Discover the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers, food lovers, culture seekers, and unforgettable experiences in this Spain trip itinerary.
You know that fantasy version of Europe? Medieval streets. Castles. Cathedrals. Palaces. Roman ruins.
It’s not a fantasy. It’s a trip to Spain.
Life in Spain is beautiful, historic, slow, food-filled, and wildly social. Days revolve around long meals, wandering old streets, and soaking up the lively atmosphere in sunny plazas.
Spain delivers “Old World Europe” in concentrated form. Stunning food, beautiful beaches, islands, and mountains await. High-speed trains make planning a trip easy, even in a country over 2,000 years old.
Table of Contents
💃 Spain Trip Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Spain
This is the classic Spain trip itinerary for a reason. It hits the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers and the most fun things to do in Spain that create unforgettable memories.
Plan the perfect trip to Spain with this fun itinerary.
🏙️ Barcelona (3-4 Days)
Barcelona is consistently ranked among the top places to visit in Spain. Here are some of the best places to see and things to do in Barcelona.
What to see and do:
- Sagrada Família: One of the top places to visit in Spain, this famous church looks like a sandcastle designed by a genius.
- Park Güell: Candy-colored city views and Gaudí’s architecture that feels almost illegal to admire for free.
- Gothic Quarter: Medieval alleys, hidden squares, and Roman walls make this one of the most beautiful places to visit in Spain.
- Picasso Museum: Baby Picasso before he broke art on purpose.
- Tapas Tours: The most fun thing to do in Barcelona – jamón, patatas bravas, cava… repeat.
- Rooftop Bars: Sunset, sangria, and the realization you’ve peaked in life.
- Beach Time: Yes, a real beach inside a world-class city.
Where to stay:
- Budget: Travelodge Barcelona Poblenou – Affordable, comfortable, and near transit.
- Mid‑Range: Hotel MidMost Barcelona – Stylish and centrally located.
- Luxury: Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona – Ultra-luxury with top-notch service.
Barcelona travel tips:
- Beat the crowds early: Visit Sagrada Família and Park Güell first thing in the morning to avoid the mass of tourists.
- Stay alert: Pickpockets are skilled around tourist hotspots, so keep your bags close and wallets secure.
- Respect local space: Locals aren’t always thrilled about the constant flood of tourists. Keep noise down and avoid blocking sidewalks for photos.
- Eat like a local: Skip the restaurants on Las Ramblas and find small tapas bars in neighborhoods like Gràcia or El Born.
- Walk or bike: Barcelona is very walkable, and biking lets you see more than taxis or the metro.
- Late is normal: Lunch around 2 pm, dinner after 9 pm. Embrace the local schedule.
- Cash helps: Some small cafés and markets prefer cash over cards.
A Barcelona City Pass saves money on top attractions, lets you skip lines, and includes public transport.
🏛️ Madrid (2- 3 Days)
Madrid is one of the essential places to see in Spain, on any Spain trip itinerary. Here are some things to do and places to visit in Madrid.
What to see and do:
- Royal Palace of Madrid: Stunning palace with opulent rooms and royal history, a must-see landmark in Madrid.
- Prado Museum: A stunning display of European opulence, showcasing a grandeur that feels almost endless with its countless rooms.
- Retiro Park: Rowboats, shaded paths, and a peaceful atmosphere – one of the best free things to do in Madrid.
- Mercado de San Miguel: A vibrant tapas market where you can sample local flavors – one of the most fun things to do in Spain.
- Day Trip to Toledo & Segovia: Castles, aqueducts, and medieval streets – a glimpse of some of the most famous places to visit in Spain.
Where to stay:
- Budget: The Hat Madrid – Trendy, affordable hostel in the city center.
- Mid‑Range: Petit Palace Plaza Mayor – Comfortable, centrally located hotel.
- Luxury: Gran Hotel Inglés – Elegant boutique luxury in the heart of Madrid.
Madrid travel tips:
- Museums first, tapas later: Start your day at the Prado or Reina Sofía before lunch so you’re not museum-fatigued.
- Mind your pace: Madrileños walk fast and expect you to keep moving; don’t stop in the middle of busy streets.
- Siesta-friendly timing: Some small shops close in the afternoon for a siesta, usually 2–5 pm, so plan accordingly.
- Eat where locals eat: Skip the touristy spots near Puerta del Sol; venture to La Latina or Malasaña for authentic tapas.
- Public transport is your friend: Metro and buses are fast, cheap, and easy to navigate.
- Evening vibes: Nightlife starts late; dinner at 9 pm, bars around 11 pm. Embrace the Madrileño schedule.
- Watch your wallet: Pickpocketing happens in crowded squares and on metro lines; stay alert.
A Madrid City Pass cuts costs, offers fast-track access to attractions, and makes exploring the city easier.
🕌 Andalusia (3-4 Days)
Andalusia is often the emotional highlight of the trip to Spain. This is where tourists fall in love.
What to see and do:
- Seville: The Alcázar looks like a palace from a fantasy, and live flamenco performances – one of the most unique things to do in Spain.
- Granada: Alhambra is the crown jewel of Moorish architecture and a must-see on any trip to Spain.
- Córdoba: Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral hybrid – one of the coolest places to see in Spain.
Andalusia travel tips:
- Book the Alhambra early: Tickets sell out weeks in advance, so reserve ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Flamenco timings: Shows usually start late at night; go with an open mind and comfy shoes for clapping along.
- Stay cool: Andalusia can get scorching in summer; wear light clothes, a hat, and drink plenty of water while exploring.
- Local pace matters: Meals and social life move slowly—embrace the relaxed rhythm rather than rushing.
