Perfect one week (7 days) In Spain Itinerary

Think a week isn't long enough to experience Spain? Think again! The itinerary presented below proves that a rewarding range of the country’s highlights can be enjoyed in a short time frame — it just takes some smart planning. From marveling at Madrid's majestic historic highlights, to tasting top tapas (and chocolate) in arty Barcelona, an unforgettable feast of a vacation awaits.

Spain itinerary for 7 days

Before going into day-day-detail, here’s an overview of this rewarding Spain itinerary for 7 days.

Covering some of the best things to do in Spain, it’s an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the country in only a week.

• Day 1: Arrive in Madrid
• Day 2: Explore Madrid’s majestic highlights
• Day 3: Day trip to Toledo
• Day 4: Transfer to Barcelona; take a tapas tour
• Day 5: Uncover the best of Barcelona
• Day 6: Day trip to Montserrat Monastery
• Day 7: Depart Barcelona

Thinking of staying longer than a week? Take inspiration from our 10 day Spain itineraries, 14 day Spain itinerary, and an immersive 10 day Northern Spain itinerary.

You could also contact our local travel experts to have them curate your perfect vacation for any duration.

Day 1: Arrive in Madrid

After arriving in Madrid International Airport and transferring to your hotel, head out to enjoy a leisurely walk through Retiro Park — Madrid's largest park. Don't visiting the Crystal Palace and rowing on the lake.

Another option for your first afternoon in the city is to head to Puerta del Sol — Madrid’s bustling heart.

Stop by grand Plaza Mayor to relax with a coffee or churros con chocolate, but try not to spoil your appetite. We suggest rounding off your day with dinner in the La Latina neighbourhood — it’s loaded with lively tapas bars.

Where to stay

For first-timers, the best places to stay in Madrid are likely to be found to in the central Sol district. 

The square here is home to several iconic landmarks, including Plaza Mayor and the famous clock whose bells mark the traditional eating of the Twelve Grapes and the beginning of the New Year.

In the market for luxury? Consider accommodation in Salamanca — an upscale area of fancy boutiques, fine dining restaurants and higher-class hotels.

Love art? Consider accommodation in Paseo del Arte. You'll be close to major attractions like the Museo del Prado and Retiro Park.

Day 2: Explore Madrid’s majestic highlights

Day two will see you do a deep dive into Madrid’s oldest districts on a guided tour, starting out from the tenth-century Arab wall. 

During the experience you’ll discover monuments from the Austrian and Bourbon dynasties, including hospitals, palaces and theaters.

A highlight of the tour is the Royal Palace of Madrid — one of Europe’s largest palaces.  While it’s no longer the monarch’s residence, its lavish interiors and royal artifacts are a must-see.

The same is true of the adjacent Almudena Cathedral, which blends neo-Gothic and contemporary design to remarkable effect.

For more Madrid inspiration, dive into our day-day-day itinerary for the perfect weekend in Madrid. 

Day 3: Day trip to Toledo

Toledo’s many treasures await on day three of this one-week Spain itinerary.

Located around 45 miles south of Madrid, and known as the “City of the Three Cultures,” this handsome UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with historic attractions, and offers access to adventure.

Travel time: 30 minutes by high-speed train

Aim to arrive in Toledo by mid-morning, and start out at Toledo Cathedral — a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that’s renowned for its intricate interior, altarpiece and treasury. 

Next, visit the Old Palace of Justice and Town Hall. They’re both located on Plaza del Ayuntamiento — a square that’s perfect for soaking up the city’s rich architectural heritage — and then head to the Old Jewish Quarter.

After strolling its maze of narrow, winding streets, stop off at a local restaurant to tuck into regional specialties, like rich lamb stew.

Come the afternoon, head to the Mirador del Valle for breath-taking views of Toledo perched over the Tagus River.

We also recommend visiting one of Toledo’s famous sword workshops, where you can witness artisans crafting the iconic blades that have been a symbol of the city for centuries.

