Spain Travel Insights

3 Weeks in Spain & Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Three weeks is the right amount of time to visit at least six regions of Spain and Portugal. First-timers will find a mix of activities on a cultural highlights tour, while those who prefer flexibility should opt for a road trip that includes self-driving. Foodies will enjoy pastry-making in Ávila and more on a culinary-focused trip, while outdoorsy travelers will appreciate the abundance of nature-based activities in the Azores. And honeymooners and beach lovers can soak up the sun on the Iberian Peninsula.

Self-Drive in Basque Country & La Rioja - 6 Days

Explore two of Spain's scenic northern regions in your own car, the foodie-centric Basque Country with its scenic coastline and La Rioja, a famous wine region. You'll start in San Sebastián and discover the city's history, culture, and gastronomy, followed by a detour to La Rioja for wine tasting and charming towns. End in Bilbao with hiking, foodie adventures, and visiting the famous Guggenheim Museum.

2 Weeks in Spain & Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Spain and Portugal, you can cover up to five destinations depending on your preferred pace. Include Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, and Barcelona for historical and cultural highlights, or opt for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Évora and Monsaraz. Adventurous travelers can hit the trails in Algarve and the Via Verde from Seville to Carmona, while the culinary-focused should add San Sebastián for pintxos. For a slower-paced itinerary, laze on the tropical beaches of Spain's Canary Islands and Portugal's Azores.

Culinary Journey Through Spain & Portugal - 21 Days

Spain is famous for its dynamic gastronomy, but this rich food heritage extends beyond borders. On this two-week culinary odyssey across the Iberian Peninsula, you'll discover distinct and delicious flavors, from Spain's tapas and olive oils to the wine and food markets of neighboring Portugal. During the adventure, you'll take cooking classes, go on wine tours, dine with locals, and much more.

Pyrenees & Costa Brava Road Trip - 9 Days

Discover the essence of Catalonia with this self-drive through Barcelona, the Costa Brava, and the Spanish Pyrenees. Along the way, you'll enjoy excursions like private visits to Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and iconic Gaudi architecture, plus leisurely self-guided day trips to the Costa Brava beaches and towns. Soak in the beauty of the Spanish Pyrenees as you drive through winding mountain roads, sleep in charming villages, and hike along alpine lakes, ending your trip back to Barcelona for some tapas.

Road Trip Through Spain & Portugal - 21 Days

Hit the road on an unforgettable adventure across Europe's Iberian Peninsula. It begins in Madrid with city tours followed by visits to the historic cities of Toledo, Granada, Seville, and Cádiz. Then you'll leave Spain's Andalusia region and travel to the sun-kissed southern coast of Portugal before turning north and finishing the trip in beautiful Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley.

Epic Portugal & Spain Discovery Tour: Iberian Culture, Coastline & Beaches - 21 Days

Get ready for three weeks of culture, cuisine, and adventure on the Iberian Peninsula. You'll visit all the highlights, beginning with tours in Portugal's northern city of Porto, followed by a road trip south to the capital of Lisbon to explore its famous seven hills. After hiking the coast of Sintra and the Algarve, you'll hop around southern and eastern Spain, from Seville and Granada to Mallorca and Barcelona.

Culinary Journey Through Spain & Portugal - 14 Days

Spend two weeks on a culinary odyssey of Spain and Portugal as you travel across the Iberian Peninsula from east to west. Discover delicious tapas in Barcelona and dainty pintxos in San Sebastián, then hop over to Porto and Lisbon to sample some of Portugal's best wines. Carefully-selected private and small-group tours will illuminate each destination's gastronomic traditions as you feast on local produce in beautiful settings and learn to cook regional dishes alongside local chefs.

10 Days in Spain & Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10-days in Spain and Portugal, you can experience the bucket list sights of Porto, Lisbon, Seville, and Granada on a highlights tour or take a deep dive into the Iberian Peninsula's fascinating history on a self-drive road trip featuring numerous guided city tours. Foodies will love a cultural and culinary trip, while those looking for more time at the beach can head down to the Algarve coast and choose between an activity-packed active vacation or a relaxing beach holiday.

