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Spain by rail is a breeze with its network of fast and modern trains. You'll see wine regions, small villages, and sunny beaches - all on a single train ride. Our Spain travel itinerary has lively cities, delicious cuisines, and great opportunities for  fiestas . Whether you're backpacking in Spain, or going on a flashier trip, you'll love the exciting cultural offerings! 

Itinerary in short

Cities visited in this trip:  .

• Barcelona, Spain  
• Valencia, Spain  
• Madrid, Spain  
• Seville (Sevilla), Spain  
• Malaga (Málaga), Spain  

Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner

For this itinerary we recommend:

• Eurail pass: Spain
• Travel days:  4 days within 1 month

Most of the high-speed trains in Spain require reservations. These reservations are not included in your Eurail Pass. Make sure to book your seats in advance, there are limited seats available for Eurail Pass holders. It's also possible to avoid reservations altogether, simply by taking  regional trains . 

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, and an endless list of things to do. Antoni Gaudí’s architectural work is all around you, from Park Güell to the Casa Batlló , and the incredible Sagrada Familia . Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of La Rambla (Las Ramblas), a lively pedestrian boulevard. Stop at La Boqueria Market and lose yourself in the maze of food stalls. Then relax on the white sand beaches of Barceloneta , and congratulate yourself on a great start to your trip.

From Barcelona to Valencia

Travel time:

Reservation needed:

Barcelona Sants

Reservation required

Valencia, Spain

Valencia Joaquin Sorolla

Valencia is one of the oldest cities in Spain. Its sights range from ancient Roman structures, to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences . Walking through the city is like taking a time machine through architectural history! Tuck into Valencia’s signature dish of paella. Still hungry? Sample the food at Mercado Central , one of the longest running markets in Europe. Valencia Cathedral is just minutes away – a trip up its tower will give you a beautiful view over the city. Round up your day by people-watching in the Turia Gardens (Jardines del Turia).

From Valencia to Madrid

Madrid, spain.

Madrid Puerta de Atocha

Spain's capital buzzes with culture and energy. There's no shortage of things to add to your Madrid itinerary! Stroll along the Art Walk and explore numerous museums, including the world-class Prado . Then check out the nearby Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro). Las Ventas Bullring - the birthplace of bullfighting - will get your heart pumping. Learn the history of this controversial Spanish tradition, or watch a torero (bullfighter) in action. Fans of European football shouldn't miss a trip to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium,  home to Real Madrid.

From Madrid to Seville

Seville, spain.

Sevilla Santa Justa

Seville (Sevilla), Spain

Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan began the first voyage around the world in 1519, and it all began in Seville. This city is a place for true world travelers! Home to flamenco dancing and tasty tapas, you can easily immerse yourself in Spanish life here. Start with the colorful Calle Betis , which runs along the waterfront and is lined with restaurants, bars, and clubs. The Alcázar of Seville is worth a visit, as is the large and distinctive Metropol Parasol wooden structure.

From Seville to Malaga

Malaga, spain.

Málaga-María Zambrano

Malaga (Málaga), Spain

Malaga is a stunning coastal city of sun and sand. It seamlessly combines natural beauty with a rich history and a modern skyline. The 11 th  century Moorish castle of  Alcazaba  can be found in the middle of the city. Below lie the remains of the old  Roman Theater  (El Teatro Romano), which is free to visitors. After gazing in awe at the ancient ruins, fast forward to the 20 th  century. Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga, so it's fitting to tour the  Picasso Museum ! Then it’s time to complete your Spain trip with a visit to one of  Malaga’s famous beaches .

Get ready to discover Spain by train!  

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11 incredible trips around Spain for train lovers

The Transcantábrico

The Transcantábrico Train is the oldest and most quintessential luxury tourist train. This route is a dream: travel around the north of Spain, known as Green Spain for its stunning landscapes overflowing with this colour, on board a train that preserves the romanticism of the great trains of the early 20th century but also has modern facilities. The more glamorous version is the Transcantábrico Gran Lujo which departs from San Sebastian and eight days later arrives in Santiago de Compostela . Travellers can try the gastronomy from Castile and Leon , the Basque Country , Cantabria , Asturias and Galicia , while enjoying gala nights, live music on board and tickets to museums and monuments with a multilingual guide.

People say the Al-Andalus Train is like a palace on wheels. In fact, the carriage-suites are part of the very series constructed to transport the British Royal family between Calais and the Côte d'Azure. Passengers on this train will visit Andalusia over seven days, ending in Seville . The experience of travelling on one of the world's most spacious trains is combined with the chance to try dishes by prestigious chefs and discover cities such as Cadiz, Ronda, Cordoba, Úbeda and Baeza and sights like the Alhambra .

Galicia's tourist trains

Did the previous ideas tempt you to visit Galicia? Then you will be happy to hear that every year in Galicia, they run various themed tourist trains. They usually run between May and October and travel the most beautiful routes, such as the Lighthouses Route, the Mansions and Historic Gardens Route, the Roman Lugo Route, the Ourense Spa and Shopping Route, etc. Galician wine has become very famous and one of the most original ways to try it is on board one of these trains, on routes such as the Rías Baixas Wine Route and the Ribeira Sacra Wine Route. Get ready to see landscapes of valleys and vineyards, monasteries hidden among the mountains and incredible scenery along the Sil and Miño rivers.

La Robla Express

Still in the north of Spain, for three days and nights this train offers a journey through the nature and culture of the area, for the most part following the Camino de Santiago or St James' Way. The Bilbao and Leon itinerary is a journey usually offered from June to October. Inside, you can expect classic decoration and outside you will see the natural landscape of the north of Spain. And fine dining is an important part of this route.

Tren dels Llacs

The landscape on this route is equally stunning. We are going to the province of Lleida (in Catalonia) to travel on the Lakes Train . You have two options: a journey in vintage carriages, which have been lovingly restored, or on board modern, panoramic trains. The route takes you to a multitude of locations and has plenty of activities to take part in. For example, there are stops arranged at one of the oldest liquor factories in Catalonia, a lunch of traditional local dishes, trips to the Gerri de la Sal salt flats, the Castell de Mur, artisan cheesemakers, the Aigüestortes y Estany de Sant Maurici National Park and much more. You can enjoy a trip on this historic train most Saturdays from April to October. The panoramic trains are also available some Saturdays in July and August.

The Cervantes Train

As well as trips over several days there are also interesting day trips. The Cervantes Train departs from Madrid and arrives in the historic city of Alcalá de Henares , the birthplace of the most famous Spanish writer of all time: Miguel de Cervantes. Even the journey itself is interesting as various actors in 17th-century costume accompany the travellers. When you arrive you can visit iconic places in Alcalá such as the Calle Mayor, the University, the Cathedral and, of course, the home of the author of Don Quixote . The train usually runs on Saturdays in the spring and autumn seasons.

Sigüenza Medieval Train

Sigüenza , known as the “City of the Young Kinght”, is just 130 kilometres from Madrid. It is one of the few places that still has three preserved walls and a surprising medieval feel. The train journey, which departs from Madrid, is brought to life by folk singers, knights and princesses through music and theatre, and it also offers a selection of cakes. Upon arrival in Sigüenza, a tour guide will take you to discover the most important points in the city: the Castle, the Cathedral, the Plaza Mayor square and the Casa del Doncel. You will also be able to try typical dishes such as migas, Castilian soup and the delicious Yemas del Doncel sweets. It usually operates between April and November, not necessarily on weekends.

The Strawberry Train

This is a great idea for the weekends in Spring and Autumn . The route? From Madrid to Aranjuez , a location famous for its delicious strawberries and whose Cultural Landscape is listed as World Heritage. Aranjuez is primarily known for the Royal Palace of Aranjuez and its stunning gardens that are great for walking around. During the journey, you will travel in wooden carriages constructed between 1914 and 1930, and will be offered strawberries to try. Once you arrive in Aranjuez, depending on which itinerary you have chosen, you can visit places such as the Palace or the gardens, or climb aboard a boat or sightseeing bus-train.

Philip II Train

Passengers are taken to San Lorenzo de El Escorial , just over 50 kilometres from Madrid, in a 20th-century locomotive . Once the train arrives, and depending on the ticket type, the trip includes a guided tour of the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial . This amazing monument was built by Philip II in the 16th century and was considered the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. It houses the Royal Pantheon, the Basilica, the Library, the Hapsburg Palace, etc. That is why walking around inside is an experience worthy of kings. The tour can also include a panoramic route through La Herrería forest or the Casita del Infante gardens.

Sóller railway

Climbing aboard this period train with wooden carriages is one of the best experiences on the island of Mallorca . The railway itself is really beautiful, but what you can see through its windows is even more so: it leaves the city of Palma , goes through the Sierra de Alfàbia, overcomes a drop of almost 200 metres and crosses 13 tunnels, several bridges and the “Cinc-Ponts” viaduct. Once the train reaches the beautiful village of Sóller , the smell of orange blossom mixes with the sea and having a coffee outside with the mountainous landscape in the background is a truly delightful experience.

Campos de Castilla Train

We recommend travelling to Soria from Madrid and spending the weekend surrounded by poetry and local cuisine. Taking this train means following in the footsteps of the famous poet Antonio Machado, who lived there more than 100 years ago. Before the train arrives in Soria, in Sigüenza, some “special” passengers get on board: actors who liven up the journey with anecdotes about Machado. Once you reach Soria you can visit the Baroque San Saturio Chapel, the splendid San Juan de Duero Monastery , the ancient city of Numantia and the enigmatic, captivating Black Lagoon. You can take this trip some weekends between May and November.

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Galicia on the road, spectacular landscapes, in images

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The ultimate guide to exploring Spain by train

By Matt Charlton

In July , the Spanish government declared that short to medium-distance train journeys would be free from Thursday 1 September 2022 until Saturday 31 December 2022 – an initiative focused on alleviating financial pressures on commuters. Commuters would buy a pass with a €10 deposit, and, if they took more than 16 medium-distance return journeys during this period, it would be reimbursed. But would this work for tourists? The short answer is no. The slightly longer answer is yes, but…

What tourists can do is take advantage of another branch of the offer – a 50 per cent discount on Spain’s high speed/long distance and Ave/ Alvia service – a 10 journey pass that would normally cost you €735, reduced to €367.50 (about £315), which included free journeys on various cities metro network. This allows you to see far-flung corners of famous hubs loved by locals but often overlooked by tourists. Dividing this by the 10 journeys you’re allowed, it works out to around €36 per journey, or about £31… who could resist? Not me.

Equipped with this pass, and with 10 days to spare, I planned to make my way from Bilbao, in the northern Basque region, to Malaga, at the southern tip of Andalucía. After I purchased my pass, the rest of the admin was conducted through the English language RENFE app. You enter your desired stations, the options are shown, you select your preference, and you receive a QR code to scan at the station – plus a little graphic shows you how much Co2 you’ve saved by not catching the plane.

London Gatwick to Bilbao with Vueling

My flight touched down in Bilbao on a gloomy early September day, into the light yet persistent chirimiri rain that the region is known for. My taxi driver for the short distance between the shuttle bus stop and my hotel ( NYX Bilbao ) had never heard of the initiative, but, after explaining to him in Duolingo Spanish, I’m dropped off. Overlooking the Belle Époque-rea Bilbao Concordia station – with the more sizable national Abando station lurking behind it – there are commanding views over the river.

Bilbao to Miranda de Ebro on an Alvia train (included in the pass) Miranda de Ebro to Vitoria Gasteiz on a Media Distancia train (€13 return)

I spent the morning navigating the twisting alleyways of Bilbao’s old town, finally strolling along the river and arriving at the Guggenheim Bilbao – a real catalyst for the city’s rejuvenation since its opening in 1997 – for a whistle-stop tour of its contemporary spaces. Arriving for my lunchtime train, my eye was immediately drawn to the giant stained-glass window over the main concourse depicting the workers of the region. Media Distancia trains – or medium-distance trains – are not included in the pass, but the small fee (€13) is worth it to discover sunny Vitoria Gasteiz, the capital of the region, and a buzzy, picturesque market city where a northern sensibility rubs up against a more Mediterranean atmosphere.

Miranda de Ebro to Vitoria Gasteiz on a return Media Distancia train Miranda de Ebro to Valladolid on an Alvia train (included in pass)

John O'Ceallaigh

Olivia Morelli

Lauren Burvill

Monisha Rajesh

After a fleeting visit to the Artium, a Basque contemporary art museum well worth a perusal, I am back on the train, and, via Miranda de Ebro, I arrive in Valladolid. A favourite weekend getaway for Madridians, I would only have ever happened upon this fantastic city by rail. I arrived on the weekend of their Saints Day, which only added to the fiesta atmosphere of an already lively metropolis. After sampling some award-winning tapas at Los Zagales , more akin to a tasting menu at a fine-dining restaurant, and stopping several times on a balmy night to listen to enthusiastically attended musical performances in every plaza, I wished I could spend more time here – but the clock was ticking.

Valladolid to Madrid on an Alvia train (included in the pass) Madrid to Toledo on a return Media Distancia train (€20)

I had heard so much about Madrid’s picturesque neighbour to the south, Toledo – famous for its steel, and where artist El Grego spent most of his life. Another Media Distancia fee was incurred, so I decided to forgo a taxi and do the half-hour walk instead. Several cobbles, steep gradients, and damaged tourists later, I arrived at my hotel – the stunning converted palace Eugenia De Montijo. I was a sweaty mess, but a massage in their spa soon resuscitated me. The gorgeous city is firmly on the tourist trail – but this doesn’t take away from how the Spanish light captures the mediaeval architecture in various stunning ways throughout the day.

The cities spaced out as I pushed further south, and so did my days. I allowed myself two days in all my subsequent stops, firstly to take advantage of the Cercanias, and secondly because beautiful weather was all but guaranteed. 

Toledo to Madrid on a return Media Distancia train Cercanías day trip to Guadalajara (included in the pass)

Madrid is a local's city, gnarly and beautiful, one that changes its clothes as soon as you look in the other direction. This hipster city, starting to rival Barcelona, is teeming with dive bars, ad-hoc music venues, vintage and vinyl shops and people who at least look like musicians... My hotel concierge recommended to me that the best use of my Madrid Cercanías (metro pass) would be to go to Guadalajara, 1hr on the C2. The scenic, sleepy town felt like a time capsule and was a welcome respite from the frenetic Spanish capital.

Madrid to Cordóba on an Ave train (included in the pass) Most Spanish stations are found on the edges of towns, not necessarily giving you the most attractive first impression. Thankfully, in Córdoba, this was short-lived - it was a 10-minute walk to Eurostars Palace, its modernist iron-clad edifice not popular with the locals, but as a non-invasive contrast to the old town which it sits next to, it felt bold and forward-looking. Cordoba does a much better job at melding a tourist hub with a local feel – on top of main draws such as its mosque, a building which succinctly tells the Andalusian story of religious invasion and repulsion, and Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, I also managed to track down some gems; Jugo Vinos Vivos, a natural wine bar in a charming bohemian environment, or El Rincon De Carmen, a pretty courtyard restaurant hidden behind curtains of ivy. 

Córdoba to Málaga on an Ave train (included in pass) Cercanías day trip to Benalmadena (included in the pass) Like a lairy older sibling, Málaga has much in common with its Andalusian brethren, but the differences shout that bit louder. Once an overlooked airport city, it’s now managed to balance a fly-and-flop influx with an air of sophistication. There are 42 museums, including one dedicated to Picasso – a Malaga native – and a flourishing cultural scene, including a theatre run by another Malaga native, Antonio Banderas, located in the uber-cool Soho district. Make sure to sink a sweet wine aperitivo at Antigua Casa del Guardia. Classy and fun Barcelo Malaga couldn’t be closer to the station if it tried, and Benalmadena, with its picturesque marina and golden beaches – 50 mins on the C1 – retains the feel of a local secret, having survived the overdevelopment of its neighbouring towns.

Total: €400.50 (around £350)

Final thoughts

The trains were reliable, clean, and comfortable, and best of all, there was no two-hour pre-arrival time or baggage claim. It is worth noting however that facemasks are still required, and there are brief security bag checks at most major hubs. It takes time to learn the rhythm of the system – what constitutes a Cercanías; the difference between a Media Distancia journey the same length as an Ave journey, and why the former is not included on your pass; which Cercanías to hop on to take you into Madrid as opposed to away from it… maybe that last one was just me.

It’s a way to take yourself out of the ordinary and see are more real, and grounded Spain. You leave with an impression of the country, and an appreciation of what the Spanish Government is doing for its citizens for a few precious months. The following day at Gatwick, my train was delayed.

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Spain train guide – how to travel spain by train.

How to travel Spain by train — Tips for buying Spanish train tickets and advice for navigating Spain by rail.

Transportation

Spain is well-connected by rail so you can easily get just about anywhere quickly and fairly inexpensively. Luckily for travelers, Spain’s rail network has improved immensely over the past few years and its high-speed AVE trains now connect Spain’s major cities at speeds over 180mph. But, of course, it still has a few quirks. In this Spain Train Guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about taking the train in Spain—from navigating the system to buying train tickets in Spain for the cheapest price.

Electronic Train Tickets and High-Speed Data in Spain

Most train tickets in Spain (and much of Europe) are now electronic so you’ll want reliable high-speed data for your phone—personally, I wouldn’t rely on free wifi or your domestic provider’s international service as it’s often slow/unreliable.

Luckily, getting high-speed data in Spain is fairly simple and affordable. Here are a few articles I’ve written to help you get set up:

• Guide To Mobile Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  Spain

How To Buy Train Tickets in Spain

There are a number of ways to buy Spanish train tickets but it’s not always super straightforward. Keep reading and we’ll walk you through the process.

Let’s first take look at where and when to buy tickets for the best price…

Where To Buy Spain Train Tickets

Below are the various ways to buy train tickets for Spain and we’ve tried to call out the common quirks of each method.

Omio: Omio is a search engine that lets you compare and book trains (plus buses & flights) anywhere in Europe. It lets you easily book tickets with your credit card at essentially the same prices as Spain’s Railways website. Additionally, Omio searches routes for multiple rail services across Europe so it’s great for international trips (since it can easily combine rail journeys of multiple countries). Omio also gives you the option to print your own tickets or have eTickets sent to the Omio App.

TrainLine:   TrainLine is a third-party booking site that connects directly to Spain’s National Rail Network (renfe.com) and other European networks. Trainline also accepts international credit card payments and lets you print your own tickets or have eTickets sent to the Tranline App.

RENFE (Spanish Railways) : The National Spanish Railway system is called RENFE and anyone is allowed to buy tickets from renfe.com. Like most national rail sites, renfe.com suffers from weird translation issues and sometimes it won’t accept foreign credit cards. When I tried booking I found that the website was only partially translated into English and it would randomly switch to Spanish. Additionally, it’s confusing when you enter your billing address because it’s in the Spanish format. So, I suggest sticking to the other methods outlined above.

Types Of Train Tickets

There are three main types of ticket fares available — each ticket class is available for both first-class ( Turista Plus) and second-class ( Turista ) tickets. There is also a  Preferente class that’s first-class + a meal.

• Promo: Promo is the cheapest ticket available but it’s also non-refundable — so you’re out of luck if you miss your train or need to cancel your ticket.
• Promo+: Promo + is semi-flexible so it’s a bit more expensive but you’ll get a 70% refund if you need to cancel tickets.
• Flexible:   Flexible is the most expensive ticket but you get a 95% refund should you need to cancel.

Group (Mesa) Ticket Discount

AVE and long-distance trains often offer up to a 60% discount for groups who buy four seats together — this is called a Mesa fare ( Mesa means table in Spanish). You have to buy the entire set of four seats but this is usually even a good deal for groups of three since the group still saves money by purchasing the block of four seats.

HOW TO COLLECT YOUR TICKETS

Tickets purchased online can be collected in a few different ways. Most of the time you’re given multiple methods of collecting your tickets but double-check as things seem to randomly change.

• Print-At-Home Tickets:  You’ll often be sent a PDF that you print at home and show to the conductor on the train when he checks tickets.
• Smartphone: You can save the PDF ticket to your phone and they can scan it from there. We recommend saving it to your iPhone’s Passbook app.
• Pick Up At the Station:  Use your booking confirmation number to collect your tickets at the train station. This isn’t always an option.

DO I NEED TO BUY SPANISH TRAIN TICKETS IN ADVANCE?

Short answer — Yes. It’s best to book early if you want to save money on your train tickets. This mainly applies to Spain’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) high-speed trains and most medium/long-distance trains. You’re able to book tickets about two to three months before the departure date — it randomly fluctuates so check back in a few days if you’re not finding many/any results. The longer you wait the more you’ll pay—a ticket purchased on the day of travel will cost around 3x a ticket purchased two months early.

However, local/short-distance trains don’t need to be booked early as the prices are fixed.

Late Train Arrival Refunds

One interesting thing that Renfe offers is compensation for delayed/late arrivals on all high-speed and long-distance trains—and it doesn’t matter what caused the delay. Each train service has different refund policies but the high-speed AVE trains will refund 50% if the train is over 15 minutes late and 100% if the train is over 30 minutes late.

You can collect your refund at the train station or you can trade in your credit + receive a 20% bonus if you purchase a future ticket.

Using Your Spain Train Tickets

Unlike most of Europe, there is never a need to validate your Spanish train tickets — regardless of what kind of ticket it is. On  high-speed trains , your ticket is only good for the specific time printed on your ticket. You’ll also be given an assigned seat. On slower trains, you’ll just show the conductor your ticket when they check tickets on the train.

We recommend getting to the train station about 20 minutes before the train departs so you can find your platform. On high-speed trains, you’ll need to go through security but it should only add an extra few minutes to your journey.

Rail Passes for Spain

The cheapest way to travel via train in Spain is by purchasing advanced tickets. In virtually every situation this will be more cost-effective than using a Eurail pass .

However, tickets are expensive if you buy them only a few days in advance so it usually makes more sense, both financially and practically, to use a rail pass if you’re a spontaneous traveler—especially when using high-speed trains.

Check out Eurail.com to see their rail passes.

HOW TO MAKE RAIL PASS RESERVATIONS

High-speed and long-distance trains in Spain require a reservation when using a Eurail pass — the reservation will cost €10-€15/seat. Tip: Always look to see the price of a normal ticket costs because on some routes a normal ticket will cost less than the Eurail reservation fee.

Also, You must make the reservation before you get on the train and some routes limit the number of rail pass holders so it’s wise to book your reservation early. Most of the time you need to make the reservation a minimum of one hour before departure but we suggest doing it as early as you can.

There are a few ways to make reservations:

• RailEurope.com  lets you book your reservation online through their platform. Simply look for a button that says “I Have A Railpass” and follow the prompts.
• At The Train Station:  You can simply go to the train station and book your reservation from the customer service desk or self-service kiosks. You can book it weeks in advance or you can do it the day you depart. We suggest using the kiosks because the ticket window can take forever.

More Spain Train Travel Tips

• The Departures Board:  You’ll find your train platform via the departure board at the train station. Don’t worry if you don’t see your train because they often only display trains departing within the next 10-20 minutes.
• Security Screening: In Spain, all high-speed trains require you to screen your bags via X-ray. It normally only takes a few minutes.
• Self-Service Machines Are In English: Don’t worry if you don’t speak Spanish because the ticket machines (and train station signs) are all in English.
• Cheap Tickets Are Non-Refundable:  One downside to cheap tickets is that they’re non-refundable and they can’t be changed.
• Pack A Picnic:  You’re allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on trains. It’s great for those long train rides.
• Luggage:  There aren’t any weight limits on luggage and you can bring as much as you want (well, as much as you can carry). Simply bring it on and store it above your head, behind your seat, or in the luggage racks in each car.
• Making Connections: Your trip might require you to change trains along the journey. Don’t worry if there isn’t much time between trains as switching trains are usually fairly quick and easy (it’s not like flying).
• Get To The Train Station Early:  Train stations are usually fairly easy to navigate but they can be a little confusing.
• Know Train Station Names:  Most large cities have multiple train stations (Madrid and Barcelona both have two) so this often creates confusion. Double-check to make sure you have the right station — especially when booking your ticket.

More Spain Travel Tips from The Savvy Backpacker

• Barcelona Travel Guide : Tips for visiting Barcelona
• Best Hostels in Barcelona : Our favorite budget accommodation in Barcelona.
• Madrid Travel Guide : Tips for visiting Madrid.
• Best Hostels in Madrid : Our favorite budget accommodation in Madrid.
• How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance : Travel insurance will help cover those non-refundable train tickets if something goes wrong during your trip.
• Packing List For Europe Travel : Tips on packing light (which makes train travel much easier).
• Recent Posts

• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - March 24, 2024
• Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024
• Fashion Advice: How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe - February 20, 2024

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Once upon a time, Spain had one of the most backward train networks in western Europe.  Now, they have one of the best, indeed, one of my favourite rail systems.  High-speed AVE trains (Alta Velocidad Española) link major cities at up to 300 km/h (186mph), and if you book in advance online you can find some great cheap fares.  This page will give you a heads-up on how to travel cheaply around Spain by train.

A guide to taking the train in Spain

International trains to & from Spain

Other train travel information, useful country information, spain by train, the key things to know.

Avlo is a lo-cost subsidiary of Renfe which runs Barcelona-Madrid, other routes planned.  Their trains are one class only, with no-catering.

Ouigo Spain is a lo-cost subsidiary of SNCF (French Railways) which runs Barcelona-Madrid, Madrid-Valencia & Madrid-Alicante, other routes planned.  Two class, with basic catering.

Elige (Choice) = A semi-flexible fare, you can choose between Elige (2nd class seat) or for a higher price, Elige Confort (1st class seat).

Now for the catch, and it's some catch that Catch 22:  You can only buy a Tarjeta Dorada in person at a Renfe station when you get to Spain.  You cannot buy it online.  But you can't buy tickets online in advance with the Tarjeta Dorada discount until after you've bought the card because you need to enter the card number to get the discount.  So if you're planning a trip to Spain, it's better to forget about being senior and just buy a normal adult advance-purchase ticket now for perhaps €30 without any Tarjeta Dorada discount, than to wait until you get to Spain to buy a Tarjeta Dorada to get 25% off a fare which by that time (on or close to departure date) might have risen to €90.  Just let that sink in...

How to buy tickets & check train times

You can buy tickets at any Renfe station or online at www.renfe.com , but see the advice on using Renfe.com below .  There's no booking fee, but Renfe.com is a pain to use with some confusing translations and quirks, it's also known for sometimes rejecting overseas payment cards.  It's far easier (and quicker!) to buy tickets in plain English using www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, small booking fee, works for anyone from any country) or www.raileurope.com ( various currencies, small booking fee), Omio.com (various currencies, small booking fee) or www.petrabax.com (in US$, with a small mark-up).  These websites all connect to Renfe's ticketing system and sell the same trains at the same prices with no payment problems and the same official Renfe print-at-home tickets.

Real time information

You can see whether a train is on time and which platform it will leave from, if you download thetrainline.com 's app and run an enquiry for today. Trainline's app show real time information for all operators, Renfe, Avlo, Iryo & Ouigo.

