Spain vs Portugal: Where Should I Travel?

Spain is located in western Europe, occupying the majority of the Iberian Peninsula. The borders stretch from France and the Pyrenees Mountains in the east to Portugal in the west, and the Strait of Gibraltar in the south.

Touching the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Spain’s proximity to the water has shaped its history, culture, and weather, as well as providing it with a unique identity amidst the Mediterranean Basin. Sun-kissed beaches, Moorish influence, and Catholic traditions all combine to create a captivating blend of heritage and natural beauty.

Portugal is located on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula. Bordering Spain to the east and north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south, the country represents the most southwestern corner of the greater European continent.

Picturesque beaches, charming historical fishing villages, dramatic coastlines, historical cities, and storybook castles demonstrate the vibrant natural and civil history influenced by the edging waters. From the medieval charms of Lisbon’s streets to the richness of historic vineyards, natural splendor to fascinating heritage, Portugal has shared history and borders with Spain, but maintains its independent culture.

Spain and Portugal are neighboring countries on the Iberian Peninsula that share several cultural and historical similarities. Both have vibrant Mediterranean heritages, evident in shared traditions, from Catholicism to seafaring.

Because of their southwestern positions on the European continent, the weather around southern Portugal and Spain is similar, as well as that between northern Spain and Portugal. Certain areas in both countries also have ancient Roman foundations and Moorish influences.

There are shared ingredients and traditional dishes across the Spain and Portugal borders, and while both countries have famous wines, the ultimate flavors of the cuisine and wines are specific to certain regions in each country. The end result is that while Spain and Portugal are neighbors, they have fewer things in common than most travelers realize.

Spain and Portugal shine in their respective differences by exhibiting unique cultural, culinary, and ancestral identities. The most noticeable difference is linguistic, with Spanish acting as Spain’s national language and Portuguese representing Portugal’s.

Spain's architectural legacy ranges from the Moorish-influenced grandeur of the Alhambra Palace in Granada to the whimsical curves of Gaudí's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, demonstrating a specific aesthetic evolution in art and design.

Portugal's architectural heritage is evident in the Manueline-style of Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, which stands as a testament to its maritime prowess. The charming whitewashed villages of the Algarve also reflect the region’s and the country’s coastal charm.

From flamenco in Spain to fado in Portugal, Spanish artists like Velázquez and Goya to the Portuguese azulejo tiles, the diverse histories, heritages, and cultures reveal the many differences between the countries.

When considering beach vacations, it’s important to note that both Spain and Portugal have stunning beaches. Each country’s coastline has its own unique appeal and your preferred beach in Spain or Portugal depends on your travel goals and interests.

Spain has nearly 3,000 miles of coastline, with a wide array of beaches, from stretches of white sand to smooth pebbles, rocky coves, and corners bordered by greenery. The beaches are famous for their warm waters, which make them ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.

Portugal's beaches are popular for their pristine beauty, with many hidden coves and unspoiled stretches of sand. The coastline covers nearly 1,115 miles when accounting for the mainland, the Azores archipelago, and Madeira Island. Along with the illustrious gold-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Portugal’s coastline is also a haven for surfers because of the consistent waves and variety of breaks.

The top things to do in Spain include visiting ancient sites, sampling the variety of flavors, and tasting the eclectic wines. The number of activities you can enjoy when visiting Spain can take you cycling through the countryside or learning how to prepare traditional dishes. From admiring master artists in world-famous museums to viewing surreal architecture, the way you experience Spain is specific to your interests and sets the country apart from neighboring Portugal.

The top things to do in Portugal represent the diverse natural and cultural charms of the small country. From visiting remarkable Roman or Moorish ruins to exploring castles that inspired fairy tales, uncovering celebrated vines in historic vineyards to exploring trails connecting dramatic coastal cliffs with winding valley panoramas, Portugal is a singular experience that quickly sets itself apart from its neighbor.

