Exploring Portugal and Spain: A Travel Guide

Portugal and Spain are two of the most visited European countries due to their history, art, gastronomy, landscapes, and cultural diversity. To explore these countries is to immerse oneself in a world of contrasts and flavors, and visit some of the most beautiful places on earth.

Essential Information

Portugal\’s official language is Portuguese, and Spain\’s official language is Spanish. Both countries use the Euro as their currency. The best time of year to visit Portugal and Spain is in the spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild, and crowds are fewer. A visa is not required for US citizens to enter either country for stays up to 90 days.

Destinations to Explore

Portugal is divided into five regions: Norte, Centro, Lisboa, Alentejo, and Algarve. Each of them has its charm and unique attractions. In the north region, the city of Porto is famous for its wine cellars and Douro River cruises. The central region has Coimbra, a charming university town, and the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar. In the Lisbon region, you can explore the capital city, picturesque Sintra, and Cascais beach resort. The Alentejo region is famous for its wine estates and the medieval town of Évora. And, in the south Algarve region, you can enjoy the world-famous beaches and the nightlife of Albufeira.
Spain is divided into 17 regions, each with its cuisine, art, and music. Madrid is the capital and cultural hub of Spain. It has excellent museums, palaces, and architecture. Barcelona, located in Catalonia, attracts visitors for its unique, whimsical architecture by Antoni Gaudi. Other popular destinations in Spain include the seaside cities of Valencia and Alicante, the historical city of Granada, the island of Mallorca, and the Basque Country\’s San Sebastian.

Transportation

Transportation in Portugal and Spain is comfortable and reasonably priced. Renting a car is a great option to explore Portugal, but public transportation offers tourists modern and efficient means to travel throughout both countries. Both Portugal and Spain have an extensive train network, which offers travelers an excellent way to connect to various destinations. Buses and taxis are other options to explore both countries. However, it is recommended to book online beforehand as it can be cheaper and easier than trying to book on the spot.

Food and Drink

Portugal\’s cuisine is based on fresh ingredients, seafood, and stews. In Lisbon, you can try the traditional dish, Bacalhau (codfish) or sip on Port Wine from the Douro Valley. The famous Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) are also a Portuguese delicacy you must try.
Spain is known worldwide for its tapas, a wide variety of small dishes served as snacks. The paella is one of the country\’s traditional dishes, consisting of rice, vegetables, and seafood. Drinking wine is a significant part of the Spanish culture, with several famous wines coming from the Rioja region.

Budget and Accommodations

Portugal and Spain offer accommodation options that are both budget-friendly and luxurious. For budget travelers, it is essential to know that hostels are available in most cities, and apartment rentals can be a cost-effective way to stay. Mid-range to luxury hotels are abundant in tourist areas, offering visitors with private pools, amazing views, and excellent service.

Things to know before you go

It is crucial to note that in Portugal and Spain, it is customary to tip service providers. This includes waitstaff, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. A general rule of thumb is to tip approximately 10% of the total cost of the service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring Portugal and Spain is a fantastic experience for any traveler. The countries offer a fantastic mixture of art, culture, food, and nature. The possibilities are endless and can vary from relaxing in the sun to discovering the rich history of each country. With budget-friendly accommodation and excellent transportation options, Portugal and Spain are a must-visit destination on any European travel list.

Off the Beaten Path in Portugal

The famous beaches of Portugal and the historic cities of Lisbon and Porto are fantastic destinations for any traveler, but if you are looking for something different, there are other options to enjoy the country\’s culture, nature, and gastronomy. Here are three unique locations worth exploring off the beaten path.

Serra da Estrela

Serra da Estrela is a mountain range in the center of Portugal, known for its fantastic hiking trails, traditional cheese, and charming villages. The highest peak of continental Portugal, Torre, is here, and during the winter, there are plenty of skiing and snowboarding activities. It is also an excellent destination to escape the summer heat.

