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.
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!
Explore Essential Spain & Portugal by Rail
Spain & Portugal
Essential Spain & Portugal by Rail
10 Nights
Rail Travel
Sightseeing
Contact us for the best price available
Explore Classic Spain by Rail
Spain
Classic Spain by Rail
14 Nights
Rail Travel
Sightseeing
Contact us for the best price available
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Douro River Escape
Douro River Escape
Glide through the sun-drenched landscapes of Portugal along the enchanting Douro River, where terraced vineyards, golden hills, and centuries-old villages line the shore. This serene journey blends rich cultural heritage with stunning scenery, offering a taste of traditional wine country and timeless charm. From historic Porto to quaint riverside towns, every moment is steeped in flavour, history, and relaxed elegance.
7 night Flavors of Portugal & Spain - Vega de Terron to Porto
Onboard AmaVida
Based on departure 05 Dec 26
From $5719 share twin Window Stateroom
Click here for 2026 Itinerary, Availability & Price
7 night Enticing Douro - Porto to Porto
Onboard AmaDouro or Ama Sintra
Based on departure 21 Jul 26
From $8599 share twin Window Stateroom
Click here for 2026 Itinerary, Availability & Price
*Other sailing dates available. Contact your consultant for full itinerary details, sailing dates and pricing.
2026 Sailings
from
$
5719
per person share twin Window Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
AmaWaterways
Departs 21 Jul 2026
Explore The Mediterranean with Explora Journeys
The Mediterranean with Explora Journeys
Sailing with Explora Journeys through the Mediterranean blends laid-back luxury with timeless elegance. Glide along sun-drenched coastlines, from charming seaside villages to storied ancient cities, all while enjoying bespoke experiences, world-class cuisine, and curated moments of discovery. With every port, the Mediterranean reveals a new layer of culture, history, and effortless beauty—perfectly complemented by Explora’s signature style and serenity.
View Mediterranean 2026 Mar to Jun Sailings
View Mediterranean 2026 Jul to Nov Sailings
2026 Sailings
All inclusive Ultra Luxury
Flights are Additional
Cruising with
Explora Journeys
Departs 3 May 2026
AMAZING SAVINGS
Explore Unforgettable Douro
Unforgettable Douro
Portugal’s Douro River winds its way through towns that have stood the test of time, preserving their distinctive culture and way of life, even as the world all around them has changed.
A cruise along the Douro River will transport you to days gone by. You’ll find locals still ply their traditional trades as they have for centuries, regional fare is authentic and honest, and the locals are welcoming and passionate about their heritage. Discover this rich history and culture throughout the Douro Valley, from Vega de Terron, a border town with Spanish influences, to the ancient town of Lamego, the birthplace of port. This famous wine has been cultivated in the same way since the first vines were planted on the terraced banks of the Douro. On this cruise you’ll see all the highlights of the Douro, as well as discover some hidden gems, and relish the ample time for relaxation on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship while soaking up breathtaking scenery.
10 night Cruise
Based on departure 16 Aug 26
From $9865 share twin Standard Stateroom
Includes Savings of $1500 per couple*
Ports of Call: Porto → Pinhão → Provesende → Barca d’Alva → Salamanca → Pocinho → Régua → Lamego → Porto
*Other sailing dates available. Contact your consultant for full itinerary details, sailing dates and pricing.
10 Night cruise
from
$
9865
per person share twin Standard Suite
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Scenic River Cruises
Departs 10 May 2026
Explore Northern Europe with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Northern Europe with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Discover Northern Europe with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, where majestic fjords, enchanting capitals, and picturesque villages await. Glide past Norway’s towering cliffs, Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, and the lush hills of Scotland, all from the comfort of your luxurious superyacht. Explore centuries-old castles, vibrant harbours, and cobblestone streets, and immerse yourself in the timeless charm, natural wonders, and serene beauty that define this extraordinary region.
2026 Sailings
Dramatic Fjords & Iconic Capitals
Cruising with
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Departs 20 Jun 2026
Explore The Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
The Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Discover the timeless charm of the Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Glide past cliff-clinging villages, historic ports, and iconic landmarks, from the blue-domed churches of Santorini to the monumental treasures of Rome and the Vatican. Aboard your luxurious superyacht, unwind as you explore charming harbours, pristine beaches, and centuries-old traditions, all with the signature comfort and service of The Ritz-Carlton experience.
2026 Sailings
Sun-drenched Rivieras
Cruising with
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Departs 3 May 2026
AMAZING SAVINGS
AVAILABLE IN 2026 & 2027 SAILINGS
Explore Europe with Aurora Expeditions
Europe with Aurora Expeditions
Sail Europe the Aurora way — with curiosity, comfort, and connection at the heart of every journey. Whether tracing Viking routes, exploring remote isles off Scotland, or basking in Mediterranean charm, these expeditions offer rare perspectives of Europe’s coastlines. With small ships and expert guides, you’ll enjoy a relaxed yet enriching voyage where every day feels like a discovery.
