Planning your first trip to Spain can feel overwhelming, given the country’s vast offerings, from Barcelona’s beaches to Granada’s palaces.
But what if one week was enough to see Spain’s most beautiful cities, taste paella where it was born, and witness authentic flamenco shows?
This 7 day itinerary guides you through Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, Seville, and Granada without missing the must-see spots.
You’ll experience Gothic quarters, royal palaces, and sunset views that will take your breath away. No rushing, no confusion, just pure Spanish magic.
Use this complete guide to turn your dream Spain vacation into reality, with every day planned to perfection.
Weather and Best Time to Visit for First-Time Travelers
The best times to visit Spain are spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and festivals are in full swing.
Cities like Seville, Madrid, and Granada are ideal during these months for sightseeing and outdoor dining.
Summer (July–August) can be very hot, especially in southern Spain, making beach destinations like Costa Brava and San Sebastián better choices. Expect higher prices and more tourists during this time.
Winter (November–February) is cooler, especially inland, but great for avoiding crowds and saving on accommodation. Coastal areas stay mild and pleasant.
Quick Tip: For a well-balanced trip, plan for late spring or early fall—ideal for exploring cities, coastlines, and cultural landmarks without the intense heat or heavy crowds.
Spain in a Week: Perfect 7 Day Travel Itinerary
SOURCE: VOGUE
This 7-day Spain itinerary covers the best cities, sights, and experiences, giving you a perfect balance of culture, history, and relaxation.
Day 1 – Arrive in Barcelona
Begin your trip in the lively city of Barcelona. Walk through the Gothic Quarter with its narrow streets and old buildings. Enjoy the buzz of La Rambla, a popular pedestrian street full of shops and cafes.
End your day watching the sunset at Barceloneta Beach. This city is a perfect mix of history, energy, and sea views, making it an exciting start to your Spanish adventure.
- Photography Spots: Barceloneta Beach, Gothic Quarter streets
- Overnight Stay: Barcelona city center
- Driving Time: Airport to city ~25 minutes
Day 2 – Barcelona Highlights
See the best of Barcelona today. Visit the amazing Sagrada Família and explore the colorful Park Güell, both designed by Antoni Gaudí. Later, shop or stroll along Passeig de Gràcia, famous for its beautiful architecture and luxury stores.
Spend your evening by the waterfront or enjoy a rooftop view. Barcelona’s mix of stunning buildings and relaxed beach life will leave you inspired.
- Photography Spots: Park Güell mosaic terrace, Sagrada Família front view
- Overnight Stay: Barcelona city center
- Driving Time: Most attractions within 15 minutes by taxi
Day 3 – Valencia
Travel to Valencia, known for its modern and historic charm. Explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and wander through the Old Town with its hidden squares.
Walk or cycle in Turia Gardens, a beautiful park built on a former riverbed. Valencia offers sunshine, culture, and the chance to try authentic paella in its birthplace.
- Photography Spots: City of Arts and Sciences, Plaza de la Virgen
- Overnight Stay: Valencia city center
- Driving Time: Barcelona to Valencia ~3.5 hours by car or 3 hours by train
Day 4 – Madrid
Arrive in Madrid, Spain’s capital. Start with the Prado Museum, home to world-famous art. Visit the Royal Palace, then walk through the lively Plaza Mayor.
Enjoy the city’s wide streets, green parks, and busy cafes. Madrid is full of energy and is the perfect mix of history and modern life.
- Photography Spots: Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace gardens
- Overnight Stay: Madrid city center
- Driving Time: Valencia to Madrid ~3.5 hours by car or 2 hours by train
Day 5 – Madrid Day Trips
Take a day trip to Toledo or Segovia. Toledo is known for its mix of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim history. Segovia has a stunning Roman aqueduct and a fairy-tale Alcázar.
Both towns are charming and easy to explore on foot. Return to Madrid in the evening for a relaxing dinner.
- Photography Spots: Toledo city view from Mirador del Valle, Segovia aqueduct
- Overnight Stay: Madrid city center
- Driving Time: Madrid to Toledo ~1 hour, Madrid to Segovia ~1.5 hours
Day 6 – Seville
Travel to sunny Seville. Visit the Real Alcázar with its beautiful gardens, and see the grand Seville Cathedral. Stroll through the charming Santa Cruz district with its narrow lanes and colorful buildings.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic flamenco show in Triana. Seville is full of warm colors, music, and history.
- Photography Spots: Plaza de España, Real Alcázar gardens
- Overnight Stay: Seville old town
- Driving Time: Madrid to Seville ~5.5 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train
Day 7 – Granada
End your trip in Granada, home to the world-famous Alhambra. Explore its stunning palaces, towers, and gardens. Walk through the Albaicín district, with its white houses and winding streets.
