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Spain Itinerary: Barcelona, Seville, Madrid

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Spain features varied landscapes, vibrant cities and incredible cuisine. The large country has numerous fantastic destinations to choose from – and with so much to see, planning a vacation to Spain can be perplexing. To help fellow travelers, we created an easy-to-follow, day-by-day Spain Itinerary that highlights the absolute best of the country. 

Spain Itinerary Trip Plan

We designed our Best of Spain Itinerary when a friend joined us on our European Travels . She had limited time, so we planned a Spain One-Week Itinerary to show her the top sights. Not an easy task when planning a trip to Spain!

On our One Week in Spain Vacation, we traveled to the three most popular cities: Barcelona, Seville and Madrid. We believe these are the best places to visit in Spain on a quick one week trip. 

Best Places To Visit in Spain

Spain is a vast country – and each destination is unique and rich in culture and history. Fortunately, Spain is well connected by planes, high speed rail and regional transport. Visitors planning a One Week Itinerary of Spain can certainly visit multiple destinations, but will need to consider travel time between each place.

Some of the best places to go in Spain are the famous cities and picturesque towns. For our Spain Travel Itinerary, we include three top Spain destinations: Seville, Barcelona and Madrid. We think these three cities offer the perfect introduction for a first time visitor to Spain.

Now, for a quick summary of each location before jumping into our detailed day-by-day tour of Spain.

Top Tip : While we feel these three cities constitute the Best Spain Itinerary for One Week, there are other fabulous destinations in the area to consider. For those with more time, we include options to tour other top spots – like San Sebastian in Spain’s Basque Country as well as Lisbon or Porto across the border in Portugal .

With an array of sights, Barcelona dazzles visitors. The popular Catalan city features an old town rife with Gothic buildings and Gaudi’s Modernism architecture, which together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, Barcelona is so much more than historic buildings. Barcelona highlights include nature (like Park Guell, stunning shoreline beaches and picturesque mountains) as well as phenomenal Barcelona Tapas ! 

Find out more in our detailed 3-Day Barcelona Itinerary !

The city of Seville is comprised of quaint neighborhoods and delectable Sevilla Tapas Bars – and it’s a highlight of many Spain Travel Itineraries. Seville is best discovered on foot. Top activities include exploring popular attractions – like the Cathedral and Alcazar, both of which are located right in the heart of the city – and sampling an array of scrumptious Spanish cuisine. 

Learn more about all the Top Seville Sights !

Madrid is a sparling metropolis with a buzzing center and is one of the best destinations to include on a Spain Itinerary One Week Trip. Top features of Madrid include spacious plazas, lush parks, the Royal Palace, the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia Art Center. The Spanish capital is the second largest city in the European Union (only Berlin is bigger), yet the sights are fairly easy to navigate with our free Self-Guided Madrid Walking Tour !

Use our 3-Day Madrid Itinerary for detailed information!

Spain Trip Planner Route and Transport

Choosing where to go in Spain is only the first step in planning a trip. Visitors also need to consider the route for their Spain Itinerary – and how they will travel to each destination.

For a quick 7 Days in Spain Itinerary, we recommend choosing destinations that are easy to reach by high speed train or short flights. This way, you will spend less time in transit and more time discovering Spain!

Spain Itinerary by Train

The cities we include in our One Week Spain Itinerary are well-connected for touring Spain by train (our version of a Spain Road Trip!). In fact, part of the reason we chose these destinations in Spain was the convenient train travel available between them. 

Where To Start Your Spain Itinerary 1 Week Trip

We organized our trip plan for 7 Days in Spain starting in Barcelona and ending in Madrid. Spending 1 Week in Spain starting in Madrid and ending in Barcelona – can be easily done, too.

It would even be possible to begin your trip in Seville. However, if you are traveling from abroad, your international flight will likely take you to Barcelona or Madrid, not Seville. 

For those planning a Spain trip from North America (United States and Canada, specifically), we recommend booking flights into one gateway city and out of the other. This is one of our top Cheap Flight Tips and a good way to save precious vacation time, as well!

Travel Tip: We discuss more options for getting around Spain in detail at the end of the article.

How Many Days in Spain

How much time you spend in Spain should be decided based on your personal interests, overall budget and total allotted time for your trip. We have spent as little as one day in Spain while transiting between countries (clearly, not enough time!) – and could easily spend more than a month touring Spain.

Our 1-Week in Spain Itinerary is an ideal way to experience the country. But, what if you only have 5 Days in Spain or are trying to plan a 10-Day Spain Itinerary? No worries! We’ve got you covered with numerous sample Spain itineraries, which we share below.

Our Spain Itinerary 7 Days

With 7 days in Spain, it is possible to visit the major sights in three cities, which is how we created our Barcelona, Madrid, Seville Itinerary. For this Spain Travel Itinerary, we decided to plan our time as follows: 3 days in Barcelona, 2 days in Seville and 2 days in Madrid. 

Map of Spain Itinerary Destinations

On our Spain Itinerary Map, we have marked the locations of the top destinations – Madrid, Barcelona, Seville – in red. The blue pins show optional destinations of San Sebastian and Lisbon, Portugal. 

Top Tip : While our Spain-in-One-Week Itinerary features activities and information for each day, we also recommend using a current Spain Guide Book ( Lonely Planet and Rick Steves are our favorites). It’s also a good idea to learn basic Spanish phrases or bring a pocket phrase book on your trip!

1 Week in Spain: Day-by-Day Itinerary

You can use our guide as your Spain trip planner for Barcelona, Seville and Madrid exactly as it is written or as a base and tailor it to best fit your travel style. Now, it is time start your One Week in Spain in Barcelona!

Day 1: Travel to Barcelona

Arrive in Barcelona and waste no time getting acquainted with the city! Our Spain vacation itinerary begins with exploring the top Barcelona sights. Start in the heart of the city on Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s wide pedestrian lane lined with shops and street entertainers. After soaking in the atmosphere, walk to La Rambla del Mar on the waterfront.

Follow the coastline north past the harbor full of sailboats to Barceloneta, the city’s best beach town. Next, venture into Parc de la Ciutadella and wander the paths to waterfalls, ponds and monuments. Then explore the streets of La Ribera and Barri Gothic neighborhoods.

Top Travel Tips : Because you are only in Spain for a week, you have got to get right to it! Day 1 of our itinerary for Spain covers 5+ miles. Find detailed information in our self-guided Barcelona Walking Tour – or join a guided walking tour, like this one .

Day 2: Explore Barcelona Sights

On the second day of your 7-day trip to Spain, get an early start and hike up Montjuic (Jewish Mountain) to the hill-topping castle for views of Barcelona and the Balearic Sea. The Montjuic Castle dates to 1640 and was built as a military fortress and the interior can be visited for a fee.

Bring a picnic lunch (perhaps with items gathered from the Mercado de La Boqueria) and dine al fresco. Retrace your steps back down the hill and spend the afternoon visiting the MNAC (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalyuna) art museum. In the evening, discover the best Barcelona tapas in the Poble Sec neighborhood at the base of Montjuic. 

Top Tip : What is a One Week in Spain Itinerary without eating copious amounts of tapas? Read our recommendations for the Best Tapas Bars in Barcelona !

Day 3: Discover Barcelona Modernism

A trip to Barcelona would not be complete without contemplating the works of the city’s most famous architect, Antoni Gaudi. So, that is exactly what you will do on Day 3 of your 1 week trip to Spain.

His unique works are scattered throughout Barcelona, but he is best known for his (forever) unfinished Sagrada Familia church. More must-see Gaudi sights are Casa Batllo and Casa Mila. Join a Gaudi Tour to learn more about his life and work.

In the afternoon, wander through more of Barcelona’s picturesque neighborhoods, like L’Eixample or the La Ribera and Barri Gothic quarters, if you didn’t have time to see them on your first day. 

Top Tip : To help plan every detail, use the tips for top things to do in our Best Barcelona Itinerary !

Day 4: Arrive in Seville

Begin Day 4 early on board the highspeed AVE Train from Barcelona to Seville in the Andalusia region (6 hours). Note : If you are making the Barcelona to Seville road trip with a rental car , expect the journey to take at least 9 hours.

After checking into your Seville accommodations, head straight for the city center. Visit the landmark Seville Cathedral , which was built between 1401 and 1519 and is one of the largest Medieval churches in the world. Climb the 12th century La Giralda Tower , then enter the Alcazar palace that stands opposite the cathedral (where scenes for Game of Thrones were been filmed). Spend the evening in Sevilla tapas-tasting and then seek out a spot to watch Flamenco dancing.

Top Tip : Find our recommended spots for the Best Tapas in Seville or join a combo tapas/flamenco tour . 

Day 5: Wander Seville Neighborhoods

For day 5 of our Spain itinerary, we’ll spend time soaking up the charm of Seville by discovering the quaint neighborhoods of the city. Explore on your own or hire a guide for a private tour of Seville.

See more of the city center, then step into Barrio Santa Cruz, the old Jewish Quarter. Cross the Canal de Alfonso XIII and get lost in the colorful lanes of Triana. Go south of the Seville Center to the ornate Plaza de Espana and Parque de Maria Luisa…but don’t miss the Macarena neighborhood (and the Basilica de la Macarena) on the north side. Spend the evening sipping Spanish wine on a rooftop terrace and enjoy the elevated Sevilla views. 

Top Tip : Many itineraries for Spain only include one day in Seville, which we don’t think is enough. Read our guide to visiting the most picturesque Seville Neighborhoods so that you can immerse yourself into the city! 

Day 6: Arrive in Madrid

Take the morning AVE Train to Madrid (3 hours) for the final two days of your 7-day tour of Spain. Discover the top sights in the city on your own or join fellow travelers and a local guide for a tour of Madrid . Either way, hit the ground running and take in the major sites in Madrid Centro!

See Puerta del Sol, marvel at Playa Mayor, feast at Mercado de San Miguel, visit the Madrid Cathedral and tour the the expansive Royal Palace . Continue sightseeing as you walk down Gran Via (Madrid’s high-end shopping street), pop into Palacio de Cibeles for an elevated view and stroll through lush El Reitro Park. If time allows, swing through Mueso del Prado during the free evening hours. 

Pro Tip : Wondering how to plan your time in Madrid? Leave it to us! Use the information from our Madrid Walking Tour for your first day in the city.

Day 7: Visit Madrid Top Attractions

It is the last day of your 7 Day Spain Itinerary – and there is still so much to see! Start on the south side of the city with a calamari sandwich breakfast (it’s a Madrid culinary treat) and then see contemporary artwork at the fabulous Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. 

Wander through the La Latina district; it’s a haven of boutique shops and street art murals. If it happens to be a Sunday, join the crowds at the El Rastro Flea Market. Enjoy a leisurely tapas lunch on Cava Baja Street – then set your sights on North Centro Madrid and the Malasana neighborhood. 

Start at Plaza de Espana, then walk up to the ancient Egyptian Debod Temple. Next, take in the views from Montana Park and wind your way through the Parque del Oeste Rose Garden. If time allows, visit a museum in Malasana (there are many to choose from – but the History Museum of Madrid is our top pick). 

End the day discovering the streets of Malasana. Join the locals in Plaza del Dos de Mayo, stop by one of the craft beer taprooms or stop at a Madrid institution, Petisqueira.  

Pro Tip: Day 7 takes you from one end of Madrid City Center to the other. If you have more time, our Madrid 3 Day Itinerary is for you!

What is the Best Itinerary for Spain? 

Honestly, we think our Spain Itinerary for 7 days is a great way to discover the country, especially if it’s your first visit. That said, there is no right or wrong way to visit Spain.

To help other travelers create their best Spain itinerary, we are offering several suggestions, including alternate destinations, plus shorter – and longer – trip plans.

Spain Trip Itinerary Variations

When designing your best Spain vacation itinerary, still use our above Spain One-Week Itinerary as a base. How to plan a trip to Spain really depends on how much time your have and what your interests are. Use the following Spain travel planner suggestions to get the most out of your visit!

Top Tip : Those who have more than a week in Spain can add a combination of destinations and day trips to their itinerary. Below, we highlight top-rated day trips from each city for some ideas to help you when planning a vacation to Spain.

Spain Itinerary 3 Days

With just 3 days in Spain it will be difficult to get a good feel for the country. Still, there is a lot you can squeeze into a 3 day holiday to Spain. 

3 Day Spain Itinerary: Seville, Madrid or Barcelona

On such a short trip to Spain, it is ideal to pick only one destination. We recommend choosing either Barcelona or Madrid, as both of those are better connected to other international destinations. 

That said, depending on where you are coming from, it would be possible to spend the entirety of your 3 days in Spain in Seville.

Fast-Paced Spain 3-Day Itinerary: Madrid and Barcelona

Travelers who like to move quickly could create a 3 days in Spain Itinerary that includes two cities – ideally, Madrid and Barcelona.

Arrive in Barcelona and spend the first two days there. On the third day, either take the AVE train (3 hours) or fly (1.5 hours, plus time to get to the airport) to Madrid and spend the rest of the day sightseeing. 

Spain Itinerary 5 Days

With 5 days in Spain, travelers will still be limited with what they can see. However, we’ll show you ways of making the most of it!

Slow-Paced Itinerary to Spain for 5 Days

For those who prefer a slower paced vacation can opt for just one city and then take day trips to see more of the region. We list top day trips from each city on our itinerary in the next section. 

5-Day Spain Itinerary: Barcelona and Madrid

Visitors who like to explore big cities can spend their 5 days in Spain in the top two in the country: Barcelona and Madrid. Use our Spain Week Itinerary, but eliminate Seville.

Fast-Paced Spain 5-Day Itinerary

Alternatively, those who like to see it all and are intent on squeezing as much as possible into 5 days in Spain can create a fast-paced Barcelona-Seville-Madrid Itinerary. We would recommend spending 2 days in Barcelona, 1 day in Seville (more like a half-day) and 2 days in Madrid. Be aware, however, you will be very rushed trying to see 3 cities in Spain in 5 days!

Alternate One Week Travel Itineraries for Spain

While we believe our above day-by-day trip plan is an ideal route, there are of course many alternate ways to plan a trip to Spain.

Spain One Week Itinerary: 2 Cities

Rather than seeing three cities in Spain in a week, slow down and choose just two destinations for your trip. Having more time in any place will allow you to delve deeper into the history, culture and cuisine and ultimately a more relaxed vacation.

Spain-Portugal Itinerary 7 Days

Or dial it up and visit both Spain and Portugal in 1-week! To create a Portugal and Spain vacation trip plan, you will need to rearrange our timeline – or eliminate one of our recommended Spain destinations.

The route we recommend for a One Week in Spain and Portugal Itinerary is Barcelona (2 Days), Madrid (3 Days) and Lisbon (2 Days). Use our Lisbon Itinerary to plan your time in Portugal (including a day in Sintra !). 

Spain Itinerary 8 Days

Using our outline of what to do in Spain in 7 days, it is fairly easy to extend it one more. We would add one more day to Madrid to allow for more sightseeing or a trip outside the city.

9 Day Spain Itinerary

To expand our Spain tour to 9 days, you could make a few simple adjustments. Such as, visiting Barcelona, Seville and Madrid with 3 days in each city. Add day tours in Seville and Madrid using our suggestions below.

Alternatively, leave all the planning to someone else and join a 9-Day Tour of Spain that includes Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Barcelona and Valencia. Find out more!

Spain Itinerary 10 Days

With 10 days in Spain, travelers have the opportunity to see a lot more – either on day trips or with added destinations. 

10-Day Spain Itinerary: 3 Destinations

An ideal way to spend 10 days in Spain is to simply add one additional day in each city. Visitors would spend 4 days in Barcelona, 3 days in Seville and 3 days in Madrid. 

Spain 10-Day Itinerary: 4 Destinations

Alternatively, follow our Spain week itinerary as outlined, then add a fourth destination. Our top recommendations in Spain for additional destinations are Hondarriba and/or San Sebastian . 

Spain Portugal Itinerary 10 Days

Adding 3 Days in Lisbon to your One Week Spain Itinerary is a fantastic way to see the Iberian Peninsula!

Colorful Lisbon is spread over seven hills – with the magical Castles of Sintra just a short train ride away. Classic yellow trams rattle through the historic center and locals abide by age old traditions. Find out more in our guide to the Top Things To Do in Lisbon .

10 Day Spain Itinerary with Basque Country

If you’d prefer to stay in Spain for 10 days, consider heading north to experience a completely different culture in San Sebastian. The Basque Region is distinctly different from the rest of Spain and very close to France . Nearby Bilbao is another top pick for places to visit in the north of Spain.

Get tips on how to visit San Sebastian in our 3-Day Basque Itinerary .

2 Weeks in Spain

With two weeks in Spain there is so much more you can see! To create your ideal Spain Two Week Itinerary, use our tips above for 10 days and build out from there. A 14 Days in Spain Itinerary can include traveling to Portugal or seeing more of Spain.

Two Week Spain Itinerary with Portugal

We think the best way to see Spain and Portugal in 2 weeks is to follow the suggested itinerary for Spain in 10 days and then venture into Portugal to spend the last 4 days in Lisbon (and possibly even Porto !).

Spain Itinerary 3 Weeks

With 3 Weeks in Spain, you can get really creative! You could easily spend a week in each of our recommended cities taking time to truly experience each destination.

3 Weeks Spain, Portugal and France

Alternatively, you could add more countries to your Spain Itinerary. To get the most out of the trip, we suggest adding both San Sebastian (and perhaps Saint Jean de Luz, France ) plus Lisbon, Portugal (and maybe Porto ) to your vacation to Europe!

Southern Spain Itinerary

Southern Spain is so incredibly different from the rest of the country (hello, beaches!) – and travelers planning a One Week Itinerary in Spain could opt to stay entirely in the south. Besides Seville, other top stops are Alicante, Granada, Cordoba, Malaga (Costa del Sol), Cadiz (Costa de la Luz), and Ronda.

10 Day Itinerary for Southern Spain

On a 10 Day trip to Spain, you could create a Madrid-Seville-Granada-Barcelona Itinerary that spends more time in Southern Spain. Perhaps even adding Cadiz and/or Alicante for a Spain Beach Vacation.

Guided Southern Spain Tour Itinerary

Alternatively, you could add a guided tour of Southern Spain to your trip plan. Check out this Andalusia Itinerary for Cordoba, Seville and Granada in 5 days from Madrid.

Top Spain Day Trips

If you are extending your 1-Week Itinerary for Spain to include day trips, use the below suggestions for top-rated trips and activities. Even if you are just spending a week in Spain, you may want to rearrange your schedule to include one of these fun day trips!

Barcelona Day Trips

• Small Group Dali Museum Trip – Get the details!
• Montserrat and Cava Trail Day Trip – Learn more!
• Girona and Costa Brava Small Group Tour – Find out more!

Seville Day Trips

• Granada Day Trip (including Alhambra Palace skip the line ticket) – Plan it!
• Afternoon Gourmet Wine and Tapas Tour – Book it!

Madrid Day Trips

• Full- or Half-Day Toledo Day Trip – Add it to your trip!
• Flamenco Show at Corral de la Moreria – Reserve your seat!

Guided Tours Of Spain

We opted to see Spain on our own, but there are many tours that are led by qualified guides. Although guided tours usually cost more than traveling independently, booking Spain tour packages can be a hassle-free way to see the country. Start your search for guided Spain tours on Viator , a trusted brand dedicated to designing the best excursions. 

Spain Itineraries Travel Info

When planning a trip to Spain, travelers need to consider how to get to each destination. On a trip to Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, visitors can travel by plane, train, car or bus. (We detail tips on How To Get To Spain a bit further below). 

Spain by Train Itinerary

Exploring Spain by Train is an incredible way to see the country. We chose to take train trips in Spain for the comfort and because we wanted to view the scenery along the way. We wouldn’t necessarily recommend buying Spain rail passes. Instead, buy individual tickets in advance. Always compare prices – as tickets can differ according to type of train and time of day.

Travel Spain by Plane, Car or Bus

Although we explored Spain by train (and not in the rain), it is possible to also fly, self-drive, or take a bus during your 7 day trip to Spain!

Flights in Spain

There are flights from Barcelona to Seville that take equal total time and cost about the same amount as the train. Flights are also available from Seville to Madrid, but flying doesn’t necessarily save time or money on this shorter route. Start your search on Skyscanner – and use our Tips for Finding Cheap Flights .

Road Trip Around Spain

For those interested in a Spain road trip from Barcelona, you will need to account for additional time. Drive times from Barcelona to Seville are 9+ hours depending on the route and traffic. Be certain to read our advice for finding the Best Car Rental Rates .

Travel by Bus in Spain

Bus travel in Spain is fairly affordable and reliable – but can eat up precious time when moving between destinations. When planning your Spanish Itinerary, check journey times to see if bus travel works for your trip.

Top Travel Tips For Your Trip to Spain

We have detailed what to do in Spain for a week (and longer), but we have a few more tips to help make your trip amazing!

Best Way To Plan Trip to Spain

There is a lot that goes into planning a Spain trip – from research to reservations. Keep track of your Spain vacation plans with our Printable Travel Planner ! 

When To Travel to Spain

If you are waiting for the best time to travel to Spain, it’s…now! However, each season has its pros and cons.

Summers will be crowded and hot , but the days are long (optimal for sightseeing) and it’s a great time for visiting Spain’s beaches.

Winters are cool, but typically sunny, and the cities are beautiful when decorated for the Holidays in Europe . We have spent Christmas in Barcelona and visited Madrid at Christmas – and both we simply wonderful! Plus, one of the best year-end celebrations is New Year’s Eve in Madrid ! 

Autumn and Spring can be an ideal time to travel to Spain. We recommend packing layered clothing if you’re visiting Spain in the shoulder seasons, as there can be a mix of weather.

1 Week in Spain Cost

The cost of a Seville, Madrid and Barcelona Itinerary depends on many different elements. The largest expenses to factor into a Week in Spain Itinerary budget are flights and accommodations. Other costs to consider are travel between (and in) cities, ticketed activities as well as food and drinks. 

Where To Stay in Spain

When planning your own trip to Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, you will need to decide where to stay in each destination. Because of limited time in each city, you will want to make sure you book accommodations that are close to the center and major attractions. 

Spain Airbnb

As we considered where to stay in Spain for a week, we opted to stay in Airbnb Apartments – as there were three people in our group. The places we chose were convenient and clean, plus had a kitchen to make simple breakfast meals. 

That said, there is a downside to booking apartments for travel – especially with such short stays. First, the extra fees can add up quickly and second, arranging check in, check out and luggage storage with hosts can stifle your sightseeing plans. 

Hotels in Spain

Therefore, we suggest staying in hotels. You will find that there are many to choose from in the city center of Barcelona, Seville and Madrid. Before you start your search, we recommend reading our Tips for Booking the Best Hotels .

We are also highlighting a few top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) for your upcoming Spain Trip.

Barcelona : Hotel Concordia |  Catalonia Magdalenes | Hotel The Serras | Hotel Casa Camper

Seville: Hotel Casa Del Poeta | Hotel Amadeus & La Musica | Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla  

Madrid: Francisco I | Catalonia Puerta del Sol | Preciados   |  Petit Palace

Southern Spain Hotel: Travelers extending their trip to Andalusia might want to consider staying in the Hotel Granada Center – check rates . 

Budget Travelers: Search for Spain Hostels in Barcelona , Seville and Madrid on Booking.com .

Getting To Spain

Our preferred method of getting anywhere is flying, we are JetSettingFools after all! All of the destinations included in our sample Spain itineraries can be reached by plane. If you’re traveling from the US for 1-Week Spain, we recommend booking a flight to Barcelona and out of Madrid. Begin your search for the best deals on flights to Spain on Skyscanner.

What To Pack for Your Spain Itinerary

Our final advice for your Spain trip planning covers our best packing hacks for your backpack or suitcase . For now, g rab a FREE Packing Checklist!

Durable Walking Shoes 

We cover a lot of ground in our Spain vacation planner. Be sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes for Europe. I like to explore in these Columbia shoes – and Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes. Find more styles and read reviews in our Best Travel Shoes article.

Spain Weather Gear

What you will need to pack for your trip to Spain will depend on the season. Summers are hot and sunny – so bring sunglasses , plenty of sunscreen , a wide-brimmed hat and a refillable water bottle .

In the wintertime, you will likely want to wear layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. On the chance of rain, make sure you are prepared with a packable raincoat and travel umbrella . 

Travel Camera 

Spain is an absolutely gorgeous country! Capture that beauty with a real travel camera , rather than using your phone. We carry a DSLR Canon Rebel (which is a great budget camera for beginners) with an everyday 18-135mm lens (the only one we travel with). 

Spain Map and WiFi

It’s so much easier to get around if you know where you are going! We recommend purchasing a Spain destination maps (at least for the big cities – Barcelona  and Madrid ) before your trip.

Travelers relying on Google Maps (or using the links to our detailed walking tours) will need a WiFi Connection . While it may be possible to adjust your phone plan for international data, frequent travelers (or those traveling as a group) may find it beneficial to buy a GlocalMe Mobile WiFi Hotspot .

Anti-Theft Travel Bag 

Tourists are prime targets for pick pockets – and unfortunately that is very true in Spain. We always keep our valuables – like wallets, phones and camera – tucked away in a money belt or zippered bag. Travelon makes a full line of anti-theft bags, and you can read more tips and reviews in our article, The Best Day Packs for Travel . 

