Spain and Portugal offer a diverse range of destinations, from historic cities to serene coastal towns. Whether you're looking to wander the sun-drenched streets of Seville, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Lisbon or you're drawn to the allure of the Moorish architecture in Granada, the Iberian Peninsula offers a breathtaking blend of timeless traditions and unforgettable landscapes.
We have put together five of our favorite destinations to visit on our escorted vacations through Spain and Portugal.
Granada: Where Moorish culture meets mountain scenery
Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a city where history and beauty collide. At its heart stands the Alhambra, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture that rises above the city like a vision from a fairytale. With its intricate carvings, tranquil courtyards and stunning views, it's easy to see why it is the most visited monument in Spain.
As you wander through the winding lanes of the Albaicín, the city's ancient Moorish quarter, soak up the local culture with flamenco music and painters often seen in the streets, or admire the scenery with stunning viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Alhambra and the surrounding landscape.
Discover Granada's cultural heritage and majestic views on our Historic Cities of Spain rail tour. With 10 nights in Spain, journey through the iconic cities and delve into their many treasures.
Seville: A captivating Andalucían city
With its sunlit plazas, grand architecture and authentic tapas on every corner, Seville perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Andalucia.
The magnificent Seville Cathedral and soaring Giralda tower, which can be seen from virtually anywhere in the city, house thousands of years of history and beauty. The tower's charm lies heavily in its viewpoint, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the city and find yourself spotting landmarks like the Real Alcazar and Plaza de Espana. Leading off from the cathedral, Seville's old Jewish Quarter, Santa Cruz, is the perfect place to lose yourself in the maze of cobbled alleys and hidden courtyards, and as the evening falls, the city comes alive to the rhythm of flamenco, performed with heart and soul to honor Spanish tradition.
Seville is also a highlight on our Historic Cities of Spain rail tour, where our expert local guides explore the unique history of Spain and help bring the stories of each city to life.
Barcelona: Art, architecture and Mediterranean flair
Barcelona is a city that will encourage you to visit again and again, hooking visitors with its artistic energy and coastal charm.
The legacy of Antoni Gaudí is everywhere, from the swirling mosaics of Park Güell to the towering spires of the Sagrada Família, a modern masterpiece still in the making. Stroll along La Boqueria market in the heart of Las Ramblas, discover hidden tapas bars in the Gothic Quarter or take in panoramic views from Montjuïc. Whether you're marveling at architecture or simply sipping sangria by the sea, Barcelona offers a wonderful blend of culture and relaxation.
Experience Barcelona's magic during a Grand Tour of Spain & Portugal, where you will uncover the beauty, culture and history of the Iberian Peninsula by rail.
Lisbon: Trams, tiles and timeless charm
Portugal's sun-kissed capital is built on seven hills, each offering sweeping views across terracotta rooftops and the glittering Tagus River. Lisbon is a city of charm and contrasts, where ancient trams rattle past tiled façades, and traditional fado music echoes from the alleys of the Alfama district.
Explore the grand avenues of the Baixa, sample delicious pastel de nata in Belém or ride the iconic Tram 28 through the city's historic quarters. There is an old-world elegance to Lisbon that never feels tired; instead, it invites you to slow down, look up and savor the details.
Our Lisbon & Exclusive Golden Douro tour journeys into Lisbon to capture its beauty at just the right pace, with plenty of time to enjoy its culture, cuisine and coastal charm before setting sail on a seven-night cruise through one of Europe's oldest wine regions.
Douro Valley: Beautiful views and the birthplace of Port
Follow the Douro River through a landscape of steeply terraced vineyards and charming villages. This is the beating heart of Portugal's wine country, home of the world-renowned Port wine.
Explore the historic town of Lamego, or enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine at a quinta, an agricultural country estate. You could also take a scenic journey past olive groves to Castelo Rodrigo, a historic walled town of stone cottages and cobbled alleyways, where the views across to Spain and Portugal are spectacular.
Included in our Exclusive Golden Douro Cruise, the Douro offers a perfect blend of heritage, landscape, and indulgence, all experienced at the perfect pace.
Visit Spain and Portugal with Vacations By Rail
Inspired to explore Spain and Portugal by rail? Discover our collection of escorted rail vacations and cruises across the Iberian Peninsula - from the palaces of Andalucía to the rolling vineyards of the Douro. Your next great vacation begins here.
Explore Spain & Portugal on the following Vacations By Rail tours:
- Historic Cities of Spain
- Grand Tour of Spain & Portugal
- Lisbon & Exclusive Golden Douro
- Exclusive Golden Douro Cruise
