Welcome to Spain! Your journey begins with the long haul from Delhi (DEL) to Madrid (MAD). If you’ve managed to snag the direct Air India flight, you’ll be landing in the early afternoon; otherwise, you’ll likely hop through Dubai or Doha. Once you clear customs at Barajas, don’t bother with the complex metro transfers with your luggage. Grab a white taxi at the official rank for a flat rate of €30, or hop on the bright yellow Exprés Aeropuerto bus (€5) which drops you right at Cibeles. September is glorious in Madrid—expect bright blue skies and a dry, pleasant 26°C—but the sun is strong, so keep your sunglasses handy as you check into a mid-size gem like Hotel 7 Islas or Dear Hotel Madrid.
After refreshing, head straight to the Palacio District for the Royal Palace of Madrid. Since it’s late afternoon, the heavy tour groups are thinning out. This isn't just a museum; it’s the largest functioning palace in Europe. Make sure you don't miss the Royal Armory—the collection of medieval shields and horse armor is world-class. Once you step out, walk immediately north to the Sabatini Gardens. This is a local secret for the "golden hour." The neoclassical hedges and fountains perfectly frame the palace facade, and as the September sun begins to dip, the stone glows in a deep honey hue. It’s the perfect spot to shake off the jet lag and realize you’ve finally arrived in Europe.
For a true "Madrileño" evening, wander toward Pezuñas de Cordero near Calle de Bailén. It’s a wonderfully unpretentious, traditional spot. Sit at the bar or a small table and order a few rounds of tapas; their namesake lamb dishes are legendary, but the atmosphere itself—clinking glasses and lively Spanish chatter—is the real draw. Expect to spend about €25–€35 per person for a full spread. If you’re craving flavors from home after the long flight, Everest Hill on Calle de Amaniel is a solid nearby Indian option.
Finish your first night with a short stroll to Plaza de España at the western end of the iconic Gran Vía. The square has been recently renovated and feels incredibly spacious. Look up at the massive stone monument dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes, where the bronze statues of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza cast long shadows under the evening streetlights. It’s a peaceful, grand finale to your first day before you tuck in to sync your internal clock to Spanish time.
Start your second day in Madrid by diving headfirst into the "Golden Triangle of Art." You’ll want to arrive at the Prado Museum right when they open at 10:00 AM to beat the largest crowds. It’s a massive place, so don't try to see everything; focus on the Spanish greats like Velázquez (look for Las Meninas) and Goya’s haunting "Black Paintings." It’s a bit of an emotional workout, so when you’re done, walk right across the street into the green lungs of the city: El Retiro Park. September weather in Madrid is perfection—crisp mornings leading into warm afternoons—so it’s the ideal time to rent a wooden rowboat on the Retiro Lake or wander down to the shimmering Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal). The park is free, but the boats will cost you about €6–€8.
After all that walking, you’ll likely be craving something hearty. Head toward the vibrant Chueca/Retiro border to Bindi. While Madrid has great tapas, sometimes after a long flight from Delhi, nothing beats a properly spiced curry and warm naan. This spot is a local favorite for its authentic flavors and sleek, modern vibe. Expect to spend about €20–€30 per person for a full meal. It’s a great spot to recharge before hitting the more hectic parts of the city center.
From lunch, take a leisurely 15-minute stroll or a quick Metro ride (Line 2) to Puerta del Sol. This is the literal center of Spain—look for the Kilometer Zero stone slab on the pavement where all Spanish roads begin. You can't miss the Statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree, which is the symbol of Madrid and the ultimate "I was here" photo op. As the sun begins to dip, follow the narrow cobblestone streets toward the Mercado de San Miguel. This isn’t your average grocery market; it’s a stunning 20th-century iron-and-glass temple of gastronomy. Grab a glass of local vermouth on tap and hop between stalls to try gamba roja (red prawns) or artisanal cheeses. It stays open until midnight, so there is no rush—just soak in the energy of the Madrileños starting their night.
