Traveling in Spain

5 Days in Spain: Where to Go in Spain & 3 Unique Itineraries

Matt

Spain is a country unique to all of Europe. No wonder it’s one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. If you’re planning 5 days in Spain soon, this guide on where to go in Spain with 3 unique Spain itineraries will make your travel planning a breeze.

The diverse geography, rich heritage, and famous Spanish monuments offer travelers everything they desire, from beautiful beaches and medieval castles to luxurious party islands.

Before you dive into the plethora of possible Spain travel itineraries, it is wise to learn a little bit about Spain, like weather, currency, transport, and best travel destinations. Once you’ve learned the basics, all there’s left to do is pick the best Spain Itinerary for your Spanish vacation.

How to Get Around in Spain – 5 Days in Spain Itinerary

Getting around Spain has become much easier thanks to the excellent public transport options. These include long-distance buses, high-speed trains, and internal flights. Don’t worry. The options aren’t too overwhelming, and having such variety makes planning a trip to Spain easier.

tour spain in 5 days

Traveling by Bus in Spain

Buses are the most economical way to get around Spain, although long distances could be uncomfortable. If you’re interested in exploring smaller towns and villages, often the only option will be local buses (or private transfers).

Most of the time, you can buy your bus ticket from the driver as you get in, but long-distance routes can be booked in advance. The Movelia website makes it easy to search for buses online.

Traveling by Plane in Spain

If you’re pressed for time, budget airlines may be the best way to hop between cities. When traveling to the Balearic or other islands, flying is the fastest and often the cheapest way to get there. The cheapest airlines are EasyJet and Ryanair . Keep in mind that checked luggage is not included in the price and will cost an additional fee per bag.

Renting a Car in Spain

Renting a car is a great way to determine your own route and pace while traveling through Spain. However, even though the cost of renting a car can be low, there are a lot of additional costs to consider, like parking fees, fuel, toll gates, and an international driving license.

Tip: Check out Discover Cars for great car rental options when traveling in Spain.

tour spain in 5 days

Traveling by Train in Spain

Spain has a well-connected rail system with both high-speed and regular trains. Tickets can be quite cheap and save a lot of time, but booking in advance is often necessary. A train from Barcelona to Madrid on a high-speed train only takes 2.5 hours and can cost as little as 30 Euros ($33 USD).

Check out our post to learn more about traveling by train in Spain !

Hitchhiking

Europe is a safe and popular destination for hitchhikers, although this would require a lot of flexibility and could be uncomfortable. Online guides for travelers who want to hitchhike through Europe are great sources of information while you’re on the go.

The Best Time to Visit Spain

Spain is a lovely destination year-round, with the best time to visit Spain being Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November).

Peak season is during the summer, from June to the end of August. Prices are higher, it gets crowded, and many accommodations may be booked out, so it’s best to make reservations and plan your 5 day Spain itinerary in advance. This time of the year is best for beach hopping and partying.

Spain has a very moderate temperature, and even in winter, it doesn’t get too cold. The only snowfall occurs in the North, usually only in the Spanish Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Tip: Get inspired by these unique places to visit in Spain .

Should I Get Insurance for My Trip to Spain?

Although Spain is a relatively safe country, accidents do happen. Travel insurance is invaluable, especially if renting a car or doing more extreme activities like taking on Camino de Santiago while hiking in Spain .

Check with your insurance company if you are covered while traveling. If not, World Nomads is a very reputable company popular amongst travelers.

5 Day Itinerary, Spain – Best Cities in Spain

Spain is a diverse country with world-famous cities, quaint towns, charming villages, and stunning beaches. It also boasts culturally rich regions and over 50 beautiful provinces and islands.

Lest you give your life to exploring all the nooks and crannies of Spain, you won’t be able to see all the country has to offer, especially not with a short Spain 5-day itinerary. To make your travel plans simpler, and to ensure you see the best of Spain, we’ve gathered the top 10 places to see in this magnificent Mediterranean country.

1. Barcelona

The mesmerizing seaside capital of Catalonia is embedded with rich culture, fantastical art and architecture, and a world-renowned food scene. The city has found a way to merge its ancient Roman history with 20th-century Modernist architecture by Antoni Gaudí. Barcelona holds up to its title as one of the most attractive cities in Europe and one of the best cities in Spain.

Read more about the major sights like the historic Gothic Quarter and the famous Las Ramblas in this guide to Barcelona .

The capital city is famous for its lively nightlife, large museums, and flavourful tapas. Daytime can be spent viewing famous artworks in Prado, the largest museum in the world, or touring Palacio Real, home of the Spanish royal family.

To experience the magical energy of Madrid, you’d have to wait until the sun starts to set in the summertime. This is when the city is most vibrant.

Tip: Get skip-the-line tickets to the Prado museum to make the most of your Spain tour.

Sitting neatly on the Costa del Sol, Málaga is the soulful hub that gifted the world Pablo Picasso. The city is buzzing with youth culture, new art houses, and a culinary scene that would excite any foodie. The revamped city still has a rich history, with remnants scattered across Málaga, including Moorish Citadels and a Roman Amphitheatre.

The sandy beaches of Málaga are also ideal for relaxing and experiencing the local culture on your Spain trip.

4. Valencia

The futuristic architecture of Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences includes a planetarium, oceanarium, and interactive museum. The innovative buildings may seem like science fiction, but the beautiful beaches, authentic paellas, and Old Town will remind you of the deeply ingrained Spanish culture of the city.

Read more about what to do in Valencia and Valencia’s castles .

Bilbao will transform your idea about what port cities look like. Located in Northern Spain and surrounded by lush green mountains, the capital of Basque Country is home to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.

The titanium structure of the museum receives more accolades than the famous contemporary art it houses. Bilbao is the perfect addition to any Northern Spain itinerary.

Seville is the largest and most popular destination in Andalusia. The student city boasts colorful streets, grand architecture, and buzzing festivals.

One of the main attractions is the Cathedral of Seville , a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the largest churches in the world. There are also monuments dedicated to different regions of the country and the Jewish Quarter to explore.

tour spain in 5 days

Known as “The Moorish Jewel,” Granada is tucked between the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Experiencing its Arabic culture and Islamic architecture is like watching a masterful showpiece, with the Granada Palace, Alhambra , being the star of the show.

8. Salamanca 

The sandstone buildings of Salamanca radiate with such beauty that the city has been nicknamed La Dorada, The Golden One. Its ancient history dates back 2000 years to the Celtic era.

It has picked up Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture along the way. It’s also home to the third oldest university in Europe, founded in 1218.

tour spain in 5 days

For centuries, Christians, Jews, and Arabs have co-existed in Toledo, awarding it the title of “the city of three cultures.” Marvel at the diversity of the Old Quarter as you wander past Gothic cathedrals, Horseshoe-arched mosques, Sephardic synagogues, palaces, and fortresses.

The city was also home to El Greco, who was one of the most famous artists of his time and still is to this day. Toledo is one of the best cities in Spain to visit for immersion in all the country’s best offerings, such as diverse culture and delightful wines.

10. Córdoba

During the 10th century, Córdoba was the greatest capital city in Europe, leading in architecture,  art, and academia. The historical Andalusian city is most famous for its UNESCO-listed mosque, La Mezquita. Córdoba also has a fascinating Jewish and Moorish heritage, charming streets, artisan crafts, and gastronomy.

A Complete Spain Travel Itinerary: 5 Days in Spain

It’s an overwhelming process to decide what to see in Spain in 5 days. We’d be lying if we said you could create a 5-day Spain travel itinerary that covers the whole country.

Instead, we’ve created three 5-day Spain itineraries to pick from. All the itineraries can be done in reverse or combined and include minimum travel time in order to explore and absorb the rich Spanish culture.

There really is no best one-week Spain itinerary since each route is spectacular in its own right. Regardless of which you choose, you’ll be astounded by the rich history, amazing gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife.

The best Spain itinerary is the one you choose! 

Southern Spain Itinerary: 5 Days From Granada to Seville

Southern Spain is an ideal region to soak up the sun and explore the remnants of Moorish rule. It is also home to some of the best cities in Spain to visit. The route spans 388 miles and takes you through some of the most beautiful and historic cities in Spain.

If traveling by car, you’ll have the luxury of stopping at places en route like Alcalá de los Gazules and the white sand beaches of Marbella. If you’re flying to Southern Spain, start your trip in Málaga, where there is an airport, and take a day trip to Granada.

Day 1: Granada

Your trip starts in Granada, one of the pearls of Spain, home to perhaps the most important remnants of Moorish rule, The Alhambra . A limited number of tickets are sold per day, so book your spot in advance.

Things to see:

  • Royal Chapel of Granada
  • Catedral de Granada 

Accommodation: Hotel Granada Center is great value for price and is located just a 10-minute walk from the Granada Cathedral.  

Day 2: Málaga

tour spain in 5 days

Start your day early to make the journey from Granada to Málaga, which is approximately 2 hours by bus. Málaga is the largest city on the Costa del Sol and is firmly rooted in Spanish culture and history.

  • Picasso Museum
  • Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga
  • Roman Amphitheatre 

Accommodation: Hotel Sur Málaga is in the center of Málaga, close to the Picasso Museum and Alcazaba. For backpackers, The Lights Hostel is an option where you can get a budget-friendly breakfast or dinner.

Day 3: Cádiz

The trip to Cádiz can take anything from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your mode of transportation. The cheapest and fastest way to get there is to rideshare.

Cadíz is known as the most important port in Spain. It is the meeting point of the Mediterranean and Atlantic Seas. The port city links trade between Europe, Africa, and America.

  • Cádiz Cathedral
  • Torre Tavira
  • Castle of Santa Catalina

Accommodation :    Plazas de la Luz Cadiz lies in the heart of the Old Town and is a very affordable option for couples. Backpackers may prefer Casa Caracol , where you can enjoy the hammocks on the rooftop terrace and free breakfast.

Day 4: Seville

tour spain in 5 days

Traveling to Seville can be done via bus, train, or ridesharing. All options take under 2 hours.

This Andalusian capital is famous for the Plaza de España and being the birthplace of Flamenco dancing. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch a performance in the Triana neighborhood and dine on tasty tapas.

  • Royal Alcázar of Seville 
  • Plaza de España
  • Catedral de Sevilla 
  • Las Setas De Sevilla
  • Parque de María Luisa
  • Torre del Oro

Accommodation : Hotel Patio de las Cruces is set in the Jewish Quarter and is only a 10-minute walk to the city’s cathedral. Backpackers looking for good vibes and rooftop jams should check out La Banda.

Day 5: Córdoba

The journey to Córdoba only takes 45 minutes by train, whereas driving would more than double the travel time.

As the final stop on your itinerary for Spain, Córdoba signifies the tumultuous history of Spain. It was a major Islamic Center in the Middle Ages whose magnificent 784 A.D. mosque became a church in 1236. The city is also the birthplace of the Roman philosopher Seneca.

  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
  • Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs
  • Roman Bridge of Córdoba 
  • Medina Azahara – Conjunto

Accommodation :  If you’re looking for a clean and modern hotel with parking, Sercotel Hotel Selu is ideal. Córdoba Bed and Be is a popular hostel amongst backpackers, offering free breakfast, a kitchen, and a rooftop terrace where you can soak up the sun.

Northern Spanish Itinerary: Barcelona to Basque Country

This iconic route of Northern Spain spans approximately 447 miles. The trip conveniently starts in Barcelona, where many flights land and trains from across Europe stop. If planning to fly out of Spain, consider going to San Sebastian before heading to Bilbao since the city has a major airport.

Day 1: Barcelona

If you only have a day in Barcelona, it’s important to have a plan to ensure you see as much as possible. There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona . To simplify touring through the city center, consider getting a Hop-on Hop-off bus .

  • Sagrada Familia
  • Passeig de Gracia 
  • Placa Catalunya
  • Casa Batlló and Casa 
  • Las Ramblas 
  • Barceloneta

Accommodation :  For convenience’s sake, book accommodation near Placa Catalunya. There are plenty of hotels and hostels in Barcelona. We really like Catalonia Born Hotel and One Paralelo Hostel. Both offer both dorm and private rooms.

Day 2: Zaragoza 

On day two of your 5 days in Spain, eat breakfast at one of the many cafés in the tourist area before making your way to Zaragoza. Remember to book your train ticket in advance if traveling by rail. The train takes under 2 hours compared to a 3-hour drive or longer bus ride.

Zaragoza has over 2000 years of history, with Romans, Christians, Jews, and Muslims all leaving their mark on the city.

Things to do: 

  • Basílica del Pilar
  • Aljafería Palace
  • Cathedral San Salvador 
  • Goya Museum

Accommodation : Zaragoza is much smaller than Barcelona but still has ample accommodation options. We recommend Silken Reino de Aragón for its excellent location in Zaragoza’s Old Town. There are fewer hostel options, but Albergue Zaragoza Hostel has a well-equipped kitchen and free breakfast.

Day 3: Logroño

The journey to Logroño takes approximately 2 hours, regardless of your transportation option. The cheapest option would be to rideshare or take a bus.

Logroño is a stop for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela. The town is famous for its wine and pintxos (Basque tapas) bars.

  • Co-Cathedral of Logroño
  • Church of San Bartolomé
  • Museo de la Rioja
  • Parroquia de Santiago Real

Accommodation : Eurostars Fuerte Ruavieja is a charming hotel with a wellness facility, including a sauna, available to guests. Backpackers can stay at Winederful Hostel , one of the only hostels in the city. 

Day 4: Bilbao

The cheapest and fastest way to get to Bilbao is by bus, and takes approximately 2 hours. 

Bilbao is a beautiful port city with towering skyscrapers downtown, beaches reachable via the metro, and mountains surrounding the city. Its most famous attraction is the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum building.

  • Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
  • Bilbao Cathedral
  • Zubizuri Bridge 
  • Arenal Gardens
  • Teatro Arriaga
  • Plaza Nueva

Accommodation : Santiago Apartments Bilbao offers large apartments with private kitchens, washing machines, and other facilities. It is also conveniently located close to the bus stop and taxi rank. A good backpacker option is the contemporary Ganbara Hostel , which includes a free breakfast and guest kitchen. 

Day 5: San Sebastian

tour spain in 5 days

The final stop on your 5-day itinerary of Northern Spain is a bus ride under 2 hours away. San Sebastian is famous for its pintxos, cobblestone Old Town, resort beaches, and for having the highest concentration of bars in the world!

  • San Sebastian Cathedral
  • Mount Urgull
  • Castillo de la Mota
  • Cristina Enea Park

Accommodation : The film-themed Hotel Estoria7 is set by the River Urumea in the former Astoria Cinema. Each room is uniquely dedicated to an actor or director who has visited the city. Only 656 feet from Zurriola Beach, Koba Hostel , offers backpackers a cool space to hang out with a surfer atmosphere and free breakfast. 

Spain by Train Itinerary: Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid

This route is nearly 621 miles but only takes 5 hours via high-speed train to complete. It gives you a tour of the best that Spain has to offer but allows a reasonable amount of time to spend in the three biggest cities in Spain.

  • La Sagrada Familia
  • Casa Milá and Casa Batlló
  • The Gothic Quarter
  • Mercado de La Boqueria 
  • Plaça de Catalunya
  • Magic Fountain on Montjuïc 
  • Cathedral of Barcelona 

Accommodation : Catalonia Born Hotel and One Paralelo Hostel are both brilliant options for solo and group travelers alike.

Day 2: Barcelona to Madrid

The high-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid only takes 2.5 hours to cover 388 miles! The train can be taken throughout the day so you can spend the morning in Barcelona, covering places you missed the day before.

If you want to cut costs, consider taking a 6-hour night train and save on paying for accommodation for the night.

Day 3: Madrid

Welcome to the capital of Spain, where elegant boulevards and expensive shops adorn the city. Madrid is an art hub, housing works from all the Spanish masters, including Goya and Veláquez. It’s also possible to eat at the oldest restaurant in the world !

  • Plaza Mayor
  • Royal Palace of Madrid
  • Museo Nacional del Prado
  • El Retiro Park
  • Mercado de San Miguel
  • Temple of Debod 

Accommodation : Madrid has plenty of accommodation options, although it can be quite pricey. An affordable but quality option is Amor de Dios 17 Luxury Suites set in the center of Madrid, less than a mile from Puerta del Sol.

Backpackers also have a variety of options. We recommend the boutique hostel, The Hat Madrid , for its cool atmosphere, free events, and eco-conscious approach.

Day 4:  Madrid to Valencia

The fastest train in Spain is from Madrid to Valencia, covering 233 miles in just over 1.5 hours. The journey itself is an experience worth having! The train departs every hour, so you can choose how long to stay in Madrid before traveling to Valencia.

Day 5: Valencia

Valencia is the final stop on your itinerary of Spain by train. The city is one of the most cultural, cosmopolitan, and vibrant in all of Europe. If there is one thing not to miss, it’s the cultural and architectural complex of The City of Arts and Sciences.  

  • Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
  • L’Oceanográfic
  • The Central Market of Valencia 
  • Valencia Cathedral
  • Torres de Quart
  • Torres de Serranos 
  • La Lonja de la Seda 
  • Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas

Accommodation: Hotel Malcom and Barret offer stylish and affordable accommodation within walking distance of the center. Backpackers can stay in the heart of the city at Center Valencia Youth Hostel . This fun place has a communal kitchen, daily walking tours, pub crawls, and, most importantly, free breakfast!

Final Thoughts on Our 5-Day Spain Itinerary

We hope this article guides you through this beautiful country and helps you create a unique travel itinerary for Spain. It is a truly amazing country, and you are guaranteed to have a blast regardless of which itinerary you choose. ¡Buen viaje!

madrid to valencia day trip feature

Day Trip From Madrid to Valencia | How Far Is It + Travel Tips

Spain in July: Weather, Activities, & More

Spain in July: Weather, Activities, & More

Image of body of water in Marbella, Spain.

Marbella in October: Activities & Marbella’s Temperature

Madrid in November: Weather & Things to Do

Madrid in November: Weather & Things to Do

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • 8 Luxury Hotels in Gran Canaria | Boutiques, 5-star, & Resorts
  • Málaga To Ronda Day Trip | Is It Better By Train, Plane, or Car?

Traveling in Spain aims to help tourists and locals find the best adventures, and tours in Spain. We collect live prices from trusted tour and ticketing operators. We’ll sometimes link out to our affiliate partners, such as Amazon LLC, and make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Privacy Overview

Traveling in Spain

Shopping cart

  • 5 days tours

Spain 5-Days Tours and Itineraries

Discover the best 5-Days tours in Spain with Bookmundi. We offer a total of 10+ Spain 5-Days tours and itineraries with 5 customer reviews.

Showing  14 Trips in Spain

Tours in spain - questions and answers.

  • When is the best time to go to Spain?
  • Where in Europe is Spain located?
  • How much does a tour to Spain cost?
  • How many days would I require to travel across Spain?
  • What to do in Spain?
  • Is Spain safe for travel?

Madrid and Barcelona

Madrid and Barcelona

Instant book available

Andalusia With Costa Del Sol & Toledo

Andalusia With Costa Del Sol & Toledo

Best Of Catalonia, Self-drive

Best Of Catalonia, Self-drive

Undiscovered Castilla, Self-drive

Undiscovered Castilla, Self-drive

Andalusia With Toledo 5 Days From Madrid

Andalusia With Toledo 5 Days From Madrid

5 Day Guided Tour Andalusia And Toledo From Barcelona

5 Day Guided Tour Andalusia And Toledo From Barcelona

Madrid and Barcelona dept Saturday

Madrid and Barcelona dept Saturday

Madrid and North of Spain

Madrid and North of Spain

Contrasts of Catalonia (Catalunya) Cycling

Contrasts of Catalonia (Catalunya) Cycling

The Northern Gateway, Self-drive

The Northern Gateway, Self-drive

Iberian Capitals

Iberian Capitals

Andalusia And Toledo

Andalusia And Toledo

Madrid and Lisbon

Madrid and Lisbon

Portuguese Fado end Lisbon

Portuguese Fado end Lisbon

  • Art and architecture
  • City sightseeing
  • Walking tours
  • Self-drive or vehicle rental
  • Cultural, religious and historic sites
  • Budget Tours
  • Luxury Tours

Trending Destinations in Spain

  • Calella De Palafrugell

Spain 5 days Tour Reviews

  • Jaquan Estes
  • Spain Tours
  • Spain Eco Tours
  • Spain Solo Trips
  • Spain Tours for Senior Citizens
  • Spain Tours for Young Adults
  • Spain Family Tour Packages
  • Spain Guided and Escorted Tours
  • Spain Group Tours
  • Spain Budget Tours
  • Spain Small Group Tours
  • Spain Travel Deals
  • Spain Tailor-made Vacation Packages
  • Spain Last Minute Deals
  • Spain Private Tours
  • Spain Self Guided Tours
  • Spain Customized Tours
  • Spain Tour Operators

Popular Destinations

  • Madrid Tours
  • Barcelona Tours
  • Seville Tours
  • Santiago De Compostela Tours
  • Granada Tours
  • Valencia Tours
  • Santander Tours
  • Oviedo Tours
  • Cordoba Tours
  • San Sebastian Tours
  • Malaga Tours
  • Costa del Sol Tours
  • Bilbao Tours
  • Tenerife Tours
  • Salamanca Tours

Popular Activities

  • Adventure Tours
  • Art and architecture Tours
  • Bicycle Tours
  • City sightseeing Tours
  • Cruise Tours
  • Cultural, religious and historic sites Tours
  • Explorer Tours
  • Local culture Tours
  • Museum and gallery visits Tours
  • Natural landmarks sightseeing Tours
  • Self-drive or vehicle rental Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Trekking and Hiking Tours
  • Walking Tours

Upcoming Departures

  • Spring tours
  • Winter tours
  • Summer tours
  • September 2024 tours
  • October 2024 tours
  • November 2024 tours
  • December 2024 tours
  • January 2025 tours
  • February 2025 tours
  • March 2025 tours
  • April 2025 tours
  • May 2025 tours
  • June 2025 tours
  • July 2025 tours
  • August 2025 tours
  • September 2025 tours
  • October 2025 tours
  • November 2025 tours
  • December 2025 tours
  • January 2026 tours
  • February 2026 tours
  • March 2026 tours
  • April 2026 tours
  • May 2026 tours
  • June 2026 tours
  • August 2026 tours
  • September 2026 tours

Trips per Duration

  • 1 day tours
  • 4 days tours
  • 6 days tours
  • 1 week tours
  • 8 days tours
  • 9 days tours
  • 10 days tours
  • 11 days tours
  • 12 days tours
  • 13 days tours
  • 2 weeks tours
  • 15 days tours
  • 16 days tours
  • 17 days tours
  • 18 days tours
  • 19 days tours

Trending Travel Guides

  • Things to Do in Spain
  • 10 Best Things to do in Granada
  • Malaga to Seville: Travel Tips
  • 6 Best Pyrenees Hiking in Spain
  • La Tomatina Festival: Insider's Guide
  • Visiting Alhambra: The Ultimate Guide
  • La Sagrada Familia Tour: Is It Worth It?
  • Madrid to Toledo: A Day Trip to Remember
  • Madrid to Valencia: A Trip You shouldn't skip
  • Where to Go in Spain: Best Places to Visit
  • Top 10 Things to do in Barcelona
  • Guide to Balearic Islands Holidays: How to Pick the Right Island
  • Basque Country in Spain: A Complete Guide
  • How to Plan a Trip to Spain
  • Great Spain Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?
  • 1 Week in Spain: Top 4 Itinerary Recommendations
  • Spain in August: Summer Festivities with Fewer Crowds
  • Spain in July: Great Outdoors and Warm Weather
  • Spain in October: All You Need to Know
  • Spain in November: Exploring in the Rain
  • Spain in December: Festivities in Low Season

Penguin and Pia

Home » Destinations » Europe » Spain » 5-14 Day Spain Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Spain Trip

5-14 Day Spain Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Spain Trip

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here .

Spain Itinerary

Plan Your Perfect Spain Itinerary with These Detailed Templates!

Want to explore Spain but confused about the perfect itinerary? You are not alone! It can be a true challenge to determine how many days to spend exploring.

From 5-day Spain itineraries to 7 or 10 days, to 14-day itineraries – there are certainly lots of different routes and options to choose from. The hard part? None of the routes are necessarily  bad or wrong  since there’s just so much to see and do all around Spain!

Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. Because of its popularity, Spain knowledge is really flowing around the travel world these days!

It’s no secret that Lisa lived in Spain  and took full advantage of her location (and her Spanish language knowledge)! So, she’s experienced quite a few of the places we recommend below for a great stop on your itinerary!

Spain Itinerary Overview

Best Time to Visit:  Generally, summer is the hottest and winter is colder and wetter, but regional exceptions apply. March-June and September-end of October are best.

Getting Around: Trains ( RENFE ) and buses ( Alsa ) are reliable. A rental car in Spain is a must-have for smaller towns.

Popular Places to Visit:  Barcelona , Madrid , and Valencia for larger cities, and Granada , Seville , and Córdoba are worth a look, too.

Where to Stay:   Check for hotels in Spain here and Check for hostels in Spain here .

Table of Contents

Spain Itinerary – 5 Days

If you plan on travelling through Spain for only 5 days, it’d be best to fly into one of the bigger cities as they are usually well connected with other European cities.

Depending on your route, you can either take public transport if the travel times align with your plans or opt for a rental car  if you would like more flexibility.

As with the other Spain itineraries in this blog post, our 5-day itineraries are pretty fast-paced. However, since it is pretty much impossible to go top to bottom and  actually see  parts of the country we decided to write two separate Spain itineraries for 5 days.

One covers the north and northeast of Spain while the other itinerary covers the south of the country . Choose the one that is more suitable for your interest and travel plans and feel free to modify the written itineraries however you see fit!

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Northern Trip

For this classic 5-day trip across the northern parts of Spain, the total driving time is about 8 hours and covers around 750km .

If you rent a car, given this exact route, there are tolls on most of the highways so keep that in mind that it may be longer if you took non-tolled roads that may be more indirect. A bus would be able to breeze right along these highways, however.

navigate map

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Northern Trip Overview

Day 1: Barcelona

  • Day 2: Half-Day Barcelona/ Zaragoza
  • Day 3:  Logroño
  • Day 4:  Donostia-San Sebastián

Day 5: Bilbao

sail boats in blue harbour in barcelona with palm trees on boardwalk in front.

Barcelona is a good city to start a road trip since it is a popular tourist destination and thus has frequent flights to other European or International cities. Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia which has its own unique culture and language next to Spanish.

Since it is such a popular city, the car rental industry is very well developed and it is easy to pick up a rental car from the airport or in the city.

Find your rental car in Barcelona here .

Alternatively, the bus station in Barcelona is great and easy to reach from the centre. There are numerous connections to Zaragoza which will be the next stop on your 5-day Spain itinerary.

Accommodation in Barcelona : As a super popular tourist destination, there are lots of hotels and apartments available in Barcelona.

Check here for Accommodations in Barcelona .

Specifically, for hotels check out Catalonia Born Hotel with a boutique style and rooftop pool in the city centre and close to the beach.

If you travel by car, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is a lovely and affordable hotel with spa in the heart of the city with a private parking garage onsite .

As for hostels, you can check out Barcelona hostels here. Specifically, we liked Kabul Hostel . This place even made our list of favourite hostels across Europe .

Overall, since Barcelona is so popular we strongly  advise you to book in advance – especially during summer – as it can get very expensive otherwise.

Must-see Attractions in Barcelona:

  • Sagrada Familia
  • Casa Batlló
  • The National Catalonian Arts Museum

We’ve written a whole guide on some of the incredible places to visit in Barcelona if you are interested in seeing more!

Day 2: Barcelona/Zaragoza

On the second day of your 5 days in Spain, you’ll spend the morning in Barcelona (you’ll get a cafe con leche y croissant in any cafe/bar for quite cheap if you get off the main tourist roads) and then drive from Barcelona to Zaragoza later in the day.

The drive from Barcelona to Zaragoza will take you approximately 3 hrs 10 min by car (includes a toll road), 3,5 hrs by bus and 1,5 hrs by train . If you end up taking the train, try to book in advance if you can as this will usually end up being cheaper.

Accommodation in Zaragoza: Since Zaragoza is a smaller city, there are fewer accommodations to choose from – but still lots of really great options.

Check here for hotels in Zaragoza .

Specifically, we love the look of  Hotel Sauce . This bright and airy hotel is located right in the city centre and offers a homemade buffet breakfast, air conditioning, and private parking onsite for those travelling by car.

If you are looking for a rooftop pool,  Hotel Palafox has you covered! Also located right in the heart of the city, the hotel has a cool decor, great city views, tasty breakfast, and also has parking and air conditioning!

There aren’t a ton of hostels but the ones that do exist are well-rated – so you can check here for hostels in Zaragoza .

Must-see Attractions in Zaragoza:

  • Basílica del Pilar
  • Aljafería Palace
  • Cathedral San Salvador

Day 3: Logroño

On your third day, you will drive from Zaragoza to Logroño which is the capital of the autonomous region of La Rioja and known for its delicious wine.

