3 Weeks in Spain and Portugal: 2 Itineraries

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Spain and Portugal are two countries that many people assume to be similar. While it’s true in some parts, there are huge differences between these two places, whether it’s culture, history, food, and of course, language.

Spain and Portugal are located in Southwest Europe, near France and Italy. Both countries have coastlines on the North Atlantic and territories in Northwest Africa.

When I considered visiting Portugal and started planning, it made me realise how close Spain and Portugal are to one another and how easy it is to travel between them. Since I’ve never been to Spain, including it on my Europe trip sounds exciting.

I spent 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal. Since I’ve been to Portugal before, I decided to spend 9 days there and 11 days in Spain. Below, I’ll show you how I planned my trip to give you some ideas and tips on curating a suitable itinerary.

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THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

Before booking your flights, it’s important to know these basic but important things about visiting Spain and Portugal. This information will help you decide when to go, idea on how to get around, mode of payments acceptable, cost of the trip, and more.

4 images - top left is western cape of Madeira island showing desert-like terrain and blue waters. On top right is a neighborhood in Spain with colourful roofs. Bottom right is the coast line of Tenerife showing blue waters and beaches, Bottom left is a the famous street in Lisbon - 3 Weeks in Spain and Portugal Itinerary

When is the best time to go

There’s no one answer to this question because the best time to travel to Spain and Portugal depends on what you plan to do and your budget. For example, if you’re on a budget, you want to avoid the high season from May to August or Christmas.

If you want to avoid the busy season and the rainy months, the best time to go to Spain and Portugal for a 3-week trip is from January to April or September to October. The water will be a bit cold, but the south you go, the better if you want to do water activities.

Here is more information about the seasons in Portugal and Spain:

  • Summer Season: June to August. Warm temperatures, particularly in inland areas.
  • Peak Season: July and August. Tourists flock to beaches, cities, and cultural sites. Accommodations and attractions are the busiest, and prices can be higher.
  • Low Season: November to February. Fewer tourists, cooler temperatures, especially in northern areas. Accommodations are generally cheaper and attractions less crowded.
  • Winter: December to February. Mild on the coast, colder inland, and snow in mountainous regions like the Pyrenees in Spain.
  • Rainy Season: Primarily in northern Spain and Portugal (Galicia, Asturias). The heaviest rainfall is from October to December but varies by region.

Are 3 weeks enough for Portugal and Spain

Yes, although you can’t visit all fantastic areas, you can still explore 5-6 cities, especially if you don’t plan to go to the Canary Islands since that trip alone will take out a full travel day.

The flight is not long, but considering the time you have to arrive at the airport, it’s hard to plan an activity during the day you are flying.

Arranging good and reliable transportation is the key to making sure you make the most of your trip here. We’ll discuss more about transportation in a little bit.

What to pack

Pack what you normally bring for a 3-week trip, but make changes depending on the season. A few things that you must really have are clothing for sacred places. You have to dress modestly for churches.

That includes covering your shoulders, down to your knees, and even your head for women. Make sure you bring a lightweight scarf that can be used as a beach towel and head coverage or an impromptu skirt.

We have lots of packing lists for a 20-day trip, such as a spring packing list, a winter packing list, an autumn packing list, and of course, a summer packing list.

How to get around

The main mode of transportation both in Spain and Portugal are buses, trains, planes, and cars. To get around the cities, you can use ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Bolt, Moovit, and Cabify. Make sure these apps are downloaded on your phone, and the payment is setup before you arrive here.

