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Spain and Portugal Trip

Posted by (New York) on

I'm planning my first trip to Spain and Portugal and would appreciate feedback on whether this itinerary is reasonable or if I'm trying to do too much. It's a graduation trip for my sister!

One reason I'm combining both countries is that I don't realistically see myself returning to this part of Europe anytime soon. If I ever come back, it would probably be specifically for Madeira or Azores region rather than mainland Spain or Portugal.

Our main interests are history, architecture, nature, coffee culture, and experiencing the atmosphere of great cities. We enjoy wandering historic neighborhoods, visiting major landmarks, and spending time in cafés. We're not big drinkers, so nightlife and wine-focused experiences aren't a priority for us.

Current plan:

Friday: Arrive in Madrid at 10:00 AM
Saturday: Madrid
Sunday: Madrid
Monday: Train to Granada
Tuesday: Granada
Wednesday: Train to Seville
Thursday: Seville with a day trip to Córdoba
Friday: Seville
Saturday: Fly to Lisbon from Seville
Sunday: Lisbon
Monday: Train to Porto
Tuesday: Porto
Wednesday: Fly home from Porto

My main questions are:

Does this pace seem reasonable, or am I moving around too much?
Is one full day in Granada enough, assuming the Alhambra is my top priority?
Is flying the best way to get to Lisbon from Seville?
If you had to cut one destination, which would it be?
Should I take out Porto and spend more time in Lisbon?

Thanks for any suggestions.

Posted by
1667 posts

I think the plan looks pretty good.

The only thing I could answer for certain is that, in my opinion, one day in Granada will be enough given that Alhambra is the priority..and you will also have the day of arrival..

I would take out Porto---but I'm a person that much prefers a longer time in one city than a shorter time in two.

Posted by
3508 posts

Sounds good except Lisbon needs at least another day. Perhaps drop Porto?

Posted by
10147 posts

Not too bad, but your itinerary is very light for how much time in each location.
Your plan doesn't include Segovia and Toledo that can be done on day trips from Madrid.

Also, not enough time in Seville.
You are missing Barcelona that deserves 3-4 days.
Not enough time in Lisbon.
Not visiting Sintra or Obidos.
Not enough time in Porto.
No time exploring the amazing Douro River Valley. Take the train up the river to Regua and/or Pinhao.

Another option is to do one country at a time.

Posted by
79 posts

5 location changes in 12 days seems like a lot - but we all travel differently.

If you’re committed to covering both countries in 12 days then here are thoughts :

It’s a good sampler of great places in both countries.

I liked Porto and Lisbon but if you want to trim somewhere perhaps drop Porto and spend more time in Lisbon.

If you’re planning on a future trip to azores could you visit Lisbon then? I presume flights from the US land in Lisbon and then you connect?

We went to Granada about 20 years ago. I loved wandering the moorish quarter.

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