Combinado Cercanias : Free suburban travel with a long-distance ticket

When you buy a ticket for one of Renfe's long-distance trains (AVE, EuroMed, Alvia, Intercity) of any fare type in any class for a journey within Spain, you get free travel from any Renfe suburban station at the start of your journey and free travel to any Renfe suburban station at the end of your journey, in the following cities:

Asturias, Barcelona, Bilbao, Cadiz, Madrid, Malaga, Murcia/Alicante, San Sebastian, Santander, Seville, Valencia and Zaragoza.  You also get free travel from/to any FEVE local station in Asturias, Santander, Bilbao & Cartagena.

If your ticket includes this, it will say Combinado Cercanias in the corner with a reference number.

At your starting city, you must use the suburban ticket within 3 hours of your long-distance train departure, and at your destination you must use the suburban ticket within 4 hours of your long-distance train's arrival.

You can travel to or from any suburban station within that city's numbered zones, but not outside the zones (so longer routes such as Barcelona to Portbou or Latour de Carol are not included).

Different cities have slightly different processes:  To access the suburban ( cercanias ) platforms in Madrid or Malaga, place the QR code of your long-distance ticket against the scanner on the automatic ticket gates and they should open.  In Barcelona, you must show your long-distance ticket at the information desk and ask for a ticket to open the cercanias ticket gates.

Add a snack box to your booking in Elige Confort on AVE & EuroMed .  You can add a snack box to your booking if you buy an Elige fare for Confort class on an AVE or EuroMed train at Renfe.com.  You can add it when you book or afterwards, at least 12h before the train leaves its origin station.

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Railpasses for Spain

Option 1, eurail & interrail passes.

Unfortunately, Interrail & Eurail passes do not offer hop on, hop off convenience in Spain because all Spanish long-distance train and even some regional trains require a reservation, for Interrail & Eurail passholders this costs around €10 for AVEs and similar front-rank trains or €7 for lesser trains.  This must be factored into your budget.

The next issue is that Interrail & Eurail reservations for Spanish trains often can't be made online.  Passholder reservations for most front-rank high-speed AVE trains can now be made online using the Interrail/Eurail reservations service and some Alvia and Intercity trains can also be booked this way.  However, others can't be booked online at all and most Media Distancia trains can't be booked online either, you have to go to a station when you reach Spain.  More about how to make Interrail/Eurail passholder reservations in Spain .

Option 2, Renfe's Spain Pass

Renfe offer its own Spain Pass to anyone resident outside Spain.  This can be better value as it includes all reservations, no hidden costs.  However, unlike Interrail & Eurail passes it does not give unlimited travel.  One journey = 1 train ride, if you change trains, that's 2 journeys.

You can buy a Renfe Spain Pass giving either 4, 6, 8 or 10 individual one-way train journeys of any length in a one-month period on all of Renfe's long-distance & medium-distance trains, including AVE, EuroMed, Alvia, Intercity, Media Distancia & Avant. 

With the Renfe Spain Pass, reservations can be made for free and there are no extra fees or quotas - if there is an empty seat on the train, you're entitled to it with your Spain Pass, although be warned that Spanish high-speed trains can indeed get fully-booked close to departure date.

How to buy a Renfe Spain pass

You can buy a Spain pass online at www.renfe.com/es/en.../renfe-spain-pass (has a few quirky translations and sometimes struggles with some credit cards).  The passes are completely electronic.  After setting up an account and buying your own pass, you can buy passes for your travelling companions as separate transactions.  They will also appear as passes in your account.

You have up to 6 months to make your first trip after you buy the pass, then one month to use the remaining trips after that first trip.

You can make reservations to go with a Spain pass either at stations as you go or at www.renfe.com , but the online method isn't obvious.  Here's how to make Renfe Pass seat reservations using www.renfe.com ( feedback appreciated ):

1. After buying your Renfe pass, go to www.renfe.com and switch it to English by clicking the globe logo at top right and select Ingles .

2. Log into your account and select the tab called My passes. You should see each Renfe pass you have bought for you and your companions. 

3. At the top of that page is a from and to field, like the journey planner used to book tickets on their home page.  Use this to make reservations, the price will be shown as €0.

You can only make reservations for one person/pass at a time.  But if you click Choose seats you can select your seat from a seat map and can use this feature to select seats next to each other.

Important:  When you make your first reservation, Renfe assumes that this is the first train you want to take with your pass and automatically starts the one-month pass validity from that date.  This now prevents you from making reservations on an earlier date.  So make sure that the first reservation you make is for the day you intend to start using the pass!

Spanish train fares & classes explained

In July 2021, Renfe introduced a completely new fares structure for all its long-distance trains including the high-speed AVE, and also changed the terms it uses for 1st & 2nd class.  It's easy to get confused between what's a class of accommodation and what's a fare type, so here's a run-down of Renfe's new classes & fares.

Standard & Comfort class

Básico, elige & premium fares.

Elige (Choice).  A semi-flexible fare.  If you select this you get a choice of Elige to travel in Standard (2nd) class or Elige Confort at a higher price to travel in Comfort (1st) class but without any included food or access to lounges.  Elige & Elige Confort tickets are refundable & changeable for a fee.

What are Spanish trains like?

AVE or Alta Velocidad Española is Spain's front-rank high-speed train.  Reservation is compulsory, and all trains have a cafe-bar.  AVEs are now being fitted with free WiFi.  If you pay the Premium fare, an airline-style hot tray meal with wine is included although on some departures you get a snack box instead, see the food & drink section above .  AVE trains come in various types.

S100 :  The original French-designed AVE used between Madrid & Seville and also now used into France, see the photos below.

S102 & S112 :  The Spanish Talgo-designed AVE used between Madrid & Malaga, Barcelona & Malaga/Seville, a classy train indeed, see S102/S112 photos here .

S103 :  The German-designed AVE used between Barcelona & Madrid plus some Madrid-Malaga trains, see S103 photos here .

Alvia & EuroMed trains

These S130 trains operate the EuroMed services linking Barcelona with Valencia & Alicante, as well as Alvia trains from Madrid to Cadiz & Huelva.  They consist of little articulated coaches built by the Talgo company sandwiched between two duck-billed power cars.  There are other Alvia services operates by similar trains with a diesel power-car added, and a few Alvia trains (including Barcelona to Bilbao, Pamplona & San Sebastian) operated by the wedge-nosed S120 type, of similar high quality.  All Alvia trains have a cafe-bar.  On EuroMed services a hot meal with wine is usually available in Comfort class on weekdays & Sundays if you buy a Premium ticket or add the meal to an Elige ticket, see the information above .

Intercity trains

These run on many long distance routes, including Madrid-Ronda-Algeciras, Madrid-Granada, Madrid-San Sebastian.  Most (including Madrid-Algeciras) are former Altaria trains, little articulated trains built by the Talgo company and hauled by a separate locomotive, they have adjustable axles so they can run at up to 200 km/h on the high-speed AVE lines (which are standard European gauge) then go though a gauge-changing shed to emerge on traditional Spanish broad gauge to complete their journey on the classic Iberian gauge network.  A few Intercity trains have been created by rebranding former Alvia trains built by CAF, for example on the Madrid-San Sebastian route, which also have gauge-changing wheels.  All Intercity trains have a cafe-bar.

Avlo, Iryo, Ouigo...

Spain's high-speed lines have been opened up to competition.  Renfe now has a lo-cost brand called Avlo , and competitor operators Iryo & Ouigo now operate on key routes including Barcelona-Madrid , Madrid-Valencia, Madrid-Cordoba/Seville/Malaga.  See the Barcelona-Madrid page for a run down of these 3 operators .

How to buy train tickets for Spain

When does booking open?   Anything between 15 days and 11 months, Renfe is a law unto itself when it comes to booking horizons, see the introduction .

What can these sites sell?   They can sell Renfe's mainline trains and sometimes competing high-speed trains run by Avlo, Iryo or Ouigo.  They can't sell tickets for Renfe's suburban (cercanias) routes including Latour de Carol-Barcelona or Cerbère-Portbou-Barcelona, nor can they sell tickets for Euskotren (Hendaye-San Sebastian-Bilbao) or the former FEVE routes (Bilbao-Santander-Gijon-Ferrol).

Option 1, buy at Raileurope.com

The quickest & easiest way to buy Spanish train tickets is at Raileurope.com with cheap advance-purchase fares & print-at-home or collect-at-station tickets.  You can choose to pay in €, £ or $. There's a small booking fee.

Raileurope.com links directly to Renfe's (Spanish Railways) ticketing system and charges the same price as Renfe themselves with the same print-your-own ticket delivery.  Unlike Renfe's own site it's in plain English without any of Renfe.com's quirky translations and no credit card rejection problems.

Raileurope.com can book the lo-cost Barcelona-Madrid Ouigo Spain trains as well as the normal Renfe trains, but cannot book lo-cost Avlo trains

Anyone from any country can use Raileurope.com as international credit cards are welcomed.  It can also sell international trains between Spain and Portugal or France, as it links to the French, German, Italian & British ticketing systems.  Who are Raileurope.com?

Important:   If you have a baby or infant, remember to add them as a child and enter their age, they'll still go free but will get the free infant ticket which is now necessary in Spain.

Option 2, buy at Thetrainline.com or Omio.com

www.omio.com & www.thetrainline.com also connect to Renfe's ticketing system to sell Renfe tickets at exactly the same prices as Renfe with the same print-your-own or collect-at-station tickets, very easily, all overseas credit cards accepted.  Both charge a small booking fee.  They can also book Ouigo Spain trains & Avlo trains .  Who are Thetrainline.com?

Option 3, buy at Petrabax.com , easy to use, in US$

If you'd rather pay in USD, use www.petrabax.com .  This is a US-based agency which also links directly to the Renfe ticketing system to sell the same trains as Renfe.com with the same print-at-home tickets.  They add a small mark-up, but it's easy to use in plain English and it avoids the English translation and credit card acceptance problems people can experience with Renfe.com.  Anyone from any country can use Petrabax, including the United States, Canada, Australia, India & Singapore.

Option 4, buy at Renfe.com

How to use www.renfe.com.

Renfe are usually particularly late opening reservations for dates after the main annual timetable change in mid-December.

G uidebooks

Click the images to buy online at Amazon.co.uk

Alternatively, download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

European Rail Timetable & maps

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south.  Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted.  See an extract from the map .  Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

Hotels in Spain

Backpacker hostels.

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Environmentally aware, actively ethical adventures in Spain:  www.wildsideholidays.com

For environmentally-aware guesthouses offering walking, hiking, riding or nature-watching in the Spanish countryside and national parks, try www.wildsideholidays.com , a new site listing independent, environmentally-aware properties across Spain.  It was started by British ex-pats Clive Muir and Sue Eatock, when they found nowhere to advertise their own wonderful property deep in the heart of the Sierra de Grazelema near Ronda in Southern Spain.

Custom-made tours of Spain

Railbookers, railbookers.co.uk.

If you want to tour Spain by train, with all your train reservations and hotels sorted for you to your own specification, contact train tour specialists Railbookers and they'll create the best rail holiday for you, hassle-free.  They take good care of their clients and get a lot of repeat business.  In particular, check out their Ultimate Barcelona, Madrid & Seville tour on their US & Canada site, or a top seller on their UK site, Madrid & Andalusia.  They have offices in the UK, USA & Australia.

Tailor Made Rail, tailormaderail.com

Tailor Made Rail can arrange tours of Spain by train based on your own requirements, they welcome complex itineraries.  As it's a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens on one part of the trip, for example, a national strike.  They're TTA-protected - like ATOL, but not only for agencies that sell air travel.

Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking.  From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461.  Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday.  Their website is www.tailormaderail.com/destinations/spain .

Car hire comparison:  www.carrentals.co.uk

The award-winning website www.carrentals.co.uk compares many different car hire companies including Holiday Autos, meaning not only a cheapest price comparison but a wider choice of hire and drop off location.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or Buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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Spain like a local

Invaluable advice of locals from every corner of Spain

The perfect 7 day travel itinerary to discover Spain by train

We bring you an epic route to travel around Spain by train so you get to see as much as possible in your holiday. Gaudi’s architecture, a paella by the beach, flamenco vibes a much more! Check out our 7 day Spain by train itinerary.

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Day 1 & 2 of the Spain by train itinerary. We begin in Barcelona to explore the coast of Spain.

Day 3 travel spain itinerary by train : paella by the beach in valencia, day 4 & 5 next stop of spain itinerary by train… seville, day  6 & 7 the last leg of the spain itinerary by train, madrid, the capital., alternative if you do not want to change hotels, spanish train guide.

We will start the route in Barcelona. Not only is amazing but it also has one of the biggest airports in Spain and it is very well connected internationally.

Spend at least 2 days here to explore the main landmarks of the city.

To make the most of your time in the city we think is best to get an hotel near the train station Barcelona Sans. This way you can leave your luggage the day of check out and pick it up when you need to take the train.

We normally stayed in Hotel Prisma, but it seems it has changed ownership. It is now called Casual Colours Barcelona . Looks way nicer and it is an easy 10 minute walk from the station. 

Rooms start at around 70€ per night

Next train: From Barcelona Sants you will get a train to Valencia. You have many daily trains to go from around 35€.  Just be careful as you have different trains, ideally get the faster trains that take less than 3 and a half hours.

You can get your train tickets in the Renfe website, the official train service in Spain. Prices go up closer to the day you are traveling but normally you can not purchase them any time sooner than a month in advance.

Spend a whole day in Valencia.   In the morning explore the historical city centre. The main places are Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Plaza de la Reina,   Plaza de la Virgen, Torres de Serrano, Lonja, Mercado Central…

Then head to the coast for a paella by the beach. (Check out here our favourite places ). You can reach the beach by bus, metro or overground.

After a stroll by the beach it is time to explore the City of Arts and Sciences complex and take some futuristic epic pictures. You can take the bus 95 from the Cabanyal area or the 99 from Malvarosa.

For convenience we will again recommend staying by the Estación del Nord, the main train station. This basic and functional hotel is located in an unbeatable location right in the City Hall Square. It is also just a short 3 minute walk from the tube and train stations.

Rooms start at around 64€ per night in low season

Next train: You can grab a fast train (AVE) from Estación de Joaquin Sorolla in Valencia to Seville. It takes around 5 hours, this is the longest train you will need to get. Prices vary but in advance you could get them for around 60€.

Spend a couple of days in Seville to discover its wonderful architecture and most importantly its tapas culture. If you need ideas check this posts with unusual things to do in Seville to enjoy the city like a local.

Next train: The final stop of the trip will be Madrid, where you can get by getting a train from Seville in around 2 and a half hours and around 40€ if you get it in advance.

• If you are looking for a place to stay on a budget Pension Cordoba  is located in a  beautifully restored building and very close to the main touristic places. Have a look here>
• If what you need is a special occasion hotel check out Hotel Alfonso XIII built by a late king of Spain, with just one goal: to make it the best hotel in Europe. Have a look here>

Explore the Spanish capital for a couple of days before flying back from its very well connected international airport.

If you would rather not change hotels every other day you could also stay in Madrid and take day trips. There are many fast trains to Barcelona, Valencia and Seville and they take around 2 and a half hours.

If you get the tickets in advanced you might get them for somewhere on the lines of 50€-80€ for a return.

For convenience, it will be best to stay near the Atocha train station in Madrid where all the trains depart from. That way, if you travel early in the morning or return late at night you can just walk back to your hotel.

If we go next we are planning to check this hotel near Atocha station, basic but with great reviews. If we stay longer we will stay in these apartments ,  a bit further away (30 min walk), but they have been recently renovated and look pretty epic! 

If you are not sure about how train travel works in Spain check out this post with all the info you need>

• Have you ever seen a huge black bull billboard while traveling in Spain? Discover what it is here>

Save money on your trip to enjoy the Spain by train itinerary!

*  This blog contains affiliate links. If you purchase or book something, we get a commission at no extra cost to you.

Luxury honeymoon hotels in Spain that we love

What to eat in la rioja the 5 logroño tapas and foods not to miss, the 5 best places to go in spain for couples.

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Spain by rail.

Overall Rating based on 9 Reviews

Private Discoveries for our World Travelers

• Stroll through Barcelona’s handsome Gothic Quarter with our expert resident guide, discover Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces and then stop by a congenial tapas bar for a light snack and fine Spanish wine
• Tour the Real Alcázar in Seville and then get a glimpse into the hidden cloistered life with our exclusive visit to a 16 th -century convent.
• Get a taste of the local scene in Madrid when you enjoy a morning snack of traditional churros and hot chocolate at a popular and historic chocolateria!

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Welcome to Barcelona

Hotel Catalonia Passeig de Gracia - Barcelona, Spain

On arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and chauffeured to the Catalonia Passeig de Gracia Hotel , ideally located in the heart of the city near Plaza Catalunya and Las Ramblas.

Historic Barcelona + The Genius of Gaudi

Your private sightseeing tour begins along elegant city boulevards like Passeig de Gracia where you’ll see Casa Battlló and Casa Milà – two extraordinary buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi more than 100 years ago. Then continue along Avenida Diagonal; designed in the mid 19 th century, it’s still one of the grandest thoroughfares in Barcelona. Travel through bustling and beautiful city squares like Placa de Francesc Macia, with its striking contemporary monument to the first President of the Generalitat de Catalunya, and ascend Montjuic Hill for glorious views of Barcelona and its port. Then tour La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece. A guided walk along the inviting, cobblestone streets and lanes of the Gothic Quarter reveals medieval treasures like the Cathedral. End your sightseeing on a high note at a friendly local bar as you join your guide for a light snack of tapas - and a glass of fine Spanish wine.  Meals B

Free Day in Barcelona

This day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Take advantage of your hotel’s prime heart-of-it-all location to discover more of Barcelona at your own pace. You might take a stroll along the famous Las Ramblas with its boutiques, cafes and restaurants, meander again through the Gothic Quarter at your own leisurely pace, or visit the world-renowned Picasso Museum. Meals B

By Rail to Seville

Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza, Seville

Transfer to the station for your high-speed rail journey to Seville, enjoying the passing scenery from the comfort of your first class seat. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and escorted by private car to the Hospes Las Casas Rey del Baeza . Our enchanting hotel is set in an elegant 18 th -century landmark just a 15-minute stroll from the Cathedral.   Meals B

The Grandeur of Seville

This morning’s privately guided tour begins with a chauffeured drive along the Guadalquivir River. With fascinating narrative from your personal expert guide, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and culture as you admire important landmarks like the Maestranza Bullring and the Torre del Oro – an impressive military watchtower built 800 years ago during the Almohad Dynasty. A guided walk in the historic city center reveals charming residential districts, ancient cobblestone streets, fine town squares and, of course, the Seville Cathedral. For centuries, this was the largest religious monument in all of Christendom and today it is still one of the grandest Gothic buildings in all of Europe.   Then tour the Real Alcázar, one of the oldest royal residences on the Continent and hailed as a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture – a style that reflects a unique blend of both Islamic and Christian influences. By special arrangement, our exclusive tour of a 16th- century convent offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional cloistered life here in this ancient and historic city.  Meals B

At Leisure in Seville

This entire day is yours to experience more of Seville’s charm and history at your own pace. Our hotel’s city-center location makes it easy to sightsee, shop, dine and just enjoy Seville’s delightful ambience.  Meals B

Take the Train to Madrid

Hospes - Madrid, Spain

Transfer to the station and travel by first class, high-speed rail to Madrid. On arrival, our private car and driver will escort you to the 5-star Hospes Puerta de Alcala .  Meals B

Discover Madrid

Your private tour of Madrid showcases the grand history and vibrant modern pace of the Spanish capital. Drive through the historic Austrias district and old Moorish Quarter and admire the city’s elegant public plazas and University Campus. See Retiro Park and the striking Europe Gate at Castilla Square and then drive along Gran Via with its elegant architecture.   Walking with your guide in the historic heart of Madrid, you’ll see beautiful town squares like the Plaza San Miguel and historic landmarks including the Church of San Andrés. You’ll also enjoy a guided tour through the impressive Royal Palace. Built in the mid 1700’s, this is not the official residence of the King of Spain; rather, this handsome historic landmark is used for state ceremonies and other official functions. Then take a break from sightseeing to experience a traditional slice of life – joining your personal guide and city residents for churros and hot chocolate at one of the most historic chocolaterias in the city.  Meals B

A Free Day in Madrid

This entire day is yours to do as you wish in Spain’s inviting and cosmopolitan capital.  Meals B

Depart Madrid

After breakfast, you’ll be chauffeured to the airport or rail station for your onward journey.  Meals B

Extend Your Trip

Travel on to Morocco after Madrid

8 Day Post-Tour Extension

Our easy-to-add Post-Trip Extension includes 7 nights in our 5-star accommodations, 11 meals, extensive sightseeing and all on-tour transportation.

From Madrid, Spain to Casablanca, Morocco

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted by private car to the airport for your for your flight (not included) across the Mediterranean to exotic Morocco. Upon arrival in Casablanca, you’ll be warmly greeted and chauffeured to the 5-star Hyatt Regency. Your afternoon city tour features the Central Market, Royal Palace and the impressive Hassan II Mosque. Dine tonight at Rick’s Café, immortalized in the classic Bogart film! Meals D

Onward to Rabat and Fès

Drive to Rabat and enjoy a city tour before sitting down to lunch along the seafront. Continue to Fès and check in to the enchanting Riad Fès. Meals B,L

Excursion to Volubilis and Meknes

Explore the Roman ruins at Volubilis and then drive to Moulay Idriss, a sacred hilltop city. Tour a vineyard and sample fine wines before traveling to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four Imperial cities. See the Gate of Bab El Mansour and visit the Granary and Royal Stables - large enough to hold 20,000 Arabian horses! Then stroll in the ancient Jewish quarter before returning to Fès. Meals B

Immerse in the Imperial City of Fès

Your full-day tour includes the medieval Medina, the Old City, the magnificent ceramic mosaics of the Nejjarine Fountain and Karaouine Mosque. Meals B

Into the Middle Atlas Mountains and on to Marrakech

Journey into the Middle Atlas Range through mountain towns and Berber villages like Ifrane, Immouzer du Kandar and Azrou. Stop for lunch in the bustling market town of Beni Mellal and continue to Marrakech. Settle in to the 5-star La Maison Arabe and enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure. Meals B,L

Explore Imperial Marrakech

Sightseeing features Djema El Fna Square, the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace and Le Jardin Majorelle - the villa residence of Yves Saint-Laurent. Stop for tea and magnificent views over the Medina at Maison de la Photograhie. Meals B

Full-day excursion into the peaceful Ourika Valley

Set out from the city into a picturesque land of olive groves and citrus orchards.As the peaks of the Atlas Mountains draw near, you enter the Ourika Valley. Visit a Berber cooperative where the rare Argan nut is cultivated and tour a farm specializing in Red Gold - saffron. Discover the lovely landscapes of Setti Fatma before returning to Marrakech. Dine tonight at Suleiman Palace Restaurant , one of the city’s finest. Meals B,D

Farewell to Morocco

Your tour of Morocco ends this morning after breakfast at your hotel. Meals B

Private Tour Add-Ons

Our 4-day FreeStyle Travel package includes 3 nights in your choice of city-center hotel, daily breakfast, chauffeured airport transfers and city sightseeing with your own private guide

Our 4-day FreeStyle Travel package includes a choice of fine hotels, daily breakfast, chauffeured airport transfers and in-depth sightseeing with your own personal car, driver and guide

  Andalusia’s Enduring Islamic Legacy in Southern Spain

Similar trips.

Gems of Central Europe by Rail

Our engaging guides hail from these cities and will delight you with their knowledge and keen cultural insights into the lands they call home. Private transfers and our signature “to-the-train” luggage service promise carefree rail travel!

8 days in Spain itinerary

NOV 12, 2021

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There’s no doubt about it – when it comes to European escapes, Spain is in a league of its own. Brooding Gothic architecture? It’s got more than its fair share. Picasso masterpieces? Yep, hundreds of them. The most mouth-watering tapas you’ll ever taste? Naturally! To help you immerse yourself in the alluring culture of this remarkable country, we’ve hand-picked our favourite cities for this 8 days in Spain itinerary. And with great rail links between each of the cities, getting around is affordable and hassle-free. So sit back and enjoy the ride.

Days 1 and 2 – Barcelona

• Day 3 – Valencia
• Day 4 – Cordoba
• Day 5 – Seville
• Day 6 – Madrid
• Day 7 – Bilbao
• Day 8 – San Sebastián

Barcelona is a cosmopolitan hub in the north-eastern region of Catalonia, with an appealing blend of architectural marvels, atmospheric neighbourhoods and glamorous beaches.

If modern art is your thing, you’ve come to the right place – both the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation don’t disappoint. Be sure to make time for La Sagrada Familia too – though unfinished, this basilica designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí is utterly distinctive. His signature use of swirling forms and dazzling mosaics is also found at Park Güell and Casa Batlló .

When it comes to dining, the city dishes up everything from gourmet delights to home-style cooking. Just be sure to leave room for crema catalana – this rich, custardy dessert will have you begging for seconds.

Reaching Barcelona by train is easy, with direct connections and high-speed routes within the country. Madrid to Barcelona , for example, takes just over two hours travelling on AVE high-speed trains .

Day 3 – Valencia

Hop on a Euromed train from Barcelona to Valencia , and you’ll be transported from one culture-packed city to another in less than four hours. Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city, and it's renowned for its culture, golden beaches and bars that hum late into the night.

Start your day at the 13th-century Valencia Cathedral. A curious mix of architectural styles, it sits on the former site of a mosque. Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen lie on either side – they’re two lively squares brimming with historic buildings and charming cafes.

After exploring the squares and surrounding streets, you’ll be ready to feel the pulse of the city over at the Central Market. A feast for the senses, this is a great place to watch the world go by as you dig into melt-in-the-mouth churros con chocolate .

Valencia has more than its fair share of cultural big hitters, the most notable of which is the sleek, glass-domed City of Arts and Science . At the other end of the spectrum, the National Ceramics Museum offers an insight into the city’s craft heritage.

To rub shoulders with the city’s cool young urbanites, head south to Ruzafa which has cemented its place as Valencia’s hippest quarter. Grab a traditional bocadillo sandwich before savouring a zingy cocktail in one of the area’s beloved ‘bookshop cafe’ bars.

Day 4 – Cordoba

Venture into Spain’s Andalucía region when you board a train from Valencia to Cordoba . After a scenic 3-hour train journey, you’ll arrive at Cordoba station in the north-west of the city.

Cordoba is an ancient city – it was formerly the capital of a Moorish empire that stretched across much of Spain. Throughout the city, you’ll find striking remnants of this legacy intertwined with Catholic and Jewish sites too. This sometimes unusual blend is best witnessed at the iconic Mezquita . Originally a 10th-century mosque, it later had a stunningly-ornate cathedral built within it. To get a sneak peek for free, arrive in time for the 08:30 service.

The city’s tapestry of historical influences can also be seen at the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, which features a fortress, manicured gardens and a Moorish bathhouse. Experience another side to the city in the atmospheric Jewish quarter, which also happens to be home to some of the best dining spots in town. As the day draws to a close, saunter down to the banks of the Guadalquivir river to join locals in drinking a glass of the sweet, locally-produced Montilla Moriles wine.

Day 5 – Seville

It’s day five of your tour and time to hit the Andalucían capital. Much like the region’s sultry flamenco dance, Seville embodies proud tradition, seductive elegance and sizzling energy. Trains from Cordoba to Seville typically take a snappy 45 minutes, so before you know it, you’ll be right in the heart of this scintillating city.

