10-Day Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Madrid Highlights

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Start your day with the famous churros and thick hot chocolate at this iconic spot.
Located in the city center, easily accessible by metro.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Prado Museum

Explore an impressive collection of European art, including works by Goya and Velázquez.
Metro to Banco de España station.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Stroll through Retiro Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk in this lush urban park, or rent a paddleboat on the lake.
Walk from the museum; it's a short distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Sample various Spanish tapas at this vibrant market, with affordable options available.
Walk from Retiro Park.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Plaza Mayor

Visit the historical heart of Madrid and enjoy the lively ambiance.
10-minute walk from Mercado de San Miguel.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Royal Palace

Check out the lavish architecture and beautiful gardens; the palace is open to the public.
Walk from Plaza Mayor.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Tapas and Drinks

Grab some affordable tapas and a drink at La Latina, known for its vibrant nightlife.
Take the Metro to La Latina Station.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll

Walk through the Gran Vía and enjoy the bustling atmosphere and street performances.
Easy walk; the Gran Vía is central.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Art and Culture

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Savor a light breakfast with beautiful views of the Royal Palace.
Walking distance from the palace.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Reina Sofía Museum

Home to Picasso's Guernica; experience contemporary art in a beautiful setting.
Metro to Atocha Station.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Lavapiés Neighborhood

Wander through this multicultural area known for its street art and vibrant shops.
Short walk from Reina Sofía.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bar Tomate

Enjoy a fusion of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine at affordable prices.
Metro to Chamberí Station.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Temple of Debod

This ancient Egyptian temple offers stunning views at sunset; a hidden gem in Madrid.
Metro to Plaza de España.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shop at El Rastro

Explore the bustling flea market on Sundays and find unique souvenirs.
Walk from Temple of Debod.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Indulge in the famous huevos rotos, a must-try local dish.
Metro to La Latina.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Flamenco Show

Delight in an authentic flamenco performance at a local tablao.
Book in advance in the La Latina area.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Mallorquina

Try their famous pastries and coffee before heading off.
Walk to the café near Puerta del Sol.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Toledo

Take a 30-minute train ride to the historic city of Toledo.
Cercanías train from Atocha Station.
EUR13, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Toledo’s Old Town

Wander through narrow streets and visit the stunning Toledo Cathedral.
Walk around the historic center.
EUR10, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante La Orza

Enjoy local specialties like venado (venison) in a cozy atmosphere.
Short walk through the old town.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Alcázar of Toledo

Discover the rich military history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Synagogue of Santa María La Blanca

Experience the historical blend of cultures in this stunning synagogue.
Short walk from the Alcázar.
EUR3, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Madrid

Catch the train back and enjoy the views as you relax.
Cercanías train from Toledo Station.
EUR13, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at el Tigre

Try the local tapas with generous portions in a lively setting.
Metro to Chueca.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Stroll through Malasaña

Enjoy the bohemian vibes and numerous bars and cafes.
Walk from el Tigre.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Valencia Arrival

Valencia, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Les Artes

Start your day with a delightful coffee and pastry at this art-filled café.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Valencia

Take a quick train ride to Valencia to explore the city famous for its arts and sciences.
Renfe train from Madrid Atocha to Valencia Joaquín Sorolla.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit City of Arts and Sciences

Marvel at the futuristic architecture of this iconic complex and visit the Oceanogràfic.
Accessible via Tram from the station.
EUR30 (Oceanogràfic entry), 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at LaPepica

Enjoy traditional Valencian paella near the beach.
Tram to Las Arenas beach.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Malvarrosa Beach

Spend some time soaking in the sun at Valencia’s famous beach.
Short walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Valencia's Old Town

Wander through the historical center and visit the Mercado Central for local produce.
Tram back to the city center.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Casa de la Mar

Taste fresh seafood dishes at an affordable price close to the historic center.
Short walk from Mercado Central.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk at Turia Gardens

Relax in one of the longest urban parks in Spain, perfect for a stroll at sunset.
Accessible by foot from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Valencia Experience

Valencia, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Horchatería Santa Catalina

Delve into a refreshing glass of horchata with fartons, a Valencian specialty.
Walking distance from the hotel.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Valencia Cathedral

Explore this stunning cathedral and climb the Miguelete tower for panoramic views.
Short walk from the breakfast spot.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Silk Exchange

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Valencia's silk trade history.
Walk from the cathedral.
EUR2, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bodega Casa de las Mantecas

Savor authentic tapas in a traditional bodega atmosphere.
Short walk from the Silk Exchange.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bioparc Valencia

Experience the zoo like never before with animal conservation in a natural habitat.
Bus to Bioparc from the city center.
EUR24, 3 hours

