10-Day Trip to Spain | Best of Spain Itinerary

May 15, 2023

Spain is a country of sunshine, oceans, and remarkable history. When you visit here, you can be sure that there is an abundance of things for you to do. Spain is filled with some great cultural activities and places to see. And who doesn’t want to have a 10-day trip to Spain?

Sometimes it can be hard to plan a trip. You will want to do everything Spain offers because all of it seems fun and exciting. It may seem nearly impossible to find the right itinerary when planning a trip to Spain.

This guide will cover some of the best places to visit in Spain and how to get around the country quickly. We also include a 10-day itinerary planned out for you, so you don’t have to stress about where to go and what to see.

How to Get Around in Spain

Public transport has come a long way in the modern age, and this rings especially true in Spain. There are many ways to travel through the country, making it an excellent place for a long trip. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to travel around Spain.

Train station in Spain

Train

This is a fast and easy way to travel across Spain. RENFE is Spain’s national train network, offering regular, suburban, and high-speed train lines. The high-speed train, Alta Velocidad, is the fastest way to travel between the major cities in Spain if you don’t want to fly everywhere. Just be aware it’s not the quickest way to travel across Spain. Depending on your destination, your trip could take a few hours

Plane

Depending on where you need to go in Spain, you can jump on a plane. More than 40 airports around mainland Spain travel domestically throughout the country. A plane will be the best choice if you need to get to your destination very quickly.

Quick Tip: Make sure to research the airlines, as a few offer terrific deals on internal flights.

Rental Car

This is an excellent way to get across Spain if you want a road trip across Spain and are willing to spend a bit more on travel costs. Rent a car, plan your route, and travel across the gorgeous highways of Spain.

Last update was on: March 10, 2024 2:42 pm

Bus

A bus is perfect if you don’t need to travel too far from your location. Many different bus lines travel all over Spain, so you can decide to go on a bus trip through Spain.

Quick Tip: Just be aware it may be expensive since you will have to keep switching buses.

Gibalfaro Castle in Spain at sunset with bird flying in the air

The Best Time to Go To Spain

Depending on what you have in mind for your trip – a few factors need to be considered.

If you want to go when the weather is nice, the spring and summer months are the time to go. Visiting Spain between March and August will give you higher daily temperatures so you can explore without having to freeze every time you step outside. However, this is the tourist season, so expect crowds everywhere and an increase in prices.

In terms of money, the off-season for tourists will be the best time to visit. The fall and winter months are the time for this. There are very few tourists from September to January, and the prices for things are lower during this time, potentially saving you a lot of money. However, the weather will be pretty cold.

With all of these factors, we have determined the best time to visit Spain is in the fall, from September to November. The weather isn’t frigid yet; it is still quite lovely. Tourists start to leave, so crowds get smaller, and prices get lower.

People watching the sunset in Granada, Spain

Best Places to Visit in Spain for First Timers

If it’s your first time in Spain, the following cities are the best places for you to start exploring this wonderful country.

Barcelona

Barcelona is probably the most well-known city in Spain, and there is a reason for it. With its gorgeous attractions, lovely weather, and the fact that it is very tourist-friendly, Barcelona is the perfect starter city for first-timers in the country.

You won’t struggle to get a hotel or someone who can speak English to assist you. Most attractions are within walking distance from each other and easy to find, so the chances of getting lost are low. Although, let’s be fair, is getting lost in Spain such a bad thing? If it’s your first time in Spain, Barcelona is the place for you.

Arch in Barcelona, Spain

Madrid

Madrid, just like Barcelona, is well known for its tourist scene. Some people speak English, there are many gorgeous hotels, and the attractions are magnificent. With an incredible number of different guided tours, you won’t have an issue exploring all the beautiful places Madrid offers.

Street in Madrid at night

Seville

Lively and beautiful, Seville is the perfect city for first-timers who don’t want to visit the most well-known places. It’s generally laid back and serene, and everything in the city is within walking distance. The attractions and restaurants are also very easy to find.

There are many fantastic hotels, and most people speak English, so you can ask someone to help you if you get lost.

