Looking for a bit of inspiration for your next Interrailing trip? We’ve got you covered. The Spain and Portugal Set Trip will take you through nine spectacular cities with two to four nights at each location, giving you the perfect amount of time to explore.
Whether you’re about to embark on your first Interrail adventure or are a seasoned train-travelling pro, knowing where to go when you hop off at each stop is vital. You have limited time in each city so you better make the most of it. Check out our top nine things to do at each location so that the only thing you’ll have to worry about is remembering your toothbrush.
Your first stop will be the beautiful city of Barcelona. While venturing around the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, make sure you visit the European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM).
Located in El Born, the museum is an artistic oasis of spectacular pieces housed in a building that is hundreds of years old. Even if you’re not an art aficionado, the atmosphere alone makes the MEAM worth a visit. Make sure you catch one of the wonderful weekly music performances while you’re there!
The museum is at the heart of a variety of incredible locations, including Plaça de Catalunya, Sagrada Família, and Barcelona Zoo, so you can continue your exploration around some of the most iconic sights right after your visit.
Your next stop is the cosmopolitan city of Valencia. Before face-planting in paella, frolicking under fragrant orange trees, and tanning your toes on the sandy beach of El Cabanyal, take some time to get to know this fascinating city.
The Valencia Highlights and World Heritage Sites Guided Tour is the perfect way to experience the best of the city and all of its cultural wonders. By the time you finish seeing the sights in Spain’s third-largest city, you’ll know all of the hidden gems to explore further for the remainder of your time there. Don’t forget to check out the lively nightlife before you go.
Next up is the Spanish capital of Madrid. Did you know that the city is home to the oldest restaurant in the world and the largest museum on Earth? If not, then you must try Madrid Mysteries and Legends Tour.
Learn the hidden histories of Madrid on this thrilling off-beat tour with plenty of humor and intrigue packed in. Meet the dragon protagonist at Plaza de la Villa, visit a beautiful lady hiding a great secret at Calle del Sacramento, and discover the mysterious medieval history at Plaza de Puerta Cerrada. If you’re new to Madrid or want to get insider info, this is the experience for you.
Your fourth stop on the Iberian Peninsula is the gorgeous city of Granada, nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Aside from the spectacular scenery, the Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces, and the free tapas with every drink, make sure you visit the Palacio de los Olvidados.
The iron maiden, the garrucha, the toque, the colt. No, they aren’t metal bands. They’re instruments of torture that need to be seen to be believed. Discover the dark history of the Inquisition at the Palacio de los Olvidados and see the antique instruments of torture that were used. You’ll also have the best views in the city of the old neighbourhood of Albaicín and the Alhambra from the terrace, so get your camera ready.
After an unforgettable time in Granada, you’re off to Málaga on the Costa del Sol. Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip. Málaga also happens to be the perfect spot to venture out into the wilderness for one of the best adventure experiences the country has to offer.
Located just 30 kilometres north of the city and once known as the most dangerous trail in the world, the Caminito del Rey has since been renovated to the highest safety standards, but that doesn’t mean it’s for the faint of heart. Carefully tiptoe your way along a dizzying aerial walkway 105 metres above the ground on this incredible vertigo-inducing trail.
After exploring nature and relaxing in Málaga, you’ll make your way to the capital of Andalusia, Seville. One of the most popular must-see attractions in the city is the Palacio de las Dueñas. With many of its original features that date back to the late 15th century, this palace is the perfect place to capture content for the Gram.
Located right in the heart of the city, the Palacio de las Dueñas is close to a plethora of popular attractions like the Alcázar and the Cathedral of Seville, so you won’t have to go far to keep exploring all that the birthplace of Flamenco has to offer.
It’s time to swap the tapas for petiscos as you head to the capital of southern Portugal’s Algarve region. With a few days to soak up the sun and reflect on your journey thus far, make sure you spend your last evening on the Ria Formosa and Islands Sunset Tour.
Just a short train ride from the centre of Faro, this guided tour in Olhão is the perfect way to close out your first stop in Portugal. Hop across multiple islands to find some of the most beautiful spots and quietest beaches in the Algarve.
Your second last destination is the colourful capital of Portugal, Lisbon. Known for its historic buildings and hilly terrain, you’ll have the perfect balance between sightseeing and seaside relaxation.
After you’ve settled in on your first night, leave dry land behind and embark on the One-Hour Morning Sailing Tour to get a unique perspective of the city from the Tagus. You’ll have plenty of time to devour pastéis de natas (cream pastries) when you’re back on shore.
See the stunning sights from the sea as you pass famous locations on your voyage from the likes of the MAAT and the Champalimaud Foundation to the iconic pastel-coloured buildings. Use this outstanding opportunity to scope out the sights you want to check out when you disembark to continue your adventure.
Your final destination will be the coastal city of Porto. Known for its stately bridges and port wine production, you’ll have ample time to roam its cobbled streets, sip on coffee at one of the many cafes and listen to traditional fado music. But you can’t visit Porto without trying the port.
If you’re not a seasoned sommelier, take the advice of the experts who have been exporting wines for almost 300 years. Get a guided tour of Burmester Wine Cellars with wine tasting included and drink up the atmosphere. Find out why there’s a port in Porto and raise a glass to a terrific trip.
Now you’ve read about them, why not experience these attractions for yourself? You can view more information on our Spain & Portugal: 4 Week Set Trip here.