If you get the chance visit one of the wineries and do a wine tasting – please plan ahead if you’re travelling by car since drinking and driving is a big no-no!

The drive will be a lot shorter than the day before. By car, it’ll take you approximately 1 hr 40 min and by bus the journey would be around 2 hrs if you get a direct bus.

Accommodation in Logroño : Similarly to Zaragoza, Logroño is a smaller city with many great accommodations in the heart of the city.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Logroño .

Specifically, Hotel Murrieta is a popular and very affordable option with a good breakfast right in the heart of the city. If you drive a car, Hotel Calle Mayor is a more charming (but still very affordable) hotel with secure underground parking at the hotel.

If you are looking for a hostel in Logroño, there aren’t many but the ones that exist are very good. You can check here for hostels in Logroño .

Must-see Attractions in Logroño :

  • Cathedral of Santa María de Redonda
  • Church of San Bartolomé
  • The Bodegas (Wineries)

Day 4: Donostia-San Sebastián

blue bay with boats and sandy beach in san Sebastian.

Some would consider San Sebastián one of the most beautiful towns in Spain and Lisa can see why.

When she lived in Bilbao she visited San Sebastián quite a few times and really enjoyed the vibe of the town (and having a beautiful beach so close). Don’t forget to eat some delicious Pintxos since San Sebastián is especially known for them!

The drive from Logroño to San Sebastián takes around 2 hrs by car, and between 2 and 5 hrs by public transport .

Since you are travelling between two smaller cities the connections are not  that  great and we would recommend planning ahead to compensate for this.

Accommodation in San Sebastián : San Sebastián is one of the most expensive towns in Spain and very popular among luxury travellers.

So, don’t be surprised if accommodations seem a little more expensive overall. That said, you can still find a great place to stay that suits your budget and style if you’re not looking for luxury.

Check here for hotels in San Sebastián .

Specifically, you can check out  Casual de las Olas San Sebastián . This hotel is a bit further from the old town and beach but makes up for it in sleek decor, breakfast, and air conditioning.

If you want more of a laid-back guesthouse feel, check out  Talaia HT . This authentic and cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of the old town – and has public parking nearby .

If you are looking for a hostel, you can find great hostels across San Sebastián here . Wherever you book, our advice is to book early to find deals and generally save money when booking.

Must-see Attractions in San Sebastián :

  • Urgull Hill
  • Plays de La Concha
  • San Sebastián Cathedral

metal museum on edge of water in bilbao spain.

Bilbao has to be one of Lisa’s favourite Spanish cities. Not because it is especially beautiful, but because she lived there for a few months and it felt like home from the beginning. If you get the chance, take the metro to one of the beaches – you won’t regret it!

The drive from San Sebastián to Bilbao is a short and beautiful one as you will drive through some mountainous regions. By car it’ll take you approximately 1 hr 15 min and by bus the journey will be around 1,5 hours .

Bilbao also marks the end of this 5 day Northern Spain itinerary.

Bilbao is a good city to fly out of as it is one of the biggest cities in the region and well connected to bigger airports in other European cities. To get to the airport you can simply take the Airport bus from the bus station at San Mames.

Accommodation in Bilbao : Since Bilbao is a bigger city there is a wider variety of accommodations available.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Bilbao .

Specifically, Hotel NH Bilbao Deusto is a bright and simple hotel with buffet breakfast and  private underground parking . Lisa had friends stay there and liked it. It’s not right in the heart of the city centre – but across the water from the Guggenheim Museum!

If you want to stay right in the heart of old town Bilbao, you should definitely check out Ercilla Hotela . This is a very stylish and popular hotel with an amazing rooftop terrace, lounge, also onsite parking , and traditional Basque food in the restaurant!

If you are looking for a cheaper place to stay, Bcool Hostel is a very “cool” hostel in Bilbao. In general, remember to book accommodations closer to the city centre/the river since the rest of Bilbao can be quite hilly!

Must-see Attractions in Bilbao:

  • Guggenheim Museum
  • The Old Town (Casco Viejo)
  • Zubizuri Bridge

*Just so you know, we have a whole detailed guide on Bilbao things to do !

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Southern Spain Itinerary

If you would like to explore Southern Spain instead of the north, then we would recommend the following 5-day Southern Spain itinerary.

Generally, the south is a little bit warmer than the north so maybe don’t try to do this trip in the middle of the summer heat as it can be quite exhausting!

The itinerary is just over 600 kilometres with a total driving time between 7 and 8 hours depending on your mode of transportation.

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Southern Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1: Málaga

Day 2: Day trip to Granada

  • Day 3:  Marbella
  • Day 4:  Cádiz

Day 5: Seville

Day 1: málaga.

spanish port with cruise ship and blue sky above.

We are starting this itinerary in Málaga since it is an easy airport to fly in from other parts of Europe.

When Lisa arrived at the airport the first time she was actually kind of shocked to see that all the signs were written in German as well.

Needless to say, Málaga is a very popular destination among German tourists. It’s also an interesting city to visit in the wintertime !

Lisa didn’t like the city that much (as in wouldn’t want to live there), but it is definitely worth exploring for a day or two. It is also quite easy to get from the airport to the city centre by public transport. You can find your rental car from Malaga here .

Accommodation in Málaga: Malaga is a popular tourist destination in the south of Spain and so there are lots of different accommodation options. That said, apartment rentals are a very popular option.

Check here for apartments or hotels in Malaga .

Specifically, if you want a hotel, check out Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This minimalist design hotel is bright and clean and offers an excellent breakfast while being located right in the heart of the city centre.

If you are planning to stay in Malaga a bit longer, check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and a quick walk to the city centre, these apartments have kitchenettes for smaller meals, terraces, and onsite private parking .

If you are searching for a hostel, Malaga has lots. You can search for hostels in Malaga here . When visiting Malaga with a friend, Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza .

Even though it’s a “hostel”, it’s a popular place to stay in Malaga. They have private rooms and a lovely rooftop terrace. She and her friend stayed in a private room and loved it!

Just remember for this itinerary, wherever you book you will need to stay for 2 nights !

Must-see Attractions in Málaga:

  • Alcazaba Palace
  • Picasso Museum
  • Cathedral of Málaga

old spanish fort on hilltop with sky above.

Today you’ll take a day trip to Granada. If you decided to rent a car you can do this by car, but then have to find parking in Granada. Lisa and her friend took the bus to Granada which was pretty easy to do since there are frequent buses throughout the day.

In Granada, you HAVE to go see La Alhambra. Make sure to book your ticket in advance (since there is only a limited amount of spots per day).

Lisa and her friend had to pick up her tickets at an office in the city before going to the actual attraction. Double-check your ticket since you might have to do that, too!

The journey from Málaga to Granada is approximately 1.5 hrs by car and 2 hrs by bus .

Accommodation in Granada:  You won’t need a place to sleep in Granada since you’ll be returning to Málaga at the end of the day.

But IF you are curious – check out Hotel Granada Center or Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites for two great hotels in the heart of the historic city centre!

Must-see Attractions in Granada:

  • Alhambra Palace
  • Albaicín District
  • Cathedral of Granada

Day 3: Marbella

white boats lined up in front of white buildings on land in marbella spain.

On the third day of this 5 day Southern Spain itinerary, you’ll drive from Málaga to Marbella. Marbella is a city by the water and part of the well know Costa del Sol. It is one of the most popular tourist cities in the region mainly due to its nice beaches and climate.

Since Marbella is quite close to Málaga the drive won’t be long – giving you more time to explore the city and relax at the beaches. The journey takes approximately 1 hour by car (there are different routes some of which include toll roads) and 1.5 hours by bus .

Accommodation in Marbella : Since the tourism industry is quite developed in Marbella, there are lots of amazing sunny accommodations to choose from.

Check here for hotels and apartments in Marbella . 

Specifically,  Paloma Blanca Boutique Hotel is a gorgeous (and affordable) boutique hotel with breakfast and free private parking onsite. 

If you are looking for more of a beach resort,  Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella is a beautiful all-inclusive adult-only beachside resort with breakfast, spa, pool, amazing views, and more!

Must-see Attractions in Marbella:

  • The Old Town of Marbella
  • Avenida del Mar
  • Puerto Banús

Day 4: Cádiz

orange dome and towers of church building with shoreline beside.

Cádiz is often considered a hidden gem in Spain. Lots of people who have been there seem to love it and Lisa is dying to visit the city.

Fun fact: Some think of Cádiz as the oldest continuously inhabited city in Western Europe. It is just slightly smaller than Marbella with lots of attractions waiting to be explored.

Driving from Marbella to Cádiz by car will take you approximately 2 hours including a toll road and slightly longer if you want to avoid toll roads.

You’ll drive along the coast for a while and could consider stopping along the way. Another option would be to make a pit stop in Gibraltar which you will pass along the way.

Unfortunately, Marbella and Cádiz do not seem to be connected well by public transport and travel between the two cities would involve going back to Málaga and/or through Sevilla (or Seville as the English like to call it).

If it is too much of a hassle for you to get from Marbella to Cádiz, consider skipping it and going straight to Seville instead.

Accommodation in Cádiz: Even though Cádiz is a smaller city, there are plenty of places to stay.

Check here for hotels and apartments in Cádiz .

Specifically, Hotel Boutique Convento Cádiz is a gorgeous hotel in the old town (close to the beach) with a great breakfast and private parking nearby .

Alquimia Albergue-Hotel is a cool and cozy hotel (also in the city centre) close to the beach and also with parking nearby. As for hostels, Cádiz does have quite a few hostels with amazing ratings. You can check here for hostels in Cádiz .

Must-see Attractions in Cádiz:

  • Cádiz Cathedral
  • Fortress San Sebastian
  • Plaza de San Juan de Dios

old cathedral with turret beside and public square in front in seville spain.

Seville is another popular destination in Spain and is often considered one of the hottest cities of the country. Therefore we would not recommend going there during July and August if you don’t like extreme heat (Lisa definitely doesn’t).

It is a beautiful city with lots of attractions to check out so be sure to have a good amount of time for exploring. If you don’t end up going to Cádiz, there is more than enough to do in Seville to keep you busy for two days!

Driving from Cádiz to Seville will take you approximately 1.5 hours by car and just slightly longer (1 hr 45 min) by bus . Seville also marks the end of this Southern Spain trip as it has a big airport which makes it super easy for you to fly back home.

Accommodation in Seville : Seville is a bigger and very popular city so there is no shortage of great accommodation options.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Seville .

Specifically, you have to see Petit Palace Puerta de Triana . This very trendy and cool design hotel offers a buffet breakfast and is located right in the city centre close to top attractions.

If you want a more historic stay,  Hotel Simon is a more simple and authentic hotel. It’s located in a historic building, also does breakfast, and is also located in the heart of the city centre.

Neither of the above hotels offers parking – but few in the city centre of Seville offer onsite parking (or even public parking nearby).

If you are looking to have parking available,  then you can check out La Parada del Marqués . It’s a beautiful guesthouse/hotel also centrally located and offers breakfast options and good connections to public transit!

If you are looking for a hostel, you can search for hostels in Seville here . Again, since Seville is so popular we would advise booking ahead – especially during the high season!

Must-see Attractions in Seville:

  • Seville Cathedral
  • Plaza de España

Spain Itinerary 7 Days

If you have slightly more time to explore Spain, we have also created two 7-day Spain itineraries for you. You’ll see that once again we give you two options since seven days are – in our opinion at least – still not enough to see the whole country.

Therefore, you’ll find a  7-Day Western Spain Itinerary and a 7-Day Eastern Spain Itinerary  below. As always, feel free to modify them to make them fit your exact plans!

Spain Itinerary 7 Days – Western Trip

For this itinerary, the total driving time would be around 14 hours and the distance would be around 1300 km .

These estimates account for the Toledo day trip (and back to Madrid) AND finishing with ONE of either Seville OR Malaga from Córdoba. So, in theory, it could be shorter or longer than we have indicated here on the map!

We’ve already covered some of the places above, but we will mention the important parts again to make it easier for you to plan your exact trip.

Please note that we won’t actually include any places on the west coast of Spain – that would be a whole other trip in itself. Your 7-Day Western Spain Itinerary could look something like this:

Spain Itinerary 7 Days – Western Trip Overview

Day 1: Bilbao

Day 2: burgos.

  • Day 3:  Salamanca
  • Day 4:  Madrid
  • Day 5: Madrid / Day trip to Toledo

Day 6: Córdoba

Day 7: seville or málaga.

autumn trees beside public square with fountain and old buildings behind in bilbao.

Similarly to how we ended the five-day itinerary in Bilbao, we’ll start this itinerary there as it is a relatively easy airport to fly into from other places in Europe. If you’re starting your longer Spain trip, you can find your rental car in Bilbao here .

Make sure to use your time to explore the Casco Viejo (the Old Town) and walk along the river! There are some great Pintxo places in the Old Town that you should absolutely check out!

Accommodation in Bilbao : Bilbao is a larger city so there’s quite a variety of accommodations available.

Check here for hotels in Bilbao .

Specifically, Hotel NH Bilbao Deusto is a bright and simple hotel with good breakfast and underground private parking . Friends of Lisa stayed there and said they enjoyed it. It’s close to the river across from the Guggenheim Museum but still a quick walk to the old town.

To stay in the heart of old town Bilbao, you have to see Ercilla Hotela . This is a very stylish and popular hotel with a lovely rooftop terrace and lounge, onsite parking , and they even serve traditional Basque food!

As for hostels, Bcool Hostel is a very “cool” hostel in Bilbao. In general, remember to book any hotels or accommodations somewhat closer to the city centre/the river because Bilbao can be quite hilly around the edges!

tan stone cathedral seen in the rain in burgos spain.

Burgos might not be a city that is immediately on your radar for places to visit in Spain  but we would recommend a stop there on your way south.

Lisa visited Burgos with friends on a day trip from Bilbao so she knows how easy it is to get there. Burgos is a nice city but since there is not a  ton  to see, one night is the perfect amount of time in our opinion.

Getting from Bilbao to Burgos takes approximately 1.5 hours by car and 2 hours by bus .

Accommodation in Burgos : Burgos is not an overly big city, but you can still find lots of great accommodations.

Check here for hotels in Burgos .

Specifically, Hotel Puerta de Burgos is a popular, trendy, and affordable hotel with private underground parking at the hotel. This makes it a great option if you have a car because it’s a little further from the centre (still quite close) and just off the motorway.

Another great hotel closer to the city centre/attractions is NH Collection Palacio de Burgos . This is an elegant hotel with a great breakfast and private parking, too.

If you want to stay in a hotel that physically faces the famous Burgos Cathedral, check out Hotel Mesón del Cid !

Must-see Attractions in Burgos:

  • Burgos Cathedral
  • Las Huelgas
  • Museum of Human Evolution

Day 3: Salamanca

green trees in old spanish square with large domed building behind.

From Burgos, your journey continues to Salamanca – another one of Lisa’s favourite cities in Spain. Salamanca is sometimes called “The Golden City of Spain” and you’ll understand why.

The many sandstone buildings get illuminated beautifully by the sun – making it appear golden. Be sure to bring your camera because you’ll want to use it in Salamanca. Our tip: Cross the river to get amazing photos of the cathedral.

Getting from Burgos to Salamanca is easy and will take approximately 2.5 hours by car or 3 hours by bus .

Accommodation in Salamanca: Salamanca has lots of great accommodations in the city.

Check here for hotels in Salamanca .

Specifically, Hospes Palacio de San Esteban is an authentic-style hotel in the city centre with an incredible breakfast and onsite private parking . 

If you are looking for a very affordable hotel with views of the Cathedral, Hotel San Polo is for you. The popular hotel is in a location that doesn’t get much more central! There’s no parking available – making it great if you travel by bus and train only.

When Lisa visited Salamanca on a weekend trip, she stayed in a hostel with friends close to the Old Town and loved it. You can check out the good selection of hostels in Salamanca . 

Must-see Attractions in Salamanca:

  • Salamanca Cathedral (Old + New)
  • Plaza Mayor
  • Salamanca University

Day 4: Madrid

white palace in madrid with flag flying on top.

Since Madrid is the capital of Spain you shouldn’t miss it on your itinerary. Conveniently it is also quite close and easy to get to from Salamanca.

Since there is so much to see in Madrid one day to explore might not be enough for you. That’s why you might opt for spending two days in Madrid instead.

Lisa has been to Madrid two times now and still hasn’t seen everything there is to see. But at least you’ll get a good sampler!

As mentioned, getting from Salamanca to Madrid is easy. The journey will take approximately 2 hrs 12 min by car (including a toll road) and  3 hours by bus .

Madrid’s main bus station is actually underground which is kind of cool and caused a lot of confusion for Lisa and her friends when they tried to find it the first time.

Accommodation in Madrid : Being the capital city of Spain, Madrid is a popular city with lots and lots of accommodation options. Keep in mind that Madrid has many “hostals” which are technically guesthouses but are basically hotels.

Also, if you have a car don’t be surprised if parking is in a public lot for a high fee – that’s just Madrid.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Madrid . 

Specifically, you might want to check out Room007 Select Sol . This charming and trendy hotel is right in the heart of the city, has air conditioning, and serves breakfast at a cafe next door!

If you are looking for a simple stay right in the centre, check out Hostal Madrid . This authentic guesthouse is so centrally located with top attractions and a metro station around the corner.

It’s such good value for money that the two times Lisa travelled to Madrid she actually stayed here both times!

Should you be on the hunt for an actual hostel, you can check here for hostels in Madrid . Keep in mind wherever you book, you will be booking accommodation for two nights. 

Must-see Attractions in Madrid:

  • Museum Reina Sofia
  • Puerta del Sol

Keep in mind we have a whole separate detailed guide on  amazing things to do in Madrid !

Day 5: Madrid or Day trip to Toledo

As mentioned, you might opt to spend another day in Madrid since there is so much to see.

If that’s the case read our Madrid guide linked above to get more recommendations. Alternatively, you could opt to go on a day trip to Toledo, a beautiful small city not too far from Madrid.

If you don’t want to drive there yourself, you can choose to book a day tour which includes a tour of Toledo among other things. If you want to drive yourself the journey will take you approximately  1 hour by car  and the  same amount of time by bus .

Must-see Attractions in Toledo:

  • Toledo Cathedral
  • Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

large church on hill at night with stone bridge leading to it in cordoba spain.

The next day you will drive to Córdoba, a city in Andalusia known for its famous flower street – among other things of course. There is a lot of history to be found in Córdoba so consider taking a walking tour if you want to learn more about it.

This is one of few routes where you will actually be faster taking public transport as if you were to drive yourself since there is a good train connection between Madrid and Córdoba. 

Driving by car  takes approximately  4 hours  while the journey by train  would be slightly shorter with  2 hrs 15 min .

Accommodation in Córdoba : If you’re looking for a hotel, there are lot of options to choose from.

Check now for hotels in Córdoba .

Specifically,  Maciá Alfaros is an authentic hotel located right in the heart of the city centre with an incredible swimming pool and easy parking onsite.

Hotel Cordoba Center is an elegant hotel located outside the heart of the centre. It’s still very walkable to the centre, is very close to the train station, and has a rooftop pool with amazing views!

There are quite a few hostels with very good ratings in Córdoba so you can check here for hostels in Córdoba .

Must-see Attractions in Córdoba:

  • Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba
  • Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
  • Historic Center of Córdoba

For this itinerary, you can decide in which city you would like to end your trip. For some, it might be more convenient to fly out of Seville while for others Málaga might be the better option. So it’s really up to you and your preference!

The journey from Córdoba to Seville takes approximately 1 hr 40 min by car and 45 min by train . The time it takes to get from Córdoba to Málaga isn’t much longer with  1 hr 50 min by car  and  50 min by train .

Accommodations in Seville : As mentioned above, Seville is a popular city so there is always accommodations to choose from.

Specifically, check out Petit Palace Puerta de Triana . This trendy design hotel offers a buffet breakfast and a really great location in the city centre.

For a historic stay, Hotel Simon is a more simple and more authentic hotel. It’s located in a historic building, does breakfast, and is also located in the city centre.

Neither of the above hotels have parking – but fewer properties in Seville offer onsite parking (or even public parking nearby).

If you are travelling by car and want parking available,  then check out La Parada del Marqués . It’s a beautiful guesthouse/hotel also centrally located with breakfast options and good connections to public transit!

If you want a hostel stay, you can search for hostels in Seville here . Regardless of what type of accommodation you book, Seville is popular so we would advise booking ahead – especially during the high season!

Accommodation in Málaga: Malaga is a popular destination in the south of Spain with lots of different accommodation options. That said, apartment rentals are very popular.

Specifically, for hotels, you can check out Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This design hotel is bright and clean and offers breakfast while being located right in the heart of the city.

If you are planning for a longer stay, check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and a quick walk to the city centre, these apartments have kitchenettes, terraces, and onsite private parking .

If you want a hostel, Malaga has lots. You can search for hostels in Malaga here . When visiting Malaga with a friend, Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza .

Even though it’s a “hostel”, it’s a popular place – with private rooms and a lovely rooftop terrace. Her and her friend stayed in a private room and loved it!

Spain Travel Itinerary 7 Days – Eastern Trip

If the other 7-day Spain itinerary doesn’t really appeal to you and you would like to stay closer to the coast, maybe this itinerary is more to your liking. The driving time would be just shy of 11 hours and would be approximately 1000 km driving distance !

Spain Itinerary 7 Days – Eastern Trip Overview

  • Day 1+2: Barcelona

Day 3: Valencia

  • Day 4:  Alicante
  • Day 5:  Murcia

Day 6: Granada

Day 7: málaga, day 1 + 2: barcelona.

green grass around large stone monument in barcelona spain.

Once again, this itinerary starts in Barcelona since it is one of the easiest airports to fly into. Since you have a little bit more time with this itinerary you’ll stay in Barcelona for two days.

There is lots to see so you still won’t see everything, but definitely more than in just one day. To then continue on with this itinerary through Spain, you can find your rental car in Barcelona here .

Accommodation in Barcelona:  As mentioned above, there are lots of hotels and apartments in Barcelona.

For hotels, you might like Catalonia Born Hotel with a boutique style and rooftop pool close to the beach in the city centre.

If you travel by car, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is an affordable hotel with spa in the heart of the city with a private parking garage .

As for hostels, you can check here for Barcelona hostels . We liked Kabul Hostel . Wherever you stay, remember to book in advance because the city does fill up and it can get expensive! And remember, you’ll be staying at this  place for two nights .

  • Las Ramblas

long water fountain in front of white building and white museum dome at end.

The third day of this Spain itinerary will take you from Barcelona to Valencia which is another city on Lisa’s favourite list.

It was actually the first Spanish city she visited and she fell in love with the city and its people right away. Her favourite part is that there is a huge part in what was formerly a river that stretches through a big part of the city.

In order to get from Barcelona to Valencia, you’ll drive along the coast for  3.5 hours by car  and  around 3 hrs 15 min by train. 

Accommodation in Valencia:  Since Valencia is a bigger city, you are sure to find accommodations that work for you.

Check here for hotels in Valencia .

Specifically, Petit Palace Ruzafa is a bright and boutique hotel right in the city centre.

They offer healthy breakfast options and free bike rentals. There’s no parking making this a great hotel for those travelling without a car.

If you want a place right on the beach, check out Hotel Miramar . This cool beachfront hotel has a bar and restaurant right downstairs and has paid parking onsite . If you are looking for a hostel, you can check here for hostels in Valencia .

Must-see Attractions in Valencia:

  • City of Arts and Science
  • Lonja de la Seda
  • Cathedral of Valencia

Day 4: Alicante

blue ocean with sandy beach around and town in distance.

Alicante is a popular holiday town that lots of Europeans visit to enjoy the nice weather and the beaches. Maybe you have heard of the name Costa Blanca?

Alicante is part of that exact region. When you’re there don’t forget to check out some of the nice beaches – but of course, there are also lots of other things waiting to be explored.

Getting from Valencia to Alicante won’t take overly long. The drive will take approximately 2 hours by car  and 1.5 hrs to 2.5 hours by train or bus respectively.

Accommodation in Alicante:  Alicante is a popular city due to its great location on the coast.

Check here for hotels in Alicante . 

If you want to stay directly on the beach, Hotel Almirante is a bright and stylish hotel with breakfast buffet. It’s a bit farther from the city centre, but there is free onsite parking  if you have a car.

If you want more of a resort style, Melia Alicante is also located right on the beach with stunning views over the water. It’s much closer to the centre of the city and has good amenities (pool), paid parking next door, and a really good breakfast!

You can also find a good mix of hostels in Alicante. In any case, don’t forget to book ahead in the summertime since it can get very crowded.

Must-see Attractions in Alicante:

  • Castle of Santa Barbara
  • Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
  • Beaches such as Playa Postiguet

If you’re heading for Alicante to get some sunshine, we’ve got a guide on things to do and see in Alicante that includes some great food tips for you to check out!

Day 5: Murcia

Murcia is a city in the southeast of Spain and the capital of the region with the same name. Travellers who don’t know much about Spain (yet) might not have heard of the city before but this doesn’t mean it is not worth a visit.

The drive from Alicante to Murcia is quite short with 1 hr by car and 1 hr 10 min by bus . This will give you a good amount of time to explore the university city and get a rest from all the driving.

Accommodation in Murcia: Since Murcia is a less touristy city you’ll find great places to stay and (generally) fewer crowds.

Check here for hotels in Murcia .

Specifically, the Hesperia Murcia Centro is a clean and modern hotel right in the city centre near the Cathedral. There’s also  private onsite parking and a tasty breakfast.

If you want to stay closer to the coast – you could stay in Cartagena (about 30 minutes away from Murcia). Here, check out  NH Cartagena – with bright, sea views and parking all in a great location.

Must-see Attractions in Murcia:

  • Murcia Cathedral
  • Floridablanca Gardens
  • Monteagudo Castle

orange and white houses seen from above in granada spain.

From Murcia, your journey will continue to Granada, a city which we have mentioned quite a few times by now so we won’t go into details again. If you haven’t yet, make sure to get your Alhambra tickets in advance!

Driving from Murcia to Granada will be a slightly longer trip with 2 hrs 45 min by car and around 3.5 hrs by bus .

Accommodation in Granada:  Since Granada is a popular travel destination, many accommodations are available.

Check here for hotels in Granada .

Specifically, Hotel Granada Center is a VERY popular hotel with great breakfast, a very central location, and private underground parking onsite .

Also situated in the city centre is Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites – a sleek and modern hotel with small rooftop pool with great views of the historic old town! If you are looking for a hostel, you can check here for hostels in Granada . 

Since we have mentioned Málaga countless times above, there is not much to add. As you probably know by now Málaga has a great airport to fly out of so this is where this 7-day Eastern Spain itinerary ends.

The journey from Granada to Málaga is approximately 1,5 hrs by car and 2 hrs by bus .

Accommodation in Málaga: Malaga is a popular tourist destination in Spain so there are lots of available accommodations – with apartments being the most popular.

For hotels, check out Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This minimalist design hotel is bright and offers a great breakfast while being located right in the city centre.

For longer stays, check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and to the city centre, these apartments have kitchenettes for small meal prep, terraces, and onsite private parking .

If you are searching for a hostel, you can search for hostels in Malaga here . When visiting Malaga with a friend, Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza .

It’s a popular place to stay in Malaga with private rooms and a great rooftop terrace. She and her friend stayed in a private room and really liked it!

Spain Itinerary – 14 Days

This road trip would be a beast. As planned above with the scheduled day trips you’d cover around 2600 kilometres .

The driving time would be around 27 hours and 30 minutes – but of course, this varies by traffic and which day trips/stop days (beach days) you opt to take, etc.

If you swung down to Gibraltar at the end and then went to Granada and Malaga, it could very well be a tad longer.

You should also consider the price of renting a car for two weeks to see if there are any companies that offer discounts!

Compare prices for your car rental from Bilbao here .

Since you have read about most of these places in some of the itineraries above we’ll keep this one short.

Our version is written from north to south, so from Bilbao to Málaga. As with most of our itineraries, you can reverse the direction if you feel like it So, to really see the whole country, your updated 14-day Spain itinerary might look something like this:

14-Day Spain Itinerary Overview

  • Day 2: Day trip to Santander, Vitoria-Gasteiz or Beach Day
  • Day 3:  Donostia-San Sebastián
  • Day 4:  Zaragoza

Day 5+6: Barcelona

Day 7: valencia, day 8+9: madrid.

  • Day 10: Toledo or Córdoba

Day 11: Seville

  • Day 12: Seville or Day trip to Cádiz/ Gibraltar
  • Day 13: Málaga (or Granada)
  • Day 14: Málaga

Once again we are starting this itinerary in Bilbao since it is an easy city to get to. There are quite a few things to see and delicious foods to try so with this itinerary you have slightly more time to explore the city!

Accommodation in Bilbao:  Once again, Bilbao is a bigger centre in Spain so you’ll find lots of accommodations to suit many different styles and budgets.

Specifically, Hotel NH Bilbao Deusto is a bright hotel with breakfast and underground private parking . Friends of Lisa stayed here and enjoyed it. It’s the river from the Old Town – but it’s a nice area and a quick walk to everything.

