3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Spain

  1. Day 1: Explore Barcelona's Historic Center
    20 minutes (4.9 km) from El Prat Airport

    Begin your journey at La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian street filled with souvenir shops, cafes, and street performers. Walk to La Boqueria, a vibrant public market, for a quick breakfast or snack. Visit the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleys with picturesque plazas, historic buildings, and hidden courtyards. Admire the iconic Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece, and explore the vibrant neighborhood of Gracia, known for its artistic flair.

  2. Day 2: Discover Madrid's Art and Culture Scene
    2 hours 30 minutes by train or bus from Barcelona

    Start your day at the Reina Sofia National Art Centre, highlighting Spain's leading contemporary art. Head to the Retiro Park, a peaceful green oasis in the heart of the city, for a picnic lunch and relaxing stroll. Then visit the Prado Museum, featuring an impressive collection of Spanish art. Take a walk through the picturesque Malasaña neighborhood and end your night at the Mercado de San Miguel, a bustling food market featuring local and international cuisine.

  3. Day 3: Experience Seville's Rich History and Culture
    2 hours 20 minutes by train or bus from Madrid

    Begin your day at the Plaza de Espana, a grandiose landmark with colorful tiles, water features, and stunning architecture. Visit the Alcazar Palace, a UNESCO-listed site, and witness the impressive architecture and gardens. Continue onto Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views. Finish off your day at the Triana neighborhood, known for its flamenco culture and vibrant nightlife.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • La Boqueria (1 hour, free entry)
  • Sagrada Familia (2 hours, 17.00€)
  • Reina Sofia National Art Centre (2 hours, free entry)
  • Prado Museum (3 hours, 15.00€)
  • Mercado de San Miguel (1 hour, free entry)
  • Alcazar Palace (2 hours, 11.50€)
  • Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower (2 hours, 9.00€)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 52.50€

Useful Tips

To save time, consider purchasing tickets for popular tourist sites in advance to avoid long queues. Also, if you have more time, consider visiting other cities such as Valencia, Granada, or Bilbao. If you have less time, you may want to skip some sights or shorten the duration of your stay in each city.

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