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Spain, Portugal & Morocco Tours

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Discover The Must Do Experiences on a tour of Spain, Portugal and Morocco

Visit Valencia’s Central Market

A feast for the senses and an architectural marvel, as you sample local produce, look up to admire the domes and Valencian Art Nouveau features.

The Age of Discoveries, Belém

Visit this special area of Lisbon to wonder at Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém, built to commemorate Vasco De Gama’s explorations.

Explore Ait Benhaddou

Ait Benhaddou is on the historic route joining the Sahara and Marrakech and also the setting for Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia and more.

Uncover the heritage of Santiago de Compostela

Delve into this city's rich heritage and admire the magnificent stone architecture of the Old Town on a locally guided walking tour, taking in the Plaza del Obradoiro, Palacio de Raxoi and Cathedral de Santiago.

Take a tour through Coimbra

Tour the old town of Coimbra, once the capital of Portugal and home to the ancient University of Coimbra. Admire the breathtaking façade, decorative interiors and magnificent shelves of the Johannine Library.

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Spain, Portugal & Morocco

24 days | country hopping in europe’s west on a coastal and cultural adventure.

Colour and charisma in some of Europe’s hotspots – all packed into one unforgettable adventure. Spend 24 days covering Spain, Portugal and Morocco, revelling in chaotic markets, relaxing in coastal retreats and sharing conversation and cuisine with the locals. Marvel at artistic masterpieces and architectural wonders in Madrid, taste the rich history of Portugal in its delightful towns, historic performance art and complex cuisine, and be enchanted by the magic and majesty of Morocco’s metropolises and far-flung mountains. With a knowledgeable leader to recommend the best places and take you behind the tourist trail, dig a little deeper in these three countries to discover a local way of life.

Trip overview

• Experience a memorable Fado performance in Coimbra - an emotional form of Portuguese music expressing the hard realities of the daily life and balancing both resignation and hopefulness.
• Soak up the sun on the Portuguese coast's gorgeous beaches along the Algarve, walking across rocky cliff tops, exploring remote coves and taking in a sunset over the Atlantic Ocean with your small group.
• Relive a glorious medieval past in in the labyrinthine streets of Fes city, and discover the cultural capital, Marrakech, through its people - drummers, dancers, fortune tellers, jugglers and medicine men.
• Scale the High Atlas Mountains and trek through scenic Amazigh villages, spending a night in a traditional Amazigh homestay to get a true sense of rural Moroccan life.
• Travel through the Sahara in a camel convoy, sleeping under a blanket the North African stars and enjoy an evening beside the campfire listening to traditional Bedouin tales.
• The European part of this trip will be led by a European leader, while the Moroccan part will be led by a Moroccan leader. The changeover will take place upon arrival at the port of Tangier in Morocco with your European leader returning to Spain after you meet your Moroccan leader.
• This trip covers a lot of ground and the majority of travel is done by trains, ferries and public buses. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. Please read the Itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
• We recommend packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train stations and hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs, and across cobblestones. Train stations often don’t have lifts available.
• Summer temperatures can be extreme in this region (over 40C/104F). It's important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. Many hotels in Europe and Morocco have fans, not air conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
• Space is at a premium in Europe and Morocco and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
• We've sourced our accommodation very carefully and picked the best possible hotels in line with the Intrepid style of travel, but please note that service and accommodation in Morocco may differ from standards at home.
• Ramadan is an annual month-long festival, during which travel can be a rewarding cultural experience, however some regular services may not be available during the day, such as restaurants or cafes, and occasionally travel can be disrupted by events. Your leader will adjust the itinerary accordingly, but please consider this when selecting your travel dates. You'll find dates and further information in the 'Climate and seasonal information' section of the Essential Trip Information.

Welcome to Madrid! The sassy central capital is known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks, but it also pulsates with energy, and is without doubt a vibrant city. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at either 6 or 7 pm, depending on common area availability. After the meeting we will head out for an optional group dinner where you can get to know your fellow travellers. As there's limited time for sightseeing in Madrid, consider flying in a few days early to explore. Perhaps while away the hours along the Paseo del Arte, or Art Walk, for an expansive history of Western art. Start with the Museo del Prado, then discover modern Spanish masters, including Picasso and Dali, in the Museo Reina Sofia. Finish at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which displays eight centuries of European painting. After your meeting, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR13
• Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15
• Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6
• Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia - EUR10
• Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR14
• Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR99

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time for the meeting, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Say farewell to Madrid this morning and head north-west by public transport to the historical university town of Salamanca. Situated among beautiful pastures and rolling green hills on Spain's northern plateau, the rose-hued medieval town of Salamanca is great to explore on foot. Your leader will take you on an orientation walk on arrival, where you can explore the central Plaza Mayor and discover the beautiful Renaissance and Baroque architecture the city is known for. Plaza Mayor is a true centre of local life, perhaps the most perfect city square in Spain. Not only is it architecturally unique, but it also thrives with activity as locals meet and take coffee, tapas or cocktails on the square. The rest of your afternoon and evening is then free. You can admire the intricate detail of the Casa de Las Conchas, or ‘House of the Shells’, see the contrasting Old and New Cathedrals, and climb to the top to get a view across the terracotta-coloured rooftops. Thanks to the large student population the town has a vibrant nightlife, so maybe soak up the buzzing vibe tonight.

• Salamanca - Art Nouveau & Art Deco Museum - EUR5
• Salamanca - Unamuno House Museum - EUR4
• Salamanca - New Cathedral - EUR5
• Salamanca - Old Cathedral - EUR5
• Salamanca - University of Salamanca - EUR10
• Salamanca - Casa de Las Conchas - Free

Today's travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Head further west by private bus today and cross the border into Portugal to the laidback city of Coimbra. Coimbra will be your base for the next two nights. Sitting dignified on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the capital of the county, and its royal heritage can be felt in its ancient streets and buildings. On arrival, your leader will escort you on a walk to help you orientate yourself in the maze of alleyways of this riverfront city. Half the fun of Coimbra is wandering and exploring, so use your free time getting to know the city. Coimbra features typical white stone buildings with several excellent examples of colourful azulejos tiling. Some of the historical structures were originally built in the 12th century (like the Cathedral Se Velha), and you can find some of Portugal's best examples of Romanesque churches and elegant museums here. The University of Coimbra – the oldest in Portugal – and the famous baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina, with its 18th-century bell tower, are highlights today.

Today's travel time is approximately 4 hours.

Enjoy a free day of exploration in Coimbra before witnessing a traditional Fado performance. Fado songs must follow a particular structure, and though this traditional music can really be about anything, it popularly features mournful tunes with lyrics about the sea or the life of the poor. In Coimbra, male university students would often serenade their sweethearts with this music, with songs here tending to be literary translations or follow themes students can relate to. In your free time, perhaps head out into the countryside in search of ancient Roman ruins, which takes around 30 minutes by bus. The ruins of Conimbriga are rich in well-preserved mosaics and offer a great insight into ancient Roman life. There are several options to return, including a three kilometre walk through the countryside to the unspoiled rural town of Condeixa (optional). If you have time, you can take a short boat tour to take in the view of Coimbra from a different angle.

• Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance
• Coimbra - Mondego River Boat Trip - EUR10
• Coimbra - Cathedrals - EUR5
• Coimbra - Conimbriga Ruins - EUR10
• Coimbra - Portugal Dos Pequenitos - EUR15
• Coimbra - University of Coimbra and Joanina Library - EUR14

Today, jump on a bus through the countryside of central Portugal to Lisbon. As one of Europe's most pleasant and affordable capital cities, Lisbon combines the best elements of Portuguese life, offering fantastic architecture, a multicultural population, delicious seafood and non-stop nightlife. On arrival to the city, head out on an orientation walk around Lisbon, located on the banks of the Tagus (Tejo) River. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards and impressive castles and churches. Visit the medieval citadel in the city centre, the Citadel of Sao Jorge Castle, which dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops. Your evening is free to explore as you wish, perhaps head to the grand Naval Museum for an insight into the history of Portuguese navigation. Or maybe you'd prefer to roam through charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods and see local life play out. If you want to sample some Portugese nightlife, Barrio Alto is the place to head this evening. 