Here are some more tips about transportation in Portugal and Spain:

  • Fastest Way: Both countries have well-connected domestic flight networks. The common airlines are TAP Portugal, Iberia Airlines, Air Europa, and Ryanair. High-speed trains, like Spain’s AVE, also link major cities swiftly.
  • Cheapest Way: Buses are generally the most economical mode for long distances. Both countries have extensive bus networks with companies like ALSA (Spain) and Rede Expressos (Portugal). Trains, especially regional ones, can be affordable when booked in advance.
  • Renting a Car: Recommended if you plan to explore rural areas or smaller towns off the main transit routes. Both Spain and Portugal have well-maintained roads and highways. However, consider the following:
    • In cities, parking can be a challenge and expensive.
    • Both countries use toll roads, which can add to travel costs.
    • Familiarize yourself with local driving customs and regulations.
    • Most rental vehicles both in Spain and Portugal have manual transmissions. You can find automatic for a higher price.
  • Local Transportation: Major cities in both countries have efficient metro, bus, and tram systems. Madrid and Barcelona in Spain and Lisbon and Porto in Portugal have particularly extensive metro networks.

Recommendation: If your itinerary covers major cities, rely on trains and local transportation. Rent a car for specific legs of your journey where public transport might not be convenient or for exploring countryside areas.

I mostly travelled by plane and bus. However, for intercities, I walked a lot and used apps if the walk was longer than an hour, it was raining, or I was running late. We were two people travelling together, so using the ride-hailing app was more convenient than the local bus.

Language and currency

In Spain, the main language is Spanish (Castilian Spanish), while in Portugal it’s Portuguese. Tourists will find that in major cities and popular tourist destinations, many locals speak English, especially the younger generation.

Most attractions, hotels, and restaurants in these areas often have English-speaking staff. Although navigating both countries using English is typically straightforward, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to use basic local phrases. However, in rural regions, English proficiency might be more limited.

The primary currency in both Spain and Portugal is the Euro (€). USD is not commonly accepted, and tourists are generally expected to pay in Euros. While many establishments in cities and tourist hubs accept credit and debit cards, cash is preferred, especially in smaller towns and for smaller transactions.

It’s advisable for foreign visitors to carry a mix of both cards and cash. ATMs are widely available, and for the best exchange rates, it’s recommended to withdraw or exchange money at local banks.

Average travel cost for Spain and Portugal for 3 weeks

Travel cost in Spain and Portugal for 3 weeks varies a lot. It’s advisable to set a budget and then have emergency money for 5 days’ worth of expenses.

I personally budgeted for €80 per day, but actually ended up spending around €1,200, minus the flights and travel insurance. I stayed in a mixture of hostels and budget/mid-range hotels.

These numbers exclude international flights and travel insurance, but it’s advisable to book these in advance to avoid expenses at the end of your trip:

  1. Affordable/Backpacker: €750-€1,200
    • Stay: Hostels, budget guesthouses.
    • Food: Street food, local markets, self-catering.
    • Transport: Public buses, walking, and occasional regional trains.
    • Activities: Free attractions, self-guided tours.
  2. Mid-range: €1,200-€2,500
    • Stay: 3-star hotels, boutique guesthouses.
    • Food: Mid-range restaurants, some fine dining.
    • Transport: Intercity trains, domestic flights, local public transit.
    • Activities: Guided tours, and entrance fees to attractions.
  3. Luxury: €2,500-€6,000+
    • Stay: 4-5 star hotels, luxury resorts.
    • Food: Fine dining, gourmet experiences.
    • Transport: Private transfers, first-class trains/flights.
    • Activities: Private guided tours, exclusive experiences.

If you plan to travel with your children, you have to factor in that they need their own tickets for flights, but for hotels, if they’re under 18 years old, they can share a room with you.

Visa

Spain and Portugal are part of the EU and implement the visa policy of the Schengen States. This means that visitors with passports from the EU are free to enter and travel around these two countries for longer time.

For foreigns travellers with a passport from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, and most places in Latin America can enter and travel in Spain and Portugal for 90 days in a 180-day calendar period.

The rest of the world must apply for a visa in advance (it can be done as early as 6 months prior to your trip). The visa will be valid for both countries for the number of days you have been granted.