Seville is home to the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral – scale the Giralda bell tower for unbeatable views over Barrio Santa Cruz. Then head over to the 14th-century Alcázar, a sprawling palace which dazzles visitors with its shimmering gold detailing, graceful arches and exquisite tiles.

Now it’s time to scratch beneath the surface and encounter the true soul of Seville. Swing by Bodega Santa Cruz for some sumptuous tapas among locals, before rummaging through the antiques, ceramics and vintage flamenco dresses at the lively flea market on Calle Feria.

As the light fades, take a stroll among the orange trees in Jardines del Guadalquivir before seeking out that all-important flamenco performance – don’t be surprised if you see local sevillanos get swept up in the atmosphere and take to the floor themselves – you may be tempted to join!

Day 6 – Madrid

You may think your 8 days in Spain itinerary have reached its peak – well, think again. Now you’ll be primed to dive into the buzzing, cultural powerhouse that is Spain’s capital, Madrid . And with high-speed Renfe trains from Seville to Madrid , you’ll be in the capital in as little as 2 hours 30 minutes.

If there’s one city on your trip to get your art fix, make it Madrid. Its famed Golden Triangle of Art includes the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia , the Museo del Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza – between them they house a dizzying array of masterpieces that will inspire even the most discerning of art aficionados. Directly behind the del Prado, you'll find the beautiful Retiro park – join the picnicking locals among the rose gardens or go boating on the lake.

As day turns to night, Madrid really comes to life. Over at the bustling San Miguel Market, you can sample an array of tasty treats, including callos a la madrileña – Madrid’s signature tripe stew. Then begin your after-dark adventure on the rooftop bar at Círculo de Bellas Artes, featured in Pedro Almodóvar’s timeless film, All About My Mother.

Day 7 – Bilbao

Hugged by coastal mountains, Bilbao is a compact city with a big personality. It is brimming with galleries, hip bars, and striking architecture but still maintains a strong sense of tradition and an easy-going way of life. Direct trains get you from Madrid to Bilbao in around 5 hours.

Start by riding the funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda to get your bearings and marvel at the spectacular views. Then descend back down and head for the iconic Guggenheim museum . The futuristic titanium, glass and stone building is an architectural gem and houses a thought-provoking collection of modern art.

While in town, be sure to try pintxos (the Basque take on tapas ). Being so close to the coast means seafood is top of the menu – and it doesn’t get much fresher than here. Embark on a culinary crawl, as you work your way through the array of top-notch eateries on Calle Ledesma and beyond.

Day 8 – San Sebastián

From one foodie hub to another – the roughly 4-hour train journey from Bilbao to San Sebastián will give you ample time to build up a hunger again. Undoubtedly, San Sebastián is one of Europe’s foremost Michelin star havens. But alongside its gastronomic temples, the city has a few more tricks up its sleeve.

This is the final day of your 8 days in Spain itinerary so you’ve definitely earned some relaxation. And what better place to kick back than on one of the city’s three golden-sand beaches? Sitting in the glistening Cantabrian sea, La Concha Beach is regularly rated as being one of the world’s best city beaches. After taking a dip, swing by the old town for a refreshing glass of Basque cider.

Spend your afternoon soaking up the retro charm and breathtaking views at San Sebastián’s amusement park. Then it’ll be time to dine in style in one of the city’s restaurants. For a gourmet experience that will have you waxing lyrical to friends back home, reserve a table at three Michelin star restaurant, Arzak . Or keep things simple while not compromising on taste, over at locals’ favourite, Bar Ganbara.

So there you have it – 8 days in Spain that takes in 8 amazing cities. Check out the outstanding deals and cheap train fares that will make your dreams of Spain become a reality. Then forget about staring at flight departure boards and leave your driver’s licence at home. It’s time to take the scenic route and experience Spain by rail !

Ready to book your tickets?

🌍 Help me LP! What is the one train trip that can include the best of Spain?

Feb 20, 2023 • 4 min read

From beautiful beaches to exciting cities to charming country villages, the delights of Spain are just a train ride away © Getty Images

In this series, Lonely Planet’s team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. The train in Spain? That’s one for Barcelona-based, Andalucía-raised travel expert Isabella Noble.

Question: I want to visit a city, an off-the-beaten-track destination and a beach in Spain by train, all in one trip. How can I do it?

Isabella Noble: With a raft of new routes launching, it’s a bumper year for train travel in Spain – and there’s never been a better time to explore the country by rail. Here are two itineraries, in two regions, that will let you see the best of this magical country by train.

A slow-paced northern journey

A lesser-known pocket of Spain with divine beaches? Head to the wonderfully green north coast . There’s a go-slow beauty to trundling through this region on the narrow-gauge FEVE railway , hopping off and on as you make your way east from Oviedo. Buy tickets at stations or on board; at the smallest stops you might have to flag trains down, bus-style. 

Start with a couple of days in elegant Oviedo , capital of Asturias , whose charms include spectacular pre-Romanesque churches, lively markets, graceful plazas and the memorable Museo de Bellas Artes , along with a thriving food scene (think blue cheeses and crisp ciders). Tierra Astur on the famous Bulevar de la Sidra and Nacho Manzano’s Gloria are favorite local restaurants; consider a stay at the smart Barceló Oviedo Cervantes . Adding to the appeal is a brand-new high-speed AVE train line, expected to (finally) link Oviedo with Madrid later this year. 

Next, hop on the FEVE to Arriondas (90 minutes), a peaceful little town in the foothills of the Asturian Picos de Europa mountains. It’s a great base for hiking, with serene rural bases such as Posada del Valle , a restored 19th-century home with its own organic farm. 

Next, it’s beach time, via a 50-minute train to Ribadesella on Asturias’ cliff-edged coast. Set on an estuary, Ribadesella is known for its golden beach and wonderful seafood restaurants (try La Huertona ). Come evening, sleep in a thoughtfully converted 20th-century palacete (mansion) at Villa Rosario . There’s a similar feel in nearby Llanes, a buzzing beach town 40 minutes further east. Plenty of gorgeous, remote beaches lie along this stretch of coast (I love Torimbia, Toranda and Gulpiyuri), and the Camino del Norte route of the Camino de Santiago passes through here, too. 

From Ribadesella (90 minutes) or Llanes (40 minutes), take the FEVE east to San Vicente de la Barquera , Cantabria ’s prettiest fishing town. The route stays close to the coast between Ribadesella and San Vicente, before turning inland to reach Cantabria’s capital Santander , home to sweeping beaches, the Renzo Piano–designed Centro Botín gallery and lovely boutique B&B Jardín Secreto .

South from Seville

For a taste of magical Andalucía , combine the soulful regional capital Seville with Cádiz Province ’s wildly beautiful Costa de la Luz , with most of your travel on Renfe ’s media distancia trains or cercanías (local commuter trains). You can prebook media distancia tickets; cercanías tickets are easily bought at the station on the day of your travel.

Three days is enough time to soak up Seville’s urban delights – the Moorish-origin Real Alcázar , flamenco-filled Triana, the magnificent cathedral – and the thrilling Andalucian tapas scene ( La Brunilda , Eslava , Las Teresas ). Hotel Casa 1800 Sevilla provides an evocative, central base in a reimagined 19th-century mansion. Time permitting, little-visited Carmona makes a wonderful side trip from Seville , with Roman, Moorish and Mudéjar relics; it’s easily reached by bus (75 minutes).

Heading south to Cádiz from Seville, don’t miss a night or two in lively Jerez de la Frontera , center of sherry and flamenco. It’s a one-hour train from Seville’s Santa Justa station to Jerez, where you can stay at stylish Hotel Bodega Tio Pepe , tour ancient bodegas like Lustau or Tradición and dive into the buzzy tabancos (sherry bars). 

From Jerez, cercanías (45 minutes) and media distancia and Alvia trains (both 35 minutes) zip onwards to Cádiz , one of Europe’s oldest cities, with its buzzy historic center perched on a wind-lashed headland. Cádiz has a clutch of fabulous golden-white beaches, including Playa de la Caleta (bordering the old town’s Carnival-loving Barrio de La Viña) and surfy Playa de la Victoria , south of the centre. Savor the city’s famous tapas scene at Taberna La Sorpresa , Casa Manteca and the Mercado Central , and stay at Casa de las Cuatro Torres , an 18th-century mansion turned boutique hotel. 

But the Cádiz region’s dreamiest beaches lie southeast of the city, along the blissfully undeveloped Costa de la Luz, which stretches all the way to Tarifa on the southern tip of mainland Europe. No trains run here, but it’s a scenic one-to-two-hour bus trip from Cádiz to the pretty Costa de la Luz hubs of Vejer , Conil and Tarifa – and the powdery white sands, wonderful gastronomy and kitesurfing vibe are the irresistible reward.

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Interrailing Spain: ULTIMATE Guide to Travelling Spain By Train

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Interrailing Spain for the first time? You’re in the right place! Travelling Spain by train is one of the best ways to see the country.

Spanning nearly 1,700 miles, the Spanish railway system is one of the most extensive and efficient in Europe, making it a perfect country to interrail. Whether you’re looking to explore Barcelona’s vibrant culture or Madrid’s stunning architecture, there’s no better way to do it than by train. 

In the following post, I outline the best interrailing Spain routes and itineraries, and how to squeeze some of the most beautiful Spanish destinations into your trip.

🚝 Need to buy your interrailing pass ? I recommend checking this website for the best discounts and deals!

Interrailing Europe? You might also like…

• Interrailing France: Travel France By Train
• Interrailing Italy: Ultimate Guide and Route
• 21 Interrail Tips for First-Timers: Interrailing Europe
• What To Pack Interrailing Europe: Packing List Essentials
• How to Interrail on a Budget: Interrail Europe CHEAP!

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

Interrailing Spain: A Summary

Spain is a beautiful country with so much to offer. From the scenery to the architecture, the unbelievable tapas and the friendly people, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, I would highly recommend interrailing .  It’s an amazing way to see the country, and you can go at your own pace. 

Interrailing Spain is straightforward, as their train system is one of the best in Europe. But, here are a few extra things to bear in mind when you are planning your trip:

🚇  The rail network in Spain connects the entire country.  So if you’re worried about being able to get from A to B, don’t be! Even smaller, ‘off the beaten track’ villages and towns will have a train station. Regional trains and night trains are available in most major cities.

🚌  Journeys around Spain can also be made by bus.  If you have a section of a journey that cannot be made by train, the FlixBus can be used for inter-city routes.

🇪🇸 The interrailing pass will include all trains in Spain .

🚝  You must make a seat reservation for high-speed trains, even with an interrailing pass .  Seat reservations are usually around 10 EUR. This can be done on the interrailing website or at the train station. You can guarantee your seat easily there for either high-speed trains or regional trains.

What is interrailing?

Interrailing is a great way to  see Europe on a budget . Interrail passes are available for people of all ages, and they allow you to travel on any day of the week.  You can also travel on multiple trains per day, making it easy to explore different countries and cities  all in one single trip.

Interrail passes are valid for a certain number of days,  so you can tailor your trip to your own needs. Plus, if you’re under 27 years old or under,  you can get a special Youth Interrail pass that’s even cheaper!

Global passes for interrailing are the best way to see Europe – and they’re not as complicated or expensive as you might think. With a global pass, you can hop on a train and  explore up to 33 different countries in Europe.   There are different types of global passes to choose from,  so you can tailor your trip to exactly what you want.

Whether you’re looking to backpack Europe for a week or a month, interrailing is a great option.  Just be sure to check the rules and regulations before you go so that you can make the most of your trip.

Not sure whether the interrailing pass is worth it? Check out my  detailed guide on interrailing passes here.

Want to start your digital nomad life?

Check out my ebook page (click here!) to see if there’s a guide that suits you. I’m here to help you leave the 9-5 and work remotely around the world! 💻 🌎

Night trains whilst interrailing Spain

Spain is a big country, and if you’re interrailing around Europe, you might want to consider taking a night train from one city to the next.  That way, you can make the most of your time during the day and see everything that each city has to offer (and save money on accommodation). 

And once you’re done exploring for the day, you can just jump on the train and relax on the night train as you travel through the Spanish countryside.  However, the high-speed trains in Spain are so quick and efficient, that you might not find the need to travel via night train. High-speed trains also include reclining seats, so you can always have a nap on board if you need to!

The best way to take advantage of the Spanish night trains is if you want to travel to another country. For example, you can catch a train to Portugal , France or Switzerland. Don’t forget to book your seat reservations for night trains and high-speed trains!

High-speed trains whilst interrailing Spain

Travelling by high-speed train in Spain is something else entirely . Not only are the trains clean, comfortable and fast, but they also offer a unique way to see the country, and can get you from A to B fast. 

The main high-speed network is AVE, where most interrail passes are valid. But as I previously mentioned, you will need to pay a reservation fee. These range between 5-10 EUR, depending on the class and seat type.

Where to stay when interrailing Spain

There are a few things to consider when choosing accommodation – do you want to be in the heart of the action or off the beaten path? Are you looking for a party hostel or a quiet boutique hotel?  And, of course, there’s always the all-important question of budget. 

When it comes to finding accommodation whilst interrailing Spain, there are a number of options available to suit all budgets. 

Hostels are popular amongst backpackers , offering affordable shared dorm rooms and communal facilities such as kitchens and lounge areas. But if you prefer a little more privacy, there are also a number of hotels and private apartments available. 

Whatever your budget or preferences, there is sure to be accommodation to suit you whilst interrailing Spain.

Best hostels in Spain for backpackers

Whilst there will be many hostels all over Spain to stay in as a backpacker, these are some of the best. All of the hostels listed are perfect for  solo travellers and couples who are looking to meet other backpackers whilst interrailing Spain.

Barcelona: St Christopher’s Barcelona ➡ BOOK NOW!

Granada: Oripando Hostel ➡ BOOK NOW

Bilbao: Residencia Universitaria San Mamés ➡ BOOK NOW

Madrid: The Hat ➡ BOOK NOW

Valencia: Cantagua Hostel ➡ BOOK NOW

Interrailing Spain Route 1

🇪🇸  Duration:  Two weeks

🚇  Four locations in Spain: Barcelona > Madrid > Valencia > Seville

If you only have 2 weeks to spend interrailing Spain, I’d recommend visiting these highlights. By doing this route, you’ll get to experience the fun atmosphere of Barcelona, pay a visit to the capital Madrid, the sandy beaches of Valencia and the famous architecture of Seville.

Interrailing Spain Route 2

🇪🇸  Duration:  Three weeks

🚇  Six locations in Spain: Bilbao > Barcelona > Madrid > Valencia > Seville > Malaga

Similar to the previous route, but adding in the northern city of Bilbao, which is known for its fun nightlife and hiking. This route needs at least three weeks to be enjoyed fully. Also, a final stop in Malaga means you can spend some time relaxing on the beach!

Interrailing Spain Route 3

🇪🇸  Duration:  Four weeks

🚇  Seven locations in Spain: Bilbao > Barcelona > Madrid > Valencia > Seville > Malaga > Granada 

If you’re lucky enough to have four weeks to spend interrailing Spain, I’d also recommend adding in a few days in Granada.  Granada is a city in southern Spain surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s fun for backpackers and tourists, with iconic architecture and ridiculously good tapas. 

➡  Don’t forget to pre-book your accommodation! You can check out the  best hostels in Spain here.

Interrailing Spain: train durations

Below I have listed some of the longer (or more frequently used) train duration times for your interrailing Spain trip.

Barcelona > Madrid: 2.5 hours

Madrid > Valencia: 1 hour 40 mins

Valencia > Seville: 4.5 hours

Malaga > Granada: 1.5 hours

How much does interrailing Spain cost?

As always, this will depend on the type of trip you will have whilst interrailing Spain. Are you going to stay in hotels, or rough it in shared dorms? Are you going to cook in your Airbnb each night, or try all of the different tapas restaurants?

As a ballpark amount, I would budget 70-100 EUR per day to interrail Spain. It’s just slightly cheaper than France, but still a hefty price for a budget backpacker. 

If you opt to stay in shared dorms , you may be able to get this price down to 60 EUR per day, but just ensure you save enough money to really make the most of your trip to Spain!

Want to interrail on a budget? I’ve got you covered. Check out my detailed post on interrailing on a budget here.

Useful Phrases whist Interrailing Spain

Make sure you don’t get confused with Spanish vocabulary whilst boarding the trains!  Here are a few useful phrases to remember whilst travelling between Spanish cities:

Train:  tren

Ticket:  boleto

Train station : estacion de tren

Ticket office:  taquilla

Carriage : carro

Seat: asiento

Arrivals:  llegadas

Departures:  salidas

Don’t forget insurance!

Whilst you’re backpacking, you will always need insurance. We use SafetyWing, for the most flexible, reliable and budget-friendly options. They have the best cover for worldwide, long-term trips, and at the most affordable backpacker prices! You can check out their cover here.

What to pack for interrailing Spain

As I always say, you’ll need a good pair of walking shoes . You’ll be doing a lot of walking on your interrailing Spain trip, so make sure you have comfortable shoes that you can walk long distances in. 

Secondly, pack light! You’ll be moving around a lot and you don’t want to be lugging a heavy bag around with you. 

A small backpack or a wheeled suitcase is ideal. 

Thirdly, make sure you pack some essential items such as a portable charger , an everyday tote bag and a power adapter for your electronics. 

And finally, don’t forget to pack your camera ! With interrailing Spain you’ll want to take lots of photos of all the amazing places you visit.

If you’d like a more detailed packing list for interrailing Europe , you can read my post: What To Pack Interrailing Europe: Packing List Essentials .

Best destinations for interrailing Spain

Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. (If you’re visiting for the first time, be sure to check out this incredible Barcelona travel guide first!)

The city is home to architectural treasures, world-class museums, and some of the best tapas in the country! Barcelona is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of parks and beaches to explore. And of course, no visit to Barcelona would be complete without cheering on Barcelona’s legendary football team, FC Barcelona. 

The city is home to Barcelona Cathedral, as well as the world-famous church of Sagrada Familia. Barcelona’s architecture is a mix of styles, ranging from Gothic to Art Nouveau, and is home to two world-class art museums: the Museu Picasso and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. 

Or, if you fancy something different, check out Barcelona Boat Tours . I’ll always try and hop on a boat when I’m visiting a city by the sea, and Barcelona is one of the best places to do it!

Need somewhere to stay in Barcelona ? Be sure to check out this post for some of the best neighbourhoods! Barcelona is an amazing place to add to your interrailing trip!

Booking hostels?

Choosing the right hostel as a backpacker is crucial to how successful your trip will be. Always use Hostelworld.com for the cheapest rates, widest availability and most importantly – honest reviews from other travellers! Click here to view the best hostels for your trip.

Granada is one of the best places to visit during your Spanish interrailing trip. This beautiful city is home to the world-famous Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that is definitely worth a visit. 

Granada is also home to numerous other historical sites, such as the Cathedral of Granada and the Royal Chapel, as well as a number of interesting museums. 

The city has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of bars and restaurants to keep you entertained. And if you’re looking for some adventure, you can always go skiing in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains!

Bilbao is a charming and fun city in the Basque region of Spain and is known for its food, culture, and architecture. The best way to experience Bilbao is to walk around the city and explore all it has to offer (which is of course, free. Yay!). 

Bilbao has a lot of character and there are many things to do that are free or on a backpacker budget , like walking around the Old Town and visiting the Guggenheim Museum. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is one of the most iconic buildings in the city and is definitely worth a visit. You can buy tickets in advance online which will save you money. There are also often discounts for students and seniors. 

If your budget allows, you can take a boat ride on the Nervion River. Bilbao is located on the Nervion River and is one of the best ways to see the city!

Interrailing Spain FAQs

1) is it worth getting an interrail pass to travel spain.

This depends on the duration of your trip, and whether or not you are only visiting Spain. If you are planning on travelling to Spain or Europe for longer than a week, I would recommend getting an interrailing pass . 

However, if you’re visiting for a shorter amount of time, such as 2-5 days, it may work out cheaper to buy individual high-speed train tickets. 

Don’t forget there are always offers on interrailing passes , as well as the Youth Discount, so if you’re travelling Europe for more than 5 days, I would recommend purchasing an interrail pass . 

2) How do I book tickets to Interrail Spain?

Once you’ve bought your interrailing pass and have a destination plan, you can book your seat reservations.  Your interrail pass is activated when you reach the first location that  isn’t  your home country/city.

Have a look at Interrail’s train timetable to find times and destinations. Most trains will require a seat reservation (especially high-speed and sleeper trains). Slower train seat reservations are usually cheaper, or in some cases, free.

➡ Need to hire a car in Italy?  We rent our cars all over Europe from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES NOW!

3)  What tours should I do in Spain? 

Looking to book a tour whilst interrailing Spain?   Tours  are one of the best ways to see the  hidden gems of the country you are visiting.  If you’re travelling during peak season, I highly recommend pre-booking your tours to ensure you don’t miss out!

When travelling, we use  this company to book our tours .  Tours include skip-the-line tickets to the world’s most iconic attractions, walking tours by top local experts, immersive food and beverage tours, cooking and craft classes, bucket list experiences, and niche offerings you won’t find anywhere else!  ➡ You can check out available tours in  Spain with prices here!

4)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Spain? 

If you’re not from Spain, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for   eSIMs here!

Interrailing Spain: In a Nutshell

If you’re looking for an amazing European interrailing trip that won’t break the bank (entirely), I highly recommend interrailing across Spain. Oh, and don’t forget to book your interrailing pass before you go!

Have you ever been to Spain? What was your favourite part? Let me know in the comments below or DM me on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy travelling!

• Backpacking Europe: A Beginners Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Interrail on a Budget: Interrail Europe CHEAP! (2022)

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MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Train Travel in Spain: A Helpful Guide

By: Author Hannah Cooper

Posted on Last updated: January 19, 2024

Train travel in Spain is an environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and scenic means of getting around this huge country.

Operated by Renfe, the train system in Spain is sophisticated and efficient. It links major Spanish cities with smaller towns inland and on the coasts of Spain. You can rely on Spanish trains to get you from city to city as part of a wider travel itinerary as well as for independent day trips from Alicante , Málaga , Valencia , Seville , Barcelona , and more.

This guide is a window into what you need to know about traveling by train and how to buy train tickets in Spain.

All you need to know about train travel in Spain

Renfe (pronounced Ren-fay) is responsible for the national train system in Spain. The company operates mainline, regional, suburban, and local trains across the country.

High-speed AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) are specific trains that service major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, and Seville in a fraction of the time it takes by road. AVE trains reach maximum speeds of 300 km/h (186 mph).

Avlo trains are low-cost high-speed services. These have fewer onboard frills that save passengers money but journey times are on par with AVE trains.

Several other providers operate within the Renfe umbrella. Renfe Feve serves northern Spain and FGC operates around Barcelona.

Visit OpenRailwayMap to view all railway routes.

There are so many modes of transportation around Spain, but train travel is one of the most comfortable and convenient.

What’s it like traveling by train in Spain?

Trains in Spain are very comfortable and modern with onboard bathrooms and air-conditioning. High-speed AVE trains usually have Wi-Fi although it’s not always guaranteed that it will work throughout the entire route. It’s wise to use a VPN to protect yourself against cyber threats.

Seats are sold as per Standard Class (2nd class) and Comfort Class (1st class).

Básico (Basic) is the cheapest fare available and applies only to Standard Class.

Elige (Choice) is a semi-flexible ticket and gives you a choice of Elige Standard Class or Elige Confort in Comfort Class.

Premium is totally flexible and is available in Comfort Class. It often involves other perks such as onboard dining and/or lounge access.

Seats are generally configured as airline rows of twos or as four-person table seats. First-class carriages have the added perk of solo seating for those traveling alone.

Standard classes are comfortable for the average traveler although first-class train travel in Spain has additional legroom.

Most regional Spain trains are equipped with a cafe bar where you can buy food and drink. It’s fine to take your own food which was purchased elsewhere onboard. Alcohol is permitted on trains but rowdy behavior is not.

Valencia has two different train stations depending on whether you are traveling locally or further afield on the fast trains.

How to buy train tickets in Spain

The best way to book train travel in Spain is online. Omio and Trainline are the safest and most user-friendly websites for booking rail tickets in Spain. You’re required to register an account and will need to type in your passport number as part of the booking process.

These platforms have apps where you can store mobile tickets and keep an eye on service interruptions. Subject to availability, you’ll be able to state a preference for window/aisle seating. The classes may be listed differently than stated earlier but it’s easy to figure out what you’re getting with each tier.

They list prices in different currencies and accept most foreign credit and debit cards. Both sites apply a minimal service charge to your booking.

Omio is preferred for booking rail tickets in Spain. It displays more information about what to expect onboard, such as Wi-Fi and meal availability.

It’s important to pay attention to the terms and conditions regarding validity. Most tickets are valid on the selected train and refunds/amendments are not possible until you pay extra at the time of booking.

Of course, if the service is canceled then you will either be assigned to the next available train at no additional cost or receive a refund.

It’s also possible to book Spain train travel directly on Renfe . This website lists the fares in euros and as an added perk, does not apply a service fee. However, it’s cumbersome to use.

You must use the Spanish names of each city (and spell them correctly). The Spanish-English translation isn’t always very clear. The site doesn’t always accept non-Spanish payment cards.

It is, however, the best website to check for train times and to compare prices. But often, you can get a better price on Omio or Trainline , even with the small transaction fee applied. Compare each website to see which is offering the best deal.

It’s worth having a quick look at the schedules but heading to Omio and Trainline to make a reservation. Besides, these sites are easier to search using the standard English-language spellings of Spanish locations.

Trains in Spain can take you to some pretty spectacular places.

When to book train travel in Spain

Practically all Spain trains require a seat reservation. These are free and mean there’s no chance of spending the journey dangling over other passengers in the aisle (a far cry from the sardine-style approach of British trains).

Due to this rule, booking rail tickets in Spain ahead of travel time is often mandatory.

Long-distance and high-speed train travel in Spain always requires advanced booking. This is crucial during summer as well as peak times such as Christmas, New Year, and Easter when Spanish nationals are visiting friends and family.

It’s also wise to check out regional and local festivals in Spain as this can result in certain routes being oversubscribed.

Booking train tickets in Spain ahead of time is also much cheaper. You can save over half the full-price fare when you plan ahead by a few weeks or more.

Shorter journeys of an hour or less generally don’t require notice and can be booked on the day. That being said, it’s always wise to pre-book, especially during peak travel seasons and if you’re on a commuter journey (like Barcelona to Girona , for example).

Trains in Spain are usually open for booking 60 days in advance. AVE services may open up to 90 days ahead.

There is a confusing number of train stations in Barcelona, but most long-distance trains will go through Barcelona Sants.

A quick guide to Barcelona-Sants Train Station

Barcelona-Sants (Sants Estación) is the main and largest railway station in Barcelona. It’ll never win any awards for its architecture but it functions well as a travel depot.

Sants is located in the Sants-Montjuïc district.

It’s connected to the Sants Estació metro station which is served by lines 3 (green) and 5 (blue). Line 3 heads to the Gothic Quarter and Plaça de Catalunya.

It’s also possible to hail taxis from the forecourt or use apps. Consult our guide to Uber in Barcelona and alternative services.

Platforms 1-6 receive TGV services to and from Paris and AVE high-speed trains to and from Madrid, Seville, and Málaga, as well as other French cities. This is also where to go for Alvia trains to San Sebastian and Bilbao in northern Spain.

