7-Day Budget Student Tour of Spain: Malaga, Granada, Seville, Madrid & Barcelona

Day 1: Arrival and Malaga Exploration

Malaga, Spain on March 21, 2025

10:00AM

Breakfast at Panaderia Casa del Pan

Begin your trip with fresh pastries and coffee at this cozy bakery, perfect to set a budget-friendly tone for your Spanish adventure.
EUR4, 1 hour

11:00AM

Picasso Museum

Dive into the art world at the Picasso Museum, dedicated to Malaga’s most famous son, showcasing an impressive range of his works.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Tapeo de Cervantes

Enjoy affordable tapas in a lively setting, tasting diverse Spanish small plates that give you a local flavor at great prices.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Alcazaba of Malaga

Visit the Alcazaba fortress, an exceptional example of Moorish architecture with beautiful gardens and panoramic views over the city.
EUR3, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at La Malagueta Beach

Unwind on the sun-kissed sands of La Malagueta Beach and enjoy the Mediterranean breeze to refresh after your cultural explorations.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Bar El Pimpi

Dine on Andalusian cuisine in a friendly atmosphere at this iconic Malaga establishment known for its fresh, local ingredients.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Malaga to Granada

Granada, Spain on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Fuel up with a typical Spanish breakfast of a Spanish omelet and coffee before your bus to Granada.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Granada

Travel the scenic 1.5-hour bus ride from Malaga to Granada to begin exploring Andalusia’s rich history.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Alhambra

Explore the majestic Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing magnificent Moorish architecture and beautiful gardens. Tickets must be booked in advance.
EUR14, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Bodegas Castañeda

Taste authentic Andalusian dishes while enjoying a cozy atmosphere and excellent value menus.
EUR11, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Wander Albaicín Neighborhood

Stroll through Granada’s old Moorish quarter, characterized by narrow winding streets and stunning views of the Alhambra.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Sunset at Mirador de San Nicolás

Watch the breathtaking sunset over the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada mountains from this iconic viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Ruta del Azafrán

Enjoy flavorful Andalusian and Middle Eastern fusion dishes in a budget-friendly setting.
EUR17, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Granada to Seville

Seville, Spain on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 4 Gatos

Delight in pastries and well-brewed coffee with views of the old town before departure to Seville.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Seville

Embark on a 3-hour bus journey to Seville, enjoying the changing landscapes of Andalusia.
EUR10, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Rinconcillo

Try traditional Sevillian tapas in this historic restaurant that dates back to 1670, great value for quality food.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower

Visit the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and climb the Giralda tower for panoramic city views.
EUR12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Barrio Santa Cruz

Wander the charming alleys and courtyards of Seville's historic Jewish quarter.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Visit Plaza de España

Relax and admire the stunning architecture of this semi-circular plaza adorned with vibrant tilework.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at La Azotea

Enjoy modern tapas with a local flair, perfect for a filling yet affordable dinner in Seville.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Seville to Madrid

Madrid, Spain on March 24, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at La Cacharrería

Start early with a tasty breakfast featuring fresh juices and toasts to prepare for travel.
EUR6, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Madrid

Take the high-speed train from Seville to Madrid, a roughly 2.5-hour comfortable and efficient journey.
EUR40, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at El Tigre

Have a casual lunch with generous free tapas served alongside drinks in a lively environment.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Visit Museo del Prado

Explore Spain’s premier art museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and more. Free entry in late afternoon time slot.
EUR15, 2 hours

3:00PM

Retiro Park Walk

Enjoy a relaxing stroll among beautiful trees, lakes, and monuments in Madrid’s central park.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Churros at San Ginés

Treat yourself to famous churros and thick hot chocolate at a classic eatery open late.
EUR4, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Tapas Dinner at Casa Lucio

Try the iconic huevos rotos and other classic Spanish dishes in a welcoming, budget-friendly setting.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Explore Madrid

Madrid, Spain on March 25, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Casa de las Torrijas

Start with traditional Spanish French toast (torrijas) and coffee in a cozy local café.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Royal Palace of Madrid

Tour the grand palace interiors and expansive gardens of the Spanish monarchy’s official residence.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Sample a variety of Spanish dishes from multiple stalls in this historic and vibrant market.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Browse an extensive collection of art from medieval to modern, enriching your cultural experience.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Plaza Mayor

Enjoy an hour in the famous square, soaking in its atmosphere and street performances.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Malasaña Neighborhood

Discover a trendy neighborhood filled with alternative shops, cafes, and street art.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Café de Chinitas with Flamenco

Experience authentic Spanish cuisine alongside a live flamenco show – a perfect cultural night out.
EUR20, 2 hours

Day 6: Madrid to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on March 26, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Enjoy churros and hot chocolate at this iconic spot before leaving Madrid.
EUR6, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Barcelona

Take the high-speed train to Barcelona, approximately 3 hours, for a comfortable journey.
EUR40, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Paradeta

Relish self-selected fresh seafood prepared to order at this budget-friendly market-style restaurant.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

La Sagrada Familia

Visit Gaudí’s iconic and still unfinished basilica, famous for its unique design and colorful stained glass.
EUR26, 2 hours

4:30PM

Park Güell

Wander this colorful and whimsical park offering some of the best views of Barcelona’s skyline.
EUR10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bodega La Palma

Sample traditional tapas in a cozy setting, perfect for a relaxed budget meal.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Explore Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chök

Start your day with sweet treats and coffee at this renowned donut and chocolate spot.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Casa Batlló

Admire the whimsical and colorful facade and interiors of this iconic Gaudí masterpiece.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Gothic Quarter

Walk through the historic heart of Barcelona, rich with medieval buildings and quaint shops.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at El Xampanyet

Enjoy traditional tapas and cava at this lively, affordable local favorite near the Gothic Quarter.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Relax and enjoy the famous light and music fountain show in the early evening (check schedule for specific showtimes).
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Walk along La Rambla

Stroll down the bustling boulevard filled with street performers, shops, and cafés, soaking up vibrant Barcelona life.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Tickets Bar (if budget allows) or Tapeo

Treat yourself to tapas by famed chefs at Tickets Bar or opt for classic, affordable tapas at Tapeo on a student budget.
EUR15-50, 2 hours