Spain or Portugal: Which Is Best for You?

Spain or Portugal: Overview

Portugal and Spain, the Iberian Peninsula's jewels, have always captured the imagination of travelers. They share a geographical boundary and a rich tapestry of history, yet each has distinct character, traditions, and culinary delights. While Spain's diverse landscapes and regional identities create a vast mosaic of experiences, Portugal offers a profound depth in a smaller package with its intimate charm, coastal beauty, and melodic fado.

As you plan your trip to the Iberian Peninsula, here are some itineraries to provide a little inspiration:

Popular itineraries in Spain:
Seville, Madrid & Barcelona - 10 Days
Madrid & Andalusia: Seville, Ronda, Granada & Malaga - 14 Days
Spain North to South: Basque Country to Andalusia - 20 Days

Popular itineraries in Portugal:
Portugal: Lisbon, Évora & Lagos - 7 Days
Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve - 10 Days
Explore Portugal: Porto, Lisbon & Madeira Island - 14 Days

Popular itineraries that combine Spain and Portugal:
Highlights of Spain & Portugal: Cities, Beaches & Culture - 10 Days
Discover Portugal & Southern Spain: Porto, Douro Valley, Lisbon, Évora & Seville - 12 Days
Cultural Highlights of Portugal, Spain & Morocco - 14 Days

Spain or Portugal: What's the Difference?

Bound by history yet distinguished by culture, language, and temperament, Portugal is known for its maritime legacies and melancholic fado. At the same time, Spain dances to the fiery rhythms of flamenco and the lively beats of fiestas.

Ideally, you'd visit them both. As Patricia Marqués from YourTripToSpain&Portugal puts it, "Everything is different: the culture, language, gastronomy, wine, and even the weather." Luis Fernandez de Vega Chavarri of Hidden in Spain chimes in, "Spain is a larger country with more cultural heritage while Portugal is more popular for its coastline."

Spain

A tapestry of regions, each with its distinct identity, Spain offers everything from the modernist wonders of Barcelona to Madrid's art-filled corridors, from Andalusian charm to Basque culinary innovations. Spain's festivals, like La Tomatina and Running of the Bulls, have gained international fame. With a rich culinary scene featuring paella, tapas, and sangria, Spain satiates both the soul and the palate.

As Alba Cruells of Spain Insights explains, "Spain has many more options when building a personalized trip... the mountains, nature, culture, big cities, etc..." Luis adds his personal taste: "If you're looking for beaches, you can choose either of the countries. If you want something else, such as culture, food, wine, heritage, etc., I'd personally choose Spain. It has more to choose from, given its size and history." 

Popular regions of Spain

Spain is divided into 17 autonomous communities (or regions) and two autonomous cities. Three distinct areas are the most popular with travelers, and for very good reasons.

One such region is Andalusia, situated in the southern part of the country. This area is steeped in history, showcasing a harmonious blend of Islamic, Jewish, and Christian influences. Here, you can explore the Alhambra in Granada, the magnificent Mezquita in Córdoba, and the vibrant cultural scene in Seville, the region's capital. Andalusia is also known for its flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and numerous festivals, and is home to the beaches of Costa del Sol and the mountains of Sierra Nevada.

Another beloved region is Catalonia, located in northeastern Spain, with its capital in Barcelona. Catalonia has a distinctive culture with its own language, culinary traditions, and artistic heritage. Visitors to Barcelona can marvel at the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Família and Park Güell. Beyond the capital, Catalonia offers the rugged Costa Brava, renowned for its beaches and hidden coves, the Montserrat Mountains for hiking and climbing, and the picturesque wine regions that produce the famous cava, a local sparkling wine.

Basque Country, in northern Spain, provides another authentic cultural experience. Known for its unique Basque language and exceptional culinary scene, it's a haven for food lovers, offering everything from high-end dining in San Sebastián to pintxos (tapas) bar-hopping in Bilbao. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao offers modern art and architecture, while the scenic coastline and mountains present opportunities for surfing, hiking, and enjoying nature. 

Portugal

Hugging the Atlantic coast, Portugal tells tales of seafaring, exploration, and discovery. From the historic neighborhoods of Lisbon to the wine cellars of Porto, from the sun-soaked beaches of the Algarve to the UNESCO sites of Sintra, Portugal is a blend of tradition and modernity. Its cuisine is a testament to the bounty of the sea, with dishes like bacalhau (salted codfish) and pastries like pastéis de nata being national treasures.

