$60, Seville: Spanish Cooking Class with Dinner: Time your visit just right with this guide to the citys festivals and climate. Spain absolutely has some gorgeous mountains worth visiting. See also Barcelona: Activities, Tickets, and Things to Do, Things to Do in Madrid, and Cheap Tours and Activities in Granada, Spain. Marbella: The area boasts some of the best beaches in Europe. So, there's something for everyone. Ive regularly walked home late at night with no fears. The two countries also share similar histories as they were once part of the Roman Empire and then experienced a strong Islamic influence from the Moors, only to be then re-taken by Catholic monarchies with a focus on exploration and imperialistic expansion. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and Jamon Iberico. Spain, on the other hand, has more land and agricultural-based food options. Or maybe you just want to go wild, pelting others with tomatoes at La Tomatina in Buol, or spraying participants with wine during the annual Batalla de Vino in the Riojan town of Haro. (Not that it ever hurts to at least have a nice view while hitting the books of course :)). Opera, orchestra concerts, ballet performances, and musicals are some of the most popular shows here, too. Generically, the resorts offer terrific beaches and many are close to nearby towns, as well as some historical and cultural attractions. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase. Surfing is very popular all along the coast. By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies, plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers! We met. Barcelona is also known for its nightlife, attracting younger travelers on a budget, and plenty of places cater to them with low-cost accommodations with a party vibe. Horseback riding through the mountains or on the beach is also a fun activity, especially for couples. Also, keep in mind that Spain offers a handful of ski resorts open in the winter months, as well as some relaxing inland retreats outside of major cities and historical areas. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Palma de Mallorca: Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places. Don't worry about seeing the specific sights and attractions, but instead soak up the atmosphere and culture of the city. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. According to HRW, over half of the people with disabilities registered in Spain are 65 and older, meaning they would've been affected disproportionally in the face of extreme Spain offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the Portuguese are friendly people, I do find much less focus on what one does (did) for a living. If you seek land food, try the Iberian black pork, the duck rice, or the Francesinha, which is a meat and cheese sandwich with an interesting variety of ham and pork. Here you'll find even better opportunities to see marine wildlife in more ideal conditions. The beaches and clear waters of these island paradises attract plenty of water bound tourists for a good reason. $19, Lisbon: 1-Hour Portuguese Wine Tasting Session: Spain and Portugal offer a relatively similar set of luxury resort options. Both Spain and Portugal are popular destinations for backpackers. Portugal is somewhat touristy. Elsewhere in Portugal, you should see the astronomical observatory near Monsaraz, the Universo de Memorias Joao Carlos Abreu in Funchal, and the Museu de Portimao. All around Spain visitors can find small towns that once contained fortified cities, fishing villages, monasteries, and more. With so many festivals, theres guaranteed to be at least one happening somewhere in the country, whatever time of year you visit. In Lisbon, check out Belem Tower and St. Georges Castle before wandering the old historic streets of the old town, dotted with churches and quaint viewpoints. How can you save money in Spain or Portugal? Whether you're looking for a beautiful coastline, a historic town, or a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant nightlife, Spain really has it all. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center. See what's happening through the year in Porto with this guide to weather, crowds, prices and events. Theres so much more to this place. Take at least a day and just let yourself get lost. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities. Nightlight in Barcelona is some of the most renowned in the world, I don't think anywhere else in Spain (except Ibiza) or Portugal can compare. Many visitors head to Portugal specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. If you're interested in doing more at the beach than just laying on the sand, Spain is the place for you. While some of these costal towns have grown into modern beach resorts, others still have their historical charm with nearby churches, castles, and harbors. Visitors will also find epic hikes, world-class food, vineyards and wineries, epic nightlife, famous art, natural wildlife, multiple coastlines, cultural dances and music, friendly smiles, and affordable prices. 