Spain in a Week is not enough to experience everything in the country, you will get glimpses of destinations, culture, food, wine, history and architecture, which will entice you to plan another trip.
One of the most fascinating destinations in Europe, Spain should be on your bucket list for various reasons – Football, Antoni Gaudi’s architecture, Tapas, Sangria, Moorish colours, fun-loving, friendly Spanish – the list is endless.
If you are contemplating what to do in Spain in a Week, you have come to the right place – In this comprehensive post, I will share five different options for planning an incredible one week in Spain.
Based on your preferences – whether you like historic cities, pretty villages, beaches or modern towns – You can pick your 7 days Spain Itinerary.
Spain in a Week – Brief Itinerary
For first-time visitors planning to explore beautiful Spain, I’d recommend one of the first two itineraries below.
Itinerary 1 – Best highlights of Spain in a Week – Starts at Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Ends at Madrid
Itinerary 2 – Spain in a Week with day trips – Barcelona, Girona, Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Toledo, Madrid.
Itinerary 3 – Spain in a Week covering Catalonia – Barcelona, Girona, Costa Brava, San Sebastian.
Itinerary 4 – Spain in a Week for Andalucia highlights – Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Malaga, Cadiz & Jerez de la Frontera Day Trip
Itinerary 5 – Spain in a Week along the coast – From Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Murcia, Almeria, Madrid.
Now let’s get into the details of each of these itineraries, where you can find out more.
Spain in a Week – Detailed Itineraries
Spain in a Week – Itinerary 1 – Barcelona(3), Seville(1), Granada(1), Madrid(2)
One of the best ways to explore Spain in a week, if you are travelling for the first time, would be this itinerary.
Because you will visit the two largest cities – Barcelona and Madrid, each rich in culture, food, attractions and history.
Plus, you will get a glimpse of southern Spain at Seville and Granada, making you fall in love with the region.
Overall, it is a balanced Spain itinerary for 7 days as you will travel around the country covering the best highlights in each region.
This itinerary is especially recommended if you are travelling with kids or families – as you can comfortably cover all the best things to do in Spain easily – thanks to excellent connectivity.
Check out further on how to go about this itinerary.
Day 1 – 3: Barcelona
This itinerary starts in Barcelona, which is home to Barcelona International airport or El Prat airport and has incoming flights from most cities worldwide.
How to get to Barcelona?
Your first half of the day will likely go in arrival, especially if you are traveling anywhere from the US or Canada.
You can get cheaper flights from most major cities to Barcelona if you book early or score some deals.
Getting from Barcelona airport to the city centre:
Airport transfer by cab: You can get a private taxi directly to your hotel doorstep, which is the best way if you have young children or heavy luggage. Book your transfer here.
Metro/Subway: The Airport Metro line L9 Sud is the train that takes you to Barcelona city centre from the airport. It costs around 4.5 Euros.
I arrived downtown conveniently using the subway, which took about 25 minutes. If you plan to use public transport extensively(which you should do as it is excellent), I recommend purchasing a Barcelona travel pass.
Bus: You can also take the Aeroporto Bus with various stops, including the city centre and possibly close to your hotel. The bus starts at Terminal 1.
Get down at Plaza Espanya, from where you can avail subway to your hotel. The whole journey should take about 45 minutes. Get your bus tickets here.
Where to stay in Barcelona?
Barcelona is a big city with plenty of hotels and hostels scattered around the city. Some of the popular neighbourhoods include:
Most popular – The Old town around the famous Las Ramblas, which includes the Gothic Quarter and El Born.
Bohemian/Hipster – If you prefer bohemian or hipster neighbourhoods, then Gracia and Sant Antoni, respectively, both have plenty of cute cafes, restaurants and bars
Beach – Barcelona beach area, and also Eixample close to Passeig de Gracia
Here are some of the best recommendations for you in all budget ranges from each of the above areas:
If you are looking for spacious apartments and guest houses ideal for traveling with kids, I would recommend Midtown Apartments, ideally located 6 minutes from Paseo de Gracia and central Plaza Catalunya.
Midtown Apartments offers stylish, modern décor apartments with a seasonal pool and solarium on the building’s rooftop.
Seventy Barcelona, located in the heart of the city with La Pedrera reachable within 400 metres, is worth checking out for elegant rooms.
The spacious rooms come with spa access and other amenities you can enjoy.
Catedral Bas Apartments Barcelona is another excellent hotel for families, centrally located and 2 minute’s walk from Barcelona Cathedral and 4 minutes from Plaza Catalunya.
Situated at the corner of Portal de l’Àngel, a famous shopping street, you can reach many museums, shops and restaurants on foot.
Mid-range Hotels and apartments
Hotel Barcelona Universal – Hotel Barcelona Universal is an ideal choice, next to Parallel Metro Station and 600 m from Las Ramblas.
The spacious rooms at the Barcelona Universal Hotel feature wooden floors and air conditioning. Ideal for using the metro and accessing Las Ramblas for markets and eateries. Check the latest prices here.
Hotel Paxton Barcelona – Hotel Paxton Barcelona is located close to the beach and features a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and a bar in Barcelona. The rooms come with modern decor. Check the latest prices and room details here.
Mayerling Abamita Apartments – Check Mayerling Abamita Apartments for a pretty stay 5 minutes away from Plaça Catalunya.
Acta Voraport – Acta Voraport is another option if you prefer to stay close to the beach, as it is an 11-minute walk from the beach.
Set in Barcelona, 650 m from Bogatell, Acta Voraport offers accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar.
Day 1 in Barcelona
Assuming that you are enticed to get a first peek of the city after your long journey, take this half-day to explore the streets around La Rambla. You will start in the afternoon post-lunch with the famous La Rambla street.
Walk amidst rows of shops selling everything – from pretty souvenirs to exotic food to beautiful cafes. The road is bustling and gets busier and lovely at night as it is lit.
You will reach the famous Plaça de Catalunya, the main square at one end of the street, while on the other end is Port Vell.
If you have time for the sunset, you can add one more attraction right away – Bunker del Carmel or MUHBA Turó de la Rovira, from where you can get splendid views of the sunset over the Barcelona skyline for free.
From La Rambla to Bunkers, you have two options – If you are game for a good climb, you can take the subway line, L4 La Pau. Get out at Guinardó Hospital de Sant Pau stop and hike up through the Parc del Guinardó to the top.
If you don’t want to hike, take bus V17, which will drop you at the entrance to the Parc del Guinardó.
The Bunkers were an aircraft base constructed during the civil war in 1937 and were used as an anti-aircraft battery to defend the city.
This abandoned place today is among the famous hangout spots for the locals who spend time in large groups, especially in the evenings and weekends. It is open 24/7 and is one of the best places in Barcelona to watch sunsets and enjoy the panoramic views.
Get back to La Rambla for dinner at one of the many restaurants you can choose from.
