Jess Bergin

View Original

Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 14 Days

Lapped by lyrical mountain tops, legend-filled cities and teeming turquoise waters, this part of Europe is unfathomably unique. For the ultimate getaway, get going with this 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary.

Sitting in Europe’s southwestern corner, Spain and Portugal are riddled with riveting finds. Pinned with paralysing vistas, once-powerful empires and paradisal escapes, this landscape is lapped with seemingly endless stellar sojourns.

From the sun-soaked coastline and awe-inspiring architecture to the flirtatious flamenco and the culture-rich cuisine, there is no shortage of scintillating experiences. 

How to Spend 14 Days in Spain and Portugal: Spain, Andorra, Portugal & Gibraltar

Whether you’re travelling to Spain and Portugal for 7, 10, 14 or 21 days, there’s plenty to see in one go. For more itineraries, scroll down below to see what else is on offer. This 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary invites you into some of the countries’ most mystical, magical and mind-blowing pursuits.

Kicking off in the northeast of Spain, you’ll dive into the fairytale-like world of Gaudí in Barcelona. Then, you’ll head up to a mountain hideaway in Andorra, before crossing over into Spain’s capital, Madrid.

After a day meandering through the museums, you’ll make your way down into the Moorish melting pot of Granada. Waltz over to the world of attractions in Seville, and pop over into the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar.

Cross the border into Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon and wander astray among the astounding architecture. Hit the coastline in Algarve, and bring your trip to a close in the northern-situated Porto.

Day 1-2: Barcelona, Spain

Day 3: Andorra la Vella, Andorra

Day 4: Madrid, Spain

Day 5: Granada, Spain

Day 6-8: Seville, Spain

Day 9: Gibraltar, British Overseas Territory

Day 10-11: Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal

Day 12-13: Algarve, Portugal

Day 14: Porto, Portugal

Day 1-2: Barcelona, Spain

Kick off your Spain and Portugal itinerary in one of Europe’s most iconic cities, Barcelona.

Coined for its colourful clash of old and new, this congenial city is sure to leave you in delight. Break through the barriers in Barcelona as you uncover the unparalleled of Antoni Gaudí’s greatest monuments. From the mosaic-covered Parc Güell and the towering Sagrada Familia to the dragon-esque roof of Casa Batlló, Gaudí’s works are a must-see when visiting Barcelona.

Among the array of pleasurable pursuits, sprinkle in some local living by shopping in the best vintage stores, getting your caffeine fix at a speciality coffee shop or eating your way around the top cuisine. Keep it budget-friendly with a sightseeing pass, or take advantage of the best free things to do in Barcelona.

Stroll along the beach at sunset, get lost in the ancient Gothic Quarter and see all the highlights with this First-Timer’s Guide to Barcelona.

Things to do in Barcelona:

Spend the early morning in Park Güell

See everything in two days on a hop-on hop-off bus

Catch a glimpse of the city at sunset on a catamaran cruise

Explore the towers of the Sagrada Familia

Learn about the city’s history on an Old Town & Gothic Quarter walking tour

Get entertained by an Andalusian-influenced flamenco show

Keep your wallet happy with the Hola Barcelona Card  

Where to Stay in Barcelona:

€: Unite Hostel Barcelona

€€: Hotel Lleó

€€€: W Barcelona

Day 3: Andorra la Vella, Andorra 

After spending your first two days in bustling Barcelona, hop on a bus to one of Europe’s smallest countries, Andorra. 

Scattered with serrated, snow-capped mountains, hefty hiking trails and lush pine forests, Andorra is an adventure lover’s treasure trove. Soak up the serenity in the Caldea Spa, lock eyes with the Basilica Santuari de Nostra Senyora de Meritxell and gawk at the glorious vistas from the Mirador Roc del Quer in Canillo.

Enjoy tax-free shopping in the Pyrénées Andorra department store, get greened out in the Parc Central and relish in the traditional gastronomy scene. If you’re visiting during the winter season, you can hit the heights in the Grandvalira ski resort or Pal-Arinsal in Vallnord and don’t miss a thing with this Andorra Destination Guide.

