Getting ready for a trip is super exciting, and having a good Spain itinerary makes it even better. Do you want to see amazing cities, taste yummy food, and learn about history? Spain has it all! You can visit Barcelona with its cool buildings, and then head to Seville with its pretty streets.
This guide has plans for three, five, or seven days to help you enjoy your time. You’ll find fun things to do and places to see.
So, are you ready for a fantastic vacation? Let’s dive into your Spain adventure!
3-Day Spain Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona’s Highlights
Start in Barcelona. Visit the Sagrada Familia; it’s a must-see. Then, head to Park Güell for great views and colorful designs. For lunch, try some tapas at a nearby bar. After eating, stroll through the Gothic Quarter with its narrow streets and charming squares. In the evening, enjoy a walk down La Rambla, where you can find many restaurants. Dinner might be a good time to catch a flamenco show too.
Day 2: Madrid’s Art and Culture
Take an early train to Madrid. Start your day at the Prado Museum. It has lots of famous art. After that, relax in Retiro Park. You can even rent a boat if you like. For lunch, head to the Literary Quarter and try cocido madrileño, a hearty stew. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Palace to see its beautiful rooms. For dinner, try paella or churros with chocolate at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Seville’s Charm
On your last day, travel to Seville. Begin at the Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda Tower for lovely views. After that, explore the Alcázar, a stunning palace with beautiful gardens. For lunch, stop at a tapas bar nearby. Spend the afternoon wandering through the Santa Cruz neighborhood, with its narrow streets and pretty plazas. Finish your day with dinner at a local restaurant.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Barcelona’s Highlights | Visit Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter, and La Rambla. |
| Day 2: Madrid’s Art and Culture | Explore the Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Royal Palace, and try local dishes. |
| Day 3: Seville’s Charm | Visit Seville Cathedral, Alcázar, Santa Cruz neighborhood, and enjoy dinner. |
5-Day Spain Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona
Kick off your trip in Barcelona. Visit the Sagrada Familia, then Park Güell for great views. Have lunch at a tapas bar and check out the Gothic Quarter later. End your day with dinner along La Rambla, and maybe catch a flamenco show.
Day 2: Valencia
Take a train to Valencia. Start at the City of Arts and Sciences, then walk through Turia Gardens for some fresh air. For lunch, enjoy traditional paella. Spend the afternoon in the Central Market, then explore the old town for dinner.
Day 3: Madrid
Head to Madrid. Begin at the Prado Museum, then relax in Retiro Park. For lunch, find a café in the Literary Quarter. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Palace, and later enjoy dinner in Malasaña, a lively neighborhood.
Day 4: Granada
Travel to Granada. Visit the Alhambra, an amazing palace with beautiful gardens. Have lunch at a tapas bar in the old town. Afterward, check out the Cathedral of Granada, then wander through the Albayzín neighborhood for lovely views. Enjoy dinner at a local spot.
Day 5: Seville
On your final day, go to Seville. Start at the Seville Cathedral, then climb the Giralda Tower. Visit the Alcázar next. For lunch, have tapas in Santa Cruz. Spend the afternoon in Maria Luisa Park. End your trip with dinner at a local restaurant, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Barcelona | Visit Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter, and La Rambla. |
| Day 2: Valencia | Explore City of Arts and Sciences, Turia Gardens, and the old town. |
| Day 3: Madrid | Visit Prado Museum, Retiro Park, and Royal Palace. |
| Day 4: Granada | See the Alhambra, local tapas bars, and the Cathedral of Granada. |
| Day 5: Seville | Explore Seville Cathedral, Alcázar, and enjoy dinner in the city. |
7-Day Spain Itinerary
Day 1: Barcelona
Begin in Barcelona. Visit the Sagrada Familia, then go to Park Güell for views. Have lunch at a tapas bar, and explore the Gothic Quarter. Dinner along La Rambla is a must, maybe with a flamenco show.
Day 2: Valencia
Travel to Valencia. Visit the City of Arts and Sciences, then stroll through Turia Gardens. Enjoy paella for lunch and explore the Central Market later. Spend the evening in the old town for dinner.
Day 3: Madrid
Head to Madrid. Start at the Prado Museum, then relax in Retiro Park. For lunch, find a café in the Literary Quarter. Visit the Royal Palace in the afternoon and enjoy dinner in Malasaña.
Day 4: Toledo
Take a day trip to Toledo. Visit the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcázar. Enjoy lunch with local marzipan, then wander the narrow streets before returning to Madrid for dinner.
Day 5: Granada
Go to Granada. Start at the Alhambra to see the stunning palace and gardens. Have lunch at a tapas bar, then visit the Cathedral. Walk through Albayzín for nice views, and enjoy dinner at a restaurant.
Day 6: Seville
Travel to Seville. Start at the Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda Tower. Explore the Alcázar and have lunch in Santa Cruz. Spend the afternoon in Maria Luisa Park, then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Bilbao
On your last day, go to Bilbao. Start at the Guggenheim Museum for modern art. For lunch, try pintxos, which are small snacks. Walk along the river, then explore the old town. Finish your trip with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Barcelona | Visit Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter, and La Rambla. |
| Day 2: Valencia | Explore City of Arts and Sciences, Turia Gardens, and the old town. |
| Day 3: Madrid | Visit Prado Museum, Retiro Park, and Royal Palace. |
| Day 4: Toledo | Visit Toledo Cathedral, Alcázar, and enjoy local marzipan. |
| Day 5: Granada | See the Alhambra, local tapas bars, and Albayzín neighborhood. |
| Day 6: Seville | Explore Seville Cathedral, Alcázar, and Maria Luisa Park. |
| Day 7: Bilbao | Visit Guggenheim Museum, try pintxos, and explore the old town. |
Practical Tips for Visiting Spain
Visiting Spain can be exciting, and a few tips can make your trip better. First, learn some basic Spanish words. Even if many people speak English, knowing simple phrases like “por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) helps you connect with locals.
