugal.

So as you can see, there are many reasons to visit both Spain and Portugal throughout the year. The best time to visit really is down to you! The next question you might ask is: Where should I stay when I visit? Whilst there are many different options when it comes to holiday accommodation, Direct Owners offers a unique chance for you to ensure that your choice of accommodation has a positive impact on the place you’re visiting.

Many accommodation services are big corporations with little vested interest in supporting the local economy. what direct owners does is connect you directly with the people you’re staying with – locals who know about the area, care about it, and will benefit the most from you having the best time you can possibly have. by choosing this kind of accommodation service you’ll be enhancing your holiday, getting more immersed in the culture and really enjoying what it is to be in your chosen location. with all this in mind we really urge you to look into local holiday lets with us., if you are interested in connecting with a local holiday let, or if you have any questions then don’t hesitate to get in touch . the perfect holiday is right around the corner, leave a comment.

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

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

Europe Chevron

Spain Chevron

The 23 Best Places to Go in Spain and Portugal in 2023

By CNT Editors

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2023 —find more ideas on where to travel in the year ahead in the U.S. , India , the U.K. , and beyond.

Our wish for you in 2023? That you embrace the new year ready to travel the world. A new year is an opportunity to draw up resolutions, after all—and in our case, that means deciding where to visit next.

To get you started, we, the editors of  Condé Nast Traveller Spain, took a look around our own backyard. We wanted to identify and highlight the best places to go in Spain and Portugal—our region of expertise—that deserve global recognition for their new cultural, gastronomic, and hospitality offerings.

With all this in mind, we share the below: Our list of the 23 best places to go in Spain and Portugal in 2023. We hope to run into you on a  playa or in the Pyrenees.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

“In whatever month you visit Tenerife, it is always warm during the day and chilly at night,” our contributor Raque Sanchez wrote in a love letter to the island . The largest of the Canary Islands is a good place to visit, in any and every season; take a dip in the Atlantic, gaze at the stars from the summit of Mount Teide (with an elevation of 12,198 feet, it’s the highest point in Spain), explore little towns, and wander along the island’s many beaches, some rocky and some sandy. Tenerife’s varied landscape includes forests, deserts, valleys, and ravines, and the Anaga Rural Park is a highlight. There are also two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Teide National Park and the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. An added plus is that the island has a remarkably rich and diverse array of hotels. Among the award-winning properties are the  Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden ,  Baobab Suites ,  The Ritz-Carlton Abama ,  H10 Atlantic Sunset ,  Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora , and  Bahía del Duque . On the island’s north coast,  BeTenerife offers an excellent selection of private villas for two or four guests.

It's one of the best destinations in Europe for cycling enthusiasts, has long been a pioneer in sustainability (it has been recognized as a Biosphere Sustainable Destination), and is decidedly LGBTQ+ friendly, with an annual  Culture & Business Pride festival in June. Looking towards the future, the island’s Artificial Intelligence Tourism Master Plan is the first of its kind to be approved in Spain, and Tenerife aspires to become an Intelligent Tourism Destination—a distinction promoted by Spain’s tourism ministry to recognize destinations with innovative technological infrastructure that have demonstrated their commitments to sustainability, accessibility, and improving the quality of life of residents.

Tenerife also sparkles with Michelin stars. Among the restaurants enjoying that distinction are  M.B and  Kabuki (at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama),  Nub , and  El Rincón de Juan Carlos . Other highlights of the island’s dining scene include  Kensei (at the Bahía del Duque hotel),  Kiki ,  San Hô , and  Melvin by Martín Berasategui , at the Terrazas de Abama Suites, where chef Sergio Fuentes helms the kitchen. You’ll also want to visit some of the island’s traditional beach bars including Punta de Hidalgo’s  La Cofradía , known for its limpets and shrimp;  Chiringuito Pirata , on La Tejita beach, where octopus is the signature dish; and  Bollullo , on the beach of the same name, where you’ll want order the cuttlefish. — Clara Laguna

Zamora, Spain

Even many Spaniards are unaware of one of Zamora’s claims to fame: It's the European city with the greatest number of Romanesque buildings. Its sights in that style include 24 churches, a cathedral, a castle, a bridge, two palaces, nine manor houses, and the defensive walls that encircle the city—it's not surprising that the city is seen as a likely contender to be recognized by UNESCO in 2023. The city’s proximity to Madrid —less than an hour on the new high-speed AVE train—makes it an even more appealing and convenient destination.  

 Zamora also has an enormous legacy of  modernista structures from the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries, the Duero River winds its way through the heart of the city and shapes the surrounding landscape, and the Lagunas de Villafáfila are a bird-watcher’s delight, home to a dazzling variety of migratory species. Lake Sanabria is the largest glacial lake in Europe, and a few miles away Puebla de Sanabria is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Farther south, the Sierra de la Culebra has the highest wolf population in Western Europe, although last summer’s wildfires devastated much of the area. Heading east, you will come across Toro, a beautiful wine capital where the LVMH group boasts its own winery, the excellent Numantia. Nearby, in the heart of the vast plain known as the Tierra de Campos, the restaurant Lera has become famous as a temple to the pleasures of game and country cuisine. It draws celebrated chefs like Dabiz Muñoz who fill the tables at the restaurant in Castroverde de Campos, a small town in one of the quietest corners of Spain.

Finally, to the south of Zamora, the Arribes del Duero provide some drama. The imposing cliffs and the fjords below them act as a natural border with Portugal in an area that has attracted acclaimed international winemakers like Charlotte Allen from England, Thyge Jensen of Denmark and José Manuel Beneitez, originally from Madrid. Olive and citrus trees help to turn this corner of the region into a Mediterranean paradise. New gastronomic and hotel projects point toward the area becoming a little Tuscany in Zamora, even if, for now, few people in Spain or beyond have heard of it. — David Moralejo

Sierra Calderona, Spain

Located between the provinces of Castellón and Valencia, the  Parque Natural de la Sierra Calderona includes almost 70 square miles of pine and strawberry tree forests, ravines, sweeping vistas, and dramatic peaks. The summit of Montemayor, at an elevation of 3,320 feet, is the highest point in the park. While the residents of Valencia know about this treasure—it is located just 12 miles from the province’s capital—it largely remains a secret in the rest of Spain. That means that visitors can still find tranquility and even a little bit of mystery alongside the park’s beauty and splendor.

 A number of different civilizations and people have settled in the Sierra Calderona over the millennia. A trek through the range offers a chance not only to see all its natural wonders, but also to walk through history with stops at the 11 th -century Castillo de Serra, built during the Arab conquest of the region, and the Iberian hilltop fort Puntal dels Llops, which dates from the fifth century BCE.

Travelers interested in hiking and birdwatching will find a little paradise with several different routes to choose from: Garbi, which leads to the sea; the four-mile Olocau route, which starts in the village of the same name; the longer but largely flat 5.2-mile Portaceli trail, the more challenging 7.8-mile Tristán trail, and, for those who are more experienced and ambitious, the rewarding 23-mile Senda dels Cartoixos route that connects two historic Carthusian monasteries. There are also many other trails maintained by local governments and other organizations, like the Vía Verde de Ojos Negros, a popular cycling route that connects the town of Teruel and the Mediterranean. The most visited peak in the range is Garbí, with a vista that offers spectacular views and is easily accessible. Other highlights in the area are the Serra Castle, the Portacoeli Charterhouse (a Carthusian monastery), the Santo Espíritu monastery, the Mola de Segart (a dramatic mesa), and the Font del Compte (a reservoir originally built by the Romans).

The Sierra Calderona is a natural wonder that has been passed down through the generations and from one culture to the next. If you visit, please leave it as beautiful as you found it. — María Casbas

Briones, Spain

This walled town with 700 residents is possibly the prettiest town in La Rioja thanks to its cobblestone streets,  palecetes (“small palaces”), and churches. Located in the Sierra de la Demanda mountains and near many of Rioja’s best wineries, you’ll find vines growing in many postcard views here. You can start your wine itinerary right in town, at the Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture, considered to be one of the best in the world. Displays focus on wine’s role in Western civilization and the museum extends over 43,000 square feet, including six gallery spaces (five hosting the permanent collection and the sixth dedicated to temporary ones). The museum’s Garden of Bacchus includes 220 different varieties of wine grapes from around the world. A stroll through it offers a unique master class.

