Spain 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Spain Itinerary (Madrid & Barcelona)

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

  • Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport. Get familiar with the city and rest if needed.
  • Visit Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, and Almudena Cathedral.
  • Evening stroll around Retiro Park and enjoy a Flamenco show in the Sacromonte district.
  • Transportation: Madrid Metro, taxis, or ride-sharing services are readily available.

Day 2: Exploring Madrid

  • Start with Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (Art Triangle).
  • Visit Royal Palace of Madrid and Almudena Cathedral.
  • Explore the vibrant Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods for shopping and dining.
  • Optional day trip to Toledo or El Escorial Monastery.

Day 3: Travel from Madrid to Barcelona

  • Take a high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid’s Atocha station to Barcelona Sants station (around 2.5 hours).
  • Spend the afternoon visiting Park Güell, Casa Milà, and Casa Batlló.
  • Evening stroll along La Rambla and explore the lively tapas bars.

Day 4: Exploring Barcelona

  • Start with a visit to Sagrada Familia, one of Gaudi’s masterpieces.
  • Walk down Las Rambles, visit Mercado de la Boqueria, and stop by Plaça de Catalunya.
  • Afternoon trip to Montserrat, a mountain range just outside Barcelona with a Benedictine monastery and stunning views.

Day 5: More of Barcelona

  • Morning visit to Camp Nou, the famous football stadium of FC Barcelona.
  • Explore Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), including the Barcelona Cathedral and Jewish Quarter.
  • Evening at leisure, consider a boat tour around the harbor or a sunset visit to Bunkers del Carmel for city views.

Day 6: Departure

  • Spend your last hours shopping in Barcelona or relaxing at one of its beautiful beaches (Bogatell, Nova Icària, and Mar Bella).
  • Depart from El Prat de Llobregat Airport with unforgettable memories of Spain.

Things to Know:

  1. Spain is a member of the Schengen Agreement, so if you’re from another Schengen country, there are no border controls. For non-Schengen citizens, a visa might be required; check your country’s requirements.
  2. Euro (€) is the official currency in Spain. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash can be useful for smaller establishments or souvenir shops.
  3. Spanish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major cities.
  4. Tapas are a must-try when in Spain! They can range from small snacks to full meals.
  5. Siesta (afternoon rest) is still a common practice in Spain, especially in the South; most shops close around 2 PM for a couple of hours.
  6. Spanish food and wine are renowned worldwide, so be sure to try traditional dishes like Paella, Tinto de Verano, and Sangria.
  7. Spanish people are known for their warm hospitality, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or strike up conversations with locals!

Enjoy your Spain adventure! ¡Buen viaje!