Have a head for heights? Zoom over the Tagus River on Europe's longest zipline before heading back to Madrid.

Day 4: Transfer to Barcelona; take a tapas tour

Day four will see you move from Madrid to arty Barcelona­ — a city that's not short of reasons to visit.

Travel time: 2.5 hours by high-speed train

After arriving, take a tapas tour to soak up the city’s flavors while also getting to see the center of Barcelona.

You'll discover more about dozens of different dishes — and the best wines to pair them with — while visiting some of the best tapas bars in Barcelona.

Where to stay in Barcelona

As revealed in our guide to where to stay in Barcelona, first-timers would do well to check out accommodation in Plaça de Catalunya.

Located at the top of La Rambla, and within walking distance of the Gothic Quarter, it's close to stacks of top attractions, and loaded with places to eat and drink.

Alternatively, if you want something quieter, check out places to stay in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi.

One of the greenest parts of Barcelona, this area offers easy access to Serra de Collserola Natural Park, and has great connections to the city center.

Day 5: Uncover the best of Barcelona

On day 5, we suggest taking a tour of the city, beginning at the iconic Sagrada Familia — Antoni Gaudí’s most famous masterpiece, and a symbol of Barcelona. 

Next, stroll the elegant Passeig de Gràcia boulevard. Along the way, you’ll get to see Casa Amatller. Created by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, its exquisite modernist design pays homage to the renowned Amatller chocolatier family.

From here, continue to Casa Batlló — another Gaudí marvel that’s famed its vibrant colors and inventive wavy design — before visiting his nearby Casa Milà (La Pedrera), which happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After lunch, head to the port to see the lofty Colón Monument. Have a head for heights? Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the sea. 

More wonderful views are in store if you opt to take a funicular or cable car to Montjuïc hill. After taking in said views, be sure to visit the Magic Fountain, Montjuïc Castle and Joan Miró Foundation.

If you have time, stop by the Chocolate Museum in the El Born district to learn about the history of chocolate and the art of chocolate-making on a tour that winds up with getting to taste some of the sweet treats.

On a budget? Discover fabulous free things to do in Barcelona.

Day 6: Day trip to Montserrat Monastery

Located around 37 miles northwest of Barcelona, Montserrat Monastery is one of Catalonia’s most revered spiritual and natural landmarks. 

As such, this day 6 day-trip to Montserrat is likely to be a highlight of your vacation.

Travel time: 1 hour by train to Monistrol de Montserrat

After arriving in Monistrol de Montserrat, either take the rack railway or cable car to ascend the mountain to the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. 

Both options take around 15 minutes and offer stunning views as you ascend to this beautiful Benedictine monastery perched high in the mountains.

Due to its association with the Black Madonna (La Moreneta) — Catalonia’s patron saint — it’s a notable pilgrimage site, with the revered Black Madonna statue located in the basilica.

Alongside visiting the monastery, be sure to spend time in the Montserrat Museum. Its art collection features works by Caravaggio, Picasso and Dalí, along with fascinating archaeological artefacts.

Love walking on the wilder side? Montserrat boasts a variety of hiking trails that serve sublime views. 

Recommended routes include the Sant Jeroni trail, and the Holy Cave (Santa Cova) path, where the Black Madonna is said to have been found.

Day 7: Depart Barcelona

On day 7, it’s time to pack your bags and prepare to fly home, having enjoyed — arguably — the best Spain itinerary 7 days.

If you have an afternoon or evening flight, you should have time to head to La Boqueria market for breakfast or lunch, or to take a bike tour of the glorious Gothic Quarter.

Still making up your mind? Explore all our Spain itineraries ahead of planning your trip.

If you’re looking for a longer vacation, you’ll find inspiration in our 10 day Spain itineraries, 14 day Spain itinerary, and an immersiv 10-day Northern Spain itinerary.

Alternatively, contact our local experts to have them curate your ideal trip for any duration.