4x unique Spain and Portugal itineraries

Why explore just one country when you can visit two? Our Spain and Portugal itineraries offer you a perfect mix of Iberian culture. You'll get to pair cava with port wine, compare Gaudí's creations with the intricate Manueline architecture, and dive into two distinct cultures that share a peninsula yet keep their own unique identities.

Trip #1: A week of cities and coasts

This itinerary is fast-paced Iberian escapade that packs the essence of Portugal and Spain into just one week. This whirlwind tour takes you from Lisbon's charming trams to Seville's passionate flamenco, before winding down on the sunny beaches of Costa del Sol. It’s the perfect mix of cities and coasts.

Itinerary overview

This seven-day itinerary begins in Lisbon. On the first day, you'll explore the views from São Jorge Castle, wander through the Alfama district, and end your day with dinner at a Fado restaurant. On the second day, you’ll hop on the iconic Tram 28, visiting Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and tasting the famous Pastéis de Belém. The day wraps up with a night out in Bairro Alto.

On the third day, you travel to Seville to explore Plaza de España and the Santa Cruz neighborhood, followed by some tapas. The fourth day is a tour of the Royal Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, and La Giralda, with an evening flamenco show to top it off.

From Seville, you head to the Costa del Sol on the fifth day to relax at a beach resort. The sixth day is spent strolling through Marbella's old town, and on the seventh day, you’ll finish the trip with some luxury shopping at Puerto Banús and a sunset dinner by the Mediterranean.

Trip tip: have our local travel experts design a week long Spain trip for you, so you can focus on enjoying your trip instead.

royal-alcazar-seville-shutterstock_1120759877

Royal Alcazar, Seville  © Shutterstock

Day 1 

  • Arrive in Lisbon and check into your hotel
  • Visit São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the historic Alfama district
  • End the day with dinner at a traditional Fado restaurant

Day 2

  • Take a morning tram ride on the iconic Tram 28
  • Visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
  • Try the famous Pastéis de Belém
  • Explore the lively Bairro Alto neighborhood in the evening

Day 3 

  • Travel from Lisbon to Seville (by train)
  • Check into your Seville accommodation
  • Visit the stunning Plaza de España
  • Explore the Santa Cruz neighborhood
  • Enjoy tapas for dinner

Day 4 

  • Tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville
  • Visit the Seville Cathedral and climb La Giralda tower
  • Watch a flamenco show in the evening
  • Have a late-night dinner at a local restaurant

Day 5 

  • Travel from Seville to Costa del Sol (by car or bus)
  • Check into your beach resort
  • Relax on the beach or by the pool

Day 6

  • Explore the charming old town of Marbella
  • Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant

Day 7

  • Take a morning stroll along the Marbella Promenade
  • Visit Puerto Banús for luxury shopping and yacht-watching
  • Enjoy water activities or a boat tour
  • End your trip with a sunset dinner overlooking the Mediterranean

You'll find even more ideas for your week-long vacation in Spain in our 7-day itineraries.

Lisbon tram

Lisbon tram © Shutterstock

Trip #2: Iberian Blend

Connecting two countries and a rich variety of flavors, this distinctive Iberian Blend itinerary highlights the finest of Portugal and Spain’s Atlantic coast. Begin your journey in Porto, where vintage trams glide past baroque churches, and port wine cellars invite you for tastings. Next, venture into Galicia, Spain, where dramatic coastlines and secluded beaches meet some of the finest seafood you'll ever taste.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary begins in Porto, where you'll spend the first three days experiencing the city's charm. On day one, after your arrival, take an evening walk along the Avenida dos Aliados. Day two is dedicated to Porto’s highlights, from the historic Ribeira district and the ornate São Francisco Church to the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore and the climb up Clérigos Tower. On day three, you’ll scale the Arrábida Bridge, visit Porto Cathedral, and enjoy a Port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.

On day four, hop on a scenic train ride to Vigo, Spain, where you’ll spend the evening sampling tapas at local eateries. Day five is all about Vigo’s maritime heritage—explore the fish market, the bustling port, and the old town. Day six offers a coastal escape to the Cíes Islands and the pristine sands of Rodas Beach. Finally, on day seven, conclude your journey with a visit to the historic Castro Fortress before departure.

Trip tip: let our local travel experts handle the details so you can enjoy your Iberian Blend trip fully.

