Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 2 Weeks Across the Iberian Peninsula

The beautiful city of Lisbon lies draped across a string of seven hills on the western Iberian Peninsula and is the westernmost and oldest city in western Europe. Its long and tumultuous history has resulted in an aesthetic characterised by a haphazard combination of old and new; however, the aesthetic chaos of Lisbon only adds to its appeal and its undeniable charm. Bright yellow centenarian trams rattle their way up steep, tree-lined, cobbled streets; ornate ironwork balconies overrun with bougainvillaea sit above elegant outdoor cafes housed in ancient whitewashed, red-roofed stone houses; and a flurry of detailed mosaics decorate the sidewalks. Ancient statues adorn grand squares and hidden gardens. A diverse culinary scene, a plethora of fascinating museums, and numerous castles make it easy to see why Lisbon is one of Europe’s most misunderstood and underrated cities.

Located in northern Portugal along the Douro River estuary, the old sailing port of Porto is a World Heritage Site and the second-largest city in the country. While retaining the timeless charm of a small town, Porto also has many of the modern advantages of a metropolis. Browse the expansive art collection at the Soares dos Reis National Museum, view the ornate interior of the Church of Sao Francisco, and explore the medieval maze of stairways and terraces in the old quarter of Ribeira. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Vila Nova de Gaia area to sample some of Porto’s famous Port wine. Other popular attractions include the 12th-century Porto Cathedral, Clerigos Tower and the Harry-Potteresque Livraria Lello bookshop, showcasing some magnificent neo-gothic architecture.

Welcome to Seville, the passionate heart of Andalusia, a city that effortlessly blends rich history with vibrant modern life! This enchanting capital is truly famous for its fiery flamenco dancing, where passion ignites on every stage, its delectable tapas culture that invites endless culinary exploration, and its magnificent Moorish architecture that speaks volumes of its diverse past.

You can expect to be transported back in time as you explore the grand Seville Cathedral, home to Christopher Columbus's tomb and its iconic Giralda tower, offering breathtaking views of the city. Wander through the ethereal beauty of the Royal Alcázar palace and its serene gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the intricate tilework and tranquil courtyards. Then, soak in the grandeur of the expansive Plaza de España, a stunning architectural masterpiece.

Seville's warm, inviting charm and its deep, palpable history make it an inspiring and utterly unforgettable destination. Don't miss the chance to experience a traditional flamenco show in the Triana neighborhood or enjoy an evening stroll along the Guadalquivir River – it’s a city that truly lives and breathes its heritage.

Córdoba is an impressive city in southern Spain, known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Once the center of Moorish Al-Andalus, it uniquely blends Roman, Islamic, Jewish, and Christian heritage. The heart of the city is the world-famous Mezquita, a former mosque later converted into a cathedral – a fascinating symbol of cultural fusion. Narrow alleys, flower-filled courtyards, and a vibrant old town make Córdoba an unforgettable destination.

The small historical city of Granada lies tucked in a crook of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, with the River Darro flowing through its centre, in southern Spain’s Andalucia region. The world-renowned and extraordinarily well-preserved Moorish Alhambra, with its mysterious, reddish-gold, fortressed palaces and exotic gardens, presides over the city. On an adjacent hill, the Albaicin quarter consists of a warren of narrow, cobbled alleyways strewn with whitewashed houses, tiny hidden squares adorned with orange trees and fountains, traditional bars serving free tapas, and a growing number of gourmet restaurants. The third hill, Sacromonte, once a Gypsy enclave, is packed with fascinating cave dwellings hosting nightly flamenco dance performances. The city centre has a more elegant, contemporary feel with its upmarket boutiques, art nouveau flower stalls and large decorative fountains.

Spain’s enormous central capital, Madrid, lies on the River Manzanares and is a city of contrasts. Historical monuments like the impressive Royal Palace stand in stark contrast to state-of-the-art skyscrapers; masterpieces by Picasso, Dali and Velazquez adorn the walls of the city’s world-class galleries alongside contemporary modern works; local chefs display a passion for Spanish food at traditional eateries while chic fusion restaurants operate next door. Madrid’s real attraction lies in the seductive lifestyle of its hedonistic inhabitants; indulging in tapas, hunting for treasures at the El Rastro flea market or partying the night away in one of the many lively nightclubs. Make sure to soak up the vibrant street life of the grand, historic Plaza Mayor, Madrid's central square, and spend a leisurely afternoon on the landscaped lawns at the Parque del Buen Retiro.