Barcelona, Spain - Lisbon, Portugal 18 days trip

A vibrant metropolis set on the Mediterranean Sea, famed for its brilliant architecture, rich culture, and captivating history.

Recognized as the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, this incomplete church is an exquisite blend of Gothicism and Art Nouveau.

In the heart of the city center, this historic quarter is full of Gothic architectural gems, as well as artifacts dating to the 4C.

The center remains the heart of Barcelona, combining historic sites and cultural monuments with cafes, shops, and fun activities.

Once the city's infamous Chinatown, today the neighborhood is best known for its nightlife and a myriad of diverse eateries.

The intensity of this mountain's facade has influenced Wagner and other artists, as well those worshiping the Virgin Mary.

Dating to the 11C, this cliffside monastery boasts Romanesque features and is surrounded by the breathtaking nature of the Cingles de Berti.

Located centrally in the Gothic Quarter, this cultural square is surrounded by some of Barcelona's most grand medieval buildings.

Walk down this major avenue, admiring fantastic architectural gems, browsing the various shops, and enjoying the local cafes.

Established in the 15C, this famous avenue is lively, colorful, and manic, with ever-changing commerce, nature, and celebrations.

This immense square is a nice spot for some shopping, and turns into a nightlife and cuisine hub in the evenings.

A beautiful mountaintop abbey that offers breathtaking views over the whole of Catalonia, and houses a famed image of Black Madonna.

This viewpoint at 1,236m is surrounded by captivating rock formations, offering striking views of the Pyrenees and the Catalan coast.

A marvel of landscaping by Antoni Gaudi, this park blends lush gardens with architectural curios, and is full of whimsical statues.

Visit the city's marina and discover a bustling area great for eating, drinking, and enjoying the views and happenings.

Housed in a 15C Gothic palace, this superb museum hosts a wealth of historic relics, including wonderful archaeological findings.

Recognized by National Geographic as the world's best city beach, this great shoreline stretches for over 4km and fits all tastes.

Heavenly visions guided two young shepherds to this cave in the 9C, where they discovered a relic of the Virgin Mary.

Take a guided tour through the salt mines to explore the breathtaking caves and learn about salt mining in the region.

Madrid is where ancient and old meet modern and cosmopolitan, where sightseeing, dancing, and shopping go hand in hand.

Spectacular enough to rival the Louvre, this museum is well-known for its revered art collection including best national artists.

Old Madrid offers a range of exploration from small charming residences, to elaborate mansions, to a number of churches.

This must-see museum provides a comprehensive journey of prehistoric, Iberian, Visigothic, Muslim, and Christian cultures.

Housed in an old hospital, this museum holds a most excellent collection of art by 20C Spanish artists.

This magnificent monasterial complex boasts a palace, a church, an ancient library, royal apartments, and many more historic gems.

A memorial dedicated to those who fell during the Spanish Civil War, covering over 3,360 acres of beautiful woodland.

Dating to the 2C, this ancient Egyptian temple was sent as a gift from Egypt to Spain and was rebuilt stone by stone in Madrid.

Visit this neighborhood for a day full of cultural exploits, as its streets are lined with some of Madrid's best national museums.

Built in the 17C, this is a relaxing plaza to linger in, with its interesting architecture, cafes, and frequent performances.

This vast 18C palatial complex is the official residence of Spanish royalty, boasting over 2,000 rooms and remarkable decor.

Situated amid lovely scenery, this charming city offers diverse architecture, cultural monuments, local cuisine, and rich history.

Segovia has an illustrious past dating to Roman times, only rivaled by the beauty of the landscape surrounding it.

This refreshing park is an oasis within Madrid, with peaceful tree groves, a lake for rowing, and enticing spots for solitude.

This 16C monastery contains a wealth of artistic elements, such as its chapels, Ruben-based tapestries, and paintings.

This often overlooked museum should not be missed, as it hosts Goya masterpieces, enamel ware, silverworks, and other artifacts.

This neoclassical palace holds a must-see collection for art enthusiasts, with artwork spanning from the 13C to the present day.

This mountain range is rich with lakes, lush vegetation, and wild animals, much of which is preserved in a national reserve.

Known for its stunning fortified walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of medieval history as well as superb food.

Situated amid lovely scenery, this charming city offers diverse architecture, cultural monuments, local cuisine, and rich history.

Walking through the is a great journey through time and culture, given its numerous sites of Jewish, Christian, and Moorish origin.

Book a tour to visit the immense olive groves surrounding Toledo, enjoying lush scenery and getting to know the local agriculture.

