I'm planning a trip to the southern part of Spain/Portugal/Italy (love the water). I will be departing from Atlanta, GA. What is the best city to fly into and depart coming back to the US. Would renting a car be the best way or a combination of both? I looking to live there part/time and enjoy areas that are vibrant, cafe, marinas, shops, art, beaches etc. and where tourist and locals will be and where english is mostly spoken. Thank you
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23350 posts
What do you mean by "live there part time"? Remember you are limited to 90 days without an appropriate visa. If you want to spend time in the south, fly into the south - Malaga. It is an international airport with direct flights from the US. The bus system in Spain is extensive, very good, and cheap. The Costa del Sol area will be full of English speaking tourists and services since a lot of British vacation there.
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
As suggested by Frank, you can fly from Rome (FCO) to Malaga or Valencia very cheaply on Vueling. We've done the flight often for 39€. Connecting back to ATL, you'll probably have to fly from the coast up to Madrid. Weve connected at Barajas often. It's large and spread out but easily manageable. Years and years ago, I lived about three miles from Barajas when it was only ONE terminal. My how things have changed! I'd not sure I'd try Spain, Portugal, and Italy all on one trip... unless you have plenty of time and money! Coastal regions in these countries are best visited leisurely.
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
I'd agree with Malaga as a good place to start. As Frank says, English is spoken everywhere. A lot of Brits actually live there. It's also a very vibrant area with all the facilities you mention. Malaga itself is a beautiful city in the old area. Once you head out of Malaga, going along the coast, it's like one big built up area till you reach Estepona. Lots of public transport. I've been there many times and always used buses and trains, but I think you might get more out of the area with a car.
Enjoy!