Spain Travel Insurance

Trip insurance may protect against cancelled trips and lost luggage , and it might come in handy if you get ill or injured abroad , too. If you haven’t already obtained insurance for your trip to Spain, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Spain ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Madrid, Seville, Barcelona: 7-Day Itinerary

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The capital city treats coastal exuberance, fantastic architecture, flamenco, tapas, and a wonderfully laid-back style are all yours with seven days of authentic Spanish highlights. From medieval leftovers to Modernist design, intimate tavernas to expressive art, you will be amazed at how much you can experience in just one week without compromising on luxury or Spain’s tranquil vibe. Handcrafted to maximize your time, this private tour visits Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba, Seville, and Barcelona.

Customizable Itinerary

Madrid – superlative art and local spanish experiences.

Madrid always proves to be a romantic place to land as elegant tree-lined boulevards mark your way from the airport to the city center, the odd statue sneaking its way above the branches. Closing in on the heart of the city, the roads become narrow, most of them made from cobbles. Your hotel is within this old area, barely a five-minute walk to the Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s grand 17th-century centerpiece. Check-in, freshen up and then grab a coffee with your guide on a cafe terrace. Ease your way into Spain and gain some historical perspective from the guide, before heading out into the city’s famed art scene.

The Prado is world-famous, a museum of classical art that covers the very best of Spanish painters up until the 20th century along with the world’s finest collection of Flemish art. Explore the galleries and the masterpieces following the chronological artistic timeline. You could spend a full day here, but two hours is usually enough to get a feel for who is who and why such painting are so revered. You will likely be a little weary after your flight, so most of the afternoon is left free, although the private Thyssen-Bornemisza collection is a great complement to the Prado.

This evening you can head to the Plaza Mayor and stroll without a plan. Cafes and restaurants line this central square, their terraces emanating chatter and enthusiasm. Narrow pedestrianized roads jut out between the terraces, leading you towards the smell of coffee, chocolate, and tapas. One way to soak up the Spanish atmosphere is to hop between the tapas bars. Another is to dine at one of the small restaurants in the area, before returning to the Plaza Mayor for a glass of wine or short coffee later in the evening, when there’s a real hum to the atmosphere.

What's Included:

Madrid – Exploring the Vast Medieval City of Toledo and the Best of El Greco

Madrid is vastly different from London and Paris. In those two capitals, there are countless attractions, abundant tourists, and an international ambiance. In comparison, the Spanish capital has less to see but feels instantly Spanish, a city that does not need abundant attractions to show off its charms. Take some time to walk around with your guide this morning, seeing the old palace and new cathedral, taking in the views from the Egyptian Obelisk and Don Quixote statue, exploring the townhouse architecture. Late in the morning, it will be a 50-minute train journey to Toledo, where you will step out into a carefully preserved medieval world.

Cross the bridge and stop for lunch on a small plaza, and then ascend through this dramatic old city. A narrow doorway leads to a synagogue, and gazing up you can see church spires, one, two, three, four, and then more jutting up above the cityscape. Entering Santo Dome you admire one of El Greco’s famous works, the paint so luscious it seems to still be drying. In a 14th-century monastery, you can listen to tales from the nuns, then around the corner, there’s something unusual: a mosque, in the old Moorish style.

Toledo provided religious sanctuary, and there is a harmony to its juxtapositions, mosques alongside churches decorated by El Greco, alongside cute cafes and small boutique stores. It is a city virtually frozen in the medieval era, although your guide will point out that this era actually covers five centuries. Ascend through the city to the cathedral, and then stick around as Toledo changes color at dusk. You will follow the El Greco trail throughout, the artist proving an excellent lens to keep track of where you are on the mazy streets. It will be a 50-minute train journey back to Toledo, and you can disembark in the city center with your guide able to provide restaurant recommendations and reservations.

Cordoba – Half Day at El Escorial and Evening in Cordoba

Explore El Escorial with one eye, and you see a monastery, a sanctified space that still functions to this day. You will see serenity and simplicity, but look with the other eye, and you see extravagance as El Escorial is stuffed with gold leaf and endless artworks. Part palace and part monastery, this UNESCO World Heritage Site reflects Spain’s Golden Age, built at a time when religion was used to cement power and showcase wealth. You will need half a day to make sense of it all, the congruence of ideas and elements baffling at first glance. Take the train here with your guide and fully explore, before hopping back to central Madrid and the high-speed train to Cordoba.

This journey is without your guide, traveling first class on one of Europe’s fastest trains. A new guide will meet you in Cordoba, and it will be late-afternoon now, the time when Cordoba really comes to life. Moorish secrets whisper through the old city, remembering a time when this was the capital of the artistic world. Calligraphy and geometric patterns are the norms, with painted embellishments found all along the vernacular buildings. This is enlivened by a gritty, modern feel, one that comes from an almost-subculture style that is a halfway point between the Middle East and Spain. Although mysterious and hard to grasp for some, this is a wonderful city if you have a good guide. So settle into local experiences, including some Islamic, Moorish inspired tapas.

Seville – The Mezquita and Authentic Flamenco

Most visitors to Cordoba come only for the Mezquita. Yesterday evening will have shown you a more local side of the city. Then you can enter the Mezquita when it opens this morning before the Seville-based crowds turn up. Red and white painted columns keep up the grand prayer hall as arched walls are covered in flamboyant symmetrical patterns, their intricacy incredible to witness first hand. This was a mosque and then a cathedral, and now it’s a museum piece, perhaps the greatest Islamic monument found in the West. It is not just the artisanal beauty, but also the size of this place, and the thought that this sumptuous style came 1,000 years ago at a time when most of the world was in the Dark Ages.

After lunch, you will cruise to Seville on the high-speed train to spend two nights at a hotel within Europe’s largest old city quarter. Tonight is will be all about flamenco as the Triana district is one corner of the flamenco triangle, so one of three places where this art form originates. The flamenco here is slow and soulful, based on impromptu tales of love and loss. A voice echoes, a guitarist strums, the dancer twirls to the music’s rhythm and you are spellbound, lost in the atmosphere. This is not a show for tourists, but a venue where all the finest flamenco musicians want to perform, a place where legends perform together, and sometimes for the first time. For true flamenco, there is nowhere in the world that can compare.

Seville – Highlights of Seville Including a Private Tapas Hopping Tour

Seville’s highlights suggest grandeur and wealth. Most of this came from the conquistadors, who returned with their New-World treasures through Seville’s port. Churches are enlivened with silver and gold; townhouses fade elegantly, a show of how well they were built. Columbus is found in the enormous cathedral, just one of the explorers in the crypt. There is history before Columbus as well, the Alcazar another fine example of Moorish architecture, so different from what you may expect when visiting Spain. While exploring old Seville, you will also encounter it’s lively, fiery style as this is a city of people who live with their heart on their sleeves and like to shout when they are happy.

This evening in Seville is dedicated to another famous Andalusian pleasure, tapas. Tapas originated here, and there are dozens of bars to try. Curried blood sausage, a mountain of olives, pan-fried squid, hams and cheeses and delicacies and treats best enjoyed as a small plate. Head off on a private tapas walking tour, stopping in four different bars to sample their specialties. Each bar has a subtly different style or a locally famous plate that everyone orders. At some, you will dine al fresco, whereas in others you get the pungent smells and lively atmosphere of a packed interior space. It will be a tour that could go on until past midnight if you have the energy because there’s always another tapas bar to try in the home of tapas.

Barcelona – Montjuic and the Beach

Fly to Barcelona and this day is left free. With seven days in Spain, it is easy to rush, but this is a vacation as well as an adventure. After a transfer to your hotel in Barri Gotic, the day is left free. It is just a short walk to the beach, where bars fringe in golden sand and it gets lively around late-afternoon, or you can ascend through Barcelona’s old neighborhoods to Montjuic, where a castle hangs high over the city and there is a distinct medieval flair. After dusk, you will not need to travel far from the hotel. Barri Gotic is Barcelona’s bustling center with shops, cafes, restaurants, wine bars, and everything else you could want on a perfect vacation day.

Barcelona – La Sagrada Familia, Montaner and Departure

Ghouls mark the entrance, staring at you as if from on high. Columns turn in strange ways as if created by a mathematics experiment. From the outside, it is an impossible building as Gaudi’s masterpiece is still under construction after 100 years. The surreal style extends inside every inch of the space and artistic detail that other cathedrals cannot compete with. This is your last day in Spain, and you will be up early to visit La Sagrada Familia before it gets too packed. Not far away there is more beauty from Gaudi with two houses that demonstrate his development as an artist and architect.

Yet Gaudi was not the first, and it may be Montaner that is most memorable in Barcelona, Palau de la Musica Catalana a magnificent work that’s true to the original Modernista style. It helps complete your historical journey through Spain’s finest buildings, from the Moors to the Golden Age to Catalan Modernism. Later, head for a late lunch on a restaurant terrace and spend the afternoon indulging in some final Spanish flavors. Late check-out has been arranged, and you can freshen up back at the hotel before your late departure. It has only been seven days in Spain, but looking back it will feel like two weeks, such is the diversity of the destinations and the authenticity of what you’re able to experience.

Trip Highlights

• Experience the music and atmosphere of real flamenco, in a small Seville tavern where the art form takes its roots
• Feast your eyes on the art and architecture of Toledo, an evocative medieval city just outside Madrid
• Feel the beauty of the Moors in Cordoba, where Le Mezquita is beyond comparison
• Explore the highlights of Barcelona, including Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia and Montaner’s Palau de la Musica Catalana
• Discover authentic tapas by hopping between bars in old-world Seville
• Tour Spain’s pre-eminent gallery, the Prado, then find out why Madrid is Europe’s most local-feeling capital city
• Marvel at part-monastery part-palace El Escorial, later comparing it to Catalan Montjuic

Detailed Description

Spain is always authentic, and this handcrafted tour puts you in the heart of the local experience. Think tapas hopping through Seville’s cobbled lanes, and then wandering through a part-monastery part-palace that evokes Spain’s coming to global power. There will be an evening of flamenco, not a tourist show but a performance in the place where flamenco began. You can delve into the art world, not merely in museums and galleries, but also in small churches where dazzling works hide. With just seven days you are never going to see all of Spain, as that is not possible even with seven months. But transport connections are reliable, and this route will take you around the diversity of highlights with four very distinct overnight destinations.

Handcrafted to maximize experiences and minimize wasted time, this is an action-packed itinerary yet one that can still be truthful to Spain’s laid-back style. They do not like to rush things here, and you will be able to take it slow, especially during the evenings. Relaxing on a cafe terrace or dining al fresco is part of local culture, and your hotels have been handpicked for their location as much as anything, ensuring that you are close to everything after dark. Mostly, you will travel on first-class high-speed first-class rail, the quickest way to go from city center to city center, although there is a flight from Seville to Barcelona.

Fly into Madrid and the first day is all about superb art and Spanish experiences found in the Prado, and then around the Plaza Mayor. After sleeping in the next morning, you can take a day trip to Toledo, a medieval city of harmonious religion and famous El Greco artwork. Sink all of your senses into the history and stay until dusk, when Toledo exquisitely changes color. The next you will visit El Escorial, the most dramatic of all the Golden Age architecture, part monastic retreat, and part flamboyant palace. That afternoon you’re on the train to Cordoba, an old Moorish city with a lively local atmosphere and a great sense of Andalusian change.

It’s the Mezquita that Cordoba is famous for, and you will need the whole morning of the next day to appreciate why. It will then be a short hop to Seville for an evening of flamenco, Triana the district where it all evolved, a couple of centuries ago. The next day is dedicated to the best of Seville, from its architectural highlights and treasures to local tapas bars that each have their own specialty. Fly to Barcelona the following day, and you will find Catalan culture, and some hours to spend on the beach. The flamboyant Modernist architecture is saved for your last day, Gaudi and Montaner providing fitting final memories before you fly out late in the evening. Consider reading some of our travelers’ Spain tour reviews for more ideas to perfect your dream vacation.

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$2,179  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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Spain Trip Itinerary: Barcelona to Malaga, Seville, and Madrid

Finally! After 18 months, we were able to travel. Our preference was to travel to India first to see family. However, given the border restrictions due to Covid-19, we couldn’t and so our first stop was in Dubai where some family members also flew in and we had a re-union there. Here’s what our first flight during the Pandemic and our very first one with our 4 month old was like. From there on, we flew to Spain.

In the past, our trips to Europe were a hopscotch between different countries. This time though, we decided to take it slow and immerse ourselves in the sights, food and culture of one country. As we were travelling in November , Spain to us was a good choice as the cold weather is milder compared to some other European nations at this time of the year.

Here is a summarised version of our two weeks in Spain:

Barcelona (day 1-4).

Getting to Barcelona: we took an Emirates flight from Dubai to Barcelona and arrived at the Barcelona-El Prat airport. From here we took the public taxi to get to our stay.

Accommodation: we stayed at a friend’s place which was in the outskirts but connectivity via metro was alright. Our suggestion though would be to stay in the city center so you can spend more time exploring. On our previous visit, we stayed in this hotel .

Commuting: Spain overall is child-friendly so most of our commuting was on their metro and the rest was on-foot. 

Things to do:

We had been to Barcelona before so we had already visited the top sights here namely, Sagrada Familia, Gothic Quarters and Cathedral , La Ramblas, Mt. Tibidabo and Barceloneta beach . This time around we spent more time exploring La Boqueria Market ( see our Barcelona food vlog here ) and additionally made a quick visit to Park Guell . Of course we revisited certain places because one time is never enough.

Malaga (Day 5-7)

Getting to Malaga: We took the Ouigo (high speed train) from Barcelona to Madrid and then interchanged at Madrid to get to Malaga. The total train journey took about 6 hours. We arrived at the Málaga María Zambrano railway station and from here our stay was a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation and Commuting: In Malaga we stayed at this Airbnb in old town from where we could walk to most of the places of our interest. 

Malaga is a laid-back charming port town that is perhaps not on the typical tourist map. We chose to go here because it’s in the south of Spain and the weather is great in November. 

In the old town we roamed in the alleys and indulged in their food, churros and coffee ( see our Malaga food vlog here ).

On a sunny morning we visited the Alcazaba , a citadel built by the Arabs which is well-preserved and provides sweeping views of the old town and harbour from the top of the hill on which it is perched. The Malaga Cathedral is really beautiful as well with the high arches and stained glass windows. On another beautiful late morning, we walked to La Malagueta beach and relaxed there for a couple of hours.

For those interested, shopping is also an option with both branded and boutique stores located in the centre of old town. And for the history buffs, there are several museums to explore most notable of which is the Picasso museum. See our things-to-do in Malaga vlog here .

Seville (Day 8-10)

Getting to Seville: we took the Renfe (high speed train) from Malaga to Seville that took about 3 hours. We arrived at Sevilla Santa Justa railway station and from here our stay was a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation and Commuting: We stayed at a great location in this Airbnb from where we could explore most places of our interest on foot. 

Sevilla, as locals call it is one of the most magnificent towns in Spain with plenty of things to see and do here. Our favourite to-do of course was roaming in the alleyways and enjoying the tapas and vino. Other than that, here are some of the sights we did visit and highly recommend:

The Real Alcazar is a Royal Palace that is still in use. The palace is exquisite where the architecture is a mash-up of muslim and byzantine styles making it really unique than most other palaces in Europe. For Game of Thrones fans, it’s the filming location of Dorne and the water gardens of Dorne. We suggest buying tickets online to skip the queue and going as soon as it opens to avoid crowds.

Plaza de Espana here is gorgeous as well and one of the most impressive plazas we’ve been to. Here you can admire the architecture, climb up the balcony to get some panorama views, enjoy some boating, it’s one of the best photo spots and if you’re lucky you might catch a free flamenco dance performance. For those interested, there are plenty of flamenco dance performances you can book in Sevilla. The typical length is around 1/1.5 hours.

Spain Cathedral (+Giralda tower) again is really stunning and beautiful from both the outside and the inside. You can also take the rooftop tour to enjoy sweeping city views. Again, we suggest buying tickets online to skip the queue as it can get really busy.

Other than the above, there are plenty of museums to explore for those interested.

Madrid (Day 11-14)

Getting to Madrid: From Seville to Madrid we took the Renfe (high speed train) which took us about 2.5 hours. We arrived at the Madrid Atocha railway station and from here, our stay in the city center was a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation and Commuting: We stayed very close to Sol metro station at this Airbnb , from where we could simply walk to several spots.

As Madrid was the last stop on our trip, we only did a few things here. By now we had already visited many plazas, cathedrals and palaces so we chose to skip the same here. 

In the days we were there, we explored a food market known as Mercado San Miguel and some bars where vegetarian tapas were available. We enjoyed delicious Churros with Hot Chocolate and good Coffee at a century old chocolateria called San Gines. We walked around and stopped at the Mayor Plaza which already had some pop-up Christmas stores setup. We also spent some time at the El Retiro Park where we enjoyed the fall/autumn colours all around us. 

From Madrid we flew out from Madrid Barajas airport and to get there, we took a taxi as well.

Here a few more Tips to help you plan better:

• Stores are usually closed on Sundays all over Spain so do not plan any shopping on a Sunday.
• Restaurants usually open late for lunch, around 1:00pm and close around 4:00pm. Restaurants / bars usually open late in the evening around 7:00pm onwards.
• Paywave / Digital Payments like Apple Pay work in most stores so you do not need to carry too much cash with you.
• For trains and attractions, e-tickets/digital tickets are acceptable. At train stations, you can print your tickets if you wish from their self-serve kiosks.
• Spain is a cycle / scooter friendly country and several places offer cycles / e-scooter sharing at several spots around towns. 

Hopefully this post gives you a starting point when planning your own trip. Happy travels folks! And if you have any questions, leave them in the comments.

Wander Bunnies

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An amazing week in Spain: Madrid, Seville and Barcelona Itinerary

You know the cliche: a person studies abroad in college, discovers their love for traveling, and never stops talking about how good the croquetas were in Barthelona? Well, I hate love to admit that person is me. Since the time I studied abroad in 2012 in Salamanca, Spain, I returned to Spain three more times and will probably return a bunch more. Out of all the places I have visited in my short life, Spain has a special place in my heart because it was what had awaken my travel soul.

In this amazing, all you need to know guide, I bring you the following: 1) Essential logistics of traveling to Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona – the perfect trifecta for an awesome week in Spain which will show you 3 different sides of the country 2) A detailed guide on what to expect, what to do, where to stay and which tourist places are actually worth it, and which you should say adios baby to 3) And finally, a map and downloadable itinerary that you can blindly follow for the best time ever! I always make my itineraries after I have visited the place so I can optimize for things I wish I did differently. When I am no expert on a particular topic, I always reference other travel bloggers that did a better job than I can at recommending an activity.

Now without further fluff, let’s get to your one-week in Spain itinerary!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through there 🙂

But first, some Spain travel logistics

Useful things to about before traveling to spain.

• The currency in Spain is the euro. Rather than exchanging dollars or any other currency at the exchange booth or at the airport, I simply withdraw some euros directly from the ATM (most banks do have a fee for this but it’s usually less than the booths) and then use my no fees travel credit card for everything else when I’m there.
• In Spain though, most places accept cards . In countries that do so, I always prefer to use a good travel cards that have no transaction fees, offer purchase protection and rack up points for my future plane tickets.
• Spain is generally not an expensive country but cities like Barcelona which have a lot of tourist attractions can get pretty pricey if you choose to visit a lot of them.
• While in some cities you will come across English speakers, knowing basic Spanish is a total must when traveling there. Barcelona technically speaks Catalan but everyone understands Spanish.
• Omg don’t get me started on petty theft there. It’s a huge issue.
• If you ever get a chance to visit the northern Basque region you will really see that there.

Best time to go to Spain

When I studied in Spain in mid-July, I was sweaty for the entire time I was there (I did get a nice tan though). The second time was a little better, a late June trip was more tolerable in terms of the sun and heat. My most recent trip was in November and even though the weather was pleasant, I personally prefer a little bit of warmer weather there.

So I’ll say this if you like heat, May, June and September months will have great weather and fewer tourists. If you want to save on flights and accommodations and chilly weather doesn’t bother you, October, November, and then March and April will be better for you.

If you’re heading to Spain, check out my Ibiza itinerary as well!

How to get to Spain

If you’re flying from the US, most likely you will be going into Madrid’s Barajas Airport and/or Barcelona’s El Prat. Here is a little trick for you, use the multi-city feature on Google Flights and create your combinations. You’d be surprised how cheap these trips can end up being. If you have the flexibility, often (not always) booking from Wednesday to Wednesday has the best prices. Here is an example of how affordable ( $332!!!) a one-week nonstop flight from NYC into Madrid and out of Barcelona could be in late May:

Transport between cities

Flights between cities are super cheap so before hopping on a train, check if you can fly there instead for $20. BUT note that cheap flights usually come with no included luggage so if you want to save some money, pack light. Trains are also always an option.

Within Madrid and Barcelona, utilize the metro. It will get you from point A to point B in no time and you will not need to spend a ton of money on taxis and uber. From the airport though, if you’re traveling with a group, you might save more on an Uber. Seville has a smaller metro but I never used it since most places are walkable.

If you were traveling to the countryside, I would recommend renting a car. I will have another post on a road trip through Spain’s north coast. But traveling through Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona, public transportation will be way more convenient than worrying about parking.

People in Spain

During my study abroad, I got to live like a local for a little bit and interact with real people who live in Spain. Let me tell you that almost every single individual I have met there was genuine, sweet, and welcoming to me. As a tourist though, the story might be a little different. When you’re traveling in very touristy places, you might not get as warm of treatment there. Spaniards are straightforward and no-nonsense when it comes to the service industry or any other interactions. Don’t be a stereotypical tourist (aka don’t be an asshole), learn basic phrases in Spanish and you will be totally fine.

Safety in Spain

In terms of safety, I couldn’t tell you how many stories I have heard and also experienced petty theft firsthand on of one my trips. When you enter the metro, and I am not exaggerating, treat your belongings as your children. Don’t get distracted for even one second. Especially in Barcelona, your hand shouldn’t leave your backpack or purse at any given time.

My best friend’s purse got robbed in a matter of a 30-second oversight inside a crowded metro. And the worst part is that we were super aware of how bad theft is and those little shits still outsmarted us. Aside from small robberies, Spain is a super safe country so don’t fear.

Must-try foods in Spain

At the very very very minimum, I list the foods that you should absolutely try when visiting Spain. There are SO many more dishes than this and the list grows even longer when you add regionality to it. However, here is a super basic list for you of foods that you should sample in your Spain itinerary:

• Paella: This classic dish originally from Valencia is a Spanish staple. Paella has a rice base with either meats or seafood additions. Since it is very popular it is easy to encounter now so great versions of it in the more touristy areas. Make sure to find local restaurants for good paella.
• Croquettas: These little fried breaded snacks are one of my favorite foods in Spain. The most famous kind is a Jamon (ham) one but they come in many variations. I love them all.
• Patatas Bravas: Another gem of your tapas selection is a good dish of patatas bravas or little potatoes with some delicious aioli or other sauce on aside. A must-try in Spain.
• Tortilla Espanola: Or Spanish omelet which is made of eggs and potatoes, and sometimes onions. It is a very traditional dish in Spain.
• Chorizo: A pork sausage that can be spicy! It’s a great appetizer dish.
• Jamon Iberico: Iberian ham is a cut of pork leg. It’s very tasty and special meat that is can be very expensive outside of Spain.
• Pulpo: Octopus dish often served on the tapas menu.
• Gambas al Ajillo: Garlic shrimp is also another seafood staple dish.
• Pan con Tomate: This is a super simple concept food, a hard bread with smashed tomatoes. It is also a perfect appetizer that goes with many meals.
• Churros: There is nothing better than a thick hot chocolate along with some hot churros! Make sure to try these for dessert.

The perfect itinerary for an amazing week in Spain

A week in Spain is barely an introduction to the country but that should in no way stop you from booking it. The most beautiful cities in Spain are the local hidden gems but before you venture off to those, you need to see the big guys first.

The Spain itinerary I planned below will show you three very different cities located in three very different regions: 1) First, 2 days in Madrid , which has a more cosmopolitan version of life in Spain 2) Then 2 days in Seville in Andalusia in which you can’t miss the Moorish influence 3) Lastly, 3 days in Barcelona in Catalonia from which you will distinctively remember Gaudi’s style

As you travel through these places, you will see how unique each region is and appreciate each of them in its own way. You can do this itinerary in the opposite direction too, as transport between these cities is super easy.

Madrid Itinerary

Transport in madrid.

Arriving at Barajas Airport in Madrid, you won’t be too far from the city center. A fixed taxi fare could work for a couple of people but my suggestion is to take line 8 metro or C1 train to Atocha Station (2.60 euro per way). When you’re in the city, the metro will take you anywhere you want to go. The whole system is honestly super impressive. The metro map looks a little intimidating at first but once you get on a couple of rides, you will master it in no time. The city created a cute metro map too for tourist attractions:

Where to stay

There is certainly no shortage of hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs in the city so book one depending on your comfort and budget level. The last time I stayed in Madrid, I really wanted to be in an apartment right in Plaza Mayor with some good balcony views. I made my dream a reality but the apartment wasn’t the nicest one I have stayed in.

• Relais Hotel
• Hotel Regina
• Vincci The Mint
• Only You Hotel
• Oriente Palace
• Pestana Plaza Mayor
• Hotel Bestprice
• I’m Room Hotel

Now let’s get to the actual Madrid itinerary for the first portion of the trip. You will likely arrive early morning from the US direction so drop your bags off at your accommodation (even if check-in isn’t ready), freshen up, and get some coffee to prep for a full day ahead.

Morning Bite and Plaza Mayor

Although it is a pretty touristy spot, I still recommend grabbing a quick bite at Mercado San Miguel. There are many stands with snacks and drinks. My favorite has to be the Aperol Spritz booth too. It’s the perfect introduction to the city from a touristy angle. As with any heavily popular place, make sure to watch your belongings here. After you grab a snack, take a 2-minute walk to Plaza Mayor, the main plaza in Madrid. Although I wouldn’t say that this is my favorite plaza I have visited, it’s still nice to see.

