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Spain & Portugal

A vibrant tapestry of sun, flavour, and historic splendor

Hola! And Ola!

These two euro neighbours will captivate your heart with the romance of the Spanish and Portuguese languages, the friendly, passionate people, the Mediterranean climate, culinary delights, unique history, architecture and landscapes. Stay in a Paradore in Spain and explore the Mediterranean coastline, then head over the Spanish plains to the mountain chains. Discover wonderful Moorish palaces, castles, heritage sites, Roman ruins and national parks. Join one of their many crazy festivals and learn the flamenco. From Spain, travel through Portugal’s charming medieval towns, past too many castles to count, devouring port wine and Pastel de natas on the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Take your pick of sandy beaches, where the sun shines 300 days a year as you wind on down to the exquisite Algarve.

Planning a Spain & Portugal holiday? Connect with one of our Spain & Portugal travel specialists to create your dream holiday today!

Flight time.

Traveling from Auckland to Spain or Portugal takes around 24 hours, typically with a stopover. The journey is long, but the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes make it worth the effort.

Best time to go.

The best times to visit Spain and Portugal are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons provide mild weather, perfect for exploring the cities and countryside.

Time difference.

Spain and Portugal are 10 hours behind New Zealand, so plan for a noticeable time difference.

Our favourite things to do in Spain & Portugal

Step into Gaudi’s world in Barcelona

Wander through the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter early morning before the crowds.

Paella cooking class

Return from Spain with the know-how to whip up a mean Paella.

Tapas like a local

We recommend doing a tapas/pintxos tour as soon as you get to Spain, this will teach you how to eat tapas like a local.

Sail through Portugal’s hidden gem

For a distinctly unique experience cruise the Douro Valley in Portugal.

Take a day trip from Lisbon

Visit the whimsical Pena Palace in Sintra ,Portugal.

Flamenco in Spain or Fado in Portugal

Experience local music and dance!

Walk the Camino

A bucket-list adventure!

Stay in Castles and Palaces

Imagine sleeping in a palace, castle, or a historical monument – that’s what staying at a Parador in Spain or a Pousada in Portugal feels like!

Paella making in Barcelona

Spain

Camino de Santiago, Spain

The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is a renowned pilgrimage journey to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia in the northwest of Spain.

Spain know before you go

From vibrant cities and stunning beaches to delicious cuisine and rich traditions, Spain has something for everyone!

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Really quick getting back to us on every request or query we had. Very helpful."

Sharon

"She was luvly. Listened to what we wanted, and provided excellent advice."

Leonard Leigh

"Explained everything in detail step by step"

Cherie

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Meet our Spain & Portugal specialists

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Erin Phillips

House of Travel Calder & Lawson

I have been in and out of the industry since the 80's I have lived in Australia, Canada, Italy and of course NZ.

I have travelled to some great places but there is still a huge number of countries on my wish list.

There is nothing better than being able to help someone when they are going to a new place...recommend a hotel, restaurant or activity and then have them return to say how much they enjoyed it all.

Erin

Lisa Cooper

House of Travel Rangiora

My passions are travel & people which is why I love what I do! I love to share in the excitement of your travel planning and help create your dream holiday! I also understand there is not a one size fits all for travel and will ensure your holiday is individualised to you!

I've been lucky enough to visit so many amazing countries of the world and I would love to help you do the same whether it is a family trip to Aussie, a river cruise in Europe, relaxing Island getaway or an adventurous safari in Africa.

My office hours are: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9am -3pm

Lisa

Antony Boomer

House of Travel Dunedin

I have been in the travel industry since 1987 as a tour leader, travel advisor, traveler visiting the globe, and now Owner Operator of House of Travel Dunedin City.

My travels have encompassed over 100 countries (many on several occasions) initially using all forms of transport from a double decker bus around Europe to rickshaws in Asia to horses in the Middle East and dugout canoes in Central Africa with camels, elephants, donkeys and bicycles in-between.

I am more than willing to travel in a lot more comfort these days visiting the Pacific, Myanmar, India, Vietnam, Ireland, China, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan and USA in recent years.

I believe the transition is similar for people of my generation who still yearn to visit anywhere and everywhere but enjoy a bit, or a lot, more luxury. As such I have developed an in-depth knowledge of the whole spectrum of travel options and regularly come up with solutions to the most complex of travel plans.

Tony

Rachel Molloy

House of Travel Calder & Lawson

Having been in the travel industry for 14 years, it's safe to say travel is my biggest passion. I love turning up somewhere not knowing what to expect and being delighted by both the differences in culture, cuisine and customs. Part way through my career I took a year off and spent this travelling extensively through central America, Asia and Europe. I'm now fortunate enough to be able to pass on the knowledge I've gained over the years and work with my clients to bring their travel dreams to fruition.

Rachel