Morocco and Spain: Moor Than A Myth
12 Nights Cruise from Marrakech, Morocco, Africa
20 Jun 26 - 02 Jul 26
From $20,245 per person share twin, Aurora Stateroom
From $30,365 per person single, Aurora Stateroom
Save up to 20%*
Ports of Call: Marrakech, Embark Casablanca (Port: Casablanca), Tangier, Seville, Cadiz, Gibraltar, Granada, Cartagena, Valencia, Mallorca, Barcelona
Amsterdam to Lisbon: Coasting the Atlantic
16 Nights Cruise from Amsterdam, Netherlands
21 Sep 27 - 07 Oct 27
From $27,185 per person share twin, Aurora Stateroom
From $40,777 per person single, Aurora Stateroom
Save up to 20%*
Ports of Call: Amsterdam, Oostende, Honfleur, Guernsey, Saint-Malo, Lorient, La Rochelle, San Sebastian, A Coruna, Santiago de Compostela, Porto, Lisbon
Sailing 'The Med': A Mediterranean Feast
15 Nights Cruise from Valletta, Malta
19 May 27 - 05 Jun 27
From $42,519 per person share twin, Aurora Stateroom
From $63,775 per person single, Aurora Stateroom
Save up to 20%*
Ports of Call: Valletta, Syracuse, Messina, Palermo, Cagliari, Olbia, Bonifacio, Mahón, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona
Aboard Aurora’s small expedition ships, you’ll travel with a team of naturalists, historians, and local experts who bring each destination to life. Enjoy flexible itineraries that adapt to the weather, wildlife, and the unexpected — because true exploration is about following curiosity.
12 to 15 Night Cruises
from
$
20,245
per person share twin Aurora Stateroom
Flights Additional
Flights Additional
Cruising with
Aurora Expeditions
Departs 20 Jun 2026
Explore Cruises from Malta
Cruises from Malta
Sailing from Valletta, Malta’s cultural gem, P&O Cruises UK takes you on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey. Explore the stunning coastlines and vibrant cultures of Italy, Greece, Croatia, France, Spain, and Turkey, where ancient ruins, charming villages, sun-kissed beaches, and delectable cuisine await.
View Cruises from Malta 2026 Sailings
View Cruises from Malta 2027 Sailings
P&O Cruises UK combines British charm with modern cruising comforts. Enjoy elegant dining, West End-style entertainment, and a warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the fleet. Whether you’re relaxing poolside, sampling afternoon tea, or catching live music under the stars, every moment at sea feels effortlessly easy and wonderfully familiar.
2026 & 2027 Sailings
Sun, History & Shores
Cruising with
P&O Cruises UK
Departs 7 May 2026
Explore Cruises from Southampton
Cruises from Southampton
Sailing from Southampton, P&O Cruises UK opens the door to a world of discovery. Explore the sun-drenched Canary Islands and Mediterranean, Norway’s stunning fjords, or Europe’s historic coastal cities. With itineraries for every pace — from short escapes to longer adventures — it’s a seamless way to experience incredible destinations.
View Cruises from Southampton
2026 Mar - Jun Sailings
2026 Jun - Dec Sailings
P&O Cruises UK combines British charm with modern cruising comforts. Enjoy elegant dining, West End-style entertainment, and a warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the fleet. Whether you’re relaxing poolside, sampling afternoon tea, or catching live music under the stars, every moment at sea feels effortlessly easy and wonderfully familiar.
2026 Sailings
Fjords, Charm & Beaches
Cruising with
P&O Cruises UK
Departs 1 May 2026
LAST MINUTE CRUISES
ALL INCLUSIVE LUXURY
Explore Regent Seven Seas Mediterranean Escape
Regent Seven Seas Mediterranean Escape
Cruises departing from Istanbul, Rome, and Barcelona invite travelers into a rich tapestry of cultures, coastlines, and centuries-old history. From the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul to the timeless beauty of Rome, and the colorful rhythm of Barcelona, each port offers a unique gateway to unforgettable Mediterranean journeys. Whether you're drawn to ancient ruins, sun-drenched beaches, or world-renowned cuisine, these voyages offer the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration across Southern Europe's most iconic destinations.