Platforms 7-14 are used for suburban trains and EuroMed services to Valencia and Alicante.

There are several day trips from Barcelona possible by train. Note that not all of these depart from Barcelona-Sants so it’s important to check.

Espanya, Plaça de Catalunya, Francia, and Passeig de Gràcia are other major train stations in Barcelona.

Where to stay near Barcelona-Sants

Hotel Barceló Sants is located within the terminal. There are better areas to stay as part of a longer travel itinerary in Barcelona although it’s handy if you have an early arrival or late departure. Rooms are ultra-modern and practically equipped. The best ones have city views.

The Madrid Atocha Train Station is probably my favorite station in Spain thanks to the tropical garden inside.

A quick guide to Madrid Atocha Train Station

Madrid Atocha Train Station (Madrid Estación de Atocha) is the main railway terminal in the Spanish capital. In complete contrast to Barcelona-Sants, this trainshed is an architectural masterpiece.

The art nouveau facade is simple yet majestic and almost perfectly symmetrical. The concourse houses an indoor “rainforest” of around 400 different species of plants and flora. Considering the green nature of Madrid it’s very fitting, and also a welcome treat during the arid summer months.

Madrid’s train station is located in its namesake Atocha neighborhood, just off the southern end of El Retiro Park and the botanical garden.

It connects to two metro stations: Estación Del Arte and Estación Atocha. Both are served by Line 1 (blue).

Most high-speed trains depart from platforms 1-15. This extended part of the station is known as Madrid Puerta de Atocha (or, Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes).

Madrid Atocha-Cercanías is a separate area with platforms labeled 1-10. Cercanías means commuter and indicates that suburban services arrive and depart from here. This route map of Cercanías Madrid is useful for getting around the suburban areas.

Tickets will specify which part of the station your train departs from. Omio makes it very clear ahead of booking although Trainline doesn’t confirm which station you’ll be using until the confirmation email is sent.

Departures marked as Planta Primera means that the train leaves from the upper level. Planta Baja refers to the ground floor.

Madrid Chamartin (Estación de Madrid-Chamartín Clara Campoamor) is the other train station. It’s located eight miles north of Atocha and somewhat far from the city center.

This station serves connections to the north – such as San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, and Santiago de Compostela. It’s also the cheapest place to get the fast train to Valencia , so you may very well find yourself here. You can get here easily on the metro.

Every northbound Cercanías train from Atocha stops at Chamartin.

Where to stay near Madrid Atocha

Only YOU Hotel Atocha is so close you can practically smell the succulents! Rooms feature cool decor like exposed brick walls and vintage-inspired desks. Top-tier rooms have balconies and their suites may tempt you to blow your life savings.

Seeing as Atocha is quite central, you can also check out accommodation in some of the best areas to stay in Madrid . Lavapiés and Retiro are worthy contenders.

There are a lot of regional trains in cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid that can take you on great day trips.

Interrail Spanish train travel

Interrail passes are available for use on Spain trains.

The Interrail Spain One Country Pass is valid for European citizens and residents. It comes as a three, four, five, six, and eight-day flexi pass. Seat reservations are required for high-speed, international, and night train services.

The Global Pass is also available as a flexi or continuous pass for Europeans.

Eurail passes are available for non-Europeans.

For both passes you will need to make sure that you book your

Traveling Spain by train versus rental car?

Traveling by train in Spain or renting a car? The pros and cons of train travel and hiring a car in Spain are listed below.

Before we get there – you could always consider a hybrid approach. It might make sense to cover greater distances by train (such as Madrid to Barcelona) and then hire a car locally.

Pros of train travel in Spain

• Spanish train travel is kinder to the environment than driving or taking short-haul flights
• Booking train tickets in Spain is straightforward with Omio / Trainline
• The train system in Spain is well-connected and efficient
• No need to worry about parking a hire vehicle
• Spanish trains are comfortable and maintained
• Train travel in Spain means you can catch up on work, trip planning, or indulge in relaxation time
• Pets are permitted on most routes although terms and conditions apply

Cons of Spain train travel

• Can be expensive when tickets are not reserved in advance
• Cheaper fares are non-transferable
• Booking rail tickets in Spain last minute isn’t always possible
• Antisocial behavior on public transport is always a risk
• Trains aren’t always comfortable for travelers with babies and younger children
• Pets aren’t permitted on all trains

The fast trains in Spain are sleek and comfortable. Getting from Madrid to Valencia in under two hours is one of my favorite (and most frequented) journies.

Pros of renting a car in Spain

• Allows more flexibility to an itinerary
• Greater opportunities to travel beyond classic vacation destinations in Spain
• Road conditions in Spain are exemplary
• More comfortable for families with young children
• Driving in Spain is awesome for US folks – they drive on the right!

Cons of car hire in Spain

• It can be expensive – especially for solo travelers or if an accident occurs
• Petrol costs need to be included in your budget
• Not eligible for lead drivers under the age of 21
• Younger drivers (under the age of 25) might have to pay a surcharge
• Driving in Spain is less awesome for Brits – remember to drive on the right!

The Madrid Atocha station is well connected so if you arrive in Madrid, you can get almost anywhere in Spain from this station.

Packing checklist for Spain train travel

Once you’ve committed to traveling by train in Spain, it’s just a case of packing your bags and not missing your departure.

The official luggage limit is 25 kg per passenger although it’s not enforced. Baggage is stowed in overhead racks or in designated areas at the ends of the carriage.

Some stations will scan bags ahead of boarding a long-distance train route in Spain.

• Water – long-distance trains will have a cafe bar onboard. However, it’s good to reduce plastic consumption when possible. Tap water in Spain is safe to drink so remember to take a reusable bottle. This stainless steel water bottle is my go-to (I have a few colors now and they last for years). It comes in two sizes and keeps liquids ice-cold for up to 24 hours.
• Snacks – pick up some pastries or a sandwich for your journey in case there are issues with food supply. You might also want to pack healthy nibbles like fresh fruit, nuts, and olives (maybe some cheeses) from the market – these stackable container pots are great for organizing your haul.
• Warm layer – air-conditioning can result in a nippy carriage. Pack a practical blanket scarf as a snuggly cover-up or an oversized hoodie .
• Book/eReader – not that you’ll tire of the scenery, but having something to read is always wise for train travel in Spain (or any other country). The Kindle Paperwhite comes out tops for eye comfort, portability, and battery life. It also works with Audible audiobooks.
• Noise-canceling headphones – don’t be that person watching videos on your device without headphones. Noise-canceling headphones will help block out any irritating noises from other passengers while you tune into a podcast. These over-the-ear Sony headphones are super comfy although you might prefer a pair of noise-canceling earbuds .
• Combination lock – an obvious one, but you’ll need a padlock for your main suitcase or backpack.

Visiting Spain by train – Which route and circuit to choose?

If you want to visit Spain by train, then here are my tips for choosing from the best routes and prices.

In addition, I share with you an itinerary that allows you to visit the most beautiful Spanish cities in 10 days or more!

In this post, you will also find advice on how to travel cheaply in Spain and organize your train trip as best as possible.

Why choose the train to visit Spain?

Here are the main advantages of choosing the train as a mode of transport to travel in Spain:

• Scenic and comfortable journey in modern carriages, well equipped with power outlets and Wi-Fi;
• The high-speed rail network (AVE) is the ideal means of transport to explore Spain quickly;
• Best transport option to reduce carbon footprint;
• Low cost compared to plane or car;
• Easy access to tourist sites in major Spanish cities.

Where to find cheap train tickets to Spain?

Booking train tickets in Spain is relatively simple, with several options available for travelers wanting to plan their trips in advance. Tickets can be purchased online via the website of the chosen railway company or at renfe.com which is the platform dedicated to booking tickets and consulting train timetables.

But the cheapest option for traveling by train in Spain is to choose the Interrail Pass . Indeed, for €220, this pass allows you to make up to 6 train journeys, which is ideal for visiting the 5 most beautiful cities in Spain.

You can use your 6 trips at any time over a period of one month, individually or to take a sightseeing tour (see my itinerary below).

If you are not European, you have the same possibilities but on the site eurail.com .

How long does it take to visit Spain by train?

By choosing an Interrail pass, you can visit Spain in as much time as you want, but no more than 1 month. In fact, you will be able to choose the dates and times of your train tickets for different Spanish cities freely provided they do not exceed 30 days.

But if you are looking for a time-optimized tour, you can visit Spain by train in 10 days by choosing night trains or trains with very early morning departures. For example, the circuit itinerary that I present below can be done in 10 days. But if you have more time, you can do it in 15 days, 3 weeks or 1 month!

How to visit Spain by train?

You have hundreds of possibilities to visit Spain by train. Indeed, the rail network is very extensive and allows easy access to the country's main destinations ( see the different train lines to visit the most beautiful regions of Spain at the end of the article ).

Among the most popular lines to visit Spain by train are:

• The journey linking Madrid to Seville, offering an immersion in Andalusian culture,
• the journey between Barcelona and Valencia, renowned for its coastal beauty,
• The line from Barcelona to Malaga is also a good option for exploring the beautiful region of Andalusia.

In addition to these popular routes, Spain is full of scenic rail routes offering spectacular panoramic views.

Among these routes are the journey from Granada to Almeria, crossing unique desert landscapes, as well as the journey from Bilbao to Ferrol, offering an immersion in the coastal beauty of northern Spain. In addition, the route from Zaragoza to Lérida allows you to admire the picturesque rural landscapes of the Aragon region.

However, if you want to get a general overview of Spain, I recommend taking a train tour of several regions of Spain. See below the one I offer you.

Train tour to visit Spain

Here is a nice train tour that allows you to visit the most beautiful cities in Spain: Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Madrid, Malaga, Seville. In addition to the cities to visit, at each stage you can expand your visits around the cities and thus discover the different Spanish provinces and regions.

Here is the route map of this train tour:

Itinerary to visit the most beautiful cities in Spain by train

Here are the stages of the train route which allows you to discover Spain by stopping in these most beautiful cities:

Train ride from Barcelona to Valencia

• Train journey from Valencia to Madrid

Train journey from Madrid to Malaga

Train journey from malaga to seville.

• Return from Seville to Barcelona

Here are details of the most beautiful cities and most beautiful sites that you can visit in Spain by following this train route:

Barcelona – Stage 1

What's better than starting your trip in Barcelona? The town is full of cozy bars and restaurants, beautiful architecture, and even a beach. Here are some must-see places to visit:

• The Ramblas
• Plaça de Catalunya
• Mercat de la boqueria
• Ciutadella Park

To be able to visit all the emblematic sites of the city, I recommend that you follow my tour to visit Barcelona on foot .

And for accommodation, I recommend the hotel  The Medinaceli in one of best neighborhoods in Barcelona , very well placed for visiting or doing shopping in Barcelona .

The train journey from Barcelona to Valencia lasts 3 to 3 hours without changing trains along the way. You will depart from Barcelona Sants station. If you travel with the Euromed train company, you will arrive at Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station.

If you take a Talgo train you will arrive at Valencia-Estacio del Nord station, this option will take 30 minutes longer than the Euromed train. The 2 stations are located south of Valencia city center.

Valencia – Stage 2

The second stop on this route is Valencia. This city is full of historical sites such as the Valencia Cathedral, the Basilica of Valencia and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lonja de la Seda.

Another very popular item on your list of things to see in Valencia is the beautifully designed La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias museum and the L'Océanographic aquarium.

Additionally, if you want the beach, then head to Playa de las Arenas, near the city center or further afield Playa el Saler or La Garrofera.

And if you don't know where to stay, which area of ​​Valencia to avoid , then here is a very good hotel that I recommend: MYR Palacio Vallier

Train ride from Valencia to Madrid

The train journey from Valencia to Madrid takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes. Departure is from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station and arrival at Madrid-Puerto de Atocha station.

Madrid – Stage 3

The capital of Spain is a must when visiting the country. You can spend a day there walking through El Retiro Park, around the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. You can see the Royal Palace, visit the Prado Museum or go shopping on Gran Via.

If you are not familiar with the neighborhoods of Madrid , I recommend that you stay in a hotel well located in the beautiful areas of the city center: Hotel H10-Villa de la Reina

The AVE train journey from Madrid to Malaga takes less than 3 hours.

From Madrid, departure is at Madrid-Puerta de Atocha station for arrival at Maria Zambrano station in Malaga.

Malaga – Stage 4

Welcome to Malaga, bathed in sunshine on the Costa del Sol, home of Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas!

This magnificent town is ideal for sightseeing but also for enjoying the beaches (Playa de la Malagueta or Playa Caleta).

Among the must-see sites in Malaga, you can visit the Gibralfaro Castle or the remains of a Moorish palace, the Alcazaba. In addition, you will find many museums like the Picasso Museum.

If you are looking for a very nice hotel in the city center, this is it. solecio palace which is one of the most beautiful hotels in the city (far from the neighborhoods to avoid in Malaga ).

The journey from Malaga to Seville takes only 2 hours by AVE train. It departs from Malaga Maria Zambrano station and arrives at Seville-Santa Justa station.

Seville – Stage 5

This train tour to visit Spain ends in one of the most beautiful cities in the country: Seville.

Located around the Guadalquivir River, Seville is known for its flamenco shows and tapas.

Among the mythical sites of Seville, you can visit the Cathedral of Seville, La Giralda, the royal palace Real Alcazar or the Museo de Bellas Artes.

If you are spending several days in Seville, I recommend booking a day trip to Ronda which is also a must-visit site. Andalusia .

See also the recommended hotel for visiting Seville on foot: Hotel   Don Pedro Palace House  

Train lines to visit the most beautiful regions of Spain

With very fast travel times, AVE trains allow you to visit the most beautiful regions and tourist sites in Spain.

Here are the different AVE train lines that you can combine depending on the places you want to visit:

Traveling by train in southern Spain

• Madrid – Seville line : It is one of the most popular lines of the AVE network in Spain. In just 2 hours, you can go from the great monuments of Madrid, such as the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum, to the charm of Seville with its famous Giralda and its Gold Tower. This line also has intermediate stops in Ciudad Real, Puertollano and Córdoba, where you can visit iconic places such as the UNESCO-listed Córdoba Mosque.
• Barcelona – Seville line : Journey of just over 5 hours which allows you to visit several interesting destinations along the way. You can visit the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and then be in Seville in the afternoon. This line also makes stops in Tarragona, Lleida, Zaragoza, Ciudad Real and Cordoba.
• Valencia – Seville line which are two beautiful tourist destinations in Spain. Take advantage of these two cities to discover their rich historical, cultural and gastronomic heritage. Stops on this line include Cuenca, Ciudad Real and Córdoba.
• Madrid – Malaga line to go to the Costa del Sol. In just 2 hours 40 minutes, you can go from Madrid to Malaga to enjoy its sun, beaches and Roman theater. This line also stops at Córdoba, Puente Genil and Antequera, other options for discovering the wonders of Andalusia.
• Barcelona – Malaga line to travel to the Spanish Mediterranean coast. In just over six hours you can travel from Barcelona to Malaga. This line also makes stops in Tarragona, Lleida, Zaragoza, Ciudad Real, Puertollano, Cordoba, Puente Genil and Antequera.
• Madrid – Granada line : In just over 3 hours you can travel from Madrid to Granada and visit the famous Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This line makes stops at Cordoba , Puente Genil and Antequera.

Traveling by train in Eastern Spain

• Madrid – Barcelona line to get to Catalonia from Madrid in just two and a half hours. This line also stops in Zaragoza, Lleida and Tarragona.
• Madrid – Castellón line which connects Madrid to the Valencia region in 2 hours and thirty minutes. This line includes stops in Cuenca, Requena and Utiel.
• Madrid – Alicante line to travel to the Costa Blanca in Spain. In just 2 hours 40 minutes you can go from Madrid to Alicante and discover its old town and the Santa Bárbara castle. This line has stops in Cuenca, Albacete and Villena.

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2 Weeks in Spain. The Perfect Train Itinerary for Culture Lovers

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure

If you’re planning to spend 2 weeks in Spain , figuring out where to go is probably high on your priority list. Of course, the ideal itinerary will depend greatly on your interests. But if this is your first time visiting Spain or you are ready to revisit after several years, this 2 week Spain itinerary is a great start .

Spain is an amazing and diverse country and you can pack a ton of fun activities in a 2 week trip around Spain. You won’t see EVERYTHING — you’d need to spend months, even years traveling through Spain to accomplish that! But spending two weeks in Spain can be a fantastic introduction to all the delicious food, intriguing culture, and fascinating architecture this country has to offer.

While you can definitely go on a road trip through Spain, I believe the best way to see Spain in 2 weeks is by train . This option almost always ensures stress-free travel and guarantees you’ll arrive rested at your destination.

Additionally, Spain has an extensive high-speed rail network. This makes traveling through Spain fast, comfortable and convenient. And in most cases, train travel in Spain is much faster than flying since you are not wasting any time on airport transfers, security checks, and just waiting around.

If you decide to see Spain by train, you can either buy individual train tickets or use a train pass. That’s an Interrail pass if you’re a European citizen or a Eurail pass if you reside anywhere else.

Spain train passes are valid for 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 days in a month. So if you want to see Spain in 14 days following this particular itinerary, purchasing a 5 days pass is what makes sense the most.

This 2 weeks in Spain itinerary starts in Barcelona and ends in Seville.

Barcelona is a huge tourist hub and Barcelona-El Prat airport connects Spain with over 200 destinations across the globe.

Seville, on the other hand, has a much smaller airport with flight connections to 40+ destinations around Europe and North Africa, including several daily flights to Barcelona and Madrid.

About this 2 weeks in Spain itinerary

I’ve packed quite a lot into this 14 day Spain itinerary by train . I also tried to plan a balanced trip that includes well-known landmarks, delicious culinary experiences, and bucket-list-worthy things to do in Spain .

I have a decade worth of experience traveling and living in Spain. While Spain has many beautiful places, these six (Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, Granada, Cordoba, and Seville) are the best of the best cities to visit in Spain .

Spain is a big country with 17 autonomous regions, each with its own traditions, customs, cuisine, climate, and natural wonders. This train itinerary will take you to the four richest and best-known regions from a cultural standpoint, which I believe are also the best places to visit in Spain for first-timers.

Sure, there are many other gems, some hidden, some not so much. But for somebody visiting Spain for the first time (or after several years — things change fast!), the places you’ll see if you follow this 14-day itinerary will surely give you a sense of Spain and leave an everlasting impression.

This two week Spain itinerary assumes you’ll arrive the evening before and leave the day after. This means you’ll basically spend a total of 14 days (and 16 nights) traveling through Spain. So, without further ado, let’s see how to spend two weeks in Spain and have the trip of a lifetime.

Spain in 2 weeks — Day 1 to 3: Barcelona

Barcelona is the most visited city in Spain. So it’s only natural to kickstart this Spain itinerary with a few days in the Catalan capital.

While Barcelona has plenty of attractions, I recommend you plan your time around architecture, museums, and food.

First off, Gaudí’s masterpieces are a must-see, starting with Sagrada Familia, the huge and dazzling basilica that has been under construction for well over 100 years. Construction work is planned to be finished by 2026. You can already admire pretty much all of the exterior and interior without much interference.

Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (together with 6 other Gaudí buildings) and it hosts the tomb of Antoni Gaudí. Over 8,000 people visit it every day.

Other must-see Gaudí masterpieces are Park Güell, Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, and Casa Vicens. Casa Vicens is the first house completed by Gaudí and it opened its doors as a museum for the first time in 2017.

I absolutely love every single Gaudí building. They are not only spectacular and thought-provoking but also incredibly different from one another. I encourage you to try to see as many of them as possible.

If you want to be really thorough, the Crypt of the Colònia Güell is just 20 minutes outside of Barcelona and can be visited as well. Due to the fact that Gaudí’s buildings are incredibly popular, it’s best to get skip-the-line tickets online whenever possible.

Besides Gaudí’s masterpieces, you should also make a beeline for Palau de la Música Catalana , another stunning modernist building. You can simply book a tour to see the splendid interior. But I highly recommend going to a concert here for the full experience.

Strolling along Las Ramblas , is a must as well, although it’s usually very busy and I find myself enjoying it less and less every time I visit.

One mandatory stop along Las Ramblas, however, is the La Boqueria market . Here you’ll find sinfully delicious smoothies, fruits, and tapas . Often referred to as the best food market in the world, over 40,000 people walk its alleys every day. You can even visit it in the company of a chef that will show you the best tapas stops and how to cook seafood paella .

A bit of a hidden gem, I also think you should take the elevator up the Columbus monument at the end of Las Ramblas for magnificent views of Barcelona and the Rambla itself.

Spain’s Catalonia region is famous for its cava (the Spanish take on sparkling wine). So another fun thing you can fit into your 2 weeks in Spain itinerary is a cava winery tour just outside Barcelona.

In terms of museums, I recommend the Picasso Museum and the Miro Museum . Plus, if you are a Salvador Dali fan, hop on a train to Figueres to visit the intriguing-looking Dali Theater Museum and see over 1,500 of his artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.

The high-speed train from Barcelona-Sanz to Figueres takes under one hour. It passes through Girona , a charming Catalan town with a well-preserved Jewish quarter and a Game of Thrones filming location. It’s worth spending an afternoon there on your way back. If you’d rather not bother with all the logistics, you can also join a tour.

While you can expect crowds year round (over 20 million people visit Barcelona every year!) summer is inevitably the most popular time of the year.

If you are looking for a more detailed itinerary, you can read my 3 days in Barcelona guide. It covers 18 of the best places to visit in an organized and efficient manner.

Where to stay in Barcelona

• Hotel 1898 is ideally situated on Las Ramblas, in a beautifully restored 19th-century building. It has a rooftop pool with a sun terrace, marble bathrooms, and sleek decor.

Spain in 2 weeks — Day 4 & 5: Valencia

If you leave Barcelona early, you can be in Valencia by mid-morning. You’ll either arrive at the old North Station (Estacion del Norte) or the modern Joaquin Sorolla station.

While the former is smack down in the city center, the latter is a bit further away. However, a bus connecting the two makes arriving at either station very convenient.

The bus runs every 10 minutes and the journey time between stations is under 5 minutes. You can board this bus for free just by showing your train ticket to the driver.

The North Station is an attraction in itself and it’s worth coming back to visit without luggage.

On the day of your arrival, I recommend you explore the old town . This is where most attractions and museums are located (check out my extensive list of things to do in Valencia ).

Visit the cathedral — it is believed to host the real Holy Grail, on display in one of the chapels. For a bird’s eye view of the city, climb the bell tower (known among locals as Miguelete). This Gothic-style tower has a spiral staircase with 207 narrow steps that will surely give you a workout.

If you’re into architecture, make sure you visit the San Nicolas Church . It’s tucked away between buildings and you get to it through a nondescript alley, but it hides some of the most spectacular Baroque frescoes. It has even been dubbed the Valencian Sixtine Chapel.

Stop by La Lonja , the old silk exchange built during the Valencian golden age when most silk trade on the Mediterranean passed through Valencia. This is the only building in Valencia declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main hall with its palm tree columns is absolutely stunning.

Another must-see in the city center is the Palace of Marques de Dos Aguas . The out-of-this-world Rococo facade is one of the most Insta-worthy places in Valencia. While the lavishly decorated rooms on the first floor will give you a glimpse into the life of a noble Valencian family during the 18th century.

On your second day in Valencia, you could head to the beach . The marina and miles-long promenade are beautiful, and the restaurants here serve the best paella in Valencia . Or you could take a paella cooking class and learn to prepare the world’s most famous rice dish yourself.

You cannot leave Valencia without seeing the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic architectural complex built by the renowned Valencian architect, Santiago Calatrava.

For a panoramic view of Valencia, join this tour that includes a visit to the famed buildings and a tapas tasting on one of the highest terraces in town. Dining tapas with views at the City of Arts and Sciences is a priceless experience that should not be missed when visiting Spain in two weeks.

Where to stay in Valencia

I recommend booking a centrally located hotel close to North Station. This will make everything super accessible.

• NH Collection Colon is a two-minute walk from the North Station. It’s a recently renovated, elegant hotel on Valencia’s main shopping street. Ideal when getting around Spain by train.
• Palacio de Rojas is situated in the old town, within walking distance of the train station. This is one of my favorite hotels in Valencia. It looks great and the beds are super comfortable.

Spain in 2 weeks — Day 6 to 8: Madrid

Getting from Valencia to Madrid only takes 1h 35min by AVE (literally meaning ‘bird’ in Spanish) train. You’ll arrive at the Atocha train station, which is centrally located and hosts an awe-inspiring exotic garden under its glass dome.

Madrid is a bustling capital, with several must-see attractions, including the Royal Palace and El Prado museum.

If you want a detailed account of all you could see, check out my 3 days in Madrid itinerary . There I cover everything, from where to go to what to eat while in Madrid.

If your two weeks in Spain itinerary includes the southern region of Andalucia, I recommend you skip the flamenco show for now. Flamenco is a passionate dance, with gypsy and Arabic influences, dating back to the 18th century. It originated in the south of Spain and the best performers still live there.

One mandatory stop in Madrid, however, is Sobrino de Botin . This restaurant is considered to be the oldest in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records. It’s a very atmospheric place and the food is exquisite. They specialize in Castilian cuisine, which roughly means central Spain.

It’s worth noting that Madrid attracts the best ingredients and chefs from all around Spain. This makes Madrid the ideal place to taste all kinds of Spanish foods specific to other parts of the country.

To get the most out of your 2 weeks in Spain trip, you can also visit the nearby region.

Madrid is a modern capital and of course, everything is more refined here. But once you head out of the city, you’ll discover Spain in its raw state.

This day trip to Segovia, Avila, and Toledo packs a lot in only one day, but it’s very well organized and you’ll gain a much deeper knowledge of Spain as a result.

While you can visit any of these cities by train, you won’t be able to see them ALL in one day. So in this case, an organized guided tour is the best option.

If you’d rather spend more time in Madrid, you can go on a shorter, half-day trip to the royal monastery of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen.

Where to stay in Madrid

• Room Mate Alba is located in the center of Madrid, a few minutes from the Atocha train station. It has beautiful rooms full of character, free WiFi, and a sun terrace.
• For more accommodation options, see my list of the best boutique hotels in Madrid .

Spain in 2 weeks — Day 9 & 10: Granada

If you’ve spotted differences between the previous three Spanish regions, wait until you arrive in Andalusia!

The train journey from Madrid to Granada takes 3h 20 minutes on average and passes through Cordoba. But don’t get off just yet. It’s best if you come back in a couple of days. This is actually the smartest choice because this way you’ll get to spend more time in both Cordoba and Seville.

So why is the south so different from the rest of the country? Well, because it was under Moorish rule for way longer.

The occupation of Andalusia lasted almost 800 years. It concluded in 1492 when Granada, the last Moorish stronghold, finally surrendered. This, obviously left a deep mark.

Andalusia’s cultural and artistic heritage remains quite different (and fascinating) to this day. For me, visiting Andalusia feels like I’m with one foot in Africa already.

The Alhambra complex is the must-see attraction here, and no visit to Granada is complete without taking the time to wander through its breathtaking gardens and palaces.

Alhambra is the most visited attraction in Spain, with over 8,500 daily visitors! The place is huge though, so it doesn’t really feel that crowded. Plus it’s breathtaking. You really cannot skip it.