Beach of the Cathedrals in Lugo. Galicia, Spain © Shutterstock

Beach of the Cathedrals in Lugo. Galicia, Spain © Shutterstock

Day 1

  • Arrive in Porto
  • Transfer to your hotel.
  • Take an evening stroll along the Douro River and enjoy dinner at a local riverside restaurant

Day 2

  • Walking tour of Porto.
  • Explore the riverside and Porto's oldest neighborhood.
  • Discover incredible architecture and famous landmarks throughout the city.

Day 3

  • Enjoy a thrilling adventure by climbing the iconic Arrabida Bridge.
  • Be guided by a local instructor as you take in views of Porto from above.

Day 4

  • Prepare your train ticket for a scenic journey to the Galicia region in Spain.
  • Admire the Atlantic coastline, lush green landscapes, and heritage sites on the way.
  • Upon arrival in Vigo, proceed to your hotel.
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk along Vigo's Samil Beach at sunset

Day 5

  • Explore Vigo’s industrial heritage and deep-rooted fishing traditions.
  • Visit Europe's largest fishing port and witness the fishermen’s daily work.
  • Walk through Vigo’s old and modern streets, discovering the charm of this unique city.

Day 6

  • Visit the monument to Jules Verne, who mentioned Vigo Bay in his novel Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.
  • Visit the Cíes Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands National Park, or take a day trip to Santiago de Compostela
  • Explore the Mercado da Pedra (Stone Market) and sample local Galician cuisine

Day 7

  • Take a final morning walk through Vigo's charming Casco Vello (Old Town) before departure
  • Say farewell to Portugal and Spain

Looking for more inspiration for your trip? Check out our Spanish itineraries.

The Illas Cies beach in Vigo, Spain © Shutterstock

The Illas Cies beach in Vigo, Spain © Shutterstock

Trip #4: A scenic Spain and Portugal tour

On this 10-day itinerary through northern Spain and Portugal, you’ll experience a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and amazing food. Ideal for those who love the outdoors, you'll hike stunning trails, explore ancient universities, and unwind in world-class wineries. It's a journey that satisfies both the adventurer and the culture enthusiast.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary begins on day one in Asturias, where you settle in and try local cuisine. On the second day, you’ll explore Picos de Europa National Park, complete with a cable car ride, hiking, and a visit to the picturesque Lakes of Covadonga. The third day takes you to the coastal town of Llanes, known for its colorful houses and the chance to try some authentic Asturian cider.

The fourth day brings you to Salamanca, where you'll explore the historic city center and one of Europe’s oldest universities. The fifth day is spent exploring Salamanca’s architecture. For the sixth and seventh days, you’ll head to Extremadura, touring the medieval old town of Cáceres and taking a day trip to Mérida to see its impressive Roman ruins.

The final stretch of the trip takes you to Portugal’s Douro Valley for three relaxing days filled with wine tastings, scenic boat rides, and downtime at a traditional quinta.

Trip tip: our tailor made trip service makes traveling easy by taking care of the planning and booking. 

University of Salamanca, the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe, in Salamanca, Castilla y Leon region, Spain © roberaten/Shutterstock

University of Salamanca, the oldest university in Spain and one of the oldest in Europe © roberaten/Shutterstock

Day 1 

  • Arrive in Asturias and settle into your accommodation
  • Take an introductory walk in the nearby area
  • Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local Asturian cuisine

Day 2 

  • Spend the day exploring Picos de Europa National Park
  • Take a cable car ride for panoramic views
  • Hike one of the park's scenic trails
  • Visit the Lakes of Covadonga

Day 3 

  • Drive to the coastal town of Llanes
  • Explore the old town and its colorful houses
  • Walk along the San Pedro coastal path
  • Visit a local sidrería to try Asturian cider
  • Dinner featuring fabada asturiana

Day 4

  • Travel to Salamanca and check into your hotel
  • Take a walking tour of the historic city center
  • Visit the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest in Europe
  • End the day at Plaza Mayor

Day 5 

  • Start the day with a visit to Casa de las Conchas
  • Explore the New Cathedral and Old Cathedral
  • Visit the Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum
  • Free time for shopping or relaxation

Day 6

  • Travel to Cáceres in Extremadura
  • Take a guided tour of the medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Visit the Palace of the Golfines de Abajo
  • Evening stroll through the historic center