• Lisbon - Sao Jorge Castle

Today is free for you to explore more of Lisbon, or maybe take a 45 minute train ride out to the mountainous region of Sintra, an absolute jewel of Portugal where you will see a beautiful Pena Palace. This area offers great walking, stunning cliff-top palaces and unique Moorish architecture. The 8th-century Castle of the Moors looks down on the Old Town, and the views from the battlements across the Serra de Sintra mountain range are stunning.

• Sintra - Palacio Nacional - EUR13
• Sintra - Palacio da Pena - EUR20
• Sintra - Day Trip - EUR10
• Sintra - Castelo dos Mouros - EUR12
• Lisbon - Experience Lisbon Walk Urban Adventure - EUR45
• Lisbon - Naval Museum - EUR7
• Lisbon - Oceanarium - EUR25
• Lisbon - Fado Show with Dinner - EUR50
• Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum - EUR10
• Lisbon - Folk Art Museum - EUR5
• Lisbon - National Art Museum - EUR6
• Lisbon - Puppet Museum - EUR5

Take a bus journey to the southern coastline of Portugal, the Algarve. Known for fertile plains rich with orange and olive groves, fig trees, almonds and maize fields, this region is perfect to explore. Your base is Olhao, the Algarve’s biggest fishing port. With an active waterfront, Moorish buildings and bustling old quarters, the city has a Northern African feel. Upon arrival check in to your home for the next two nights and use the rest of the day to discover Olhao. You may wish to wander the city centre or perhaps try Olhao’s famous fish restaurants along the waterfront on Avenida 5 de Outubro, the eastern Algarve’s food mile, filled with delicious and authentic local flavours.

Today's travel time is approximately 5 hours.

Olhao is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a series of barrier islands, creating a beautiful landscape of canals, salt pans, lagoons and sandbanks. Today board a local passenger boat and head out to one of these islands, Ilha de Culatra, where you can wander along a series of boardwalks, leading away from the fishermen’s settlements. You'll cross over dunes and lagoons to beaches that are so long that they disappear into the haze of the horizon. Return to Olhao in the afternoon (or earlier if you wish), and enjoy the rest of your day relaxing in Olhao. Perhaps use the area's great walking paths to access some of the Algarve's lesser-known spots, or maybe head towards the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve for some bird watching. Evenings are best spent watching breathtaking sunsets, and the best place to do so is Olhao’s Old Town.

• Algarve - Culatra Island Day Trip by Boat
• Algarve - Birdwatching Tour - EUR35
• Algarve - Marine Wildlife Watching Tour - EUR45
• Algarve - Boat Trip Rio Formosa - EUR30
• Algarve - Fishing Trip - EUR40

Please note, the birdwatching and marine wildlife tours in Ria Formosa are seasonal and do not operate in winter.

Leave Portugal behind and return to Spain, travelling by private vehicle to the charming city of Seville. If the legends are to be believed, Seville was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. To the Romans it was Hispalis, and to the Moors it was Isbiliya. After the Christian reconquest, it became thought of as the portal to the 'New World', and is today is the largest city in southern Spain. Seville is famous for its vitality and flamboyance as the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also well-known for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. Enjoy a short orientation walk around the main sights, then enjoy some free time in the late afternoon and evening to explore as you wish.

• Seville - Real Alcazar - EUR14

Today's travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.

This morning you'll rise early to start your long journey to Chefchaouen. You'll head toward Tarifa and then leave Europe behind as you make your way to Africa. After leaving the ferry, you'll be picked up by our Moroccan crew, and journey to a mountain town peppered with blue-washed buildings and ambient restaurants – Chefchaouen, which is in the centre of an agricultural region. There may not be much time to explore this rural retreat by the time you arrive today, but you might just have time to look over the architecture of the 15th-century Grand Mosque and the medina, the walled fortress of the Kasbah. Perhaps tuck into some popular local goats’ cheese or a tajine tonight, before settling in to your hotel.

Please have your passport handy as today you'll head over to Morocco. Your leader will change upon arrival into the port of Tangier. After an introduction your European leader will return to Spain, while your Moroccan leader will take care of you on the Moroccan part of the trip.

Today's total travel time is approximately 6 hours. The private transfer from Seville to Tarifa is approximately 2 hours, and after a 1-hour ferry, the ride to Chefchaouen is approximately 3 hours.

Meet your local guide early in the day to explore the maze of streets in Chefchaouen. The ‘blue city’ is arguably one of the prettiest places in Morocco. Set against a wide valley and nestled between two peaks in the stunning Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen may take you by surprise. Its medina has been lovingly cared for with striking blue and whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs and artistic doorways. The medina is filled with handicrafts, while the main square has shops selling woven goods and small sweets. Learn about general life in a small Moroccan community, visit a communal bakery and walk up to a former mosque for a great view over the town that's nestled between two mountain peaks. As a popular shopping destination for handicrafts, carpets, blankets or woollen garments, you may also see the artisans at work. Possibly relax after your walking tour in a traditional Moroccan hammam.

• Chefchaouen - Walking Tour with Local Guide
• Chefchaouen - Hammam (public baths) - MAD150
• Chefchaouen - Henna Tattoo - MAD50

Say farewell to Chefchaouen today and jump on a private minivan trip to the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Arrive in the city of Fes and step back in time to the medieval medina thick with exotic smells, tastes and sounds. Vibrant, noisy, fascinating and overwhelming – a feast for the senses – Fes is the mother of all medinas. Maybe fuel explorations of this imperial city with a glass of mint tea and some sweet Moroccan dates. Your day is free once you arrive, so perhaps get your bearings of the most complete medieval city in the Arab world. The adventurous may want to try some Moroccan specialities like a camel burger or harira (chickpea soup) and chicken-stuffed pastilla with couscous for dinner. Watching the sun set over the Medina while a dozen melodic prayer calls vie for attention is an experience you'll likely remember for a long time.

Take a guided walking tour of the old city, known locally as Fes el Bali. Step back in time in to the labyrinth of the Medina, which is alive with craftsmen, markets, tanneries and mosques. Pass donkeys piled high with goods (this is one of the largest car-free urban zones in the world) and explore the specialty sections that divide the souks. Medieval Fes was one of the world's great centres of education and culture: both Islamic and Jewish. Its religious institutions and its libraries are legendary. Its mosques are of great renown. Look out for the Medersa Bou Inania, one of the city's most beautiful buildings, which has recently been restored and is now open to tourists. Pass the Belghazi Museum, Medresse el Attarine and the splendid Funduk Nejjarine, a beautifully restored 18th century inn. You'll also see the famous tannery, known for the iconic view overlooking its dye pits, and a ceramics factory where you can see potters working in the traditional way. After the tour, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you please.

• Fes - Medina walking tour

You'll be on your feet for at least five to six hours today to explore the unique medina of Fes. This is one of the highlights of Morocco and well worth any weariness at the end of the long day. We highly recommend you wear appropriate footwear. Today’s experience will also include some visits to carefully selected shops. As the receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops, services or activities is ingrained in the culture of the Moroccan tourism industry, Intrepid has established a centralised system of receiving and distributing payments from these recommended suppliers. For more information, please refer to the ‘Important Notes’ section or talk to your Tour leader on the ground.

Travel by train this morning to Marrakech. On arrival in Marrakech, ead out with the group for a quick visit to the main square, Djemaa El Fna before dinner. The square is filled with a hive of activity. Henna-painters, performers and storytellers share the square with a street food bazaar, packed with stalls loaded with Moroccan delicacies. From a distance you'll see the Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret – famous throughout the world as one of the greatest minarets and the 'sister' to the Giralda in Seville. If you have time the following day, explore the ruins of Palais Badi, once one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, or comb the spectacular bazaar, where every step to a new souq brings a new smell, a new sight or a new gift to buy. Be enticed by the alluring scents and brilliant colours of the spice markets, the sounds of the musicians, the rich folds of carpets, delectable foods, acrobats and perfumed gardens. Perhaps brave dinner in the chaotic square of Djemaa el Fna, when night falls.

