7-Day Madrid & Barcelona Highlights Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid & Evening Stroll

Morning: Arrive in Madrid and settle into your hotel. Take a brief rest before heading out.

Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely walk through Gran Vía, soaking up the bustling promenade and enjoying some coffee at a sidewalk café.

Evening: Stroll to Puerta del Sol to experience the vibrant heart of the city, with its iconic clock and lively street performers.

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Day 2: Madrid Historic Core

Morning: Start at Plaza Mayor, where you can admire the historic square’s architecture and grab a traditional snack.

Afternoon: Visit the impressive Royal Palace of Madrid, exploring its opulent interiors and regal gardens.

Evening: Wrap up the day at Temple of Debod to enjoy a stunning sunset over the cityscape, perfect for photo opportunities.

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Day 3: Madrid Art & Culture

Morning: Wander through the expansive El Retiro Park, renting a rowboat on the pond and exploring the Rosaleda.

Afternoon: Delve into modern art at Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, and admire the classic masterpieces at the Museum del Prado.

Evening: Discover the diverse collection at the Thyssen‑Bornemisza National Museum, and savor tapas at the lively Mercado de San Miguel for dinner.

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Day 4: Travel to Barcelona – Evening Arrival

Morning: Take a high-speed train from Madrid to Barcelona, enjoying scenic views along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in Barcelona, check into your hotel, and take a short stroll to orient yourself.

Evening: Walk along La Rambla to feel the city's pulse, stopping for a snack at a local bar.

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Day 5: Gaudí’s Masterpieces

Morning: Marvel at the towering spire of the Basílica de la Sagrada‑Familia, exploring its intricate façades.

Afternoon: Visit the whimsical Casa Batlló and the undulating forms of La Pedrera – Casa Milà, appreciating Gaudí’s visionary designs.

Evening: Wander through the historic Gothic Quarter ending at the stunning Cathedral of Barcelona, enjoying the illuminated interior.

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Day 6: Barcelona Culture & Sport

Morning: Explore the vibrant stalls of Mercat de la Boqueria, tasting fresh fruits and local delicacies.

Afternoon: Visit the modernist Museum of Catalan Modernism (Palau de la Música Catalana) and enjoy the vibrant mosaics of Park Güell.

Evening: Wrap up the trip with a tour of Camp Nou, soaking in the stadium’s atmosphere followed by a visit to the Picasso Museum to appreciate early works.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • El Retiro Park – 2 hours – €0
  • Gran Vía – 2 hours – €0
  • Mercado de San Miguel – 1 ½ hours – €15
  • Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía – 3 hours – €15
  • Museo del Prado – 3 hours – €15
  • Plaza Mayor – 1 hour – €0
  • Puerta del Sol – 1 hour – €0
  • Royal Palace of Madrid – 2 hours – €12
  • Temple of Debod – 1 hour – €0
  • Thyssen‐Bornemisza National Museum – 2 hours – €13
  • Basílica de la Sagrada Familia – 2 hours – €26
  • Casa Batlló – 1 ½ hours – €25
  • Cathedral of Barcelona – 1 hour – €0
  • La Pedrera – Casa Milà – 1 ½ hours – €24
  • La Rambla – 2 hours – €0
  • Mercat de la Boqueria – 1 hour – €10
  • Palau de la Música Catalana – 1 hour – €20
  • Park Güell – 2 hours – €10
  • Picasso Museum Barcelona – 2 hours – €12
  • Camp Nou – 2 hours – €30
  • Total estimated cost: €227

Tips

To extend the trip, add a full day in each city to explore additional museums like the Museo Nacional de Antropología in Madrid or a day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona. If you need a shorter stay, combine the “El Retiro Park” and “Gran Vía” visit into one morning, and replace the separate visits to Casa Batlló and La Pedrera with a combined Gaudí tour, which reduces the schedule by a day while still seeing the key highlights.

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