23 days in Spain & Portugal Itinerary

Small in size but rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, Portugal features contrasting landscapes that include long beaches, lush vineyards, verdant valleys, and rolling hills dotted with tiny settlements where old traditions still prevail. The country's serene interior, often overlooked by foreigners, remains largely unspoiled by mass tourism and offers visitors a chance to discover this less-trodden part of Europe at their own pace. Ripe for leisurely adventures on foot or by bicycle, Portugal's fertile countryside boasts well-preserved medieval castles and outstanding wineries, producing some of the world's finest ports. The country's cities offer a lively culinary scene known for its many award-winning restaurants, topping the itineraries of foodies from around the globe.

A colorful country known for its relaxed lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, excellent food, and world-famous folklore and festivals, Spain boasts a huge number of World Heritage Sites and other spectacular places to visit. It also deserves its reputation as a beach vacation destination; the Western edge of the Mediterranean Sea is home to some of the world’s top beaches. But Spain’s geography is so much more than just soft, sandy shores. Its landscapes are as diverse as its people, ranging from lush meadows and snowy mountains to huge marshes and sprawling deserts. The countryside bursts with unspoiled villages of timeless beauty and old-world charm, as well as vast and varied nature preserves.

Still largely untouched by international tourism, Galicia offers outstanding seafood and a strong connection to the ancient Celts. Steeped in history, Galicia often feels far removed from the rest of the country, tracing its cultural ancestry to these Northern tribes, who began settling in the area about 3,000 years ago. Celtic traits remained ingrained in everyday life even during the period the region was part of the Roman Empire. Fiercely independent, Galicians take great pride in their cultural heritage and architecture, and well-preserved World Heritage Sites and other attractions are readily found in the region’s towns and villages. Its varied landscapes include spectacular sea views and rugged mountains.