Spectacular Iberia: A 21-Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary
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Tour Plan For 21 Days in Portugal & Spain
Our guided tour itinerary delivers the best of Spain and Portugal in three magical weeks.
As you traverse stunning coastlines, majestic mountains, and lively cities, a dedicated driver-guide will be by your side to ensure total comfort and ease of transport. Each destination unfolds a new chapter, from Madrid’s regal charm to Porto’s riverside allure, allowing you to delve deep into Iberian traditions, gastronomy, and art.
With strategic stays and thoughtfully planned day trips, we ensure a seamless, enriching adventure with minimal hotel changes. Prepare to be enchanted by the rhythms, flavors, and stories of two of Europe’s most beloved countries with our 21-day itinerary.
Destinations For Your 3-Week Tour Of Portugal & Spain
- Day 1: Madrid
- Day 2: Toledo Day Trip
- Day 3: Segovia Day Trip
- Day 4: Madrid
- Day 5: Cordoba Day Trip
- Day 6: Seville
- Day 7: Ronda Day Trip
- Day 8: Malaga Day Trip
- Day 9: Granada
- Day 10: Almería Day Trip
- Day 11: Valencia
- Day 12: Alicante Day Trip
- Day 13: Valencia
- Day 14: Barcelona
- Day 15: Tarragona Day Trip
- Day 16: Barcelona
- Day 17: Lisbon
- Day 18: Sintra Day Trip
- Day 19: Tomar Day Trip
- Day 20: Porto
- Day 21: Coimbra Day Trip
Day 1: Madrid - Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol & Retiro Park
Madrid, Spain’s spirited capital, is a harmonious blend of historical grandeur and contemporary energy. Begin your adventure in the heart of the city at the iconic Plaza Mayor. This square, with its cobbled streets and impressive facades, has witnessed everything from markets and festivals to public executions in centuries past. Let your private guide narrate tales of yesteryears, breathing life into the bricks and stones around you.
A short walk away, the bustling atmosphere of Puerta del Sol beckons. As the kilometer-zero of Spain’s radial network of Spanish roads, it’s not just a geographical center but also a cultural one. Watch as Madrileños go about their day and perhaps pause for a coffee at one of the many surrounding cafes.
Concluding the day, find respite in the tranquil embrace of Retiro Park. Once a royal garden, this expansive green space is now a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Meander through manicured gardens, pass by the serene lake, and perhaps even row a boat, all while the world outside seems to fade away.
Day 2: Toledo - Three Cultures in One City
Just an hour’s drive from Madrid with your private chauffeur, the ancient city of Toledo emerges atop a hill, surrounded by the Tajo River. Often dubbed the “City of Three Cultures,” Toledo is a testament to the intricate coexistence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish traditions.
Your journey begins at the formidable Toledo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. With its soaring spires, intricate stained glass, and a treasury filled with invaluable art, it’s a visual and spiritual feast.
Wander the narrow, winding alleys, and you’ll stumble upon the Santa María La Blanca Synagogue, a symbol of Toledo’s rich Jewish heritage. Its horseshoe arches and ornamental design reflect the influence of Moorish craftsmanship.
Further delve into the Muslim legacy with a visit to the Cristo de la Luz Mosque. Though modest in size, it’s profound in history, being one of the ten mosques that existed in the city during Moorish times.
Toledo’s allure also lies in its craftsmanship. Don’t miss the chance to pick up a piece of the famed Damasquinado (gold and black ironwork) as a memory of your trip.
As the sun sets and casts golden hues on Toledo’s ancient walls, you’ll realize that this city isn’t just about places but also about the stories of harmony and coexistence they tell.
Return to Madrid in the evening.
Day 3: Segovia - Stepping Back into Time
Your driver will collect you in the morning to deliver you to Segovia, a city that stands as a testament to Spain’s rich and varied history.
The city’s skyline is dominated by one of its most renowned landmarks, the Roman Aqueduct. This ancient structure, built without mortar, has defied time, continuing to stand tall. As you walk beneath its towering arches, you’ll be walking the same path as countless others did centuries before. Your guide will detail its impressive engineering and historical significance, adding layers of depth to its already impressive stature.
However, Segovia is not just about Roman history. Perched high on a craggy hill, the Alcázar of Segovia conjures images of fairy tales with its turrets and spires. Legend has it that this castle inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Wander through its ornate rooms, climb its towers, and learn about the many royals who called it home. The panoramic view from the top, encompassing the city and the distant Sierra de Guadarrama, is simply breathtaking.
Rejoin your private driver for the drive back to Madrid in the evening.