2023 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | CST# 2086743 | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy. You'll also find quaint mountain villages with hotels and restaurants where you can relax. Slip back to nature at an agriturismo (farm stay) in the Alentejo for a slow-food feast of creamy sheep cheeses, acorn-fed black pork (porco preto), olives, wine and wild mushrooms. $63, Porto: Pastel de Nata Cooking Class with Grandma's Recipe: $3.42, Sintra Myths and Legends Interpretative Center Entry Ticket: Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Valencia, and Bilbao all have major airports with flights that connect to the rest of Europe, the U.S., and other regions of the world. Marbella: The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon. And if you choose to drive, you'll find a quality and efficient highway system, too. While it's tough to make a final decision, perhaps price out a few options before deciding. In my opinion, both countries are gender LGBTQ friendly. Southwest Alentejo and Vicenti Coast is part of the Algarve. Portugal or Spain? Everything you need to know ahead of your trip, from how many days to spend in town to the best ways to get around. In Barcelona, visitors can find plenty of great areas with fashion boutiques, local arts and crafts, and souvenirs. With world-famous beaches, Portugal is a very popular vacation destination. Little did I know then that these childhood trips would spark a life-long love affair with the country. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station. See also Lisbon Party Hostels, Beach & Party Hostels in Albufeira, Portugal, and Party Hostels in Peniche, Portugal near the Beach. First, Spaniards are comparatively friendlier and warmer. Portugal has consistently rated in the top 5 countries for safety since Ive been here. $50, Madrid: Murder Mystery Dinner Experience: Portimao: The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. Additionally, other cities such as Toledo, the towns in Catalonia, Granada, and Seville attract many visitors. Spain vs Portugal International friendlies 2021/22. At any price range visitors will have modern comforts, clean and healthy food, affordable and efficient public transit, and more. Portugal is a terrific destination to visit for history, arts, and culture, as it has many sights worth visiting. Bullfighting is still major in most of Spain, but in Portugal bullfighting doesn't kill the bull and I didn't sense that it was a major event there. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates. With endless coastline, millennia of history, enticing culture and some of the best food youll ever taste, Iberia has lured travelers for as long as humans have been on the move. The countries have been allies and friends for centuries. A number of terrific dive locations can be found here, too, such as those near Funchal. $34, Seville: Paella Cooking Experience on a Rooftop Terrace: $36, Mlaga: Private Transfer to/from Mlaga Airport (AGP): Some fish and wildlife can be seen in the shallower areas located a bit off of the shoreline. No matter where you visit, it's easy to combine all of the best features of Spain into one terrific and romantic trip. Of the specific cities mentioned, I believe you'll find housing costs higher (possibly a lot higher) in Barcelona. Since Portugal has large cities, you'll find plenty of things to do. Overall, prices in most spots in Spain tend to be a little more affordable than in the rest of Europe. Popular traditional dishes begin with the small but famous custard tart known as Pastel de Nata. The Catalan coast north of Barcelona is especially beautiful with small towns, cliffs along the sea, and historical sites. Carmo Convent and Jeronimos Monastery are also two very popular sites that draw large crowds because of their beauty and rich history. But don't assume that the beaches are the only thing to see for families, as the big cities and mountains have plenty of activities as well. In Porto, you'll find plenty of shopping along the streets in the historic center and downtown streets on the north side of the river, and more touristy shops on the south side of the river near the wine cellars. If you dont have any Spanish or Portuguese to begin with, which one will be more useful to you in the future? See also Hostels in Portugal for Students and Backpackers. Porto: By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area. Should I visit Spain or Portugal? Lisbon and Porto both have a variety of shopping neighborhoods as well as malls and street markets. For greater detail (day-by-day, historical statistics), you can go to timeanddate.com. Hiking along the coast in the Algarve is a unique experience, especially along the Seven Hanging Valleys trail where you'll take on the sea cliffs, caves, and the small coves. In my opinion, However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. Barcelona offers the CosmoCaixa science museum, Montjuic and it's fun gondolas, the chocolate museum, a terrific aquarium, and plenty of interesting architecture. My sense was that Portugal was a bit cheaper than Spain. Spain is a popular choice for travelers. Spain is extremely comfortable for travelers as it is a modern destination with plenty of amenities. Up the Atlantic coast are more beach towns such as Praia da Costa Nova, Figueira da Foz, or Peniche, all with rich cultural and outdoor experiences. Dining out in Spain is an experience not to be missed. $5.67, Lisbon: Museu Coleo Berardo Entrance Ticket: $25, El Torcal de Antequera Hike with Transfer: The reasons dont even have much to do with its spectacular coastline either, even though Spain does have 621 Blue Flag beaches, awarded for their excellent water quality. From the popular coastlines to the rugged interior, Spain is full of history, natural beauty, vibrant people, amazing cities, unique cuisines, and gorgeous views. The coastal landscapes are diverse and beautiful. $50, Madrid: Flamenco Workshop and Show with Dinner and Drinks: - Do both have similar availability of amenities/levels of development? Barcelona: The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. The negatives are that things get done a lot slower (repairs, anything having to do with a government office). Benasque in the Pyrenees sits in a valley and offers plenty of outdoor activities. Sintra has a gorgeous castle, the Pena National Palace. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Barcelona has moderate winters but can be fairly hot (and sometimes humid) during the summer. But when we take the overall influence that a country has on its visitors, Portugal represents itself well, too. Catalonia the NE around Barcelona is the wealthiest area and is a bit like Italy compared to Castile, around Madrid. Albufeira: For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. Furthermore, the Azores and Madeira Islands are part Portugal, too, and offer even more terrific beach resort areas. In Portugal, many people enjoy the theater, adventure travel, and history and culture that this vibrant destination offers. Other mountain ranges worth visiting include the Montanhas Magicas (Magic Mountains), the Serra da Freita, and the Montemuro range. (Spain has five official tongues.) $30, Madrid Airport to City Private 1-Way or Round-Trip Transfer: Valencian paella comes stuffed with butter beans, snails and rabbit. Also, the Madeira Islands are part of Portugal and can be found to the west of Morocco. For a relaxing beach holiday, both Spain and Portugal are good choices. This is a common question asked by many travelers. Also, diving in the Canary islands can be done year-round, where as in the Mediterranean, only during the warmer months. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, Spain has no shortage of places to explore and comfortable amenities for travelers. Feel the countrys spiritual pulse inBraga as, like many a blister-footed pilgrim, you climb the 600 ornate steps of theBom Jesus do Monte, or wing back to the Age of Discovery exploring the intricately carvedMosteiro dos Jernimos in Belm. Prices inevitably climb during the peak summer months so make sure you visit when the crowds are less during the fall or spring seasons. They also have long stretches of sand and although they can get crowded during the summer months, they still have plenty of space. Buses can fill in the spots where trains don't go, and sometimes buses are a cheaper alternative to trains or flights between cities as well. Spain is around five times the size of Portugal. Find the local restaurants that are popular with the residents of the town. See also Barcelona: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide. - Does one tend to be more culturally conservative than the other? The major cities of Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, and others all have world-class museums that cover a variety of topics from history to art to science. Valencia: The city is surrounded by some of the best beaches in Spain. Spend some time on the beach or go kayaking through the caves. The train system is very effecient and convenient, and connects major cities such as Lisbon and Porto to smaller towns and coastal resort areas on the Algarve coast and elsewhere. Culturally, Portugal punches as high as Spain, its history unfolding at a seemingly breathless pace. This country offers something for everyone. As for dining, you will find great dining in both countries. Updated 4 Jun 2021 4 Jun 2021 Match report 4 Jun 2021 FULL TIME: Spain 0-0 Portugal 4 Jun 2021 HALF TIME: Spain 0-0 Portugal 4 Jun 2021 Preamble 4 Jun 2021 The The average daily cost (per person) in Spain is 150, while the average daily cost in Portugal is 136. Most people come for the beaches. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone. Flights into Spain might be easier and cheaper simply because there are more options to choose from. Anchovies and other seafood are popular, too. Both Spain and Portugal offer an similar amount of mountain activities for visitors. $29, Barcelona: Private Transfer to/from Barcelona Airport (BCN): The Mediterranean coast has multiple beach resort towns such as those in Valencia or around Malaga and Marbella. If you don't have a car, your best options are in the historic center. The countries have a lower cost of living than some Western European countries, and this translates into slightly more affordable travel costs for visitors. But when it comes to architecture, Spain boasts everything from the colorful and whimsical designs of Antoni Gaud in Barcelona to the game-changing Guggenheim in Bilbao, the futuristic designs of the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia and the historic Casas Colgadas, centuries-old skyscrapers hanging from the side of a cliff in Cuenca. A Detailed Comparison Written by Nadia Updated on June 25, 2023 Portugal Spain When it The roads, trains, and public transit are also clean, safe, and can get visitors anywhere. Some of the best historical sites are actually the smaller castles and fortresses that are left from the long conflict between the Spanish and Moors that dot the countryside in the southern regions. Flamenco dancing and Paso Double are just two of the musical art forms that are worth seeing on a smaller, intimate stage during a visit. Popular resorts in the area include Marbella Club Hotel, Puente Romano Marbella, and Don Carlos Resort and Spa. If you want a beach vacation where you can explore a small area, then Portugal is probably best for you. Lisbon: Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Spain: Some specific examples of transportation prices in Spain: Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Portugal: Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portugal: Prices for flights to both Portugal and Spain change regularly based on dates and travel demand. Many of them are also family-friendly. Marbella: This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe. From Barcelona, it's easy to reach the base of Montserrat, where you can hike up to the monastery instead of taking the cable car, or hike on the higher up trails as well. Luxury beach vacations and historical attractions in famous cities usually come to mind when people think of Spain. - This one is a very minor point, and I know this is also more about personal opinion and both definitely have beautiful landscapes. Spain is very touristy. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. Prices in both Spain and Portugal are very dependent on the time of year. It's also a great beach destination, too. $5.70, Porto: Torre dos Clerigos Entrance Ticket: Adventure seekers can find exciting activities almost anywhere in Portugal. Both Spain and Portugal offer plenty of great road trip opportunities. And don't miss the famous hanging houses of Cuenca. But perhaps the true star of Spains food scene is elegant San Sebastin, where pintxos (bite-sized meals) are the order of the day, and where youll find the most Michelin-starred restaurants per inhabitant of any city in Europe. Who can resist the azulejo-covered (tiled) facades in Portugal? Fish is huge in Portugal. High speed trains as well as local trains take visitors and residents around all of the cities in Spain fairly quickly. - Is one safer than the other? As mentioned before, one thing that contributes to the overall quality of life in any particular country is safety. Horseback riding along the coast or in the mountains is also a popular way to see the gorgeous landscapes, too. Keep in mind that if you have a rail pass, the prices for trains can be much cheaper, too. Taking a road trip through Spain is very good way to see the countryside and smaller destinations. It's hard to find such diverse romantic attractions packed into a small country anywhere else in the world. $14, Porto: Clem Cellar Tour, Interactive Museum & Wine Tasting: More gorgeous inland areas should also be on a romantic itinerary such as Coimbra, the vineyards of the Douro Valley in the north, the mountains of Serra da Estrela Natural Park, and the Valley of Guadiana. They are hubs of activity with lots of energy, and there are more than 18 miles of sandy beach in the area. For convenience, Praia da Batata is the closest beach to town. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve. Also, some companies offer specific types of tours, such as adventure tours, tours for those under 35, or culinary and food-focused tours. Suki, speaking Spanish in Portugal for a non-native Spanish speaker would be like speaking Italian in Spain, or even speaking Portuguese in Spain. Spain has more large cities, mountains, national parks, museums, and historical attractions. Spain is an extremely popular destination for those interested in watersports. Honeymooners could stay in one spot for a week, or spend their entire trip touring the highlights. And with its daring architecture (check out Rem Koolhaas daringly iconic Casa da Msica), contemporary art trove Serralves and immersive World of Wine,Porto is just as exciting as the capital these days. The languages are not as similar as your might think. Theres nowhere better to feel the life-affirming slap of the Atlantic than atEriceira,Peniche (the jump off-point for the gorgeous Ilhas Berlengas nature reserve, with its cluster of granite islands and turquoise coves) and Costa Vicentina treasures likePraia do AmadoandPraia da Arrifana. A couple of days here will quickly prove why its one of the worlds favorite vacation destinations. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. See also Affordable, Quiet, and Safe Hostels in Lisbon, Portugal, Lisbon Party Hostels, and Lisbon Hostels Near the Train Station. Transportation is also easy, cheap, and efficient, and serves the entire country. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. The country has vibrant cities like Lisbon and Porto, plus natural areas where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. After living outside of Lisbon for almost 5 years, I can offer some insight into Portugal. In Porto, you'll find plenty of activities centered around wine and port, naturally. Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Spain. Even though many visitors will say that they both have amazing beaches, stunning architecture, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and warm weather, the discerning visitor will easily see the differences. On the other hand, that city has a great deal to offer in terms of sights and experiences. Cathedrals, museums, restaurants, and a great transportation network are also mixed in. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. Portugal has the Fado, a music that has a melancholy tone. Oviedo wouldn't be my first choice of a place to spend a lot of time, and I'm 68 years old. Andaluca is a popular destination because it combines the beaches with historic towns, mountain retreats, and fantastic food. Marbella: From luxury to family-friendly, this area has plenty of resorts to choose from. It has stunning cliffs, nice beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. $18, Gaia Private Transfer:To/From the Oporto Airport: Inland, the Covao dos Conchos trail is found in Serra da Estrela natural park, and here you'll experience scenic mountain vistas. I would select the most rigorous and highly regarded medical school/ program above all else. Scuba diving and snorkeling is also popular in some areas along the southern coast, too. Adventure travel experiences in Portugal are quite popular with travelers. Or tour theAlqueva Dark Sky Reserve route, corkscrewing up to theSerra da Estrela (mountains of