Spain is a country that invites you to live in the moment. Whether you’re wandering through royal palaces in Madrid, relaxing on the beaches of Valencia, or admiring Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona, this 7-day Spain itinerary blends cultural depth with Mediterranean energy.
Designed for travelers who want a balanced taste of Spain in just one week, this trip combines world-class museums, historic landmarks, and plenty of unforgettable meals along the way.
Day 1: Royal Landmarks & City Energy in Madrid
Your Spain adventure begins in the capital, where history, art, and daily life all collide in the heart of the city. Start your day at the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the most impressive palaces in Europe. It’s not just a photo stop — the lavish halls, grand staircases, and gilded ceilings give you a glimpse into centuries of Spanish monarchy. After exploring the palace, take a walk through the Sabatini Gardens, where you’ll find sculpted hedges, fountains, and peaceful corners with views of the palace’s exterior.
From there, stroll over to the nearby Almudena Cathedral, a modern yet majestic contrast to the palace. Then head east toward Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s most iconic squares. Grab a quick bite — maybe a bocadillo de calamares (fried calamari sandwich) — and enjoy the buzz of street performers, cafés, and curious travelers passing through.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Prado Museum, home to works by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters. Even if you’re not a huge art fan, the museum’s layout and dramatic paintings make for a memorable visit. If time allows, walk through El Retiro Park, where locals row boats across the lake and musicians play under the shade of tall trees.
As the sun sets, head to the La Latina neighborhood for dinner and your first taste of Spanish tapas. Think grilled chorizo, manchego cheese, and patatas bravas — all served in small portions so you can try a bit of everything. If you’re planning a full week in the country, this 7-day Spain itinerary gives you a great mix of cities, coast, and culture — all in one unforgettable trip. If you’re up for it, end the night with a flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, where passionate dancing and live guitar bring Spain’s cultural soul to life.
Day 2 – Art, Street Markets, and Local Flavor in Madrid
On your second day in Madrid, dive into a more local, artsy side of the city. Start your morning at the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Spain’s best modern art collection. The highlight? Picasso’s haunting masterpiece Guernica — but don’t rush past the other surreal works by Dalí and Miró. It’s a striking contrast to the classical art of the Prado, and a must for anyone interested in Spain’s more recent cultural history.
From there, head toward Atocha Station, where a lush indoor tropical garden offers a surprising green escape inside this major transit hub. If you’re catching the train later to Valencia, this is a great place to relax or grab a coffee beforehand.
For lunch, make your way to Mercado de San Miguel, a gourmet food hall near Plaza Mayor. Here you’ll find everything from freshly cut jamón ibérico and olives to oysters and local vermouth. It’s lively, local, and perfect for tasting your way through Spain’s regional flavors.
In the afternoon, take a walk along Gran Vía, Madrid’s grand boulevard known for its architecture, high-street shopping, and old cinemas. From elegant buildings to buzzing sidewalks, it’s a great way to feel the city’s modern pulse.
Later, explore Malasaña, a trendy neighborhood packed with vintage stores, coffee shops, and laid-back energy. Or visit Lavapiés, one of Madrid’s most culturally diverse districts. Here, you’ll find a mix of cuisines, street murals, and hidden taverns serving classics like huevos rotos or spicy patatas bravas.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to the Temple of Debod, an actual Egyptian temple gifted to Spain in the 20th century. Set atop a hill, it offers some of the best sunset views in the city — with the royal palace and cathedral visible in the distance.
End your final evening in Madrid with dinner in one of the surrounding neighborhoods, where traditional Spanish flavors meet modern culinary twists. Tomorrow, it’s off to the Mediterranean coast — but Madrid will leave you with a lasting impression of Spain’s royal, artistic, and everyday heart.
In the afternoon, make your way to Lavapiés, one of Madrid’s most multicultural and artistic neighborhoods. Street art covers the walls, and global cuisine spills from small family-run restaurants and bakeries. It’s an ideal place to explore at a slower pace — popping into independent galleries or grabbing a mint tea at a North African café.