Day 4: Madrid - A Deep Dive into Art and Everyday Life
Madrid isn’t just Spain’s political capital; it’s also its cultural epicenter.
Start your day at the Reina Sofia Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of modern and contemporary art. Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ remains the showstopper, its haunting imagery compelling visitors to stop and reflect. But there’s more. Dalí, Miró, and countless other artists await each work, a new window into Spain’s soul.
Post the museum, it’s time to dive into the vibrancy of Madrid’s local life. The city’s markets are not just places to shop; they’re the beating heart of Madrid’s daily life. Visit the Mercado San Miguel, where locals and tourists alike mingle. Here, under its 20th-century iron structure, you can savor everything from Iberian ham to fresh olives, all while soaking in the market’s lively ambiance.
For a quieter, more localized experience, venture to Mercado de la Paz in the Salamanca district. This market has been serving locals since 1882. As you explore its stalls, you’ll not only get a sense of Madrid’s culinary delights but also its everyday rhythms, making your journey both delicious and insightful.
Spend the night in Madrid.
Day 5: Cordoba
Seville, the capital of Spain’s Andalusia region, will be your base for the next three nights. A city teeming with history, passion, and life. Its streets resonate with the echo of ancient civilizations, the fervor of flamenco, and the aroma of orange blossoms.
A quick jaunt from Seville, Cordoba beckons with its storied past. The crown jewel of this historic city is the Mezquita, an architectural marvel that speaks to the city’s layered history. Initially a Visigothic church, it transformed into a mosque and, eventually, back into a cathedral. As you walk beneath its candy-striped arches, your guide will share tales of the caliphs who once prayed here, making the intricate mosaics and horseshoe arches come alive.
Afterward, wander into the Jewish Quarter, a maze of narrow, winding lanes, whitewashed buildings, and flower-filled patios. The legacy of the Sephardic Jews is palpable in the synagogues and monuments. Each corner reveals another chapter of Cordoba’s eclectic past.
Day 6: Seville - The Essence of Andalusia
Begin your day in Seville at the Plaza de España, where majestic bridges span moats and intricate tiles tell Spain’s diverse tales. But Seville’s heart beats strongest in its streets, with its flamenco rhythms.
In the Triana district, experience flamenco’s power. Whether it’s a spontaneous performance on a street corner or a passionate display at a table, the dance’s raw emotion is a captivating testament to the Andalusian spirit.
Post the rhythmic encounter, it’s time for a culinary journey. Seville’s tapas trails lead you through bustling bars and hushed bodegas. With a local guide, sample everything from classic patatas bravas to innovative fusion dishes. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through Seville’s rich tapestry of influences, all served on a plate.
In Seville, every experience, from the historic to the gastronomic, is laced with the fervor and passion that Andalusia is renowned for.
Day 7: Ronda - A Journey Through Time and Terrain
Ronda, dramatically perched atop the El Tajo gorge, offers an enticing blend of natural beauty and rich history. As you approach, the city’s whitewashed buildings appear as a mirage against the rugged backdrop, an image that has inspired poets and writers for centuries.
Upon entering Ronda, the Puente Nuevo immediately captures one’s attention. This iconic bridge, straddling the deep chasm, is more than a marvel of engineering; it’s a testament to human tenacity. As you traverse it, pause to marvel at the views of the Guadalevín River slicing through the canyon below.
Ronda’s Moorish legacy, though, is its soul. The La Ciudad, the old Moorish town, whispers tales from the time of the Berbers with its narrow lanes, palatial townhouses, and ancient bathhouses. The remains of the Moorish Castle offer panoramic views and a silent narrative of a time when Ronda was a key stronghold in Andalusia.
A day in Ronda is a plunge into a landscape masterpiece intertwined with layers of history, making it an unmissable chapter in the Andalusian journey before returning
Return to your accommodation in Seville.
Day 8: Malaga - Sun, Sand, and Picasso
A coastal gem, our tour itinerary in Malaga will show you that this energetic city offers more than just sun-kissed beaches.
Your journey begins with a visit to the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the city’s most famous son. Meander through a curated collection that chronicles Picasso’s illustrious career, revealing the genius of his transformative art.
Post art admiration, Malaga’s historic center invites exploration. Navigate its narrow streets, pausing at the Malaga Cathedral, an embodiment of Andalusian architectural prowess. As afternoon melts into the evening, find yourself at La Malagueta, the city’s premier beach. Let the Mediterranean caress your feet as you savor local seafood tapas, with the horizon painted in sunset hues.
Your private driver will deliver you to Granada in the evening.
