This grand structure is one of the best-preserved elevated Roman aqueducts of all time. Located in Segovia, a historical city Northwest of Madrid, the Aqueduct of Segovia was built in the second half of the 1st century A.D. under the rule of the Roman Empire and supplied water from the Frío River to the city all the way into the 20th century. Today, still standing strong at 28.5 meters tall, the structure’s sheer size and symmetrical simplicity draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Visitors marvel at the engineering genius of the Roman Empire, which has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 1985.
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IBERIAN PENINSULA
INTRODUCTION TO THE IBERIAN PENINSULA
The southwest corner of Europe claims two of the most relaxing, cultural and beautiful European countries, Portugal and Spain, and it’s fair to say these two have a lot going for them. Trips to Spain and Portugal will see you visiting some of the most picturesque and sophisticated cities around, including the likes of Lisbon, Segovia, Seville, San Sebastián, Valencia, Bilbao, Barcelona and Granada. And the best bit? Every single one of these cities is entirely unique and different to the next, so you’ll always feel like you’re discovering something new.
Visiting the capital of Portugal, Lisbon, you’ll be instantly romanced by the architecture of the city, the colourful tiles and doors the crowning glory of this European favourite. The Alfama district or the iconic Cristo Rei are both favourites, but this is a city best explored by foot or tram and our best advice? Just get lost. By night, the city transforms into one of the greatest party capitals on the continent, with bohemian bars, trendy rooftops and beach clubs all offering after dark fun. If you fancy travelling a little out of the city, the towns of Cascais and Sintra have plenty to offer and are just a short train ride from the city centre.
Spain more your scene? Barcelona is renowned for its Gaudi architectural excellence and buzzing nightlife, whilst Bilbao is all about sophistication, fine dining and incredible landscapes. If it’s epic palaces you’re looking to explore, we imagine the fusion of cultural architecture at Granada’s Alhambra Palace will do just the job, or maybe head on over to Segovia where one of the best-preserved elevated Roman aqueducts of all time awaits. Wherever you travel in Spain, there’s one thing all of these cities have in common - dishing u[ some of the most incredible food your tastebuds will ever experience. For a serving of traditional paella, a Valencia tour is your go to. Looking to lounge out on the streets whilst feasting on tapas with your friends? With some of the best tapas spots around, Seville is always your answer. More of a sweet tooth? Hop the border to Portugal for a taste of their iconic sweet treat, the pastel de natas.
Whether you're looking for a coastal retreat to lay back and relax, a city brimming with culture to get stuck into, some of the best party spots and festivals around or some iconic sights to tick off your bucket list, a tour of the Iberia region offers it all and more.
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THINGS TO DO IN IBERIAN PENINSULA
Marvel at the ancient Roman Aqueduct, made up of 166 granite arches, Segovia, Spain
Experience Gaudi and Gothic architecture in Barcelona on a guided walking tour
The Gothic architecture represented in Gaudi’s many masterpieces is dotted all around Barcelona. Expect to find his works in the El Drac de Gaudí property at Finca Güell, Palau Güell (the place of residence of the Güell family), Cascada Fountain at Parc de la Ciutadella and the UNESCO World Heritage site known as Parc Güell. A Gaudi themed adventure won’t only have you seeing all his modernist architectural works, it’s also a great way to see the city! So grab your cameras and get ready to dig deep into the history, art and architecture of this fascinating city.
Enjoy endless plates of pintxos in San Sebastian
A pintxo is a small snack, typically eaten in bars, and a tradition in northern Spain. These snacks tend to consist of small slices of bread, with additional ingredients such as fish, peppers and croquettes, topped with a skewer for easy eating. San Sebastian is a city known for its culinary delights and captivating culture, and it doesn’t mess around when it comes to pintxos. Head to any tavern or bar in the city and you'll be sure to find pintxos to accompany a glass of wine or a few beers as you catch up with friends. If you happen to be in San Sebastian in September, keep an eye out for the International Film Festival!
Learn some Valencian cooking techniques
The very best thing about travelling to the array of destinations situated in the Iberia region is the food! Cuisines don’t get much better than the fresh vegetables, oils, spices, fruits, fish and meats that make up the Mediterranean diet, and Valencians particularly know there stuff when it comes to cooking up a Mediterranean storm. Rice is a key ingredient in many Valencian dishes, making up a whole range of paellas, stews and fresh fish dishes. And for desert? The Spanish sweet tooth often includes ingredients like oranges and almonds with the likes of Coca de llanda, Flan valenciano and Fartons all must trys on any tour of Valencia.
Take a guided tour of Sintra and Cascais, Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city brimming with beaches, cool cafes, incredible food, beautiful architecture and a buzzing nightlife scene. But it you’re heading to the Portuguese capital, make sure you allow some time to visit the outside towns of Sintra and Cascais, both must visits in their own right. Sintra’s mountains, dewy forests and colourful palaces are like something out of a fairytale, and the UNESCO World Heritage listed-center is a must-do day trip. Cascais on the other hand, is a coastal town where museums, surf spots and beach retreats are all an option. Be sure to bring your swimwear, we imagine you’ll be wanting to jump straight into that glistening Mediterranean sea in no time!