Captivating Canary Islands - 10 Night Onboard Seven Seas Voyager®
Lisbon – Malaga
23 Mar – 02 Apr 26
From $27, 715 per person share twin Voyager Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
Passage to History - 14 Night Onboard Seven Seas Splendor®
Lisbon – Barcelona
27 Mar – 10 Apr 26
From $17,929 per person share twin Deluxe Veranda Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
Pesto, Paella & Paradise - 9 Night Onboard Seven Seas Voyager®
Rome (Civitavecchia) – Barcelona (Tarragona)
17 Apr – 27 Apr 26
From $13,825 per person share twin Deluxe Veranda Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
Journey to the Golden Horn - 14 Night Onboard Seven Seas Grandeur®
Barcelona –Istanbul
21 Apr – 05 May 26
From $15,895 per person share twin Serenity Suite
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details
9 to 14 Night Luxury Cruise
from
$
13,825
per person share twin Deluxe Veranda Suite
Flights additional
Flights additional
Cruising with
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Departs
Explore Europe with Virgin Voyages
Europe with Virgin Voyages
Wander your way through Europe with Virgin Voyages, where every port tells a different story. From the sun-soaked coastlines of Greece and Croatia to the cobbled streets of Belgium and the cultural gems of Spain, this is a continent made for slow mornings and late-night strolls. Cruise past Norway’s dramatic fjords, sip sangria in Valencia, or lose yourself in the art and architecture of Florence. With stops that span seaside villages, iconic capitals, and off-the-map treasures, these sailings serve up Europe’s greatest hits—with a few unexpected tracks along the way.
View Europe 2026 May to Oct Sailings
Step aboard Virgin Voyages and discover a cruise experience that’s refreshingly different. With over 20+ eateries included, Michelin-inspired menus, boundary-pushing entertainment, and adults-only spaces throughout, life on board is anything but ordinary. Expect elevated design, wellness at your pace, and a cheeky dose of fun from a crew that knows how to keep things light and lively.
2026 Sailings
Onboard Scarlet Lady or Resilient Lady
Wander the Wonders of Europe
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Virgin Voyages
Departs 10 May 2026
AVAILABLE IN 2025
ENJOY 80% OFF
Explore Virgin Voyages Europe Sailings for 2025
Virgin Voyages Europe Sailings for 2025
Virgin Voyages offers escape at sea, designed exclusively for adults looking to relax, rejuvenate, and explore in style.
Embark on a Mediterranean adventure from vibrant homeports in Barcelona, Spain, and Piraeus (Athens), Greece. Set sail between the iconic islands of Santorini and Mykonos, uncover the beauty of Croatia’s breathtaking coastline, or enjoy a glass of Chianti as you wander through the charming cobbled streets of Italy.
Scarlet Lady, 30 August 2025, 6 Nights, A Taste of Spain & Bordeaux, roundtrip from the UK
Portsmouth, La Coruna, Bilbao, La Verdon (Bordeaux), Portsmouth
FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From $1960 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Scarlet Lady, 18 May 2025, 7 Nights, Palma & Ibiza
Barcelona, Cannes, Ajaccio (Corsica), Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza (overnight), Barcelona
80% Off your 2nd sailor plus FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From NZ$2543 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Resilient Lady, 27 July 2025, 7 Nights Greece, Croatia & Montenegro
Athens, Kotor (Montenegro), Dubrovnik, Corfu, Mykonos, Athens
80% Off your 2nd sailor plus FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From NZ$2542 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Resilient Lady, 08 June 2025, 7 Nights, Greek Islands and Turkiye
Athens, Santorini, Rhodes, Bodrum, Mykonos (overnight), Athens
80% Off your 2nd sailor & FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$200 PER ROOM
From NZ$3052 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Scarlet Lady, 12 September 2025, 13 Nights, Spain, Portugal & Morocco
Portsmouth, La Coruna Lisbon (overnight), Casablanca, Malaga, Ibiza (overnight), Barcelona
80% Off your 2nd sailor plus FREE BAR TAB WORTH US$300 PER ROOM
From NZ$2860 per person share twin
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
Sailing across Europe
from
$
1960
Cruising with
Virgin Voyages
Departs
Kelsey Mackay
House of Travel Hamilton East (formely Calder and Lawson)
|
Travel has always
been more than just getting from A to B for me, it’s about the experiences,
the memories, and the confidence that comes from seeing the world in a new
way. |
Kelsey
Charlotte Chalman
House of Travel Invercargill
Travel -it broadens our
views, creates lasting memories and allows you to take a break from the
ordinary.
In recent years, I have taken to much more adventurous travel, heading to
Central Asia and exploring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring much of
Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Shanghai and looking forward to our next adventures in
Africa.
I love travelling with my family and seeing my teenage girls minds blown by the
experiences they have in different countries - different ways of living,
different foods, different cultures, amazing sites (and sights!) and really
seeing what is important to other people outside of NZ.
I love hearing about the epic adventures people have planned and love helping
pull things together to give you your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call or send
me an email to get started on your next journey.