Day 9: Granada - Alhambra Palace & Moorish Majesty
In the heart of Andalusia lies Granada, a city where Moorish spirit dances amidst the echoes of the Reconquista. With the Sierra Nevada mountains as its backdrop and the scent of jasmine perfuming its air, Granada offers a journey that intertwines history, art, and nature.
The heart of Granada beats with tales of sultans, poets, and warriors. The Alhambra Palace is a testament to this legacy.
As you traverse its palatial chambers, courtyards, and gardens, each mosaic and fountain speaks of the golden age of Al Andalus. The intricate stuccowork, reflecting pools, and the famed Court of the Lions transport visitors to a world where art and nature coalesce in harmonious splendor.
Post-Alhambra, descend into the Albayzín district, the city’s ancient Muslim Quarter. With its labyrinthine alleys, whitewashed homes, and sudden vistas of the Alhambra against the Sierra Nevada, the Albayzín is a sensory journey.
As the evening muezzin call serenades from the San Nicolás viewpoint, the panorama of Granada at twilight, with the Alhambra gleaming like a jewel, ensures a moment of profound connection to this land’s enduring spirit.
Overnight in Granada.
Day 10: Almería - Oasis Amidst Desert Sands
Almería, with its sun-baked landscapes and rich Moorish history, promises a day of contrasts. Start with the stunning arid terrain of the Tabernas Desert, Europe’s only true desert. Its moonlike landscapes have set the stage for many a Hollywood Western, and a guided trek here is like walking through a film set, with the sun casting dramatic shadows over the rugged terrain.
From the vastness of the desert, transition to the heart of Almería city and its crowning glory: the Alcazaba. This massive fortress, reminiscent of the Alhambra, stands as a testament to the city’s Moorish past. Its walls and towers, set against the backdrop of the cerulean Mediterranean Sea, hold stories of sultans and sieges. The terraced gardens within offer a refreshing respite, with views of the city sprawling below.
Return to Granada in the evening.
Day 11: Valencia - A Dance of Past and Future
Day 11 begins with a five-hour journey in first class on the high-speed train from Granada to Valencia.
Upon arrival, embark on a journey through Valencia’s architectural marvels, starting with the City of Arts and Sciences. Designed by the renowned Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic complex, with its reflecting pools and white skeletal structures, is a celebration of human ingenuity. Visit the Hemisfèric for an immersive IMAX experience, or the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium, housing a plethora of marine life.
From the contemporary transition to the city’s historic heart: the Old Town. Wander the lanes of El Carmen, with its graffiti-art adorned ancient buildings. The Valencia Cathedral, with its blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque styles, beckons. And don’t forget to visit the Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest markets, where the colors and scents of fresh produce and local specialties provide a treat for the senses. As evening descends, indulge in a plate of authentic Valencian paella, a fitting culinary climax to a day of exploration.
Day 12: Alicante - Coastal Charm Meets Medieval Grandeur
A short drive from Valencia, Alicante shines with its Mediterranean allure. Begin your day strolling along the Explanada de España, a vibrant waterfront promenade lined with palm trees and intricate floor mosaics that mirror the waves of the adjacent sea. Here, the gentle sounds of the Mediterranean serve as a backdrop as locals and visitors alike enjoy the Spanish sun.
Then, it’s time to ascend to one of Spain’s most iconic fortifications: the Castle of Santa Barbara. Perched high on Mount Benacantil, the castle offers panoramic views of the azure Costa Blanca coastline. With parts of the fortress dating back to the 9th century, the structure paints a vivid picture of Alicante’s past. Wander its historic ramparts, towers, and dungeons, and delve into tales of Moorish rulers and Christian conquerors.
Before heading back to Valencia, dip your toes in the golden sands of Playa del Postiguet. This urban beach, with its calm waves and sunlit expanse, is a testament to Alicante’s coastal allure.
Day 13: Valencia's Hidden Gems
On the 13th day of our itinerary, you’re set to unearth some of Valencia’s most tucked-away treasures with a selection of off-the-beaten-track guided tours.
Your journey begins at the Torres de Serranos, one of Valencia’s ancient gateways that once vigilantly stood guard over the medieval city. As you explore the impressive Gothic-style towers, there’s a palpable sense of the historical epochs they’ve stood through.
Those seeking a thrill can ascend these towers to catch an unparalleled view of Valencia’s intricate rooftops and the vibrancy of life below.
Your expedition then leads you to the heart of Valencia, where the Llotja de la Seda stands as a testament to the city’s prosperous past. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this edifice, boasting Gothic grandeur, was a central hub for the silk trade, its very walls seemingly echoing the negotiations of yesteryear merchants.