Royal Palace and/or Campo del Moro

The next stop for the day will be Almudena Cathedral . It’s a beautiful church right next to the Royal Palace which you’ll be visiting next. There are guide tours to go into the palace and you can see a limited amount of rooms when you get there. I remember it being very grand and I personally loved learning the history behind it.

However, if visiting palaces isn’t one of your favorite things to do, you might not enjoy this part. Instead, you can head to the beautiful Versailles-inspired gardens located in the back of the palace or Campo del Moro . The entrance is located on Paseo de la Virgen del Puerto , which is a short walk away. It’s a free park perfect for some afternoon relaxation.

Afternoon Wrap

Coming back, you can walk along Calle Gran Vía , the main shopping street in Madrid. Pretty touristy and one of the more popular places in town. Next, a short detour off Gran Via will be the famous Chocolatería San Ginés . The churros there dipped in thick chocolate are out of this world. After this part, I’m sure you’ll want to rest for a little so head back to the hotel for a little siesta. Don’t worry, Spaniards eat dinner super late so you don’t need to rush to your dinner reservations.

Dinner and Flamenco maybe?

One option for dinner is booking a dinner and flamenco night in one. It is a popular activity in town but since you’re going to Seville (Flamenco originated in southern Spain), I’ll keep it as an open option for you which city you’d like to do it in. I desperately wanted to stay away from the main tourist traps and found a less-known restaurant called Cafe Ziryab which had a show on the day of my visit along with a dinner option. It was ok but certainly not the best flamenco show I have seen (the best was actually at a complete hole-in-a-wall in Granada). So I’ll say this, sometimes forcing yourself into trying not to be a tourist will leave you with a subpar experience. If you’re going to do this, do it right and book yourself a night at a place like Cardamomo Tablao Flamenco .

Morning at the Museum

Normally I’m a person who enjoys museums but isn’t crazy fascinated by them to the point where I have to go to one in every new city I visit. In Madrid though, I have to say that I was simply speechless when I explored not one but two of the world-famous museums. I plan to visit another time in the future because let’s just say that the artwork there is like nowhere in this world. Visiting two museums in one day may be a little much though so I’ll let you choose which one vibes more with your soul.

Museo Prado is the more classical art option with artworks by artists like Diego Velázquez, El Greco or Francisco Goya who were simply brilliant. Reina Sofia houses most of the 20-century art with artists like Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Joan Miró. My favorite painting there was the Guernica by Pablo Picasso which I wanted to see for years. Overall I’ll say that either of these museums is worth paying a visit if you’re in Madrid. They’re really impressive and magical. Entry to Prado is 15 euros and 12 euros to Reina Sofia.

Retiro Park

One of the most beautiful parks in the city is El Retiro and both of the museums mentioned above are located super close to it. It’s a pretty big park and even has a pond on which you can rent a cheesy object to paddle. This park is amazing to see in the summer. Make sure to check out Palacio de Cristal and the lake. There are so many more places located within it so you can spend the rest of the day here exploring if you really wanted to.

A little party never hurts

After a full day of exploring, head out for some tapas and then for a little party. When in Spain, you simply need to go out. Here are some party areas for your nightlife activities:

• Huertas : is an area of Madrid popular with young people
• Malasaña : a hipster, bohemian party vibe
• Chueca: a lively gay neighborhood
• Salamanca Neighborhood : a more boujee vibe for nightlife

I personally partied at El Doblón, a super cool club loved by a friend who lived in Madrid. The whole place looks like you’re inside of a ship and you probably won’t find a single tourist there.

Additional Options

If my suggestions above didn’t vibe with you, here are a couple more places to choose from:

• Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: Tour the home stadium of Real Madrid will be a treat to visit for any soccer fanatic.
• Matadero Madrid: A former slaughterhouse that is now an art space for multiple exhibitions and cool hang-out space. Check out their website for current exhibitions.
• Las Ventas Bullring: Like it or not this is still a thing in the Spanish culture, you can tour this place if you want to or even see the fight live. Personally not my thing.
• Food Tours: I love love love food tours, it’s the best way to see a city! There are many vendors to choose from in most cities and I honestly have not taken one yet that has failed me. They can be pretty pricey but you get food, drinks, and a small history tour. I always go for the mid-range prices as the cheapest ones have more people and suffer in quality. The really pricey ones are usually not that different from the midrange ones either. TripAdvisor reviews are reliable for the most part.

Here are some food picks from the locals too.

Seville Itinerary

Transportation Logistics

To get to Seville from Madrid, you can take a 1-hour flight or a 2.5-hour Renfe train from Atocha Station. Depending on the time of the year, they can have similar prices with the added flight luggage cost. I recommend arriving as early as you can in order to maximize your time in the city. Although the city is not that small 2 days in Seville is enough to see the major highlights of the city.

From the airport, you can take a Line EA bus to Plaza de Armas for 4 euros or you can take a flat rate taxi for about 20 euros there too. Within the city, most of the places of interest to you will be within walking distance. There is one metro line and some tram services too.

Where to Stay in Seville

With limited time I recommend staying central to everything in Centro or Barrio Santa Cruz. That way you won’t have to worry about transport. Airbnb is always a good option, the one I stayed at was nice but I had issues with check-in so I won’t recommend it to you guys. You can grab a nice one between $60-$120 a night price and some even have crazy views of the points of interest.

• Legado Alcazar
• Triana House
• Joya del Casco
• Pajaro Rebelde
• Casa Alfareira
• Lukanda Hospec

Check out amazing hostels in Seville too!

Day 3 in Spain:

Plaza de españa.

Start your Seville itinerary with this super grand place, Plaza de España. Despite looking like a historical structure it was constructed only in 1928 for an Expo event. There is so much detail in this plaza and each nook has something beautiful in it. The middle of the plaza has a pond on which you can rent a small boat and spend some time enjoying the surroundings from that angle. Catch an impromptu Flamenco show too!

Parque de María Luisa

Connected to the Plaza, you will find the stunning Parque de María Luisa. I loved strolling through the little paths and admiring the flowers and trees. In the southern part of the park, you will find Plaza de América which has three important structures surrounding it: the Museum of Popular Arts, the Archaeological Museum, and the Royal Pavilion.

Walk along the river

After the park stroll, you can walk back along the water towards Torre del Oro , a former military watchtower. Some parts of the walk are really nice, others very average. We made a stop at one of the small bars mid-way to grab a quick drink.

Tapas and Flamenco

Tapas are a must in Spain and you should have them every day you’re there 🙂 After a long day, spend the early evening grabbing a couple of these heavenly bites. After, you can see another Flamenco show (if you did or didn’t in Madrid) or just head to rest if this day was already long for you. If you choose to do a show, some will only have a performance while others will include a dinner option too.

I personally didn’t see any shows in Seville since I opted to see one in Madrid. However, I do wish I saw one in Seville too as the smaller city vibes would have been perfect for one. Since I can’t recommend you one, I saw that Stefania has an awesome guide for Flamenco shows ( and tapas too ) on her blog.

Don’t lose your exploring steam because day 4 will be full of activities for you in the beautiful city of Seville!

Royal Alcázar of Seville

A stunning royal palace located in the heart of Seville is a simple must. Although my personal favorite is Alhambra in Granada, this one is pretty impressive too. Its most recognized characteristic is the Mudéjar style of architecture. CultureTrip has an awesome 1-minute summary of its history which I recommend reading if you won’t be taking a guided tour.

I visited in November so I personally had no trouble with entry queues or tickets. However, I heard that lines to get inside are horrendous in the summer, so I would recommend purchasing an entry ticket ahead of time and heading there for opening hours too.

Catedral de Sevilla

Right around the corner from the palace, you will find the largest Gothic church in the world. It’s pretty impressive and worth your visit. The cathedral houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Additionally, it has the La Giralda bell tower which you can climb for a bird’s eye view of the city. You will need to purchase tickets for them too.

A nice stop near the cathedral for the early evening is a terrace bar called La Terraza. It’s pricey but it has incredible views of the lit-up cathedral. I recommend stopping for a glass of wine to take a little breather and enjoy the views from above.

Walk toward Setas de Sevilla

After a morning full of activities, you’ll have one more cool, low-effort spot in the city. From the cathedral walk along the surrounding neighborhoods toward Setas de Seville or the mushroom structure of Seville. Santa Cruz (Jewish Quarter) and El Centro are narrow streets filled with stores, bars, and restaurants. That area isn’t really big so getting lost in the streets and exploring won’t require that much effort from your end. Your destination, the crazy wooden structure, it’s worth a stroll. There is an entry fee to access the top part but you will be rewarded 360 views of Seville. It’s also a great sunset spot!

End the evening with some tapas in the area, there is an awesome spot near the Setas plaza called La Malvaloca which you should visit. For the night, I imagine you will want to rest and relax at your midpoint week in Spain.

Additional places of interest in Seville

Here are some additional spots you can visit during your 2 days in Seville:

• Triana neighborhood: Located on the other side of Guadalquivir, what used to be a working-class neighborhood is now a more authentic area of town you can visit. Start with exploring the local market, Mercado de Triana, and get lost in the streets. Don’t forget to stroll along the river for colorful views of the buildings.
• Art in Seville: Spanish artists speak to my soul for some reason so whenever I am in Spain, I try to add some amazing art stops to my itinerary. In Seville, you have the amazing Seville Museum of Fine Arts where you will find Spain’s popular artists like Velazquez or El Greco. A visit costs only 1.5 euros too. Another stunning baroque-style building dedicated primarily to the artist Velazquez is Hospital los Venerables. Entry is a little more pricey but certainly worth it if you like art.
• A tour: There are two types of tours you should consider in any major cities that you visit 1) a free-walking tour, and 2) a food tour. In Seville, you will find both and if I were you, a tapas one would be first on my list 🙂
• Plaza de Toros: A bullfighting arena that you can tour without attending a bullfight. I know it’s tradition but I personally don’t support it.

For more on Seville food and places to eat, this blog does an awesome job with recommendations.

Barcelona Itinerary

We made it to my favorite part of the week in Spain itinerary! My normal travel philosophy is to always seek new places but Barcelona is one of those cities I don’t mind coming back to over and over again. There is so much to do in the city and the vibe is just everything! Barcelona deserved its own post probably with 5-7 days of activities but for today, let’s focus on a solid Barcelona 3-day itinerary as a good introduction to the city. Keep in mind that in 3 days, you certainly won’t see everything.

Transport to and within Barcelona

From Seville, your easiest option is to take a 1.5-hour flight. Even if you’re doing the itinerary in the opposite way, the high-speed Barcelona to Seville train takes about 5.5 hours and is pretty pricey. From the airport, you have the option of a taxi, bus, train, or metro depending on where you’re staying in the city. I’ve taken the metro each time I visited. Uber is available as of last year but with some past legal issues, you should check on that before you go.

Once inside the city, utilize the metro. It amazes me how large the system is and it will get you pretty much anywhere in the city. I always suggest purchasing an unlimited pass if you’re planning to sightsee a lot because, with each trip at 2.40 euro, the costs quickly add up.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Barcelona has the following main neighborhoods near the tourist attractions:

• Gracia: the trendy upcoming neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and cute streets
• Gothic Quarter: touristy city center area but nonetheless stunning area especially for first-timers in Barcelona
• El Born: another trendy neighborhood that’s close to the Gothic Quarter but isn’t as crowded
• Eixample: Gaudi’s works among other major landmarks is all close here. This is where I stayed and although I was happy with this location being central to everything, it didn’t really feel very lively.
• Barceloneta: Close to the beach, this area is for those who want to spend time lounging in the sun. If you’re planning on sightseeing in the city, I wouldn’t recommend staying here as it is not as central to many sights.

During my stays in Barcelona, I stayed at the following locations:

• Yeah Hostel: Amazing hostel for walking tours and a chill atmosphere. I did two tours with them and enjoyed the breakfast and the low-key vibes. It was super clean and the beds were super comfy.
• Kabul Party Hostel: Although this hostel is located off Las Ramblas, it is actually in a little hidden plaza. It’s certainly not for everyone as the party atmosphere can be a little loud but I absolutely loved the rooftop vibes and the organized bar crawl.
• Eric Vokel Boutique Apartments: Very pretty apartments. Great for a family trip.

• Ohla Eixample
• Me Barcelona
• Forget Me Not
• Musik Boutique Hotel
• Hotel Granvia
• Fabrizio Hostal
• Corner Hotel

Things to know about Barcelona

Language: You will quickly notice that all the familiar phrases and signs don’t sound and look like what you’ve been seeing to date. That is because Barcelona speaks Catalan, not Spanish (although most if not all people there speak Spanish so no fret).

Pickpocketing: Omg this city is absolutely notorious for pickpockets. Every single area, especially Las Ramblas and the Metro, are places where 10 seconds of your distraction will cost you your belongings. My friend had her phone stolen next to me on the metro while she moved her hand from her bag for no more than a couple of seconds. So my tip is to always have your hand on your stuff and be extremely cautious of anything you’re carrying. Every time I have been there I followed the rule of guarding my things and watching everyone around me and I am happy to say I haven’t been a target of petty theft. If you look like you’re paying attention and are aware of your surroundings, the stupid thief is less likely to target you.

Las Ramblas: This is a major major tourist trap and I personally don’t see anything cute about it. I don’t know why everyone hypes it up and I guess it is just one of those places you check off your list when visiting Barcelona. There is nothing authentic or local about it, it is rather a long street with chain shops, terrible restaurants, and pickpockets.

Restaurants and going out: As Americans, we always tend to worry about the tipping culture as it’s ingrained in our veins. Tipping in Barcelona is not necessary but if you really liked the service, you are welcome to leave a couple of euros. Dinner here doesn’t start until 9-10 pm and clubs don’t open until after midnight.

Distance: Barcelona is a pretty big city. Compared to Seville or even Madrid, a lot of the sightseeing places are spaced apart so make sure to factor in a 20-30 minute metro cushion for transport!

Antoni Gaudi: An architectural genius in my eyes who had a major influence can be seen all over the city. His work is so unique, detailed, and stunning that you can spend days looking at its complexity and beauty of it.

Day 5 in Spain:

As mentioned above, since Barcelona is a pretty big city, although your itineraries might not look as busy as previous ones, they will fill up your day faster than you think. Consider how much energy you have for the day because the next couple of days require a lot of it if you want to see a decent amount of the city. From Seville, try to arrive as early as you can, drop off your bags at the hotel and start exploring one of the coolest cities in the world!

Walking tour

For the Barcelona itinerary portion of your trip, I highly highly recommend starting it with a free walking tour. There are many companies that run it and most have a morning and an afternoon timeslot to start it. Barcelona is a huge city with a shit ton of history worth knowing so I would spend my first afternoon there with someone who could at least give you the gist of what is what.

During a standard tour, you will most likely cover sights near the Gothic Quarter like the Cathedral of Barcelona, Basilica of Santa Maria, Placa de Catalunya, Las Ramblas, Placa Reial and La Boqueria. There will be more stops along the way with small history lessons over a typical 2-3 hour tour.

After an introduction to Barcelona, take it easy for the rest of the day and head over to Parc Guell. It’s such a nice park worth the effort of a 20 min metro ride from the Gothic Quarter. Note that the nearest stop is the Vallcarca Station which is an additional 20-minute walk. Instead, if you don’t want to walk, you can Uber or take bus 24 or 92 there.

The best part is that this park is even more magical during the evening so don’t worry about arriving later in the day but do keep in mind that it closes at 6 pm. Creative Adventurer has an awesome detailed guide about the whole park if you’re interested in the details.

After your park visit, wander around the Gracia neighborhood, the trendy part of Barcelona. You can stop for some tapas there and visit the cute square Placa del Sol. This blog has an awesome guide to the best bars in that area.

Sagrada Familia

While in Europe, it is easy to get church-ed out, meaning that you’ve seen so many beautiful churches and cathedrals that seeing another one doesn’t even impress you anymore. Well, let me tell you this, Sagrada Familia is unlike anything you have ever seen in your life. Gaudi really outdid himself here and believe it or not, it is still under construction since the late 1800s.

If you only choose to admire it from the outside, make sure to download an audio guide that at least allows you to understand the different parts of it. An entry inside is worth the hefty 26 euro fee and for an additional 4, you can do a guided tour. In high season, these sell out fast so grab them ahead of time.

A good photo spot is Plaça de Gaudí , make sure to walk behind the pond to get a super awesome view of the cathedral.

Montjuic is an area on the hills of Barcelona which houses multiple landmarks. Take the metro to the cable car and then make your way up (I personally climbed it in mid-July heat and I don’t recommend you do the same). There are a couple of landmarks there, see a list here , but even if you choose not to visit any, I would simply recommend starting from the top and making your way down to the very bottom of the hill for some amazing views from all angles. You can visit landmarks based on your personal interests:

• Montjuic Castle: A 5 euro entrance fee will get you inside an old military fortress with great views.
• Joan Miro Foundation: If you’re a fan of Miro like myself, don’t miss this museum of his work.
• National Museum of Catalan Art : I didn’t visit the inside of it so I can’t tell you if it’s worth the entry fee but let me tell you that this building is insanely impressive from the outside. As you start making your way down the stairs, don’t forget to turn around at various levels to get a different perspective each time.
• Plaça de Les Cascades: As you walk down, you will notice stunning man-made waterfall structures.
• Magic Fountain Shows: A pretty impressive fountain show right at the base of Montjuic. I was lucky to see it pre-rona during the day and not so lucky when I returned in the fall of 2019 because I didn’t look up the times for it. Currently, it is suspended due to rona but keep your eye on the official website for reopening times.
• Plaça d’Espanya : Your last stop after seeing Montjuic, this plaza is a very important landmark for the city.

Bonus: A less visited place in this area is the rooftop terrace of the Arenas de Barcelona shopping mall. While you can grab a drink or some overpriced apps in one of the super cute restaurants up there, you want to go up to see the panoramic views of the city.

When in Barcelona, you need to go out. I experienced my nights out there twice through pub crawls in my hostels. Why? Because it’s nice to have a plan and new friends for the night. Don’t worry if you’re not staying in a hostel though. There are many pub crawls organized in the city and they are the perfect way for a solo traveler to feel a little safer and not worry about choosing a good place to go to.

The only thing you should know about a good night out is that bars don’t end up opening up until late and clubs only get going after midnight or so. They’re open until 6 am so don’t be surprised if you see people grabbing breakfast after a good night out.

Here is a list of places for you from Barcelona Explorers and another from Miss Tourist which also includes an amazing list of her favorite restaurants in the city.

For the last day of your Barcelona itinerary, I will let you choose what you want to see. It’s hard to pick what the absolute must-see places are on a 3-day stay. I was lucky to see this city multiple times and each time I find something new and fascinating to do. The only advice that I have is to not try to do everything because you will miss out on enjoying what you’re looking at. In a true Spanish fashion, take it slow and soak it in.

Here are your options for the last day of your week in Spain:

If there is anything awesome that I would recommend for your last day in Barcelona, it’s this “hidden gem.” Tibidabo is a hill overlooking all of Barcelona and even though it will take some effort to get there, it’s an unforgettable view. There is a really beautiful church Sagrat Cor, which you can visit but there is also an amusement park along with some walking sites. The unlimited amusement park entrance is pricey but there are some rides that you can pay for a single ride.

To get there, you can take a direct bus from Placa de Catalunya or the L7 line to the Tibidabo to the Tramvia Blay and then the Funicular. When I visited last in 2019, the funicular was under construction so we had to take a taxi on the last leg.

Barcelona has a nice beach scene so if you prefer to spend your last day lounging around, make sure to head in that direction. Barceloneta is the most popular one and the most crowded one. You if don’t want to be a sardine, perhaps don’t choose that one. A more quiet beach would be Platja Sant Sebastian but feel free to check out the complete list here.

Make sure to spend time in the Barceloneta neighborhood and walk along the beachfront area that has restaurants and clubs. It’s a pretty area and it’s worth visiting. If you’re planning to hit up the clubs at night, this is where you would go too.

Gaudi’s style is undoubtedly super unique. I personally took a Gaudi walking tour in addition to the free walking one because I wanted to see more of his work. Whether you choose a tour or not, in addition to Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia, he is also famous for the following structures:

• Casa Mila : Known as La Pedrera or “The stone quarry” this house has a very unique appearance. There is a stunning terrace up top and tickets start at 25 euros.
• Casa Batllo: Located not too far from Casa Mila, this building is just another instance masterpiece. There is also a rooftop terrace. Tickets sell out a week in advance and even further out in the high season. They also start at 35 euros.
• Casa Vicens: Gaudi’s first major project is located in the Gracia neighborhood. It’s less popular than the two above but not any less impressive. Tickets start at 21 euros.

If the prices of the above are a little much, especially after seeing Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia don’t worry, the houses are also stunning to look at from the outside. And if you take a Gaudi tour you’ll get the history behind them too. Remember that most major cities have apps with history audioguides which you can simply download and listen to outside the building without taking any tours.

Food tours are always my favorite way to see the city. Although they tend to be pricey, I feel like I personally learn and experience the city better compared to a free walking tour. As much as I recommend and love free walking tours, sometimes they can run pretty long. With food tours, you can eat your way through the city, try foods you wouldn’t have thought to do yourself, and get a little bit of history in between.

Here are some examples of tours you can take:

The last time I visited Barcelona, I went with my parents. My dad’s only request for his entire week in Spain was to see Camp Nou, the official football stadium of FC Barcelona . To be honest, I had very little interest in seeing a stadium but nonetheless, it ended up being a fun experience and something I would have never done myself. Rather than visiting the stadium though, I would consider attending the match if you happen to be there during one.

Miscellaneous Places

• If you haven’t had a chance to stroll through Ciutadella Park, which houses the beautiful Arc de Triomf, make sure to make your way there.
• Passeig de Gràcia : A long picturesque street full of high-end shopping stores.
• Picasso Museum: If you’re a fan of Picasso, don’t miss this museum as it houses some of his best work. Admission is only 12 euros too.
• Montserrat: This would be a day trip to the neighboring mountain region. There are many trips that take you on a wine tasting and exploration of this region.

Final Thoughts

A week in Spain is nowhere near enough to experience the country. I spend 2 short months there and then returned multiple times since, and I still find new things to do each time. One of my favorite things about Spain is how distinct each region is and how it almost feels like you’re visiting a different country at each stop.

I hope that my itinerary for a week in Spain gives you a solid introduction to this amazing country. Although the Spaniards might love their siestas, you will be busy exploring 7/7 days of your trip. If you have any questions or comments, leave them below.

A Map and downloadable itinerary

Don’t forget to download the week in Spain itinerary and save the map for your stay!

Remember that the itinerary is a very high-level summary of everything described above. Before you download it, make sure to read the blog post above for the best trip preparation.

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Kasia is a travel blogger that loves to share her detailed itineraries and travel tips with her community. She's traveled to numerous countries and makes it a priority to explore her home state of New Jersey while still being passionate about her 9-5 career.

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10 Days In Spain Itinerary, a Classic Route From Madrid To Seville

Want to take a classic Spanish road trip? This is the ultimate 10 day itinerary for a journey from Madrid to Seville.

This popular Spain road trip route is dense with exciting Spanish cities, must see medieval villages, Moorish architecture, UNESCO-listed landmarks, and loads of old world Spanish charm.

This ten day in Spain itinerary begins in Madrid , Spain’s busy modern capital. Madrid is a cutting edge city, with fantastic public spaces.

It’s a compact and lively collection of small villages, tapas bars, and some of Europe’s most important museums. From Madrid, you’ll travel through beautiful Segovia and Toledo en route to sunny Andalusia . In Andalusia, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful towns in southern Spain .

Andalusia is a dreamy sun-kissed place. From flamboyant Seville to gritty Granada, you’ll discover a well-balanced blend of must see hotspots, hidden gems, tiny whitewashed villages, and natural wonders.

Overview of 10 Days in Spain Itinerary

Here’s my recommended 10 day itinerary for a self drive road trip from Madrid to Seville. You don’t need to pick up your rental car until day 4. You won’t want a car in Madrid.

• Day 1 : Explore Madrid
• Day 2 : Explore Madrid
• Day 3 : Day Trip By Train To Segovia or Cuenca
• Day 4 : Drive To Cordoba, Stop in Toledo
• Day 5 : Explore Cordoba
• Day 6 : Drive to Granada, Stop in Antequera
• Day 7 : Explore Granada
• Day 8 : Drive To Seville, Stop in Ronda
• Day 9 : Explore Seville
• Day 10 : Explore Seville

For this Spanish road trip, you’ll have four bases: Madrid (3 nights), Cordoba (1 night), Granada (2 nights), and Seville (3 nights). I give you tips on where to stay for each city.

This trip is best done by car. But this Madrid to Seville itinerary also also works by train.

Just make sure you pre-book/catch an early high speed ATV train when moving from city to city. A car is superior because it gives you more flexibility over your schedule and the ability to make pit stops (planned or unplanned) along the way.

There are plenty of great destinations to explore in this Madrid to Seville road trip. This super detailed 10 day itinerary is perfectly adjustable.

You can make it shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace. I’ve tried to give you a mix of cities and leisurely villages, with day trip options as well.

10 Day Road Trip Itinerary From Madrid to Seville

Here’s how to spend ten blissful days in Spain.

Day 1: Explore Madrid

You’ll likely arrive in Madrid midday. Settle into Madrid’s vibrant vibe with a stroll in Madrid’s historic core, the pedestrianized Calle de las Huertas and the emblematic main square of Puerta del Sol. Puerta del Sol means the “Sun Gate.”

