Spain is a sensory symphony, composed of the scent of orange blossoms in Seville’s Alcázar gardens, Gaudí’s kaleidoscopic mosaics shimmering under Barcelona sun, and the thunderous silence inside Granada’s Alhambra.
With so much to see, where do you even begin? This 10-day Spain itinerary is designed to give you a taste of this enchanting country, leaving you with memories that will linger long after you’ve returned home.
What is the Best Time to Go to Spain
While Spain is a year-round destination, the sweet spots for a visit are spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant, warm temperatures perfect for exploring cities and countryside.
The summer months of July and August can be intensely hot, especially in the central and southern regions, and major tourist spots are at their most crowded. Winter is milder than in much of Europe, but it can be chilly and rainy, particularly in the north.
Crafting Your Itinerary: Where to Go in 10 Days?
Is 10 days enough to visit Spain? The answer is a resounding yes. While you could easily spend months exploring every nook and cranny of this diverse country, a well-planned 10-day itinerary starting from Barcelona or Madrid allows you to experience the highlights of several key regions without feeling overly rushed. It’s the perfect amount of time for a first-time visitor to get a fantastic introduction to the best of what Spain has to offer.
Key regions for 10 days:
- Catalonia: Barcelona’s architecture + Girona’s medieval charm or Costa Brava beaches.
- Andalusia: Moorish gems (Seville, Granada, Córdoba) + passionate flamenco.
- Central Spain: Madrid’s art, with day trips to Toledo/Segovia.
- Wildcard: Basque Country (San Sebastián) or Valencia’s futuristic city/beach mix.
10-Day Spain Itinerary Starting in Barcelona
This route offers a fascinating contrast between Catalonia’s unique modernist flair and the stately elegance of the Spanish capital.
🗺️Destinations: Barcelona (4 nights), Seville (3 nights), Madrid (2 nights)
Day 1: Arrival in Barcelona
Fly into Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). After settling in, dive straight into the city’s oldest neighborhood, the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). Lose yourself in its historic, winding streets. Visit the impressive Barcelona Cathedral and discover hidden squares like Plaça Sant Felip Neri. As evening falls, the quarter comes alive with countless options for dinner and drinks.
Day 2: The Genius of Gaudí
Today is all about the architectural marvels of Antoni Gaudí. Start with his unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Família. The light streaming through the stained-glass windows is a spiritual experience.
In the afternoon, head up to Park Güell, a whimsical public park with incredible mosaic work and panoramic city views. Finish your Gaudí tour with a walk down Passeig de Gràcia to admire the facades of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera).
Day 3: Picasso, Beaches, and El Born
Begin your day at the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of the artist’s early works, showing his evolution. It’s located in the trendy El Born neighborhood.
Afterward, explore El Born’s chic boutiques and artisan shops. For lunch, head to the Mercado de La Boqueria just off La Rambla, a feast for the senses with its vibrant stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and tapas bars.
In the afternoon, unwind like a local and head to Barceloneta Beach. Take a dip in the Mediterranean or simply relax on the sand. Enjoy a seafood paella for dinner at one of the many restaurants along the boardwalk.
Day 4: A Taste of Catalonia or a Mountaintop Retreat
Choose your own adventure for your last day in Barcelona. You could take a day trip to Montserrat, a stunning multi-peaked mountain range home to a Benedictine monastery. The views are spectacular, and you might even hear the famous L’Escolania boys’ choir sing.
Alternatively, delve deeper into Catalan culture by exploring the Gràcia neighborhood, which feels like a separate village within the city, or take a food tour to sample local specialties beyond tapas.
Day 5: The Soul of Andalusia – Seville
Take a morning high-speed train from Barcelona Sants to Seville (approx. 5.5 hours). It’s a long but comfortable journey. After checking into your hotel, head straight for the magnificent Plaza de España. From there, lose yourself in the enchanting lanes of the Santa Cruz neighborhood.
In the evening, it’s time for an authentic flamenco show. Find a small, intimate venue in the Triana district for a performance that will give you goosebumps. This is a must-do for any Andalusian visit.
Day 6: Seville’s Iconic Landmarks
Spend your one full day in Seville visiting its two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Start with the colossal Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda for unmatched city views. Then, cross the plaza to the Royal Alcázar. Allow several hours to wander through its stunning patios, ornate halls, and peaceful gardens. The beauty of this palace is simply breathtaking.
Day 7: Cathedral Heights and Triana Charm
Start your day at the colossal Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Climb the Giralda (the former minaret) for unmatched city views. In the afternoon, cross the river to explore the vibrant Triana neighborhood, famous for its ceramics and bustling market.
