10 Day Spain Itinerary: Perfect For First Time Visitors!

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Planning your first trip to Spain and not sure where to begin? Just steal my 10 day Spain itinerary and you are all set! This Spain itinerary covers three of the most iconic and vibrant cities of Barcelona, Seville and Madrid. It also offers the perfect mix of art, history, food and cultural experiences. We just returned from this trip with friends (who were there for the first time) and I am already planning the next one!

Although this is a 10-day itinerary, keep in mind that travel time between cities will take up a whole day, so you will have about 9 full days to explore. The beauty of this route is that it gives you a taste of three different regions of Spain:

• Catalonia (Barcelona – Most vibrant and amazing!),
• Andalusia (Seville – my absolute favorite) and
• Central Spain (Madrid – royal, sophisticated Spain).

From Gaudí’s iconic architecture in Barcelona to flamenco evenings in Seville and the royal grandeur of Madrid, this itinerary balances bucketlist sights with local experiences like tapas tours, day trips and relaxing evenings in historic plazas.

This was not my first time in Spain (we had visited Barcelona and Spain back in 2017) but this trip felt completely different.

The food? Still incredible. The vibe? Slightly more chaotic this time, especially in Barcelona, but the richness of Spanish culture, the warm evenings and the endless variety of tapas made it a trip I will never forget.

If you are a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of Spain, this blog post will help you make the most of your 10 days in Spain.

10 Days In Spain: Itinerary At A Glance

Day	Destination	Highlights

Day 1	Arrive in Barcelona	La Rambla, Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral
Day 2	Barcelona	Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Tapas Tour
Day 3	Barcelona	Park Güell, Picasso Museum, Barceloneta Beach
Day 4	Barcelona –> Seville	Plaza de España, Santa Cruz, Metropol Parasol
Day 5	Seville	Royal Alcázar, Seville Cathedral, Flamenco Show
Day 6	Seville/Córdoba	Day trip to Córdoba, Mezquita, Jewish Quarter, Narrow Streets
Day 7	Seville –> Madrid	High-speed train, Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel, Tapas in La Latina
Day 8	Madrid	Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, Templo de Debod, San Ginés Churros
Day 9	Madrid	Prado Museum, Gran Vía, El Retiro Park sunset boat tour
Day 10	Depart Madrid	Light sightseeing, souvenir shopping

Spain 10 Day Itinerary Overview

Spain is a culturally and historically diverse country. This 10 day Spain itinerary is designed to give you the best of Spain in just over a week and a half without feeling rushed.

You’ll explore the architecture and beaches of Barcelona, soak in the soul of Andalusia in Seville and end your trip with royal palaces and world-class museums in Madrid.

If it is your first time in Spain, this trip is ideal. You’ll cover the most iconic cities, eat some of the best tapas in the country while enjoying seamless travel mostly by high speed train.

Here’s why I chose these cities and you should too:

• Barcelona gives you a glimpse into Gaudí’s genius architectural marvels, incredible tapas and food of Barcelona coastal views and modern Catalan culture.
• Seville, in the heart of Andalusia, is one of the most romantic cities in Spain with flamenco, Moorish palaces and old-world charm. Andalusia and Seville will forever remain one of the my favorite places in the world.
• Madrid, in Central Spain, is a blend of sophisticated city life, royal landmarks and amazing green spaces like El Retiro. It gives you a glimpse of central Spain.

With this itinerary, you’ll experience 3 cities with their own unique vibe, cuisine and cultural identity. It is also a great way to decide which part of Spain you want to come back to for a longer trip. I have been to Barcelona and the region of Costa Brava multiple times and already planning my trip to Andalusia next!

Day 1 – Arrive in Barcelona

Barcelona was the first stop on our 10 day Spain itinerary, and even though we had been here before, we were excited to be back. But I’ll be honest – Barcelona felt different this time.

The architecture and food still blew me away, but the crowds around Las Ramblas and the Barcelona Cathedral felt more chaotic than I remembered.

I feel bad saying this but it was also dirtier than our 2017 trip especially Las Ramblas area. Still, this is one of the most popular destinations in Spain for a reason and a great place to start your trip.

You will spend 3 days in Barcelona which is perfect to cover most of the best places in Barcelona.