Puerta del Sol is a mostly pedestrianized wide open space. The equestrian statue in the middle honors King Charles III. He was responsible for decorating the square with beautiful fountains. You’ll also find a symbol of Madrid, the Bear and the Strawberry Tree statue.

You can grab some lunch in this area. Try Botin or Casa Labra.

Even better, you can walk 7 minutes to the Mercado de San Miguel, a tony food market housing gourmet tapas stalls. It’s housed in a historic glass and iron building. San Miguel is the prefect place for adventurous eaters who like to stroll and snack on high end treats.

You can also book a 2.5 hour guide walking tour of Madrid’s old town .

In mid-afternoon, your first stop is the masterpiece-filled Prado Museum. The Prado is Spain’s cultural jewel and most celebrated museum.

It boasts one of Europe’s finest and most sensuous painting collections. Its artistic anchors are Goya, Velazquez, and Rubens.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the Prado and casting your eyes on its must see art works.  Click  here  to book a ticket and guided tour of the Prado. You can also combine a city walking tour with a guided tour of the Prado .

Don’t miss the haunting Black Paintings by Goya in the subterranean gallery. If you’re a Goya devotee, you may want to allocate time to inspect his frescos in the San Antonio de la Florida Chapel, where he’s also buried.

READ : Guide to Goya’s Terrifying Black Paintings

In the evening, head to the rooftop terrace of the Circulo de Bellas Artes to watch the sun set over the city. For four euros, you can ride the elevator to the 7th floor roof terrace.

You’ll be treated with panoramic views of the gold fringed dome of the Metropolis building, the Puerta de Europa (north gate), the Plaza de Cibeles, Retiro Park, and the Prado.

End your day with a progressive tapas dinner in the La Latina neighborhood, Madrid’s oldest neighborhood. The Calle Cava Baja is just a few blocks south and east of the Royal Palace.

There’s a three block stretch crammed with authentic tapas bars and restaurants. If you’re in the mood for paella, try the restaurant El Arrozal.

Day 2: Explore Madrid

Day 2 am in madrid:.

On day 2, grab some breakfast in Madrid’s hip Lavapies neighborhood. The most popular spot is Pum Pum cafe, where you can have a mimosa and the “club mix” — eggs Benedict with avocado, croissant, granola, fruit, and yogurt. The La Latina neighborhood also has a good brunch spot, El Imparcial.

Or, sugar-shock yourself like a local with chocolate and churros. The classic places are Ibiza 74 and Chocolateria San Gines. Or, just grab coffee at one of the Toma Cafe locations.

Once caffeinated and fueled up, take a tour of Madrid’s sumptuously decorated Royal Palace, which rivals Versailles . It’s one of Europe’s greatest palaces with 2,000 rooms, a king’s ransom of gilding and chandeliers, and luxurious tapestries.

You can choose either a  skip the line guided tour  or an  unguided timed entry slot .  

The supersized palace is renowned for its frescos and stunning artwork. You’ll find paintings by many artistic luminaries — Velazquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and Caravaggio. Adjacent to the palace is Almudena Cathedral, which is free to enter.

Continue through Madrid’s bustling Puerta del Sol to the elegant arcaded Plaza Mayor and Gran Via. The 17th century Plaza Mayor is the beating heart of Madrid. If you need handcrafted ice cream or coffee, pop into Mistura.

Gran Via is the most famous shopping street in Madrid, close to other sightseeing attractions like the Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Espana. (The most upscale shopping area is still in Barrio Salamanca.) Recent renovations have made it more pedestrianized, with wooden benches to plop down on.

Pop into a fantastic little bookstore on Gran Via, Casa del LIbro. Three minutes from Plaza Mayor is Puerta Cerrada, a plaza with bright painted murals.

Day 2 PM in Madrid:

In the afternoon, head to either the Reina Sofia or the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. You can’t do both or you’ll have serious museum malaise. I describe them both. You can choose which one suits your taste.

Opened in 1992, the Reina Sofia is Madrid’s most popular and well-curated modern art museum. There’s a special focus on Spain’s favorite sons, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali .

The iconic star of the Reina Sofia is Guernica , Picasso’s grim depiction of the Nazi bombing of Guernica Spain in 1937.

If you haven’t had lunch yet, the Reina Sofia’s Arzabal offers amazing tapas. Just behind the Reina Sofia, you’ll also find nearly 40 contemporary art galleries lining the Calle del Doctor Fourquet.

READ : Guide To the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres Spain

Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket for the Reina Sofia. Art lovers should consider a  guided tour  of the magnificent museum.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is housed in the Villahermosa Palace The collection is one of the world’s most impressive private art caches, possible second only to that of Queen Elizabeth of England. Opened in 1994, the Thyssen (pronounced Tee-sun) museum offers something for everyone.

Mixing contemporary and classic, the museum covers every major period in Western art, from 13th century Italian Renaissance to 20th century Pop Art.

It also has an important collection of 19th century American paintings not found elsewhere in Europe. This is where you’ll find some fan favorites — Impressionists, Post-Impressionists, German Expressionists, and Surrealists.

READ : Best Museums in Spain

Click here to book a skip a line ticket to the museum.

If you’re not a fan of museums, instead take a bucolic stroll in Madrid’s most popular green space, Retiro Gardens.

El Retiro is filled with royal remnants, wonderful monuments, and fountains. There’s the Crystal Palace, the Statue Walk, the Alfonso XII monument, and a man-made lake to explore.

You can book a guided walking tour in El Retiro or book a popular Segway tour .

Day 2 Evening in Madrid:

Madrid has one of Europe’s best night scenes, if you’re a night owl. It’s a late night city that never really sleeps, so there are many evening options. Start your night with a glass of vino at Angelita Madrid, a trendy wine bar in the Chueca neighborhood of central Madrid.

If you opted for the Thyssen-Bornemisza instead of the Reina Sofia, the Reina Sofia is open from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. You can visit before your late Spanish dinner.

If you didn’t get your sunset view on day 1 because of jet lag, head to the Temple of Debod. Dating from the 2nd century B.C., this Egyptian monument is located in the Cuatrel de la Montana Park, only 10 minutes from the royal palace. You’ll have beautiful panoramic views.

If you’re a culture vulture, consider taking in a show on Madrid’s Gran Via. Madrid’s “Broadway” houses Madrid’s major theater venues, including the world famous Lope de Vega . Or, just enjoy more time in the lively Puerta del Sol, Plaza de Santa Ana, or the La Latina and Lavapies neighborhoods.

The evening is also a good time to take a food and wine tour of Madrid or go on a guided tapas tour .

Where To Stay In Madrid

You’re spoiled for choice for excellent hotels in Madrid. My favorites are the Hotel Gran Melia Palacio Los Duques (luxury hotel in an ancient duke’s palace with a secluded garden), the URSP Hotel and Spa (a simply gorgeous hotel with a wellness center), or the Principal Madrid (luxury boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace).

Day 3: Day Trip To Segovia or Cuenca

On day 3, you have two options. Head to the charming town of Segovia or the off the beaten path town of Cuenca. Both are UNESCO-listed beauties.

1. Option 1: Segovia

In 30 minutes, the high speed AVE train lands you in Segovia. Segovia is a history rich town with a beautifully preserved Roman aqueduct. Stroll through the streets of the pretty town, enjoying the authentic old world charm.

Then, visit Segovia’s medieval Alcazar fortress, its crowning glory. Built atop a rock with pointy slate spires, the Cinderella castle looks like it was conjured from a medieval fairytale. Alfonso VIII lived in the fortress in the 12th century, before architectural changes transformed it into a Gothic castle in the 13th century.

Segovia’s aqueduct is one of Spain’s the most ancient landmarks, the best preserved example of Roman civic architecture in Spain. Dating from approximately the 2nd century A.D., it’s a tour de force of Roman engineering that stood the test of time.

The aqueduct is set in a lively square of Segovia, part of everyday life. On Plaza de Azoguejo, a grand stairway leads from the base to the top of the aqueduct. In its shadows, sits a replica of the She-Wolf of Rome, a statue found in Rome’s Capitoline Museums .

If you want to eat near the aqueduct, try Meson de Candido or Jose Maria Restaurante, the latter specializing in suckling pig. If you want something more off the beaten path, try Meson Dom Jimeno.

There are frequent departures for the 30 minute train ride to Segovia. You can also visit Segovia (+ Avila) on a  guided day trip tour  from Madrid. To get the maximum of your day, you can also book a  guided tour  of both Toledo and Segovia.

2. Option 2: Cuenca

If you’re ready to escape the crowds, head to Cuenca instead of Segovia. Undiscovered Cuenca is a dramatic UNESCO-listed medieval town in the region of Castilla-La-Mancha, the land of Don Quixote. It’s the perfect spot to escape the hurly burly of Madrid. Cuenca is especially appealing for art lovers and Gothic architecture buffs.

Cuenca is home to the gravity defying “hanging houses,” precipitously clinging to the top of vertical cliffs. The place to snap your instagram photo is on the rather terrifying Puente de San Pablo, a bridge that spans 130 feet above a gorge.

The main drag of Cuenca is Alfonso VIII Street, which is lined with colorful red, blue, and yellow houses. Plaza Mayor boasts an elegant ensemble of buildings, including the Romanesque-Gothic Cuenca Cathedral. If you’re in Cuenca for dinner, expect meat-centric meals and try Figon del Huecar.

Click here if you’d like to book a guided walking tour of medieval Cuenca. Click here to book a guide day trip tour from Madrid.

READ : Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain

Day 4: Drive To Cordoba, Stop in Toledo En Route

On day 4 of your 10 days in Spain itinerary, get up early, pick up your rental car, and hit the road. It’s a four hour drive from Madrid to Cordoba.

Either drive straight there, down the A4 freeway, because you’re anxious to explore beautiful Cordoba. Alternatively, to break up the journey, stop in the historic town of Toledo. You may want to begin with a walking tour .

Just an hour south of Madrid and situated atop a gorge, medieval Toledo is one of Spain’s best loved UNESCO cities.

Perfect for history buffs, Toledo is an incredibly well preserved town, with a concentrated mix of art and history stashed within medieval walls. The best sites stretch out from Toledo’s lively main square, Plaza de Zocodover.

At the town’s center is perhaps Spain’s best and most beautiful cathedral. The primarily Gothic Cathedral has a richly decorated interior.

The sacristy is a mini-Prado, with an impressive collection of works by the likes of El Greco, Velazquez, Goya, and Caravaggio . Circling the interior are ornate chapels.

READ : The Caravaggio Guide to Rome

If you need even more art, head to the Santa Cruz Museum or the small El Greco Museum . Then, head to the Alcazar, the former imperial residence that dominates Toledo’s skyline. Military buffs will want to visit the Army Museum housed inside.

Then, begin your 3 hour drive to Cordoba, an exotic stone paved city with both a Roman and Moorish past. Cordoba is a natural film set, it’s just so beautiful.

Cordoba has an authentic Spanish vibe with fewer tourists than other Spanish cities. You’ll probably arrive late after spending time in Toledo. Get some sleep and prepare for an action packed next day.

Day 5: Explore Cordoba

Start your day with a bite to eat at Cafe Bar La Cueva or Breakfast Club & Co. Then head to Cordoba’s #1 site: the magnificent Mezquita , the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba.

Dating from the 10th century, it’s a UNESCO site and one of the world’s most well-preserved Islamic buildings. The courtyard is free to visit.

READ :  One Day In Cordoba Itinerary

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted the mosque into a cathedral, calling it the Cathedral of Our Lady of Assumption. I expected the combination to be discordant and perplexing. But I found it a fascinating place, a snapshot of the sophisticated dual culture that once existed in Spain.

You walk in from a courtyard of orange trees through the Porta de las Palmas. You’re immediately in a forest of candy cane horseshoe arches. A highlight is the Mihrab, or high altar, in a mosque.

READ : 10 Best Day Trips From Seville Spain

The Renaissance cathedral is built right in the center, sharing marble and space with the Islamic arches. The vaulted ceilings are stunning.

Be sure to go up the minaret for spectacular views of the city. You buy tickets for the tower for €2 at a separate ticket booth below the bell tower.

Click   here  to pre-purchase a ticket. Click  here  for a guided history tour of the Mezquita.

After lunch, visit the beautiful Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos. This Alcazar can’t hold a candle to Seville’s UNESCO-listed Royal Alcazar, but I thought it was still worth a visit.

Click  here  if you’d like to book a 1 hour guided tour of the alcazar. For maximum efficiency, you can also book a  combo tour of the Mezquita and the Alcazar . 

In the early evening, amble around the narrow streets of the charming old Jewish Quarter. Stroll by the Instagram popular Calleja de las Flores. It may be crammed with tourists. But there are beautiful flowers and patios everywhere in Cordoba.

Go into the Jewish synagogue. Say hello to the nearby statue of Maimonides, an influential medieval Jewish philosopher.

Stroll across the stunning Roman Bridge, both a UNESCO site and a Game of Thrones filming location.

READ : Cordoba’s Roman Bridge

Cordoba features some of Spain’s most traditional dishes. Try a potato omelette at Bar Santos or pistos at Taberna San Miguel Casa El Pisto. If you want a luxe experience, reserve at the Michelin-starred Celia Jimenez.

Where To Stay In Cordoba

The  Patio del Posadero Hotel Boutique B&B  is an ultra chic boutique hotel housed in a fully restored 15th century house. The  Hotel Hospes Palacio del Bailio  is a luxury hotel in a palatial 16th century building. It comes complete with Moorish flourishes and frescos.

The  Hotel Viento 10  is a swish boutique hotel in a Moorish style house. It has a rooftop terrace with a great view of the Mezquita.

Finally, the  Hotel Madinat  is an upscale hotel housed in a superbly restored 18th century mansion. It’s a mix of contemporary styling and Arab flourishes. The hotel has two terraces and a rooftop watch tower.

Day 6: Drive From Cordoba To Granada, Stop in Antequera and Explore Granada

It’s a 2 hour+ drive from Cordoba to Granada. If you want to break up the trip, the best and most direct stop is a hidden gem in Andalusia — Antequera.

This adorable Spanish-Baroque town is fittingly dubbed the “Florence of Andalusia.” It’s also called the “heart” of Andalusia because it’s in the center of the province.

If you’re day tripping, there’s a lot to do. Park your car on the outskirts of town and walk up Calle Don Infante.

Antequera boasts an impressive Moorish fortress-alcazaba, a lovely Renaissance church, and a stunning medieval and baroque historical core. You’ll have an eyeful of swoonful scenery.

Antequera’s greatest historic landmark, the ancient megaliths/dolmens, are outside the old town. You’ll see signs. The Bronze Age dolmens are among the oldest things on the planet. They are essentially Spain’s Stonehenge.

The dolmens are ancient burial grounds that were declared a UNESCO site in 2016. They’re one of the most remarkable engineering and architectural works of European pre-history and an important example of European Megalithism.

For more details and information, check out my guide to visiting the town of Antequera and guide to Antequera’s UNESCO dolmens .

After a little over an hour drive from Antequera, you land in Granada. Aim for a late afternoon arrival so you can spend some time wandering through the grit and glitz of Granada.

Granada will sweep you away with its authentic Spanish vibe and dazzling attractions . Lorded over by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is an absolutely beautiful ancient city with historic architecture.

Granada boasts many atmospheric neighborhoods, each with an earthy distinct character. It’s home to the mighty Alhambra, a Moroccan souk, a massive cathedral, flamenco music, and — perhaps best of all — free tapas.

When you arrive in Granada, settle in and then wander around the old Arab neighborhood of the Albaicin, or Albayzin. Built on a steep hill, it’s an ancient area with a fetching maze of tight tangled winding streets and a bohemian feel. The lively place was declared a UNESCO site in 1984.

The main drags in the Albaicin, which both run parallel to the River Darro, are Paseo de los Tristes and Carrera del Darro. Amidst a jasmine scented breeze, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, tapas bars, and even street performers. You can enjoy a sunset view of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada Mouintinas at Mirador San Nicolás.

Day 7: Explore Granada

Start day 7 of your 10 days in Spain at Granada’s marquis site, the UNESCO-listed Alhambra, the palace-fortress of Spain’s Moorish monarchs. It takes more than half a day to explore properly.

The first time slot is at 8:00 am. Grab some breakfast to fortify yourself at the nearby Restaurante Jardines Alberto. Or, eat in the city center before heading uphill.

The Alhambra is one of the most popular and best sites in southern Spain, and even in the world. It stands on a stunning piece of real estate, high on Sabika Hill, with panoramic views over Granada and the beautiful countryside.

Here’s my complete  guide to visiting the Alhambra . More than any other attraction I’ve mentioned, you MUST have a  ticket to visit the Alhambra  and reserve it well (weeks) in advance. There’s so much to see at the Alhambra that you may want to book a  guided tour .

The highlights of the Alhambra are the Alcazaba, the Charles V Palace, and the jaw dropping Nasrid Palace. The Nasrid Palace offers the world’s finest example of the refined, intricate, and elegant architectural style of the Moorish civilization.

When you’re done with the lavish palaces, spend an hour or so in the beautiful Generalife Gardens.

READ : Must see sites in Granada

Grab some lunch and then visit the ornate tombs of Spain’s dynasty-builders Ferdinand and Isabella. They reigned over the Christianization of Granada and the exploration of the “new” Americas. 10 minutes away, visit Granada Cathedral in Granada’s historic center.

Granada Cathedral is a massive affair. It’s the second largest cathedral in Spain after Seville Cathedral and the fourth largest cathedral in the world.

The cathedral’s a mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles. Inside, there’s a towering interior, a grand altar, and side chapels.

Click  here   to book a guided tour of the chapel and cathedral.

In the afternoon, explore the otherworldly barrio of Sacromonte, home to Granada’s Roma community. Time stands still in this unusual rustic quarter of Granada.

For centuries, Sacromonte was the home of gypsies, bohemians, artists, and foreign refuges. Sacromonte also sports one of the most mesmerizing views of the Alhambra.

On your final evening in Granada, take a walking tour in Sacromonte or take in a flamenco show .

Or, spend a couple hours relaxing at Granada’s ancient Arab baths, Hammam Al Andalus.

Where To Stay In Granada

The Eurostars Catedra l is a lovely hotel housed in a 16th century manor, just a short walk from the cathedral. The Catalonia Granada is a lovely hotel that comes complete with a plunge pool and open air terrace.

If you want a place where tradition and avant garde style meet, check out the Hospes Palacio de los Patos . It’s housed in a UNESCO-listed palace, with sprawling gardens, a spa, and mosaic floors.

Day 8: Drive From Granada To Seville, Stop in Ronda

Get up bright and early and drive from Granada to Ronda, which takes 2 hours. Ronda is the third most visited town in Andalusia. You can orient yourself with a walking tour .

And there’s a a reason — it’s beyond dramatic. Ronda is perched on a mountainous gash carved by the Río Guadalevín. Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo.

The famed bridge connects the old and newish parts of the town over the 328 feet El Tajo gorge. There’s a staircase leading to the floor of the gorge, for a different viewing perspective.

Ronda is also famed as the birthplace of bullfighting. The city’s Plaza de Toros is one of Ronda’s most popular attractions, thanks to its beautiful architecture. It’s ringed with double rows of columns, lending it a Neo-Classical look.

If you want to delve more deeply into Spain’s bullfighting culture, head to the Museum of Bullfighting . You’ll even find some sketches depicting the “art” (not sport) of bullfighting by Goya.

Aside from the bridge, Ronda itself is beautiful — plenty of cozy town squares, cobblestone alleys, balconies everywhere, and lovely architecture. You can visit the Mondragon Palace and the Arabic Baths, if you’re feeling ambitious.

From Ronda, it’s a 1:45 drive to beautiful Sevilla, your final base. If you enjoyed Ronda (and because of all the driving), you’ll probably arrive late. But, in this itinerary, you’ll still have two blissy days to explore sun-drenched and sultry Seville.

Day 9: Explore Seville

On day 9, begin exploring your last stop on this itinerary, Sevilla. It’s one of Europe’s best and most beautiful destinations. Seville is a happy wonderful-to-be-alive place, teeming with people, scented orange blossoms, and flamenco music.

Seville is lord over by one of the world’s most colossal Gothic cathedrals. It’s a seductive mix of Mudéjar palaces, ornate baroque churches, colorful tiles, and shady cobblestone lanes. You can feast on inventive tapas, ice cold beer, and sweet sherry. At any hour of the day, no less.

You’ll likely spend the bulk of your first day visiting Seville’s top 2 attractions — the Royal Alcazar and Seville Cathedral.

The Royal Alcazar is one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures, a centuries old complex of palaces and fortifications, lovely courtyards, and extensive gardens bursting with orange, purple, and green colors.

It’s a breathtaking 10th century palace that King Pedro the Cruel gave a 14th century Mudejar facelift.

Inside, the highlights are the Hall of the Ambassadors, the Courtyard of the Maidens, the Courtyard of the Dolls, and the Hall of Tapestries in the Gothic Palace. The Ambassador’s Hall, or Throne Room, is the big showstopper. It’s nicknamed the “Half Orange” Room, in honor of its gilded cedar domed ceiling.

Outside, there’s a series of verdant lush gardens. They are an exotic, labyrinthian paradise, encompassing 80% of the Alcazar grounds.

Don’t miss the Baths of Maria De Padilla, King Pedro’s mistress. The baths are one of the Alcazar’s Game of Thrones filming locations , a place where the Sand Snakes plot.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the magnificent Royal Alcazar . It’s my favorite place in all of southern Spain.

You absolutely must  pre-book tickets  in advance, or you’ll waste time stuck in a long line. The Alcazar is also well worth booking a  guided tour  to see the complex.

Then, visit Seville Cathedral, the world’s largest cathedral. In 1402, after vanquishing the Moors in the Reconquista, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella began work in earnest on a Gothic style cathedral. They wanted a showy display of Seville’s wealth, power, and influence.

There are 15 doors on the cathedral’s four facades and each one features a unique relief or carving. The nave is the longest in the world.

The glittering altar is elaborately detailed and finished in gold leaf. Along the sides, you can explore 80 chapels and the tomb of Christopher Columbus.

Click  here  for a skip the line ticket to this magnificent cathedral. You can combine the alcazar and the cathedral on a single  guided tour  as well. 

In the evening, head to Seville’s Barrio Santa Cruz for wandering, cocktails, and dinner. It’s a popular district within the city — a mass of tangled cobbled streets with tiny palazzos and tile covered patios.

Some streets are so impossibly narrow and romantic, they’re called “kissing lanes.” There are orange trees everywhere.

Be sure to wander down Calle Agua, the Water Street. It leads to Plaza Alfaro, where you’ll find a home that may have inspired the balcony scene in Romeo and Juliet . Or take a romantic horse drawn carriage ride .

You can also book a 1 hour guided walking tour of the neighborhood.

When you’re ready for dinner, try Taberna Peregil, Vineria San Telmo, or La Bartola.

Day 10: Explore Seville

On your second day in Seville, head to the Plaza de Espana, one of Seville’s most famous landmarks. It was built to host the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.

The plaza has a fetching mix of Baroque, Renaissance Revival, and Moorish Revival styles. The highlight is the Spanish Pavilion, a sweeping half circle structure with rose gold brick buildings.

The tiles show historical scenes and maps from the 49 provinces of Spain arranged in alphabetical order. Entry to the plaza is completely free. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, admiring the square. Then stroll in the adjacent Maria Louisa Park, a lovely green space.

Spend your afternoon in the Triana neighborhood, Seville’s former gypsy quarter. Triana is sprinkled with history, flamencos, tapas, and everything Andalusian.

It’s not nearly as crowded as Barrio Santa Cruz. And it’s chock full of colorful houses, small tapas cafes, mosaic tiles, and the Isabel II Bridge. Triana has one of Seville’s liveliest markets, the Mercado de Triana. Triana is also where you can stock up on beautiful Spanish ceramics.

If you want to have dinner in Triana, there are plenty of options. Try Bar Amarra (seafood), Paco Espana (tapas), or Casa Ruperto (quail). Vegetarians can head to Vegan 10.

Triana is also a good place to go on a guided food tour or a gourmet tapas tour .

More time in Seville? If you have an extra day, here’s my detailed 3 day itinerary for Seville , which takes you to more of Seville’s must visit attractions and some hidden gems.

Where To Stay In Seville

Air Bnb is a good option in Seville. There are also some beautiful boutique hotels.

My picks would be:  Hotel Colon Gran Melia ,  Suites Machado , or  Hotel Casa del Poeta .

I also think Barrio Santa Cruz is a great, and more quiet, place to stay. In this area, you could book at  Hotel Casa 1800 Seville  (timeless elegance) or the  EME Catedral Hotel  (sumptuous hotel with a roof terrace, Michelin restaurant, and spa).

Tips for Driving in Spain

I feel like driving in Spain is fairly easy. You just have to avoid driving into the historic center of a small town or driving in big cities like Madrid or Seville.

Only use your car to head out of town from those cities and get around Spain.

READ : Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

You’ll need an international driver’s license for Spain. Book your car early and get the smallest one possible. If you can drive a manual transmission, a rental car is much less expensive. Choose the smallest car possible that will accommodate you, your traveling companions, and luggage.

I would purchase full insurance just in case. There are routine radar speed traps all across Spain. On the spot fines are outrageous. So let the speedy Spaniards drive on by you.

Have some cash handy for paying tolls. Bring your own GPS (phone, iPad) and have an eternal charger handy to keep it charged up.

