For a long while, the focus of incoming tourists was to Spain, leaving Portugal out of the picture almost completely. However, with this list, you can now make a trip down to visit both countries, and checking out the best cities they have to offer. A common misconception is that both these nations are practically the same, which makes one visit either of the nations and skip the other. Both Spain and Portugal offer their own unique wealth of culture and history for you to explore, and these 6 handpicked cities from each of the countries would be a great place to begin your journey!

Spain

Barcelona

What is a trip to Spain without a visit to Barcelona? Streets filled with iconic buildings, Barcelona is a bustling city that is filled with fun and entertainment. With access to a beach, vibrant nightlife, and astounding street entertainers, you’ll never miss out on anything you may wish to do.

Madrid

Of course, you can’t head on to Barcelona without checking out their rival, Madrid, too. Much like the big apple, this city doesn’t sleep either. When the sun goes down, it signals the party’s awakening, and it doesn’t stop till the crack of dawn. Other than the intense parties, Madrid is filled with Spain’s history, with their museums and monuments that you cannot miss. It truly is a must visit in Spain!

Toledo

If you are truly out to seek Spain’s history, Madrid may not do it for you. But Toledo definitely will. As the former capital of Spain till the 15th century, it holds most of Spain’s historical relics that you can’t miss out on. It is a trove of churches and palaces that you may never see in other cities. As the town is rather small, the best way to get a hold of this history lesson is to wander around town by foot.

Portugal

Lisbon

After its recent revival and new renaissance, it has become the new tourist hub of Portugal. And for good reason too. It holds some of the oldest and most traditional buildings and shops, with traditional crafts that tourists can purchase. Travel up and down its cobblestone paths and make your way around Portugal’s capital whilst absorbing all that it has to offer.

Sintra

Sintra is a wonderfully unique place that holds architecture that is a mix of 19th century Portuguese architecture, as well as an English style of architecture. It is a simple and traditional town that holds a magnificent palace for you to visit. This one is truly for all who enjoy a picturesque vacation.

Funchal, Madeira

Madeira consists of islands off the coast of North Africa that belongs to Portugal, with Funchal being its main city. The one big attraction that most tourists love is the “toboggan rides”, where you can slide down the steep hills of the streets. There is a cable car ride back up the steep streets if you choose not to walk. This city is also known for its excellent nightlife, which makes this one of the top hotspots of Portugal as well!