A highlight of the year in Briones is its unusual  Medieval Days in mid-June, specifically June 17 and 18 in 2023. Declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in 2012, the event celebrates a 1379 treaty between the kings of Castille and Navarra. Almost the entire town turns out in costume for a parade and other events when Briones turns the clock back more than six centuries. The accommodations are far from medieval, however, at the new and charming Santa María de Briones , a 16-room boutique hotel located in a restored mansion. Don’t leave without seeing the town’s old pharmacy, now located at the Ermita del Cristo church. After its former owner left the pharmacy to the church in his will, the church chose to move the beautiful 19 th -century cabinets, apothecary jars, and other items and reconstruct the pharmacy on church property where visitors can admire it. — Cynthia Martín.

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Melides, Portugal

Suddenly, everyone is talking about Melides . That may cause some wistfulness on the part of those aware the secret is now out, but that’s how it goes. The little town on Portugal’s Alentejo coast, located a half-hour from already popular Comporta, is now the name on everyone’s lips.  

And there’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with Melides, beginning with the nearby Galé beach, where a red stone cliff of five-million-year-old fossils creates a dramatic backdrop to a long, sweeping stretch of sand. The landscape here still feels wild, something that it is (if we are being honest) increasingly hard to find in Comporta, though that town still has its undeniable charms. Alongside its natural beauty, the beach has the plus of never feeling crowded. Part of a 30-mile or so stretch of sand the runs from the village of Troia to nearby Sines, its waters are rough and cold, deterring all but the hardiest swimmers—but this stretch has another plus of fewer mosquitoes (which tend to plague the beaches that sit alongside rice fields in Comporta).

Another reason to visit coming in 2023: designer Christian Louboutin, who helped to put this part of Portugal on the map with a 2013 campaign shot in the photogenic port of Carrasqueira, will open the boutique Hotel Vermelho . “Vermelho” means red in Portuguese, a nod to the trademark color of the soles of Louboutin’s iconic shoes. The property is a much-anticipated addition of big-city style to a town with fewer than 2,000 residents. The village’s charm comes from its typical Alentejo architecture, set amid a green and wooded landscape in the foothills of the Serra da Grândola: Olive, oak, and cork trees frame the views from the Vermelho mansion of the surrounding countryside. Louboutin’s vision echoes a phrase uttered by Tancredi in the novel The Leopard  by Tomasi di Lampedusa: “Everything must change for everything to remain the same.” The designer hopes to breathe new life into place while preserving its peaceful atmosphere.

Louboutin is not alone, as the Hotel Vermelho will join  Pa.te.os , an impressive new hotel and architectural beauty designed by Manuel Aires Mateus. Made up of a number of separate villas, the hotel is reimagining luxury in the middle of the countryside near Melides. At the same time,  Melides Art , an artists’ residence and contemporary art space, has also been drawn to this corner of Portugal with its bohemian air, discreet charms (many of the admittedly bourgeois), and a pervasive sense of a calm. We hope the quiet survives Melides’s new popularity. — D.M.

Málaga, Spain

Recently it feels like everyone in Spain—and a good number of people from beyond Spain—has decided to move to Málaga. If you are dubious, raise the topic at any dinner party in Madrid and you’ll soon learn about someone who has recently packed up and gone to the Costa del Sol, or at least you’ll meet someone who is dreaming of it. The phenomenon has not happened overnight, though the rise of digital nomads and remote work have definitely contributed to it. If you can work from anywhere, why not choose a place where the climate is pleasant, you’ll receive a warm welcome, and the culinary offerings are excellent from the first bite.

If you aren’t quite ready to move to Málaga, you can at least visit (or revisit) in 2023. In fact, judging from the results of our most recent  Readers Choice Awards , we expect the city is already included in many travelers’ plans. With its ideal size, neither too small nor too intimidating; nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine each year; the ease of getting there from other parts of Spain and Europe; its rich cultural offerings, and the pleasant setting it’s easy to understand the smiles on the faces of both the tourists and locals strolling along Calle Larios (the pedestrianized shopping street), the inviting Pasaje de Chinitas, and the waterfront Palmeral de las Sorpresas.

Recent hotel openings give travelers a varied choice of options. In 2021, notable hotel additions included  Only You Málaga and  Soho Boutique Equitativa ; in 2022,  H10 Croma Málaga joined them. And more projects are in the works. The best known of them is an enormous development planned for alongside the port of Málaga while others that we are watching eagerly—and which should open or reopen soon—are the Cortijo La Reina (following a complete renovation and upgrade of the existing hotel), Le Privé, and a five-star hotel planned for the Jewish Quarter that will be managed by Marugal, who also run the  Palacio Solecio .

 The list of additions to the gastronomic scene will entice travelers who live to eat. At the beginning of 2022, chef Álvaro Saura and entrepreneur Zuzana Salamon opened  Tasca Láska while Dani Carnero, who learned his craft from chefs including Ferran Adriá and Martín Berasategui, opened his third project in Málaga,  La Cosmo (following La Cosmopolita and Kaleja). Asturian chef Marcos Granda, who already has two restaurants in Marbella, Nintai and Skina, will land in Málaga in 2023, with In-Formal, a new culinary concept designed for the reimagined Gourmet Experience in the department store El Corte Inglés.

 Málaga has also been preparing for a milestone year related to one of its most famous native sons, Pablo Picasso, with 2023 the 50 th anniversary of his death. During what has been named the Year of Picasso, there will 42 exhibits covering the painter’s work around the world, including Málaga, where he was born. 

The  Museo Casa Natal Picasso will host several exhibits:  Bernardí Roig: El último rostro y La Afonía del Minotauro  (“Bernardí Roig: The Last Portrait and the Silence of the Minotaur”) until May 28, 2023,  Las Edades de Pablo (“The Ages of Pablo”) from June 21 to October 1, 2023, and  La Imagen de Picasso (“The Image of Picasso”) from October 18 to March 3, 2024. The  Museo Picasso Malaga will host  Picasso: Materia Y Cuerpo (“Picasso: Media and Bodies”) from May 9 to September 10, 2023, and  El Eco de Picasso  (“The Echo of Picasso”) focused on the master’s artistic legacy. Other institutions in Málaga are organizing events, from talks to musical performances, marking the milestone. Expect more announcements in the months ahead.  In other news, the Teatro Soho CaixaBank, Antonio Banderas’s personal project in his city, is staging a production of  Godspell , produced by Banderas himself and Emilio Aragón. — M.C.

Campo de Criptana, Spain

In a corner of La Mancha, travelers will come upon one of the most beautiful scenes in Spain. The windmills of Campo de Criptana inspired Cervantes, drove Don Quixote crazy, and charm everyone who visits this part of Castilla-La Mancha. Campo de Criptana, Mota del Cuervo, and Consuegra have a remarkable concentration of some of the most picturesque and best-preserved windmills in the region. The three towns also have other charms that justify at least a weekend exploring them. Of the three, Campo de Criptana, in the province of Ciudad Real, is said to have been the specific inspiration for the plain of windmills in Cervantes’s book, which its famous protagonist believes are giants as he heads into combat against them.

In addition to the windmills (some of which are open to the public), the most important monuments in the town date from around the 16th century and include the Royal Granary, the Convent of the Barefoot Carmelites, and ten hermitages—the most impressive of them is the one dedicated to the Virgen de la Paz, or Virgin of Peace. A more recent addition, the Church of the Assumption of Our Lady, dates from 1958 and stands on the site of an earlier 16 th -century during destroyed in the Spanish Civil War. The eastern part of town, known as the Albaicín, was originally settled by Moorish refugees from Granada after that city was conquered by Christians. Many houses still have original Mudejar details like tiles and wrought-iron grilles. — C.M.

