Located on the Iberian Peninsula, both Spain and Portugal are beautiful countries that have rich histories and fantastic landscapes that is hard to beat.
Because the Iberian Peninsula is located in Southern Europe, it is best to plan your trip from May to June or from October to November, when the weather is at its very best.
From the wonderful cuisines offered by locals to the beautiful beaches, there is plenty to do when traveling to these two countries.
Also, there are full of natural beauty and historical sites that travelers from across the globe will immensely enjoy. So here are the top 10 places to visit in Spain and Portugal.
1. Alhambra Palace, Granada
For those who love history or architecture, the Alhambra Palace is a must-see location.
Located in Granada, the beautiful Arabian Alhambra palace is well known for being the beloved palace of Ferdinand and Isabella, who united Spain after conquering the Moors who had settled in the area.
Their daughter, Katherine of Aragon, would eventually become the first wife of Henry VIII of England.
Alhambra, which means Red Castle, has a history that dates back to at least the ninth century AD. However, it is believed that history goes back much further.
The palace has a panoramic view of the city, which gives it a military advantage that likely goes back further than the Moors.
The distinct Andalusian architecture contains impressive details, and every surface is alive with decoration.
The Alhambra even has its special cylindrical columns that are not found on any other building in the world.
Because of Granada’s Moorish history, there is still a rich element of North African culture found in the area.
Morrocan-style tea houses and markets are found throughout the region, making it a unique location.
2. Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Nothing says modern art like the Guggenheim Museum, which is located in Northern Spain’s largest city, Bilbao.
The building itself is a work of contemporary genius built along the Nervión River as part of a revitalization effort of a former dilapidated port.
In 1997, the building titanium building was described as the “greatest building of our time” by renowned architect Philip Johnson.
Once inside, this unique building’s curves come alive with over 250 pieces of modern art. Permanent displays and ever-changing exhibitions make it a fun place to visit again and again.
Due to the vastness of the space, larger displays are often seen at the Guggenheim, along with well-known pieces of art from artists like Picasso and Van Gogh.
Despite Bilboa’s former derelict status, the city is now a genuinely transformed destination.
It is home to Ribera Market, a medieval district, and has astounding views from Mount Artxanda.
There are many other things to do when visiting this region. Bilboa truly is an example of transformation.
3. Timanfaya National Park, Canary Islands
Located in the Canary Islands, Timanfaya National Park has a natural beauty all its own.
Its desolation is unique and alien-like, so much so that NASA used the park to train astronauts for the Apollo 17 mission.
The park is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve due to the rare plant animals and geological features.
The park is home to over 100 volcanos that have had historically devastating effects, although only one volcano remains active.
Yet the ground just under the surface can reach extraordinary temperatures up to 600°C. Pouring a glass of water into the ground can even create a geyser!
The park has beautiful underground galleries and three different tour options– including a guided tour on a bus.
The coastal tour offers more of a challenge for the two walking options, yet the scenery is unparalleled.
The park is on the island of Lanzarote, which has an island flair, especially in its fantastic cuisine.
There are also dolphin cruises, buggy tours, and the Lanzarote Aquarium, host to three different habitat experiences.
4. The Basilica of Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Basilica of Sagrada Familia began construction in 1882 but remains unfinished.
However, this does not mean that the cathedral is any less magnificent in its rich details and beautiful architecture.
The original design, created by architect Francisco de Paula del Villar in 1882, was reimagined by Antoni Gaudí a year later.
However, Gaudí died in 1926 with less than 25% of the work completed. The only section of the temple Gaudí saw completed is the Bell Tower, dedicated to the apostle Barnabas.
Gaudí was buried at the cathedral, which is seen as a tribute to his genius.
The Basilica was funded only by private donations causing the construction to be a slow process, further delayed by the Spanish Civil War.
Construction is still ongoing with current work, including a Venetian glass mosaic representing garments worn by the Virgin Mary.
This gorgeous glass display is a part of the tower dedicated to Mary and will be the second-largest tower at the cathedral.
5. Royal Alcázar de Sevilla, Seville
Founded in 913 under the rule of the Calif of Cordoba, Abdurrahman III an-Nasir, the Royal Alcázar has been constantly altered to meet the needs and styles of the day.
Although it began with Islamic ornamentation, influences from the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles blended with the original architecture and mixed with the nineteenth century to make a beautiful blend that sets the Royal Alcázar apart from other places in Spain.
This type of blending of Christian and Moorish results in Mudéjar style, and the Royal Alcázar stands as a beautiful example.
The gardens of the Royal Alcázar are known as some of the most spectacular in all of Spain.
It is another UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the homes of the Royal family of Spain. It was even featured in HBO’s series “Game of Thrones.”
King Don Pedro the Cruel, protector of Jews and Muslims, who lived during the fourteenth century, had a great love of Islamic artwork and added significantly to the beautiful palace.
