Iberian Wonders: Spain & Portugal 13-Day Road Trip

Today, journey south to Granada (approx. 5 hours) through scenic countryside and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Optional stop in Guadix, known for its unique troglodyte cave dwellings carved into the hillsides.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Check in and explore the historic center.
• Wander through the Albaicín district’s narrow streets filled with whitewashed houses and viewpoints.
• Head to Mirador de San Nicolás for spectacular sunset views of the Alhambra Palace.
• Enjoy tapas in one of Granada’s lively plazas.

This morning, visit the breathtaking Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens, one of Spain’s most extraordinary landmarks. Afterward, drive toward Seville (approx. 3.5 - 4 hours total) with an optional stop in Córdoba.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Explore Córdoba’s magnificent Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral) with its iconic red-and-white arches.
• Continue to Seville and check in to your hotel.
• Enjoy a relaxed evening walk and dinner in the charming Santa Cruz quarter.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Spend the day discovering Andalusia’s most passionate and atmospheric city.
• Visit the impressive Seville Cathedral and La Giralda Tower.
• Walk through Plaza de España and the beautiful Maria Luisa Park.
• Stroll the colorful lanes of Barrio Santa Cruz.
• In the evening, experience an authentic flamenco show and indulge in traditional tapas.

Today, cross the border into Portugal and drive to Évora (approx. 3.5 hours) through the scenic Alentejo countryside dotted with olive groves and vineyards.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Visit the Roman Temple, Évora Cathedral, and the fascinating Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos).
• Wander the whitewashed medieval streets and quiet squares.
• Enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner paired with local Alentejo wines.

Depart Évora and drive to Lisbon (approx. 1.5 hours), Portugal’s colorful coastal capital.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Begin with a stroll through Terreiro do Paço (Praça do Comércio) along the scenic riverfront.
• Walk into the lively Baixa district, admiring its elegant streets, traditional shops, and historic cafés, then take the Santa Justa Lift or head up to a nearby miradouro (viewpoint) for sweeping city views.
• Continue to Chiado, Lisbon’s charming cultural quarter, perfect for browsing bookstores, boutiques, and relaxing at a classic café.
• In the evening, enjoy a traditional Fado music performance paired with authentic Portuguese cuisine for a memorable first night in the city.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Today is free to further explore this charming and photogenic city.
• Ride the iconic Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods.
• Wander the narrow lanes of Alfama and Bairro Alto.
• Head to Belém to discover some of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks, including Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries, all set along the scenic Tagus River.
• Relax at a café terrace or enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront - and nao te esqueças to try the delicious Pastéis de Belém.

Today, drive north to Porto (approx. 3 hours), a city famous for its riverside charm and wine heritage.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Walk through the colorful Ribeira district (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for scenic river views.
• Visit the historic Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia for tastings.
• Browse Bolhão Market or step inside the beautiful Livraria Lello bookstore.
• Optional Douro River cruise at sunset.

Pro tip: Consider stopping in Sintra, Cascais, Nazaré, or Aveiro along the way if leaving Lisbon early.

Leave Portugal behind and drive to Salamanca, Spain (approx. 3 hours 45 minutes), known as the “Golden City” for its glowing sandstone buildings.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Relax with a coffee in the stunning Plaza Mayor, one of Spain’s most beautiful squares.
• Visit the historic University of Salamanca, one of the oldest in Europe.
• Explore the Cathedral complex and Casa de las Conchas.
• Enjoy dinner surrounded by the city’s lively student atmosphere.

Today, drive to Toledo (approx. 2.5 hours) with an optional stop in Ávila, famous for its medieval walls.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Discover Toledo’s winding streets and rich blend of Christian, Jewish, and Moorish heritage.
• Visit the grand Toledo Cathedral and the Church of Santo Tomé, home to El Greco’s masterpiece.
• Admire panoramic views over the Tagus River at sunset.
• Stay overnight in this magical hilltop city.

Drive back to Madrid (approx. 1 hour) for your final night.

Suggestion For The Day:

• Visit the majestic Royal Palace and Cibeles Fountain.
• Enjoy last-minute shopping along Gran Vía.
• Spend your final evening enjoying Spanish cuisine and wine, reflecting on your incredible Iberian adventure.