the stars) and Portugals highest peak, 6540ft (1993m) Torre, to peer up at night skies embroidered with millions of stars. In Barcelona, don't miss the Picasso museum dedicated to the famous artist. See also Top 10 Kid-friendly things to do in the Algarve. Looking for a hotel in Spain or Portugal? Barcelona has a climate quite different from what you'll experience near the northern and northwesters coasts of Spain, where many of your other options are located. $9.58, From Lisbon: Freeport Shopping Experience with Transfers: Albufeira: It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. The tourist infrastructure here is extensive, and anyone can travel comfortably here no matter their budget or price range. $5.66, Madrid: Self-Guided Tour with Over 100 Sights: Hostels and budget-friendly hotels can be found in the major cities, at the beaches, and in smaller towns. $51, Puerto del Carmen: Music Hall Tavern Comedy Drag Dinner Show: The name comes from the wide pan that the rice dish is served in, usually with seafood or meat and a variety of spices for flavoring. Traveling around Spain is easy and efficient, particularly if you're traveling between major cities. See also The Best Hostels in Seville, Party Hostels in Barcelona, and Partying at Hostels in Madrid. For those looking for a hike, trails are everywhere and not just in the national parks. For the modern traveler, this is most noticeably reflected in its cuisine which consists of plenty of seafood. The Douro Valley in northern Portugal is amazing. The Roman empire also left its mark, as did visitors from the rest of Europe and northern Africa. Take a drive from Porto south along the coast to Lisbon, then keep heading south all the way to the Algarve. Fideu is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. (Then again, I was there during the summer, and I didn't notice any university students about; the academic year would have more going on.) There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from. While the southern coast of the mainland provides plenty of great dive spots with clear waters and a good selection of marine life, the crown jewels of diving are in the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands. Start with the biggest question of all: which of the peninsulas two countries to choose. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. For the ultimate resort vacation, Spain is a great choice. A holiday trip to Spain for many means a trip to one of the beach resorts along the southern coast, or in Ibiza or Majorca. $37, Valencia: Surprise Winery Visit with Wine Tasting: Meet Elsewhere, Lonely Planet's new travel-planning service. Lagos: As a resort town, you'll find no shortage of places to stay in the area. Kite surfing and wind surfing are also popular in many areas, too. $22, Crdoba: Local Wine Tasting Evening: Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach. A brand new museum filled with treasures from Spains state-owned royal collection is set to open in Madrid in June. Portugal and Spain enjoy a friendly relationship. Lisbon and Porto are thriving cities with an active nightlife scene, museums, historic cathedrals, and terrific cuisine. Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Portugal. Affordable food is also found everywhere, whether at local restaurants, street vendors, or markets. For those traveling as a couple, Portugal has plenty to offer. Octopus is another favorite which you should try, as it's usually boiled or steamed and served with olive oil and potatoes. Also, you can see Flamenco shows at small, intimate venues around Madrid and other cities, too. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Marbella: There are more than 100 dive sights and endless snorkeling opportunities in the area. The Chocolate Museum is always a favorite, too. Spain has a great public transit system. Near Santa Maria Island, for example, divers can see manta rays, tuna, barracudas, and amberjack. Many visitors take a road trip along the coastlines. $36, Barcelona: Private Airport Transfer to/from Barcelona: In fact, each of Spains 17 regions is totally unique, with a different culture, cuisine and even language. In general, the most popular tourist destinations tend to also be the most expensive. Chirizo is a special type of smoked sausage, and jamn Iberico is a smoked ham with tons of flavor. $44, Lisbon: 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class: In Lisbon, the city center is full of bars and nightclubs that come alive after the crowds enjoy dinner at a variety of restaurants and cafes. The Algarve region in the south is especially popular with kayakers who wish to explore the unique sea caves and cliffs, such as those at Benegil. Known for its hiking, Spain draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In addition to the historical centers of Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia which contain plenty of romantic attractions, couples and honeymooners also love Majorca and Ibiza for it's epic beaches, the southern coast of Spain for the beach resorts, and Costa Brava for its charming small towns with fantastic cuisine. How about witnessing the intense passion and elaborate floats during the Semana Santa parades in the run-up to Easter? The blending of cultures in this region of Europe along with the accessibility of historic sights and cultural traditions make this country an obvious place to visit for history lovers. $16, Porto: Graham's Port Lodge Guided Tour and Wine Tasting: I would definitely pick Portugal, but The reason given was that the Portugese were not fond of the Spanish due to their shared histories with Spain being the more powerful.