Given its popularity and the fact that it tends to be sold out days in advance, it’s best to book your tickets online before your trip. I also recommend getting the general ticket because it’s the most complete and includes all palaces and gardens inside the complex.

You could also visit the cathedral — the Catholic Kings (aka Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile) are buried here. This power couple was kind of a big deal back in the day. First off, their marriage led to the unification of Spain. Then they funded Columbus’ expeditions that ended up with the discovery of the Americas.

Take your time to discover Albaycin, a fascinating neighborhood with narrow winding streets dating back to medieval times when Granada was still under Moorish occupation. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Alhambra.

Last but not least, fill your belly with all the delicious tapas you can find. This should become a habit during your two weeks in Spain. But in Granada, you have even more reasons to do so, as they have this amazing tradition of serving a small tapa with every drink you buy, and the more you order, the better the tapas get.

Where to stay in Granada

• Villa Oniria is located halfway between the train station and Alhambra, in a beautifully restored 19th-century manor house. The Andalusian style, comfortable rooms, private garden, and inner patio make this the perfect place to relax in Granada.

Spain in 2 weeks — Day 11: Cordoba

You can either spend a night in Cordoba or simply stop for a few hours on the way to Seville. Cordoba is a gorgeous city but has fewer must-see attractions and you can pretty much see them all in one day. You don’t really need to dedicate it more than that when visiting Spain in 2 weeks.

Start with the Mezquita , one of the most beautiful examples of Moorish architecture in Spain. Built on the site of a Visigoth church and a Roman temple before that, the Great Mosque was converted into a Catholic church during the Reconquista.

The 856 candy cane striped double columns are an architectural marvel and the whole place was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next off, take your time to wander the gorgeous streets of the old quarter . Its out-of-this-world patios (courtyards) are full of charming flower pots that come in contrast with the white walls.

Every May, a festival highlighting the most beautiful patios is organized. But don’t get discouraged if you visit any other time of the year. You’ll still find plenty of inviting patios to admire.

Other sights I loved and believe you should see are the Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos (a beautiful palace-fortress in Mudejar style) and Palacio de Viana (a 17th-century aristocratic home).

Where to stay in Cordoba

• H10 Palacio Colomera is a breathtakingly beautiful hotel right in the center of Cordoba. Rooms are quiet and comfortable and the private rooftop bar offers a great way to end the day.

Spain in 2 weeks — Day 12 to 14: Seville

Seville is, without a doubt, the most atmospheric city in Spain. So yes, you could say I saved the best for last.

Going on an evening stroll through Seville is a pure delight. It’s also when many locals like to go for a walk, as during the day temperatures can be quite high, especially in summer.

In fact, Seville was nicknamed the frying pan of Europe . As you can imagine, the best thing you can do at noon is to visit a museum or a palace rather than get a sunburn.

Start with the cathedral — Christopher Columbus is buried here — and the Alcazar. They are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and their beauty will spoil your senses.

You can save money with a combo ticket or you can book your skip-the-line Alcazar tickets here and your skip-the-line Cathedral tickets here. Both attractions tend to have very long lines, so getting your tickets in advance makes sense.

Remember I said that you should skip the flamenco show in Madrid because Seville organizes the best shows in the country?

Well, now it’s the moment to put a red carnation in your hair (or suit pocket) and head to a show. I saw this performance in the Triana neighborhood and enjoyed every moment.

UNESCO declared flamenco a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. If you’re a UNESCO fan, you cannot miss this.

Other places you should visit in Seville include the dazzling Plaza España and the Palace of the Countess de Lebrija . This palace is one of my favorite places in Seville. It hosts an impressive collection of Roman mosaics rescued from the nearby city of Italica.

Italica was the birthplace of Roman emperors Trajan and Hadrian. Recently, it was used as a Game of Thrones filming location — it doubled as the Dragonpit.

Casa de Pilatos with its delightful gardens dotted with marble statues, is another place you should visit, time permitting. And if you want to spend a romantic evening, board a cruise on the Guadalquivir at sunset. For more inspiration, you can check out my article about the best things to do in Seville in 3 days .

If you’ve been following my 2 weeks in Spain itinerary to the letter, you might also have time to take a day trip outside the city and visit the famous white villages and Ronda. Or take a trip to Gibraltar or even cross the strait to Morocco and visit Tangier.

Where to stay in Seville

• Hotel Las Casas de la Judería is one of my favorite hotels ever. Situated a stroll away from the cathedral, in Barrio de Santa Cruz aka the old Jewish quarter, the hotel is a collection of houses, each with its own Andalusian quirks. The houses are connected by a series of private gardens, the lobby has a piano bar and the whole place can be described as a city within a city.

10 days in Spain itinerary

If you only have 10 days in Spain, you can still see many of the highlights.

You could, for example, stop in Valencia for only a few hours to see the City of Arts and Sciences on your way to Madrid.

Also, dedicate 2 days instead of 3 to both Madrid and Seville and only 1 day to Granada to see the Alhambra.

Or you could skip Valencia and Cordoba altogether, for a trip that is less of a whirlwind and more straightforward.

Want to deepen your knowledge of Spain before you visit? Check out these interesting facts about Spain and learn more about Spain’s food culture and mealtimes .

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How to Explore Andalusia by Train: A 7-Day Rail Adventure

The Spanish region of Andalusia is known for its delectable cuisine, breathtaking natural scenery, incredible beaches, olive groves and rich and diverse cultural heritage.

It is also home to several of Spain's most well-known cities and towns that include Malaga, Seville , Granada , Cordoba and Ronda.

If you are looking for something a bit different then why not enjoy a train journey and explore Andalusias most amazing attractions and destinations.

Take advantage of Spain's comfortable, and convenient rail system as you explore this fascinating region.

Here then is 7-day rail excursion around Andalucia you may wish to try on your next holiday to Spain.

Day 1: Seville

Seville is the capital and largest city of Andalusia Spain , and a perfect starting point for your rail adventure.

You can easily reach Sevilla Spain by train from Madrid or Barcelona, or by plane from many European destinations.

Seville has a lot to offer to visitors, from the magnificent Seville Cathedral and Royal Palace (the Alcazar) to its charming old town and lively flamenco scene.

You can spend the day exploring the city's attractions, such as the Plaza de Espana, the Torre del Oro, the Metropol Parasol, and the Santa Cruz neighbourhood.

In the evening, you can enjoy a tapas tour or a flamenco show in one of the many bars and venues around the city.

Train Journey:

• Ave High Speed from Barcelona to Sevilla = €143 Return Fair (approx) Travel time: 5 Hours 18 Mins ( One Way )
• Ave High Speed from Madrid to Sevilla = €118. Return Fair (approx) Travel time: 2 Hours 55 Mins ( One Way )
• Check out hotels in Sevilla.

Day 2: Cordoba

On your second day, you can take a short train ride (about 45 minutes) to Cordoba, another gem of Andalusia.

Cordoba was once the capital of an Islamic caliphate that stretched from Spain to North Africa, and its legacy can be seen in its stunning architecture and culture.

The highlight of Cordoba is the Mezquita , a former mosque that was converted into a cathedral after the Christian reconquest. The Mezquita is a masterpiece of Islamic art and design, with its hundreds of arches and columns creating a mesmerizing effect.

Other recommended attractions to visit You can also visit in Cordoba include the Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos, the Roman Bridge, the Jewish Quarter, and the Medina Azahara.

• Ave High Speed from Seville To Cordoba = €47.50  One Way (approx)  Travel time: 45 Mins
• Check out hotels in Cordoba

Day 3: Cadiz

From Cordoba, you can take the train to Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe and a port city on the Atlantic coast.

Cadiz is known for its maritime history, its carnival celebrations, and its sunny beaches.

Here, you can spend the day wandering around the old town, admiring its monuments and churches, such as the Cathedral, the Torre Tavira, and the Castillo de San Sebastian.

Relax on one of the many beaches in Cadiz Spain , such as La Caleta or La Victoria and in the evening, you can sample some of the local seafood specialities or join a carnival party if you are visiting in February or March.

• MD Avant High-Speed Train from Cordoba To Cadiz = €35.50  One Way (approx)  Travel time: 3 Hours 15 Mins
• Check out hotels in Cadiz.

Day 4: Ronda

Day 4 and you are off to Ronda, one of Andalusia's most famous towns, on your fourth day.

Ronda is renowned for its picturesque setting atop a gorge that separates the old Moorish town from the more modern Christian town.

The Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), which crosses the gorge and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, is the most recognisable landmark in Ronda Spain .

You can also see the oldest bullring in Spain, the Arab baths, the Mondragon palace, and the Casa del Rey.

• MD Avant High-Speed Train from Cadiz to Antequera = €43.50  One Way (approx)  Travel time: 3 Hours 16 Mins

Then Change for:

• MD Avant High-Speed Train from Antequera to Ronda = €21.50  One Way (approx)  Travel time: 1 Hour 14 Mins
• Check out hotels in Ronda .

Day 5: Granada

From Ronda, the next train ride is to Granada, one of the most visited cities in Spain and a must-see in Andalusia.

Granada is famous for its Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world. The Alhambra consists of several palaces, gardens, and fortifications, each with its own style and charm.

You can spend hours exploring the Alhambra Palace and its grounds, admiring its intricate decorations, fountains, and views.

If you have time you could visit other attractions in Granada, such as the Cathedral, the Royal Chapel, the Albayzin Quarter, and the Sacromonte caves.

In the evening, enjoy the nightlife of Granada, along with free tapas with your drinks, yes in Granada it is a tradition in many bars to offer a free tapa with every drink, incredible, but true!

• MD Avant High-Speed Train from Ronda to Granada = €21  One Way (approx)  Travel time:  2 Hours 28 Mins
• Check out hotels in Granada .

Day 6: Malaga

For the final day, head off to Malaga, the second-largest city in Andalusia and a popular tourist destination

Malaga Spain is famous for being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, and you can visit his childhood home and museum to learn more about his life and art.

There’s plenty to see in the old quarter of Malaga including the  Carmen Thyssen Museum, the Museo de Malaga, and the Glass Museum.

Malaga also has a rich historical and cultural heritage, with monuments such as the Alcazaba of Malaga, a Moorish fortress; the Malaga Cathedral, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture; and the Gibralfaro Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.

And to finish off your 7-day train adventure we would highly recommend you head to the old quarter located around the Cathedral and enjoy some of the best tapas available anywhere in Spain not to mention a selection of busy music bars open until the small hours!

• MD Avant High-Speed Train from Granada to Malaga = €23  One Way (approx)  Travel time:  1 Hour 18 Mins
• Check out hotels in Malaga .

Day 7: Departure

On your last day, you can either take the AVE high-speed train back to Seville or Madrid, or you could catch a flight from Malaga's international airport.

Better still, why extend your stay in Malaga or explore other destinations in Andalucia or around Spain?

Whatever you choose, you will have unforgettable memories of your 7-day rail adventure in Andalucia.

Train Price Guide:

For the purpose of this journey, we used the basic rates of travelling on either the AVE high-speed service or the MD Avant High-Speed service. The MD trains are modified AVES for short to mid distances. The rates shown are for a single person travelling at non-peak times.

All train timetables, prices and tickets can be booked via the official Spanish train carrier RENFE website at https://venta.renfe.com

I hope you enjoyed this blog post and found it useful for planning your trip. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.

• About Author
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Hey there! I'm Matt, your friendly neighbourhood explorer extraordinaire! For the past 15 years, I've been gallivanting around Spain, soaking up all its wonders and uncovering hidden gems like a modern-day Indiana Jones (minus the hat and whip, unfortunately). So, buckle up, amigos! It's time to dive straight into the heart and soul of Spain. Welcome to my world of Spanish wonders!

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What’s the best way to travel across Spain: a road trip or take the train?

Embarking on a road trip to travel across Spain is one of the most common ways to visit the country. But what’s best? The car or the train?

It all boils down to what you’d like to do during your trip.

Do you want to explore many different cities and other highlights that are not near major cities? Then, you’ll definitely want to make it a road trip.

But if your objective is just to see large cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville or Valencia, the train is a great way to go.

Depending on what you decide, have a look at A full guide on where to book your rental car online . A complete guide on train travel in Spain.

Table of Contents

You doubt between renting a car or taking the train. What’s best for you?

Well… It actually depends!

So to help you decide between taking the train and renting a car while you prepare your trip, here’s a list of variables you should consider:

• Geographical range. Trains are better if your itinerary covers a wide area. Americans, Canadians and Australians usually believe that Spain is a small country, which is true compared to this specific countries. And while Spain has an excellent road network, the train is a better option if you plan to travel across the country. This is particularly the case for an itinerary including Barcelona , Madrid and Seville .
• Rail coverage. Fortunately, train travel in Spain is extremely easy, comfortable and safe. There are more than 14,000 km (8,700 mi) of railways. Such a vast network serves almost every town in the country.
• Urban vs. rural. Do you plan to spend most of the time in big cities or do you prefer to explore off the beaten path little towns? The answer to this question will determine your final choice. A car is a pointless hassle in most Spanish cities, but it can be really helpful in the countryside where train communications are less frequent.
• Number of travelers. How many people are going to be traveling with you? As soon as you share it with more than 2 people, a rental car is 9 times out of 10 the cheapest option. And it’s a great option if you’re traveling on a budget. But do you math and take into account all the extra costs and fees that a rental car can imply.
• Luggage. Actually, it’s not really a matter of packing light or not. But if you’re traveling by car around Spain, you can basically fill the trunk with all kinds of stuff and luggage. On the contrary, traveling by train has its limits: Renfe, the Spanish railway operator, lets you carry up to 3 pieces of luggage that may not exceed 25 kg without any chance to buy extra baggage allowance. Other low cost train operators (e.g. Avlo, Ouigo, Irya) are even more restrictive.
• Kids. Car travel is more flexible, but trains give kids room to move around. Travel times will also be considerably lower so your patience won’t be challenged by their usual “when are we getting there?” question. In addition to this, did you know that children younger than 4 can travel by train around Spain for free?
• Energy and time. First of all, by taking the train you won’t get tired having to drive yourself. And, depending on where you’re going, the train can take you there much faster (e.g. the high-speed train from Madrid to Seville).

7 reasons for a road trip in Spain

Traveling across Spain by car is one of the most common ways to visit the country. Here you have 7 reasons why taking a road trip in Spain is an excellent idea.

1. Freedom to travel where and when you want

One of the great advantages of a road trip around Spain is having the flexibility and freedom to go at your own pace, as well as the ability to get off the main road to explore the lesser known towns. And you can stop whenever you need to.

So leave the highway behind, turn on Google Maps on your smartphone, and set it to a random town you saw on the screen map.

2. It’s easy to get off the beaten track

Over-tourism has raised its ugly head in Spain in recent years. Talk to anyone living in Barcelona or Seville and they will share a bittersweet tale. Tourism in Spain has been booming for decades, bringing much needed receipts to the country. But we’ve paid a hefty price.

Interestingly enough, not all of Spain has suffered in an equal measure. While the large cities and most beach destinations have had to accommodate ever increasing hordes of tourists, once you get away from the cities and head to the interior of both countries, you’ll find a territory waiting to be explored.

3. Distances are relatively short

Since the distances in Spain are relatively short compared to other countries (e.g. The US, Canada or Australia), exploring Spain by car is one of the best options to know the country.

On top of it, Spain’s roads and highways are in very good condition. In fact, if you choose alternative roads instead of highways, you’ll discover amazing villages and admire wonderful landscapes.

4. Spain is the perfect destination for a road trip

Since Spain’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, you’ll find that even the smallest of towns provide information and services catering for all types of tourists.

Car parks and viewpoints along the roads are built wherever necessary. As for the accommodation and food industry, it goes without saying that they rank among the most professional in the world.

5. You’ll enjoy a mind blowing and diverse scenery

Spain is in many areas, a densely populated country. This means that the close proximity between locations, and the diverse landscapes, make a trip through Spain an adventure that has something for everyone.

Do you like the coast?

No road trip is complete without a trip to the coast to take in the beach, admire the rugged shoreline and sample the delectably fresh fish. Spain, whether you’re on the northern or southern coast, has miles upon miles of uninhabited scenery that you can explore thanks to a rental car.

On the contrary, do you prefer the mountain?

Having a car in Spain allows you to explore the mountains and find some amazing hiking trails. There are tons of scenic hikes that trail off from the foot of every mountain range that will leave you physically and mentally breathless.

6. It’s the best option to explore the islands

If you are planning to explore any of the beautiful islands off the coast of Spain, a rental car is the way to go. Public transportation is limited and very often will not take you to all the extraordinary places you will want to go.

Whether you head to the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands, you should definitely consider a road trip.

Let the adventure begin!

7. Savor the experience of slow travel

When you have limited time to travel but much to see, your trip in Spain can feel a bit rushed. While short train trips mean you can cover more ground, you won’t have much time to truly experience any destination.

Traveling by car, on the other hand, lends itself to more meaningful experiences that are about the journey, not the destination.

With a car, you’ll enjoy a dynamic itinerary without rushing to catch a train, make a check-in time, or nail a photo. This will allow you to savor more, rather than rushing to check the next thing off your agenda.

If you prefer a scenic adventure, you can prioritize back roads over highways and see where they lead. Or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can set aside the map to discover some off-the-beaten path surprises.

Once you’re not racing against the clock, you can discover places you didn’t even know they existed.

This article is part of a complete tutorial about car rental in Spain where you can read all the information you need to organize your road trip around the country.

Here is a complete summary of all the guide:

1. What’s the best way to travel across Spain: a road trip or take the train? 2. Traveling to Spain by car 3. 10 epic Spain road trips 4. How to book your rental car online 5. How to find cheap car rental rates? 6. 8 Rental car tips & hacks for your Spain road trip 7. Do you need an International Driver’s Licence? 8. Getting around Spain: rental car 9. 6 tips for driving in Spain 10. Car parking in Spain

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Southern Spain 2-Week Itinerary: A Road Trip Through Andalucía

Created On: August 7, 2022   |   Updated: January 27, 2023   |   5 Comments

Planning a trip to Andalucía? This southern Spain 2-week itinerary will take you through the best cities and towns in Andalucía. Even better, you can get to all the places via train if you don’t want to rent a car!

Madrid and Barcelona may be the best known cities in Spain, but my heart belongs in Andalucía!

After the Muslims invaded Spain in 711 AD, they called the southernmost part of the country “Al-Andalus.” Near the end of Reconquista — a war between the Christians and the Muslims to gain total control of Spain that spanned seven centuries — Al-Andalus was the last remaining portion of the country that still belonged to the Muslims.

The centuries spent under Muslim rule has imbued the entirety of present day Andalucía with a unique culture you won’t find elsewhere. In each city of Andalucía, you’ll find mosques-turned-churches, stunning Mudejar architecture, and a cuisine that combines ingredients and flavors from both cultures.

While you could plan a 2-week trip to Spain anywhere you’d like, I highly recommend spending your time exploring Andalucía. 2 weeks in southern Spain will give you a taste of Spanish culture as a whole while offering a more nuanced experience wholly unique to Andalucía.

Below is a Spain itinerary for 14 days. I’ve gone into as much detail as possible about what to do in Andalucía, but you’ll notice that I’ve included links to my detailed city guides as well — otherwise this blog post will turn into an e-book!

How Many Days Do You Need in Spain?

In a perfect world, we’d all be able to spend 3+ months in Spain to fully immerse ourselves in the culture and see the main sights. However, that’s not how life works and I know your vacation time is limited.

2 weeks in Spain is just enough time to see three to six cities and towns — the exact number depends on how many activities you pack into your days and the size of cities you visit. (This itinerary comfortably fits five major cities in Southern Spain!)

I’ll focus solely on the main cities in Andalucía in this itinerary. I’m of the opinion that it’s better to focus on one specific area rather than waste time traveling from one end of the country to another just to see the big cities.

You could of course adjust this itinerary to spend just one week in Spain if that’s all the time you have. If that’s the case, I think your best call would be to visit Seville and Granada if you’ve never been to either!

What’s the Best Time to Visit Spain?

I recommend planning a trip to Andalucía during shoulder season (March / April or September through November) . I visited southern Spain at the end of May, thinking I’d beat the worst of the crowds and would experience cooler temperatures. Wrong! It was 90ºF+ most days and major attractions, like the Alhambra in Granada, were packed with people.

The next time I visit Spain, I plan on going in the early spring!

Overview of This Spain 2-Week Itinerary

You’ll note that I didn’t include Barcelona or Madrid in this southern Spain 2-week itinerary. You can OF COURSE visit one or both of these cities, but I prefer to travel a little slower these days. If I’m going to go to Barcelona or Madrid, I’d rather have at least 5 full days in each place — which would have eaten into most of my 2-week trip to Spain!

So know that there are no itinerary police holding you accountable. Travel wherever you want, but I think this is the best 2-week Spain itinerary for those of you (like me!) who want to visit lots of different cities and see a variety of sights without having to run yourself into the ground each day.

All that being said, here’s an overview of this 2-week Andalucía itinerary:

• Days 1 – 3: Málaga
• Days 4 – 6: Granada
• Days 7 – 8: Córdoba
• Days: 9 – 10: Ronda
• Days 11 – 13: Seville

Day 14 has been left blank to account for travel between cities. It’s better to have a little wiggle room in case your arriving flight is delayed, you miss your train, etc.

Where Should You Start and End a 2-Week Trip to Spain?

This southern ​​Spain 2-week itinerary begins in Málaga and ends in Seville. You could also flip flop the itinerary if you find better flight prices flying into one city versus the other.

Or, you may find it easier and cheaper to fly into Madrid and then drive or take the train to Málaga to start your 14 days in Spain. That will obviously add on time and eat into your trip, but sometimes needs must!

Car, Bus, or Train? How to Get Around Southern Spain

Most itineraries I referenced for planning 2 weeks in Spain suggested renting a car to traverse Andalucía. They said it was easier and quicker to do so, but I had zero desire to spend extra money on a rental car, nor did I want to deal with parking in foreign cities on my own.

I was worried that taking a train around southern Spain would prove confusing or time-consuming, but it was actually so incredibly easy and affordable!

From my personal experience, I can assure you that this 2-week Spain itinerary can absolutely be done by train! The longest train journey is just under 3 hours, and it will be at the end of your trip.

Note that many of the trains leave either first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. I recommend boarding the morning trains (none require you to get up ridiculously early, don’t worry!).

Also, you should plan to arrive at the train stations 20 to 30 minutes before departure. In Spain, you’re required to go through a quick security check before boarding your train. They’ll X-Ray your suitcase and check your ticket, and then you’re off!

Lastly, please note that I walked from the central train stations to each of my hotels and AirBNBs. So know that the train stations of each city listed in this 2-week Andalucía itinerary are very close to the city centers!

Best Way to Book Train Tickets in Spain

The Renfe website (i.e. the Spanish railway’s official website) is an absolute nightmare to use. Every time I tried to book a ticket, the site crashed.

Save yourself a major headache and book your train tickets through a third-party provider like Omio . I did manage to book a couple tickets through Renfe after much hair-pulling, as I noticed that Renfe sometimes had additional train times listed that weren’t shown on the Omio site. So check both sites, but book through Omio if possible.

Of course, you can also wait to book your tickets in person at the train stations. There are ticket machines everywhere and they’re easy to use. The prices may be more expensive day-of, but it would give you the flexibility to alter your itinerary if that’s important to you.

Southern Spain 2-Week Itinerary

I’ve already given quite a few tips for making the most of your 2 weeks in Southern Spain, but here are a few quick reminders before I FINALLY dive into the full itinerary.  

First and foremost, you can get to all of the cities mentioned on this itinerary via train. No need to rent a car!

Second, you can mix and match this itinerary as you see fit.

Thirdly, I’ve given broad overviews of each day’s activities but have linked to my ultra detailed city guides in each portion of the itinerary. Read those posts for more information on the individual attractions. I wanted this itinerary to be, well, an itinerary (i.e. a broad overview of how to plan a 2-week trip to Spain).

Spain Itinerary Days 1 – 3: Málaga

One of the gems of southern Spain, Málaga is a gorgeous port city that boasts one of the biggest and best preserved Old Towns I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. Málaga is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas, and the locals are very proud of their famous sons!

Of all the places in Andalucía, Málaga is one of the better ones for understanding how the Romans, Muslims, and Catholics shaped the region’s culture. The absolute top attractions in Málaga are undoubtedly the beautiful cathedral, the Alcazaba, and Gibralfaro Castle.

Below is a bulleted itinerary for 3 days in Málaga, but you can read LOTS more about the specific attractions in my full Málaga city guide . 

Day 1 in Malaga

Free walking tour — Malaga Adventures has a detailed 3-hour, free walking tour of the city center. This is the best way to learn about the history of the city, plus it gives you a chance to ask a local for restaurant and activity recommendations!

Cathedral and rooftop  (shown above) — Nicknamed La Manquita (little lady with one arm), Málaga’s cathedral took more than 200 years to get to its current state … and it was never finished! It’s one of the most stunning cathedrals I’ve visited, and I highly recommend paying extra to climb to the rooftop for an unparalleled view of both the unfinished cathedral and the city center.

Malaga Museum — Housed in what was originally the city’s customs house, the Malaga Museum is a small but impressive museum that boasts a variety of art and artifacts meant to give visitors a closer look into the city’s past.

Explore the Old Town — After packing your brain with key historic facts, enjoy window shopping getting lost in the Old Town! Calle Marqués de Larios is one of the most expensive shopping streets in all of Spain, and there are many more side streets to discover.

Day 2 in Malaga

Alcazaba  (shown above) — A former Muslim fortress that was built in the 11th century as a means of defending the port. The interior of the fortress has lots of hidden gardens and babbling fountains, and is a surprisingly peaceful place to visit.

Roman Theater — Built by the Romans in the 1st Century BCE, the Roman Theater is now in ruins. The city has built platforms over the ruins so you can walk directly over them and get a sense of how the theater must have operated in its heyday.

Gibralfaro Castle — Gibralfaro Castle was built in the 1300s to improve the city’s defenses. Like the Alcazaba, the castle was built by the Muslims. The views from the castle’s parapets are absolutely stunning!

Picasso Museum — The perfect place to escape the afternoon heat! Picasso was born in Málaga, and this museum owns more than 230 of his works of art. If Picasso doesn’t pique your interest, I can also highly recommend the Carmen Thyssen Museum as an alternative.

Day 3 in Malaga

Muelle Uno  (shown above)— A section of the port of Málaga that’s been transformed into an open-air shopping and dining center.

Playa de la Malagueta – The local beach! It can become crowded in the summer, so arrive early to claim a spot. You can spend the morning here, or the entire day. OR enjoy a walk along the sand before continuing with the attractions below.

Mercado Central de Atarazanas — A covered market in the city center with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood and meats, dried fruits, and almonds. Grab some fresh fruit, almonds, and other nibbles here to take with you to the gardens!

La Concepcion Botanical Gardens — An underrated Málaga attraction! The gardens are located on the historic La Concepcion. After touring the various gardens, I recommend finding a spot in the shade to enjoy your snacks from the market and maybe read a book or call home, if desired.

Spain Itinerary Days 4 – 6: Granada

Granada was ruled by the Muslims for centuries and was the last city in Spain to fall back into the hands of the Catholic monarchy in 1492. Granada is home to one of the top tourist attractions in all of Spain: the Alhambra.

