7 Days Spain Itinerary: Madrid & Barcelona
This 7-day itinerary explores the highlights of Madrid and Barcelona, offering a balance of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. It includes efficient travel between cities and allows for independent exploration within a moderate budget.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
April-May and September-October offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months
Activities
42
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
Spain (2d), Barcelona (5d)
Pace
Fast
Spain offers a vibrant blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the royal grandeur of Madrid, and the delicious cuisine, Spain provides an unforgettable travel experience. Its affordability makes it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Your itinerary covers 12 of 14 must-have experiences
Cathedral
Day 1: Almudena Cathedral
Royal Palace
Day 1: Royal Palace of Madrid Tour
Park
Day 1: Retiro Park
Museum
Day 2: Prado Museum
Tapas Bar
Day 3: Lunch at Bar del Pla
Food Market
Day 1: Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
Beach
Day 5: Barceloneta Beach
Gaudi Architecture
Day 4: Sagrada Familia
Viewpoint
Day 2: Temple of Debod
Local Neighborhood
Day 3: Gothic Quarter Exploration
Traditional Spanish Cuisine
Day 1: Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
Cable Car
Day 5: Cable Car to Montjuïc
Fountain Show
Day 5: Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
Ancient Ruins
Day 3: Gothic Quarter Exploration
Spanish cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by its rich history and diverse regions. From coastal seafood to hearty stews, and delectable tapas, there's something to delight every palate. Be prepared for late dining hours and a culture of sharing plates.
Must-Try Dishes
A saffron-infused rice dish, traditionally with seafood, chicken, or rabbit. The socarrat (crispy bottom layer) is prized. Try authentic Paella Valenciana for the original experience.
📍 Valencia region, coastal restaurants
Small, savory dishes served with drinks. They can range from olives and cheese to miniature stews and seafood. Order a variety and share with friends.
📍 Bars throughout Spain, especially in Andalusia and Madrid
Cured Iberian ham, known for its rich, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The 'bellota' variety, from acorn-fed pigs, is the highest quality.
📍 Specialty ham shops (Jamonerías), tapas bars
A cold tomato-based soup, perfect for hot summer days. It's typically made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and garlic.
📍 Andalusia, restaurants throughout Spain in summer
Food Neighborhoods
known for its bustling tapas scene, especially on Sundays
known for its trendy restaurants and innovative cuisine
known for its diverse international food scene and vibrant atmosphere
known for its traditional tapas bars and flamenco shows
Vegetarian options are becoming more common, but be aware that many dishes contain ham or fish sauce. Vegan options are less prevalent, so it's helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to inquire about ingredients. For halal options, look for restaurants in larger cities with significant Muslim populations. Be sure to specify any allergies clearly when ordering.
Meals are often eaten later than in other European countries. Lunch is typically around 2-3 pm, and dinner around 9-11 pm. Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated. It's common to share tapas and other dishes.
La Tomatina
World's largest tomato fight in the streets of Bunol.
Note: Buy tickets early - limited to 20,000
Running of the Bulls
San FerminFamous festival featuring the daily running of bulls through the streets.
Note: Book 3+ months ahead
Las Fallas
Festival of fire with giant satirical sculptures burned in the streets.
Note: Book 2 months ahead
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶From your hotel in Sol/Gran Vía, walk to Plaza de Oriente.$20
9:00 AM - Royal Palace of Madrid Tour
Explore the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Arrive early to beat the crowds. Book tickets online in advance.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Plaza de Oriente to Almudena Cathedral (adjacent to the Royal Palace).FREE
11:30 AM - Almudena Cathedral
Located next to the Royal Palace, this neo-Gothic cathedral is free to enter and offers beautiful views from its dome (small fee applies).
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Almudena Cathedral to Mercado de San Miguel (short walk).$15
1:00 PM - Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel
Enjoy a variety of tapas and Spanish delicacies at this vibrant food market. Try some Jamón Ibérico and patatas bravas.
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- 🚶Take the metro from Ópera station (near Mercado de San Miguel) to Retiro Park (Retiro station).Free (boat rental: $8)
3:00 PM - Retiro Park
Relax and stroll through Madrid's largest park. Rent a rowboat on the lake, visit the Crystal Palace, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Retiro Park to Puerta del Sol (approx. 15-20 min walk).FREE
5:30 PM - Puerta del Sol
Visit the iconic square, the 'Kilometer Zero' point of Spain. Take a picture with the bear and strawberry tree statue.
