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Discover the Best of Spain: Madrid, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Toledo, Beach, and Santander

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Explore Spain's Treasures in 7 Days

Thursday, June 20: Arrival in Madrid

Welcome to Madrid! Start your journey by discovering the city's rich history and vibrant culture. In the morning, visit the Royal Palace and marvel at its stunning architecture. Afterward, explore the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by artists such as Goya and Velázquez. In the evening, indulge in authentic Spanish cuisine in the lively neighborhoods of Huertas or Malasaña.

  • Royal Palace: Cost: €12 (estimated), Time: 2 hours
  • Prado Museum: Cost: €15 (estimated), Time: 3 hours
  • Local Cuisine: Cost varies, Time: Flexible
Friday, June 21: San Sebastian

Travel to the picturesque coastal city of San Sebastian. In the morning, relax on the famous La Concha Beach and soak up the sun. For lunch, savor the local specialty, pintxos (Basque tapas), in the Old Town. In the afternoon, hike up Monte Urgull for breathtaking views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a sunset stroll along Zurriola Beach.

  • La Concha Beach: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
  • Pintxos in the Old Town: Cost: €20-30 (estimated), Time: 2 hours
  • Monte Urgull: Cost: Free, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Zurriola Beach: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
Saturday, June 22: Bilbao

Head to Bilbao, known for its modern architecture and cultural attractions. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum, showcasing contemporary art. Afterward, explore the charming streets of the Old Town (Casco Viejo) and indulge in delicious pintxos at local bars. In the evening, catch a show at the Euskalduna Palace or enjoy a riverfront walk.

  • Guggenheim Museum: Cost: €16 (estimated), Time: 2-3 hours
  • Pintxos in Casco Viejo: Cost: €15-20 (estimated), Time: 2 hours
  • Euskalduna Palace: Cost varies (depending on the show), Time: Flexible
  • Riverfront Walk: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
Sunday, June 23: Toledo

Embark on a day trip to the medieval city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin with a visit to the stunning Toledo Cathedral, followed by the El Greco Museum showcasing the works of the famous painter. Don't miss the chance to wander through the narrow labyrinthine streets of the Jewish Quarter (Judería). In the evening, enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Toledo Cathedral: Cost: €9 (estimated), Time: 2 hours
  • El Greco Museum: Cost: €4 (estimated), Time: 1-2 hours
  • Jewish Quarter: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
  • Traditional Spanish Cuisine: Cost varies, Time: Flexible
Monday, June 24: Beach Day

Relax and enjoy a day at one of Spain's scenic beaches. Whether it's the beautiful Costa del Sol, Costa Brava, or Costa Blanca, soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delightful beachside cuisine. Spend the day unwinding and rejuvenating in the idyllic surroundings.

  • Costa del Sol/Costa Brava/Costa Blanca: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
  • Beachside Cuisine: Cost varies, Time: Flexible
Tuesday, June 25: Santander

Travel to Santander, a charming coastal city. Begin your day with a visit to the Palacio de la Magdalena, a former royal residence with stunning views. Stroll along the beautiful Sardinero Beach and enjoy the sea breeze. Explore the lively Plaza Porticada, lined with shops and cafes. In the evening, savor fresh seafood dishes at a local restaurant.

  • Palacio de la Magdalena: Cost: €7 (estimated), Time: 2-3 hours
  • Sardinero Beach: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
  • Plaza Porticada: Cost: Free, Time: Flexible
  • Seafood Dinner: Cost varies, Time: Flexible
Wednesday, June 26: Departure

After an amazing week exploring Spain, it's time to say goodbye. Depart from Santander and travel back home with beautiful memories of your Spanish adventure.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting these popular destinations, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. In Madrid, explore the bohemian neighborhood of Malasaña, with its vibrant street art and trendy bars. In San Sebastian, visit the peaceful Santa Clara Island and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. In Bilbao, take a day trip to Gaztelugatxe, a stunning rocky islet with a winding staircase leading to a chapel. In Toledo, explore the lesser-known Santo Tomé Church and its masterpiece, "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz" by El Greco. Finally, in Santander, wander through the Jardines de Piquío and admire the beautiful gardens overlooking the Bay of Biscay.

For hotel and flight prices for your trip, check out Kayak.

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