Best 14 Day Spain and Portugal Itinerary for Solo Travellers

Spain and Portugal in 14 Days: Trip Overview

Here’s how I’d break up 14 days across Spain and Portugal, if you’re planning your own trip and want to get the most out of it, without rushing through every city or joining a group tour.

The route starts in Barcelona and ends in Porto. You could easily flip it if flights work out better the other way around. I’ve included a mix of big-name highlights and smaller cultural gems, with enough time in each place to get a proper feel for it, not just tick it off a list.

If you’re travelling solo, this route is easy to navigate by train or bus. No need to rent a car unless you really want to.

Two-Week Spain and Portugal Route 

• Day 1 & 2: Barcelona, Spain
• Day 3 & 4: Madrid, Spain
• Day 5 & 6: Granada, Spain
• Day 7: Cordoba, Spain
• Day 8 & 9: Seville, Spain
• Day 10 to 12:  Lisbon, Portugal (day trip to Sintra on day 11)
• Day 13 & 14: Porto, Portugal

Spain and Portugal Itinerary Map

If you’re more of a visual planner (like me), here’s a map that lays out the full two-week route through Spain and Portugal. It follows the same order as this guide and gives you a feel for how the trip flows from one city to the next.

All of the stops are connected by public transport, which makes this a great option if you’re planning a DIY itinerary without a car.

I’ll walk you through how to get between each place later on, but this gives you the big picture first.

Planning Your Trip to Spain and Portugal

If you’re thinking of doing a DIY trip through Spain and Portugal, there are a few things worth knowing upfront to make your travel smoother (especially if you’re going solo).

Is Spain and Portugal a Good Option for Solo Travellers?

Definitely. Both Spain and Portugal are brilliant for solo travel, especially if you’re going it alone as a woman. Crime rates are generally low, transport is reliable, and people are friendly and used to tourists. I’ve done this trip solo and felt totally comfortable throughout.

👉 Want a deeper dive? Read my full guide about solo female travel in Spain.

How Much Time Do You Really Need?

You could easily spend weeks exploring just one of these countries. But two weeks is enough to hit the highlights of both Spain and Portugal. The key is following a logical route that cuts down on wasted time.

This itinerary keeps things efficient without feeling overwhelming. If you prefer a slower pace, just stretch it out and stay longer in the places that really speak to you.

👉 If you’re still unsure about timing, check out how long to spend in Spain and Portugal for ideas based on different travel styles.

Best Time of Year to Go

If you want the best mix of good weather and fewer crowds, aim for spring (April to early June) or autumn (September to October).

Summer can work too, especially if that’s when your time off falls, but just be prepared for serious heat in the south. Seville, Córdoba, and Granada in August? Not for the faint of heart.

Winters are mild in the south and cooler and wetter up north in Lisbon, Porto and Madrid. But it’s also quieter, cheaper, and a good shout if you’re not fussed about beach days.

👉 If you’re thinking about going off-season, here’s a look at the warmest places in Spain in winter for a sunshine fix without the crowds.

Best Ways to Travel Spain and Portugal Independently

You absolutely don’t need to rent a car for this trip. I’ve built this route around public transport because it’s efficient, affordable and ideal for solo travellers.

Here’s what I’ve used myself:

• Trains: Fast and easy for longer stretches (Barcelona to Madrid, Madrid to Granada). Book in advance to get the best prices.
• Buses: A great option for regional travel, especially in Portugal.
• Flights: You could fly from Seville to Lisbon if you’re short on time. I’ve done both and prefer the overnight bus for budget and ease.
• Driving: Only worth considering if you’re planning to detour into smaller towns. But for this itinerary, you’d probably be spending more time behind the wheel than exploring.
  

How to Spend 14 Days in Spain and Portugal

Day 1 & 2: Barcelona

Barcelona is the perfect place to kick off this 14-day Spain and Portugal itinerary. 

It’s vibrant, creative, and packed with some of the best architecture in Europe. There’s plenty here to keep solo travellers busy without feeling overwhelmed.

Two days give you enough time to see the highlights of Barcelona and still wander a little off the beaten track.

Day 1 in Barcelona: Gaudí Day

Start with La Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s still-unfinished masterpiece. 

Construction of this iconic Spanish monument began in 1882, and it’s hoped to be completed in 2026 to mark the centenary of Gaudí’s death. 

The UNESCO World Heritage site mixes Gothic and Art Nouveau elements. The level of detail is insane. Keep an eye out for the hidden symbolism all over the façades.