Obidos

Obidos is a picturesque medieval town, located in the center of Portugal. With its cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses, and magnificent castle, it has become a popular destination for artists and writers. Enjoy a glass of Ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur) in one of the bars and experience the town\’s magic both during the day and at night.

The Azores Islands

The Azores are a group of nine islands, located about 1500 kilometers west of Lisbon. The islands are known for their breathtaking natural landscapes, volcanic lakes, and thermal springs. It\’s an outdoor lover\’s paradise, offering fantastic hiking, whale watching, surfing, and scuba diving opportunities.

Spanish Language and Culture

Learning the Spanish language and understanding Spanish culture is an essential aspect of a trip to Spain. Spanish is the second most spoken language globally, and having basic language skills can go a long way. Here are some tips and insights to immerse yourself in the Spanish language and culture.

Language Learning

If you would like to learn Spanish before or during your visit, there are numerous online courses, language schools, and apps to get you started. Watching Spanish movies or TV shows with English subtitles and listening to Spanish music can also help you learn the language.

Cultural Diversity

Spain has a diverse culture, with many regions having their customs, music, and cuisine. So, when exploring Spain, it is essential to discover the more local aspects of each place. Going to traditional markets, enjoying the fiestas, and attending cultural events is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

City Explorations

Spain\’s cities have different personalities, and it can be fascinating to discover their history and culture. Madrid, for example, is famous for its museums, nightlife, and performing arts, while San Sebastian has excellent food and beautiful beaches. Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city with unique architecture and a thriving art scene.

Nature in Spain

Spain has beautiful national parks, mountains, beaches, and islands worth visiting. Here are three fantastic natural destinations in Spain.

Cabo de Gata

Cabo de Gata is a volcanic nature park located in the province of Almeria, in Andalusia. It has unique desert landscapes and rugged cliffs, offering fantastic hiking and scenic views. The beaches in this park are also pristine and are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada is Spain\’s highest mountain range and is located in the province of Granada. It has impressive natural landscapes that change according to the season. During the winter, this mountain range is popular among winter sports fans, while in the summer, it\’s perfect for mountain hikes and enjoying nature.

The Balearic Islands

The Balearic Islands are an archipelago in the western Mediterranean, known for their white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and beautiful coves. They are easily accessible by ferry or plane from Barcelona, Valencia, or Alicante, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Spanish Wine and Gastronomy

Spain has a diverse culinary scene, influenced by its varied history and products. Spain is well-known for its excellent wines, cheeses, and traditional dishes. Here are some of the most popular dishes and wines to try during your visit.

Tapas and Pintxos

Tapas are traditional small plates of food that are usually served with drinks. Pintxos are a similar concept but are more common in Basque Country. Both tapas and pintxos are delicious, and by trying different ones, you get to sample the best of the country\’s cuisine.

Rioja Wine

Rioja is Spain\’s most well-known wine region, and it\’s red wines are highly sought after worldwide. The region has over 600 bodegas (wineries) to visit, offering visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about the wine-making process and sample the region\’s wines.

Jamon Iberico

Jamon Iberico is a type of cured ham, unique to Spain, made from the Iberian pig. The pigs are fed with the acorns from oak trees, making the meat tender and flavorful. In Spain, it is usually served sliced paper-thin and accompanied by some bread and wine.

Beaches in Portugal and Spain

Portugal and Spain both have fantastic beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Here are some of the best beaches in both countries.

Praia do Guincho

Praia do Guincho is located in Cascais, Portugal, and is known for its massive waves that make it a popular site among surfers. The beach has a wild and untouched feel, providing visitors with astonishing views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Playa de las Catedrales

Playa de las Catedrales, located in Galicia, Spain, is famous for its fascinating rock formations shaped by the wind and sea. The beach is perfect for long walks and offers visitors surreal vistas of the Cantabrian Sea.

Praia da Rocha

Praia da Rocha is a long stretch of beach located in the Algarve, Portugal. It is mainly known for its picturesque cliffs and coves, warm waters, and golden sands. It is a busy beach and has lots of activities that travelers could participate in.