As night falls, head to Chueca, one of Madrid’s most energetic neighborhoods, known for its lively nightlife, unique boutiques, and creative food scene. For dinner, try a modern twist on Spanish classics at Bodega de la Ardosa or Celso y Manolo. Afterward, if you’re in the mood, grab a drink at a rooftop bar like Azotea del Círculo, where you’ll catch sweeping views of Madrid’s skyline as the city lights flicker on.
Day 3 – Arrival in Valencia: Science, Sun, and the Sea
After a scenic high-speed train ride from Madrid, you’ll arrive in Valencia, a coastal city where bold modern design meets centuries-old charm. Even the train station, Estació del Nord, is worth a glance—its decorative tilework and Art Nouveau architecture set the tone for a city full of surprises.
Start your day at the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia’s most iconic landmark. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic complex houses multiple attractions within its curving white structures. If you’re short on time, prioritize the Oceanogràfic—Europe’s largest aquarium, where you can walk through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and beluga whales. Right next door is the Hemisfèric, with its IMAX screen and planetarium shows inside a sleek, eye-shaped dome.
Afterward, head to Malvarrosa Beach for a classic Mediterranean escape. Soft golden sand, warm waters, and a long beachfront promenade make it the perfect place to relax after a morning of sightseeing. Grab lunch at one of the seafront restaurants—perhaps fresh grilled sardines or a light seafood fideuà.
Later in the afternoon, rent a bike or stroll through Turia Gardens, an enormous green space that runs through the city like a vein of calm and color. This former riverbed has been transformed into a park filled with fountains, bridges, playgrounds, and native flora. It’s a favorite spot among locals for jogging, reading, or simply escaping the midday sun.
As evening sets in, wander into the El Carmen neighborhood. Its mix of medieval streets and street art creates a cool, offbeat vibe. You’ll find everything from tapas bars to hip cafés nestled among centuries-old buildings. For dinner, don’t miss trying paella Valenciana—the original version of Spain’s most famous dish, traditionally made with rabbit, chicken, and local beans.
Cap off the night with a stroll past the illuminated buildings of the historic center, or stop by a rooftop bar for a view of the city glowing under the stars.
Day 4: Valencia – Markets, Maritime History & Sunset Views
After a modern and beach-filled Day 3, today’s focus shifts to Valencia’s local life and historical roots. Start your morning at Mercado Central, one of the largest and oldest running food markets in Europe. With its Art Nouveau ironwork and stained-glass details, the building is just as captivating as the fresh produce inside. Wander through aisles of colorful fruits, Iberian ham, and spices—and maybe grab a picnic-style breakfast from one of the vendors.
From there, make your way to the Valencia Cathedral, where different architectural styles—Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque—blend seamlessly. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the Miguelete Tower for sweeping views across the city rooftops. Just around the corner, you’ll find Plaza de la Virgen, a quiet square perfect for a quick coffee and some people-watching.
In the afternoon, explore the Maritime Museum near the port. Housed in a 15th-century shipyard, the museum highlights Valencia’s long seafaring history and its role in Mediterranean trade. It’s often quieter than other attractions and offers a unique perspective on the city’s past.
For dinner, take a short tram ride to Playa de la Patacona, a local favorite that’s a bit more relaxed than Malvarrosa Beach. You’ll find oceanfront restaurants serving up paella made with local bomba rice, along with fresh clams and mussels. Stick around for the sunset—it’s one of the best places to catch the golden glow over the water, far from the crowds.
Day 5: Barcelona – Gaudí’s Masterpieces and a Taste of Local Life
Arrive in Barcelona, where centuries-old tradition blends with wild creativity and Mediterranean energy. Start your day at the Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s most iconic and still unfinished masterpiece. Step inside to see sunlight pouring through colorful stained-glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of color across the soaring columns and vaulted ceilings. A guided visit here is well worth it for understanding the vision behind this architectural marvel.