To stay in the centre of Bilbao’s historic old town, check out Ercilla Hotela . This is a very stylish hotel with a great rooftop terrace/lounge, onsite parking , and food onsite, too.

If you are wanting a hostel, Bcool Hostel is a great option in Bilbao. Just remember: when booking any accommodations in Bilbao,  try to book in the centre or near the river since the edges of the city can be very hilly!

Since the next day in this itinerary is a day trip we’d suggest booking your accommodation in Bilbao  for two nights !

Day 2: Day Trip to Santander, Vitoria-Gasteiz or Beach Day

white and coloured buildings with tower behind in vitoria-gasteiz spain.

To give you the chance to see a bit more of the region we recommend a day trip to either Santander or Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country.

Alternatively, you can also opt to spend the day at the beach if the weather is nice (more on that below!) or use the time to see more of Bilbao.

Getting to Santander from Bilbao takes approximately 1 hr 15 min by car and 1.5 hrs by bus . The journey to Vitoria-Gasteiz is slightly shorter, taking approximately 1 hr by car and the same amount of time by bus .

Must-see Attractions in Santander:

  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • Centro Botin
  • Sardinero Beach

Must-see Attractions in Vitoria-Gasteiz:

  • Catedral de Santa María
  • Iglesia de San Miguel

If you opt for a beach day instead, we would recommend Sopelana beach. It is easy to reach by metro. Just take the line no 1 in the direction of Plentzia and get off at the Sopelana stop.

From there you can either walk or take the bus to the beach. It’s Lisa’s favourite beach in the Bilbao area since it looks beautiful and is not too crowded. It’s also a great stop to try some surfing.

Day 3: Donostia-San Sebastián

The next stop on your 14-day Spain itinerary is San Sebastián – a city we have already mentioned before. Beautiful beaches and delicious pintxos await you!

The drive from Bilbao to San Sebastián takes around 1  hr 15 min by car  and 1.5 hrs by bus . There are very frequent buses by lots of different operators between these two cities. 

Accommodation in San Sebastián : San Sebastián is one of the more expensive towns in Spain. It’s also very popular among luxury travellers. So, don’t be surprised if accommodations seem a little more expensive overall.

Specifically, check out Casual de las Olas San Sebastián . This hotel is a bit further from the old town and beach but makes up for it with sleek decor, breakfast, and air conditioning.

If you want more of a laid-back feel, check out Talaia HT . This authentic and cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of the old town – and has public parking nearby .

If you are looking for a hostel, you can find hostels across San Sebastián here . Wherever you book, our advice is to book accommodations early. Generally, you save money when doing that.

Day 4: Zaragoza

Day 5 of this itinerary will take you to Zaragoza, a city mentioned in the 5 day Northern Spain itinerary. The drive will be a bit longer but you’ll still have enough time to check out some of the attractions Zaragoza has to offer.

Driving from San Sebastián to Zaragoza will take approximately  2 hrs 45 min by car  (including a toll road) and around  4 hrs by bus .

Accommodations in Zaragoza: Zaragoza is a smaller city but there are still lots of really great accommodation options.

Specifically, check out Hotel Sauce . This bright hotel is located right in the city centre and has buffet breakfast, air conditioning, and private parking onsite for those with a car in Spain!

If you want a hotel with a rooftop pool, Hotel Palafox is for you! Also situated right in the heart of the city, the hotel has a unique decor, city views, a nice breakfast, and also has parking and air con!

red towers near large roundabout with palace behind in barcelona.

A tour across the country wouldn’t be complete without including Barcelona. Since there is so much to see you’ll be spending two nights in the city to give you enough time.

The drive from Zaragoza to Barcelona will take you approximately 3 hrs 10 min by car (includes a toll road), 3.5 hrs by bus and 1.5 hrs by train .

Accommodation in Barcelona : As mentioned above, you’ll find loads of great hotels and apartments in Barcelona.

If you are looking for a hotel, check out Catalonia Born Hotel with a boutique style and rooftop pool in the city centre (also close to the beach).

If you travel by car, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is a lovely and affordable hotel with a spa that is located in the heart of the city and has a private parking garage onsite .

As for hostels, you can check out Barcelona hostels here. Specifically, we enjoyed Kabul Hostel . Hostel or hotel – just remember to book early because Barcelona is a popular city. Also remember that for this itinerary, you’ll be staying over for two nights .

And we’re back in one of Lisa’s favourite cities. The drive from Barcelona to Valencia will be a bit longer but it is worth it (in our opinion at least).

Driving from Barcelona to Valencia will take around  3.5 hrs by car  (including a toll road),  3 hrs by train  and  4 hrs 15 min by bus .

Accommodation in Valencia:  Since Valencia is a bigger city, you’ll find accommodations that work for your style and budget.

Check now for hotels in Valencia .

Specifically, Petit Palace Ruzafa is a boutique hotel very much in the lovely city centre. They offer healthy breakfast, free bike rentals, and no parking – making it great for travellers without a car!

If you’re looking to stay right the beach, you’ll likely love Hotel Miramar . This cool beachfront hotel has a bar/restaurant right downstairs, ocean views, and has paid parking onsite . If you want to stay in a hostel, you can check now for hostels in Valencia .

Must-see Attractions in Valencia: 

old buildings in surrounding old spanish square with statue in middle in madrid.

Of course, you can’t forget about the capital of the country when going on a trip through Spain.

Since there is so much to see and do you will spend two nights in Madrid. This will also give you some time to recover from the long driving days you’ve had.

Driving from Valencia to Madrid takes approximately  3.5 hrs by car  and slightly less than  2 hrs by train .

Accommodation in Madrid : Being the capital city of Spain, Madrid is a popular city with lots of accommodations.

Keep in mind that Madrid has “hostals” which are technically guesthouses but are basically hotels. Also, parking can be very expensive per day but that’s just Madrid for you.

Specifically, check out Room007 Select Sol . This charming and trendy hotel is right in the heart of the city, has air conditioning, and serves breakfast at a cafe next door. You are very much in the city centre here!

If you are looking for more of a guesthouse stay right in the centre, check out Hostal Madrid .

This authentic accommodation is so centrally located with attractions and the metro close by. It’s good value for money –  the two times Lisa travelled to Madrid she actually stayed here both times!

Should you want an actual hostel, there are loads of hostels in Madrid. You can check here for hostels in Madrid . Keep in mind wherever you book, you will be booking this accommodation for two nights  if you are following this itinerary.

*We have written in-depth about many of the attractions you can visit in Madrid in our things to do in Madrid guide!

Day 10: Toledo or Córdoba

small houses and green trees on hill with old fortress behind in toledo spain.

For the next stop on your itinerary, you can decide where you would like to stop. From Madrid you are driving further south and both Toledo and Córdoba would be great options for a stop on the way to Seville.

The drive from Madrid to Toledo will be short and only take  an hour by car or bus . The drive from Madrid to Córdoba is a lot longer and takes approximately  4 hrs by car  and  2 hrs by train .

While this drive would be longer, your drive the next day would be significantly shorter from Córdoba than from Toledo.

Accommodation in Toledo:  If you choose to stay in Toledo, you can check here for hotels in Toledo .

Specifically, you have to check out Hotel Santa Isabel – an authentic and charming Spanish hotel in the heart of the city with an incredible rooftop terrace, good breakfast, and private parking under the hotel  if you need it.

Accommodations in Córdoba: If you end up in Córdoba, you can check now for hotels in Córdoba .

Specifically,  Maciá Alfaros is an authentic hotel located right in the heart of the city with a nice swimming pool and parking onsite.

Hotel Cordoba Center is an elegant hotel located just a short walk to the centre. It’s location is very close to the train station – and there is a lovely rooftop pool with city views!

There are also many hostels with very good ratings so you can check here for hostels in Córdoba .

On day 11 you will drive from either Toledo or Córdoba to Seville – a city we have mentioned multiple times now because it is very much worth the visit.

If you ended up staying in Toledo, it’ll take you 4.5 hrs by car  and  4 hrs by train to get to Seville. If you stayed in Córdoba it’ll only take you 1.5 hrs by car  and  45 min by train  to get to Seville.

Accommodation in Seville : As we have mentioned above a bunch of times, Seville is a big and popular city so you’ll have no shortage of accommodations to pick from.

Check here for hotels in Seville .

Specifically, we like the look of Petit Palace Puerta de Triana . It’s a trendy design hotel with a buffet breakfast located right in the city centre close to top sights!

If you want more of a “historic stay”, Hotel Simon is a simple and authentic hotel located in a historic building!

They also do breakfast and are also located in the city centre. So you know: neither of the above hotels have parking – but not that many hotels in the city centre offer onsite parking (or even nearby public parking).

If you have/rent a car and need parking available, we’d say check out La Parada del Marqués . It’s a beautiful guesthouse/hotel also quite conveniently located but they also have parking, breakfast options, and good connections to public transit!

Should you be looking for a hostel, you can search for hostels in Seville here .

Again, since Seville is very popular so we would advise booking any accommodations ahead of time – especially during the high season! Remember, you’ll stay for two nights  if you follow this itinerary!

Day 12: Seville or Day trip to Cádiz/ Gibraltar

tall rock with green bushes around it and town in distance behind.

Since there is a lot to see and do in Seville, you have the option to stay another day to explore more of what the city has to offer.

If you’d prefer to see a different place you can consider day trips to either Cádiz or Gibraltar. Know that Gibraltar is not officially part of Spain but belongs to the United Kingdom instead.

It’ll take you around  1.5 hrs by car or train  to get from Seville to Cádiz. To get from Seville to Gibraltar it’ll take  between 2 and 3 hrs by car .

There does not seem to be any public transport between Seville and Gibraltar since it is another country, but you can participate in an organized tour from Seville to Gibraltar .

Must-see Attractions in Gibraltar:

  • Rock of Gibraltar
  • Great Siege Tunnels
  • The Old Town

Day 13: Málaga (or Granada)

view of town from city wall of old fortress in granada spain.

On your second to last day of this itinerary, you will drive from Seville to Málaga, a route we have mentioned quite a few times by now up above.

If you really wanted to visit Granada you could also drive there instead. You could then make the trip to Málaga at the end of the day or the next day.

The journey from Seville to Málaga will be approximately  2.5 hrs by car  and  2 hrs by train.  Whatever city combo you choose, just remember to book the right amount of nights in cities (one or two) for the end of your itinerary (keeping in mind where you fly out)!

Accommodation in Málaga:  As a popular city in the south, Malaga has lots of places to choose from when it comes to accommodation options.

For hotels, have a look at Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This lovely design hotel offers breakfast – and it’s very centrally located in the heart of the city!

For an apartment rental (maybe for a longer stay), check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and a quick walk to the city centre, the apartments have kitchenettes, terraces, and private parking onsite (if you travelling by car).

Malaga also has lots of hostels if you like. You can search for hostels in Malaga here . Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza when travelling to Malaga with a friend.

For a “hostel”, the Casa is a very popular place to stay with private rooms and a sunny rooftop terrace. Lisa and her friend booked a private room and enjoyed it!

Accommodation in Granada:  Since Granada is popular, many accommodations are available.

Specifically, Hotel Granada Center is a VERY popular hotel with a great breakfast, a very central location, and private underground parking onsite  if you have a car.

Also situated in the city centre is Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites – a modern hotel with a small rooftop pool with views of Granada’s old town! If you want to book a hostel, you can check here for hostels in Granada . 

Day 14: Málaga

And this is the end of your two weeks Spain itinerary. Once again Málaga is the city you fly out of since there are lots of great flight connections to other places in Europe.

Alternatively, you could also stay in Seville and visit Málaga on a day trip if the airport in Seville works better for you.

Things to Consider When Travelling in Spain

Before you dive into Spain trip planning, you’ll want to consider a few details. From the currency they use (the Euro) to the weather, public transport, and the best time to visit, we cover a few key areas below to help you prepare.

Best Time of Year to Visit Spain

Spain is a destination that can be visited year-round – you just have to set your expectations right. Lisa visited Malaga with a friend in December and it was quite warm but of course not warm enough to go swimming.

Since the country is quite big and has a diverse geography, there are actually a lot of different climate zones in Spain. Generally, the summers are hot and dry while the winters are mild and quite rainy.

The average maximum temperature for July and August is 30 °C and 17/16 °C in December and January. However, this can vary greatly depending on which city you are visiting (e.g. Granada is always a little bit colder).

We would recommend that you avoid the south – especially Seville – and Madrid in July and August since it can get VERY hot.

And according to Lisa’s Spanish teacher in Bilbao, it would probably also be a good idea to avoid visiting the Basque country during the winter months since it can rain a lot.

In our opinion, the perfect months for visiting Spain would be from March to June and September to the end of October.

Public Transportation in Spain

Spain has a very well-developed long-distance bus system. Lisa was especially impressed by that since in Germany long-distance buses didn’t exist until a few years ago and sometimes it can still be a bit chaotic or unclear.

In Spain, almost every major city has an actual bus station (and not just a signpost). One of the biggest bus companies in Spain is Alsa .

Lisa has used them quite a few times when living in Spain (to go from Madrid to Bilbao for example) and always had a pleasant experience.

In addition to buses, Spain also has a pretty good rail system. You can check the train connections and prices on the RENFE website here .

We would recommend that you always check both buses and trains as sometimes they take approximately the same amount of time and the bus can be significantly cheaper.

In a few areas (such as parts of the Basque country), the buses can be actually a lot faster than the train.

You can reach all of the places mentioned in these Spain itineraries with public transport.

So if you don’t feel comfortable with renting a car in a foreign country you can still follow all of these itineraries. The bus and train stations are often very centrally located so it shouldn’t be a hassle to get into the centre in any of the cities.

Car Rental in Spain

If you would like to rent a car and make these itineraries a road trip that is a great option, too.

Driving in Spain is generally pretty safe – but it can get a little crazy in bigger cities like Barcelona or Madrid. Spaniards also like to speed – but if you are a confident yet careful driver then this shouldn’t be an issue.

Since Spain is such a popular destination, there are lots of different rental car agencies available. Make sure to read the fine print about additional costs in case there are any issues.

You can compare prices for your Spain trip with this handy comparison tool .

In Spain, there are quite a few toll roads which start with an ‘AP’ in the name. If you want to avoid paying tolls you can often find a road that runs in a similar direction.

Generally, your driving time will be longer if you avoid toll roads but you never know which hidden gems you come across on your way.

Travel Insurance for Spain

When visiting Spain you – and especially when renting a car – should get travel insurance.

While you’ll probably be fine, accidents do happen (and Spaniards are more reckless drivers than in other countries) and they can be expensive. That’s why we always travel with insurance.

If you live in a European country and have European health insurance, you can get the blue EU Health insurance card with which you are covered in emergencies. If you don’t have that option, we recommend that you get private travel insurance.

Related Posts

If you are planning your visit to Spain, check out our other posts on travelling, working, and studying in Spain!

  • 12 Need to Knows When Travelling to Spain for the First Time
  • 11 of The Most Beautiful Cities in Spain
  • 17 of the Top Attractions in all of Spain
  • Catalonia Road Trip Itineraries

And there you have it – 5 epic itineraries around Spain! Whether you need 5 days or 14, we think you’ll have lots to work with to plan that perfect trip. Lisa is so happy to be able to provide you with her knowledge of the country.

There is still so much to cover – but we think that these itineraries are a great starting point – you may even do the routes as is and see how they go!

As always, Happy Waddlin’, – L&E

  • Compare flights on Skyscanner
  • Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
  • Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
  • Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
  • Go over our packing list

Pin it for later!

photo reading "sample routes for trip through spain" with photo of old spanish town above and old fortress photo below.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Destinations

Privacy policy

Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

Terms of use

© 2024 Creativlier Media Inc.

tour spain in 5 days

Guided Spain Logo Horizontal

Home > Itineraries > 5 Days in Andalucia

5 Days in Andalucia Itinerary

Expert guides, luxury vehicles, your 5 day tour of andalucia.

Our 5 days in Andalucia itinerary has been designed to deliver the best of Southern Spain for you in 5 compact days. Combining the best private guided tours of Seville, Ronda, Malaga, and Granada while limiting the amount of travel required during the vacation.

Andalucia means enjoying the warm Mediterranean climate, fascinating history, and unique culture that has been forged by centuries of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences in the region. Explore the most iconic sites such as The Alhambra, Seville Cathedral, and Alcazars while enjoying classic Andalucian culinary fare and get introduced to famous artworks and artists from the region with our 5-day itinerary.

Highlights Best of Spain Private 5-Day Luxury Tour:

  • Gothic Cathedrals and Tapas gastronomy in Seville
  • Historic Old Towns and Whitewashed villages in Ronda
  • Best artistic & historic experiences in Malaga
  • Private Tour of the Alhambra & Granada walking tours

What’s Included In Our 5 Day Tour?

  • Officially Licensed Guides
  • Luxury Transport
  • Private Drivers
  • 24 Hour Support in English
  • Fully Customizable Tour Itinerary
  • Flexible Cancellation or Rescheduling

Start in Seville, The Capital of Andalucia

Where better to begin our 5-day Andalucia tour Itinerary than in Seville, the capital, largest, and most populated city of the region? Seville is famous for blending Moorish, Renaissance, and uniquely Andalucian cultures, design, and architecture throughout the centuries, so we have designed an itinerary to deliver the best of this along with Seville’s classic Tapas and food culture and evening activities.

Among the highlights of our Seville private tour itinerary, you will visit Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic Cathedrals in Europe. You’ll also see the Alcazar, a palace built during the Moorish period, and the Patio de la Reina Victoria (Queen Victoria’s Patio), where you can relax in the shade of palm trees. You’ll also get to experience the flavors of Andalusia, including tapas, paella, and sangria.

Day 1: Seville Sights and Activities

We begin our best of Andalucia itinerary with your guide collecting you from the train station, airport, or your Seville accommodation. With 2 days to spend exploring the city with your guide, our itinerary has been designed so that they can deliver you between the major sites on foot, meaning that you will not need a driver for the Seville portion of your vacation.

Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower

Seville cathedral tour

Built in the 13th Century on top of the ruins of an Islamic Mosque to symbolize that Christianity was once again the ruling force in the region, Seville Cathedral is truly a statement piece in every sense, to this day it is the third largest church in the world, and was awarded the status of UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1987. From the original Moorish structure there only remains the Patio de Los Naranjos (the court of Oranges), and the Giralda tower.

On your guided tour of Seville Cathedral, you will visit:

  • The Tomb of the great explorer Christopher Columbus. Legend has it that Columbus’ great voyages continued posthumously as his remains were delivered to the Dominican Republic, then to Cuba, before being returned to Seville in 1895.
  • The Royal Chapel (Capilla Real), contains the tombs of Ferdinand III who conquered the Moor’s last outpost in Spain, and other Monarchs.
  • The Treasury contains an exhibit of a thorn from the Crown of Thorns placed on Jesus Christ’s head
  • The treasure room and many artworks and paintings by Murillo, Goya, Pedro de Campaña, and more

Exiting the Cathedral you will walk across the Court of Oranges to ascend The Giralda tower, preserved from the original Mosque, the tower was previously one of four minarets and you can climb to the top using the sloping corridor (there are no stairs) to enjoy some wonderful views across the city.

Walking Tour in Barrio Santa Cruz

Jewish District, Barrio Santa Cruz Seville

Discover the engrossing history and medieval tales of Seville’s historic Jewish neighborhood with your guided tour of the Santa Cruz district. 

Your guide will reveal how Moorish, Jewish and Christian cultures and traditions blend and intertwine throughout the area and discuss their fractious past. Walk with your guide amongst narrow cobbled lanes, ancient streets, and orange tree-lined boulevards as they bring to life centuries of stories and lore from the city’s most popular sector.

Highlights in the Barrio Santa Cruz include:

  • Royal Citadels 
  • The General Archive of the Indies (another UNESCO World Heritage site)
  • The City Hall – The Casa consistorial de Sevilla.
  • Hospital of the Venerables

Real Alcazar Private Tour

Real Alcázar de Sevilla guided tour in courtyard section

The Alcazar is the third UNESCO World Heritage site we have included in your first of 5 days in Andalucia itinerary.

This Royal Palace or Reales Alcázares can trace its history back to the Middle Ages when the Moorish Palace al-Qasr al-Muriq was destroyed and a new structure was built in its place for Christian king Peter of Castile in 1248. To this day it is still an official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, making it the oldest running active royal residence in Europe.

On your Alcazar of Seville private tour you will visit:

  • The Hall of Ambassadors: Formerly the Throne Room, this awe-inspiring gold-domed structure is said to symbolize Heaven and Earth.
  • Baths of Maria de Padilla: Recognizable from the series Game of Thrones, the arches that hang over the baths give the space a deeply atmospheric and almost haunting ambiance.
  • Alcazar Gardens: Walk in the footsteps of generations of Royalty who took time out to enjoy the lush green flora, fountains, and ponds.
  • The Royal Apartments: a collection of 11 historic rooms, still in use today by the Spanish Royalty.

5 star review

Day 2: Seville

external shot of Plaza De Espana, Seville,

Similarly to our first day in Seville, we have prepared your second day so that all of the sights and sounds of the city can be visited on a walking tour with your guide.

On the second day of our best of Andalucia in 5 days itinerary we recommend you visit:

Plaza de Espana

Constructed to display Spanish Renaissance and Moorish revival style architecture for the Ibero-American exhibition. The tile mosaics, looping arches, and towers on display have led to the Plaza de Espana gaining a reputation as one of the most attractive squares in Spain.

Maria Luisa Park

The Plaza de Espana is located just outside the grounds of Seville’s most famous park, the Parque de María Luisa. Enjoy a relaxing stroll amongst the greenery and along the banks of the Guadalquivir River.

Museum of Fine Arts

Known as The Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla in Spanish, this is the premier Art gallery in Andalucia. Here your guide will take you to explore artistic works spanning from the Middle Ages, through the Spanish Renaissance, all the way up to the 20th century. Some of the masterpieces to spend time with your guide admiring include works by Francisco de Herrera, El Greco, Velásquez, José García Ramos, and many more.

Seville Bullring

The Plaza de Toros de Sevilla, constructed in the 18th Century with a gorgeous Baroque facade, is one of the most historic bullrings in all of Spain, and hosts the largest bullring event in the calendar during the festival week, Feria de Abril. To learn more about the history and pageantry of the sport you can go inside to experience the “Museum of Bullfighting”.

Guadalquivir Boat Trip with Tapas

We end our two days in Seville with a relaxing private boat trip along the Guadalquivir river. During the journey, you will be supplied with a selection of Spanish Tapas and Wine.

Day 3: Driver-Guided Trip to Ronda

Puente Nuevo in Ronda, Andalucía

In the morning you will join your private driver guide as you make the 1hr 45 scenic journey from Seville to the picturesque town of Ronda in the comfort and luxury of our executive class vehicle.

The gorgeous mountaintop city of Ronda stands atop the deep River Guadalevín gorge and is surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Ronda is widely regarded as one of the most stunning “white villages” or Pueblos Blancos in Andalucia, and one look at the whitewashed buildings cascading down the mountains will make it immediately clear why this city is held in such high regard.

Ronda is a bustling town with a rich history dotted with outlaws and Bandoleros from the ancient Roman era through to the 20th Century, and can even lay claim to being the birthplace of Spanish Bullfighting as we know it today. Join your guide and discover why legends such as Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles (who were buried here) fell in love with Ronda.

Sites around Ronda’s historic old town include:

Mondragon’s Palace

This Royal palace, dating back to 1314, was used as a residence for King Ferdinand and  Queen Isabella when in the city.

Duchess of Parcent Square

This beautiful little square contains the St Mary Major Church, resplendent in its combination of Renaissance and Gothic style architecture and design.

Bandit Museum

Ronda is proud of its bandit history which has seen many Robin Hood-style ‘steals from the rich to give to the poor’ style stories featuring bullfighters, flamenco singers, and of course smugglers. Learn about this side of the city by visiting the Bandit Museum to see if you can sort facts from legend!

Ronda Bridge, The Puente Nuevo

Many of our guest’s rate Ronda as a must-see on their Andalucia tour for the views of the Puente Nuevo bridge. Towering over the El Tajo gorge at a height of 322 feet and constructed in 1751, your guide will take you to the best locations to appreciate the stunning views provided both below and overlooking the bridge.

Plaza de Toros

A favored destination of Ernest Hemingway when on his travels here, the Ronda Bullring is an 18th-century structure where the Rondeño style of bullfighting was invented. Moreover, going back in history even further than that, the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda (Spain’s oldest horsemanship society) was founded in the city in the same year that King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella restored Christian rule to the region.

Visit The Arab Baths

Discover what life was like in the 13th -16th century when the region was under Moorish rule when you visit the ancient Arab Baths, said to be the best preserved in all of Spain.

After enjoying a classically Andalucian-style meal in Ronda’s old town, your driver will return you to your Seville-based accommodation in the evening.

Day 4: Malaga

Aerial view of malaga with port, town hall and cathedral

On the morning of day 4, you have the option of joining your private driver for a 2-hour trip to Malaga, or you can take the high-speed train which will get you there in just under 2 hours.

The city of Malaga has beautiful beaches, great food, and friendly locals. There are also plenty of things to do such as visiting the famous Roman relics and Moorish Alcazaba, going hiking, or exploring the old town. If you want to relax after visiting the beach, then head to one of the many bars where you can sip on sangria while listening to live music.

Naturally, given its harbor location, Malaga is famous for its excellent fresh fish and seafood. Your private guide can take you on a food market, tapas, and wine experience to ensure you are sampling the finest and freshest available produce. 

Between meals, you can enjoy a Roman amphitheater and above it up the steep hill, is Málaga’s Alcazaba, a palatial Arab fortress built in the 11th century by the Moors.

Furthermore, although perhaps more synonymous with Barcelona, did you know that Picasso was actually born in Malaga? Discover more about one of Malaga’s most famous sons, and indeed, one of the world’s most renowned artists on a guided tour of the grand Picasso museum just a short walk from the bay.

Malaga’s food scene is well renowned, and our tour planning specialists will consult with you ahead of time to recommend the best option for your evening meal and entertainment. Whether your preference is for 5-star Michelin dining or more rustic traditional fare, we will suggest just the right place to suit your needs!

On your penultimate night in Spain, you will stay in centrally located Malaga accommodation.

Day 5: Granada

Alhambra private tour in Granada.

Granada is an enchanting city that lies just an hour and a half North of Malaga.

With almost 3000 years of history packed into this impressive and charming town that lies at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, your guide will make the tales of famous battles, Royalty, historic figures, and unique culture that emerges from the confluence of  Christian, Jewish and Moorish influences and traditions sparkle into life and brought into focus for you as you walk the cobbled lanes, mountainside villages, and grand Moorish palaces where history was made.

Whilst Granada has many sights of interest and fascinating cultural enclaves to visit with your private guide, the undoubted highlight is the UNESCO World Heritage site that is the Alhambra. The spectacularly well-preserved last Moorish outpost in Spain before the kingdom was united under Christian rule which then underwent further alterations to blend with Catholic traditions. 

Must see Granada Locations:

The Alhambra Palace

This magnificent palace originally constructed between 1238 – 1358 and resultantly updated after the war of Granada, combines its Moorish origins with Spanish Renaissance Architecture. Allow your guide to bring to life the centuries of history, wars, and famous historic characters as you explore the complex together. On your private tour, you will visit the Nasrid Palaces, Medina (the remains of the residential district), The Alcazaba, and Generalife Garden.

The Royal Monastery Of Saint Jerome

The first Christian holy building to be constructed after the Christians took control of the city in 1492. Step inside with your private guide to explore the intricacies of the Gothic-style architecture and design.

The Museu de Arte e Cultura (Museum of Fine Arts)

This gallery and museum are located in the Palace of Charles V and feature works by artists including Juan Sanchez Cotan, Alonzo Cano, and Mariano Fortuny.

Plaza de Toros (Granada)

A classic bullring venue in neo-Mudejár architecture, which has been used to hold concerts.

This concludes your best of Andalucia in 5 days itinerary. You have the option of either joining your private driver to take your luggage to the airport, or you may choose to spend a final night in Granada before your driver collects you the following morning to transfer to the airport.

Emily owner of guided spain tours

Meet Your Personal Tour Planner!

Say Ola to Emily, your personal tour planner at Guided Spain Tours. Get in touch by filling in the form below and requesting your complimentary itinerary!

Let us know your questions!

Call our team

US: +1 (240) 332-1519

Contact Us For Your Free Itinerary For Andalucia, Spain, & Beyond!

The above is an excellent introduction to Andalucia if you only have 5 days to spend on vacation. Our passion, however, is to create custom tours tailored to each and every individual guest’s tastes and requirements.

To receive a complimentary tour itinerary for your Andalucia adventure, simply contact our specialist tour planners using the form below. We can alter any detail of the above tour for you free of charge, add or remove exclusive experiences and even build in additional days to include remarkable destinations like Toledo, Cordoba, El Caminito del Rey, and much more besides!

