Spain and Portugal itinerary
Dream of your Iberian adventure
Spain and Portugal are ideal rail partners. These countries, part of the Iberian peninsula, are packed full of beautiful cities, fascinating history and plenty of attractions - both day and night. With comprehensive rail networks and easy international rail links in the north, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t follow this Spain and Portugal itinerary for the ultimate Iberian adventure.
Itinerary in short
Cities visited on this trip:
1. Vigo, Spain
Once inhabited by Romans, the Spanish city of Vigo is a coastal destination with a rich maritime history. It also has a burgeoning gastronomic scene. It's a major fishing port, so you can expect an abundance of fresh seafood. Museums, galleries and water-related activities will keep you busy throughout the day.
How to get there
It’s possible to reach Vigo by train from anywhere in northern Spain. You can also take a direct Alvia train from Madrid (Chamartin station), which takes just over 6 hours.
2. Porto, Portugal
Porto is a beautiful vibrant city set on the banks of the Douro River. You'll be treated with several stately bridges, a medieval district packed with winding streets and quaint houses, beautiful parks, an abundance of Port wine and a vibrant artistic scene and nightlife. This Portuguese city is an unmissable part of any Spain and Portugal itinerary.
How to get there
There are two direct InterCity trains between Vigo and Porto daily — one at 08:58 AM and another at 07:56 PM. The journey takes 2 hours 22 minutes.
3. Coimbra, Portugal
This riverfront city is rich in history, owing to its previous status as the capital of Portugal. It's also home to the famed University of Coimbra. This historic university still gives it a youthful charm, and the medieval buildings make it one of Portugal’s most architecturally beautiful destinations.
How to get there
There are regular direct InterCity trains between Porto and Coimbra throughout the day, which take approximately one hour.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
The Portuguese capital is understandably the most visited city in the country - and it never fails to disappoint. The rolling hills, accessible history in Alfama, delectable food and all-night parties make this one of Europe’s greats. You also have a range of day trip options to the likes of Sintra, Belém and Cascais.
How to get there
There are regular direct daily trains from Coimbra to Lisbon. Depending on the train, the journey takes between 1 hour 30 mins and 2 hours.
5. Faro, Portugal
Faro lies in the far south, in Portugal’s Algarve region. In summer months, this is the main hub from which to explore the area. It offers easy accessibility to beaches, waves and the laid-back coastal vibes and hedonistic jaunts that define this popular part of the country.
How to get there
There are several daily InterCity trains between Lisbon and Faro that take about 3.5 hours.
6. Seville, Spain
Seville is the capital of Andalusia. Its history, culture and favourable climate have made it a major hub for rail travellers in Spain. Flamenco dancing, tapas bars, Roman ruins, a massive cathedral, the Alcázar palace complex, and river views combine to make it an impressive stopover.
How to get there
There are no train routes between Portugal and Spain in the south. The quickest and easiest way to get from Faro to Seville is via bus, of which there are at least four daily. Please note that this bus isn't included in your Eurail Pass, and a one-way journey costs around €15 - €20.
7. Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz in southwestern Spain is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions of Europe. This shows through in the classic architecture, quaint eateries and quiet, winding alleyways. It also benefits from a laidback coastal atmosphere and stunning ocean views.
How to get there
There are several daily trains between Seville and Cadiz. The journey time is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
8. Granada, Spain
Granada, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is home to the Alhambra — one of the most celebrated attractions in Europe. The Moorish palace and castle sit on a hill above the town, and though it’s the primary reason for most visits, the surrounding city is full of life as well.
How to get there
There are four daily trains between Cadiz and Granada that connect in Dos Hermanas. The total journey time is approximately 5 hours 30 minutes.
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