I have you’ve enjoyed this 10 day Spain road trip itinerary. You may enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

• 10 Day Itinerary for Andalusia
• 10 day itinerary from Barcelona to Bilbao
• 3 days in Barcelona itinerary
• Landmarks in Barcelona
• 1 week itinerary for northern Spain
• 10 day itinerary for Basque Spain
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 3 Day Itinerary for Barcelona
• Famous Landmarks in Spain
• Guide To Bilbao Spain

If you’d like to road trip or travel from Madrid to Seville, pin it for later

4 thoughts on “10 Days In Spain Itinerary, a Classic Route From Madrid To Seville”

Hi, do you have one for a road trip from Lisbon to Barcelona, please? Thank you

No I haven’t written that yet. But it’s a brilliant idea. I will put it on my list.

This is a great plan. Our daughter is in Valencia so we will be coming from Valencia and thinking about using your plan and travel from Seville to Madrid. Looking forward to it!

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Last Updated on April 6, 2022 by Leslie Livingston

Wander-Lush

The Ultimate Spanish Road Trip Itinerary: Barcelona to Seville

Plan your dream road trip through Spain with this epic Spanish road trip itinerary! I’ll show you how to spend a perfect 3 weeks in Spain travelling from Barcelona to Seville, plus everything you need to know about renting a car to self drive in Spain.

I was part-way through planning a six-week Eurotrip with my partner when I became fixated on visiting Spain.

Spain had never really factored into my travel plans. But as soon as I realised just how much variety the country has to offer – from majestic mountain villages and enthralling cities to romantic small towns and a postcard-perfect coastline – not to mention the sheer number of historical and UNESCO sites held within its borders – I decided we should spend a whole three weeks in Spain.

Wanting to pack as much into our short stay as possible, we thought renting a car for a Spanish road trip would be the best way to see the main sights plus a few smaller towns.

We were right – the action-packed Spain itinerary we devised saw us criss-cross the country from north to south, taking in most of the country’s top attractions .

Spain is one of the top places for a self drive holiday in Europe. Both rental cars and petrol are relatively affordable. Travelling in shoulder season (November), we were often the only car on the road. For the most part, parking is cheap, even in hot spots like San Sebastian.

Best of all, having our own transport opened up a lot of opportunities to visit smaller towns and squeeze more into each day than our slow travel style would normally permit. Our trip was certainly fast-paced, but it was worth it to get a good overview of Spain in a short period.

This tried-and-tested itinerary for a three week self drive road trip across Spain includes my top recommended activities for key cities, ideas for where to break the journey, some handy Spain driving tips, and much more.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Where to hire a car in Spain

Hiring a car in Spain is an efficient and affordable way to see a large part of the country in a short period of time. Since a lot of visitors drive in Spain, the market for rental cars is competitive, meaning you can usually get a pretty good deal.

We planned our Spain road trip from Barcelona, so we decided to rent our car on our last day in the city. I recommend collecting your car from Barcelona-Sants train station because it’s easy to get to using public transport, and easy to leave from to get to the highway.

There are two main things to consider when choosing a hire car: transmission type, and size of the vehicle. Manual cars are much more ubiquitous in Spain so it can be harder to find an automatic car to rent. In addition, you should prioritise hiring a small car that will be easier to park on the street and can better navigate narrow village roads (these were our two biggest qualms about driving in Spain!).

Discover Cars lets you easily browse and compare different rentals cars from a variety of international and local agents. It lets you choose the exact features you want, and offers a full range of price and date options so you can find the best value for money. Visit Discover Cars and plug in your dates to see what’s available .

At the end of the itinerary, I’ve included a few driving tips for Spain.

About this Spain itinerary

Looking back over our itinerary makes my head spin a little! We drove almost every day and covered a lot of ground, but by splitting the long drives up into smaller journeys, we still got to visit some interesting local towns.

Spanish highways are incredibly easy to drive on and the scenery is invariably stunning no matter where in the country you are. Because of this, driving never really feels like a drag – it’s all part of the experience.

We started our road trip in Spain from Barcelona and finished up in Seville. From there, we continued on to Tarifa by bus and caught the ferry to Tangier, Morocco. You can adapt this itinerary to create a loop, but I recommend paying the one-way car rental fee so you don’t have to backtrack. If your Spain trip ends there and you’re not continuing on to Morocco , you can fly straight out of Seville.

There are endless options and itinerary combinations for seeing Spain by car. I’m not saying mine is the best road trip in Spain – but I can tell you that it’s tried and tested. Of course there are some things missing (you can’t possibly see all of Spain in 3 weeks), but after I did this road trip, I felt like I’d seen the main highlights.

If I had my time again, I would extend our stay in Madrid by a few days.

A good way to save time is by taking advantage of the Spain day trips and tours mentioned in this itinerary. If you think there’s too much packed in, you can easily take out a few places and stay in certain locations for longer (Madrid and Granada would both be ideal places to extend your time).

How much time do you need to drive across Spain?

A Spain road trip can be as long or as short as you want it to be. As you’ll see from the map, we covered most of the country (apart from the north-west) in 21 days touring Spain by car.

Remember you don’t want to rush driving across Spain too much. Three weeks is the absolute minimum amount of time you need for a Spain road trip like this one – unless you’re prepared to seriously cut down on the number of places you visit.

This 3-week self drive Spain itinerary is fast-paced, but if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Spain that you’re planning, you probably won’t mind hustling to see as much of this beautiful country as humanly possible.

If you have less time in Spain, you can do a shorter itinerary that focuses on the North of Spain (Basque Country) or the South of Spain (Andalusia).

Spanish road trip route overview & drive times

Let’s start with a basic overview of our Spain road trip itinerary and the 17 cities, towns and villages we visited in Spain in 3 weeks.

Remember you don’t have to follow this itinerary exactly – you can use it as a Spanish road trip planner to pick and choose the destinations that most appeal to you.

• Days 1-3: Barcelona
• Day 4: Barcelona to Sos del Rey Católico via Zaragoza (400km; 4.5 hours of driving)
• Day 5: Sos del Rey Católico to Bilbao via Pamplona and San Sebastián (217km; 2 hours of driving)
• Day 6: Bilbao
• Day 7: Bilbao to Madrid via Segovia (400km; 4 hours of driving)
• Day 8: Madrid
• Day 9: Madrid to Toledo (72km; 1 hour of driving)
• Day 10: Toledo to Valencia via La Mancha (270km; 4 hours of driving)
• Day 11: Valencia
• Day 12: Valencia to Cartagena (270km; 3 hours of driving)
• Day 13: Cartagena to Lanjarón (330km; 3.5 hours of driving)
• Day 14: White Villages and the Sierra Nevada
• Day 15: Lanjarón to Granada (46km; 45 minutes of driving)
• Day 16: Granada to Córdoba (200km; 2.5 hours of driving)
• Day 17: Córdoba
• Day 18: Córdoba to Seville (145km; 1.75 hours of driving)
• Days 19-20: Seville
• Day 21: Depart Seville – or Seville to Tangier via Tarifa

This Spain itinerary covers a whopping 2,450km (1,523 miles). Remember that not all the driving is back-to-back, there are some rest days in between!

Spanish road trip map

Detailed self drive Spain itinerary

This section includes a detailed day-by-day breakdown of our 3 weeks in Spain, including the best things to do in each city, where to stay, and where to break up longer drives.

Vivacious Barcelona is the perfect place to start your Spain road trip itinerary. Capital of the autonomous Catalonia region and the second-largest city behind Madrid, Barcelona is quintessentially Spanish and offers a perfect introduction to many of the things that make Spain so great – incredible architecture, beautiful beaches, and fabulous cuisine.

On top of that, Barcelona is logistically the best place to start a trip through Spain. It’s home to an international airport, a train station with services from most other countries in the region (we arrived by night train from Geneva), and a ferry terminal.

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Barcelona to get a good feel for the city and see the main highlights. The city has a great public transport system, so you don’t need a car here – in fact, it would be a major burden.

I highly recommend picking your car up on the day you leave Barcelona. Most rental companies have offices at Barcelona-Sants, the city’s main train station. This is a good place to start as the traffic isn’t too hectic and you can easily get to the highway.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is huge – where you stay can make or break your trip. Take some time to familiarise yourself with Barcelona’s inner-city neighbourhoods so you can make an informed decision.

Here are a few recommendations for where to stay in Barcelona – car or no car.

• Ayre Hotel Rosellón . Located in the shadow of the Sagrada Familia, you won’t find a better patio view anywhere else in Barcelona (just look at the pictures if you don’t believe me!). Parking at the hotel is guaranteed and only costs a modest 16 Euros extra per night.
• Barcelona Catedral Hotel . This modern boutique hotel has light-filled, spacious suites, a rooftop pool and patio, and offers free walking tours for guests. Note that secure parking costs a bit extra, and you’ll need to reserve a spot in advance.
• Motel One Barcelona-Ciutadella . Don’t let the name ‘motel’ fool you – this is a boutique hotel through and through. If you can tear yourself away from the trendy lounge-bar and rooftop terrace overlooking the city, it’s a short 20-minute walk to Las Ramblas. Private parking is offered at a nearby location and costs an extra 20 Euros.
• Unite Hostel Barcelona . My top budget choice in Barcelona, this boutique hostel offers dorms and private rooms, all bright, clean and minimally furnished. The yoga studio and co-working spaces are the cherry on top. Reserve on-site parking in advance for 18 Euros/night.

Things to do in Barcelona

In all honesty, planning a Barcelona itinerary can be a bit overwhelming. There’s just so much to see and do. I’m only recommending a few select activities and restaurants that we really enjoyed – know that there is a lot more out there!

Start by pounding the pavement on Sandeman ‘s free city walking tour . This will help you get your bearings while introducing you to some of Barcelona’s must-sees, including the Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral.

La Sagrada Familia , the grand cathedral designed by Gaudi, is the symbol of Barcelona. You should prioritise visiting on your first or second morning. Skip-the-queue tickets are essential – or else you risk spending hours waiting in line. Pre-buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Sagrada Familia online.

Gaudi’s other works in Barcelona, including the iconic Park Güell Monumental Zone (buy fast-track tickets here ) and Casa Batlló are absolutely worth a visit as well. Even if you’re not that interested in architecture, these buildings all capture the spirit of Barcelona and tell a fascinating story of Spanish and Catalonian history. The experience is even richer if you’re accompanied by a guide who can illuminate the symbology.

Ride an e-bike around the gorgeous Gothic Quarter to explore one of Barcelona’s most charming neighbourhoods. For a break from the hubbub, head for the hills and spend an afternoon wandering around the cactus gardens at Montjuïc . Take the cable car over La Barceloneta beach for fantastic views, and visit the beach itself if the weather is right.

Don’t skimp on the food, either! Barcelona is packed with incredible restaurants . We especially loved eating Spanish ‘ hamburguesas ‘ at Hamburguesería Bacoa and pigging out on homemade churros at Bar Churrería Layetana . If you’re a foodie, this market to table tour of Mercado de La Boqueria , Barcelona’s biggest produce market, is a must-do.

Take advantage of the free entry to Museu Picasso every Friday night – it’s busy, but it’s a wonderful experience. And for something truly memorable, try to see a gig at the Palau de la Música Catalana (we watched an unforgettable performance by the late, great Sharon Jones). If there’s nothing on, I highly recommend booking in for a short guided tour – it’s truly one of the most majestic buildings I’ve ever been in (aside from Sagrada Familia!).

Recommended day trips from Barcelona

If you decide to extend your stay in Barcelona, there are lots of fantastic day trip opportunities within a few hours’ drive of the city.

• Get your Game of Thrones on in charming Girona
• Visit family run wineries and taste tapas in the Penedès region
• Discover the mysteries of Montserrat solo or with a guide

No car? This 12-day journey around Spain by train , starting from Barcelona, takes in some of the country’s best cities and beaches.

It’s time to hit the road! After collecting your car in Barcelona, start heading due west towards the Bay of Biscay. The drive to Zaragoza takes 3 hours. If you want to make it in time for lunch, try to leave the city as early as possible (by 8am at the latest). That way you’ll also beat most of the traffic.

Zaragoza lies smack-bang in the middle of northern Spain. Capital of the autonomous Aragon region, it’s one of the country’s most underrated cities and an ideal place to break for lunch and a short walk.

On reaching Zaragoza, we stopped at a small tavern in the shadow of the Aljafería Palace and ate a bowl of fideos negros (black noodles simmered in fish stock). There are plenty of restaurants and gastrobars around the river, close to the historic centre. However, it might be tricky to find a car park, so I recommend heading to the city’s western fringe like we did.

Sos del Rey Católico

When I picture an archetypal Spanish town, the Sos is what comes to mind. This little village on the frontier of the Pyrenees is located another 1.5 hours’ drive north of Zaragoza, so I recommend leaving after lunch no later than 1pm to maximise your time in Sos.

Ferdinand II of Aragón, husband of Isabel I of Castilla and one-half of the most influential royal couple in Spanish history, was born here in Sos. The little town is loaded with history and packed with charm.

The town is petite and easily navigated during an evening or early morning stroll ; admire the flower boxes, pop in and out of charcuterie shops, and listen to the church bells toll.

We stayed a night at the Parador de Sos del Rey , which sits on a low rise overlooking the Sos’ ancient cobbled streets (you might recognise it from the 2017 film The Trip to Spain ) and had a very memorable meal at the Parador’s Cinco Villas-themed restaurant.

Where to stay in Sos del Rey: Hotels with parking

• Parador de Sos del Rey Catolico . It’s honestly worth the splurge to stay at this Parador. Set in a historic Aragonese mansion that overhangs Sos’s winding streets, it’s one of the most romantic hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending a night in. Rooms are plush as, and the set dinner at the on-site restaurant is a must-try (I’ve never eaten so much food in my life). Parking on the grounds is free and easy.
• El Peiron . For a budget-friendly alternative, this hotel has a similar 17th century ambiance. Cozy rooms feature large beds and exposed stone walls. The location on Sos’s main street, close to some of the village’s best tapas bars, will make you feel like you’re part of the city (unlike the Parador, which makes you feel like absolute royalty). Free street parking is available near the hotel.

On your next full day of driving, break the 2-hour journey to the Bay of Biscay by stopping off in Pamplona for lunch. This will be your first taste of Basque Country tapas ! Pamplona is the perfect place to practice the art of ordering ahead of your arrival in San Sebastián.

Outside of the famous San Fermin (Running of the Bulls) cultural festival , which takes place in Pamplona every July, the streets are surprisingly peaceful and sparse. Bakeries and boutiques run the length of the main pedestrian drag and are well worth a browse.

San Sebastián

Most people head straight for San Sebastián’s pintxos bars , but don’t forget to take a stroll along the waterfront promenade , too. After a day’s drive, this is exactly what you need to stretch your legs and re-fuel.

We spent a few early evening hours in San Sebastián, and while I didn’t really fall head over heels for the town like I’ve known other people to do, it’s a worthwhile stopover on the way to Bilbao. If food is in your wheelhouse, you can easily switch your itinerary and stay in San Sebastián instead of Bilbao.

Bilbao and San Sebastián are only an hour’s drive apart, so you can plausibly stay in one city and visit the other as a day trip. If I had my time again, I would probably stay in San Sebastián instead.

The futuristic Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s main attraction, but I found the rest of the city a little bland. One full day is ample time to see the museum and explore Bilbao’s riverfront.

In 24 hours, you can discover the city by bicycle and tour a few of the key Game of Thrones filming locations around Bilbao. An in-depth Basque County gastronomy tour is worth considering if you’re particularly interested in food and wine (let’s face it, if you’re planning a trip around Spain, you probably are!).

Where to stay in Bilbao: Hotels with parking

• Hesperia Bilbao . These trendy self-contained apartments are a 10-minute walk from the city centre (just across the river from the Guggenheim) and feature everything you need for a comfortable stay in Bilbao. There’s even a Japanese restaurant and a rooftop terrace bar – because both those things are basically travel essentials nowadays. Secure parking can’t be reserved but is available at an extra charge.
• Ercilla Hotel . For something with a touch more old-world charm, this boutique hotel offers pretty rooms with herringbone floors and chequerboard tiles. The restaurant serves traditional Basque food, and there’s a panoramic bar here as well. Park on-site for 20 Euros (reservations essential).
• Parador de Limpias . If you don’t mind staying outside the city, this Parador is a 50-minute drive from Bilbao. The former summer residence of King Alfonso, the setting amongst private gardens and a protected woodland is just divine. Free parking is plentiful.

After a short but sweet introduction to Basque Country, it’s time to leave the coast and start driving inland towards Madrid.

Segovia is 100km shy of Spain’s capital city. Coming from Bilbao, you’ll naturally pass through it – so there’s no reason not to stop off and check out two of Central Spain’s most impressive historical sights.

Aqueduct versus alcazar – when an urban landscape is a battle between the most important Roman civil engineering work in Spain and a Moorish palace so beautiful that it’s instantly recognisable from pop-culture, you know you’re in for a treat.

Segovia is a complete contrast to Madrid. Park your car on the hill leading up to the aqueduct and ease your way into the capital by wandering around this charming town for a few hours first.

Climb the concealed staircase to the right of Segovia’s UNESCO-listed aqueduct for a different perspective on this feat of engineering. Visit The Alcazar , apparently Walt Disney’s architectural inspiration when creating Cinderella’s castle.

Between 10.30am and 4.30pm you can join a 60-minute guided tour of Segovia Cathedral , another of the city’s landmarks. This particular tour also allows you to climb the 500-year-old bell tower for a panoramic view of Segovia.

And as a reward for all that walking, treat yourself to a Pasteleria Limon y Menta , Segovia’s signature pastry. It’s lemony, it’s minty, and it’s wrapped in caramelised marzipan. Yum!

If you opt to drive straight into Madrid, you can always visit Segovia on a day trip.

Our first experience of Madrid was the nightmarish drive through the city at peak hour. Don’t make the same mistake we did – try to arrive in Madrid before nightfall!

Where to stay in Madrid: Hotels with parking

• Only YOU Hotel Atocha . The design of this jaw-droppingly beautiful hotel draws on the 19th-century building its housed inside. Deluxe rooms face onto an inner courtyard and are bright and airy as a result while still feeling private. There’s a cafe, bakery and lounge, and breakfast is served on the 7th floor with city views. The Prado Museum is only 900m away, making this a great choice for museum and culture lovers. Parking on-site is guaranteed and costs extra.
• Hostal Patria Madrid . Coming in at under $100 a night, this hotel is excellent value for money in Madrid. Rooms are basic but comfortable with Scandi-style furnishings, and the location on a popular cafe strip is perfect for hungry travellers. Parking (reservation required) costs a very reasonable 17 Euros.
• Parador de Alcala de Henares . If you want to avoid driving into Madrid (smart choice!), this Parador is 45 minutes outside of Madrid. The 16th-century convent building reminds me of a Silk Road Caravanserai. There’s an outdoor pool, and parking on the grounds costs a little bit extra.

Things to do in Madrid

An easy walk or cycling tour through the city is the best way to see central Madrid. Make sure you explore the gorgeous Real Jardín Botánico , wander through the bookstalls that line Cuesta del Moyano , and top it off with sunset at the Temple of Debod , an ancient Egyptian temple that was dismantled, shipped to Spain, and reassembled in all its glory on a hill in the city centre. A live flamenco performance is the perfect way to end your first day in Spain’s capital.

For a dose of history and culture, visit Madrid’s four most iconic landmarks: The Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas , the Royal Palace , the Plaza Major , and of course the Prado Museum .

Here are my top tips for exploring historic Madrid:

• Join a tour of Las Ventas to access some of the building’s hidden nooks and crannies.
• Take in the scale of the magnificent Plaza Major on a bicycle. This 3-hour small group tour takes in many of the city’s highlights.
• Let a professional guide show you around the Throne Room, Banquet Hall and Private Royal Apartments inside the Royal Palace. This 2-hour tour is excellent value for money.
• Skip the line by buying your Prado tickets online in advance through Get Your Guide .

Recommended day trips from Madrid

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca , and its amazing ‘hanging houses’
• See the ‘three cities’, Segovia, Avila and Toledo, on a day trip (a good option if you want to condense your Spain road trip itinerary and stay longer in Madrid)
• Tour the wineries around Madrid and taste the local drop
• Cast your eyes on the surreal landscape of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen

Leaving Madrid, start your journey to Southern Spain’s enchanting Andalusia region. Over the next 12 days, you’ll be driving from Madrid to Granada and Cordoba via some of the loveliest small towns and historical villages in the country.

The first of these, Toledo , is just an hour outside Madrid. After the chaos of the capital, it’s a salve. Toledo’s mix of old-world charm, literary heritage and multicultural influences makes it one of my favourite places in all of Spain. I highly recommend staying for at least one night.

Toledo is the first place where you can see, hear and smell the Middle Eastern/North African influence that becomes more and more pronounced the further south you travel. We had a wonderful introduction to Syrian and Turkish food in Toledo, which became our go-to cuisine for the remainder of our trip.

Where to stay in Toledo: Hotels with parking

• Hotel Santa Isabel . A great budget choice at under $40 per night, this charming guesthouse is right in the heart of Toledo. Private balconies overlooking the town rooftops and a central courtyard are terribly quaint. Rooms are a bit boxy, but nicely finished and clean. Reserve parking in advance for 12 Euros per night.
• Parador de Toledo . This is another great candidate for a little splurge. Set 4km from the centre of Toledo in a low-set historic building, rooms here are a bit more outdated than at other Paradors, but the outdoor pool and panoramic terrace are lovely. Parking is free.

Toledo is the spiritual home of Don Quixote , Spain’s literary legend. A great way to see the old town is by walking the Don Quixote Trail . Alternatively, let a Toledo local show you around on a private walking tour .

Fall in love with Syrian food at Posada El Cristo de la Luz , then down a sampler box of marzipan from Santo Tome (the signature sweets of Toledo).

For more Toledo inspiration, see this list of the top 10 things to do in Toledo .

Consuegra, La Mancha

I’m a huge fan of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote , but even if you’ve never read the book, a quick detour through Spain’s iconic La Mancha landscape, with its towering windmills and patchwork fields, is an absolute delight.

Leaving Toledo and driving east, aim to arrive in the small town of Consuegra in the early morning before the tour buses pull in at around 10am.

Stop at one of the provincial bakeries for a quick bite. You can then drive all the way to the top of the hill and explore the windmills on foot.

Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia has all the charm of Barcelona and all the amenities of Madrid with a laid back, beach-town feel. This is the Orange Blossom Coast , and the streets of Valencia are lined with citrus trees (which you must pick and sample – luckily our Airbnb came with a juicer!).

Valencia is also the traditional home of paella and Spain’s signature beverage, horchata. While we weren’t all that impressed with the City of Arts and Sciences , we loved cycling through the elongated Cabecera Park that runs through the heart of the city. (Perhaps we should have opted for the rooftop wine and tapas tour instead!) If you’re an outdoorsy type, you’ll adore Valencia.

Driving in Valencia is relatively easy compared to Barcelona or Madrid, so you can stay in the city centre without having to worry too much about traffic or navigating the roads.

Where to stay in Valencia: Hotels with parking

• HQ Rooms Apartments San Vincente . Spacious and featuring all the mod-cons, this self-containted apartment sleeps up to 8 people and comes with a large private balcony. It’s 1.5km from the centre of the city, and there are bicycles available to rent for a small fee. Parking costs an extra 15 Euros.
• Palacio de Rojas . 350m from Valencia’s Central Market, it doesn’t get much more inner-city than this. The canary yellow facade, the indoor-outdoor living spaces, the high ceilings and the heavy doors… This must be one of the most beautiful hotels in all of Spain. Seriously. Palacial apartments sleep up to 9 people and all feature a full kitchenette. Underground parking is available for an additional 15 Euros.

Things to do in Valencia

You’ll probably be quite content hiring a bicycle and exploring Valencia at your own pace. If you want a deeper look, try joining a private walking tour with a local .

For a hands-on activity, I highly recommend taking a paella cooking class and learning just why Valencia is the birthplace of Spain’s most famous dish. Head to the Plaça de Santa Caterina to try a glass or horchata (or two) at one of the open-air cafes. Horchateria Santa Catalina is my personal favourite.

Three hours’ drive down the coast from Valencia, Cartagena is another of Spain’s most underrated cities. We rolled into the sleepy historic centre in the early afternoon and were greeted by a medieval festival, the annual Mercado Medieval (how’s that for timing!).

Catagena’s Roman amphitheater is one of the best-preserved in all of Europe, and exploring the state-of-the-art museum was honestly one of the most enjoyable ‘historical’ experiences I had in Spain. It’s fascinating to see how the city has been built-up around the ruins.

Cartagena is small so you only need a day or two at the most. Start by getting your bearings with a walk around the inner city. The food scene here is great, so I also recommend doing a gourmet tapas tour .

Where to stay in Cartagena: Hotels with parking

• NH Cartagena . Elegant rooms with a view of Cartagena port are the stand-out feature of this efficient hotel. It’s only 200m from the Roman Theatre but in a quiet corner of town, so you can still get a good night’s sleep. Reserve paid on-site parking at the time of booking.

The Sierra Nevada: Lanjarón and the White Villages

Leaving Cartagena behind, you’ll next be driving the coast of Spain (at least a portion of it) and dipping inland to visit one of Spain’s most beautiful natural landscapes, the Sierra Nevada.

Once you hit the mountainous Las Alpujarras region, you’ll realise what a blessing your hire car truly is. Navigating the windy, steep, narrow roads around the white villages was nail-biting at times, but I can’t imagine trying to get around any other way.

Base yourself in Lanjarón , the area’s most populous village and home to a number of quirky accommodations, including the healing retreat/yurt we stayed in.

Once a hippie mecca and still famed for its spring water and olives , Lanjarón is a gateway to the smaller villages of Pampaneira, Bubio and Capileira . If you can brave the altitude, add Trevélez (Spain’s highest settlement) to your driving itinerary.