Recommended tours for Day 1
Barcelona Highlights: Bus and Walking Tour – A 4.5-hour tour including transportation to the monuments, Ticket for Montjuïc cable car, Entrance fee to the Cathedral, and Ticket to Casa Milà-La Pedrera, if option selected. Book your spot here.
Day 2 in Barcelona
Start the day early, as you will explore most of the highlights of Barcelona today. The most visited monument in Spain should be where you have to begin, so head to the iconic Sagrada Familia, one of the masterpieces of Catalonian architect Antoni Gaudi.
The church’s construction started in the late 19th century but is still ongoing because of the lack of funds, the untimely demise of Gaudi and wars.
While the unique architecture from the outside is very appealing, the various geometrical shapes and the design of the interiors, coupled with vibrant glass windows, make it a natural spectacle.
The earlier you get here, the better it is because Sagrada Familia draws visitors like a moth! You can take the metro that stops right next to it. It takes a while to get your tickets, thanks to the crowd. You can buy the fast-track tickets instead here.
Book Skip-the-Ticket-Line Guided Tour & Ticket Here for Sagrada La Familia
I’d also recommend you take an early morning guided tour, which is the best way to appreciate this massive cathedral.
Next, head to the old town for the Gothic quarter for its impressive medieval Cathedral of Barcelona. Walk around the cobbled streets that take you back in time.
You can take a 2.5-hour guided walking tour of this section for a better experience. Have lunch at the city’s oldest restaurant – Can Culleretes.
After lunch, it is time to see more of Gaudi’s wonders. You have plenty to choose from, and since you have limited time, I’d suggest you pick Casa Milà and Casa Batllo, located in the Passeig de Gràcia.
Casa Batllo is one of the UNESCO heritage sites as well, of which you can take a guided tour and, if possible, visit Gaudí’s house museum.
As the evening approaches, it is time to witness a gorgeous sunset at another spot in the city, Park Güell.
Another brilliant work of Gaudi, the park was supposed to be a society for the more affluent/upper class of Barcelona and consists of several unique villas surrounded by a large garden. The project remained incomplete; today, it is one of the most famous parks in Spain.
Recommended tour – Barcelona: Guided Tour and Park Güell Skip-the-Line Ticket
Park Güell is free to enter but to check out the monumental buildings, the entry fee is 11 Euros. Due to its immense popularity, the park is almost always crowded with long queues to secure a ticket.
I’d highly recommend you get these skip-the-line tickets online, which will save you time.
Barcelona – Day 3
On your third day in Barcelona, you have different options. You can explore the tallest hill in the city, Montjuïc, to which hop-on, hop-off bus tours are available.
If you want a hassle-free guided tour, including the tickets to the funicular cable car, I would highly recommend this Walking tour with Montjuic Castle & Cable Car, available in English and Spanish, that you can easily book online. Book your tour here.
The monuments in Montjuic were developed in 1929 to host the international exhibition and later the Olympics. The hilly roads of Montjuïc were also the venue for Spanish grand pix.
Among the most notable attractions in Montjuïc include the medieval Montjuïc castle, a large garden, the grand Palau Nacional, the Estadi Olímpic (the Olympic stadium) – which was built to host an anti-fascist alternative Olympics in 1936, and an ornate staircase from the foot of the hill until the top.
You can take the hop bus, walk or use Funicular cable cars that take you to the top of the hill if you want to experience bird views of Barcelona.
You can spend half a day or an entire day covering all these attractions ending your evening by witnessing the sound and light show at the decorated Magic Fountain of Montjuïc (Font Màgica).
Alternative itinerary – Beginning the day early, you can visit a few of these attractions at Montjuïc during the first of the day, and then head to Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona – a must if you are a Football fan.
Recommended tours for Camp Nou – Private Tour of Barcelona Secret Camp Nou Tour with a Sports Journalist
Barcelona: Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum
If you are an art enthusiast, spend your afternoon checking out The Museu Picasso, home to over 5000 collections by the noted 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.
Recommended for you – Malaga: Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Picasso Museum
The Best Guided Tours In Barcelona
I would recommend opting for some of these guided tours to better manage your time and money and experience all Barcelona has to offer, which is helped by the local experts. I have short-listed the best ones depending on the activities you can browse.
Day 4 – Seville
After getting a glimpse of the country after 3 days in Barcelona, continue your Spain in a week itinerary to head to Seville in the south.
How to reach Seville?
Spain has excellent inter-city connectivity, especially trains which run frequently. The best way to reach Seville from Barcelona is to take the train, which takes about 3.5 hours to arrive.
Express trains reach much faster. Flights take about 2 hours, and you can sometimes get a ticket for as low as $50 if you book earlier.
Quick tip – There is also an overnight train that I’d highly recommend saving the day.
Where to stay in Seville?
The most popular area to stay in Seville is the Barrio Santa Cruz neighbourhood, which is close to all the top attractions.
If you want budget accommodation or are travelling with family, I’d recommend Triana, Macarena and Los Remedio. Alfalfa and El Arenal are also excellent areas with plenty of hotels and guesthouses in Seville.
Here are some of the recommendations for the best accommodations in Seville:
Luxury Hotels – Hotel Alfonso XIII, a luxurious hotel set in traditional style, comes with lavish rooms next to Seville’s Real Alcazares.
Radisson Collection Hotel, located at Magdalena Plaza Sevilla, CoolRooms Palacio Villapanés, Hotel Unuk, Hotel Mercer Sevilla, and
Recommended Boutique Hotels and Apartments – Hotel Las Casas de la Judería, Occidental Sevilla Viapol,
Popular picks by travelers – Hotel Rey Alfonso X, Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento, Eurostars Torre Sevilla, and Hotel Cervantes.
Medium Budget Boutique Hotels and Apartments – Boutique Puerta Real and Hotel Sevilla Center
What to do in Seville?
Assuming that you arrive early morning, you have one full day in Seville. After breakfast, head first to The Royal Alcázar of Seville, one of the three UNESCO heritage sites in Seville.
It is one of the most visited monuments, so expect lots of crowds. It is best to get the tickets in advance online here with the tour, as you can save time.
The Royal Alcazar is one of the grandest palaces depicting unique Moorish architecture. The intricately decorated walls and the roofs dotted with blue tiles make it very attractive.
If you are a Game of Thrones TV series fan, you will instantly recognize this magnificent castle – It was the royal palace of the Kingdom of Dorne in the series.
Recommended Tours
- Seville: Alcázar Guided Tour with Priority Entrance
- Seville: Alcazar Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Tickets
- Seville: Skip-the-Line Alcázar Guided Tour
- Seville: Cathedral, Giralda & Alcazar Entry With Guided Tour
In real-world history, the palace got occupied by the Christian Spanish invader Peter in the 14th century. Explore the beauty of this palace, and don’t forget to check out the lovely garden.
Next, it is time to visit two iconic monuments at the centre of the old town Seville – The Cathedral of Seville and the adjoining La Giralda, both at walking distance from Royal Alcazar, best explored on this tour.
Located in the historic Gothic Quarter, the medieval Roman cathedral of Seville has rich renaissance architecture. This splendid 16th-century UNESCO heritage site has many accolades.
