9-Day Spain Itinerary: Madrid, Valencia, Ibiza & Barcelona

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid & Introduction

Morning: Arrive in Madrid and settle into your accommodation. Begin with a relaxed walk at Retiro Park to shake off travel fatigue.

Afternoon: Explore the Prado Museum to admire classic Spanish and European art collections.

Evening: Dine near Plaza Mayor and enjoy the lively city atmosphere with some tapas and sangria.

Day 2: Madrid Full Day Exploration

Morning: Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid to see stunning architecture and royal collections.

Afternoon: Walk through the Gran Vía for shopping, then explore the bustling Puerta del Sol.

Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife in the La Latina district with bars and flamenco shows.

Day 3: Travel to Valencia & City Highlights

Morning: Take a morning train or flight to Valencia and check into your accommodation.

Afternoon: Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, exploring the museums and aquarium.

Evening: Walk the charming Old Town streets and enjoy paella in a local restaurant.

Day 4: Travel to Ibiza & Leisure

Morning: Fly to Ibiza and settle into your hotel near the coast.

Afternoon: Relax on the famous Playa d’en Bossa beach soaking up the sun and turquoise waters.

Evening: Enjoy beachside dining and the energetic nightlife around Pacha Ibiza.

Day 5: Travel to Barcelona & First Impressions

Morning: Fly or ferry to Barcelona and check into your accommodation.

Afternoon: Start with a visit to La Rambla and the Gothic Quarter for historic charm and street performances.

Evening: Dine in El Born with tapas and local Catalan wines.

Day 6: Barcelona – Gaudí & Architecture

Morning: Tour the iconic Sagrada Família basilica with its breathtaking design.

Afternoon: Explore Park Güell and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Evening: Relax at a café along Passeig de Gràcia, admiring Gaudí’s Casa Batlló lit up after dark.

Day 7: Barcelona – Culture & Coast

Morning: Visit the Picasso Museum to dive into artistic history.

Afternoon: Head to Barceloneta Beach for a stroll or swim by the Mediterranean Sea.

Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant in the Port Olímpic area.

Day 8: Barcelona – Montjuïc & Markets

Morning: Take the cable car up to Montjuïc Castle and explore the gardens and museums there.

Afternoon: Visit La Boqueria Market on La Rambla for local flavors and snacks.

Evening: Catch a traditional Catalan dance or music performance at Palau de la Música Catalana.

Day 9: Barcelona – Leisure & Departure

Morning: Stroll through Ciutadella Park and visit the Barcelona Zoo if time allows.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping on Portal de l'Angel before heading to the airport.

Evening: Depart from Barcelona with wonderful memories.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Retiro Park (Madrid): 2 hours, €0
• Prado Museum (Madrid): 3 hours, €15
• Royal Palace of Madrid: 2 hours, €13
• City of Arts and Sciences (Valencia): 4 hours, €30
• Playa d’en Bossa (Ibiza): 4 hours, free
• Sagrada Família (Barcelona): 2 hours, €26
• Park Güell (Barcelona): 2 hours, €10
• Picasso Museum (Barcelona): 2 hours, €12
• Montjuïc Castle (Barcelona): 2 hours, €5
• La Boqueria Market (Barcelona): 1.5 hours, free entry (food costs vary)

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately €111 (excluding food, transport between cities, and accommodation)

Tips

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider adding an extra day in Valencia to explore more of its beaches and historical sites. Alternatively, to shorten your trip, reduce Barcelona to 4 days by prioritizing key highlights like Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter. For party enthusiasts, adding an additional night in Ibiza could make your experience unforgettable. Conversely, if you want to focus on cultural landmarks, consider skipping Ibiza entirely and allocating that day to Madrid or Barcelona museums and neighborhoods.