Watch the sunset at Mirador San Nicolás for a view you will never forget. Granada’s beauty is the perfect finale to your week in Spain.
- Photography Spots: Mirador San Nicolás, Alhambra gardens
- Overnight Stay: Granada old town
- Driving Time: Seville to Granada ~3 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train
Follow this plan to see Spain’s highlights in just one week and make memories to last a lifetime.
Best Places to Stay in Spain
Finding the right place to stay can make your Spain trip even more memorable.
Whether you’re after budget-friendly hostels, cosy boutique hotels, or luxurious resorts, Spain offers accommodation to suit every style and budget along your 7-day journey.
Budget
For those travelling on a tight budget, Spain has plenty of affordable options. Choose from hostels in major cities, budget hotel chains, or family-run guesthouses.
In cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville, you’ll find clean, comfortable dorms and private rooms at reasonable rates. If you enjoy the outdoors, coastal and rural areas also offer well-maintained campsites during warmer months.
Mid-Range
A popular choice for most travelers is staying in mid-range boutique hotels or apartments. These often include breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and excellent locations near major attractions.
Many are family-run, offering a warm, personal touch and insider travel tips. In regions like Andalusia, you can find charming casas rurales(country houses) set in picturesque villages, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Luxury
For a touch of indulgence, Spain boasts stunning 5-star hotels, historic buildings turned into luxury stays, and paradores—heritage hotels often set in castles, monasteries, or palaces.
Staying at a Parador, such as the one within Granada’s Alhambra, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Many luxury properties also have spas, rooftop pools, and gourmet dining, ideal for honeymoons or special occasions.
Disclaimer: These accommodation suggestions are based on personal research and traveler reviews. They are not sponsored or affiliated, and all costs are to be borne by the traveler.
No matter which type of accommodation you choose, Spain’s warmth, culture, and hospitality will make every stop feel like a home away from home.
Food & Drink Highlights in Spain
Spain is a true paradise for food lovers, with dishes that vary from one region to another, offering endless flavors to discover. In Barcelona, start your culinary journey with tapas like patatas bravas, pan con tomate, and fresh seafood paella. Enjoy them with a glass of chilled cava, the region’s sparkling wine.
Head to Valencia, the birthplace of paella, where it’s traditionally made with chicken, rabbit, and green beans. Pair it with a crisp local white wine for an authentic taste.
In Madrid, mornings are best with churros and thick hot chocolate at San Ginés. For lunch or dinner, try the hearty cocido madrileño, a chickpea-based stew with meats and vegetables.
Down in Andalusia, the hot climate calls for refreshing gazpacho or salmorejo, served cold and full of fresh flavors. This region is also known for jamón ibérico, cured ham with a rich, nutty taste, and sweet treats like piononos in Granada.
No trip to Spain is complete without enjoying its drinks—Rioja wines, fruity sangria, and the sparkling cava are all local favorites. Whether you’re dining in a busy tapas bar or a quiet countryside restaurant, Spanish food will be a highlight of your journey.
Spain One Week Travel Budget
Knowing your budget in advance can help you make the most of your journey without overspending. Below is a breakdown of the average costs for accommodation, transportation, meals, and attractions to help you plan wisely.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $560 – $1,050 | Mid-range hotels or well-rated Airbnbs ($80–$150 per night) in city centers |
| Transportation | $180 – $350 | Includes trains, buses, short flights, and occasional taxis or rideshares |
| Food & Drinks | $245 – $420 | Average $35–$60 per day for meals, snacks, and drinks |
| Entrance Fees & Tours | $120 – $250 | Major attractions like Alhambra, Sagrada Família, museums, and guided tours |
| Total Estimated Budget | $1,105 – $2,070 | Varies depending on travel style and season |
These estimates give you a clear idea of what to expect when budgeting for your Spain itinerary. Your actual expenses may vary depending on your travel style, season, and preferred comfort level.
The Bottom Line
Your week in Spain ends, but the memories stay with you forever. From Barcelona’s Gothic streets to Granada’s sunset views, this itinerary shows you Spain’s heart in just seven days. You’ve walked through royal palaces, tasted authentic paella, and felt the passion of flamenco music.
So what makes this trip special? Spain connects you to centuries of history while giving you modern comfort and joy. Each city tells its own story, from Gaudí’s colorful mosaics to the Alhambra’s peaceful gardens.
The warmth of Spanish people, the flavors of local food, and the beauty of ancient buildings create experiences that change how you see the world.
This carefully planned route gives first-time visitors the perfect taste of Spain’s culture, history, and natural beauty, all in one unforgettable week.
