Navigation
Back

Spain & Portugal

A vibrant tapestry of sun, flavour, and historic splendor

Spain

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!

Plane Stabiliser Icon

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.

Calendar Icon

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.

Watch Icon

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

Barcelona city view

Step into Gaudi’s world in Barcelona

Wander through the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter early morning before the crowds.

Read more
Paella

Paella cooking class

Return from Spain with the know-how to whip up a mean Paella.

Read more

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.

Read more
Portugal

Sail through Portugal’s hidden gem

For a distinctly unique experience cruise the Douro Valley in Portugal.

Read more
Pena Palace

Take a day trip from Lisbon

Visit the whimsical Pena Palace in Sintra ,Portugal.

Read more
Flamenco dancer

Flamenco in Spain or Fado in Portugal

Experience local music and dance!

Read more

Walk the Camino

A bucket-list adventure!

Read more
Castle in Spain

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!

Read more

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Julie is so efficient, the booking was made under difficult circumstances due to the need to travel to the UK urgently, family illness. She was so helpful and empathetic."

Peter

"Even though everything was done via email, Nicky was so fast in responding was awesome"

Treena

"Jo was very welcoming. She had dealt with me earlier in the year when I made a trip to Cair, Brisbane, Sydney and back to New Zealand."

Gillian

Meet our Spain & Portugal specialists

See all See more
Mike (Buzz) Thomson

Mike (Buzz) Thomson

House of Travel Hobsonville

With 20 years experience in the travel industry both here and abroad I use this knowledge every day to create unforgettable journeys for my clients.

I'd love to hear what your plans are and together we'll create a well organised memorable trip.

Mike

Sarah Martelli

Sarah Martelli

House of Travel Rotorua

Leaving home at 19 with a one way ticket to London to start my OE, it's fair to say I've had the travel bug for years! 

Living overseas for 8 years, and in London for four years, I travelled extensively around Europe. Barcelona is my favourite city! 

Then living in Melbourne for four years after that, this is where I started my career in travel in 2004. It was my dream job all those years ago and I still smile every day when I come to work now, I LOVE this job!

Nothing brings me more joy then hearing of clients travel plans, putting together itineraries and making their travel experience run as smooth as possible from start to finish. 

I like to think I am a friendly, bubbly personality, a good listener and I will take on board your needs while also guiding you with helpful advice and suggestions when needed. I live on a dairy farm in Reporoa with my husband and three young children, I understand the #mum-life juggle and the need to get away and escape for a holiday sometimes! Having travelled to nearly 40 countries, I have lots of experience that I cant wait to share it with you. Looking forward to meeting you soon. 

Sarah

Toni Rendell

Toni Rendell

House of Travel Rotorua

As a 17 year old, I headed off to Finland on a student exchange  for a year, my first ever overseas trip and the  start of my passion for travel. 

Whether it’s a quick jaunt across the Tasman,  an adventure through Vietnam  or a guided coach tour of Europe, I love working with you to create the perfect holiday.

Having been in the industry for over 30 years,  I have an extensive knowledge of airfares, and travel providers, I combine that with the knowledge of my returning

customers and the wisdom of the House of Travel collective to craft your travel.

There sure is a lot you need to know and I pride myself on keeping up to date with industry trends and changes. That may be new destinations to visit,

beautiful places to stay or changes in travel  requirements.

So get in touch  and let me  help make your travel dreams come true. 


Toni

Eilish Colvin

Eilish Colvin

House of Travel Te Awamutu

Hi, I'm Eilish – I have a love for exploring the world, with a soft spot for Europe, Bali and youth travel.

I love putting together smooth, personalised travel plans, using my organisational skills and fun, bubbly personality. Helping people turn their dream holidays into reality, making sure every detail is just right.

In 2024, I was proud to be named a Contiki Champ, which was a personal accomplishment with a brand I have tried and tested and love myself.

Whether it’s a group getaway or a solo journey, my goal is to help people discover new destinations, create lasting memories, and feel confident while exploring the world.


Eilish

Best. Holidays. Ever!

Start here

Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. 
Here’s how to get in touch...

Subscribe

Want the insider word on all things travel?

Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.

#houseoftravelnz

Follow us!
Consultant Consultant Consultant

Experience all things Spain & Portugal