#5 Iberian Romp: Spain & Portugal

Iberian Romp: Spain & Portugal Days: 41 Timeline: Jun 11 to Jul 21 Destinations: 10 Quick Itinerary We explored Barcelona with Tinto de Verano and tapas, enjoyed Granada’s flamenco, food, and local vibe, and visited Malaga to see Picasso’s home. In Marbella, we relaxed (while fully clothed) at a nudie beach, while Ronda amazed us with its Old and New Town Bridge. Seville offered mediocre flamenco, and in Cordoba, we faced the devastating loss of a laptop and souvenirs. We returned to Madrid for more Tinto de Verano and tapas, admired Toledo’s medieval city layout and moat, and ended in Lisbon for an exotic Tuk Tuk tour. Explore Vacation Destinations A Spirited Adventure Across Spain and Portugal Barcelona Barcelona was our first stop, a seaside city famous for its Gaudí architecture, particularly the Sagrada Família, and its lively La Rambla boulevard, blending historic charm with a cosmopolitan vibe. Granada Next, we visited Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra Palace. It’s a city where Moorish and Spanish influences come together beautifully, nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Malaga Malaga greeted us with its sun-drenched coastal charm. Known for its beautiful beaches, a thriving arts scene, and as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the city exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. Marbella In Marbella, we found glamour on the Costa del Sol. Renowned for its golden beaches, luxury resorts, and a charming old town with whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets, it was a delightful place to explore. Ronda Ronda amazed us with its dramatic cliffside setting. Its ancient bridge offered breathtaking views over the El Tajo gorge, making it a truly picturesque destination. Seville The cultural heart of Andalusia, Seville, was our next destination. Famed for its flamenco, Gothic cathedral, and the iconic Plaza de España, the city radiated charm and energy. Cordoba We then explored Cordoba, a city rich in Islamic heritage. The Mezquita-Catedral stood as a mesmerizing architectural marvel, blending mosque and cathedral elements seamlessly. Madrid Our journey then took us to Madrid, Spain’s bustling capital. The city had an undeniable energy, from its world-class museums to its vibrant nightlife. We enjoyed wandering through its streets, admiring the mix of historic and modern architecture that gave Madrid its distinctive character. Toledo I arrived in Toledo, the “City of Three Cultures.” Within its medieval walls, we discovered a fascinating mix of Christian, Jewish, and Islamic history. The city seemed to tell its story through every building and alley, making it a fitting conclusion to our Spanish adventure. Lisbon Finally, we arrived in Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital, is known for its sunlit streets, historic charm, and breathtaking viewpoints. The city’s iconic tuk-tuk rides offer an exciting way to navigate its narrow, winding streets, particularly in historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Have more time? Take a deeper dive… Dive Deeper into These Destinations Girona: Explore the medieval Old Town, Onyar River houses, and the Cathedral featured in Game of Thrones. Almería: Discover the Alcazaba fortress and the stunning Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. Antequera: Explore the ancient dolmens, El Torcal Natural Park, and the Alcazaba of Antequera. Estepona: Stroll through the charming Old Town, admire murals, and relax on serene beaches. Setenil de las Bodegas: Experience the unique houses built into the rock. Carmona: See the Roman necropolis and the Alcázar of the Christian Kings. Montilla: Savor vineyards and tour traditional wine cellars. Segovia: Visit the iconic Roman aqueduct, Alcázar castle, and medieval streets. Consuegra: Admire the iconic windmills and the Castle of La Muela. Sintra: Tour the fairy-tale Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira. Augsburg: Discover Renaissance architecture, the Fuggerei, and the Augsburg Cathedral. Journey map: Tracing the path of adventure! Previous Vacation #4 Southeast Asia: An Intro Next Vacation #6 South America: A Sampler Need help in planning this trip? Enjoyed the post? Give it a like! 😊 Scroll To Top