7 days in Spain: 5 Spain Itineraries for 7 days

Think a week isn't enough to experience Spain? Think again. Our five 7-day Spain itineraries prove that with some smart planning, you can dive deep into Spain's rich culture in just seven days. We've trimmed the fat, leaving you with the best highlights. From exploring Madrid's top museums to soaking in the Moorish beauty of the Alhambra, you'll be packing a lot into your trip. Get ready for a week of sensory overload – in the best way possible.

Trip #1: Gems of Southern Spain

On this Gems of Southern Spain itinerary you’ll get to explore the best of Southern Spain at your own pace, starting and ending in Seville. Along the way, you'll visit iconic cities like Córdoba, Granada, Ronda, Nerja, Málaga, and the Costa del Sol. Visit whitewashed villages, indulge in tapas culture, and witness history come alive in centuries-old palaces. 

Itinerary overview

This week-long journey through Andalusia begins in Seville. On the first day, you'll arrive at Seville Airport, settle into your hotel, and explore the historic city center. In the evening, try traditional tapas for dinner. The second day is packed with Seville's highlights: visit the Royal Alcázar and Cathedral in the morning, stroll through Santa Cruz quarter in the afternoon, and cap off the evening with a flamenco show and dinner.

On the third day, you’ll take a day trip to Córdoba by high-speed train. Discover the Jewish Quarter and the breathtaking Grand Mosque-Cathedral before returning to Seville. On the fourth day, enjoy some free time in Seville before catching an afternoon train to Granada, where you'll kick off your evening with a tapas tour.

On the fifth day, you'll explore Granada’s highlights, starting with a visit to the Albaicín neighborhood, followed by the famous Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. In the evening, you'll head to the unique Sacromonte area. The sixth day starts with a visit to Granada’s Science Park Museum, followed by a bus ride to Málaga.  Spend the evening strolling along the waterfront and dining at a beachside chiringuito.

The final day in Malaga includes visits to the Old Quarter, Cathedral, Alcazaba, and Picasso Museum. Conclude your Andalusian adventure with a farewell dinner featuring local cuisine and wines before departing from Malaga.

Top tip: avoid the hours of research - book this customizable Gems of Southern Spain trip.

Day 1

• Arrive at Seville Airport and transfer to your hotel
• Walk in the historic city center
• Dinner at a traditional tapas restaurant

Day 2 

• Morning visit to the Royal Alcázar and Seville Cathedral
• Afternoon stroll through the charming Santa Cruz quarter
• Evening flamenco show with dinner

Day 3

• Take a morning high-speed train from Seville to Cordoba
• Explore the Jewish Quarter and visit the Grand Mosque-Cathedral
• Evening return to Seville

Day 4

• Morning free time in Seville for last-minute sightseeing
• Afternoon train ride from Seville to Granada
• Evening tapas tour in Granada's historic center

Day 5

• Explore the Albaicín neighborhood
• Afternoon visit to the iconic Alhambra and Generalife Gardens
• Evening visit to Sacromonte 

Day 6

• Morning visit to the Science Park Museum in Granada
• Afternoon bus from Granada to Malaga
• Evening stroll along Malaga's waterfront and dinner at a beachside chiringuito

Day 7

• Morning visit to Malaga's old quarter, including the Cathedral and Alcazaba
• Afternoon visit to the Picasso Museum
• Farewell dinner featuring Malaga's local cuisine and wines
• Depart from Malaga

Trip #2: A tale of two cities: Spanish city break

Why choose between Madrid or Barcelona when you can experience both? On this Tale of Two Cities trip, you’ll dive into world-class museums by day and vibrant nightlife after dark. With a thrilling detour to Toledo's medieval streets and Europe's longest zip-line, this trip packs the essence of Spain into one unforgettable week.

Itinerary overview

This 7 day Spain itinerary kicks off on the first day with your arrival in Madrid. After settling into your hotel, you can start exploring with a relaxing stroll through Retiro Park, where you’ll see the Crystal Palace and maybe even take a boat out on the lake.

On the second day, dive into Madrid’s historic districts, visiting big landmarks like the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and La Almudena Cathedral. You'll get an in-depth tour of the Royal Palace's impressive interior too.

The third day takes you on a day trip to Toledo, where you’ll explore the city’s rich history by checking out the Cathedral, the old Jewish quarter, and some famous sword-making workshops. The day wraps up with a thrilling zip-line ride over the Tagus River.