Once you arrive and check into your hotel (we had arrived in the afternoon), spend your first day/afternoon exploring the historic center of Barcelona on foot.

Depending on your energy level, you can either take it easy or take a guided tapas tour in El Born and old town.

Day 1 Afternoon/Evening:

• Walk along La Rambla, the most famous street in the city. It is full of street performers, souvenir shops and great for strolling. Please be mindful of your surroundings as pickpocketing is rampant on Las Ramblas.
• Get lost in the Gothic Quarter, filled with narrow streets, charming plazas and the striking Barcelona Cathedral.
• Watch out for scammers and balloon artists near the cathedral. Unfortunately, I got scammed by one 😭. Seriously, do not engage with them. My little girl wanted a balloon and we got sucked into the drama, haha.
• Stop for drinks and tapas at a local taberna in the Gothic Quarter or the most famous La Boqueria Market. Many places serve excellent jamón ibérico, grilled mushrooms, olives and of course, local wine! Barcelona is a haven for foodies especially if you love seafood and Mediterranean cuisine like me.
• If you prefer something more structured, a walking tour of El Born and Gothic Quarter is a great way to start the first day. I highly recommend taking a tapas tour not just for food but it one of the best ways to explore the city through local’s point of view.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

• Le Meridien Barcelona (La Rambla) – A pleasant stay located right next to Old town with great service and close to old town.
• Mandarin Oriental Barcelona (Eixample) – One of the best luxury hotels and the best place to stay in the exclusive Passeig de Gracia. Perfect for those wanting to stay near Casa Batlló, Casa Milà and the Eixample area.
• W Barcelona (Barceloneta Beach) – The most iconic view and hotel in Barcelona. Perfect for those who want a beachfront vibe with rooftop bars, sunsets and sea views.

Day 2 – Gaudí Icons & Tapas Tour

Day 2 is all about Gaudí’s masterpieces and one of my favorite experiences from the entire trip – a guided tapas tour in the evening.

If you love architecture, you’ll be in awe of how different and imaginative each building is.

And if you love food? Let’s just say Barcelona knows how to do tapas. Barcelona is a foodie’s paradise and you can read my full Barcelona foodie guide to learn all about best places to eat!

Morning

Start with a visit to the La Sagrada Familia – the most iconic landmarks in Spain. La Sagrada Familia is one of the top attractions in Barcelona and a must visit! You’ll want to buy skip-the-line tickets well in advance.

• Head to the park across from the main entrance for the best photo ops.
• Don’t skip the Terrazza, which gives you the best views of the intricate façade.

Afternoon

Head to the Eixample district for lunch at Vinitus or Cerveseria Catalana for some delicious Catalan cuisine before exploring Gaudi’s other works:

• Casa Batlló – This is one of my personal favorites. The interiors feel like an underwater dream and the rooftop is a showstopper. We actually visited Casa Batlló before visiting La Sagrada Familia (early morning first access tour) and were awestruck by the curved shapes and nature inspired structure.

• Casa Milà (La Pedrera) – Another incredible building designed by Antoni Gaudi. The rooftop chimneys inspired the stormtroopers in Star Wars. It is a popular spot for Gaudí and Star Wars fans.

If you have time, walk along Passeig de Gràcia, the most luxurious shopping street in Barcelona. It is full of designer stores and architectural gems.

Evening

Book a guided tapas tour through neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter and El Born. Ours was led by a local who shared how much the city has changed over the past few years through gentrification and tourism.

I cannot recommend this experience enough. We sampled everything from anchovies, Spanish sausages and olives to lesser-known Catalan specialties and of course, sangria.

It was also a fun way to explore the city by foot at night, meet other travelers and get off the beaten path.

Pro tip: Don’t miss a gelato afterward – some of the best shops are near Plaça de Sant Jaume and El Born.

Day 3 – Culture, Views & Montserrat

On the last full day in Barcelona, mix in a bit of culture, stunning views and a quick escape from the city. This was one of the most rewarding days of the trip and a great way to see a different side of Catalonia.

Morning

Start early at Park Güell to catch the sunrise. I recommend booking the earliest ticket slot – the morning light, fewer crowds and city views from this UNESCO World Heritage Site are unbeatable.

After Park Güell, you can visit Palau de la Música Catalana. It is one of the most beautiful concert halls in Europe. Even if you don’t have time for a show, a quick guided tour of the interiors is worth it just for the architecture alone.

