16-Day Comprehensive Spain Travel Itinerary: From Madrid to Barcelona

Day 1: Explore Madrid

Madrid, Spain on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Start the day with traditional churros and hot chocolate at this iconic Madrid café open from 6am until late.
EUR5, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Prado Museum

Explore Spain’s premier art museum with works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Open 10am-8pm.
EUR15, 2h

12:00pm

Stroll Retiro Park

Relax in Madrid’s central park with beautiful gardens and a lake, open year-round from 6am to 10:30pm.
Free, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Try a variety of Spanish tapas from this historic covered market open until midnight.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Royal Palace Tour

Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid, open from 10am to 8pm, famous for its lavish interiors and gardens.
EUR13, 1.5h

5:00pm

Walk Gran Via

Experience Madrid’s bustling shopping street with architecture and local shops.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the world’s oldest restaurant, famous for roast lamb and traditional Castilian dishes. Open daily until 11pm.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 2: Art & History

Madrid, Spain on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Royal Palace with great coffee and pastries. Open from 7am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Explore this important collection bridging classic and modern art, open 10am-7pm.
EUR13, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Plaza Mayor

See Madrid’s historic central square, perfect for photos and people-watching.
Free, 30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Casa Lucio

Try the famous huevos rotos (broken eggs) at this well-loved eatery open until 11pm.
EUR25, 1h

3:00pm

Reina Sofia Museum

View modern Spanish art including Picasso’s Guernica. Open 10am-9pm.
EUR12, 2h

7:00pm

Relax at Plaza de Cibeles

Enjoy the iconic fountain and surrounding architecture at dusk.
Free, 30m

8:30pm

Dinner at Taberna La Dolores

Sample classic Spanish dishes in a lively tavern, recommended for local ambiance.
EUR30, 1.5h

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo, Spain on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Train to Toledo

Depart Madrid-Atocha for the scenic 30-minute train ride to Toledo.
EUR15, 0h30m

8:30am

Breakfast in Toledo at La Abadía

Try local pastries and coffee in a quaint café open from 8am.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Visit Toledo Cathedral

Explore this magnificent Gothic cathedral open from 10am to 6pm.
EUR10, 1h

11:00am

Walk Old Town

Stroll Toledo’s medieval streets and soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurante Adolfo

Experience traditional Manchego cuisine in a charming restaurant open for lunch daily.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Alcázar of Toledo

Visit the historic fortress with panoramic city views, open 10am-6pm.
EUR5, 1h

4:00pm

Return train to Madrid

Relax on the return 30-minute train ride back to Madrid.
EUR15, 0h30m

5:00pm

Rest or explore local Madrid shops

Take time to rest or browse nearby shops around the hotel.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at El Sur

Savor authentic Andalusian inspired dishes in a cozy Madrid spot open until 11pm.
EUR28, 1.5h

Day 4: Travel to Seville

Seville, Spain on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Train Madrid to Seville

Take the high-speed AVE train from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha to Seville-Santa Justa (~2.5 hours).
EUR45, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at El Rinconcillo

Dine at Seville’s oldest tapas bar, serving classic Andalusian fare. Open from 12pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower

Visit the largest Gothic cathedral and climb Giralda for city views; open 11am-5pm.
EUR10, 2h

4:30pm

Walk through Barrio Santa Cruz

Explore the charming Jewish quarter with narrow streets and historic plazas.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Rest at hotel

Relax and freshen up before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at La Azotea

Contemporary Andalusian cuisine with local wines, open until 11pm.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 5: Seville Culture & Flamenco

Seville, Spain on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Cacharrería

Casual breakfast spot known for fresh juices and toasts. Open 8am-3pm.
EUR8, 1h

9:30am

Real Alcázar of Seville

Tour the majestic Moorish palace and gardens, open 9:30am-7pm.
EUR14, 2h

12:00pm

Walk Plaza de España

Enjoy the stunning tiled bridges and fountains in this semi-circular plaza.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurante Egaña-Oriza

A Michelin star restaurant blending French and Andalusian flavors, open for lunch 1pm-4pm.
EUR40, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Metropol Parasol

