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17-day Spain & Portugal itinerary for my parents (April 2026) - too rushed or missing key spots?
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Hey there, adventurers! I'm seeking feedback on a 17-day itinerary for my parents visiting Spain and Portugal in April 2026. They prefer authentic local experiences and need a moderate pace with afternoon rest breaks. The plan includes 6 nights in Lisbon, 1 in Lagos, 3 in Seville, 2 in Córdoba, 2 in Granada, and 1 in Madrid. I’m curious if 1 night in Lagos is too rushed, if Córdoba should be cut, and what must-do vegetarian spots we shouldn’t miss.
Looking for feedback on this itinerary for my parents visiting from India in April 2026. They're both vegetarian, prefer authentic local experiences over tourist traps, and need moderate pacing (afternoon rest breaks essential). I'll be joining them the entire trip.
The Route:
- Lisbon: 6 nights (Apr 7-13)
- Lagos: 1 night (Apr 14)
- Seville: 3 nights (Apr 15-17)
- Córdoba: 2 nights (Apr 18-19)
- Granada: 2 nights (Apr 20-21)
- Madrid: 1 night (Apr 22, evening flight to NYC on Apr 23)
Travel: Rental car the entire time (Lisbon pickup, Madrid drop-off)
Questions:
- Is 1 night in Lagos enough or should I add another and reduce Seville to 2 nights?
- Should I cut Córdoba entirely and either add Ronda or spend more time in Seville/Granada?
- Are we spreading too thin with 6 locations in 17 days, or is this reasonable given they'll need rest time?
- Any must-do authentic local experiences in these cities for vegetarians? (Markets, neighborhoods, non-touristy spots)
- Is April a good time weather-wise for this route?
Context:
- Parents are in their 60s, moderate walkers, not museum people
- Priorities: local daily life immersion, relaxed pace, good vegetarian food
- I'm based in Lisbon so that portion is sorted, but Spain advice especially welcome
- Alhambra tickets already booked for Apr 20
Appreciate any feedback - trying to finalize hotel bookings this week!
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