Visit the Christo Rei, Portugal’s Christ the Redeemer, Lisbon
Are we in Rio de Janeiro? No, but we pretty much could be. Inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue, this 28 meter statue of Christ is one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments, situated high above the southern banks of Tejo Estuary. The huge statue is constructed on the highest point in the district of Almada, which you can get to via the bridge or a short ferry ride from Cais do Sodre in Lisbon. Dating back to the 1950’s, Cristo Rei was originally constructed in reverence to Portugal avoiding the horrors of WWII, and today it stands as a major religious center and tourist hotspot.
Check out Lisbon’s local vibes by exploring the bohemian bars and riverside clubs
Lisbon is a city jam packed with history and cultural heritage, but when the sun goes down another side reveals itself. Inundated with bohemian style bars and coastal clubs, Lisbon knows a thing of two when it comes to having a good night out. The Alfama district is a great area to head to if you’re looking for cool cocktail or dive bars, and also has some tasty food options to fuel up until around midnight, when the action really gets going. Where to go clubbing? The likes of Lux Frágil and Op Art - Ji. are guaranteed to keep your toes tapping until the sun comes up.
Experience true Basque culture at the Teatro Arriaga, Bilbao, Spain
If you’re after sophistication on your travels, look no further. Bilbao, a city in Northern Spain known for its beautiful landscape and thriving culture, is all about architecture, fine dining and natural beauty. If you’re looking to immerse into all things Basque, get yourself a ticket to the Teatro Arriaga, an opera house in Bilbao. Built in Neo-Baroque style by architect Joaquín Rucoba in 1890, the venue sits on the riverside surrounded by mountains and is something else, whilst the musical performances are out of this world.
Experience the wonderful nightlife of Granada
This city in southern Spain brings serenity, Islamic architecture, tapas bars, churches and graffiti art all together in one place. Located on the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this is a city filled with Renaissance palaces, film, music and theatre festivals. The Alhambra, a beautiful private home with gardens, fortifications and sumptuous palaces, is the crowning glory of it all, and the former residence of many Arab Sultans who once ruled the entire province. Outside the palace walls, expect to find cobbled streets inundated with bars, bohemian cafes, and intimate flamenco clubs. Granada’s lively atmosphere will have you completely mesmerised in no time!
Explore the largest wooden building in the world, the Metropol Parasol in Seville
Seville, the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, is renowned for legendary tapas, the Alcázar castle, the Plaza de Espana and the Metropol Parasol - a wooden structure which you can find in La Encarnación square, the old quarter of Seville. This quirky shaped structure towers over the surrounding area, with 6 parasols and 4 levels offering some pretty incredible views of the city and nearby Jewish Quarter. Be sure to check this out at sunset to guarantee the most gorgeous golden light, and give yourself some time to explore the museum which came about thanks to the outstanding archaeological remains that were found during the early excavations of the Metropol Parasol.
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TOP 5 FESTIVALS IN IBERIAN PENINSULAR
The Iberian Peninsular knows a thing or two when it comes to festivals. Renowned for some of the most iconic festivals of the European summer, Spain and Portugal know how to show you a good time and keep you dancing till the early hours, often to the beat of some of the world’s most celebrated musicians.
Rock in Rio Lisboa, Portugal
Into your rock music? Rock in Rio-Lisbon is a 4-day jam packed event held in Bela Vista Park. The festival has various stages providing over 12 hours of performances per day. Head to the “World Stage” for leading artists and international musicians, the “Electronic Tent” for national and international DJ’s and VJ’s, or the “Hot Stage” for alternative concerts by top artists and up and coming bands.
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim, Valencia, Spain
Benicassim on the east coast of Spain comes to life with a 4-day festival which takes place every July. Muse, Major Lazer, The Chemical Brothers, Liam Gallagher and The Killers are all artists and bands who have or will soon be gracing these sunny stages. With big time headliners from all around the world and an incredible beachside venue, there really is no better place to enjoy the music.
Primavera Sound, Barcelona, Spain
If you’re into your festivals, you’ll have definitely heard of this one. With cool beats and an even cooler crowd, Primavera Sound is one of the trendiest festivals on the scene and a must for anyone wanting to get a feel for a European music festival.
Bilbao BBK Live, Bilbao, Spain
Yet another Spanish music festival comes in the form of Bilbao BBK Live. This is one of the biggest festivals on the Iberian Peninsula and is the Basque Country’s number one with a stellar line-up year on year. Big performers over the years have included Guns’n’Roses, Coldplay, Amy Winehouse, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Incubus, R.E.M., The Prodigy and Green Day.
Surfilm Festibal, San Sebastián, Spain
Now approaching its fourteenth edition, this festival was the first of its kind anywhere in the world. Founded in 2003, Surfilm Festibal is a celebration of cinema and independent-minded surf culture, combining art and music with surfing and activism with the aim of showcasing the best representations of surf culture, helping to get credit for artists telling surf stories.
