Day 1: Explore Madrid
Spain is a must-visit destination in Europe, known for its rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes. In this 7-day itinerary, we will cover the best destinations and experiences that Spain has to offer. No visit to Spain is complete without spending at least a day in its capital city, Madrid, which is known for its beautiful architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife.
On day 1, we recommend starting your journey in Madrid. Begin your day by exploring the historic center of the city, where you will find many of Madrid’s most famous landmarks, including the Royal Palace, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza Mayor. As you walk around the area, take in the stunning architecture that surrounds you and snap some pictures to remember the moment.
Next, head to the Prado Museum, one of the best museums in the world, and home to a vast collection of European art from the 12th to the 20th century. Spend a few hours here, admiring the stunning masterpieces by Spanish artists such as Velázquez and Goya, as well as other European artists including Rembrandt and Rubens. Don’t forget to grab some souvenirs from the museum shop before leaving.
After a busy morning, it’s time for some lunch! We recommend heading to Mercado de San Miguel, a beautiful market that offers a wide variety of Spanish foods, including tapas, seafood, and cheeses. Make sure to try some traditional Spanish dishes like paella or croquettes, and wash it down with a glass of refreshing Sangria.
In the afternoon, the perfect place to relax and unwind is Retiro Park, Madrid’s most beautiful park. Take a stroll around the stunning gardens, visit the Crystal Palace or the beautiful Rose Garden, and take a boat ride on the lake to see the beautiful monument to Alfonso XII. Retiro Park is the perfect place to enjoy some time in nature, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
To finish off your day, head to one of Madrid’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Malasaña or Chueca, where you will find a variety of trendy bars and restaurants to choose from. Try some delicious tapas and drinks, and soak up the buzzing atmosphere of Madrid by night.
Day 1 in Madrid is just the beginning of your amazing Spain adventure. Stay tuned for more recommendations and tips for your journey ahead!
Day 2: Discover the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Prado Museum
Welcome back, fellow travelers! Today, we’re diving into Madrid’s rich cultural heritage. Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid, a grand palace that spans over 135,000 square meters. Home to Spanish royalty from Carlos III to Alfonso XIII, it is now used for state ceremonies and welcomes visitors to admire its stunning architecture.
Once you enter the palace, begin with a tour of the Royal Armory. This room displays a vast collection of armaments and armor from different eras, including helmets, swords and firearms. Afterward, make your way to the Throne Room, where King Felipe VI welcomes guests and dignitaries. In this room, the grand frescoes on the ceiling will take your breath away.
From there, visit the palace’s royal chapel, Capilla Real, where you’ll be able to witness the works of famous baroque artist Luca Giordano. Finally, take a stroll around the palace gardens, filled with fountains, trees, and sculptures, and enjoy the beautiful view of the city.
Once you’re done exploring the Royal Palace, it’s time to satisfy your artistic cravings at the Prado Museum. Housing one of the most extensive collections of European art on the continent, this is an excellent opportunity to appreciate and learn more about art. Its collections comprise of works by the greats, including Velazquez, Goya, Hieronymus Bosch, and Titian.
If you’re a fan of Francisco Goya, The Black Paintings are a must-see. These paintings, created in Goya’s later years, offer a glimpse into his dark, tormented mind. Another highlight is Las Meninas by Diego Velazquez; it is considered a masterpiece in the art world for its composition and use of light and shadows.
You can either take a guided tour or simply roam the halls on your own, but be warned that the latter may take up a considerable amount of time. Once you’ve appreciated the art to your heart’s content, take a stroll outside the museum in the pedestrian-friendly boulevard, Paseo del Prado.
That’s it for today’s itinerary! Be sure to come back tomorrow as we venture out of Madrid to the beautiful city of Toledo. Adios!
Day 3: Visit the Beautiful City of Seville
On day 3 of your Spain itinerary, it’s time to explore the stunning city of Seville. Seville is the capital of Andalusia and has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. It’s a city that is known for its beautiful architecture, flamenco dancing, and delicious food.
The first thing you should do in Seville is visit the Alcazar of Seville, a stunning palace that was originally built for the Moorish Muslim kings. The palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Spain. The intricate details of the architecture are truly awe-inspiring, and you’ll be amazed by the stunning gardens surrounding the palace.
After the Alcazar, head over to the Seville Cathedral, which is the third-largest cathedral in the world. The cathedral was built in the 15th century and is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Inside the cathedral, you’ll find the tomb of Christopher Columbus, as well as stunning stained-glass windows and ornate decorations.
Once you’re done exploring the cathedral, take a walk through the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood, which is dotted with some of the city’s best tapas bars and restaurants. Sample some of the local specialties, like gazpacho and fried fish, and enjoy a glass of sangria or two.
Finally, end your day in Seville with a flamenco show. Flamenco is a traditional dance that originated in Andalusia and is known for its passionate, emotional performances. There are plenty of places in Seville where you can catch a flamenco show, so ask your hotel concierge for recommendations. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Day 4: Enjoy the Delights of Granada
Welcome back to the Best Spain Itinerary! Today, we will be exploring the charming city of Granada.
Granada is a city located in the Andalusia region of Spain, packed with amazing history, beautiful ancient architecture, and world-class cuisine.
The main attraction in Granada is the Alhambra, an enormous palace complex that dates back to the 13th century. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most famous monuments in Spain.
Start your day off early with a visit to the Alhambra. To avoid the crowds, make sure to book your tickets in advance, allowing you to skip the lines and take a leisurely stroll around the grounds. The palace’s impressive architecture is sure to take your breath away, and exploring the gardens is a calming experience.
After your visit to the Alhambra, it’s time to explore some of the hidden gems in Granada, starting with the Albaicín neighborhood. This historic area has beautifully preserved buildings, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the Alhambra.
