Spain and Portugal are two of the most popular destinations in Europe, known for their rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. One of the best ways to explore these countries is by taking a cruise, which allows you to visit multiple ports and experience the best of both worlds. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, we will explore some of the best Spain and Portugal cruises that offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Barcelona, Spain is one of my favorite cruise ports in the world.
Whether you're interested in exploring the sunny city of Malaga on Spain's Costa del Sol, journeying to nearby Granada, or visiting the charming town of Mijas, there are plenty of options available to suit your preferences. Celebrity Cruises is one of the top cruise lines that offer the best of Spain and Portugal. Their Best of Spain & Portugal Cruise is a 10-night journey that takes you to some of the most beautiful destinations in the region, including Alicante, Palma De Mallorca, and Barcelona.
Royal Caribbean Cruises is another top option for those looking to explore Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands. Their Spain, Portugal & the Canary Islands Cruise offers a diverse range of cultural riches and myriad opportunities for outdoor exploration. From classical architecture to hip bars and imposing volcanoes, this cruise has something for everyone. With so many options available, it's easy to find the perfect Spain and Portugal cruise that fits your budget and preferences.
Overview of Spain and Portugal Cruises
Spain and Portugal cruises are a popular way to explore the Iberian Peninsula and its rich cultural and natural offerings. These cruises offer a great way to experience the best of both countries in a single trip. Whether you are interested in exploring classical architecture, hobnobbing in hip bars, or scaling an imposing volcano, a Spain and Portugal cruise can offer you myriad opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural enrichment.
Spain is a country of diverse cultural riches and stunning natural beauty. It is home to world-renowned museums, art galleries, and architectural wonders, such as the Alhambra, the Sagrada Familia, and the Park Guell. Spain is also known for its lively nightlife, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals, such as the Running of the Bulls and La Tomatina. Some of the popular ports of call in Spain include Barcelona, Malaga, Valencia, and Vigo.
Portugal, on the other hand, is a country of charming towns, breathtaking coastlines, and fascinating history. It is known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and delicious seafood. Portugal is also home to some of Europe's most beautiful cities, such as Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. Some of the popular ports of call in Portugal include Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.
A typical Spain and Portugal cruise itinerary includes stops in some of the most beautiful and historic cities in both countries. Some of the popular ports of call include Lisbon, Barcelona, Malaga, Valencia, and Vigo. Many cruises also offer shore excursions that allow passengers to explore the local culture and natural beauty of each destination.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a Spain and Portugal cruise is an excellent way to explore the best of these two countries in a single trip. With its diverse cultural offerings, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, a Spain and Portugal cruise is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.
Cruise Lines That Cries From Spain And Portugal
Spain and Portugal are popular destinations for cruise lines, with many offering itineraries that depart from ports in these countries. Here are some of the top cruise lines that offer cruises from Spain and Portugal:
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises offers a range of itineraries that depart from ports in Spain and Portugal, including Lisbon, Barcelona, and Malaga. Their Best of Spain & Portugal cruise takes travelers on a 10-night journey to some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, including Valencia, Ibiza, and Palma de Mallorca.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a variety of cruises that depart from ports in Spain and Portugal, including Barcelona, Malaga, and Lisbon. Their Spain, France & Italy itinerary takes travelers on a 10-night journey to some of the most iconic cities in Europe, including Rome, Florence, and Cannes.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International offers several itineraries that depart from ports in Spain and Portugal, including Barcelona, Malaga, and Lisbon. Their Spain & Canary Islands cruise takes travelers on an 11-night journey to some of the most beautiful destinations in the region, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offers a variety of itineraries that depart from ports in Spain and Portugal, including Barcelona, Malaga, and Lisbon. Their Grand Voyage to Brazil itinerary takes travelers on a 17-night journey across the Atlantic, stopping at destinations in Spain, Portugal, and Brazil.
Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises offers several itineraries that depart from ports in Spain and Portugal, including Barcelona, Valencia, and Lisbon. Their Spain, Morocco & Portugal itinerary takes travelers on an 8-night journey to some of the most beautiful destinations in the region, including Casablanca, Tangier, and Seville.
With so many cruise lines offering itineraries that depart from ports in Spain and Portugal, travelers have plenty of options to choose from when planning their next cruise vacation.
Historical and Cultural Highlights
Spain's Rich History
Spain boasts a rich and diverse history that has left its mark on the country's culture, architecture, and art. From the Gothic cathedrals of Valencia to the iconic La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, visitors can marvel at the stunning works of art and architecture that have been created over the centuries. The country's southern region of Andalusia is home to the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that is a testament to the country's Moorish past.
Portugal's Cultural Heritage
Portugal is known for its vibrant culture, which is reflected in its music, dance, and food. Fado, a traditional style of music that originated in Lisbon, is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the country's cultural heritage. Visitors can also explore the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, a stunning example of Portuguese Gothic architecture. The Douro Valley, famous for its wine production, is also a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing Portugal's cultural heritage.
Art and Architecture
Spain and Portugal are home to some of the most stunning works of art and architecture in the world. Antoni GaudÃ's unique and whimsical architecture can be seen throughout Barcelona, including the iconic Park Güell. Portugal's baroque architecture is also a sight to behold, with stunning examples like the Sao Francisco Church in Porto.
Exploring the Islands
Spain and Portugal are also home to several beautiful islands that are worth exploring. Mallorca, one of Spain's Balearic Islands, is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island of Iona in Portugal is a hidden gem, with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
Cruise Options
There are several cruise options available for those interested in exploring Spain and Portugal. Celebrity Cruises offers a 12-night cruise that stops in several ports in Spain and Portugal, including Barcelona, Valencia, and Gibraltar. Royal Caribbean also offers a 7-night cruise that stops in several ports in Spain and Portugal, as well as the Canary Islands.
Culinary Delights
Spain and Portugal are known for their delicious food and wine. Visitors can sample traditional dishes like paella in Spain or bacalhau in Portugal. The Douro Valley in Portugal is also a must-visit destination for wine lovers, with several vineyards offering tastings and tours.
Notable Cities and Landmarks
There are several notable cities and landmarks that are a must-see for anyone visiting Spain and Portugal. In Spain, visitors can explore the historic city of Granada and the stunning Alhambra complex. In Portugal, the Belem Tower in Lisbon is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the country's maritime history.
Visiting Other Countries
Many cruises that stop in Spain and Portugal also offer the opportunity to visit other countries. Visitors can explore the historic cities of Albania or the stunning beaches of Colombia. Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, India, Israel, and Jamaica are also popular destinations for those interested in exploring other countries in the region.
Spain and Portugal offer a wealth of historical and cultural highlights for visitors to explore. From stunning works of art and architecture to delicious food and wine, there is something for everyone in these beautiful countries.
I am looking forward to my next cruise in Europe which will include Spain and Portugal.
Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.
Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.
Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.
Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.
Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.