Day 8: Travel to Majestic Madrid
Take a morning high-speed AVE train to Madrid (approx. 2.5 hours). After checking in, spend your afternoon getting acquainted with your new surroundings. A great start is a walk from the bustling Puerta del Sol, the literal center of Spain, down to the elegant Plaza Mayor.
For dinner, explore the Mercado de San Miguel, a beautiful iron-and-glass market hall filled with gourmet tapas stalls. It’s a bit touristy but offers incredible variety and quality.
Day 9: Madrid’s Royal Heritage and Art
Dedicate your morning to Madrid’s art scene. Choose between the vast collections of the Prado Museum or the modern masterpieces at the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful anti-war painting, Guernica.
In the afternoon, explore the area around the Royal Palace. Take a tour of the opulent rooms or simply enjoy the grandeur from the outside. Later, relax in the beautiful El Retiro Park, the green heart of the city.
Day 10: Farewell from Madrid
Enjoy a final Spanish breakfast of churros con chocolate at the famous Chocolatería San Ginés before heading to Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) for your flight home.
⭐Tip for Barcelona round-trip flights:
If you have already booked round-trip tickets or your trip must start and end in Barcelona, you can simply adjust the sequence. In this case, you could follow an order like this: Barcelona (Days 1-3) → Madrid (Days 4-6) → Seville (Days 7-8). On Day 9, you would travel from Seville back to Barcelona. Then take the high-speed train (approx. 5.5 – 6 hours) or look for a budget-friendly flight. This allows you to spend your last night in Barcelona before your departure on Day 10.
10-Day Spain Itinerary Starting in Madrid
This itinerary is a journey through the heart of Spanish culture, from the royal grandeur of Madrid to the passionate soul of Andalusia.
🗺️Destinations: Madrid (3 nights), Seville (3 nights), Granada (2 nights), Madrid (1 night)
Day 1: Arrival and Royal Madrid
After arriving at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) and checking into your hotel, it’s time to stretch your legs. Head towards the Plaza Mayor, a grand, enclosed square that has been the center of city life for centuries.
From there, it’s a short walk to the magnificent Royal Palace, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. While the interior is stunning, simply admiring its scale from the outside with the adjacent Sabatini Gardens is a treat. For dinner, dive headfirst into the local culture with a tapas crawl in the vibrant La Latina neighborhood. This is the authentic Madrid experience – hopping from one small bar to the next, sampling delights like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and croquetas.
Day 2: Art, Parks, and Golden Sunsets
Today is dedicated to Madrid’s “Golden Triangle of Art.” Start at the world-renowned Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.
After your art immersion, seek tranquility in the sprawling El Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat on the lake, stroll through the rose garden, or simply find a shady spot to relax. For lunch, grab a bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich) from a kiosk near the Plaza Mayor.
In the evening, visit the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain. It’s one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset cast a golden glow over the city.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo or Segovia (Optional)
While there’s plenty more to see in Madrid, a day trip offers a glimpse into Spain’s rich history. The most popular choice is Toledo, the “City of Three Cultures,” where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities coexisted for centuries. Its winding medieval streets, historic synagogue, and stunning cathedral are captivating.
Alternatively, Segovia boasts a massive, intact Roman aqueduct and a fairytale castle that inspired Disney. Both are easily reachable by a short train ride from Madrid’s Atocha station. If you prefer to stay in the city, explore the chic Salamanca neighborhood for shopping or the trendy Malasaña for its bohemian vibe.
Day 4: High-Speed Train to Seville
In the morning, take a high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Seville (approx. 2.5 hours). After checking in, immerse yourself in the charm of the Santa Cruz quarter, the old Jewish ghetto. Get lost in its labyrinth of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled patios.
In the evening, experience the soul of Andalusia: flamenco. Avoid the overly touristy shows and seek out a smaller, more intimate tablao in the Triana neighborhood, the historic heart of the art form. The raw passion and emotion of an authentic performance is something you will never forget.
Day 5: The Grandeur of Seville
Prepare to be awestruck. Start your day at the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Climb the Giralda tower, the former minaret of the mosque that once stood here, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Next door is the Alcázar of Seville, a stunning royal palace complex. A masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture, its intricate tilework, lush gardens, and tranquil courtyards are a photographer’s dream. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize it as the Water Gardens of Dorne.
End your day with a stroll along the Guadalquivir River and admire the Torre del Oro.