Eric S (US)

More Example Multi-Day Tour Itineraries

Barcelona skyline Spain

Best of Spain in 10 Days

Old medieval Romanesque bridge Besalu over the river Fluvia in Girona.

7 Day Catalonia Tour

Marbella, Spain_

10 Day Southern Spain

Toledo at dusk, Spain

4 Weeks Itinerary of Spain

Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage tour.

Guided Camino De Santiago Tour

Passeig de la Muralla, Girona Old City Walls, Spain

Costa Brava, Barcelona & Garrotxa Tour

Pilgrims walking along the Camino de Santiago in Spain

11 Days Hiking in Spain

family enjoying private tour in Ronda

7 Day Family Vacation

Aracena, Spain

White Villages of Southern Spain

Cordoba, Spain

10 Day Barcelona & South Spain Tour

waving a flag from the top of Clergios Tower.

14 Day Spain & Portugal

Sa Dragonera Island, Mallorca, Spain

3 Day Mallorca Tour

Madrid Las Ventas Bullring, Spain

Madrid & Andalucia In One Week 

High Atlas Mountains guided tour in Morocco

Spain, Portugal & Morocco: 13-Day Tour

Alcala Gate in the center of Madrid

2 Weeks in Spain

woman walking among vineyards on wine tour in spain.

Food & Wine Tour

Private tour of Porto old town.

16 Day Spain & Portugal

Cordoba palace in spain

16 Day Spain Vacation

Panoramic view of Toledo with Alcazar castle at sunset,

One Week in Spain

Montefrio in Granada on mountain lit up in the evening,

21 Day Spain Itinerary

tour spain in 5 days

France & Spain 14-Day Tour Itinerary

Ronda in Andalucía

21 Day Spain & Portugal

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain

15 Day Iberia Itinerary

Image of a man holding a glass of wine on a rooftop in madrid on a food and wine tour.

Foodie Tour Itinerary In Spain & Portugal

private tour at Cathedral of Santa Maria in Burgos.

14 Days North Iberia

Ben Maimonides, Jewish philosopher 1135-1204 in Cordoba in Spain

10 Days Jewish Heritage

beautiful waters and white boats in harbor at san sebastian, donostia.

7 Day Basque Country

Family in a village on a tour of Andalucia

9 Day Family Tour

skyline of alfama at lisbon, portugal at dawn

10 Day Spain & Portugal

aerial view of bridge leading to Salamanca, Spain

10 Day Camino a Santiponce

Bull facing down a runner on a bullrun.

7 Day Bullrun Tour

Search for more guided spain tours.

Popular Searches:  Barcelona Tours ,  Madrid Tours ,  Custom Tours of Spain ,  Family Tours

Guided Spain Logo Horizontal

Spain Tours

Tour itineraries, other destinations.

Partnered with DABA Tourism Marketing

Guided Spain Tours is managed and operated by Guided Spain Tours SLU B56482201

Ask Our Experts For Your Custom Tour Itinerary

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies
  • 3rd Party Cookies

cropped-Guided-Spain-Logo

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

Best 5-day Spain itinerary, Arzo Travels

WHAT TO DO IN 5 DAYS IN SPAIN – ITINERARY

BEST 5-DAY ITINERARY FOR SPAIN

Table of Contents

If you’re planning a trip of 5 days in Spain, I’ve got you covered! Spain is a beautiful place, filled with amazing attractions and cultures waiting to be explored. From the stunning coastline to the vibrant cities, Spain has something for everyone.

But with so many incredible places to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan a Spain itinerary for 5 days that fits in everything you want to see in just five days. While I haven’t seen all the beautiful destinations in Spain , I’ve explored enough to recommend some fantastic places to visit in Spain in 5 days.

This post covers different five-day Spain itineraries. 

  • For one, we have the fantastic city of Barcelona . You can spend a few days here and do a few day trips, and you will have a blast. This way, you will see some of the best places in Spain.
  • Then there is another suggestion on what to see in Spain in 5 days – this one covers the beautiful, beautiful island of Mallorca .
  • My third suggestion for spending 5 days in the country includes the lovely area of Costa Brava.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product (at no extra cost for you) after clicking on my link. More about it  here .

Different itineraries for 5 days in Spain, Arzo Travels

5 DAYS IN SPAIN – BARCELONA

Barcelona is a fun city in Spain – with tons of activities offered for people of all ages. It is the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region in the northeast of Spain.  With more than 1,5 million inhabitants, it is the second biggest city in Spain (after Madrid). 

Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Spain (this also means, it gets crowded). From its stunning architecture and history to its vibrant nightlife and culture, there’s something here for everyone. 

From unique art and architecture, from Gaudi’s iconic park, La Sagrada Familia, to the awe-inspiring architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences – there is a lot to see and do.

The city is also home to a variety of fantastic restaurants, shopping centers, and nightlife venues, making it an ideal destination. 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, or just want to relax and enjoy the sights, Barcelona is a must-see for tourists visiting Spain. Oh, and if you enjoy football (or soccer as the US-Americans say) then you´ll also Barcelona as you can enjoy some of the most famous stadiums in the world – Camp Nou.

Image

Barcelona is a fascinating city itself, and it is also a good base for some day trips . Think about Montserrat, Andorra (a tiny country between France and Spain), or Girona.

Image

No, 5 days in the area of Barcelona is not too much time. I recommend exploring Barcelona in 2 or 3 days and then planning 2 or 3 day trips from Barcelona.

THINGS TO DO IN BARCELONA  

Visit La Sagrada Familia – one of Gaudi´s masterpieces. The work started in the 19th century, and yet the Roman Catholic minor basilica has to be finished. Make sure to get Fast-Track Access Tickets – the lines are normally insane.  

La Rambla is one of the main streets – it is lined with bars and restaurants. This place is bustling and a must-see.

FC Barcelona Museum & Camp Nou Stadium is another top attraction in the city. Whether you are a football fan or not, it should be on your itinerary.

Stroll Barrio Gotico – the gothic quarter of Barcelona and is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods.

Explore Park Guell , a UNESCO World Heritage site that is another work of Gaudi and is used as a public park now. 

Montjuic Hill is one prominent hill in Barcelona – get up there by cable car or hike up and enjoy the views.

Tibidabo is another hill in Barcelona offering great views of the city.

Spend time at Barceloneta – the beach area that offers some getaway time in Barcelona.

Check out my Barcelona post for more tips.

Here are some tours and activities you can book for Barcelona.

Image

DAY TRIPS FROM BARCELONA

Here are a few suggestions for day trips from Barcelona.

Image

Located just 45 kilometers from Barcelona, Montserrat is a beautiful mountain range with spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside. This natural paradise is home to many unique attractions including stunning hiking trails, cultural sites, and incredible wildlife.

With over 100 km of marked paths , Montserrat is perfect for hikers and outdoors enthusiasts. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Catalonia and its many vineyards.

Montserrat is also home to the famous Benedictine Monastery which houses a priceless collection of religious art and relics.

Though it is close to Barcelona, plan a whole day because of all the activities you can do there – from visiting the Montserrat Monastery Museum to hiking and more . Montserrat is a great place to add to your Spain itinerary.

It is quite easy to get to Montserrat from Barcelona – you could book tours or rent a car to get there or just use public transportation. It takes about 60-90 minutes (one way) and is worth your time.

Check out this day trip from Barcelona – you can also book tours including wine tasting.

Girona is a historic city located in the province of Catalonia, on the banks of the River Onyar . It’s one of Spain’s most beautiful cities and is less than an hour away from Barcelona by train.

With its cobbled streets, quaint houses, and tranquil atmosphere, Girona offers visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Girona is best known for its colorful houses , which were painted by Catalan artist Ramon Casas in the early 20th century.

Other highlights include the ancient walls around the old town, Girona Cathedral, Arab baths, and countless charming cafés and restaurants.

Girona is the perfect day trip for anyone looking to get away from the city and explore some of Spain’s most beautiful sights. The Jewish Quarter is one of the best preserved in Europe . 

Girona has something for everyone, with activities ranging from hiking and river rafting to exploring its many museums and art galleries. So take a break from Barcelona (not that it would be needed) and explore Girona in a day.

Image

Girona was a filming location of  Games of Thrones  – but there are more reasons to visit.

From Barcelona to Girona takes less than 1 hour by train. So, this is another fantastic day trip from Barcelona to take.

For guided tours from Barcelona to Girona, click here.

HOW TO GET TO BARCELONA

Getting to Barcelona is easy, with plenty of options to choose from. You can catch a flight to Barcelona’s international airport and be in the heart of the city in no time.

If you prefer a more scenic route, take a train or a bus and enjoy the stunning views along the way. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not drive or cycle your way to Barcelona and make a road trip out of it?

Whichever way you choose, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most exciting cities!

HOW TO GET AROUND BARCELONA

Barcelona is a vibrant city full of excitement and wonder, and there’s no better way to explore this beautiful place on foot , especially in the city center where many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other.

But also using the public transportation system is a good way to get around. With its network of buses, trains, and subways, getting around Barcelona is easy, affordable, and fun!

For starters, the Barcelona Metro is a great way to zip around the city with ease. With its different lines, it covers almost every corner of the city.

Another great way to explore Barcelona is by bus – you’ll get to see some stunning sights along the way, from the Gothic Quarter to the modernist marvels of Gaudi.

You could also rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. Barcelona is a bike-friendly city, with plenty of dedicated bike lanes and rental options available.

Want to explore beyond the city limits of Barcelona? No problem! There are plenty of day tours available to take you on an adventure. You can rent a car and hit the road, or hop on public transportation and navigate your way around. Alternatively, you can book guided tours and let someone else do the driving while you sit back and enjoy the ride! 

➡️ Click here to find the rental car prices for your 5 days in Spain itinerary

WHERE TO STAY IN BARCELONA

As you can imagine, accommodation in Barcelona is not a bargain. However, you find luxury hotels as well as hostels and more budget-friendly places to stay in Barcelona.

LUXURY – ME Barcelona is a fancy 5-star hotel located in the center of Barcelona, around 2.7 km from Somorrostro Beach. The hotel has a terrace, bar, and room service, and guests can also enjoy a nightclub, tour desk, and concierge service. Rooms are equipped with a coffee machine, and some have a patio or offer views of the city. Check out rates and availabilities here.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Lleó  There are also some great mid-range hotels in Barcelona, however, they might be more expensive than other mid-range hotels in Spain. Hotel Lleó is located beside the famous Las Ramblas and Plaza Catalunya in Barcelona. This hotel has a rooftop pool with a sun terrace and loungers, free Wi-Fi, and rooms with flat-screen TVs .  Check out rates and availabilities here .

BUDGET – Room018BCN is a modern hostel situated just 450 m from FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou Stadium. The hostel offers rooms with free WiFi and individual lockers. The dormitory rooms are air-conditioned and have parquet floors and modern decor. Each bed comes with an LED reading light, and bed linen is provided. You can also rent towels on site, and some rooms have a private bathroom.  Check out rates and availabilities here .

HOW TO SEE SPAIN IN 5 DAYS – MALLORCA (MAJORCA)

Mallorca, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is known for its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and historic cities. Mallorca is a popular tourist destination with something for everyone – whether you want to r elax on the beach all day or explore the island’s culture and history . Not to mention it is a great place for watersports and outdoor activities.

With its cobblestone streets, white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush green hills, and diverse wildlife, Mallorca provides the perfect backdrop for your vacation.

If you’re looking for culture there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore as well as historic monuments and churches. Mallorca is also home to some of the best nightlife in Spain with clubs, bars, and live music venues spread across the island. 

It is about 200 km south of Barcelona, and if you stay longer than five days in Spain, you could combine a trip to Barcelona with a few days in Mallorca. However, given that Mallorca is only reachable by plane or ferry, it is pretty time-consuming, and I think 5 days for Barcelona and Mallorca is not enough.

Image

Mallorca is the most popular travel destination for Germans. While many Germans go there for partying and drinking alcohol, (or better went as the local government has tried to stop that kind of tourism), Mallorca is actually one of the most stunning islands in Europe.

It has incredible beaches, beautiful towns and villages, and much more. 

Image

THINGS TO DO IN MALLORCA

Explore the beautiful coves also known as calas in Mallorca – my favorite was Cala Mondragó.

Relax at the beaches – there are many beautiful, beautiful beaches to choose from. One would be Cala Millor, but the options are immense.

Do a boat tour – Mallorca, from this perspective, is also stunning, and you can also hop into the water with hardly any people around. Check out boat tours here.

Explore the adorable  towns and villages on the island. Valldemossa is probably the prettiest, but the others are charming.

Visit Palma – Mallorca’s capital home to interesting architecture like the Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma and visit the stunning Cathedral.

Drive along the coast and the Serra de Tramuntana Mountain range . This is the most scenic part of a road trip.

Image

Check out my more detailed post on Mallorca with more travel tips on what to do and more.

HOW TO GET TO MALLORCA

You can catch a flight from many major cities to Palma de Mallorca Airport and be on the island in no time.

Or take a ferry from Barcelona or Valencia and enjoy a scenic journey across the Mediterranean Sea. 

HOW TO GET AROUND MALLORCA 

The most popular and convenient way is to rent a car and explore the island at your own pace. Mallorca is a beautiful island with stunning scenery, and having a car will give you the flexibility to visit hidden coves, charming towns, and breathtaking viewpoints.

But, if you’re not comfortable driving, don’t worry – there are plenty of guided tours available. From boat tours around the coast to cycling tours in the mountains, there’s something for everyone. Plus, guided tours allow you to learn more about Mallorca’s history, culture, and traditions.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not explore Mallorca on foot? Hiking trails offer some of the most spectacular views of the island, and you can enjoy the fresh air and exercise while exploring hidden gems along the way.

WHERE TO STAY IN MALLORCA

Mallorca is well known for all-inclusive hotels, including the one where I stayed.  Despite staying in the All-Inclusive Resorts myself , I do not recommend booking All-Inclusive.

LUXURY – Jumeirah Hotel in Soller  is located on the northwest coast of Mallorca and has an impressive infinity pool, a fitness center, and a spa, all with stunning views of Port de Sóller Bay. The stylish, air-conditioned rooms at Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa come with a private balcony.

Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa has three restaurants serving a wide range of dishes and offering fantastic sea views. If you like to indulge in luxury, this is probably the best pick for you. Check out rates here.

MID-RANGE – Globales America  is situated in the delightful town of Calas de Mallorca, offering stunning sea views from its sun terrace and 3 outdoor pools. This hotel has free WiFi, 24-hour reception, and a tennis court. The air-conditioned rooms have satellite TV and a private balcony. They also come with a private bathroom, and a safe is available at an extra cost. Check out rates here.

COSTA BLANCA – SPAIN IN 5 DAYS

Costa Blanca is a stunning Mediterranean coastline, located on Spain’s southeastern coast. It’s known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and picturesque marinas, as well as its vibrant nightlife and culture. Costa Blanca boasts a mild climate year-round; making it the perfect destination for beach lovers, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the crowds.

With its clear waters and miles of sandy beaches, Costa Blanca is a great place to relax and soak up some sun as well as take part in water sports such as sailing, surfing, and diving. If you’re looking for something a bit more active head inland to explore the region’s history and culture.

The Costa Blanca stretches over 200 kilometers along the Mediterranean coastline. This itinerary will take us from Alicante in the south all the way up to Valencia in the north of Costa Blanca . Along this way, there are many beautiful villages and towns – and let’s not forget the beautiful beaches in Costa Blanca.

Image

5 days in Spain and especially in Costa Blanca is perfect for those who like combining city life with some colorful and charming villages and beach days.

Image

Though Costa Blanca is quite popular amongst Europeans, I often feel it is underrated by Americans or Asians. I might be wrong! Either way, with five days in Spain and Costa Blanca, I recommend staying one day in Alicante and 1,5 days in Valencia. And then visit the cute, charming villages in between and also plan in a day or so for the beach. 

Image

Also, Costa Blanca usually has mild weather in the winter as well. It probably will not be hot, and sunbathing is perhaps not really the best activity. However, in the winter months, you can stroll the beautiful beaches of Costa Blanca which is perfect for sunbathing in the summer months.

Image

THINGS TO DO IN COSTA BLANCA

ALICANTE – Visit Santa Barbara Castle, a castle located on Mount Benacantil built in the 9th century. Stroll the Esplanade of Spain. It is made up of 6,600,000 tricolor marble tiles and is probably the most beautiful promenade in Spain. Walk to the beach of Alicante and visit the port. Check out my Alicante post for more tips.

Here are more tips for day trips from Alicante.

VALENCIA – Visit Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences),  a part of a massive complex with various bright and futuristic buildings. In the city center, you have the Plaza de la Virgen on one side, and the Plaza de la Reina on the other. Both are lovely and lively plazas that you should visit. See the street art – especially in the El Carmen neighborhood. Check out my Valencia post for more tips.

ALTEA – Whitewashed houses, colorful flowers against white walls, and pretty ocean views. Yes, Altea has a touch of Greece in it and is one of the prettiest villages in Costa Blanca. It is small so it does not have many attractions but is still worth a trip. Check out my Altea post for more tips.

VILLAJOYOSA – The most colorful place in Costa Blanca is Villajoyosa. It is a small town with a big beach section. Whether you visit for 1 hour or a full day – Villajoyosa should be on your Spain itinerary. Check out my Villajoyosa post for more tips.

BENIDORM – Though the bigger town is not the most exciting place in Costa Blanca, it is a nice stop along the way. The beach area is charming, and so is the famous Balcón del Mediterráneo, where you have musicians playing.

HOW TO GET TO COSTA BLANCA

Getting to Costa Blanca is easy – you can catch a flight to Alicante Airport or Valencia, which are the main gateways to Costa Blanca. From there, you can rent a car, take a bus or a taxi, and be at your destination in no time.

If you prefer a more scenic route, why not take a train along the coast and enjoy the beautiful views along the way? And for those who love the sea, a ferry from the nearby Balearic Islands is another option.

HOW TO GET AROUND COSTA BLANCA

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to get around Costa Blanca is by train and tram. The local train service runs along the coast, making it easy to travel between towns and cities.

However, if you want to explore the region at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. It gives you the flexibility to visit hidden beaches, quaint villages, and scenic countryside roads. Plus, with a car, you can easily reach destinations that might not be accessible by public transportation.

If you prefer guided tours, there are plenty of options available, from boat tours along the coast to walking tours in the city. Guided tours offer a unique perspective on the region and provide an opportunity to learn more about the local culture, history, and traditions.

WHERE TO STAY IN COSTA BLANCA

LUXURY – The Caro Hotel is a one-of-a-kind hotel located in a 19th-century palace in central Valencia, just 200 m from Valencia Cathedral. It combines historical features with modern design and has an outdoor pool that’s open all year round. The elegant rooms at the Caro Hotel are each designed by Francesc Rifé and are completely unique, with exquisite minimalist touches.  Check out more about it here.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Maya is located at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle, just a 5-minute walk from Alicante Beach and 10 minutes from the city center. The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, free WiFi, and a gym with panoramic views. We, a friend and I stayed at Maya Alicante . It was a decent choice with a friendly and bright interior. Breakfast choices were good, the quality, however, was not great. But in all, you get good value for your money. Check out rates here.

BUDGET – Apartamentos La Mer  is located 1.2 km from Cap Negret Beach in Altea and offers accommodation with air conditioning and free WiFi. The apartments have a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, coffee machine, microwave, and toaster. They also have a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower, as well as a kettle. Altea is probably the best place to stay for love birds. Small and tiny and yet so gorgeous – I guess this is the most romantic place on the itinerary. Click here to find out about the hotel rates for Apartamentos La Mar

FINAL THOUGHTS ON PLACES TO VISIT IN 5 DAYS IN SPAIN

A five-day itinerary in Spain promises an unforgettable experience . From Barcelona’s architecture and vibrant nightlife to the stunning mountain scenery of Montserrat and Girona, you can explore the country’s unique culture and history. Not to mention the incredible beaches of Mallorca and Costa Blanca which offer the perfect opportunity to relax and soak up some sun .

5 days in Spain is not enough to see all the main places. I would not even try to squeeze in all major attractions in five days. However, it is enough to explore one part of Spain and get an idea of what the country offers.

Whether you opt for Mallorca and some island life, the vibrant city of Barcelona and its surroundings, or explore Costa Blanca – the suggestions for 5-day Spain itineraries give you options to see what you personally like the most.

  • READ MORE: Best places to visit in Spain

Image

Pin It on Pinterest

Spain Small Group Tours

Spain Small Group Tours

  • Choose from 150+ Spain tours
  • 400+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
  • 24/7 customer support

10 best Spain small group tours

Compiled by

Spain travel expert at TourRadar

Melissa Spain travel expert at TourRadar

Absolutely Spain

Andalusia with costa del sol & toledo, andalusia & mediterranean coast with barcelona, walk the camino de santiago, premium spain, journeys: discover spain national geographic journeys, sailing the canary islands, best of spain, "camino de santiago" (way of st james): french way from sarria -100 km, northern spain real food adventure.

Absolutely Spain

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Christmas & New Year
  • Explore the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
  • Stroll through Seville's Santa Cruz quarter
  • Tour Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and Gaudí sites
“This trip is short and fast paced trip. Hotels are big four stars, we enjoyed it.”

Andalusia with Costa del Sol & Toledo

  • Explore Cordoba's mosque and Jewish Quarter
  • Tour Seville's cathedral and Santa Cruz quarter
  • Admire Ronda's views and drive to Costa del Sol
“The locations were all amazing and the guides we met along the way were very good all around.”

Andalusia & Mediterranean Coast with Barcelona

  • Let the mesmerising beauty of Granada dazzle you
  • Soak up the infectious vibes of the city of culture, Valencia
  • See the famous Plaza de España in sun-drenched Seville
“It was quite good, comprehensive, and informative. Some of the hotels were not up to par with the rest of the tour.”

Walk the Camino de Santiago

  • Hiking & Trekking
  • Walk from Portomarin to Palas de Rei
  • Finish your journey at Plaza Obradoiro
  • Try octopus in Melide's lively market town
“CEO, Arantxa Pagola, did an fantastic job.”

Premium Spain

  • Sightseeing
  • Tour the Alhambra and its gardens in Granada
  • Enjoy a traditional paella lunch in Valencia
  • Taste Toledo's traditional marzipan
“The hotels in Granada and Valencia were too far from the old city and had dangerous showers over baths.”

Journeys: Discover Spain National Geographic Journeys

  • Discover the majestic Alhambra and the Albayzín in Granada
  • Explore Madrid's vibrant Gran Vía and Plaza Mayor
  • Tour the historic city of Toledo with a local guide
“Great itinerary and spectacular sights, but the lack of private transportation resulted in numerous waits.”

Sailing the Canary Islands

  • Master sailing skills and relax on the open sea
  • Meet your crew and prepare for adventure
  • Sail from Tenerife to the charming La Gomera
“Wonderful skipper, great restaurants, good weather.”

Best of Spain

  • Discover Costa de la Luz's stunning beaches
  • Visit the impressive Alhambra Palace
  • Discover Albaicin's narrow streets
“I am a traveler not a tourist and this style of travel supports that. The pace of the travel was perfect, as was the balance between planned and free time.”

"Camino de Santiago" (Way of St James): French Way from Sarria -100 km

  • Explore Sarria's historic churches and convents
  • Visit Palas de Rei's artistic heritage sites
  • Tour Arzúa's notable convent and church
“Everything was delivered the way was planned. Guidelines, accommodations, transportation when required.”

Northern Spain Real Food Adventure

  • Food & Culinary
  • Take a train to wine country
  • Explore Laguardia's wine caves
  • Sip locally produced cava
“The choices of excursions and food was superb. The guest chefs were excellent.”

Discover TourRadar

ForeverBarcelona Private Tours White Logo

This post contains affiliate or sponsored links. We might be paid for posting them or if you click on them or buy through them.  If the affiliate link would increase your costs, we wouldn’t use it. Your trust is more important than any commission. More about our links policy  here .

Itinerary for Barcelona in five days photo grid

A Perfect Barcelona 5 Day Itinerary

WARNING . This is an itinerary for 5 full days in Barcelona. That’s not counting your arrival and departure day (unless you arrive super early in the morning or leave really late). If you have less than 5 complete days, you can check out my other posts:

YOUR ITINERARY FOR BARCELONA IN 5 DAYS​

This is our suggested plan for 5 days in barcelona, day one - old town.

From there head to the Cathedral of Barcelona. You are entering the Gothic Quarter: the area where the Romans founded Barcelona 2000 years ago. Take the opportunity to go inside the Cathedral before noon, when they start charging. The elevator to the rooftop is a small extra fee, but it’s quite cool, specially with kids. And don’t miss the geese in the cloister! 

Next roam around the district: the romantic Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, the historical Jewish Quarter, the bridge over Carrer del Bisbe, the City Hall and the Catalan Government in Plaça Sant Jaume, the Roman temple in a nearby backstreet, the atmospheric Plaça del Rei… Visiting the Roman Ruins of the Museum of History of the City can take around 2 hours, so save it for later (maybe instead of the Picasso Museum , or come back some other day).

By now, you’ll start to be hungry, so head to La Rambla via Carrer Ferran (or the narrower carrer del Call), and then up La Rambla to the Boqueria Market . Explore this bountiful food haven and pick some food to go or relish on the splendid tapas of its many market bars . And save some room for a cake at the nearby Escriba cake shop. Even better: order a crema catalana (creme brulée) to go and see them burn them in front of your eyes!

After lunch we’ll take it easy. Walk down les Rambles checking out the flower market, stopping for coffee in an outdoor café in Plaça Reial… Big Gaudi fans might want to go inside Palau Güell, in preparation of what’s coming tomorrow. Otherwise, reach the port and take a relaxing boat ride around the port on the Golondrinas . For more sailing ideas check out this other post . Families with kids might prefer to visit the Aquarium (there’ll be less queue at this time of the day).

Your afternoon continues along the Moll de la Fusta waterfront, and on to the Ciutadella Park. Relax on the grass, take the kids to the Zoo (if you haven’t done the boat nor the Aquarium), row the boat or just take a lovely stroll. From there, you’ll head to the Born district . A cool way to access it is through the old Mercat del Born building, checking out the excavations as you cross it. As you exit it from the other side, Passeig del Born Avenue opens in front of you.

It’s time for the Picasso Museum: you have all my tips to take the most out of its unusual collection and not get disappointed but excited instead. This time of the day the museum doesn’t usually have lines, but you might want to buy (timed) tickets in advance just in case. If you prefer to do the Museum of History instead, you are just 5 minutes walk from the Picasso: we walked around a big circle today.

You’ll spend the rest of the afternoon in the Old Town, checking out the gorgeous Santa Maria del Mar church, shopping around El Born, hoping over the Gothic Quarter for gelato at Gelaaati di Marco, seating on a terrace and watching people… This is a great area for a tapas dinner, too! Eat early, then head to the Palau de la Musica Catalana, where you’ll have booked an evening guitar concert or flamenco show . What an amazing first day in Barcelona!

Rick Steves Pocket Barcelona

DAY TWO - Gaudi Sites

In our private Gaudi tours we get to cover the inside of 3 gaudi sites in just 4 hours, but don’t try to do that on your own! We have refined our timings over years of experience and know exactly how long to spend at each site and the fastest way to the next. And we get to skip lines everywhere! So take your time and enjoy my suggested plan for your second day on your own. You might want to start with cake and coffee at La Pastisseria (best cake in the world 2011!).

You’ll be only 2 blocks away from the Block of Disagreement. My suggestion is to go inside only one site this morning, and that would be either Casa Batllo or Casa Mila by Antoni Gaudi. Or if you prefer to stay away from the crowds, Casa Amatller by Puig i Cadafalch is the way to go. Don’t forget to check if there are free chocolate samples at their chocolate store!

From the Block of Disagreement to Casa Mila (la Pedrera) it’s 3 blocks lined up with up-skilled boutiques like Channel, Gucci… Window shop and feel like in the Champs Elysees in Paris! In the side streets and the nearby Rambla de Catalunya there’s lots of more affordable cool shops. But unless you are not entering any site this morning, you’d rather wait to shop another day.

When you are done in this area, take the subway to Hospital de Sant Pau (L5 – blue line) from Diagonal, just around the corner from Casa Mila. This modernist hospital by Domenech i Muntaner is a gem, but if you went to Palau de la Musica the day before, you can skip this one. Now walk down Avinguda Gaudi getting excited about the view of Sagrada Familia in the distance. But before visiting it… it’s time for lunch! Stop at the pizzeria La Piazzenza in a corner and order a vegetarian calzone. You’ll thank me for this tip. Alternatively, in my blog you’ll find more ideas for places to eat near Sagrada Familia .

Now you should have booked tickets for Sagrada Familia for no earlier than 3PM if you followed my plan and started the morning between 9 and 10AM. The building is impressive by itself, but the history and architectural achievements it hides make the visit much more meaningful. If you can, take a tour: your experience will be transformed. And you can always stay longer inside after the tour is over.