It is the largest Gothic church and the fourth largest cathedral in the world, which was constructed on the place where a Moorish mosque was present until the 14th century.
There are fifteen huge medieval doors to this cathedral spread over a massive 12400 square feet.
Adjoining the cathedral is its most notable feature, La Giralda, the iconic Bell Tower of Seville. The Giralda was originally a minaret of the mosque that stood here under Muslim rule. It was converted into a bell tower for the cathedral after the conquest of Seville.
Have lunch at one of the many restaurants on the cobbled street in front of the Bell Tower, many of which serve excellent Tapas and Sangria – two things you shouldn’t miss trying while in Seville.
After lunch, pay a quick visit to the General Archive of the Indies or The Archivo General de Indias, a UNESCO heritage site building repository of precious archives of documentation of the Spanish conquests throughout the world from the Americas to the Philippines.
This 16th-century building is worth a visit if you love history and museums, as you can see exciting artefacts and collections about Spanish history.
As the evening approaches, head to The Plaza de España, one of the most beautiful landmarks in Spain. The Spain square, built for an exposition, symbolises a beautiful blend of the country’s dominating types of architecture – Moorish, medieval renaissance and the Baroque style.
This vast building today consists of several government offices.
Walk along the circular section of the outer courtyard accessible by moats connected with cute bridges. Observe the beautiful decorative blue tiles, a series of alcoves, which consists of details of all the provinces in Spain.
It is one of the most photographed places, and if you are looking for cute Instagram spots, you will find many among these. A large fountain tops the courtyard at the centre. Wait until the dark to see the magic of this plaza as the lights come on.
Next, it is time to watch the famed Flamenco dance performance – a unique bohemian dance style that tells the folklore of southern Spain.
The best way to enjoy a Flamenco show is to opt for one of the tours, especially the combo ones. Here are some of the excellent tours I would recommend:
Seville: Traditional Flamenco Show in Triana
Seville: Flamenco Tour & Performance
These tours can be booked online quickly in advance. Plan your time for the rest of the attractions during the day to accommodate sufficient time for the shows.
The best-guided tours in Seville that I have handpicked. They have fantastic reviews, you get the best local experts showcasing the amazing things about Seville, and you can easily book online.
- Popular pick – Seville: Alcazar, Cathedral, and Giralda Guided Tour Combo
- Seville: Spanish Cooking Class with Dinner
- Seville: Sangria Tasting with Rooftop Views
- Seville: Exclusive River Boat Tour with Tapas
- Seville: Tapas Crawl
- Seville: 1 Hour Flamenco Dance Lesson
- Seville Aquarium Admission Ticket
Day 5 – Granada
It’s time to plan your next destination in Spain in a week. Stay put in Seville overnight, and schedule a day trip to neighbouring Granada.
Granada is a lovely, small town known for the famous, splendid fortified Moorish Complex – Alhambra, perched on the top of a mountain.
Although you can plan a day trip yourself, most of your time will be lost in commuting as it takes 3 to 4 hours to get from Seville to Granada by train or bus.
To avoid this hassle, I recommend you book this guided day trip that allows you to comfortably enjoy all the beautiful palaces and pick up from your hotel.
On tour, you will take a guided tour of Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces, the Palace of Charles and the Royal Chapel of Granada. Built between the early 12th and the 13th centuries, these grand fortresses and palaces symbolized the wealthy Moorish kingdoms.
If you want to do it yourself, then save your time by buying this fast-access ticket to Alhambra online, which will get you started early
You will find the renowned Moorish style, which later got added with medieval renaissance influence for the Spanish conquest.
Also, take a walk at Generalife, the classic summer palace with beautiful medieval gardens. Don’t miss the spectacle of sunset in the backdrop of the intriguing Alhambra fortress.
Head back to Seville for a relaxed dinner and drinks in the old town of Seville.
Recommended guided tours in Granada
Some of these names may sound similar, but these are different combinations of tickets and guided tours of attractions. I would recommend you browse through each to make your best pick.
- Alhambra: Tour with Nasrid Palaces at Night
- Granada: Alhambra Ticket and Audio Guide with Nasrid Palaces
- Granada: Alhambra & Generalife Fast-Track Entry
- Alhambra: Ticket and Audio Guide with Nasrid Palaces – Non-Refundable
- Alhambra: Tour with Nasrid Palaces
- From Seville: Alhambra and Albaicín Full-Day Tour
- Granada: Alhambra Ticket and Guided Tour with Nasrid Palaces
- Granada: Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Fast-Track Ticket
Day 6 – 7 – Madrid(2 days)
Leave for Madrid, the posh capital city, on your last leg of Spain in a week. Depending on when you arrive and your trip to your next destination, you will have around 1.5 to 2 days in Madrid.
Many people skip Madrid thinking of it as only another Cosmopolitan city, which is true, but it is worth spending one or two days in this colourful capital.
If you want to skip Madrid, alternatively, you can spend another day in Seville, make a day trip to Cordoba, and fly out of Seville too.
How to reach Madrid?
You can take a flight, train, or bus for 2 to 4 hours. Take the overnight train, if possible, to have more time in Madrid.
Where to stay in Madrid?
The city centre or Centro around Plaza del Sol is the most popular area in Madrid to stay in as the travellers prefer. The other recommended areas are Huertas, Malasaña, La Latina and Chueca.
Here are some of the best hotels in Madrid:
Madrid – Day 1
Start your day after breakfast or lunch(if you are arriving late) to explore the top attractions in Madrid. Head to the Royal Palace of Madrid, home to the Royal family of Spain. It is the largest functioning palace and also the largest in area.
The Spanish royal family lives outside the main complex at the State Palace. This beautiful monument, built on the site of a Moorish Alcazar, is known for its vast gardens, ornate rooms and an extensive collection of royal treasury, paintings and artefacts.
You can take a guided tour of the castle, including skip-the-line tickets that can be done within 2 hours.
Head next to the former old town main square Plaza Mayor, a spacious open space that is one of the most famous spots for a hangout for the locals today.
This massive plaza built in the 16th century has ten entry points and over 200 balconies in the three-storeyed buildings.
Once a venue for the execution of criminals, later for bullfights and soccer games, it is now the central venue for Christmas markets. Walk in the plaza and admire the renaissance architecture.
There are many restaurants close to the plaza, pick one based on your mood for lunch. After lunch, you can head to the National Museum of Arts or The Prado Museum – Museo Nacional del Prado, one of the most famous museums in the world for its comprehensive collection of European artworks from the 12th century to the latest times.
It is one of the top museums for art in the world. Book a guided tour of the museum in advance to skip the queue.
In the evening, walk to The Buen Retiro Park or El Retiro Park, which is close to the Prado Museum. It is one of the most beautiful and largest parks in Spain, built in the 16th century. You can enjoy many activities in this public park, which is a popular area for a picnic for the locals.
