Planning a trip to Spain? Interested in spending a week in Spain? If so, here are top itineraries for visiting the most amazing destinations in Spain in a week
- HOW TO PLAN A WEEK IN SPAIN: See the best of Spain in one week
- 1. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY I: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia
- 2. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY II: Barcelona, and Madrid with fantastic day trips
- 3. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY III: Madrid and Northern Spain in a week
- 4. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY IV: Andalusia from Malaga
- 5. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY V: Madrid, Seville, Barcelona
- 6. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY VI: Andalusia from Seville
- 7. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY VII: The Best of Northern Spain in a week
HOW TO PLAN A WEEK IN SPAIN: See the best of Spain in one week
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Do you want to visit Spain, but you have only one week of your vacation?
Wondering what to see in Spain in 7 days, where to go in Spain in 7 days, and what to do in Spain in 7 days? Wondering is it possible to visit Spain in a week only? Or, what to do in Spain for a week?
Do you want to see the most beautiful places in Spain, the most romantic sites in Spain … in short, the best cities in Spain only in a week?
Ok, ok, of course, you want to see the best of Spain in 1 week! But, are you interested in one week in Spain starting in Barcelona? Or in one week in Spain starting in Madrid? Want to see southern Spain in a week? Or, wish to visit northern Spain in a week?
No worries. I got you covered!
I traveled to Spain a lot. Hmm …I set foot on every corner of Spain.
Besides visiting the most famous Spanish cities, like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Cordoba, and Granada, … I have hiked several Camino de Santiago routes.
I hiked over 1000 miles of Camino de Santiago across Spain. I hiked Camino del Norte (from Irun on the Spanish-French border to Santiago de Compostela), Via de la Plata (from Salamanca to Santiago de Compostela), and Camino Finisterre (from Santiago to Finisterre).
Furthermore, I walked Ruta Teresiana (Camino Teresiano) from Avila to Alba de Tormes.
So, let me help you to tailor a perfect one-week in Spain itinerary!
Here are the top seven itineraries for spending a week in Spain. I bet you’ll find 1 week Spain itinerary that will suit your taste and preferences!
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Southern Spain itinerary
Spain trip itinerary 1 week
1. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY I: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia
Spain in a week: Barcelona, Valencia, and historic cities from Madrid
| Day 1 | Madrid |
| Day 2 | Day trip to El Escorial from Madrid |
| Day 3 | Day trip to Segovia and Toledo from Madrid |
| Day 4 | Barcelona |
| Day 5 | Barcelona |
| Day 6 | Valencia |
| Day 7 | Back to Madrid (fly back home) |
A week in Spain itinerary: Madrid 3 days with day trips to El Escorial, Segovia, and Toledo; Barcelona 2 days; Valencia 1 day, Madrid 1 day – fly home
Day 1: Madrid
Fly to Madrid-Barajas Airport, head to your chosen stay in Madrid, and start exploring one of the most interesting cities in the world.
Madrid is one of the most vibrant European capitals. It’s the 5th largest European capital by population (following Istanbul, Moscow, Paris, and London).
Madrid is a paradise for art enthusiasts, architecture admirers, shopping-holics, nightlife lovers, gourmets, and bon vivants.
Here are the best things to do in Madrid for your Madrid itinerary:
- San Ginés chocolatería: have a traditional Spanish breakfast with the best churros in the iconic chocolatería in Madrid
- Madrid Royal Palace: get skip-the-line guided tour and visit the Royal Palace
- Plaza Mayor: stroll the main square in Madrid
- Mercado de San Miguel: have lunch at food stalls in the most popular food market in Madrid
- Prado Museum: get Prado Museum Direct Entrance Ticket and see the art of Velázquez, Rubens, Goya, El Bosco, El Greco
- El Retiro Park: visit the most gorgeous and most popular park in Madrid
- Live flamenco show at the historical Torres Bermejas tablao: get ticket for the show with food and drinks options
For the easiest Madrid sightseeing consider taking Madrid City Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour)
Day 2: Day trip to El Escorial
Spectacular El Escorial is a royal residence of the King of Spain. Royal El Escorial complex has a royal palace, library, museum, monastery, basilica, pantheon, university, and hospital.
Grandiose El Escorial is a World Heritage Site and a top tourist attraction in Spain. More than 500.000 visitors yer visit El Escorial. Visiting El Escorial in a day is one of the most popular day trips from Madrid. El Escorial is located about 50 km (31 mi) northwest of Madrid.
Time-wise I’d suggest taking a tour from Madrid to El Escorial. If you are more into sports than into history, you might want to check out the famous Santiago Bernabéu stadium on the 2nd day in Madrid.
