Spain, a country rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes, offers countless experiences for travelers. But how can you make the most of just one week?
This comprehensive 7-day tour itinerary, one of the most popular Spain vacation itineraries, will guide you through the highlights of Spain, ensuring you get all the must-see attractions and hidden gems.
Whether you’re looking for Spain vacation ideas, this itinerary covers Spain’s most beloved destinations for a stress-free multi-destination trip.
Day 1-2: Barcelona – The Catalan Jewel
Day 1: Gaudí’s Masterpieces and Gothic Charm
Start your Spanish tour in the vibrant city of Barcelona. Barcelona, known for its unique architecture and bustling streets, captivates visitors as a highlight of many Spain vacation packages.
Morning: Begin with Antoni Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Familia. This breathtaking basilica, still under construction, is a testament to Gaudí’s genius. Booking tickets in advance avoids long queues. The intricate facades and soaring spires are awe-inspiring, and the play of light through the stained-glass windows creates a mesmerizing atmosphere inside.
Afternoon: Continue your Gaudí exploration with visits to Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). These whimsical structures showcase the architect’s distinctive style. Casa Batlló’s facade resembles a colorful sea of mosaic, while Casa Milà’s undulating stone exterior and wrought-iron balconies are equally captivating.
Evening: Wander down La Rambla, Barcelona’s famous pedestrian street. This tree-lined boulevard is always bustling with street performers, flower stalls, and souvenir shops. Stop by La Boqueria Market to sample local delicacies like jamón ibérico, fresh seafood, and regional cheeses. Conclude your day in the Gothic Quarter, home to the Barcelona Cathedral and remnants of ancient Roman walls. Its narrow, winding streets make this medieval neighborhood perfect for an evening stroll.
Day 2: Parks, Mountains, and Beach Vibes
As your 7 day Spain tour continues, immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding Barcelona. This day offers a perfect blend of urban parks, mountain vistas, and coastal relaxation, showcasing the diverse landscapes that make Spain so captivating.
Morning: Start your day at Park Güell, another Gaudí masterpiece offering panoramic views of the city. This whimsical park features colorful mosaics, unique architectural elements, and lush gardens. The famous lizard fountain and the serpentine bench are must-see spots.
Afternoon: Take a trip to Montserrat, a stunning mountain range home to a famous monastery. The journey itself is picturesque, with options to take a cable car or rack railway for the final ascent. Visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat abbey, home to the famous Black Madonna statue. Enjoy scenic hikes and breathtaking vistas of the Catalan countryside.
Evening: Return to Barcelona and relax at Barceloneta Beach. This urban beach offers a perfect blend of city and sea vibes. Take a stroll along the promenade, join a beach volleyball game, or simply soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, savoring local specialties like paella or fideuà.
Day 3: Valencia – Where Tradition Meets Futurism
When traveling in Spain, don’t miss Valencia, a perfect blend of old and new. Travel to Valencia via high-speed train (about 3 hours from Barcelona).
Morning: Explore Valencia’s historic center. Visit the Valencia Cathedral, home to what some claim is the Holy Grail. Climb the Miguelete bell tower for panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the nearby Central Market, one of Europe’s oldest-running food markets, where you can sample local produce and specialties.
Afternoon: Discover the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. This architectural marvel, designed by Santiago Calatrava, houses a planetarium, science museum, and Europe’s largest aquarium. The complex’s striking design, reminiscent of a spacecraft or a giant eye, contrasts beautifully with the historic city center.
Evening: Stroll through the Turia Gardens, a unique park created in the former riverbed of the Turia River. This green oasis stretches for 9 kilometers through the city, offering spaces for sports, relaxation, and cultural activities. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the entire park.
Day 4-5: Madrid – The Royal Capital
Day 4: Art and Royalty
No Spain vacation is complete without a visit to Madrid. Take the train to Madrid (about 1.5 hours from Valencia).
Morning: Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. While the royal family doesn’t live here, it’s used for state ceremonies. Tour the lavishly decorated rooms, including the Throne Room and the Royal Armory.
Afternoon: Explore the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Don’t miss iconic works like Velázquez’s “Las Meninas” and Goya’s “The Third of May 1808.” The museum’s collection spans from the 12th to early 20th century, offering a comprehensive look at European art history.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride in Retiro Park, the green oasis of Madrid. Once a royal garden, it’s now a public park with a large lake, beautiful monuments, and well-manicured gardens. Visit the Crystal Palace, a beautiful glass pavilion often used for art exhibitions.
Day 5: More Madrid Marvels
Morning: Start your day at the Reina Sofía Museum, where you’ll find Picasso’s famous Guernica. This museum focuses on 20th-century and contemporary art, complementing the Prado’s collection. Besides Picasso, you’ll find works by Dalí, Miró, and other modern masters.
