Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 50 travelers

Discover the Vibrant Cities of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona

Friday, September 22: Madrid

Start your trip in Madrid, the lively capital of Spain. In the morning, explore the historic center, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol. Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at a local tapas bar. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art history at the Prado Museum. As the evening sets in, head to the vibrant neighborhood of Malasaña for dinner and drinks.

  • Royal Palace: €13, 2 hours
  • Puerta del Sol: Free, 1 hour
  • Prado Museum: €15, 3 hours
  • Malasaña: Cost varies, evening
Saturday, September 23: Valencia

Travel to Valencia, known for its beautiful beaches and modern architecture. Start your morning with a visit to the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex housing a planetarium, opera house, and more. Enjoy a paella lunch, a Valencian specialty, in the charming old town. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of Malvarrosa Beach. As the evening approaches, wander through the vibrant Central Market and try some local delicacies.

  • City of Arts and Sciences: €16, 3 hours
  • Old Town: Cost varies, 2 hours
  • Malvarrosa Beach: Free, afternoon
  • Central Market: Cost varies, evening
Sunday, September 24: Barcelona

Continue your journey to Barcelona, a city known for its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage. Start your morning with a visit to the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, Gaudí's masterpiece. Indulge in a delicious Catalan lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Gothic Quarter, wandering through its narrow streets and discovering hidden gems. As the evening sets in, witness the magic fountain show at Montjuïc.

  • Sagrada Familia: €26, 2 hours
  • Gothic Quarter: Free, 2 hours
  • Magic Fountain: Free, evening
Monday, September 25: Barcelona

Discover more of Barcelona's enchanting attractions. Start your day with a visit to Park Güell, a whimsical park designed by Gaudí. Enjoy a leisurely lunch along the lively La Rambla street. In the afternoon, explore the colorful Casa Batlló. As the evening approaches, head to the trendy neighborhood of El Born for dinner and drinks.

  • Park Güell: €10, 2 hours
  • La Rambla: Cost varies, 1 hour
  • Casa Batlló: €29.50, 2 hours
  • El Born: Cost varies, evening
Tuesday, September 26: Madrid

Return to Madrid for another day of exploration. Start your morning with a visit to the Reina Sofia Museum, home to Picasso's famous painting, Guernica. Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, stroll through the Retiro Park and rent a rowboat on the lake. As the evening sets in, experience the lively atmosphere of Gran Vía, known for its theaters and shops.

  • Reina Sofia Museum: €10, 2 hours
  • Retiro Park: Free, 2 hours
  • Gran Vía: Cost varies, evening
Wednesday, September 27: Madrid

Explore more of Madrid's cultural treasures. Start your morning with a visit to the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, housing an impressive collection of European art. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a traditional Spanish restaurant. In the afternoon, take a tour of the Royal Botanical Garden. As the evening approaches, enjoy a flamenco show in the vibrant neighborhood of Lavapiés.

  • Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: €13, 2 hours
  • Royal Botanical Garden: €6, 1 hour
  • Lavapiés: Cost varies, evening
Thursday, September 28: Barcelona

End your trip in Barcelona with more exciting experiences. Start your morning with a visit to the Picasso Museum, home to an extensive collection of the famous artist's works. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the picturesque Barceloneta Beach. As the evening sets in, explore the trendy neighborhood of Gràcia, known for its bohemian atmosphere.

  • Picasso Museum: €12, 2 hours
  • Barceloneta Beach: Free, afternoon
  • Gràcia: Cost varies, evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, be sure to explore some off the beaten path attractions. In Madrid, visit the Mercado de San Miguel, a bustling food market where you can sample a variety of Spanish delicacies. In Valencia, take a bike ride through the Turia Gardens, a beautiful park created in the former riverbed. In Barcelona, wander through the charming neighborhood of El Raval, known for its vibrant street art and multicultural atmosphere.

For more information and to check hotel and flight prices, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version