Crafting your dream Spain travel itinerary? I’ve designed exclusive journeys from sun-drenched coastlines to hidden city gems. In this guide, I’ll share insider tips, timing tricks, and hand-picked experiences so you can travel smart, skip the guesswork, and enjoy Spain like a pro.
Spain is a kaleidoscope of experiences—from Barcelona's whimsical Gaudí architecture to Madrid's world-class art museums, Seville's passionate flamenco, and San Sebastián's mouthwatering pintxos. With so much to see and do, planning can feel overwhelming. That's where a thoughtful itinerary comes in!
This guide is designed for all types of travelers. First-timers will discover the must-see highlights that give you that quintessential Spanish experience. Culture vultures will find historical context and artistic treasures. Foodies? Oh boy, I've got your taste buds covered! And for those who prefer to wander off the beaten path, I've included some of Spain's most charming hidden gems.
Spain rewards the prepared traveler, but it also delights in spontaneous discoveries. My itineraries provide structure while leaving room for those magical moments when you stumble upon a local festival or the perfect little tapas bar tucked away on a quiet side street.
Best Time to Visit Spain
Peak Season (Summer – Pros & Cons)
Summer (June-August) is when Spain really sizzles—sometimes literally! With temperatures regularly hitting 95°F (35°C) or higher in southern cities like Seville, you'll want to embrace the siesta culture. I once made the rookie mistake of trying to tour the Alcázar in Seville at 2 PM in July. Big mistake. Huge!
The pros? Vibrant energy everywhere you go, extended opening hours at major attractions, and beach towns buzzing with life. Coastal areas like Costa Brava and San Sebastián are at their absolute best.
The cons? Crowds can be overwhelming at major attractions (expect long lines at the Sagrada Família), prices spike for accommodations, and inland cities can be uncomfortably hot. If you do visit in summer, book tickets for major attractions well in advance and plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Shoulder Season (Spring & Fall – Ideal Weather & Crowds)
If I could whisper one travel secret in your ear, it would be this: visit Spain in the shoulder seasons. April-May and September-October offer the perfect sweet spot of pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and reasonable prices.
Spring brings blooming flowers to the parks of Madrid and Barcelona, while fall offers harvest festivals and perfect temperatures for exploring. I particularly love southern Spain in October—warm enough for light clothing but cool enough for comfortable sightseeing.
During these months, you'll still need to book popular attractions in advance, but you won't face the crushing crowds of summer. Plus, locals are back from their holidays and cities regain their authentic rhythm.
Winter Travel (Fewer Tourists & Unique Festivals)
Winter in Spain (November-March) is Spain's best-kept secret. While you'll need a coat in most regions, temperatures rarely dip below freezing in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Southern Spain stays particularly mild—I've enjoyed sunny 65°F (18°C) days in Seville in January!
The biggest advantages? Drastically reduced crowds at major attractions, hotel rates at their lowest, and a chance to experience authentic local life. Winter also brings unique celebrations like Christmas markets and the spectacular Three Kings parades on January 5th.
Ski enthusiasts should head to the Pyrenees or Sierra Nevada for surprisingly excellent slopes. And don't miss winter culinary specialties like cocido madrileño (Madrid's hearty chickpea stew) that perfectly match the season.
How to Get Around Spain
Trains (Renfe & AVE High-Speed Rail)
Spain's train system is honestly one of the best in Europe. The crown jewel is the AVE high-speed rail network, which connects major cities at speeds up to 193 mph (310 km/h). Madrid to Barcelona? Just 2.5 hours. Madrid to Seville? 2.5 hours as well. These would be 6-7 hour drives!
I strongly recommend booking AVE tickets in advance through the Renfe website or app. Prices increase significantly as the travel date approaches. Pro tip: look for "Promo" and "Promo+" fares, which offer discounts of up to 70% for early bookings.