- Royal El Escorial monastery with royal tombs: choose El Escorial & Basilica of the Valley 5-Hour Guided Tour
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: if you are a sports fan, visit Madrid: Bernabéu Stadium Tour with Direct Access Tickets
Day 3: Day trip to Segovia & Toledo
Segovia and Toledo are some of the most gorgeous historic cities in Spain. They are both easily reached on a day trip from Madrid.
Beautiful Segovia is a World Heritage City, famous for its Roman aqueduct with over 160 arches, wonderful Gothic-style cathedral, and incredible Alcázar of Segovia castle.
Amazing Toledo was the capital of Spain, before Madrid.
The old city of Toledo is renowned for its beauty. Spanish Toledo is a World Heritage City.
Christians, Muslims, and Jews lived peacefully next to each other in Toledo for centuries. They left an outstanding architectural heritage of over 100 historic monuments: churches, mosques, synagogues, and palaces in Toledo.
The Toledo Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece. The Franciscan Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes is a must-see in Toledo, while the Jewish Quarter is one of the most picturesque areas of Toledo. El Transito Synagogue and Sephardic Museum in Toledo provide a glimpse into the interesting history of Toledo and Spain. Besides that, the Alcázar of Toledo features a one-of-a-kind military museum.
Book the full-day tour of Segovia and Toledo: Alcazar with Cathedral & Lunch Options and enjoy one day visiting the magnificent historic towns of Segovia and Toledo.
Day 4: Barcelona
Sunny Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. So, if you haven’t visited Barcelona yet, this Spain itinerary explains how to visit this amazing city during your one week in Spain.
Take AVE high-speed train in Madrid and reach Barcelona in about 2 hours and 30 min. Taking the high-speed train is the fastest way and most enjoyable way to get from Madrid to Barcelona.
Just for your info, I’m not recommending taking a bus from Madrid to Barcelona, as a bus ride from Madrid to Barcelona takes about 8 hours.
Things to do in Barcelona
Get a Hola BCN: 48, 72, 96, or 120-Hour Public Transport Ticket and follow the suggested Barcelona itinerary:
Visit
- Sagrada Familia: Get a Fast-Track Access Ticket to Sagrada Familia and visit one of the most interesting cathedrals in the world
- Casa Milà: Get a Skip The Line Ticket to Casa Mila – Pedrera and enjoy audio tours
- Casa Batlló: Choose this entry ticket with self-audioguide tour
- enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Barcelona
For a quick Barcelona sightseeing, choose Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off Tour: 1 or 2- Day Ticket.
Day 5: Barcelona
On the 5th day in Barcelona, head to
- Las Ramblas and Boqueria Market: have a fabulous market tour at the famous Boqueria Market and learn how to cook seafood paella. This amazing food tour takes only 2 and a half hours.
- Park Guell: book in advance Barcelona: Park Güell Admission Ticket
- Camp Nou: if you are a sports fan, you will enjoy the Camp Nou Experience: FC Barcelona Museum and Tour
Day 6: Valencia
Beautiful Valencia is famous for its amazing City of Arts and Sciences complex.
The complex is one of 12 Treasures of Spain, along with the Cathedral of Seville, Cordoba Cathedral, Sagrada Familia, Alhambra, and Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao to name a few.
The City of Arts and Sciences complex includes several buildings: the Oceanogràfic,(Europe’s biggest aquarium), Hemisfèric (a digital 3D cinema), Umbracle (a garden), Science Museum (with interactive exhibitions related to science and technology), Palau de Les Arts (the Opera House), and Ágora ( an events’ venue).
The fastest and the most enjoyable way to get from Barcelona to Valencia is by AVE high-speed train. A train ride from Barcelona to Valencia takes 2 h and 40 min.
- Join Valencia Bike Tour and explore Valencia in 3 hours by bike
- visit the Oceanogràfic, the biggest oceanarium in Europe
Day 7: Madrid (Fly home)
The fastest way to get from Valencia to Madrid is by AVE high-speed train.
It takes between 2 hours and 30 min from Valencia to Madrid by train. There are more than 20 direct trains a day from Valencia to Madrid.
Fly home.
2. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY II: Barcelona, and Madrid with fantastic day trips
Spain in a week: Madrid and outstanding historic cities with Dali Museum from Barcelona
| Day 1 | Barcelona |
| Day 2 | Barcelona |
| Day 3 | Day trip to Girona, Figueres, and Dalí Museum from Barcelona |
| Day 4 | Madrid |
| Day 5 | Day trip to Segovia and Toledo from Madrid |
| Day 6 | Day trip to Avila and Salamanca from Madrid |
| Day 7 | Back to Barcelona (fly back home) |
A week in Spain itinerary: Barcelona 3 days with day trips to Girona and Figueres, Madrid 3 days with day trips to Segovia, Toledo, Avila, and Salamanca; Barcelona 1 day – fly back home
Day 1: Barcelona
- The Gothic Quarter
- La Rambla
- Mercado de la Boquería: take a food market tour and learn to make seafood paella
Day 2: Barcelona
Check out the most famous landmarks of Barcelona:
- La Sagrada Familia: get a Fast-Track Access Ticket to Sagrada Familia
- Casa Batlló: choose Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour
- Casa Milà: get Casa Milà-La Pedrera Skip The Line Ticket & Audio Guide
- Park Güell: Buy in advance Barcelona: Park Güell Admission Ticket
Day 3: Day trip to Girona, and Figueres
Gorgeous Girona is a medieval walled town located between Barcelona and Costa Brava in Catalonia.
It’s nicknamed the ‘City of the Four Rivers‘. Girona has a beautiful old Jewish Quarter (one of the best-preserved Jewish Quarters in Europe), a lovely baroque cathedral (the filming location of Braavos in Season 6 of Game of Thrones), charming River Onyar, hanging bridges, picturesque arcaded houses along the river, medieval walls walkway called the Passeig de la Muralla, and famous Eiffel bridge over the Onyar River (Eiffel made it before the Eiffel Tower in Paris).
Girona is also a gastronomic paradise for fresh fish and shellfish. If you’d love to try fresh seafood in Spain, check out great Michelin-star restaurants in Girona.
Catalonian Figueres is the birth town of artist Salvador Dalí. The town is famous for the surreal Teatre-Museu Gala Salvador Dalí. The Dalí Museum is the main attraction in Figueres. The museum holds one of the best collections of Dalí artwork in the world (paintings, drawings, three-dimensional installations, and sculptures). The Teatre-Museu Gala Salvador Dalí is one of the most unique museums in the world and a must-visit for art lovers.
Girona is 99 km (62 mi) away from Barcelona. And, Figueres is only 40 min away from Girona. Girona and Figueres are some of the best day trips from Barcelona!
Choose Girona, Figueres, and Dalí Museum Day Tour from Barcelona. The tour takes 7 hours.
Day 4: Madrid
The fastest way and most enjoyable way to get from Barcelona to Madrid is by AVE high-speed train. The train ride lasts 2 hours and 30 min.
Things to do in Madrid:
- San Ginés chocolatería: have a traditional Spanish breakfast with the best churros in Madrid
- Madrid Royal Palace: get skip-the-line guided tour and visit the Royal Palace
- Plaza Mayor: see the main square in Madrid
- Mercado de San Miguel: have lunch at food stalls
- Prado Museum: get Prado Museum Direct Entrance Ticket
- El Retiro Park: visit the most popular park in Madrid
- Live flamenco show at the historical Torres Bermejas tablao: get ticket for the show with food and drinks options
Day 5: Day trip to Segovia and Toledo
Visit Segovia and Toledo on a day trip from Madrid.
Book the full-day tour of Segovia and Toledo: Alcazar with Cathedral & Lunch Options and enjoy one day visiting the magnificent historic towns of Segovia and Toledo.
Day 6: Day trip to Avila and Salamanca
The Old City of Avila is a World Heritage Site. It is considered the ‘finest medieval remnant in Spain’.
Avila is nicknamed the Town of Stones and Saints. It’s probably best known for the 2 km long medieval walls and as the hometown of Saint Teresa of Avila (a Catholic saint and mystic).
The Old City of Salamanca is also a World Heritage Site. Salamanca is home to the Salamanca University (one of the oldest European universities), the Baroque-style Plaza Mayor, the historical Casa da las Conchas built in Gothic and Renaissance style with some Mudejar elements, fantastic Museo Art Nouveau y Deco, the Old Cathedral, and New Cathedral, and elegant Roman Bridge.
Avila and Salamanca are cities of exceptional beauty and fascinating history.
If you are an art lover or history buff, you will love historic Avila and Salamanca.
Avila is located 115 km (72 mi) northwest of Madrid. Salamanca is located bout 220 km (136) northwest of Madrid.
Book this awesome Tour of Avila & Salamanca from Madrid and see two fascinating historic cities in Spain.