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TOP 5 MUSEUMS IN IBERIAN PENINSULA
If you think the Iberian Peninsula’s warm climate is too appealing to spend a day inside, think again. These museums are well worth spending an afternoon in the shade for. With contemporary art, outstanding architecture, science and even royal vehicles, you’ll be spoilt for choice if there’s ever a cloudy day.
Museo Guggenheim, Bilbao, Spain
One of modern architecture's most iconic buildings, Museo Guggenheim is a shimmering example of innovative 20th-century architecture. It also played a major role in helping to lift Bilbao out of its post-industrial depression and into the 21st century. And inside? The museum preserves and interprets some of the best modern and contemporary arts.
Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain
This palace and fortress situated in Granada, Spain, is beyond beautiful. Originally constructed as a small fortress in AD 889, it was later renovated into a royal palace which today represents a blend of medieval, Islamic, Renaissance, Christian and modern architectural styles.
Museu Picasso, Barcelona, Spain
The name kind of gives it away, right? This legendary museum dedicated to all things, you guessed it, Picasso, is situated in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. The legendary Spanish painter was a massive influence in 20th century art and the museum celebrates his artistic contributions with 4,251 works that make up the permanent collection.
Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, Valencia, Spain
Looking for a science museum where you can get hands on? Valencia sightseeing will have you heading to the interactive museum of Príncipe Felipe Science, which is all about getting immersive and stimulating curiosity and critical thinking. With diverse and interactive exhibitions covering of all things science, tech and the environment, this is a great place to top up your IQ whilst having fun!
Museu Nacional dos Coches, Lisbon, Portugal
Located in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, the Coach Museum contains one of the finest collections of historical carriages in the world. Boasting a collection of royal vehicles from the 17th to 19th centuries you can expect to see coaches, carriages, chaises, litters and sedan-chairs, all perfectly restored and ready to impress. The museum itself, located in the old Horse Riding Arena of the Belém Palace, is also worth a visit.
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FOOD IN THE IBERIAN PENINSULA
Where to begin? Paella, pintxos, tapas, chicken piri piri, pastel de nata - nowhere quite compares to the food Portugal and Spain has to offer. The Mediterranean lifestyle, fresh food and sociable dining style makes the Iberian Peninsular one of the yummiest places to explore. So, let’s tuck in…
Fideuà
Similar to paella, this seafood dish is a one-pot wonder which never fails to disappoint. Fideuà stems from Valencia and uses noodles instead of rice to form the main ingredient, accompanied by all types of fish, shellfish and seasonings. Head to Cal Papi in Barcelona for this tasty Spanish must.
Best eaten at - Cal Papi, Carrer de l’Atlàntida, 65, Barceloneta, Barcelona, Spain
Best eaten at - Cal Papi, Carrer de l’Atlàntida, 65, Barceloneta, Barcelona, Spain
Pintxos
A pincho, pintxo or pinchu is a small snack, typically eaten in bars, traditional to northern Spain. These snacks tend to consist of small slices of bread, with additional ingredients such as fish, peppers and croquettes, topped with a skewer for easy eating. Check out La Bodega Donostiarra where you’ll find an array of pintxos, accompanied with a glass of wine.
Best eaten at - La Bodega Donostiarra, C/ Peña y Goñi, 13, San Sebastian, Spain
Best eaten at - La Bodega Donostiarra, C/ Peña y Goñi, 13, San Sebastian, Spain
Paella
No trip to Spain would be complete without indulging in paella. Valencian paella is believed to be the original recipe and consists of white rice, green beans, meat, white beans, snails and seasoning, which you can find in the traditional Restaurante Levante. Or, you can choose from a load of seafood and vegetarian paellas, all washed down with a side serving of sangria, of course.
Best eaten at - Restaurante Levante, Carrer de Góngora, 1, Valencia, Spain
Best eaten at - Restaurante Levante, Carrer de Góngora, 1, Valencia, Spain
Pasteis de Belem
The legendary Pasteis de Belem is a little slice of custard tart history. The Portuguese custard tart pastry can be found in most bakeries around Lisbon, but Antiga Confeitaria de Belém is renowned for producing some of the best custard filled pastries around. Custard, golden crusts and a light dusting of cinnamon never tasted so good! A must for all Lisbon tours.
Best eaten at - Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, 1300 – 085, Lisbon, Portugal
Best eaten at - Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, 1300 – 085, Lisbon, Portugal
Bacalhau
Bacalhau is a Portuguese word for cod, and has been an integral part of Portuguese cuisine since the 16th century. This simple dish can be eaten in an array of Portuguese ways, including salted with egg and potatoes, salted with cream, and roasted with potatoes. To get your fix, head to the elegant A Casa do Bacalhau restaurant in Lisbon.
Best eaten at - A Casa do Bacalhau, Rua do Grilo 54, 1900-706 Lisbon, Portugal
Best eaten at - A Casa do Bacalhau, Rua do Grilo 54, 1900-706 Lisbon, Portugal
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