Plan between 1 and 2 hours in the church, depending on your pace. And then take a taxi to Park Guell. Yes, you can take the metro … but it leaves you 20-30 minutes walk from it, uphill! Trust me, a taxi is here the best option.Again, you’ll have booked tickets for the Park in advance. They sell out, so if you don’t have tickets… skip the Park today. Ideally, your tickets would be for 2.5 hours after your entry time to Sagrada Familia. They give you a 30 minute slot to get in after your entry time at the Park – that’s enough buffer time. And if you get there too early, you can just stroll around the non-paying area until it’s time to enter the paying area. Here are the musts you need to see.

After visiting the Park, you’ll be 15-20 minutes walk downhill from the heart of the Gracia district. A great area to stroll, check out its plazas , do some fun local shopping, and end up having dinner there like the locals do. Here are some of my favorite Gracia restaurants . Wow, that was a packed second day in town! But wasn’t it rewarding?

DAY THREE - Out of Town

On Saturdays you’ll miss the Escolania Choir: you might want to switch day if you are interested in hearing them .

You’ve made it to the middle of your Barcelona trip, so far! And today you deserve a more relaxed pace. The Monastery of Montserrat is everyone’s favorite destination out of town. It’ can be covered in one morning on a private tour, but it’s not cheap because you are paying for a guide AND a driver. However, it can be easily done on your own by train and it’s much more affordable. It just takes twice as long! But didn’t we say you deserved a slower pace today?

Barcelona in five days itinerary

The train departs from Plaça Espanya and takes a bit over one hour to take you to Monistrol de Montserrat. If you bought a Montserrat Pass you won’t have to worry about the lines to get the ticket for the rack train that takes you to the Monastery (or elsewhere). Once there, there’s plenty of things to do in Montserrat until it’s time to see the Boys Choir at 1PM (noon on Sunday).

The food options in Montserrat are not impressive. Instead, it can be fun to buy some bread at the bakery and some cheese from the farmers market and improvise a little picnic. In the afternoon, when the crowds are gone and there’s no line, take the Sant Joan funicular and walk down back to the monastery (1 hour). Or alternatively do some other easy hike around Montserrat .

To go back to Barcelona, I recommend to take the Aeri cable car. It connects with the same train you took to come from Barcelona. Easy! If you didn’t go hiking, you might want to stop over at Colonia Guell to visit a little known Gaudi gem.

Need plans for the evening? Get tickets for a night visit of Casa Batllo or Casa Mila , whichever you didn’t visit the day before.

DAY FOUR - Uptown and Montjuic

Best on Friday or Saturday, or any day the Magic Fountain show is on .

Once you’ve covered the must-see, there are no magic formulas. Every traveler is different. So today’s morning will be a little bit customized. Gaudi lovers will want to visit another Gaudi site ( Casa Vicens or Torre Bellesguard ). Nature lovers or families with kids might want to head to the Parc del Laberint (a cypress tree maze). Soccer lovers will want to do the FC Barcelona Stadium . History lovers will prefer the Monestir de Pedralbes, instead. Considering they are all away from the city center, plan the entire morning for them.

And when it’s time for lunch, take the L3 to Poblesec. All the sites I mentioned have some L3 station close enough, except Torre Bellesguard and the Monastery of Pedralbes, where you’ll have to take the FGC to Plaça Catalunya and switch to the L3 there.

Enjoy some informal and fun tapas in Poblesec . Or if you prefer a more hispter style, head to the Sant Antoni district instead – it’s not too far. After lunch you’ll want to take the funicular from Paral·lel to the Hill of Montjuic. It’s included in your subway pass. Once there, you’ll want to pay for the cable car to the Montjuic Castle. Or just take a taxi from Poblesec to the Castle and walk down through local parks and gardens. If castles and cable cars are not your thing, then the Miro Foundation is just 5 minutes walk from the funicular top station. And 5 minutes further you’ll reach the Olympic Stadium. The entrance is free (and there are toilets inside!). And the surrounding area, the Olympic Ring, offers plenty of cool photo opportunities.

When you are done, look around. In the distance you’ll see an impressive building with domes. Walk in that direction and some escalators will take you to the back of the Museum of National Art of Catalonia. The views from there are breathtaking – BTW, it’s one of my favorite places for a cup of coffee overlooking the city! The visit of the museum itself takes at least 2 hours – but that’s a plan only for hardcore museum goers.

If that’s not you, then you can spend the rest of your afternoon checking out the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion, the Caixaforum exhibit center or the picturesque Poble Espanyol … Or you can shop at the Las Arenas mall, the former bull ring, and see the city views from the top terrace.

Plan an early dinner at the mall (or a fancy fish dinner at the nearby Rías de Galicia), but time it carefully to get to the Magic Fountain show on time. The starting times vary depending on the season of the year. So plan ahead! It’ll be a fun way to end your 4th day in Barcelona.

DAY FIVE - Girona or Dali or... your choice!

Five days in Barcelona allow you to get out of town even twice if you wish! The town of Girona is my first choice, because it’s easy to get there by train. There’s a regional train that takes around 1.5 hours, and a fast speed train that takes you there in only 30 minutes. If budget allows, I suggest you take a one-way timed ticket for the fast speed train, and play by ear on the way back. That’ll allow you a more flexible schedule.

Five days in Barcelona itinerary

Girona is a beautiful medieval town with an interesting Jewish past. And Game of Thrones fans need to know that it was used as Bravoos and the Great Sept of Baelor! Here are some things you need to see in Girona .

The Dali Museum is only 30 minutes drive from Girona, and it’s also connected via high speed train. But trying to do both by train on your own will require some careful planning and sticking to a strict schedule. That’s why I’d recommend you to do either one or the other if you are on your own. Or indulge in a private tour that takes you to both in one day!

If you prefer to stay in town, I’m sure you’ll have things in your list. Maybe you left the Roman ruins of the Museum of History for another day (now it’s the time!). Or want to go inside a modernist building you skipped on Day 2. Or there’s something from DAY 4 you’d also like to cover… Or you need some time for shopping. Or you want to take a cooking class (sounds cool, uh?).

And if it’s hot enough, what about some beach time? Actually, if you aren’t afraid of taking the suburban train, a beach day in Sitges can be a great idea! It’s just a 30 minutes ride – although it’s true that in the summer the trains to the beach are usually packed.

If you are staying in town, save a couple of hours for a paella lunch . Sitges is also a good place for that, but I’m afraid Girona and Figueres where the Dali Museum is located aren’t really paella spots.

As for dinner, make it a special last night in town! Here are some ideas for high end dinning , romantic restaurants and restaurants with a view . And if you need night plans, consider a drink at a rooftop bar , a wine bar , or a cocktail bar . Have fun during your last hours in town!

Enjoy your 5 days in Barcelona!

Author Marta Laurent Veciana

MORE BARCELONA TIPS FOR YOU:

Restaurant in Barcelona open August | ForeverBarcelona

SHARE WITH YOUR TRAVEL MATES

RESEARCHING FOR A TRIP IS TIME-CONSUMING… Need more inspiration?

Our 100% FREE Barcelona Collection will give you everything you need to organize the trip of your lifetime to Barcelona.

BEST INSIDER TIPS FROM THE PROS!

Park Guell Dragon

Last update on 2024-09-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Privacy Overview
  • 3rd Party Cookies
  • Cookie Policy

ForeverBarcelona

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

Highlights of Spain: 3 great travel itineraries to make the most of your visit

Jul 21, 2022 • 9 min read

Happy multiracial females with different body size having fun walking on the beach during summer holidays

Be inspired to travel Spain with these great itineraries © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Seductive Spain attracts travelers to its diverse land, comprising 17 distinct regions. To help you decide where to start, here are three of our best itineraries to inspire you.  

See the highlights of Spain on this 14-day itinerary

To understand why many visitors fall in love with Spain and never want to leave, look no further than its vibrant, passionate, beautiful cities. This 14-day tour takes you through the best Spain has to offer. 

Days 1–3: Admire Modernista marvels in Barcelona

So many Spanish trails begin in  Barcelona , Spain’s second-biggest city and one of the coolest places on earth. You’ll need at least three days to explore the main attractions here, including nightlife and restaurants. From the standout Gaudí highlights – the incomparable  Sagrada Família and colorful  Casa Batlló – to its wonderful art museums of  Picasso and  Miró and the historic sights hidden among the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, there’s more than enough to keep you coming back for more. Dine on Catalan classics in the Ciutat Vella, tapas in hip El Born and international delights in the neighborhood of Gràcia.

A hand reaches into a large flat pan full of rice and mussels as a paella dish is prepared

Days 4–5: Eat your way through paella in Valencia

Catch the fast train down the coast to  Valencia in just three hours for a dose of paella, nightlife and the 21st-century wonders of the  Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias . Spend some time exploring the narrow winding streets and charming plazas of the Ciutat Vella, then hit the city’s fabulous modernist  Mercado Central for some local treats. Hire a bike to tour the lush  Turia Gardens set in an old riverbed, before relaxing on Malvarrosa Beach with a traditional paella valenciana at Casa Carmela . 

Days 6–7: Tour Madrid, the captivating capital

A fast train whisks you inland to the capital, mighty  Madrid , in just two hours where you will find irresistible street energy, pretty plazas and one of the richest concentrations of art museums on the planet. Soak up the atmosphere in the grand  Plaza Mayor with some chocolate-dipped churros from  Chocolatería San Ginés , then make your way to Madrid’s Golden Triangle to marvel at the collections of the  Reina Sofia ,  Prado or Thyssen-Bornemisza art museums. In the afternoon, relax in the vast  Parque del Buen Retiro  before hitting the stands at the Mercado de San Miguel or the famous bars on Calle Cava Baja.

Day 8: Admire the beauty of Córdoba's Mezquita

Yet another two-hour fast train takes you deep into Andalucía , with  Córdoba your entry point into this wonderful corner of Spain; the most obvious highlight is the city’s 8th-century  Mezquita . Local dishes to try include a traditional flamenquín (a breaded and deep-fried wrap filled with ham, cheese and pork) and  salmorejo (a thick cold gazpacho-like soup of tomato and garlic).

A woman walks up some steps in a building with walls covered in many tiles

Days 9–11: Be spellbound by Seville

From Córdoba, it's a short hop (just 50 minutes by train) to fabulous  Seville . You’ll want at least two days in this most romantic of southern Spanish cities or even three, if you can spare it. Climb to the top of  La Giralda , the cathedral’s Moorish minaret for the incredible views, followed by more Moorish discoveries at the opulent  Real Alcázar . On your second day in the city, head to the gorgeous grand sweep of  Plaza de España and its exquisitely tiled pavilions, before hopping over the river to check out the atmospheric neighborhood of  La Triana , where most of Seville’s tiles were once created. Andalusia serves up some of the best tapas in the country and, as its capital, Seville’s offerings are second to none. Make your way around the old Jewish neighborhood of Santa Cruz to dine in its fountain-filled plazas.

Day 12: Get to know Málaga

Another short train ride takes you down to  Málaga , often merely a stopping point on the way to the beach resorts of the Costa del Sol, but definitely a city that warrants a little more exploration. Discover the palatial fortification of the  Alcazaba , visit the childhood home of  Pablo Picasso , then head to the chiringuito (beach bars) for some classic grilled fish, cooked right on the sand.

Flamenco dancer and muisicians performing by the Archiepiscopal Palace at Alonso Cano square in the historical centre of Granada

Days 13–14: Enjoy flamenco, food and palaces in Granada

We’ve saved the best until last:  Granada boasts the extraordinary  Alhambra , its soulful alter ego the Albayzín, and an eating and drinking scene that embraces Spanish culinary culture in all its glorious variety. Bar hop your way along Calle Navas for free tapas bites with each drink, then head up to the caves of the Sacromonte neighborhood for a traditional flamenco show.

Got just 10 days? Then you'll need this itinerary to Northern Spain

Is 10 days enough for Spain? Well, it might not be enough to see the whole country, but it’s plenty to explore a particular section in depth. Spain's Mediterranean coast may get the crowds, but the country's northern coastline from San Sebastián to Santiago is one of the most spectacular in Europe. Here’s how to see northern Spain in just 10 days.

Days 1–2: Have a food tour of San Sebastián

There is no finer introduction to the north of the country than  San Sebastián , with its dramatic setting and extraordinary food scene. Two nights is a minimum here. Begin with a stroll around the sweeping bay of La Concha to see the impressive  Peine del Viento sculptures by the famous Basque artist Eduardo Chillida, then learn all about Basque culture at the  Museo San Telmo . Later, make your way around the Old Town stopping for pintxos bites along the way, followed by the best baked Basque cheesecake for dessert at  La Viña .

A huge spiral installation by artist Richard Serra that can be walked through at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao

Days 3–4: Discover the delights of the Guggenheim in Bilbao

West of San Sebastián, three hours by train,  Bilbao is best known as the home of the showpiece  Museo Guggenheim and warrants at least a night, preferably two. After visiting the masterpieces inside Frank Gehry’s titanium ship, there’s much more art and architecture to see, including Philippe Starck’s Azkuna Zentroa building and the city’s innovative street art. In the evening, go barhopping for tasty pintxos in the Casco Viejo. If you have two days in the city, spend your second day at nearby Arrigunaga Beach learning how to surf the waves.  

Day 5: Drive through coastal Cantabria

Leave Bilbao behind and head west through Cantabria and Asturias. To make the most of the coast, you'll need a car. Cantabria's cobblestone Santillana del Mar , the rock art at Altamira and the village of Ribadesella will fill one day. 

Woman hiking and looking at the view on the top of a mountain with a beautiful landscape at sunrise

Day 6: Hike in the Picos de Europa national park

Drive south into the steep gorges and soaring peaks of the  Picos de Europa , one of Spain’s largest and best national parks . Spend your time here hiking through the verdant green valleys or up into the clouds and, if you’re lucky enough, you may spot golden eagles, wild boar and brown bears.

Day 7: See historic architecture and sample local cider in Oviedo

Head to irresistible  Oviedo , the capital of Asturias, known for its historic medieval old town and its Unesco World Heritage 9th-century stone churches. Make sure to take a break to visit a traditional sidrería for a glass of local Asturian cider.

Day 8: Explore the wild shores of Galicia

Tackle Galicia's coastline, one of Spain's great natural wonders, punctuated by secluded fishing villages and stunning cliffs. Don't miss Cabo Ortegal peninsula where the Bay of Biscay meets the Atlantic Ocean, the Glass City of  A Coruña with its gorgeous galerías and the dramatic Costa da Morte . Along the way, stop for a traditional plate of pulpo a feira (Galician-style octopus sprinkled with paprika).

Days 9–10: Meet with pilgrims in Santiago

For the last two nights, linger in the thoroughly Galician city of  Santiago de Compostela , a place of pilgrim footfalls, fine regional cuisine and a cathedral of power. There’s plenty to see here besides the cathedral however, including several impressive monasteries and convents. Feeling hungry? Make your way to  Bar La Tita for – dare we say it – the tastiest tortilla de patatas (potato omelette) in Spain.

A street lined with large white turreted buildings

This 14-day itinerary takes you from Valencia to the Balearics

This journey takes you from the shores of the Mediterranean in Valencia to Mallorca, Ibiza and their hip little cousin, Formentera, three of the most beautiful islands anywhere in the Med. You'll need a car to explore the two bigger islands.

Days 1–2: Tour futuristic architecture and scoff paella in Valencia

Begin in  Valencia , that most appealing of Mediterranean cities, which is worth staying in for a couple of nights. Spend your first day looking around the Old Town, the impressive Cathedral to search for the Holy Grail, the large Modernist food market and the exquisite Unesco  La Lonja de la Seda . On day two, marvel at the futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (The City of Arts and Sciences). If the heat gets too much, cool down with a traditional glass of horchata (tiger nut milk) at the 200-year old  Horchatería Santa Catalina .

Days 3–4: Discover the best of Mallorca’s capital

Fly or catch a boat to  Palma de Mallorca , the capital of the Balearics and a dynamic city with stirring architecture and world-class food. It’s well worth a couple of nights here before you head to the countryside and the beaches. Visit the city’s landmark  La Seu Cathedral , explore the Casco Antiguo and tour the opulent  Palau de l’Amudaina . There are plenty of museums and great restaurants to occupy your time too. When you need a break, stop for a delicious powdered-sugar-covered ensaimada (a typical Mallorcan pastry swirl).

A sheep stands in front of an orange tree in Majorca

Days 5–6: Drive through the mountains and orange groves in central Mallorca

After a couple of nights, take two days to drive Mallorca's west coast and the  Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Stop for one night in the charming mountain village of Valldemossa and the other in pretty Sóller , surrounded by orange groves and just a short hop to the coast.  

Days 7–8: Relax on the beaches of Port de Pollença

Base yourself in Port de  Pollença to explore the island's north for a couple more days, including the idyllic Cap de Formentor and the historic town of Alcúdia, surrounded by old medieval walls. Return to Palma to catch the ferry to Ibiza .

Days 9–10: Take in Ibiza’s Old Town

On arrival, take a couple of days to soak up the considerable charms of Ibiza Town's fortified old town of  Dalt Vila and its superb nightlife. Here it’s more chic outdoor cocktail bars and romantic candlelit restaurants than thumping discotheques.

Days 11–12: See the quiet side of Ibiza

Leave it all behind for Ibiza's quiet and natural north coast, stopping in Sant Llorenç de Balàfia, with its great restaurants where you can order the traditional bullit de peix (fish stew), remote little Sant Mateu d'Aubarca, and artsy Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera.

Day 13–14: Spot wildlife in Ses Salines Natural Park

When you can tear yourself away, head for the Parc Natural de Ses Salines, some of the wildest and most beautiful country in Mediterranean Spain. Comprising both sea and coastal ecosystems, these salt flats and wetlands are home to over 200 bird species including pink flamingos, cormorants and ospreys.

Day 13–14: Experience island life on Formentera

Head back to Ibiza Town to catch the ferry (35 minutes) over to the tiny former hippie island of  Formentera for your last two nights before heading home. It’s the perfect place to explore by bicycle, just 19km (12 miles) long and crisscrossed with many bike lanes and green routes.  

Explore related stories

ScenicRoute-Hero-Basque.png

Wildlife & Nature

Aug 1, 2024 • 8 min read

You’ll appreciate not just the sights and culture but also knowing that you’ve left this pristine region just as you found it

tour spain in 5 days

Jul 29, 2024 • 7 min read

tour spain in 5 days

Jul 24, 2024 • 7 min read

tour spain in 5 days

Jul 19, 2024 • 5 min read

Spain marketing - cropped images for collage

Jul 18, 2024 • 8 min read

tour spain in 5 days

Jul 8, 2024 • 10 min read

tour spain in 5 days

Mar 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Tourists enjoy street flamenco traditional show, performance for spectators visitors at Plaza de Espana

Mar 9, 2024 • 5 min read

tour spain in 5 days

Mar 7, 2024 • 10 min read

tour spain in 5 days

Feb 28, 2024 • 3 min read

Spain by Luxe Logo

Travel Home > Spain > Itineraries > Barcelona & Madrid: 5 Days

Barcelona & Madrid In 5 Days Private Tour Itinerary

  • Officially Licensed Guides

Luxury Vehicles

Flexible rescheduling, how to spend 5 days in barcelona & madrid.

Welcome to your 5-day Best of Barcelona and Madrid itinerary!

This itinerary is designed to be the best way to experience two of Spain’s most famous cities in just 5 short days. First, you’ll begin your journey in Barcelona, where you’ll spend the first two days exploring the city’s stunning architecture, indulging in delicious cuisine, and relaxing on the beach. Afterward, you’ll travel to Madrid for the final three days of your journey to explore the city’s artistic treasures, historic landmarks, and lively neighborhoods.

Barcelona Private Tours:

  • The Picasso Museum
  • Sagrada Familia
  • Gothic Quarter & La Rambla
  • Park Guell & Gracia Neighborhood

Madrid Private Tours:

  • Prado Museum & Temple of Debod
  • Royal Palace
  • Reina Sofia & Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums
  • Lavapies Neighborhood

What's Included?

  • Luxury Transport
  • Private Drivers
  • 24 Hour Online Support
  • Fully Customizable Tour Itinerary
  • Free Cancellation & Rescheduling

Day 1: Barcelona Highlights

Barcelona is a city with a rich history and culture, and there is no better way to experience it than with a private tour. On your first day in Barcelona, you will explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods with a private guide.

Guided Tour of Gaudi's Sagrada Familia

Barcelona

Your day will begin with a visit to the Sagrada Familia, one of the most famous attractions in Barcelona. This unfinished cathedral was designed by Antoni Gaudi, one of the most renowned architects of the modernist movement. Your guide will take you on a tour of the cathedral, pointing out the intricate details and telling you about the history and significance of the building.

Bari Gotic or Gothic Quarter Walking Tour

After the Sagrada Familia, you will head to the Gothic Quarter, the oldest part of Barcelona. This area is full of narrow streets, hidden squares, and charming buildings. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the neighborhood, pointing out the most important landmarks and telling you about the history of the area. You’ll see the Cathedral of Barcelona, the Plaça del Rei, and the Plaça Sant Jaume, where the city’s government is located.

La Rambla & Barcelona Market Tour

La rambla, barcelona, Spain

Next, you’ll head to La Rambla, one of the most famous streets in Barcelona. This bustling pedestrian street is full of restaurants, cafes, and street performers. Your guide will show you the most interesting spots and tell you about the history and culture of the area.

Finally, you’ll end the day at the Mercado de La Boqueria, one of the most famous markets in the world. This market has been operating for over 800 years, and it is full of colorful stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, and other culinary delights. Your guide will take you on a tour of the market, pointing out the most interesting stalls and telling you about the history and culture of the market.

Throughout the day, your private guide will provide you with insight and information about each of the destinations you visit. They will be able to answer any questions you have and provide you with recommendations for other places to visit during your stay in Barcelona.

Day 2: Art, Flamenco, and Neighborhood Tours of Barcelona

On your second day in Barcelona, you’ll continue exploring the city with a private tour of some of the most iconic destinations. This day will take you to some of the most famous sites in Barcelona, including Park Guell, the Gracia neighborhood, the Picasso Museum, and a Flamenco show.

Park Guell Discovery Tour

Parc Güell à Barcelone

Your day will begin with a visit to Park Guell, a public park full of gardens and architectural elements designed by Antoni Gaudi. The park was built between 1900 and 1914, and it’s considered one of the best examples of Gaudi’s modernist style. Your private guide will take you on a tour of the park, showing you the most important landmarks, including the colorful mosaic dragon, the serpentine bench, and the hypostyle room.

Gracia Neighborhood

Next, you’ll head to the Gracia neighborhood, one of the most charming and bohemian areas in Barcelona. This neighborhood is full of narrow streets, small squares, and art galleries. Your private guide will take you on a walking tour of the neighborhood, pointing out the most interesting spots and telling you about the history and culture of the area. You’ll see some of the most interesting street art in Barcelona and learn about the local tradition of building human towers.

Picasso Museum & Flamenco in Barcelona

shoes and dress of a Flamenco Dancer, in madrid

After Gracia, you’ll head to the Picasso Museum, which is home to one of the most extensive collections of Picasso’s art in the world. The museum has over 4,000 pieces of art, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Your guide will take you on a tour of the museum, telling you about Picasso’s life and work and showing you the most important pieces in the collection.

In the evening, you’ll have the chance to experience one of the most iconic traditions in Spain: Flamenco. Your private guide will take you to a local Flamenco show, where you’ll experience the passion, music, and dancing of this unique art form. You’ll enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner and drinks while you watch the show.

Luxe Travel TripAdvisor

Day 3: Arrival in Madrid, Royal Palace, and Madrid Market

After spending 2 days in Barcelona, it’s time to make your way to Madrid, the Capital of Spain. Your private driver will deliver your bags to the train station, where you can make the 2.5-hour journey in a first-class carriage before being collected by your driver in Madrid, or you may prefer to make the 1 hour and 15-minute flight.

After dropping off your bags at your hotel and enjoying a quick lunch, you will join your private guide to start exploring the magnificent city.

Madrid's Royal Palace

Royal Palace of Madrid, Spain

Your day will begin with a visit to the Royal Palace, which is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. The palace was built in the 18th century and features impressive architecture and interior design. Your private guide will take you on a tour of the palace, showing you the most important rooms, including the Throne Room, the Royal Chapel, and the Royal Armory. You’ll learn about the history of the palace and the Spanish monarchy.

Plaza Mayor & San Miguel Market

Plaza Mayor in Madrid

Private tours of the Plaza Mayor and Mercado San Miguel are an excellent way to experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Madrid. You’ll be able to explore the Plaza Mayor, one of the most iconic landmarks in Madrid, and learn about its fascinating history and significance. Your guide will provide insight into the architecture, design, and cultural significance of the plaza, as well as its role in the history of Madrid. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the square and its surroundings while your guide shares interesting anecdotes and stories about the city.

Afterward, you’ll visit the Mercado San Miguel, where you’ll indulge in some of the best tapas and drinks in Madrid. Your private guide will take you on a tour of the market, showing you the most popular stalls and sharing recommendations for the best dishes and drinks to try. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of traditional Spanish foods, such as Iberian ham, cheeses, olives, and local wines. Your guide will provide insight into the history and culture of the market, as well as the culinary traditions of Madrid.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore the historic neighborhoods of Madrid, including La Latina, Lavapies, and Chueca. These neighborhoods are full of narrow streets, plazas, and historic buildings, and they’re great places to experience the local culture. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the neighborhoods, showing you the most interesting spots and telling you about the history and culture of the area. You’ll have the chance to try some local food and drinks and see how the locals live.

Day 4: Madrid Prado Museum & Walking Tour

On your fourth day, you’ll explore some of the most iconic destinations in Madrid with a private tour. You’ll visit the Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Gran Via, and the Temple of Debod.

Prado Museum & Retiro Park Guided Tour

Prado Museum Spain

Your day will begin with a visit to the Prado Museum, which is one of the most famous art museums in the world. Your private guide will take you on a tour of the museum, showing you the most important pieces, including works by Velazquez, Goya, and El Greco. You’ll learn about the history of the museum and the artists and gain insight into the culture of Spain through its art.

Next, you’ll head to Retiro Park, which is one of the largest parks in Madrid. The park features beautiful gardens, sculptures, and fountains, as well as a lake where you can rent a rowboat. Your private guide will take you on a walking tour of the park, showing you the most interesting features, including the Crystal Palace, the Fallen Angel statue, and the Rosaleda rose garden. You’ll learn about the history of the park and its importance to the people of Madrid.

After the park, you’ll head to Gran Via, which is one of the most famous streets in Madrid. The street features beautiful architecture, theaters, and shops. Your private guide will take you on a walking tour of the area, showing you the most interesting landmarks, including the Telefónica building, the Capitol building, and the Metropolis building. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the street and get a glimpse into life in Madrid.

Temple of Debod

Temple of Debod, Madrid, Spain

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Temple of Debod, which is an ancient Egyptian temple that was relocated to Madrid in the 20th century. The temple features beautiful carvings and hieroglyphics, as well as stunning views of the city. Your private guide will take you on a walking tour of the temple, showing you the most interesting features and explaining the history and culture of the temple. You’ll have the chance to take some great photos and learn about the connection between Egypt and Spain.

Throughout the day, your private guide will provide you with insight and information about each of the destinations you visit. They will be able to answer any questions you have and provide you with recommendations for other places to visit during your stay in Madrid.

Day 5: Madrid Museums & Neighborhood Tours

On your final day in Madrid, you’ll continue exploring the city with a private tour that will take you to some of the most iconic museums, neighborhoods, and viewpoints. You’ll visit the Reina Sofia Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Lavapies neighborhood, and the Cibeles Palace rooftop terrace.

Reina Sofia & Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum Tours

Reina Sofia Museum, Madrid, Spain

Your day will begin with a visit to the Reina Sofia Museum, which is one of the most important modern art museums in Spain. Your private guide will take you on a tour of the museum, showing you some of the most important pieces of art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Joan Miro. You’ll learn about the history of the museum and the artists and gain insight into the culture of Spain through its modern art.

Next, you’ll head to the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which is one of the most famous art museums in the world. The museum features a vast collection of European art from the 13th to the 20th century, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh. Your private guide will take you on a tour of the museum, showing you the most important pieces and giving you insight into the history and culture of each piece.

Lavapies Neighborhood in Madrid

After the museums, you’ll head to the Lavapies neighborhood, which is known for its vibrant culture and lively atmosphere. Your private guide will take you on a walking tour of the neighborhood, showing you the most interesting landmarks, including the Mercado de San Fernando, the street art murals, and the multicultural street food scene. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the neighborhood and get a glimpse into life in Madrid.

In the evening, you’ll head to the Cibeles Palace rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city at sunset. Your private guide will take you to the top of the palace, where you’ll be able to enjoy the view while sipping on a refreshing drink. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the palace and gain insight into the architecture and design of the city.

Let us know your questions!

Call our team

+1 (424) 766-5955

WhatsApp us

We're here to help!

Fill out the form below with the destinations, wish-list, an idea of budget, & preferences for your perfect trip.

Your personal tour planner will be in touch within 24 hours of receiving your request to begin planning your custom itinerary.