Afternoon: Walk through historic Plaza Mayor, a grand square that has been the center of city life since the 16th century. Continue to Puerta del Sol, the heart of Madrid and the symbolic center of Spain. Don’t miss the statue of the bear and the strawberry tree, Madrid’s emblem.
Evening: Experience Madrid’s legendary nightlife with a tapas crawl in the La Latina district. This neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere and excellent tapas bars. Try local specialties like patatas bravas, croquetas, and calamares a la romana, washing it all down with Spanish wine or a refreshing tinto de verano.
Day 6: Seville – The Heart of Andalusia
When deciding where to go in Spain, Seville should be at the top of your list. Travel to Seville by high-speed train (about 2.5 hours from Madrid).
Morning: Visit the Seville Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, and climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views. The cathedral houses Christopher Columbus’s tomb and features an impressive altarpiece, one of the largest in the world.
Afternoon: Explore the Real Alcázar, a stunning example of Mudéjar architecture. This royal palace showcases a blend of Christian and Moorish designs. The lush gardens, with their fountains and pavilions, are particularly enchanting.
Evening: Take a leisurely cruise on the Guadalquivir River, offering a unique perspective of the city. Then have dinner in the lively Triana neighborhood, renowned for its ceramic workshops and flamenco heritage. Consider attending a flamenco show to experience this passionate art form where it originated.
Day 7: Granada – The Moorish Jewel
Complete your tour of Spain’s most beloved destinations with Granada. Take an early bus or train to Granada (about 3 hours from Seville).
Morning and Afternoon: Spend most of your day at the Alhambra, the pinnacle of Moorish architecture in Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes the Nasrid Palaces, with their intricate Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns, and the Generalife Gardens, a serene escape with fountains and flora. The views of Granada from the Alhambra are spectacular.
Evening: Wander through the historic Albaicín district, a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses that climb the hill opposite the Alhambra. Visit the Mirador de San Nicolás for a stunning view of the Alhambra set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. End your Spanish journey with dinner at a traditional Carmen (Andalusian house) with views of the illuminated Alhambra.
Comparison Table: Top Cities in this Itinerary
| City | Must-See Attraction | Culinary Specialty | Best For |
| Barcelona | Sagrada Familia | Paella | Architecture & Beaches |
| Valencia | City of Arts & Sciences | Horchata | Futuristic Design |
| Madrid | Prado Museum | Cocido Madrileño | Art & Nightlife |
| Seville | Real Alcázar | Gazpacho | Flamenco & History |
| Granada | Alhambra | Tortilla del Sacromonte | Moorish Heritage |
Travel Tips for Your Spanish Adventure
These tips will help ensure a smooth experience when traveling in Spain:
Book in advance: Popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Alhambra often sell out. Book tickets online before your trip to ensure entry and potentially save money.
Use public transport: Spain’s train network is efficient and comfortable. Consider getting a rail pass if you plan to use trains frequently. Within cities, metro systems and buses are usually the most convenient way to get around.
Adjust to Spanish time: Lunch is typically eaten around 2 PM and dinner after 9 PM. Many shops close for a siesta in the afternoon, usually between 2 PM and 5 PM. Plan your day accordingly to avoid being caught out by closed attractions or restaurants.
Learn basic Spanish phrases: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few Spanish words can enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. Simple phrases like “por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you), and “hola” (hello) can go a long way.
Stay hydrated: Spanish summers can be hot, especially in the south. Carry a water bottle and use public fountains to refill. Many bars and restaurants will provide tap water (agua del Grifo) if you ask, though some may charge a small fee.
FAQs
What’s the best time to visit Spain?
Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot, especially in the south, and is the peak tourist season. Winter is mild in coastal areas but can be cold in central Spain.
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
If you’re an EU citizen, you don’t need a visa. Many other nationalities, including US citizens, can enter for up to 90 days without a visa as part of the Schengen Agreement. Always check the specific requirements of your country before traveling.
Is it safe to travel in Spain?
Spain is generally very safe for tourists. As with any travel, be aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. Use common sense and keep your valuables secure.
Conclusion
This one-week itinerary offers a taste of Spain’s diverse regions, from Barcelona’s Mediterranean vibes to Granada’s Moorish splendor. While it’s impossible to see everything in just seven days, this tour hits many of Spain’s highlights, giving you a well-rounded experience of this captivating country.
Remember, travel is as much about the journey as the destination. Take time to savor the moments between attractions – whether it’s people-watching in a bustling plaza or savoring a leisurely meal of tapas. Spain’s charm lies not just in its monuments, but in its lifestyle and the warmth of its people.