Visit the lovely glass castle Palacio de Cristal or The Crystal Palace, the pretty rose garden Rosaleda and along Paseo de las Estatuas – the street of statues of ancient Spanish kings. You can spend your time taking a boat trip to the Retiro Pond.
End your day dining at one of the restaurants close to Plaza Mayor.
Madrid – Day 2
Depending on your time, you can check out more of Madrid. If you are flying out on the same day, you will probably have a half-a-day, which you can spend shopping, buying souvenirs and other things before wrapping up Spain in a week.
Head to Gran Vía, Madrid – one of the most famous streets for shopping.
If you are here on a Sunday, check out the historic flea market El Rastro where you might pick up something unique. Other options for shopping are The Calle Mayor and Calle Fuencarral streets.
You can cover a few exciting attractions if you have a full day in Madrid today. Are you a soccer fan? Then start your day after breakfast by heading to The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the second-largest stadium in Spain and the home stadium of Real Madrid.
This historic stadium has been the venue for plenty of final matches and should be on your list if you are a Football lover.
Head next to the reconstructed ancient Egyptian temple and one of the famous attractions in Madrid – the Temple of Debod.
For lunch, visit Madrid’s food heaven – Mercado de San Miguel, a large food market that is the perfect place to try some unique delicacies.
Next, you can check out the bustling main square area Puerta del Sol and Plaza de España.
You can relax wandering around the square and maybe do some shopping before you end your fabulous one week in Spain trip!
One week in Spain – Itinerary 2 – Barcelona(2), Girona(1) Seville(1), Granada(1), Toledo(1), Madrid(1)
This itinerary is perfect if you want to cover Spain in a week, adding more destinations as day trips. You will start from Barcelona and end in Madrid, which is comfortable given that both have international airports for flying in and out.
Let’s dig into the details of the itinerary.
Day 1 – 2: Barcelona
You will arrive in Barcelona, and depending on whether you will travel during the daytime or at night, you will have between 1.5 to 2 days.
Although you can’t explore everything, you can still cover the city’s highlights. You can refer to the above section to choose from what you would like to see.
Ideally, I’d recommend you to check out Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia and stroll through La Rambla, Bunkers and Park Güell. Booking a walking tour here.
Day 3: Girona
On your day three, plan a day trip to Girona. It is a beautiful town on the River Onyar in the north-eastern Catalonia region. Girona is a quintessential city famous for its old town Barri Vell rich in medieval architectural monuments.
How to reach Girona?
You can reach Girona from Barcelona by train within just 45 minutes, making it one of the most accessible day trip options. Direct trains run by Renfe depart from Barcelona Sants or El Clot Aragó train stations and arrive at Girona train station.
What to do in Girona?
Start with the old town Barri Vell, and check out the medieval walls of Passeig Arqueològic and the gardens. Witness panoramic views of the city from the watchtower.
Head to the Força Vella fortress, the remains of the Roman kingdom. Capture your best Instagram shots at Cases de l’Onyar, home to vibrant homes. Walk along the iconic Pont de Pedra bridge.
If you want a comfortable, relaxed trip, I’d highly recommend guided tours from Barcelona to Girona, most of which include free pickup from your hotel. These are good options to get to know most of the city, making the best use of your time and money.
Check these tours to book:
Girona and Costa Brava Small-Group Day Trip from Barcelona
Girona, Figueres & Dalí Museum: Day Tour from Barcelona
Day 4: Seville
You can take the overnight train from Barcelona to Seville after returning from your Girona day trip, leaving you with one full day for Seville sightseeing.
Explore the Alcazar Palace, Giralda tower, the Catholic church, and Plaza de Espana. Try the Tapas and Sangria to watch a Flamenco show in the evening, followed by dinner, wrapping up a fabulous day.
Day 5: Granada
On your day 5, plan a day trip to neighbouring Granada from Seville. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Granada, known for its lavish palace gardens and Moorish castles.
Start with the most popular attraction, the magnificent Alhambra Palace atop the hill, Check out Generalife – the summer gardens, the Royal Chapel of Granada Nasrid Palaces Palace of Charles V and the majestic Catedral de Granada. Check out the elegant Turkish bath site Hammam Al Ándalus.
For colourful shopping souvenirs, head to the local market Alcaicería of Granada.
Day 6: Toledo
You can either travel overnight from Seville to Madrid and then plan a day trip to Toledo from Madrid or directly travel to Toledo from Seville. Either way, make sure to keep one full day for Toledo, which is
Day 7: Madrid
You get one full day to check out the capital. Refer to the above section with Madrid details to choose how you want to go ahead depending on your time available and preference.
Spain in a week – Itinerary 3 – Barcelona(3), Girona(2), Costa Brava(1), San Sebastian(1)
This is one of the best ways to explore Spain in a week focusing on a particular region, which is Catalonia, one of the top places in the country, offering a diverse set of experiences.
Day 1 – 3: Barcelona
This itinerary starts in Barcelona. If you are flying in, you can arrive at Barcelona International airport or El Prat airport, as both have incoming flights from most cities worldwide.
How to get to Barcelona?
Your first half of the day will likely go in arrival, especially if you are traveling anywhere from the US or Canada.
You can get cheaper flights from most major cities to Barcelona if you book early or score some deals.
Getting from Barcelona airport to the city centre:
Airport transfer by cab: You can get a private taxi directly to your hotel doorstep, which is the best way if you have young children or heavy luggage. Book your transfer here.
Metro/Subway: The Airport Metro line L9 Sud is the train that takes you to Barcelona city centre from the airport. It costs around 4.5 Euros.
I arrived downtown conveniently using the subway, which took about 25 minutes. If you plan to use public transport extensively(which you should do as it is excellent), I recommend purchasing a Barcelona travel pass.
Bus: You can also take the Aeroporto Bus with various stops, including the city centre and possibly close to your hotel. The bus starts at Terminal 1.
Get down at Plaza Espanya, from where you can avail subway to your hotel. The whole journey should take about 45 minutes. Get your bus tickets here.
Where to stay in Barcelona?
Barcelona is a big city with plenty of hotels and hostels scattered around the city. Some of the popular neighbourhoods include:
Most popular – The Old town around the famous Las Ramblas, which includes the Gothic Quarter and El Born.
Bohemian/Hipster – If you prefer bohemian or hipster neighbourhoods, then Gracia and Sant Antoni, respectively, both have plenty of cute cafes, restaurants and bars
Beach – Barcelona beach area, and also Eixample close to Passeig de Gracia
Here are some of the best recommendations for you in all budget ranges from each of the above areas:
If you are looking for spacious apartments and guest houses ideal for traveling with kids, I would recommend Midtown Apartments, ideally located 6 minutes from Paseo de Gracia and central Plaza Catalunya.
Midtown Apartments offers stylish, modern décor apartments with a seasonal pool and solarium on the building’s rooftop.
Seventy Barcelona, located in the heart of the city with La Pedrera reachable within 400 metres, is worth checking out for elegant rooms.
The spacious rooms come with spa access and other amenities you can enjoy.