Afternoon – Half Day Trip To Montserrat

Head out for a half day trip to Montserrat, just under an hour from Barcelona by train or private tour.

• Known for its jagged mountain backdrop and Benedictine monastery, Montserrat is a completely different vibe from the city.
• You can hike to the viewpoints, ride the funicular or simply walk around and take in the scenery.
• Don’t miss the Black Madonna inside the basilica – a big draw for spiritual travelers.

This is also a great chance to breathe in some fresh air, take a short hike, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings before wrapping up your time in Barcelona. Honestly, this was one of the most spiritual and peaceful experiences I’ve had. Highly recommend even a guided tour of Montserrat if you are short on time!

If you prefer something different, explore the Costa Brava region. It is one of the best short trips from Barcelona.

Evening

Return to the city and head to Barceloneta beach for a casual dinner or evening stroll.

• Walking around the Marina at sunset was one of my favorite low-key moments of the trip. My daughter had so much fun dancing along with the street performers with a gelato in hand.
• Grab a sangria by the beach or dine at one of the many seaside restaurants to end your Barcelona stay.

Day 4 – Travel Day: Barcelona to Seville

It is time to say goodbye to Barcelona and head south to Seville – the capital of Andalusia and one of the most romantic cities in Spain. And 3 days in Seville is actually perfect! You have two options for traveling between these cities:

• High-speed train: A scenic 5.5 hours train ride
• Flight: Around 1.5 hours plus time to get to airport

Since we were traveling with a 4 year old child and didn’t want to spend all day in transit, we chose the flight and so glad we did. It was quick and smooth; we also had time to explore Seville after checking in.

If you’re traveling light or want a slower pace, the train is a great option too. Our friends did this and enjoyed the ride.

Once we landed and checked in to our hotel, we were immediately struck by how different Seville felt from Barcelona. The architecture was grand, the streets were colorful but calmer and the golden-hour lighting on the historic buildings was incredible.

Afternoon/Evening Exploring Seville

It is time to explore Seville! I can’t find enough words to say how much I loved Seville. The colorful architecture, horse drawn carriages felt like stepping back in time. I just loved it may be because I am an old soul! ☺️

• Check out the stunning Plaza de España – one of the most beautiful plazas in Europe. Visit during golden hour to see its beauty.
• Explore the Santa Cruz neighborhood, filled with narrow streets, orange orchards and historic charm.
• Walk to Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol) – a massive modern structure with rooftop views of the city. We went for sunset and it did not disappoint.
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the old town. It is touristy, yes, but a lovely way to rest your feet while seeing the sights. It is also fun for kids!

This was our first night in Southern Spain and the energy here was completely different. The region of Andalusia felt more intimate, relaxed and traditional. I really felt at home in this amazing region and can’t wait to go back!

Where to Stay in Seville

• Hotel Doña Maria – Right across from the Seville Cathedral, this has one of the best rooftop terraces in the city with Giralda Tower views and a pool.
• Hotel Alfonso XIII – The city’s most iconic hotel with historic interiors and top-tier service.
• Palacio de Villapanés – Elegant and quiet with a romantic inner courtyard. Feels like staying in a private mansion.

Honestly, You can’t go with any decent hotel in Seville.

Day 5 – Seville’s Incredible Landmarks

Explore Seville’s historic city center and this was the day I really fell in love with the city. The city felt cinematic, especially in the early morning light.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you will spot some of the filming spots too.

Morning

I started my day with a sunrise visit to the Plaza de Espana again because I couldn’t get enough of it but that’s me!

Start at the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe.

• Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets in advance. This place can get crowded.
• Wander through the tiled rooms, Moorish arches and the best part – its beautiful gardens.
• GOT fans will recognize it as the setting for Dorne.

From there, walk over to the Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world.

Climb the Giralda bell tower for amazing views over the city. It is a gradual ramp instead of stairs and totally manageable even with kids.

Midday Tapas Break

This is a great time to slow down and enjoy some local food. Try a casual spot nearby that serves traditional Andalusian favorites:

• Patatas Bravas and Paella
• Marinated olives
• My absolute favorite – the gazpacho soup, perfect to cool down on a sunny day.