• Marrakech - Saadian Tombs - MAD70
• Marrakech - Palais Badi - MAD70
• Marrakech - Palais Bahia - MAD70
• Marrakech - Hamam (public baths) - MAD250

Today's train ride will be approximately 8 hours. Moroccan trains are quite comfortable (we travel in first class), so sit back, relax, watch the scenery roll by or read a good book.

Enjoy a free day in the bustling Marrakech until your 6pm group meeting.

• Marrakech - A Taste Of Marrakech: Inside the Medina Urban Adventure - MAD605
• Marrakech - Tajine Cookery Class Urban Adventure. - MAD640
• Marrakech - Cascades d'Ouzoud Day Tour - MAD2207
• Marrakech - Luxury Spa Hammam & Massage - MAD750
• Marrakech - Heart of the Atlas Mountains cycling day trip with lunch - MAD2000
• Marrakech - Medina, Palaces & Tombs Urban Adventure - MAD650
• Marrakech - Palmery Cycling Tour - MAD540
• Marrakech - Magical Marrakech City Cycling Tour - MAD438

As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group may change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and you're welcome to attend, as this is a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers.

This morning, take a short drive into the High Atlas Mountains to the village of Imlil. When you arrive, store your main luggage and load your overnight bags onto pack mules. Make the 1-hour trek to the peaceful village of Aroumd. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the remote village offers stunning views across the High Atlas Mountains and a unique opportunity to experience traditional Amazigh culture. Spend the night in a family-run mountain gite where, surrounded by the smell of woodstoves and bread, you’ll enjoy traditional hospitality and homecooked food. Use the rest of the day to explore the village and the surrounding farmlands. If the group is up for it and weather permits, there will be a chance to hike to the pilgrimage shrine of Sidi Chamharouch (approximately 4 hours return). Regardless of your fitness levels, the gentle pace of Aroumd makes it a special place to explore beyond the reach of the modern world.

• Gite (1 night)
• Aroumd - High Atlas Mountains guided hike

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. The optional hike to the Sidi Chamharouch shrine requires appropriate footwear. A pair of good walking shoes with rigid and grippy sole will be sufficient. You will walk over well-trodden paths that may be muddy and unstable. Facilities at the homestay are shared (both the bathroom and sleeping arrangements) but cosy, comfortable and definitely a unique and rare opportunity to stay with a local family.

This morning, journey along mountain roads and over Morocco's highest pass, Tizi n'Tichka (2260 metres above sea level), to Ait Benhaddou on the edges of the Sahara. Perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century, Ait Benhaddou is one of Morocco's most iconic sites and a World Heritage site. It was once an important stop for caravans passing through as they carried salt across the Sahara, returning with gold, ivory and slaves. Does it look familiar? The town has a long list of film and TV credits, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and Gladiator! Enjoy a leader-led walk through the winding streets of the Old Town, making your way to the top of the hill, from where you can enjoy the views across the surrounding plains. Your evening is free, with the option of partaking in a local cooking demonstration and meal of Morocco's most famous dishes: couscous and tagine.

• Ait Benhaddou - Leader-led ksar walk
• Ait Benhaddou - Cooking Demonstration & Dinner - MAD313
• Ait Benhaddou - Henna Tattoo - MAD50

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

This morning you'll journey south towards the Sahara Desert, stopping in the regularly used film location of Ouarzazate along the way. Continue to travel through the lush Draa Valley to Zagora, a small oasis town on the Sahara fringe that is perfect for an overnight stop. Here, take a stroll through the palm groves, explore the ksars and wander around the surrounding countryside.

• Ouarazate - Atlas Movie Studios - MAD80
• Ouarzazate - Kasbah Taourirt - MAD20

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast today, you’ll drive along the rugged and desolate Jbel Tadrart ranges and through seas of sand past the occasional desert oasis of date palms, to the township of Tamegroute. Here, you’ll visit an intriguing library filled with ancient scripts of science, literature, the Koran and stories of the prophet Mohammed (subject to unregulated opening times). After, join a local guide to uncover the underground Kasbah. Enjoy a hearty lunch of Medfouna – nicknamed the ‘Amazigh Pizza’ – a crispy flatbread filled with a variety of smoky ingredients like beef, egg and vegetables. Then, carry on driving to the frontier town of M'Hamid. From here, your group will jump into 4WD vehicles and drive to the massive Erg Chigaga dunes. This is the largest dune in the Moroccan Sahara and one of the less asited – meaning your experience will be further from surrounding towns and villages, making for a unique experience. Arrive in the late afternoon and then all aboard for the experience of a lifetime – riding on the backs on camels into the Saharan sunset. Tonight, enjoy a night under the stars at your desert camp.

• Desert Camp (1 night)
• Tamegroute - Ancient Library
• Tamegroute - Underground kasbah guided tour
• Tamegroute - Medfouna lunch (Amazigh pizza)
• Sahara Desert - Sunset Camel Ride

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. The camel trek through the Sahara is a highlight of the trip, but if you'd rather, you can walk alongside the camels instead. The trip takes about an hour. The camp is simple, with bedding and basic shared toilet facilities. The blankets provided are warm enough between April and October, but you may like to bring your own sleeping sheet or jumper for extra warmth during the months between November and March. Electricity is not available in the camp, so it’s recommended you come prepared with fully charged phones, cameras and everything else you may need.

Travel to the market town of Oulad Berhil today after breakfast, stopping along the way to stretch your legs and take in some epic views. Today will be a long travel day, so stock up on snacks, your favourite playlists and your go-to book. Enjoy desert scenery along a route that's actaully a reserve for the Indigenous argan trees. You’ll make a pitstop at a local woman’s cooperative specialising in argan oil production. This coop provides women and their families in the rural area with extra income for their community, promoting independence. You’ll learn about how the argan is extracted from the trees, how it’s produced and then have the opportunity to try the Amlou paste – a common dip in Morocco made with almond and argan oil. Arrive at your accommodation by the early evening. Your riad for tonight has a steam bath and a pool – the perfect way to relax after a long day of travel!

• Riad (1 night)
• Taroudant – Argan oil women coop visit

Your travel time today is approximately 8 hours.

In the morning, take to the souqs of Taroudant and haggle with local traders for silver jewellery or colourful Moroccan ceramics and mosaics. After, head west to the coastal town of Essaouira. The name Essaouira means ‘pretty picture’, which is appropriate, since it's such a picturesque town! Within the stone ramparts, you'll find whitewashed houses with bright blue shutters, art galleries and wood workshops – ironically, the perfect spot for photos! This evening is free for you to explore or relax.

Today after breakfast, join a local guide for a walking tour through the old medina, Jewish mellah, port and skala (sea wall). Essaouira is one of the oldest port cities in the country, and fishing here is still quite traditional. You’ll have the chance to meet one of the expert fishermen in the port, who will tell the group all about their story and show you some of the tricks they use, what type of fish to catch and what seasons mean to them. After, enjoy free time for the rest of the day. Jimi Hendrix spent a lot of time here during the 60s, so you know this is a great spot to sit, people watch and listen to the sound of the ocean. Maybe grab a freshly cooked plate of the day's catch at the port or browse the plentiful shops and intriguing art galleries. This is also a hotspot for surfing, so consider taking a lesson if that’s your thing. If you’d prefer to relax, don't miss the opportunity to indulge in a hammam (Moroccan day spa) or local-style bath.

• Essaouira - Guided walking tour
• Essaouira – Local fisherman visit
• Essaouira - Hamam (public baths) - MAD200
• Essaouira - Amazigh Massage - MAD400
• Essaouira - Horse Riding - MAD300
• Essaouira - Seafood Market Lunch - MAD100

Enjoy a free morning in Essaouira, then catch a bus back to Marrakech in the afternoon. Enjoy free time when you arrive, to explore or partake in optional activities. Walk around the famed Jemaa el-Fnaa Square – one of the largest public squares in the world – and take it all in. From fire dancers to performers and street food carts, this is somewhere you actiually want to get lost. Maybe check out the Palais Bahia, a superb example of Muslim architecture, or the ruins of the Palais Badi. Join your group tonight for an optional farewell dinner.

