Eight-Day Itinerary in Spain

  • Day 1: Barcelona
    Estimated travel time: 25 minutes (14.5 km) from Barcelona-El Prat Airport

    Barcelona is one of the most fantastic destinations in Spain, known for its magnificent architecture, beaches, and gastronomy. Start your journey by exploring Park Guell, Antoni Gaudi's famous masterpiece, and then head to the heart of the city, Plaça de Catalunya. From there, visit the Gothic Quarter and enjoy a delicious dinner at La Barceloneta, one of the best seafood restaurants in town.

  • Day 2: Valencia
    Estimated travel time: 3 hours (350 km) from Barcelona

    Valencia, the land of Paella, is the perfect place to try this traditional Spanish dish. Visit the City of Arts and Sciences, one of the largest cultural centers in Europe, and the Central Market, a historic culinary gem. Spend the evening strolling along Playa de la Malvarrosa or sample more of Valencia's cuisine at Vuelve Carolina.

  • Day 3: Madrid
    Estimated travel time: 3.5 hours (354 km) from Valencia

    Discover Spain's capital, Madrid, with its bustling streets and world-renowned museums. Start your day off at the Prado Museum, followed by a stroll through El Retiro Park. Catch a glimpse of the Royal Palace and finish the day by visiting Gran Via, filled with great shops and street performers.

  • Day 4: Toledo
    Estimated travel time: 1 hour (75 km) from Madrid

    Uncover the rich history of Toledo, known for its medieval architecture and multiple landmarks. Walk through the Jewish Quarter and visit the Synagogue. Don't miss the chance to see The Cathedral of Toledo or the ancient Mosque of Cristo de la Luz, two iconic locations to experience the city's stunning artistry.

  • Day 5: Seville
    Estimated travel time: 2.5 hours (532 km) from Toledo

    Seville is Southern Spain's and Andalusia's capital, rich in heritage and awe-inspiring architecture. Visit the Alcazar Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the stunning views from the top of the Giralda Bell Tower. Witness a bullfight at Plaza de Toros or head to a flamenco show in the evening.

  • Day 6: Granada
    Estimated travel time: 2.5 hours (251 km) from Seville

    Granada is known for having one of the world's most treasured ancient monuments - the Alhambra Palace. Head there early in the morning and spend the day exploring its vast courtyards and intricate buildings. In the evening, wander through the Albaicin district to sit and enjoy the sunset views from the nearby hills.

  • Day 7: Costa del Sol
    Estimated travel time: 1.5 hours (147 km) from Granada

    Take a trip to Costa del Sol, a beautiful coastal town with stunning beaches and high-end resorts. Relax by the shore, go swimming in the ocean, or explore the local bars and restaurants. Add some adventure to your day with some water activities like surfing or sailing.

  • Day 8: Malaga
    Estimated travel time: 35 minutes (10 km) from Costa del Sol

    Head to the lively city of Malaga, known for its museums, beaches, and nightlife. Walk through the historic city center, encompassing the Malaga Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and the Mercado Central de Atarazanas. Finish your journey with dinner at the Michelin-starred Aire Gastrobar.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Park Guell, Barcelona (1-2 hours, Free)
  • La Barceloneta, Barcelona (2-3 hours, $45-$60 for two)
  • Central Market, Valencia (1-2 hours, $20-$40)
  • Vuelve Carolina, Valencia (2-3 hours, $50-$75 for two)
  • Prado Museum, Madrid (2-3 hours, $10-$15 entrance fee)
  • The Cathedral of Toledo, Toledo (1-2 hours, $5 entrance fee)
  • Alcazar Palace, Seville (2-3 hours, $15-$20 entrance fee)
  • Alhambra Palace, Granada (3-4 hours, $20-$30 entrance fee)
  • Costa del Sol Beaches, (3-4 hours, Free)
  • Aire Gastrobar, Malaga (2-3 hours, $75-$100 for two)
  • Total estimated cost: $240- $350

Transportation

Travelers can escape high transportation costs by traveling between cities by coach, which is cheap and convenient. The high-speed AVE train service visits most cities and offers efficient connections. Taxis are easily available but can be costly.

  • Bus from Barcelona to Valencia: $30-$60 (6 hours)
  • AVE train from Valencia to Madrid: $50-$100 (2 hours)
  • Bus from Madrid to Toledo: $10-$20 (1 hour)
  • Bus from Toledo to Seville: $30-$60 (4 hours)
  • Bus from Seville to Granada: $20-$40 (3 hours)
  • Bus from Granada to Costa del Sol: $15-$30 (2 hours)
  • Taxi from Costa del Sol to Malaga airport: $15-$30 (20 minutes)

Useful Tips

If you have additional days, visit Bilbao, home of the Guggenheim Museum, and Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. San Sebastian is renowned for its luxurious beaches and vibrant nightlife.

If you have less time, skip Toledo, and spend an extra day each in Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville.

Airports

In Spain, there are many international airports, including Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD), located 14 km from the city center of Madrid, Spain's busiest airport. Barcelona Airport (BCN) is the country's second-busiest airport, approximately 12 km from the center of Barcelona. Malaga Airport (AGP) is the nearest international airport to Costa del Sol, located 7 km from the city center.

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