Catedral Bas Apartments Barcelona is another excellent hotel for families, centrally located and 2 minute’s walk from Barcelona Cathedral and 4 minutes from Plaza Catalunya.
Situated at the corner of Portal de l’Àngel, a famous shopping street, you can reach many museums, shops and restaurants on foot.
Mid-range Hotels and apartments
Hotel Barcelona Universal – Hotel Barcelona Universal is an ideal choice, next to Parallel Metro Station and 600 m from Las Ramblas. The spacious rooms at the Barcelona Universal Hotel feature wooden floors and air conditioning. Ideal for using the metro and accessing Las Ramblas for markets and eateries. Check the latest prices here.
Hotel Paxton Barcelona – Hotel Paxton Barcelona is located close to the beach and features a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and a bar in Barcelona. The rooms come with modern decor. Check the latest prices and room details here.
Mayerling Abamita Apartments – Check Mayerling Abamita Apartments for a pretty stay 5 minutes away from Plaça Catalunya.
Acta Voraport – Acta Voraport is another option if you prefer to stay close to the beach, as it is an 11-minute walk from the beach.
Set in Barcelona, 650 m from Bogatell, Acta Voraport offers accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar.
Day 1 in Barcelona
Assuming that you are enticed to get a first peek of the city after your long journey, take this half-day to explore the streets around La Rambla.
You will start in the afternoon post-lunch with the famous La Rambla street.
Walk amidst rows of shops selling everything – from pretty souvenirs to exotic food to beautiful cafes. The road is bustling and gets busier and lovely at night as it is lit.
You will reach the famous Plaça de Catalunya, the main square at one end of the street, while on the other end is Port Vell.
If you have time for the sunset, you can add one more attraction right away – Bunker del Carmel or MUHBA Turó de la Rovira, from where you can get splendid views of the sunset over the Barcelona skyline for free.
From La Rambla to Bunkers, you have two options – If you are game for a good climb, you can take the subway line, L4 La Pau.
Get out at Guinardó Hospital de Sant Pau stop and hike up through the Parc del Guinardó to the top.
If you don’t want to hike, take bus V17, which will drop you at the entrance to the Parc del Guinardó.
The Bunkers were an aircraft base constructed during the civil war in 1937 and were used as an anti-aircraft battery to defend the city.
This abandoned place today is among the famous hangout spots for the locals who spend time in large groups, especially in the evenings and weekends.
It is open 24/7 and is one of the best places in Barcelona to watch sunsets and enjoy the panoramic views.
Get back to La Rambla for dinner at one of the many restaurants you can choose from.
Day 2 in Barcelona
Start the day early, as you will explore most of the highlights of Barcelona today. The most visited monument in Spain should be where you have to begin, so head to the iconic Sagrada Familia, one of the masterpieces of Catalonian architect Antoni Gaudi.
The church’s construction started in the late 19th century but is still ongoing because of the lack of funds, the untimely demise of Gaudi and wars.
While the unique architecture from the outside is very appealing, the various geometrical shapes and the design of the interiors, coupled with vibrant glass windows, make it a natural spectacle.
The earlier you get here, the better it is because Sagrada Familia draws visitors like a moth! You can take the metro that stops right next to it. It takes a while to get your tickets, thanks to the crowd. You can buy the fast-track tickets instead here.
Book Skip-the-Ticket-Line Guided Tour & Ticket Here for Sagrada La Familia
I’d also recommend you take an early morning guided tour, which is the best way to appreciate this massive cathedral.
Next, head to the old town for the Gothic quarter for its impressive medieval Cathedral of Barcelona. Walk around the cobbled streets that take you back in time.
You can take a 2.5-hour guided walking tour of this section for a better experience. Have lunch at the city’s oldest restaurant – Can Culleretes.
After lunch, it is time to see more of Gaudi’s wonders. You have plenty to choose from, and since you have limited time, I’d suggest you pick Casa Milà and Casa Batllo, located in the Passeig de Gràcia.
Casa Batllo is one of the UNESCO heritage sites as well, of which you can take a guided tour and, if possible, visit Gaudí’s house museum.
As the evening approaches, it is time to witness a gorgeous sunset at another spot in the city, Park Güell.
Another brilliant work of Gaudi, the park was supposed to be a society for the more affluent/upper class of Barcelona and consists of several unique villas surrounded by a large garden. The project remained incomplete; today, it is one of the most famous parks in Spain.
Park Güell is free to enter but to check out the monumental buildings, the entry fee is 11 Euros. Due to its immense popularity, the park is almost always crowded with long queues to secure a ticket.
I’d highly recommend you get these skip-the-line tickets online, which will save you time.
Barcelona – Day 3
On your third day in Barcelona, you have different options. You can explore the tallest hill in the city, Montjuïc, to which hop-on, hop-off bus tours are available.
The monuments in Montjuic were developed in 1929 to host the international exhibition and later the Olympics. The hilly roads of Montjuïc were also the venue for Spanish grand pix.
Among the most notable attractions in Montjuïc include the medieval Montjuïc castle, a large garden, the grand Palau Nacional, the Estadi Olímpic (the Olympic stadium) – which was built to host an anti-fascist alternative Olympics in 1936, and an ornate staircase from the foot of the hill until the top.
You can take the hop bus, walk or use Funicular cable cars that take you to the top of the hill if you want to experience bird views of Barcelona.
The beautiful sunset from Montjuïc Hill should be one of your highlights of Spain in a week!
You can spend half a day or an entire day covering all these attractions ending your evening by witnessing the sound and light show at the decorated Magic Fountain of Montjuïc (Font Màgica).
Alternative itinerary – Beginning the day early, you can visit a few of these attractions at Montjuïc during the first of the day, and then head to Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona – a must if you are a Football fan.
If you are an art enthusiast, spend your afternoon checking out The Museu Picasso, home to over 5000 collections by the noted 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Book a guided tour here.
Day 4-5: Girona
If you enjoy history, architecture and medieval towns like me, you will love Girona. It is a lovely medieval town overlooking the Onyar River and one of the best-preserved historic north-eastern Catalon towns.
Girona is a quintessential city famous for its old town Barri Vell rich in medieval architectural monuments.
You will instantly recognize the moat and the high walls if you are a Game of Thrones fan.
How to reach Girona?
You can reach Girona from Barcelona by train within just 45 minutes, making it one of the most accessible day trip options. Direct trains run by Renfe depart from Barcelona Sants or El Clot Aragó train stations and arrive at Girona train station
Day 1 in Girona
Spend your 1st day in Girona exploring the highlights of the town.
Depending on when you arrive, start your trip with the old town Barri Vell, and check out the medieval walls Passeig Arqueològic and the gardens around. Witness panoramic views of the city from the watchtower.
Head to the Força Vella fortress, the remains of the Roman kingdom.
Capture your best Instagram shots at Cases de l’Onyar, home to vibrant homes, and walk along the iconic Pont de Pedra bridge.
