Best Portugal Tours from Madrid

Can You Do Spain and Portugal in the Same Trip?

Absolutely! Spain and Portugal share the Iberian Peninsula and are wonderfully easy to explore together. With efficient train and flight connections, you can seamlessly combine both countries in a single vacation. Many travelers find that Spain tours pair perfectly with Portugal getaways for a complete Iberian experience.

If you’re planning a balanced journey, here’s a general rule of thumb:

7 days - Focus on highlights: Madrid, Lisbon, and maybe Porto.
10 days - Add side trips like Sintra or Coimbra.
14 days - Immerse yourself fully with cultural and coastal experiences across both nations.

As for where to start, it’s a good idea to begin in Madrid. The Spanish capital has excellent international flight connections, and heading westward naturally flows into Portugal’s major cities like Lisbon and Porto.

Best Ways to Travel from Madrid to Portugal

Getting from Madrid to Portugal is easy, comfortable, and offers several great options depending on your schedule and budget:

1. By Train: The overnight train from Madrid to Lisbon, called the Trenhotel Lusitania, was once iconic, though it’s currently replaced by faster daytime routes. You can now travel by high-speed train via Badajoz to Lisbon in about 6-7 hours, offering scenic countryside views along the way.

2. By Flight: The quickest option, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and departing multiple times a day. Ideal for those short on time or connecting between cities like Madrid, Lisbon, or Porto.

3. By Bus or Car: Long-distance buses take roughly 8 hours and can be surprisingly affordable. Alternatively, a road trip lets you stop at charming Spanish towns and hidden gems before crossing into Portugal.

Many travelers opt for an organized Portugal tour from Madrid, which conveniently handles transport and sightseeing between cities.

Madrid to Portugal Itineraries: 7, 10, and 14 Days

Here’s how to structure your Iberian escape, whether you have a week or two to explore.

7-Day Madrid-Lisbon Express

Perfect for first-timers who want a taste of both capitals.

Day 1-2: Madrid - Explore Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and Prado Museum. Don’t miss tapas nights in La Latina. Madrid tours offer walking routes and food experiences to kick off your trip.

Day 3: Toledo (Day Trip) - Just 1 hour away, Toledo’s medieval charm is an easy detour before heading west.

Day 4: Travel to Lisbon - Take the train or flight; relax upon arrival with a riverside stroll in the Alfama district.

Day 5-6: Lisbon - Ride the vintage Tram 28, visit Belém Tower, and admire city views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Don’t skip a quick side trip to Sintra’s fairytale palaces.

Day 7 - Departure or optional extension to Cascais - A coastal escape just 40 minutes from Lisbon.

10-Day Spain-Portugal Discovery

For travelers who want a more balanced blend of history, coast, and countryside.

Day 1-2: Madrid - Discover local markets and modern art at Reina Sofía Museum.

Day 3: Segovia or Ávila - Explore ancient Roman aqueducts or medieval walls before your Portugal leg.

Day 4: Travel to Lisbon - Scenic train journey through Extremadura.

Day 5-7: Lisbon & Sintra - Enjoy the blend of old-world elegance and contemporary culture. Spend a day wandering Sintra’s colorful palaces and gardens.

Day 8-10: Porto - Take the high-speed train north. Stroll along Ribeira, visit port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, and enjoy Douro River cruises.

14-Day Iberian Highlights

Ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth adventure through both countries.

Day 1-3: Madrid & Toledo - Combine royal history with day trips to Spain’s medieval heart.

Day 4-5: Seville - Travel south for flamenco vibes, orange trees, and the majestic Alcázar.

Day 6-8: Algarve Coast - Cross into Portugal and unwind along Lagos or Albufeira’s beaches.

Day 9-11: Lisbon & Sintra - Explore the capital’s viewpoints, pastel houses, and riverfront cafes.

Day 12-14: Coimbra & Porto - Visit Portugal’s oldest university in Coimbra, then cap your trip with wine tasting and river views in Porto before flying home.

Pro Tips for Traveling from Madrid to Portugal

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant local festivals. Summers can be hot-especially inland-while winters are cooler and ideal for city tours.

What to Pack: Bring layers, comfortable shoes for Lisbon’s hills, and sunscreen for sunny Iberian days. A travel adapter (Type F plug) is also handy for both countries.

Local Customs & Etiquette: Spaniards eat late; dinners often start around 9 PM. In Portugal, tipping 5-10% is polite but not mandatory. Learn a few phrases-“gracias” in Spain and “obrigado/a” in Portugal-locals always appreciate it!

Currency & Transport: Both nations use the Euro, and public transport is efficient. Trains and intercity buses can be booked online in advance, or included in multi-day Madrid to Portugal tours for convenience.