Seville and river at night

Spain Itinerary | 10 Days

You’re on the plane, ready to head off on an exciting 10-day journey through Spain. The following itinerary is perfect for a long trip through Spain. It includes all the popular destinations, as well as some fun extras.

Ready to go? Let’s take a look at our Spain in 10 days itinerary.

Barcelona

This 10-day trip will start with two days in Barcelona. Once you land and get settled into your luxury hotel, the fun can begin. There are many gorgeous attractions to visit in Barcelona and many tours.

Circle in city centre in Barcelona, Spain

Day 1

On day 1, we recommend touring Barcelona itself. A biking tour is a fun way to see all the attractions without walking everywhere. If you’re feeling adventurous, there is also a hot air balloon ride over the city. This tour allows for some of the most amazing views of Barcelona.

After spending the morning sightseeing, we recommend going on a wine tour. Barcelona has some of the most outstanding vineyards in Spain, and you’ll truly enjoy a wine and tapas tour where you can experience exceptional wines paired with delicious food.

Cathedral on a hill at sunset in Barcelona, Spain

If you want to experience the more cultural side of the city, get a museum pass and visit the excellent museums all over the city. The Museo Picasso boasts the life and art of Pablo Picasso. The Fundació Joan Miró was established by the artist and includes all his unique artworks.

You can grab a ticket to visit La Sagrada Familia, known for its breathtaking architecture. It is one of the most popular destinations in Spain. And you simply have to visit the Gaudi House Museum, which was once the home of renowned Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi.

There are many fantastic restaurants in Barcelona where you can enjoy a lovely dinner at night. Jara Sushi Degustacion is excellent for Japanese food, and Con Gracia serves outstanding Spanish-style cuisine. You can also attend a cooking class and make your own dinner if you’re feeling adventurous. Learning how to make authentic Spanish meals yourself is a unique experience.

Day 2

Barcelona city skyline at night

After you’ve explored everything Barcelona offers, it’s time to experience the fun areas surrounding the Catalonian capital.

Montserrat has some fantastic tours and sights. You can take a fun day trip to this unique mountainous area and visit its beautiful attractions. There’s even a cable car ride up the mountain.

Once you’re there, visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, an active monastery. The Museum of Montserrat also has some fantastic things to see. You can also watch a performance by the Escolania de Montserrat (Boys’ Choir). Or tackle a hike through the mountain.

Then, after a full day of exploring the wonders of Montserrat, we recommend returning to your hotel and resting up for your next trip.

Valencia

The following day, grab a high-speed train to Valencia. It will take approximately 3 hours, so be sure to plan accordingly. Once you’re in the stunning city of Valencia, it’s time for an adventure. Valencia is known as the birthplace of paella, so you’re going to be enjoying delectable food in this city. Many gorgeous attractions will inspire you to make your own art, perhaps.

Calatrava building in Valencia, Spain

Day 3

Once you have settled into your hotel, it’s time to explore. Start the day with a segway tour through the city’s historical center. This combines the beauty of sightseeing with the fun of riding a segway. Who hasn’t wanted to ride a segway?

Because this tour mainly focuses on attractions in the historical center, you will still have a lot of things to do later. Be sure to see if you can discover the Holy Chalice in the cathedral. Usually referred to as the Holy Grail, or Santo Cáliz, it is believed to have been used by Jesus during the Last Supper. There has been a quest for the Holy Grail for centuries, and nobody has found it, so can this be the one?

Brown and grey buildings in Valencia, Spain

After spending the morning exploring the historic city center, it’s time for a catamaran cruise. Take a boat down the Valencia coastline and experience the striking views of the ocean. You can also take a cool dip in the water before returning to the city.

At night it’s flamenco time. Spain is known for flamenco, and the Palosanto Flamenco theater in Valencia is one of the best. So grab a drink, take your seat, and have your senses transported by the sights and sounds of breathtaking dances and gorgeous singers.

Day 4

Visit the Oceanogràfic, Valencia’s famous aquarium. The Oceanogràfic is the largest aquarium in Europe, with over 45,000 marine animals. They have over 500 species of animals from the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, the Arctic, and the Antarctic. You can explore the beautiful marine life at your own pace and maybe grab something to eat in the underwater restaurant if you don’t mind fish staring at you while you eat.