• Marrakech - Hot Air Balloon Ride - MAD2090

Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours.

Your adventure ends after breakfast. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring Marrakech (subject to availability). Just speak to your booking agent.

19 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Train, Ferry, Metro, Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi

Camp site (1 night), Gite (1 night), Hotel (18 nights), Riad (3 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 16 and 19 where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for transport tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Spain, Morocco & Portugal

Add some zest to your life on this three-country escape from the ordinary. Prepare for pristine beaches in Portugal, bustling markets in Morocco, and in Spain, more Moorish architecture than you can shake a churro at.

Picture yourself

Winding through the immense collection of art in Madrid

Enhancing your culinary skills during a Moroccan cooking class

Getting lost in the lively markets of Marrakesh

Kicking your feet up on a beach in Portugal’s Algarve region

Gazing upon ocean views and hilltop castles in Lisbon

What you'll get

Round-trip flights & airport transfers (or book 'em yourself)

15 nights in handpicked accommodations

15 breakfasts

Expert Tour Director

24/7 support

6 insider tours with local guides

Guided tour of Great Mosque in Córdoba

Entrance to Madrid’s Royal Palace

Round-trip beach transfer in Algarve region

Board your overnight flight, bound for Spain, where food and nightlife (and Felipe VI) are king. Cafes and restaurants line the streets of Madrid, which is good because Spanish tapas are must-try. And then try again. You know, for quality-testing purposes.

Welcome to Madrid! Spain’s capital is famous for its world-class art museums, live music scene, and never-ending nightlife. It seems people never sleep here (except for two hours after lunch). Madrid is a city that definitely knows how to relax and have fun. Get ready—your life is about to get loco.

In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at an authentic local spot. Afterwards, you’re free to take the party elsewhere!

Today's highlights:

• Meet an EF representative at the airport.
• Transfer to your accommodation and check in.
• Receive the latest schedule from your Tour Director.
• Meet your fellow travelers as they arrive.

With a population of over 3 million people, Madrid is Spain’s biggest city (almost double that of Barcelona). One thing you’ll notice walking around, is that Madrileños love soccer. (Whatever you do, don’t mention Messi, Barcelona’s star player.) Today you'll see all the best Madrid has to offer with a local guide on a tour of the city. Afterwards, take the rest of the day to explore on your own.

• Meet your local guide and experience the city's highlights by bus and foot.
• Visit Madrid's Royal Palace for a guided tour of this elaborate, 9th-century building featuring over 2,000 rooms and plenty of stuff you can't touch.
• Stop at Puerta del Sol, the epicenter of the city, where stores and cafes are by the dozen, and people dressed up as Spider Man want you to take their picture.
• Head into the Plaza Mayor, the Renaissance hub that witnessed everything from bullfights to weddings to public executions.
• Go out on your own, and walk through Parque del Buen Retiro, Madrid's biggest park, and keep a lookout for the trees that look like broccoli (you'll know it when you see it).

Free time suggestions

Exit Through the Gift Shop: The Chueca and Malasaña neighborhoods are two of the hippest and happeningest places in Madrid. Picture vintage fashion shops, inexpensive tapas bars, and locals trying to figure out how you found out about their favorite spots. Keep an eye out for graffiti from the famous street artist, Banksy. Get Cultured: Visit The Golden Triangle (no, this is not something from Indiana Jones). It’s an art triangle featuring The Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza and The Reina Sofia museums. You can see world-famous artworks from artists like Pablo Picasso, Diego Velázquez, and Salvador Dalí. ¡GOOOOOOOOOL!: Tour Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, home to Madrid’s soccer (fútbol) team, Real Madrid. Sit in the players’ seats, see trophies up close, and practice your goal celebration dance on the field below.

After a few days in the big city, it’s time to see what Spain’s smaller metropolises are hiding. You’re going to Granada, but not before a stop in medieval Córdoba to tour the famous Mezquita. Spoiler alert: There will be beautiful Islamic-era buildings, delicious food, and plenty of wine.

• Give Madrid a loving little kick (you know, like a soccer ball) on your way out of the city.
• Arrive in Córdoba—the former Islamic capital, and current palm tree capital of Spain.
• Avoid your knees buckling at the overwhelming beauty of the Mezquita—a 1,300+ year old massive house of worship that has consistently been the most beautiful building in Spain.
• Continue on to the city of pomegranates, Granada.

Lucky you. A whole day in Granada! First things first—join a local guide for a VIP tour of the city. There’s heavy North African and Arabic influence here, and you’ll see it all around you in the intricate architecture, fusion food, and even the music of Granada. Get ready to be dazzled by the Alhambra palace and fortress, the true highlight of Granada.

• Get up, get out, and get lost walking through Albayzin, a maze of cobblestone streets. Just make sure you leave a trail of crumbs to find your way home.
• Take everything in as you wander the vast grounds of the Alhambra. It's part palace, part fortress, all parts awesome.
• Walk along the Darro river to Paseo de los Tristes, and grab a table at a nearby café.
• Look up and see the Alhambra looking right back down at you. Not in the creepy way, though.

“Welcome to Africa!” …is what we’ll say once you get there. But first, you’ll travel to Tarifa and ride a ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tangier, Morocco. The continent that birthed mankind is happy to have you, and man, there’s kind of a whole lot of history to be seen here. So clear your schedule and trade your paella for couscous—you’re going to Morocco.

• Yawn a big yawn and then keep your jaw dropped when you realize you can cross another continent off your bucket list.
• Swap out your sea legs for, um, land legs as you disembark your ferry in Tangier.
• Board your private motorcoach from Tangier to Fez—home to over a million people, and namesake to the tasseled hat that Aladdin wears.
• Spend the night in Fez how you see fit—make sure to snap some dramatic shots of mosques and markets while the sun goes down, then hit the Medina to take on a taste of the nightlife.

You think your Great Aunt Edwina is old? Just wait until you see how old Fez is. Hint: over 1,200 years old. Follow your Tour Director for an in-depth look at how the oldest Imperial City has shifted and morphed in its millennium-plus of existence.

• Be dazzled by Fez’s ornate Moorish architecture like that of the Royal Palace Gate and the Bab Bou Jeloud, and realize you certainly don’t want… less-ish.
• Visit the Old Jewish Quarter, known as the Mellah, and learn about the rise and fall of Fez’s once-numerous Jewish population.
• Attend a ceramics demonstration.
• Get down and dirty at one of the world’s oldest tanneries and learn that leather is traditionally soaked in cow urine and pigeon feces—just don’t tell that to your motorcycle gang.

Indulge in dinner and drinks, sit back and be treated to a belly dancing performance, a Moroccan orchestra, a Hiata group, a Bedouin dancer, a magician, and a Moroccan marriage ceremony. Yep, all in one night. Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

You’re going to Marrakesh today. Marrakesh IS Morocco. Literally. In many languages, the name for Morocco is just “Marrakesh.” The Red City is easy to get lost in, but fear not, there’s excitement around every corner, and your local guide is here to ensure you get to see it all. Follow them today for a real taste of Morocco—both metaphorically and culinarily.

• Feast your eyes on the pseudo-European floral beauty of the Gueliz District—designed by the French while feeling homesick for Paris.
• Pay respect to your elders when you see Koutoubia Mosque—it’s over 800 years old, but doesn’t look a day over 799.
• Bask in the gloriously geometric #architectureporn of Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the Medina (old city).
• Prepare to have your definition of “supermarket” blown out of the water as you haggle your way through the Marrakesh Souk, the city’s premiere market and meeting-place.

Good morning! While most of Marrakesh is awake in time for the early Call to Prayer, we’re guessing you’re up early, too, in anticipation of the crazy day to come. Yesterday you saw the “must-see’s” of Marrakesh, and today is all about the hidden gems. Feel free to spend the day exploring, eating, or for the truly daring, learning to charm snakes.