Other travel tips

HOTELS
VISA
CAR RENTAL
TOURS
FLIGHTS
BUS (EU/US/CA)
TRAINS EUROPE
TRAIN/BUS (ASIA)
TOUR OPTIONS
TRAVEL INSURANCE
RETURN TICKET
HOSTELS
BIKE RENTAL
CRUISES
AIRPORT PICK UP

PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL ITINERARY

I love many things about these two countries, but I’m eager to find out what makes them different from one another. During my trip, I decided to mix both renting a car and driving by bus, train, and domestic flight.

If you want to go to the Canary Islands (Northwest Africa), you need to take a short flight (around 2-3 hours).

When creating your own itinerary, make sure to check if there are direct bus or train routes between the cities to make it easier to get around. And finally, you don’t have to start and end in the same city since many cities in Spain and Portugal have many international flights.

This itinerary is suitable for people visiting Portugal and Spain for the first time, love to learn about history and culture, do outdoor activities, visit castles, and enjoy mouthwatering local dishes and wines.

Itinerary #1: First-timer (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Algarve, Porto, Lisbon)

This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors to both countries. It highlights the must-see sites and balances historical locations, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Start in Madrid, Spain and finish the trip in Lisbon, Portugal.

Visit Spain and Portugal to experience a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Madrid offers world-class museums and a pulsating nightlife. Barcelona dazzles with Gaudí’s architectural marvels and beachfront vibrancy.

Seville enchants with its historic Alcazar and passionate flamenco. Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, combines coastal charm with ancient fortresses. Algarve’s stunning coastline boasts golden beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Porto, a riverside gem, is famed for its port wine and historical Ribeira District. Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, entices with its hilltop views, tram rides, and vibrant neighbourhoods.

If you have 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal, you can’t miss each country’s capital cities. Not only rich in history and a melting pot of culture, using these cities as a travel hub to enter and exit is very convenient.

If you want to rent a car, I only recommend you do this in Portugal. The distances between the cities in Spain are too great. Unless you plan an itinerary and choose cities near from one another, driving on your own is a good choice.

Madrid for 3 days

Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, is a blend of rich history and modern energy. It boasts world-renowned museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia, showcasing impressive art collections. The city pulses with life in its grand plazas, notably Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor.

With its Royal Palace, verdant Retiro Park, and bustling Gran Vía, Madrid offers a unique mix of cultural experiences, green spaces, and urban dynamism, all complemented by its delectable gastronomy.

Use this time to arrange your car rental if that’s your plan and get some local currencies, a local sim card with data, and book transportation between cities or to your next destination.

2 images - left is Plaza Mayor in Madrid showing an old building an a statue of man on a horse. Right is a narrow street in Lisbon with a traditional tram driving by

Barcelona for 3 days

Barcelona, nestled between mountains and the Mediterranean, is a feast for the senses. It is celebrated for Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces like Sagrada Família and Park Güell and offers a unique blend of historic and avant-garde.

The city’s vibrant neighbourhoods pulse with energy, from the historic Gothic Quarter to the bohemian El Raval. Barcelona’s beachfront boardwalk, eclectic markets, and rich Catalonian cuisine further elevate its allure as a must-visit destination.

If you’re driving, travelling between Madrid and Barcelona takes 6 hours and 30 minutes. For those using the train, it takes less than 3 hours. You can also fly, which is around 1 hr and 20 minutes.

Seville or Malaga for 4 days

I recommend you choose between these two cities; one is on the south coast, and the other is more on a landlocked city. You can’t go wrong. Both these Andalusian cities offer unique history, culture (especially Moorish), and tasty local dishes (hello tapas!).

Malaga, a sun-kissed coastal city, is the gateway to Spain’s Costa del Sol. Beyond its beaches, it’s Picasso’s birthplace, housing an eponymous museum showcasing his works. The Alcazaba fortress offers panoramic city views, while the Roman theatre testifies to its ancient roots.


