Kiwi Curated
The Very Best of Spain and Portugal
by Monika MarkovinovicSome say Spain and Portugal are like two peas in a pod. But which country deserves a coveted spot on your trip this summer? The short answer is both. For the ultimate two-in-one getaway, we’ve rounded up the top places to visit in Spain and Portugal.
The Very Best of Spain and Portugal
With its world-famous museums, centuries-old architecture and mouth-watering gastronomy, Madrid has so much to offer. Explore it all from the Only YOU Boutique Hotel located in the trendy Salesas neighborhood. The former palace, transformed by designer Lázaro Rosa Violán, features award-winning interiors inspired by the cultures of the world. After a day of taking in art at the Prado, unwind at the hotel’s bar, El Padrino. The bar lives within the remnants of a bookshop and the old shelves still hold written works, but they now share space with a bespoke cocktail list and craft beers.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
Within Barcelona’s Golden Triangle, just steps from Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya, Hotel MidMost Barcelona lives up to its name with its center point location. Dripping with the city’s trademark gothic style, this lofty boutique hotel is your home-away-from-home. It’s known for its authentic service and understated luxury. Fancy a drink? The La Fresca Terrance Bar is an urban oasis where you can sip a cocktail and watch the sun slowly set over the city.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
Sun-kissed Seville is famous for its blend of past and present. Moorish walls, Baroque churches and Roman ruins abound, yet you’ll always be able to find colorful nightlife and tasty eats. Experience these two worlds colliding at EME Catedral Mercer, located in the historic Santa Cruz district, in front of the famous Giralda Tower. The result of restoring 16th-century houses, the hotel beautifully shows off its Andalusian roots. Before heading out the door for a day of discovery, spend quality time in The Corner, the elegant lobby overlooking the orange tree courtyard. Return and take to the rooftop bar for a classic gin and tonic.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
If looking for a bit of old-school romance in Spain, look no further than Marbella’s Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort. With a spectacular mountain backdrop and sandy beaches nearby, this retreat has something for every traveler, including three golf courses, a private racquet club, luxurious wellness facilities and more than 1,200 original works of art. Although a tranquil lake and Roman amphitheater are right outside your door, you may be most wowed by the sight of the African coast, which you can see on a clear day.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
Thanks to its gorgeous beaches, sea-blue views, secluded mountains and enchanting hill towns, Mallorca is one of the shining jewels of the Mediterranean. Live a life fit for royalty at Cap Rocat, a former 19th-century fortress completely renovated with the utmost respect for its architecture and natural surroundings. Secluded with a drawbridge, rooms include private terraces with panoramic views of Bay of Palma. Wake up to the sounds of the sea and head to the infinity pool on the fortress wall for a morning dip.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
Located in the heart of Lisbon, facing Eduardo VII Park and Marques de Pombal Square, within walking distance to the luxurious Avenida La Liberdade, InterContinental Lisbon is a gateway for travelers to connect with the passion of the city. With sweeping views, the grand hotel is perfect for guests looking to ease after a day of playing tourist. Need a bit more relaxation in the comfort of the hotel? Head to AKLA Restaurant, a popular venue for sharing plates and traditional Portuguese eats, before checking out the groovy Uptown Bar.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
On the banks of the River Douro, Porto is the easy-going sister to bustling Lisbon. Overlook the river and clay-roof dotted UNESCO Old Town at The Yeatman, set amidst the Port wine lodges. Suiting its location (the origin of Port wine), the hotel has two Michelin restaurants, including the Yeatman Restaurant serving fine wine and Portuguese cuisine made with fresh, local produce. Aid digestion with a dip in the panoramic infinity pool or a visit to the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
For those in search of a romantic setting in Portugal, it doesn’t get much better than Tivoli Palacio de Seteais. Set in the heart of Serra de Sintra, the former national palace surrounds the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site town, Moorish Castle and Sintra Mountains. Beholding its ornate furnishings and tapestries, you’ll quickly come to realize why this stunning boutique hotel was a favorite summer residence of Portuguese kings.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
The Algarve is Portugal’s answer to the Mediterranean Riviera. Making the most of these beautiful natural surroundings is Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, a coastal escape overlooking an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, golden beaches and Roman ruins. Drift between five beautiful pools and Champagne cabanas, while the young ones play at the resort’s world-class kids club. When not basking on the sun-soaked beaches, enjoy the local marine life and regional wineries.
VIEW HOTELThe Very Best of Spain and Portugal
Inspired by all the beauty and uniqueness of Madeira, the charming Savoy Palace is home to a rooftop infinity pool, adults-only lounge and grand gardens. Whether you want to explore the island or just lay low, this modern take on island hospitality is the perfect summer getaway. For the explorers, Funchal’s charming Old Town is just minutes away; and, for those seeking relaxation, there’s the property’s spa with hydrotherapy features. No need to worry about soaking up ocean views here–all rooms and suites boast balconies that front the Atlantic.