On the fourth day, hop on a train to Barcelona and get ready for an evening Tapas tour, where you’ll sample some delicious local dishes. The fifth day is all about Barcelona’s iconic spots—Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, the modernist buildings along Paseo de Gracia, and panoramic views from Montjuic Hill. Finish the day with a visit to the Chocolate Museum.

On the sixth day you’ll join a Trencadís mosaic workshop, visit Park Güell, and later, dive into a paella cooking class for dinner.

Finally, on the seventh day, start your morning at La Boqueria market, then take a bike tour around the Gothic Quarter and Born neighborhood. The trip wraps up with your departure from Barcelona Airport. 

Trip tip: let our local travel experts handle the details so you can enjoy your Tale of Two Cities trip fully.

Day 1

• Upon arrival at Madrid International Airport and transfer to your hotel
• After checking in, take a leisurely walk through Retiro Park, Madrid's largest park
• Visit the Crystal Palace and row a boat on the park's lake

Day 2

• Explore Madrid’s oldest districts, starting from the Arab wall of the tenth century.
• Discover monuments from the Austrian and Bourbon dynasties, including hospitals, palaces, theatres, and narrow medieval streets.
• Visit the Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace, Plaza de Oriente, Royal Opera, and La Almudena Cathedral.
• Tour the Royal Palace, the largest in Western Europe, exploring its official reception rooms, the museum area, Royal Chapel, Throne Room, and private rooms of King Carlos III and Queen Isabel II.

Day 3

• Day trip to Toledo, an hour's drive from Madrid
• Discover the Cathedral (outside), the old Palace of Justice, the Town Hall, the old Jewish quarter, and more.
• See the views of Toledo over the Tagus River.
• Visit Toledo’s sword workshops, famous for their high-quality swords since the Middle Ages.
• Zip-line in Toledo: fly on the longest zip line in Europe.

Day 4

• Transfer from Madrid to Barcelona by train.
• In the evening, go for a Tapas tour.
• Taste delicious local specialties while exploring the city center and vibrant food markets.

Day 5

• Visit the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's iconic masterpiece.
• Explore Paseo de Gracia, home to Casa Lleó Morera, Casa Amatller, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milá (La Pedrera).
• Admire the Colon Monument or Barceloneta Beach, and visit Montjuic Hill with its parks, museums, and Olympic Ring, offering spectacular views over the city.
• Visit the Chocolate Museum.

Day 6

• Trencadís Workshop (mosaic art).
• Learn about Antoni Gaudi's mosaic technique and create your own piece using glass and pottery.
• Afternoon visit to Park Güell, another of Gaudi's masterpieces
• Evening cooking class to learn how to make traditional Spanish paella

Day 7

• Morning visit to La Boqueria market to experience local flavors and culture
• Take a bike tour of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and Born neighborhood
• Transfer to Barcelona Airport for your departure.
   

Trip #3: Lands of wine from Madrid

Wine lovers, this one’s for you! Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just enjoy a good glass, this Lands of Wine trip takes you through Spain’s top vineyards. Start with the crisp whites of Rueda, move on to the bold reds of Ribera del Duero, and finish with the timeless vintages of La Rioja. Each day offers a new tasting experience, from modern wineries to ancient cellars. And the best part? You’ll pair your wine journey with Michelin-starred meals and luxurious accommodations. 

Itinerary overview

This 7 day Spain itinerary starts in Madrid before heading into Rueda on day one, where you’ll explore a modern winery, enjoy some white wine tastings, and settle into town for the night.

On the second day, you’ll visit a sustainable winery, have lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and then drive to Ribera del Duero. The third day is dedicated to Ribera del Duero's "Golden Mile," including the legendary Vega Sicilia winery and a family-owned boutique, capped by a Castilian cooking class. 

The fourth day gives you a mix of outdoor activities and another winery stop, before heading to Burgos for a cathedral tour and some tapas. On the fifth day, you’ll start with a visit to the Museum of Human Evolution in Burgos, then make your way to La Rioja for a tour of an architecturally stunning winery.

The sixth day is a full day in La Rioja, where you’ll explore Haro's Railway Station Wine District, try local traditional cuisine, and even take an optional hot air balloon ride if you’re feeling adventurous. Finally, on the seventh day, you’ll have a relaxed morning before heading back to Madrid.

