Spain and Portugal Combined Trip Itinerary & Cost

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When planning a European adventure, Spain and Portugal often come up as a perfect pair. These two Iberian neighbors share history, culture, and geography, yet each offers its own unique experiences. A combined trip to Spain and Portugal lets you explore bustling cities, charming villages, stunning coastlines, and world-famous cuisine all in one journey. Spain and Portugal Combined Trip

In this guide, we’ll break down how to plan your Spain and Portugal combined trip, provide a suggested itinerary, estimate costs, and share practical travel tips to help you make the most of your adventure.

Why Combine Spain and Portugal?

Spain and Portugal are connected not just by borders but also by centuries of intertwined history. Their proximity makes it easy to travel between the two countries, whether by train, flight, or road. Combining them into a single itinerary offers:

Variety of landscapes: From Portugal’s Algarve beaches to Spain’s Pyrenees and Andalusian deserts.
Cultural richness: Moorish palaces, Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and colorful plazas.
Food and wine: Tapas and paella in Spain, pastel de nata and port wine in Portugal.
Convenience: Direct train and flight connections between major cities.

For first-time visitors to the Iberian Peninsula, a combined trip is both practical and rewarding.

Suggested 12-Day Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Here’s a balanced plan that blends city life, coastal beauty, and cultural exploration:

Day 1–3: Madrid, Spain

Start in the Spanish capital. Explore the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Prado Museum. Stroll through Retiro Park, shop along Gran Vía, and taste authentic tapas in La Latina.

Day 4–5: Seville, Spain

Take a train south to Seville, the heart of Andalusia. Visit the Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, and the Royal Alcázar. Spend an evening enjoying a live flamenco performance.

Day 6–7: Lisbon, Portugal

Hop over to Lisbon by flight or train. Wander through the neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto. Ride the iconic Tram 28, visit Belém Tower, and savor Portuguese custard tarts.

Day 8: Sintra, Portugal (Day Trip)

A short train ride from Lisbon takes you to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the fairytale-like Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and the lush gardens of Quinta da Regaleira.

Day 9–10: Porto, Portugal

Travel north to Porto, famous for its wine cellars and riverside charm. Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge, cruise the Douro River, and enjoy port wine tastings.

Day 11–12: Barcelona, Spain

End your journey in vibrant Barcelona. Admire Gaudí’s masterpieces like Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, stroll down La Rambla, and relax at Barceloneta Beach.

This itinerary balances Spain’s cultural depth with Portugal’s coastal charm, offering a well-rounded Iberian adventure.

Cost Breakdown of a Spain and Portugal Combined Trip

The cost of traveling through Spain and Portugal varies depending on travel style. Here’s a general estimate for a 12-day trip:

Flights

International flight to Madrid or Lisbon: $600–$1,000 (round-trip from outside Europe)
Local flights within Iberia: $50–$150 per flight

Accommodation

Budget: $40–$70 per night (hostels, budget hotels)
Mid-range: $90–$150 per night (3-star hotels, boutique stays)
Luxury: $200+ per night (4–5 star hotels, resorts)

For 12 nights, expect:

Budget: $500–$800
Mid-range: $1,000–$1,600
Luxury: $2,400+

Transportation

Train tickets (Madrid–Seville, Seville–Lisbon, Lisbon–Porto, Porto–Barcelona): $200–$350 total
Public transport passes in cities: $2–$3 per ride or $10–$20 per day
Occasional taxis: $10–$20 per ride

Food and Drinks

Budget: $20–$30 per day (street food, casual dining)
Mid-range: $40–$70 per day (sit-down restaurants, wine included)
Luxury: $100+ per day (fine dining, gourmet experiences)

Activities and Attractions

Museum and palace entries: $10–$20 each
Special tours (wine tasting, flamenco, river cruises): $50–$100 per activity
Total for 12 days: $200–$400

Total Estimated Cost for 12 Days

Budget: $1,600–$2,200 per person
Mid-range: $2,500–$3,800 per person
Luxury: $5,000+ per person

Best Time to Visit Spain and Portugal

Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, fewer crowds.
Autumn (September–October): Warm temperatures, harvest season, wine festivals.
Summer (July–August): Lively festivals, but hot weather and higher prices.
Winter (November–February): Mild in the south, quiet travel, great for cultural visits. Spa.in and Portugal Combined Trip

For the best balance of cost and weather, spring and autumn are ideal.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Spain–Portugal Trip

Book trains and flights in advance – Prices rise closer to the date.
Stay central – Choose accommodations in city centers for easy exploration.
Learn a few phrases – Spanish and Portuguese basics help with local interactions.
Pack light – Narrow streets and cobblestones make rolling luggage tricky.
Travel insurance – Recommended for peace of mind.
Mix city and countryside – Don’t just focus on capitals; small towns add charm.

What to Avoid on a Spain and Portugal Combined Trip

Overpacking your itinerary – Too many cities in a short time leads to exhaustion.
Ignoring local schedules – Meals and siestas differ; dinner often starts after 8 pm in Spain.
Assuming English is spoken everywhere – While common in tourist zones, locals appreciate efforts in their language.
Car rental in big cities – Public transport is easier and more affordable.
Skipping smaller towns – Gems like Granada in Spain or Coimbra in Portugal are worth adding if time allows.

FAQs about Spain and Portugal Combined Trips

1. How many days do I need for a Spain and Portugal trip?
At least 10–14 days are recommended to cover major highlights without feeling rushed.

2. What’s the best way to travel between Spain and Portugal?
Trains and budget airlines are the most convenient options. Buses are also affordable.

3. Is Spain more expensive than Portugal?
Generally, Spain is slightly more expensive, especially in big cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Portugal tends to be more budget-friendly.

4. Do I need separate visas for Spain and Portugal?
Both countries are part of the Schengen Area, so one Schengen visa covers both.

5. Can I do a road trip through Spain and Portugal?
Yes, road trips are popular, especially for exploring smaller towns and rural areas. However, avoid driving in dense city centers. Spain and Portugal Combined Trip.

6. What should I budget per day for mid-range travel?
Around $200–$300 per day covers accommodation, meals, local transport, and activities.

7. Is it safe to travel between Spain and Portugal?
Yes, both countries are considered safe for tourists, with standard precautions.

Final Thoughts

A Spain and Portugal combined trip is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Europe. The blend of Iberian history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery makes it ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Whether you’re wandering through Madrid’s museums, savoring Lisbon’s street food, or relaxing on Barcelona’s beaches, this journey is a perfect mix of exploration and relaxation.

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