As Luis explains, "Portugal was cheaper years ago but has become quite popular and is making great strides in terms of tourism. Today, there are many more activities to do, so it's similar to Spain now, in opportunities and price."

Popular regions of Portugal

Portugal consists of 18 distritos (districts) and two autonomous regions. The two autonomous regions are archipelagoes located in the Atlantic Ocean. There are three distinct regions of Portugal that most travelers tend to explore, including the Algarve, Porto and the northern reaches, and Lisbon, the country's capital. 

The Algarve is in the southernmost part of Portugal. Known for its incredible golden beaches, rugged coastline, and picturesque towns, the Algarve is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The region's history is palpable, with well-preserved Moorish castles and historic maritime towns that bear testament to Portugal's age of exploration and discovery. Visitors can explore the scenic beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, indulge in the vibrant nightlife in Albufeira, or simply savor the renowned seafood and wine of the region.

The northern region of Portugal, centered around the city of Porto, offers a different flavor of Portuguese culture and history. As the birthplace of port wine, wine enthusiasts can explore the Douro Valley's terraced vineyards, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy wine tastings in centuries-old wine cellars. Porto itself is a vibrant city, rich in history and architectural splendor, where you can stroll along the ancient Ribeira District, explore sites like Lello Bookstore, or admire the intricate blue tiles of São Bento Railway Station. The region is also known for its culinary traditions, with francesinha and bacalhau à brás as must-try dishes.

Moving toward the country's center, the region of Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is an alluring mix of historical charm and modern vibrancy. The city's neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Belém, offer a peek into the country's diverse epochs, from Moorish to Manueline, all while listening to the soulful strains of fado, Portugal's traditional music genre. The region is dotted with beautiful palaces, such as Palácio Nacional de Sintra, and the memorable views from São Jorge Castle. Nearby, the coastline, including the famed Praia da Adraga, provides ample opportunities for sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying fresh seafood by the Atlantic Ocean.

Spain or Portugal: Best Things to Do

Each country is a trove of activities catering to history buffs, beach lovers, gastronomes, and adventure seekers. However, they're two different countries, so, of course, they offer slightly different experiences. Still, Patricia stresses that "in terms of activities, both Spain and Portugal have many experiences and things to do for all types of travelers."

What to Do in Spain

Spain, a country that blends history, culture, and diverse landscapes, has a wealth of experiences waiting for each type of traveler. To offer some inspiration, here are a few activities that provide a glimpse into the vibrant Spanish life:

• Visit the Alhambra in Granada. Immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture of the Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex dating back to the Moorish occupation of Spain. It's popular to explore the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens with a local guide to learn more about this impressive structure. However, you can also visit the Alhambra at night, which gives the experience a totally different feel. 
• Experience flamenco in Andalusia. Enjoy a live flamenco performance in the region where it was born. Seville, Granada, and Jerez de la Frontera are famous for their authentic flamenco shows. You can even have an ultimate flamenco experience in Seville, where you can enjoy a show, visit the flamenco museum, and learn how to perform the dance yourself. Check out kimkim's article on choosing the best flamenco show for you.
• Explore Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona. Learn about the most famous Barcelona resident with a Gaudí architecture walk, stopping to visit sites like the colorful and whimsical Park Güell and the impressive Sagrada Família.
• Taste paella in Valencia. Savor authentic paella in Valencia, where this iconic Spanish dish originates, or dive a bit deeper and take a paella-making workshop, complete with a visit to the city's famous market.
• Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid. Marvel at some of the world's most significant artworks with a tour of the Prado Museum alongside an art historian and learn about this massive collection of European art. You can even combine a visit to the Prado Museum with lunch at Botín, the world's oldest restaurant. 
• Visit the White Villages. Spain is known for it's Pueblos Blancas (White Villages), which sit atop hills and cliffs throughout Andalusia. Read kimkim's article about how to choose the best white village for you, including advice on how to create a self-guided route. 
• Enjoy water sports in the Costa Brava. Go kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming on the Costa Brava, one of the most picturesque coastlines in Spain. With so many scenic coves, you can paddle in calm waters and explore unique caves and sea cliffs. 
• Dine in the Basque Country. Bilbao and San Sebastián are two of the most famous foodie cities in Spain, with San Sebastián home to more Michelin-star restaurants per capita than anywhere else in the world. Go pintxos and wine tasting in Bilbao or explore this distinct culinary tradition, pintxos, with a chef in San Sebastián. 
• Go island hopping. Whether you're interested in sailing along the coast of Mallorca, chartering a boat to Formentera from Ibiza, or hiking across volcanic land in the Canary Islands, Spain has plenty of islands that offer incredible adventures. 

