10-Day Birthday Celebration Itinerary: New Year and Exploring Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

10:00AM

Check-in at Budget Hostel

Check into an affordable hostel in the city center, making it convenient for your explorations.
EUR25, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Museo del Prado

Explore one of the most prestigious art museums in the world, featuring works by Spanish masters.
EUR15, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Taberna de Mister Pinkerton

Enjoy a menú del día at this charming eatery for a wallet-friendly price.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore El Retiro Park

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful El Retiro Park, a perfect spot to unwind.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Walk in Gran Vía

Wander the bustling streets of Gran Vía, enjoying the holiday lights and decorations.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Taberna El Sur

Savor traditional Spanish dishes in a cozy and budget-friendly environment.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Cultural Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast to kick-start your day.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the stunning Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe, featuring opulent rooms and stunning gardens.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Stroll through Plaza Mayor

Visit this iconic square adorned with festive decorations, perfect for people watching.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Sample delicious tapas from various vendors at this bustling market, ideal for trying a bit of everything.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Museo Reina Sofía

Home to Picasso's Guernica, this modern art museum provides a different perspective on Spanish art.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Evening at Malasaña

Explore the hipster neighborhood of Malasaña, famed for its bars and street art.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Baco

Indulge in affordable yet delicious tapas in this local hotspot.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

Day 3: New Year’s Eve in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Fuel up on breakfast at your hostel to energize for the festive day.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Temple of Debod

Explore this ancient Egyptian temple located in the heart of Madrid, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Browse Local Shops

Wander through local shops in the city center to find unique New Year’s souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Casa Lucio

Treat yourself to a famous Spanish omelet at this iconic restaurant, keeping in budget.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

Enjoy a fantastic collection of art from the 13th to the 20th century in this renowned museum.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:30PM

Prepare for New Year’s Eve Festivities

Find a great spot at Puerta del Sol to ring in the New Year with locals as they gather.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Casa de Hortal

Enjoy a celebratory dinner with traditional Spanish dishes to fuel up for the night's festivities.
EUR25, 2 hours

10:00PM

New Year’s Eve Celebration in Puerta del Sol

Join the crowd in Puerta del Sol for the revelry leading up to New Year’s, complete with grapes for luck at midnight.
Free, 4 hours

Day 4: Travel to Valencia

Valencia, Spain

10:00AM

Hangover Breakfast

Grab a hearty breakfast to recover from last night's festivities at the hostel.
EUR8, 1 hour

11:30AM

Travel to Valencia

Catch a budget-friendly train from Madrid to Valencia, enjoying the scenic route.
EUR20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Check-in at Budget Hostel in Valencia

Settle into an affordable hostel located centrally, perfect for exploration.
EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at El Rall

Enjoy an affordable menu del día to satisfy your hunger after the train ride.
EUR10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Turia Gardens

Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike in these enchanting gardens that stretch through the city.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Visit Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences

Explore this architectural marvel featuring museums and an aquarium, perfect for photo ops.
EUR25 (optional entry fee)., 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Bar Central

Enjoy a refreshing meal of paella at this well-known local eatery.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Cultural Day in Valencia

Valencia, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Enjoy the included breakfast at the hostel to gear up for a busy day.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Valencia Cathedral

Explore the stunning cathedral housing the Holy Grail and offering beautiful city views from the bell tower.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Wander through the Central Market

Indulge in fresh produce and local delicacies at this vibrant market, perfect for souvenirs.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Uniko

Satisfy your appetite with a menú del día at this popular local eatery.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax in Parque de Cabecera

Take a leisurely afternoon stroll or have a picnic in this beautiful park by the Turia Gardens.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Bioparc Valencia

Spend time at this unique, immersive zoo focused on wildlife conservation.
EUR20, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Casa de Hortal

Indulge in local Valencian dishes at this affordable restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Birthday Celebration Planning

Valencia, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Start your day with the customary breakfast in the hostel.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit L'Oceanogràfic