Tip trip: don't sweat the details and book this trip today.

Day 1

• Arrive in Madrid
• Enter the Rueda Appellation of Origin
• Visit a modern winery blending old and new techniques
• Enjoy a wine tasting session focusing on Rueda's famous white wines
• Check-in at your hotel in Rueda
• Evening at leisure to explore the charming town of Rueda

Day 2

• Morning visit to another Rueda winery, focusing on sustainable winemaking practices
• Enjoy lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant in a small village in the Castilian countryside
• Afternoon drive to the heart of the Ribera del Duero wine area
• Evening spa session or guided meditation in the ancient abbey

Day 3

• Visit the "Golden Mile" of the Ribera del Duero Denomination of Origin
• Tour and tasting at the legendary Vega Sicilia winery
• Lunch at a local vineyard restaurant
• Afternoon visit to a family-owned boutique winery
• Evening cooking class featuring Castilian cuisine, followed by dinner

Day 4

• Morning countryside walk or bike ride through the vineyards
• Visit one more Ribera del Duero winery
• Depart for Burgos in the afternoon
• Guided tour of Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Evening tapas tour in Burgos' old town

Day 5

• Morning visit to the Museum of Human Evolution in Burgos
• Depart for La Rioja, stopping for lunch in a picturesque village
• Arrive in La Rioja wine region in the afternoon
• Visit a modern, architecturally striking winery
• Check-in at a wine hotel in La Rioja

Day 6

• Full-day tour of La Rioja 
• Visit a historic winery in Haro's Railway Station Wine District
• Lunch in a traditional Riojano restaurant
• Afternoon visit to a boutique family winery
• Optional: Sunset hot air balloon ride over the vineyards (weather permitting)

Day 7

• Morning at leisure: take a final stroll through the vineyards
• Transfer to Madrid (about 4 hours)

Trip #4: Luxury and Castilian castles

Step into a storybook on this luxurious journey through Spain’s castle-dotted heartland on this Castilian Castles trip. Travel through the Castile region, where medieval fortresses overlook stunning landscapes, and explore historic gems like Rioja Alavesa, Albarracín, and Alarcón at your own pace. You’ll climb castle towers, savor truffle-infused dishes, and feel like the hero of your own chivalric adventure.

Itinerary overview

This week-long Spain itinerary starts on the first day when you arrive in Madrid. From there, you'll visit the medieval town of Ávila and the beautiful university city of Salamanca, famous for its stunning main square and charming old town.

On the second day, you'll head to Zamora to explore its Romanesque churches and cathedral, and then continue to Burgos for an overnight stay. The third day takes you through the picturesque Rioja wine region, finishing the day with a tour of the Royal Palace in Olite.

On the fourth day, you’ll head to Zaragoza, where you'll visit the impressive basilica and cathedral. This is followed by a trip to the charming town of Albarracín, including walks along its ancient walls and visits to its cathedral and museum.

On the fifth day, you’ll explore Mora de Rubielos, known for its castle, Gothic church, and delicious truffle-based dishes. The day wraps up in Alarcón, where you’ll stay in a historic 8th-century castle hotel.

The sixth day is focused on the grand Belmonte Castle near Cuenca, where you’ll enjoy guided tours, museum visits, and a scenic lunch, before returning to Alarcón for some relaxation. Finally, on the seventh day, you'll head back to Madrid to catch your departure.

Tip trip: ready to see Spain? Skip the hassle of planning and let our local travel experts design a trip for you.

Day 1

• Arrive at Madrid International Airport.
• Drive 2 hours to the medieval town of Avila, associated with Saint Theresa.
• Sightseeing in Avila and take a break to stretch your legs.
• Continue your drive to Salamanca, home to Spain’s oldest university.
• Enjoy lunch at Salamanca's stunning main square.
• Explore the picturesque old town.
• Check into your hotel

Day 2

• Drive to Zamora and explore some of its Romanesque churches.
• Visit the 12th-century Zamora Cathedral.
• Tour the Church of San Juan de Puerta Nueva.
• See the Romanesque Church of Santiago del Burgo.
• Continue to Burgos in the afternoon.
• Explore Burgos briefly.
• Check into a hotel in Burgos.

