Vacay AlchemistA classic week in Spain links Barcelona, Madrid and Seville: three nights in Barcelona, two in Madrid and two in Seville, connected by high-speed AVE trains that take roughly two and a half hours per leg. Book Sagrada Família and the Alcázar in advance, and adjust your eating schedule to Spanish hours.
Days 1 to 3: Barcelona
- Day 1: the Gothic Quarter, La Boqueria market, Barceloneta beach and a sunset at Montjuïc.
- Day 2: Sagrada Família (timed ticket), Park Güell (timed ticket) and Gràcia for dinner.
- Day 3: Casa Batlló or Casa Milà, the Picasso Museum or a beach and tapas day.
Barcelona is best explored on foot and by metro.
Days 4 to 5: Madrid
Take the AVE from Barcelona to Madrid, about two and a half to three hours.
- Day 4: the Prado Museum, Retiro Park and the Literary Quarter for tapas.
- Day 5: the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel, with an evening in La Latina. If you want a day trip, Toledo is about 30 minutes by high-speed train.
Days 6 to 7: Seville
Take the AVE from Madrid to Seville, about two and a half hours.
- Day 6: the Real Alcázar (book ahead), the Cathedral and Giralda tower, and the Santa Cruz quarter. Evening flamenco show in Triana.
- Day 7: Plaza de España, Maria Luisa Park and last-minute shopping before your flight or train.
If you prefer Granada and the Alhambra, swap Seville for Granada, and book Alhambra tickets weeks ahead.
What should you book in advance?
- Sagrada Família and Park Güell timed tickets.
- The Alcázar in Seville and the Alhambra if you add Granada.
- The Prado in high season.
- AVE train tickets, which are cheaper the earlier you book.
- A flamenco show, if you want a good seat.
How do you adapt to Spanish mealtimes?
Lunch is usually from 2 to 4 p.m. and dinner starts around 9 p.m. Many restaurants close between meals, so plan snacks. A menú del día at lunch is often the best value. Tapas are a great way to sample several dishes.
When should you go, and how do you save?
Spring and fall have comfortable weather. July and August are hot, especially in Seville. To save money, book trains early, eat the menu of the day at lunch and stay in central neighborhoods near a metro line.
Frequently asked
Is one week enough for Spain?
It is enough for three cities. Two cities at a slower pace is also a great option.
Should I fly or take the train between cities?
High-speed trains are comfortable and city-center to city-center, and are often more convenient than flying.
Is Seville too hot in summer?
It can exceed 100 degrees in July and August. Sightsee early and in the evening.
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