Many people visit Granada as a day trip from Seville or Málaga, but I don’t recommend doing that as there’s SO much more to do and see than simply tour the Alhambra.

Below you’ll find an itinerary for 3 days in Granada. For more details on the individual attractions listed below, check out my full Granda city guide .

Day 1 in Granada

Cathedral — Built on the site of the Great Mosque following the Catholic reconquest of Spain. The cathedral contains a unique blend of architectural styles, but it was built mostly in the style of the Spanish Renaissance.

Guided walking tour —  Granada has a long history, which you won’t learn about simply by visiting the main tourist attractions. Walk in Granada offers a more traditional pay-what-you-want walking tour, as well as a walking tour of Albaicin and Sacromonte. Choose whichever interests you more!

Sacromonte / Albaicín  (shown above) — The “Old Town” areas of Granada directly facing the Alhambra. They’re mostly residential, but there are many white-washed alleyways to meander through as well as scenic overlooks ( Miradors ) offering up spectacular views of the city.

Bañuelo — An 11th century Arabic hammam (bath house) that’s been beautifully preserved.

Sunset — Most itineraries say to watch the sunset from Mirador San Nicolas, but it fills up quickly and is noisy and crowded. Instead, watch the sunset from Mirador de la Vereda de Enmedio, Mirador Placeta de Carvajales, or Mirador Sacromonte.

Day 2 in Granada

Alhambra  (shown above)— The top attraction in Granada! It’s a massive complex that was originally built in the 9th century as a military fortress, but it was expanded upon over the centuries to also serve as the royal residence.

Rest! — Even if you visit first thing in the morning, you’ll be wiped after walking for hours around the Alhambra complex in the sunshine. Schedule a rest period into your day to ensure you don’t become overheated. (Seriously, please do this! Even if it’s just relaxing at a cafe for an hour with a cold drink.)

Window shop and explore some more — Popular shopping streets include the Reyes Catolicos, Carrera del Darro, and Calle Calderería Nueva. If you’re up for a little adventure, try to find a local convent or monastery selling sweets! (Check out my full Granada guide linked above for info on where I bought my convent cookies.)  

Flamenco show — You can’t leave Granada without attending an authentic flamenco show in the caves of Sacromonte! The local style of flamenco is called Zambra, and the entire performance is absolutely electrifying.

Day 3 in Granada

Carmen de los Mártires  (shown above)  — A stunning 19th century mansion with a sprawling park and garden complex.

San Jeronimo Monastery —The first monastery to be built in Granada after the reconquest of Spain by the Catholic monarchy.

Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción (“La Cartuja”) — A lavishly decorated Spanish Baroque church atop a hill just outside the city center. Emphasis on “lavishly decorated.” This place is insanely beautiful! If you don’t have the time or desire to visit both monasteries on today’s itinerary, pick this one over San Jeronimo.

Spain Itinerary Days 7 – 8: Córdoba

Córdoba was formerly the capital of Islamic Spain and was also once the largest and most advanced city in all of Europe. Today Córdoba is best known for its Mosque-Cathedral, “La Mezquita,” which integrated the original mosque architecture with the Christian cathedral built on the site.

There are enough attractions in Córdoba to fill two leisurely days of adventuring, but one full day will also give you enough time to see the main sights. If you want to alter this itinerary for 2 weeks in Southern Spain, this is one place you could do it.

For more information on the Córdoba attractions listed below, check out my full Córdoba city guide.

Day 1 in Córdoba

Mosque-Cathedral ( Mezquita ) — A former Islamic mosque that was converted into a Catholic cathedral in the 13th century. The original mosque architecture has been integrated into the cathedral, rather than destroyed and built over.

Flower Street — A quaint white-washed alleyway near the Mezquita lined with bright blue flower pots. A great photo opp!

Roman Bridge (+ Calahorra Tower, if desired) — The Puente Romano was first built in the 1st century by the Romans. The view from the opposite bank makes for a great photo! Calahorra Toweris a fortified gate along the bridge that now houses the Museo Vivo de Al-Andalus.  

Alcazar of the Catholic Monarchs — A fortress that also served as a palace. It’s where the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella lived for eight years during the Reconquista. The interior of the fortress isn’t anything to write home about, but the gardens are beautiful!

Almodóvar Gate — One of only three remaining medieval city gates. Walk through the gate to reach the former Jewish Quarter, where there are lots of shops and restaurants.

Day 2 in Córdoba

Palacio de Viana  (shown above)— A 15th century palace with 12 stunning patios (the lush inner courtyards that Córdoba is known for!).

Templo Romano — Ruins of what was once the largest Roman temple in the city.

Plaza de las Tendillas — Nearby square with a fountain and pretty cafes.

Window shopping in the Old Town b— Return to the Old Town to shop, grab a drink, or enjoy an afternoon siesta back at your hotel.

Plaza de Corredera — A residential square with bars and cafes at street level. It’s fairly quiet during the daytime, but at night it’s packed with locals all chatting over their drinks. This is a relaxed, family-friendly spot, not a party destination!

Spain Itinerary Days 9 – 10: Ronda

Ronda is one of the prettiest towns in all of Spain! The Old Town is set high above the El Tajo Gorge and connects to the modern part of the town via the 322-high Puente Nuevo bridge. This was one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite haunts, and the town’s iconic bridge is said to have inspired scenes in his novel, For Whom the Bell Tolls.  

Like Córdoba, you could get away with one full day in Ronda if there are other cities you’re dying to pack into your 2 week-trip to Andalucía. However, my two days in Ronda were some of the most magical of my entire 2 weeks in Spain! The town’s small size makes it perfect to explore at your leisure.

For lots more detail on the Ronda attractions I’ve shared below, read my full guide to Ronda .

Day 1 in Ronda

Bullring — The oldest and largest in all of Spain.

Mirador de Ronda overlook (shown above, right) — Near the bullring. It’s a gorgeous vista with views of the surrounding countryside.

Puente Nuevo  (shown above, left) — The main attraction of Ronda. Words can’t describe how beautiful this bridge is! (In my full guide linked above, I’ve also shared my favorite spots to photograph the bridge.)

Murallas de la Cijara (old city walls) — The best preserved section of the old city walls is near the Puerta de la Cijara.

Arab baths — 13th century Arab baths that have been lovingly preserved and restored.

Walking tour — End your first day in Ronda with a guided walking tour of the Old Town. The tourism board offers a 90-minute tour that I highly recommend!

Day 2 in Ronda

Jardines De Cuenca — Lovely hanging gardens on terraces set over the El Tajo gorge, facing the bridge. This is a good spot to come in the morning to photograph the sun rising over the bridge!  

Puente Viejo — Another pretty (albeit less impressive) bridge in Ronda.  

Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor — The inside of the church isn’t that impressive, but the viewing decks from the rooftop offer an amazing view of the Old Town and surrounding countryside.

Casa Museo Don Bosco — An old home-turned-sanatorium that operated until 2008. The home is very small, but the gardens with their cliffside views are the main attraction.

Sunset — You could watch the sunset by the Puente Nuevo bridge, but I recommend finding a quiet spot to sit at the Plaza de María Auxiliadora.

Spain Itinerary Days 11 – 13: Seville

Seville flourished under Muslim rule and rose to further prominence under the Catholic monarchy following the discovery of the Americas. Much of Spain’s trade with the Americas was facilitated in Seville, making it the country’s richest city for nearly 100 years.

Seville is the most diverse city on this southern Spain 2-week itinerary, both in terms of attractions and the local culture. It’s also the biggest city on this itinerary, so if you have the time and desire you can certainly spend more days here either to explore the city more in depth or to take day trips.

Read my full Seville itinerary for more details on the attractions listed below!   

Day 1 in Seville

Royal Alcazar — A palace complex originally built by the Muslims to offer them a more strategic position next to the port (i.e. where the city’s wealth flowed in). Arrive first thing in the morning to avoid waiting in a long line.

Cathedral  (shown above, left)— The largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the third largest in general!

Giralda Tower — The symbol of Seville! La Giralda was originally the minaret of the mosque that stood on this site. In the 17th century, the cathedral’s bell tower was built atop the minaret.

Maria Luisa Park — Palace gardens that were donated to the city and transformed into a sprawling public park. The park is divided into smaller gardens and gathering areas, making it a fun spot to explore.

Plaza de España  (shown above, right)— End your day here to watch the sunset! The Plaza de España was built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929 and was designed to showcase Spain’s accomplishments in industry and architecture.

Day 2 in Seville

Setas de Sevilla  (shown above)— A wooden structure in Encarnacion Square that has a walkway and viewing platform on top. If it’s not in your budget to ascend to the viewing platform, the structure is still really cool when seen from below.

Lebrija Palace — A 16th century palace that was heavily renovated in the 20th century to accommodate a private collection of ancient Roman mosaics. If you love house museums, you MUST come here!

Collegiate Church of El Salvador — A pretty Baroque church that was built on the site of what was the Great Mosque in Muslim Seville.

Museum of Fine Arts — An art museum housed in the former La Merced convent. This is a great spot to end the afternoon as a means of escaping the heat!

Day 3 in Seville

Walking Tour of Triana — The free Sandemans walking tour of Triana offers a unique perspective on Seville’s 2,000-year history.

Mercado de Triana — A covered market selling fresh produce and seafood. There are also restaurants inside, which is where I recommend grabbing lunch today.

Archivo de Indias — Free to enter! The Archives of the Indies houses 80 million pages and maps (all original!) relating to Spain’s massive empire from the 18th to 19th centuries.

Casa de Pilatos  (shown above)— A 15th century palace decorated with  azulejo (Spanish glazed tiles).

Free time to explore! — Seville is walkable, and there’s a lot packed into the city center. Give yourself some free time to wander the streets and enjoy your final afternoon in Spain.

Adios, Andalucía!

Hopefully this southern Spain 2-week itinerary have given you plenty of information — and then some! — to make planning your vacation easier. If you have any questions about planning a trip to Andalucía, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below!

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram to keep up with my daily adventures in Berlin and beyond!

More Places to Visit in Southern Europe: 

• 3-Day Florence Itinerary: The Best Things to Do! 
• Best Things to Do in Corfu, Greece
• What to Do & See in Athens, Greece
• All of my Europe travel recommendations! 

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Comments & Reviews

October 18, 2022

Do you commercially run such tours? We are on the wrong side of 65 (esposa/mi) and never been to Europe. I enjoyed reading your summary. I’ve been put off some “tours” by people complaints. Cost is also a factor, many seem for royalty we’d feel uncomfortable in such company. I say this if we decide to do less with quality but the upper middle class would be far to… Regards Tony

November 9, 2022

Hi Tony, no, I do not provide any kind of travel planning or tour services. Right now I just provide awesome, free guides online right here on my blog 🙂 Hopefully you’re able to visit Spain soon though!

May 20, 2023

Very impressive, thanks for sharing!

December 16, 2023

Awesome , information . What hotels do you recommend? We are planning to do this in March.

December 29, 2023

Hi Sonia! How exciting that you’ll be visiting southern Spain in March, I think you’ll have an amazing time! Unfortunately I can’t recommend any specific hotels because I stayed in AirBNBs throughout my stay. However, let me know if you’d like general recommendations for areas of the cities to stay in and I can provide info on the neighborhoods I was in.

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Best Of Spain Itinerary: 14 Days In Spain [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 144 mins read
• Post last modified: February 25, 2024
• Post comments: 10 Comments

Spain is a very diverse country. It’s  culturally & historically rich , has  beautiful nature , and  delicious food  in every corner. I lived in Spain for 2 years and traveled extensively through the whole country. Thanks to my experiences , I’ve compiled this ultimate itinerary showing you the highlights.

I’ll take you to the  cities  reflecting many  cultures and rich histories . You’ll have a chance to relax on  beautiful beaches , see stunning nature, taste the  delicious Spanish cuisine , and experience  an authentic tapas crawl .

Ready for the exciting Spanish journey? Come and  explore Spanish culture  with me on this Spain itinerary for 8, 10, and 14 days.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The Spain Itinerary 14 Days & Map

Here is an overview of what you can expect from this Spanish itinerary each day:

How Many Days Are Enough To Explore Spain?

Spain is a huge country; you need at least 10 days to explore it. However, it all depends on what you want to see and what you want to do in Spain.

If you only want to explore major cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, Bilbao, and Sevilla, 10 days would be enough to visit Spain.

In case you want to do more activities such as hiking, wine-tasting, cooking class, olive oil farm, surfing, or immersing into Spanish culture, I suggest spending at least 14 days in Spain .

✅ This itinerary is ideal for those who want to explore the highlights of Spain . With this itinerary, you can be sure to see it all and get the perfect overview of Spanish history and culture , do a cooking class, and enjoy its beaches and natural wonders.

How To Get To Spain

You can get to Spain by plane, train, or bus .

Flying to Spain is the most convenient, fastest, and often the cheapest. Just be aware of the luggage charges, especially if you book your flight with budget airlines such as Ryanair and Wizzair.

Taking a train is also great, and it takes less time to get to Spain than by bus. But you’ll have to change trains at least once.

Taking a bus is great as there are direct bus connections from other major cities. If you’re a budget traveler , you can also save up on accommodation for a night as you’ll travel overnight.

Flying To Spain

If you’re traveling from overseas , the best way is to fly to major Spanish cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, or Bilbao. For this itinerary, you’ll fly to El-Prat Airport in Barcelona .

Also, if you’re in Europe, take advantage of cheap flights from other major cities such as Milan, Paris, Vienna, or Budapest.

You can fly with Ryanair or Wizzair , which always have great flight deals . However, be aware of the luggage allowance (with cheap flights, there are huge charges for extra baggage).

➡ Check out Skyscanner for the best flight deals to Barcelona here.

Getting To Spain By Train

You can take a train if you’re visiting Spain from nearby countries such as France and Switzerland . For any longer distances, it’ll be cheaper and faster to fly.

RENFE (Spanish railways) and SNCF (French railways) are the companies that run these routes.

You can get to Barcelona by train from the following cities:

• Marseille – 5 hours & 10 minutes to Barcelona (1 change)
• Nice – 8 hours to Barcelona (1 change)
• Paris – 7 hours to Barcelona (1 change)
• Geneva – 9 hours & 20 minutes to Barcelona (2 changes)

➡ Get the best train tickets via Trainline by clicking this link.

Getting To Spain By Bus

Alternatively, you can also get to Spain by bus. I recommend booking a bus with Flixbus or OUI companies . They have the best and fastest connections.

The advantage of taking a train and a bus is that there are no restrictions on how much luggage you can take.

You can take a bus to Barcelona, Spain, from the following cities:

• Paris – 15 hours to Barcelona (direct)
• Marseille – 7 hours & 30 minutes to Barcelona (direct)
• Geneva – 12 hours & 40 minutes to Barcelona (direct)

➡ Search the best bus connections via Busbud here.

How To Get Around Spain & Make This Itinerary

As for transportation, for each day, I provide how many hours it takes to get from one city or place to another. For this itinerary, half of it you’ll travel by train and you’ll rent a car for the rest in Andalusia .

Traveling By Train In Spain

I recommend you stick to  train travel  for longer journeys between cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid. So,  travel by train  on this itinerary  from day 2. until day 5. when you get to Madrid . You’ll take the following 2 train connections on this itinerary:

🚇 Barcelona – Valencia (day 3.) 🚇 Valencia – Madrid (day 5.)

Look for train connections on Trainline . It’ll show you the fastest and best train deals for these three trains you’ll take.

PRO TIP:  Make sure to buy the tickets in advance as Spain gets crowded and trains, especially during the summer (July and August).

Trains In Spain

The national railway company in Spain is called RENFE . For this itinerary, you’ll mainly travel on the high-speed trains called AVE . Trains in Spain are awesome. They’re reliable, you can get almost everywhere by train, and the journey is comfortable.

So I’m sure you’ll love traveling by Spanish train on this itinerary.

➡ Check out Trainline website and buy your tickets for AVE trains here.

Traveling By Bus In Spain

Bus connections are perfect in Spain. You’ll get by bus pretty much anywhere. The only disadvantage is that getting to a destination takes a lot of time .

You’ll only take a bus on this itinerary on day 7. for a day trip to Toledo and on day 8. when traveling from Madrid to Granada . There is no train connection from Madrid to Granada, so you must take a bus. Or you can rent a car already in Toledo if you want to.

Buses In Spain

The national bus company is called Alsa . You’ll take the Alsa bus for all your travels in Spain. Alternatively, you can also take Flixbus if it covers the route.

➡ Check out Busbud website and buy your tickets for Alsa bus here.

Renting A Car

It’ll be best to rent a car for the rest of this itinerary as it’ll give you much flexibility. Plus, train and bus connections in Andalusia (southern Spain) are not the best. I recommend renting a car in Granada on day 10 and returning it to Sevilla on day 13 of this itinerary.

So book a rental car for 4 days via Discover Cars . They have great deals:

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

Where To Start & Finish Your 14-Day Spain Itinerary

We’ll start this trip in Barcelona. So first, fly to Barcelona, which has 2 airports: El Prat or the Girona Costa Brava airport.

All international flights will get you to El Prat Airport in Barcelona .

How To Get From El Prat Airport To Barcelona City Center

Once you land at EL Prat Airport in Barcelona, you have 4 options to get to the city center of Barcelona:

• RENFE train

You can take the  Aerobus , a blue bus shuttle from El Prat, directly to the city center ( Plaza Catalunya ). The bus will take you to the city center in 35 minutes.

You can also  take a metro L9  every 7 minutes between El Prat airport and Zona Universitaria. Get off at Torassa (with a connection to the L1 metro line). It takes about 30 minutes to get to the center.

Or take a  RENFE train  that stops at Barcelona Sans, Passeig de Gràcia, and Clot. The train ride takes about 25 minutes.

A  taxi ride  from El Prat to Barcelona center can cost anywhere between 30 EUR and 35 EUR. It’ll take you to the city center between 25 and 40 minutes.

End Of Your Itinerary

We’ll  finish our route in Sevilla . The city also has excellent international connections. So you can fly away from Spain from Sevilla easily.

Alternatively, you can take a train to  Portugal  and explore another country.

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

1. day: barcelona.

Our itinerary starts in the second-biggest Spanish city, Barcelona. Let yourself sort things out once you arrive. Go to your accommodation and get some snacks or a late breakfast because we’ll be exploring this lively city today.

We’ll start the sightseeing right in the center,  Plaza de Catalunya . These are the sights I suggest you see today.

Sightseeing In Barcelona

🔅 La Rambla 🔅 La Boqueria Market 🔅 Plaza Espa ñ a 🔅 National Palace 🔅 Poble Espa ñ ol 🔅 Olympic Stadium 🔅 Montju ï c Castle 🔅 Magical Fountain Performance ( Plaza Espa ñ a )

🔅 Plaza De Catalunya

Plaza de Catalunya is the main square in central Barcelona. It divides  Gracia  and the  old town of Barcelona . The square is the perfect  start for our walking tour  today.

You can easily  reach it by metro or walk  from your hotel.

If you need a  coffee boost  at the beginning of your walk tour, there are several coffee-stop options: Cafe Zurich, Hard Rock Cafe, or Starbucks at the corner.

🔅 La Rambla

La Rambla is the  main shopping and touristy street  in the city. Walking through the street, you’ll experience various artists, souvenir shops, and historical buildings.

Some of the most important  historical buildings  are Gran Theatre de Liceu, Casa Bruno Cuadros, and Principal Theatre.

🔅 La Boqueria Market

La Boqueria Market is one of my favorite places in the city . It’s a bustling food market in the middle of La Rambla. You can buy fruit juices and pieces and taste delicious Spanish products such as tapas, fresh fish, seafood, bread with delicacies, and sweets.

Go in and get lost in the market. Then, buy some treats for the rest of your walking tour of Barcelona. Entrance is free of charge .

🔅 Plaza España

Plaza España is hands-down the  most beautiful square in Barcelona . It prides itself on a stunning fountain and a street leading up to the National Palace with a  magical fountain  in the middle.

It also has an  arena  that used to serve  bullfighting  until the activity was banned in Catalonia in 2012. Nowadays, it’s a shopping center.

🔅 National Palace

When you walk from Plaza España towards the magical fountain, the beautiful National Palace will spread in front of you. Nowadays, it hosts the Catalan Museum of Archaeology. You can go inside if that’s something you’re interested in. The walk is stunning, with beautiful views and fountains, so enjoy it.

➡ Click here to get the skip-the-line tickets for National Palace (discounted).

🔅 Poble Español

What I highly recommend is visiting Poble Español nearby. It’s a  small Spanish village  featuring  regions of Spain  with their  points of interest ,  architecture ,  typical food , and  sights .

This village has a  unique atmosphere  and will give you the perfect  introduction to the Spanish culture and cities  we’ll visit on our 14-day Spanish trip. It’s my one of my favorite sights in Barcelona.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets for Poble Español by clicking here and don’t waste time in the crowd.

🔅 Olympic Stadium

After, walk further up and check out the impressive Olympic Stadium in Barcelona. It was built in 1927 for the International Exhibition in the city, and authorities wanted it to be the stadium for the Summer Olympic Games in 1936. But, unfortunately, the award got Berlin. So after, they renovated the stadium in Barcelona, and it eventually hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 1992 .

🔅 Montj uïc Castle

Montjuïc Castle is a unique fortress that is used to protect the city from invaders. During the Spanish Civil War , it served as a prison .

The translation of this name is literally ‘ Jewish mountain ,’ and you’ll see a Jewish cemetery inside the fortress.

➡ Book this guided tour of Montjuïc and visit it on an E-Bike with local guide here.

🔅 Magical Fountain Performance

In the evening, I highly recommend seeing the performance of the magical fountain near Plaza España. It  starts at 7 pm or 8 pm , depending on the time of the year. It’s a  free 20-minute show  with waterfalls, colors, and dramatic music.

Check their  official website   for updated information about the magical fountain and its performance, as it changes yearly.

How To Get To Montjuïc Castle

If you don’t want to walk all the way up from Plaza España to Montju ï c Castle, you have other 2 options:

Montjuïc Funicular

When you take the metro at Drassens station , you’ll get off at Parar-lel station . There is a connecting funicular , which takes you to the Montju ï c hill (close to the Olympic stadium).

So you’ll still have to walk 20 minutes from the Olympic stadium to Montju ï c Castle or take the bus n. 150 . You don’t have to pay anything extra for the funicular, you can use your regular metro ticket for it.

Teleferic De Montjuïc

It’s a cable car that will take you straight up to the Montjuïc Castle. You’ll also get off at Parar-lel metro station , where the cable car station is located. However, this option is quite pricy and touris ty. If you walk, you’ll get to enjoy it more and see more things.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets for Montjuïc cable car here (round-trip).

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Barcelona Itinerary 3 Days

Where To Stay In Barcelona: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

If you want to stay in the Old City (Ciutat Vella):

PARK HOTEL MERCER HOTEL BARCELONA

If you want to stay in Barcelonetta (next to the beach and port):

BARCELONA PORT RAMBLAS W BARCELONA

If you want to stay on Las Ramblas (main tourist street leading to the main square):

HOSTAL OPERARAMBLAS HOTEL BAGUES (SMALL LUXURY HOTEL)

If you want to stay at the Plaza Catalunya (main square):

H10 METROPOLITAN 4* SUP OLIVIA PLAZA HOTEL

If you want to stay at the Passeo de Gracia (main shopping street), in the heart of Barcelona close to all attractions:

UMA SUITES PASSEIG DE GRACIA ME Barcelona

If you want to stay close to Sagrada Família:

ABSOLUTE SAGRADA FAMILIA RADISSON BLUE 1882 HOTEL

2. DAY: BARCELONA

Good morning to Barcelona. I hope you slept well because we’ll see as much of Barcelona as possible before departing to another wonderful part of Spain.

Get a good breakfast at your hotel if you don’t have it included even better. Head to a  local bakery  (they are everywhere) and grab some fresh bread or pastry with coffee.

Our sightseeing starts again at  Plaza Catalunya  and goes through the  old city of Barcelona .

🔅 Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi 🔅 Plaza de Sant Felip Neri 🔅 Plaza de Sant Jaume 🔅 Barcelona Cathedral 🔅 Sagrada Familia 🔅 Arc de Triomphe 🔅 Parc de la Ciutadella 🔅 Port Olimpic 🔅 Barceloneta

Barcelona Guided Tour On Segway

Book this guided tour of Barcelona on a segway and see all the sights within 3 hours with a local guide.

🔅 Basilica De Santa Maria Del Pi

Today, we’ll explore the old town of Barcelona and its Gothic Quarter. First, admire the basilica and its beautiful Gothic Catalan architecture . It was built in 1391 and is one of the oldest buildings in the city.

🔅 Plaza De Sant Felip Neri

This square reflects Barcelona in the Spanish Civil War when it was bombed by a fascist plane. 42 people lost their lives here. Nowadays, you can see the buildings damaged by the bombing in this square .

🔅 Plaza De Sant Jaume

Plaza de Jaume is one of my favorite little squares in Barcelona. It hosts a tourism office, tiny shops with local goods, cute souvenirs, and cafes. So spend time here, shop for souvenirs , or make a coffee stop .

🔅 Barcelona Cathedral

Barcelona Cathedral is the most impressive building in the city’s old town that you can’t miss. You can see the crypt of St. Eulalia . She was a significant saint as she didn’t want to renounce Christianity and was persecuted , tortured , and murdered by the Roman soldiers.

Besides, you must check out its gardens and the 13 geese walking around , which is pretty special for it being a cathedral.

➡ Book skip-the-line entrance tickets for Barcelona Cathedral here.

🔅 Sagrada Familia

After visiting the Barcelona Cathedral, walk to the Plaza Catalunya . From there, take a metro to Sagrada Familia (purple line).

Welcome to Sagrada Familia, one of the most impressive architectural buildings ever. Antonio Gaudi , the famous Spanish architect, designed it. The construction started back in 1882, and imagine, it is still not finished . So, unfortunately, its maestro didn’t get to see his masterpiece in its full beauty.

➡ Get this skip-the-line ticket with audioguide for Sagrada Familia and secure your spot.

🔅 Arc De Triomphe

Once you finish visiting the Sagrada Familia,  take a metro to Placa de Tetuan . Then, walk to the next monument, Arc de Triomphe. Alternatively,  take a taxi or an Uber.

This stunning monument was built in 1888 for the  World Exhibition  and was an entrance to the  World’s Fair . It has the  typical architecture  in southern Spain ( Andalusia ). Walk through until you reach Parc de la Ciutadella.

🔅 Parc de la Ciutadella

I absolutely love this park. You can have a picnic or just walk through and enjoy its special atmosphere.

🔅 Port Olimpic

Now, we’re coming to the party sight of Barcelona with many clubs , restaurants , cafes , and a beautiful promenade .

Take your time to walk alongside the beaches on the promenade and enjoy the breeze in Barcelona. You can stop by some restaurants and grab some food. Walk until you reach Barcelona.

🔅 Barceloneta

Barcelona is one of the most popular parts of Barcelona, where people come to socialize , enjoy food and drinks , and swim in the sea. So in the evening, come here and enjoy a delicious dinner , have some drinks, and reflect on your Barcelona walking tour.

Top Experiences In Barcelona

Between the old town walking tour, I also highly recommend visiting the top sights such as Park Guell and Gaudi’s Casa Batllo.