Seville is also home to many other historical activities, including the tomb of explorer Christopher Columbus.
It is also famous for its flamenco dancing, so adding a show to the itinerary is a must when visiting Seville!
6. National Palace of Sintra, Lisbon
Located in Lisbon, the National Palace of Sintra is a royal residence occupied continuously from the medieval period to the nineteenth century.
Like Spain, Portugal was once ruled by the Islamic North African Moors, which once occupied the site that is now the Palace of Sintra.
The impressive architecture and tile work make this Palace of Sintra a must-see location in Portugal, with features such as the swan room and magpie room featuring magnificent ceiling murals that are bound to impress. The courtyards showcase large Islamic pools and tiles.
The palace architecture has not been altered significantly since it was built, making it a prime example of medieval style.
The city of Lisbon is a host of beautiful pastel-colored buildings and offers many other tourist attractions and exciting cuisine that will appeal to any appetite.
It has a vibrant history and colorful culture, which makes Lisbon the political capital of Portugal and a cultural capital that must be experienced!
7. Matosinhos Beach, Porto
This beautiful expanse of gorgeous golden sand along the Atlantic coast has much to offer travelers.
The brisk waters of the Atlantic are the perfect spot to cool off in Portugal’s hot summers. The shopping and restaurants make it a year-round travel destination.
Matosinhos has earned the Blue Flag by the Foundation of Environmental Education, which meets essential safety and environmental standards.
The strong currents can make the waters at Matosinhos a little more challenging to navigate but create the perfect environment for surfers.
The beach is also known as a romantic getaway for those looking for a couples trip.
This does not mean that singles or families will not enjoy the fun tours and activities that Matosinhos offers.
Seafood is definitely on the menu here, and Matosinhos has many different offerings from local restaurants.
There is also a hop-on-hop-off tour service to make finding your way around a breeze!
8. Furnas Lake, São Miguel
Furnas Lake is a collection of over 30 geothermic springs located in the beautiful area of São Miguel in the islands of the Azures.
Complete with prevalent geysers, there is much to see and do here, including interacting with locals known to create unique corn-based dishes in the warm geyser waters!
The beauty of Furnas was created by volcanic activity, with the last eruption occurring in 1630.
The water runs both warm and cold from the various springs and can be enjoyed at hydrotherapy centers first installed in the nineteenth century.
The area around Furnas Lake offers up much in the form of natural beauty. Terra Nostra Park, for example, offers impressive botanical gardens filled with lush, green life.
There is also a research center for learning more about the volcanic activity that created this island wonderland.
Be aware that the areas around the springs and thermal pools have a particular odor that can be off-putting for some guests.
This is a natural smell that radiates from the elements and minerals deep in the earth.
9. Castelo de Guimarães, Guimarães
The Castelo de Guimarães was a tenth-century monastery built to defend the monks from invasion from the Moors and Normans.
The walls form a fortress in the shape of a pentagram that acts as a shield of defense.
Culturally, many people identify the castle as a symbol of the founding of the nation of Portugal.
It was first used as a royal residence in 1096 and was home to the first King of Portugal.
The original fortress was expanded in the medieval period, bringing adding Gothic characteristics to the castle.
It was nearly destroyed in the mid-1800s when the Patriotic Society of Guimarães intervened to save the building.
The Castelo de Guimarães has now been protected and declared a national monument, although specific updates have been made to make it more comfortable for visitors.
During an effort to restore the castle, a previously unknown medieval well was uncovered while installing electrical wiring.
There are many historical sites worth seeing in the area of Guimarães. From hitting up the old city area to traveling up a hill in a cable car to get a better view, visitors will delight in this beautiful city in Portugal!
10. Roman Archeological Sites, Évora
As a UNESCO World Heritage City, Évora has many archeological sites that bring interested travelers worldwide.
Its most well-known, the Roman Temple of Évora, is one of the most significant historical sites in Portugal and represents the Roman occupation of the area.
The temple was likely built in the first century and, according to legend, dedicated to the goddess Diana.
Although the moniker still exists, with the site being referred to as the Temple of Diana, historians now know that it was built to worship Emperor Augustus as a part of a Roman cult.
The original temple was destroyed by German invaders around the fifth century and wholly demolished by King Alfonso V in 1467 with only the columns remaining. The stone was reused, and the tower was once used as a butcher shop!
Nearby to Évora, the ancient Roman city of Santiago do Cacém invites travelers to view its public baths and ancient sewer system- technological marvels of the day.
Vila de Frades also offers a deeper look into the life of the Romans, well before the nation of Portugal was established.
Conclusion
When visiting Spain and Portugal, there is no lack of activities. The rich cultures, histories, people, and fantastic cuisines will keep visitors well occupied.
There are natural landscapes that will captivate and relax travelers, letting those who choose to adventure there return with not only a better understanding of the region, but a tranquil relaxation.