Take a break and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants serving traditional Spanish dishes, such as Tortilla or Paella.
Once you are finished with lunch, make your way to the Royal Chapel of Granada. It is a beautiful Renaissance-style chapel that is the final resting place for Spain’s most famous monarchs, Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand.
Round off your day at Plaza Nueva, the main square of Granada. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and is a great spot for people watching, especially at sunset when the light is perfect for photography.
With the enchanting sights of Granada still lingering in your mind, it’s time to rest up for the next leg of your adventure. We will see you again tomorrow!
Day 5: Travel to Valencia
Welcome back, fellow adventurers! Day 5 of our Spanish itinerary takes us to the beautiful city of Valencia. A high-speed train from Madrid will get you to Valencia in approximately two hours, or you can venture on a scenic drive if you prefer. Either way, make sure to enjoy the stunning Spanish countryside on your journey.
Valencia is known for its unique architecture and cultural heritage. Upon your arrival, check into your accommodation and head out to explore the mesmerizing City of Arts and Sciences. This modern and futuristic complex is packed with innovative structures, including a planetarium, an opera house, and an interactive museum of science. Make sure to take some amazing photos while exploring this gem of a city.
For lunch, head to the lively Mercado Central de Valencia, where you can taste some of the most delicious traditional Spanish cuisines. The market is home to over 1,000 stalls, offering a vast variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Spend some time strolling around and taste some of the local specialties such as paella and horchata.
After lunch, take a stroll in the beautiful Turia Gardens. This green oasis was once a river that has been transformed into an extensive park, offering its visitors plenty of walking and cycling paths. You can spend some time relaxing in the park and enjoying the beautiful scenery around you.
As the evening rolls around, make sure to visit the Plaza de la Reina. The elegant square is home to the stunning Gothic Cathedral of Valencia, where you can marvel at some of the fantastic views of the city from the top of the Miguelete tower. After exploring the cathedral, head to one of the many cafes or restaurants around the square to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
That wraps up our day in Valencia. Be sure to rest up, as there’s still much more to explore. In the next post, we’ll take you through day 6 of this itinerary, where we’ll visit the beautiful coastal city of Malaga.
Day 6: Experience the Splendor of Barcelona
On day 6 of your Spanish itinerary, you’ll be exploring one of Spain’s most magnificent and culturally rich cities – Barcelona. The city is known for being a hub of arts, architecture, and home to some of Spain’s greatest treasures. You can expect a day full of excitement, adventure, and a gastronomic experience.
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Park Guell designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudi. This park is full of colorful mosaics, and stone structures that look like strange fairy tale homes. The park is also home to some of the most remarkable views of the city. Getting to Park Guell early is recommended as it tends to get crowded later in the day.
For lunch, head over to La Boqueria, the iconic Barcelona market that has more than 300 food stalls where you can try different local delicacies. From freshly squeezed juices to homemade empanadas, you’ll never run out of options. A visit to the market is not complete without trying the famous Iberico ham, a type of cured ham from the Iberian Peninsula that is considered a true delicacy in Spain.
The afternoon can be spent admiring some of the amazing architecture Barcelona has to offer. Take a stroll down the tree-lined Passeig de Gracia, and admire the modernist buildings like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera by the same architect, Antoni Gaudi. These buildings are not only fascinating to look at but also offer a glimpse into the mind of Gaudi and his fascinating architectural designs.
Wrap up your day with a visit to the Gothic Quarter, the oldest part of the city that contains a labyrinthine of streets, hidden squares, and charming cafes. The Gothic Quarter is also home to the famous Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar, known for its architectural grandeur and Gothic style.
With so much to do, Barcelona has something for everyone, and it’s a city that will leave you wanting more. Whether it’s the art or the architecture, you’re sure to be blown away by the beauty of the city.
Day 7: Relax in the Stunning Beaches of Costa Brava
Can you believe it’s already the last day of your Spain trip? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a unique and relaxing way to finish off your adventure. On day 7, we’re heading to the stunning beaches of Costa Brava.
Costa Brava is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in Spain, with crystal clear waters and breathtaking surroundings. There are over 200 km of coastline to explore, so you can take your pick from a variety of beaches depending on what you’re in the mood for.
For a quieter experience, we recommend heading to Cala Boadella, a stunning cove that’s surrounded by pine forests and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something with more activity, then head to Platja Gran where you can find a range of water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing.
Another great spot to check out is Sa Caleta, a small cove with crystal clear turquoise waters. The best part? It’s located right by the iconic castle of Tossa de Mar, making for some great photo opportunities.
When you’ve had enough of lazing around on the beach, head to one of the nearby beach bars where you can order some refreshing drinks and a light meal. Try out the famous Spanish tapas or grab a classic beachside burger and fries.
After a day of sun, sand and sea, it’s time to wrap up your trip to Spain. Spend your night strolling around town, enjoying the last glimpses of Spanish culture before heading back home. You may even find a local marketplace offering fresh produce and handmade souvenirs that you can take back with you to remember your incredible Spanish adventure.
Conclusion
Conclusion:
Exploring Spain has never been so fulfilling with this 7-day itinerary that covers the best destinations and experiences the country has to offer. Starting with a day in Madrid that includes visiting famous landmarks, museums, and experiencing Madrid’s charming neighborhoods in the evening, the itinerary goes on to the Royal Palace of Madrid, Prado Museum, and then takes the traveler to other beautiful Spanish cities such as Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona. Each city offers a unique blend of history, culture, art, architecture, and delicious food. Finally, the itinerary concludes with a relaxing and picturesque day at Costa Brava’s stunning beaches, making it a perfect end to a perfect trip. This itinerary is an excellent guide to explore the rich culture, history, and landscapes of Spain and is sure to leave you with fond memories and a longing to come back for more.