Seville, the heart of Andalusia, captivates with its rich Moorish heritage, epitomized by the Alcázar palace and Giralda tower. The city resonates with passionate flamenco rhythms and the fervor of its traditional festivals, like Feria de Abril. Wander the intricate alleys of the Santa Cruz quarter, and be awed by the vastness of Plaza de España.

Both are too far from Barcelona, so booking a flight or train is the best choice. From Barcelona to Seville or Malaga, the train is less than 6 hours; both choices stop in Madrid and might require a change of train. If flying, both destinations are a 1 hr and 40-minute direct flight.

Lisbon for 4 days

It’s time to bid goodbye to Spain and time to explore Portugal. The first destination is Lisbon, the capital city.

If you want to rent a car, this is an excellent part of your trip. Driving between Lisbon to Porto, to Algarve, and back to Lisbon gives you freedom of your time, and the drive is no more than 3 hours each.

Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, enchants with its hilltop vistas and historic tram rides. A city of seven hills, its neighborhoods, from the bohemian Bairro Alto to the historic Alfama, pulse with life and Fado music.

The ornate Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery echo maritime glories, while the LX Factory showcases its contemporary artsy side. Lisbon’s blend of old-world charm, vibrant nightlife, and sun-kissed Tagus River views make it a captivating destination.

To reach Lisbon from Malaga or Seville, there’s a direct flight that takes an hour. You can pick up your car rental at Lisbon Airport (Humberto Delgado Airport) and set the drop off here too when you catch your flight home.

Porto for 3 days

Porto, perched along the Douro River, is a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Famed for its port wine, visitors can explore wine cellars and sample exquisite varieties. Don’t forget to join a vineyard tour with wine tasting.

The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge offers breathtaking views, while the Ribeira District, with its colorful facades and narrow streets, evokes a bygone era. From the ornate Livraria Lello bookstore to the bustling Bolhão Market, Porto’s rich tapestry beckons exploration.

Getting to Porto from Lisbon is easy and you have plenty of options. The bus is the cheapest choice which will take 3 hr and 30 minutes. The train travel is the same, but it’s more scenic and comfortable. Driving will be around 3 hours. There’s also a domestic flight for an hour.

2 images - left is the famous Padrao dos Descobrimentos in Lisbon and right is La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Algarve for 3 days

As the final leg of your trip, it’s the Algarve region. Portugal’s southernmost region is a sun-drenched haven of golden beaches and turquoise waters.

Renowned for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and historic fishing villages, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers and adventurers alike. The region boasts charming towns like Lagos and Tavira, enriched with Moorish history. Whether indulging in fresh seafood, exploring ancient forts, or unwinding by the Atlantic, the Algarve promises a picturesque retreat.

Algarve is the best place to end your trip because you can enjoy the beach and water activities here. You can fly from Porto to Faro airport; it’s a non-stop 1 hr and 10-minute flight. The drive will take 5 hours, the bus is around 7 hours.

When you’re ready to leave, you can take a bus to Lisbon or a direct flight from Algarve. If you rent a car, the drive is 2 hr and 45 minutes.

Itinerary #2: Hiking and Beaches (Barcelona, Valencia, Ibiza, Lisbon, Algarve, Madeira Islands, Tenerife)

There are so many good things Portugal and Spain offers to its foreign visitors. But if you’re after exciting hiking trails and pristine beaches, that’s also possible. I personally love this itinerary because it offers an amazing opportunity.

I own itinerary was a mixture of Itinerary #1 and #2. I visited during autumn/fall season, so I didn’t get to enjoy the water that much. The water temperature was around 20°C, so it was not bad, but I didn’t want to freeze. I can only image how good it would be during the summer season.

3 weeks in Spain and Portugal, you can’t miss the Canary Islands, which both countries have territories. Namely Madeira Islands, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria. I did a lot of hiking both in Madeira Islands and Tenerife.

