The Iberian peninsula promises sun, exceptional food, vibrant culture and stunning natural scenery – how do you choose between the peninsula’s two countries? It’s Spain vs Portugal, and we’re here to help you decide which of these cultural heavyweights will best suit your vacation.
Often the two countries are closely associated, and while they have their similarities, there are plenty of unique and wonderful differences between Spain and Portugal. We even asked our past guests what they loved most about each destination, and which country took top spot for them. Let’s dive into it, shall we?
Spain vs Portugal: when to visit
Because the two countries are so geographically close, whether you choose to visit Spain or Portugal, the climate will be pretty similar. Hot summers with averages of around 86°F (29ºC) draw travelers from far and wide for their summer vacations, flocking to the region’s glistening coastlines and bustling cities.
As with the rest of Europe, summer is high season in both countries, so the major cities and towns will be much busier from June to August, as will the beaches. To avoid the crowds, travel during shoulder season in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather becomes more temperate – though the sun will still be shining.
Alternatively, escape harsh winters by heading to Spain and Portugal between November and February, where temperatures rarely dip below 50°F (10°C). The mild winters here can see some rainfall, but traveling off-peak will give you excellent rates and very few crowds.
Portugal vs Spain: culture
The good news is, wherever you go you’ll be immersed in centuries of rich culture and heritage.
Spanish culture goes far beyond siestas and sangria. With Trafalgar, you’ll hop from monument to museum, dance to the beat of flamenco, and see the country through local’s eyes. Discover Madrid’s charming alleyways and taverns, wander round Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, and lay eyes on Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia (which has been in construction since 1882). Local specialists will guide you round each city, brimming with knowledge about Spain’s cultural tapestry.
We couldn’t put it better than past guest Mita, who said:
“Personally Spain was soul-stirring because it has rich dynamics of an extensive flavor spanning many facets ! It’s hard to pinpoint one factor but in a nutshell it encompasses a rich heritage and a legacy that beckons every tourist! An idyllic holiday destination for sure! Culture, Cuisine, Architecture, History, People: it’s a total package!”
Meanwhile, you might find a slightly slower pace across Portugal as you explore this colorful country to the tune of the melancholy fado music, wander cobbled streets, and marvel at artistic azulejo tiles. Travel with Trafalgar and you will hear sentimental stories through the guitar sounds of fado, uncover depths of faith in the Church of Saint Lawrence and the revered town of Fátima, and become dazzled by the romance and preserved beauty of Lisbon.
The country’s largest cities, Lisbon and Porto, can often characterize Portugal, with their maritime history evident today, with flavors and cultural influences from across the world thanks to its seafaring history. Its architecture is just as varied, from Lisbon’s sunshine-yellow streets to the grand National Palace of Pena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which you can see on day trips to Sintra.
Past guest Alfonso recalled his trip to Portugal with Trafalgar:
“I was on the Portugal Tour in June of 2022. Such amazing cities & history.”
Cuisine across Iberia
Like their languages, food menus across Spain and Portugal will look distinctly different; Spain has more of a Mediterranean diet and the majority of Portugal follows the Atlantic diet, the difference being that the latter focuses more on bread, potatoes and red meat than the former (which typically features more pasta). They share fundamental ingredients like legumes, seasonal vegetables, and seafood, which plays a major role in both Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, though each country presents local ingredients in a unique way.
Spanish cuisine varies across the country, but wherever you travel you can be sure that a trip to Spain promises incredible gastronomy – from Valencia’s paella and Barcelona’s croquettes to Andalucian oxtail and Seville’s gazpacho, Spanish cuisine is as flavorful and colorful as its diverse regions. So much more than just tapas and paella (though be sure to sample these delights), Spain has mastered meat and seafood equally; head to the Basque Country for some of the best grilled meat in Spain at its many Michelin-starred restaurants, or go to Valencia to try excellent fresh seafood.
