7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, Seville, Tangier, Valencia

Day 1: Friday, September 1, 2023 - Barcelona

Start your trip in Barcelona by exploring the iconic Sagrada Familia in the morning. Marvel at the breathtaking architecture of Gaudí's masterpiece. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant streets of La Rambla and visit the lively Boqueria Market. As the evening approaches, head to the neighborhood of El Born for tapas and drinks at affordable local bars.

  • Sagrada Familia: Estimated cost - €25, Time spent - 2 hours
  • La Rambla: Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Boqueria Market: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
  • El Born: Estimated cost - €15, Time spent - Evening
Day 2: Saturday, September 2, 2023 - Madrid

Take a morning train from Barcelona to Madrid. Start your day in Madrid by visiting the Royal Palace and its beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, explore the famous Prado Museum, home to a vast collection of European art. As the evening sets in, stroll through the lively streets of Puerta del Sol and indulge in some delicious churros at a local café.

  • Royal Palace: Estimated cost - €13, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Prado Museum: Free entry 6-8 PM, Time spent - 3 hours
  • Puerta del Sol: Free, Time spent - Evening
Day 3: Sunday, September 3, 2023 - Lisbon

Fly from Madrid to Lisbon in the morning. Begin your day in Lisbon by exploring the historic district of Alfama, getting lost in its narrow streets and enjoying the panoramic views from São Jorge Castle. In the afternoon, visit the famous Belem Tower and taste the delicious pastéis de nata (traditional custard tarts) at Pastéis de Belém. End your day by watching the sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

  • Alfama: Free, Time spent - 3 hours
  • São Jorge Castle: Estimated cost - €10, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Belem Tower: Estimated cost - €6, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Pastéis de Belém: Estimated cost - €5, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: Free, Time spent - Evening
Day 4: Monday, September 4, 2023 - Seville

Take a morning train from Lisbon to Seville. Start your day in Seville by visiting the stunning Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood and enjoy some tapas at a local tavern. As the evening approaches, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza de España and catch a flamenco show.

  • Alcázar of Seville: Estimated cost - €12, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Santa Cruz: Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Plaza de España: Free, Time spent - Evening
  • Flamenco Show: Estimated cost - €15, Time spent - Evening
Day 5: Tuesday, September 5, 2023 - Tangier

Take a morning ferry from Tarifa to Tangier. Begin your day in Tangier by exploring the historic medina and its bustling souks. In the afternoon, visit the American Legation Museum and enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea at a local café. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful beach promenade of Tangier.

  • Tangier Medina: Free, Time spent - 3 hours
  • American Legation Museum: Estimated cost - €3, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Traditional Moroccan Tea: Estimated cost - €2, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Tangier Beach Promenade: Free, Time spent - Evening
Day 6: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 - Valencia

Take a morning ferry from Tangier to Algeciras and then a train to Valencia. Start your day in Valencia by visiting the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. In the afternoon, explore the historic center and indulge in a delicious paella, a Valencian specialty. As the evening approaches, take a relaxing walk through the beautiful Turia Gardens.

  • City of Arts and Sciences: Estimated cost - €8, Time spent - 3 hours
  • Historic Center: Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Paella: Estimated cost - €10, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Turia Gardens: Free, Time spent - Evening
Day 7: Thursday, September 7, 2023 - Valencia

On your last day, continue exploring Valencia. Start your morning by visiting the Central Market and marvel at the vibrant displays of fresh produce. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful Malvarrosa Beach and soak up the Mediterranean sun. As the evening sets in, explore the trendy neighborhood of Ruzafa and enjoy some delicious tapas at a local bar.

  • Central Market: Free, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Malvarrosa Beach: Free, Time spent - 3 hours
  • Ruzafa: Free, Time spent - Evening
  • Tapas: Estimated cost - €15, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those on a shoestring budget, Barcelona's Gràcia neighborhood offers a local charm with its bohemian atmosphere, lively plazas, and affordable bars and restaurants. Madrid's Lavapiés neighborhood is known for its multicultural vibe, street art, and budget-friendly ethnic eateries. In Lisbon, don't miss out on LX Factory, an artsy area filled with quirky shops, street art, and affordable food options. Seville's Triana neighborhood is famous for its flamenco culture, traditional ceramics, and authentic tapas bars that won't break the bank. In Valencia, explore the El Cabanyal neighborhood to experience the city's maritime heritage, vibrant street art, and local seafood specialties at reasonable prices.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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