You can visit Casa Batllo after Barcelona Cathedral. Then visit Sagrada Familia and make your way up to Park Guell . After, continue the walking tour from Arc de Triomphe.

For these 2 sights, getting skip-the-line tickets is essential ; otherwise, you won’t get in. Click on the names below and book your tickets asap.

➡ PARK GUELL – get tickets here ➡ GAUDI’S CASA BATTLO – get tickets here

👉 READ ALSO: Top 8 Road Trips From Barcelona

3. DAY: BARCELONA ⇒ VALENCIA

Today, we’re going to take a train from Barcelona to Valencia, the birthplace of Paella .

Distance Barcelona ⇒ Valencia: Train ride takes about 3 hours (operated by RENFE) ➡ Book your train tickets here.

Once you arrive in Valencia, take some time to  get to your accommodation . We can start the tour once you are ready.

Sighseeing In Valencia

🔅 Central Market 🔅 Valencia Old Town 🔅 Plaza de la Reine 🔅 Valencia Cathedral 🔅 Miguelete Bell Tower

🔅 Central Market

At the beginning of our exploration of Valencia, let’s try some Spanish specialties. At the Central Market, you’ll feel the  laid-back style of the Spaniards , enjoying their tapas and talking. One drink you can try is called  horchata . It’s a typical drink of Valencia.

🔅 Valencia Old Town

From the Central Market, we’ll head to explore the rest of  the sights in Valencia’s old town . These are mainly the Cathedral of Valencia and its stunning Miguelete Bell Tower.

🔅 Plaza De La Reina

Plaza de la Reina is my favorite square in Valencia. It has many cafes and restaurants , from which you can admire its impressive cathedral and the bell tower. So make a coffee stop here, admire its surroundings, and take some photos .

🔅 Valencia Cathedral

Interestingly, this cathedral was  built on the mosque . Nowadays, it’s a  Gothic cathedral  featuring different architectural styles such as Renaissance, Baroque, and even some Neoclassical elements. It’s dedicated to Saint Mary.

🔅 Miguelete Bell Tower

Head up to the Cathedral’s Bell Tower and admire the stunning views of the city. It’s 50.58 meters high and offers the best views of Valencia .

Traditional Valencian Paella & Beach Walks

For the evening, we’ll let ourselves have a peaceful walk alongside the beach and try the local Paella. Believe it or not, you can get a good Paella on the beach. Head to the  Platja de la Marva-rosa  to get a traditional Paella Valenciana or much more.

Casa Carmela Restaurant

The restaurant I recommend you to go to is on Platja de la Marva-rosa, called Casa Carmela. They have many kinds of Paella, including the traditional one – Paella Valenciana . You can’t leave Valencia without eating Paella.

Where To Stay In Valencia: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

VENECIA PLAZA CENTRO – budget-friendly (city center) HOTEL VALENCIA ALAMEDA – mid-range hotel (close to the City of Arts & Science) ANKA BEACH APARTMENT – luxury apartment (at the beach)

4. DAY: VALENCIA

Today is all about Valencia and science, as we are heading to the famous City of Arts and Science .

City Of Arts & Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is a complex museum in Valencia. Depending on your interests, you can visit only a few parts and buy tickets separately (or visit it all). It consists of 6 parts :

• L’Hemisferic – It was designed to remind you of a giant human eye and has a 3D cinema. You’ll get 3D glasses with a speaker, enabling you to watch whatever is on in your own language.
• L’Oceanographic – Experience the largest glass water tunnel in Europe, see dolphins and the Sea Life.
• Science Museum of Principe Philip – The musem hosts various exhibitions, which are also great for children, as it offers many activities.
• L’Umbracle – This part of a complex is free to enter. It’s a walk packed with local plants.
• Palace Of Reina Sofia Arts – The Palace of Reina Sofia Arts is an opera house and a theatre that you can visit inside the City of Arts & Sciences.
• L’Agora – An exhibition space, hosting many sports events.

What To Visit In City Of Arts & Sciences

You can choose to visit whatever part of the complex interests you. It may just be the L’Oceanografic or the L’Hemisferic . Or maybe you don’t want to pay and will only go through the L’Umbracle.

Sometimes, there are also some  food markets  to get some food. If not, there are  restaurants  and a  supermarket  in the  shopping center  across the street, where you can get lunch.

Valencia City Of Arts & Science Tickets

Get 3 in 1 access to the City of Arts & Sciences in Valencia and visit the highlights of it with this skip-the-line ticket .

Afternoon & Shopping In Valencia

Have a lovely free afternoon if you’ve managed to see what you wanted in the City of Arts and Science. Walk through Valencia, or maybe shop if it fulfills your soul. There are many shopping spots in the center.

Relax On Beaches In Valencia

Another option is to have a beach afternoon. Relax on one of the great Valencian beaches –  Platja de la Marva-rosa  or  Platja de las Arenas .

Have some more Paella if you become slightly addicted as I did :D. Tomorrow, we’re leaving this great city to see more Spanish highlights.

Spanish Festivals Near Valencia

Valencia also hosts two famous Spanish festivals , and I highly recommend you to be part of it. It’s the  Las Fallas festival , annually held in March.

Another Spanish festival,  La Tomatina , takes place in the small town of Buñol, located just 30 minutes by car (1 hour by train) from Valencia. It takes place in August every year.

So, if you’re in Valencia in March or August , plan your visit and participate in these celebrations.

Read about these 2 festivals by clicking on the image below:

5. DAY: VALENCIA ⇒ MADRID

We’re now heading to the capital of Spain, Madrid. As the largest Spanish city, Madrid has also been declared the  European cultural capital .

It has plenty of famous museums to explore, so don’t wait any longer. Let’s travel to the center of Spain by train.

Distance Valencia ⇒ Madrid: Train ride takes about 2 hours (operated by AVE) ➡ Book your train tickets here.

We can start our Madrid city tour after you check in to your accommodation.

Below, I suggest the  top places you can see in Madrid . Many museums are included, so choose one or two based on your interest.

Tomorrow, you’ll have an entire day  in Madrid, so you can also do some sightseeing for the next day.

First, I recommend visiting some museums. Choose from the  3 museums  I listed below. If you aren’t so much into the museum , enjoy Madrid’s atmosphere. Admire the stunning old buildings and have some churros.

Sightseeing In Madrid

🔅 Prado Museum 🔅 Reina Sofia Museum 🔅 National Archaeological Museum 🔅 Royal Palace 🔅 El Retiro Park 🔅 Puerta del Sol 🔅 Churrería San Ginés 🔅 Plaza Mayor 🔅 Mercado San Miguel

🔅 The Prado Museum

If you’re unsure which museum to visit but want to see at least one, opt for the Prado Museum. It has a full  collection of Spanish  and European art from the  12th to the early 20th century .

You can explore the masterpieces of many artists from the  Baroque  and  Renaissance  epochs.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets for Prado Museum by clicking this link. ➡ Book a guided tour of El Prado incl. tickets here.

🔅 Reina Sofia Museum

Inside the Reina Sofia Museum, you’ll find Spanish art masterpieces from authors such as Miro , Dali , and Juan Grid . It displays the most famous Spanish pieces in the world.

If you love art and want to see more Spanish art, visit this museum.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets for Reina Sofia Museum here. ➡ Book a guided tour of Reina Sofia Museum by clicking this link.

🔅 National Archaeological Museum

The museum was  founded by Isabel II of Spain  back in 1867. You can learn a lot of history about Spain, the  Spanish Reconquista , and how the Spanish Kings Ferdinand and Isabell II.  fought against the Moors  and saw many artifacts from the period.

So, if you’re a history lover , this museum is for you.

➡ Book tickets for National Archaeological Museum incl. audio guide here.

🔅 Royal Palace

The Royal Palace in Madrid is the largest palace in Western Europe and one of the biggest in the world. It was home to all Spanish Kings .

This is the best place to learn about Spanish history , the life of Kings, and famous historical battles . For me, Spanish history is one of the most interesting after the French one, and I absolutely loved visiting the palace.

➡ Get skip-the-line ticket for Royal Palace Madrid here. ➡ Book a guided tour of Royal Palace and learn about the history with a local here.

🔅 El Retiro Park

El Retiro Park is my favorite place in Madrid. It’s a nice place to relax after your sightseeing . You can walk around, have a picnic , or even ride a boat on a lake . Take some time to chill inside the park before you continue to the main square.

🔅 Puerta del Sol

Puerta de Sol is one of the most beautiful squares in Madrid . It links many important streets and has some cafes and shops. In the middle, you can admire the statue of King Charles III .

Pay attention to the main post office building . It was built in 1786, and its huge clock plays a special role in the city. It always rings during special occasions and announces New Year during Spanish celebrations. Try to find the Kilometer Zero Plaque , which marks the center of Spain.

This square is also perfect for a coffee stop and eating traditional churros .

🔅 Churrería San Ginés

Something you can’t miss when you’re in Puerta del Sol is traditional  Churrería San Ginés . It’s a  churro and chocolate store  where they serve  traditional churros with chocolate .

This is  the best place  (perhaps in the country)  to try churros . So take some time, order churros with chocolate, and enjoy the sun. 

🔅 Plaza Mayor

Plaza de Mayor is the main square in Madrid, built between the 16th and 17th centuries during the  reign of King Philip II.  Unfortunately, local buildings were  destroyed several times by fire . And so what you see nowadays is a renovated version.

In the past, the square was  used for many purposes , including royal celebrations, bullfighting competitions, soccer games, and crowning ceremonies. On Sundays, it  hosted traditional markets .

Nowadays, you can  enjoy cafes and restaurants , where you can also experience beautiful Christmas Markets in December .

🔅 Mercado San Miguel

If you want to eat tapas or  enjoy Spanish cuisine , I highly recommend ending your walking tour at the San Miguel Market. It’s located near Plaza Mayor and is  Madrid’s first gourmet market .

Many locals come here to eat and drink with their friends and socialize. The building is stunning, and the atmosphere inside the market is amazing. So even if you don’t want to eat, it’s  worth visiting  it and  seeing local specialties .

👉 READ ALSO: Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

Madrid Nightlife & Best Clubs

Madrid has excellent nightlife , so head to the streets in the evening and enjoy your time here.

Here are some of the best night clubs in Madrid:

• Teatro Kapital
• Goya Social Club
• LAB theClub

If you want to learn more about the city and its history, check out some guided walking tours below:

Madrid Guided Tour

Book this guided tour and learn more about the history and culture of Spain’s capital with a local guide.

Where To Stay In Madrid: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

HOSTAL PALACIO LUNA – budget-friendly hotel HOTEL LIABENY – mid-range hotel ORIENTE PALACE APARTMENTS – luxury apartments

6. DAY: MADRID

Take your time to enjoy another day in Madrid. You have the entire day to explore what you didn’t manage yesterday.

May it be your museum’s round day or just chilling in Retiro Park , get the most out of Spain’s capital.

I also highly recommend doing a cooking class in Madrid . Experience the cuisine hands-on with a local. Learn how to prepare Spanish dishes and eat them afterward. It’s a lot of fun:

Cooking Class In Madrid

Book this cooking class in Madrid and learn how to prepare paella or Spanish tapas. The Paella class is in the morning with a market visit. The Tapas class is in the evening.

7. DAY: TOLEDO DAY TRIP

Let’s explore another charming Spanish city. Today, we’ll make a  day trip from Madrid to Toledo . It’s  my second favorite city in Spain  (right after Seville). I’m sure  you’ll love it , too.

You can choose to  visit Toledo by yourself  from Madrid (by bus) or  join an organized day trip from Madrid  to Toledo, which I recommend at the end of this day.

Distance Madrid ⇒ Toledo: Bus ride takes 1 hour (operated by Alsa Bus) ➡ Book your return bus tickets here.

Sightseeing In Toledo

Toledo features a mixture of cultures,  Christian ,  Jewish , and  Moorish sites , and their architecture will surely capture you. You can explore the following sites in this enchanting town.

🔅 Toledo Cathedral 🔅 Alcázar de Toledo 🔅 Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes 🔅 Mirador del Vale

🔅 Toledo Cathedral

This Gothic-style cathedral is the main church in Toledo, dating back to the 13th century . For over 370 years , Toledo was mainly occupied by Muslims. So the cathedral used to be a mosque in the past. Only when Alfonso IV., King of Castile and Leon (a region in the north of Spain) peacefully reclaimed this city the church became the main cathedral in the city.

🔅 Alcázar De Toledo

As you already know, Spain was occupied by Muslims called Moors . These Moors came from Africa and settled in southern Spain (Granada). After, they wanted to claim more of the Spanish territory and started going north.

They also captured Toledo , and so that’s why you can explore the Jewish, Catholic, as well as Moorish cultures in many cities in Spain. Toledo hosts one of the most impressive Alcazar, a fortress that protected the city.

Nowadays, it’s a military museum displaying various weapons .

🔅 Monasterio De San Juan De Los Reyes

The monastery was built as a celebration of the victory in the Battle of Toro . The Catholic Monarchs, Isabel II. and Ferdinand commissioned the construction in the Jewish quarter in Toledo. It commemorates the victory of Spanish Kings against Portuguese King Alfonso V, who wanted to take over the Castille region in Spain.

🔅 Mirador Del Vale

If you want some beautiful photos of Toledo , head to the Mirador del Vale for the views and photo shooting.

Best Views In Toledo

Except for the Mirador del Vale viewing point, there is one more interesting spot for views of Toledo. Go up to the library and  Cafeteria in Alcazar . You can get the best views of the entire city from this spot.

Walk around and get lost in the thousands of tiny streets and admire the architecture of the buildings. Toledo will take you back to medieval times .

PRO TIP: Try the Suckling pig at a restaurant, which is the local specialty of Toledo .

Organized Tour To Toledo (From Madrid)

Join this organized guided tour to Toledo from Madrid. You won’t have to plan anything and can visit it with a guide.

8. DAY: MADRID ⇒ GRANADA

Our itinerary continues to the south of Spain . Today, another travel adventure awaits us, traveling to a brand-new autonomous community. Indeed, the biggest one is where we stay and explore its hidden germs until the end of our trip.

In the morning, travel from Madrid to Granada,  the birthplace of Spanish flamenco . There are only buses runing to Granada, no trains .

Alternatively, you can already rent a car in Toledo , if you don’t want to take a bus.

Distance Madrid ⇒ Granada: Bus ride takes about 4 hours & 30 minutes (operated by Alsa) ➡ Book your bus tickets here.

Welcome to Andalusia (southern Spain), the largest Spanish region (autonomous community). You have now arrived in Granada, an important city in Spanish history. Don’t wait any longer; check in to your accommodation, and prepare to explore.

Like Toledo and other Andalusian cities we’ll visit on this trip, Granada reflects the culture and  co-living  of three cultural and religious groups –  Christians ,  Jews , and  Moors .

Under the Moorish rule, many Andalusian cities, including Granada, achieved social, ethical, and spiritual  integration  of these three groups in one place.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Southern Spain Itinerary For 10 Days

Sightseeing In Granada

🔅 Alcaicería 🔅 Granada Cathedral 🔅 Royal Chapel 🔅 Corral del Carbón 🔅 Albaicín 🔅 San Nicolás Square 🔅 Sacromonte

🔅 Alcaicer í a

We’ll start our walking tour visiting this historical Moorish bazaar in the heart of the city (close to the cathedral). It used to be a silk market during the Moorish times.

Nowadays, it’s a typical Arabic market with traditional products , clothes, and souvenirs. I love the atmosphere of this market, so check it out even if you don’t want to buy anything.

🔅 Granada Cathedral

The cathedral was built on the small mosque constructed here during the Moorish times.

Once the  Catholic Monarchs  from Castile and Leon finally fought back the Moors and  took back the territory of Granada  and Andalusia, they  undertook strict measures .

All  Moors had to convert to Catholicism  or were  expelled from the city .

The  cathedral symbolized Catholic reign  in Andalusia and remains so until now.

➡ Get this skip-the-line ticket for the Cathedral & Royal Chapel. ➡ Join this guided tour of Cathedral and learn about the Spanish Monarchs & Inquisition

🔅 Royal Chapel

As a memory of the victory over the Moors, the Royal Chapel is the  burial place of the Spanish Monarchs , Queen Isabell I. and King Ferdinand. You can see the crypt inside the chapel.

➡ Get this skip-the-line ticket for the Cathedral & Royal Chapel. ➡ Join this guided tour of Royal Chapel and learn about the Spanish Monarchs & Inquisition

🔅 Corral Del Carbón

Corral del Carbón is the  oldest traditional Andalusi building,  dating back to 1336. It served as a Coal yard, a  warehouse of goods , and a  shelter for merchants  coming to Granada.

After exploring the Catholic parts of the city, it’s time to see  Granada’s Arab Quarter , where you can explore beautiful  Moorish architecture . It’s the one side of Granada that makes the city so special. It’s also the  oldest neighborhood of Granada . Stop by  Taberna 22  for the  best tapas  in the city.

After, head up to  San Nicolas Square  for the best views of Granada.

🔅 San Nicolás Square

San Nicolas is my favorite place in Granada . It offers the best views of Alhambra and the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountain behind it. So take some time for great photos, sit in a local cafe, and enjoy the views.

🔅 Sacromonte

Sacromonte is a traditional neighborhood of Granada, which became home for gypsies after the Moors were expelled.

This is the spot to go to if you want to see an authentic flamenco performance. Scroll down to see the flamenco performance I recommend seeing today in the evening .

Granada Walking Tour

Book this walking tour of Granada and explore Albaicin with Sacromonte with a local guide.

Tapas Culture In Granada

Granada is the perfect place for  tapas hunting . Once you go to a bar, order a drink, and in most places in Granada, you’ll  get small tapas for free .

Tapas can be anything from pimiento (peppers), Spanish tortilla, patatas bravas (baked potatoes with salsa),  deep-fried eggplant   (Granada’s specialty) , or calamari, croquettes, or olives with Jamón (Spanish dry-cured ham).

Best Tapas Bars In Granada

• La Botilleria
• Bodegas Castañeda
• Bar Casa Julio (seafood tapas)
• La Riviera (surprise tapas)

Flamenco Show In Granada In The Evening

Andalusia is the  birthplace of Flamenco,  a Spanish traditional dance. There is no better spot than experiencing the Flamenco show here in Granada. The best spot for it is the Sacromonte .

I recommend the following Flamenco show in a unique cave setting.

Where To Stay In Granada: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

FLORENTIA HOMES – budget-friendly U-SENSE GRANADA CATHEDRAL – mid-range hotel ALHAMBRA PALACE HOTEL – luxury hotel

9. DAY: GRANADA & ALHAMBRA

Good morning to Granada. Today, we’ll explore the impressive Alhambra ; your afternoon will be free.

Alhambra is a town alone within Granada. Take  at least half a day  to see it. It has many statuses, from fortress to palace, castle, and summer retreat.

Alhambra complex was  built back in the 1200s  during the  Muslim reign in Andalusia . The  Nasrid dynasty  lived in Alhambra for many years until the Spanish Monarchs conquered and  expelled Moors from Andalusia  and Spain.

Alhambra then became the  royal residence  of the  Spanish Catholic Monarchs . Nowadays, it’s a top attraction to visit in Europe and serves mainly as a museum.

Skip-the-line Tickets Necessary For Alhambra

Tickets for Alhambra tend to be booked way in advance (more than 3 months before the visit) . I highly recommend you plan the visit ahead of time and reserve the tickets for Alhambra at least 3 months before . But you might be lucky even later on.

I also highly recommend booking a guided tour , it’ll give you a much better experience than just walking around by yourself.

Get the tickets below and book in advance:

Alhambra Tickets & Guided Tour

Alhambra free of charge.

If you’ve missed booking your ticket in advance and can’t go inside the Alhambra complex, or don’t want to pay for it, don’t worry. There are many areas to explore within the complex free of charge .

Just enter the main gate, walk through the beautiful Generalife gardens  with fountains, and admire Alhambra’s surroundings.

Free Afternoon In Granada

Enjoy your free afternoon exploring the rest of the places, walk through Granada’s Great Bazaar , Alcaiceria , and don’t forget to go tapas hunting .

For best sunset views, go up to the Plaza San Nicolás and its viewing point.

👉 READ ALSO: Do You Need Spanish To Travel To Spain? My Experience

10. DAY: GRANADA ⇒ MÁLAGA

Today, we’re going further south to the famous  Costa del Sol . We’ll rest from sightseeing and enjoy the small towns with great beaches for you to relax.

Now it’s also the time to rent a car for 4 days. So in the morning, rent a car in Granada and drive to Málaga,  the birthplace of Picasso .

RENTAL CAR:  You’ll  rent a car for 4 days  (and return it in Sevilla on day 13. of this itinerary).

Distance Granada ⇒ Málaga by car: approx. 1 hour 40 minutes (132km/82 miles).

I’ve taken you to Málaga, a  great central point  on the  Costa del Sol , from where you have connections to get to the lovely places around. You can  unpack your suitcases  for a while, as  we’ll stay 3 days here . It’ll serve as the  base for our daily excursions .

Check in to your accommodation and have an excellent free day in Málaga . You can go to the beach to relax or stroll through the city.

Sightseeing In Málaga

🔅 Picasso Museum 🔅 Picasso’s House 🔅 Alcazaba 🔅 Roman Theatre 🔅 Málaga Cathedral 🔅 Castilo De Gibralfaro 🔅 Ataranzas Market

Málaga is the  birthplace of Picasso , so if you like his art, check out the Picasso Museum and see the collections of his paintings. You can also visit  Picacco’s House  at the  Plaza de la Merced .

Don’t forget to check out the  Ataranzas Market  to see how locals hang out and try local specialties.

Best Beaches In Málaga

You can spend your afternoon chilling on one of Málaga’s beaches.  Playa la Malagueta  is directly in front of the city (walking from the city center). Or you can go to a smaller  Playa de la Misericordia . But it’s further from the city center (30 minutes by bus).

• Playa la Malagueta
• Playa de la Misericordia

Málaga Guided Walking Tour

Book this guided tour of Málaga to learn about the stories from Piccaso and the history of this part of Spain.

Where To Stay In Málaga: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

We are here on the southern coastline of Spain with great beaches, and it’s time to treat ourselves a bit.

Since we are also staying in Málaga for 3 nights, I recommend you stay in one of these beautiful boutique resorts and enjoy the atmosphere of la Costa del Sol :

BEACHFRONT VILLA TORROX COSTA HOTEL BOUTIQUE VILLA LORENA BY CHARMING STAY

If you still want to stay in the centre of Málaga, here are my recommendations and top accommodation tips:

HOTEL PALACETE DE ALAMOS ROOM MATE VALERIA

11. DAY: Day Trip To NERJA BEACH/GIBRALTAR

Today, you have two options for a day trip from Málaga.

You can go to  Nerja  and enjoy its beautiful beach (one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa del Sol). Or you can go south and visit  Gibraltar , the only spot to see  monkeys in Europe .

Day Trip To Nerja

In the morning, drive from Málaga to  Nerja . This seaside town has a few beaches where you can relax.

Playa Burriana  is the most touristy, but there are also smaller, very nice beaches such as  Playa de Carabeillo  or  Playa del Carabeo  (these 2 are amazing).

Besides, it is famous for its  Balcon de Europa  viewing point with the sights of the Mediterranean Sea.

There are some nice restaurants along the beach, too. Rest and reflect on your trip and the sites you have seen so far. Enjoy the Spanish atmosphere.

Day Trip To Gibraltar

If you aren’t a beach person, there is something for you as well. Visit Gibraltar, the last British territory in mainland Europe. It’s also the only place in the entire Europe where you can see monkeys.

Take a passport with you as there are controls on the border when you come to Gibraltar.

How To Get To Gibraltar

There is no train running to Gibraltar. You can only get there by bus or by car. However, I don’t recommend you go by car . It can be a struggle driving within Gibraltar as it’s quite tiny.

With the regular bus from Málaga, it takes relatively a lot of time to get to Gibraltar. So the best option for you is to go to Gibraltar with an organized guided tour .

PRO TIP:  When you decide to drive from Málaga , you can get furthest to  La Linea de la Concepcion , a small city before the  Gibraltar border . Leave the car there, then cross the border on foot (which is not a problem).

Sightseeing In Gibraltar

Go to the famous Rock of Gibraltar for stunning views and monkey watching. Hopefully, you won’t get too annoyed by them…

In the past, Gibraltar belonged to Moors. You can also visit the  Moorish Castle  and  Mosque  at the end of the peninsula.

PRO TIP: As a British territory , in Gibraltar, you have to pay using British pounds . Some shops accept euros, too, but the exchange rates are not really good. But you can pay by card , it’s just that you know :).

Dolphin Watching In Gibraltar

Another great activity you can do in Gibraltar is dolphin watching . You’ll be watching them from a catamaran with comments from local guides. Check it out and book your dolphin-watching excursion to guarantee your spot.

➡ Join this dolphin watching cruise in Gibraltar by clicking here.

Organized Tour To Gibraltar

Join this organized excursion to Gibraltar from Malaga if you don’t want to plan. A local guide will take you there on a transfer and care for everything. It includes dolphin watching , too.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days – for more day trip ideas from Málaga

12. DAY: Day Trip To CAMINITO DEL REY

Today, we’ll visit an incredible  Gorge Desfiladero  with its  thrilling pathway , located 40 minutes from Málaga.

The Gorge is about 3km/1.8 miles long and only 10meters wide. The wooden path was constructed on the side of the Gorge to provide access to the hydroelectric plant . King Alfonso XIII walked through this pathway to officially open the reservoir.

As a result, it was named the  Caminito del Rey  – The little pathway of a king.

Let’s enjoy the walk alongside the Gorge with stunning views of the  River Guadalhorce  and its reservoir.

How To Get To Caminito Del Rey

In the morning, drive from Málaga to Caminito del Rey (North Access). There is a car park just 10 minutes from the official starting point of the Caminito.

Then you have to walk about 10 minutes through a forest path until you reach the start of El Caminito.

Enjoy your Caminito. It is  7.7km/4.7 miles long , and the whole walk will take  2 to 3 hours , depending on your stops. Stroll through slowly and admire the stunning nature around you.

In the afternoon, head back to Málaga. Enjoy the  free afternoon  in this city, or relax at the beach. Tomorrow, we have another travel day to the capital of Andalusia.

How To Book Tickets In Advance For Caminito Del Rey

You’ll have to book the tickets in advance as the Caminito del Rey has become very popular over the past years. You have to choose a  specific time slot  for walking through the pathway.

This way, they regulate the number of visitors entering the Caminito. So don’t go here without having a  pre-booked ticket . You’ll most likely not be accepted for the walk as it’ll be fully booked for the day.

➡ Book skip-the-line tickets for Caminito del Rey here.

Organized Tour To Caminito Del Rey

Join this organized tour to Caminito del Rey from Málaga if you don’t want to plan and want to have fun in a group with a local guide. It includes entrance tickets , too.

13. DAY: MÁLAGA ⇒ SEVILLA

Are you ready for our last destination of this trip? Pack your bags and head to your rental car. Drive from Málaga to Sevilla, the birthplace of tapas .

Distance Málaga ⇒ Sevilla by car: approx 2 hours 20 minutes (210km/130miles)

Welcome to Sevilla , the  center of trade and exploration  of the Americas in the 1500s. At the time, it was also  the wealthiest Spanish city . We’ll spend the rest of our Spanish trip in this fantastic city.

