Rabia Mayet | rabiamayet@radioislam.co.za

20 December 2025

4-minute read

Spain and Portugal are neighbouring countries on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, sharing a long border, but possessing distinct cultures, histories, and languages. Both are popular travel destinations, often explored together for their unique blend of Moorish, European, and coastal influences, with experiences ranging from Spain’s Alhambra and vibrant cities like Barcelona and Madrid, to Portugal’s Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve coast.

Spain and Portugal are both part of the European Union, so the current visa requirements for South Africans includes a Schengen visa. Dr Zaheera Soomar says that travellers can apply online either for a single entry or multi-entry visa to the country they are travelling to first, or the country they will be staying at for the longest duration.

Travel between Spain and Portugal is pretty easy as they are right next to each other and have a fully supported network of public transport like trains and buses, or you could even hire a car to get from one to the other.  She does not recommend flying as there is a lot you will miss out on seeing.

Must-see spots in Spain include Barcelona, where Spanish culture comes to the fore in the age-old architecture, nd the coastal towns of Andalusia, San Sebastian, and Seville. The flavourful towns of Cordoba and Granada offer a more cultural experience, while the beautiful Alhambra Palace boasts an abundance of Islamic history.

In Portugal, recommended for first-time visitors is the capital city of Lisbon and the next biggest city of Porto, that is rich in history and culture, and is also known for its outstanding food. The highlight of Portugal is the Algarve Coast.

Both countries are famous for their beautiful coastlines. Adventure seekers can find every type of activity from kayaking to surfing, and boat trips are available everywhere for those who want a calmer water experience. The Algarve Coast in Portugal has breathtaking cliffs and in Spain, San Sebastian Beach is amazing, while beautiful Majorca, the very touristy area, is almost like being in a movie with parades along the promenade. Majorca is situated at the tip of Spain and allows a glimpse of other countries across the Strait of Gibraltar.

Unless you’re visiting the South only, Spain and Portugal do get very hot in Summer, and in the winter the weather is not hot enough to enjoy the stunning beaches. Dr Zaheera suggests visiting in the Spring or Autumn months like April to June or September to October for the best “balance of sun and heat”.

Spain and Portugal are on the more expensive side as travel destinations, with Portugal being slightly cheaper. Dr Zaheera says that you’re likely to spend a hundred euros a night on accommodation but suggests short-term apartments for families that give you more space and better value for money.

Islamic history abounds in the region, especially in Spain, where the in 7 years, the Muslims conquered the Iberian Peninsula, with Islam reaching its summit with the Umayyad Khilafat in the 10^th century. In 1492, when Granada was conquered, Spain fell from Muslim hands, but remnants of Muslim rule can be clearly seen in the architecture of places like Andalusia and Granada. At the Alhambra Palace, an Islamic monument, you can see the Quranic inscriptions on the walls. Masaajid or “mesquites” as they are called there, are everywhere. While many of them were converted into cathedrals on the fall of Spain, a lot of them have been turned back into masaajid, showing the significance of the religions of Islam and Christianity in Spain. In Portugal too, there are many masaajid alongside museums showing remnants from the Islamic period in the country.

Spanish and Portuguese cuisines are known to be quite different. Portugal is known for its seafood, while Spain is full of meat-lovers. Halal food is found mostly in the Moroccan restaurants, although there are a few local halal eating places as well. In Spain, especially, Muslim travellers should be wary of the pork or gammon as they refer to it that is sold in many places. In Portugal, be careful of seafood places that use alcohol in their food preparation.

Whether you’re exploring ancient palaces, savouring local dishes, or simply enjoying the coastal views, a trip to the Iberian Peninsula promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Listen to the full interview with Ml Muhammad Kara and Dr Zaheera Soomar here.