Spain-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

  • Places to Go: Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Royal Palace of Madrid
  • Activities:
    • Explore the historic center of Madrid
    • Visit the Royal Palace (optional guided tour)
    • Enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner at a local restaurant
  • Things to Know:
    • Spain is part of the Schengen Area, so US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
    • The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards and ATMs are widely available.
    • Tapas bars and restaurants often have limited hours or close early on weekdays
  • Transportation:
    • Madrid Barajas Airport (AD) is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or metro
    • Metro lines 8 and 9 connect the airport to the city center
  • Tips:
    • Learn basic Spanish phrases like “gracias” (thank you), “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?), and “¿puedo pedir la cuenta por favor?” (can I get the bill, please?)
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots

Day 2: Madrid

  • Places to Go: Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Gran Vía
  • Activities:
    • Visit the world-renowned Prado Museum to see works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco
    • Relax in the beautiful Retiro Park for a picnic or stroll
    • Explore the upscale shopping street of Gran Vía
  • Things to Know:
    • The Prado Museum is one of the largest art museums in the world, so plan for at least half a day.
    • Tapas bars often serve small plates of food at happy hour (usually 5-7 pm)
    • Be prepared for crowded streets and sidewalks
  • Transportation:
    • Metro lines 1 and 2 connect major attractions like the Prado Museum to the city center
    • Bike rentals are available in the city

Day 3: Toledo

  • Places to Go: Cathedral of Toledo, Alcázar, Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided tour of the stunning cathedral and palace complex
    • Explore the narrow streets and alleys of this historic walled city
    • Visit the beautiful Jewish Quarter
  • Things to Know:
    • Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be respectful of its history and architecture.
    • The town has many steps and uneven cobblestone streets, so wear comfortable shoes.
    • Don’t miss the views from the top of the cathedral or palace!
  • Transportation:
    • Take a train or bus from Madrid to Toledo (about 30 minutes)
    • Walking tours are available with knowledgeable guides

Day 4: Seville

  • Places to Go: Cathedral of Seville, Royal Alcázar Palace, Archivo de Indias
  • Activities:
    • Visit the largest Gothic church in the world and see works by Giralda Tower
    • Explore the stunning palace complex with its Moorish architecture
    • See the impressive collection of ancient documents at Archivo de Indias
  • Things to Know:
    • Seville is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, like the Parque de María Luisa.
    • Don’t miss the lively nightlife and tapas bars in the Santa Cruz neighborhood.
    • The Alcázar Palace has stunning views of the Guadalquivir River
  • Transportation:
    • Fly from Madrid to Seville (about 45 minutes)
    • Take a taxi or bus from the airport to the city center

Day 5: Granada

  • Places to Go: Alhambra, Generalife Gardens, Albayzín neighborhood
  • Activities:
    • Visit the breathtaking palace and fortress complex of the Alhambra
    • Explore the stunning gardens and views at the Generalife
    • Wander through the charming streets and alleys of the Albayzín neighborhood
  • Things to Know:
    • The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be respectful of its history and architecture.
    • Don’t miss the stunning views from the Mirador de San Nicolás.
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like the Alhambra
  • Transportation:
    • Take a train or bus from Seville to Granada (about 3 hours)
    • Walking tours are available with knowledgeable guides

Day 6: Córdoba

  • Places to Go: Mezquita, Jewish Quarter, Roman Bridge of Córdoba
  • Activities:
    • Visit the breathtaking mosque-cathedral complex of the Mezquita
    • Explore the charming streets and alleys of the Jewish Quarter
    • See the impressive Roman bridge over the Guadalquivir River
  • Things to Know:
    • The Mezquita is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be respectful of its history and architecture.
    • Don’t miss the views from the top of the cathedral or palace!
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like the Mezquita
  • Transportation:
    • Take a train or bus from Granada to Córdoba (about 2 hours)
    • Walking tours are available with knowledgeable guides

Day 7: Return to Madrid

  • Places to Go: Retiro Park, Puerta del Sol, Malasaña neighborhood
  • Activities:
    • Relax in the beautiful Retiro Park for a picnic or stroll
    • Visit the bustling streets and shops of the Malasaña neighborhood
    • Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Spanish restaurant
  • Things to Know:
    • Don’t miss the views from the top of the palace or cathedral!
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like the Retiro Park
    • Say adiós to Spain and plan your next adventure!