Spain versus Portugal

This week’s big game between Spain and Portugal gets the competition off to a sizzling start! The long-standing rivalry between these two great nations, understandbly, isn’t just on the field as both countries have plenty to boast about. But if you’re trying to decide which to visit, we've broken down some of the similarities – and differences – between the two.

Coast to Coast

Spain may be well-loved as a flop and drop sunbathing destination, but we think the crown has to go to Portugal for this one. This is a country defined by its coastline, where surfers skim the Atlantic spray as the breakers crash towards the shore. It’s a shore that’s known for its dramatic cliffs, wheeling birds and surprising wildness – you’re unlikely to find neat rows of sunbathers on these sands, which makes time spent here all the more special. It’s 1-0 to Portugal.

Architecture

Portugal undoubtedly has some stunning buildings – the graceful Palace of Sintra and imposing Belem Tower just outside of Lisbon immediately spring to mind – but Spain is the clear winner here. It’s a powerful team they’ve got, with such star players as Antoni Gaudi, whose fantastical creations dominate beautiful Barcelona, from the kaleidoscopic colours of Parc Guell, numerous eccentric casas and of course, the unfinished masterpiece of the Sagrada Familia. Then there’s the Alhambra Palace in Seville, one of the most interesting palaces with its medieval masonry and intricate Islamic tiling, making it one of the most beautiful fortresses in the world. Finally we had to honour futuristic Bilbao for its sleek, space age chrome and glass structures, bringing the score up to an even 1-all.

Music

Flamenco or Fado, that is the question. They’re so different – flamenco is a flamboyant explosion of colour and passion that is as visual as it is auditory, with the famous dancers often overshadowing the music in cultural perception. But a traditional flamenco is based on ancient Spanish folklore, and certainly worthy of your attention. Fado is the slow, yearning Portuguese songs that are often describes as being mournful or lamenting, but really just try to capture that feeling of longing. Its traditional routes lie in the port towns of the coast, where sailors would drop anchor and pass the time between voyages. Today you’ll find fado in the watering holes of any of Portugal’s famous port cities, where the tradition of live music is alive and well. Our money is on Flamenco, for the celebration. 2-1 to Spain.

Island life

Both nations have a score of fascinating islands under their belt, but for us it all comes down to the slightly unusual La Palma and the Azores. La Palma is a Spanish island so far removed from the beaches of Tenerife and Lanzarote, but with stunning national parks and intriguing volcanic scenery. Here the black volcanic earth is rich and fertile and makes for some otherworldly hiking. As for the Azores, its more reminiscent of sub-tropical New Zealand than what you’d expect of an island in the Atlantic – expect warm temperatures, towering palm trees over glistening lakes and off shore, whales swimming in the deep. This is a tricky one to score, and we can’t help but give them a goal apiece, bringing the final score to 3-2 to Spain.

But don’t just take our word for it – visit one of these incredible destinations and decide for yourself!

Discover Portugal Holidays 

Discover Spain Holidays