Day 1: Arrive in Madrid
Your trip starts in the heart of Spain: Madrid. It’s a city with world-class art, endless tapas, and vibrant nightlife. After you check into your accommodation, take some time to relax from your flight.
In the evening, wander around the Plaza Mayor. It’s a great place to get your bearings, enjoy people-watching, and grab some churros con chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés — a must-try. If you’re up for it, catch a flamenco show or explore some local tapas bars.
What to See
- Plaza Mayor
- Chocolatería San Ginés
Day 2: Explore Madrid’s History and Culture
Start the morning at the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s largest royal residences. You can tour parts of the palace, and it gives you a great introduction to Spain’s royal history. Don’t miss the impressive gardens surrounding the palace.
Afterwards, head over to the Prado Museum. It houses one of the best European art collections, with works from Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. Even if you’re not into art, it’s a fascinating place to spend a few hours.
Wrap up your day with a walk through Retiro Park. Most people come here to relax and enjoy the greenery, but there’s also a little boating lake if you feel like renting a rowboat for a half-hour or so. For dinner, find a local spot near Malasaña for some tapas and red wine.
What to See
- Royal Palace
- Prado Museum
- Retiro Park
Day 3: Take a Day Trip to Toledo from Madrid
Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short train ride from Madrid. The city is a melting pot of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures, reflected in its architecture and history.
Spend the day visiting the Toledo Cathedral, the Alcázar, and wandering through the narrow, twisting streets. The cathedral is a masterpiece, while the Alcázar offers panoramic views over the city. Don’t forget to check out the numerous artisan shops — Toledo is also famous for its sword-making and marzipan.
What to See
- Toledo Cathedral
- Alcázar of Toledo
- Jewish Quarter
Day 4: Head to Seville
Catch a morning high-speed train to Seville. It’s about a 2.5-hour ride, which means you’ll have plenty of time to arrive, check in, and start exploring. Seville is a wonderfully walkable city with a rich history and beautiful Moorish architecture.
Your first stop should be the Seville Cathedral. It’s the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and you can climb the Giralda Tower for incredible views over the city. Right next door is the Alcázar of Seville, a palace with stunning gardens and intricate Islamic-inspired design. You’ll need at least a couple of hours to explore it properly.
In the evening, head to the Triana neighborhood. It’s known for its local bars, ceramics, and lively atmosphere. Grab dinner here, preferably something Andalusian, like gazpacho or Iberian ham.
What to See
- Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- Alcázar of Seville
- Triana Neighborhood
Day 5: Explore More of Seville
Kick off your second day in Seville with a stroll through Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de España. The architecture at Plaza de España is breathtaking, and you can rent a boat or walk along its semicircular waterways.
For lunch, stop in one of the tapas bars around the city center. There’s usually a great lunchtime deal on the daily menu (called a menú del día), so take advantage of that.
In the afternoon, check out the Metropol Parasol, a massive wooden structure offering panoramic views of the city. Locals refer to it as “Las Setas.” Wrap up your day with a leisurely evening in Barrio Santa Cruz, one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods, full of narrow streets and hidden squares.
What to See
- Plaza de España
- Maria Luisa Park
- Metropol Parasol
- Barrio Santa Cruz
Day 6: Visit Granada
Start early and take the train or bus to Granada, about 2.5 hours away from Seville. Granada is home to the legendary Alhambra, a must-see palace complex with breathtaking gardens, towers, and historic courtyards.
Because tickets to the Alhambra can sell out, it’s a good idea to reserve your entrance time in advance. Spend your day exploring the Alhambra’s exquisite Islamic architecture and stunning views over the city. If you’re into history, visit the nearby Generalife gardens as well.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the Albaicín, the city’s old Moorish quarter. It’s full of narrow streets and incredible viewpoints, especially from the Mirador de San Nicolás, which offers stunning views back over to the Alhambra.
What to See
- Alhambra
- Generalife Gardens
- Albaicín neighborhood
- Mirador de San Nicolás
Day 7: Granada and Departure
On your last day, you’ve got time for a quiet morning exploring any parts of Granada you might have missed. Check out the Granada Cathedral or the Royal Chapel of Granada, where the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella are buried. It’s a historical tour worth checking out if you’re into Spain’s dynastic history.
If you’ve got a little extra time before your departure, grab a final Andalusian meal. Maybe try local dishes like salmorejo or a zesty seafood platter before you head to the airport or train station. Depending on your departure schedule, you could even squeeze in a quick ride up to the Sierra Nevada Mountains for one last scenic view of the area.
What to See
- Granada Cathedral
- Royal Chapel of Granada
- Sierra Nevada Mountains (optional)
Final Thoughts
Spain offers a perfect blend of art, history, and culture. This 7-day itinerary gives you the highlights while still leaving time for spontaneous exploration. The country’s transportation system makes it easy to travel without feeling rushed, so enjoy every moment!
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