Your morning begins at the bustling Madrid Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes station. Aim for an 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM departure on the AVE High-Speed Train. These trains are incredibly efficient—smooth enough to sip a coffee while you watch the olive groves of Castilla-La Mancha blur past at 300 km/h. In just about 2.5 hours, you’ll pull into Sevilla-Santa Justa. Grab a taxi or a quick 10-minute bus into the city center. The heat will hit you differently here; Seville in September is "dry-heat" territory, usually hovering around 32°C (90°F), so keep that water bottle handy as you drop your bags at a central spot like Hotel Casa 1800 or the H10 Casa de la Plata.
After a light lunch, walk over to the Catedral de Sevilla in the heart of the Santa Cruz District. This is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world—it is truly massive. Don't skip the interior where Christopher Columbus is buried, but the real highlight is the climb up the Giralda. Instead of stairs, you’ll walk up 34 ramps (designed so the Sultan could ride his horse to the top for the call to prayer). The view from the bell tower is the best orientation you can get of the city’s terracotta rooftops. Right next door is the Real Alcázar de Sevilla. This is a "Game of Thrones" filming location for a reason; the Mudéjar architecture is intricate and stunning. Spend at least an hour getting lost in the Gardens of the Alcázar, where peacocks roam among the palms and orange trees. Pro tip: Book your tickets for both online at least a week in advance to avoid the 40-minute queues in the sun.
As the afternoon sun dips, head to Berrinche for dinner. It’s a fantastic modern gastropub tucked away from the main tourist traps. While Seville is famous for traditional fried fish, here the tapas are more refined—try the presa ibérica or their creative take on tuna tartare. Expect to spend around €25–€40 per person for a full spread with local Sherry or wine. Finish your night by intentionally getting lost in Barrio Santa Cruz. This old Jewish Quarter is a maze of alleys so narrow they are called "kissing lanes." Look for the Plaza de Doña Elvira; it’s a quiet square shaded by orange trees and lined with azulejo (tile) benches. It is the perfect place to sit for 15 minutes, listen to a lone Spanish guitarist, and soak in the scent of jasmine before heading back to your hotel.
Seville in September is still quite warm, so we’re starting early at the Plaza de España in the heart of the Parque de María Luisa. Designed for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo, this is easily one of the most beautiful public spaces in Europe. Spend your morning wandering the vast semi-circular brick gallery and looking for the tiled alcoves representing every Spanish province—it’s a tradition to find the one for the city you just visited (Madrid!) and take a photo. If you’re feeling a bit romantic, you can even rent a small boat to row along the canal for about €6. Afterward, seek the shade of the Parque de María Luisa itself. It’s a lush botanical paradise where you should hunt for the Fountain of Lions and the hidden "duck ponds." The scent of orange blossoms and the cooling canopy of Mediterranean pines make this the perfect refuge from the midday sun.
By 1:30 PM, the local lunch hour begins. Head over to the San Bernardo area to Taj Mahal Seville. While Andalusian food is incredible, sometimes you just need the comfort of a solid North Indian meal. This spot is a local favorite for its authentic spices and elegant atmosphere—expect to pay between €15–€25 per person. It’s a great chance to chat with the staff about their life in Seville before we head across the river.
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll toward the river to cross the Triana Bridge (Puente de Isabel II). This historic iron bridge is the gateway to the most soulful neighborhood in the city. You aren't just crossing water; you're entering the historic center of pottery, sailors, and flamenco. Directly at the end of the bridge, descend into the Mercado de Triana. This market is fascinating because it’s built right over the ruins of the Castillo de San Jorge (the seat of the Spanish Inquisition). Even at this hour, you’ll see locals picking up fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and hand-painted ceramics. It’s the perfect place to grab a small souvenir or a quick caña (small beer) to soak in the neighborhood vibe.
As the sun begins to set and the heat breaks, cross back over the river to the El Arenal district for an evening at Tablao Flamenco El Arenal. This isn't a "tourist trap"; it is widely considered one of the best professional stages in the world. You’ll witness a high-energy performance featuring world-class dancers, guitarists, and singers in an intimate setting that makes your heart race. Shows usually run for about 1.5 hours and cost roughly €40 (including a drink). I recommend booking the 8:00 PM session so you have the rest of the night to wander the moonlit streets—Seville is truly at its most magical after dark.