Day 7: Barcelona (Fly home)
Back to Barcelona and fly back home
3. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY III: Madrid and Northern Spain in a week
Spain in a week: Northern Spain from Madrid
| Day 1 | Madrid |
| Day 2 | Day trip to Segovia & Toledo from Madrid |
| Day 3 | Burgos |
| Day 4 | Bilbao |
| Day 5 | San Sebastian |
| Day 6 | San Sebastian |
| Day 7 | Back to Madrid (fly back home) |
A week in Spain itinerary: Madrid 2 days with a day trip to Segovia and Toledo, Burgos 1 day; Bilbao 1 day; San Sebastian 2 days; Madrid 1 day – fly back home
Day 1: Madrid
Recommended things to do in Madrid for your Madrid itinerary:
- San Ginés chocolatería: have a traditional Spanish breakfast with the best churros in Madrid
- Madrid Royal Palace: get a skip-the-line guided tour and visit the Royal Palace
- Plaza Mayor: stroll the main square in Madrid
- Mercado de San Miguel: have lunch at food stalls
- Prado Museum: get Prado Museum Direct Entrance Ticket
- El Retiro Park: visit the most gorgeous and most popular park in Madrid
- Live flamenco show at the historical Torres Bermejas tablao: get ticket for the show with food and drinks options
For the easiest Madrid sightseeing take Madrid City Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour)
Day 2: Day trip to Segovia & Toledo
Head to a day trip from Madrid to Segovia and Toledo.
Book the full-day tour of Segovia and Toledo: Alcazar with Cathedral & Lunch Options and enjoy one day visiting the magnificent historic cities of Segovia and Toledo.
Day 3: Burgos
The best way to get from Madrid to Burgus is by bus. A bus ride from Madrid to Burgos lasts about 2 h and 30 min.
Lovely Burgos in Castilla is located on the Pilgrim’s Route to Santiago de Compostela. Burgos is a wonderful stop on the way from Madrid to Basque Country.
Burgos is known for the outstanding French-Gothic style Burgos Cathedral (a UNESCO site), royal Monasterio de las Huelgas with the tombs of many kings and queens, the Isabelline Gothic-style Cartuja de Miraflores monastery, and Arco de Santa María (former main gates to the old city).
Best things to do in Burgos for your Burgos itinerary:
- The historic center of Burgos
- Arco de Santa Maria: pass through the gate while walking from the town to the Cathedral
- Cathedral of Burgos (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Monasterio de las Huelgas: book your ticket in advance
- Cartusian monastery of the Cartuja de Miraflores
Day 4: Bilbao
The best way to get from Burgos to Bilbao is by bus. A bus ride from Burgos to Bilbao lasts 1 h and 45 min.
Bilbao, nicknamed ‘the city of the Guggenheim’, is the capital of the Basque country.
Bilbao is considered the creative capital of northern Spain. The city has a unique mix of modern avant-garde and traditional architecture. Bilbao is cool and traditional at the same time.
Bilbao is famed for the jaw-dropping Guggenheim Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, picturesque net of old streets called Las Siete Calles (The Seven Streets), Mercado de la Ribera Market (the largest indoor market in Europe), and the Casco Viejo neighborhood with the Cathedral of Santiago, the Plaza Nueva, and the Churches of San Antón, San Nicolás, and San Juan.
Best things to do in Bilbao:
- Casco Viejo: explore old narrow streets with cozy bars and restaurants, shops
- Plaza Nueva: indulge in pinxtos bars
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: admire Frank Gehry’s maasterpiece
- La Ribera Market: visit the largest indoor market in Europe
- Basilica of Begoña:
Day 5: San Sebastian
There are direct bus and train lines from Bilbao to San Sebastian.
A bus ride from Bilbao to San Sebastian lasts 1 h. Euskotren, the Basque country railway operator runs trains from Bilbao to San Sebastian. A train ride lasts 2 h and 30 min.
Glamourous San Sebastian is one of the most beautiful cities in the world (no exaggeration here). The architecture and natural setting of San Sebastian are strikingly beautiful.
San Sebastian is a paradise for beach lovers, foodies, architecture fans, and outdoors enthusiasts.
It has some of the best beaches in the world. San Sebastian’s La Concha beach is voted the most beautiful urban beach in Europe.
San Sebastian is a top culinary destination in the world with the second-highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in the world. It’s known as a pintxos mecca!
Best things to do in San Sebastian:
- Have beach time on the famed La Concha beach (voted the most beautiful urban beach in Europe)
- Stroll Parte Vieja (Old Town)
- Visit the Baroque-style Basilica of Santa María del Coro
- Explore San Sebastian sampling iconic Basque food on your way: book a 2-Hour Walking Tour with Pintxo and Drink
- Take a Ferry to Isla de Santa Clara
- Ride the waves at Playa de la Zurriola (famous among surfers)
Day 6: San Sebastian
San Sebastian is absolutely stunning.
Most likely you will fall in love with it. So, plan to stay for 2 days in San Sebastian.
You can choose to visit the charming villages of Hondarribia, San Pedro, and San Juan along the Basque coastline or tour fishing towns of Getaria and Zarautz with a visit to a Txakoli cellar house (Txakoli wine is a typical Basque sparkling wine).
Day 7: Madrid (Fly home)
The easiest way to get from San Sebastian to Madrid is to fly. But the cheaper option would be catching a train. Alvia’s high-speed train between San Sebastian and Madrid runs 5 times a day. Alvia’s high-speed train ride from San Sebastian to Madrid lasts about 6 hours.