What to Do in Portugal

In Portugal, with its rich maritime heritage, vibrant cities, and beautiful natural landscapes, there's an array of experiences to be explored and enjoyed. The list below barely scratches the surface but offers some inspiration as you ponder Portugal over Spain. 

• Explore the streets of Alfama in Lisbon. Wander the narrow, cobbled streets of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, and experience fado music in a local tavern. The haunting melodies echoing through the lanes will make for a memorable night.
• Sample port wine in the Douro Valley. Visit the scenic Douro Valley and enjoy wine-tasting excursions in the vineyards where the world-famous port wine is produced.
• Discover the Azores Archipelago and Madeira Islands. Explore the Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, known for their dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, green pastures, and colorful hydrangeas. Or enjoy the diverse landscapes of Madeira, from lush forests and botanical gardens to towering mountains and rugged coastlines.
• Relax on the Algarve's beautiful beaches. Unwind on the beaches of the Algarve, with its golden sands, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
• Visit iconic architecture. Discover the iconic Tower of Belém in Lisbon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery. Then, visit the colorful Palácio da Pena in Sintra, a romanticist castle set against the backdrop of the Sintra mountains, and explore the surrounding park.
• Walk along the Camino Portugués. Take a journey on the Camino Portugués, the Portuguese route of the Camino de Santiago, and immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes and historic sites along the way.

Spain or Portugal: Where to Stay

Both countries offer a vast range of accommodations, from palatial stays to boutique hotels. There are also plenty of options for memorable stays, like countryside hotels in historic farms, boutique properties in historic manor houses and palaces, or beachfront retreats. 

Where to Stay in Spain

Stay in Madrid's Gran Vía for a central location, opt for Barcelona's Eixample for architectural wonders, or choose Seville's Santa Cruz for Andalusian allure. You'll find many other ideas on where to stay in Spain below. 

Where to stay in Madrid

As the capital and largest city, Madrid is a hub of art, culture, and history, with museums like the Prado Museum and landmarks like the Royal Palace. Areas to stay in Madrid include the grand boulevard Gran Vía with its incredible architecture, the glitzy area of Salamanca near Retiro Park, and the center of the historic core near (or even on) Plaza Mayor. There are plenty of historical hotels in Madrid and, as a bonus, choices for rooftop hotels in the capital, too. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Madrid. 

Where to stay in Barcelona

Located in Catalonia, Barcelona is known for its modernist architecture (think Gaudí's Sagrada Família), beaches, and the bustling La Rambla street. Consider hotels in the Gothic Quarter if you'd like some historical features, or book one of the rooftop hotels in Barcelona for pools, eateries, and genuinely incredible city views. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Barcelona.

Where to stay in Valencia

Home to the City of Arts and Sciences and the birthplace of paella, Valencia offers a blend of historical and modern attractions. It's not quite as popular as other cities in Spain, but it's worth a stop if you're in the area or plan to go from north to south or vice versa. It's best to stay in the historic core of Valencia, where nearly all the best hotels are located.

Where to stay in Seville

As the capital of the Andalusia region, Seville is famous for its Gothic cathedral, the Royal Alcázar palace, and the annual Feria de Abril. It's also the birthplace of flamenco and tapas culture. Despite being a large city, its core is surprisingly small and walkable, so you'll find its best hotels here. Kimkim recommends booking one of the historic hotels in Seville, as some of your options truly take you back in time. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Seville. 

Where to stay in Granada

Granada is best known for the Alhambra, a sprawling hilltop Moorish complex located on an outcrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. You can stay at one of the hotels with Alhambra views to make your visit more special or focus on hotels in Granada's historic Albaicín district, many of which also offer views. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Granada. 