5:30PM

Rest at the Hotel

Take a short break and refresh before dinner.
Return to your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Trovador

Try the local seafood paella served with fresh ingredients.
Metro to the restaurant location.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Night Out in Ruzafa

Experience the vibrant nightlife, full of bars and local music venues.
Short walk from dinner.
EUR10 (drinks), 3 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Exploration

Valencia, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de las Horas

Enjoy a cocktail coffee and traditional pastry in a charming ambiance.
5-minute walk from your accommodation.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Serranos Towers

Climb up for stunning city views and explore a significant historical landmark.
Walk to the towers.
EUR2, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Mercado Central

Sample fresh fruits, local cheeses, and other gastronomy delights.
Walk to the market.
Free entry; buy treats as you like., 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Central

Feast on local tapas and freshly prepared meals in a delightful setting.
Walk a few minutes from the market.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Museums in Valencia

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and the National Ceramics Museum.
Bus to the museums nearby.
EUR8 (both combined), 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to Your Hotel

Take some time to relax before your evening plans.
Bus back to your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at La Pepica

Savor another healthy serving of the divine Valencia paella.
Walking distance from the hotel.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Activities

Enjoy local music or a theatre performance in Ruzafa.
Local venues close to your restaurant.
EUR15 (depends on the show), 2.5 hours
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Day 7: Barcelona Entry

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café El Magnifico

Start your day with some artisanal coffee and fresh pastries.
Walking distance from hotel.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Barcelona

Travel to the city of artists, famous for its architecture and beaches.
Renfe train from Valencia to Barcelona Sants.
EUR35, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Paradeta

Enjoy a unique seafood experience, choose your fresh catch and have it cooked.
Metro from Sants to the restaurant.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore La Rambla

Take a stroll down this famous boulevard filled with shops and street performers.
Metro from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Gothic Quarter

Get lost in the narrow streets and visit the ancient Cathedral of Barcelona.
Walking distance from La Rambla.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Park Güell

Experience the colorful mosaics and architectural wonders designed by Gaudí.
Metro to Vallcarca and walk to the park.
EUR10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Merendero de la Mari

Enjoy tasty tapas and great seafood offerings in a relaxed setting.
Metro back downtown.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Night Walk at Barceloneta Beach

Relax by the Mediterranean Sea and soak in the end of a memorable day.
Tram or walk to Barceloneta.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Barcelona Wonders

Barcelona, Spain

8:30AM

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Taste delicious traditional Catalonian dishes at this historic dairy shop.
Walking distance from your stay.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Marvel at Gaudí's masterpiece and its unique architectural style.
Metro to Sagrada Familia Station.
EUR17, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Nacional

Try various flavors at this multi-space restaurant, offering regional cuisines.
Metro to Passeig de Gracia.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Passeig de Gràcia

Shop and admire the stunning architecture, including Casa Batlló.
Easy walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Casa Milà

Discover another Gaudí work, also known as La Pedrera, with its unique facade.
Short walk from Passeig de Gràcia.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Fonda

Enjoy traditional Catalan dishes in a local atmosphere.
Walk to the restaurant nearby.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Churros at Churrería San Roma

End the day with delicious churros and chocolate in a cozy setting.
Short walk from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1 hour
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Day 9: More of Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Boqueria Market

Sample fresh juices, cheeses, and local pastries at this vibrant market.
Metro to Liceu Station.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Montjuïc

Visit the castle and take in breathtaking views of the harbor.
Funicular from Paral·lel.
EUR5, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tickets

Try some innovative tapas; be sure to book ahead for this popular spot.
Tram to Paral·lel.
EUR30, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Olympic Stadium

Discover the legacy of the 1992 Olympics and enjoy the park surroundings.
Walk to the stadium.
EUR5, 1 hour

3:30PM

Walk in Barceloneta

Spend leisure time walking along the beachboardwalk.
Metro to Barceloneta.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Can Majó

Another fresh seafood specialty that will not disappoint.
Short walk from the beach.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Flamenco Night

End your trip with a vibrant flamenco show in a local tablao.
Book ahead for a good seat; many options in the city.
EUR25, 2.5 hours
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Day 10: Departure Day

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Enjoy a colorful breakfast with a variety of options in this trendy brunch spot.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Antoni Gaudí's Park Güell

Take the morning to wander around the stunning park before your journey home.
Metro to Vallcarca Station.
EUR10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up any souvenirs and local goods before heading to the airport.
Metro to Passeig de Gràcia.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Head to Airport

Make your way to the airport via metro or taxi.
Metro to Aeropuerto El Prat.
EUR5, 1 hour
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