Grey tower and buildings in Valencia, Spain

You can also go on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, with the option of getting off at the Aquarium. On this tour, you decide where you want to get off the bus. If you have missed any other sights on your adventure, this is the perfect way to experience what’s left of Valencia.

Another fun trip is a Valencia wine and tapas tour. You’ll learn the secrets of making wine while tasting some of the best Valencia has to offer.

Then to wrap up your amazing Valencia trip, it’s time for another catamaran cruise. This sunset catamaran cruise includes some laidback lounge music and a complimentary Agua de Valencia cocktail. Sail along Valencia’s coastline while enjoying the fantastic Spanish sunset. Sip on your cocktail and relax. You’re going to be busy again very soon.

Madrid

Time to jump on another high-speed train and travel the 2 hours to Madrid for the next part of your trip. Madrid is famous for the Prado Museum, the oldest restaurant in the world, and calamari sandwiches. You will be spoilt for choice when you get to this gorgeous city.

Street in Madrid, Spain lined with bars

Day 5

After the two-hour train ride, you’ll check into your luxury hotel and start the adventure. For a quick tour around Madrid to get a feel for the city, you can decide between a bike tour or a segway tour. These will be short, guided trips around the city where you will explore Madrid’s fantastic sights and attractions.

Once your morning trip is done, you can explore some of Madrid’s most popular destinations more intimately.

Aerial view of Madrid, Spain at sunset

Get a skip-the-line ticket to visit the famous Prado Museum without all the fuss of waiting in lines. Or, if you want to see more, get a museum pass to the three most famous museums in Madrid, including Prado, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum. The Royal Palace in Madrid is also a must-see on your sightseeing trip.

There are also some lovely wine and tapas tours, where you can relax, enjoy wine, and dine on the delicious tapas options. For dinner, go to a cooking class and learn how to cook some delectable Madrilenian food. There’s lots of sangria in this class as well if you get thirsty.

Day 6

On day six, it’s time for some day trips.

Take a trip from Madrid to Segovia on a luxury bus and explore this historic city’s magnificent sights and attractions. Visit the Cathedral of Segovia and the Aqueduct. One of the most visited places in Spain is also located here, the Alcazar of Segovia. This castle was once used as a fortress for control over the Castile region of Spain. Today, it’s a gorgeous monument with a tower that provides some of the best views of Segovia.

Buildings and pathways in Madrid, Spain

After visiting these attractions in Segovia, you can have a lovely lunch before returning to Madrid.

If you want something different, perhaps go on a day trip to El Escorial instead. This will include sights like the Escorial Palace. You can also visit the Royal tombs and crypts, where there was once a rotting room for the royal corpses. It’s a great way to pack in more amazing attractions into one trip, but it will take longer.

Because you’ve spent the whole day traveling, you can take a break and relax at the oldest restaurant in the world, Casa Botín, or Restaurante Botín. Here you will find some of the best Iberian ham and loin pork dishes. They also serve delicious roast suckling pig and roast baby lamb with fantastic side dishes. And the desserts are off the charts. It’s the best place to fill up and get your energy back for the next part of the trip.

Seville

Now it’s time to get on a high-speed train to Seville that will last around two and a half hours. Get ready to explore the enchanting capital of Andalusia. Seville is famous for flamenco and architecture. It’s the largest city in Southern Spain and has been said to have been built by Hercules himself.

Wreath of lights in Seville, Spain

Day 7

Your first day in Seville is all about exploring. After settling into your luxury hotel, it’s time to take on the city.

One of the most popular attractions in Seville is a visit to the cathedral at La Giralda. This gorgeous monument has magnificent architectural design and a beautiful bell tower. It’s one of the most famous attractions in Spain.

Quick Tip: There are many cathedral tours, but we suggest making the most of your time with combo tickets.

Lake in Seville, Spain surrounded by buildings and nature

Get a combo ticket and explore the cathedral, the Royal Alcázar, and Giralda in one go. This guided tour with skip-the-line access will allow you to visit the most popular attractions in Seville without the frustration of long queues. Visit the cathedral and learn about the history of this beautiful building, as well as historical figures that were buried there.