Spain and Portugal have rich, celebrated, and mouthwatering culinary traditions, but deciding on which food is better depends on your preferred flavors and ingredients. Comparing the culinary landscape in Spain and Portugal is about what dishes each country is known for, what spices are typical, or what ingredients are traditionally used.

Spanish cuisine is renowned for its regional diversity, with each region boasting its own signature dishes and flavors, such as the world-renowned food culture in San. Portuguese cuisine, while influenced by Mediterranean flavors, often emphasizes seafood and simple preparation.

Knowing the most popular dishes in each country and their specific region may help you choose which to visit when deciding on Spain vs Portugal for your trip.

The most popular foods in Spain include:

• Paella - rice with saffron, chicken, and seafood
• Gazpacho - chilled tomato soup
• Jamón Ibérico - cured ham

The most popular foods in Portugal include:

• Francesinha - a sandwich filled with meat, sausage, cheese, and a tomato-beer sauce
• Pastel de Nata - flaky pastry filled with custard
• Arroz de Pato - duck and rice

Spain and Portugal are known for their exceptional wines. Each type has its own unique style, shaped by the grape, the region, and the terroir. Deciding which country is the better wine destination depends on your personal preferences and the type of wine you enjoy drinking or wish to try during your trip to the Iberian Peninsula.

Spain is a global leader in wine production, with the best wine regions representing a diverse range of styles. From the powerful red wines of Rioja and Ribera del Duero to the crisp whites of Galicia and the refreshing rosés of Catalonia, Spain has something for every palate.

The best wine regions in Portugal also demonstrate the country’s major contribution to wine production, with a focus on creating balanced and elegant vintages. From the rich and intense red wines of Douro to the lively whites of Minho and the slightly sweet dessert wines of Madeira, Portugal offers a variety for you to discover.

When thinking about traveling to Spain or Portugal, how to reach the country can be a major consideration in your decision. Traveling from major North American cities to either country is relatively easy and straightforward, with both offering a wide range of direct flights.

Spain has a slightly larger number of direct flights from North America and major US cities, making it easier to travel without requiring a connection. Portugal is well-connected to Europe and many North American cities, providing for easy flights and quick flight times, but often requiring a stop when traveling from the west coast.

Flight times to Spain and Portugal from North America are typically around eight to 12 hours, depending on your departure city, airline, and number of stops.

When thinking about your Spain vs Portugal vacation, Portugal is considered safer than Spain.

Both countries have low crime rates and travelers are generally safe walking around at night, exploring the coastlines, and even driving through the scenic countryside. Portugal, however, holds a slight edge in terms of overall safety.

Despite these minor differences, both countries have implemented measures to enhance traveler safety. These initiatives include focusing on tourist infrastructure, supporting local safety measures, and streamlining information for access to essential services.

Rather than visiting Spain or Portugal, you can visit both during your trip. Whether you are interested in a 10-, 14-, or 21-day trip, you can tour the best of both countries for an unforgettable experience in history, culture, and natural splendor. If you have limited time, we recommend no fewer than 10 days for a Spain and Portugal vacation. The more time you have, the more immersive your experience will be.

• Diverse historical culture
• Culinary discoveries
• World-renowned art and architecture
• Coastal diversity
• Outdoor adventures

• Fewer crowds
• Culinary delicacies
• Architectural and artistic beauty
• Unique wine adventures
• Pristine coastal experiences

Whether drawn to the cultural tapestry of Spain or the tranquil charm of Portugal, each country offers a unique blend of experiences that can be tailored to your diverse interests. From enthralling architectural marvels and culinary adventures to soulful melodies and blissful coastlines, Spain and Portugal present a wealth of opportunities to discover and create lasting memories.

You can find more information for planning your custom-tailored trip with inspiration from our Spain tours and vacations and our diverse Portugal tours and vacations. For ideas on what to do, see, and more, explore our Spain travel guide and Portugal travel guide.