Day 2 in Girona
If you are here on the weekend, visit the lovely flower market at the Rambla de la Llibertat, one of the specialities of Girona.
Visit the historic Sant Pere Galligants Monastery. You can also witness amazing views from Sant Felix and the Gothic Cathedrals.
Head to the Arab Baths to enjoy a relaxing soak after long hours of exploring and walking, a perfect way to wind down the evening. You can also go shopping for souvenirs in the square.
Day 6 – Costa Brava
One of the most popular tourist destinations on their Spanish Bucket List is Costa Brava in northeastern Spain.
It is no surprise that Costa Brava is one of the most beautiful places in Spain. Its white-sand beaches, rugged cliffs, white-tiled scenic fishing villages, abundant marine life, incredible nightlife, delectable seafood, and wineries are scattered throughout the province.
You can choose to stay in Girona and plan a trip to Costa Brava, which I recommend.
But alternatively, you can also take a day tour from Barcelona to Costa Brava to explore in a day.
How to reach Costa Brava?
The nearest airport to Costa Brava is Barcelona. From Girona, it takes about 2 hours to reach by train.
Whether you are planning a day trip from Barcelona or Girona to explore Costa Brava, there are plenty of things to do in the beautiful coastal town of Costa Brava in Girona province. Explore the coves, beaches, medieval villages and many museums.
Depending on your time, you can plan to cover several beaches, beach towns, or both.
Some medieval towns and fishing villages you can visit our Besalu, Torres de Mar, Pals, Blanes and Lloret de Mar.
Recommended guided tours
Day 7 – San Sebastian
If you are looking for a place to relax, party and have fun on your trip, San Sebastian, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, is where you should go.
How to reach San Sebastian?
San Sebastian has an airport; the other nearest is Bilbao Airport and Barcelona. From Bilbao or Barcelona, you can take trains or buses.
Spend your day checking out the old town Parte Vieja filled with medieval monuments, the highest bars globally, and Michelin-starred restaurants, where you shouldn’t miss the many types of signature pintxos or Basque tapas.
Stroll along the famous La Playa de la Concha beach, Playa de la Concho beach, where you can enjoy many water activities, including surfing. La Concha Bay is another popular place to unwind.
Explore the heart of the city of La Concha. Visit the local market Mercado de la Brecha to taste the local delicacies.
Rent a bike and explore the hills around San Sebastian. Take a ride on the funicular to get to the top of Monte Igueldo for amazing panoramic views of the coast.
Head back to Barcelona overnight and to the airport ending this fabulous one week Spain trip.
Itinerary 4 – Spain in a Week for Andalucia highlights – Seville(2), Granada(2), Cordoba(1), Malaga(1), Cadiz & Jerez de la Frontera Day Trip(1)
This Spain itinerary will take you through the best of Andalucia, which you can explore in 7 days.
You will get bits of history, architecture, castles, excellent food, and stunning beaches, making it a fantastic itinerary if you want a beach holiday with your family in the summer.
Day 1 -2: Seville
Start your Spain in a week itinerary by arriving at Seville in the south.
Located in Andalucía, Seville is one of the most beautiful places in Spain and one of my favourite cities in Europe that I loved exploring alone.
UNESCO sites, Splendid Moorish architecture, excellent food & wine – Tapas and Sangria, and dance performances – You got enough reasons to visit Seville!
How to reach Seville?
The nearest airport is Seville Airport.
The best way to reach Seville from major cities is to take the train, which takes about 3 to 5 hours to arrive. Express trains reach much faster.
Where to stay in Seville?
The most popular area to stay in Seville is the Barrio Santa Cruz neighbourhood, which is close to all the top attractions.
If you want budget accommodation or are travelling with family, I’d recommend Triana, Macarena and Los Remedio.
Alfalfa and El Arenal are also excellent areas with plenty of hotels and guesthouses in Seville.
Here are some of the recommendations for the best hotels in Seville:
Day 1 in Seville
Assuming that you arrive early morning, you have one full day in Seville.
After breakfast, head first to The Royal Alcázar of Seville, one of the three UNESCO heritage sites in Seville.
It is one of the most visited monuments, so expect lots of crowds. It is best to get the tickets in advance online here with the tour as you can save time.
The Royal Alcazar is one of the grandest palaces depicting unique Moorish architecture. The intricately decorated walls and the roofs dotted with blue tiles make it very attractive.
If you are a Game of Thrones TV series fan, you will instantly recognize this magnificent castle – It was the royal palace of the Kingdom of Dorne in the series.
In real-world history, the palace got occupied by the Christian Spanish invader Peter in the 14th century. Explore the beauty of this palace and don’t forget to check out the lovely garden. Book a guided tour here.
Next, it is time to visit two iconic monuments at the centre of the old town Seville – The Cathedral of Seville and the adjoining La Giralda, both at a walking distance from Royal Alcazar.
Located in the historic Gothic Quarter, the medieval Roman cathedral of Seville has rich renaissance architecture. This splendid 16th-century UNESCO heritage site has many accolades.
It is the largest Gothic church and the fourth largest cathedral in the world, which was constructed on the place where a Moorish mosque was present until the 14th century.
There are fifteen huge medieval doors to this cathedral spread over a massive 12400 square feet
Adjoining the cathedral is its most notable feature, La Giralda, the iconic Bell Tower of Seville. The Giralda was originally a minaret of the mosque that stood here under Muslim rule.
It was converted into a bell tower for the cathedral after the conquest of Seville.
Have lunch at one of the many restaurants on the cobbled street in front of the Bell Tower, many of which serve excellent Tapas and Sangria – two things you shouldn’t miss trying while in Seville.
After lunch, pay a quick visit to the General Archive of the Indies or The Archivo General de Indias, a UNESCO heritage site building repository of precious archives of documentation of the Spanish conquests throughout the world – from the Americas to the Philippines.
This 16th-century building is worth a visit if you love history and museums as you can see interesting artefacts and collections about Spanish history.
As the evening approaches, head to The Plaza de España, one of the most beautiful landmarks in Spain.
The Spain square built for an exposition is a symbol of a beautiful blend of the country’s dominating types of architecture – Moorish, medieval renaissance and the Baroque style.
This vast building today consists of several government offices.
Walk along the circular section of the outer courtyard accessible by moats connected with cute bridges.
Observe the decorative beautiful blue tiles, a series of alcoves, which consists of details of all the provinces in Spain.
A large fountain tops the courtyard at the centre. Wait until the dark to see the magic of this plaza as lights come on.
It is one of the most photographed places, and if you are looking for cute Instagram spots, you will find many among these.
Next, it is time to watch the famed Flamenco dance performance – a unique bohemian dance style that tells the folklores of southern Spain.
The best way to enjoy a Flamenco show is to opt for one of the tours, especially the combo ones. Here are some of the excellent tours I would recommend:
These tours can be booked online quickly in advance. Plan your time for the rest of the attractions during the day to accommodate sufficient time for the shows.
Day 2 in Seville
If you have some places that you could not cover on day 1, explore them today.