Travel to Seville between December and February to catch citrus season. Seville’s streets are lined with orange trees, and during harvest season their distinctive bittersweet scent floods the streets (though don’t be tempted to eat one fresh – you’ll be in for a sour surprise).
On a Spain tour with Trafalgar, while staying in Seville you’ll meet the wonderful Morillo family for a Be My Guest experience on their olive oil farm – one of many throughout Spain. Learn how they produce olive oil before you share a traditional Andalusian dinner in their sun-dappled courtyard.
Trips to Portugal are a culinary delight, and Portuguese food is as complex as the country’s history. Far more than Port wine and sardines, Portugal cuisine showcases cod, cabbage, pork, and duck in a variety of fried, stewed, slow-cooked, and baked ways. When tasting oysters (preferably next to the ocean), follow them up with a ruby red, sour cherry ginjinha shot, local style.
As for sweet treats, the Portuguese have mastered them. Pastel del nata have made their way far beyond their home country, but these flaky custard tarts taste even better on home turf.
Head to Porto in northern Portugal to taste the country’s most famous produce, Port. Produced in the Duoro Valley, Port can only be made here (just like Champagne can only be produced in the Champagne region of France). This picturesque part of Portugal is a must-visit, and you’ll go on a scenic drive past the terraced vineyards surrounding the Douro river on tour with Trafalgar before heading to a Port cellar for a tasting.
Portuguese food tastes even better when shared with locals, and on a Portugal tour with Trafalgar you’ll travel to Alentejo for a Be My Guest experience, where you’ll meet Tiago and Vera for lunch in their family home on their farm. Not only are you treated to a traditional home-cooked lunch, but you’ll visit the stud farm and hear many stories from your charming hosts.
Differences between Spain vs Portugal
Spain is geographically much larger than Portugal, meaning if you want to see it all then you’ll need to give yourself more time to explore as there’s literally more ground to cover. However, Portugal has more varied landscapes, with red sand beaches morphing into pine forests, and rugged, rocky coastlines. Because of their size difference, if you’re eager to get to the ocean then Portugal might be better for you – you’re closer to the sea at any given time in Portugal, even though Spain has more coastline.
When considering a trip to Europe, both Spain and Portugal are relatively affordable. Though generally, you can assume that Portugal is cheaper than Spain, but of course it depends where you visit – major cities like Lisbon are likely to be more expensive that more rural parts of Spain, and vice versa. The good news is, when traveling with Trafalgar everything is included in our tours, from memorable dinners to iconic sights.
Spain vs Portugal: your comments
We asked, you answered: here’s what our past guests had to say to settle the debate.
Spain, esp. the gastronomic delights of Barcelona. – Luisito
Couldn’t choose. Saw both on the Spain, Portugal and Morocco tour in April and would do the whole thing again in a heartbeat. Each have their own treasures, fascinating histories and cultures, beautiful buildings and breathtaking sights. – Jo
Both! But I prefer Spain first! – Nancy
Portugal to visit vist the Lady of Fatima. – Charito
We have done two Spain trips, Spanish Wonder and Northern Spain. We have also done Best of Portugal. Loved both places for different reasons! I can’t choose just one! – Lori
Loved Portugal, trying Spain this fall. – Melanie
Flamenco and Tapas for sure. – Cassandra
Traveling is fun! Meeting people of different cultures and seeing beautiful places! Each is different. Difficult to choose. – Ching
Spain vs Portugal: so which is the winner?
Out of all the comments, the total tally was 33 for Spain, 11 for Portugal, and 32 votes for both (with a few votes for the Channel Islands and Norway thrown into the mix) – so it looks like Spain just pipped Portugal to the post for Trafalgar travelers.
Can’t choose yourself? You don’t have to – see the best of both on our Highlights of Spain and Portugal tour! Travel to Spain and Portugal on this tour that has it all, taking you from Madrid to Seville before heading to Jerez and Lisbon, visiting 14 cities in total across 13 days.