Spain-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

  • Travel Documents: Check if you need a Schengen visa to enter Spain. Citizens of the US, Canada, and many other countries do not require a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days.
  • Transportation: Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). Take a taxi or metro (line 8) to your hotel in the city center.
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the largest palaces in Europe. Guided tours are available.
    • Explore the historic center, including Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.
  • Things to Know:
    • Tapas culture is a big part of Spanish cuisine. Try a few small plates at local bars and restaurants.
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines during peak travel seasons.

Day 2: Madrid

  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Prado Museum, home to an impressive collection of European art, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
    • Explore the Retiro Park, a beautiful urban oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Activities:
    • Take a flamenco show at a local tablao (flamenco club).
    • Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic neighborhood of Malasaña.
  • Things to Know:
    • Madrid has an excellent metro system. Buy a rechargeable card for easy travel.
    • Try some traditional Spanish desserts, such as churros con chocolate or crema Catalana.

Day 3: Toledo

  • Transportation: Take the high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid to Toledo (approximately 30 minutes).
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Cathedral of Toledo, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
    • Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the historic city center.
  • Things to Know:
    • Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich cultural and artistic heritage.
    • Be prepared for crowds during peak travel seasons.

Day 4: Barcelona

  • Transportation: Take the high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid to Barcelona (approximately 3 hours).
  • Places to Go:
    • Visit Park Güell, a famous public park designed by Antoni Gaudí.
    • Explore La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants.
  • Activities:
    • Visit the iconic Sagrada Familia cathedral, another work by Gaudí.
    • Enjoy the beach at Barceloneta or Nova Icària.

Day 5: Barcelona

  • Places to Go:
    • Visit the Picasso Museum, which houses an extensive collection of the artist’s works.
    • Explore the historic Gothic Quarter, including Plaça Sant Jaume and Carrer del Bisbe.
  • Things to Know:
    • Barceloneta is a popular area for seafood and local cuisine. Try some fresh fish or traditional dishes like escalivada.

Day 6: Departure from Barcelona

  • Transportation: Take the airport train (Renfe) or metro (line L9) from your hotel to El Prat Airport (BCN).
  • Things to Know:
    • Be sure to leave some time for shopping or exploring before departing.
    • Don’t forget to exchange any leftover currency before leaving Spain.

Additional Tips:

  • Try to learn a few basic Spanish phrases, such as “hola” (hello), “gracias” (thank you), and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  • Don’t drink tap water. Opt for bottled or filtered water instead.

Budgeting:

  • Accommodation: €80-€120 per night for a mid-range hotel or Airbnb
  • Food: €15-€25 per meal for a casual dinner, €30-€50 per meal for a mid-range restaurant
  • Transportation: €10-€20 per day for metro and bus fares, €100-€200 per person for high-speed train tickets

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the time of year and location.