Comillas, Spain

Comillas is one of those places that is so beautiful that you hesitate to share its name, for fear that word will get out. For now, fortunately, Comillas remains a traditional vacation town of northern Spain. There are more houses than hotels, and more people who are here for the season than for a week. Unlike some other similar coastal summer towns, it also has a number of historic sites of interest: the buildings of the Comillas Pontifical University (the university moved to Madrid, though the buildings remain), the Sobrellano Palace (once owned by the Marquis of Comillas), the Baroque church of San Cristobal, and the archaeological site, the Cuevas de la Meaza.

And then there is also the work of architect Anton Gaudí who gave the city one of its most famous landmarks, El Capricho. This playful and elaborate house is one of Gaudí’s few works outside of Catalonia, but it isn’t the only work of modernista architecture here. In 1881, the entrance to the town’s cemetery and some of its exterior walls were redesigned by Luis Domènech i Montaner, another prominent figure in Catalonia’s modernista architectural circles He was also responsible for the town’s Parque Güell and the Fountain of the Tres Caños, or “three spouts.” A work of modernista sculpture from 1895 can also be found at the cemetery: the  Ángel Exterminador by Josep Limona.

There are also English-style houses from the last turn-of-the-century, like the home of the Duque de Almodóvar del Río and the so-called Casas Indianas, the houses of locals who had made their fortunes in the Americas. (These houses will typically have at least one palm tree planted nearby, making them easier to spot.)  The town has even appeared in the Guinness World Records as the world’s smallest whaling port (it was active into the 18th century). Beachgoers can choose from the city beach and ones in the nearby Parque Natural de Oyambre; shoppers will want to scour the antiques markets; and gourmets can count on eating well. — D.M.

Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Think of the cliches of southern Spain, and the words “wine,” “flamenco,” “horses,” and “cellars” may come to mind. Instead of running from them, Jerez de la Frontera makes the wise choice of embracing them. Bring it on, the city says, as it welcomes visitors—with the table set and wine poured. In this city that embraces tradition, strolling aimlessly through the historic center is the best way to ease into this city. With each step, you’ll feel yourself become part of the place as it reveals its character around every corner and a history written by Phoenicians, Romans, Muslims, and Christians unfolds before you. Palaces and lavish city houses alternate with religious buildings like the famous cathedral and a late 12th-century mosque inside the city’s fortified Alcazar, home to a number of historic buildings. If it takes your breath away, inhale and then follow the smell of wine in the air.

Jerez is a leading destination for wine tourism, in both Spain and the world generally, thanks to its abundance of wineries, many of them belonging to the Jerez-Xérèz-Sherry  denominaciones de origen or D.O. (the Spanish version of the French Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée [AOC] wine regions). Among the acclaimed wineries are  Tío Pepe-González Byass ,  Sandeman ,  Emilio Lustau , and  Williams & Humbert . Oenophiles will also want to stop at the tabancos , classic tavernas that are the perfect places to sample local products.

Some people might say that sherry is trending right now, but that’s not quite right: Sherry is a timeless classic that just happens to be enjoying a moment of positive attention. Jerez does offer more to visitors than its namesake wine. The Horse Fair, the Flamenco Festival, the Harvest Festival, and the Motorcycle Grand Prix all offer opportunities to dive into an aspect of local culture and celebrate with the city’s residents (who are excellent at celebrating). Whether your visit coincides with a festival or not, the city’s two Michelin-starred restaurants provide a glimpse of a lively gastronomic scene:  Lú, Cocina y Alma is led by chef Juanlu Fernández and  Mantúa by chef Israel Ramos. Another reason to visit Jerez de la Frontera will be inaugurated in 2023: the Museo de Lola Flores. The museum to the outspoken and beloved actor and singer will open on the 100 th anniversary of her birth in Jerez. — M.C.

La Coruña, Spain

This little corner of Europe, tucked above Portugal in the northeastern corner of Spain, was long described as “the end of the world.” Recently, however, it is starting to feel closer to being at the center of the stage. One of the changes is noticeable even after a short stroll: The streets are increasingly filled with people of different nationalities, speaking different languages , and wearing different clothes. Ask one of them why they are in La Coruña, and the likely answer is “to work.” Ask where they work and what you will get in reply is likely a gesture towards the west, and the neighboring town of Arteixo, where Inditex is headquartered. (Even if you don’t recognize Inditex as the name of an enormous multinational clothing company, you likely know some of its brands, including Zara, Bershka, and Massimo Dutti.)

The Galician city’s increasingly cosmopolitan atmosphere is apparent not only when wandering its streets but also exploring the cultural offerings of its museums and art galleries. One of the most important cultural initiatives has an Inditex connection via Marta Ortega Pérez, who is both the new president of Inditex and the president of a foundation that bears her initials. The MOP Foundation is structured around three pillars: La Coruña, photography, and fashion. Last year it hosted the successful exhibition  Peter Lindbergh: Untold Stories seen by 110,000 visitors.

“After that success, it was clear that we had to organize another exhibition,” Leticia Castromil, exhibition coordinator for the MOP Foundation says. “We couldn’t stop there.” At the end of November 2022,  Steven Meisel 1993 A Year in Photographs  opened its doors and the free exhibition will be up until May 1, 2023. The show is at a building on the city’s harbor, the Muelle de la Batería. Naomi Campbell, Irina Shayk, and Christy Turlington were among the fashion stars who attended the opening. “The exhibition space is a former industrial building next to the port. It’s located in an area near the city center which had been closed to the public. Thanks to this initiative, part of another dock is now accessible again and people can walk around it,” Castromil adds.

 In addition to the Meisel exhibition, 2023 includes a milestone for a one-time resident of La Coruña. Pablo Picasso, who lived in the city between ages 9 and 13, died 50 years ago. “Continue doing what you are doing and never doubt that you will achieve glory and a brilliant future,” a review published in  La Voz de Galicia said after seeing an exhibition by a precocious Picasso when he was only 13 years old.

During the year-long  Picasso Celebración 1973-2023 a series of events and activities will take place around the world. In the region where the young genius spent four formative years, the center of the celebration is the  Casa Museo Picasso . The  Museo de Belas Artes da Coruña will host Picasso, Blanco en el Recuerdo Azul (“Picasso, White in the Blue Memory”) from March 24 to June 23, 2023. The Fundación Luis Seoane will organize a show on the women who shaped Picasso’s life and the  Escuela de Arte y Superior de Diseño Pablo Picasso is also planning events to mark the anniversary.

 Alongside the rich cultural scene, there is an impressive gastronomic one as well, led by Árbore da Veira, Omakase, Bido, la Taberna de Miga, NaDo, Terreo, and Salitre. You’ll find specialty coffee shops, wine bars, cocktail lounges, pottery workshops, bookstores, and design stores as you make your way about the city. All this, with the Atlantic in the background serving as a reminder that while this was once the end of the world, today it is a place where new adventures begin.  — M.C.

Costa da Prata, Portugal

Three Portuguese destinations are on this year’s list, and all three overlook the ocean. One of the Atlantic’s gifts to Portugal is some of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the world, including the Costa da Prata . The Algarve may be more famous, Comporta and Melides may be more “cool,” and Cascais and Estoril have nostalgic charms, but the Costa da Prata has its own, undeniable appeal.   

Even the name Costa da Prata isn’t that common, yet, but some of the towns along it—Ericeira, Nazaré, Peniche, and Aveiro are better known, especially among surfers. We are stretching the Costa a little farther south than some would define it by including Ericeira, which is about 45 minutes north of Lisbon. For many it starts instead at Playa Santa Cruz, in Torres Vedras. That town, which is roughly 20 miles north of Ericeira, is the home of a hotel that's a favorite with surfers:  Noah Surf House . The northern end of the coast is often defined as Esmoriz, a half-hour south of Porto by car.  