You can definitely do both. Go to 3 cities in Spain and 3 cities in Portugal. If you wnt to save a bit of money, choose only one between Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Madeira Islands and swap it with a city on the mainland.

Barcelona for 4 days

Barcelona offers the best of both worlds for nature enthusiasts. Nestled between the Montserrat mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, it provides avid hikers with trails leading to panoramic city views, like those from Montjuïc and the Collserola range.

The city’s coastline boasts urban beaches such as Barceloneta and Nova Icaria, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Just a short journey away, the rugged Costa Brava coastline offers secluded coves and scenic coastal hikes.

From Barcelona, the Pyrenees region is only 3 hour’s drive, so tht’s another option for hiking. Popilar areas includes Parc Natural del Cadí-Moixeró, Parc Natural de l’Alt Pirineu, and Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park.

2 images - summit view from Pico Ruivo on sea of clouds in Madeira Island. On the right is the summit view of Mount Teide in Tenerife

Valencia or Ibiza for 3 days

You should choose between these two locations because going to both will cost you time. Go to Valencia if you want to stay on the mainland and have the options to do day trips around the city. You should also skip Ibiza if you don’t want to take the ferry.

Valencia, on Spain’s eastern coast, is a haven for those drawn to nature and the sea. Its pristine urban beaches, like Malvarrosa and Patacona, invite relaxation and water activities. The nearby Albufera Natural Park offers tranquil trails and birdwatching opportunities.

For the avid hiker, the mountainous regions around Valencia, such as the Sierra Calderona, present challenging trails with breathtaking views.

For those looking for a classic party island, Ibiza is the place for you. Ibiza, a jewel of the Balearic Islands, is synonymous with crystalline waters and stunning beaches. From the secluded coves of Cala d’Hort and Cala Salada to the vibrant beach clubs of Playa d’en Bossa, Ibiza caters to both tranquil sun-seekers and lively beach partiers.

The island boasts pristine sandy stretches and rocky coastlines, perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, or watching the iconic Ibiza sunset. Its coastal beauty truly epitomizes Mediterranean allure.

The fastest way to get to Valencia from Barcelona is the train, around 3-4 hours’ ride. The drive is round 4 hours. There’s a flight, but requires a connection Palma or Madrid.

Barcelona to Ibiza by plane is a non-stop 1 hour trip only. I don’t recommend getting to Valencia, then from there taking a ferry. This will take too long and most likely won’t be cheaper than flying.

Tenerife or Gran Canaria for 4 days

First thing you should know is that Tenerife have 2 airports, one in the north and the other in the south. So, book your flight depending on where you plan to stay. Gran Canaria only have one airport.

Choose between these two places in Canary Islands. You can’t go wrong as both are charming, but when ti comes to hiking, Tenerife has marked trails, perfect if you’ve never been here before.

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, beckons with diverse landscapes. Sun-seekers relish its black and golden sand beaches, like Playa de Las Teresitas and Playa Jardín. For hiking enthusiasts, the UNESCO-listed Teide National Park offers trails across volcanic terrains, culminating at Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak.

From the lunar landscapes of Llano de Ucanca to the lush Anaga mountains, Tenerife combines beachfront leisure with exhilarating trekking adventures.

On the other hand, Gran Canaria, a pivotal gem in the Canary Islands. It offers a tapestry of nature’s wonders. Its coastline boasts varied beaches from the bustling Playa del Inglés to the tranquil Güigüí, accessible only by foot or boat.

Inland, the island unveils rugged landscapes with trails traversing the pine-clad Tamadaba Natural Park and the dramatic ravines of Barranco de Guayadeque. Gran Canaria melds golden sands with diverse hiking trails, ensuring an unparalleled experience.

From Valencia or Ibiza, you can get to Tenerife by catching a flight. There’s a connection in Madrid. Choose and book flight wisely so you don’t spend more than 5 hours travelling between the two places. From Ibiza or Valencia to Gran Canaria, the flight connects either in Madrid or Barcelona.