Or continue to check out other attractions in Sevilla including the Flamenco Museum, Seville Museum of Fine Arts, and Hospital Los Venerables, another art museum set in lavish Baroque-styled architecture.
If you are traveling with kids, head to Sevilla Aquarium. Take a stroll in Maria Luisa Park, one of the largest parks in the city home to elegant plazas.
Spend the night dining at the heart of old Seville tasting the best Tapas and Sangria.
Day 3 – 4: Granada
It’s time to plan your next destination in Spain in a week. Stay put in Seville overnight, and schedule a day trip the next day to neighbouring Granada.
Granada is a lovely, small town known for the famous, splendid fortified Moorish Complex – Alhambra, perched on the top of a mountain.
Located in southern Spain in Andalusia is another of the prettiest towns in Spain, Granada. This beautiful city in Spain is known for its spectacular Moorish Castles, gardens, and its excellent location surrounded by the stunning Sierre Nevada Mountains.
How to reach Granada?
Malaga is the nearest airport to Granada. If you are in Seville, you can check this day tour to Granada from Seville which covers transport. It is a great tour to cover the highlights in a single day.
Where to stay in Granada?
Day 1 in Granada
On your first day, check out the best of Granada, starting with its iconic landmark, the splendid fortified Moorish Complex – Alhambra, perched on the top of a mountain.
This sprawling hilltop fortress complex encloses royal palaces, serene patios, and reflecting pools from the Nasrid dynasty.
You will find the renowned Moorish style, which later got added with medieval renaissance influence for the Spanish conquest.
Take a guided tour of Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces, the Palace of Charles and the Royal Chapel of Granada. Built between the early 12th and the 13th centuries, these series of grand fortresses and palaces symbolized the wealthy Moorish kingdoms.
Also, take a walk at Generalife, the classic summer palace with beautiful medieval gardens home to orchards and fountains within Alhambra.
Enjoy the delicious cuisines at many restaurants overlooking the beautiful views of the city.
Day 2 in Granada
Check out the impressive Granada Cathedral. Head to Parque de las Ciencias, a science centre and museum with an excellent collection of artefacts and interesting scientific exhibits that you can enjoy with kids.
Get to the top of the tower at over 50 meters to enjoy the beautiful birdviews of the town and the surrounding landscapes.
Check out the stunning Royal Monastery of St. Jerome, a Roman Catholic Hieronymite monastery known for its brilliant Renaissance-style architecture.
You can have lunch on Carrera del Darro, a scenic street overlooking the river, an excellent road for a stroll or shopping.
Don’t miss the sunset spectacle in the backdrop of the intriguing Alhambra fortress from the viewpoint of Mirador de San Nicolas.
After hours of walking, there is no better way to unwind than hitting a soaking pool. Go to Hammam Al Ándalus, a traditional Turkish bath perfect for enjoying a bath in a historic and stunning place.
Day 5: Cordoba
Plan a day trip to Cordoba on Day 5 of Spain in a week itinerary from Granada. You can also stay in Cordoba, which will give you more time to explore, which I would recommend, given the excellent connectivity.
Whether you have only a day or more, you can enjoy the city leisurely, thanks to its compactness.
Córdoba is one of the prettiest cities in Spain and is another gem in the Andulasican region, where the religions, history and cultures have been flourishing for hundreds of years.
If you want to get more of the magic of Spain’s beauty, Cordoba does an excellent job.
From Granada, you can take a train or bus to reach Cordoba. Trains are plenty and convenient, taking about 1.5 hours.
Where to stay in Cordoba?
How to reach Cordoba?
From Granada, you can take a train or bus to reach Cordoba. Trains are plenty and convenient, taking about 1.5 hours.
What to do in Cordoba?
Check out the city’s top attraction La Mesquita de Córdoba, the largest mosque in the world, the stunning old town of Córdoba replete with marvellous buildings lining the cobbled streets.
Don’t miss the historic Jewish quarters and the majestic Renaissance palace – Palacio de Viana.
Roman Bridge of Córdoba is one of the iconic landmarks and a famous photo spot that cannot miss.
Take a guided tour of Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, a medieval alcázar located in the historic centre of Córdoba, next to the Guadalquivir River and near the Grand Mosque.
Day 6: Malaga
Costa del Sol is a beautiful coastal strip region in Andalusia, southern Spain. It stretches up to Penibética to the north and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea to the south and is home to many stunning towns and beautiful fishing villages.
The province is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, cliffs, estuaries, bays and dunes.
Your next stop on this Spain 7 days itinerary is Malaga, which you can plan as a day trip from Cordoba.
Malaga is one of the most popular in Costa del Sol and one of the best cities in Spain that should be on your Bucket list. It is renowned for its upscale resorts lining the beautiful beaches and rich historic Moorish architectural wonders.
Malaga is a popular summer destination among Europe travelers who come here to enjoy the wonderful sunshine, beaches and bars.
Did you know? Malaga is the birthplace of the legendary artist Pablo Picasso.
How to reach Malaga?
Direct trains run from Cordoba to Malaga, which takes about an hour, making it the convenient way to reach Malaga.
What to do in Malaga?
If you want to explore the rich history of Malaga, head to Moorish architectural wonders, the Alcazaba, an incredible 11th-century palatial fortification, one of the best-preserved pre-medieval monuments.
Next to it is an even older beautiful Roman theatre dating to the 1st century BC.
Visit the central renaissance Cathedral of Málaga. For stunning views, head to Mount Gibralfaro, at the top of which stands the Castle of Gibralfaro overlooking Málaga city and the Mediterranean Sea.
You shouldn’t miss The Museo Picasso and Carmen Thyssen Museum if you enjoy museums.
Beach lovers must check out Playa de la Malagueta and Playa de la Carihuela beaches.
For excellent Spanish cuisine, explore the local market Mercado Central de Atarazanas.
Day 7: Cadiz/ Jerez de la Frontera
You can plan this in reverse, covering Cadiz or Jerez de la Frontera after Seville as day trips as it takes under an hour to reach them.
I added this on day seven as I am making this Spain itinerary almost a loop. If you do Cadiz on day 7, you will need an additional day to fly out if you choose to fly out of bigger cities(Madrid or Barcelona).
Alternatively, there are three international airports nearby – Jerez de la Frontera Airport (XRY), 47km from Cadiz, Seville Airport, or Malaga Airport if you continue from Cadiz.
Note that if you choose to fly out of any of these three airports, you may pay higher prices depending on your destination unless you book in advance.
Cadiz is a beautiful city in the southwest of the country. It is one of the most popular destinations among European travellers for summer, thanks to its perfect combination of attractions, beaches, excellent food and drinks.
If you have less than 24 hours, I would not recommend including Jerez de la Frontera as it would be too packed with Cadiz.
How to reach Cadiz?
From Malaga, it takes about 5 hours by train or bus, but there is no direct connection for trains.
Direct buses from Malaga to Cadiz takes about 5.5 hours that Avanza Grupo runs.