Next, head to Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló, both located along Passeig de Gràcia. 

These colourful, curved buildings are signature Gaudí; weird, whimsical, and packed with detail. Then finish with Park Güell, which is set in the hills and gives you fantastic city views.

Day 2 in Barcelona: Old Town + Local Life

Begin your morning at Montjuïc Hill. If you’re not feeling energetic, take the cable car up for great views over the harbour. It’s a calm spot to escape the crowds. There is a fortress on top of Montjuïc. I enjoyed the exhibits here, but I’m a history dork. If you’re not interested in history, skip going inside. It won’t make or break your trip to Barcelona.

Later, head down to La Rambla. Yes, it’s touristy, but still worth visiting. Be careful of pickpockets around this area. It’s nearly always busy, and it’s easy to become distracted.

Just off La Rambla is Mercado de La Boqueria. Call in for a fresh juice or authentic Spanish street food before spending the rest of the afternoon exploring the Gothic Quarter with its narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and historic buildings.

In the evening, check out El Raval or El Born. These neighbourhoods have a buzzing tapas and bar scene that works well even if you’re travelling alone. You can find casual spots with bar seating and a relaxed local vibe.

Getting to Barcelona from the Airport

Here are the best ways to reach the city centre from Barcelona-El Prat:

• Taxi: Best option if you’re arriving late or want door-to-door ease; however, it’s the most expensive option. Pre-book your transfer to save waiting in the taxi queue.
• Train (RENFE): Leaves every 30 minutes and arrives at Barcelona Sants Station (Sants Estació). A great budget-friendly option and my personal go-to.
• Aerobús (A1 or A2): It’s quick and runs regularly into the centre.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

For first-time visitors, I’d recommend staying in Eixample for easy access to Gaudí’s architecture and wide boulevards, or Gothic Quarter if you love atmospheric alleyways and being in the thick of it.

El Born is great for solo travellers who want a stylish, walkable base with plenty of local bars and boutiques.

Day 3 & 4: Madrid

You’ll be spending two days in Spain’s capital, which gives you just enough time to take in a mix of world-class art, royal landmarks, and buzzy neighbourhoods.

Day 3: Madrid Icons & Architecture

Start your day at Puerta del Sol, the literal centre of Spain, marked by Point 0. There’s a small plaque on the ground showing the exact spot, and you’ll know you’ve found it because there’s usually a crowd of people staring at their feet. Make sure you look up too, as the Tío Pepe sign is a proper Madrid icon.

From here, it’s a short walk to Plaza Mayor. It dates back to the late 1500s and is one of Madrid’s most impressive squares. It’s a great place to pause for a coffee and do a bit of people-watching before carrying on.

Next, head over to Palacio Real de Madrid (Royal Palace), one of the most opulent royal buildings in Europe. The grand interiors are well worth a tour if you’re into ornate details and history. 

If you’ve got the time, pop into Almudena Cathedral opposite the palace. Building work started in 1879, but it wasn’t finished until 1993, which feels wild. I loved the colourful ceiling artwork. It almost has a Pop Art feel, which you don’t expect in a cathedral.

In the evening, dive into the city’s food scene. Mercado de San Miguel is stylish and tourist-friendly, while San Fernando in Lavapiés is a bit more alternative. Finish the night with drinks in Malasaña, Madrid’s hipster heart, full of trendy bars and indie shops.

Day 4: Madrid’s Culture & Cool Neighbourhoods

Dedicate this day to soaking up Madrid’s world-famous art.

Start with the Prado Museum, then head to the Reina Sofía (home to Picasso’s Guernica) and Thyssen-Bornemisza to round out the city’s “Golden Triangle of Art.”

In the afternoon, take a breather in El Retiro Park, Madrid’s biggest green space. Wander past fountains, check out the Crystal Palace, and maybe even hire a rowboat if the weather’s good.

Finish with the world-famous Gran Vía, Madrid’s main shopping and theatre drag and home to some of Madrid’s most famous landmarks, the Metropolis building, and the giant Schweppes sign.

For your final evening, head to La Latina, a laid-back neighbourhood popular with locals for tapas and terrace bars.

Getting to Madrid from Barcelona

It’s about 500km between Madrid and Barcelona.

Thankfully, there are a few options for this leg of the trip:

• Train (RENFE): The fastest and easiest. The high-speed AVE takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes from Barcelona Sants to Madrid Atocha. Book early for better prices.
• Flight: Takes around 1 hour 15 mins, but once you factor in airport transfers, it’s often no quicker than the train.
• Bus: Not recommended unless you’re on a very tight budget, as the journey takes over 7 hours.