Where to stay in Córdoba

Known for the Mezquita, a massive mosque turned cathedral dating back to 784 CE, and its historic Jewish Quarter, Córdoba is a profoundly historical city. You can easily peruse the streets of Córdoba on a day trip from Seville, Málaga, or Granada, but if you choose to spend the night, you'll find plenty of great options in the Jewish Quarter. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Córdoba. 

Where to stay in Bilbao

Located in the Basque Country, Bilbao is renowned for the contemporary Guggenheim Museum and its vibrant culinary scene. There are a few options for hotels near the Guggenheim, so you can easily walk to the museum and riverfront or opt for one of the hotels in Bilbao's Old Town. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Bilbao. 

Where to stay in San Sebastián

Also in the Basque Country, San Sebastián is Bilbao's neighbor, just about an hour away by car. This city is famous for its beaches and the annual San Sebastián International Film Festival. Grab one of San Sebastián's rooftop hotels for views, or stay in one of the city's hotels near La Concha Beach. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in San Sebastián. 

Where to stay in Málaga

Málaga is a port city on the Costa del Sol, and it's not only a gateway to the beaches but also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, with several museums and historical sites. Though not all are in the historic city center, you have a few choices for hotels near the beach in Málaga. Otherwise, prioritize Málaga's hotels with pools, as the city gets pretty hot in the summer. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Málaga. 

Where to stay in Mallorca, Menorca & Ibiza

The Balearic Islands are popular for their beaches, nature, and nightlife. Mallorca is the largest, with diverse landscapes and a wide range of activities to enjoy. Menorca is known as Mallorca's "quieter sister," as the entire island is protected, so there's not as much tourism infrastructure, and nature is more pristine. Ibiza is the life of the party, known for its beach clubs and nightlife, plus its bohemian hippie vibe. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in Mallorca, the best hotels in Menorca, and the best hotels in Ibiza. 

Where to stay in the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava, "Wild Coast," stretches along the shores of Catalonia and is known for its beaches and seaside resorts. You can stay at one of the hotels in Begur, an excellent hub for exploring the area, or opt for a bigger city and grab a hotel in Girona. Other themes to consider include beachfront hotels in the Costa Brava. 

Here are kimkim's picks for the best hotels in the Costa Brava. 

Where to Stay in Portugal

In Lisbon, consider the historic Baixa or trendy Bairro Alto neighborhoods. Porto's Ribeira district offers riverside charm, while the Algarve region provides luxury beach resorts.

Where to stay in Lisbon

As Portugal's capital and largest city, Lisbon is a mosaic of cultural influences with landmarks like the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the bustling nightlife of Bairro Alto. You can stay at the PortoBay Marquês for easy public transportation access or opt for the stylish Hotel AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado (pictured above) for a more central location.

Where to stay in Porto

Located in the north, Porto is famed for its port wine, historic Ribeira District, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. As the city is cut in two by its river, you can choose which side to stay on, either the hilly north or riverfront south lined with wineries. Past kimkim travelers are fans of Exe Almada Porto, with its walkable location. 

Where to stay in Cascais

A coastal town near Lisbon, Cascais is popular for its beaches, marina, and the nearby Boca do Inferno sea cliffs. You'll be on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean yet not far from the country's buzzy capital, plus closer to Sintra and its famed palace. Sleep in a former seaside fortress with a stay at Pestana Cidadela Cascais, or enjoy the elegant rooms and posh amenities at The Albatroz Hotel.

Where to stay in Évora

Évora, located in Alentejo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a well-preserved medieval center and ancient Roman ruins like the Templo de Diana. You'll be just outside Lisbon near the country's most important and rich Jewish Quarters. Stay at The Noble House to sleep among the city's Roman ruins. 

Where to stay in the Algarve

The Algarve region is the southernmost area of mainland Portugal, with Lagos and Faro as its two most popular destinations. It's known for incredible beaches, dramatic cliffs, and historic Old Towns. Faro is the region's official gateway, home to a charming historic center and a natural park, Ria Formosa. For a stay in Lagos, pamper yourself at Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa. For Faro, you can't beat the majestic and historic Pousada Palacio De Estoi, set in an ornate and expansive 19th-century palace. 

Spain or Portugal: How to Get There

Both countries are well-connected by air, road, and rail, with major airports in their principal cities. You'll find more direct flights from the US to Spain, though there are some to Portugal and plenty of connecting flights via European cities. 