Some of the villages take a good few hours to get between, especially in inclement weather, so I recommend setting aside at least two days to explore the area, more if you intend on hiking between the villages .

Where to stay in Sierra Nevada: Hotels with parking

• Hotel Alcadima (Lanjarón). Homely suites at this quaint little hotel are excellent value for money. Indoor and outdoor pools, plus a kids’ play area, make it a great choice for families. The restaurant specialises in roast lamb with cinnamon. Need I say more? Parking costs an extra 10 Euros.
• Enchanting Yurt (Lanjarón). One of the coolest Airbnbs we’ve ever stayed at, this whimsical yurt is set in an olive grove at the foot of the mountains. It’s absolutely magical, and the Israeli hosts are very kind and welcoming. Free parking is plentiful.
• Parador de Nerja (Nerja). Another town, another Parador! This one is a bit different because it’s set inside a modern building on a cliff top overlooking the ocean. An elevator ferries guests down to the nearby beach (how cool!). Private parking is available for an additional charge. Note that it’s a 60-minute drive to Lanjarón.

Granada boats a quixotic mix of Spanish and Moorish cultures. The Alhambra is an architectural triumph – if it’s not on your itinerary, you’re doing Spain wrong!

You need to buy tickets to the Alhambra and Generalife Palace and Gardens a day or two ahead of your visit (or a week in advance if you’re travelling in summer). The easiest way to do that is by booking online through Get Your Guide .

On the day of your visit, make sure you leave early to account for the time it takes to access the complex (which includes a long, beautiful walk through the forest if you’re using public transport).

Where to stay: Granada hotels with parking

• Eurostars Catedral . The exception location 70m from Granada Cathedral is only topped by the traditional coffered wooden ceilings inside some of the suites. Rooms are otherwise modern and luxurious with more subtle nods to the building’s history sprinkled throughout. Parking costs an extra 22 Euros per day.
• Anacapri . This 18th-century house turned boutique hotel wears its heart (and its history) on its sleeve. The inner courtyard is outstanding, and rooms are very comfortable. It’s even closer to the cathedral and just 20 minutes’ walk from the Alhambra, right next to the start of the pathway. No reservation is required for the off-site parking (an extra 20 Euros per day).
• Alhambra Palace . Just shy of the city walls to Granada’s iconic UNESCO attraction, this hillside hotel has spectacular views, Moorish-inspired decor, and of course, quick access to the Alhambra. Secure parking is off-site and costs 22 Euros.

Things to do in Granada

After the once-in-a-lifetime experience of The Alhambra, everything else pales in comparison! However, Granada has a lot more to offer, which is why I suggest staying an extra night (or even longer, if you can).

Discover the city’s most charming neighbourhoods , Albaicín and Sacromonte, on foot with a walking tour. Watch a traditional flamenco performance inside Albaycin, and treat yourself to an authentic Arabian hammam bath .

There is a secret sunset spot in the hills above Granada where you can watch the warm light bathe the entire Alhambra complex before someone flicks the switch and it lights up like a beacon on the hill. Don’t miss it!

From The Alhambra to Códoba’s Mezquita, a fascinating mosque-cum-church that is home to a set of much-photographed candy cane archways. Córdoba is an archetypal Andalusian city (my favourite in the region) and has many other offerings, including a pleasant waterfront and some incredible vegetarian restaurants.

Every year, Córdoba hosts the Patio Festival , which showcases the amazing indoor gardens that are a traditional part of every home here. Make sure you peek inside a few doorways as you’re wandering the town’s lanes. This is also a good place to catch a Flamenco/equestrian show – our pick is the Royal Stables of Córdoba .

Where to stay: Córdoba hotels with parking

• Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero . This intriguing little hotel features bespoke rooms and a beautiful patio (as is the style in Cordoba). The outdoor swimming pool and terrace lounge are perfect for summer. Reserved parking costs extra.
• Hotel Cordoba Center . A bit further from the mosque, this ultra modern hotel sits on the city’s Golden Block next to the AVE Train Station. The 7th floor pool and Jacuzzi are particularly noteworthy, but it lacks the charm of some other Cordoba hotels. Non-reserved parking is located on site.
• Parador de Cordoba . It’s almost your last chance to stay in a Parador! Cordoba’s is a fine choice – another renovated summer palace, it’s located north of the centre and boasts a massive pool plus sprawling gardens (the grounds, Los Naranjos, are where the first palms brought to Europe were planted.) Rooms are extremely spacious and well-appointed. Parking is free.

Things to do in Córdoba

Join the official Mezquita tour (price includes entry) and see this incredible UNESCO mosque-cathedral up close. In the summer, cycle the waterfront on a bicycle tour , or visit seven of Cordoba’s most impressive patio gardens and learn about the history of the city’s courtyard tradition.

If you have an extra day, venture outside the city to see the impressive Azahara Medina .

An entire day can easily be spent inside Seville’s Alcazar complex , another incredible palace – this time in the Andalucian style – that mirrors The Alhambra in its layout and design. GoT fans will recognise the Alcazar as the setting for the Water Gardens of Dorne.

Seville is a sun-bathed walking city, and the Plaza de Espana , Barrio Santa Cruz and Parque de Maria Luisa are all worth a wander.

I found Seville a lot grungier than other places in Spain. The streets are filled with cool v intage stores and hip cafes , and the city has a great vibe.

We returned our rental car in Seville and got around the city very easily using public transport. I recommend you do the same.

Where to stay in Seville: Hotels with parking

• Hotel Las Casas de la Judería . If it’s atmosphere you want, look no further. This charming hotel is set with 27 traditional houses (yes, it’s big), all connected by courtyards and internal passageways. Traditional decor including antique furniture and French windows is straight from the history books, while the rooftop pool brings the property up to date. Some of the rooms are just spectacular – I couldn’t imagine a better way to end your Spain road trip than with a few nights here. The location in the old Jewish Quarter means there’s lots to be explored nearby, including the cathedral, which is just a 7-minute walk away. Off-site parking costs 24 Euros.
• Melia Sevilla . Modern, minimal and a complete contrast to the previous property, this hotel is centrally positioned off Plaza España. Twin hot tubs and a hamman round-out the ample services. Public parking near the hotel costs 24 Euro. Staff can help you coordinate, but I recommend you return your hire car before you check in.
• Hotel Rey Alfonso X . This trendy hotel features a summer pool that overlooks Seville’s oldest church. Business-like rooms are smart if not a little soulless. On-site parking costs extra (enquire at the time of booking).

Things to do in Seville

The Alcazar should be top of your list for things to do in Seville. This skip-the-line ticket includes a guided tour.

Marvel at Seville’s Cathedral and Giralda Tower , watch a flamenco show at Museo del Baile Flamenco (the birthplace of this Intangible Heritage icon), and walk through the gorgeous Santa Cruz Jewish Quarter (don’t forget your camera!).

If you want to get even further off the beaten path in Seville , I highly recommend this alternative market and walking tour .

Seville is a great place for a Spanish cooking class . This one shows you how to prep several popular Seville-style tapas , and includes bottomless sangria.

Recommended day trips from Seville

• The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar is just a short drive from Seville
• See Ronda , a small town set on a dramatic gorge
• Village hop through the Andalusian countryside
• Visit the port city of Cadiz and the Moorish Jerez, two of Southern Spain’s most stunning cities
• Get another stamp in that passport! – take a full day trip from Seville to Tangier, Morocco

Quick tips for driving in Spain

Here are a few pointers to make your Spain road trip as smooth as possible.

Things to remember when renting a car in Spain

Obtain an International Driving Permit before you leave home. Most rental car companies require an IDP by law (you also have to carry your regular driver’s license).

Book your rental car well ahead of time , especially if you want an automatic transmission as they are in short supply. We could only find a few automatic cars available in Barcelona, and they were more expensive than manual. I highly recommend using Discover Cars to compare rental prices and reserve your car in advance .

Choose the smallest car possible. In between the narrow village streets and tight street parking spaces, you’ll want to go with the smallest car you feel comfortable with. Driving around Spain in a small car (a Hyundai or a Corolla, for example) is perfectly safe provided you stick to the highways and don’t go off-road.

Bring your own GPS (with maps for Spain and Portugal pre-loaded) to avoid the GPS rental fee. Alternatively, use your phone to navigate with Google Maps or Maps.Me – it works just fine, provided you have the map pre-downloaded for offline use or you have a Spanish sim card with plenty of data.

General driving tips & Spain road rules

Plan your route to avoid toll roads. Some tolls are very expensive – up to 20 Euros – but we managed to avoid most of these by taking indirect roads and alternate highways.

Avoid driving in the bigger cities , especially Madrid. Pick up and drop off your hire car from an office in the outer suburbs or the airport to avoid inner-city congestion.

Note the blood alcohol limit. If you plan on visiting any wineries while you’re driving across Spain, remember that the blood alcohol limit in Spain is 0.05% (or 0.01% if you’ve had your license for 24 months or less).

Tips for parking in Spain

Look for ‘Blue Zones’. If you’re visiting cities and towns for the day and need a place to leave your car away from your accommodation, you’ll need to get a grasp on how the street parking works in Spain. Blue Zones (portions of curb marked with a blue line) designate paid parking spots. Wherever you see Blue Zones, you’ll see a meter or automatic machine nearby where you need to register your car. Take the ticket and display it prominently on the dash, with the date and times face-up.

Yellow lines designate disable parking spots. You’ll need a displayed permit to park here. Other coloured zones vary from city to city but usually indicate Resident Zones. If you’re not registered to a nearby address, you obviously can’t park here.

Park during siesta hours. Depending on the city, metered parking is sometimes free between 2pm and 4pm Monday to Friday and after 2pm on Saturdays. If you want to save a buck, try finding a car park during siesta hours.

What to pack for your Spain road trip

A few of my favourite must-pack essentials to make your road trip around Spain comfortable, safe and hassle-free.

Travel insurance for Spain

The one thing I never travel without. When it comes to medical expenses, accidents, travel delays and the like, preferred partner for long-term travel insurance is SafetyWing .

When renting a car, make sure you read the PDS to see what you’re already covered for. I always recommend purchasing extra insurance just in case, either via the rental agent or through a provider such as Insurance4CarHire.

Handy gadgets

Travel adapters. If you carry a universal adapter, you’ll never get caught out with the wrong plug. This portable travel plug works in more than 150 countries (including Spain and the rest of the EU) and features 4 USB ports for charging multiple phones/iPads at once.

USB phone charger. Don’t let your phone run flat while you’re in the car. You can plug your regular charging cable directly into this Anker USB car charger . It works with most phones and iPads.

Car mount phone holder. Using a phone while driving is illegal in Spain. If you plan on using your phone to navigate around, you’ll need to use a mobile phone mount. This travel-friendly phone holder fits any phone or phone case, and has a 360-degree rotating cradle.

Lightweight cooler bag. An insulated bag to keep your drinks and road trip snacks cool is especially useful in summer. This simple family-size cool bag packs down into a neat, flat little bundle that you can easily squeeze into your suitcase.

Wine Wings. Whether you’re road tripping or not, these handy non-leak wine bottle protectors are one of my favourite travel items for Europe. Essential if you want to bring a few bottles of Spanish vino home with you!

Eco travel essentials

Refillable water bottle. It’s crucial to stay hydrated in Spain, especially in the warmer months. Tap water in most cities and towns is potable. As you drive through the mountains around the Sierra Nevada you’ll see fresh-water springs by the side of the road where you can fill up your water bottle (this was one of my favourite things about road tripping in Spain!). I highly recommend S’Well insulated bottles because they look good, stay cool for up to 12 hours, and they don’t sweat.

Reusable coffee cup. You’ll probably be drinking a lot of coffee in Spain. It’s always a good idea to bring a reusable cup that you can take with you in the car. This gorgeous gold barista-friendly travel mug is vacuum sealed (zero chance of a spill!) and will allow you to cut down on plastic and paper waste.

What to wear in Spain

Good walking shoes. Even if you’re on a Spain road trip, you’re still going to be spending a lot of time pounding the pavement (and cobblestone streets!). Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely essential. To cut down on luggage, we carry ‘stylish’ walking shoes in Europe that we can also wear out at night.

Sunglasses. Some highways in Spain are quite exposed – I guarantee you’ll be reaching for your sunglasses on the first day. Bring your favourite pair of polarized lenses, or pick up a pair of foldable travel sunglasses .

Loose, comfortable clothing. There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable in the car. Pack a pair of travel leggings or yoga pants plus a few comfy t-shirts for longer driving days. A comfy travel cardigan like this one is a must-pack for winter in Spain.

Essential reading

A copy of Lonely Planet Spain. This essential guidebook for Spain is the perfect Spain road trip companion. As well as planning and logistics, it includes useful Spanish phrases and detailed information about Spain’s top tourist sites.

A copy of Back Roads Spain. This little book is a bit light on practical information, but it does contain some beautiful photos. Great inspiration for getting off the beaten track in Spain.

Spain paper map. Good for peace of mind if your sat nav fails you. Even if you don’t use it for navigating, you can still plot out your route and hold onto the map for a nice souvenir! This map is current for this year and covers both Spain and Portugal.

I hope you’ll agree that this is one of the best routes through Spain by car for first-time visitors who want to pack everything in. Are you planning a self drive Spain itinerary for your next road trip? Leave your questions in the comments!

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50 Comments

This is such a great post, we did a very similar route over three months! We didn’t realise just how much we would fall in love with Spain.

Whilst in Spain, we were crashed into TWICE!!! both times when we were parked!! Although there is nothing we could have done to prevent this – I thought I would let you guys know! Spanish drivers can be crazy – even in a parking lot!!

Sorry to hear that Christie! Hope you still had a fun time!

Really love your post on spain. Just wondering if this will work also in winter in dec?

Hi Jaime, I don’t see why not – I was there at the start of winter and the weather was nice, roads quiet, etc. You might have to make some small adjustments for the mountain roads. Happy travels!

I travelled around Spain in a campervan from January to March this year and the weather was great. Even on the coldest days, the temperature was really mild and completely manageable. Bilbao was the only place that even felt remotely “wintery”, but with that being said, I’d take a Spanish winter over a Scottish winter any day!! I would 100% recommend visiting Spain over winter as it is not overcrowded with tourists and the weather is still good enough to do most outdoor excursions!

Looks wonderful! I recommend renting a car and driving off the road to get to know the culture and customs of people in the provinces. It is such a cultural and spiritual journey.

Amazing road trip! In Spain there is so many places to visit from the north with beautiful nature to the south with cultural impact. Love your style of writing.

Dear Emily, thanks for sharing your invaluable experience and tips. I’ve never been to Spain (but I will soon), except for the Canary Islands, so this thorough guide is just priceless while planning a trip. After seeing the super narrow streets on Tenerife, I can totally vouch for hiring the smallest car. We were lucky enough to hire a really small one while traveling around Tenerife. Otherwise, it would have been impossible to pass some of the roads, especially when there was a bus in our way.

Absolutely! We had a terrible (but also hilarious) experience with our car in Bilbao… Smaller is definitely the way to go in Spain!

Enjoy your trip!

Dear Emily, Thank you so much for sharing with us your great experience in spain, I’m very glad to read your trip report and happy to hear that you enjoyed it.

Regards, Hamid

Hey Emily, Love your travel blog. I was just wondering about the language barrier? My partner and I only speak English. Was it hard to communicate with people? Thanks!

You have nothing to worry about – English is widely spoken, even in small towns. For extra peace of mind, you could download Google Translate’s Spain module to use offline when you’re travelling.

I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Oh & We are planning to spend 2 days in Madrid and 2 in barcelona , which leaves us with 5 days for driving and moving around from madrid , throughout these Andalusian cities and reacb to barcelona. At what point do u think a train would be more convenient? Thanks again Emily 🙂

Wow your post was so helpful and informative! We are planning a 9-day trip to Spain. We will arrive in madrid and depart from barcelona. Starting in madrid , driving south (rent Car) to Toledo , Cordoba , Seville , Granada. We are not sure if we should continue driving from Granada towards Valencia then off to barcelona for the last 2 days. OR skip Valnecia all together, drop the car in granada and take a train to Barcelona. Do you habe any advice as to the best way to accommodate this itinerary? (In terms of making use of the beautiful towns and scenary, but not waste too much time on tje road!) thanks a lot , your input is appreciated.

Hi Marco, sorry for the late reply. I really enjoyed Valencia – don’t skip it! You can easily do the whole route by car and drop off your rental in Barcelona.

Enjoy Spain!

Your post information is very unique and useful for all readers.

Hi Emily! This is great! Thanks for putting so much effort !! What was you guys process for mapping the road and avoiding the tolls?

Hi John—if you Google ‘Spain toll map’ you’ll find a good road map with no toll roads marked out. We just planned our route according to that!

Hope that helps!

Great thank you! We have been traveling Europe for a little over a month now and going to finish the trip with a 10 day drive from Seville to Barcelona stopping a lot along the way! Will definitely use your post to help!

Sounds incredible! I’m very jealous. Enjoy—and please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything else I can help with.

Great article! Thank you for sharing!

Hi Emily – thanks for this super helpful feature ! Just wondering what car hire company you used and if you have any recommendations on type of car Thanks 🙂

Hi Jess! Thanks so much for reading. I’m glad you found the itinerary helpful.

We were advised to go through Sixt—but unfortunately they didn’t have an automatic car available for our dates. We used Hertz in the end. We rented a regular sedan—we didn’t go off road at all, so it was fine. Even in the Sierra Nevada, you won’t need a 4WD as long as you’re sticking to the path.

I hope this helps! Emily

Thank you for your suggestion Emily!

Wonderful!road trip advice for Spain. Would you suggest me how much total cost to travel so that I would manage my budget accordingly. I would be grateful.

Depending on your travel style, I would recommend budgeting 50-120 USD/day.

I love your blog, I am traveling to Spain early May and currently preparing itinerary for a 16 day road trip. I will be travelling with my husband, we love to explore culture, local food and love nature and seneic places. As we will be little tight on schedule, we want to plan properly so that we can cover the most in 16 days. Please help me with your suggestions on the itinerary, we were planning to spend 5 days in San Sebastian + Bilbao. I am having second thoughts after reading your blog. We will fly in at Barcelona and fly out from Madrid. Below is the itinerary, let me know your thoughts

Night 1 : Barcelona – we will fly in late so not planing anything Day 1 : Roam around Barcelona Day 2: Leave for San Sebastein – stop over at Pamplona – night at San Sebstein Day 3: Explore San sebastein Day 4 : Leave for Bilbao, night at Bilbao Day 5 – Day 6 : Explore Bilbao and nearby. Is this too much for Bilbao? I found POIs that appeared seneic.. I am unsure if 3 nights is way too much for Bilbao Day 7 : Leave for Leon and stay there for a night Day 8 : Plan to spend 5 days in south to cover Seville, Gibraltar, Granda and fly out from Madrid

We are not very keen on Barcelona and Madrid. After reading your blog I am tempted to add Cordoba and Lanjaron to our plan..

I will be glad if you can help me here .. 🙂

Hi Namrata! Thanks so much for your message. Your trip sounds wonderful!

I personally thought Bilbao and SS were overrated—I much preferred Cordoba, and Lanjaron was absolutely beautiful. If you like scenery, you will love Lanjaron. I am less of a foodie so you will probably appreciate San Sebastian more than I did! I would spend less time in Bilbao, but that would just be my personal preference. I really encourage you to check out Cordoba—it was definitely a highlight of Spain for me.

I hope this helps! Have a wonderful time in Spain!

Wow! What a nice roadtrip, Emily. You did covered a large area of Spain and included areas that many travellers overlook. If you ever decide to do another Spanish roadtrip, I would recommend including Extremadura in your trip. It is the most unknown of all Spanish regions, totally overlooked by most foreign tourist, yet a fascinating area full of history, Unesco sites, the best ‘jamón’, castles, vast open spaces and empty roads. Cheers, Irene

Thanks, Irene! I just did a quick Google and Extremadura looks gorgeous! I will definitely keep it in mind for next time.

Cheers, Emily

We’re planning a 3-week trip to Spain this summer probably starting in early June. We are thinking of “winging it”. Flying into Barcelona, renting a car and just driving with an itinerary similar to yours. Do you think winging will be OK? We don’t want to plan staying in any one place for a specific number of days. If we come across a place we like we want to be able to stay there for as long as we want without affecting any reservations that otherwise would have been had. Do you think booking AirBnB’s on the fly will be an issue? With respect to car rentals, are we able to rent in Barcelona and return in Malaga for example? Thank you for posting your article. It’s a great help.

Hi Richard,

Thanks very much for your comment! Your trip sounds great. I wish we had more flexibility with our itinerary as there are spots we would have spent less time (Bilbao) and places where we would have loved to stay longer (Valencia, Granada).

I haven’t travelled in Spain during summer, but I would guess that things are a tad busier! With Airbnb, you should always be able to find something, even at short notice. The only restrictions will be your budget and the availability of car parking. We were on a tight budget, which is why we preferred to book in advance and secure rooms at a lower price. I have booked Airbnbs on the fly in other countries before without any issue—so it’s definitely possible. You may have to compromise on price and location, though.

We rented our car in Barcelona and dropped it off in Seville. There was no issue. We just had to pay a small premium for returning it in a different city, as is standard with most rental places around the world. So you shouldn’t have any problem with returning the car in Malaga.

I hope you have a wonderful trip! Please do let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.

Oh I keep rereading your report and seeing more each time. Thank you so much! We are going to Spain from 21st Sept until 17th Oct and driving three weeks of that. We’ve been to the major cities before (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Granada) so we are concentrating on smaller places, Jerez, Cordoba, Toledo, Salamanca, Zaragoza (where we’ll catch the annual festival!) etc. Still a little concerned about parking though. How did you manage? We also love apartments so we can visit the local markets and cook some of our meals at home so we’d love you to share your advice about really good airbnb’s. We have one in Jerez so far – haven’t got very far as you can see – and have fortunately found a hotel in Zaragoza with free parking during the festival. We’d really appreciate any other advice along the way. Here’s the general order: start Jerez, check out the white villages from there, Cordoba, Ubeda, Toledo, Salamanca, Burgos, Zaragoza… then somewhere in between and end at Barcelona airport to fly home. Lots of other little places to check out close to these towns but I think they will be our main stops (think…). Would LOVE your comments.

Hi Kathryn, your trip sounds great! We had a few parking dramas in the bigger cities but nothing too bad. I’ve just posted a list of the Airbnbs/hotels we chose to stay at in Spain – some are no longer listed, but there are a few still going. I hope this helps!

https://wander-lush.org/spain-best-airbnb-where-to-stay-road-trip/

Safe travels! Emily

Hey Emily, I plan to make the same road trip you have done in Spain with my wife in January. In which month you did yours ? I am not sure if the weather January is not very convenient for such trip !?

thank you so much in advance

BR Redouane

Hi Redouane! Thanks for your comment. That’s very exciting – I hope you love it as much as we did!

We did our road trip in November. I’ve never been to Western Europe in January, but I can’t imagine the weather would be too drastically different. We prefer the cooler weather, which is why we chose that month. Everything was a touch cheaper as well given that it’s shoulder season.

I hope this helps with your planning! Enjoy!

Hi there! Thanks for a great blog! This is what I love – discovering places off the beaten track. We are doing a 5 week trip with 3 kids taking our own car by ferry in July! The only thing I have planned as yet is that we arrive in Santander….! Would welcome air bnb recommendations but will touch base wth you as I get planning to see what you recommend. Have noted your recommendation for Córdoba. X

Thanks Aabida! Your trip sounds great. Please do get in touch if you want specific recommendations for Airbnb – we stayed at some great places.

Hi Emily, I’m traveling in southern Spain at the end of July and have booked a rental car. I’m concerned about parking in Granada and Cordoba (Granada especially as I’ll be there for a few nights. Any parking recommendations? Thank you!

Thanks so much for your comment. Your trip sounds wonderful!

We stayed at Airbnb apartments with private parking in both Granada and Cordoba. From memory, Cordoba was a bit tricky because the streets there are quite narrow so I would definitely check with your accommodation in advance.

Granada, however, had plenty of street parking. We parked and took public transport to/from town and the Alhambra. I dug up the link to the Airbnb apartment we rented – there was a lot of street parking in this part of town: https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/726540

Best of luck with the rest of your planning! Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.

wow amazing road trip! and the photos you’ve taken are really incredible.

Hello Emily I’m thinking of travelling to Spain in May 2017. Thanks for all your information. I like your intinery and will probably follow some of your guides. Did you book your airbnb before you commenced your trip and further did you do it online? Any tips or websites would help? Thanks for any help. Peter

Hi Peter! Thanks for reading.

Yes, we booked all our Airbnb accommodation online before we started the drive. Some places were excellent – others weren’t so good. If you go to Cordoba (which you absolutely should), please stay with Maria and Xavier. They are probably the best hosts we’ve ever had, and their place is incredible: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/929791

We also stayed in one Paradore, which I highly recommend!

Have fun planning your trip and please let me know if there’s anything else I can help with!

Hi Emily We tried to contact these people on the AirBNB link and it says no longer available. do you know what happened ? Is there a way to contact then direct?

Hi Tom, which listing was it? I’ve recommended a few. If it’s not available, they may have taken the listing down. I don’t have direct contacts but if you let me know which one you were after, I can tell you the area and you can try searching for other properties nearby.