Back to Madrid and fly back home
4. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY IV: Andalusia from Malaga
Spain in a week: Andalusia from Malaga
| Day 1 | Malaga |
| Day 2 | Hiking Caminito del Rey day trip from Malaga |
| Day 3 | Granada |
| Day 4 | Cordoba |
| Day 5 | Seville |
| Day 6 | Seville / Day trip to Ronda and Pueblo Blancos from Seville |
| Day 7 | Back to Malaga (fly back home) |
A week in Spain itinerary: Malaga 2 days with a day trip to Caminito del Rey, Granada 1 day, Cordoba 1 day, Seville 2 days with a day trip to Andalusian white villages, Malaga 1 day – fly back home
Day 1: Malaga
Fly to Malaga
Malaga airport (called Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport) is the 4th busiest airport in Spain (following only Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, Barcelona El Prat Airport, and Palma de Mallorca Airport by traffic).
So, it’s easy to find flights to Malaga and it’s the best place to start exploring fabulous Andalusia.
Sunny and sandy Malaga is one of the best vacation spots in Spain. Malaga is the capital of Costa del Sol and the birthplace of art genius Pablo Picasso. Malaga has more than 30 museums, great sandy beaches, numerous traditional tapas bars, and taverns, Michelin-star restaurants, and upscale cocktail bars. It’s a paradise for museum lovers, beach enthusiasts, and foodies.
Things to do in Malaga, Spain:
- Visit Roman Theater and Alcazaba fort: choose Málaga: Roman Theatre and Alcazaba Guided Tour
- Go to La Manquita Cathedral
- Explore Malaga by bike and sample Andalusian tapas: check out Bike Tour of Malaga: Tapas and Wine
- Admire Picasso’s art in the Museo Picasso: skip the lines and book Museo Picasso Málaga: Ticket & Audioguide
- Have beach time on the Playa Malagueta
RELATED READ: Best Things to Do in Malaga
Day 2: Caminito Del Rey
El Caminito del Rey (the Little Pathway of the King) is a spectacular path over the magnificent canyon of the Guadalorce River.
This day tour to Caminito del Rey from Malaga helps you hike Caminito on a day trip from Malaga. Hiking Caminito del Rey is one of the best things to do in Andalusia for adventure seekers.
Day 3: Granada
Granada is about 30 km (19 mi) away from Malaga.
The cheapest and fastest way to get from Malaga to Granada is by bus. A bus ride from Malaga to Granada lasts 1 h and 45 min.
Glorious Granada is located in Darro Valley in the foothill of the legendary Sierra Nevada. Granada is home to the Moorish masterpiece of Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens, the celebrated old Arabic quarter of Albayzin, and the popular caves of the gypsy quarter of Sacromonte.
- visit Alhambra: book a skip-the-line Alhambra ticket
- stroll Carrera del Darro, the main cobbled-stone street in Granada along the Darro River
- walk around the old Arabic quarter of Albayzin
- watch the sunset from Plaza de San Nicolás in Albayzin
- enjoy an authentic flamenco show in the gypsy quarter of Sacromonte: book tickets for a flamenco show at Cuevas Los Tarantos
- visit Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel
- have some free tapas in Granada (yes, tapas are free in Granada!)
Day 4: Cordoba
Cordoba is one of the most beautiful places in southern Spain.
Charming Cordoba is about 200 km (124 mi) away from Granada.
The fastest way to get from Granada to Cordoba is by train. A train ride from Granada to Cordoba lasts 1 h and 30 min. A bus ride from Granada to Cordoba lasts 2 h and 45 min.
Historic Cordoba was the capital of Moorish Spain. Cordoba is home to world-renowned Mezquita-Catedral ( a UNESCO World Heritage Site), bewitching Arab courtyards with stunning fountains and exotic flowers, trees, and aromatic plants, gorgeous Calleja de las Flores (Alley of the Flowers), old Jewish Quarter, and beautiful Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos palace with gardens.
- visit La Mezquita
- wander Juderia (the Old Jewish quarter in Cordoba)
- admire patios along Calleja de las Flores (Alley of the Flowers) in Juderia
- see Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos palace with gardens
- walk the historical Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir river
- enjoy classic Andaluz plates (don’t forget to try salmorejo soup!)
Day 5: Seville
Seville is about 140 km (87 mi) away from Cordoba.
The fastest way to get from Cordoba to Seville is by train. A train ride from Cordoba to Seville lasts 45 min. A bus ride from Cordoba to Seville takes up to 2 hours.
Royal Seville is the capital of Andalusia and a top tourist destination in southern Spain, and beyond.