Regular (non-high-speed) trains connect smaller cities and towns. They're comfortable and reliable, though not as fast as the AVE. For regional exploration, they're perfect.
Buses (Budget-Friendly Regional Travel)
Spain's extensive bus network reaches places trains don't, often at lower prices. Companies like ALSA, Avanza, and Socibus connect cities, towns, and villages throughout the country.
Buses in Spain aren't what you might expect—many long-distance coaches offer comfortable seats, WiFi, and entertainment systems. I once took an overnight bus from Madrid to Granada that was more comfortable than some flights I've been on!
For travel to smaller towns or rural areas, buses might be your only public transportation option. They're also great for budget travelers—I've found bus tickets from Madrid to Valencia for as little as €15 when booked in advance.
Car Rentals (Flexibility for Rural Areas)
Want to explore Spain's countryside, small villages, or remote beaches? Renting a car gives you unmatched freedom. Spain's road network is excellent, with well-maintained highways (autopistas) connecting major cities.
A car is particularly valuable for:
Exploring white villages in Andalusia
Touring wine regions like La Rioja or Ribera del Duero
Visiting Spain's natural parks
Beach-hopping along the coast
Just be aware that parking can be challenging in historic city centers, and some cities like Madrid have restricted traffic zones. My strategy? Use trains between major cities, then rent a car for specific regional exploration.
Domestic Flights (When to Fly vs. Train)
With so many high-speed train options, when does flying make sense? For long distances—particularly corners of the country far from Madrid. Barcelona to Seville or Madrid to the Canary Islands are good examples where flying saves significant time.
Airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and Ryanair offer extensive domestic networks. Book well in advance for the best fares, especially during peak summer months.
My personal rule: If the train journey is under 4 hours, take the train—when you factor in airport commutes and security lines, the time savings with flying is minimal, and the train experience is far more pleasant.
7-Day Spain Itinerary for First-Timers
Day 1-2: Barcelona (Must-See Attractions)
Sagrada Família & Park Güell
Start your Spanish adventure in cosmopolitan Barcelona. On your first morning, head straight to Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Família. I still remember walking through those doors for the first time—the rainbow of light streaming through stained glass windows literally made me gasp out loud.
Book your timed entry ticket at least a few weeks in advance (or months ahead in summer). Opt for the tower access for panoramic city views, and consider the audio guide to appreciate the incredible symbolism throughout the basilica.
In the afternoon, make your way to Park Güell, another Gaudí creation. The park's famous mosaic benches, gingerbread-like buildings, and sweeping city views make for perfect photos. Again, book ahead—only a limited number of visitors are allowed into the Monumental Zone each hour. I like to time my visit for late afternoon when the lighting is magical for photos.
Gothic Quarter & La Boqueria Market
Dedicate your second day to Barcelona's atmospheric Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). Get lost in the labyrinth of narrow medieval streets, stumble upon tiny plazas, and discover hidden boutiques. Don't miss the imposing Barcelona Cathedral and the remnants of the ancient Roman city of Barcino.
For lunch, head to the famous La Boqueria Market just off Las Ramblas. This colorful market is a feast for all senses—grab some fresh fruit, Iberian ham, and cheese for a makeshift picnic, or eat at one of the small bar-restaurants inside. My favorite is El Quim de la Boqueria for their incredible fried eggs with baby squid.
Round out your Barcelona stay with an evening on the waterfront at Barceloneta Beach or a visit to the Picasso Museum. If you have energy left, Barcelona's nightlife starts late—dinner at 10 PM followed by drinks or dancing is perfectly normal!
Day 3-4: Madrid (Cultural Highlights)
Prado Museum & Retiro Park
Catch a morning AVE train to Madrid (about 2.5 hours) and head straight to the heart of Spain's capital. Madrid has a completely different energy from Barcelona—more traditionally Spanish, with grand boulevards and stately architecture.