Additionally, day 3 could be a simple day trip from Barcelona. You could also venture out to nearby destinations like Girona, Lloret de Mar, Montserrat, Tarragona, Sitges or Valencia.

Things to do in Andorra la Vella:

Get your heart pumping on a snowmobiling experience

Take a walking tour in Andorra de la Vella

Get active on an electric motorcycle mountain tour

Feel the rush in an escape room in Maximum Escape Andorra  

See the Casa de la Vall Museum

Bathe in the Caldea Spa

Go skiing in Grandvalira

Where to Stay in Andorra la Vella:

€: Hostal Cisco de Sans

€€: NH Andorra la Vella  

€€€: Grand Plaza Hotel & Wellness

Day 4: Madrid, Spain

From Andorra, hop on a bus or catch a flight to Spain's capital city, Madrid.

Melded with a captivating mix of modern and old, Madrid is a must-see in any Spain and Portugal itinerary. Fringed with flourishing gardens, gourmet gastronomy and lively rooftop bars, this is a city that’s filled with complexities. Meander through the world-class museums, shop like a local in the markets and sip coffee in the picture-perfect plazas.

Home to a huge haul of highlights, crowd-favourites include the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Temple of Debod and the Museo Nacional del Prado. Set aside the afternoon for a picnic in El Retiro Park, step inside the Palacio de Cristal and catch the hype at a soccer match in Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

See all the top-notch attractions with this 3 Day Madrid Itinerary. If you’ve already visited Madrid, you could explore the surroundings on a Day Trip to Toledo. Alternatively, mix it up with these Best Day Trips from Madrid, Spain.

Things to do in Madrid:

Stroll around the famous fine art in the Prado Museum

See everything in one day on the hop-on hop-off bus  

Go food-crazy on a wine & tapas tour

Feel the luxury in the Royal Palace

Get enchanted in the Reina Sofia Museum

Watch an intriguing flamenco show

Get out of the city buzz on an Avila & Segovia day trip

Where to Stay in Madrid:

€: Cats Hostel Madrid Sol

€€: Boutique Hotel H10 Villa de la Reina

€€€: Four Seasons Hotel Madrid

Day 5: Granada, Spain

After spending a day in the capital city, catch a high-speed train down south into Andalusia. Spend your day in the ever-enchanting, cultural melting pot of Granada.

Crowned with contrasts of clashing cultures, colours and legendary history, Granada offers a getaway from godsend. Woven with a wealth of whitewashed villages, manicured gardens and opulent palaces, this Andalusian city is nothing short of stunning. Strung with a slew of pursuits, show-stoppers include the Catedral de Granada, the Royal Chapel of Granada and the Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces and Generalife.

From the saline-white coloured districts of Sacromonte and Albaicin to the lush greenery at the Mirador de San Nicolás, Granada is illustrated with idyllic attractions at every end. Bathe in the Hammam Al Ándalus, step inside the eerie El Bañuelo and get your science hat on in the Parque de las Ciencias.

See all the top sites in this in-depth guide on the Top Things to do in Granada, Spain.

Things to do in Granada:

Feel the passion in an authentic flamenco show  

See the sunset paint the city on a walking tour in Albaicin & Sacromonte

Spend the morning in the Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces & Generalife Gardens

Get pampered with a massage in a Hammam Al Andalus

Tour through the Cathedral & Royal Chapel

Get your heart rate up in Los Cahorros de Monachil Canyon

Where to Stay in Granada:

€: Hotel Mirador Arabeluj

€€: Casa de la Catedral

€€€: Seda Club Hotel

Day 6-8: Seville, Spain 

After falling in love with Granada, we’re going to keep things running on a high note in Andalusia. Jump aboard a high-speed train to Seville and spend the next three days dabbling in its dazzling diversity.

