This 8-day itinerary allows you to experience the best of Spain’s art, architecture, history, and gastronomy, from the cultural richness of Madrid and Seville to the modern beauty of Barcelona. Whether you’re strolling through historic streets or savoring delicious tapas, each day offers something unforgettable.
Day 1: Arrival in Madrid
- Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and check into the luxurious Hotel Ritz Madrid, located in the heart of the city. After settling in, spend the afternoon at the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco.
- Evening: Take a relaxing walk through El Retiro Park, a beautiful green oasis in the city, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by the lake. For dinner, head to Sobrino de Botín, the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, and indulge in a traditional Spanish meal like cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig).
Day 4: Exploring Seville
- Morning: Visit the Alcázar of Seville, a stunning royal palace with lush gardens, intricate tilework, and impressive architecture. It’s one of the finest examples of Mudejar art in Spain.
- Afternoon: Wander through the Santa Cruz neighborhood, a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and hidden courtyards. Don’t miss the picturesque Plaza de España and the Parque de María Luisa.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Guadalquivir River, offering scenic views of the city’s landmarks, including the Torre del Oro and the Triana Bridge.
Day 5: Journey to Barcelona
- Morning: Travel to Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest city, known for its modernist architecture and Mediterranean charm. Upon arrival, check into the luxurious Hotel Arts Barcelona, located near the beach.
- Afternoon: Start your exploration with a visit to Sagrada Familia, the iconic basilica designed by architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at its intricate facades and take in the stunning interior, filled with symbolic elements.
- Evening: Take a leisurely walk down La Rambla, Barcelona’s famous tree-lined street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers. End your day with a dinner at one of the seafood restaurants in La Barceloneta, where you can sample fresh fish and seafood paella.
Day 6: Exploring Barcelona
- Morning: Visit Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s masterpieces. Wander through its colorful mosaics, whimsical sculptures, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Afternoon: Head to the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of works by Pablo Picasso. The museum provides insight into the artist’s early life and the development of his groundbreaking style.
- Evening: For dinner, enjoy a Catalan feast at Cervecería Catalana, known for its delicious tapas, ranging from patatas bravas to tuna tartare.
Day 7: Day Trip to Girona
- Morning: Take a day trip to Girona, a medieval city located about an hour and a half from Barcelona. Start with a visit to the City Walls, where you can walk along the ancient defensive walls for stunning views of the city.
- Afternoon: Visit the Girona Cathedral, known for its impressive Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and don’t miss the beautiful Jewish Quarter with its narrow, cobblestone streets.
- Evening: After returning to Barcelona, enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner at Bobby's Free, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar and restaurant that offers creative Spanish cuisine.
Day 8: Departure from Barcelona
- Morning: Spend your final morning in Barcelona relaxing on the beautiful Barceloneta Beach or exploring the El Born district, known for its boutique shops and trendy cafes.
- Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute shopping at Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s premier shopping street, home to high-end brands and luxury boutiques.
- Evening: Head to Barcelona-El Prat Airport for your departure, reflecting on your unforgettable Spanish journey filled with culture, history, and culinary delights.