To get from Seville to Lisbon, I recommend the short one-hour hop flight from Seville (SVQ) to Lisbon (LIS) via TAP Air Portugal. If you take an 11:00 AM flight, you’ll land by noon, giving you the perfect window to drop your bags at a mid-size gem like Hotel Mundial or HF Fénix Music and head straight to the riverfront. If you choose the 6-hour bus ride (ALSA), it's a long haul through the Alentejo region; it's cheaper but eats up your morning. Once in Lisbon, grab a Bolt or Uber (much cheaper here than in Madrid) and head west to the historic Belém District.
Start your exploration at the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém). This 16th-century fortification looks like it’s floating on the water and is the ultimate symbol of Portugal’s maritime glory. It gets busy, so if you don't want to wait in the long queue to climb the narrow stairs, the view from the outside is just as iconic for photos. Just a short walk along the Tagus River is the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries). It’s a massive, ship-shaped limestone monolith. I suggest paying the €10 to go to the top; the view of the giant marble wind rose map on the pavement below and the 25 de Abril Bridge (which looks exactly like the Golden Gate) is spectacular.
You cannot visit this neighborhood without stopping at Pastéis de Belém. Look for the blue awnings. While every cafe in Lisbon sells pastéis de nata, this is the only place with the original 1837 secret recipe. The line for "takeaway" moves fast, but I recommend going inside—the warren of tiled rooms is huge and much more relaxing. Order two tarts per person, sprinkle them with cinnamon and powdered sugar, and pair them with a bica (espresso). Once energized, walk across the street to the Jerónimos Monastery. The Manueline architecture here is mind-blowing—look for the intricate stone carvings of sea monsters and ropes. Entry is around €10, and it usually stays open until 6:00 PM in September.
For dinner, take the tram or a quick taxi back toward the city center to Cais do Sodré for the Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira). It’s a high-end food hall where the city's best chefs share one roof. It’s vibrant, loud, and perfect for a group. You can grab some salted cod (Bacalhau) from Terra do Bacalhau, a steak sandwich from O Prego da Peixaria, or if you're craving a taste of home after a week away, Sanskar Nepal nearby offers great South Asian flavors. Finish the night with a stroll by the water at Ribeira das Naus as the Atlantic breeze cools down the September heat.
Start your morning early at Martim Moniz square to board the iconic Tram 28. In September, the queues get long by 10:00 AM, so aim for an 8:30 AM start. This rattle-and-roll journey in a vintage 1930s wooden carriage is the best way to see the city's steepest grades; hold on tight as it screeches through the impossibly narrow turns of the old quarter. Hop off near the top of the hill for the Castelo de São Jorge. This Moorish citadel dates back to the 11th century, and walking its ramparts offers the most breathtaking 360-degree views of Lisbon’s terracotta rooftops and the shimmering Tagus River. Entry is around €15, and I’d suggest spending a good two hours exploring the pine-shaded courtyards and the camera obscura.
From the castle, it’s a quick 10-minute taxi or Uber ride (about €6–€8) to the Saldanha area for lunch at Zaafran. After several days of tapas and petiscos, you’ll appreciate this sophisticated take on Indian cuisine. It’s a local favorite for its "Indo-Portuguese" hospitality—try their signature okra or the delicately spiced prawn curry. Expect to spend about €25 per person here. It’s a great spot to recharge in a modern, air-conditioned setting before we head back into the sun-drenched alleys of the old town.