- Follow etiquette in sacred spaces: Some churches and mosques have strict rules about clothing and photography.
- Try regional specialties: Tapas vary by city: gazpacho in Córdoba, salmorejo in Seville, and churros in Granada.
An Andalusia Pass saves on entry to must-see sites, skips the queues, and simplifies travel between cities.
🌊 Spanish Coast, Islands & Food
If you have extra time, adding the coast, islands, or a food pilgrimage can elevate your experience even further.
- Mallorca & Ibiza: Relaxing coves by day and lively party scenes by night, making them perfect for young adults in Spain. Rent a car and book early.
- San Sebastián: The best food city in Europe – a culinary pilgrimage for lovers of the best things to do in Spain. Explore pintxos bars in the Old Town and pace yourself.
- Costa del Sol: Classic Mediterranean beach towns – an excellent choice for a family trip to Spain. Visit smaller towns and plan around siesta hours.
🎉 Top Festivals in Spain
Spain treats “festival” like a full-time job, from wine fights and flower parades to bonfires and patron saints, with locals and delighted tourists joining the party.
Looking for fun things to do in Spain? Here’s a list of only ethical festivals with dates to help you plan:
- La Tomatina (Last Wednesday of August) – Buñol (Valencia): The world’s largest tomato fight, where thousands gather to throw tomatoes in the streets.
- Semana Santa de Estepona (Week before Easter, March/April) – Nationwide (best in Seville, Málaga, Granada): Solemn and elaborate religious processions with floats, candles, and traditional robes.
- Las Fallas (March 15–19) – Valencia: Giant artistic sculptures fill the city before being dramatically burned in a night of fireworks.
- Portada de la Feria de Abril (About two weeks after Easter) – Seville: A week of flamenco, traditional dress, horses, music, dancing, and food in festive tents.
- Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (February or early March) – Canary Islands: One of the biggest carnivals in the world with vibrant costumes, parades, and music.
- Moors and Christians (Early September) – Villena, Alcoy, and other towns: Historical reenactment parades with elaborate costumes and mock battles.
- Madrid Pride (Late June to early July) – Madrid: One of Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ pride celebrations with parades, concerts, and street parties.
- Haro Wine Festival (June 29) – Haro, La Rioja: A lively wine battle where participants splash each other with red wine.
📅 Best Time to Travel to Spain
Wondering when is the best time to travel to Spain? The best time to visit Spain is in October and November if you want comfort and value.
Here are some options:
- April-June: Perfect weather, fewer crowds, ideal for cities
- September-October: Warm, beautiful, great for Andalusia
- November: Excellent for museums, food, and fewer tourists
- Summer: Best for beaches and islands, very hot inland
When is the cheapest time to travel to Spain?
Plan your Spain trip when nobody else wants to – January and February are bargain season, and spring/fall are the sweet spot where prices drop, but the weather and vibes are still excellent.
💰 How Much Does a Trip to Spain Cost?
Spain is noticeably cheaper than France, Italy, or the UK. Here are the costs for a typical 10-day trip to Spain from the USA:
- Flights: $600-$1,200
- Hotels: $120-$250/night
- Food & wine: $40-$70/day
- Trains between cities: $40-$90 per leg
- Attractions: $150-$250 total
Average Spain trip cost: $2,500-$3,500 per person
Want to save some cash and your sanity? Go for Spain trip packages or group tours. They bundle hotel stays with transportation and attractions so you don’t have to Google “how to get from Seville to Granada” at 2 a.m.
Bonus: Group tours often score discounts at popular sites and restaurants, meaning you can eat, explore, and sip your wine like a pro – without your wallet staging a revolt.
🗺️ How to Plan a Trip to Spain
Planning a trip to Spain is easy if you follow this route:
- Fly into Barcelona
- Take a train to Madrid
- Take a train or short flight to Seville/Granada/Córdoba
- Add islands if you have extra days
This is the classic 10-day Spain trip itinerary that travelers love.
If you have the time and budget, consider a multi-country adventure. A trip to Spain and Portugal, or even Spain and Morocco, blends vibrant cultures, rich history, and unforgettable flavors into one incredible journey.
Travel tips for Spain:
- Use high-speed trains.
- Book Alhambra tickets early.
- Leave room for wandering.
❓ FAQ: Travel to Spain
Is it safe to travel to Spain?
Yes. Spain is one of the safest countries in Europe for tourists.
What do I need to travel to Spain from the USA?
You need a valid U.S. passport (valid at least 3 months beyond your stay), a return/onward ticket, and proof of funds/accommodation if asked.
Do you need a visa to travel to Spain from the USA?
No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Do I need an ETIAS to travel to Spain in 2026?
No ETIAS required yet – just a valid passport (for visa-exempt nationalities). By 2027, ETIAS will become a mandatory pre-travel requirement.
What are the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers?
Barcelona, Madrid, and Andalusia.
What are the top things to do in Spain?
Eat tapas, visit the Alhambra, explore Gaudí’s work, see the Prado, wander medieval streets.
Is Spain good for a family trip?
Yes. Walkable cities, beaches, parks, and endless things to do in Spain with kids make a family trip to Spain a great idea.
How many days for a Spain travel itinerary?
7–10 days is ideal for the classic route.
Now that you know the best places to visit in Spain, remember that this route isn’t random. It’s the exact path thousands of tourists take every year… and come home saying: “Spain was the best trip I’ve ever taken.”
- Best Places to See and Things to Do in Kerala, India - January 26, 2026
- Spain Trip Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Spain for First Timers - January 24, 2026
- The Best Fun Things to Do in London All Year Round - January 23, 2026
Discover more from Ahoy Matey Blog
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.