There’s a reason we want to pull the southern end of the coast a little closer to Lisbon: to include the new  Aethos , which is reinterpreting luxury with a surfer attitude that embodies the relaxed vibe of this part of Portugal—and which is also, oddly, a driver of its imminent boom.  Immerso , the first five-star hotel in this region, has interiors that highlight brilliant local craftsmanship, giving the project a unique and very Portuguese personality. Chef Alexandre Silva (one Michelin star) leads the gastronomic offering, an ode to Atlantic cuisine. 

Nazaré is better known thanks to its record waves (Guinness World Records gave the title of world’s largest surfed wave to one at Nazaré in 2020—at 86 feet tall, German surfer Sebastian Steudtner rode it into the record books) but despite the fame of its swells, it manages to remain a low-key fishing town, where some women still wear the traditional “seven skirts.” In 2021, an appealing new overnight option opened here, the family-friendly glamping at  Ohai Nazaré .

Peniche, and especially the beach known as Supertubos, is also popular with the surfer crowd. Consolação, another beautiful beach here, is capped at one end by a 17 th -century fort. The town is also a gateway to the Islas Berlengas, a half-hour by ferry. The islands form a protected nature reserve and only 550 visitors are allowed each day. Near the northern end of the coast, Aveiro has been nicknamed the Venice of Portugal and its colorful streets offer up a bounty of Instagram moments. We know the Costa da Prata will become a favorite of travelers as word gets out, just give it some time. — D.M.

Canfranc, Spain

It has been four years since we first reported that the spectacular Canfranc train station, inaugurated in 1928 and abandoned for decades, was going to become a luxury hotel. Despite the pandemic and other obstacles, the moment has arrived and the  Canfranc Estación, a Royal Hideaway Hotel will open its doors at the beginning of 2023.

Located in Jacetania, a corner of Aragón along the French border and high in the Pyrenees , Canfranc’s main claim to fame historically has been the elaborate station constructed to facilitate and celebrate French and Spanish cooperation. Despite the grandeur of the inauguration, with King Alfonso XIII representing Spain alongside France’s president, traffic never lived up to the original forecasts and the station closed in 1970. Today the only train to use the station is a short-distance tourist one, the Canfranero, that travels the 117 miles from Zaragoza to Canfranc.

A century after construction started on the original station, the building will begin its new life as a five-star, 104-room hotel with the design studio Ilmiodesign responsible for the interiors. The developers’ goal is to make the hotel a leader in tourism to the Aragonese portion of the Pyrenees, helping to attract both national and international interest. Guests arriving at the hotel will find the reception in the historic station lobby while the first floor houses a wellness area, a library, and the main restaurant, which includes two carriages that have been refurbished to become elegant dining cars.

Architect Michele Corbani and industrial designer Andrea Spada, the founders of Ilmiodesign, were inspired by the aesthetics of classic stations and the luxurious world of long-distance train travel in the early 20th century, but they also wanted to add a contemporary touch, creating warm and elegant spaces that blend with subtle Art Deco elements. Wood, brass, velvet, and a palette inspired by the 1920s coexist with various elements drawn from Aragonese popular culture, and color combinations draw from the regional costumes of the region. Don’t fear that it will no longer be possible to reach Canfranc by train, on the Canfranero—while the hotel was being restored, a new railway station and platforms were constructed.

The Canfranc Estación hotel will put the Aragonese town on the radar of many travelers, but Canfranc will keep their interest thanks to the mesmerizing beauty of the place, set amid the stunning peaks of the Pyrenees. While the station’s meticulous restoration allows it to begin its new life, when you hear the words “next stop, Canfranc” you’ll be adding some to a story collectively written by thousands of previous passengers.  — M.C.

Las Merindades, Spain

Some of the 26 towns and cities that make up Las Merindades, a corner of Castilla and León that sits just to the south of the Basque region , include Alfoz de Bricia, Alfoz de Santa Gadea, Arija, Berberana, Cillaperlata, Espinosa de los Monteros, Frías, Junta de Traslaloma, and Medina de Pomar. The capital is Villarcayo de Merindad de La Vieja, a town of some 4,000 residents that provides a good starting point for visiting the historic area.

Arguably the most magical settlement in the region is Puentedey, a small village with less than 50 residents. Built along the Nela river, the two sides of Puentedey are connected by a natural stone bridge. Puentedey is not alone when it comes to gems in the area though. Frias, located atop a mesa overlooking the Ebro river, would also have a good claim to the title of the prettiest village in Spain if not for one technicality: In 1435, King Juan II of Castille gave Frias, now home to only 270 people, the title of “city” making it the smallest city in Spain.

Those are only two of the many reasons to go to Las Merindades. There’s also the natural beauty of the region, thanks to its location in the foothills of the Cantabrian Range cooled by Atlantic breezes, a sense of history that is palpable in every town, castle, and even house, and surprises like the Ojo Guareña, a karst cave complex with almost 70 miles of galleries and passageways that have been used for shelter by humans for millennia. — D.M.

Enkarterri, Spain

Few people know about Enkarterri, a rich and surprising corner of the province of Vizcaya. (Enkarterri is its Basque name; in Spanish it's Encartaciones .) Those who discover it, however, tend to return. Only 35 minutes southwest of Bilbao , the sea and the mountains meet here. The area also has an important Indiano heritage—that’s the word used in Spain to describe Spaniards who went to the Americas, or the Indies as it were, to make their fortunes. You can look inside some of the lavish Casas Indianas, mansions that are the results of 19th-century versions of the American dream. Another important reminder of Vizcaya’s economic history is apparent in the factories and plants that dot the landscape. One used to be dedicated to the production of that essential Basque accessory, the beret. In operation until 1992, and then converted into a museum in 2007,  La Enkartada offers a glimpse into northern Spain’s industrial past, and a lesson in how berets are made.

After exploring the factory, fill your stomach at  Casa Garras , an institution going on its fifth decade thanks to its evergreen appeal. Carnivores will fall hard for the “beef days,” which take place during the winter months, when the restaurant serves an 11-course beef-themed tasting menu with delicious creations like a rump steak tartar with roasted marrow.

And there is more. Txacolí, the sparkling white wine produced in this part of Spain, always provides a good excuse to explore different wineries set amid the region’s beautifully wild landscapes including the biggest valley in the province (Karrantza Harana/Valle de Carranza, which includes some 49 settlements along its length). There are many options for hikers, bikers, spelunkers, as well as those looking for more low-impact activities like the Japanese tradition of forest bathing. On a completely different topic, the area is also home to  the largest private collection of Rolls-Royces in Europe, located in a 14th-century castle. — C.M.

Oviedo, Spain

Oviedo, the elegant capital of Asturias, is known for the distinguished neoclassical architecture surrounding the city’s cathedral, and its remarkable pre-Romanesque buildings from the ninth century, with five works recognized by UNESCO: the Foncalada Fountains, the city walls, and three churches: Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo, and San Julián de los Prados, known as Santullano. The city is also a top cultural and gastronomic destination.

Culture permeates life in this city thanks in large part to the Princess of Asturias Awards, which are presented every year at the Campoamor Theater. In 2023, the ceremony will also celebrate the coming of age of the awards’ namesake, Leonor, the first-born daughter of the King and Queen of Spain and heir presumptive. The year ahead will bring some welcome additions to Oviedo. The Wamba Hotel from the  Sensia Hotels group will open next to the cathedral, while a much-anticipated AVE high-speed train from Madrid will enter service in May, making it possible to travel from the capital of Spain to the capital of Asturias in about three hours.  This remarkable engineering project has taken years to complete and includes a 15-mile-long tunnel, one of the longest in Europe, which crosses the Cantabrian Range under the Puerto de Pajares mountain pass. 

Meanwhile, Oviedo continues to embrace its position as one of the great epicenters of cuisine in the country. The city can boast of nine stars from Michelin, with Casa Marcial holding two of them. In total, 43 restaurants in the city are recommend by the guide. Some local favorites include Cocina Cabal, Ca'Suso, Salazogue, Casa Fermín, Mestura, and Gloria. — D.M.