You’ll find many tapas bars around Avenida de la Constitución or tucked into the Jewish Quarter nearby.

We went to El Librero Tapas Y Quesos in Santa Cruz and the gazpacho along with Manzanilla sherry was exactly what we needed on a hot day!

Evening

Book a Flamenco show for the evening. Andalusia is where Flamenco was born and Seville is one of the best places in Spain to experience it.

• We went to Tablao El Arenal, and it was absolutely worth it.
• You can book a dinner + show combo or just the performance.
• Not all shows are kid-friendly, but this one was and my daughter had a blast.

Watching flamenco in Seville was one of the most memorable parts of our entire trip – it was passionate and beautifully intense. You can’t miss it!

Remember, NO filming videos or photos during the show.

Day 6 – Day Trip to Córdoba

Seville is small enough to explore in a couple of days so you can use the extra day to take a day trip to Córdoba. Córdoba is one of the best preserved historic cities in southern Spain. It is small enough to explore in a few hours but packed with rich history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and charming narrow streets.

You can easily get to Córdoba by high-speed train from Seville in about 45 minutes. I recommend heading out in the morning so you have enough time to explore and return to Seville by late afternoon.

If you don’t care to plan a day trip all by yourself, you can take a guided tour of Córdoba from Seville. We took the private tour because we couldn’t be bothered with taking the train with a toddler and it was very convenient.

Morning

Once you arrive, head straight to Córdoba’s most popular attraction – the Mezquita-Catedral (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba).

• This building is jaw-dropping. It is an architectural blend of Moorish and Christian influences.
• Walking through the red and white striped arches inside feels like stepping into another world.
• It is one of those places where even the photos don’t do it justice.

Afterward, wander the Jewish Quarter. It is one of the oldest parts of the city filled with quiet alleyways, whitewashed walls and flower-lined patios.

Midday

Stop for lunch at a local taberna. You will find great options near Plaza de las Tendillas. Córdoba is known for dishes like salmorejo (a thicker version of gazpacho) and grilled eggplant with honey (my favorite!).

If you have time, visit Casa de las Cabezas (the lesser-known Royal Stables) and the Roman Bridge for panoramic views of the city..

Evening

Head back to Seville by early evening and enjoy a relaxed dinner in Santa Cruz. After a full day of walking, take it slow with some sherry and a final stroll near the Cathedral.

Day 7 – Seville to Madrid

It is time to say goodbye to Seville and head to Spain’s capital city — Madrid, located in Central Spain. The high-speed AVE train is the best way to travel between the two cities, taking about 2.5 hours and arriving right in the city center.

I had only spent one day on my last trip in 2017 and immediately knew I had to come back for more. 3 days in Madrid may not be enough to explore all of Madrid but gives you a feel of Madrid’s opulence and its neighborhoods.

Madrid is completely different from Seville or even Barcelona. It felt more polished, grand and is quite big. While Madrid is big, it is incredibly walkable within the neighborhoods.

Morning

Have a relaxed breakfast in Seville before checking out. If you’re staying near Santa Cruz, this is the perfect time for one last stroll through the quiet morning streets.

Take a late morning train (around 11–12 PM) so that you can arrive in Madrid in time for hotel check-in.

Once you arrive in Madrid (around 3 PM), check into your hotel and get refreshed before heading out for the evening.

Evening in Madrid

Start your Madrid experience with a casual walk through the historic city center:

• Visit the lively Plaza Mayor, surrounded by cafes and arcades.
• Head to Mercado de San Miguel to sample everything from seafood tapas to gourmet olives and Rioja 🍷. Being a foodie, visiting the food markets is one of my favorite things to do in Europe.
• Walk over to Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s main squares and a great spot for people watching.

Later, make your way to La Latina for a proper tapas crawl on Calle Cava Baja – one of the best places in Madrid for a night of bar-hopping and small plates.
This was one of our favorite food nights in Spain that we enjoyed with our friends.

Where to Stay in Madrid

• Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid (Retiro Park area) – Old-world luxury and service, just across from El Retiro Park and Museo del Prado. With beautiful parks and luxury shopping, this is actually my favorite area to stay.
• Rosewood Villa Magna (Salamanca) – A high end luxury hotel with incredible dining and spacious rooms in an upscale neighborhood. Can’t go wrong with the Rosewood hotels any day.
• Gran Hotel Inglés (Old City Center) – A five-star boutique hotel with Art Deco elegance, amazing service, and a fantastic location.