Where to Stay in Madrid

For first-time visitors, Centro is a solid pick. It’s close to Puerta del Sol and the main sights. 

If you’re after something trendier, try Malasaña or La Latina, both great for solo travellers who like a mix of nightlife and local vibes.

Day 5 & 6: Granada

I’ve given Granada two days in this itinerary because it deserves a bit more breathing space. 

It’s not a huge city, but between the Alhambra, the old Moorish quarter, and the tangle of historic streets, there’s a lot to soak up, especially if you’re the kind of traveller who likes to slow down and take it in properly, not just tick things off a list.

Day 5: The Alhambra Complex

This is easily one of Spain’s most famous sights, and yes, it gets busy. I’d book your Alhambra ticket well ahead of time and aim to arrive before the gates open. It makes a huge difference, especially if you want photos without crowds everywhere.

I always give the Alhambra a full day because it’s spread out and there’s a lot to take in. Your ticket covers most areas, but the Nasrid Palace has a timed entry, so double-check that time and plan around it.

Last time I went, I started early in the Generalife Gardens, which was a great move. It was quiet, calm, and I actually managed to take photos without people wandering into the frame. From there, I worked my way through the Alcazaba, wandered the grounds at an easy pace, and finished at the Nasrid Palace, including the famous Patio de los Leones.

You’ll also walk past the Palace of Charles V along the way. It’s not the main event, but if you’re into architecture, it’s a nice extra rather than something you have to go out of your way to see.

Day 6: Explore Granada’s Old Town

Start your morning at Mirador San Nicolás. This is the postcard viewpoint of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background. Go early for quieter vibes and softer light for photos.

From there, head into the Albaicín district. This UNESCO Heritage Site is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Granada. 

It’s easy to get lost in the narrow cobbled lanes, but that’s part of the charm. The architecture still reflects its Moorish past, and you’ll stumble on quiet squares, hidden doorways, and little family-run cafés that make great pit stops.

Later, head back towards the city centre and check out Granada Cathedral, which dominates the main square. Opposite the cathedral is the Alcaicería Bazaar (Old Silk Market), a great little spot if you’re after handmade or artisan Spanish gifts with a North African flair.

If you fancy winding down, finish your day with a relaxing soak at the Hammam Al Ándalus Arab Baths. You can book a massage there too (which feels amazing after all the walking).

Getting to Granada from Madrid

• Train: This is the fastest and easiest option. The direct AVE train takes around 3.5 hours from Madrid Atocha to Granada station. Book early for better prices.
• Bus: The budget option, but slower, taking about 4.5 to 5 hours depending on the service. Several buses run daily from Madrid Estación Sur to Granada Bus Station.

Where to Stay in Granada

Stay somewhere near the Albaicín or the city centre. It’ll put you within walking distance of most major sights, and the views (especially at night) are stunning. El Realejo is another nice area if you want a quieter base that still feels local.

Day 7: Cordoba

You can easily see the best of Córdoba in a day. The city centre is compact, which makes it great for wandering on foot.

I’ve included it as a one-day stop in this itinerary because it’s packed with history and home to one of the most iconic buildings in Spain: the Mezquita. 

Even with just a few hours, you can cover the highlights without it feeling rushed.

Day 7: Full Day in Cordoba

Start with Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral, because it really is the star of the city. The mix of Moorish and Christian architecture is fascinating, and once you’re inside, the endless forest of arches is hard to wrap your head around. There are 856 columns in total, which feels slightly unreal when you’re standing among them.

Two of my favourite spots were the Capilla Mayor, with its huge central dome, and the detailed Marsura Dome. They’re very different in style, which is part of what makes this place so interesting.

Don’t skip the Patio de los Naranjos, one of the oldest parts of the complex, and if you’re feeling up for it, climb the bell tower for views across the city.

After the Mezquita, explore the historic centre and the Jewish Quarter, where the narrow lanes and flower-filled patios are perfect for slowing things down a bit. Calleja de las Flores is a pretty stop for photos.

If you have time, then check out the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, which has served both as a fortress and a palace. 

Highlights here include the mosaic hall, old baths and beautifully kept gardens. Although if you’re feeling rushed, don’t stress. You’ll have already seen the Alcázar in Granada, and you’re heading to another (arguably more impressive) one in Seville next.

As the sun starts to set, walk over the Roman Bridge for a fantastic panoramic photo of the city.

