Spain 6 Day Itinerary
6-Day Spanish Adventure: A whirlwind tour through history, culture & tapas!
Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a Schengen Visa. Check the official website of the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country for up-to-date information.
Transportation: Spain has an excellent public transportation system. High-speed trains (AVE) connect major cities efficiently. Buses are also a good option for shorter distances and reaching smaller towns. Within cities, metro systems and buses are readily available. Consider purchasing a transport card like the Hola Barcelona Card or the Madrid Tourist Travel Pass for unlimited travel.
Currency: Euro (€)
Language: Spanish
Day 1: Arrival in Barcelona & Gothic Wonders
- Morning: Arrive at Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), take the Aerobus to the city center, and check into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore the Gothic Quarter, a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. Visit the Cathedral of Barcelona and marvel at its impressive architecture.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Catalan dinner in the Gothic Quarter. Try “pa amb tomàquet” (bread with tomato), tapas like patatas bravas and croquetas, and finish with crema catalana for dessert.
Things to Know: The Gothic Quarter can get crowded, especially during peak season. Be aware of pickpockets and keep your valuables secure.
Day 2: Gaudí’s Masterpieces & Park Güell
- Morning: Visit Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece basilica. Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
- Afternoon: Explore Park Güell, another Gaudí creation with whimsical mosaics, stunning city views, and playful architecture.
- Evening: Enjoy a flamenco show in the El Raval district.
Things to Know: Sagrada Família is still under construction but is an awe-inspiring sight. Park Güell has limited entry times, so book your tickets online beforehand.
Day 3: High-Speed Train to Madrid & Royal Grandeur
- Morning: Take a high-speed AVE train from Barcelona to Madrid (approximately 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Explore its opulent rooms and gardens.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in the vibrant Lavapiés district known for its international cuisine and lively nightlife.
Things to Know: Booking train tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Day 4: Art & History in Madrid
- Morning: Visit the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Spanish masters like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
- Afternoon: Explore Plaza Mayor, a grand square with historical buildings and bustling cafes.
- Evening: Catch a performance at the Teatro Real, Spain’s national opera house.
Things to Know: The Prado Museum is vast; plan your visit accordingly.
Day 5: Toledo - A City Frozen in Time
- Morning: Take a day trip to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its medieval architecture and cultural fusion.
- Afternoon: Explore the historic Jewish Quarter, visit the impressive Cathedral of Toledo, and admire the views from the Alcázar.
- Evening: Return to Madrid and enjoy a late dinner in the Chueca district, known for its lively atmosphere and LGBTQ+ scene.
Things to Know: Toledo is easily accessible by train or bus from Madrid.
Day 6: Farewell Tapas & Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of churros with chocolate at a traditional café.
- Afternoon: Indulge in a tapas crawl, sampling different dishes and drinks at various bars in the city.
- Evening: Depart from Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD).
Things to Know: Tapas are best enjoyed shared among friends. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations!
This itinerary is just a starting point; customize it to your interests and pace. Enjoy your Spanish adventure!