Spain Itinerary

5 Days Spain Itinerary for First-time Visitors

Travelling around Spain is convenient, especially with the Renfe high-speed trains connecting cities like Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona. Before starting your journey, ensure you have completed the Schengen visa requirements. This includes filling out the application form, providing a recent passport-size photo, and having a valid passport with at least six months of validity.

Once your visa, flights, and transport are organised, pack essential items like comfortable shoes for exploring the cities and light clothing for the warm weather.

Let's begin our journey in Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital!

• Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

  Start your Spain trip itinerary in the heart of Spain with Madrid’s cultural treasures and lively atmosphere.

  Morning

  Arrive at Madrid-Barajas Airport and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, take a walk through Puerta del Sol, the central square of Madrid, and stop by the famous Kilometre Zero, the symbolic starting point of Spain’s road system.

  Afternoon

  Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, with over 3,000 rooms filled with art and history. Wander through the nearby Almudena Cathedral for a glimpse of its neo-Gothic architecture.

  Evening

  Explore the Plaza Mayor, where you can enjoy an early evening meal at one of the many outdoor cafes. You can indulge into traditional tapas such as patatas bravas and croquetas.

• Day 2: Art and Culture in Madrid

  Day two is dedicated to exploring Madrid's rich cultural and artistic heritage.

  Morning

  Start your day at the Prado Museum, home to one of the finest collections of European art, including works by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. Take your time admiring the masterpieces.

  Afternoon

  Head to Retiro Park, Madrid’s green oasis. Rent a rowboat on the park’s tranquil lake or visit the Palacio de Cristal, a stunning glass pavilion.

  Evening

  Visit the Gran Vía, Madrid’s most famous shopping and theatre street. Stroll down this vibrant avenue and enjoy a meal at a traditional Spanish taberna.

• Day 3: Seville – Andalusian Spirit

  Fly from Madrid to Seville, the heart of Andalusia, known for its rich culture, architecture, and lively traditions.

  Morning

  Fly to Seville (approximately 1 hour) and transfer to your hotel. Start your day by visiting the impressive Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Don’t forget to climb the Giralda Tower for a panoramic view of the city.

  Afternoon

  Wander through the Alcázar of Seville, a royal palace with beautiful gardens and intricate Moorish architecture. Afterwards, stroll through the narrow streets of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood.

  Evening

  Head to a local flamenco show to experience the passionate music and dance that Seville is famous for. Afterward, enjoy traditional Andalusian dishes like salmorejo and jamón ibérico.

• Day 4: Granada – A Glimpse of Moorish History

  Travel from Seville to Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra Palace.

  Morning

  Take a train or bus from Seville to Granada (about 2.5-3 hours). Start your visit with a tour of the Alhambra, a Moorish fortress and palace complex, one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the beautiful Generalife Gardens and admire the intricate architecture.

  Afternoon

  Walk through the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter of Granada, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to stunning viewpoints like Mirador de San Nicolás. The location offers a perfect view of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

  Evening

  Enjoy dinner in one of Granada’s traditional taverns, where you’ll often receive free tapas with your drink.

• Day 5: Barcelona – The Modernist Marvel

  End your journey in Barcelona, a city known for its extraordinary architecture and cultural depth.

  Morning

  Fly from Granada to Barcelona (1 hour 20 minutes). Upon arrival, head straight to the Sagrada Família, the iconic basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí. Spend time exploring this architectural masterpiece.

  Afternoon

  Visit Park Güell, another of Gaudí’s creations, where colourful mosaics and unique sculptures offer a playful view of the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park’s whimsical pathways.

  Evening

  Stroll down the Las Ramblas boulevard, a lively street filled with street performers, markets, and cafes. Conclude your trip with a seafood dinner in Barceloneta, the city’s beachside neighbourhood.

FAQs

• Q1: How do you avoid long queues at major attractions in Spain?

  Ans: You can purchase tickets online for sites like the Alhambra in Granada, Sagrada Família in Barcelona, or the Royal Palace in Madrid. Arriving early or booking evening slots can also help reduce wait times.

• Q2: How can you experience local Spanish culture on a budget?

  Ans: Take advantage of free museum days in Madrid and Barcelona. In Granada, many bars offer free tapas with drinks, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine without overspending.

• Q3: How can you manage language barriers while travelling in Spain?

  Ans: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish phrases (for greetings, directions, etc.) can be helpful. Offline translation apps are useful for more remote locations where English is less common.

• Q4: What is the most convenient way to get around Spain’s airports?

  Ans: Many Spanish airports, including Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona-El Prat, have efficient public transport connections, such as metro lines and express buses. Taxis and rideshare services are also widely available for quicker access to the city centre.

• Q5: What should you do if you miss your train in Spain?

  Ans: Contact the Renfe ticket office immediately. Sometimes, you can change your ticket for a later train, especially if you purchased a flexible fare. Be sure to arrive at the station 30 minutes before departure.