See the largest wooden structure in the world, with panoramic city views. Open 10am-11pm.
EUR3, 1h

5:00pm

Rest

Relax and prepare for the evening.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Flamenco Show at La Casa del Flamenco

Experience an authentic flamenco performance in a traditional setting. Shows daily at 8pm and 10pm.
EUR25, 1h

9:30pm

Late Dinner at Bar Alfalfa

Casual spot with creative tapas, open until midnight.
EUR20, 1h

Day 6: Travel to Granada

Granada, Spain on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Hearty breakfast before travel.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Bus to Granada

Take a scenic 3-hour bus from Seville to Granada, enjoying Andalusian landscapes.
EUR20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurante El Mercader

Traditional Andalusian dishes in a friendly atmosphere, open noon to 11pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Alhambra Palace Visit

Explore the Islamic palace with gardens and fountains; pre-book tickets as only timed entries allowed. Open 8:30am-8pm.
EUR15, 3h

6:00pm

Walk Albaicín Quarter

Wander the old Moorish neighborhood with narrow streets and stunning views of the Alhambra.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Carmen Mirador de Aixa

Dine with views of Alhambra, serving local specialties. Open until 11pm.
EUR30, 1.5h

Day 7: Granada Exploration

Granada, Spain on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Lisboa

A cozy café serving breakfast from 8am, ideal for coffee and pastries.
EUR7, 1h

9:30am

Granada Cathedral

Visit the majestic Renaissance cathedral with stunning interiors; open 10am-6pm.
EUR5, 1h

11:00am

Royal Chapel of Granada

See the burial place of Catholic Monarchs; open 10am-7pm.
EUR5, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bodegas Castañeda

Casual bustling tapas bar offering local wines and dishes, open till late.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Sacromonte Caves

Explore the unique cave dwellings of Granada’s flamenco district; best to walk around the neighborhoods.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Relax at Parque Federico García Lorca

Enjoy a stroll and rest in this green city park.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Tapas Dinner Along Calle Navas

Try various tapas bars along the lively street open until late.
EUR25, 2h

Day 8: Travel to Valencia

Valencia, Spain on June 15, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Quick breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train to Valencia

Ride high-speed train from Granada to Valencia taking about 5 hours.
EUR50, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Central Bar in Mercado Central

Enjoy diverse Spanish food at this lively market stall open noon to 3pm.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

City of Arts and Sciences

Explore futuristic architecture, museums and oceanarium, open 10am-8pm.
EUR30, 3h

6:30pm

Walk Turia Gardens

Relax in the former riverbed that is now a lush park crossing the city.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at La Pepica

Savor famous Valencian paella right by the beach, open until 11pm.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 9: Valencia Historical & Coastal

Valencia, Spain on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dulce de Leche Boutique

Popular spot for pastries and coffee, opens at 8am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete

Visit the Gothic cathedral and climb its bell tower for city views, open 10am-6:30pm.
EUR8, 2h

12:00pm

Explore Old Town

Stroll through plazas, markets, and historic streets.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Casa Montaña

Traditional tapas and wines in an historic tavern, open 1pm to midnight.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Malvarrosa Beach

Spend afternoon at the popular urban beach, perfect for sun and sea.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Evening Walk at Marina Real Juan Carlos I

Enjoy the yacht marina, cafes, and lively atmosphere.
Free, 1h

8:30pm

Dinner at Marina Beach Club

Eat fresh seafood by the beach in a chic restaurant open until 12 midnight.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 10: Travel to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain on June 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with hotel breakfast.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train Valencia to Barcelona

High-speed train ride taking approximately 3 hours.
EUR35, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Taste a variety of fresh Spanish foods at this famous market open until 8pm.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Tour Gaudí’s masterpiece basilica; pre-book tickets, open 9am-8pm.
EUR30, 2h

4:00pm

Walk Passeig de Gràcia

Marvel at modernist architecture and upscale shopping street.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Rest at hotel

Freshen up before evening activities.
Free, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Cervesería Catalana

Popular tapas destination with a lively atmosphere, open until midnight.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 11: Gaudi & Gothic Quarter