How to Get to Spain

Traveling to Spain is relatively straightforward, whether by air or train. It's common to find many direct flights from both the west and east coasts. 

By plane

Spain's principal airports are located in major cities such as Madrid (Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport), Barcelona (Barcelona–El Prat Josep Tarradellas Airport), and Málaga (Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport), among others.

Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United and Spain's flagship carrier, Iberia, operate flights from the United States to Spain. Direct flights to Madrid and Barcelona are available from several US cities, including New York, Miami, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

• From New York to Madrid: approximately 7-8 hours.
• From Los Angeles to Barcelona: around 12 hours.
• From Miami to Madrid: roughly 9 hours.

The average flight cost from the US to Spain varies considerably by season. Generally speaking, plan for around $1,100-$1,500 for the high season (June-August) and $600-$800 for the low season, November-March. Prices can fluctuate, so early booking is advised for the best rates.

By train

If you're already in Europe and want to make your way to Spain, the high-speed AVE train network provides efficient connections between major cities within the country and also to neighboring countries.

• From Lisbon, Portugal: The Trenhotel Lusitania operates a fun night train service from Lisbon to Madrid, taking approximately 9-10 hours.
• From Paris, France: The Renfe-SNCF cooperation provides high-speed train service from Paris to Barcelona in about 6.5 hours.
• From London, UK: Travelers can take the Eurostar to Paris (approximately 2.5 hours) and then the high-speed train to Barcelona or Madrid.
• From Amsterdam, Netherlands: The journey involves a change of trains in Paris or Brussels, with total travel time to Madrid or Barcelona around 12-13 hours.

How to Get to Portugal

Like Spain, you can also get to Portugal fairly easily by plane from the US (and other countries) and by train. You'll find several direct flights from the east coast.

By plane

Portugal's main international airports are located in Lisbon (Humberto Delgado Airport) and Porto (Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport). Some interEuropean flights might also offer the option to fly into Faro. Major airlines, including TAP Air Portugal, Delta, and United, offer direct flights from the United States to Portugal. Direct routes are available from cities such as New York, Miami, and Boston to Lisbon and Porto.

• From New York to Lisbon: Approximately 7-8 hours.
• From Miami to Lisbon: Around 9 hours.
• From Boston to Porto: Roughly 7-8 hours.

The cost of flights from the US to Portugal varies by season but can be a little less expensive than Spain, but not by much. During the high season (June-August), flights tend to fluctuate between $900 and $1,300. For the low season, the cost is usually $600-$850. But again, book early, as these prices will change as your travel dates near. 

By train

Portugal is also accessible by train, with Lisbon and Porto being the country's main rail hubs. The Alfa Pendular connects major cities in Portugal and neighboring countries while regional trains traverse the countryside.

• From Madrid, Spain: The Trenhotel Lusitania night train connects Madrid to Lisbon in approximately 9-10 hours.
• From Barcelona, Spain: Travelers can take a high-speed train to Madrid and connect to the Lisbon service. The total travel time is around 12-13 hours.
• From Paris, France: Train travel from Paris to Lisbon involves a change in either Hendaye or Irun (on the France-Spain border) and San Sebastián, with a total travel time of around 13-15 hours.
• From London, UK: Passengers can take the Eurostar to Paris (approximately 2.5 hours) and then a train to Lisbon, with changes along the route, taking about 16-17 hours.
• From Amsterdam, Netherlands: The journey to Lisbon involves multiple train changes, usually in Paris and the France-Spain border, taking around 17-18 hours in total.

Spain or Portugal: The Verdict

The choice between Portugal and Spain depends on the traveler's desired experiences. With its compact size, Portugal offers a rich, immersive journey into its maritime past, soulful music, and coastal allure. Conversely, Spain provides a diverse palette of experiences, from cultural festivals to regional cuisines, historic landmarks to modern innovations. Ideally, an extended Iberian adventure covering both nations promises an enriching experience.

However, Alba's main advice is this: "If you haven't been to Spain before, choose first Spain; the second time you come, you could combine Spain and Portugal." Karin agrees, saying, "I prefer Spain, of course, but both countries are similar in some aspects. Still, Spain is more Mediterranean, which I love." In the end, it's all about personal preference.