Decked out with divine palaces, orange-scented streets and candy-coloured homes, Seville is an eye-catching city that commands your full attention. Hemmed in by a huge haul of activities and attractions, this chunk of your Spain and Portugal itinerary will undoubtedly be a highlight. Hit the heights in La Giralda, feel the opulence in the Royal Alcázar of Seville and stroll around the emblematic Catedral de Sevilla.

Bask in a picnic in the Parque de María Luisa, watch a flamenco performance in the Plaza de España and cruise past the Torre de Oro on a boat tour. Climb to the top of the contemporary Setas de Sevilla, admire the architecture in Casa de Pilatos and soak up Spain’s bullfighting history in the Plaza de Toros.

Appreciate fine art in the Seville Museum of Fine Arts, get a dose of greenery in the Palacio de las Dueñas and shop for local delicacies in the Mercado de Triana. Don’t skip a beat with this guide on the Top Things to do in Seville, Spain.

Mix up your 14-day itinerary with a Day Trip from Seville and discover dream-like cities like Setenil de las Bodegas, Cádiz, Málaga and Ronda. If you’re interested in extending this leg of the trip, make the most of your time in Andalusia with this 7-Day Southern Spain Itinerary.

Things to do in Seville:

Get enticed by an authentic Andalusian flamenco show

Usher in your artsy side in the Seville Museum of Fine Arts

Soak up all the serenity in the AIRE Ancient Baths

Wander astray in the astounding Royal Alcazar

See the mix of modern in the Setas de Sevilla

Discover the depths of the Seville Cathedral  

Visit all the top attractions on a hop-on hop-off bus

Where to Stay in Seville:

€: The Nomad Hostel & Pension

€€: Itaca Boutique Seville by Soho

€€€: Radisson Collection Hotel, Magdalena Plaza Sevilla

Day 9: Gibraltar, British Overseas Territory 

Following a fruitful few days in sublime Seville, jump on a bus to Gibraltar. As a British Overseas Territory, you can expect a fascinating fusion of Spanish and English influence.

Bask in all the beachside charm as you get accustomed to the slow-paced style. Brimming with blue water beaches and sublime scenery Gibraltar is home to playful monkeys and postcard-worthy sites. Go deep underground in Saint Michael’s Cave, get in touch with nature at the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens and feel the history in the Great Siege Tunnels.

Stroll along the soaring mountaintops in the Skywalk Gibraltar, cross over the Windsor Suspension Bridge and visit the Moorish Castle. Hike along the Mediterranean Steps, soak up the sunshine in Commonwealth Park and stand in awe at Europa Point.

Things to do in Gibraltar:

Visit the emblematic Rock of Gibraltar

Come close to wildlife on a dolphin-watching cruise

Get steeped deep in stories on a history tour

Frolic around the history-ridden Great Siege Tunnels 

Explore the eerie Saint Michael’s Cave

Wander astray in the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens

Where to Stay in Gibraltar:

€€: Rock Hotel

€€: The Eliott Hotel

€€€: Sunborn Gibraltar

Day 10-11: Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal 

After soaking up the sunshine in Gibraltar, cross the border into picturesque Portugal. Hop on a bus and train, or catch a flight into the character-packed capital city, Lisbon.

Kick off the last leg of your Spain and Portugal itinerary in this traveller’s utopia. Saturated with scintillating city vibes, stunning architecture and swoon-worthy attractions, Lisbon is the best place to spend the next two days. Lock lips with the delectable cuisine, spot iconic blue azulejo tiles and navigate the narrow streets. Sit by the seaside at the Belém Tower, step into the Castelo de S. Jorge and feel the city buzz from Praça do Comércio.

Get swept up in the luxurious Jerónimos Monastery, taste local delicacies in the Mercado da Ribeira and hit the heights in the Santa Justa Lift. Wind through the eye-catching Carmo Convent, pop by the Lisbon Cathedral and peruse the panoramas from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.

After setting yourself up with an ideal base with this guide on Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal, you could also consider diving this part of the trip into two. Admiring the attractions with this 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary or then spending another day on a Day Trip from Lisbon.