Bajo Aragón, Spain

Spain constantly rewards travelers who want to venture off the beaten path. Bajo (or Lower) Aragon is an outstanding example of this truth. Located roughly 90 minutes by car to the northwest of Valencia, Bajo Aragon is known for its processions of drummers during Holy Week while fans of motorsports head to  MotorLand . But there’s more to entice travelers. Its landscape of chasms, rivers, and marshes has been shaped by the extreme climate and the passage of time, giving rise to the area’s unique flora and fauna. In addition, the generally clear skies and the low light pollution in this largely empty part of Spain add up to remarkable stargazing opportunities. 

It is not easy to find top-of-the-line hotels here, but there are some promising new ventures like the beautiful  Torre del Marqués , while the  Parador de Alcañiz has an incomparable hilltop setting next to a castle and convent. At its restaurant, La Concordia, you can discover some of the highlights of Aragonese cuisine, often overshadowed by other regions, like migas (bread soaked and then sauteed with other ingredients), lamb, and, of course, ham from Teruel.

The ambitious ongoing project of restoring the Convent of the Desert, an 18 th -century institution that has been called the Escorial of Aragon given its enormous size, is also attracting interest while in Calanda, the birthplace of surrealist director Luis Buñuel, you can visit a museum, the  Centro Buñuel Calanda , dedicated to his films and life. Pack comfortable shoes as you’ll be getting in a lot of steps to see cave paintings (Val del Charco del Agua Amarga) and Iberian sites (on the Route of the Iberians of Bajo Aragón), climb mountains (following the Route of the Stony Giants), or gaze at the stars (on the Route of Astronomical Viewpoints). Other attractions are just half an hour away, like Matarraña (another idyllic rural corner of Spain) and Campo de Belchite, the birthplace of painter Francisco Goya. — C.L.

Corvo Island, Azores, Portugal

We like the remote and the unknown, and that’s why we love Portugal’s Azores . Ooften described as the Atlantic’s Hawaii (though with far fewer tourists), most visits include hopping among a few islands. If that's your plan, include Corvo on your list of ports of call.

There’s only one paved road on the island. Follow it to Caldeirão, the crater of the volcano that gave birth to the island. From its viewpoint you will be able to take in its enormous size, almost 1.5 miles in circumference and almost 1,000 feet deep. At the bottom of the crater are two lakes where, according to legend, all the islands of the Azores are reflected on their surfaces. Cows and wild horses graze freely in this natural wonder—for immediately apparent reasons, it's the most photographed place in Corvo. 

A small airport and ferries that cross daily from the island of Flores connect Corvo with the rest of the world, as does free Wi-Fi throughout its (tiny) territory.  Fewer than 500 inhabitants reside in Vila do Corvo in a handful of whitewashed houses with red roofs. You’ll find most locals are happy to chat with curious visitors. Operators here offer a myriad of bird-watching tours—the island is considered one of the best areas in the world to spot a variety of species; its status as the westernmost point of the Azores adds to its diversity with some birds from the Americas landing here. Other guides offer boat trips around the island, if the sea permits, with chances to swim alongside steep cliffs that plunge into the water. — D.M.

Madrid, Spain

The capital of Spain continues its reign on must-visit lists. The list of reasons to visit Madrid will only lengthen in 2023. 

Both familiar and avant-garde; a cultural, gastronomic, and wellness center, Madrid is a city of contrasts that never stops. Luxury hotel brands all want a presence here, with recent openings including the Mandarin Oriental Ritz and the  Rosewood Villa Magna . Only a little bit older, the  Four Seasons Madrid , the  Madrid EDITION , and  Thompson Madrid have added to the wealth of choices. And, while it’s not a new property, the renovation of the  Santo Mauro has elevated a favorite to a new level of luxury as it joins Starwood’s Luxury Collection.

The brand new  UMusic Hotel , the first hotel from Universal Music, is located in the old Teatro Albéniz building, a very short walk from the Plaza Mayor. Coming up next are the  Nobu Hotel Madrid , located halfway between the Puerta del Sol and the Paseo del Prado. The early-20 th -century landmark Metropolis building is set to be reborn with a boutique hotel, restaurants, and shopping. Just a little further up the Gran Via, Brach Madrid, designed by Philippe Starck, is another much-anticipated opening of 2023.  There are still rumors that Fairmont will be joining the mix soon with a property near the Congress building, and another surprising addition is a hotel on Plaza de Canalejas from Pescaderías Coruñesas, known for its critically acclaimed restaurants and gourmet fish stores. This is their first foray into hotels. All of these projects near the Puerta del Sol are earning the area the nickname Milla de Oro, or “golden mile.” If your budget doesn’t include staying at one of these new hotels, at least visit one of their restaurants, spas, and rooftops (the competition is fierce in that last category). Two somewhat different options nearby are  Cool Rooms Palacio de Atocha (a 19 th -century palace given a contemporary update) and the new  Social Hub (a coworking space, though one with incredible views and a full calendar of events). 

When it comes to shopping, stops you may want to include are the enormous Zara (the world’s largest) on Plaza de España, the revolutionary  WOW Concept store on Gran Vía, and  Galeria Canalejas , where you’ll find 11 iconic international brands including Hermès, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton. Madrid’s culinary scene continues to dazzle—among the most coveted tables are Leña and  Smoked Room by Dani García and Amós, at the Rosewood Villa Magna, led by three-Michelin-star chef Jesús Sánchez (for his Cenador de Amós, on the Cantabrian coast).  Desde 1911 is a sophisticated option, and the venerated  Zuara is among the best Japanese restaurants in the city.  At Zuma, Berria,  Bar Trafalgar , and the cocktail lounge  Isa (at the Four Seasons), you are guaranteed to eat  and drink well.  If you want to keep the party going into the morning, Lula Club and Medias Puri are two popular choices at the moment. Don’t be surprised if you run out of time—this city has a lot to offer. — C.L.

Murcia, Spain

Ask Spaniards of a certain age about the phrase, “ Murcia, qué hermosa eres ” (“Murcia, how beautiful you are”) and they will likely recall an odd television variety show from the late 90s that promoted the region, and successfully implanted a slogan in viewers of several generations. Now many of those same people are discovering the truth of the motto.

The beauty of the province of Murcia can be experienced at  the Regional Park of Calblanque, the Monte de las Ceniza, and Peña del Aguila , perhaps one of the most beautiful and wild stretches of Spain’s Mediterranean coastline. The waters at Cabo de Palos are a favorite of divers while the lush Sierra de Espuña is the province’s green heart surrounded by vast orchards. There is also, however, a unique beauty to the region’s capital, the city of Murcia.

The region’s history is not as well-known as that of some of Spain’s other cities, even with a cathedral that is an almost perfect example of Spanish Baroque architecture and an episcopal palace in a Rococo style that reflects Murcia’s long-running connections with Noto, Lecce, and other cities in southern Italy.

The city was established by the emir of Cordoba in 825, and Moorish influences and evocative references remain visible, including at the lavish 19th-century Real Casino de Murcia, a glittering mix of architectural styles with an Arab patio, 20,000 sheets of gold leaf, and a neo-Baroque ballroom. The 18 th -century Puente de los Peligros connects the historic center with the Carmen neighborhood where you’ll find another one of the city’s Baroque wonders, Carmen’s parish church, which was originally part of a Carmelite convent. The  Museo Salzillo focuses on the sculptural works of one of the most celebrated artists of the Spanish Baroque, Francisco Salzillo, whose pieces can be seen in many Murcian churches.  

The Arab medieval period in the city’s history lives on in the city walls and the Aljufía irrigation system, which was one of the first such systems in Europe and is still used to this day to irrigate much of Murcia’s farmland and orchards. Murcia’s status as the source of much of Spain’s produce is evident when you sit down to eat. The perfect freshness of the ingredients helps to make the cuisine here even more exquisite and justified the city’s turn as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2021. Don’t leave without trying a traditional meat pie, a dish made with the famous bomba rice grown in Calasparra, stewed and salted fishes, zarangollo (a dish made with eggs, onion, and squash), and a Murcian salad (made with tomatoes, tuna, eggs, and olives). — D.M.

Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

If you thought that the economic upheaval and travel disruptions of the pandemic meant that the Balearic Islands were going to suddenly become a bargain, it didn’t work out that way. At least there is a silver lining. As the destination perfects its approach to luxury, you’ll get a mix of exclusivity, exquisite service, and sustainability that justifies the price. 

Mallorca’s most anticipated upcoming openings are from the Four Seasons and the Virgin Group, at opposite ends of the island. The iconic Formentor in Pollença (in the north of the island), where celebrities including Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier stayed, will reopen as the  Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor in 2024. The property, located on a 3,000-acre estate, aims to be the island’s most sustainable. The French interior design firm, Gilles & Boissier, who recently completed the renovation of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid, were entrusted with the interiors of the Four Seasons as well.

Richard Branson’s much anticipated  Son Bunyola hotel is now taking reservations for dates after August 1, 2023. The luxury hotel is located in the estate’s 16 th -century finca, or manor house, and has 26 rooms. They join three existing villas—Sa Punta de S'Aguila, Sa Terra Rotja, and  Son Balagueret—on an 810-acre property with grape vines and almond, citrus, and olive orchards.  Son Net is another luxury property that will open (spring 2023) in this stunning part of the island, from the owners of the impeccable  Finca Cortesin in Puigpunyent. Also nearby the  Belmond La Residencia , in Deià, offers polished luxury in one of the most picturesque parts of the island while the new  Kimpton Aysla Mallorca , just nine miles from Palma, is a contemporary retreat set amid landscaped grounds.

Sustainability is a focus of other recent openings on Mallorca as with  Can Ferrereta , in Santanyí, from the creators of the award-winning Sant Francesc hotel in Palma; the boutique hotel  Nivia Born , in Palma; the refurbished agroturismo property  Finca Ca'n Beneït , in the Tramuntana mountains; and  Es Racó d'Artà .  HM Palma Blanc , in Palma, marries a contemporary style with local Mallorcan materials and power from solar panels. The adults-only  Vicenç de la Mar , in cala Sant Vicenç, was designed by architect Rafael Balaguer Prunés and carries the Design Hotels seal. Yurbann, a hotel group from Barcelona, also has an opening planned. You have to be quick to stay on top of Mallorca’s hotel scene. — C.L.

Cáceres, Spain

The 2021 inauguration of the Helga de Alvear Museum, with its outstanding contemporary art collection assembled by the museum’s namesake gallerist and philanthropist, marked a turning point for the city of Cáceres in Spain’s Extremadura region. The new building, and the Premio Nacional de Arquitectura that Emilio Tuñón of  Tuñón Arquitectos won for its design, announced that both the city and the broader province of Cáceres intended to compete for the attention of culturally curious travelers.

The hospitality and culinary offerings are already waiting and continuing to improve. The 17 th -century  Hotel Hospes Palacio de Arenales & Spa is located amid olive groves but only 10 minutes by car from the city center. There, Atrio can boast two Michelin stars while the Torre de Sande, also from the Atrio team, is located in a 15 th -century palace and is a star of Extremadura’s culinary scene. Looking ahead, the Atrio team is also behind the renovation of the Casa Paredes-Saavedra, a Renaissance palace that is going to reopen as an exclusive 11-suite hotel facing the  Parador del Palacio de los Marqueses de Torreorgaz . Another palace, the Palacio de Godoy from the 16th century, will reopen as a 72-room Hilton after having been closed for 10 years.

The city of Cáceres is also a good gateway for exploring the beautiful Jerte Valley and the area of Vera, part of Extremadura that is famous for its lush forest and many springs. The broader region of Extremadura has a total of six UNESCO sites that travelers will want to visit: the historic monuments of Cáceres, the archeological sites of Mérida, the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, the Monfragüe Biosphere and National Park, the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve, and the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara World Geopark. While it has yet to get the UNESCO nod, the Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste has been recognized as part of Spain’s Patrimonio Nacional and deserves a place on travelers’ lists too. In 2022, the landlocked Extremadura boasted an impressive eight Blue Flag beaches on its lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and streams. Baños de Montemayor and Alange have been welcoming spa-goers since the Romans built baths at both hot springs.  — C.L.

Pals, Spain

Writer Josep Pla once wrote that the best view in the region of Empordà is from  el Pedró , the restaurant that makes the best rice dishes in the town of Pals. Located in the historic center, the view includes the Torre de las Hores, the Church of St. Peter, and the city walls that lead to a mirador that has now been renamed in honor of the author. “The contrasts that this site offers—the ocean, beach, and the Medes Islands; the eroded peaks of the Montgrí Massif, the deep greens of evergreen, cork, and pine forests with the geological formations of the Gavarres peaks and the flat farmland; and the botanical wonders along the banks of the Ter River—it all adds up to a rich bounty of great beauty,” the journalist wrote.  

This medieval village in the Baix Empordà region, along Catalonia’s Costa Brava, offers travelers easy access to the most charming coves along this part of the Mediterranean, such as Aigua Xelida, and beaches such as the familiar and wide Pals, Gola del Ter, l'Illa Roja, and Aiguablava. The bravest swimmers can dive into the Vies Braves, a public network of marine and open water routes offering a wilder experience of the Mediterranean. Cycling through the rice fields of the area or finding a glamping site as a base for an active vacation are other options for visitors, who will also find an ideal setting for golf, a chance to enjoy the  White Summer market and music festival, or simply visit organic vineyards. Visitors can also learn more about Catalonia’s rich Romanesque and medieval heritage following routes through the villages of Begur, Palau Sator, Peratallada, and Monells, among others.

At the  Arkhe Hotel Boutique , a contemporary focus on health, wellness, and sustainability is paired with an intimate setting in the heart of historic Pals. Beyond exploring the region’s sites, staff can arrange everything from a “conscious nutrition” workshop to a meal amid the countryside’s wildflowers. Catalonia is known for the excellence of its produce and other ingredients as well as its celebrated chefs. Not far from Pals,  El Celler de Can Roca has three Michelin stars; some critics and fans argue it is the best restaurant in the world.  Bo.Tic , with two Michelin stars, is also among the region’s best restaurants along with Vicus and Pahissa del Mas. Make sure to have at least one dish made with the famous rice from Bassess d’en Coll before you leave. — C.L.

Valle de Arce, Spain

South of Roncesvalles, the Valle de Arce (or Artzibar, in Basque) is one of the best-known areas of Navarra, famous for the beech forest to its east, which is one of the largest and best preserved in Europe. This destination is full of natural and historical treasures, but not people—there are barely 300 living in the village of Arce and smaller hamlets nearby. The buildings feel untouched by time and there's easy access to ravines, forests, and unforgettable views. 

A plus of the Navarra Pyrenees is that they are beautiful any time of the year, whether the peaks are dusted with snow or the alpine lakes are shimmering in the summer sun. Simply take a deep breath, walk in any direction, and be surprised by charming villages like Usoz, with its sweeping views, Azparren, or Gorráiz—with its historic houses and churches. Stop and listen to the murmur of the Urrobi and Irati rivers, which form two valleys in the region. This part of the Navarra Pyrenees is a paradise for mountain and hiking lovers, who will find routes for all levels and tastes. The area’s Romanesque heritage can be traced in historical monuments such as the hermitage of Santa María de Arce, next to the Urrobi river, and the church of San Julián in Nagore, both from the 12th century. You can admire the 15 th -century fortified palace of Ayanz and the Torre de Liberri, at least from a distance (both are located on private property and not open to public). You can get a closer look at the 13 th -century  Torre de Uriz , however, which has been converted into a stylish and intimate 12-room hotel.

 Another charming option is the  Agroturismo Mari Cruz , which combines a warm, family welcome with organic cuisine and a lot of magic. They say that amid its cabins, which provide retreats in the woods for those who want to slow down and discover another way of seeing the world, real live elves have been spotted. First, though, you need to take the time to truly listen and look. How’s that for a goal in 2023? — C.L.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller Spain. It was translated by John Newton.  