From there, head to Passeig de Gràcia, one of the city’s most stylish avenues. Not only will you find high-end boutiques and charming cafés, but also two more of Gaudí’s famous works: Casa Batlló and La Pedrera (Casa Milà). Their curving balconies and mosaic-covered facades feel like something out of a dream, adding a touch of surrealism to your morning stroll.
In the afternoon, wander through El Born, a neighborhood packed with energy and personality. Grab lunch at a local tapas bar—maybe try bombas (meat-stuffed potato balls) or a plate of pan con tomate. Then visit the Picasso Museum, where hundreds of early works by the artist reveal his deep ties to the city.
As the day winds down, catch golden hour at Park Güell, perched above the city. Gaudí’s vibrant mosaics, winding pathways, and stunning views over Barcelona make this the perfect place to relax and reflect on a day filled with culture and color.
Day 6: From Montjuïc to the Market — History, Views, and Flavor
Start your day by heading up to Montjuïc Hill, one of the best places in Barcelona to combine nature, history, and unbeatable views. You can either take the Montjuïc cable car or walk up if you’re feeling energized. At the top, explore Montjuïc Castle, a former military fortress with sweeping views over the harbor and coastline.
Just below the hill, make time for the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend evening when the light and music shows bring the plaza to life. During the day, walk through Plaça d’Espanya and check out the Palau Nacional, which houses the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC). Its collection spans everything from Romanesque murals to Catalan modernism and is one of the most underrated museums in Spain.
For lunch, head into the Poble-sec neighborhood. It’s less touristy and offers a great mix of local bars and modern tapas spots. Try montaditos (small sandwiches) or grilled seafood straight from the coast.
In the afternoon, stroll over to Mercat de Sant Antoni—a more local alternative to La Boqueria. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and meats to secondhand books and vintage goods, depending on the day of the week. It’s a great place to get a feel for daily life in Barcelona.
Wrap up your day at El Raval, a multicultural neighborhood that’s buzzing with character. Grab a table at a tucked-away eatery or stop by a cozy café for churros con chocolate before heading back for the night.
Day 7: A Leisurely Farewell — Hidden Corners and Coastal Views
Ease into your last day in Spain with a slower pace. Start in El Born, one of Barcelona’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. This area blends historic charm with a creative, artsy vibe. Stop by the Picasso Museum, where hundreds of the artist’s early works give insight into his deep connection to the city. Even the surrounding streets, lined with boutique shops and cafés, feel like a living gallery.
Next, walk toward Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona’s most beloved green space. Locals come here to relax, row boats on the lake, or enjoy impromptu performances under the palm trees. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on your week of travel and maybe grab a picnic lunch from a nearby bakery.
If you have the energy for one last view, make your way up to Bunkers del Carmel—a local favorite for panoramic views over the entire city. It’s less crowded than the major tourist spots and offers a rewarding payoff for a short uphill walk. It’s also a great place to snap one final photo of Barcelona before heading home.
End the day back near the water, where you can take a sunset walk at Port Vell or enjoy a relaxed seafood dinner along the marina. Whether you’re indulging in tapas one last time or sipping a glass of Catalan cava, Barcelona’s coastal beauty is the perfect way to close out your adventure. Looking for your next destination? Check out our latest travel guides and inspiration to start planning your next trip.
Final Thoughts: A Week That Stays With You
From royal palaces in Madrid to beachside sunsets in Barcelona, this 7-day Spain itinerary offers a well-balanced mix of culture, coastlines, and unforgettable experiences. You’ve walked through centuries of history, tasted regional dishes in their hometowns, and explored both iconic landmarks and local neighborhoods.
Whether it was admiring Gaudí’s masterpieces, wandering Valencia’s futuristic architecture, or simply sipping coffee in a quiet plaza, every day brought something new. And that’s what makes Spain such a rewarding destination — it invites you to slow down, dive in, and really experience the soul of each city.
As you head home, you’ll carry more than just photos — you’ll take a week of stories, flavors, and views that stay with you long after your suitcase is unpacked.