Surrounded by hill-perched palaces, ancient architecture and a world of whimsical opportunities, this is an ideal way of diving deeper into Portugal’s pursuits.

Some of the surrounding highlights include places like Sintra and Cascais. If you wish to extend this part of the trip, you can take a look at what’s on offer with this 7-Day Portugal Itinerary.

Things to do in Lisbon & Sintra:

Learn how to master the art of baking pastel de nata  

Get enchanted on a day trip to Pena Palace & Cabo da Roca

Put less of a dent in your wallet with the Lisbon Card

Catch a new perspective of Lisbon on a sunset cruise  

Go deep into Lisbon’s history on a walking tour

Eat yourself into a food coma on a traditional food tour

Speed around Lisbon on a segway

See everything in one day on the hop-on hop-off bus

Where to Stay in Lisbon:

€: Independente Príncipe Real

€€: WC by The Beautique Hotels

€€€: The Lumiares Hotel & Spa

Day 12-13: Algarve, Portugal 

After spending two days in Portugal’s personality-packed capital, now’s the time to venture down to the coastline. Hop on a high-speed train to the Algarve and prepare to surrender to some serious southern charm.

Anchoring Southern Portugal, the Algarve is crowned by wind-carved clifftops, ochre-coloured coves and paradisal beaches. Scattered with quaint villages, picturesque hiking trails and a world of watersports, this is a sublime seaside haven. There are many things you can’t miss on the Algarve. Wander through the Ponta da Piedade, gawk at the Praia de Dona Ana and see the famous Algar Seco.

Stroll along the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, splash around in Praia dos Três Irmãos and hit the heights at the Cabo de São Vicente. With endless beaches to sink your feet into, the Algarve is a crowd favourite in this 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary.

With whitewashed villages, verdant vineyards and rolling mountain tops, it’s hard not to fall head over heels for the Algarve. If you’re interested in extending this part of the journey, take a look at this 7-Day Algarve Itinerary.

Things to do in the Algarve:

See the Algarve’s most famous site on a Benagil Caves kayaking tour

Soar above the Algarve on a parasailing tour

Visit the Ria Formosa Faro Islands on a tour  

Get your adrenaline pumping on an off-road quad tour

Feel the ocean breeze on a Golden Coast cruise

Admire the playful marine life on a dolphin-watching tour

Where to Stay in the Algarve:

€: Vila Gale Marina

€€: Hotel Faro & Beach Club

€€€: Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites

Day 14: Porto, Portugal 

After making your way through hot spots like Barcelona, Seville and Lisbon, now’s the time to wind up your trip. Catch a high-speed train and bring your Spain and Portugal itinerary to a close in the northwestern gem, Porto.

Burrowed along the rolling river banks of the River Douro, Porto is stretched with street art, cutting-edge architecture and a gourmet gastronomy scene. Touted as the home of Port wine, you can put the cherry on top of your 14 day trip as you sip the day away. 

As Portugal’s second-biggest city, Porto is melded with epic lookout points, winding coastal walks and gardens from the godsend. Stop by the stately Livraris Lello bookstore, peer up at the Porto Cathedral and prance across the Luís I Bridge.

Feel the oozing opulence at Bolsa Palace, see the vivid colours in Jardins do Palácio de Cristal and swing past the iconic blue-tiled Chapel of Souls.

Navigate the narrow alley-woven historic centre, take a breezy cruise along the Douro River and uncover the UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Things to do in Porto:

Enjoy a wine, lunch and boat tour through the Douro Valley

Go wild on a walking & wine tasting tour

Feel the ambience on a historic city centre walking tour  

Explore the Palacio da Bolsa on a guided tour

Keep it budget-friendly with the Porto Card

Learn how to cook pastel de nata

See the highlights on a hop-on hop-off bus

Dive into the Douro Valley on a wine tour

Hop aboard a 6 Bridges Douro River cruise

Where to Stay in Porto:

€: Urban Garden Porto Central Hostel

€€: Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel

€€€: Porto Palácio Hotel by The Editory

Spain and Portugal Itinerary: Other Itineraries for 7, 10 and 21 days

7-day Itinerary 

  • Day 1-2: Barcelona, Spain

  • Day 3-4: Seville & Granada, Spain 

  • Day 5-7: Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal

10-day Itinerary 

  • Day 1-3: Barcelona & Montserrat, Spain

  • Day 4-6: Seville & Malaga, Spain

  • Day 7-8: Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal

  • Day 9-10: Porto, Portugal

21-day Itinerary 

  • Day 1-4: Barcelona, Spain

  • Day 5-6: Andorra la Vella, Andorra

  • Day 7-8: Madrid, Spain

  • Day 9-10: Granada, Spain

  • Day 11-14: Seville, Spain

  • Day 15: Gibraltar, British Overseas Territory

  • Day 16-18: Lisbon & Sintra, Portugal

  • Day 19-20: Algarve, Portugal

  • Day 21: Porto, Portugal

Additional Locations in Spain and Portugal

If you're wondering what else is on offer in the Iberian Peninsula, you're in luck.

There are plenty of top destinations that you could add to your Spain and Portugal itinerary. If you've already visited the bigger cities, you could consider substituting them for these top sites:

Best Time To Visit Spain and Portugal  

Known amongst Europeans as Iberia, Spain and Portugal are really year-round destinations. Home to some of the most popular cities in Europe, these two countries can surely reel in the crowds.

The most ideal time to visit Spain and Portugal is during the shoulder seasons of April, May and early June or late September and October.

These off-peak periods pose pocket-friendly options when it comes to accommodation, transport, flights and activities. With far fewer crowds and some serious sunshine, this is the ideal time to spend 14 days in Spain and Portugal.

If you’re on the hunt for a summertime getaway, July and August boast the best temperatures for a beached-out trip.

If you're venturing through towns like Seville and Barcelona during this time, be prepared for sweltering weather. Make sure your accommodation and transportation have air conditioning!

This 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary could also be done in the winter season, anywhere between December and February.

Short put, the winter months cater to travellers with a recalcitrant attitude towards crowds. For those who are aversive to long queues and expensive prices, these months are perfectly fit for sightseeing.

How to Get Around Spain and Portugal  

When it comes down to public transport, Spain and Portugal are well-connected with buses, trains, airports and driving routes. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you’ll be able to find an option that’s fit for you.

Ease into your 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary with these conundrum-free ways of getting around:

Train

Spain and Portugal host a well-developed train network, with plenty of quick and frequent options.

High-speed trains run in big cities like Seville, Barcelona, Madrid and Granada in Spain and Porto, Lisbon and Sintra in Portugal. Spain’s top train service is Renfe and Portugal’s best pick is the Comboios de Portugal (CP).

If you’re planning a multi-destination train trip, European residents can buy an Interrail pass, and non-European residents can purchase a Eurail pass. Before you book anything, make sure you compare all your options using Omio and Trainline.

Bus

Buses in Spain and Portugal are the best option for budget travellers and backpackers.

Although it's not the most time-efficient way of getting around, you'll be able to explore both big cities and smaller towns. Flixbus and ALSA are the local’s picks in Spain and Portugal, and you can compare various options using Busbud.

Aeroplane

Catching a flight is the fastest way of getting around. In this Spain and Portugal itinerary for 14 days, I’d recommend flights over buses or driving.

Before you book, compare times and prices using Skyscanner. If you’re a budget-conscious traveller, make sure you book at least 2 to 4 months in advance! You can also use Compensair if your flight gets cancelled or delayed for more than 3 hours.  

Car

Renting a car in Spain and Portugal is ideal if you want to get a full, immersive experience.

You'll have plenty of time to mosey through the myriad attractions, activities and hidden gems on offer. Plus, you won't be restrained to transport timetables and tour groups. This option does take longer than catching a train or flight. If driving is your top pick, make sure you factor in more time on the road.