Barcelona, Spain on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Federal Café

Trendy café with excellent coffee and pastries, opens at 8am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Park Güell Visit

Explore the colorful Gaudí park with mosaic art and city views. Open 9:30am-7.30pm.
EUR12, 2h

12:00pm

Explore Gothic Quarter

Wander ancient medieval lanes with historic buildings and squares.
Free, 1.5h

1:30pm

Lunch at El Quim de la Boqueria

Enjoy tapas inside La Boqueria market, open 8am-3:30pm.
EUR25, 1h

3:00pm

Picasso Museum

View comprehensive collection of Picasso’s early work; open 10am-7pm.
EUR15, 2h

5:30pm

Relax at Barceloneta Beach

Enjoy late afternoon at the most famous beach by the sea.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Can Majó

Authentic seafood paella by the beach, open until 11pm.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 12: Montjuïc & Museums

Barcelona, Spain on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Well reviewed brunch spot open from 8am with creative dishes.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Montjuïc Castle

Visit the historic fortress with panoramic views; open 10am-8pm.
EUR5, 1.5h

11:30am

Fundació Joan Miró

Appreciate Miró’s works and contemporary art; open 10am-7pm.
EUR13, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Font del Gat

Enjoy Catalan dishes in a garden setting, open 1pm-4pm.
EUR28, 1h

2:30pm

National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)

Explore Catalan art from Romanesque to modernism; open 10am-6pm.
EUR12, 2h

4:30pm

Cable Car down Montjuïc

Take scenic ride down to waterfront.
EUR12, 30m

5:00pm

Relax at Port Vell

Leisure stroll along the marina with shops and cafes.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at El Nacional

Diverse food halls offering various regional cuisines in a beautiful setting.
EUR40, 1.5h

Day 13: Day Trip to Montserrat

Montserrat, Spain on June 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast for day trip.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Train and Cable Car to Montserrat

Travel from Barcelona to Montserrat monastery with scenic transfers, approx 1.5h each way.
EUR35, 3h round trip

10:00am

Explore Montserrat Monastery and Museum

Visit religious site and museum nestled within stunning mountain scenery; open 9:30am-6:45pm.
EUR10, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurant Montserrat

Eat traditional Catalan dishes on-site.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Hiking around Montserrat

Short hikes with spectacular views of the jagged peaks.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Barcelona

Relax on return journey.
Included, 1.5h

6:00pm

Free evening

Explore Barcelona at leisure or rest.
Free, Evening

Day 14: Shopping & Beach Day

Barcelona, Spain on June 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Historic café known for rich hot chocolate and pastries, opens at 8am.
EUR8, 1h

10:00am

Shopping on Passeig de Gràcia

Browse designer stores and boutiques along Barcelona’s premier shopping street.
Varies, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cervecería Catalana

Popular for tapas and lively atmosphere, open until midnight.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Beach time at Nova Icaria Beach

Relax at a less crowded beach well-equipped with facilities.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Relax at hotel

Freshen up before last night dinner.
Free, 1.5h

8:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Tickets Bar

Experience innovative tapas by renowned chefs, reservation needed, open until 11pm.
EUR60, 2h

Day 15: Leisure & Departure Prep

Barcelona, Spain on June 22, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed start with hotel breakfast.
Included, 1h

10:30am

Visit Palau de la Música Catalana

Guided or self tours available of this stunning modernist concert hall, open 10am-3pm.
EUR20, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at El Nacional

Enjoy diverse regional cuisines in a chic ambiance, open until 4pm.
EUR30, 1h

1:30pm

Leisure shopping or sightseeing

Visit any last-minute spots or shop for souvenirs around the city.
Varies, 3h

5:00pm

Rest at hotel

Pack and prepare for departure.
Free, Evening

7:30pm

Light dinner at Cervecería Catalunya

Final tapas and drinks to close your trip, open till midnight.
EUR25, 1.5h

Day 16: Departure Day

Barcelona, Spain on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before check-out.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Transfer to Barcelona-El Prat Airport

Head to the airport for your departure flight.
Varies, 1h