8-Day Budget-Friendly Student Journey in Spain: Malaga, Granada, Seville, Madrid, and Barcelona

Day 1: Arrive in Malaga

Malaga, Spain on June 25, 2025

10:00AM

Breakfast at Panaderia Casa del Pan

Begin your Spanish adventure with fresh pastries and coffee at Panaderia Casa del Pan, a cozy local bakery offering affordable treats.
EUR4, 1 hour

11:30AM

Picasso Museum

Explore the Picasso Museum showcasing works of Malaga’s most famous son, Pablo Picasso. It's a cultural must-see with modest entry fees.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at El Tapeo de Cervantes

Enjoy an inexpensive lunch with a variety of tasty tapas at El Tapeo de Cervantes, a favorite among locals for authentic Andalusian flavors.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Alcazaba of Malaga

Tour the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress offering an insightful glimpse into historic Malaga with panoramic views of the city.
EUR3, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at La Malagueta Beach

Unwind on the golden sands of La Malagueta Beach, a perfect spot to relax and soak in the Mediterranean ambiance.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Bar El Pimpi

Experience traditional Andalusian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere at Restaurante Bar El Pimpi, ideal for a budget-friendly dinner.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Malaga to Granada

Granada, Spain on June 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day with a Spanish omelet and fresh coffee at Café Central to energize yourself for the journey ahead.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Granada

Take a comfortable bus ride of about 1.5 hours from Malaga to Granada and prepare for discovering a historic city.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Alhambra

Witness the stunning Alhambra, an iconic Moorish palace known for its intricate Islamic art and lush gardens. Advance booking required.
EUR14, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Bodegas Castañeda

Relish an affordable and tasty menu del dia at Bodegas Castañeda, a favorite spot for local Granada cuisine.
EUR11, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Albaicín Neighborhood

Walk through the historic Albaicín quarter, characterized by whitewashed buildings and narrow lanes, offering stunning Alhambra views.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Mirador de San Nicolás

Catch the sunset over the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada mountains from this popular viewing point—a memorable experience.
Free, 1 hour

8:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Ruta del Azafrán

Savor exquisite dishes blending Middle Eastern and Andalusian flavors at Restaurante Ruta del Azafrán, perfect for budget dining.
EUR17, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Granada to Seville

Seville, Spain on June 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 4 Gatos

Enjoy a light breakfast with coffee and homemade pastries at Café 4 Gatos, a cozy start to the day.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Seville

Travel by bus from Granada to Seville (3 hours), offering comfort and scenic views for your journey to the Andalusian capital.
EUR10, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Rinconcillo

Taste the authentic tapas and vibrant atmosphere of El Rinconcillo, one of Seville’s oldest and most beloved bars.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower

Explore the majestic Gothic cathedral and climb the Giralda for panoramic city views—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:00PM

Barrio Santa Cruz

Stroll through the picturesque Santa Cruz neighborhood, filled with charming alleys, squares, and historical landmarks.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Plaza de España

Relax at the stunning Plaza de España, admiring its colorful tiles and beautiful surroundings.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at La Azotea

Enjoy affordable yet delicious tapas at La Azotea, famed for its contemporary Spanish dishes and lively ambiance.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Discover Seville

Seville, Spain on June 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Cacharrería

Start your day with fresh juices and tasty toasts at La Cacharrería, a popular spot for a vibrant breakfast.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Real Alcázar of Seville

Visit the Real Alcázar, a palace with stunning Moorish architecture and lush gardens, rich in history and beauty.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Metropol Parasol

See the modernist Metropol Parasol structure and climb for sweeping city views atop this architectural landmark.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Casa Morales

Sample traditional Andalusian tapas and vermouth at Casa Morales, a well-loved local establishment with a friendly vibe.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Museo de Bellas Artes

Explore Spanish masterpieces from the Golden Age at the Museo de Bellas Artes, perfect for art enthusiasts on a budget.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping in Triana

Discover the lively Triana neighborhood's markets and shops, ideal for souvenir hunting and experiencing local culture.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante La Carbonería