Day 7 

  • Day trip to Mérida
  • Explore the Roman ruins, including the Theater and Amphitheater
  • Visit the National Museum of Roman Art
  • Return to Cáceres for dinner

Day 8

  • Travel to the Douro Valley in Portugal
  • Check into your quinta (wine estate) accommodation
  • Take a short orientation tour of the estate
  • Enjoy a wine tasting session at sunset

Day 9 

  • Scenic boat ride along the Douro River
  • Visit a small, family-run winery for a tour and tasting
  • Lunch at a local restaurant with valley views
  • Afternoon free to relax at the quinta or explore nearby villages

Day 10

  • Morning visit to another family-run winery
  • Depart for your next destination or return home
vineyards-valley-river-douro-portugal-shutterstock_161189531

Vineyards of the Douro Valley in Portugal © Shutterstock

Trip #5: Two weeks of beautiful hikes

This 14-day Spain itinerary is ideal if you're up for an outdoor adventure. You’ll spend five days hiking the Portuguese Route of the 'Way of Saint James,' a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After taking in the amazing scenery, you'll fly over to Portugal to explore Lisbon and Porto, with a stop in the Douro Valley to visit the wineries. It’s a memorable trip that perfectly balances hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain and discovering some of the highlights of Portugal.

Itinerary overview

Your trip starts in Vigo on day one, where you'll make your way to Baiona. From day two to day six, you'll hike the Camino Portugués, covering around 23.7 to 31.2 km each day. Along the route, you'll pass through beautiful coastal areas, forests, and charming villages, eventually reaching Santiago de Compostela, where you’ll attend mass with other pilgrims.

On day seven, you’ll fly from Santiago to Lisbon, transitioning into Portugal. The afternoon is free for you to explore Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle and the historic Alfama district. Day eight is spent exploring Lisbon’s UNESCO sites and savoring the local cuisine.

Day nine takes you on a day trip to Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca. On day ten, you'll travel from Lisbon to Porto, stopping at key spots like Fátima and Coimbra. 

From day eleven to day thirteen, you’ll focus on the Douro Valley. Here, you'll visit wineries, enjoy wine tastings, take a scenic boat trip, and go on a jeep tour through the vineyards. You’ll also explore medieval towns and get to try traditional Portuguese meals. Finally, on day fourteen, you’ll wrap up your journey with your departure from Porto airport.

Tip trip: don't sweat the details and book this trip today.

camino-de-santiago-navarra-spain-shutterstock_415000714

Camino de Santiago, Navarra, Spain © Shutterstock

Day 1

  • Arrival at Vigo airport
  • Transfer to Baiona
  • Check-in at your accommodation 
  • Evening stroll along the Baiona promenade and visit to the Monterreal fortress

Day 2

  • Walk from Baiona to Vigo (23.7km)
  • Enjoy coastal views and forest park (Saiáns)
  • Visit the Castro fortress in Vigo upon arrival
  • Try local Galician seafood for dinner in Vigo's old town

Day 3

  • Hike from Vigo to Pontevedra (31.2km)
  • Enjoy views of Vigo estuary
  • Pass through Redondela, Arcade, and other villages
  • Stop at Arcade to taste its famous oysters

Day 4

  • Hike from Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis
  • Mostly flat with a 100-meter climb
  • Explore Pontevedra's historic old town before departing
  • Relax in the thermal springs of Caldas de Reis upon arrival

Day 5

  • Hike from Caldas de Reis to Padron
  • Easy stage with smooth ascents
  • Visit Padrón and Iria Flavia
  • Try Padrón peppers, a local delicacy

Day 6

  • Hike from Padron to Santiago de Compostela
  • Pass through small populations on the way to Santiago
  • Attend pilgrim's mass at 12:00 pm (11:00 am Irish time)
  • Visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

Day 7

  • Flight from Santiago to Lisbon
  • Arrival in Lisbon
  • Take a ride on the famous Tram 28
  • Visit the São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of Lisbon

Day 8

  • Explore Lisbon's historical and cultural highlights
  • Visit the Belém district, including the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower
  • Dinner and Fado Show

Day 9

  • Day Tour to Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca
  • Scenic drive to Cabo da Roca and along the coast to Cascais
  • Explore the charming town of Cascais
  • Enjoy a seafood dinner in Cascais before returning to Lisbon

Day 10

  • Private transfer to Porto airport
  • Departure from Portugal
Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 01.10.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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