Charlotte
Minji Park
House of Travel Christchurch City
Minji is our Japan specialist in Christchurch. Born and raised in South Korea, her passion for travel began at an early age. This passion led her to study tourism management and become a tour guide in both Japan and Southeast Asia.
Minji has spent most of her tour guide career in Japan, leading tours across the country and gaining an in-depth knowledge of the region. She has also guided tours in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos, and has backpacked extensively throughout Europe, Australia, and Canada. Minji has lived in London, Vancouver, and Sydney, spending at least a couple of years in each country.
My top travel tips
- Pack as light as you can (except for cruises). Heavy luggage can be tedious to manage and exhausting just getting on/off trains.
- Try to pre-book and pay in NZ dollars. If you pay locally, you will need to pay in local currency and the banks will apply their exchange rates plus international transaction fees.
- Utilise your stopover opportunities. Two holidays, one ticket, you are basically genius.
Years in the industry: 14
No. of countries visited: 30+
Favourite place to visit: Japan
Next place on the list to visit: Safari in Africa
"Investment in travel is an investment in yourself" - Matthew Karsten
Why I love travel
I love meeting new people, discovering new cultures, tasting new food and beers and having new experiences. Travel is the best way to tick all the boxes and be inspired.
It is exciting and rewarding to help make my clients' holiday easier with better value and making it more memorable with my travel knowledge and organisation skills. I just love talking about travel, and hearing about their holiday when they return home is the best part of my job. It is very rewarding to hear what a great time they had. I am continuously learning about new travel destinations and new products and experiences so I never get bored.
My top destinations
- Japan – Japan is the country that I have travelled through the most and I can never tire of it. Japan offers so much, from old historic shrines and temples to the most modern architecture and latest technology, fascinating culture, beautiful nature areas and incredible food. It is also a very safe and easy place to travel so I recommend it for all types of travellers.
- Spain - I love the Andalusia region in particular, including Granada and Ronda. You feel like you are walking back in time, or perhaps through a movie set with the many sublime landscapes, spectacular vistas and famous historic sites. A warm evening drinking sangria with some delicious tapas over a view of Alhambra is a personal favourite.
- Vietnam - you can have an amazing experience within a very affordable budget. In one day, you will see more motorbikes than you have seen in your entire life. Interesting French Colonial architecture and indigenous castles and villages, beautiful beaches and rice paddies, the little art and culinary boutique town of Hoi An, unique and delicious food, UNESCO Heritage site Ha Long Bay and much more.
- Galapagos - If you are into wildlife, this is one of the ultimate places in the world to visit. I still say Galapagos was the best travel experience in my life. The everyday encounters with unique species of sea lions, turtles, tortoises, all different types of birds, penguins, sharks, rays, marine iguana are unforgettable. The best part for me was diving amongst schools of hammerhead sharks and eagle rays inside the crater of a submerged volcano.
What's in my suitcase
- Foldable backpack - It is the best thing ever. I always put one in my bag, and it is perfect for a casual day out exploring.
- Travel organiser bags - I have one for clothes, one for underwear/socks and one for toiletries. It will make your pack/unpack so much easier.
- Compact rain jacket and small collapsible umbrella - You will always have some rain during your holiday but unless you are expecting lots of it, you don't want these items to take too much space in your travel bag.
Minji
Melanie Hubber
House of Travel Ferrymead
I am passionate about sustainable travel for the future.
My entire career of 30 years has been in travel sales and tourism. I have travelled overseas more than a hundred times to over 70 countries and 6 continents for personal holidays, business and leisure.
I've made my home in London, Dorset, Chamonix and Auckland. I settled back in my home town of Christchurch after being away for five years.
I love travel and how it enriches lives and provides a livelihood for people and communities around the globe. I love helping to inspire and inform clients, who care about the impact their choices have on local communities and the environment, and who want to have a great holiday.
Sustainable doesn't mean you can't have luxury! My personal holidays always have a sense of adventure, you will find me on a beach or mountain or taking in a cultural experience to make the most of a destination.
I personally rate train travel one of the best ways to casually explore, there's nothing I love more than checking in at a downtown railway station off to a new destination. I think travel provides new perspectives and respect for different cultures and values are par for the course. We can always find common ground when we are prepared to go out of our comfort zone.
Why book your travel with me? I am a CLIA certified Cruise Master and dedicated to helping you with your travel plans. I have the tools and the networks available to assist with all styles of travel experiences you may be looking for.
Mel
DID YOU KNOW?
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!
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"The holiday was organised efficiently and was no problem making changes when we had to. These were handled with no problem at all. She looked after our needs as we described them to her. So a job well done."
Kevin"Great service, was all sorted out quick and easy. Much appreciated"
Aidan"He is very personable and communicates in a nice manner. We have dealt with him with another holiday that we took last year and he is great to work with."
KristinaOur Spain & Portgual travel blogs
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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