A superb execution of Spanish Gothic architecture, this cathedral houses a myriad of chapels, rich ornaments, and fine altars.

This 15C monastery is a superb combination of Gothic, Mudejar, and Renaissance architecture, and is a pleasure to explore.

Madrid is where ancient and old meet modern and cosmopolitan, where sightseeing, dancing, and shopping go hand in hand.

This magnificent monasterial complex boasts a palace, a church, an ancient library, royal apartments, and many more historic gems.

While Valencia retains a pride and tight connection to its past, it also is extremely modernized in its demeanor and culture.

Begin exploring Old Valencia by having breakfast or lunch in the friendly and bustling Mare de Deu Plaza.

This expansive complex includes an opera hall, an interactive science museum, and the largest aquarium in Europe.

The Valencia beach is popular for its sand, sun, and surf, with some areas offering amenities and others more tranquil.

Housed in a 17C palace, this museum hosts a wealth of medieval artworks, as well as sculptures, archaeological findings, and more.

Book in advance if you want to visit this amazing winery, sampling Spanish wines and enjoying the views of the surrounding vineyards.

Trace the history of this castle by the artifacts left by its former inhabitants, from Romans, to Arabs, to Christians.

Dating to the 13C, this Gothic church as built on the site of a mosque. It is renowned for its unique mixture of architectural styles.

Part of the City of Arts and Sciences, this must-see aquarium, the largest in Europe, is home to more than 500 aquatic species.

This 15C Gothic building was once the heart of Valencia's trade, and now retains ornate exterior and elaborate decor.

Housed in a 15C Baroque palace with lavish exterior, the museum displays over 5,000 ceramic artworks dating as far back as the 13C.

Learn about Spanish wine production and sample some delicious wines at this excellent winery. Make sure to book in advance.

Known for its rich history and amazing old architecture, this remarkable Spanish town hosts annual festivals to celebrate its iconic castle.

If not traveling by train, you should visit this modern early 20C station, with murals throughout complimenting its uniqueness.

Built in the 14C, this Templar fort guarantees a lengthy visit as you explore its ramparts and views of the surroundings.

A beautiful mountain town, Teruel shows off an interesting landscape of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences from its past.

Granada is simply spectacular, with its Moorish history and culture beautifully preserved to this very day.

Stunningly beautiful, this 9C fortress complex boasts an array of architectural styles, several palaces, and a rich medieval air.

An elegant 14C residential palace, boasting lush gardens, water features at every turn, and stately pavilions.

Originally an Arab district, the remains of its fortress are best approached through the narrow, hilly paths known for their views.

Erected by the Catholic monarchy, this 16C chapel features fantastic mausoleums, superb Gothic architecture, and an art museum.

This immense cave is a show of natural wonder and a testament to the Paleolithic Era with findings of weapons, bones, and more.

Walk along the walls of this narrow gorge to enjoy breathtaking views and a truly unique experience. Children must be at least eight years old.

This 16C palace is superbly designed with its two-story courtyard, also housing two excellent museums.

Dating to the 16C, this gorgeous cathedral features Baroque and Renaissance elements, as well as spectacular architectural design.

From the terrace of St. Nicholas Church, this site provides a commanding view and an intriguing perspective of the surroundings.

Established in the 16C, this monastery is awe-striking in its vast and detailed ornamentation, boasting Renaissance architecture.

Created in the 20C by KIng Alfonso, this award winning walkway offers breathtaking views, stunning nature, and a thrilling experience.

A short walk from the El Chorro campsite leads to a suspension bridge stretching over one of the most stunning gorges there are.

Established in the 16C, the Carthusian monastery retains much of its original Baroque elegance, as well as rich decorative details.

This steep gorge is the setting of several popular villages: Pampaneira, Bubion, and Capileira.

Located at an elevation of 2,014m, this road winds through the lush landscape of Sierra Nevada, offering a wealth of natural scenery.

Cordoba remains as vibrant as it was in medieval times, and its Jewish, Islamic, and Christian cultural history remains evident.

A gem of Moorish architecture, this 7C cathedral has alternately served as Christian and Muslim worshiping site throughout history.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic center is a pleasure to explore given its numerous sites and lively goings-on.

Established prior to Arab arrival, this lovely quarter of twisting streets and alleys is a pleasurable adventure.

On the outskirts of the city, this must-see working archaeological site features terraces, a mosque, and the Abd ar-Rahman room.

Dating to 760, this fortress offers a good walk among its towers and walls, with evidence of its Muslim, Roman, and Berber past.

