Start your trip in Barcelona, the bustling city known for its architecture and delicious food. Visit Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi that has been under construction for over a century. Then explore Park Guell, a whimsical space that offers stunning views of the city. End the day with a stroll down La Rambla, a vibrant and bustling street that is the heart of Barcelona.
Take a train to Madrid, the capital of Spain. Explore the art scene with a visit to the Prado Museum, home to an impressive collection of European art. Then see the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. Finish the day by attending a flamenco show, a traditional Spanish dance and music performance.
Take a train to Toledo, a charming old city known for its medieval architecture. Visit the Cathedral of Toledo, an impressive Gothic cathedral. Then walk across the Puente de San Martin, a beautiful medieval bridge that offers a great view of the city. End the day by trying the local specialty, marzipan, at a local pastry shop.
Take a train to Seville, the vibrant city known for its flamenco dance and orange trees. Visit the Alcazar of Seville, a stunning palace built in the 14th century. Then explore the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. End the day by watching a flamenco performance at a local tablao.
Take a train to Granada, the city famous for the Alhambra, a majestic hilltop fortress that overlooks the city. Tour the fortress and visit the Generalife Gardens, a stunning example of Islamic architecture and design. End the day by enjoying the local cuisine and wine at a traditional Spanish restaurant.
Take a train to Valencia, the coastal city known for its futuristic architecture and love for paella. See the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a stunning complex of futuristic buildings that house a planetarium, aquarium and science museum. Then visit La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the city's silk market. End the day by trying the city's famous paella at a local restaurant.
Take a flight to Ibiza, the famous party island in the Mediterranean. Visit Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is the old town of the island. Then relax at one of the island's stunning beaches such as Cala Saladeta, known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings. End the day by experiencing the island's legendary nightlife scene.
End your trip back in Barcelona, where you can take a walk through the Gothic Quarter and explore the historic landmarks. Visit Casa Batllo, the stunning and colorful building designed by Gaudí. Then see the famous La Sagrada Familia once again, but this time by taking a tour to learn more about its history and design. End the trip by watching the sunset at Mirador de Colom, a viewpoint located at the base of a towering monument.
While traveling in Spain, it's best to use a combination of trains, flights, and taxis depending on the distance and destination. Most major cities in Spain are well-connected by a high-speed train network, which offers comfort and a time-efficient way to travel. Domestic flights can be an option for longer distances, or for traveling to the islands. Taxis can be a good option for short distances, or for traveling to areas outside the city center. The estimated cost of transportation for this trip is around €150-€200, depending on how many flights are taken.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Ronda from Seville, or visiting the beaches of Costa Brava near Barcelona. If you have less time, consider cutting out one of the destinations or reducing the time spent in each city. Keep in mind that some popular sites, such as the Alhambra, require tickets to be booked in advance, so plan accordingly.
The main airport in Spain is Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), which is located 12 km northeast of Madrid city center. Other major airports include Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), Valencia Airport (VLC), Seville Airport (SVQ), and Ibiza Airport (IBZ). All airports provide easy access to the city centers, with multiple transport options available including taxis, buses, and trains.