Your private guide and/or driver will meet you at the pre-arranged starting point of your tour and everything necessary for a seamless tour experience.

Contact Us About A 5 Day Spain Itinerary

The advantage of a private tour is that you can customize your itinerary to fit your interests and preferences. You can spend more time at any of the destinations if you wish or skip any destinations that don’t interest you. Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed or confined to a large group.

For our insider suggestions and the finest guided tour experiences in Spain, contact our local team of tour planners for your complimentary 5 day Spain itinerary.

Rated 5-Star on Google & TripAdvisor

Paul Cosgrove

Qualified Guides. Certified Excellence.

Explore more luxe private tours in spain.

Take a look at some of the example tour itineraries below for inspiration before  getting in touch with our experts to start planning your own trip!

Alhambra, Granada, Spain

10 Day Spain Itinerary

View of Barcelona from Helicopter Tour.

Barcelona In A Day Private Tour

Plaza De Espana, Seville,

Seville In A Day Private Tour

7 day spain itinerary.

Palma City, Spain

21-Day Driver-Guided Tour of Spain & Portugal

Gran Via Madrid

Madrid Guided Day Tour

Girona, Catalonia, Spain

14 Day Tour of Spain

Barcelona skyline

Italy, France & Spain 16-Day Tour Itinerary

enjoying beautiful cityscape view on Valencia city during the sunny weather in Spain

21-Day Grand Tour of Spain Itinerary

Most popular tour destinations

Search Luxe Tours, Experiences, and Destinations

Or start planning your perfect tour itinerary today.

Or contact our team directly today at +1 (424) 766-5955

Contact The Luxe Team

Destinations, popular itineraries, spain tours, luxe destinations, contact our team.

Let our Spain  travel experts plan your trip

Big Luxe Logo

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies
  • 3rd Party Cookies
  • Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

Blond Wayfarer

  • Search for:

No products in the cart.

Return to shop

  • TRAVEL PLANNING SERVICES
  • The Caribbean
  • South Carolina
  • Eastern Europe
  • Switzerland
  • The Netherlands
  • SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL
  • PRIVACY POLICY

5 days in madrid means seeing lots of great views

Travel Itineraries , Europe , Travel Destinations , Travel Tips

5 days in madrid: the ultimate city itinerary.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Madrid was one of those European capitals that intrigued me on a personal level. Not only are there plenty of direct flights from New Jersey, making Madrid super accessible for me, but this city is also particularly well-known for its world-class art museums.

And everyone knows that I adore art museums.

After all, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York is my “happy place” where I always go if I want an afternoon to relax and reflect. 

I longed to see Madrid for the art. So I did. Alone.

tour spain in 5 days

However, when I took my solo trip to Madrid , I was initially worried that I was spending too much time in Spain’s capital city and limiting myself. Was Madrid even worth visiting? I didn’t know. And I was there an entire week.

Yet, upon landing in Spain, I fell in love. Madrid exceeded my expectations.

Now I want to help other travelers, especially those who like to take their time, move slowly and savor a city’s unique character. 

grinning on my solo trip to madrid

Table of Contents

Madrid Travel Tips

Below, I’ve written a few general travel tips for your 5 days in Madrid. Of course, if you’re staying in Spain even longer, and want to check out my 12 Days in Spain Itinerary too, then have at it! 

In this post, I discuss time of year, public transportation, accommodation, and packing to help you prepare for your adventure! Time to take notes.

Best Time to Visit Madrid

If you’re limited, go to Madrid whenever you can. You’ll have a great time. However, if you’ve options, then you want to carefully consider what time of year that you plan to visit Madrid.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Madrid is in spring because of the pleasant weather. My entire vacation was sunny with temperatures in the low 70s (~22 C). Perfect sightseeing weather.

As much as I love summer travel, Madrid is very, very, very hot in July and August. Not to mention, August is when several locals take their holidays so some family-run businesses may be shut down. 

Like I said, if you’re limited to a certain time of the year, go anyway, but consider your options if you have them.

visiting madrid in april and loving the flowers

Getting Around Madrid

Is Madrid a large city? Yes.

However, for tourists, walking around Madrid  will suffice just fine. The vast majority of attractions are within an easy distance between one another. 

Madrid also has a very efficient and navigate metro system that you may use to cover longer distances.

For 5 days, it’s worth it to invest in a public transport tourist pass so you’re not paying for each and every trip on the metro!

Where to Stay in Madrid

Madrid has a plethora of options for visitors. I’ve listed a few suggestions here. 

  • B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol: This beautiful 3-star hotel is reasonably priced and located right in the heart of Madrid, not far from gran Via (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
  • CoolRooms Atocha: Las Letras neighborhood is one of my favorite neighborhoods in all of Madrid, and this award-winning hotel puts you in the middle of this scenic area of Madrid (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
  • Only YOU Boutique Hotel: Want to stay in a historic hotel? This cool boutique hotel is set in a former 19th-century palace (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
  • Hostel One Madrid:  You’ll find family vibes and yummy home cooking at Hostel One. Located on a safe street near a metro station. (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com ) 
  • Sungate One: If you want an enthusiastic and passionate staff in the middle of Madrid, then look no further than Sungate One! You’ll immediately make new friends. (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
  • Way Hostel Madrid: This hostel is located in the lovely and quiet Tirso de Molina neighborhood. However, it’s only a quick 7 minute walk from Plaza Mayor! (see prices on TripAdvisor.com )

five days in madrid means seeing cool street art

What to Pack for 5 Days in Madrid

Need some packing advice for your 5 days in Madrid? Here are some essentials that I wouldn’t leave without! 

  • A Lonely Planet Guidebook:  Spain’s capital is an exciting place to be that’s constantly changing. To make the most informed travel decisions, make sure to pack the Lonely Planet Guide to Madrid . Lonely Planet makes my favorite guidebooks! 
  • A Mirrorless Camera:  If you want to take super high-quality photos, it’s time to go beyond the phone camera. My favorite mirrorless camera is Sony’s Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera due to its reasonable price point and size. 
  • Spanish Phrasebook:  In Spain, English isn’t as widely spoken compared to Portugal, Italy, and other nearby countries. It’s polite and smart to learn a little bit of Spanish. Bring a small Spanish phrasebook to help you and make locals happy!
  • Theft-Proof Crossbody Bag:  I felt super safe in Madrid, but I understand worries about pickpockets. Invest in a crossbody bag with anti-theft protection to keep your mind at ease as you explore the city. 
  • Travel Insurance:  I don’t ever leave the country without travel insurance. It’s important to keep in mind that your medical insurance may not cover you abroad. I use World Nomads for all my trips, and haven’t been disappointed yet!

madrid 5 day itinerary: make sure to see all the statues

Quick Glance: 5 Days in Madrid

5 days in madrid: detailed itinerary & guide.

Now let’s get into detail about our upcoming  5 days in Madrid.  As always, you’re more than welcome to adjust this itinerary based on your own personal interest. 

Day 1: Arrival, Walking Tour, Reina Sofía

Most international travelers will arrive at Madrid-Barajas Airport   which is roughly 12 km. outside the city center. After going through customs, you’ll find that Madrid’s airport is connected to the capital’s color-coded metro system. Be sure to validate all tickets ahead of time. 

I always like starting my trips with a walking tour. 

If you’re on a budget, Madrid has several great free walking tours that provide an overview of the city. My personal favorite company is SANDEMANs New Europe.

They have a Free Tour of Madrid that covers all the main attractions such as  Plaza Mayor and  Madrid Royal Palace. 

For the free tours, please make sure you have a few euros to tip the guide! It’s how they earn their money!

After your tour, take the time to simply walk around Madrid and explore. I personally recommend hanging out in San Miguel Market for some tapas and other treats!

And you didn’t think that I forgot about art, did you? Be sure to visit Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía  – which is Madrid’s most popular modern art museum. The main attraction is Guernica, a famous anti-war oil painting by Pablo Picasso. Buy tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in line. For art buffs, you may want to go on a guided tour of the museum and skip the line. 

tour spain in 5 days

Day 2: Day Trip to Toledo 

Yes, when visiting Madrid for 5 days, I personally recommending leaving the city at least once. I loved Madrid, but gems surround the Spanish capital and shouldn’t be missed!

I’m not kidding. Madrid has some incredible day trips.   I honestly don’t think you should visit Madrid without also seeing its nearby wonders. 

For today, wake up early to visit historical Toledo.  

Toledo is super accessible from Madrid. For example, a fast-train leaving Madrid’s main train station, Atocha, only takes about 30 minutes! If you’re on a strict budget, however, the bus is a much cheaper option, although it takes longer to reach Toledo (an hour and a half). 

Toledo is a stunning hilltop city that’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see a stunning mix of architecture that captures Toledo’s mix of Jewish, Islamic and Christian cultures.

In order to maximize your time, consider taking a walking guided tour in Toledo to discover and learn about all the magnificent sites this city offers its visitors. 

spain itinerary 5 days don't skip the prado

Day 3: The Prado, Barrio de las Letras, Pyramids 

Good morning, all! I hope you’re ready for my favorite art museum in Madrid:  The Prado.

Why visit the Prado? Well, this incredible art museum has the most comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings, more so than any other museum in the world, and you’ll see some of the most famous pieces by Velazquez and Goya!

Additionally, be sure to purchase an audio guide so you understand what you’re looking at. The Prado is very popular for international tourists, so your native language should be available at the museum. 

Keep in mind that the Prado is a huge museum, which may feel overwhelming at times, especially for travelers who are unfamiliar with art. For an extra cost, you may want to join a small group tour of the Prado to skip the line and learn all about the gorgeous pieces surrounding you. 

After spending so much time in the Prado, you’ll want to make sure to get outside and explore Madrid’s beautiful streets. Barrio de las Letras is one of my favorite areas in Madrid to explore on foot.

enjoying segovia on this spanish trip

Day 4: Day Trip to Segovia 

Are you ready to take another short day trip outside Madrid? I hope so!

Segovia is home to an amazing Aqueduct that dates back to the Roman Empire. 

To reach Segovia, you may take the AVE train (roughly 30 minutes) or the bus (if you’re on a budget).

In Segovia, take a walk along the Aqueduct with their impressive 167 arches. You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to the height of the Romain Empire. 

Furthermore, you’ll also have a chance to see Alcázar de Segovia , which is a gorgeous UNESCO castle that looks like a fairytale against the mountains. Take advantage of the photo opportunities. 

Last but not least, poke around Catedral de Segovia . This cathedral is one of many stunning Gothic-style buildings in Spain.

You can spend an entire day easily in Segovia. Like Toledo, there are plenty of tours that go to Segovia from Madrid, which will optimize your time. 

the royal palace madrid

Day 5: Palaces, More Art, and More History!

Oh no, your 5 days in Madrid are slowly coming to an end! Let’s make your last day super special! 

Let’s begin with a visit to the  Royal Palace of Madrid.  The Spanish Royal Family’s Residence glorious white exterior makes for tremendous photographs. You may want to purchase tickets ahead of time, depending on the crowds. 

Nearby, visit Catedral de la Almudena, which is the grandest cathedral in all of Madrid.

And do you want to see another art museum? Of course you do! 

Once you enjoy the palace and cathedral, take a walk to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum , which is home to many brilliant Renaissance pieces. Take the route along Grand Via in order to see some of Madrid’s finest buildings. You can also stop at one of the many rooftop bars on your way to the museum to see Madrid from a bird’s eyes view.

At the end of your day, catch the sunset at Temple of Debod . This Egyptian temple and monument was moved from Aswan to Madrid, and the location is perfect for watching the sun slowly disappear beyond the horizon.

A perfect ending to a perfect day.

bookstore in madrid

I hope you enjoyed reading all about 5 days in Madrid! As you can see, this allows plenty of time to see Madrid and its surroundings on a deeper level. What do you want to see and do most with 5 days in Madrid?

5 days in madrid | madrid in a week | five days in madrid | madrid 5 day itinerary | madrid in 5 days | madrid itinerary 5 days | spain itinerary 5 days

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

Privacy Overview

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Français

5 Days in Barcelona: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

How to spend 5 days in barcelona: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 5 days in Barcelona and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit Barcelona in 5 days.

I will first give you all my best tips to avoid the long waiting lines (often more than 2 hours!) in front of the city’s must-see attractions such as the Sagrada Familia.

Then, I will give you my optimized 5-day itinerary to make the most of your stay in the Barcelona.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips as well as accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Barcelona in 5 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Barcelona City Pass

5 days in barcelona: must-see attractions:, 3. the barcelona card, one last tip for a perfect 5-day stay in barcelona, a. the cathedral of the holy cross and the gothic quarter, b. walking along la rambla, c. the boqueria market, d. casa batlló, e. casa milà, f. attend a flamenco show, a. park güell, b. bunkers del carmel, c. sant pau recinte modernista, d. la sagrada familia, e. el born district, a. plaça espanya, b. the mnac, c. montjuic park, d. olympic facilities, e. visit montjuic castle, f. tapas on plaça espanya and magic fountain, a. port vell, b. passeig maritim, c. olympic port, d. walk in ciutadella park, e. santa maria del mar basilica, day 5: day-trip around barcelona, where to stay in barcelona, visiting barcelona in 5 days with family, more ideas for things to do and see in barcelona in 5 days, map of your 5-day itinerary in barcelona, heading to barcelona for 5 days: flight prices, you’re traveling in spain these articles will help you, my best tips to save time at barcelona’s must-see attractions.

As you probably know, like many other major European cities ( Florence, London , or Rome ), Barcelona ranks among the top tourist destinations .

Every year, millions of visitors flock to the city to see the must-visit sites like the Sagrada Familia . In fact, I’m sure that in planning your 5-day visit to Barcelona , it’s at the top of your list of things to see!

So don’t be surprised if upon arrival you need to wait in line for hours before being able to enter.

But to avoid finding yourself in this situation , good news, you just need to follow my advice!

There are indeed several tricks to save a tremendous amount of time and avoid waiting at tourist sites during your 5-day tour of Barcelona. I’ll explain everything!

The first solution , and let’s be clear, the best one to discover as much as possible during your 5-day trip to Barcelona , is to purchase the Barcelona City Pass .

If you’re used to traveling, you might have already used this kind of city pass in the most famous cities .

In cities like Milan or Rome , they offer passes that generally allow you to skip lines and save money!

Barcelona’s works on exactly the same principle.

After ordering the Barcelona City Pass, fast-track tickets for tourist attractions are sent to you via email . All you have to do is present them on your smartphone at the entrance of the attractions included in the offer.

And the Barcelona City Pass has another super useful advantage for your 5-day stay in Barcelona: it is valid for the duration of your vacation . Unlike most passes that are valid for a maximum of 72 hours, Barcelona’s has no time limit.

We can definitely say that it’s the most convenient and complete pass for visiting Barcelona in 5 days.

To finish convincing you, here’s a selection of what’s included:

  • Skip-the-line ticket to the Sagrada Familia: to explore every corner of one of Spain’s most famous landmarks! When purchasing the City Pass, you will be asked to select a date and time for your visit. It’s mandatory to adhere to the scheduled time slots.
  • A skip-the-line ticket for Park Güell . You’ll be prompted to schedule your visit date and time.
  • A ticket for the hop-on hop-off bus
  • An audio guide to learn more about all of Barcelona’s points of interest
  • Discounts for attractions and certain museums: the ones for Casa Batlló and Casa Milà are really helpful! A discount code of 10% will be sent to you after purchasing the Barcelona City Pass. You’ll then need to reserve your visits on the same site to benefit from the promo code.

To buy your Barcelona city pass, simply click on the green button below:

tour spain in 5 days

2. Skip-the-Line Tickets for Barcelona’s Tourist Attractions

There is another solution for fast access to the sites included in this visit program.

You can buy your skip-the-line entrance tickets one by one for museums and monuments. There are many options for both activities to do in Barcelona over 5 days and for tourist attractions.

Below, I’ve listed those that correspond to the itinerary I’ll present to you shortly. For making a reservation or more details, simply click on the orange links:

They are also indicated throughout this article (by a link or a green button):

  • Casa Batlló
  • Gaudi’s 3 Houses Pass
  • Flamenco Show
  • Sant Pau Recinte Modernista
  • Sagrada Familia Skip the Line
  • Sagrada Familia Guided Tour
  • Barcelona Museum Pass
  • Montjuic Cable Car
  • Palau de la Musica Catalana
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tourist Bus

For visiting Barcelona in five days , there’s also a final option: the Barcelona Card.

But I won’t dwell on it too much because its main advantage is offering free public transportation . If you follow the optimized itinerary I propose, which clusters visits in the same area, the cost of the card may not be worth it.

Besides, there are 10-trip passes sold in the metro or buses that are cheaper.

Among other benefits of the Barcelona Card , there are also discounts for certain museums such as the Picasso Museum or the Barcelona History Museum, but not for major attractions like the Sagrada.

For a first trip to Barcelona, I recommend you to take the Barcelona City Pass or skip-the-line tickets.

However, if you are already familiar with the city and its highlights, and your plan is based on museums, feel free to click the following green button to see if the Barcelona Card suits you:

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Barcelona is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Barcelona by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Barcelona.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Barcelona, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

5 Days in Barcelona: The Best Itinerary

Let’s now see how to visit Barcelona in 5 days.

For each day , I will give you an optimized itinerary with all the details you need for your visits, along with a map of Barcelona. This will help you optimize your trip  and enjoy a stress-free stay in the city!

I assume that you will be staying in Barcelona for 5 full days and that you have purchased your Barcelona City Pass or skip-the-line tickets in advance. This way, you will be able to see as many places as possible during your 5-day stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip 😄.

So,  what are the best places to visit in Barcelona in 5 days?

Day 1: Discovering the Historic Center

5 days in Barcelona itinerary day 1

Day 1 visits:

A. The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and the Gothic Quarter B. La Rambla C. Boqueria Market D. Casa Batlló E. Casa Milà F. Flamenco Show

The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is perfect for diving into the city’s atmosphere on the first day .

Known locally as the Barrio Gòtico , it’s one of the city’s most emblematic areas.

This medieval district is also the historic center of Barcelona . It’s home to the impressive Cathedral of the Holy Cross , which you cannot miss.

Its Gothic architecture is remarkable, and the visit includes access to the cloister, the terraces, the choir, various chapels, and a small painting museum. On the terraces , you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surroundings.

After or before visiting the cathedral, take the time to wander through the alleys of the quarter (careful not to get lost as it’s a real labyrinth!). Be sure to see:

  • Plaça Sant Jaume
  • Plaça del Rei
  • Museum of History of Barcelona
  • Plaça del Pi

Every weekend (Saturdays at 6pm and Sundays at 11am), street performances , including the Sardana dance, take place on the small square at the entrance of the cathedral.

If you wish to, you can also start your trip to Barcelona with a guided tour.

It’s a great way to get a first impression of the city !

You can opt for the traditional walking tour, or go for something more fun, like a tuktuk, Segway or GoCar tour. Simply click on the links below for more information and to book:

  • Walking tour of the Old Town and Gothic Quarter to discover the places I’ve just mentioned, such as Sant Jaume and the Plaça del Rei.
  • Guided tour of Barcelona by bike or E-bike. This tour is super comprehensive, as you’ll discover 25 must-see sites such as Ciutadella Park and the Sagrada Familia.
  • Visit Barcelona by electric tuk tuk
  • Visit Barcelona by GoCar with integrated GPS
  • Segway tour

And if you’re looking for an exceptional experience as soon as you arrive in the city, I’d definitely recommend a helicopter flight! You’ll have the chance to see the impressive Sagrada Familia from above 😎

Click here to book your helicopter flight in Barcelona.

cathedral of the holy cross barcelona

After the Barrio Gotico, I suggest taking a walk along the famous La Rambla , Barcelona’s most frequented pedestrian avenue.

You can reach it in less than 10 minutes on foot from the historic center. A must-do during a 5-day stay in Barcelona , La Rambla, always lively, is 2 km long and stretches from Plaça de Catalunya (Catalonia Square) to the port.

I suggest you first walk down towards the port , admiring along the way:

  • The Gran Teatro del Liceu (the city’s oldest theatre, which can also be visited)
  • The Joan Miró mosaic
  • Plaça Reial (perfect for a drink on a terrace)

After reaching the port, head back up towards Plaça Catalunya . Not to be missed along the way:

  • Fountain of Canaletes
  • Palau de la Virreina and its temporary exhibitions

All along La Rambla, you’ll also find:

  • Shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants
  • Numerous street performers.

las ramblas

During your walk along La Rambla, , you will undoubtedly come across the Boqueria Market , where I suggest you stop for a while.

This authentic and picturesque market, with an entrance marked by a grand Art Nouveau archway , is the city’s oldest.

It’s a chance to discover Catalan products and taste tapas and fresh fruit at the colorful stalls of the vendors.

The Boqueria Market is a highly popular tourist attraction , so it will be hard to avoid the crowds, but that’s part of the location’s charm!

If you like guided tours, the special market tour with a chef might be a good option. The chef guides you through the market while selecting the best products with you.

He then prepares tapas and a paella to share right in front of you.

boqueria market

Your 5-day visit to Barcelona continues on Passeig de Gracia , just a 5-minute walk from Plaça de Catalunya.

Here is where you can marvel at one of the masterpieces of the Barcelona architect Antoni Gaudi: Casa Batlló.

A symbol of Barcelona, this villa with its unique architecture (typical of Gaudi) is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site . Its balconies, shaped like skulls, have earned it the nickname Casa del Ossos (the house of bones).

While stunning on the outside, Casa Batlló is also worth a visit inside. Allocate about 1 hour to explore the interior.

Avoid the endless line at the entrance of Casa Batlló by purchasing your ticket in advance.

Remember that with the Barcelona City Pass , you get a 10% discount code which you can use for the Casa Batlló visit among other attractions through Tiqets website.

Casa Batlló

Stay on Passeig de Gracia and head slightly north to reach Casa Milà in about 7 minutes on foot .

This second villa, born from Gaudi’s imagination , is also a must-see with its white facade featuring wavy lines characteristic of the architect’s work.

Take your time to visit and explore the various rooms spread over 5 floors . From the rooftop terrace of the villa, you will also enjoy a stunning view of the surroundings.

Here too, remember to buy your entrance ticket for Casa Milà on Tiqets using the discount from your Barcelona City Pass .

For an unusual visit , choose a nighttime entrance ticket . The night visits start at 9 PM and include audiovisual projections and a complimentary glass of Champagne .

This night entrance ticket can be purchased by clicking here .

Casa Milà

How can you visit Barcelona in 5 days without planning to see a flamenco show ?

This popular Andalusian dance is performed all year round in Barcelona’s tablaos . These intimate venues allow you to enjoy a meal or a drink while watching musical performances.

For this evening, I recommend “Los Tarantos” , one of the oldest and most famous tablaos in the city.

You can book your flamenco evening by simply clicking here!

It is located on Plaça Reial, very close to Las Ramblas. To get there from Casa Milà, you have 2 options:

  • On foot, a 30-minute walk down Las Ramblas
  • By metro: take line 3 from Diagonal station to Liceu station + a 3-minute walk to Plaça Reial.

If tickets are sold out, here are some other places to see a flamenco show during your stay in Barcelona (click on the orange links to book):

  • City Hall, in the theater of Barcelona City Hall
  • At the tablao Flamenco Cordobes, in Rambla district
  • Tablao de Carmen, located in Poble Espanyol district.

What to do and see in Barcelona on day 2?

5 days in Barcelona itinerary day 2

Visits for day 2:

A. Park Güell B. Bunkers del Carmel C. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista D. Sagrada Familia E. Born District

Park Güell is another major work of Gaudi , located in the north of the city and built between 1900 and 1914.

I suggest you dedicate your second morning in Barcelona to the exploration of this one-of-a-kind park .

It’s divided into two areas, one with an admission fee and the other free . The paid zone, known as “Monumental” , houses key pieces of Gaudi’s work including a wavy bench covered in mosaic, a salamander, and columns that resemble tree trunks.

To have time to visit the park leisurely, plan on arriving early in the morning . Last but not least, don’t forget to climb up to Mirador de Virolai for a beautiful panoramic view of the surroundings.

To get to Park Güell, take the line 3 metro and get off at Vallcarca .

Tickets for Park Güell are limited and it is highly recommended to book them in advance.

The entrance is included in the Barcelona City Pass, or you can also get your skip-the-line ticket by clicking here.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the park’s best spots, you can also opt for a guided walking tour organized by Barcelona’s tourist office .

You’ll find all the information you need and be able to book by clicking here!

Barcelona

After your morning in the park, head toward Bunkers del Carmel , one of the most stunning viewpoints in Barcelona offering a 360° perspective of the entire city.

From Park Güell, the Bunkers are just a 20-minute walk away . You can also take the bus (lines 24 or 86) or a taxi.

These bunkers are located 262 meters above sea level on the Turo de la Rovira, a former anti-aircraft base used during the Spanish Civil War.

Access is free , and the climb to the top, although strenuous at times, is definitely worth it. A great idea is to plan a picnic to have lunch with a stunning panoramic view.

Bunkers del Carmel

Then, about a 30-minute walk away, reach the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista .

This former public hospital now hosts exhibitions and allows visitors to explore various buildings that recount the site’s history.

But it’s worth the visit for its architecture and facade alone!

Entrance tickets can be taken here, if you’re interested in the visit.

Sant Pau Recinte Modernista

The emblem of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia is THE must-see monument during your 5 days in Barcelona.

This basilica imagined by Gaudi is truly spectacular , and of course, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

La Sagrada Familia combines Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture in a unique style that is characteristic of Antoni Gaudi. It’s actually the most visited monument in Spain!

Take the time to admire all its exterior details and then enter inside to see, among other things, a small museum about the history of the basilica.

Don’t forget that your Barcelona City Pass includes a skip-the-line ticket to visit La Sagrada Familia. That alone is a good reason to buy it!

Otherwise, without the Pass, you absolutely need a skip-the-line ticket to avoid hours of waiting at the entrance. Buy it by clicking here.

And of course, if you would like to find out more about the history of this impressive monument , I recommend you to book a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia by clicking here.

Sagrada Familia

It’s time to slow down a bit and end the day on a relaxing note.

El Born District is perfect for an enjoyable evening after a day of sightseeing.

This little medieval village within the city, along with the Gothic Quarter, forms the old town of Barcelona .

El Born is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city, the place to be for nightlife and to enjoy numerous tapas bars and trendy restaurants.

The neighborhood is also home to several Gothic churches , as well as museums including the Picasso Museum . This is also where you’ll find the Palau de la Musica , which I highly recommend visiting if you have the time.

You can also:

  • Discover the MOCO museum , dedicated to contemporary art. There, you can especially admire works by Banksy and Andy Warhol.
  • Enjoy a tasting of 5 Catalan and Spanish wines.

The Palau de la Musica is one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world. The guided tour costs 20 euros and lasts 50 minutes, and it’s definitely worth it!

Book your visit to the palace right here.

Day 3: Points of Interest to Visit in Barcelona

5 days in Barcelona itinerary day 3

Visits for day 3:

A. Plaça Espanya B. The MNAC C. Montjuic Park D. The Olympic facilities E. Montjuic Castle F. Plaça Espanya and the Magic Fountain

I suggest starting your third day by heading to Plaça Espanya , the starting point for the other sites I have prepared for you.

Barcelona’s Plaça Espanya dates back to 1929 and is credited to the famous architect Puig y Cadafalch . It’s recognized for the large sculpture by Josep Maria Jujol in the middle of the roundabout.

This square is a bit like Barcelona’s Place de l’Etoile , with a lot of traffic around it. It’s also surrounded by several buildings and convention halls , including “Las Arenas” , a former bullring transformed into a shopping center.

Especially don’t miss the unmatched view from the rooftop terrace of Las Arenas.

Plaça Espanya Barcelona

Opposite Plaça Espanya, you’ll find the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC).

You’ll get there on foot in about 15 minutes, passing by the Magic Fountain (which you’ll have a chance to appreciate more later in the evening).

The MNAC is one of the largest museums in Spain and also one of the richest in Barcelona. Here, you can see the world’s largest collection of Romanesque art.

On Saturdays after 3 PM and on the first Sunday of each month, admission to the MNAC is free.

With the Barcelona City Pass , you can get a discount for your MNAC entry ticket by clicking here.

If you plan to visit other museums during your 5 days in Barcelona, you could opt for the Barcelona Museum Pass which grants access to the city’s top 6 museums.

Buy it directly with the button below:

MNAC Barcelona

After visiting the MNAC, it’s probably time for lunch.

I propose a little picnic in Montjuic Park , the green lung of the city situated on the hill of the same name.

To get there, the best option is to take the Montjuic funicular , which offers a great view during the ascent. Round-trip tickets for the cable car here.

Montjuic Park is very popular on weekends and in the evenings with locals who enjoy walking, sports, and fresh air .

The park is divided into several gardens . Do not miss the Greek Theater garden , the most beautiful in the park in my opinion!

There are also some historic monuments and museums:

  • Urban Guard Museum
  • Modern Art Museum
  • Olympic Museum
  • Joan Miro Foundation .