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

9 Best Places to Live in Portugal, According to Local Real Estate Experts

Home to beautiful sun-drenched beaches, quaint fishing villages, and bustling cities, Portugal's allure among expats is undeniable.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

In the past decade, Portugal has transformed into one of the most popular European countries for expats — be it digital nomads or retirees — and it's easy to see why. The country has it all: nearly year-round sunny weather; golden-sand beaches ; warm and friendly locals; history that spans hundreds of years; fresh seafood; awe-inspiring landscapes that span rolling hills and vineyards, lush mountains, and scenic valleys; and a laid-back lifestyle.

Even better, that lifestyle comes at a more affordable price than any other western European country. Portugal is also an easy direct flight away from the East Coast, and it's connected to many other global destinations thanks to its three international airports: Lisbon, Porto to the north, and Faro to the south.

So, where in Portugal should you settle down? From charming fishing villages to vibrant Lisbon and Porto, we asked local real estate agents for the top markets and places to live in Portugal.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's enchanting capital is a sight to behold — set on seven hills (just like Rome), Lisbon is a treasure trove of historic and modern districts, many with waterfront views, historic landmarks, buildings clad in traditional azulejo ceramic tiles, small neighborhood restaurants, and coffee shops filled with the sweet smell of freshly baked pasteis de nata , Portugal's famous custard tarts.

"Depending on the desired lifestyle, there are neighborhoods like Campo de Ourique and Avenidas Novas where life can be lived 'entirely on foot' without the need for a car. If you're looking for a more sophisticated area, nothing beats the axis of Avenida da Liberdade, Chiado, Príncipe Real, and Amoreiras. On the other hand, if you prefer a more sporty lifestyle, the areas along the Tagus River — namely, Belém, Alcântara, 24 de Julho, Beato, and Parque das Nações — are ideal," Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate , told Travel + Leisure.

However, he explained, due to the high demand and low supply growth, real estate prices constantly increase, especially in central areas.

StudioBarcelona/Getty Images

This former quaint fishing village north of Lisbon is a luxury home destination that doesn't lack character.

"With cultural attractions such as the historic center and the Citadel Palace, along with recreational amenities like stunning beaches and the renowned Boca do Inferno, Cascais offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury," Marta Bettencourt, a broker with Modern , said. The area is especially popular with families because it's home to excellent international schools and many kid-friendly facilities and parks.

Cláudia Ferreira of Casaiberia explained that Estoril, Birre, and Quinta da Marinha are some of the most popular districts for single-family homes, while Monte Estoril, downtown Cascais, and Gandarinha are favored for apartments.

studiof22byricardorocha/Getty Images

Dubbed the " Hamptons of Portugal ," Comporta is a hidden gem, just an hour south of Lisbon and home to about 1,500 residents. 

"The history of the Herdade of Comporta dates to 1836, with the rice fields being an integral part of its landscape, but Comporta has recently gained renown for its breathtaking natural surroundings, including white-sand beaches, dunes, and expansive rice fields," Modern broker Filipa Melo explained. 

Stylish, modern villas, residences in new developments, and historic homes are all options for homebuyers here. And just like in any other beachfront location, the closer the home is to the ocean, the higher its price tag.

"The allure of Comporta lies in its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a magnet for individuals searching for a peaceful and exclusive retreat," Melo added. "The area offers upscale amenities, high-end restaurants, and boutique shops, further contributing to its reputation as a destination for those seeking an upscale and discreet escape."

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's second-largest city is known for its scenic riverfront dotted with wine-tasting rooms and vibrantly hued houses, but to its residents, the city is also a bustling economic hub with a burgeoning tech and startup economy.

"Living in Porto is embracing a distinctive blend of tranquility and liveliness. The city, maintaining a unique essence, offers a high quality of life, outstanding education, and a harmonious work-life balance," Lopes explained, also noting that Porto's winters tend to be cold and rainy, which "might challenge those unaccustomed to such climates."

According to him, a couple without children would need about €2,000 per month to live comfortably in Porto. 

In terms of neighborhoods, he recommended Bonfim and Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos for families and Foz do Douro and Cedofeita for those seeking a lively setting with bars, restaurants, and markets.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

You've probably seen photos of Sintra's Pena Palace, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. But this historic mountain town, full of sprawling villas and royal estates, also offers a quaint and picturesque home setting just about 30 minutes from bustling Lisbon.

"[Sintra] is divided into two facets: the historic old town — a tourist magnet — and the new town, pulsating with activity," said Lopes. "In the new town, modern conveniences thrive, including shopping malls, multinational companies, and leisure centers."

Another draw? The destination has a mild climate, so those not fond of Lisbon's hot summers will find solace here. Lopes added that Sintra has become a haven for remote workers "seeking a peaceful escape." Real estate prices hover around 2,258 euros per square meter (prices in Cascais, for example, are almost double that).

Silver Coast

JohnnyWalker61/Getty Images

North of Lisbon, this breathtaking area, which stretches from Aveiro to Torres Vedras, is emerging as a more affordable, under-the-radar destination for expats. While the Atlantic waters here are much chillier, the region offers a wealth of natural, historic, and cultural attractions (including many UNESCO-listed sites) that keep its residents active.

"Choosing to reside on the Silver Coast is a fantastic decision for expats in Portugal, especially those seeking seaside views, more affordable living, and a peaceful environment,"said Lopes. "Small cities, friendly locals, and an undiscovered expat community create a unique atmosphere."

Aveiro, also known as the "Venice of Portugal" for its canals, is chock-full of architectural gems and art nouveau buildings. White-sand beaches frequented by surfers and fresh seafood add to Aveiro's allure among expats. Further south, Mira is home to one of Portugal's best beaches, Praia de Mira, according to Lopes.

Algarve Villages

Eloi_Omella/Getty Images

The notoriously scenic south of Portugal is home to many cities, towns, and villages, along with a vibrant, English-speaking expat community (especially retirees) hailing from the U.K. and U.S.

Alvor, for example, a former fishing village that has kept much of its character and historic charm, has a bustling main drag and a wide, white-sand beach that fills up with visitors come summer.

Just about seven miles east, Ferragudo has narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere, Lopes explained. "It has managed to maintain a more authentic and less touristy [vibe], and has been seen as the Algarve's little treasure," he added. 

Similarly, Carvoeiro and Lagoa attract those seeking small-town living and a quieter lifestyle.

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Algarve's capital blends city amenities like an international airport, a university, administrative institutions, and retail destinations with the region's signature laid-back lifestyle.

"Faro offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions. It has a charming old downtown and is a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park," explained Lopes. 

Before purchasing property here or in another town in the Algarve, Lopes recommends seeking legal advice from a local solicitor or lawyer specializing in real estate transactions in Portugal and exploring the various residency options available to non-European Union citizens. Remember that the popular Golden Visa program, which allowed foreigners to live in the country for five years after a real estate investment, underwent significant changes in 2023 .

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

This beautiful city in the western Algarve, located along the Bensafrim River and Atlantic, is known for its rugged coastline dotted with caves, stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and historic downtown. Lopes pointed out two of its most well-known landmarks are the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and nearby Dona Ana Beach. 

In the Algarve, the median home prices have risen by six percent since October 2022, and a single square meter now costs $2,272, according to a report by GlobalPropertyGuide.com.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Five of Europe’s best national parks – with all the beauty but none of the crowds

Offering exquisite scenery, rare wildlife and spectacular trails, these under-the-radar national parks are worth tracking down

Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici , Spain

There is a wild and wonderful water world in the north-eastern corner of Spain. The Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici national park , in the central Pyrenees north of Lleida, is characterised by more than 200 lakes fed by melting snow and ice, plus rivers and streams, gorges, waterfalls and marshes. ( Aigüestortes means “winding waters” in Catalan, and Sant Maurici is the biggest lake.)