• Catch a whiff of organized chaos as you weave in and out of Marrakesh’s spiraling alleyways mingling with the nearly one million city residents.
• Spend the day crafting puns on the word “souk,” meaning “market,” as you bargain for souvenirs at any of the hundreds of vendors around the city.
• Realign your chakras on the hunt for the bohemian vibes that attracted hippies and artists alike, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Yves Saint Laurent.
• Treat your taste buds to an optional Moroccan cooking class.

Garden Variety: Visit three different museums at the Majorelle Garden, named for the eponymous French painter who designed the sprawling grounds and lived in the shockingly blue villa on the property. The cactus-laden complex also includes the Islamic Art Museum, the Berber Museum, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Gate Grandpa: Not to be confused with the similarly named mashed eggplant dish, Bab Agnaou is a 12th century city gate that once represented Marrakesh’s doorway to Sub-Saharan Africa. These days, however, it’s mostly just a cool spot to take a selfie with a very old wall.

Moroccan Cooking Class (extra cost)

Learn the ins and outs of Moroccan cuisine as you prepare and consume your own authentic lunch. In the downtime while your food cooks, tour "little Morocco", a complex full of artwork and replicas that will help you learn more about the country's culture and history. Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

You deserve the presidential treatment, which is why you’re going to white house today for lunch. Or as it’s more commonly known, Casablanca. As if that weren’t all that and a bag of dates, you get a two-for-one deal today: ending the day back in beautiful Tangier.

• Kiss Marrakesh goodbye (not literally—those are some old, old buildings) and board your private motorcoach to Casablanca.
• Arrive in Casablanca and finally get around to declaring “quite frankly my dear I don’t give a damn,” but we won’t tell anyone that that’s from Gone With the Wind , not Casablanca.
• Nosh on an included traditional Moroccan lunch in Casablanca.
• Make your high school literature teacher proud upon arrival in Tangier—this Mediterranean city once drew famed American writers like Jack Kerouac, Paul Bowles, and Tennessee Williams to its turquoise and whitewashed façade.
• Raise a glass in honor of your final night on this continent—this one’s for Africa, to paraphrase Shakira.

Spain couldn’t bear to be without its amor—AKA you—for too long, so you’re going back. By now, you’re old pals with España. So skip the small talk and head straight for Seville.

• Watch for some of the world’s best kitesurfers as your morning ferry approaches the shore in the Spanish port town of Tarifa.
• Stare longingly across the Strait of Gibraltar in the direction of Morocco in memory of your Saharan expedition.
• Arrive in Seville, Spain’s 4th largest—and potentially 1st coolest—city.
• Flamenco your way downtown for some late night fun.

Today is all about you, Seville, and a local guide. Your guide will show you the best of the best when it comes to Seville. Afterwards, get out and enjoy some free time in your new favorite city. Let nothing get in your way (except for the pigeons, maybe).

• Meet your local guide to experience the city’s highlights by bus and foot.
• Wander through the lavish Plaza de España and admire the Neo-Moorish architecture.
• Visit the Moorish Alcázar, which was built in the 14th century for a king named Pedro the Cruel. Hmm...wonder if people liked him?
• Wind your way through Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter and most picturesque neighborhood in Seville. Instagrammers, get your phone ready. This is your moment.

A trip to Portugal is not complete without a couple of days to relax on the beach. Which is why you’re going to the Algarve region, located along the southern coast. The region boasts some of the country’s most pristine beaches, breathtaking cliffs, and castles of the stone and sand varieties.

• Hop on a bus, bound for the breathtaking Algarve Region of Portugal.
• Breathe in the ocean air and whip out the shades—you’re on the Mediterranean coast.
• Spend the rest of the day exploring, eating, and Port wine (it’s from Portugal after all) to your heart’s content.

Port wine: The only thing sweeter than a trip to Portugal is a glass of locally sourced Port wine. Kick back and open a bottle of this delicious dessert wine. The Mediterranean air only improves the taste.

Enjoy a free day in the Algarve Region to explore the beaches.

Welcome to Lisbon! Get ready to work those glutes, because nearly everything here requires an uphill walk. This colorful Portuguese capital is home to classic European charm, urban innovation, and breathtaking vistas from just about anywhere you stand.

• Meet a local guide for an in-depth tour of Lisbon (and story time, obviously).
• Traverse the labyrinthine streets of Alfama, the oldest district of Lisbon.
• Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening to explore on your own.

The day is yours to experience the best of Lisbon. Go back to some of your favorite places from yesterday, or set out on your own to explore new sights, sounds, smells, and flavors. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, head out to discover all the hills you’ve counted.

• Catch a ride from a fellow American—a historic trolley that was imported from the U.S. in 1901 and is now a Lisbon staple for navigating the steep inclines.
• Explore the city on your own, at your own pace, with as many snack stops as you want.
• Indulge yourself with a pastel de nata, the most classic of all Portuguese pastries.
• Wander through Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s bohemian quarter and the ideal neighborhood for bar hopping.

Elevator Pitch: Originally steam powered, the Elevador de Santa Justa is the handiwork of Gustave Eiffel’s apprentice, so it might look a little familiar. A ride up gives you awesome views of the city skyline. Portu-gas: Take a gastronomic world tour at Mercado Fusão, a food market, where kiosks serve up everything from Brazilian cakes to sushi. Don’t miss the famous samosas at Kebab Ali House.

Farewell Dinner Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included farewell dinner with the group.

Tchau, amigos! Translation: Goodbye friends. Your next destination awaits—home. Before you head to the airport, enjoy your last few moments together. Take one more group photo. Grab that final drink. (Fine, maybe a couple of drinks.) But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?

EXTEND YOUR TRIP 2 WAYS

1. Double the fun A lot of our trips line up back to back! Give us a call—we can help you add another and save big while you're at it.

2. Go ahead or stay behind Extending your trip is easy! During checkout, you'll have the option to fly to (or from) the gateway of your choice for an additional fee. We'll adjust your flights accordingly, but you'll be responsible to take care of your transportation, hotels, and other logistics outside of tour.

Note: Depending on your desired gateways, additional fees may apply.

Amazing first EF trip!

Book now! What are waiting for?!

This trip was awesome! It had a little bit of everything: city life, country side, beach vibes, and numerous cultures. Each stop (even the ones in between) have their own unique style. On this trip, you could see the total opposite of how you (probably) live at home. The culture shock is unreal! I highly recommend the cooking class in Marrakesh (even if you ... See more

This was my first multi-country tour with EF, and what a different experience it was! We were in a different city every two days for the whole trip. The best part about this tour is that the stops are all somewhat similar and yet so different at the same time. The shared Moorish history gives similar architecture, the geographic proximity gives each country ... See more

LOVED the trip and Antonio was a great guide!! Be prepared to walk a lot!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How We Structured This 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What About Morocco?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Barcelona, Spain

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay in Barcelona today!

Day 2: Dive deeper into Barcelona.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop train tickets from Barcelona to Seville today!

Where to Stay in Seville, Spain

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

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

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

Looking for something a bit different?

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay in Seville today!

Day 4: See the best of Seville.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your flamenco show in Seville today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Experience the legendary Alhambra.

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

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

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

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

Why take a tour?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your day trip to the Alhambra in Granada today!

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

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

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

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

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

Considering driving?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay in Lagos today!

Day 8: Soak up Algarve views.

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

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

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

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

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

Craving more activity?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 9: Make your way to Lisbon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Lisbon food tour today!

Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal

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

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

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

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

Looking for a splurge?

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

Check rates & book your stay in Lisbon today!

Day 10: Enjoy sightseeing in Lisbon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your sunset cruise in Lisbon today!

Day 11: Take a day trip to Sintra.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The train takes about 40 minutes from central Lisbon.

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

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

Book your day trip to Sintra today!

Day 12: Make your way from Lisbon to Porto.

All aboard to Porto!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal

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

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

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

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

Check rates & book your stay in Porto today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are a few good options for personalizing this itinerary.

Skip Porto to spend longer in Lisbon and the Algarve.

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

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

Plus, port!

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

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

Start your itinerary in Seville.

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

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

Skip the Algarve and head right to Lisbon.

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

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

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

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

Swap Barcelona for Madrid.