Getting to Cordoba from Granada

• Train: Around 1.5 hours from Granada to Córdoba Central. Fast, easy and my top pick. Book trains in advance for the best price.
• Bus: Slower (2.5 hours) but budget-friendly, with several services a day.

Where to stay in Cordoba

You’ve got two options here. Stay the night in the city, or continue with the next leg of the journey.

If you’re taking things slow or want to enjoy the city in the evening once the day-trippers have left, then staying a night in Córdoba can be a nice break in the pace. 

If you’re staying in Cordoba, look for somewhere in the historic centre or Jewish Quarter so you’re close to the main sights and can make the most of your time.

Day 10, 11 & 12: Lisbon

You’ve finally reached the Portuguese leg of this trip. I’ve given three days to the Portuguese capital. 

Two days in Lisbon give you enough time to see the city’s main highlights and get a feel for the different neighbourhoods, and then one day is set aside for a classic Lisbon day trip to Sintra.

Day 10: Lisbon’s History and Culture

One of the top reasons to visit Lisbon is that it’s a relatively small city jam-packed with history, character and delicious food.

Start your day in Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square). This is one of Lisbon’s most recognisable spots, with the Arco da Rua Augusta on one side and the Tagus River on the other. 

From there, head to Lisbon Cathedral. Then make your way up through the oldest part of the city, the Alfama District. You’ll probably spend a decent amount of time wandering these streets, which feel full of history and local life. Keep going up, and you’ll reach São Jorge Castle, with great views over the city.

From the castle, head back down towards Bairro Alto, a neighbourhood known for its street art and lively atmosphere. If you’re up for it, take a ride on the famous Tram 28, which weaves through some of Lisbon’s coolest streets.

After this, visit the Santa Justa Lift and take it up to the upper part of town, then make your way to the ruins of the Carmo Convent.

In the evening, take the metro to the Time Out Market and eat your way around stalls selling local artisan food. It’s a fun place to try things you might not find elsewhere.

Day 11: Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip

Sintra is home to one of Europe’s most beautiful castles, and it’s easy to reach from Lisbon. 

The landscapes here are thick with green forests and rolling hills. Scattered between them are palaces and castles that look like they’ve been taken straight from Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

Start this day trip to Sintra early because it gets busy.

Once you arrive in Sintra, head straight to Palácio da Pena. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of royal rooms, but for me, it’s the setting that really stands out. The colourful palace sits high above town, surrounded by gorgeous gardens with hidden paths and viewpoints.

Next, make your way to the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros). This one’s much older and more rugged. It wraps around the hillside with views that stretch for miles. On a clear day, you can see right out to the Atlantic. The climb is steep in parts, but the views are absolutely worth the effort.

Afterwards, head down into Sintra Old Town and on to Quinta da Regaleira. I absolutely loved it here. The grounds are packed with Gothic details, winding paths, grottoes, secret tunnels and that famous Initiation Well.

It was built as a kind of aristocratic playground, and it really feels like that; part palace, part maze. It’s easy to lose track of time just exploring every corner.

If you still have time, swing by Palácio de Monserrate. It’s smaller and less crowded, with clear Moorish influences and beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s a peaceful way to end your day.

Wrap things up back in Sintra Old Town. It’s compact but cute, with winding streets and little cafés. Stop for coffee and a pasty before catching the train back to Lisbon.

Day 12: Belém and Waterfront Lisbon

On your third day, head out to the Belém district for a deeper dive into Portugal’s beautiful architecture and maritime history.

Start at Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, one of Portugal’s most iconic monasteries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cloisters are stunning, so give yourself time to take it all in. From there, it’s just a short walk over to Belém Tower, which looks especially magical in the late afternoon light.

And now… let’s talk pastéis de nata. I’m completely obsessed with them. Like, zero self-control. If I sit down with a box, there’s a very real chance I’ll eat the lot in one go. While you’re in Belém, don’t miss the original Pastéis de Belém bakery. They’ve been making these little creamy, flaky pastries since the 1800s.

After you’ve had your fill, spend the rest of the day along the waterfront. It’s a lovely area to just wander, grab a coffee (or wine) and soak up the river views.

Getting to Lisbon from Seville

Lisbon and Seville are well connected, but there’s no direct train.

