6-Day "City Experiences" Itinerary in Spain

  1. Day 1: Madrid
    Distance: 15 minutes (3.2 kilometers) from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport

    Start your Spanish adventure by exploring Spain’s bustling and vibrant capital, Madrid. Visit the grand Plaza Mayor and the impressive Palacio Real, the royal palace that has served as the official residence of the Spanish royal family since 1765. End the day with a taste of local cuisine at the San Miguel Market, a popular food market in the heart of the city.

  2. Day 2: Seville
    Distance: 2 hours 30 minutes (540 kilometers) from Madrid

    Travel south to the sunny city of Seville, where you can visit the magnificent Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage site and royal palace boasting stunning Moorish architecture. Walk around the charming neighborhood of Santa Cruz, stop by the massive, Gothic-style cathedral, and take in the breathtaking views at the Plaza de España.

  3. Day 3: Valencia
    Distance: 4 hours (354 kilometers) from Seville

    Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is home to the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic cultural complex featuring an opera house, planetarium, and marine park. Visit the vibrant Mercado Central, one of the largest markets in Europe, and sample traditional Spanish dishes like paella and horchata.

  4. Day 4: Barcelona
    Distance: 3 hours (350 kilometers) from Valencia

    Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, boasts Antoni Gaudí's UNESCO-listed Park Güell, the stunning La Sagrada Familia, and the bustling pedestrian street of Las Ramblas. Stroll through the Gothic Quarter, visit the Picasso Museum, or take in the views at Tibidabo Hill.

  5. Day 5: Bilbao
    Distance: 6 hours 30 minutes (616 kilometers) from Barcelona

    Travel north to Bilbao, located in Basque Country. Visit the infamous Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, and explore the charming old town, Casco Viejo. Sample traditional pintxos (small bites) and local Basque cider at one of the city’s lively bars.

  6. Day 6: San Sebastian
    Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes (98 kilometers) from Bilbao

    End the trip in the coastal city of San Sebastian, known for its picturesque beaches, food scene, and breathtaking scenery. Visit the old town, Parte Vieja, and sample local delicacies at popular restaurants, such as Gandarias and La Cuchara de San Telmo. Take a stroll along La Concha Bay and take in the views of the sea and mountains.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Palacio Real (2 hours, $14)
  • Alcázar of Seville (2 hours, $15)
  • Mercado Central (1.5 hours, $20)
  • La Sagrada Familia (2 hours, $25)
  • Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (2 hours, $19)
  • Gandarias (1.5 hours, $30)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $123

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other cities such as Granada, Toledo, or Córdoba. If you have less time, consider cutting out one city such as Bilbao or San Sebastian. Double-check opening times as they may vary. Travel by train or bus to reduce costs and save time. Try to book tickets in advance to avoid lines and crowds.

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