Explore Spain on a Shoestring Budget - 7-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Barcelona
    30 minutes (12 kilometers) from Barcelona El Prat Airport

    Barcelona is a vibrant city with stunning architecture, sandy beaches, and a rich artistic heritage. Visit Sagrada Familia, the iconic unfinished church designed by Antoni Gaudi, and take a walking tour of the medieval Gothic Quarter. For budget eats, head to the La Boqueria market to sample local foods.

  • Day 2: Valencia
    3 hours (350 kilometers) from Barcelona

    A city famous for its orange trees, paella, and stunning City of Arts and Sciences. Start the day by visiting the ancient Valencia Cathedral and its bell tower - the Miguelete. Experience the historic Mercado Central and enjoy local paella at the Plaça de la Reina with locals.

  • Day 3: Madrid
    3.5 hours (357 kilometers) from Valencia

    The capital of Spain is known for its stunning museums, historic sites, and lively streets. Visit the Prado Museum for its remarkable art collections or walk the pedestrian street of Calle de Arenal. End the day with sunset view from the Templo de Debod.

  • Day 4: Seville
    2.5 hours (532 kilometers) from Madrid

    This city is known for its rich history, flamenco dance performances, and orange tree-lined streets. Marvel at the historic architecture of the Alcázar of Seville, explore the famous Plaza de España, and visit the Casa de Pilatos for a glimpse of aristocratic life in Spain.

  • Day 5: Granada
    2 hours (252 kilometers) from Seville

    Located at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is famous for the Alhambra Palace - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book your tickets early to enjoy the beauty and history of the palace. Afterward, visit the Generalife Gardens to witness the blend of Islamic and Spanish architecture and enjoy stunning views of the city.

  • Day 6: Toledo
    4.5 hours (430 kilometers) from Granada

    Known as the 'City of Three Cultures', Toledo is famous for its religious diversity demonstrated through its architecture. Visit the Alcázar of Toledo, a stone fortress with a breathtaking view of the city, and the Toledo Cathedral, one of the most magnificent gothic cathedrals in Spain.

  • Day 7: Costa del Sol
    1 hour (90 kilometers) from Toledo

    A great way to end your trip in Spain is to relax by the beach. Costa del Sol is known for its beautiful coastline and vibrant nightlife. Visit the Nerja Caves for an off-beat experience or enjoy a beach day at Marbella Beach and Puerto Banús.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia (2 hours, €20)
  • La Boqueria Market (1-2 hours, €10-20)
  • Valencia Cathedral (1 hour, Free entry)
  • City of Arts and Sciences (4-5 hours, €18)
  • Prado Museum (2-3 hours, €15)
  • Alcázar of Seville (1-2 hours, €11.50)
  • Alhambra Palace (2-4 hours, €14)
  • Toledo Cathedral (1 hour, €10)
  • Nerja Caves (2-3 hours, €14)
  • Estimated total cost: €112.50

Transportation

For an affordable trip, consider using public transportation like buses and trains to get around Spain. The main railway line is Renfe, and you can book tickets through their website. For shorter distances, you can use buses run by Alsa. Expect to spend an average of €35-40 per journey.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you could add a visit to the stunning 700-year-old Monastery of Montserrat. In case of less time, consider skipping Toledo and the Costa del Sol. Be aware of opening and closing times for attractions, and remember to book tickets in advance to avoid standing in long queues.

Airports

The main airport serving Spain is the Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). It's located about 13 kilometers from the city center, and you can reach it via the metro or bus system.

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