A few years ago we visited our past foreign exchange student, Claudia, in her home country Spain. It was an awesome experience to get to meet her family and spend time getting shown around this amazing country. They took us on a super fun road trip through much of Spain. Here are more details about some of the destinations in the areas we visited. We also returned through Portugal since it was on our way back. Here is a map of what our trip looked like:
We flew into Porto, Portugal since Claudia lives on the boarder of Spain and Portugal in Galacia which is in the very Northwest of Spain. We spent a bit of time in Glacia, I’ll cover this region more in depth in its own post but this was the starting region for our trip.
- Santiago de Compostela: Santiago de Compostela is the capital of the Galicia region in Spain and the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The city is famous for its stunning Romanesque cathedral, the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, which houses the remains of St. James the Apostle. The historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and beautiful squares like Praza do Obradoiro. We didn’t start in this city but as the most north point on this itinerary it might make most sense to start here.
- Vigo and Cies Islands: Vigo is a coastal city located in the region of Galicia. It offers a lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a bustling fishing port. From Vigo, you can take a ferry to the Cies Islands, an archipelago that is part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Claudia’s family has a sailboat so we were able sail to the islands for a great adventure. The Cies Islands are renowned for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sandy beaches, and stunning natural landscapes. The most famous beach on the islands is Playa de Rodas, which has been recognized as one of the best beaches in the world. Its white sand and calm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The Cies Islands boast lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking viewpoints. One of the most popular viewpoints is Monte Faro, the highest point on the islands, which offers panoramic vistas of the archipelago and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Benavente: Heading east there will be several cool historic cities and places to visit. Benavente is a town located in the province of Zamora in northwest Spain. Steeped in history, it boasts a picturesque historic center with medieval architecture and a relaxed atmosphere. One of its notable landmarks is the Church of Santa María de Azogue, an impressive example of Romanesque style. Strolling through the narrow streets of Benavente, visitors can admire the well-preserved buildings, visit local shops and cafes, and immerse themselves in the town’s authentic ambiance. With its rich heritage and tranquil charm, Benavente offers a delightful stop on your road trip through Spain.
- Aqueduct of Segovia: I’ve always loved Roman history and one of the items that had been on my list for a while was to see a Roman aqueduct. So we made a stop to visit The Aqueduct of Segovia. It is an ancient Roman aqueduct located in the city of Segovia, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The aqueduct is an impressive architectural feat, built without the use of mortar, and it stretches over 800 meters. It’s a remarkable sight to behold and provides a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
While there you should take the time to explore the historic center of Segovia which reveals a treasure trove of architectural gems. Check out the fairy-tale-like Alcázar of Segovia, a medieval castle perched high on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The city also boasts the impressive Segovia Cathedral, a grand Gothic masterpiece that impresses with its intricate details and towering spires. As you wander through Segovia’s enchanting streets, you’ll discover charming squares, cozy cafes, and traditional Spanish cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
- Madrid: Madrid, the vibrant and cosmopolitan capital of Spain, captivates visitors with its rich artistic heritage, architectural marvels, diverse shopping options, delectable cuisine, and exhilarating nightlife. From the iconic Prado Museum showcasing European masterpieces to the majestic Royal Palace exuding regal grandeur, the city is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks. The bustling Puerta del Sol serves as a vibrant hub, while the city’s shopping scene caters to every taste, from high-end boutiques to lively markets. Madrid’s culinary offerings tantalize the palate with traditional tapas bars and avant-garde gastronomy. Madrid’s ability to seamlessly blend history, art, shopping, dining, and nightlife makes it an enticing destination that embodies the vibrant spirit of Spain.
- The Alhambra: The Alhambra located in Granada, Andalusia, is an exceptional palace complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned as one of Spain’s most iconic tourist attractions. Showcasing breathtaking Moorish architecture, the Alhambra captivates visitors with its intricately carved archways, stunning courtyards adorned with fountains, and meticulously designed gardens. Every detail reflects the mastery of Islamic craftsmanship, serving as a testament to the historical and cultural significance of the region. Moreover, the Alhambra’s strategic hilltop location provides panoramic views of Granada and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, adding to its allure and offering visitors a glimpse of the captivating beauty that surrounds the palace.
- Caminito del Rey: For years, I had heard about the Caminito del Rey, and I was determined to include it in my itinerary while in Spain. Claudia’s family arranged for us to make this hike possible. After undergoing modernization and safety improvements following past accidents, the Caminito del Rey has transformed into a fun walkway nestled in the province of Malaga. Suspended along the steep walls of the Gaitanes Gorge, this remarkable trail offers awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding landscape. The recent renovations have ensured a secure and exhilarating experience, making it a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts.
- Malaga: If you’ve made it this far south, Malaga is worth adding to your itinerary. This coastal city in Andalusia is known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. In addition to its stunning coastline, Malaga offers attractions such as the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous artist who was born in the city, and the Alcazaba, a well-preserved Moorish fortress. The city also boasts a lively food scene with a wide range of traditional Andalusian dishes.
- Seville: located in the heart of Andalusia, Seville is a vibrant and enchanting city that encapsulates the essence of Spanish culture. It is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, lively festivals, and passionate flamenco music and dance. The city’s crown jewel is the awe-inspiring Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and SURPRISE another UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking interior and ascend the Giralda Tower for panoramic views of the city. Seville’s historic center is a maze of narrow winding streets, lined with colorful buildings, charming squares, and traditional tapas bars, creating a delightful atmosphere for exploration.
- Porto, Portugal: Porto is a picturesque city located in northwest Portugal. It is famous for its port wine production and its historic center, Ribeira, which is, you guessed it, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Porto offers attractions such as the Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore known for its intricate architecture. This bookstore was an inspiration behind some of the famous Hogwarts scenery. Unfortunately, when we visited, the line was so long we were unable to get into the bookstore. So, if this is something you’d like to do, plan accordingly so you have plenty of time to wait in line. Taking a boat cruise along the Douro River is a popular activity in Porto, providing scenic views of the city’s colorful buildings and terraced vineyards. I would love to return to Porto and spend more time in this city as one day just didn’t feel like enough.
This was such a high-level view of all that we got to experience that I’m going to have to do a more in-depth write up on each of these and include many of the other things that I skipped. This should give you a taste of some of the amazing things you could see on a drive through the heart of Spain. Each destination on this road trip offers its unique charm, historical significance, and natural beauty, making the journey through Spain and Portugal an unforgettable experience.