Next, the tour unveils the artistic brilliance of Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas. The palace’s Rococo-inspired façade is just a precursor to the artistic marvels housed within. Together with your guide, you’ll witness the mesmerizing exhibits of the National Ceramic Museum, displaying the pinnacle of Valencian artistry.
As evening sets, you’ll be introduced to the Colón Market, an architectural gem of modernism. Here, your guide will chronicle its transformation from a traditional market of the early 20th century to today’s stylish epicenter of culture and gastronomy. As you meander through, let the market’s striking designs captivate your eyes, and the aromas from boutique cafes tantalize your senses, ensuring a holistic experience of Valencia’s spirit.
Day 14: Barcelona - Catalonia's Artistic Spirit Unveiled
At the 2-week junction of our tour, you make your way to Barcelona, the crown jewel of Catalonia, with a 2-hour and 40-minute journey in the high-speed train.
Begin your city exploration by strolling along La Rambla, a lively boulevard that pulses with the heartbeat of the city. Lined with cafes, flower stalls, and artists showcasing their talents, it epitomizes Barcelona’s vibrant culture. Just off this main thoroughfare, visit La Boqueria, a bustling market offering a myriad of fresh produce, colorful candies, and authentic Spanish tapas.
As the day progresses, allow the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí to command your attention. Visit the iconic Casa Batlló, with its undulating façades and shimmering tiles, a masterpiece that challenges architectural norms.
Continue to Park Güell, a whimsical public park adorned with colorful mosaics, meandering pathways, and panoramic views of the city. No Gaudí exploration is complete without marveling at the majestic Sagrada Família, his magnum opus that, even in its unfinished state, stands as a testament to his genius.
Day 15: Tarragona - Echoes of the Roman Empire
Just an hour’s drive from Barcelona, Tarragona beckons with its Roman relics and Mediterranean charm. Begin at the Amphitheatre, a Roman relic with the azure sea as its backdrop. Here, envision gladiators battling for glory as the audience’s roars echo from the stone stands.
Next, wander to the Tarragona Cathedral, a fusion of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. While its towering façade impresses, the cloister, with its intricate carvings and serene ambiance, offers a tranquil retreat. Just steps away, the Roman Circus unveils its ancient secrets. Once a venue for chariot races, it’s now a testament to the architectural prowess of the Roman Empire.
Conclude your day atop the Mediterranean Balcony, a viewpoint overlooking the vast expanse of the sea, where the horizon stretches infinitely, and the weight of history mingles with the salt-laden breeze. The view, paired with the relics of a bygone era, makes Tarragona a time capsule of Roman grandeur.
Day 16: Barcelona - Montserrat's Mystique & Catalonia's Wines
Begin your day with a journey to Montserrat, the serrated mountain, an iconic Catalan landmark. As you ascend the mountain via a scenic cable car ride, you’re treated to sweeping views of the Catalonian countryside.
Atop Montserrat, visit the Benedictine Monastery, which cradles the revered statue of La Moreneta, or the Black Madonna, an object of pilgrimage for centuries. Allow the celestial notes of the famed boys’ choir, L’Escolania, to serenade you as they have done for visitors for over a century.
Post the spiritual sojourn, descend to the vineyard-laden valleys of the Penedès wine region. Here, amidst sun-drenched vines, partake in a wine-tasting tour. Learn the art of winemaking, the subtleties that define each vintage, and conclude with a tasting session, sipping on the finest Cava and red wines that Catalonia has to offer.
Day 17: Lisbon - Nautical Dreams & Neighborhood Charms
Welcome to Porto with a short 2-hour flight from Barcelona to the capital city, Lisbon, where your chauffeur will be waiting for you.
Commence your exploration at Belém, the launchpad for Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Stand before the Monument to the Discoveries, a tribute to the country’s intrepid explorers, and marvel at the Belém Tower, a fortress that once guarded the city from sea-bound invasions.
From maritime marvels, transition to the cultural. Tram 28 offers a nostalgic ride, trundling through Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Hop off in the Alfama district, with its warren of narrow streets echoing Fado tunes. The labyrinthine alleys, adorned with azulejos (traditional tiles), lead to viewpoints overlooking the terracotta-roofed cityscape and the sparkling Tejo River.
Conclude your day in Bairro Alto. By day, it’s a traditional neighborhood; come evening, it transforms into a lively hub. Here, amidst Fado houses and quirky bars, experience Lisbon’s effervescent spirit, a blend of its rich past and its pulsating present.
Day 18: Sintra - Palatial Splendor Amidst Enchanted Forests
Sintra, a verdant paradise just a short drive from Lisbon, has long been the summer retreat of Portuguese royals—and for good reason. Your day unfurls in the mystical gardens and grand estates of this town, draped in both nature’s bounty and human-made wonders.