Montjuic hill

In 1992, the Olympic Games were held in Barcelona. The city underwent significant renovations for the event.

The Olympic facilities are still in place and have become one of the points of interest in the city , even if you’re not a sports fan.

I suggest you now head towards the Olympic Park of Montjuic , located close to the park. There, you will see:

  • The Olympic Stadium
  • Palau Sant Jordi
  • Torre de Calatrava
  • Barcelona Sports Palace
  • Pavilion of the Industrial Spain.

Olympic Park Barcelona

Stay in Montjuic and finish the afternoon with a visit to the castle, open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Montjuic Castle dates back to 1640 and was used to protect the city from Catalan rebels . It later became a prison and was transformed into a military museum in the 1960s.

Plans are underway to turn it into a cultural center and an international center for peace soon.

The visit is very interesting, and you will especially enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Barcelona coastline from the heights of the monument.

Sampling tapas followed by the Magic Fountain show is a must-do evening during a 5-day trip to Barcelona.

So, I suggest you return to Plaça Espanya for a delicious dinner at a tapas restaurant, then enjoy the Magic Fountain show of Montjuic.

Every night from Wednesday to Sunday (starting at 8 p.m. from November to March, and at 9 p.m. from April to October), a music-backed light show takes place here.

The show lasts one hour and always attracts a crowd, so plan to arrive a bit early to secure good spots.

Day 4 – Strolling through Barcelona

5 jours a Barcelone itinéraire jour 4

Visits for day 4:

A. Port Vell B. Passeig Maritim C. Olympic Port D. Ciutadella Park E. Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

For this fourth morning of your 5 days in Barcelona, head to Port Vell (“Old Port” in Catalan), the city’s oldest port.

It’s a pleasant place to stroll, get some fresh air, enjoy the view, and shop.

You can also take advantage of the walk to climb to the top of the Columbus Monument or visit the Barcelona Aquarium .

Don’t miss the Moll de la Fusta (“Wooden Wharf”), a lovely place that once served for mooring and unloading timber cargoes.

La Rambla de Mar (the name of this floating bridge) leads you directly to the port shopping center, with its stores and restaurants.

From the port , you can also hop on a golondrina for a mini cruise. Reserve here.

Catamaran cruises (during the day or at sunset) are also available if you’d like to enjoy a moment of relaxation while admiring beautiful views over the city . Click here to book!

port de barcelone

From Port Vell, take the Passeig Maritim and start a stroll along the coastline.

The Passeig Maritim is 5 km long and runs along the beaches of Barcelona . It’s a path well-loved by locals and tourists alike.

In summer, it’s perfect for stopping at one or several beaches for a picnic and/or a swim.

Sport enthusiasts can then stop at Parc de Mar to take a look at other Olympic facilities such as the Barcelona Olympic Port and Mar Bella Pavilion .

Continue your 5-day Barcelona itinerary with a visit to Ciutadella Park.

Dating back to 1888, this huge park is perfect for a breath of fresh air, a boat ride on the lake, and also contains several points of interest:

  • The Triumphal Arch
  • Barcelona Zoo
  • The Catalan Parliament Building.

If you’re planning to visit the zoo with family, you can save money by booking online one of these Passes (click on the links to reserve):

  • Barcelona Family Pass including: entry to the zoo + one-hour harbour cruise + skip-the-line entry to the wax museum
  • Zoo and Aquarium Pack including: entry to the zoo + ticket to the aquarium + a ride on the Barcelona port cable car.

parc de la ciutadella barcelone

To end the day, I suggest you visit the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar.

It’s located in the historic El Born district.

This gothic basilica is very impressive both inside and out, and even more beautiful at night when illuminated .

For 8 euros, you can even climb to the top to the Terraces for a stunning view of the entire district.

For the evening , you can choose between one of these 3 activities I’ve selected for you:

  • A guided tour of the best Tapas in Barcelona who will take you to several small local bars to sample 8 courses of tapas, accompanied by a drink at each stop
  • A pub crawl with complimentary drinks + VIP club entry to a nightclub
  • A ghost-themed tour where you’ll walk through the Gothic Quarter with a guide who’ll tell you lots of spooky, supernatural stories.

In four days, you’ll already have experienced a comprehensive tour of Barcelona .

For your fifth and final day , I suggest a day-trip around the city .

You have several options to choose from:

1) A visit to the Costa Brava, one of Spain’s most famous coastlines located to the north of Catalonia. Discover Lloret del Mar and Tossa del Mar while enjoying a boat trip.

This day-trip includes bus transportation and a guide. It needs to be booked by clicking the button below:

2) Day-trip to the Costa Brava with kayaking and snorkeling (8 hours duration): for up to 12 people, this package includes transfers to the Costa Brava, a kayaking session, and snorkeling .

Equipment is provided and lunch is included .

Book it right below:

3) For an even more unique day, you could also opt for a hot air balloon ride departing from Barcelona.

With this offer, you are picked up from your hotel and enjoy an one-hour hot air balloon flight over the city and its surroundings, with a picnic included .

4) Excursion to Montserrat, a retreat for Benedictine monks in the heart of the Catalan mountains.

This organized tour includes a round-trip train ride from Barcelona , the visit to the monastery , and the Museum of Montserrat with an audio guide.

Montserrat Abbey

5) If your five-day itinerary in Barcelona happens during winter, you can choose to go skiing at one of the resorts around Barcelona, like La Molina resort .

6) A day at the PortAventura theme park: enjoy a family outing at this amusement park where you can ride the tallest roller coaster in Europe!

Book your 12-hour day-trip here which includes round-trip bus transportation from Barcelona and skip-the-line tickets:

Having outlined how to visit Barcelona in 5 days, it’s time to tackle the question of accommodations! Where are you going to stay for your 5 nights in Barcelona?

When you’re not familiar with the city, it isn’t always easy to efficiently narrow down the myriad of choices .

So, I’ve selected a shortlist of the best hotels to stay in Barcelona, based on your budget:

  • Hostel One Ramblas:  Youth hostel located in the center of Barcelona. Dorm bed from 33€ with dinner included. Strong points: the atmosphere, the price.
  • Hotel Grums Barcelona:  Located next to Montjuic hill and 600 m from La Rambla. Elegant and bright rooms from 134€. Strong points: the spa with jacuzzi and sauna, room designs, location. It’s our favorite for value for money.
  • Ohla Barcelona:   Perfectly located luxury hotel of Barcelona, between the Cathedral and Catalunya Square, 200 meters from the metro. This 5-star hotel offers contemporary and comfortable double rooms starting at 325€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the beauty of the establishment, both exterior and interior, the rooftop pool with a breathtaking view, the 3 gourmet restaurants. The best choice for a romantic stay in the heart of Barcelona.
  • W Barcelona:  Barcelona’s legendary hotel located in Barceloneta district. Luxurious and well-equipped double rooms from 363€. Strong points: the view, the 2 pools, the amenities, the restaurants.  Without a doubt the most famous hotel in Barcelona!
  • Hotel Arts Barcelona:   Five-star hotel located in Port Olympic district, 250 m from the beach and 300 m from Ciutadella Park. Design and ultra-spacious double rooms start at 670€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the 2-Michelin-starred restaurant, the outdoor pool with panoramic views, the design, and the contemporary art collection.  Our recommendation for a luxurious stay in Barcelona.

If these hotels are fully booked on your travel dates to Barcelona, or they don’t exactly meet your criteria, I’ve compiled a more extensive selection in my other article .

I’ve organized my suggestions by district and by price so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

Just click here to read it: The Best Hotels to Stay in Barcelona.

Olympic Port district Hotel Arts Barcelona

Are you going to spend 5 days in Barcelona with your family and wondering if there will be something for everyone? The answer is yes!

Barcelona is a city that is very family-friendly , offering a wide variety of activities that cater to all tastes.

I especially recommend the following visits that are sure to delight:

  • Poble Espanyol: include in your itinerary if you wish, perhaps instead of a museum visit. Poble Espanyol is a life-size artificial village that showcases all types of existing houses. It’s located right near the Magic Fountain, a mere 5-minute walk. The visit is on foot and it’s a fun place that children really enjoy.
  • Ciutadella Park (near El Born district): perfect for a family picnic, it also includes a great playground for kids.
  • Tibidabo Amusement Park: located on the outskirts of the city, this amusement park sits atop the highest peak in Barcelona. A great spot for children aged 6 and up.
  • PortAventura: a thrilling amusement park enjoyed by both young and old.
  • Museu Blau: Barcelona’s natural history museum.

Otherwise, don’t worry too much; they are certainly going to appreciate most of the visits I’ve planned:

  • The Magic Fountain show
  • La Boqueria market
  • Strolling along La Rambla
  • Tasting tapas (with their hands!)
  • Flamenco performances.

This 5-day Barcelona itinerary is quite comprehensive , but if you have more time or want to tweak it a bit, you’ll find even more activities to do in my detailed travel guide.

Depending on your interests, you’ll surely find other places to visit during your 5-day vacation in Barcelona.

You can find my dedicated Barcelona article right here: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Barcelona.

To help you visualize your routes over these 5 days in Barcelona, I have created a map listing the places to visit day by day . You can display the map legend by clicking the button in the top left corner with a little arrow. This will allow you to see the itineraries for each day.

As flight prices to Barcelona can vary greatly, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. To do this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. It’s the surefire way to get the best rate.

Need help planning your 5-day itinerary in Barcelona? Feel free to ask me your questions in the comments section.

Discover all my articles about Spain : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Spain are listed there.

  • Barcelona: Top 25 best places to visit
  • Madrid: The 21 best things to do
  • 2 days in Barcelona – The best itinerary to visit the city in a weekend
  • 3 days in Barcelona – The best 72-hour itinerary in the Catalan capital
  • 4 days in Barcelona – The best day-by-day program
  • 5 days in Barcelona – The ultimate itinerary for visiting the Catalan capital
  • One week in Barcelona – My detailed 7-day itinerary!
  • 2 days in Madrid – The best way to visit the city in a weekend
  • 3 days in Madrid – The best itinerary for visiting the city in 72 hours
  • 4 days in Madrid – The ultimate itinerary for visiting Spain’s capital!
  • 5 days in Madrid – The best detailed day-by-day itinerary!
  • Where to stay in Barcelona? My guide of the best places to stay for all budgets
  • Where to stay in Madrid? All the best areas and hotels to stay in Madrid as a tourist

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Best places to visit in Barcelona in 5 days

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

Where to stay in Berlin

Where to stay in Berlin? The best areas and places to stay

Where to stay in Porto

Where to stay in Porto? The best areas and places to stay

3 days in Athens

3 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Discussion 2 comments.

dn

thanks this was really helpful!

Vincent

Thanks! I’m glad my 5-day itinerary in Barcelona helped you to plan your trip.

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Middle East
  • North America
  • Cheap car rentals: my best advice
  • Back to Homepage

Best of Spain

15 days | a jam-packed tour capturing some of spain's true highlights.

Intrepid travellers and and leader in Madrid city, Spain

Kick off this colourful Best of Spain tour in Madrid and let your imagination unfold on a journey through the beautiful Andalucian region. Visit the cities that reflect Spain's diverse history and culture. Experience a fiery flamenco performance in Seville and explore the mysterious maze of alleyways of the old Arab quarter in Albayzin. Follow your tastebuds to a tapas bar and wander among Gaudi's handiwork in Barcelona – this Spanish adventure is as colourful and diverse as the land itself.

Trip overview

  • Experience the fiery passion and rhythm of a traditional flamenco dance performance in Seville.
  • It's a pretty special thing to chill out on a beach in Andalucian Spain, knowing North Africa is just across the water. Explore the scenic coastline, and kick back with some tapas and sangria in Tarifa.
  • The town of Ronda is split in two by a deep rocky chasm. Follow in the path of the Romans, as you cross from one side to the other along an ancient bridge.
  • Discover Cordoba's great mosque, the Mezquita, one of the most accomplished examples of Moorish architecture in the world. The lavish gardens and opulent rooms of Granada's spectacular Alhambra Palace aren't bad either.
  • Witness a spectacular Spanish sunset on a beach in Valencia, while feasting on a bowl of the world's best paella.
  • The cosmopolitan city of Barcelona pulses with culture, art and an outstanding drinking and dining scene. Discover the eccentric modernist architecture of Antonio Gaudi, who made Barcelona his artistic playground. The unfinished masterpiece of La Sagrada Familia is particularly mind-blowing.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Casa Caridad. Donations help them provide basic needs such as food and shelter for people in need in Valencia. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
  • This trip covers a lot of ground and the majority of travel is done by trains and public buses. It's a good time to sit back, relax and let the scenery roll past your window. Please read the Itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
  • We recommend packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train stations and hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs, and across cobblestones. Train stations often don’t have lifts available.
  • Summer temperatures can be extreme in this region (over 40C/104F). It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. Many hotels in Europe have fans, not air conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
  • Space is at a premium in Europe and your hotel is no exception. Rooms are often small, but usually the central location makes up for that. For those travelling as a duo, hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Hola! Welcome to Madrid! This sassy Spanish capital is known for its elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks, but it also pulsates with energy. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at either 6 or 7 pm, depending on common area availability. After the welcome meeting, and optional dinner, perhaps get into the mind of a Madrileno with some tapas and Rioja, or head to the Gran Via hotspots to dance the night away with your new friends.

  • Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

  • Madrid - Museo del Prado - EUR15
  • Madrid - Museo Reina Sofia - EUR10
  • Madrid - Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza - EUR13
  • Madrid - Real Jardín Botánico - EUR6
  • Madrid - Royal Palace - EUR14
  • Madrid - Museo Taurino - EUR15
  • Madrid - Tapas Urban Adventure - EUR99

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a few days early. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Take a bus to Granada today (approximately 5 hours). Located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is packed with Moorish architecture, great tapas bars and natural beauty. Take a walk around the old Arab quarter of the Albaicin, a labyrinth of crooked alleys, fountains, plazas and whitewashed houses, or the 'Alcaiceria' (old silk market area) and observe the craftworks on sale that include ceramics, marquetry and leather goods. If you're feeling energetic, climb the steep streets up to the Mirador de San Nicolas for sunset views over the famous Alhambra. If you have time, perhaps check out the historic Renaissance Cathedral and Capilla Real. Granada is the kind of city to leave your guidebook behind and trust your intuition (and your leader, of course).

Today make a visit to Granada's impressive Alhambra Palace. An entrance ticket is included in the trip and grants you the visit of the Palace and the Gardens. Discover this 11th-century marvel and its dominating red fortress towers, palace decor, architectural styles, and magnificent gardens. It's all set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With fountains, impeccably maintained hedges and pools, centuries-old defensive walls, turrets, and views overlooking Granada, this renowned palace will not disappoint. Make sure you allow enough time as the Alhambra is made up of three parts: the Alcazaba, the 11th-century Muslim wing which features spectacular views from its towers; the Palacio Nazaries, the centre of the complex; and Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. After your visit ask your leader to take you deeper into Granada’s Moorish Albaicin quarter and to the area of traditional tea houses. The view from this area across to the Alhambra Palace is not to be missed. Tonight, perhaps meet up again with the group for dinner.

  • Granada - Guided Visit to Alhambra Palace & Gardens
  • Granada - Mirador de San Nicolas - Free
  • Granada - Catedral de Granada - EUR6
  • Granada - Science Park Planetarium - EUR2
  • Granada - Science Park - EUR7
  • Granada - Capilla Real - EUR6

Leave Granada behind and travel by train and private transport to the Andalucian hills and the whitewashed town of Ronda. A landscape of green forests and white limestone mountains, Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting in Spain and was a favourite of Hemmingway and Orson Welles. The highlight of the town is the spectacular Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), one of the most photographed structures in the country. Built in 1751, it bridges the 100-metre deep gorge that splits the town in two. You can walk across it, stopping to peer over a vertiginous drop from one of its balconies. Check out the old Moorish town on one side, home to many historic buildings including the House of the Moorish King, and the newer El Mercadillo on the other side. East of the town are well-preserved Arab Baths and, of course, the famous Plaza de Toros. In the evening, find a spot from which you could enjoy a scenic sunset; this won’t be a problem in Ronda. 

  • Ronda - Santa Maria la Mayor Church - EUR4
  • Ronda - Bandits Museum - EUR4

Take a walk through Los Molinos, the beautiful valley surrounding Ronda. You can head down into El Tajo, the gorge that separates the old and new town, and get a view of the bridge and town from below. The rest of the day is free to explore town. The Plaza de Toros is one of the oldest bullfighting rings in the country, and adjoining the bullring is the Bullfighting Museum, which displays relics of Ronda's bullfighting history. The gardens behind offer panoramic views over the surrounding mountains, which have a long history of sheltering bandits and smugglers. Visit the Museum of Bandits for an entertaining insight into their history, or check out the prize-winning wineries and beautiful national parks that surround the town.

  • Ronda - Los Molinos (Windmill Valley) Hike

While it is worthwhile to check out the Bullfight Museum and see the architecture of the actual bullfighting ring in Ronda, we discourage our travellers to attend a bullfight due to the pain, fear and discomfort the animals experience during these public shows. Please see our stance on animal welfare for further details: intrepidtravel.com/animal-welfare

Today you'll travel south-west to Tarifa, along the coastline. This western Andalusian coast faces the Mediterranean and North Africa and your base for the next two nights is Tarifa, a laid-back beach town endowed with spectacular rocky scenery, a sea fortress, a lighthouse and plenty of character. The afternoon is free to relax. Perhaps catch a bus to the 10 kilometre-long sands of Playa de Los Lances – a haven for kite surfers – or hole up at a beach bar on Playa de Valdevaqueros. One of the best ways to appreciate the area is simply to wander, along the promenade under the old castle, past restaurants brimming with fresh seafood, and appreciate this rare, underdeveloped stretch of Spanish coastline. The surfers lend the Old Town a laid-back, international vibe, along with hints North Africa, which lies just across the water. In the evening, why not grab some dinner in town and join in Tarifa's vibrant nightlife.

  • Hostal (Guest house) (1 night)

Today there are plenty of optional activities to choose from. Perhaps head out on a whale and dolphin watching expedition on the Iberian Peninsula. At this unique place, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean and where Europe meets Africa, you'll have a chance to see seven different species of whales and dolphins. Alternatively, take a day trip to Northern Africa and the town of Tangier in Morocco, just 45 minutes away by ferry. Once a hotspot for artists, secret agents and millionaires, Tangier has been going through something of a renaissance of late. The city's medina and kasbah are well worth exploring, as are the cafes and patisseries around the Place de la France in the Ville Nouvelle. You can unwind and take in the charms of the city on the recently reconstructed beach promenad or one interesting option is a day tour across the border to the British territory of Gibraltar, home to the famous Rock of Gibraltar. Here you can take a cable car up to the rock’s peak, explore the caves, visit a Moorish castle and wander the main street, discovering the interesting blend of old British life and Spanish flavours.

  • Morocco - Day Trip from Tarifa - EUR66
  • Tarifa - Whale Watching - EUR35
  • Gibraltar - Day Trip from Tarifa - EUR48
  • Tarifa - Castle - EUR4

Travel to the vibrant city of Seville. Sevillians are well known for their wit and sparkle, and the city itself is striking for its vitality and flamboyance – the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. Seville is also famous for its oranges, tapas and flamenco, all three of which are ingrained in the fabric of the city and its proud people. As the rest of the day is free for you to explore, why not go and experience it all in person. Barrio Santa Cruz, with its multicultural history, is a great place to start. This shaded warren was designed in medieval times to provide refuge from the great Andalusian heat. Or maybe spend your evening San Jacinto, the bustling main street of the Triana quarter, and discover the interesting and adventurous food on offer.

While bullfighting is a significant part of Spanish culture and history, its practice is contrary to our Responsible Travel philosophy. Intrepid does not support or attend bullfights, as the bulls are subject to torment and fear and are often killed inhumanely.

Today is a free day to discover Seville, but checking out the world's largest Gothic cathedral is an absolute must. You can also the climb the cathedral's adjoining Moorish tower, known as La Giralda. While you may have to line up, it's worth it for the views over the city. Visit the magnificent Alcazar, a complex of palaces used by Moorish and Christian rulers through the ages, and now gaining international fame as a shooting location for Game of Thrones. Wander through the fragrant gardens and examine the Moorish and Mudejar architecture. If you feel like an injection of culture, explore Seville's Museum of Fine Arts or the Archaeological Museum. As Seville is the tapas capital of Spain, be sure to sample some of the tasty morsels on offer in one of the city's many tapas bars. In the evening, catch a local flamenco performance with the group (included). Charged with emotion and drama, this powerful, fiery show is a real highlight.

  • Seville - Evening Flamenco Performance
  • Seville - Andalusian Contemporary Art Centre - EUR3
  • Seville - Casa de Pilatos - EUR10
  • Seville - Indias Archive - Free
  • Seville - Santa Paula Convent - EUR3
  • Seville - Torre del Oro - EUR3
  • Seville - Archaeological Museum - EUR3
  • Seville - Cathedral & Giralda Tower - EUR12
  • Seville - Museum of Fine Arts - EUR2
  • Seville - Museum of Art & Popular Customs - EUR2

Continue to Cordoba by train. Discover the mesh of Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultures in the architecture and cuisine of this southern city. Visit the famous Mezquita, with its golden arches and intricate columns, once the third largest mosque in the world and one of the most beautiful. It was consecrated into a Roman Catholic cathedral in the 13th century when the Christians reconquered Cordoba. Time permitting, you might stroll through a labyrinth of cobbled laneways in the old quarter, discovering open squares and quirky cafes. The evening is free to sample more delicious Spanish cuisine. Salmorejo (a cold soup made of tomatoes, bread and olive oil served with chopped up boiled egg and cured ham) is a specialty of Cordoba, as is rabo de toro (oxtail soup). There are also plenty of good-value eateries in the Juderia (Jewish Quarter).

  • Cordoba - Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral) Visit
  • Cordoba - Palacio Museo de Viana - EUR8
  • Cordoba - Torre de la Calahorra - EUR5
  • Cordoba - Museo Vivo de Al-Andalus - EUR6
  • Cordoba - Casa de las Cabezas - EUR5
  • Cordoba - Tablao el Cardenal - EUR23
  • Cordoba - Museum of the Inquisition - EUR3

Take a train and head east to the coastal town of Valencia (approximately 6 hours). Known for being the Spanish gateway to the Mediterranean, Valencia has a large port, beautiful beaches, restaurants and a beach promenade along the waterfront. The Old Town is set back from the seafront through, and in the centre you will find the beautiful monuments and historical buildings. Busy markets, clean beaches, picturesque hills and a fascinating mix of old town and new town makes up the best of Valencia. Over the next couple of days, you have a lot of free time to wander around the city and see the sights. This evening perhaps head out to bar-hop and eat tapas in the Ciutat Vella (old town).

Today's train trip takes approximately 6 hours. While this can seem long it's also a great time to sit back, relax, read a book or simply have the Spanish country side roll past your window.

Hop on a bike today and pedal along Turia Park all the way to the iconic city of Art and Science. This activity is done at a leisurely pace and you certainly don’t need to be an expert to participate. After cycling, why not visit the 13th-century cathedral, which houses what's claimed to be the Holy Grail, and climb the 207 steps of the Miguelete tower for the best views of the city. For something a little quirkier, head to the Museum of the Fallas, which contains a history of the Valencia fire festival and giant papier mache figures that have been spared from the burning. The Museo de Bellas Artes has Spain's second-biggest art collection, housed in a beautiful 17th-century convent. There are also many fine parks and gardens, or you may want to head to the beach of Playa de la Malvarrosa to soak up some sun. To try the paella that Valencia is famous for (rabbit and chicken), do as the locals do and head to the restaurant area of Las Arenas for a hearty and reasonably priced lunch. Tonight, maybe head south to Ruzafa, one of the city’s coolest areas, where the locals only start to head out as the clock strikes midnight.

  • Valencia - City Cycling Tour
  • Valencia - Picnic
  • Valencia - Fallas Museum - EUR2
  • Valencia - Gonzalez Marti Museum - EUR3
  • Valencia - Miguelete Tower - EUR2
  • Valencia - Principe Felipe Science Museum - EUR9
  • Valencia - The Silk Exchange - EUR2
  • Valencia - Valencian Institute of Modern Art - EUR6
  • Valencia - Museum of Fine Arts - Free

Today you'll hit Valencia's street by bike. Riding is easy, and will take place in quiet backstreets where possible, and along the huge linear park that surrounds Valencia's old town. Please note that this activity's timing is weather dependent, and may happen a day earlier in the afternoon when it's not too hot. Details will be discussed during the welcome meeting.

Today take the train up the coast to Barcelona (approximately 3.5 hours). Barcelona's quirky character and fabulous Catalan cuisine mixes seamlessly with a groundbreaking art scene, Gothic architecture, superb dining and a non-stop nightlife. In the afternoon, there are plenty of options to keep you busy. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the old Gothic Quarter and navigate your way through the throngs of tourists along La Rambla, Barcelona's famous tree-lined boulevard. Maybe grab a fresh juice at the colourful La Boqueria market while you're there. Perhaps pay a visit to the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia or the Museum of City History to brush up on your local knowledge. Take the funicular to the top of Montjuic or Tibidabo for panoramic views of Barcelona and the harbour. The heart of Catalonia prides itself as a gastronomic centre and so this evening perhaps head out to taste the reputation for yourself. You can take a tapas crawl through rustic Catalan dishes in the funky neighbourhood of El Born.

Join your leader on an orientation walk around Barcelona today. See some of the city's main sights, including a visit to Antonio Gaudi's incredible La Sagrada Familia Cathedral. The architect worked on this hugely ambitious project for decades until his death, and it remains in constant construction. Along with the Camp Nou football stadium, it is possibly the city's most iconic landmark. Gaudi was the master of the unique Catalan Modernista architecture for which Barcelona is famous, and his work is dotted all over the city. Perhaps check out the Neo-Gothic mansion of Guell Palace, or the wave-inspired structure of Casa Batlo. For more insight into the artist himself, head to the Gaudi House Museum inside Parc Guell, which is home to more colourful sculptures, including a long mosaic-covered bench overlooking the city. For something a little different, perhaps have a poke around the Old Santa Creu Hospital. For your tonight, perhaps finish the day with a sip of red wine from a porro – a traditional glass pitcher.

  • Barcelona - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Barcelona - La Sagrada Familia Cathedral visit
  • Barcelona - National Art Museum of Catalonia - EUR12
  • Barcelona - Tapas Tour in El Raval Urban Adventure - EUR99
  • Barcelona - Old Santa Creu Hospital - EUR16
  • Barcelona - Picasso Museum - EUR14
  • Barcelona - Barcelona Cathedral - EUR11
  • Barcelona - Museum of City History - EUR7
  • Barcelona - Ethnological and World Cultures - EUR5
  • Barcelona - Museum of Gaudi - EUR6
  • Barcelona - Guell Palace - EUR12
  • Barcelona - Casa Batllo (advance booking required) - EUR29

Today your Spanish adventure comes to an end in the morning. There are no more activities planned and you're free to leave the accommodation at any time after check-out. If you'd like to spend a few more days in Barcelona, then our reservations team can help book accommodation (subject to availability).

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Train, Public bus, Metro, Taxi, Bicycle

Hotel (12 nights), Hostal/Guest house ( 2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Filter by rating

  • Travel to Spain Itineraries

9 Days in Spain: Top Itinerary to See Everything!

Iñigo Navarro Profile Thumbnail

Win a FREE Trip to Spain!

Exciting Announcement! For the first time, we're thrilled to offer exclusive trips to the heart of Spain - an experience like no other. This isn't your typical tourist journey; it's a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Spanish culture, alongside real locals and our passionate team.

But there's more! Simply by requesting information about this amazing trip, you'll be entered into a special draw to win a Fully Paid Trip to Spain for Two. And that's not all - everyone who inquires will receive an exclusive bonus gift, valued at $500, available only now.

Click Here ↑ to Request Information & Enter the Draw!

If you came across this article but were just browsing possible trips to Spain, know that we have many itineraries ready for you to choose from and experience.

I am going to link you to the rest of our itineraries in Spain for you to read and choose which of the following fits best with your traveling vibe and interests.

  • 1 Day in Spain
  • 2 Days in Spain
  • 3 Days in Spain
  • 4 Days in Spain
  • 5 Days in Spain
  • 6 Days in Spain
  • 7 Days in Spain
  • 8 Days in Spain
  • 10 Days in Spain

As you can see, we also have a ten-day itinerary that takes you to the most important cities in Spain (at least considered by tourists): Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, and Seville. 

This 9-day itinerary will take you to the north of Spain, starting from Bilbao and going down to Madrid from the Costa Brava. 

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

Day 1- 3: Bilbao, San Sebastian & Pamplona

As I mentioned, if you want an itinerary to sunny Andalucia, click on ten days in Spain. Otherwise, if you are interested in giving a twist to the usual routes, stay with me!

bilbao spain

You will arrive at Bilbao’s Airport a day before this itinerary starts. Go straight to your hotel and rest. Bilbao will be your base city for three days as you journey through the Basque Country and Navarre.

