Your Ultimate 14-Day Spain and Portugal Itinerary (And 1-week itinerary)
Start your Two-week adventure in Spain and Portugal
Are you planning a trip? Get ready for a fantastic two-week adventure around Spain and Portugal. This itinerary will take you through these countries’ cultures, history, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you are a traveler or just curious, this guide promises unforgettable moments. From Madrid’s bustling streets to Lisbon’s scenic coastlines, you’ll experience the best these countries offer.
Imagine sipping sangria in a plaza, strolling through the charming streets of Portugal, and enjoying tapas and pastel de nata. Sounds exciting. Please stick with me for a customized itinerary with stories and valuable tips. I’ll guide you through each day of the 14-day itinerary, highlighting the best spots in Spain and Portugal. Ready to explore? Let’s go!
Day 1: Arrive in Madrid, Spain
Start your adventure in the lively heart of Spain, Madrid. Arrive and check in at your hotel to get some rest from your trip. Late in the afternoon, head for Puerta del Sol, whose visit will enable you to savor the local ambiance. Head to Plaza Mayor for a leisurely walk and relax at one of the many outdoor cafés. Wrap up your day with a traditional tapas dinner in the La Latina neighborhood, known for its lively nightlife and delicious food.
Day 2: Touring Madrid
For your second day, indulge in Madrid’s rich culture. Start by visiting the Museo del Prado and marvel at the magnificent paintings of Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco inside—this museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts. From there, leisurely make your way through Retiro Park, Madrid’s most refreshing expanse of green. In the evening, proceed to Corral de la Morería, one of Madrid’s best flamenco show venues. Complete your day by enjoying this full-of-life show, accompanied by a lovely dinner.
Day 3: Leaving Toledo
On the third day, you’ll take a short train trip to Toledo. Visit the impressive Toledo Cathedral and the historic Alcázar fortress, and explore the medieval streets. After returning, spend the evening in Madrid for your last night to revisit your favorite spots or discover something new.
Days 4–5: Seville, Spain
Day 4: Take the morning train to Seville and check into your hotel. After settling in, take a walking tour of Barrio Santa Cruz. Enjoy a live flamenco show at Casa de la Memoria in the evening.
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Day 5: Start your day with a visit to the Royal Alcázar, a beautiful palace with gardens. Then, head to Plaza de España to rent a rowboat and enjoy a ride. Finally, take a walk along the Guadalquivir River.
Days 6–7: Granada, Spain
Day 6: Arrive in Granada and check into your accommodation. Visit the Alhambra, a stunning palace-fortress with beautiful gardens. Remember to buy your tickets in advance!
Day 7: Explore the Albaicín neighborhood with its winding streets and white houses. Visit the Sacromonte neighborhood to see unique cave houses and enjoy a flamenco performance.
Days 8–10: Lisbon, Portugal
Day 8: Travel to Lisbon and check into your hotel. Visit Belém to see Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Try a pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém.
Day 9: Visit Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle for city views. In the afternoon, explore Baixa, the downtown area, and enjoy a seafood dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro.
Day 10: Take a day trip to Sintra to visit Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle. Return to Lisbon in the evening and relax with a Portuguese wine.
Days 11–12: Porto, Portugal
Day 11: Travel to Porto by train or flight. After checking into your hostel, explore the Ribeira district along the Douro River. Taste a francesinha at Café Santiago.
Day 12: Visit a Vila Nova de Gaia port wine cellar for a tasting experience. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Douro River and visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Days 13–14: Travel to Madrid, Spain
Day 13: Return to Madrid by train or flight. Spend the day revisiting favorite spots or exploring new ones. Shop for souvenirs in Malasaña or relax in Retiro Park.
Day 14: Enjoy breakfast and prepare for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories from your Spanish and Portuguese adventures.
FAQs
1. How many days should I spend in each city?
Spend 2 to 3 days in cities like Madrid, Seville, Lisbon, and Porto to get a good feel for each place.
2. When is the best time to visit Spain and Portugal?
The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September—October), when the weather is nice and there are fewer tourists. Traveling by train between cities is easy and offers scenic views. Budget airlines and car rentals are also good options.