Dedicate your first Madrid afternoon to the Prado Museum, Spain's premier art gallery. Even if you're not an art buff, the masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco are simply breathtaking. My strategy is to focus on the highlights rather than trying to see everything—the Prado is massive! Don't miss Velázquez's "Las Meninas" and Goya's haunting "Black Paintings."
Afterward, take a relaxing stroll through nearby Retiro Park, Madrid's green lung. Row a boat on the small lake, people-watch from a café, or just wander through the manicured gardens. If it's Sunday, check out El Rastro, Madrid's massive open-air flea market.
Day Trip to Toledo (Optional)
On your second day in Madrid, you have options. You could explore more of Madrid—the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Mercado San Miguel are all wonderful. Or, my personal recommendation: take a day trip to Toledo.
Just 30 minutes from Madrid by high-speed train, Toledo is like stepping back in time. This former Spanish capital sits dramatically atop a hill surrounded by the Tagus River. The medieval streets hold incredible treasures: a stunning Gothic cathedral, historic synagogues, and the home of El Greco.
Toledo is also famous for its steel (look for traditional swords and knives as souvenirs) and marzipan. The views of the city from across the river are straight out of an El Greco painting—absolutely worth the short hike.
If you return to Madrid in the evening, experience the city's famous tapas culture. Areas like La Latina (especially Calle Cava Baja) come alive with locals hopping between tapas bars. Join them for a truly authentic experience!
Day 5-6: Seville (Andalusian Charm)
Alcázar & Flamenco Show
Take a morning AVE train from Madrid to Seville (about 2.5 hours) and prepare to be charmed by Andalusia's capital. Seville embodies the Spain of imagination—orange trees, passionate flamenco, ornate architecture blending Christian and Moorish influences.
Head first to the Real Alcázar, a stunning royal palace that showcases some of the finest Mudéjar architecture in Spain. The intricate tile work, peaceful courtyards, and lush gardens will transport you to another era. Game of Thrones fans might recognize it as the Water Gardens of Dorne! Again, book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.
In the evening, experience authentic flamenco in its birthplace. While there are many shows targeted at tourists, look for venues in the Triana neighborhood or smaller "peñas flamencas" for more authentic performances. The raw emotion of flamenco in a small, intimate venue is something you'll never forget.
Day Trip to Córdoba (Optional)
On your second day, either continue exploring Seville's highlights (the Cathedral and Giralda tower, Plaza de España, and the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood) or take a day trip to nearby Córdoba.
Just 45 minutes by train from Seville, Córdoba is home to the mesmerizing Mezquita, one of the world's most unique religious buildings. This former mosque turned cathedral features a forest of 856 striped arches that create a hypnotic effect. I still remember the first time I walked in—it literally stopped me in my tracks.
Beyond the Mezquita, wander through Córdoba's Jewish Quarter and discover flower-filled patios (especially beautiful if you visit during the May Patio Festival). If you're a food lover, try the local specialty salmorejo, a thicker cousin of gazpacho.
Return to Seville for the evening and enjoy a sunset stroll along the Guadalquivir River.
Day 7: Granada (Alhambra & Tapas Tour)
Wake up early and catch a bus or train to Granada (about 2.5-3 hours from Seville) for the grand finale of your week in Spain. Granada sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, crowned by the Alhambra—arguably Spain's most impressive monument.
The Alhambra requires advance planning. Tickets sell out weeks (sometimes months) ahead, especially for summer visits. Book the earliest morning slot you can to avoid crowds and heat. The complex includes the Nasrid Palaces (the spectacular highlight with timed entry), the Generalife gardens, and the Alcazaba fortress. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours exploring.
After your Alhambra visit, head down to Granada's historic Albaicín neighborhood—a maze of narrow streets climbing up the hill opposite the Alhambra. Find your way to the San Nicolás viewpoint for the postcard view of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada mountains behind it.
