Coming all this way? Why not make the most of it! While we know not everyone will have time to extend their trip, we highly recommend tacking on a few extra days to explore beyond the wedding festivities. Spain and Portugal offer a delicious mix of European charm, vibrant culture, and postcard-worthy views — from sun-soaked coastlines and hillside castles to wine country, world-class ham, and… yes, those adorable blue-tiled buildings. Once unified under the same crown (briefly), Spain and Portugal eventually went their separate ways — and thank goodness, because now you get two distinct countries to explore. Spain’s known for its tapas, flamenco, and late-night energy. Portugal brings port wine, pastéis de nata, and the world’s most soulful elevator music: fado. Whether you're dreaming of ocean breezes, architectural marvels, or just more croquettes in your life, there's a perfect side trip waiting for you. Go on — your Iberian adventure starts now!

Okay, we’re biased — but Madrid is our favorite city in the world! It’s got the perfect blend of vibrant city life, incredible food, gorgeous architecture, and just enough chaos to make it fun. From tapas hopping in La Latina, to strolling through Retiro Park, to dancing until sunrise (then, CHURROS), this city knows how to live! Art lovers can explore world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, and fútbol fans — yes, Real Madrid plays here. It’s also super walkable, surprisingly laid-back for a capital, and full of hidden gems around every corner. Flying in from America, this is your gateway — so plan to spend a day or two soaking it all in!

Segovia feels like a storybook — complete with a Roman aqueduct, a hilltop castle that inspired Disney, and cozy cobblestone streets perfect for wandering. Just a 30-minute high-speed train from Madrid, it’s an easy day trip or overnight escape. Don’t leave without trying cochinillo (roast suckling pig), which is a local delicacy and an experience in itself. The town is small enough to explore on foot but packed with charm and views that will make your Instagram jealous. Perfect for history buffs or anyone who just wants a dose of old-world Spain.

Wine lovers, this one’s for you. Ribera del Duero is one of Spain’s premier wine regions — think bold reds, rolling vineyard landscapes, and elegant wineries that love a good tasting session. It's about 2 hours north of Madrid by car or private tour, and makes for a dreamy overnight getaway if you want to sip and stay. Many wineries offer guided tours (some in English!) with picturesque backdrops and wine-paired meals. This region is a bit under-the-radar compared to Rioja, which means fewer tourists and more space to enjoy the wine, the views, and each other.

Valencia is Spain’s best-kept secret — a sunny coastal city where history meets modern flair (and where paella was born!). You’ll find Gothic cathedrals, colorful street art, and the ultra-futuristic City of Arts and Sciences all in one place. The beaches are just minutes from downtown, and the food scene is unreal — seriously, you have to try a seafood paella by the water. It’s about 1.5–2 hours by high-speed train from Madrid, and perfect for anyone who wants beachy vibes with a cultural twist. We’d call it chill, creative, and totally underrated.

Córdoba is one of Spain’s most beautiful surprises — smaller than Seville, but packed with history, charm, and that “old Spain” magic. The highlight here is the Mezquita, a former mosque turned cathedral that’s jaw-droppingly beautiful and unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere. The old town is a maze of whitewashed buildings, flower-filled patios (especially in spring!), and little tapas bars tucked around every corner. It’s about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Madrid by high-speed train, making it an easy add-on or day trip. If you’re looking for a slower pace, tons of culture, and fewer crowds, Córdoba is calling.

Sevilla brings the drama — in the best way. It’s fiery, romantic, and packed with Spanish soul. From flamenco performances in candlelit taverns to Moorish palaces and sun-drenched plazas, this city feels like a movie set (and Game of Thrones fans, yes — parts were filmed here). Don’t miss the Real Alcázar, the enormous cathedral, or getting lost in the winding alleys of the Santa Cruz neighborhood. It’s about 2.5 hours from Madrid by train and has a totally different vibe — hotter, spicier, and just a bit more magical.

Barcelona is where beachy vibes meet architectural magic. It’s famous for Gaudí’s colorful masterpieces (hello, Sagrada Família), Mediterranean views, and a food scene that blends Catalan tradition with cutting-edge cool. You can wander the Gothic Quarter, lounge at the beach, sip sangria on a rooftop, or eat your way through La Boquería market. It’s about 2.5 hours from Madrid by high-speed train, making it easy to tack onto the front or back of your trip. If you love art, architecture, and a more coastal scene, Barcelona is a must.

Another must for wine lovers, La Rioja is Spain’s most famous wine region — and it lives up to the hype. Known for its smooth reds and sweeping vineyard views, it’s also home to innovative winery architecture and small towns with big character. You can visit both modern and historic bodegas, wander through medieval streets in Haro or Logroño, and indulge in pintxos (Northern Spain’s take on tapas). It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Madrid or a 4-hour train ride to nearby Logroño. Perfect for a long weekend of wine, food, and relaxation.

Granada is pure magic. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, it’s most famous for the Alhambra — a palace so beautiful it almost doesn’t feel real. But beyond the history, the city has a bohemian, youthful energy and a great tapas scene (where they’re often free with drinks — yes, really). The blend of Moorish, Spanish, and gypsy culture gives it a unique feel that’s unlike anywhere else. It’s about a 4-hour train ride from Madrid, or a short flight, and well worth the trip.

If you’re heading west, Lisbon is your gateway to Portugal — and it’s as dreamy as it is photogenic. Picture pastel buildings, vintage trams climbing steep hills, and endless ocean views. It’s full of history, great seafood, and a relaxed pace that makes it ideal for wandering. You’ll love the rooftop bars, pastéis de nata (custard tarts!), and riverside strolls through neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. It’s about a 1-hour flight or 6-hour train from Madrid — perfect for a post-wedding unwind with a little Atlantic breeze.

Sintra looks like it was plucked straight from a fairy tale. Just 45 minutes outside Lisbon by train, it’s home to whimsical palaces, forested hills, and pastel-colored castles that feel more like movie sets than real life (Pena Palace is the star of the show). It’s a dream day trip or overnight escape if you’re basing yourself in Lisbon. Expect misty mornings, moss-covered stone staircases, and a serious wow factor. If you want a romantic detour with fantasy vibes and lush scenery, Sintra delivers.

Porto is a little moodier, a little quieter, and absolutely beautiful. It’s famous for its namesake wine — port — and its steep, narrow streets that open up to stunning views of the Douro River. The Ribeira waterfront is postcard-perfect, and you can tour cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the bridge. It’s also one of the most romantic cities we’ve been to — charming and cozy in the best way. From Madrid, it’s a quick flight, and pairs well with a longer Portugal route if you’re planning to explore.

Madeira is Portugal’s lush island paradise — dramatic cliffs, volcanic beaches, and gardens that feel straight out of Jurassic Park. It’s about a 1.5-hour flight from Lisbon, and once you land, you’ll feel like you’re in a completely different world. Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting to slow down after the wedding whirlwind. You can hike along levadas (mountain irrigation trails), drink poncha (the local rum cocktail), and catch insane ocean sunsets. It’s relaxed, romantic, and a true hidden gem — especially if you’re craving that island escape.

Looking for beaches? The Algarve is your place. Located in southern Portugal, it’s full of dramatic coastlines, hidden coves, and whitewashed towns like Lagos and Tavira. It’s perfect for relaxing after wedding festivities — with a glass of vinho verde in hand, of course. You can hike, sail, or just lay on the sand. The best way to get there from Madrid is to fly to Faro (about 1.5 hours), then rent a car to explore the coast. It’s laid-back, sun-soaked, and oh-so-romantic.