14-Day Shoestring Adventure in Spain: Explore Rich Culture and Scenic Trains

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

Madrid, Spain on November 19, 2024

10:00AM

Check-in at Hostel

Upon arrival in Madrid, settle into your budget-friendly hostel, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
EUR30, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Puerta del Sol

Start your adventure at Puerta del Sol, the bustling heart of Madrid filled with historic significance.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Casa de Tortilla

Savor a delicious Spanish tortilla at this local favorite spot.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore The Royal Palace

Discover the splendor of the Royal Palace, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful palaces.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:30PM

Stroll through Parque del Retiro

Take a leisurely stroll in the serene Parque del Retiro, perfect for unwinding.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Tigre

Enjoy affordable tapas at this popular eatery where the portions are generous.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Chill at Plaza Mayor

End your day enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at Plaza Mayor, perhaps with a hot chocolate.
EUR3, 1 hour

Day 2: Exploring Madrid

Madrid, Spain on November 20, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Oriente

Choose from a variety of pastries and coffee at this lovely cafe with a view of the palace.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Museo del Prado

Marvel at the masterpieces in one of the world’s premier art galleries.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Tour Reina Sofia Museum

Explore this museum home to Picasso's Guernica and various modern works.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy a variety of local foods under one roof in this vibrant market.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Malasaña District

Wander through this hip neighborhood filled with street art, funky shops, and cafes.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Sureña

Experience the local flavors of Madrid with traditional fare at budget prices.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Flamenco Show at Corral de la Morería

Experience a passionate flamenco performance to truly immerse in Spanish culture.
EUR30, 2 hours

Day 3: Travel to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on November 21, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Mallorquina

Grab a pastry and coffee at this iconic pastry shop before you depart.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Barcelona

Board your high-speed train to Barcelona, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.
EUR40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Barcelona and check into your hostel, ready for the adventures ahead.
EUR30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Indulge in fresh tapas and local produce at this vibrant food market.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk along La Rambla

Stroll down La Rambla, soaking in the atmosphere, shops, and street performances.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander through the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, visiting the stunning Barcelona Cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Can Culleretes

Dine at the oldest restaurant in Barcelona, offering traditional dishes at reasonable prices.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Explore Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on November 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of churros and hot chocolate at this beloved café.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sagrada Familia

Admire the architectural wonder of Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished church.
EUR26, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Park Güell

Wander through this colorful park, another masterpiece by Gaudí.
EUR10, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Quimet & Quimet

Savor renowned Catalonian tapas at this small, bustling restaurant.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Casa Batlló

Explore Gaudí's stunning architectural work, characterized by its unique shapes and colors.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bodega 1900

Enjoy a mix of traditional and modern tapas at this vibrant eatery.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Enjoy Magic Fountain Show

Be mesmerized by the colorful light and sound show at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
Free, 1 hour

Day 5: Travel to Valencia

Valencia, Spain on November 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Churrería El Mono

Enjoy local churros with chocolate at this cozy breakfast spot.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Valencia

Board your train to Valencia, relishing the passing landscapes along the way.
EUR30, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Valencia and settle into your new budget accommodation.
EUR25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Dive into delicious local produce and seafood in the exuberant central market.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax by Turia Gardens

Take a leisurely walk or bike ride in the picturesque Turia Gardens.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit City of Arts and Sciences

Explore one of the most iconic landmarks of Valencia, known for its futuristic architecture.
EUR30, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at La Pepica

Treat yourself to authentic paella at this iconic seaside restaurant.
EUR20, 2 hours

Day 6: Valencia and Beyond

Valencia, Spain on November 24, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panaria

Enjoy a light breakfast of fresh bread and pastries.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Valencia Cathedral

Explore this stunning cathedral, home to the supposed Holy Grail.
EUR6, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore La Lonja de la Seda

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Gothic architecture.
EUR2, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Casa Roberto

Savor a traditional Valencia menu with tapas and dishes made with local ingredients.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Bioparc Valencia

Enjoy a unique, immersive animal experience at this zoo, known for its ethical practices.
EUR22, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Bocatella

Sample delightful tapas with a modern twist at this hip restaurant.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Enjoy Valencia nightlife

Venture out to the vibrant nightlife scene, visiting local bars for drinks.
EUR20, 2-3 hours

Day 7: Travel to Granada

Granada, Spain on November 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 4 Gatos

Grab a quick but hearty breakfast with local flair at this charming café.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Granada

Start your journey to Granada, enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the way.
EUR30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Granada and check into your hostel, ready for exploration.
EUR25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Bodegas Castañeda

Indulge in traditional Andalusian tapas and wines at this local favorite.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Alhambra

Explore the stunning Alhambra Palace and its beautiful gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
EUR14, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Taberna La Tana