Bilbao is a small city, but ironically, the biggest in the Basque Country. On your first full day in the city, you must visit the old town, the Cathedral of Santiago de Bilbao, and the Guggenheim Museum.

For breakfast and coffee in Bilbao, go to ARVO Coffee & Plants (Barraincúa Kalea, 9); for pintxos, visit the old-town; and for dinner, one good restaurant is La Gavilla (Colón de Larreategui 32).

San Sebastián

monte igueldo san sebastian

On your second day of this journey, you will go to San Sebastián, the most wonderful city in the Basque Country (totally subjective, this is my opinion!)

My usual route and recommendation for friends and family in Sanse is to arrive by train or bus and go straight to Old Town Coffee (close to the Good Sheppard Cathedral) to get a good breakfast and even better coffee. 

After that, take a look at San Sebastian’s stunning Neo-Gothic cathedral. On your way to the beach, you will go through several cute little stores until you arrive at La Concha.

From there, you will pass by the Miramar Palace and keep walking until you arrive at the other beach end: Monte Igueldo. Before going up its funicular, visit the “Peine del Viento” sculptures created by the Basque Artist Eduardo Chillida in 1976.

san sebastian

After looking at the ocean view, take the funicular to the top of the Monte Igueldo for breathtaking city views. I don’t really recommend eating at the cafeteria that is up there because it is very expensive but instead spend that money on the fun Swiss roller coaster that rides next to the cliff. 

Take the bus on 5/16/25 back to the old town, where you will get pintxos at Gandarias  (31 de Agosto Kalea, 23)  for some mouthwatering sirloin pintxos. 

Return to your Bilbao hotel and rest for your next day’s trip.

pamplona spain

I lived in Pamplona for four years while studying at the University of Navarra. It is a small city but charming in all its corners. 

The best way to arrive in Pamplona from Bilbao is by bus because the station is right in the middle of the city and just a few meters away from the old town.

The must-see landmarks in Pamplona are Plaza del Castillo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Real, the Portal of France, the lookout Caballo Blanco, the Church of San Saturnino, the ancient wall of the Ciudadela Park, and the monument of “El Encierro.”

pamplona spain

All of these landmarks are very close to one another, so it will be a very smooth day trip. 

In Pamplona, you should get breakfast at Coffing (C. Amaya, 2b); try their flat white and crazy good toasts! For tapas, go around narrow streets and try different bars like Baserriberri (C. San Nicolás, 32) or Iruñazarra (C. Mercaderes, 15).

Take a late bus back to Bilbao and rest for the night.

Day 4 - 6: Barcelona: A Journey to Gaudi’s Home

barcelona spain

Arrival to Barcelona

On your fourth day, take a flight from Bilbao to Barcelona, your home for the next few days!

On your first day, settle down at the hotel and get ready for some walking.

On your first day in Barcelona, start with Plaça Catalunya and Las Ramblas; I am sure you’ll enjoy the vibing stores and walk down Barcelona’s most famous boulevard. 

Don’t eat at the restaurants in Las Ramblas; the food is overpriced and not good.

Walk down Las Ramblas towards La Barceloneta and enjoy the ocean view from the harbor. 

Gaudi & Montjuïc

Your fifth day in Barcelona is all about Gaudí. You will start your day with a tour of the Sagrada Familia, take the 10:00 a.m. guided tour, and learn about the stunning church. 

After the Sagrada Familia, move on to Park Güell and enjoy Gaudi’s mosaic masterpiece. On top of that, you will enjoy one of Barcelona’s skyline’s most stunning views. 

Have some lunch at La Fluata, the one located in the Eixample. The  montaditos  there are delicious, and you can’t miss their  torrija  filled with Catalan cream.

By the end of the day, visit Montjuïc and enjoy the water show at the Magic Foutain.

Wine tasting & shopping

Book a wine or cava tasting at Bodegas Torres or Freixenet on your fifth day in Barcelona.

Either of these  bodegas  is perfect for tasting, pairing, and immersing yourself in fine drinking. 

These tours usually last half a day as the  bodegas  are located an hour from the center of Barcelona. 

After you enjoy some wine:

  • Have some dinner at the Nacional Market.
  • Walk the Passeig de Graçia.
  • Marvel at Gaudi’s Casa Milà and Casa Batlló.

Day 7 - 9: Finish with the Enchanting City of Madrid

madrid spain

Arrival to Madrid

Your arrival in Madrid should be early. Being an early bird is the best way to make the best of your trips.

After arriving in Madrid, take this first day to walk the city. On your first day, I recommend walking from Retiro past the Puerta de Alcalá towards the Cibeles Fountain, Cibeles Palace, Gran Vía, and Calleo (Schweppes sign for the selfie!).

In Retiro, remember to look for the Great Pond and the Sculpture of the Fallen Angel. And, in Gran Vía 30 (very close to Primark), look for Diana’s arrows. The story said that Diana was trying to prevent Fenix from kidnapping her lover Edimon, whose sculpture is on the other side of the street. 

Taking this walking route is perfect for recognizing the city on your first day.

For your evening, enjoy a delicious tapas tour in Barrio de las Letras. You will get to know Madrid as a local as you visit bars and streets with the most  madrileño  essence ever!

Check it out right here!

Madrid Tapas and Wine: Small Group Literary Quarter Tasting Tour

Madrid Tapas, Taverns & History Tour

Madrid Tapas & Flamenco Tour

Medieval city or Roman remnants?

On your eighth day, you must make an important choice: Toledo or Segovia.

Both cities are historically important, each charming and very close to Madrid. Toledo and Segovia are less than two hours away from Madrid, and you can travel there by bus or train. 

I believe you must see both cities, but to make your choice easier, I will describe each one.

Toledo is known as the “City of the Three Cultures” because in the Middle Ages, Christians, Jews, and Muslims would live together in peace until the Inquisition began. 

A day trip to Toledo is full of cultural activities: a visit to the Cathedral, the Alcazar, the Greco Museum, the Synagogue, and more! It is way better to go on a tour than alone, so you can learn about the city.

On the other hand, Segovia is way smaller but not less charming. Here, you must see the Roman Aqueduct, which is a UNESCO World Heritage, the Alcazar (Walt Disney’s inspiration for Snow White’s castle), the Gothic-style Cathedral, and the old town.

Also, don’t forget to experience the Segovian-style cochinillo at  Mesón Candido .

Art Triangle

You will experience art like in no other place for your ninth and last in Madrid. The Paseo del Prado has something called the Art Triangle, and that is because the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornesmisza, and the Reina Sofia are located strategically close and in a triangle position. 

If this is your first time in Madrid, I would recommend going to the Prado Museum; it is one of the most prestigious museums in Europe and has the best pieces by Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, Rembrandt, and more. 

If the Prado is not your style, the Reina Sofia Museum is a modern art institution that houses the Guernica by Picasso, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza has a perfect blend of different types of art and a lovely terrace to get a drink. 

After your art morning, walk to Madrid de los Austrias and visit the Palacio Real, the Plaza Mayor, the Mercado San Miguel, the Royal Opera, and the Puerta del Sol.

If you want to get some food, take some great tapas at Mercado San Miguel or venture into the “calle de los mesones” (the bar street) and get some traditional dishes.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out; we love hearing from you!

READ NEXT: 9 Best Hotels in Madrid: Luxury, Unique, Budget & Backpackers

Rating: No ratings yet. Leave a comment!

Iñigo Navarro Profile Thumbnail

You might also like...

The 9 Best Hotels in Barcelona: From Budget to Luxury Thumbnail

The 9 Best Hotels in Barcelona: From Budget to Luxury

15 Best Tips & Tricks to Discover Barcelona like a Local Thumbnail

15 Best Tips & Tricks to Discover Barcelona Like a Local

Email address (optional), star rating (optional).

Be the first to comment!

About Image Thumbnail

Millions of people como to Spain every month! But many never get to experience the SENSATIONAL SPAIN!!

We're both born and raised Spaniards and our goal is to give you all the resources to plan a perfect trip to Spain.

Take a look! 👇

FYI! Some affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the post. We'll receive a small commission when you purchase from our links (at no extra cost to you), which will help us keep creating content.

Join the waitlist

I'm about to release my City Guides for Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla and Mallorca.

They're going to have everything you need to plan the perfect trip. From hotels and transport, to restaurants, attractions, activities, & a lot (A LOT!) of tips & tricks.

9 Best Hotels in Madrid: Luxury, Unique, Budget & Backpackers Thumbnail

9 Best Hotels in Madrid: Luxury, Unique, Budget & Backpackers

What do Spanish People Think of Americans?

What do Spanish People Think of Americans?

What Song Are You Listening To? MADRID

What Song Are You Listening To? MADRID

What is the Best Show to Learn Spanish?

What is the Best Show to Learn Spanish?

Things People Should NEVER do Dating in Spain

Things People Should NEVER do Dating in Spain

Can Foreigners Adapt To The Spanish Lifestyle?

Can Foreigners Adapt To The Spanish Lifestyle?

Power Traveller

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante

Set out on a sensory exploration of Alicante’s vibrant wine scene with the ‘Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing.’ This captivating 2-hour experience, led by expert sommelier Martin Olivera , promises to tantalize your palate. Savor a curated selection of five exquisite wines , expertly paired with gourmet bites. From crisp whites to a robust red and a decadent dessert wine, each sip and bite unveils the nuances of the region’s terroir. Nestled in the cozy Vinos y más EXPERIENCE shop , this outing offers wine enthusiasts a chance to delve deeper into Alicante’s oenological wonders.

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Key Points

  • A 2-hour wine tasting experience in Alicante showcasing 5 wines paired with gourmet food selections led by expert sommelier Martin Olivera.
  • The wine selection includes 2 white wines, 1 rosé, 1 robust red, and 1 dessert wine, each expertly paired with complementary dishes.
  • The sommelier provides insights into the local terroir, grape varietals, and production methods, enhancing guests’ appreciation of Alicante’s exceptional wines.
  • The charming Vinos y más EXPERIENCE venue in the heart of Alicante offers a warm and intimate tasting backdrop with complimentary perks.
  • The experience is suitable for wine enthusiasts and culinary experience seekers, with flexible booking options and a 5% discount on wine purchases during the event.

More tours and experiences nearby.

  • Alicante Historic Small Group Tour With Tapas Tasting
  • From Albir, Altea, Benidorm & Calpe: Guadalest & Algar Excursion
  • Alicante – Old Town Private Walking Tour
  • From Alicante: Bocairent and Covetes Dels Moros Day Trip

Experience Overview

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Experience Overview

This 2-hour wine tasting experience in Alicante offers guests the opportunity to sample a curated selection of 5 wines paired with gourmet food pairings for €75 per person.

Participants will taste 2 white wines paired with seafood and light appetizers, 1 rosé paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, 1 robust red paired with rich cheeses, and 1 dessert wine paired with a selected dessert.

The tasting is led by expert sommelier Martin Olivera and takes place in the charming Vinos y más EXPERIENCE shop in the heart of the city.

Guests are welcomed with a glass of white wine upon arrival and have the chance to purchase wines at a 5% discount during the event .

Wine Selection and Pairings

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Wine Selection and Pairings

The tasting includes two white wines , one rosé, one robust red , and one dessert wine , each expertly paired with gourmet food selections to enhance the flavors.

The two white wines are paired with seafood and light appetizers, allowing the crisp acidity and delicate flavors to shine.

The rosé is matched with local cheeses and charcuterie, creating a harmonious balance of fruit and savory notes.

For the robust red, it’s paired with rich cheeses, complementing the wine’s bold character.

Gourmet Pairings

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Gourmet Pairings

Sommelier Martin Olivera’s expertise shines through the thoughtful pairings of each wine with its complementary gourmet selection, elevating the tasting experience.

The two white wines are expertly matched with seafood and light appetizers , allowing the crisp, refreshing flavors to shine.

The rosé is paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, creating a delightful balance of acidity and richness.

For the robust red wine , it’s served alongside rich cheeses , intensifying the bold, full-bodied character.

Finally, the dessert wine is paired with a selected dessert, concluding the tasting on a sweet note.

Each pairing is carefully curated to enhance the unique characteristics of the wines and provide a truly gourmet experience.

Expert Wine Guidance

Throughout the tasting, sommelier Martin Olivera expertly guides guests through the nuanced flavors and characteristics of each wine, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for the region’s diverse offerings.

With his keen sensory skills and in-depth understanding of winemaking, Olivera skillfully pairs each wine with the complementary gourmet bites , highlighting the perfect synergy of taste and texture.

His personalized insights and anecdotes about the local terroir , grape varietals, and production methods bring the tasting to life, captivating guests and enhancing their appreciation for the carefully curated selection.

Olivera’s expert wine guidance elevates the experience, leaving participants with a deeper understanding and newfound appreciation for the exceptional wines of Alicante .

Charming Venue and Location

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Charming Venue and Location

Guests are welcomed to the Vinos y más EXPERIENCE , a gourmet wine shop set in the charming heart of Alicante. This cozy venue reflects the region’s vibrant flavor, providing an intimate setting for the wine tasting.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a refreshing glass of white wine, setting the tone for the delightful experience ahead.

The carefully curated space showcases the shop’s extensive selection of local and international wines, inviting visitors to enjoy the rich winemaking traditions of the area.

With its warm ambiance and attention to detail, the venue creates the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey through the flavors of Alicante.

Complimentary Perks

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Complimentary Perks

Complementing the wine tasting, participants receive a complimentary 250ml bottle of water per person to stay hydrated during the experience.

Plus, guests gain exclusive access to digital materials that provide detailed information about each wine sampled. This allows them to delve deeper into the nuances and origins of the wines, enhancing their overall understanding and appreciation.

On top of that, attendees have the opportunity to receive a 5% discount on any purchases made at the wine shop during the event, providing an added incentive to explore and take home their favorite selections.

These complimentary perks elevate the tasting experience, ensuring guests are comfortable and well-informed throughout their journey of discovering the flavors of Alicante.

Participant Considerations

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Participant Considerations

The wine tasting experience is generally not suitable for children under 18 years of age or individuals with gluten intolerance.

The event is available in both English and Spanish, catering to a diverse audience.

Participants are encouraged to check availability for starting times and reserve their spot in advance to secure their place.

This exclusive wine tasting offers a unique opportunity to explore a selection of regional wines paired with gourmet delights .

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to indulge in a delightful culinary experience, this event promises to provide an unforgettable journey through the flavors of Alicante.

Booking Information

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Booking Information

Participants can easily book their spot for the wine tasting experience through the event’s website or by contacting the organizers directly.

Availability varies, so early reservations are recommended to secure a preferred starting time.

The event offers a flexible cancellation policy , allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.

The wine tasting is offered at a fixed price of €75.00 per person and can be booked as a private group experience.

This unique opportunity is suitable for adults over 18 years old, with no gluten intolerance restrictions.

The event is wheelchair accessible , and you will receive complimentary bottled water and access to digital materials about the featured wines.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

  • Alicante Food and Tapas Tour With a Local Guide
  • Alicante: Snorkeling, Paddleboarding, and Riding a Jet Ski.
  • Alicante: Flyboarding Experience With Instructor
  • Alicante Private Guided Walking Tour
  • The 10 Tasting of Alicante
  • Parasailing in Alicante

Frequently Asked Questions

Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante - Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Wine Tasting Classes Available at the Venue?

The venue does not offer formal wine tasting classes. However, the sommelier provides expert guidance and information about the wines throughout the 2-hour tasting experience with gourmet food pairings.

Can the Wine Tasting Be Extended Beyond the 2-Hour Duration?

The wine tasting experience can be extended beyond the standard 2-hour duration, though additional fees may apply. Guests should inquire with the venue about the availability and pricing for extended tastings when booking their reservation.

Are Vegetarian or Vegan Food Pairing Options Offered?

The wine tasting experience does not explicitly mention vegetarian or vegan pairing options. However, it’s recommended to inquire with the provider about accommodating dietary restrictions, as they may be able to offer alternative food pairings upon request.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Wine to the Event?

No, guests are not allowed to bring their own wine to the event. The experience is focused on exploring the carefully curated wine selection and pairings provided by the venue’s sommelier.

Is There a Dress Code for the Wine Tasting Experience?

There’s no specific dress code for the wine tasting experience. Guests should feel comfortable wearing smart casual attire that allows them to fully enjoy the event without distractions.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

  • Alicante Discovery Tour From Benidorm
  • Alicante: Craft Beer Tasting at Santa Barbara Castle
  • Yoga on the Beach San Juan, Alicante
  • Alicante (Pinoso): Tour Experience Back From the Vineyard to the Glass
  • Alicante:Paddle Surfing
  • San Juan Beach, Cabo Huertas: Bike Tour & Snorkel With Drink
  • Alicante: City Bike Tour and SUP Board Rental
  • Charming Villages: Villajoyosa & Altea
  • Alicante at War
  • Vintage Tour Around Alicante in Genuine Kombi T1 Vans
  • San Juan Beach: 2 Hour Table Surf Rental + Snack and Drink
  • Alicante: Private Transfer Alicante Airport – Benidorm
  • Alicante: Esim Internet Data Plan for Spain High-Speed 5G/4G
  • Alicante Private Bike Tour (min 2p) MEDIUM CYCLE LEVEL REQUIRED
  • Costa Blanca: DinoPark Algar Entry Ticket

This ‘ Flavors Route ‘ experience offers wine enthusiasts a delightful opportunity to explore Alicante’s vibrant wine scene.

Led by expert sommelier Martin Olivera , guests will savor five expertly paired wines complemented by local gourmet bites , all in the cozy ambiance of the Vinos y más EXPERIENCE shop.

An ideal outing for those seeking to indulge their passion for wine and discover the flavors of the region.

Similar Posts

Dénia: Cova Tallada Kayak Trip

Dénia: Cova Tallada Kayak Trip

Manatee Swim Tour With in Water Photographer

Manatee Swim Tour With in Water Photographer

Madrid: Parque Warner Beach Entry Ticket

Madrid: Parque Warner Beach Entry Ticket

Segovia, Ávila & Toledo: Guided Tour From Madrid

Segovia, Ávila & Toledo: Guided Tour From Madrid

taxco-cuernavaca-prehispanic-mine-tour-overview-and-highlights

Taxco, Cuernavaca & Prehispanic Mine

2 Hour GPS Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Balboa Park

2 Hour GPS Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Balboa Park

IMAGES

  1. WHAT TO DO IN 5 DAYS IN SPAIN

    tour spain in 5 days

  2. WHAT TO DO IN 5 DAYS IN SPAIN

    tour spain in 5 days

  3. The Perfect Itinerary for 5 Days in Southern Spain

    tour spain in 5 days

  4. Spain Highlights: Madrid & Seville

    tour spain in 5 days

  5. Best Spain 5-Day Tours & Itineraries

    tour spain in 5 days

  6. 5 Days in Spain

    tour spain in 5 days

VIDEO

  1. 180 Days in Spain Campaign latest update #brit #expat #brexit

  2. SETBACK in Spain! 😩 Europe 2024 Episode 5. Bay of Roses

  3. Spain tour in 12 days

  4. Unlock the Secrets of Spain's Urban Gems: A Guide to Unforgettable Travel Experiences

  5. How to spend two days in Bilbao, Spain #travelshorts #spaintravel

  6. Valencia, Spain 🇪🇸

COMMENTS

  1. 5 Days in Spain: Where to Go in Spain & 3 Unique Itineraries

    5 days in Spain is the perfect time to experience the best of everything the country has to offer. Take a look at these 3 unique 5-day Spain itineraries. ... and tours in Spain. We collect live prices from trusted tour and ticketing operators. We'll sometimes link out to our affiliate partners, such as Amazon LLC, and make a small commission ...

  2. 5 Days in Spain: Itineraries to See (almost) Everything!

    Madrid. Day 4. Experience Medieval Toledo on a Day Trip. Seville. Day 5. Embrace Seville's Warm Welcome. Seville. You will begin your travel adventure in the stunning and cosmopolitan city of Barcelona, where art, culture, diversity, and incredible architecture live together.

  3. Best Spain 5-Day Tours & Itineraries

    Highlights of Barcelona - 5 Days. This 5-day tour is the perfect introduction to Spain's cosmopolitan hub of Catalonia. Let local guides show you Barcelona's best architectural sights, tree-lined streets, and tapas bars by foot and bicycle. You'll also take a sailing trip and a kayaking excursion in the Mediterranean to round out this fun ...

  4. BEST 5-Days Spain Tours and Itineraries

    We offer 15+ great 5-Days Spain tours and itineraries in 2024/2025. Our 5-Days itineraries and tours in Spain are offered by some of Spain's best tour operators. We promise you a quality 5-Days Spain itinerary.

  5. 5-14 Day Spain Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Spain Trip

    The itinerary is just over 600 kilometres with a total driving time between 7 and 8 hours depending on your mode of transportation. Spain Itinerary 5 Days - Southern Itinerary Overview. Day 1: Málaga. Day 2: Day trip to Granada. Day 3: Marbella.

  6. Spain Itinerary: Where to Go in Spain by Rick Steves

    This recommended itinerary gives you an idea of how much you can reasonably see in 21 days, but of course you'll want to adapt it to fit your own interests and time frame. Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona (sleep in Barcelona) Day 2: Barcelona (sleep in Barcelona) Day 3: Barcelona, evening train to Madrid (sleep in Madrid) Day 4: Madrid (sleep in ...

  7. 5 Days in Andalucia

    Your 5 Day Tour of Andalucia. Our 5 days in Andalucia itinerary has been designed to deliver the best of Southern Spain for you in 5 compact days. Combining the best private guided tours of Seville, Ronda, Malaga, and Granada while limiting the amount of travel required during the vacation. Andalucia means enjoying the warm Mediterranean ...

  8. 10 Best Spain Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    10 best Spain tour packages. Compiled by. Steff Spain travel expert at TourRadar. Walking the Camino de Santiago. Discovery of Spain - 10 days. Charming Spain - 9 Days. Spanish Delights, 7 days. Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Tuesdays. Absolutely Spain.

  9. 5 Days in Spain

    Itinerary #2: Off the Beaten Path in Madrid & Barcelona. Over five days, you'll get to see a side of Spain's two most famous cities that many tourists never get to see. The adventure begins in Madrid with a food tour and continues to Barcelona with more great cuisine, plus visits to famous landmarks and even a sailboat cruise.

  10. Ultimate Spain Itineraries: 5, 7, 10, & 14 Days

    In 14 Days: Go Deeper into Spain on a Food & Wine Tour. The Alhambra, which stands guard over Granada. Take a food-and-wine tour of three different regions in Spain. Enjoy cooking classes in Barcelona and dine at the world's oldest restaurant. Tour a 17th-century olive oil estate outside Seville.

  11. 10 Best Fully Guided Tours in Spain 2024/2025

    10 best fully guided Spain tour packages. Compiled by. Steff Spain travel expert at TourRadar. Discovery of Spain - 10 days. Charming Spain - 9 Days. Andalucia & Toledo, 5 days on Tuesdays. Spanish Delights, 7 days. Absolutely Spain. Andalusia with Cordoba, Costa del Sol and Toledo from Madrid.

  12. 5 Day Tour Andalusia with Costa del Sol and Toledo

    Experience the highlights of Spain's Andalucia region on this 5-day tour from Madrid. Traveling by air-conditioned coach with an expert guide, visit six Andalucian jewels: Caceres, Cordoba, Seville, Ronda, Granada, Toledo, and drive along the sun-baked Costa del Sol coast. Enjoy a combination of sightseeing tours and free time in each destination, plus guided visits to sights such as Granada ...

  13. WHAT TO DO IN 5 DAYS IN SPAIN

    5 DAYS IN SPAIN - BARCELONA. Barcelona is a fun city in Spain - with tons of activities offered for people of all ages. It is the capital of Spain's Catalonia region in the northeast of Spain. With more than 1,5 million inhabitants, it is the second biggest city in Spain (after Madrid). Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations to ...

  14. Best of Spain in 14 Days Tour

    Overall rating: rating 5 of 5. I loved the Best of Spain in 14 Days tour. It was an amazing two weeks. I knew very little about Spain and learned something new everyday. The food was fabulous! Our tour group members were very fun and our guide, Amanda, was awesome. Favorite "WOW" moment

  15. 10 Best Spain Small Group Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Discover Spain with the best small group tours powered by top tour operators & travel companies. Explore new destinations at your pace accompanied by like-minded travelers. All Major Brands. ... 5 days : Destinations: Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Ronda, Marbella, Granada, Toledo: Age Range: 10 to 99 year olds

  16. A Perfect Barcelona 5 Day Itinerary

    A Perfect Barcelona 5 Day Itinerary. WARNING. This is an itinerary for 5 full days in Barcelona. That's not counting your arrival and departure day (unless you arrive super early in the morning or leave really late). If you have less than 5 complete days, you can check out my other posts: 1 DAY. 2 DAYS.

  17. 3 great itineraries to see the highlights of Spain

    Days 4-5: Eat your way through paella in Valencia. Catch the fast train down the coast to Valencia in just three hours for a dose of paella, nightlife and the 21st-century wonders of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Spend some time exploring the narrow winding streets and charming plazas of the Ciutat Vella, then hit the city's ...

  18. Barcelona & Madrid In 5 Days Private Tour Itinerary

    Welcome to your 5-day Best of Barcelona and Madrid itinerary! This itinerary is designed to be the best way to experience two of Spain's most famous cities in just 5 short days. First, you'll begin your journey in Barcelona, where you'll spend the first two days exploring the city's stunning architecture, indulging in delicious cuisine ...

  19. 5 Days in Madrid: The Ultimate City Itinerary

    5 days in Madrid is lots of time to see Spain's capital on a deep level. In this guide, you'll learn about Madrid's museums, neighborhoods, and day trips. ... Day 1: Arrival, Walking Tour, Reina Sofía. Most international travelers will arrive at Madrid-Barajas Airport which is roughly 12 km. outside the city center. After going through customs ...

  20. 5 Days in Barcelona: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

    Skip-the-Line Tickets for Barcelona's Tourist Attractions. 5 Days in Barcelona: Must-See Attractions: 3. The Barcelona Card. One Last Tip for a Perfect 5-Day Stay in Barcelona. 5 Days in Barcelona: The Best Itinerary. Day 1: Discovering the Historic Center. A. The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and the Gothic Quarter.

  21. The Madrid 5 Day Itinerary That Let's You See it All

    Have a late lunch in Parque del Oeste before taking a ride on Madrid's cable car over Parque Casa de Campo. Day 5: Slow down and explore the older part of town. Stop in shops that have been operating for over 125 years and try different types of small plates at San Miguel Market.

  22. 15-Day Best Of Spain Tour Package

    15 Days | A jam-packed tour capturing some of Spain's true highlights 4.7 out of 5 based on 72 reviews submitted. Explorer Rail From. USD $3,544. Add to my wishlist. View dates and book ... Day 5: Ronda Day 6: Tarifa. Day 7: Costa de la Luz / Tarifa. Day 8: Seville. Day 9: Seville ...

  23. Spain Tour: Barcelona & Madrid in 8 Days

    Single Supplement $625. The Rick Steves Best of Barcelona & Madrid tour combines Spain's top cities to create a sparkling, full-bodied eight-day adventure. First, you'll experience the pride and energy of Barcelona — tapping into the tapas scene, digging into delicious seafood, and marveling at architecture and art by Gaudí and Picasso.

  24. 9 Days in Spain: Top Itinerary to See Everything!

    5 Days in Spain; 6 Days in Spain; 7 Days in Spain; ... You will start your day with a tour of the Sagrada Familia, take the 10:00 a.m. guided tour, and learn about the stunning church. After the Sagrada Familia, move on to Park Güell and enjoy Gaudi's mosaic masterpiece. On top of that, you will enjoy one of Barcelona's skyline's most ...

  25. 10-Day Itinerary in Spain: Capture the Essence of Spain!

    Day 5 in Spain: Segovia: Where fairy tales meet Roman engineering. Another day, another day trip! This time, it makes sense to use the train, which will get you to Segovia in half the time of driving ... Sundays 12:30 pm-9:30 pm, tower tours go several times a day between 10:30 am and 7:30 pm; Price: EUR 4 + EUR 7 for the tower; The majesty ...

  26. Flavors Route: Tasting of 5 Wines With Pairing in Alicante

    Experience Overview. This 2-hour wine tasting experience in Alicante offers guests the opportunity to sample a curated selection of 5 wines paired with gourmet food pairings for €75 per person.. Participants will taste 2 white wines paired with seafood and light appetizers, 1 rosé paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, 1 robust red paired with rich cheeses, and 1 dessert wine paired ...

  27. Andorra Day Tour from Barcelona, Pass by France (Private, Pickup)

    Andorra, France and Spain Day Tour with 2 Guides and Hotel Pickup. 10. Full-day Tours. from . $179.03. per adult (price varies by group size) Andorra, France and Spain: The Original Three Countries Tour . 1,007. Historical Tours. from . $133.99. per adult. Andorra, France & Spain: 3 Countries in One Day from Barcelona. 394. Full-day Tours.