37 days in Portugal, Spain & Gibraltar Itinerary

Small in size but rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, Portugal features contrasting landscapes that include long beaches, lush vineyards, verdant valleys, and rolling hills dotted with tiny settlements where old traditions still prevail. The country's serene interior, often overlooked by foreigners, remains largely unspoiled by mass tourism and offers visitors a chance to discover this less-trodden part of Europe at their own pace. Ripe for leisurely adventures on foot or by bicycle, Portugal's fertile countryside boasts well-preserved medieval castles and outstanding wineries, producing some of the world's finest ports. The country's cities offer a lively culinary scene known for its many award-winning restaurants, topping the itineraries of foodies from around the globe.

Occupying the southernmost portion of Portugal's mainland, Algarve is wholeheartedly devoted to tourism and continuously ranks among Europe's top holiday destinations. Nearly 10 million annual visitors include Algarve on their itineraries, drawn mostly by the region's developed coastline, boasting nearly 200 km (125 mi) of impeccable beaches. Farther away from the water, the region offers an extensive network of hiking trails, ideal for active vacationers seeking a chance to explore a rugged southwestern corner of Europe once considered the very end of the world. If you need a few urban things to do on your vacation, head for the regional capital Faro, featuring a lively Old Town full of plazas, pedestrian lanes, and outdoor cafes.

A colorful country known for its relaxed lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, excellent food, and world-famous folklore and festivals, Spain boasts a huge number of World Heritage Sites and other spectacular places to visit. It also deserves its reputation as a beach vacation destination; the Western edge of the Mediterranean Sea is home to some of the world’s top beaches. But Spain’s geography is so much more than just soft, sandy shores. Its landscapes are as diverse as its people, ranging from lush meadows and snowy mountains to huge marshes and sprawling deserts. The countryside bursts with unspoiled villages of timeless beauty and old-world charm, as well as vast and varied nature preserves.

The Balearic Islands offer both varied landscapes and a temperate climate ideal for long trips to the beach. On Mallorca, the biggest member of this island family in the Mediterranean Sea, that means everything from mountain scenery attractive to hikers and cyclists to beaches featuring traditional seaside resorts. Ibiza is Europe’s favorite party island, drawing thousands of young visitors with its vibrant club scene and nighttime raves. For a quieter itinerary, Menorca is a haven of serenity, featuring secluded beaches and secret bays. Quaint Formentara highlights the simple charms of island life, like sharing a sunset meal of roasted fish with friendly locals.