3. Do I need to know Spanish or Portuguese?
It’s helpful to know some basic phrases, but most people in tourist areas speak English. Learning a few Spanish and Portuguese words can improve your experience and show respect for the culture.
4. Is it safe to travel alone?
If you’re traveling alone, Spain and Portugal are safe places to visit. Remember to follow basic safety rules – avoid dark areas at night and monitor your belongings in busy spots.
Conclusion
This 14-day itinerary highlights Spain and Portugal’s must-see sights and hidden treasures, enriched with insights to enhance your travel experience. These countries offer a mix of cultural cities and stunning landscapes. Start planning your dream trip today—there’s no time like the present! If you found this information helpful, share it with other travelers or leave a comment with your thoughts.
Are you in a rush? How to Travel in One Week in Spain and Portugal
You can spend a week in Spain and Portugal and enjoy both countries to the best of their ability. Though more than seven days are needed to witness everything, a plan can be drawn up to visit some of the essential places of interest and get a good feel for this country’s culture, history, and scenery. Here is a plan to get the most from your one week in Spain and Portugal.
Day 1: Arrival in Madrid, Spain
Start your journey in lively Madrid, the capital of Spain. When you arrive, go to your hotel and relax. First, visit Puerta del Sol, a very animated square, late in the afternoon. Later, you can walk to Plaza Mayor, which boasts outdoor cafes. Have a nice traditional tapas dinner in La Latina.
Day 2: Finding My Way in Madrid
Your second day in Madrid should include visiting the city’s cultural attractions. Start with the Prado Museum, home to world-class works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. After the museum visit, go to Retiro Park. In the evening, proceed to Corral de la Morería for an excellent flamenco show and an experience of this exciting Spanish dance.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo
Take a short train trip to UNESCO World Heritage Site Toledo. The “City of Three Cultures” offers a rich legacy with many beautiful buildings. Do not miss the chance to visit the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcázar fortress and then meander among the medieval streets. By nightfall, head back to Madrid for your final evening in the city.
Day 4: Seville, Spain
Seville, the capital of Andalusia,. When you arrive at the hotel, you will check in and then explore the lively atmosphere of Barrio Santa Cruz, with its narrow streets. You will see the Seville Cathedral, the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world. From the Giralda Tower, one can view Seville. Here, great flamenco shows are held in the evening, and Seville is renowned for them.
Day 5: Arrive in Lisbon, Portugal
Fly to Lisbon, the coast-hugging capital of Portugal. Start the day in the Belém district with its imposing Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, both declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can’t leave without tasting the custard tart at Pastéis de Belém. Walk around Alfama in the narrow streets as you listen to the sound of traditional Fado music with an evening show.
Day 6: Discovering Lisbon
Get to know more of the charm of Lisbon by taking the famous Tram 28: Highlights include the Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral, and the Baixa district. In the afternoon, continue your trip with a visit to Europe’s largest aquarium in Parque das Nações, the Oceanário de Lisboa. At dinnertime, savor delicious seafood cuisine in one of the famous restaurants in Lisbon.
Day 7: Day Trip to Sintra
Enjoy your stay in Sintra as you would a fairy-tale town close to Lisbon: visit the colorful Pena Palace, the enigmatic Quinta da Regaleira with its hidden caves and gardens, and the Moorish Castle. In the evening, return to Lisbon, enjoy some Portuguese wine, and sum up this incredible week of your life on the territory of Spain and Portugal.
A week is short, but this itinerary will show you some of Spain and Portugal’s culture, history, and beauty. Stay tuned next week for more travel tips and ideas!
Conclusion
This 14-day travel plan provides you with a blend of attractions as you journey across Spain and Portugal. It seamlessly merges landmarks with hidden gems along the route, offering visitors a look at the lively streets of Madrid, the timeless allure of Toledo, and the coastal beauty surrounding Lisbon.
For those pressed for time, a condensed one-week itinerary is also an option, ensuring you capture the essence of both countries through destinations and experiences.
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