Experience the local flavor with traditional Granada dishes at this cozy tavern.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 8: Discover Granada

Granada, Spain on November 26, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 4 Gatos

Start your day with fresh local pastries and coffee at this scenic cafe.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Sacromonte

Wander the hilly streets of Sacromonte, famous for its cave houses and flamenco shows.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Visit Granada Cathedral

Admire the stunning Renaissance architecture of this remarkable cathedral.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at La Finca

Enjoy organic dishes in a cozy atmosphere at this farm-to-table restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Generalife Gardens

Explore these peaceful gardens that offer breathtaking views of the Alhambra.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Los Manueles

Savor tapas and local wines at this quaint eatery, famous for its welcoming ambiance.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Attend a Flamenco Show

Dive into the culture and enjoy a performance at a local tablao.
EUR25, 2 hours

Day 9: Travel to Seville

Seville, Spain on November 27, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Distrito Coffee

Get your caffeine fix and a delicious breakfast in this modern café.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Seville

Take a scenic train ride to Seville, ready for more Andalusian adventures.
EUR25, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Seville and drop off your bags in your budget-friendly hostel.
EUR25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at El Rinconcillo

Indulge in tapas in one of the oldest bars in Seville, with a rustic charm.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Seville Cathedral and La Giralda

Marvel at this enormous cathedral and climb La Giralda bell tower for stunning views.
EUR10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Stroll through Alcázar of Seville

Explore the breathtaking Moorish architecture of this famous palace.
EUR14, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at La Azotea

Dine at this trendy spot offering classic dishes with a twist.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 10: Exploring Seville

Seville, Spain on November 28, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar Alfalfa

Try a mix of traditional Spanish foods and refreshing juices.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Plaza de España

Take in the magnificent architecture and serene canal of this iconic square.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Parque de María Luisa

Stroll through beautiful gardens surrounding the plaza, ideal for relaxation.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Lonja del Barranco

Taste diverse local cuisines at this trendy food market.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Learn Flamenco Dance

Take a short workshop to get a feel for Flamenco dance, a key part of Andalusian culture.
EUR30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Triana

Wander through the lively streets of the Triana neighborhood, known for its ceramics.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa Cuesta

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at this local treasure known for its friendly atmosphere.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

Day 11: Travel to Malaga

Malaga, Spain on November 29, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Bella Julieta

Wake up with a delightful pastry and coffee at this charming café.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Malaga

Travel to the coastal city of Malaga with stunning ocean views along the way.
EUR25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Malaga and settle into your budget hostel.
EUR25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central de Atarazanas

Delve into local seafood dishes at this vibrant market.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Alcazaba of Malaga

Explore this well-preserved Moorish fortress offering stunning views of the city.
EUR8, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Malagueta Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores of Malagueta Beach, ideal for a sunset stroll.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Tintero

Enjoy fresh seafood right by the beach at this popular local spot.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 12: Enjoy Malaga

Malaga, Spain on November 30, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café con Libros

Relish a relaxed breakfast in this cozy café filled with books.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Picasso Museum

Explore the collection of works by Malaga’s own Pablo Picasso.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Botanical Garden

Wander through lush landscapes and exotic plant species in this tranquil setting.
EUR5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Tapeo de Cervantes

Savor traditional Spanish tapas in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Playa de la Malagueta

Spend your afternoon enjoying the sun and sand on this popular beach.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tapas de la Plaza

Enjoy a casual meal at this spot, known for its variety of tapas.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 13: Travel to Toledo

Toledo, Spain on December 1, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day with a delightful breakfast in this local favorite café.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Toledo

Embark on a short train journey to the historic city of Toledo.
EUR20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Toledo and check into your budget accommodation.
EUR25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Casa de las Paradas

Try traditional dishes at this charming restaurant boasting a cozy vibe.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Toledo’s Alcázar

Discover the history and architecture of this impressive fortress overlooking the town.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Toledo Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of Toledo's magnificent cathedral.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at La Abadía

Experience a mix of traditional and modern cuisine at this celebrated eatery.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 14: Return to Madrid

Madrid, Spain on December 2, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hostel

Enjoy a streamlined breakfast before traveling back to the capital.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Madrid

Head back to Madrid, reflection time on your remarkable journey across Spain.
EUR20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive back in Madrid and check into your hostel for your final night.
EUR25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Botín

Savor a meal at the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Last-minute shopping at Gran Via

Spend your final afternoon shopping for souvenirs on the bustling Gran Via.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wrap up your trip at Retiro Park

Conclude your Spanish adventure with a peaceful walk in the beautiful Retiro Park.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Taberna El Sur

Enjoy your final dinner enjoying the vibrant flavors of Madrid with local tapas.
EUR15, 1.5 hours