Then visit the Royal Alcázar, the oldest royal palace in Europe. It was created as a fortress to protect the city and was built by the Muslim authorities who ruled the Iberian Peninsula at the time. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a vital piece of Hispano-Muslim history.

After visiting these gorgeous sights, it’s time for a well-known trip – the tapas and wine tour. If you visit Spain, you will enjoy a lot of wine. You can decide between a variety of wine and tapas tours. A great option is the Triana Tapas and Flamenco experience. You can’t visit Seville without going to a flamenco performance.

This guided tour includes four tapas, three drinks, and a live flamenco show. While tasting the tapas, you will travel through the city and learn about the history of flamenco in Seville. Then you can sit down, relax and enjoy a fantastic flamenco performance.

Day 8

Convention centre building in Seville, Spain

Day 2 of your stay in Seville will start with a wonderful tour of the famous Rock of Gibraltar. This heavily fortified British naval base guards the Strait of Gibraltar, the only entrance to the Mediterranean sea from the Atlantic ocean. It is commonly referred to as ‘the Rock.’ Which makes us wonder, which came first, the Rock of Gibraltar or Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson?

You can potentially spot wild European primates that sit on the rock and visit Bolonia Beach with its famous dune. It’s also a national park home to some beautiful fauna and flora.

Note: Because the rock is in British territory, you might need to research if you need a Visa to visit this attraction. Due to Brexit and negotiations between the UK and Spain, this might change drastically.

You can spend the rest of your day at the Isla Mágica and Agua Mágica Theme Parks. Roller coasters, carousels, and spinning barrels will make your trip to Seville a true adventure.

And on the plus side, you can even learn about the European colonization of the Americas as you walk down the Port of the Indies. Seville was given rights to trade with the Americas after Columbus reached the continent, and this port was the official place of trading.

Granada

Next up is another high-speed train ride to Granada. After three hours on the train, you will reach this gorgeous city. Granada is famous for its tapas, and yes, drinks always come with free food. On this one-day tour, you will be able to experience a lot of fun attractions.

Brown buildings in Granada, Spain

Day 9

You can start the day with a fun Alhambra tour. While on this tour, you can also opt for private guided tours of Alhambra Palace, Generalife Gardens, and Nasrid Palace.

After this, you can have a relaxing hammam session at Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus. Hot, cold, and steam rooms provide the ultimate experience. In the relaxation room, you can sip mint tea and enjoy the calming sounds of authentic Andalusian music.

Hotel in Granada, Spain at sunset

Finally, it’s time for a Granada walking tapas tour. Take a cultural and culinary tour of Granada while drinking wine at each tapas bar. Learn about the history of Granada, see some gorgeous attractions, and eat unique and delectable meals. It’s the perfect way to end your time in the city.

Málaga

Your 10-day trip comes to an end in the breathtaking city of Málaga. After a two-hour high-speed train ride, you’ll start the final part of your journey. Málaga is known for its music. The city is filled with bustling nightlife and a whole barrage of music bars.

Buidings in Malaga, Spain

Day 10

Start your journey by visiting the Museo Picasso in Málaga. Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga, so it’s a must-see. The museum is very different from the Picasso museum in Barcelona. It’s more in-depth about his life and art, and you will enjoy going to both museums on this trip across Spain.

After visiting the Museo Picasso, head onto a catamaran ride for a nice paella lunch on the coastline of Málaga. Experience the gorgeous blue waters of the Mediterranean by taking a dip, or stay on the boat and take in the views. You can then enjoy a lovely lunch on the boat as the sea breeze blows gently on your face.

Aerial view of Malaga, Spain at night

Upon your return to Málaga, it’s time to party. Get dressed up and head out to the fantastic nightclubs to experience the music of Málaga. Dancing the night away to Spanish music is honestly the best way to wrap up your 10-day journey through Spain.

Final Thoughts on 10 Days in Spain | Itinerary

So now that you have discovered all the best places to visit in Spain, when to visit and how to get around, it’s time to get on that plane. With a thoroughly planned 10-day Spain itinerary with tours galore and unique attractions, there’s no excuse for you not to visit this beautiful country. Enjoy your 10-day trip in Spain!

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