Book on Klook - 🚶Take the metro from Sol station to Ópera station, then walk to Sobrino de Botín (approx. 5 min walk).$30
7:00 PM - Dinner at Sobrino de Botín
Experience the world's oldest restaurant (according to the Guinness World Records). Try their signature roast suckling pig.
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Sol/Gran Vía
Central location, close to major attractions, shopping, and restaurants.
📅 Best Time to Visit
April-May and September-October offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months.
The weather is generally sunny and mild with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Rainfall is less frequent than in other seasons.
April-May and September-October are considered shoulder seasons in Spain, offering a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Be aware of public holidays, as some businesses and attractions may have reduced hours or be closed.
Getting Around
AVE high-speed rail; metros in Madrid and Barcelona
T-Casual (Barcelona) / Multi card (Madrid)
Get a T-Casual for Barcelona transit. Book AVE tickets early for up to 70% savings.
Travel
$150-250 (includes train between cities)Accommodation
$350-500Food
$140-210Activities
$60-140Take advantage of the 'Menu del Día' (daily menu) for lunch, a multi-course meal often including a drink for a fixed, affordable price (typically €10-€20).
Utilize Spain's excellent public transportation networks in cities and between cities via train/bus. It's much cheaper than taxis or car rentals for urban exploration.
Indulge in a fine dining experience, perhaps at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or splurge on a unique culinary tour that delves into regional specialties.
Consider an authentic flamenco show with dinner in Seville or Madrid for a truly immersive cultural experience, rather than just a quick show.
In many parts of Spain (especially Andalusia), drinks often come with a free tapa. Take advantage of this for a budget-friendly snack or light meal.
Avoid eating and drinking in restaurants directly on major tourist squares (e.g., Plaza Mayor, Las Ramblas) as prices are significantly inflated. Venture a few streets away for better value and more authentic local spots.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases - it will enhance your experience.
- Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla.
- Use public transportation (metro and buses) to get around efficiently.
- Take advantage of free walking tours to learn about the city's history and culture.
- Try to eat at local restaurants and tapas bars away from the touristy areas for better prices and authentic experiences.
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Siesta time (typically from 2 PM to 5 PM) may affect the opening hours of some shops and businesses.
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (around 5-10%).
- 1Comfortable walking shoes
- 2Lightweight clothing
- 3Sunscreen and hat
- 4Sunglasses
- 5Reusable water bottle
- 6Small backpack
- 7Universal adapter
- 8Phrasebook or translation app
- 9Camera or smartphone for taking pictures
- 10Travel insurance information
Accommodation
Book several months ahead, especially for peak season, major festivals (Semana Santa, San Fermín), or popular cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville, to secure preferred locations and prices.
Alhambra Palace tickets
Must book 2-3 months in advance as tickets are highly limited and sell out quickly, especially for Nasrid Palaces.
Sagrada Familia tickets
Book 1-2 months ahead for specific timed entry slots, which are mandatory and sell out daily.
High-speed train (AVE) tickets
For inter-city travel, book 1-3 months ahead for the best prices and availability on popular routes (e.g., Madrid-Barcelona, Madrid-Seville).
Popular museum entry (e.g., Prado, Reina Sofía)
Book a few weeks in advance online, especially if visiting during peak hours or for specific exhibitions, to avoid long queues.
Flamenco show tickets
Book 1-2 weeks ahead for reputable tablaos (flamenco venues) as popular shows can sell out quickly.
eSIM / Physical SIM card
Consider purchasing and activating an eSIM before arrival for immediate internet access, or research physical SIM options at the airport or in city centers.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo website or app
📍 Vodafone stores at airports or in city centers
📍 Orange stores at airports or in city centers
📍 Online rental with delivery to your hotel or airport
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, particularly in tourist areas. Many cities also offer free WiFi in public spaces, but the connection may be unreliable. Check for WiFi passwords at the counter or ask staff.
Useful Apps
Consider an eSIM for convenience upon arrival, especially if your phone supports it. Physical SIM cards offer more data for a similar price, but require visiting a store. Pocket WiFi is a good option for families or groups who want to share a connection. Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip in case you encounter connectivity issues. Be aware of roaming charges if you plan to use your home country's SIM card.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Schuko)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
Round up or leave €1–2; 5–10% at upscale restaurants
Round up to nearest euro
€1 per bag
Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Leave small change at cafés.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Spain is generally a safe country for tourists. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
091 (National) / 092 (Local)
061
080
112 for all emergencies
Payments
Cash useful at markets and small tapas bars
Widely accepted
Very common
Cards accepted almost everywhere. Carry small cash for markets.
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How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Spain is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and prices are lower. Summer can be very hot, especially in inland cities, while winter can be chilly and rainy in some regions.
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