Alternatively, you can reach via Algeciras. You will have to head first to Algeciras from Malaga by bus, about 2 hours. And then take another bus from Algeciras to Cádiz Av. José León de Carranza for about 2 hours.
What to do in Cadiz?
Did you know? There are over 60 beaches in Cadiz. Yes, that’s right. You can spend all your time beach-hopping, drinking, dancing and binging on delicious Tapas, Seafood and Sangria.
Go surfing, snorkelling or kitesurfing on these beaches. Or simply go for a swim.
Walk along its coastal promenade and admire the views when you have had enough of the beaches.
Or go check out some medieval ruins, including the second-largest Roman Theatre, the magnificent Baroque Cathedral of Cadiz.
Enjoy the stunning views from Torre Tavira watchtowers or admire the seaside castle of San Sebastián.
Itinerary 5 – Spain in a Week along the coast – From Barcelona(2), Valencia(1), Alicante(1), Murcia(1), Almeria(1), Madrid(1)
This itinerary is perfect if you want to cover Spain in a week, adding more destinations as day trips. You will start from Barcelona and end at Madrid, which is comfortable given that both have international airports for flying in and out.
Let’s dig into the details of the itinerary.
Day 1 – 2: Barcelona
You will arrive in Barcelona, and depending on whether you are going to travel during the daytime or at night, you will have between 1.5 to 2 days.
Although you can’t explore everything, you can still cover the highlights of the city. You can refer to the above section to choose from what you would like to see.
Ideally, I’d recommend you to check out Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, stroll through La Rambla, Bunkers and Park Güell. Add more if you have time.
To make the most of your time and money, I highly recommend choosing from these best-guided tours depending on your preferences.
Apart from amazing experiences thanks to the local experts guiding these tours, you also get free pickups(in some), and you can easily book online.
Day 3: Valencia
One of the pretty cities overlooking the Mediterranean sea in the south-east is the port city of Valencia, one of the best Spanish cities known for its colours.
Valencia was one of the significant trade towns during the medieval times and until the 19th century for its excellent location at the intersection of Turia River with the Mediterranean Sea.
Valencia is known for its rich historical past, a bustling port lined with lovely beaches and museums.
You can base yourself in Barcelona and plan a day trip to Valencia, about 3-hours away, or travel to Valencia and stay overnight.
I would recommend moving to Valencia for the night though as Alicante is far away from Barcelona and you will have to make a long journey if you are taking either the bus or the train. Alicante is more easily accessible from Valencia.
But if you do not mind taking a flight, you can also fly from Barcelona to Alicante in under 1.5 hours, so it is doable to base in Barcelona until day 3.
How to reach Valencia?
From Barcelona, you can take trains to Valencia, which takes about 3 hours in total. Buses take more time to reach Valencia from Barcelona.
What to do in Valencia?
Check out the 15th century UNESCO World Heritage site, The Silk Exchange or the La Lonja de la Seda and Valencia Cathedral, fine examples of grand Gothic architecture.
Explore the Central Market of Valencia, which is renowned for its art nouveau design. Check out the unique City of Arts and Sciences, which boasts of one of the largest planetariums in the world, and also an Oceanarium.
Nature-lovers should not miss Valencia Biopark, a 10-hectare zoo park that kids will enjoy for sure. Valencia has a lot packed for a day, so start early to make the most of your time.
Day 4: Alicante
On your day 4, take an early bus or train to Alicante from Valencia. Buses are frequent, cheaper and faster.
Alicante is a port city located in Costa Blanca in the south-east overlooking the stunning Mediterranean Seaside is one of the best towns to visit in Spain.
If you dream of scenic, cute Instagram locations, you should Alicante to your list. It has all the typical Spanish beach town elements and incredible history.
You can’t get enough white-washed tile houses with vivid, bright flowers.
What to do in Alicante?
If you just want to enjoy the beach vibes of Alicante, head straight to the pretty marble promenade Explanada de Espanya, lined with stunning beaches.
If you want to get a bit of Alicante’s history, turn from the promenade to reach the lovely old town dominated by the medieval Castle of Santa Barbara at the top of Benacantil Mountain. Visit some of the museums too if you want more.
Most people staying longer in Alicante visit the gorgeous Pink Lake, one of the prettiest lakes in Spain, thanks to its stunning pink salt beds stretching across the horizon, which offers magical views at dusk and dawn.
How to reach Alicante?
The best way to arrive at Alicante is taking a bus from Valencia, which will take about 3 hours.
If you are based in Barcelona and made a day trip to Valencia, you can fly to Alicante, which would take about 1.5 hours.
Day 5: Murcia
Located on the Segura River in south-eastern Spain, Murcia is known for being a university town and home to some of the best tapas bars in the country.
If you want to add offbeat destinations to your Spain in a week trip, Murcia excellently fits the bill.
It is not on the tourist trail like Alicante and Valencia, and the city is home to an attractive old town with narrow winding streets dotted with medieval buildings.
How to reach Murcia?
From Alicante to Murcia, there are buses and trains. There are many buses a day to Murcia from the main bus stations in Alicante that takes about an hour, and travelling by train from the central station will take about 1.5 hours.
What to do in Murcia?
Visit the impressive Catedral de Santa María, and marvel at the luxurious interior of Real Casino de Murcia. Walk through the streets of the old town. Visit the Museo Salzillo.
You can spend some time on the Segura riverbank, home to many parks. Visit the Malecón Gardens or botanical gardens, one of the many green areas in the city.
If you want to get off the beaten track and enjoy some beach time, I recommend Murcia’s best beaches at Costa Calida, such as Playa Honda.
Day 6: Almeria
Another city on this one week Spain itinerary to go off the beaten path is the pretty city of Almería in south-east Spain.
It has the right mix of stunning architecture, rich history and modern-day glitz and is peppered with sandy beaches making it ideal for a day trip.
How to reach Almeria?
From Murcia, take the bus to Almeria, about 3 hours.
What to do in Almeria?
Explore the city’s iconic landmark, the Alcazaba, an imposing Moorish fortress overlooking the sea. The interiors are as or more prosperous than its grand size that is best enjoyed on a guided tour.
Head next to the fortified, 16th-century Almería Cathedral, known for its fantastic Gothic ribbed ceiling.
Take a ride on the English Cable. A vast iron pier that is considered the icon of Almeria’s former mining history.
Museum-lovers should not miss the Museum of Almería displays archaeological finds from across the region. Underground lies a network of tunnels, the Civil War Shelters of Almería.
Recommended Guided Tours:
- Almeria: Alcazaba Guided Tour
- Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour
- Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour
Where to stay in Almeria?
If you plan to stay in Almeria overnight, these are some of the best accommodation options.
Day 7: Madrid
Head back to Madrid the next day by flight or late at night, which is the most comfortable way to travel as the buses and trains take longer times.
You get one full day to check out the capital. Refer to the above section with Madrid details to choose how you want to go ahead depending on your time available and preference.
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1 Comment
Wow, Spain sounds like a dream destination!