First-time Europe Travel to Spain, Portugal & Italy: 26 DAYS

Exploring Europe for the First Time: A 26-Day Journey Through Spain, Portugal, and Italy

Embarking on a European adventure is a dream for many travelers, and after planning my first trip across the continent, I am excited to share my detailed itinerary, insights, and lessons learned from a 26-day journey through Spain, Portugal, and Italy. This trip took place from October to November and offered a mix of cultural immersion, stunning scenery, and culinary delights.

Spain: A Cultural and Scenic Tapestry

Barcelona
My trip began in Barcelona, where I was fortunate to have family friends residing. We visited the breathtaking Montserrat Monastery and enjoyed guided bus tours the following day. The vibrant architecture and lively atmosphere set the tone for the rest of the trip.

Madrid
Jetlagged, I boarded the high-speed AVLO train just 24 hours into Spain, arriving in Madrid around midnight for a modest fare of €14. Despite the late hour, the city welcomed us with its energy. We explored iconic sites and soaked in the bustling city vibe.

Toledo
A day trip to Toledo brought us into a medieval wonderland under favorable weather. Though exhausted, we were in awe of its historic charm. Unfortunately, weather constraints prevented us from visiting Segovia, which is high on my list for future travels.

Granada
From Madrid, a five-hour bus ride took us to Granada, where we stayed near the city center. Visiting the Alhambra is a must—be sure to purchase tickets months in advance! Arriving early in the morning allows you to experience its tranquility before the crowds arrive. During our visit, we missed the panoramic miradors uphill due to congestion, but the Alhambra’s intricate architecture was unforgettable.

Sevilla
A three-hour bus ride led us to Sevilla, a city characterized by its humid climate, reminiscent of Moroccan or Saharan weather—quite a contrast to Granada’s dry heat. While we missed some late-opening restaurants and the cathedral visit was scheduled on our departure day to Lisbon, Sevilla’s vibrant street life and historic sites left a lasting impression.

Portugal: Coastal Charm and Cultural Heritage

Lisbon
Next, we traveled from Seville to Lisbon via a scenic seven-hour bus ride. For a faster option, budget airlines like Ryanair or Vueling offer about a 45-minute flight, which I recommend if your budget allows. The bus journey, though long, offered picturesque views of Faro and the Algarve, regions renowned for their