Your 10-Day Spain & Portugal Trip: Museo Nacional del Prado & Beyond

As both Spain and Portugal are part of the Schengen Area, citizens from countries like the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada can generally enter visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay is typically required. Other nationalities, such as Indian citizens, will need to apply for a Schengen visa in advance.

The fastest way is the Metro (Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios, then transfer) for around €5. The Airport Express Bus (Exprés Aeropuerto) runs 24/7 to Atocha Station for €5, taking about 40 minutes. Taxis have a flat rate of €30 to the city center, taking 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Renfe commuter trains also connect T4 to city center stations like Nuevos Ministerios and Atocha for around €2.60.

The most convenient option is the Metro (Aeroporto line), which connects directly to the city center in about 20 minutes for €1.80 (plus €0.50 for the Viva Viagem card). The Aerobus offers routes to various points in the city for around €4. Taxis cost approximately €15-€20, and ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt are also readily available.

Yes, both Madrid and Lisbon are generally very safe cities for solo female travelers. Crime rates are low, and public transport is reliable. However, always exercise caution in crowded areas, especially on public transport like Madrid's Metro and Lisbon's Tram 28, due to pickpocketing. Avoid poorly lit alleyways late at night in Lisbon, particularly around Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodre.

The currency in both Spain and Portugal is the Euro (EUR). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it's advisable to carry a small amount of cash (€50-€100 in small denominations) for smaller purchases at markets, local cafes, street vendors, or for small tips, as some smaller establishments may prefer cash.

Tipping is not obligatory in either Spain or Portugal. In restaurants, a service charge might already be included. If not, leaving a few Euros (e.g., €2-€5 for good service) or rounding up the bill is appreciated but not expected. For taxis, it's common to round up the fare to the nearest Euro. Hotel staff, like housekeepers or porters, may be given a small discretionary tip.

Pack comfortable, grip-soled walking shoes for Lisbon's hilly, cobblestone streets. A lightweight shawl or scarf is useful for covering shoulders and knees when visiting churches. A secure cross-body bag helps deter pickpockets in crowded areas. Consider a compact umbrella for sudden showers and a portable fan for Madrid's hot summers. Sunglasses and a sun hat are recommended year-round.

The ideal times to visit both cities are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm (18-25°C), perfect for sightseeing, and the tourist crowds are generally smaller than in the peak summer season. Summers (July-August) can be very hot, especially in Madrid, while winters are mild but can be rainy, particularly in Lisbon.