Day 6: Plaza de España and Triana Charm
Spend your morning at the spectacular Plaza de España, a semi-circular brick and tile complex built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. It’s a stunning piece of architecture, representing the four ancient kingdoms of Spain.
In the afternoon, cross the Isabel II bridge into the Triana neighborhood. Famous for its bullfighters, sailors, and ceramic workshops, Triana has a distinct character. Visit the Mercado de Triana, a bustling market built on the ruins of a medieval castle, for a delicious, casual lunch.
Day 7: Journey to Granada and the Alhambra
Take a morning train or bus to Granada (approx. 3 hours). The main event and the reason millions visit this city is the legendary Alhambra. This sprawling palace and fortress complex of the Nasrid sultans is the pinnacle of Moorish art and architecture in Europe.
Crucial advice: You MUST book your tickets for the Alhambra weeks, or even months, in advance, especially for the Nasrid Palaces, the crown jewel of the complex. The visit will take at least 3-4 hours. After your visit, find a viewpoint in the Albaicín neighborhood for a stunning sunset view of the Alhambra glowing against the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Day 8: Exploring Granada’s Soul
Spend the morning exploring the Albaicín, Granada’s old Arab quarter. It’s a captivating maze of steep, cobblestoned streets, hidden gardens, and cármenes (traditional houses with large gardens).
In the afternoon, head down to the city center to see the Granada Cathedral and the adjacent Royal Chapel, where Catholic Monarchs Isabella I and Ferdinand II are buried. For your last Andalusian evening, enjoy free tapas – Granada is famous for the tradition of serving a generous tapa with every drink you order.
Day 9: Return to Madrid
Take a morning train back to Madrid (approx. 3.5 hours). Use your last afternoon for some souvenir shopping along the Gran Vía, Madrid’s bustling main artery, often called the “Spanish Broadway.” Or, if you missed a museum on your first pass, now is your chance.
For your farewell dinner, treat yourself to a nice sit-down meal. Consider a restaurant specializing in roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado), a Castilian delicacy.
Day 10: Adios, España!
Enjoy a final Spanish breakfast of churros con chocolate at the famous Chocolatería San Ginés before heading to the airport for your flight home, filled with memories of an incredible 10 days in Spain.
How Much Would 10 Days in Spain Cost?
The cost of a trip to Spain can vary widely depending on your travel style. Here’s a general breakdown per person, per day (excluding flights):
- For budget traveler: $70 – $90 per day
This involves staying in hostels, eating at markets and having the menú del día (a fixed-price lunch menu), using public transport, and taking advantage of free museum entry times.
- For mid-range traveler: $150 – $200 per day
This allows for comfortable mid-range hotels or Airbnbs, a mix of sit-down dinners and casual tapas, a few taxi rides, and paid entry to all major attractions. This is a very comfortable budget for a 10 days in Spain trip.
- For luxury traveler: $350+ per day
This includes boutique or 5-star hotels, fine dining experiences, private tours, and taxis or private transfers.
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel off-season
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) will save you money on flights and accommodation.
- Book in advance
High-speed trains and major attractions like the Alhambra are significantly cheaper when booked well in advance.
- Embrace the Menú del Día
This is the biggest meal of the day for Spaniards. For about €12-€18, you can get a three-course meal with a drink and bread.
- Use public transport
The metro systems in Madrid and Barcelona are efficient and affordable.
- Drink like a local
A glass of local wine (vino tinto/blanco) or a small beer (caña) is often cheaper than a soda.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you do Spain and Portugal in one trip of 10 days?
While geographically close, trying to cover both Spain and Portugal in just 10 days is not recommended. You would spend a significant amount of your precious vacation time in transit and would only be able to scratch the surface of each country. It’s far more rewarding to dedicate the full 10 days to exploring Spain thoroughly.
Q: What is the most logical route for a 10-day Spain itinerary?
The most logical routes minimize travel time. Flying into one major city (like Madrid) and out of another (like Barcelona or Seville) can be very efficient. The itineraries above, which rely on Spain’s high-speed train network, are designed to be highly logical and reduce backtracking.
Q: Is it easy to get around Spain without a car?
Yes, it’s incredibly easy! For travel between major cities, the AVE high-speed train system is world-class: fast, comfortable, and punctual. Within the big cities, you’ll find excellent public transport systems, including metros, buses, and trams, making a car more of a hindrance than a help.
10 days in Spain is a journey through a land of passion, art, and incredible flavor. Use these itineraries as your starting point, but don’t be afraid to wander down a side street, linger a little longer over tapas, or simply sit in a plaza and watch the world go by.
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