Marvelous Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Seville is home to the Seville Cathedral (the world’s largest Gothic cathedral), the Alcázar of Seville (one of the most extravagant royal palaces in the World), the marvelous Plaza de Espana, and the interesting Metropol Parasol.
Things to do in Seville:
- check out Seville Cathedral, the tomb of Cristopher Colombus and climb Giralda tower (a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Seville): buy in advance Seville Cathedral and Giralda: Skip-the-Line Ticket
- visit Alcazar of Seville: choose Royal Alcázar of Seville: Skip-the-Line Ticket
- stroll the old Jewish quarter of Barrio Santa Cruz;
- admire magnificent Plaza de Espana and Parque de Maria Luisa;
- go to Metropol Parasol, also called “Las Setas” (the largest wooden structure in the world) for sunset views of Seville;
- have tapas in the vibrant neighborhood of Triana;
- visit Bullfighting Museum
RELATED READ: Best Things to Do in Seville, Spain
Day 6: Seville / Day trip to Ronda and pueblo blancos
There’s so much to do in beautiful Seville. One day is not enough to experience all the beauty of Seville.
But, if you would like to visit some of the most beautiful authentic Andalusian white villages, you can opt for this phenomenal Pueblos Blancos and Ronda Full-Day Trip From Seville
Day 7: Malaga (fly home)
Malaga is 200 km (124 mi) away from Seville.
The fastest option to get from Seville to Malaga is by train. A train ride from Seville to Malaga lasts 2 h. A bus ride from Seville to Malaga lasts 2 h and 30 min.
Fly home
5. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY V: Madrid, Seville, Barcelona
Spain in a week: Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona
| Day 1 | Madrid |
| Day 2 | Day trip to Segovia and Toledo from Madrid |
| Day 3 | Seville |
| Day 4 | Day trip to Ronda & pueblo blancos from Seville |
| Day 5 | Barcelona |
| Day 6 | Barcelona |
| Day 7 | Back to Madrid (fly home) |
A week in Spain: Madrid 2 days with a day trip to Segovia and Toledo, Seville 2 days with a day trip to Andalusian white villages; Barcelona 2 days, Madrid 1 day – fly back home
Day 1: Madrid
Fly to Madrid-Barajas Airport, head to your chosen stay in Madrid, and start exploring one of the most interesting cities in the world.
Here are the best things to do in Madrid for your Madrid itinerary:
- San Ginés chocolatería: have a traditional Spanish breakfast with the best churros in Madrid
- Madrid Royal Palace: get a skip-the-line guided tour and visit the Royal Palace
- Plaza Mayor: stroll the main square in Madrid
- Mercado de San Miguel: have lunch at food stalls in the most popular food market in Madrid
- Prado Museum: get Prado Museum Direct Entrance Ticket and see the art of Velázquez, Rubens, Goya, El Bosco, El Greco
- El Retiro Park: visit the most gorgeous and most popular park in Madrid
- Live flamenco show at the historical Torres Bermejas tablao: get a ticket for the show with food and drinks options
For the easiest Madrid sightseeing take Madrid City Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour)
Day 2: Day Trip to Segovia and Toledo
Go for a day trip to Segovia and Toledo from Madrid.
Book the full-day tour of Segovia and Toledo: Alcazar with Cathedral & Lunch Options and enjoy one day visiting the magnificent historic cities of Segovia and Toledo.
Day 3: Seville
Seville is about 530 km (330 mi) away from Madrid.
The fastest way to get from Madrid to Seville is by fast-speed train. A train ride lasts 2 h and 40 min. Just to mention, a bus ride from Madrid to Seville lasts about 7 h.
Things to do in Seville:
- check out Seville Cathedral, the tomb of Cristopher Colombus and climb Giralda tower (a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Seville): buy in advance Seville Cathedral and Giralda: Skip-the-Line Ticket
- visit Alcazar of Seville: choose Royal Alcázar of Seville: Skip-the-Line Ticket
- stroll the old Jewish quarter of Barrio Santa Cruz;
- admire magnificent Plaza de Espana and Parque de Maria Luisa;
- go up to Metropol Parasol, also called “Las Setas” (the largest wooden structure in the world) for sunset views of Seville;
- have tapas in the vibrant neighborhood of Triana;
- visit Bullfighting Museum
Day 4: Seville / Day trip to Ronda & Pueblos Blancos
Enjoy one day more in Seville or optionally choose this fantastic Pueblos Blancos and Ronda Full-Day Trip From Seville
Day 5: Barcelona
Barcelona is about 900 km (560 mi) away from Seville.
The fastest way to get from Seville to Barcelona is by plane.
A flight from Seville to Barcelona lasts 1 h 40 min. But there are also direct fast-speed train lines from Seville to Barcelona. A fast-speed train ride from Seville to Barcelona lasts 5 h and 30 min.
