What To Expect On Your Spain & Portugal Tour

Spain and Portugal are well-established, well-travelled destinations – but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to prepare for. Local life is unhurried, the food culture runs on its own schedule and the sheer density of historic sites means many tour itineraries cover a lot of ground. Travellers who arrive knowing what to expect can more out of every stop.

Here’s what’s useful to know before your tour to Spain and Portugal.

1. Spain and Portugal are distinct destinations

The two countries share a peninsula but have their own histories, languages, cuisines and identities. Within Spain itself, regional differences run deep – Catalonia, the Basque Country and Galicia each have their own languages spoken alongside Spanish, and a strong sense of regional identity. Catalan is widely used in Barcelona; Basque in the north; Galician in the northwest.

Depending on your itinerary, you might move between royal palaces in Madrid, medieval towns like Salamanca, Moorish architecture in Granada and Córdoba, and the riverside character of Porto. Each has its own distinct feel.

2. Getting between cities is mostly by coach

Most Spain and Portugal itineraries cover several regions, connected by coach transfers. Travel days are generally well-paced and often include stops at historic towns – Ávila, Mérida and Salamanca are common en route – so you’re seeing the country rather than just covering distance.

Occasional public transport strikes or demonstrations do occur in Spain. These are usually peaceful but can affect schedules. Your guide will adjust plans where necessary.

3. The historic sites are the backbone of the itinerary

Spain and Portugal between them hold some of Europe’s most significant architecture and heritage. The Alhambra in Granada, the Mezquita in Córdoba, Gaudí’s Sagrada Família in Barcelona – these aren’t incidental stops, they’re the reason most people come. Spain alone has dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

‘Quite simply, outstanding tour throughout. There was such a diversity of experiences offered eg arts, business, architecture, history. The activities were well-timed in length. I loved every moment, I learned a lot!’

– Glenda P, Luxury Escapes Spain, Portugal & Morocco Odyssey with Douro River Cruise & Sahara Desert Camp

4. Food and drink are central to the experience

Cuisine is woven into daily life across both countries, and most itineraries reflect that. Expect tapas tastings, regional wine experiences, olive oil sampling and, on itineraries that include Porto, the chance to explore the Douro Valley and its port wines. Meals here are social occasions – they take time, and that’s the point.

5. Group meals tend to be straightforward

On busy touring days and during travel between cities, meals are often taken at restaurants equipped to handle larger groups. These venues are selected for efficiency and location rather than as standalone dining experiences – expect set menus or buffets. There will be opportunities throughout the trip to explore local cafes and restaurants independently during free time.

6. Meal times are later than most visitors expect

This catches a lot of first-time visitors off guard. Lunch in Spain typically runs from 2–4pm; dinner rarely starts before 8pm, and many restaurants don’t open for evening service until then. Portugal runs slightly earlier but still later than northern European or Australian norms. Working with the local schedule rather than against it makes the food culture far more enjoyable.

7. Afternoons can be quiet in smaller towns

In many parts of Spain – particularly smaller towns and villages – shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon, typically between around 2pm and 5pm. Cities and major tourist areas largely stay open, but it’s worth planning around siestas if you’re looking to shop or explore independently in quieter locations.

8. Touring days start in the morning

Most itinerary days begin around 9am, allowing time for breakfast before departing for guided tours or travel. Starting earlier helps avoid the busiest crowds at popular sites and keeps the day running smoothly. It’s not an early-start destination in the way that Egypt or safari itineraries can be, but punctuality matters on days with multiple stops.

9. Your guide provides context that makes a difference

The Iberian Peninsula has layers of history – Roman, Moorish, Christian, colonial – and a lot of it is physically present in the places you’ll visit. A good guide turns a walk through the Alhambra or the streets of Salamanca from interesting to genuinely illuminating. Local guides also know the best spots for food, the shortcuts through busy sites and the details that don’t make it into guidebooks.

10. There’s a lot of walking

Historic city centres across Spain and Portugal are built for pedestrians – cobblestone streets, narrow lanes, plazas and old town districts that can’t be navigated by coach. Some sightseeing days involve several kilometres on foot. Comfortable, well-worn shoes a must to pack.

‘A great way to visit locations off the beaten track that you wouldn’t otherwise factor in to a trip. It is also culturally immersive and thoroughly enjoyable. We’ve made a list of fabulous locations that we will revisit sometime in the future.’

– Michael K, Luxury Escapes Deluxe 22-Day Spain, Portugal & Morocco Odyssey with Porto, Granada & Fes

11. Hotels are often in historic buildings

Many properties across both countries are housed in older buildings, which adds character but can mean rooms are smaller or configured differently to modern hotels. Facilities vary. This is typical across the region and worth factoring into expectations rather than being surprised by it.

12. Petty theft is worth being aware of in busy areas

Spain and Portugal are safe destinations, but pickpocketing does occur in high-traffic tourist areas – particularly in Barcelona and Madrid, on public transport and around major attractions. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings in crowded spaces. A money belt or inner pocket is useful in busy areas.

13. Carry identification

Local authorities in Spain and Portugal can request identification, and you may be required to confirm your identity if you can’t produce it. Many travellers carry a passport copy or a photo of it stored securely on their phone rather than the original document.

14. The climate varies by region and season

Southern Spain – particularly Andalusia – is hot in summer. Coastal areas are tempered by sea breezes; northern regions are greener and milder year-round. Pack light layers that work across different conditions, and sun protection for warmer regions regardless of the time of year.

15. Cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash

Credit cards work at hotels, restaurants and most shops in cities. Smaller cafes, markets and local businesses sometimes prefer cash. Euros are the currency in both countries. ATMs are easy to find in towns and cities. Keep smaller notes on hand for tips, markets and incidental purchases.

16. Entry requirements for Australian travellers

Spain and Portugal are both part of the Schengen Area. Australian passport holders can generally travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Standard passport checks apply on arrival. Check current entry requirements before departure, as biometric entry systems are being introduced at some European borders.

What to pack for your tour of Spain and Portugal

Comfortable walking shoes are the priority.

Beyond that: lightweight clothing, a layer for cooler evenings, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle and a small day bag for sightseeing.

Pack light – you’ll be moving between cities, and a manageable bag makes every transfer easier.