• Bus: You can catch an overnight bus from Seville’s Plaza de Armas to Lisbon Oriente. The journey takes about 7 hours, saves you a night of accommodation, and is very budget-friendly.
• Flight: A quicker option is to fly from Seville Airport to Lisbon Portela. The flight is just over an hour. There are daily services, and both airports are connected to city centres by shuttle or public transport.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon has several great areas for solo travellers. Baixa and Chiado are central and easy to walk from. Alfama is atmospheric, full of history, and great if you don’t mind hills. 

Bairro Alto is good for nightlife and dining, though it’s busier at night.

Day 13 & 14: Porto

Porto is the final stop on this 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary, and has a totally different feel compared to Lisbon. It’s smaller, more relaxed, and packed with personality. 

I’m a red wine drinker, so this part of the trip is a bit of a highlight for me. Porto is the gateway to the Douro Valley, which means plenty of opportunities to try some seriously good wine and port.

Day 13: Porto Old Town & City Highlights

Start your visit in Porto Old Town, winding your way through cobbled streets and azulejo-tiled buildings. There’s a lot to see here, but take it slow perusing over the hidden detail, with plenty of wine breaks.

If you’re into Harry Potter, stop by Livraria Lello. It’s rumoured to have inspired parts of the books (JK Rowling lived in Porto for a bit), but even if you’re not a fan, it’s still worth popping in to see the insanely beautiful staircase and old-world bookshop vibes.

Next up, climb the tower at Clérigos Church for one of the best views of the city. Just be warned: it’s a bit of a squeeze if you’re not into narrow staircases. 

From there, head over to Miradouro da Vitória. It’s another great viewpoint that gives you a wider panorama than the view from Clérigos Church.

Don’t miss the São Bento Train Station. I know it sounds odd to suggest a train station, but the tile work here is a piece of art. And if you’ve still got energy, the Palácio da Bolsa is another architectural treat.

As the day winds down, walk across one of Portugal’s most famous landmarks, the Luís I Bridge. You can cross on either the upper or lower level; both have great views. Sunset here is particularly special.

Day 14: Douro Valley Wine Tour

Now for one of my favourite parts: the Douro Valley. This place is known for its vineyards, rolling hills, and ridiculously good port wines.

You’ve got two main tour options: go by mini-van or riverboat.

I chose the boat tour, and it was a really peaceful way to take in the scenery. Most tours include stops at a couple of vineyards where you’ll get a quick tour, then plenty of time to sample reds, whites and ports. Some are stronger than they look, so pace yourself, which is easier said than done when everything tastes that good.

You can also buy bottles (or cases) directly from the sellers to enjoy back home.

Getting to Porto from Lisbon

• Train: Direct trains from Lisbon Oriente to Porto Campanhã take around 3 hours.
• Bus: These take just over 3 hours and depart from Sete Rios in Lisbon to Campo 24 de Agosto in Porto. Not much difference from the train, so compare prices.
• Plane: Flying takes just over an hour. If you’re short on time, this might be the fastest option. Use airport shuttles for easy transfers between city centres and airports

👉 The most convenient way to compare all three types of travel is on the Omio App.

Where to Stay in Porto

Stay near Ribeira if you want to be close to the river, restaurants and wine cellars. It’s got that lovely old-town feel and makes everything walkable. 

If you’re after something quieter but still central, look around Cedofeita or Bolhão for boutique stays and cafés with charm.

What to Pack for Spain and Portugal

Packing for Spain and Portugal can be trickier than you might think, especially if you’re travelling across both countries and through different seasons. 

The weather shifts a lot between the inland cities and coastal regions, and yes, it does rain more than people expect (even in summer).

Even in July or August, I always pack a light jacket or oversized shirt. You’ll need it for evenings or freezing air-con on trains. 

And if you’re visiting in winter, bring proper layers. Places like Madrid and Granada can get icy cold, and in Lisbon, the damp chill really clings. You’ll also want a compact umbrella or packable rain jacket, because sudden downpours happen more than you’d expect.

Footwear-wise, make sure you’ve got comfy shoes that can handle cobbled streets and hills (Lisbon especially will test your calves). And if you’re heading to southern Spain in summer, throw in a fan or cooling towel; the heat gets intense.

👉 For a full checklist, read my full guide about what to pack for Spain

14 Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary FAQs

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip to Spain and Portugal?

If you’re feeling inspired to map out your own route, don’t stop here. 

I’ve got loads of destination guides to help you dig deeper into each stop, from planning tips and solo travel advice to city-specific itineraries and insider food spots.

• Start by heading over to my post on how to plan your trip to Spain
• Then browse through my dedicated guides to Spain 
• Or travel in Portugal sections for more ideas