Things to do in Barcelona
Visit the most famous attractions in Barcelona:
- Sagrada Familia: Get a Fast-Track Access Ticket to Sagrada Familia and visit one of the most interesting cathedrals in the world
- Casa Milà: Get a Skip The Line Ticket to Casa Mila – Pedrera and enjoy audio tours
- Casa Batlló: Choose this entry ticket with a self-audioguide tour
- enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Barcelona
For a quick Barcelona sightseeing, choose Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off Tour: 1 or 2- Day Ticket.
Day 6: Barcelona
Enjoy visiting popular sites in Barcelona:
- Las Ramblas and Boqueria Market: have a fabulous market tour at famous Boqueria Market and learn how to cook seafood paella. This amazing food tour takes only 2 and a half hours.
- Park Guell: book in advance Barcelona: Park Güell Admission Ticket
- Camp Nou: if you are a sports fan, you will enjoy the Camp Nou Experience: FC Barcelona Museum and Tour
Day 7: Madrid (fly home)
The fastest way and most enjoyable way to get from Barcelona to Madrid is by AVE high-speed train. The train ride lasts 2 hours and 30 min.
Fly home
6. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY VI: Andalusia from Seville
Spain in a week: Andalucia from Seville
| Day 1 | Seville |
| Day 2 | Day trip to Ronda & pueblo blancos from Seville |
| Day 3 | Day trip to Cadiz from Seville |
| Day 4 | Cordoba |
| Day 5 | Malaga |
| Day 6 | Day trip to Granada & Alhambra from Malaga |
| Day 7 | Back to Seville (fly back home) |
A week in Spain itinerary: Seville 3 days with day trips to Andalusian white villages and Cadiz; Cordoba 1 day; Malaga 2 days with a day trip to Granada, Seville 1 day – fly back home
Day 1: Seville
Fly to Seville International Airport (SVQ).
Things to do in Seville:
- check out Seville Cathedral, the tomb of Cristopher Colombus and climb Giralda tower (a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Seville): buy in advance Seville Cathedral and Giralda: Skip-the-Line Ticket
- visit Alcazar of Seville: choose Royal Alcázar of Seville: Skip-the-Line Ticket
- stroll the old Jewish quarter of Barrio Santa Cruz;
- admire magnificent Plaza de Espana and Parque de Maria Luisa;
- go up to Metropol Parasol, also called “Las Setas” (the largest wooden structure in the world) for sunset views of Seville;
- have tapas in the vibrant neighborhood of Triana;
- visit Bullfighting Museum
Day 2: Day trip to Ronda & pueblo blancos
Visit beautiful Andalusian white villages – ‘pueblo blancos‘ on a day trip from Seville.
Take this fantastic Pueblos Blancos and Ronda Full-Day Trip From Seville and see the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia on a day trip from Seville.
Day 3: Day trip to Cadiz
Cadiz on the Costa de la Luz is one of the most beautiful seafront cities in Spain.
It’s known for amazing sandy beaches, San Sebastian Castle (a UNESCO site), Santa Catalina Castle, the charming Barrio El Pópulo neighborhood, monumental cathedral, and great seafood tapas bars.
Cadiz is about 120 km (75 mi) away from Seville.
A train ride from Seville to Cadiz lasts 1 h and 30 min. A bus ride from Seville to Cadiz lasts 1h and 40 min.
But time-wise and not to depend on public transport, the best is to take a comfortable Cadiz Full-Day Guided Excursion from Seville.
Day 4: Cordoba
Charming Cordoba is about 200 km (124 mi) away from Granada.
The fastest way to get from Granada to Cordoba is by train.
A train ride from Granada to Cordoba lasts 1 h and 30 min. A bus ride from Granada to Cordoba lasts 2 h and 45 min.
Things to do in Cordoba:
- visit La Mezquita
- wander Juderia (the Old Jewish quarter in Cordoba)
- admire patios along Calleja de las Flores (Alley of the Flowers) in Juderia
- see Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos palace with gardens
- walk the historical Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir river
- enjoy classic Andaluz plates (don’t forget to try salmorejo soup!)
Day 5: Malaga
If you want to have some additional beach time on the Costa del Sol, I suggest going to sunny Malaga.
Malaga is about 160 km (100 mi) away from Cordoba.
The fastest way to get from Cordoba to Malaga is by direct train. A high-speed train ride from Cordoba to Malaga lasts about 1 h.
Malaga is the capital of Costa del Sol and one of the best beach destinations in Spain.