Head back down to the Alfama District for a slow, downhill wander. This is the city's oldest soul, a labyrinth of cobblestones where laundry hangs from wrought-iron balconies and the smell of grilled sardines lingers in the air. Walk down from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia and just get lost in the "becos" (alleys). This is the birthplace of Fado music; keep an eye out for the small, unassuming Fado houses that come alive after dark. As the afternoon heat fades, make your way toward the river to Praça do Comércio. This massive, saffron-colored square opens right onto the waterfront. It’s the perfect place to sit on the stone steps of the Cais das Colunas, watch the ferries cross the Tagus, and witness a spectacular Lisbon sunset backlighting the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Your day begins at the stunning Rossio Station in central Lisbon; the Neo-Manueline architecture is worth a photo before you even board. Grab a round-trip ticket (roughly €5.10) for the Train to Sintra. It’s a 40-minute scenic ride, and I recommend catching a train no later than 8:30 AM to beat the mid-morning rush. Once you arrive, hop straight on the 434 tourist bus or grab a Bolt/Uber to climb the steep, winding roads to Pena Palace. This vivid, red-and-yellow Romanticist masterpiece looks like a Lego castle brought to life. Spend about 2.5 hours here wandering the terraces and the staterooms—the views over the Atlantic and the surrounding forests are unbeatable.
Head back down the hill toward the town center to explore Quinta da Regaleira. This is my favorite spot in Sintra; it feels like an Indiana Jones set. You’ll want at least 2 hours to get lost in the mystical gardens, specifically to find the Initiation Well, a 27-meter deep "inverted tower" with a winding staircase that leads to secret underground tunnels and grottoes. By now, you’ll be hungry, so walk five minutes to Tascantiga in the historic center. It’s a cozy, friendly spot perfect for sharing petiscos. Order the codfish cakes (bolinhos de bacalhau), some local Alentejo cheese, and the pica-pau (marinated beef)—it should cost you around €15–€25 per person.
Refreshed from lunch, head over to the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, located right in the heart of the village. You can’t miss it—just look for the two massive, white conical chimneys that dominate the skyline. Inside, you’ll find the best-preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal, featuring the "Swan Room" and some of the most intricate 15th-century tile work in the country. To wrap up the day, catch the 1253 bus (about 35-40 minutes) to Cabo da Roca. Standing on these 140-meter-high cliffs at the westernmost point of continental Europe as the sun sets over the Atlantic is a powerful experience. The wind can be fierce here even in September, so bring a light jacket. From here, you can take a bus directly back to the Sintra or Cascais train stations for your return to Lisbon.
Since your flight back to Delhi likely departs in the late afternoon or early evening, your final morning in Lisbon is all about soaking in the city's sophisticated charm without the rush. Start with a slow stroll down Avenida da Liberdade. This is Lisbon’s answer to the Champs-Élysées—a wide, tree-lined boulevard paved with intricate calçada portuguesa (mosaic tiles). September weather is usually a perfect 24°C, so it’s pleasant to window-shop at the high-end boutiques or simply admire the 19th-century architecture and the kiosks serving fresh orange juice. It’s a flat, easy walk that feels worlds away from the steep hills of the Alfama you tackled earlier.
From the bottom of the Avenida, head into the heart of the Baixa district for one last iconic experience: the Elevador de Santa Justa. This neo-Gothic iron lift is a masterpiece by a student of Gustave Eiffel. While the queues can be long, if you arrive by 10:00 AM, the wait is manageable (cost is about €6, or included in your 24h transit card). The viewing platform at the top offers a stunning "greatest hits" view of the São Jorge Castle and the rooftops you've explored over the last few days. Afterward, walk a few blocks to Rossio Square (Praça Pedro IV). Grab a final Bica (espresso) and a Pastel de Nata at the historic Café Nicola, which has been a local haunt since 1787. Spend a quiet hour here watching the world go by over the square's famous wavy-patterned stone floor.
As you prepare to wrap up your Iberian adventure, aim to leave for the airport at least 3.5 hours before your departure. The journey from the city center to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is incredibly convenient; a taxi or Uber will cost roughly €15–€20 and take about 20 minutes, while the Red Line Metro from Rossio or Baixa-Chiado takes about 30 minutes. Since there are currently no direct flights back to Delhi (DEL), you’ll likely be connecting through hubs like Dubai (DXB), Doha (DOH), or Frankfurt (FRA). Make sure to have your tax-refund forms ready if you did any major shopping on the Avenida, and give yourself extra time for the international security checks. Safe travels back to India!