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

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

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

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

Not sure which you’d prefer?

Let flight deals dictate which city you visit!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They’ll be coming with us from now on.

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

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

How many days do you need for Portugal and Spain?

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

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

Can you do Spain and Portugal on the same trip?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can you drive a rental car from Spain to Portugal?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which is cheaper to visit, Spain or Portugal?

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

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

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

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

Can you take the train between Spain and Portugal?

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

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

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

There are no trains connecting the Algarve to Andalucia.

Looking for more tips for visiting Spain and Portugal?

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

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

Thanks so much! Have a great trip. 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Great insight. Thank you!

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18 Day Inspiring Spain, Portugal & Morocco

This tour is fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.

This is considered a fast-paced tour. In order to explore as much as possible, this tour may require early starts and long travel days. One to two nights at one destination is standard. While some free time may be scheduled, most sightseeing is included throughout this tour. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage. To ensure this trip is right for you, any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aid, then this tour is not suitable.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

Our CEO just travelled to Spain! Click to follow Paul’s journey through this vibrant destination:

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Day 1 Barcelona

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Spain. Make your own way to your hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm. Please confirm this time by asking hotel reception or checking for a note in the hotel lobby. There may be some free time before your welcome meeting to get your bearings in Barcelona, the Catalan capital known for its art and architecture. 

Please note: If you are going to be late to the welcome meeting, kindly inform hotel reception.  Arrival Transfer & Check in : The easiest and most convenient way to make your way to the starting point hotel is by taxi. An official airport taxi rank is located outside the luggage collection area. A taxi ride will typically cost EUR 50-60 per car. 

Hotel check-in time is at 3pm. If arriving prior to this, you will be able to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion. 

Day 2 Barcelona

Start the day with a walking tour of the charming Gothic Quarter, Barcelona’s historic central area dating back to the Middle Ages. Afterwards, you continue your exploration of Barcelona on a panoramic bus tour.

The rest of the day is free for you to keep exploring this attractive city with a beach vibe and proud Catalan identity. You’ll find plenty of art, cuisine and architecture to get excited about. 

The city was the home of celebrated architect Antoni Gaudi, an icon of Catalan Modernism who revolutionised Spanish architecture. Modernist landmarks, like his grand Sagrada Familia church, are dotted around the city. Seven of Gaudi’s properties are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

Visit renowned museums, like the Barcelona City History Museum to see ancient excavated relics. Gaudi’s celebrated, grand La Sagrada Familia cathedral is a must-visit, with its intricate mosaics inside and distinctive sky-piercing spires. You can climb to the top of these spires for panoramic views over the city.

Stroll the pedestrian-friendly boulevard of Las Ramblas, ideal for people watching. It’s home to souvenir shops, street artists, cafes and folk Sardana dancers. Starting at the Plaça de Catalunya and running for 1.2km down to Mirador de Colom, this famous stretch is dotted with cafes and kiosks, and jam-packed with people from morning to night.

Barcelona is also renowned for its exquisite and varied gastronomy. Enjoy a steamy cortado in a sidewalk cafe. Of course, tapas are a must – nibble on these bite-sized appetisers around the bar like a local. 

The Holy Family building proposes one of the most exciting experiences possible today, integrating us in the vision of a genius, Antoni Gaudí, capable of imagining at the beginning of the 20th century a building that incorporated the viewer in the process of Divine Creation, and made for almost 150 years, successive generations were involved in his dream. Something different, impossible to find anywhere else, a living element that evolves as it is concluded, together with the feelings of those who visit it and know it in depth. A monumental complex impossible to compare: a complex architectural project, a world heritage site, on whose exterior stand out its 18 towers with more than 100 meters high; its three thematic facades where Life, Death and Glory are represented by innumerable statues and symbologies based on nature and the Gospels; an interior space that allows the spiritual communion of those who enter, transferred by Gaudí to a Mediterranean forest in which the light filters with different tonalities through its stained glass windows, bathing the inclined columns branched like trees.

This is an audio-guided tour. You will have your own audio guide headset to tour at your own pace.     

Starts: approx. To be confirmed on tour with your Tour Guide Duration: approx. 2-3 hours Transport: Make your own way. The site is approximately 2.6km from Plaza de Catalunya and it's accessible by Metro (Sagrada Famila station) or taxi.

Please note the start and duration times advised are subject to change depending on the traffic, weather and tourism conditions on the day. Your Tour Guide will provide you with appropriate expectations while you are on tour.

Spend the night like a local discovering Barcelona's favourite tapas. During this tour you will visit a number of establishments who pride themselves on this casual cuisine. Immerse yourself in Spanish culture as you visit  five  separate venues for  Spanish  tapas and wine (or soft drink, if you prefer).

Starts: approx: To be confirmed on tour with your Tour Guide Duration: approx 3 hours Meeting point and transport:  Make your own way to  the metro “Liceu” in Las Ramblas. Exit “Teatre Liceu”, meet your guide on the street level by the glass elevator.  This site is accessible by Metro Line L3,  towards “Zona Universitària”  or taxi.

Day 3 Barcelona Peniscola Valencia

We’ll head south along the spectacular Mediterranean coast to València today.

On the way, we’ll stop in the fortified city of Peñíscola, joined to the mainland by a very thin stretch of land. It’s a beautiful setting here for you to wander, with a fairytale castle, steep narrow streets and rugged mountains. 

Spend the night in València, a laid-back port city along the Mediterranean. The old capital of the kingdom of València is home to beautiful churches, beaches and it has the important distinction of being home to paella, surely the most famous Spanish dish!

Depending on traffic, we’ll arrive late afternoon. You may wish to take a taxi downtown (approximately EUR 8) and stroll past its beautiful churches and historic buildings. Don’t forget to try a paella valenciana before heading back to your hotel!

Day 4 Valencia Alicante Granada

Be ready for a long but exhilarating day as we journey to sunny, enchanting Andalusia today, nestled on the southern tip of Spain’s Iberian Peninsula.

This is a region of enormous history and heritage, being occupied by the Romans, the Moors and finally Christians. It’s the home of passionate flamenco, not just a famous dance, but a genuine Spanish art form. It’s known for bullfighting, beautiful beaches, great food and dreamy landscapes, with charming whitewashed villages. Think Mediterranean coastline, bright sun and perfect blue skies. 

Our first stop is at Alicante, with some free time to explore. Perhaps take the funicular up Santa Barbara Castle for some sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline, or simply stretch your legs on a walk along the beach. 

At night we’ll arrive in Granada, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The last stronghold of the Moorish Kingdoms up to 1492, the city is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and loads of natural beauty.

Day 5 Granada Alhambra Granada

It’s time to explore the famous Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. Given the vastness of this sprawling complex, this involves approximately three hours walking – don’t forget your walking shoes! Your transfer will take you to La Alhambra for you to complete this visit on an audio-guided tour. 

The Alhambra is contemporary history of Granada’s Arab past. Its buildings, towers, palaces, patios and gardens make this palace and fortress complex one of the most visited monuments in Spain. It towers over Granada’s historic Arabic quarter. Within the fortress you’ll find exquisite palaces and serene pathways weaving through amazing gardens and courtyards. The detail is next level – sumptuous interiors, beautiful Islamic geometric patterns, exquisitely carved wood, incredible ornamental features. First built by the Moors as a fortress during the Muslim rule of Spain, the complex is testament to their decadent lifestyle. 

During the day, you will enjoy some free time to explore Granada at your own pace. The city is home to a huge number of tapas bars – what better way to pass the time?

Walk around the Albaicín (the old Arab Quarter), a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses. Visit the Alcaiceria, the big bazaar in the centre of the city that was the original Moorish silk market, and peruse craftworks on sale like ceramics, marquetry and leather goods.

In the evening, go on a bus ride to the popular viewpoint Mirador de San Nicolas. A great way to enjoy beautiful sunset views over the Alhambra, the jewel in Granada’s crown. 