Oh my God! Spain is my dream. Soon I’ll visit this country. I’m really grateful for all this information. Unfortunately, I can’t be there all 21 days to explore everything you’ve write. But it’s an awesome purpose to return as soon as possible again. Thanks for sharing

Lovely photos. I stumbled upon your blog while researching itineraries for my next trip to Spain. My boyfriend is a huge fan of road trips and would very much like to drive down the coast, starting Barcelona and ending in Lisbon. I was just wondering whether or not you felt there was a significance cost difference between renting a car and taking local trains. Can you share your main reasons for choosing to drive through Spain? Also, I guess you were able to leave the car in a different city from where you began? Thanks 🙂

Thanks so much for your comment. I’m a huge fan of both trains and road trips – but I felt that having a car would be better for us because we wanted to check out some of the smaller towns and travel at our own pace. Spain is a perfect place to drive since the roads are very well kept and safe, and hiring a car was within our budget. I definitely recommend it!

Have an awesome trip, Emily

What a whirlwind trip to Spain. I’ve been to Madrid/Toledo/Segovia and Sevilla a couple of times. My husband and I are heading to Barcelona then Girona and small towns along the coast. I’m hoping to rent a car outside of Barcelona but am having a difficult time finding a reputable car rental company. Do you remember which one you used and were you happy with it? I’ve come across many complaints/scams.

Toledo is my favorite so far. Can you recommend any towns similar (southeastern Spain)? Thank you.

Hi Cindy, thanks so much for your comment!

A friend recommended Sixt – they have good rates and are reliable. But we had a bit of trouble finding a car at Sixt, because neither of us have a manual license (it’s difficult and more expensive to get an auto). So if you need auto, book ahead of time online. We went with Hertz in the end, and they were fantastic. We took our own GPS but the car had a built-in system as well.

As for towns in the southeast, Cordoba was my personal favourite. Don’t miss it! I would also recommend spending a night in Cartagena. There is plenty to do in Valencia – it’s a little bigger, but also lovely – and of course Granada.

Happy travels!

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The country was fab the group of travelers was even better! We all had a great time the sites, the architecture, the food all fabulous.

I have never been on a group tour and was hesitant going solo. Went on Spain trip and Raul was our tour guide. The tour and guide were excellent! He was very helpful and friendly. Our group all enjoyed themselves. Would highly recommend. I would go on another tour with this company and will recommen...

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Hotels, flights & FAQ

This sleek hotel is located in the Camp d’en Grassot i Gràcia Nova neighborhood in Barcelona. Guests enjoy a gym, outdoor pool, and massage services. ...

This spacious hotel is located in the heart of Madrid. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a fitness center. Nearby, you'll find the Prado ...

This centrally-located hotel is in the Nervión district of Seville. Guests enjoy a restaurant, rooftop swimming pool, and Wi-Fi. Nearby, you'll find t...

This coastal hotel is located in Benalmádena. Guests enjoy a bar, gym, and outdoor pool. Nearby you’ll find the marina, Malapesquera Beach, and Benalm...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Spain, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code SMB.
• You will walk for at least 1 hour daily across moderately uneven terrain, including paved roads and dirt paths, with some hills.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of trains.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Barcelona and depart from Seville (or Málaga on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• Train rides from Barcelona to Madrid and Madrid to Córdoba are included in the price of your tour.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one personal item per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Porterage is not included for the train transfers. Travelers must be comfortable lifting and carrying all luggage over steps, onto platforms, and into luggage storage. The storage space on the train is extremely limited, so we recommended traveling with only one suitcase per person (and a personal item, such as a backpack or purse).
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• In Spain, breakfast like a local with just a pastry and coffee. Then, tuck into a three-course lunch featuring a Spanish staple like savory seafood paella or grilled meat and fried potatoes. Dinner is less hearty than lunch and is served late, between 9pm and midnight. Snack on small plates called tapas any time of day.
• Catalan cuisine, which can be found in Barcelona, is markedly different from food in other parts of Spain. Nearly every restaurant will offer pa amb tomàquet —toasted bread with tomato and olive oil. Fresh seafood, hearty meat dishes, cheeses, and locally grown vegetables, such as wild mushrooms, are culinary mainstays.
• Cuisine in Spain's southern Andalusia region is heavily influenced by surrounding countries, and has many Arabic elements. Kebabs are popular, and desserts are often prepared with almonds, honey and cinnamon. Be sure to try Serrano ham, which is considered a regional delicacy, as well as the famous chilled soup known as gazpacho .
• Spain operates on the European standard 220-240 volts and uses Types C, E, or F plugs with two small, round pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• The strength of the air conditioning in European hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it is usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Spain is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and six hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.
• You will use the euro on this tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

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Madrid - Seville - Barcelona by Train

❮ madrid - seville - barcelona by train.

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This 8 night sample itinerary includes:.

• Flight into Madrid and out of Barcelona
• Hotel for 3 nights in Madrid
• Train from Madrid to Seville
• Hotel for 2 nights in Seville
• Train from Seville to Barcelona
• Hotel for 3 night in Barcelona

Spain is combined perfectly in this flexible Europe vacation package, discovering its main cities. Travel from Madrid (Golden Triangle of Art: Prado Museum; Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums; its famous nightlife and endless energy) to Seville (The Cathedral, Alcazar, Archive of the Indies, Barrio Santa Cruz); and finally, to Barcelona (Gaudi, Gothic Quarter and always in the biting edge of fashion, architecture, food, style, music and good times). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

Please contact us for any special arrangements such as more than three rooms and partial stays.

Change cabin, booking without flight, returning to a different city/airport, Reorder city, or design your own Itinerary

Spain is one of the most popular countries in the world for tourists, and the experiences you can have while on vacation here can be just as varied as you are. The best way to experience Spanish life today is to visit one of its largest cities, such as Madrid, the country`s capital; Barcelona, its second city; and provincial capitals such as Seville and Valencia. Andalucia, the epicenter of Moorish rule in Spain, is known for its beautiful landmarks such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alhambra. The north of the country features such varying experiences as Catholic pilgrimages in Galicia, skiing in the Pyrenees, and immersing yourself in the culture of the gorgeous Basque Country. For beach vacations, Spain is tops, from the Costa del Sol to the Balearic islands of Ibiza and Mallorca to the Canary Islands.

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The package rates displayed are your total price per person based on Double Occupancy and your Arrival Date and Number of Nights selected. You can change details after selecting your travel date.

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Trip Summary

In the last few years, Madrid has gained the reputation of being one of Europe's most active and attractive cities for its nightlife and cultural activities. Capital of Spain since 1562, Madrid's museums host, among others, Dalis, Miros and Picasso's Guernica. Madrid is a city of great contrasts: the Old City, the Madrid of the Hapsburgs, the Royal Palace, the Puerta de Alcala, the Retiro Park. At night, the city changes gears with its famous Madrid nightlife. The city's endless energy is hard to resist, and its sociable style invites you to jump right in. Visit Palacio Real, Plaza Mayor, Prado Museum, Puerta del Sol, Puerta de Alcala, Plaza de Cibeles, Gran Via, Madrid Cathedral, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofia Museums and so much more!

Seville is the largest town in the famous Southern province of Andalusia, best known for the impressive Cathedral with its Giralda tower, as well as the Alcazar, which also serves as a visiting residence for the Spanish Royal family. Seville seems to move at half the pace of a normal major city, creating a relaxing and even small-town atmosphere that complements the sevillano way of savoring every moment of life, bite of food and sip of drink. Don't forget your dancing shoes, because from the moment the sun goes down right up until it comes up again, the bars and clubs of Seville's nightlife are brimming with festive people, great music, lively conversation and unrivaled excitement. Visit Cathedral & Giralda, Royal Alcazar, Gold Tower, Barrio Santa Cruz, Archivo de las Indias, Maria Luisa Park, Triana, Fine Arts Museum, Flamenco and so much more.

Barcelona , the old Roman Barcino, is Spain's second city, always on the biting edge of fashion, architecture, food, style, music and good times. Walk its narrow streets and wonderful plazas, or along the Ramblas, stretching from Plaza de Cataluna to the Harbor, encompassing the magic of the city: stalls full of books, birds and flowers. The city's most powerful monuments open a window onto its history: the intricately carved edifices that comprise the medieval Gothic Quarter; the curvilinear modernism (Catalan Art Nouveau) that inspired Gaudi's Sagrada Familia; and the seminal surrealist works of Picasso and Miró, found in museums that peg Barcelona as a crucial incubator for 20th-century art. The recent restoration of the port area began with the development of a harbor for the Olympic Games of 1992. New modern squares, designed by leading artists such as Miro and Barcelo have created a new style alongside Gaudi's modernist buildings. Now the city is ready to show every visitor how it has been transformed into one of the most moderns and active cities in Europe. Explore The Sagrada Familia, Picasso Museum, La Rambla, Barri Gotic, Park Guell, modernist buildings, Montjuic Hill, Barceloneta and so much more!

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How to Travel From Madrid to Seville by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

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After beginning their trip in Madrid , many travelers head north to Barcelona and finish their time in Spain there without even so much as glancing to the south—a huge mistake. Seville is the capital of the southern region of Andalusia and just 329 miles from Madrid by car. You can fly there, but the train is your fastest option and—if you're lucky—also the cheapest. Buses are only good for last-minute plans when the other options have jumped up in price, since it's the slowest method. If you don't want to drive yourself, you can also look into a rideshare and split the gas.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Madrid to Seville?

The train has the potential to be the cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Seville and also the most expensive. It all depends on when you buy your tickets and the demand for your travel date. When seats first open up, tickets start at about $32 for the high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Seville but can quickly double or even triple in price. Unlike plane tickets that can fluctuate, the trains only get more expensive as your travel date gets nearer, so buy them as early as possible.

When purchasing your tickets on the Spanish Renfe website , you'll have to type in your destination using the Spanish spelling, "Sevilla." There are multiple stations in both cities, but trains from Madrid to Seville always leave from Atocha Station . In Seville, the most central train station and your likely destination is Sevilla Santa Justa .

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Madrid to Seville?

Whether or not the train is the cheapest way to Seville depends, but it's always the fastest. The high-speed AVE train takes just over two and a half hours to get from Atocha Station in Madrid to Sevilla Santa Justa Station. And unlike the airports which are located at the city limits, both train stations are centrally located and easy to reach. The check-in process for boarding a train takes a couple of minutes, at most, compared to the delays that you may experience getting your boarding pass and going through security at an airport.

The time spent sitting on the plane may technically be shorter, but the total travel time is significantly faster when you go by train. And as an added bonus, it's much better for the environment.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

The fastest route to Seville takes just over five hours, primarily by driving along the A-5 highway through the province of Extremadura or the A-4 highway through Castilla-La Mancha. It's about 329 miles between the two cities regardless of which route you take and as long as you avoid turn-offs for tolled expressways, it's also a toll-free drive.

Another option for driving without renting your own vehicle is to use Blablacar . This rideshare service lets you search for drivers already heading toward Seville and you can book a seat in their car. It's a popular and safe service in Spain, and you can even read reviews of the driver. A ride to Seville typically starts at about $32 so it's not much cheaper than other options, but it is a way to meet a new friend and learn about local culture.

How Long Is the Flight?

Even though a direct flight to Seville takes just over an hour, the total travel time ends up being much more after you factor in getting to the airport, checking in, going through security, and waiting at your gate. Madrid-Barajas Airport is about 45 minutes from the city center by public transit, while Atocha station is conveniently located downtown.

Is There a Bus That Goes From Madrid to Seville?

Even though buses are the favorite choice for most budget travelers in Europe, the limited options mean that buses aren't as cheap as in other countries. ALSA is the only bus company in Spain so there's no real competition and tickets cost about $35, which isn't a great price considering it's the slowest method and takes over six hours.

One important perk to the bus, however, is that the prices don't go up with demand. You can buy your ticket for a trip in three months or for a trip tomorrow, and the price stays the same (although it may sell out). For those last-minute plans when train tickets are exorbitantly priced, the bus may be your saving grace.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Seville?

Even though it's the most popular time to visit, nothing beats springtime in Seville. First is Semana Santa , or Holy Week, which usually falls in April and involves massive religious floats being carried through the city. Two weeks after Semana Santa begins the Feria de Abril , one of the biggest annual festivals in all of Spain . During the two-week festival people stay up in the streets all night listening to live music, dancing sevillanas , and eating typical Andalusian fare.

The time you want to avoid Seville is in the summer. Temperatures rise across Spain in the summer, but Seville is often unbearable. Days over 100 degrees Fahrenheit is the norm, and it can rise to 120 degrees if you happen to hit a heatwave. If you're planning a summer trip to Spain , stick to cities up north and along the coast.

What’s the Most Scenic Route to Seville?

Most people wouldn't consider either the A-4 nor the A-5 route particularly "scenic," since both routes are primarily through agricultural land with little elevation change. However, each one has something unique to offer. The A-4 highway drives directly through the city of Cordoba , famous for its centuries-old mosque and rich culture. It's one of Andalusia's most visited cities and well worth a pitstop.

If you take the A-5 route, you'll pass through the town of Merida which has one of the best-preserved Ancient Roman amphitheaters in the world. If you're a fan of Spanish cured ham, the route also goes directly through jamón territory. You can tour the pastures where the pigs roam and snack on acorns to see how the world-famous tapa is made.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

From the Seville Airport, there's an airport bus that stops in several locations throughout the city, including the Santa Justa train station and Plaza de Armas, that takes about 35 minutes and costs just 4 euros, or roughly $5.

A taxi is even faster and takes just 15 minutes to get downtown, with fares starting at about $20 (although rates are higher at night, on weekends, and on holidays).

What Is There to Do in Seville?

When you imagine Spanish traditions like flamenco music, generous plates of tapas, and bullfighters being cheered on, it's more accurate to say you're imagining Seville (pronounced Suh-vee-yuh by the locals). The southern Andalusia region was once the stronghold for the Islamic Empire in Spain and Muslim architecture dating back centuries is still on display at the Giralda bell tower and the Torre del Oro. Flamenco music was born in Andalusia and you'll have no trouble finding venues to watch a performance in Seville. On warm days, order a glass of cold gazpacho soup to enjoy before your meal, a Seville classic. A bullfight definitely isn't for everyone, but if you're curious about this gory Spanish pastime, there are shows available in Seville .

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Madrid or Seville: Which Spanish City to Visit?

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

When it comes to planning a Spanish itinerary, it can be difficult to decide how to allocate your time and specifically whether you should visit or spend more time in Madrid or Seville.

Both Spanish cities have a tonne to offer visitors, with fantastic culinary scenes, unique tourist sites, and distant histories that set them apart from all other cities in the country.

In general, Madrid is a great choice for those who love art museums and big, international city vibes. On the other hand, Seville is a great option for those who want a smaller city centre, lots of Moorish history and a unique regional cuisine to enjoy.

If you’re struggling to choose between Seville and Madrid on your upcoming trip to Spain, read on to understand the key differences between the cities and decide where you want to spend more time!

Table of Contents

Located in the middle of the country, Madrid is the capital of Spain and an excellent choice if you’re wondering where to visit in this beautiful country. Home to over three million people and the third most populous city in the European Union, Madrid is incredibly diverse and dynamic and you could easily spend months here and barely scratch the surface.

Accessibility

One of the major factors you need to consider when trying to choose between Madrid and Seville is the accessibility of the city. Being a major European capital, Madrid is an incredibly accessible city.

There is a major international airport (which is also very easily connected with the extensive metro system — more on that in a bit) that serves direct flights from a number of major world airlines direct into the Spanish capital. In fact, it is the easiest city to reach in Spain if you are coming from outside of Europe.

Madrid is also well connected by bus and train connections , both domestically and internationally. So you can easily reach the Spanish capital from basically every city in Spain and even from a few closer cities (with, perhaps, some connections) in Portugal and France.

Getting around in Madrid is also incredibly easy and straightforward, as the majority of the city’s main sites are within easy walking distance of each other. There is an extensive public transport system that will take you anywhere else you might need to go, which includes both easy-to-navigate buses and a metro system.

If you’re not keen to take public transport, you will find that Madrid is very walkable, in general, and not overly hilly. The city is quite large, however, so it may be necessary to take some sort of public transport if you want to venture into different neighbourhoods outside of the main tourist centre (and you should!)

When comparing the accessibility of Madrid compared to Seville, Madrid definitely has more options when it comes to overseas flights and has a more extensive public transit system.

However, it is also very big and it can take a lot longer to see everything you might want to in one day in the Spanish capital rather than in Seville.

Affordability

Another major factor to consider when choosing between Seville or Madrid is the affordability of the city, as finances can very often be the determining factor when deciding where to visit on your holidays. And while Spain is generally quite affordable to visit , Madrid is still a major Western European capital and can have high prices to match.

Prices in Madrid tend to be higher than a lot of other cities in the country (with the possible exception of Barcelona ), however, they are still lower compared to many other cities in Western Europe.

If you’re travelling to Madrid on a budget, you can still cut costs by finding a bed in a hostel (of which there are many) or in a private room through Airbnb, taking advantage of set lunch menus, and taking advantage of the free entry times for museums.

In both Madrid and Seville, you will find that it can actually be incredibly affordable to eat out provided you stick to Spanish cuisine rather than international. However, prices for just about everything are higher in Madrid than they are in Seville — though accommodation prices can be about the same in both cities.

In the grand scheme of things, however, Madrid is still an affordable city to visit when compared to other Western European capitals like London , Paris , or Rome .

Things to do in Madrid

Madrid is a massive city with an incredible, complex history and an endless amount of things to do. While a quick jaunt around the main sites won’t take you all that long and many people think that spending only 2 days in Madrid is enough to really get to know the city, you can only scratch the surface in that period of time.

The main sites in Madrid include the Palacio Real , Parque de Retiro, the Mercado de San Miguel, and, of course, the incomparable Prado , Reina Sofia , and Thyssen museums. However, the real joy of Madrid also comes from getting off the beaten path and exploring the neighbourhoods a little bit more.

There is a lot to learn about Madrid’s culture and history by getting lost in the trendy Malasaña or LGBT-friendly Cheuca barrios.

Or you can get to know multicultural Madrid while admiring the street art, searching for a deal at El Rastro, or shopping at local food markets in the ultra-cool Lavapiés neighbourhood . If you’re interested in seeing how the elite live in the Spanish capital, take a walk to the luxe Salamanca neighbourhood.

Madrid is one of those cities that is best experienced if you have a lot of time to give it justice, so if you’re strapped for time, Seville might seem a bit more manageable for you. Or, if you’re wondering if you should spend more time in Madrid or Seville, then I would recommend spending the bigger chunk of your time in Madrid.

If a determining factor of which city to visit in Spain lands on the food, then you may have a difficult time choosing between Seville and Madrid as both cities have incredible culinary scenes. However, because Spanish cuisine is so fiercely regional, both cities do have noticeable differences.

There are a few dishes that are unique to Madrid (think cocido madrileño (meat and chickpea stew), bocadillo con calamares (squid sandwich), and even patatas bravas (potatoes in a paprika sauce), however, you can sample food from all over Spain in this city.

There is also a distinct tapas culture in Madrid and, if you go to the more local establishment, you can sometimes expect to get a tapa for free with the order of a drink, akin to what you might find in cities like Granada .

Because it is such an international city, you can also get cuisine from all over the world in Madrid and, in fact, I have had some of the best tacos outside of North America in the Spanish capital. What you will find for the most part, unfortunately, is that international cuisine in Madrid does tend to be more expensive than Spanish food.

Madrid has a number of fantastic tapas bars and restaurants that are worth visiting and the city does have a different feel to its culinary scene than Seville does. However, if you want to sample cuisines from all across Spain, then Madrid might be your better choice over Seville.

Where to Stay in Madrid

We recommend finding a place to stay in Madrid close to the city centre to ensure that you are within easy walking distance or a metro ride of all that the city has to offer.

Ii Castillas Madrid — A small, centrally-located hotel, this is a great mid-range option in Madrid. Situated close to the Plaza Callao, an extremely convenient area, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and an option to include breakfast in the room rate.

Only YOU Boutique Hotel  – Located in a restored palace, this 4-star hotel is one of the best choices in the city if you’re looking for a luxury room or suite.

The Hat Madrid — Located right next to the Plaza Mayor, this hostel is a fantastic option if you’re travelling solo or are on a budget. They offer both private rooms and dormitories as well as having some great common areas and facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Madrid!

Seville is the capital of the Andalucía region in the south of Spain and is known to be one of the most picturesque cities in all of Europe. Famous for its tapas scene, flamenco culture, and perennially good weather, Seville is an excellent choice for a city break, especially if you’re looking for somewhere to spend winter in Spain .

If you’re planning on heading to Spain from outside of Europe, then Seville may not be the easiest destination to originate in as the airport isn’t as high-traffic as Madrid.

However, there is an international airport in Seville that easily connects the capital of Andalucía to many other European cities (and some further afield). In general, Seville is fairly accessible as a stand-alone destination, provided you are planning to visit from somewhere in Europe.

If you want to get to Seville from elsewhere in Spain, being the fourth-largest city in the country, you are generally going to be able to find bus or train connections from most any major town in Spain. This means that Seville is incredibly easy to access from within the country, as well.

Once you are in Seville, one of the advantages it has over Madrid is that the city centre is smaller and it is entirely easy to get around everywhere on foot.

This means that it is easier to cover more ground and not waste as much time on transport as you might need to in Madrid. And while there is a lot to see and do in Seville, it is easier to spend fewer days in here and still get a very good feel for the city and its unique culture.

There is a fairly new metro system in Seville that runs very well, but it is unlikely that you will need to use it if you are staying in a central location and are only planning a few days within the city.

Seville is also a far flatter city than Madrid, which makes it a lot easier to navigate on foot for longer periods of time!

In general, when people talk about the affordable prices in Spain, they are talking about Andalucía. And while this region is generally the most affordable in the country, Seville is still a major city and is probably the most expensive in the region. That being said, I do believe that you will find prices in Seville to be about 10-15% less than in Madrid, especially when it comes to food.

Food prices in Seville are incredibly affordable and you don’t need to have a high budget in the slightest to eat very well in this incredible city. You can get a set menu for lunch for as little as €8-9 (depending on the neighbourhood) and tapas are also desirably priced.

The main attractions in Seville are accessible for even the tightest of budgets, however, it can save you a bit of cash to book entry to places like the Real Alcázar online in advance to save up to 10% from the at-the-door entry fee.

The only thing that isn’t really more affordable in Seville than in Madrid is accommodation, which we found to be fairly expensive in the Andalusian capital.

There are, however, some good budget options that are available. Just plan to cut costs in other ways as accommodation in Seville can be expensive compared to other Spanish cities and about the same as in Madrid.

Things to do in Seville

Seville is an incredibly dynamic and lively city that is jam-packed with unique things to do. The most obvious of which would be to tour the gorgeous Seville Cathedral and the incomparable Real Alcázar, which was used as a filming location for the HBO series Game of Thrones .

Make sure that you take the time to stroll through the gorgeous Plaza de España and marvel at the wonderful architecture and peoplewatch on one of the many benches. You can also take a walking tour (or just get lost!) in the whitewashed streets of the Barrio de Santa Cruz, which was the traditional Jewish Quarter in Seville.

Many visitors to Seville don’t take the time to head across the river to visit the bohemian Triana neighbourhood, which was the traditional Roma quarter of the city.

If you are interested in flamenco, this neighbourhood was actually one of the birthplaces of this fascinating art form and it is the perfect place to catch a show. You also cannot miss the wonderful Mercado de Triana, a bustling culinary marketplace selling traditional Spanish produce.

If you have more time, you can also opt to go on day trips to places like Jerez, Cádiz , Ronda , Gibraltar and more!

There really is no shortage of things to do in Seville, however, it is easier to pack them into a shorter period of time than in Madrid, considering that things are not located as far from each other.

Seville is known for its tapas culture and if that’s what you want to experience when you are on a Spanish city break, then Seville is the choice for you.

The food scene in the capital of Andalucía is comparable to nothing and you could easily just pack your Seville itinerary only with tapas bars are restaurants and feel completely fulfilled.

Like in Madrid, some dishes are unique to Seville that you should try in their home city. These include the delicious espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas), tortilla with whisky sauce (Spanish omelette with a garlic whisky-based sauce), and you can even swill a glass of dry fino or amontillado sherry less than 100 kilometres from where it was produced.

Even the nightlife in Seville is propelled largely by food, and you can spend until the wee hours of the morning hopping from tapas bar to tapas bar and call it a thriving night out. Seville is truly a foodie’s paradise and I would say it’s the city to pick if you travel based on your stomach and taste buds.

Where to Stay in Seville

We recommend finding a place to stay in the centre, within walking distance to the main sites or rather in the cool and trendy Triana neighbourhood.

Hotel Bécquer — This hotel, located in the heart of the old town, has several clean, comfortable and air-conditioned rooms available for all kinds of travellers. Situated within walking distance to all of the top sites in Seville, there is also a wonderful rooftop terrace with a pool at this hotel.

Monte Triana — This boutique hotel, located in the vibrant Triana district, is one of the highest-rated hotels in all of Seville. They have numerous luxurious rooms available and are within 15 minutes walking distance to all of Seville’s main attractions on both sides of the river.

Hostel One Catedral — This highly-rated hostel is the best choice for budget and solo travellers in Seville. Located a stone’s throw away from the Seville Cathedral and Alcázar, they have a number of both dorms and private rooms available and they also organise activities and social events so you can easily meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Seville hotels!

Madrid vs Seville: The Verdict

I would recommend choosing Madrid if you’re interested in learning about Spanish art, as their museums are unbeatable.

Madrid is also a great option if you have a bit more time to devote and you want to explore the massive city in depth. It is also a really good option if you like bigger cities and want a more international feel.

Seville is the best choice if you are visiting Spain in the winter months and want to avoid the chilly temperatures in the capital. It is also an incredible place to go if you want to learn more about Spain’s Moorish history.

Finally, Seville is undoubtedly the choice if you are interested in Spanish tapas culture, as the city’s tapas bars are unbeatable.