The Palácio Nacional de Sintra stands tall in the heart of town, recognizable by its twin conical chimneys. Its interiors are a blend of Moorish and Manueline styles, a testimony to Portugal’s rich cross-cultural tapestry. Journeying uphill, the vivid hues of the Pena Palace emerge—perched high amidst the clouds, its romanticist architecture and panoramic views of the Atlantic make it a standout.
But Sintra’s magic is as much in its natural beauty as its palaces. Wander through the Quinta da Regaleira gardens, with its wells, grottoes, and Gothic façades. Finally, trace the Moorish legacy at the Castle of the Moors, its battlements winding like a serpent on the hilltops, offering views of the town below and the sea beyond.
Day 19: Tomar: Unveiling the Templar Legacy
Tomar, often referred to as the “City of the Templars,” boasts a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture waiting to be explored. As dawn breaks, begin your journey with the awe-inspiring Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This architectural masterpiece, with its Manueline window and octagonal Templar church, narrates tales of knights, monks, and navigators.
A stone’s throw away, the medieval Tomar Castle stands guard over the city. Its robust walls and towers transport you to an era of knights and battles, offering panoramic vistas of the town and the meandering Nabão River.
Venture next to the Pegões Aqueduct, a 17th-century marvel stretching six kilometers. The impressive arches and the tranquility of its location make it a perfect spot for reflecting on the architectural genius of the past.
Delving deeper into history, the Synagogue of Tomar awaits. One of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval synagogues, it now serves as a museum, throwing light on the rich tapestry of the region’s Jewish heritage.
The Church of Santa Maria do Olival, with its serene Gothic facade, beckons next. As the resting place for Templar knights, its gravestones whisper tales of valor and devotion.
As afternoon turns to evening, saunter through the charming streets of Tomar’s historic center. The Republic Square, with its iconic statue of Gualdim Pais, the founder of the city, pulses with life, surrounded by quaint cafes and bustling shops.
Concluding your day, the serene banks of the Nabão River provide a picturesque backdrop for relaxation. Reflect on the day’s adventures and the city’s rich legacy, a blend of faith, valor, and architectural wonders.
Overnight in Porto.
Day 20: Porto - Douro Dreams and Delectable Wines
Morning in Porto means waking up to the scent of the Douro and the call of seagulls overhead. Begin your day with a drive through the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape where time seems to have paused amidst terraced vineyards cascading down steep slopes.
Every bend of the river brings forth enchanting vistas—old Quintas (wine estates), almond trees in bloom, and the gleaming Douro reflecting the blue skies.
By afternoon, find yourself in one of the historic port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from Porto’s historic center. Venture deep into cool, musty caves where barrels of port age gracefully.
A guided tasting session lets you decipher the nuances between a Ruby, Tawny, or a Vintage port, all while gazing at the city’s panorama across the river.
Evening beckons a stroll along the Ribeira, Porto’s riverfront district. The melodies of Fado, Portugal’s soul-stirring music, waft out from local taverns, making it a perfect backdrop for your day’s end.
Day 21: Coimbra - Academic Alleys and Ancient Echoes
A mere hour’s drive from Porto transports you to Coimbra, Portugal’s medieval capital and the home of its oldest university. This city, built on the banks of the Mondego River, is a layer cake of history, where Roman remnants underpin Moorish foundations, topped by a frosting of Baroque and Manueline grandeur.
The University of Coimbra is your first port of call. Its Joanina Library is a baroque masterpiece, housing ancient tomes guarded by colonies of bats. The Royal Palace courtyard whispers tales of when Portuguese kings ruled from these very halls.
Descend from the university heights to the narrow lanes of the old town. The Santa Cruz Monastery beckons with its Manueline architecture, while the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) stands as a beacon of Romanesque robustness.
Late afternoon sees you on a serene boat ride along the Mondego, the city’s tales echoing in the lap of its waters. As sunset paints the sky, you’ll journey back to Porto, your heart heavy with the weight of parting but lightened by memories crafted over days of wonder.
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Twenty-one days exploring the mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and flavors of Spain and Portugal is more than just a journey—it’s a deep dive into a region where the past and present converge beautifully at every corner.
From the bustling boulevards of Madrid to the winding alleys of Porto, this tour offers a curated experience that combines iconic landmarks with hidden gems. Yet, every traveler’s heart beats to a different rhythm, and our expertise lies in crafting itineraries that resonate with your unique preferences.
Contact us and allow our specialists to design a bespoke version of this journey, ensuring that every moment, every sight, and every flavor is tailored just for you. Your grand Iberian adventure awaits!
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