Self-Drive Through Andalusia - 6 Days

Andalusia, with its historic villages and cities, beautiful countryside, and iconic monuments, is the perfect setting for a road trip. This itinerary takes you through the vibrant city streets of Seville for cultural experiences like flamenco, Cádiz for wine tasting, and Ronda to see the region's famed Pueblos Blancos (White Villages). You'll end in Granada with a private visit to one of the country's most important monuments, the Alhambra Palace.

Beyond Spain & Portugal: Explore the Canary & Azores Islands - 14 Days

Go beyond the Iberian Peninsula to discover the exotic beauty of not one but two Atlantic archipelagoes. You'll arrive in Gran Canaria, in Spain's Canary Islands, where you'll enjoy catamaran trips, mountain biking, and lazing on tropical beaches. Then jet off to Portugal's Azores, known as the "Hawaii of the Atlantic," where you'll go off-roading in a Jeep, hike to volcano craters, and enjoy another beach day or two.

Ultimate Portugal & Spain: Lisbon, Porto, Madrid & Barcelona - 14 Days

Check off the highlights of the Iberian Peninsula on this two-week jaunt around Portugal and Spain. It begins in Lisbon, where you'll see centuries of history written in its cobbled streets on city tours and cultural outings. After a trip to Sintra's mountaintop palace, you'll head north to romantic Porto for wine tastings before jetting off to Spain to enjoy the fruits of Madrid and Barcelona.

Active Adventure Tour of Spain & Portugal - 10 Days

See the highlights of Portugal and southern Spain alongside a hefty helping of outdoor adventure on this exhilarating 10-day itinerary. Begin in Lisbon to explore the city by tuk-tuk and hike through fairy-tale Sintra, then drive south to the Algarve coast for kayaking and surfing excursions. Cross into Spain to tour the sights of Seville and visit Carmona by electric bike, and end in Málaga to brave the walkways and bridges of the Caminito del Rey and snorkel beneath the stunning Cliffs of Maro.

Foodie Experience in Barcelona & San Sebastián - 7 Days

Embark on a culinary journey through Spain's gastronomic capitals, Barcelona and San Sebastián, for an unforgettable foodie experience. Savor the flavors of the country's rich and diverse cuisine as you explore local markets, take part in a city tapas walk, visit iconic monuments like the Sagrada Família, take a cooking class, and even venture out to nearby vineyards and epicurean villages.

13 Days in Spain - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries

With 13 days in Spain, you can drive through various diverse landscapes, from the coast and historic cities to charming small villages or incredible national parks, experience the vibrant culture, and sample delicious cuisine. Popular itineraries for a 13-day road trip include exploring the northern regions of Basque Country, vibrant Andalusia, or the lesser-known areas of La Mancha, Extremadura, and Galicia, all highlighting the hidden treasures of Spain's rich heritage.

12 Days in Spain - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries

Twelve days in Spain is a perfect time frame for a road trip, as it gives you plenty of days to see major cities and sites while enjoying the countryside. Popular itineraries for a 12-day adventure start in Madrid and fan out into the country from there, whether to explore northern Spain's incredible scenery and gastronomy, discover Andalusia's unique history and culture, or get off the beaten path in regions like La Mancha and Extremadura.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Portugal & Southern Spain - 14 Days

Delve deeper into Portugal and southern Spain as you visit iconic cities and explore lesser-known towns and villages over two epic weeks. Tick off Porto and Lisbon, stopping at the Templar city of Tomar and a charming village en route. Journey deep into the Alentejo countryside where ancient Évora and fortified Monsaraz await, then continue to Spain, where you'll stop at small Andalusian towns on the way to Seville and Granada.

Explore the Coastlines & Beaches of Portugal & Spain: 10 Days

Eat your way around colorful Lisbon, admire the stunning natural coastline of the Algarve, and soak up the sunshine on the beaches of Mallorca with this relaxed 10-day coastal itinerary. As you hop between Portugal and Spain, balance slow beach days and relaxation with adventure and fun activities, such as sailing to the world-famous Benagil Cave, wine tasting at a traditional quinta estate, cycling through the lagoons of Ria Formosa, and paddleboarding on the bays of Mallorca.