Things to do in Malaga, Spain:
- Visit Roman Theater and Alcazaba fort: choose Málaga: Roman Theatre and Alcazaba Guided Tour
- Go to La Manquita Cathedral
- Explore Malaga by bike and sample Andalusian tapas: check out Bike Tour of Malaga: Tapas and Wine
- Admire Picasso’s art in the Museo Picasso: skip the lines and book Museo Picasso Málaga: Ticket & Audioguide
- Have beach time on the Playa Malagueta
Day 6: Day trip to Granada and Alhambra
Choose Granada and Alhambra Shore Excursion from Malaga and visit Granada and Alahambra on a day trip from Malaga.
Day 7: Seville (fly home)
Seville is about 200 km (124 mi) away from Malaga.
The fastest option to get from Malaga to Seville is by train. A train ride from Malaga to Seville lasts 2 h. A bus ride from Malaga to Seville lasts 2 h and 30 min.
Fly home
7. A WEEK IN SPAIN ITINERARY VII: The Best of Northern Spain in a week
Spain in a week: The Basque Country from Bilbao
| Day 1 | Bilbao |
| Day 2 | Half-day trip to the Basque countryside from Bilbao |
| Day 3 | San Sebastian |
| Day 4 | San Sebastian |
| Day 5 | Pamplona |
| Day 6 | A day trip to the La Rioja wine region from Pamplona |
| Day 7 | Back to Bilbao (fly back home) |
A week in Spain itinerary: Bilbao 2 days with a day trip to the Basque countryside; San Sebastian 2 days; Pamplona 2 days with a day trip to La Rioja wine region; Bilbao 1 day – fly back home
Day 1: Bilbao
Fly to Bilbao International Airport. It’s the largest airport in northern Spain.
‘The city of the Guggenheim’ is the capital of the Basque country. Start exploring the Basque country from the capital city.
Best things to do in Bilbao:
- Casco Viejo: explore old narrow streets with cozy bars and restaurants, shops
- Plaza Nueva: indulge in pinxtos bars
- Guggenheim Museum Bilbao: admire Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece
- La Ribera Market: visit the largest indoor market in Europe
- Basilica of Begoña (Virgin Begona is the saint patron of Biscay)
Day 2: Half-Day trip to the Basque Country
Book this fabulous Basque Country Tour From Bilbao and see the spectacular Vizcaya Bridge (the oldest transporter bridge in the world and a UNESCO site), the famous San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Game of Thrones filming location), the fishing town of Bermeo, the Urdaibai Biosphere (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the village of Gernika.
Day 3: San Sebastian
San Sebastin (Donostia) is 100 km (62 mi) east of Bilbao.
The fastest way is to get from Bilbao to San Sebastian is by bus. A bus ride from Bilbao to San Sebastian lasts 1 h.
San Sebastian is a paradise for beach lovers, foodies, architecture fans, and outdoors enthusiasts.
San Sebastian is a top culinary destination in the world with the second-highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants per square meter in the world. San Sebastian’s La Concha beach is voted the most beautiful urban beach in Europe.
Best things to do in San Sebastian:
- Have beach time on the famed La Concha beach (voted the most beautiful urban beach in Europe)
- Stroll Parte Vieja (Old Town)
- Visit the Baroque-style Basilica of Santa María del Coro
- Explore San Sebastian sampling iconic Basque food on your way: book a 2-Hour Walking Tour with Pintxo and Drink
- Take a Ferry to Isla de Santa Clara
- Ride the waves at Playa de la Zurriola (famous among surfers)
Day 4: Day trip to seaside villages of the Basque coastline
Choose Hondarribia, San Pedro, and San Juan Tour and visit some of the most charming seaside Basque villages in Biscay Bay.
Day 5: Pamplona
Pamplona is about 82 km (51 mi) south of San Sebastian.
Pamplona is the historic capital of the Kingdom of Navarre. It’s also a stop on the famous Camino de Santiago Pilgrim’s Route.
Pamplona is probably best known for the San Fermin festival with running bulls. The festival is held from 6-14 July. It would be great to plan this itinerary in July and to be in Pamplona during the Pamplona San Fermin festival.
Lovely Pamplona is a lovely medieval town, still partially surrounded by medieval walls, a 6th-century citadel, a Baroque town hall, and a Gothic cathedral.
Pamplona is also a famous culinary destination for fantastic pintxos.
Pamplona is a great stop on this Northern Spain itinerary for exploring the nearby Rioja region.
Day 6: Day trip to Rioja
Rioja wines are the most famous wines from Spain. Join Winery Tour to Rioja with Tasting and Lunch from Pamplona and visit a winery and vineyards of the most famous wine region in Spain.
Day 7: Bilbao (fly home)
Head back to Bilbao.
Bilbao is about 150 km (93 mi) away from Pamplona.
The fastest way to get from Pamplona to Bilbao is by bus. A bus ride from Pamplona to Bilbao lasts 2 h and 30 min.
Fly home.
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