VIEW HOTELWith its world-famous museums, centuries-old architecture and mouth-watering gastronomy, Madrid has so much to offer. Explore it all from the Only YOU Boutique Hotel located in the trendy Salesas neighborhood. The former palace, transformed by designer Lázaro Rosa Violán, features award-winning interiors inspired by the cultures of the world. After a day of taking in art at the Prado, unwind at the hotel’s bar, El Padrino. The bar lives within the remnants of a bookshop and the old shelves still hold written works, but they now share space with a bespoke cocktail list and craft beers.
VIEW HOTELWithin Barcelona’s Golden Triangle, just steps from Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya, Hotel MidMost Barcelona lives up to its name with its center point location. Dripping with the city’s trademark gothic style, this lofty boutique hotel is your home-away-from-home. It’s known for its authentic service and understated luxury. Fancy a drink? The La Fresca Terrance Bar is an urban oasis where you can sip a cocktail and watch the sun slowly set over the city.
VIEW HOTELSun-kissed Seville is famous for its blend of past and present. Moorish walls, Baroque churches and Roman ruins abound, yet you’ll always be able to find colorful nightlife and tasty eats. Experience these two worlds colliding at EME Catedral Mercer, located in the historic Santa Cruz district, in front of the famous Giralda Tower. The result of restoring 16th-century houses, the hotel beautifully shows off its Andalusian roots. Before heading out the door for a day of discovery, spend quality time in The Corner, the elegant lobby overlooking the orange tree courtyard. Return and take to the rooftop bar for a classic gin and tonic.
VIEW HOTELIf looking for a bit of old-school romance in Spain, look no further than Marbella’s Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort. With a spectacular mountain backdrop and sandy beaches nearby, this retreat has something for every traveler, including three golf courses, a private racquet club, luxurious wellness facilities and more than 1,200 original works of art. Although a tranquil lake and Roman amphitheater are right outside your door, you may be most wowed by the sight of the African coast, which you can see on a clear day.
VIEW HOTELThanks to its gorgeous beaches, sea-blue views, secluded mountains and enchanting hill towns, Mallorca is one of the shining jewels of the Mediterranean. Live a life fit for royalty at Cap Rocat, a former 19th-century fortress completely renovated with the utmost respect for its architecture and natural surroundings. Secluded with a drawbridge, rooms include private terraces with panoramic views of Bay of Palma. Wake up to the sounds of the sea and head to the infinity pool on the fortress wall for a morning dip.
VIEW HOTELLocated in the heart of Lisbon, facing Eduardo VII Park and Marques de Pombal Square, within walking distance to the luxurious Avenida La Liberdade, InterContinental Lisbon is a gateway for travelers to connect with the passion of the city. With sweeping views, the grand hotel is perfect for guests looking to ease after a day of playing tourist. Need a bit more relaxation in the comfort of the hotel? Head to AKLA Restaurant, a popular venue for sharing plates and traditional Portuguese eats, before checking out the groovy Uptown Bar.
VIEW HOTELOn the banks of the River Douro, Porto is the easy-going sister to bustling Lisbon. Overlook the river and clay-roof dotted UNESCO Old Town at The Yeatman, set amidst the Port wine lodges. Suiting its location (the origin of Port wine), the hotel has two Michelin restaurants, including the Yeatman Restaurant serving fine wine and Portuguese cuisine made with fresh, local produce. Aid digestion with a dip in the panoramic infinity pool or a visit to the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa.
VIEW HOTELFor those in search of a romantic setting in Portugal, it doesn’t get much better than Tivoli Palacio de Seteais. Set in the heart of Serra de Sintra, the former national palace surrounds the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site town, Moorish Castle and Sintra Mountains. Beholding its ornate furnishings and tapestries, you’ll quickly come to realize why this stunning boutique hotel was a favorite summer residence of Portuguese kings.
VIEW HOTELThe Algarve is Portugal’s answer to the Mediterranean Riviera. Making the most of these beautiful natural surroundings is Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, a coastal escape overlooking an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, golden beaches and Roman ruins. Drift between five beautiful pools and Champagne cabanas, while the young ones play at the resort’s world-class kids club. When not basking on the sun-soaked beaches, enjoy the local marine life and regional wineries.
VIEW HOTELInspired by all the beauty and uniqueness of Madeira, the charming Savoy Palace is home to a rooftop infinity pool, adults-only lounge and grand gardens. Whether you want to explore the island or just lay low, this modern take on island hospitality is the perfect summer getaway. For the explorers, Funchal’s charming Old Town is just minutes away; and, for those seeking relaxation, there’s the property’s spa with hydrotherapy features. No need to worry about soaking up ocean views here–all rooms and suites boast balconies that front the Atlantic.
VIEW HOTEL