Next, remember meal times. In Spain, lunch usually happens around 2 PM, and dinner is often at 9 PM or later. If you want to eat with locals, plan your meals to match this schedule.
Carrying cash is also a good idea. Many places take credit cards, but small shops may prefer cash. Having some euros ready can help you buy snacks or souvenirs.
Be aware of local customs too. For example, greeting people with a kiss on both cheeks is common.
Lastly, enjoy the Spanish way of life. People like to relax at cafés and restaurants, so don’t rush your meals. Take your time, and soak in the atmosphere. Ready to enjoy Spain?
Also read: Aruba Itinerary: The Perfect Way to Spend 3, 5, or 7 Days in Aruba
Spain’s Culture and History
Spain has a rich culture and interesting history. Many different groups influenced the country, like the Romans, Moors, and Christians. You can see this mix in the buildings, language, and traditions.
Festivals are a big part of Spanish culture. Every region has its own celebrations, like La Tomatina in Buñol, where everyone throws tomatoes. These events show how fun and lively Spain is.
Art is very important in Spain too. Famous artists like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí were born here. You can see their works in many museums, especially in cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Music and dance are also key parts of Spanish culture. Flamenco is a passionate dance that comes from Andalusia. Many people love watching flamenco shows because they are full of energy.
Spain’s history includes many changes, from its unification in the late 15th century to the civil war in the 20th century. Each event has shaped Spain into what it is today, making it a great place to visit.
Food and Restaurants in Spain
Spanish food is delicious, and there’s so much to try! One way to enjoy Spanish meals is through tapas, which are small dishes meant to share. You can find many kinds of tapas, like patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) and jamón ibérico (Iberian ham). Tapas bars are everywhere, and they create a fun atmosphere for eating with friends.
Another must-try dish is paella, especially in Valencia. This rice dish can have seafood, chicken, or vegetables, and it’s cooked in a big pan. Eating paella in its hometown is a special treat!
Don’t forget about dessert! Churros are fried dough pastries served with thick hot chocolate for dipping. You can find churros at many cafés, especially for breakfast.
When dining out, look for local restaurants called “tascas” or “tabernas.” These places usually offer authentic dishes at good prices. Ask locals for their favorite spots to eat, as they can point you to hidden gems.
Remember, lunch is around 2 PM, and dinner starts at 9 PM. So, don’t be surprised if your meal is later than you’re used to. Enjoy your food and the atmosphere!
Also read: Luxembourg Itinerary: How to Experience the City Like a Local
Transportation in Spain
Getting around Spain is easy. If you’re traveling between cities, take the train. Spain has a high-speed train system called AVE that connects major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. It’s fast and comfortable, and you can enjoy the beautiful views along the way.
Within cities, public transport works well. Most cities have metro systems that are easy to use. Buses and trams are also available. If you plan to use public transport a lot, consider buying a transport card to save money.
Walking is a nice way to see the sights too. Many areas are pedestrian-friendly, with shops and cafés. Strolling lets you discover local culture.
If you want more freedom, think about renting a bike. Many cities have bike rentals, so you can explore at your own pace. Just be careful of traffic.
For short trips or late-night travel, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are available. Always choose licensed taxis, and check your driver’s ID if you use a ride-sharing service.
Conclusion
Spain is a beautiful country with so much to offer. From its rich culture and tasty food to easy transportation and friendly locals, visiting Spain can be a fantastic experience. Each moment can be special, so get ready to enjoy everything this amazing country has!
Related: Ghosts of Chinatown: A Spine-Tingling Walking Tour in San Francisco
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Spain?
The best time to visit Spain is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the EU don’t need a visa. Other travelers may need a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days.
What should I pack for my trip to Spain?
Pack lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes for walking, and a light jacket. Don’t forget your travel documents and any necessary medication.
How is the public transportation in Spain?
Public transportation in Spain is excellent. Trains, buses, and metros are available in major cities, making it easy to get around.
What is a must-try dish in Spain?
Paella is a must-try dish, especially in Valencia. Tapas and churros are also popular choices.
Can I use my credit card in Spain?
Yes, most places accept credit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash for small shops and markets.
Is it safe to travel in Spain?
Spain is generally safe for tourists, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas. Stay alert and keep your belongings secure.
What cultural etiquette should I be aware of?
Greet people with a friendly “hola,” and remember that it’s common to greet with a kiss on both cheeks.
Things to do in Spain
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14-Day Spain Tour: Northern Spain and Galicia – $2,308.28 Enjoy a 14-day tour from Barcelona, visiting San Sebastian and Santiago de Compostela. |
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10-Day Spain Tour: Northern Spain and Galicia – $1,435.14 Join a 10-day tour from Madrid, seeing Santiago de Compostela and Porto. |
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Merida Spain Private Full Day Tour from Lisbon – $846.71 Private tour to Merida from Lisbon, explore history with a guide. |
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7-Day Tour: Cordoba, Seville, Granada – $1,106.23 Tour major cities in Spain, enjoy free time and guided visits. |
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Mediterranean Dream: Italy – Spain 17 Days – $3,407.19 Experience two countries in a 17-day journey of beauty and culture. |
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Bespoke Guided Cycling Holidays Spain – $3,733.62 Guided cycling holidays with personal attention from expert guides. |
Book your perfect Spain tour package today and experience the best of Spain’s culture, history, and beauty with ease and comfort!
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Rachel Anderson is an avid traveler who loves exploring new destinations. She shares her adventures and travel tips through her engaging writing, inspiring others to see the world.