Madeira Islands for 4 days

You’re now heading to Portugal’s territory. Madeira Islands is easily one of my favourite hiking regions in Europe (well, Northwest Africa), when it comes to unique ecosystem. I hiked 3 trails and experienced 3 different environments; desert, semi-tropical, and mountain. The beaches here are not as stunning as Tenerife or Gran Canaria, but the lava pools are super cool.

Madeira Islands, a Portuguese archipelago, captivates with its natural allure. While its beaches, like Praia Formosa, offer volcanic black sands and serene ocean views, Madeira’s true essence lies inland.

The island’s “levadas” (irrigation channels) provide unique hiking paths, meandering through lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and cloud-kissed peaks. From the coastal charms of Porto Santo to the mountainous terrains of Pico Ruivo, Madeira promises a harmonious blend of beach relaxation and hiking escapades.

From Gran Canaria or Tenerife to Madeira Islands, there’s a flight that connects in Madrid. It’s not a cheap flight, so make sure not to book last minutes.

Lisbon for 2 days

You can choose between Lisbon and Algarve as your next destination. There’s a direct flight to Lisbon from Madeira Island. If you go to Algarve, you need to connect in Lisbon.

But then, the travel between Lisbon and Algarve can be done by bus, driving, or plane. You decide if you want to end your trip in a city or near beautiful beaches.

When it comes to beaches and hiking, Lisbon doesn’t have much to offer, but it’s historical city is definitely worth a visit. Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, is more than just urban allure. Beach enthusiasts flock to nearby Cascais and Estoril, boasting golden sands and azure waters, while Costa da Caparica offers surf-friendly waves.

For hiking aficionados, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park presents trails meandering through mystical forests, leading to panoramic viewpoints and Moorish castles. Just a stone’s throw from the city’s hustle, Lisbon’s surroundings provide a balanced dose of sun, sea, and scenic treks.

Algarve for 3 days

Finally, Algarve. It’s a region in Portugal, not a city. The main airport here is located in Faro District and the most popular place to stay is around Lagos.

The Algarve, Portugal’s sunlit southern coast, is a dream for nature lovers. Its coastline is a mosaic of golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves like Praia da Marinha and Benagil Cave.

Beyond the shore, the region’s hinterland offers hiking enthusiasts trails through aromatic orchards, historic villages, and the rolling hills of the Monchique mountain range. Algarve seamlessly blends the serenity of the Atlantic with the allure of untouched landscapes.

The bus drive between Algarve and Lisbon is only 3 hours, the bus is 4 hours and a flight is 50 minutes. I personally like to end my trip in a relaxing place such as Algarve, where I can spend hours on the beach or going for a spa.

MUST-TRY SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE DISHES AND DRINKS

Eating and drinking are two things you can’t skip when visiting and spending 3 weeks in Spain and Portugal. Here’s a list of the top dishes from countries.

I love bacalhau and pasteis de nata from Portugal. While paella and churros are my favourites from Spain – yep, I’m very cliche! Make sure to try at least 4-5 dishes, desserts, and drinks and see which ones you like the most:

Spain:

  • Paella – A rich rice dish often featuring saffron, vegetables, and a variety of proteins such as chicken, rabbit, or seafood.
  • Tapas – Small appetizers ranging from albondigas (meatballs) to patatas bravas (spicy potatoes).
  • Gazpacho – A cold tomato-based soup made with fresh vegetables, perfect for hot days.
  • Tortilla Española – A thick Spanish omelette with potatoes and onions.
  • Fabada Asturiana – A hearty bean stew with sausages and bacon, typical from Asturias.
  • Pisto – Spanish ratatouille made with tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, onions, and eggplant.
  • Churros con Chocolate – Fried dough pastries served with a thick chocolate dip.
  • Tarta de Santiago – An almond cake from Galicia, often topped with powdered sugar and the cross of Saint James.
  • Crema Catalana – Catalonia’s version of crème brûlée, a creamy dessert with a caramelized sugar top.
  • Sangria – A fruity wine-based drink mixed with various fruits, sugar, and sometimes brandy.
  • Horchata – A sweet and creamy drink made from tiger nuts, typical from Valencia.
4 images of food - top left is paella, top right is churros, bottom left is pasteis de nata, bottom right is bacalhau - 3 Weeks in Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Portugal:

  • Bacalhau à Brás – Shredded cod mixed with finely chopped straw fries and bound together with scrambled eggs.
  • Caldo Verde – A green soup made with thinly sliced collard greens, potatoes, and chorizo.
  • Frango Piri-Piri – Spicy grilled chicken seasoned with piri-piri chili.
  • Arroz de Marisco – Seafood rice loaded with a mix of fresh seafood.
  • Cozido à Portuguesa – A hearty stew made with various meats, sausages, and vegetables.
  • Açorda – A traditional bread soup made with garlic, coriander, olive oil, and sometimes seafood.
  • Pastéis de Nata – Creamy custard tarts with a crispy, flaky pastry and a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar.
  • Bolo de Bolacha – A rich biscuit cake made with layers of Maria cookies soaked in coffee and interspersed with creamy butter filling.
  • Arroz Doce – Portuguese rice pudding, often decorated with cinnamon patterns.
  • Vinho Verde – A young, slightly effervescent green wine unique to Portugal.
  • Ginjinha – A cherry liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestive in Lisbon and Óbidos.

THINGS TO DO PER CITY

2 images - coastline of blue waters in Ibiza on the left. On the right is the beautiful Benagil Sea Caves in Algarve

Now that you have some ideas on where to go, how many days to spend on each cities, and even list of food to try, it’s time to show you a list of must-do and must-see activities in each country. I also included list of recommeneded tours to book to make your trip more convinient:

Madrid

Barcelona

Valencia

Ibiza

Malaga

Granada

Seville

  • Royal Alcazar of Seville
  • Catedral de Seville
  • Punta Umbria Beach
  • Cascadas del Hueznar
  • Real Alcazar
  • Parque de Maria Luisa and Plaza de Espana
  • Barrio de Santa Cruz
  • Museo del Baile Flamenco
  • Real Maestranza de Caballeria de Sevilla
  • Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija
  • Metropol Parasol
  • Torro del Oro

Lisbon

Porto

Algarve

Madeira Islands

Tenerife

Gran Canaria

  • Pico de las Nieves
  • Reserva Natural Especial de las dunas de Maspalomas
  • Go scuba diving – book a tour
  • Playa Puerto Rico
  • Drive an ATV – enjoy a tour
  • Roque Nublo
  • Enjoy a submarine tour – read the reviews
  • Palmitos Park
  • Sign up for a morning cruise – check the price

ACCOMMODATIONS PER CITY

Finally, you need a place to stay. You must book your accommodations at least 6 months in advance if you’re visiting between May to September or December. The good hotels with reasonable prices get booked up so fast. Here’s a quick list of places to stay in Portugal and Spain:

Madrid

Barcelona

Valencia

Ibiza

Malaga

Granada

Seville

You can also check this list of best boutique hotels in Seville with swimming pools.

Lisbon

Porto

Algarve

Madeira Islands

Tenerife

Gran Canaria

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL ITINERARY

Visiting two places in a single trip is always a good thing, especially if they’re right next to each other and you have plenty of time. Spain and Portugal is a great sample of this. Both countries might seem to be similar, but that can’t be further from the truth.

3 weeks in Spain and Portugal means you can visit museums, explore each country’s capital, try our local cuisines, go hiking, enjoy the beach, and more. At the end of your trip, you’ll discover why they are very different countries but equally worth visiting.

I hope this itinerary guide has helped you plan your own trip.

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