Day 8 – Royal Palace, El Retiro & Historic Center

On Day 8, dive into the main attractions – the Royal Palace, El Retiro Park and stroll Madrid’s historic city center. It was on this day I truly saw how royal and sophisticated Madrid is. From glorious interiors to spacious parks and lively neighborhoods, it is a city that blends history with modern charm beautifully.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real).

• I highly recommend taking a guided tour to get context on the rooms, tapestries and artwork.
• The palace is massive so pace yourself. I loved the throne room, banquet hall and royal china collection.

Right next to the palace is the Almudena Cathedral. The church is worth checking out and climb the dome for panoramic views of Madrid.

Midday

For lunch, dine at Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world per Guinness Records (founded in 1725). It was perfect refuel before a walk through the city.

Don’t miss a quick stop at Chocolatería San Ginés for a hot cup of chocolate and churros. Even in the summer, it is worth it.

After lunch, head back to your hotel for a siesta (as everything closes). If you are visiting Madrid in the summer, it will be so hot that you will need a siesta in the afternoon.

Evening

In the late afternoon, head to El Retiro Park, Madrid’s most iconic park in the middle of the city. I love visiting parks in new cities and was amazed by the number of green spaces in Madrid. And El Retiro was absolutely stunning.

• Rent a rowboat at the Crystal Palace lake. We timed the tour perfectly at sunset and it was magical.
• The Crystal Palace itself is also worth visiting. It often hosts art exhibits and an amazing spot.

From there, continue walking toward Plaza de España or hop on a tuk-tuk tour if your feet are tired.

End the night in Malasaña – a fun, youthful neighborhood with great bars, boutique shops and live music.

Day 9 – Art and Shopping in Madrid

On our last full day in Spain, we kept it a little flexible and it ended up being one of our favorites. We combined one of Europe’s and Madrid’s best museums with a half-day trip to Toledo, some light shopping and fine dining.

Morning – Half-Day Trip to Toledo

If you are up for one last adventure, take a morning high-speed train to Toledo. It is only about 30 minutes from Madrid and must visit IMO.

• This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its medieval charm. It offers a mix of Christian, Muslim, Jewish history and beautiful hilltop views.
• Walk through the old town, explore the Jewish Quarter and visit the Toledo Cathedral and Alcázar.

We returned by early afternoon and still had time to check out more Madrid favorites. If you prefer to stay in the city, start your day with museum visit and shopping instead.

Midday

After returning from Toledo, visit the Museo Nacional del Prado, one of Europe’s best art museums.

• See masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya.
• Check out the incredible Reina Sofia Museum or enjoy a stroll through Salamanca neighborhood.

Also check out Plaza de Cibeles and Puerta de Alcalá.

Evening

If you haven’t already, walk up to Templo de Debod — a popular sunset spot with sweeping views of the city skyline.

Or for a relaxed evening, enjoy upscale shopping in Salamanca.

End your last full day in Madrid with fine dining near Barrio de Salamanca or Gran Vía – two of Madrid’s best areas for upscale dining and shopping.

Day 10 – Departure from Madrid

Morning

It is the last day of your 10-day Spain itinerary and depending on your flight time, you might have time for a final cortado or a stroll before heading to the airport.

If your flight is later in the day, enjoy a quiet morning walk through the Retiro Park or grab breakfast in Chueca or Salamanca. You can even squeeze in a quick stop at a souvenir shop for last-minute gifts. We picked up delicious olive oil, Spanish paprika and ceramics that are easy to pack.

Travel Notes

Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is well-connected and efficient.

• The metro or taxi from the city center takes about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
• Make sure to leave plenty of time, especially during high season.

And that’s it! From the colorful streets of Barcelona to the historic charm of Seville and the royal vibe of Madrid, this 10-day Spain itinerary gives you a taste of three different regions – Catalonia, Andalusia and Central Spain.

FAQs About Visiting Spain In 10 Days

What is the best time of the year to visit Spain?

The best time to visit Spain is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October).

• These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and perfect for exploring cities like Barcelona, Seville and Madrid.
• Summer (especially July and August) can be extremely hot (especially in southern and central Spain). Temperatures can go as high as 42C (105F).
• Summer is also the busiest time with high hotel prices.

