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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!

Eat tapas like a local in Spain

Spain, Europe

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

"He can't do enough for us more a friend than a travel agent we book all our travel through Patrick or staff at house of travel ponsonby"

George and Ulini

"I have used Wendy before the reason you go back is she is so helpful she understands her job and is very accommodating she has everything organised for you listens to what you say nothing is a bother to her Wendy is so lovely to deal with ??"

Lynette

"I walked in without an appointment but had an idea what I wanted . Within 45 mins I was booked and paid for all set to go on holiday again"

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Meet our Spain & Portugal specialists

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Loris Sowman

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I recently joined the team at House of Travel Mt Maunganui after relocating from Hamilton, where I’d previously worked with Calder & Lawson House of Travel.

After many years in the travel industry, what makes this job special to me, is having my clients return from their trips to tell me about their adventures and then wanting to rebook another holiday with me - they do say the best way to overcome the post-travel blues is to already be planning your next one, and I couldn’t agree more!

I would love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.

Loris

Gemma Pearce

House of Travel Barrington

I love turning people's dreams into reality and enjoy sharing my travel experiences.

Travel is my passion and I feel it’s the only thing you can buy that makes you richer!

Gemma

Monica Sawant

House of Travel Auckland City

I love to help plan my clients travel to suit their needs. I love to use some of my personal experiences to enhance my clients travel as well.

I enjoy listening to their trip highlights so I can understand them better and enhance their next travel too.

Monica

Jessica Osbourn

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.

In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories.

I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays.

With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Jessica