Visitors can explore by bike – there are 13 routes, from flat family paths to challenging mountain biking. There are also 27 hiking trails with spectacular viewpoints over the lakes, which reflect the surrounding forests and mountains. These include Los Encantados, a pair of near-identical peaks. Wildlife includes bearded vultures and grouse, one of the emblems of the Pyrenees.

In the Vall de Boi , eight Romanesque churches and a hermitage, all built in the 11th and 12th centuries, are characterised by tall narrow bell towers. It is possible to visit them all in a day, walking between the villages. After that, walkers can relax in Caldes de Boi thermal spa , which is set in large gardens and has 37 natural springs.

June and July are among the best times to visit, to experience the Fallas festivals. In these centuries-old midsummer rituals enormous torches are carried down the mountains into the villages, where a great bonfire is lit and the party begins. This year, the dates are 14 June in Durro, 23 June in Boí, 6 July in Barruera, 13 July in Erill la Vall, 19 July in Taüll and 26 July in el Pla de l’Ermita.

Accommodation includes the Aigüestortes Camping Resort (from €25 for a pitch for two) and a network of mountain refuges , including Amitges (€40 B&B). Wild camping is not allowed. There are daily coach services from Barcelona, Lleida and Tremp to most of the villages around the park, and from June to September a park bus connects the two main entrances, Boi and Espot.

Mercantour, France

In the far south-east corner of France, between the southernmost Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, lies the Mercantour national park . Half a dozen uninhabited valleys stretch for 100 miles, from Barcelonnette to Sospel, with scattered villages around the periphery. This diverse landscape, from almost alpine to coastal, provides a habitat for a huge range of wildlife. Of more than 2,000 species of flowers and plants, 200 are rare and 30 endemic; there are 200 kinds of bird, including golden eagles and ptarmigans, and 78 mammals, including wolves, marmots and all six French ungulates (stag, deer, wild boar, ibex, chamois and mouflon).

One unmissable spot is the Valley of Wonders, a huge archaeological site of about 40,000 rock carvings, with the oldest dating to around 3,000BC. They depict daily life and beliefs, with engravings of cattle, weapons and geometric figures. Other highlights include the glacial lakes of Vens, which feed a series of waterfalls, and Lake Allos, the biggest high-altitude natural lake in Europe.

For hikers there are more than 1,000 miles of trails (about 350 miles in the heart of the park), from gentle walks in meadows and woodland to strenuous mountain treks – the highest peak, Gélas, is 3,143 metres.

A website for hikers details more than 100 day walks, about 20 itineraries of between two and seven days, and the 17-day, 140-mile Grande Traversée du Mercantour. It also lists accommodation from hotels to campsites. Mountain refuges offer dormitory beds and shared meals: they include La Cantonnière , Refuge des Lacs de Vens , Refuge de la Cougourde and Chalet de la Madone de Fenestre (from €20pp). Wild camping in tents is banned, but bivouacs are allowed between 7pm and 9am.

Lots of visitors choose to stay in one of the towns along the main road that passes to the south of the park, such as St-Martin-de-Entraunes, St-Sauveur-sur-Tinée, St-Etienne-de-Tinée and St-Martin-Vésubie.

Car-free travel is encouraged: there are daily buses from Nice, Monaco and Menton to each valley, and intra-valley shuttles, plus a tourist train line from Nice that calls at several villages. In the summer, there are dedicated buses for hikers, also from Nice.

Eifel, Germany

Strictly speaking, the Eifel national park in North Rhine-Westphalia, in far-west Germany, is still classed as “in development” – it was founded 20 years ago, and it will take another 10 years for 75% of the land to return to nature. But more than half the area has already been rewilded. Beech and oak trees that would once have been felled are now left as undisturbed woodland, and animals such as wild cats, woodpeckers, red deer, and rare lizards and bats have returned. There is a red deer observation gallery near Dreiborn – September and October are the best times to visit, to observe the rutting season. The rivers attract black storks and kingfishers, and wild daffodils can be found on the Dreiborn Plateau. At the birdwatching station on Lake Urftsee, there are two telescopes to watch the black storks, red and black kites, herons and cormorants.

after newsletter promotion

One of the best ways to explore the park is on the four-day, 53-mile Wilderness Trail . Visitors can walk it independently or book a package , which includes three nights’ B&B and transfers by bus and train (from €269pp). There are also five shorter hiking circuits (from three to 11 miles each); 65 miles of cycle paths; and 40 miles of bridleways. Free ranger tours take place most days, and there are boat tours in the summer.

In 2014, Eifel became the first international dark sky park in Germany. The Vogelsang observatory organises regular astronomy workshops and dark sky walks. Historical sites include Monschau Castle, Steinfeld Monastery and Mariawald Abbey.

About 30 national park hosts offer environment-friendly stays, including two campsites and nine hostels. Overnight guests are entitled to the GästeCard , which provides free travel on buses and trains in the Eifel national park discovery region, stretching from the border with the Netherlands at Aachen to Cologne, Bonn and Leverkusen.

Risnjak, Croatia

The mountainous, forested Risnjak national park is named after one of its rarest residents, the lynx – ris in Croatian. It contains the Risnjak and Snježnik massifs in the northern part of the Dinaric Alps and is an important habitat for brown bears, wolves and chamois. Birds include capercaillie and pygmy owl; 89 species of butterfly have been recorded, and a variety of wild orchids grow there.

Visitors can walk to the source of the Kupa river, a bright turquoise pool, via Wonderful Butterfly Valley (35 minutes); follow the Leska educational path to learn about the park (three miles), or climb 11 peaks – Risnjak is the highest at 1,528 metres, with Snježnik just behind at 1,506 metres. Panoramic views stretch across Istria – the Adriatic is just 11 miles away – and as far as the Julian Alps in Slovenia. In the summer, there are guided chamois-spotting tours (from €65 for five hours). Cycle routes range from 2½ to 25 miles ( mountain bike hire is from €4 for three hours/€12 for 24 hours). Fly fishing for brown trout and grayling is allowed from spring to autumn (€55 a day).

Only about 60 people still live in the park. Limited accommodation includes a guesthouse and a hostel in the mountain village of Crni Lug (beds from €13), a mile from the main entrance, and a refuge below the Risnjak summit, built by botanist Josip Schlosser in 1932. There are more options in Delnice, the nearest town (eight miles away), and even more in Rijeka, the nearest city, on the coast about 100 minutes’ drive away.

Buses run from Delnice and Rijeka to Crni Lug, or it is a 90-minute drive from Zagreb. The entrance fee is €6 adults/€3 children.

Peneda-Gerês, Portugal

There is only one national park in Portugal: Peneda-Gerês , in the far north-west, near the border with Spain. Luckily, it has a bit of everything: mountains, oak forests, holly-bush woods, wildflower meadows, peatlands, rivers and waterfalls. It is home to endemic species such as the gold-striped salamander, endangered species including the Iberian wolf and Iberian wild goat, plus roe deer, wild garrano ponies, barrosã cattle and sheepdogs.

There are about 15 official day walking trails ranging from a couple of kilometres to a 16-mile circular trek taking in a megalithic necropolis and a birdwatching plateau. Other routes go via medieval castles, monasteries and sanctuaries. But the ultimate way to explore the park is on the GR50 , a 120-mile, 19-stage route along Roman roads, pilgrims’ ways and smugglers’ trails. The GR50 crosses the hills of Castro Laboreiro, the mountains of Peneda, Soajo, Serras Amarela and Gerês, and the Mourela Plateau. Each stage ends at a village – about 9,000 people live in the park – with simple lodges and guesthouses to stay in.

On shorter trips, visitors could combine a stage or two with some canoeing or canyoning. The super-fit could run it: there is a trail-running event in May with races over five distances from 10 to 100 miles.

The easiest way to reach the park on public transport is by bus from Braga to the town of Gerês, a five-minute walk from one of the five park gates.

• Europe holidays
• Walking holidays
• Wildlife holidays
• Croatia holidays
• Spain holidays
• France holidays

Most viewed