I went in late October and mid summer (July) and enjoyed both seasons. My husband definitely preferred the cooler autumn weather.

What adjustments can I make to this 10-day itinerary to include other regions?

If you want to explore other parts of Spain, here are a few adjustments:

• For Northern Spain: Swap Seville for San Sebastián or La Rioja for wine tasting and beautiful coastal towns in the Basque Country.
• For a road trip: Replace Madrid with a road trip through Valencia, Costa Brava and down to Jerez de la Frontera.
• For religious or cultural sites: Add a visit to Santiago de Compostela or the Valencia Cathedral.
• If you have an extra day, you could spend it exploring small towns like Ávila or Segovia from Madrid.

Are tourists still welcome in Barcelona and Spain in general?

You might have seen all over the news about anti-tourism protests in Barcelona and Spain. We talked to many locals and tour guides and learned that overtourism has been a concern in recent times but tourists are still welcome and tourism is a big part of Spain’s economy. It is important more than ever to be respectful and aware.

• Avoid large tour groups, support local businesses and stay away from over-touristy areas like La Rambla.
• Be mindful of noise, litter and be respectful, especially in residential neighborhoods.
• Choose hotels instead of Airbnbs as short term rentals are part of the bigger problem.

We had a great time in Spain, but it is worth noting that Barcelona felt very different from our 2017 visit. It was more crowded, dirtier in places like Las Ramblas and the rise in scams (like balloon artists near the cathedral) was noticeable.

Stay alert, don’t engage with scammers, and take the usual precautions against pickpockets, especially in popular spots and public transportation.

How to get around Spain between cities?

The best way to get around Spain between major cities is by high-speed train (Renfe AVE).

• The rail system is fast, reliable and usually drops you off right in the city center.
• For longer distances or limited time, domestic flights can also be a good option – especially between Barcelona and Seville.
• Renting a car makes more sense if you’re doing a longer road trip through rural areas, beach towns or the Basque Country.

Public transportation within cities is also excellent. Metro systems in Barcelona and Madrid are clean, safe, and easy to use. Ride share Apps are helpful alternatives to taxis.

Is Spain a good destination for first-time visitors to Europe?

Absolutely. Spain is one of the best places in Europe for a first trip and one of the top European summer destinations.

• It is easy to navigate, the people are friendly, and it offers a mix of history, beaches, food and city architecture.
• The cultural attractions are world-class and the slower pace in places like Andalusia helps balance the faster vibe of cities like Barcelona.

If you’re planning your first trip to Europe, this 10-day Spain itinerary gives you a little of everything. If you are looking for another classic, choose 10 days in Italy for a great intro to Europe!

Final Thoughts

If you are considering a trip to Spain and want a route that feels iconic but still doable, this 10 day Spain itinerary is a great one. 

You get the best of Catalonia, Andalusia and Central Spain in one trip and each region feels completely different. 

Barcelona brings the bold architecture and beach energy, Seville gives you that classic southern Spain magic and Madrid ties it together with a chic vibe and some of the best museums in Europe.

We started in Barcelona, flew to Seville, then took the high-speed train from Seville to Madrid and flew home from Madrid. It felt smooth and it gave us enough time in each city without constantly packing up.

A few things I’d do again in a heartbeat:

• Book a tapas tour early in Barcelona. Do not miss it.
• Prioritize the big-ticket sights with skip-the-line tickets and guided tours when it matters (Sagrada Familia, Royal Alcázar, Royal Palace, Prado Museum).
• Keep one slower evening in every city. Spain is best experienced when you do not rush every minute.

To be honest, Barcelona did not feel like the same city we visited in 2017. It felt like we needed to be on alert for pickpockets and scammers. BUT the food was still amazing and the Catalonian charm is still there. Atleast 2-3 days in Barcelona must be part of your Spain trip.

Seville was the opposite. I fell in love with Seville and Andalusian region in general and my 3 day Seville itinerary was perfect. I wanted to visit this part of Spain for years and it lived up to the dream. The tapas here were next level. I still think about the jamón, gazpacho and the sherry.

And Madrid surprised me most of all. It is rich, stylish and full of life. I left already plotting an extra day next time.

Pin For Later

Planning a trip to Spain? Read more…

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