Created in the 20C by KIng Alfonso, this award winning walkway offers breathtaking views, stunning nature, and a thrilling experience.

This palatial complex boasts exquisite gardens, architecturally rich elements, and and collections of medieval to contemporary art.

Once a convent, this church shows a rich transition between Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Walk along the walls of this narrow gorge to enjoy breathtaking views and a truly unique experience. Children must be at least eight years old.

A short walk from the El Chorro campsite leads to a suspension bridge stretching over one of the most stunning gorges there are.

Known as the home of Andalusia's largest bat colony, this cave system offers great views of the area and some archaeological relics.

The capital of Andalucia, Seville is steeped in its history yet fully embraces the modern-day, providing a full experience.

The capital of Andalucia, Seville is steeped in its history yet fully embraces the modern-day, providing a full experience.

This palatial complex boasts fine Mudejar architecture, elaborate gardens, superb interior, exquisite decor, and rich history.

Exploring the historic center is a fun and satisfying activity, given the historical and modern-day atmosphere of the area.

Boasting a rich Jewish past, this quarter is a charming area full of with quaint streets, decorated houses, and a nice atmosphere.

As the third largest cathedral in the world, this one is a perfect example of Spanish Gothic, featuring an elaborate interior.

One of the largest national parks in Europe, these 50,000ha span wetlands, dunes, and forests, all with a wide array of wildlife.

Visit Setenil for its fascinating houses built entirely into the cliffs, to the extent that one street is entirely in a tunnel.

This Mudejar-style palace is a beautiful structure to tour, with architectural details and artworks spanning several centuries.

Allegedly the largest wooden structure in the world, and is nicknamed "unicorn's mushrooms."

This majestic plaza incorporates a canal within its semicircular shape and offers 58 benches, one for each Spanish province.

Once a stately minaret, this cathedral tower dates to the 12C, boasting a height of over 100m and spectacular views of the area.

With so much to see in this park, choose at least one visitor center to decide: Aracena, Almonaster la Real, Cotegana, or Aroche.

Dating to 760, this fortress offers a good walk among its towers and walls, with evidence of its Muslim, Roman, and Berber past.

This 16C palace combines Mudejar, Renaissance, and Gothic styles, featuring fabulous decor and a lovely courtyard.

Housed in a 16C convent, this museum displays a grand array of Spanish artists from the Middle Ages to the 20C.

Created in the 20C by KIng Alfonso, this award winning walkway offers breathtaking views, stunning nature, and a thrilling experience.

Walk along the walls of this narrow gorge to enjoy breathtaking views and a truly unique experience. Children must be at least eight years old.

A city on the Portuguese border, known for its rich Moorish history, a ruined castle, a few museums, and a 12C cathedral.

Remains of a beautiful Moorish fortress dating to the 12C, boasting parapets, bastions, and a 14C Renaissance palace.

Consecrated in 1270, this Roman Catholic Cathedral boasts lovely Gothic architecture interspersed with prominent Baroque elements.

Housed in two 19C palaces, the best gallery in Extremadura hosts 1,200 items, including paintings and sculptures from the 16C-20C.

Discover the vibrancy of the local culture, enjoying a roaming through the web of colorful streets riddling the center.

A former prison serving as the city entrance, this 16C structure boasts two fortified interconnected circular towers.

Established in the 16C, this monastery is a mix of several architectural styles, housing a few altarpieces, murals, and silverware.

Once a fishing village, Albufeira is now a popular resort town with beautiful beaches, buzzing nightlife and a charming old town.

Certainly Albufeira's best beach, this strip is easily accessible from the Old Town, and is lined with quaint seafood restaurants.

Stroll through the cobbled streets of Albufeira’s historic center and enjoy the ocean views as you visit restaurants and shops.

A small museum exhibiting historically significant regional artifacts from Prehistorical, Roman, Moorish, and Modern periods.

Set amidst the cobbled streets of the Old Town, this 15C chapel features interesting decorations and a gorgeous wooden altarpiece.

A resort area in the south of Portugal, popular for its beaches, buzzing nightlife, excellent golf courses and beautiful marina.

Where the Aljezur River meets the sea, you will find this quiet northern beach, featuring golden sand and shallow pools for kids.

Formerly part of a medieval castle, this operational clock tower boasts an iron crown and offers spectacular views of the region.

A collection of large rocks reaching up to 20m high, set on the clear waters of the Atlantic. The rocks form grottoes that can be explored.

A wonderful water theme park, featuring dolphin shows, artificial beaches, water rides, and wave pools.