After a long day sightseeing, you may want to consider a visit to one of the best preserved hammam in Spain: Hammam Al Andalus. Bookings are essential and your tour leader can assist you to book on the day. Options range from EUR 32 for bathing to EUR 77 for bathing and a 30 minute relaxing massage

Day 6 Granada Algeciras Asilah Rabat

It’s an 8am start this morning, with a transfer to Algeciras to board the ferry to Morocco. Accompanied by your European guide, you’ll sail from Europe to Africa, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar.

Upon arrival, meet your Moroccan guide and journey by bus along the coast. We’ll stop in Asilah, a small city on the northwest tip of the Atlantic coast. The city is a living art gallery, thanks to its renowned month-long art festival every summer, where artists paint wall murals throughout the medina. 

You’ll have free time to explore.

We’ll then head to Rabat for the night, diplomatic and administrative capital.

Please note: Keep your passport ready as you will pass international border controls in both Morocco and Spain. During the ferry transfer, it is essential to be aware that travelers are responsible for carrying their own luggage for a significant distance. This includes navigating through immigration building halls, using stairs (not escalators), and tackling steep staircases on the ferry itself. Please ensure that your luggage is packed in a way that allows you to carry it comfortably and unassisted throughout the journey.

Day 7 Rabat Casablanca Marrakech

The morning, your tour leader will help you explore Rabat’s main highlights: the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a striking masterpiece of modern Moroccan architecture and the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Morocco, is another of the city’s beautiful landmarks. 

We’ll then set off for romantic Casablanca. This busy port city is famous for its art deco buildings and the modern-day masterpiece, the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa (entrance not included).

It took more than seven years to build this impressive site. Decorated with intricate tiles – more than 10,000 m2 of zellige was used – beautiful carvings and an unusual glass floor, allowing worshippers to feel like they’re praying directly over the ocean. This huge building is part on land and part on sea. 

Afterwards, we’ll set off for ancient, exotic Marrakech – a feast for the senses. Be enticed by the alluring scents and brilliant colours of the spice markets, the sounds of the musicians, the rich folds of carpets, delectable foods, acrobats and perfumed gardens. Marrakech won’t disappoint – it’s eclectic, beautiful and a modern fusion of Moroccan and international culture. 

Depending on arrival time, once you’ve settled into your hotel, we’ll head to the old medina to catch a glimpse of this bustling destination at night.

Embark on the tour by strolling through the bustling medina and vibrant souks. Explore the charming walled quarter, the Kasbah des Oudaias, where you’ll enjoy an included mint tea in a little treasure of a café overlooking the ocean and Bou Regreg river. As you continue your exploration, delve deeper into the region's rich history and architecture by visiting the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and gazing at the impressive minaret of the Mosque of Hassan II.

Starts: approx. 9am.  Duration: approx. 2h30-3 hours The meeting point is to be coordinated and confirmed with the tour guide whilst on tour.

Day 8 Marrakech

After breakfast, meet your local guide and set off for a morning tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks that are the lifeblood flowing through the city. 

A medina is the historic heart of a city. Shops, restaurants, markets and homes line the twisting and turning streets. This is the trading centre of the city and the sights, sounds and fragrant smells are almost overwhelming. The walls surrounding the medina, made of a distinct orange-red clay and chalk, were built in the 12th century. 

We’ll stop by Koutoubia Mosque; its famous minaret is the prototype for others of its kind around the world, including La Giralda in Seville. The mosque is surrounded by beautiful gardens. 

Walk back through the streets of the old medina to the famous Djemaa el-Fna, the main square of Marrakech in the heart of the medina. It’s big and frantic, with scores of people shopping, eating, getting henna tattoos and watching snake charmers. Packed with locals and tourists alike, it’s certainly memorable.

The rest of the day is free to explore further or shop in the bazaar. No doubt you’re becoming familiar with Moroccan delicacies, like aromatic tajines, couscous and the street food favourite pastilla. Moroccan food is as exciting as you’d imagine – spicy, full-flavoured and often boasting a mix of contrasting textures and flavours. You’ll find street vendors and waiters at restaurants all eager – almost too eager – to win your custom. Make like a local and sip sweet mint tea at a cafe as you watch the world go by. 

Today enjoy a cooking class at the the legendary restaurant at La Maison Arabe where you will use modern equipment found in everyday kitchens. At the end of each workshop, you will dine on the meal you have prepared. At a typical half-day workshop, one learns to prepare an appetizer and a main dish, or a main dish and dessert. The workshops are conducted by a dada (traditional Moroccan cook) or a chef.

Starts: approx: 3pm  Duration: approx: 3 hours

Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.

Day 9 Marrakech Dades

We’ll begin our journey to the Sahara along mountain roads today, crossing over Morocco’s highest pass, Tizi n’Tichka (2,260 metres), to arrive at the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou – you may recognise this from Game of Thrones. Centuries ago, this was an important stop for caravans carrying salt across the Sahara. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remains as a striking example of southern Morocco architecture. 

We’ll take a walking tour of its grand kasbah, a fine example of clay architecture.

Then, a drive out to Ouarzazate reveals dramatic landscapes where productions like Lawrence of Arabia, The Sheltering Sky and Black Hawk Down were filmed. This charming village, once an old military enclave, is now home to two movie studios. 

We’ll stop for the night in the Dadès Valley.

Day 10 Dades Erfoud

This morning we’ll leave for Todra Gorge, a massive trench rising over 250 metres to form a dramatic and spectacular natural sight.

We’ll continue to Erfoud, a city known as the desert gate given its location on the edge of the Sahara.

Day 11 Erfoud Midelt Fes

After breakfast, we’ll journey to Midelt, a market town originally built as a base for mining in the area. It’s the perfect spot to break up the journey back from the Sahara. Surrounded by natural wonders, like imposing Mount Ayachi looming over the town, it’s a refreshing place to take a breath and relax.

Then it’s onto the living museum of Fes. The well-preserved medieval labyrinth of Fes is the country’s cultural capital, surely the spiritual heart of Morocco. 

You’ll have free time here – perhaps a chance to explore the old city, stop by one of the city’s famous tanneries, or see the oldest university in the world.

Day 12 Fes Tangier

This morning, your guide will take you on a tour of the beautiful imperial city of Fes.

We’ll see the grand seven golden gates of the impressive royal palace and the walled old Jewish Quarter. You’ll see the distinctive, ornate city gate, Bab Bou Jeloud. This iconic blue gate is the entrance to the old medina, where you’ll take a walking tour. Walk in the narrow maze-like streets of the city passing artisans at work, vendors selling leather and oils, and locals gathering to eat, shop and pray. The winding paths – no cars allowed, instead you’ll see donkeys – seem to go on forever in this 540-acre medina. 

Later in the afternoon we’ll set off for the coastal town of Tangier, Europe’s gateway to Africa. Being just a short boat ride from Spain, it boasts an interesting mix of African and European influences. When you arrive in Tangier, the rest of the day is yours.

Its medina, a star attraction, is everything you’d expect – lively, with the typical narrow, labyrinthe-like alleyways of shops, teahouses and homes. A great place to people watch is the Grand Socco, a large square at the main entrance of the medina and a popular meeting place.

Day 13 Tangier Seville

You’ll be transferred to the port to meet your European guide and board your ferry back to Spain. 

On arrival in Algeciras, you’ll be taken to Seville, capital of Andalusia. This bustling port is known for being a joyous town; famous for oranges, tapas and flamenco. 

Seville is another Andalusian city that has roots linked to North Africa as seen through its architecture and cuisine. But it is flamenco for which Seville is truly famous. Originating as an expression of oppression by the region’s gypsy population, this area is the birthplace of the guitar, first designed for use in flamenco music. Today, the town is still the world capital of flamenco.

Day 14 Seville

After breakfast, enjoy a guided orientation tour in the irresistible city of Seville. Seville is home to the country’s best Fiestas and the site of some well-known scenes in big films. Afterwards, perhaps visit the city’s colossal Gothic cathedral and its famous Giralda, or bell tower. The Seville Cathedral is the third largest church in the world as well as the largest Gothic church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also the final burial place of Christopher Columbus. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure further discovering this enchanting city.

Day 15 Seville Lisbon

We’ll set off for Portugal today. On the way, we’ll stop in Mértola and Beja (time permitting).