Spain & Portugal Road Trip: Porto to Madrid - 10 Days

Combine historic cities with off-the-beaten-path treasures on this 10-day, self-drive journey through Portugal and Spain. Start by enjoying the food and historical landmarks of Porto, then drive to the León region of Spain to marvel at the ancient sandstone buildings in Salamanca. Take a hot-air balloon over the countryside of Ávila, hike through the pine forests of Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, tour the medieval walls of Segovia, and finish the trip exploring the parks, plazas, and markets of Madrid.

11 Days in Spain - 4 Unique Road Trip Itineraries

Take advantage of your 11 days in Spain with a road trip through numerous cultures, regions, and landscapes. Options include driving along the scenic Basque coastline, exploring the historic towns of La Mancha and Extremadura, and combining buzzy Madrid with laid-back Andalusia. Regardless of your choice, these itineraries allow you to dive into Spain's rich history while experiencing its natural beauty.

16 Days in Spain - 3 Unique Road Trip Itineraries

With 16 days in Spain, you can cover a lot of ground, combining the capital city of Madrid with exploring historic sites in Andalusia, traversing the stunning countryside of La Mancha, or cruising along the rugged Basque coastline. These road trip options take you through different regions of Spain, including lesser-known areas like Extremadura, to experience authentic Spanish culture, gastronomy, and history.

Iberian Adventure: Spain, Portugal & the Azores - 21 Days

Experience the wonders of Iberia on this 21-day adventure in Spain and Portugal. Lap up culture on walking tours in Madrid and Granada, then tackle the steep streets of Porto and Lisbon by e-bike and e-tuk-tuk. You'll hike among beauty spots like Cascais Natural Park and the Caminito del Rey, then finish by exploring the volcanic landscapes of the Azores, where crater lakes, thermal pools, and whale watching tours await.

15 Days in Spain - 3 Unique Road Trip Itineraries

Grab a rental car and hit the road through Spain, the ideal destination for a road trip, especially when you have over two weeks to explore the country. The three itineraries below feature different regions, so you can choose the iconic sites of Andalusia or head north and savor the beauty of Galicia and the Basque Country. Or, if you'd rather get off the beaten path, stick to central Spain by visiting regions like La Mancha and Extremadura.

Explore the Beauty of Spain & Portugal: Culture, History & Architecure - 21 Days

Discover Spain and Portugal's beauty on this well-balanced 21-day cultural tour. You'll explore world-famous cities' cuisine, history, and architecture, from Barcelona and Madrid to Lisbon and Porto. Highlights include wine tasting in the lush Douro Valley and day trips to UNESCO-listed gems like hilltop fort city Toledo and Sintra, home of fairy-tale castles and palaces. The trip ends with sun-drenched beach time on the golden sands of the Algarve.

Spain & Portugal Adventure: Lisbon, Algarve, Seville, Granada & Madrid - 14 Days

Soak up the sun as you explore the highlights of Portugal and Spain on this two-week adventure. Start in Lisbon, where you'll discover the city's historical attractions, markets, and fairs. Go hiking in Sintra and the Algarve, enjoy a catamaran cruise, and see the Ria Formosa Lagoon by bike. Then head to Spain for more city tours and cycling as you explore Seville, Carmona, and Granada. Finally, savor some tapas in Madrid, go ziplining in Toledo, and see Segovia by hot-air balloon.

Explore Portugal & Southern Spain - 10 Days

On this 10-day adventure, you'll soak up the best of Portugal's two biggest cities and explore the beautiful countryside in Andalusia and the heritage highlights of Southern Spain. Start in Porto with a foodie experience, and venture south to colorful Lisbon via Coimbra, Portugal's medieval capital. Then journey from Lisbon to Seville and Granada, two Spanish cities renowned for Gothic architecture and Moorish connections.

