14-Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary
Experience the best of Spain and Portugal in 14 unforgettable days. Don't forget to check our Spanish language guide to enhance your travel experience, and explore our other European itineraries for extended travel planning.
Day 1: Arrival in Madrid
Madrid Cityscape
- Arrive at Madrid-Barajas Airport and transfer to your accommodation in the city center.
- Take a leisurely walk around the historic center to get oriented.
- Visit Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid's most iconic squares, surrounded by beautiful red buildings with 237 balconies.
- Stop for coffee and churros at the famous Chocolatería San Ginés.
Day 2: Madrid Exploration
Royal Palace, Madrid
- Visit the opulent Royal Palace (Palacio Real) with its 3,418 rooms, stunning throne room, and impressive royal armory.
- Explore the palace gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo
Toledo Historic Center
- Take a day trip to Toledo, the 'City of Three Cultures' and former capital of Spain.
- Arrive by high-speed train and start with panoramic views from Mirador del Valle.
- Explore the magnificent Toledo Cathedral, one of Spain's most important Gothic structures with its elaborate altarpiece and El Greco paintings in the sacristy.
- Visit the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca and the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, showcasing Toledo's multicultural heritage.
Day 4: Madrid to Valencia
Valencia City of Arts and Sciences
- Travel to Valencia by high-speed AVE train.
- Check into your accommodation and explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Santiago Calatrava.
- Visit the interactive science museum and the Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium.
- Marvel at the stunning architecture reflected in the surrounding pools.
Day 5: Valencia Discovery
Valencia Beach
- Explore Valencia's historic center including Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen.
- Visit the Valencia Cathedral where the Holy Grail is said to be kept and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views.
- Discover the bustling Central Market, one of Europe's largest fresh food markets housed in a beautiful modernist building.
- Try authentic paella valenciana for lunch at a local restaurant.
Day 6: Valencia to Barcelona
Barcelona Gothic Quarter
- Travel to Barcelona by high-speed train.
- Upon arrival, explore the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic) with its narrow medieval streets and historic buildings.
- Visit Barcelona Cathedral and Plaza del Rey.
- Stroll down La Rambla, the famous pedestrian boulevard lined with street performers and local cafés.
Day 7: Barcelona Highlights
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
- Visit Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece, the iconic Sagrada Familia.
- Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and unique architectural elements.
- Discover Park Güell, another Gaudí creation with colorful mosaics and panoramic views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean.
- Visit the Picasso Museum in the El Born district, featuring an extensive collection focusing on his formative years.
Day 8: Barcelona to Lisbon
Lisbon Tram 28
- Fly from Barcelona to Lisbon, Portugal's charming capital.
- After checking in, take the iconic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city's hills and neighborhoods.
- Explore the historic Alfama district with its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Fado houses, and stunning viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Day 9: Lisbon Exploration
Belém Tower, Lisbon
- Visit the historic Belém district to see the iconic Belém Tower and the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Try the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at the original Pastéis de Belém bakery.
- Explore the National Coach Museum with its impressive collection of historic carriages.
Day 10: Day Trip to Sintra
Pena Palace, Sintra
- Take a day trip to the fairy-tale town of Sintra.
- Visit the colorful Pena Palace perched on a hilltop, offering spectacular views over the countryside.
- Explore the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its elaborate gardens, grottoes, and the famous initiation well.
- Walk through Sintra's charming town center and try the local specialty, travesseiros (almond pastries).
Day 11: Lisbon to Porto
Porto Ribeira District
- Take the train to Porto, Portugal's second-largest city.
- Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, starting with the beautiful São Bento Station known for its azulejo tile panels.
- Visit the stunning Livraria Lello bookstore, one of the world's most beautiful bookshops, and the impressive Clérigos Tower for panoramic city views.
Day 12: Porto Discovery
Port Wine Cellars, Vila Nova de Gaia
- Explore the colorful Ribeira district along the Douro River, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia for port wine tastings at traditional cellars.
- Learn about the history and production of Portugal's famous fortified wine while enjoying river views.
Day 13: Day Trip to Aveiro
Aveiro Canal District
- Take a day trip to Aveiro, known as the 'Portuguese Venice' for its colorful boats and canals.
- Take a boat ride on a traditional moliceiro boat through the picturesque canals lined with Art Nouveau buildings.
- Visit the Aveiro Cathedral and try the local specialty, ovos moles (sweet egg treats).
- Explore the nearby Costa Nova beach with its iconic striped houses.
Day 14: Porto to Coimbra & Departure
University of Coimbra
- On your final day, take a morning trip to Coimbra to visit the historic University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe.
- Explore the stunning Joanina Library with its baroque decorations and ancient books.
- Walk through the medieval streets of the upper town before returning to Porto for departure or extending your journey.
Essential Tips for Spain & Portugal
- Learn basic Spanish and Portuguese phrases - locals appreciate the effort
- Be aware of siesta time (2-5pm) in Spain when many shops close
- Spanish meal times are later: lunch around 2pm and dinner after 9pm
- Book high-speed train tickets (AVE) in advance for better prices
- Many museums offer free entry during certain hours
- Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up is appreciated
- Carry cash for small establishments and local markets
- Try regional specialties: paella in Valencia, pastéis de nata in Lisbon, port wine in Porto
- Portugal is generally one hour behind Spain
- Both countries are very safe, but watch for pickpockets in tourist areas
- The weather can vary significantly between regions and seasons
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (June-August)
- Consider getting a Eurail pass if planning additional train travel
- Pack comfortable walking shoes - both countries have many cobblestone streets
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Spanish Language Guide
Essential Spanish phrases for your Spain travel
All Language Guides
Language cheatsheets for travelers worldwide
Official Travel Resources
Official Spain Tourism Website
Official travel information and attractions for Spain
Source: spain.infoVisit Portugal Official Site
Official tourism portal for Portugal travel information
Source: visitportugal.com