Day 16 Lisbon

This morning we will set out on a morning orientation tour of charismatic Lisbon. We’ll visit traditional neighborhoods and take in the Belem district, a relaxed area on the Tagus River known for its fresh seafood restaurants and colourful houses. We invite all our travellers to try a “Belem cake”, an exquisite local delicacy. This area is the birthplace of the great Portuguese navigators who sailed the oceans in the Fifteenth Century. Along our tour we will see Belem Tower and the beautiful Jeronimos Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The afternoon following our guided tour is free for you to relax or explore this great city independently.

Get ready for a night of tasty Portuguese food, tipples, and tunes on this Lisbon tour. You’ll discover the city as dusk falls, heading out alongside locals for dinner and drinks, and taking in a dramatic Fado performance that will leave you mesmerised all night long.

To join this activity you will need to make your way to Central Lisbon by 7pm (subject to change - time and location to be confirmed by your Tour Leader). A taxi to the starting location costs approximately €10 to €15 each way.

Start time approx: 7:00pm Finish time approx: 11:00pm

Day 17 Lisbon Madrid

It’s a long day of travel to Madrid, Spain’s elegant capital. On the way we’ll stop in Mérida, with its imposing Roman theatre taking us back to the Roman Empire. Did you know it still operates after 2,000 years, hosting festivals in summer?

Day 18 Madrid

Enjoy one last delicious breakfast this morning, before your adventure comes to an end after checking out of your hotel.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey.

Check out: Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or, alternatively, speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost.

What's Included

• 17 nights in 4 to 5 star hotels
• All Transportation - Comfortable, dedicated coach transportation throughout
• Cross the Strait of Gibraltar by ferry from Europe to Africa and back
• Activities indicated in the itinerary including entry fees (except entry fees to the Hassan II Mosque)
• Daily breakfast and 2 dinners, as per itinerary
• Fully escorted English speaking guide throughout all 3 countries
• All accommodation as listed
• All activities listed in the itinerary unless a paid optional

Sightseeing Highlights

• Barcelona - Follow your guide on a walking tour of Barcelona’s gothic quarter
• Peñiscola - Explore this beautiful walled town in a fairytale setting
• Alicante - Stop at the active port city of Alicante, whose history goes back over 7000 years
• Granada - Visit the breathtaking UNESCO Alhambra Palace and the Generalife gardens with an audio guided tour
• Strait of Gibraltar - Enjoy a pleasurable sail towards Africa as Spain disappears upon the horizon
• Rabat - Explore historic monuments dating from the 10th to 15th century Almohad and Merenid dynasties
• Casablanca - Admire the great Hassan II Mosque, one of the most important mosques in the Arab world (entry not included)
• Marrakech - Step back in time during a guided tour of the old medina
• Ait Benhaddou - Pause at this fortified village, a place where several known movies have been filmed
• Ouarzazate - Pause again at the gateway to the Sahara desert and home to the Taourirt Kasbah.
• Todra Gorge - Marvel at this 250 metre deep trench, one of the most spectacular natural sights in Morocco
• Erfoud - Visit this oasis town, and experience dusk among the sand dunes
• Fes - Soak up this car-free medieval labyrinth
• Seville - Enjoy a guided tour of this city famous for its stunning Mudejar palaces, tapas and flamenco
• Lisbon - Join a guided tour of Lisbon, a picture-perfect city that combines cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals
• Madrid - Opt to spend extra time in Spain's capital city, perhaps sit by the lake at Retiro Park and admire the magnificent Glass Palace

Payment Terms

Flight information & booking options.

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances. 

Visa & Passport

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here .

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and an overview of the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorize each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times, you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available. This will be applicable during your ferry to and from Morocco - you will be required to handle your luggage up and down some flights of stairs. 

This particular tour is categorized as a “4”: Lively Pace

This is considered a fast-paced tour. In order to explore as much as possible, this tour may require early starts and long travel days. One to two nights at one destination are standard. While some free time may be scheduled, most sightseeing is included throughout this tour. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage. To ensure this trip is right for you, any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aid, then this tour is not suitable. 

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour, your Tour Leader will suggest contributing towards a ‘tipping kitty’ which can then be used to tip local guides, hotel staff, driver, etc. You will have complete visibility over amounts tipped and any funds left will be distributed back to travellers. This tipping kitty is not mandatory, however, over time we’ve found it frees travellers from the stress of keeping the right change at hand and not knowing appropriate tipping amounts. We suggest EUR2 for hotel staff, EUR3-4 for local guides and EUR2-3 for the driver (suggestions are per person per day).

Please note that this tipping is not for your Tour Leader. If you are happy with the service provided by your Tour Leader we recommend tipping EUR2-4 per person per day.

Luggage Requirements Please take note of the following important instructions regarding luggage for this tour:

• Luggage Limit: Due to limited space in the bus luggage compartments, it is crucial that each person limits their luggage to one piece weighing a maximum of 20kg. Additionally, you are allowed a carry-on pack that should easily fit under the seat or in small overhead compartments.
• Boarding and Disembarking the Ferry: During the ferry transfer between Spain and Morocco, it is essential to be aware that travelers are responsible for carrying their own luggage for a significant distance. This includes navigating through immigration building halls, using stairs (not escalators), and tackling steep staircases on the ferry itself. Please ensure that your luggage is packed in a way that allows you to carry it comfortably and unassisted throughout the journey.

By following these guidelines and packing light, you will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience during the tour.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement Single supplement is $1,702.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.

Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.

Visa & Passport information It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.

Visas may be required.

Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.

Group Size Minimum 20, maximum 40 people.

Trip Style - Group Tour Our Group Tours offer unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much in to their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.

Children Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.

Health & Mobility Requirements

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

Optional Tours

To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

• Guided tour of Rabat Old Medina (Day 7) - $21 per person
• La Sagrada Familia (Audio-guided) (Day 2) - $59 per person
• Barcelona Tapas Tour (Day 2) - $141 per person
• Cooking class at La Maison Arabe (Day 8) - $123 per person
• Sunset Fado and Dinner Tour (Day 16) - $191 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

Extra Services

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $486.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $457.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

• $308.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $283.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

• Airport transfers
• Entrance fees to Hassan II Mosque
• Return international airfares
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses

What Climate to Expect

Click HERE for more information on weather in Spain.

Click HERE for more information on weather in Portugal.

Click HERE for more information on weather in Morocco.

Departure Dates for 18 Day Inspiring Spain, Portugal & Morocco

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16 Day Spain, Morocco and Portugal Tour from Madrid to Lisbon

16 days, 3 countries and 13 cities

Accommodation

15 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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The scents of spice and the warm embrace of the sun-kissed Mediterranean are never far when you embark on this uplifting voyage through Spain, Morocco and Portugal. Explore the bustling cities of Madrid and Marrakesh, cross the Strait of Gibraltar and feast your eyes on the colourful façades of Seville. From there, Portugal and her capital of Lisbon await. They say great things happen in threes and this is certainly true with this dynamic trio.

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DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

16 days itinerary trip from Madrid to Madrid visiting 3 countries and 13 cities

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About this trip

Included sightseeing.

See the Royal Palace, Cibeles Fountain and Retiro Park on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist

Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the synagogue and cathedral, enjoy a visit to a steel workshop

Enjoy a scenic drive to this Moorish city

View the Mausoleum and Royal Palace during your orientation

View the Corniche and see the Hassan II Mosque during sightseeing with a Local Specialist

Visit Dar El Bacha and Djemaa el-Fna Square during your sightseeing tour

Sightseeing includes a walking tour of the Medina and views of the Royal Palace

Sightseeing with your Local Specialist includes views of the Cathedral, Plaza de España and Giralda Tower

View Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries on your sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist

Visit the celebrated Shrine

Orientation of this university city includes views of the Plaza Mayor

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT ON EVERY TRIP

Unique or exclusive to Costsaver, here's a sample of what's included in your trip.

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

Many meals and daily breakfasts included

City orientation tours

Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries

Return ferry crossing between Spain and Morocco

Extensive variety of Choice Experiences

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

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