Epic Cultural & Culinary Trip though Spain & Portugal - 10 Days

Join a tapas crawl through Madrid, taste your way around Lisbon's historic streets, join a cooking class and market tour in Porto, and go wine tasting in the world-famous Douro Valley. This 10-day itinerary takes a journey through Spain and Portugal's rich and diverse cultures, packing in culinary highlights across three great food cities. Uncover gastronomic secrets and unusual traditions on this unique trip to the Iberian Peninsula.

8 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Road Trip Itineraries

With eight days in Spain, you can drive a lot of ground, whether cruising along the rugged Basque coastline, exploring historic cities in Andalusia, or traversing the stunning countryside of La Mancha. These road trip options take you through different regions of Spain, including the Canary Islands, to soak up the country's rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty.

The 5 Best Beachfront Hotels in the Costa Brava

The perk of staying at a beachfront hotel means you can step straight from your accommodation onto the Costa Brava's sun-kissed shores. This can enhance your Costa Brava experience, as the Mediterranean Sea is a significant influence on Catalonia's culture and history. Though there aren't many beachfront options, this region still offers a few excellent choices for seaside stays.

The 9 Best Hotels with Views in the Costa Brava

Enjoy the Costa Brava's mesmerizing landscapes by staying at one of the region's hotels with stunning coastal, countryside, and/or city vistas. Whether you're seeking the perfect sunrise over the Mediterranean, a serene rural retreat, or a city break, these accommodations promise panoramas that will elevate your experience on the Costa Brava.

The 6 Best Hotels with Pools in the Costa Brava

Though the beaches of the Costa Brava are some of its main appeals, it's always nice to have the option of cooling off in the pool—and pools are excellent amenities for non-coastal establishments. The best hotels with pools in the Costa Brava range from beachside options to relaxed countryside retreats surrounded by greenery. Either way, you can swim or relax on the sun deck when not exploring the region.

The 8 Best Boutique Hotels in Begur

Discover the best boutique hotels nestled in the picturesque medieval town of Begur. From beautifully restored historic mansions to chic, modern hideaways, these accommodations offer a perfect blend of luxury, charm, and unique amenities, plus excellent locations for enjoying Begur's historic center and rugged coastline.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Girona

Discover the charm of Girona, where history meets modernity, through a curated list of the best hotels in the city. From beautifully restored historic properties to contemporary options, these hand-picked accommodations ensure a comfortable stay while exploring Girona's winding cobbled streets and interesting landmarks.

The 6 Best Standard Hotels in the Costa Brava

Despite being popular with visitors, the Costa Brava remains a quintessential Spanish locale, so you'll find plenty of authentic, down-to-earth standard hotels that still provide all the amenities you'll need. Kimkim's top picks offer everything from beachfront retreats to city escapes, allowing you to enjoy this stunning coastal region known for its rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and clear blue waters.

The 7 Best Mid-Range Hotels in the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is known for its picturesque coastal towns and beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination for visitors to Spain. Finding the perfect mid-range hotel can be overwhelming, but fear not; the following is a list of the best options that offer great value without compromising on quality and comfort, from seaside resorts to charming boutique hotels.

How Many Days to Spend in the Costa Brava

Though you can experience all the Costa Brava offers in three to five days, spending one week in the region is your best bet. Seven days or more allows you to combine cities like Girona and Begur with plenty of time on the coast. And with a more leisurely pace, you can prioritize activities you enjoy most, such as hiking the famous Camí de Ronda coastal trail, trying water sports like kayaking or snorkeling, or just relaxing on the beach.

The 5 Best Luxury Hotels in the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is known for its stunning beaches, charming towns, and exquisite culinary experiences—all perfect for a luxury stay. The region offers five-star hotels with perks and amenities to elevate your visit, like spas, fine-dining restaurants, and private beaches. This article highlights five top picks for Costa Brava luxury hotels, all providing an unforgettable experience.

How to Choose the Best Coastal Villages to Visit in the Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is dotted with charming and historic coastal villages, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From medieval fortresses to picturesque fishing villages, the Costa Brava has something for everyone who wants to experience authentic Mediterranean life and escape the bustling city. Consider these options when deciding which coastal towns in the Costa Brava are best for you.