Top Travel Tips for Your Spain and Portugal Itinerary

To ensure that your 14-day Spain and Portugal itinerary goes as smoothly as possible, there are a few factors to consider beforehand. Make sure you brush up on the following tips:

  • If you’re looking for the fastest option, hop on a high-speed train or catch a flight 

  • Take the fastest long-distance train in Spain - the AVE

  • Purchase delicacies at the local markets, not from chain stores 

  • Pack some layers! Destinations like Sintra and Cascais in Portugal can get very chilly, even in the summertime 

  • Brush up on some basic Portuguese and Spanish vocabulary – locals really appreciate the effort

  • Both Spain and Portugal use the euro currency

  • Learn what you should avoid in this guide on things to know before visiting Barcelona

  • A lot of stores, museums and attractions are closed on Sundays

  • Make your way from Barcelona Airport to the city centre via the A1 or A2 Aeroport Bus

  • If you’re a non-EU resident, make sure you get an International Drivers License

  • Set up a travel budget and make a savings plan for your Spain and Portugal trip

  • Save money by booking flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance

  • Be spontaneous and get off the tourist trail

  • If you want to dive deeper, set aside 3 to 4 weeks to explore Spain and Portugal

  • If you’re short on time, catch a flight between the big cities

  • Cut costs down using the Barcelona Card, Porto Card and Lisbon Card

  • Purchase a local SIM card in Spain or Portugal. Check out this full guide on the Best eSIMs for Europe.  

  • Master the art of scoring cheap flights

  • Get your European visa documents in order

  • Ditch high season! The best month to visit Spain and Portugal is in April, May, September or October

  • Master packing light so you can avoid the extra baggage fees

  • Leave your cash inside a safe in your accommodation

  • Back yourself up with travel insurance

  • Take advantage of the free walking tours

Planning a European Road Trip?

Spain and Portugal are two of Europe’s most stellar sojourns. Sheltered by colour-splashed cities, idyllic coastlines and ancient ruins aplenty, there is seriously something for every type of traveller.

If you’re planning to venture beyond Europe’s southwestern stretch, there are many destinations to consider. From buzzing Berlin and greened-out Amsterdam to chocolate-packed Brussels and picture-perfect Paris, Europe has no shortage of sprightly escapes. For the ultimate trip, combine this 14-day Spain and Portugal Itinerary with one of the following:

FAQS

How to spend 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal?

Kick off your 14-day Spain and Portugal itinerary in Barcelona, Spain. Head up to Andorra for a day, before making your way into Spain’s capital city, Madrid. Then enter the Andalusia region and visit Granada. Spend the next 3 days in Seville, before crossing the border into the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. From there, cross the border into Portugal’s capital, Lisbon. Spend the last few days exploring Sintra, the Algarve and Porto.

How many days do you need in Portugal and Spain?

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal and Spain, set aside at least 14 days to explore the region. Ideally, 3 to 4 weeks would allow you to explore the top destinations, less-frequented towns and hidden gems.

Are 2 weeks in Portugal too much?

14 days in Portugal is an ideal time to discover the must-see destinations. You’ll have plenty of time to visit Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, as well as a few national park and natural attractions.

Can I do Spain and Portugal in 10 days?

Sure, you can ‘do’ it, but it won’t be in-depth. 10 days in Spain and Portugal is enough to get a taste of what’s on offer. You can tick off bucket list cities like Porto, Lisbon, Seville, Granada and Madrid.

Why Visit Spain and Portugal?

Home to a huge haul of history-ridden hot spots, ancient alleyways and clashing contemporary culture, this corner of Europe is one of a kind. From the bliss-inducing beaches and decadent cuisine to the mountain-hugging villages with clashing cultures, Spain and Portugal is a must-see.

So, now that you know how to spend 14 days in Spain and Portugal, it’s time to get this show on the road!

Save this Spain and Portugal itinerary for 14 days for your next adventure!

See this gallery in the original post