Explore the largest aquarium in Europe within the City of Arts and Sciences, home to stunning marine life.
EUR30, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Xata

Enjoy a traditional Valencian dish like paella or arroz al horno for a genuine experience.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe

Immerse yourself in science exhibits that engage and entertain visitors of all ages.
EUR8, 2 hours

4:30PM

Birthday Celebration Planning

Find a great restaurant or venue for your upcoming birthday celebration this evening.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Mercado

Partake in a festive meal featuring seasonal dishes and tapas to celebrate the upcoming birthday.
EUR20, 2 hours

8:30PM

Celebrate Your Birthday!

Go out to a lively bar or club in Valencia to kick off your birthday celebrations with newfound friends.
EUR10, 3 hours

Day 7: Travel to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

10:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Savor a hearty recovery breakfast at the hostel.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Travel to Barcelona

Take a budget-friendly train from Valencia to Barcelona, enjoying the scenic route.
EUR25, 3 hours

2:30PM

Check-in at Budget Hostel in Barcelona

Settle into another affordable hostel centrally located for easy access to attractions.
EUR25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Lunch at Cafè de l’Opera

Enjoy a menú del día featuring Mediterranean flavors.
EUR10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Parc de la Ciutadella

Relax in this beautiful park, perfect for unwinding on your first day in Barcelona.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Explore Barceloneta Beach

Head to the beach to enjoy a sunset walk and take in the coastal atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Can Majó

Delight in seafood dishes that capture the essence of Catalan cuisine, with stunning beach views.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Explore Barcelona's Nature

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Fuel up on breakfast served in the communal area of your hostel.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Montjuïc Hill

Take a cable car or funicular to Montjuïc, where you can wander through gardens and enjoy panoramic views over Barcelona.
EUR2.40, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Montjuïc

Savor a light meal with stunning views over the city from this café.
EUR12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll in Parc de Montjuïc

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon walk through delightfully landscaped gardens and discover interesting sculptures.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Olympic Stadium

Admire the architectural structures of the Olympic Stadium built for the 1992 Olympics.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening at the Beach

Return to Barceloneta Beach for a picturesque sunset.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Mar Salada

Indulge in reasonably priced seafood dishes at this beachside restaurant.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

Day 9: Cultural Gems in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Savor your daily breakfast and prepare for an exciting day ahead.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Gothic Quarter

Wander the labyrinthine streets of the historic Gothic Quarter, filled with hidden gems and local shops.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Discover La Rambla

Stroll along this famous boulevard, teeming with street vendors and performers, capturing the lively spirit of the city.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Enjoy an affordable lunch from various vendors within this vibrant market, with something for everyone.
EUR12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar

Marvel at this stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture and its beautiful stained glass windows.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Discover Parc de la Ciutadella

Relax in this sizeable green space known for its lake, impressive fountain, and relaxing atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Explore the Beaches

Spend your evening at one of Barcelona's numerous beaches, ensuring a restful completion of the day.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Can Solé

End your day with hearty but affordable seafood at this highly regarded local establishment.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Birthday Celebration in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Brunch at the Hostel

Enjoy a leisurely brunch at the hostel while reminiscing about your travels.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Birthday Gift Shopping

Treat yourself to some birthday shopping at local markets or shops for souvenirs.
Varies, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Nacional

Indulge in a leisurely meal in this stunning multi-space restaurant serving a range of Spanish dishes.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Camp Nou

Take a tour of the legendary FC Barcelona stadium, soaking in the rich history of the club.
EUR25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Prepare for Birthday Celebration

Get ready for an evening of festive celebrations at a pre-arranged venue, finalize last-minute details.
N/A, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Birthday Celebration Dinner at a Selected Venue

Enjoy a delicious birthday dinner surrounded by friends and new acquaintances while celebrating the day.
EUR30, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dance the Night Away

Head to a local club or bar to celebrate your birthday with music and dancing.
EUR15, 3-4 hours