How to Choose the Best Medieval Villages to Visit in the Costa Brava

Discover the rich history and culture of the Costa Brava with a visit to one of its charming medieval villages. Each village offers a unique experience that takes you back in time, from fortified castles to quaint cobbled streets.

How to Choose the Best Beaches in Costa Brava

Costa Brava is home to over 300 miles of coastline, meaning you'll have plenty of beach choices, each offering its own charm and atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a lively scene, complete with restaurants and water sports, or a more peaceful, secluded setting for relaxing and sunbathing, you'll find several options on the Costa Brava.

How to Plan Your Trip to the Costa Brava

In northeastern Spain, the Costa Brava offers stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. How you plan your trip can make a significant difference in the quality of your vacation. From the medieval charm of Begur and other towns to the bustling city of Girona and the tranquil fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell, there are several options to consider when planning a Costa Brava excursion.

24 Hours in Madrid

Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is a city full of rich history, culture, and cuisine, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Spanish life. Whether you have just one day or several to explore the city, there are plenty of experiences to enjoy in Madrid. If you're in the former category, read on to learn how to make the most of 24 hours in Madrid.

24 Hours in Girona

Discover the charming city of Girona, nestled in the heart of Catalonia and steeped in history, in just 24 hours. From winding medieval streets to a beautiful cathedral and museums, you can roam one of the world's best-preserved Jewish quarters. Indulge in the world-renowned culinary scene, explore the rich history, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Girona.

How to Choose the Best Museums to Visit in Madrid

With over 40 museums in Madrid—including the world-famous El Prado Museum—you might not know where to start when it comes to choosing what's right for you. Should you follow the crowds to the Prado, indulge your sports interest at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, or try something new at CaixaForum Madrid? Though there are many more to consider, we've broken down our picks for the top museums in Madrid to help you decide which experience is best for you.

How to Choose the Best Flamenco Show in Seville

Seville has a rich cultural heritage, and flamenco is one of its most beloved traditions, a passionate and exhilarating art form that combines music, singing, and dance. With so many flamenco shows, deciding which is best for you can be challenging. Read on for tips on choosing the best flamenco show in Seville that suits your particular interests, whether combining the experience with dinner or enjoying a more intimate venue.

Self-Drive Costa Brava & Pyrenees Mountains - 10 Days

This 10-day road trip takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Costa Brava and the Spanish Pyrenees, offering plenty of chances to explore the region's diverse cultural and natural wonders. From vibrant cities like Barcelona and Girona to the rugged coastline of Costa Brava and scenic Val d'Aran, you'll enjoy Northern Spain's history, cultural heritage, and gastronomy.

Seville & Hidden Corners of Andalusia Road Trip - 10 Days

This 10-day journey through Andalusia pairs cultural hotspots with quiet corners in the countryside. You'll visit vibrant cities like Seville, Granada, and Málaga, but save time for unique experiences in the region's white villages, national parks, and charming Las Alpujarras. Along the way, you'll experience the region's authentic culture and a few areas not typically seen by visitors.

Beaches, White Villages & Seville Road Trip - 10 Days

Embark on a 10-day journey through the landscapes of Andalusia, exploring the vibrant city of Seville, the pristine beaches of Andalusia, and Spain's picturesque White Villages. You'll experience rich cultural heritage, sample regional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local way of life—a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.

Self-Drive Northern Spain: San Sebastián, Pamplona, La Rioja & Bilbao - 10 Days

A road trip through Northern Spain offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural roots and diverse landscapes, from the coastal heritage of San Sebastián to the rolling vineyards of La Rioja. This 10-day excursion includes opportunities to explore unique traditions, cuisine, and architecture that define this corner of Spain, with stops in historic Pamplona and vibrant Bilbao.

Basque Region & Wine Country Road Trip: Bilbao, San Sebastián, La Rioja & Pamplona - 7 Days

For wine lovers and foodies, this road trip in northern Spain takes you along the incredible Basque coastline with its rugged sea cliffs, charming fishing villages, and gastronomic cities, then into the rolling vineyards and hills of La Rioja and Navarra. Blend city walks with small towns, food tours, and an overnight stay at a winery in Spain's most famous wine region, Rioja.