Deciding between Seville or Madrid can be a difficult quandary, especially when you consider all that both cities have to offer. However, if you weigh the pros and cons of each city compared to your travel preferences, you should be able to make the best decision for you.

Are you trying to choose between these two Spanish cities? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Ms. Turansky- Thank you for this info about both cities. We’re visiting Madrid in May 2023 and are interested in visiting some Sephardic Jewish quarters or related historical sites. We plan a day trip to Toledo, but are there any areas within Madrid that are worth seeing? Thanks

Hi Ben, while there is some Jewish history in Madrid, I don’t know enough about specific sites to lead you any particular way. Apologies. Hope you have a great trip!

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11 Top Places to Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain

Posted: January 25, 2024 | Last updated: January 25, 2024

One of the best places to visit in Spain is Mallorca, where you can hop on the Tren de Sóller.

Photo by Francesco Lastrucci

It’s true: Spain is a country every type of traveler can enjoy. This may surprise those who mostly associate the country with its golden beaches and flamenco (as I did before my nine-month stint in La Rioja), but the Iberian Peninsula kingdom comprises 17 autonomous communities—like Madrid and Andalucia—and they encompass a wide spectrum of cultures. Throughout Spain you can come across people like the Basques and the Catalonians, who speak their own language, and landscapes that span centuries-old palaces, mountain peaks, and even valleys full of cherry blossoms in the spring.

So yes, absolutely dig into that platter of paella in Valencia to experience Spanish culture. But think about visiting these 10 other places, too. Because while many of the best places to visit in Spain are well-loved, some offer a side to the country that may surprise you.

1. Mallorca

Balearic Islands

Off Spain’s eastern coast is the island of Mallorca, a prime example of Spain’s mixed history. Here, travelers can find traces of its former Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupants, like the 800-year-old La Seu , a Gothic sandstone cathedral, or the Arab baths in Palma de Mallorca’s historic center . But to limit your stay to the island’s capital is to miss some of Mallorca’s most beautiful landscapes. Beyond its clear-water beaches, the 1,405-square-mile island has dozens of designated cycling routes and underground cave systems that have hosted pirates and Moorish soldiers. Take in the beauty of the island on a hike up the UNESCO-recognized Puig Major , Mallorca’s tallest mountain at 4,711 feet.

The stairs out of Madrid ’s Sol metro station put travelers in the midst of the bustle of Spain’s capital. Appropriately located in the heart of the country, Madrid is home to some of the best museums, restaurants, and nightlife. The 16th-century Plaza Mayor —which has been the setting of everything from fiestas to executions—is evidence that it still keeps its ties to tradition and history. Grab a bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich) in one of the plaza’s nearby storefronts or slip out of the city’s nonstop energy in the 350-acre Retiro Park, which is within walking distance from the Museo Nacional del Prado and Puerta de Alcalá. Just don’t siesta too much and miss out on any tapas bar crawls you have planned for the evening.

3. Barcelona

This coastal city takes an unabashed approach when it comes to differentiating itself from the rest of Spain, from the Catalan language to the warped, bright-colored facades of Antoni Gaudí’s buildings. Whatever gives Barcelona that je ne sais quois, it’s certainly resonating. Barcelona is a magnet for people from all over the world (more than 30 percent of Barcelona’s inhabitants were born outside of Spain), drawing travelers to stay for its beaches , year-round calendar of festivals, and markets. For the first-time visitor, a walk down the three-quarter-mile Las Ramblas is a must: The tree-lined pathway leads pedestrians through kiosks, neighborhoods, and historic buildings before stopping at the Mediterranean.

Warm people, sunny days spent sipping sangria, and trees full of oranges—that relaxed, siesta-loving attitude of Spain is available in Seville. The capital of Spain’s Andalusia autonomous community still bears plenty of marks from its past under the Moors. One of the most beautiful places to explore its history is the Royal Alcázar of Seville, an 11th-century palace sporting walled gardens and geometric, patterned arches that have been featured in Game of Thrones and Lawrence of Arabia . Stop and smell the jasmine at Plaza de España, and walk along the curving wall featuring 52 colorful mosaics that depict all of Spain’s provinces.

5. Picos de Europa National Park

Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León

While lounge-worthy stretches of beach characterize Spain’s south, Picos de Europa National Park is a prime example of the green, dramatic landscapes that dominate the north. The 250-square-mile national park was the first established by the Spanish government in 1918 and includes alpine peaks, meadows, and lakes that feel similar to landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Explore the jagged edges of the Cantabrian Mountains along the 7.5-mile long Ruta del Cares , or look for local wildlife like the roe deer and Egyptian vultures.

6. Valle del Jerte

Extremadura

Looking for a cherry blossom alternative to the crowds of enthusiasts in Japan and Washington, D.C.? Head to Extremadura, the Spanish region that borders Portugal between March and April (timing the cherry blossoming is a bit of a guessing game), when Valle del Jerte bursts in a sea of white as 2 million cherry trees bloom. Flower enthusiasts can tour the 144-square-mile area by taking a road trip down Spain’s N-110 road, which winds through the Cáceres province and crosses through the region’s 11 small villages known as pueblos . Come at the right time and you may be able to catch the flower festival as the villages celebrate the season with markets and exhibitions.

7. San Sebastian

Basque Country

The origins of the Basque people are up for debate, but the ethnic group—spread throughout southern France and Spain’s eponymous autonomous community—has developed a culture unlike the rest of the country. San Sebastián is one of the cities found in Basque Country, where Euskara is spoken on the streets—forgo the hola and greet people with kaixo —and the steep cliff sides resemble those in Ireland or Scotland. Indulge in small plates known as pintxos of prepared cod and local bounty, but make some reservations too, because the food scene here is top notch: 10 Michelin-starred restaurants are spread throughout this city of 190,000.

8. Cudillero

Many of Spain’s big cities attract tourists from around the world, so much so that its beautiful small villages can be overlooked. Cudillero is one of the nearly 20,000 pueblos found throughout Spain, and a lovely one at that: Located by the Bay of Biscay, this fishing village of around 5,000 people is a masterclass of slow living by the sea. Colorful, orange-roofed houses dot the hillsides, which also serve as vantage points for panoramas of both town and ocean.

9. Rioja wine region

La Rioja, Basque Country, and Navarre

Spread across three different autonomous communities, the Rioja wine region is known for its tempranillo grapes, which produce the tannic, full-bodied red varietals of the same name. The region’s ideal grape-growing conditions are thanks to the Ebro River, which snakes throughout the area’s rolling hills. Admire the scenery with a glass in hand and learn about winemaking at a winery, known locally as a bodega. Some of the most attractive, like Lopez de Heredia, are in pueblos like Laguardia and Haro; the latter hosts an annual wine festival in the summer.

10. Santiago de Compostela

During the Middle Ages, people walked from the south of France to the northeastern tip of Spain as a way to show faith, establishing a 500-mile route known as the Camino de Santiago. Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, is the endpoint of this pilgrimage and punctuates the end of the trip with its Romanesque-style cathedral. Even if you’re not a pilgrim, this city is a worthwhile place for exploring religious history and some of the dishes Galicia has to offer, from regional cheeses to seaside delicacies like percebes (aka barnacles).

11. Valencia

Despite being more than 2,000 years old, Valencia is still innovating toward a sustainable future as the European Green Capital 2024 (in addition to being one of the places featured in AFAR’s Where to Go in 2024 list). If you stop by the city, skip the usual systems of transport and pick up your bike and walking shoes. There are more than 125 miles of bike lanes throughout the city, and dedicated green spaces like Turia Garden make it easy to walk off that paella. For a piece of tradition, stop by during March, when larger-than-life floats descend on the city for the Las Fallas celebration.

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Real Madrid vs. Mallorca: Live stream, how to watch La Liga for free

• Updated: Apr. 13, 2024, 9:30 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 13, 2024, 9:30 a.m.

Real Madrid's Rodrygo celebrates. (AP Photo/M. Gracia Jimenez) AP

• Lauren Campbell | [email protected]

Real Madrid looks to widen the gap between it and Barcelona in the La Liga standings in Saturday’s match against Mallorca.

Mallorca is coming off a 0-0 draw to Valencia CF, while Barcelona earned a 2-0 win against Athletic Bilbao.

• WATCH THE GAME FOR FREE HERE

Fans looking to watch the game can do so on ESPN+ . There are also other streaming options available such as FuboTV , DirecTV Stream and Sling .

Real Madrid vs. Mallorca (La Liga)

Who: Real Madrid vs. Mallorca

When: Saturday, April 13 at 12:30 p.m. EST

Where: Mallorca Son Moix Stadium in Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

How to watch the matches online: ESPN+ | FuboTV | DirecTV Stream | Sling — Saturday’s match won’t air on conventional television in the United States. It will stream on ESPN+ , as well as FuboTV , DirecTV Stream and Sling .

How to watch matches in English and Spanish — Matches broadcast on ESPN+ will be available in both Spanish and English.

What is ESPN+? How much does it cost? — ESPN+ is a standalone streaming service that carries exclusive live sports. It does not include events that are broadcast on ESPN TV channels. Instead, ESPN+ is designed to be a home for certain sports like Spanish League matches. Fans can sign up for ESPN+ starting at $10.99 a month.

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Ask Andy Kohlberg, one of the American owners of Spanish club Mallorca along with NBA greats Steve Kerr and Steve Nash, if he recommends soccer club-ownership in Europe, and he’ll give you a straight answer.

“Not to anyone sane,” Kohlberg says with a chuckle.

“It’s very hard. It’s very different than running a normal business, and especially in another country, dealing with the difference in culture and language and customs,” says Kohlberg, a former professional tennis player who is Mallorca’s main shareholder and its president.

In fact, the former vice chairman of the Phoenix Suns will tell you that people would be better off taking an NBA team or another franchise in American sports, where there’s no need to deal with the “ups and downs” of relegations and promotions that are inherent to soccer leagues and that can ruin clubs’ finances.

“It’s totally different with American sports,” he says. “If you have a bad season, it’s just one season, there’s not a lot of change. I think we are the only club in Spain that’s been in six years in six divisions. It’s not a record I’m proud of, but I think very few people have suffered like us.”

Come this weekend, though, Kohlberg and minority owners Kerr and Nash will be enjoying the fun part of the soccer club-ownership experience. They will be watching Mallorca share center stage with Athletic Bilbao on Saturday in Seville in the final of the Copa del Rey.

The “historic and surprising” trip to the final, as Kohlberg puts it, helps validate the work being done by the American owners who bought the Balearic Islands club eight years ago by purchasing some $20 million worth of shares in a deal led by former Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver.

The Copa success also helps show that Mallorca is on the right track despite the early struggles for the club, whose main goal in recent years has been to remain in Spain’s top-flight.

Despite the hardships, the 64-year-old Kohlberg guarantees there are no regrets at having made the leap into club ownership in Europe, and says the American owners are in it for the long run.

“The passion here for football is amazing and different than in the U.S.,” Kohlberg tells The Associated Press after a meeting with journalists organized by the EFE Spanish news agency. “In the U.S., they are passionate but it’s more about fun and entertainment and music and cheerleaders and dancing, whereas here it’s just tribal warfare, something deeper.”

Kerr and Nash are not as involved with the club, though Kohlberg said they watch the games and sometimes talk about the results afterward. Nash became a shareholder during the club’s purchase in 2016, while Kerr joined last year. The Golden State Warriors coach spoke to the first-team squad when he visited the club in 2022.

Nash, the two-time NBA MVP who is an avid soccer fan, used to be on the board and made several visits to Mallorca. He has also practiced with the team’s B squad in the past.

“When the team loses, they call me and ask, ‘What are you doing?’” Kohlberg joked about Nash’s and Kerr’s involvement with the club.

Other former athletes who are Mallorca investors include former U.S. soccer player Stuart Holden and former England defender Graeme Le Saux, who is also a board member.

“The mentality of successful athletes is different,” Kohlberg says. “They understand what type of players are successful.”

Mallorca is one of only five first-division clubs in Spain with foreign ownership, along with Girona, Granada, Almeria and Valencia. Mallorca is the only one owned by Americans.

Nash, Holden and La Saux are expected to be at La Cartuja Stadium for Saturday’s final. Nash and Holden were caught on camera wildly celebrating the club’s promotion to the first division in 2019.

Kohlberg will also be there on Saturday. He has been involved in the club’s bigger decisions, but leaves the day-to-day running to business CEO Alfonso Díaz and sporting director Pablo Ortells. He says there is no reason to bring someone from the U.S. to take on those roles.

“It has to be run from Mallorca,” Kohlberg says. “It has to be people living in Mallorca, people who know Spanish football.”

Kohlberg says he has been coming to Spain about four times a year. He took majority control of the club last summer after buying Sarver’s shares during the club’s restructuring.

One of the reasons the Americans picked Mallorca was because it’s based on a tourist island that attracts some 13 million visitors every year.

“Maybe they are from Germany and are Bayern Munich fans but they want to come for a unique football experience,” Kohlberg says. “We are trying to bring something different and unique to Mallorca.”

Mallorca used some of the money that the Spanish league received from the CVC investment fund to renovate its 26,000-capacity stadium and promote a better experience for fans. It renovated VIP areas and created entertainment zones that are more similar to those found in American arenas than in other soccer stadiums in Spain.

The club has almost 21,000 season ticket-holders and had to work with airlines and companies that run the ferry service from mainland Spain to the island to make sure nearly all them could make the trip to Seville for the final.

Mallorca has a budget of nearly 70 million euros ($75.7 million), and the American owners are believed to have invested more than $100 million in the club since they arrived.

Founded in 1916, Mallorca enjoyed some of its best years in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when it finished third in the Spanish league in 1999 and 2001, and won the Copa del Rey in 2003. It hadn’t made it to the Copa final since then, having previously lost the decider in 1991 and 1998. It was in the third division in 2017-18, and went up and down through divisions after that, though it is making its third straight appearance in the top tier.

“When we bought the club we did not plan to go up and down, up and down, up and down …” Kohlberg says. “It’s difficult when you are going up and down, but you are just trying to build a good foundation. Investing in the academy, the stadium, the practice facilities, the management team. If you are building a foundation, you can manage the ups and downs and hopefully we can remain in La Liga and continue to build the club.”

More important than winning the Copa, which would not bring significant prize money, is for Mallorca to remain in the top tier. It sits in 15th place, six points above the relegation zone.

“We want to solidify our position in the first division and keep growing so we can comfortably stay in the top half of the standings every season,” Díaz says. “Right now, we still work with two parallel budgets, one for if we play in the first division and another if we are relegated.”

The team’s recent revival can be linked to the arrival of veteran Mexican coach Javier Aguirre in March 2022. He helped the team avoid relegation that year, and led Mallorca to a ninth-place finish last season. His contract expires at the end of the season and there’s still no decision on whether he’ll return.

Kohlberg says the focus is on beating Athletic on Saturday.

“It would put us on another level as a club,” he says. “It would be great for the fans, great for the project. The stadium has already revolutionized the club, and this would take it to another level.”

The Associated Press contributed to this article

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How to watch RCD Mallorca vs. Real Madrid: La Liga live stream online, TV channel, prediction and odds

Carlo ancelotti could rotate with manchester city's champions league quarterfinal second leg next week.

Real Madrid could open up a provisional 11-point lead at the top of La Liga on Saturday with a trip to RCD Mallorca. Carlo Ancelotti's men drew 3-3 with Manchester City in midweek while the hosts lost in the Copa del Rey final to Athletic Club on penalties after a 1-1 draw after extra time. It could have been the islanders' second title but their performance from the spot with only two penalties scored meant heartbreak in Seville for Javier Aguirre's side and delight for the Basques. Mallorca are now 15th in the table and just six points above the relegation zone, but just one loss in their last five which came against Barcelona. 

The Pirates have taken four points from their last two games so will hope to catch Real focusing on their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg in England next week. It was a superb advert for European soccer with Real fighting back from 1-0 and 3-2 down to finish 3-3 with top spot in the Spanish topflight fairly comfortable regardless with eight points more than Barca who go to Cadiz. Should Real be held or beaten by Mallorca, Xavi's men could close the gap to five points ahead of El Clasico later this month. Los Blancos are on a three-game winning streak themselves and have only lost once in the league all season. The hosts did win this 1-0 last year, though, so there is potential for an upset result.

Here's our storylines, how you can watch the match and more:

Golazo Starting XI Newsletter

Get your soccer fix from around the globe, your ultimate guide to the beautiful game as our experts take you beyond the pitch and around the globe with news that matters., thanks for signing up, keep an eye on your inbox., there was an error processing your subscription., how to watch and odds.

• Date: Saturday, Apr. 13 | Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Estadi Mallorca Son Moix -- Mallorca, Spain
• Watch: ESPN+ and Fubo ( try for free )
• Odds: Mallorca +380; Draw +260; Real -133  

Mallorca: Toni Lato is out injured while Dani Rodriguez and Copete also have knocks so Antonio Sanchez and Matija Nastasic could come in. Predrag Rajkovic should come into the XI while Jaume Costa could come in on the left instead of Lato.

Potential Mallorca XI: Rajkovic; Gonzalez, Valjent, Raillo, Nastasic, J Costa; Darder, S Costa, Sanchez; Muriqi, Larin.

Real: Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba remain out through injury so Ancelotti should rotate a number of regulars like Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, Toni Kroos, Federco Valverde and Rodrygo. Aurelien Tchouameni is banned next week so could start here while Eder Militao could start and audition to feature alongside Rudiger in Manchester.

Potential Real XI: Lunin; Vazquez, Militao, Nacho, F Garcia; Ceballos, Tchouameni, Modric; Bellingham; Vinicius, Brahim.

Although they will be at half strength, Real should still be able to pick up all three points against struggling Mallorca although a draw would not be the biggest surprise. Pick: Mallorca 1, Real 2.

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Madrid, Seville and Barcelona

• Daily Breakfast
• Choice of Accommodations
• Rail Tickets on RENFE

Madrid, Seville and Barcelona: Your Way

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Three nights or more in a Seville hotel

Three nights or more in a Barcelona hotel

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Madrid Accommodations

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Hotel Fenix Gran Melia

Costco member reviews.

Calle de Hermosilla 2, Madrid, 28001, Spain

Surrounded by the famous streets of Serrano, Velázquez, Goya and the Paseo de la Castellana, this magnificent location in the exclusive Salamanca District offers easy access to the famous Gran Vía and the city's most important museums: the Prado, the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen.

NH Collection Madrid Abascal

Calle Jose Abascal 47, Madrid, 28003, Spain

An elegant mixture of classical decor and modern sophistication, the hotel was once home to Madrid's wealthiest families.

NH Collection Madrid Gran Via

Calle gran via, 21, madrid, 28013, spain.

Centrally located, the hotel is within walking distance to La Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Plaza España, and the Prado museum.

NH Collection Madrid Palacio de Tepa

Calle san sebastian 2, madrid, 28012, spain.

Set in a 19th century palace in the Barrio de las Letras neighborhood, this hotel is a short walk to the Prado, Thyssen and Reina Sofia museums.

NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado

Plaza Canovas del Castillo, 4, Madrid, 28014, Spain

This hotel is a historical palace built in 1904 and is within walking distance of the Prado, Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen museums.

NH Collection Madrid Suecia

Marques de casa riera 4, madrid, 28014, spain.

This modern and charming hotel is in the city's historic center.

The Westin Palace, Madrid

Plaza de las Cortes, 7, Madrid, 28014, Spain

Experience the culture of Madrid from this elegant and historical hotel.

Seville Accommodations

Hotel Colon Gran Melia

Canalejas, 1, Seville, 41001, Spain

Located in the historical heart of the city, this hotel combines timeless luxury with an avant-garde flair.

NH Collection Sevilla

Avda Diego Martinez Barrio, 8, Seville, 41013, Spain

The hotel is located next to a shopping and leisure area, featuring the mall, Nervión Plaza, and El Corte Inglés, plus cinemas, bars and restaurants.

NH Sevilla Plaza de Armas

Avda Marques de Parada S/N, Seville, 41001, Spain

This hotel is in a convenient location within a 5 minute walk from the Fine Arts Museum, the cathedral and the Giralda Tower.

Barcelona Accommodations

Le Meridien Barcelona

Las ramblas, 111, barcelona, 08002, spain.

This beautiful hotel is conveniently located on the world-renowned La Rambla, in the heart of Barcelona.

NH Collection Barcelona Constanza

Deu I Mata, 66-69, Barcelona, 08029, Spain

Slightly outside the city center, this hotel offers a relaxing stay with a pool and spa.

NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderon

Rambla catalunya, 26, barcelona, 08007, spain.

Located in central Barcelona, the hotel is within walking distance to Las Ramblas and the shopping district of Passeig de Gracia.

NH Collection Barcelona Podium

Bailen, 4-6, barcelona, 08010, spain.

Located in central Barcelona, the hotel is within walking distance to The Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella. The hotel is also located near the shopping district of Plaza de Cataluña.

Sofitel Barcelona Skipper

Av del litoral, 10, barcelona, 08005, spain.

Located within walking distance of the Mediterranean Sea, this hotel is in close proximity of the Barcelona zoo, aquarium, and Picasso's Museum.

W Barcelona

Placa de la rosa dels vents, 1, barcelona, 08039, spain.

Located on the famous Barcelona boardwalk and designed by world-renowned architect Ricardo Bofill, W Barcelona sets the scene for a spectacular stay. In the upcoming months, guests will be able to observe a breathtaking event: the 37th Americas Cup Sailing and take in amazing views of the race just yards away in the Balearic Sea.

Hotel Arts Barcelona

Carrer de la marina 19-21, barcelona, 08005, spain.

Nestled by a serene sandy beach along the boardwalk, the Hotel Arts Barcelona is a 44 story, glass and steel contemporary structure, offering guests breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Mediterranean Sea. Located in the heart of the city’s Olympic Village area, visitors are within a short stroll of Las Ramblas, Picasso Museum and the promenade.

Melia Barcelona Sky

Pere iv, 272, barcelona, 08005, spain.

Residing in the iconic skyscraper designed by Dominique Perrault, the Melia Barcelona Sky is located in a very fashion forward and high tech neighborhood.

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Cadiz vs Barcelona: Preview, predictions and lineups

• Cadiz host Barcelona in La Liga on Saturday evening
• Xavi's side looking to close in on Real Madrid at the top of the table
• Saturday's hosts currently in the relegation zone

By Ewan Ross-Murray | 3:00 AM GMT+1

Barcelona are aiming to put some light pressure on La Liga leaders Real Madrid this weekend when they travel to Cadiz.

Xavi's side have steadied themselves since he announced that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season, with Barca even securing a 3-2 victory away at Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League quarter-final first leg midweek.

The Catalan side are somehow only eight points off Real Madrid at the top of the table with a Clasico still to play this season, despite the fact that they have underwhelmed in the defence of their La Liga crown.

Cadiz are currently fighting relegation and sit in a worrying 18th with eight games to play, losing their last three clashes against Barca without even scoring. Picking up points on Saturday looks unlikely for the strugglers but the fact that Xavi may rest players with one eye on the Champions League quarter-final second leg next week will offer them hope.

Here is 90min's guide to Cadiz vs Barcelona this Saturday.

What time does Cadiz vs Barcelona kick-off?

• Location : Cadiz, Spain
• Stadium : Nuevo Mirandilla
• Date : Saturday 13 April
• Kick-off Time : 20:00 BST / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
• Referee : Juan Luis Pulido Santana
• VAR : Francisco Jose Hernandez Maeso

Cadiz vs Barcelona H2H record (Last Five Games)

• Cadiz: 1 win
• Barcelona: 3 wins
• Last meeting: Barcelona 2-0 Cadiz (20 August 2023) - La Liga

Current form (all competitions)

How to watch cadiz vs barcelona on tv and live stream, cadiz team news.

Cadiz are without a handful of first-team players for the visit of Barcelona, including striker Maxi Gomez. The relegation-threatened side are also missing Rominigue Kouame and Federico San Emeterio, both of whom are out for the season.

Defender Luis Hernandez and left winger Darwin Machis are also absent for Cadiz, whose squad is being stretched by injuries at just the wrong point in the season.

Cadiz predicted lineup vs Barcelona

Cadiz predicted lineup (4-4-2) : Ledesma; Carcelen, Fali, Chust, J. Hernandez; Navarro, Alcaraz, Fernandez, Sobrino; Ramos, Juanmi.

Barcelona team news

Barcelona welcomed Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Andreas Christensen back during their victory over PSG - a much-needed boost for Xavi ahead of the end of the season. However, the Catalan side are still without Gavi and Alejandro Balde, both of whom won't feature until next campaign.

Barca will be without three players through suspension, including star striker Robert Lewandowski. Inigo Martinez and Joao Cancelo are also absent in defence for the Spanish giants.

Xavi is likely to rest a number of players for the trip to Cadiz with the second leg against PSG to come next week, meaning some fringe players should be handed starts.

Barcelona predicted lineup vs Cadiz

Barcelona predicted lineup (4-3-3) : Ter Stegen; Kounde, Christensen, Alonso, Fort; Fermin, Roberto, De Jong; Yamal, Torres, Felix.

Cadiz vs Barcelona score prediction

With Barca likely resting a whole host of key players for Saturday's encounter, Cadiz may sniff the opportunity to pull off a memorable result - and a mightily important one in their bid for survival. Mauricio Pellegrino's side have won two of their last three matches and will feel confident, albeit Barca remain unbeaten since the 5-3 defeat to Villarreal in late January, after which Xavi announced his decision to step down.

However, Xavi's men should still have more than enough in the tank to secure a victory on Saturday, even if it isn't entirely straightforward. While the title remains a longshot, Barca will be keen to keep the pressure on Real Madrid heading into the closing weeks of the season.

Prediction: Cadiz 1-2 Barcelona

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