Experience Spain and Portugal in 9 days

Witness the enchanting beauty of Iberian Peninsula on this unforgettable 9-day tour. From the vibrant city of Lisbon to the bustling capital of Madrid, you'll experience the best of the best that Spain and Portugal have to offer. Below is a sample itinerary of the cities and sites to take in during your stay. Sancho Panza Travel can customize this itinerary based on your own travel needs and desires.

Sintra
8

Nights

hand-crafted itinerary

5-Star Hotels

Captivating Experiences

Culinary Delights

Highlights of Spain & Portugal: Itinerary Inspiration

Day 1 - Journey to Spain!

Welcome to Spain! Upon your arrival in Barcelona, you can check into your hotel (we recommend Condes de Barcelona) and kick off your adventure! Explore Plaza Cataluna and the historic center of the city, just a few minutes away from your hotel. You are located right on on Paseo de Gracia, the main street of the city, so you are close to most of the prime locations Barcelona has to offer.

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Day 2 - Barcelona

Spend the day exploring Barcelona! As you move along Paseo de Gracia, you'll see  two of architect Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces: Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Discover the colorful and imaginative designs of these iconic buildings before visiting the breathtaking Sagrada Familia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site still under construction over 100 years later. Continue to the Gothic Quarter to see the 4th-century Roman Walls and the 13th-century Cathedral, then stroll along the vibrant Las Ramblas to experience Barcelona's bustling local culture - and shopping. Finish your tour at Parc Guell, enjoying stunning views over the city from one of Gaudí's most impressive public parks.

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Day 3 - Catalunya

Today, you and your private driver will traverse the Catalunya countryside. Explore the historic pilgrimage site of Montserrat, home to about 80 Benedictine monks for nearly 1,000 years. Visit the 16th-century Renaissance Basilica and marvel at the 12th-century Black Madonna, Catalonia's revered Patron Saint. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, Montserrat offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit during your trip.

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Day 4 - Travel to Madrid

Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer from Barcelona to Madrid, with a comfortable journey of 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, you'll tour through Madrid's oldest quarters, tracing the legacies of the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties. Explore historic churches, convents, palaces, and theaters, along with narrow medieval streets and traditional shops rich in history. Discover iconic landmarks such as Puerta del Sol, the vibrant heart of Madrid since the 17th century. Pause for tapas or merienda (mid-day snack) at the Calle Mayor or Plaza Mayor, a historic square evoking tales of medieval times. Stroll through Arco and Calle Cuchilleros, home to centuries-old taverns, or spend time shopping at the Gran Galería or Centro Comercial Príncipe Pío.

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Day 5 - Toledo

Take a trip to nearby Toledo with your private driver and local guide, exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Spain's medieval capital and a muse to the 16th-century master El Greco. Encircled by the River Tajo, Toledo boasts a rich collection of churches, museums, and artisan workshops continuing the legacy of medieval swordsmiths. Behold the formidable Alcazar of Toledo, a historic fortress offering commanding views over the city and beyond to the River Tagus, and glimpse the medieval Castle of San Servando, once a bastion of the Knights Templar.

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Day 6 - Travel to Lisbon

Today, you'll travel from Madrid to Lisbon. After a 2-hour flight, you will meet up with your private driver and head to your accommodation. Take on the vibrant nightlife that Lisbon is known for tonight. 

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Day 7 - Lisbon

Spend the day exploring Lisbon! Begin at Rossio Square, the heart of the city, before delving into Alfama, Lisbon's atmospheric Old Quarter. Visit the Lisbon Cathedral, steeped in 12th-century history, and marvel at the panoramic vistas from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. In Belem, Lisbon's monumental district, explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the exquisite 16th-century Jeronimos Monastery and the iconic Belem Tower on the Tagus River's edge. Pause at the Monument to the Discoveries, celebrating Portugal's Age of Discovery, before returning to your hotel.

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Day 8 - Lisbon

Depart from Lisbon on a scenic coastal drive to Estoril, renowned for Casino Estoril and Hotel Palácio, once gathering spots for WWII spies during Portugal's neutral era. Wander the Tamariz Beach promenade, framed by palm trees and the historic Forte da Cruz castle. Continue to Cascais, a former fishing village transformed into a luxurious resort on the Portuguese Riviera. Experience its vibrant town center and Atlantic beaches before reaching Cabo da Roca, continental Europe's westernmost point, offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic. In Sintra, a town steeped in history, explore quaint handicraft boutiques and traditional pastry shops in the old city center.

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Day 9 - Travel Home

Head to the airport and prepare to bid farewell to your Iberian adventure. Safe Travels!

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Inspired? Let's Plan Your Adventure

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