Day 3

• Drive through the famous Rioja wine region, situated between the Ebro River and Cantabria Mountains.
• Admire the landscapes of forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers along the way.
• Continue to Olite and check into your hotel.
• End the day with a tour of the Royal Palace of Olite.

Day 4

• Drive to Zaragoza for a tour of the Basilica complex and cathedral.
• Continue to Albarracín in the afternoon.
• Explore Albarracín and enjoy local cuisine.
• Walk the ancient city walls for panoramic views.
• Visit the Albarracín Cathedral.
• Tour the Diocesan Museum.
• Check into a hotel in Albarracín.

Day 5

• Drive to Mora de Rubielos, famous for its gastronomy.
• Visit the imposing Castle of Mora de Rubielos.
• Tour the Gothic-style Colegiata de Santa María.
• Enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local black truffle dishes at Restaurante Venta La Puebla.
• Continue your journey to Alarcón and check into the historic 8th-century castle hotel.
• Take an evening stroll around the medieval town and its walls.

Day 6

• Drive to the stunning Belmonte Castle, near the town of Cuenca.
• Take a guided tour of the 15th-century castle.
• Visit the Castle Museum to learn about medieval warfare.
• Enjoy lunch with a view at the castle's restaurant.
• Return to your hotel in Alarcón.
• Relax with a spa treatment at the Parador or enjoy a sunset walk along the Júcar River.

Day 7

• Drive to Madrid International Airport.
• Drop off your hire car and catch your departure flight.

Trip #5: Iberian blend: Porto and Galicia

Bridging two countries and countless flavors, this unique Iberian Blend itinerary serves up the best of Portugal and Spain's Atlantic coast. Start in Porto, where vintage trams roll by baroque churches and port wine cellars offer tastings. Then, cross into Galicia, Spain, where rugged coastlines and hidden beaches are paired with some of the best seafood you’ll find.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary starts off in Porto, where you’ll spend the first three days exploring this charming city. On the first day, after arriving, take an evening stroll along the lively Avenida dos Aliados to soak in the city’s atmosphere. The second day is for seeing the best of Porto, from the historic Ribeira neighborhood and São Francisco Church to the famous Livraria Lello bookstore and the climb up Clérigos Tower. On the third day, it’s a blend of adventure and culture: climb the Arrabida Bridge, visit Porto Cathedral, and enjoy a Port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.

On the fourth day, you’ll hop on a scenic train ride to Vigo, Spain, where you can spend the evening sampling tapas at local spots. The fifth day is spent exploring Vigo’s maritime culture — visit the fish market, explore the port, and wander through the old town. The sixth day takes you on a coastal adventure to the stunning Cíes Islands and Rodas Beach. The trip wraps up on the seventh day with a visit to the historic Castro Fortress before departure.

Day 1

• Arrive in Porto
• Transfer to your hotel
• Evening stroll along Avenida dos Aliados, admiring the grand buildings and fountains

Day 2

• Explore Ribeira, Porto's oldest neighborhood, and wander its narrow cobblestone streets
• Visit São Francisco Church to see its ornate Baroque interior
• Take a tour of the famous Livraria Lello bookstore, inspiration for Harry Potter
• Climb the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of Porto

Day 3

• Climb the iconic Arrabida Bridge with a local instructor
• Take in breathtaking views of Porto from above
• Visit the Porto Cathedral and its Gothic cloisters
• End the day with a Port wine tasting tour in Vila Nova de Gaia

Day 4

• Board your train for a scenic journey to Vigo, Spain
• Admire the Atlantic coastline and green landscapes en route
• Arrival in Vigo
• Evening tapas crawl in Vigo's old town, trying local Galician dishes

Day 5

• Start with a visit to the bustling Mercado da Pedra fish market
• Tour Europe's largest fishing port, O Berbés
• Walk through Vigo's old town, visiting the Santa Maria Collegiate Church
• Explore the modern Príncipe Street for shopping and people-watching

Day 6

• Visit the monument to Jules Verne in Vigo's port area
• Take a boat trip to the Cíes Islands, part of Atlantic Islands National Park
• Relax on Rodas Beach, often called one of the world's best beaches
• Return to Vigo for a seafood dinner at a local restaurant

Day 7

• Morning visit to the Castro Fortress for final views over Vigo Bay
• Transfer to airport