Here's Granada's best secret: free tapas! Unlike most of Spain, bars in Granada serve a free tapa with every drink you order. Make dinner a tapas crawl through the city center or the Realejo neighborhood. The more drinks you order, the more varied your dinner becomes—it's a delicious and budget-friendly way to sample local specialties.
If your schedule allows, spend the night in Granada before traveling to your departure city the next day. The Alhambra lit up at night is a sight you won't want to miss.
10-Day Spain Itinerary (For Deeper Exploration)
If you're lucky enough to have 10 days in Spain, you can explore more deeply or add new destinations. Here are three excellent ways to extend the 7-day itinerary:
Extend to Valencia & Costa Blanca
After Madrid, head east to Valencia, Spain's third-largest city and a perfect blend of historical and futuristic. Spend two days exploring the stunning City of Arts and Sciences complex, the charming old town, and sampling authentic paella (Valencia is its birthplace!).
From Valencia, rent a car to explore the Costa Blanca's beautiful beaches and charming towns like Altea and Guadalest. The clear waters and white sand beaches provide a relaxing break mid-itinerary before continuing south to Andalusia.
I particularly love the contrast between ultra-modern Valencia and the traditional whitewashed villages just a short drive away. It showcases Spain's remarkable ability to honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Add Basque Country (San Sebastián & Bilbao)
Alternatively, start your trip in the north by flying into Bilbao. Spend two days exploring this reinvented industrial city, including the revolutionary Guggenheim Museum and the charming Casco Viejo (old quarter).
Then take a bus to San Sebastián, widely considered Spain's culinary capital. The city's pintxo bars in the old town offer some of the world's most innovative bites. Beyond food, San Sebastián boasts beautiful beaches like La Concha and stunning lookout points.
From the Basque Country, fly or take a train to Barcelona to continue with the main itinerary. The Basque region offers a completely different flavor of Spain—a unique language, distinct cultural traditions, and even its own culinary vocabulary.
Northern Spain (Santiago de Compostela & Picos de Europa)
For nature lovers and those seeking less-visited regions, northern Spain is magical. After Madrid, head northwest to Galicia to visit Santiago de Compostela, the endpoint of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The medieval old town and magnificent cathedral are worth the journey alone.
Then rent a car to explore the Picos de Europa National Park, with its dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, and traditional villages. This green Spain, with its Celtic influences and seafood-rich cuisine, feels worlds away from the sun-baked south.
You could then fly from Asturias or Santander to Seville to complete the southern portion of the itinerary. This option is perfect for return visitors to Spain or those who prefer mountains and cooler temperatures to city sightseeing.
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
Ronda (Dramatic Cliffside Town)
Perched dramatically above a deep gorge in Andalusia, Ronda is one of Spain's most spectacularly situated towns. The 18th-century Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) spans the 390-foot deep El Tajo gorge, connecting the old and new parts of town.
Beyond the bridge, Ronda offers Spain's oldest bullring, excellent wineries, and white-washed streets perfect for wandering. The views from the various lookout points are absolutely breathtaking. I still remember sitting at a cliffside café, watching eagles soar below me while sipping local wine—pure magic.
Ronda is accessible as a day trip from Seville, but I recommend spending a night. Once the day-trippers leave, the town takes on a peaceful, authentic atmosphere that's worth experiencing.
Cuenca (Hanging Houses & Medieval Charm)
About two hours from Madrid lies Cuenca, famous for its casas colgadas (hanging houses) that cling precariously to cliff edges. This medieval walled town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an art lover's dream, with several excellent museums housed in historic buildings.
The most photographed view is of the hanging houses from the San Pablo Bridge, but the entire old town is a photographer's paradise of narrow streets, plazas, and the striking blue-and-yellow tiled dome of the cathedral.
Cuenca makes a perfect overnight stop between Madrid and Valencia if you're following the extended itinerary. Stay in a hotel in one of the historic buildings for a truly unique experience.
