Top Places to Visit in Spain and Portugal
May 28, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Discover our top destinations in Spain and Portugal with Vacations By Rail, from the inspiring city of Seville to the trendy neighborhoods of Lisbon.
Read morePortugal is the westernmost country on mainland Europe. Situated on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal offers the perfect mix of rich history and modern culture. One of the most popular areas for a Portugal vacation is the Portuguese Riviera, the center of which is the coastal town of Cascais with easy access to Portugal's capital city, Lisbon and its famous Monument to the Discoveries, honoring the country's explorers; Belem Tower, a fortress built in the 1500's to protect Lisbon's harbor; and Jeronimos Monastery, a stunning piece of European Gothic architecture.
Other important must-visit towns along the Portuguese Riviera include Sintra, once a favorite summer residence for Portugal's royalty, and Estoril with its famous casino; the coastal fishing village of Nazare; and the world-famous pilgrimage site of Fatima.
While Portugal is a wonderful destination unto itself, double your vacation fun with a visit to neighboring Spain. The well-planned Spain's Costa Del Sol & the Portuguese Riviera tour incorporates a stay on the Portuguese Riviera with day trips to must-see cities and attractions as well as visits to Madrid, Seville, and a stay in the Costa Del Sol.
Douro cruises offer a serene way of exploring Portugal. Sail onboard our luxury chartered ships through the famed Douro wine region, stopping for tastings of port and culinary specialties.