Conclude the day with traditional tapas and live music at La Carbonería, a perfect blend of food and entertainment.
EUR18, 2 hours
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Day 5: Seville to Madrid

Madrid, Spain on June 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bar El Comercio

Enjoy a budget-friendly breakfast of churros and hot chocolate at Bar El Comercio before traveling north.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Madrid

Take a high-speed train to Madrid, approximately 2.5 hours, for a fast and comfortable journey across Spain.
EUR40, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Tigre

Experience filling tapas plates at El Tigre, known for its generous portions and affordable prices, right in central Madrid.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Museo del Prado

Explore the world-renowned artworks at Museo del Prado. Free entry is available in the last two hours of the day (6pm-8pm).
EUR15, 2 hours

4:30PM

Retiro Park

Relax with a leisurely stroll in Retiro Park, enjoying its gardens, lake, and the Glass Palace in central Madrid.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Café de Chinitas

Dine on traditional Spanish dishes accompanied by live flamenco music for a culturally rich dining experience.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 6: Madrid Highlights

Madrid, Spain on June 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Casa de las Torrijas

Breakfast on typical Spanish torrijas (French toast) paired with coffee at a friendly local café.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Royal Palace of Madrid

Tour the magnificent Royal Palace with its opulent interiors and beautiful gardens. Budget-friendly entry ticket included.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Mercado de San Miguel

Explore the bustling Mercado de San Miguel to sample diverse, affordable cuisine from multiple vendors.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Visit this museum for its impressive art collection spanning from medieval times to the 20th century.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Plaza Mayor

Enjoy the lively atmosphere and historic architecture of Plaza Mayor, a great spot for photos and relaxation.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Churros at San Ginés

Recharge with a famous churros and chocolate snack at San Ginés, an iconic Madrid establishment.
EUR4, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Explore Malasaña

Discover the Malasaña neighborhood's bohemian vibe, shops, and street art, popular among students and creatives.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Finish your day with the famous huevos rotos at Casa Lucio, an intimate and well-loved Madrid eatery.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Madrid to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on July 1, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Enjoy a traditional Catalan breakfast of churros and hot chocolate before departing Madrid.
EUR6, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Barcelona

Board a high-speed train to Barcelona. The journey lasts about 3 hours through scenic Spanish landscapes.
EUR40, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Paradeta

Upon arrival, enjoy a budget-friendly seafood lunch where you choose fresh catches to be cooked on the spot.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

La Sagrada Familia

Explore Gaudí’s unfinished basilica, renowned globally for its architectural beauty and intricate designs.
EUR26, 2 hours

3:45PM

Park Güell

Visit Park Güell to see colorful mosaics and scenic views over Barcelona; tickets offer time slots, so plan ahead.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Gothic Quarter Walk

Wander through the atmospheric Gothic Quarter to soak in the medieval charm, vibrant street life, and street art.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Bodega La Palma

Enjoy authentic and affordable tapas at Bodega La Palma, a local favorite to end your first day in Barcelona.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Explore Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on July 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chök

Start with sweet donuts and coffee at Chök, perfect for a budget-friendly treat to energize the day.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Casa Batlló

Marvel at Gaudí’s Casa Batlló, distinguished by its vivid colors and unique architecture on Passeig de Gràcia.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

Passeig de Gràcia Shopping

Explore budget-friendly shops and window-shop luxury brands along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia boulevard.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ciudad Condal

Delight in traditional tapas and Catalan cuisine at Ciudad Condal, known for quick service and fair prices.
EUR13, 1.5 hours

2:45PM

Montjuïc Castle and Gardens

Take a cable car or bus to Montjuïc, explore the castle and gardens with panoramic views over the harbor.
EUR5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Magic Fountain Show

Experience the Magic Fountain light and music show in the evening; shows run on weekends and select dates around 9-10PM.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Cervecería Catalana

Celebrate your last night with a lively meal of diverse tapas at Cervecería Catalana, popular among locals and tourists alike.
EUR18, 2 hours
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