Portugal and Spain Itinerary: A 10-Day Iberian Adventure
Embark on a 10-day journey through Portugal and Spain, starting in Lisbon and travelling by train and bus to explore Porto, Guimarães, Seville, and finally Madrid. This itinerary blends historic city exploration with cultural highlights and scenic travel.
- 1Lisbon
- 2Porto
- 3Seville
- 4Madrid
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon
Begin your Iberian adventure in Lisbon, settling into the city before an initial exploration of its oldest and most atmospheric district.
Highlights
- Arrive at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), located 7 km northeast of the city centre.
- Take the Metro's Red Line to Saldanha in about 20 minutes, or use local buses, Aerobus, taxis, or ride-hailing services.
- Wander through the narrow lanes and discover the historic charm of the Alfama district.
Day 2: Lisbon's Maritime Heritage
Delve into Lisbon's rich Age of Discoveries history by visiting iconic landmarks and indulging in a famous local pastry.
Highlights
- Explore the fortified Belém Tower, a symbol of Portugal's maritime past, set on the Tagus River.
- Visit the grand Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture with significant historical links.
- Taste the original custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém, a historic pastry shop famed for this local delicacy.
Day 3: Travel to Porto & Riverside Charm
Journey north by train to the vibrant city of Porto, where you'll settle in and begin exploring its picturesque riverside district.
Highlights
- Travel from Lisbon's Lisboa - Oriente station to Porto - Campanhã by Comboios De Portugal train, a journey taking around 3h 28m with tickets from €11.
- Discover the colourful UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, perfect for photos and enjoying Douro River views.
- Walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, designed in the Eiffel school tradition, for stunning river vistas.
Day 4: Porto's Historic Views & Port Wine
Spend the day uncovering Porto's architectural gems and experiencing its renowned port wine culture.
Highlights
- Visit Porto Cathedral, a Romanesque landmark crowning the old city, offering panoramic terrace views.
- Climb the Baroque Clérigos Tower for sweeping city views, one of Porto's most recognisable monuments.
- Enjoy a port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river, to sample the region's famous fortified wine.
Day 5: Day Trip to Historic Guimarães
Take a scenic train journey to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, to explore its medieval castle and ducal palace.
Highlights
- Catch an early Comboios De Portugal train from Porto - Campanhã to Guimarães, with the earliest departure around 09:00 and tickets from €8.
- Explore the 10th-century Castelo de Guimarães, walking its battlements for historical insights and views.
- Visit the Paço dos Duques de Bragança, a 15th-century ducal palace showcasing richly furnished rooms and tapestries. The latest return train from Guimarães to Porto is around 20:53.
Day 6: Journey to Seville
Embark on a long but comfortable bus journey from Porto to the heart of Andalusia, arriving in Seville for an evening of light exploration.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Porto, Terminal Intermodal de Campanhã to Sevilla, Estación de Autobuses (Plaza de Armas) with providers like FlixBus or Rede Expressos. The journey averages 8h 27m, with tickets from €28.
- Settle into your accommodation upon arrival in Seville.
- Enjoy a relaxed evening stroll through the city centre, soaking in the Andalusian atmosphere.
Day 7: Seville's Royal Splendor & Flamenco
Immerse yourself in Seville's Moorish and Gothic heritage, from its royal palace to its grand cathedral, and experience the passion of flamenco.
Highlights
- Discover the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a vast Mudéjar royal palace with ornate courtyards and stunning gardens.
- Visit Seville Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece housing major artworks and Christopher Columbus's tomb, and climb La Giralda for city views.
- Experience the vibrant flamenco heritage in the traditional Triana district, known for its lively streets.
Day 8: High-Speed Train to Madrid
Travel by high-speed train to Spain's capital, Madrid, and begin your exploration with its iconic central squares.
Highlights
- Take a high-speed train from Sevilla-Santa Justa to Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes with operators like iryo or AVE. The fastest trains take 2h 37m, with tickets from €15.
- Explore Madrid's historic Plaza Mayor, a grand central square lined with arcades.
- Visit Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square and one of Madrid's most famous landmarks.
Day 9: Madrid's Art & Green Spaces
Dedicate your day to Madrid's world-class art collections, serene parks, and vibrant culinary scene.
Highlights
- Spend time at the Museo del Prado, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch.
- Relax and stroll through El Retiro Park, Madrid's most famous park with gardens and a boating lake.
- Enjoy a traditional tapas experience in the lively La Latina neighbourhood.
Day 10: Depart from Madrid
Enjoy a final morning in Madrid before heading to the airport for your departure.
Highlights
- Take a last opportunity to revisit a favourite spot or discover a new corner of Madrid.
- Travel to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), located 12 km northeast of the city centre.
- Access the airport via Metro Line 8, Cercanías train (Line C1/C10), the Airport Express Bus, taxis, or ride-hailing services.