Cadaqués (Dali's Coastal Escape)
On the Costa Brava near the French border sits the whitewashed fishing village of Cadaqués, one of Spain's most beautiful coastal towns. The brilliantly blue Mediterranean, bougainvillea-draped buildings, and rocky coves create a picture-perfect setting that has long attracted artists.
Salvador Dalí had a home in nearby Port Lligat (now a fascinating museum), and the town's light and landscape influenced many of his works. Beyond the Dalí connection, Cadaqués offers excellent seafood restaurants, lovely beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere far removed from the package tourism of larger Costa Brava resorts.
Reaching Cadaqués requires a winding drive along a narrow road, which has helped preserve its charm. It's doable as a day trip from Barcelona, but an overnight stay allows you to experience the magical early mornings and evenings when the light is most beautiful.
Spain Travel Tips & Local Insights
Dining Etiquette (When to Eat & Tipping)
Adapting to Spanish mealtimes is crucial for an authentic experience. Breakfast is typically light—perhaps just coffee and a pastry or toast with tomato and olive oil. Lunch (la comida) is the main meal, served between 2-4 PM, and dinner happens late, usually starting at 9 PM or later.
Many restaurants offer a menú del día at lunch—a fixed-price three-course meal with bread and a beverage. It's typically excellent value and a great way to try local specialties.
Tipping in Spain is not obligatory but appreciated for good service. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is generous. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is common. Never feel pressured to leave the 15-20% tips common in countries like the USA.
Oh, and when you're ready to pay at a restaurant, you'll need to ask for the check—Spanish servers consider it rude to rush guests and won't bring the bill until requested. Just catch their eye and make a writing motion or say "La cuenta, por favor."
Safety Tips for Tourists
Spain is generally very safe, but like any popular tourist destination, petty theft can be an issue in crowded areas. Barcelona's Las Ramblas and the Madrid Metro are popular pickpocketing spots. Keep these simple precautions in mind:
Use a money belt or hidden pouch for valuables
Keep phones and cameras secure, especially when taking photos
Be wary of common distraction techniques (someone spilling something on you, asking for directions with a map)
Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
Make digital copies of important documents
Spanish emergency services are excellent, and the number for police, ambulance, and fire is the same as throughout Europe: 112. Most tourist areas have special police (Policía Local) who speak English and focus on visitor safety.
Essential Spanish Phrases
While you can get by with English in major tourist areas, learning a few Spanish phrases goes a long way toward richer interactions. Here are some basics:
Buenos días/tardes/noches - Good morning/afternoon/evening
Por favor - Please
Gracias - Thank you
Habla inglés? - Do you speak English?
La cuenta, por favor - The bill, please
¿Dónde está...? - Where is...?
Me gustaría... - I would like...
¡Qué rico! - How delicious!
Remember that in Barcelona and parts of northern Spain, other languages like Catalan, Basque, and Galician are spoken. While everyone understands Spanish, using a few words in the local language is always appreciated.
Spain offers an intoxicating blend of artistic treasures, architectural wonders, culinary delights, and natural beauty. Whether you follow the classic first-timer's route through Barcelona, Madrid, and Andalusia or venture off to discover the green north or sun-soaked Mediterranean coast, Spain rewards every type of traveler.
The itineraries I've shared are starting points—feel free to adjust them to your interests, travel pace, and time constraints. Spain is incredibly diverse, and there's no single "right way" to experience it. Art lovers might spend more time in Madrid's museums, foodies could focus on San Sebastián and Barcelona, while architecture enthusiasts might add more Gaudí sites or Moorish monuments.
My best advice? Don't try to see everything in one trip. Leave something for next time—because once Spain captures your heart, you'll certainly want to return. I've visited seven times and still have a long list of places I'm eager to explore!
Have you been to Spain? Planning a trip soon? I'd love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions in the comments below. ¡Buen viaje! (Have a good trip!)
FAQS Travel to Paradiso
Recent Posts