Check in to your accommodation and head to the center to explore it.

Interesting Fact About Tapas

Maybe you might want to go straight into a bar for some  tapas for your lunch ? Right at the beginning, I have an interesting fact for you:

For this afternoon, check my  suggestion on day 14  for what to see and do in Sevilla. Plan your stay accordingly. You might do some sightseeing today and cover the majority tomorrow.

Tapas Crawl In The Evening

Today is the day for a real TAPAS EXPERIENCE. Join a Tapas Crawl and enjoy the best bars and evening atmosphere of Sevilla. Where else should you do a tapas tour if not in the birthplace of this Spanish tradition?

➡ Join this Tapas Crawl in Sevilla with a local guide and have fun!

Where To Stay In Sevilla: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

atLUMBRERAS 16 UMA SUITES PARADA DEL MARQUES HOTEL ALFONZO XIII LUXURY COLLECTION

14. DAY: SEVILLA

This city will let you finish your itinerary in the best way possible. It hosts sights of diverse cultures such as Moorish, Christian, and Jewish.

Sevilla is also the  burial place of Christoph Colombus . Besides, it’s the  birthplace of tapas .

If you still haven’t bought some memories to take back home, you can do so here. Sevilla is also famous for its  azulejos tiles  – ceramics with colorful tiles.

Today, you’ll get the chance to explore this fantastic city. It’s one of my top 3 favorite cities in Europe .

Sightseeing In Sevilla

🔅 Sevilla Cathedral 🔅 La Giralda 🔅 Barrio Santa Cruz – Jewish quarter 🔅 Real Alcazar 🔅 Plaza de España 🔅 Maria Luisa Park 🔅 Triana

NOTE: For some sights (Sevilla Cathedral, La Giralda, and Real Alcazar), it’s necessary to book skip-the-line tickets in advance . Otherwise, they’ll be fully booked.

🔅 Sevilla Cathedral

Welcome to the  largest cathedral in the world . It has 80 chapels, which is like, wow, I can’t image how they fit into this building. One of the highlights is the  tomb of Christoph Colombus . You can explore it inside the cathedral.

Afterward, you can also  head up to the Giralda  and get the city’s best views.

➡ Book this skip-the-line ticket for Sevilla Cathedral + La Giralda

🔅 La Giralda

Get the  best views of Sevilla  from the top of the bell tower. Under the Moorish reign, it used to serve as a  minaret , from where  Muezzin was calling inhabitants for the prayer .

For the cathedral and Giralda, it’s necessary to  get skip-the-line tickets , as it’s always super crowded.

🔅 Barrio Santa Cruz – Jewish Quarter

Seville used to have the  largest community of Jews . However, in the 14th century, they were  forced to convert to Christianity . If they resisted, they were forced to leave the city under the threat of death.

Nowadays, it is a  charming neighborhood  with tiny streets, cafes, and restaurants.

🔅 Real Alcazar

Real Alcazar is located in the Jewish quarter . It’s the original Moorish palace and was built to protect the Muslim authorities in the past. Admire its Mudejar architecture (Moorish architecture style) and its stunning green courtyard. Nowadays, it’s used by the Spanish Royal family.

➡ Get this skip-the-line tickets for Real Alcazar .

🔅 Plaza De España

It’s one of the  prettiest squares  in the entire Spain. Plaza España was built for the World Exposition in 1929. Its  tile illustrations  (made by typical Sevilla’s azulejos) depict many Spanish places, food, and autonomous communities.

So hop on a  little Spain tour  around this Spanish square in Sevilla. It’s one of my favorite places in Sevilla.

🔅 Maria Luisa Park

After, have a nice walk through this green park next to Plaza España and a little rest from the sightseeing.

Opposite the old city and  across the River Guadalquivir  is the  neighborhood  Triana. See  Flamenco’s monument  at the Plaza de Altozano and shop  for ceramics  with tiles  azulejos , famous for Sevilla.

Sevilla Guided Tour

Book this guided tour of Sevilla and visit the Cathedral, La Giralda, and Real Alcazar with a local guide. Hear interesting stories and get further tips.

Practical Tips For Your Spain Itinerary

I’ve got some travel tips for you to help you plan your itinerary even more in detail. So check the best time to make this itinerary, what to pack, how to communicate with locals, and what you could do if you have less time for Spain.

Best Time To Visit Span & Make This Itinerary

The best time to visit Spain is May, early June, late September, and October . December is also a great time to visit Spain as you can enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and some of the beautiful Christmas Markets and traditions.

These months are less crowded so you’ll enjoy the places more. Prices also drop as it’s the shoulder season. In particular, accommodation will be cheaper than during the summertime.

You’ll still benefit from great weather as temperatures range between  20°C/70°F  and  27°C / 80°F . Southern Spain (Sevilla, Granada, Malaga) will be hotter than Barcelona in Madrid, but it’ll still be pleasant even for swimming .

What To Pack For Your Spain Itinerary

I recommend you pack the following necessary clothes for this itinerary in Spain. Pack everything else essential for you, but these are the basics you should have in your backpack/suitcase:

• swimming suit
• mat/blanket for beach
• skirt and dresses
• sportsclothes
• light jumper/long-sleeve shirt
• good walking shoes
• waterproof jacket

Budget For Your 14-Day Spanish Itinerary

The budget for this itinerary for 14 days per person ( mid-range traveler ) is $2160 . This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, rent a car to travel conveniently, and enjoy each location’s activities.

Here is a breakdown of this itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 14-day trip to Spain , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the country offers, is $2160 per person .

Budget Breakdwon For Each Traveler Type

Here is a quick overview of a budget for every type of traveler:

➡ 14-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $800 ➡ 14-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $2160 ➡ 14-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $4500

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending during my 14-day trip to Spain. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

Is Spain Safe?

Spain is a pretty safe country . I lived in Barcelona for 2 years and went for a run at night alone, but I never felt danger. When you use your common sense , you’ll be safe.

One thing you need to be aware of is pickpockets . They are especially in the metro and trains in Barcelona and Madrid. Or in any other bigger city .

So watch out for pickpockets. But if you keep your bags closed when walking around, you’ll be fine. Also, don’t walk around with too many valuables and avoid attracting the pickpockets.

What To Do With More Or Less Time In Spain

I’ve got a few more itineraries for Spain for you in case you have less time. Check out these itineraries for 10 days or 8 days and plan your trip accordingly.

Spain Itinerary 10 Days

Spain itinerary 8 days, how to speak spanish when traveling spain.

I love foreign languages, and learning them is a lot of fun. It can be easy to get to fluency if you have the right strategies .

Knowing a few Spanish words  will help you  connect with locals  and make your experiences on this itinerary  much more memorable . So I’ve also prepared a guide for you where you can learn how to order food and drinks when traveling in Spain.

Get my Spanish Food Guide here  or by clicking the link below and have fun learning Spanish words you can use while traveling to Spain.

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you plan even more. So check them out below.

Is 14 Days In Spain Too Long?

No , 14 days in Spain is the perfect time to explore the country; it’s a short time. Spain is a huge country, so you need at least 2 weeks to enjoy the best spots and activities. So follow my itinerary and see the highlights of Spain in 14 days. It’s the best time.

How To See Spain In 2 Weeks?

Spain in 2 weeks offers a lot you can explore. You can see Barcelona , Valencia and Madrid as the big and interesting cities. After, you can make a day trip to Toledo and travel south to Andalusia.

Then, spend a few days in southern Spain , visiting the most beautiful cities like Granada , Cordoba , Sevilla , and Malaga . Make day trips to Caminito del Rey , Nerja Beach , or Gibraltar .

What Month Is Best To Visit Spain?

The best month to visit Spain is October . Prices drop significantly, and there are fewer crowds, too. Temperatures are still pleasant, and the weather is great, around 20°C/68°F . So you’ll enjoy the places with fewer tourists around for better prices , and mild weather, not too hot.

How Much Cash Do I Need For 2 Weeks In Spain?

As a budget traveler , you’ll need around $800 for 2 weeks in Spain.

As a mid-range traveler , you’ll need around $2000 for 2 weeks in Spain.

And as a luxury traveler , you can spend anywhere up to $4000 in 2 weeks in Spain, depending on what you want to do and where you’ll stay.

Should I Go To Madrid Or Barcelona?

If you want to enjoy more sightseeing , go to Barcelona and if you want to enjoy more Spanish culture and nightlife , go to Madrid .

Overall, I think Barcelona is better than Madrid because it has more to offer and the city is so much fun. But you’ll experience more authentic Spanish culture in Madrid than in Barcelona because Barcelona is in Catalonia, and the culture is slightly different.

WRAP-UP: Spain Itinerary 14 Days

This is my Spanish itinerary 14, 10 or 8 days for you. I hope you’ll get the most out of Spain , see its highlights, and enjoy your life. Spain is one of my favorite European countries (top 4), and I’m sure you’ll fall in love , too.

If you have any questions or need further travel tips, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com. I’ll gladly help you or design a customized travel itinerary for your needs and preferences.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Spain Travel

Looking to visit more places in Spain? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Barcelona Itinerary For 3 Days

Best Of Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days

Top 8 Road Trips From Barcelona

6 Best Spanish Festivals You Need To Experience

Is Seville Worth Visiting? 14 Reasons To Visit & Tips

How Far Is Morocco From Spain? Complete Guide

How Far Is Barcelona From Paris? Complete Guide

Spain In December: Best Things To Do & See

Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

27 Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

Is Portugal In Spain? Ultimate Guide

Do You Need Spanish To Travel To Spain? My Experience

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SPAIN : Interested in more articles about Spain? Check out my Spain Travel Page :

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This post has 10 comments.

Some of my favourite spots in Spain on your itinerary. We have been to Spain many times but know there are still many spots we need to visit. Valencia and Toledo definitely need to be on a return visit plan. The beaches are always a big draw. But the history and architecture draws us to the cities. We went by train on most trips. So maybe a car would let us get out in the country more.

I am glad that the itinerary consists of some of your favourite places, Linda :). I think travelling Spain by train is still a great choice. Only in Andalusia, I would suggest everybody to rent a car to get around.

Wow this a very ambitious list! I think it took me twice as long to hit these spots because I spent so many days just eating churros ;p

Hahaha, Nina, love your comment. You’re right; it is quite ambitious. I’ve tried to pack the most amazing places together, and you can see that the itinerary will be pretty intense. But I believe you’ll come from Spain with so many memories, feeling like you’ve seen pretty much the most important parts of the country :). And of course, churros have to be on program every day 😀 :D.

This is a complete and detailed guide; I don’t think you missed a thing. Great travel tips. I’m saving this one for future travels!

Hi Lorry, I am glad you like it. Hope it will be useful for you once you visit Spain :). Let me know how the travel is with this itinerary.

I have only visited Barcelona so far in Spain, and I loved it! You should add Parc Guell to your list, it’s amazing! Gaudi has a lot of incredible architecture throughout the city to see. I hope to go back again.

Hi, Kat. Many thanks for the tip. Yes, you’re completely right. Parc Guell should be on the list. However, it is quite difficult to put all the beautiful sites in Barcelona together in 2 days. So that’s why I’ve created a 3-day itinerary with everything to see and do in Barcelona, which also contains Parc Guell. You can check it out. You guys can then decide how many days you want to spend in Barcelona and what you want to see based on this 3-day Barcelona itinerary .

This post comes just in time. I’m currently planning a trip to Spain – which I might postpone due to the current covid situation. Nevertheless, this gives me even more time for extensive planning so I don’t miss out on any important landmark. Your post is the perfect base to start my itinerary 🙂

Hi Renata. Awesome, I am happy it comes in handy for you. Hope it will give you a lot of inspiration, and you’ll have a perfect time in Spain. Let me know which destinations you’ve visited.

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A 5-day Northern Spain Itinerary By Train – Cider, Bagpipes And A Surprising Gaudí

Posted on Last updated: 05/12/2023

Categories SPAIN

This Northern Spain itinerary by train takes you through some of the most underrated cities in the country. Find out how easy it is to travel around Northern Spain by train, and discover four off-the-beaten-path cities that will captivate you.

As Agatha Christie once said, “Trains are wonderful…. To travel by train is to see nature and human beings, towns and churches, and rivers, in fact, to see life.”

And I have to agree with her. Train travel is the most wonderful way to travel and you do indeed get to see the world around you in a way that you wouldn’t from any other mode of transport.

Not only is it a very romantic way to travel, but train travel is the most sustainable and eco-friendly way too. So there’s no better way to explore this lesser known area of Spain.

This 5-day Northern Spain itinerary by train includes a little bit of everything – from coastal cities and mountain views, to foodie destinations and architectural gems.

Whether you’re into history, culture or good hearty food, this North Spain itinerary has something for you.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Day 1 – Arrival in Asturias
• 1.2 Day 2 – Gijón, ancient coastal city
• 1.3 Day 3 – Oviedo, city of bagpipes and cider
• 1.4 Day 4 – León, medieval wonders and Gaudí
• 1.5 Day 5 – Valladolid, a vibrant university city

5-day Northern Spain itinerary by train

Day 1 – arrival in asturias.

Asturias is not the easiest region in Spain to get to, but with some of the best of Northern Spain on offer here, the extra effort is sure to be more than worth it. 

The quickest way to get here is by flying into Asturias airport from London. Vueling is the only international airline that flies directly, but you can fly from all over the world via Madrid. > Check the best deals on flights on Skyscanner here

If you would like to avoid flying, you could take a ferry from Plymouth to Santander . Once there, take the train from Santander to Gijón , where this 5-day Northern Spain itinerary by train starts.

Another alternative would be to take the ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao . Getting from Bilbao to Gijón by train is not straight forward, so if your first port of call in Spain is Bilbao, I would recommend doing this itinerary in reverse and starting in Valladolid.

You can get to Valladolid by train in 3h 20mins. > Check the best deals on train fares on Omio here

Day one of this North Spain itinerary is mostly a travel day, so take the opportunity to take it easy and settle in after you’ve arrived. 

I stayed at the Abba Playa Gijón Hotel , which is right by the beach. If you stay here, you can take a leisurely walk along the promenade, and end the day with a cocktail or two on their rooftop bar. It has wonderful views over the bay. > Book Abba Playa Gijón Hotel here

Day 2 – Gijón, ancient coastal city

Gijón is an industrial port with a history that goes back to Roman times. It is the biggest city in Asturias and the perfect place to start this itinerary of Northern Spain by train.

Discover Medieval Gijón

What started off as a small fishing village called Cimadevilla, is now a bustling city with a vibrant atmosphere. And the best way to get a feel for Gijón is to wander around both the Old Town and neighbouring areas.

The Old Town, still called Cimadevilla , was traditionally the fishermans’ quarter of Gijón. It’s located next to what once was the fishing port and is now the marina. 

Cimadevilla’s picturesque streets and squares have been witness to historical events through the ages – from Roman times, through the Middle Ages, to current times.

During the day it feels like a sleepy village, but these seemingly quiet streets come alive at night, with people gathering around the many bars and restaurants in the area.

Enjoy the best views of the bay

As you walk through the Old Town, head to Cerro de Santa Catalina (St Catherine’s Hill). On your way to the top, you will find Batería de Santa Catalina (St Catherine’s Battery), a 19th century gunnery, now the home to a skate park.

On the highest point of the Cerro is Chillida’s enormous concrete sculpture ‘Elogio del Horizonte’ ( Tribute to the Horizon ). Its size and abstract shape have led it to be dubbed as ‘King Kong’s Toilet’ by humorous locals.

This striking monument has become the symbol of the city, and from here you can enjoy sweeping views of Gijón and San Lorenzo Bay .

As you walk down from the Cerro towards San Lorenzo Beach, make sure you stop at the Roman Baths , where you can learn how the Romans used public baths. Entry is free.

Explore the Modernist architecture

If you are a fan of European cafe culture, you must not miss Cafe Dindurra , Gijon’s answer to European traditional cafes. This elegant modernist cafe can easily rival cafes in Vienna or Paris, with its majestic columns.

Built at the start of the 20th century, Cafe Dindurra was built as part of an ambitious block, whose centre was a theatre. The cafe was designed to connect directly with the theatre. Jovellanos Theatre now occupies the centre of the block.

Modernist architecture is ubiquitous in Gijón. It reveals how forward thinking the city was at the start of the last century. And this attitude has carried forward with a city that has reinvented itself from being an industrial hub to being a city designed with its residents in mind.

Corrida Street is a pedestrianised street where these two aspects of Gijón’s character come together. Don’t forget to look up as you walk down the city’s liveliest street.

Where to stay in Gijón

Stay a second night at Abba Playa Gijón Hotel for convenience and comfort. Alternatively, here are a couple of highly rated options:

• El Môderne Hotel
• Hotel Santa Rosa
• Balenax Pensión

Train from Gijón to Oviedo Gijón to Oviedo journey time – approximately 27 mins Train type – ALVIA high-speed train > Check prices and book your tickets here

Day 3 – Oviedo, city of bagpipes and cider

Founded in the 8th century, Oviedo was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Asturias. Although no longer a Kingdom, Asturias is a Spanish principality with a strong local identity, and Oviedo is still its capital today.

Hunt for statues that tell stories

As you arrive in Oviedo, you will see that it is very different from Gijón. Oviedo’s Old Town oozes charm in every corner, and you will want to wander aimlessly through its narrow streets, getting lost and discovering hidden squares and picturesque lanes.

Oviedo invites you to walk, and as you wander around you will notice an abundance of statues . There are over 170 scattered all over the city! Every other street, crossroad, and square has a statue offering a tribute to elements of Asturian culture. 

A couple that stood out for me were ‘La Lechera’ (The Milkmaid) in Trascorrales Square, which celebrates the milkmaids that used to distribute milk across the city with their donkeys. This practice continued until the 1970s.

I would also like to mention the statue of ‘La Regenta’ (The Regent’s Wife), which can be found in the Cathedral Square. She is the character of a 19th century Spanish fictional novel. It is a classic that most Spaniards have read at school.

While you are in the Cathedral Square, make sure you visit Oviedo Cathedral . It is an important symbol of Spanish Gothic architecture, and the Holy Chamber is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can climb up to the top of the tower for 360 degree views of the city.

Catch the bagpipe bands

If you are in Oviedo on a Saturday or Sunday, there is a good chance that you will come across one of the local bandas de gaitas (bagpipe bands) while you are in the vicinity of the Cathedral Square.

You may be surprised to see and hear bagpipes, but this wind instrument, often exclusively associated with Scotland, is an important part of music in Celtic cultures such as Asturias, Galicia, and Brittany.

Try the local cuisine of Asturias

Another element that is deep rooted in the Asturian culture is the local cuisine . Known for its seafood and its hearty mountain stews, there are a few dishes that every visitor to Oviedo (or Asturias) should try.

The most famous local dish is fabada , a heavy but delicious bean and meat stew that will leave you feeling like you’ve just had the warmest of hugs. It is the epitome of comfort food.

Another traditional Asturian dish is cachopo , the Asturian version of cordon bleu. And for dessert, arroz con leche (local rice pudding) is as Asturian as it gets.

A well known place to try any of these dishes is La Corte de Pelayo Restaurant . Their fabada has been a finalist multiple times in the fabada competition, and their cachopo has won the best cachopo award with a recipe from 1947.

Immerse yourself in cider tradition

When it comes to drinks, cider is king in Asturias. In fact, you cannot visit this Northern Spanish region and not go to a sidrería (cider house), where cider is served by an escanciador (cider pourer). It is one of the most popular things to do in Oviedo .

Cider in Asturias is flat, so the act of escanciar involves pouring it from a height to create bubbles that help enhance the flavour of the cider. Each pour is about two fingers’ worth of drink. More than that and the carbonisation is lost by the time you drink it.

Asturias, land of cheeses

For me, the highlight of the food I tried while in Oviedo was the cheeses.

Asturias is often referred to as the land of cheeses . With over 40 types, it is Spain’s largest cheese producer. The variety and quality is astounding!

Don’t leave without trying a local cheese board. Sidrería Tierra Astur El Vasco has more than 40 varieties of cheese on offer, so the biggest problem you’ll have will be choosing which ones to try.

If you like strong and slightly spicy cheeses, try Casín . For blue cheese lovers, I recommend trying the world-famous Cabrales . And for those who prefer mild cheeses, Afuega’l Pitu is a fantastic choice!

If after a busy day (and a full stomach) exploring Oviedo you still have the energy for more, head to Mon Street, the heart of Oviedo nightlife . With plenty of bars and pubs to choose from, you are guaranteed a good night out. But this is Spain, so make sure you don’t turn up before 11pm!

Where to stay in Oviedo

I stayed at the Gran Hotel España in Oviedo. It is located at the edge of the Old Town and within a short walk from the main attractions. My room had a big balcony with great views over the city and the surrounding hills.

It’s also conveniently located opposite Camilo de Blas , a traditional sweet and patisserie shop where you can buy carbayones , a local specialty similar to eclairs. > Book Gran Hotel España here

Train from Oviedo to León Oviedo to León journey time – approximately 2h 20mins (ALVIA) or 2h 53mins (Regional) Train type – ALVIA high speed or Regional train > Check prices and book your tickets here

Day 4 – León, medieval wonders and Gaudí

Although it was my second visit to León, it was the first time I got to appreciate this historical city properly. My first visit was a quick overnight stay on my way to Santiago de Compostela while I walked the Camino .

Despite not being a religious or spiritual person, the Camino was the most important experience I’ve ever had and I’d go as far as to say it is one of my personal seven wonders of the world . 

Discover a city built for pilgrims

León was, and still is, an important stop for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago . And this has left an important legacy in the city.

Proof of this is the Convento de San Marcos , a former convent originally built in the 12th century as a shelter for pilgrims.

It was rebuilt in the plateresque style in the 16th century, giving it its current grand appearance. Today it is a luxury hotel run by the state-owned Paradores brand.

Enter the House of Light

Another clue of how important the city has been for the Camino de Santiago, is the magnificent León Cathedral . Its grandiosity is breathtaking, but the interior will truly blow you away. 

The light coming through the 1,800 sq metres of stained glass windows will make you gasp as you walk in and look up, earning it the nickname of House of Light.

I was impressed by the largest expanse of stained glass in the Cathedral in York , but León Cathedral takes things to the next level. It is one of the largest collections of medieval stained glass in the world, so admiring it is one of the top things to do in León .

What’s even more impressive is that around 80% of the stained glass is original, with the oldest glass dating back to the 13th, when the cathedral was built. You can clearly see that its construction was inspired by French Gothic cathedrals in Reims and Amiens.

Admire the Sistine Chapel of the Romanesque Art

Another important building in medieval León is the Real Colegiata de San Isidoro de León . The original church dates from the 9th century, but it was rebuilt in the 11th and 12th centuries after being destroyed.

The church houses the tomb of St Isidore, Patron of Seville. But make sure you don’t miss visiting the Panteón Real (Royal Patheon), known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Romanesque Art’.

This vaulted chamber contains the tombs of kings and nobles of the ancient Kingdom of León. The stunning frescos that cover the ceiling are a medieval masterpiece. Incredibly, they’ve never been restored, they have only been cleaned up.

Find reminders of Roman León

The Middle Ages was the time when León flourished, thanks to the pilgrim-related trade. But León’s beginnings go further back in time. Founded as a Roman camp, the name does not come from the word ‘lion’, but rather from the word ‘legion’, which refers to its origins.

As you walk around the Old Town, you will come across sections of the medieval walls built on top of the original Roman city walls .

One curiosity is that locals have found a way of integrating the walls in everyday life. Walk down Serradores Street and you will see how residential houses have been built into the ancient walls.

Discover Leon’s Gaudí surprise

One of the biggest surprises that León has in store for visitors, is one of only three buildings designed and built by Gaudí outside Catalonia – Casa Botines .

Known for his modernist buildings in Barcelona such as Casa Batlló, Gaudí was commissioned to design a building by two cloth merchants in 1891. The building would serve as a residence for two families and a textile warehouse.

The result was a modernist building in the medieval style. Today the building houses a Gaudí museum about the building and his work, and also a small art gallery with works by artists such as Dalí, Goya and Chillida. 

Get lost in the Barrio Húmedo

Once you finish exploring the cultural aspects of León, head to the Barrio Húmedo , literally translated as ‘wet quarter’ due to the large number of bars and restaurants located in a relatively small area.

The Barrio Húmedo is centred around Plaza de San Martín (San Martin Square), and is one of the liveliest areas in the city. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of León nightlife , and to try the local tapas and the local wines.

Make sure you try Leonese cecina – like serrano ham but from beef. It is a lot leaner, drier, and has a more intense in flavour than serrano ham.

Where to stay in León

With so much history around León, it was only fitting that I stayed at the Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro , once part of the old monastery. The rooms were once monastery cells, although you wouldn’t guess it now. All the rooms have views over the old cloister or the roman walls. > Book Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro here

Train from León to Valladolid León to Oviedo journey time – approximately 1h (AVE) or 1h 11mins (ALVIA) Train type – AVE high speed or ALVIA high speed train > Check prices and book your tickets here

Day 5 – Valladolid, a vibrant university city

Valladolid is often overlooked as a destination by overseas visitors travelling on a Northern Spain itinerary, unless they are interested in the world famous Easter Week celebrations.

But Valladolid was once so important that it was the capital of Spain not only once, but twice – under King Charles I in the 16th century, and again between 1601 and 1606 under King Philip III. 

It has always been at the centre of the Catholic heartlands in Spain, and this is apparent in the dozens of churches scattered around the city, and the abundance of religious art on display in its museums.

Visit the site of the first human rights debate

To understand Valladolid’s part in Spain’s religious history, it is important to visit at least one of the city’s museums, and my recommendation would be to visit the emblematic College of San Gregorio, today the National Sculpture Museum .

The museum contains an expansive collection of religious art from the Middle Ages through to the 19th century. But even if you are not into sculpture as an art, the building itself is worth visiting.

The intricate carvings on the façade will have you staring at it and admiring the elaborate details. Inside, the 15th century cloister is stunning, and the ceilings of each room throughout the museum are also worth noting.

It was in this building where the very first debate about human rights in European history took place in 1550-1551. Known as the Valladolid Debate , it concerned the rights and treatment of indigenous people by European colonisers.

There were a number of opposing views about the way natives of the Americas were being integrated into Spanish society, their conversion to Catholicism, and their rights.

Admire Valladolid’s architectural jewels

As you wander around the city, it is worth highlighting two churches. Convent Church of San Pablo , with its plateresque-style façade, is one of Valladolid’s most famous buildings. Santa María La Antigua Church is a 14th century church with the tallest Romanesque tower in Spain.

Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Valladolid

Another important building in Valladolid is the Cathedral , a large Renaissance building that was never finished due to lack of funds. You can go to the top of the tower for great views of the city and the countryside beyond.

Have a meal (or two) with wine pairing

Valladolid has one of the most recognised wine growing regions in Spain, the Ribera del Duero . It is a Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP – protected designation of origin) and it’s a region that has been producing wine for thousands of years.

Because of this, Valladolid is a great city to do some wine tasting. But why not take it a bit further and enjoy the wine by pairing it with the local food?

For a lunchtime wine pairing experience, try Vinoteca Señorita Malauva , a wine pairing boutique run by Gustavo Calvo, an expert in wine tourism that also has his own winery. The food is made with local ingredients and is delicious too.

For dinner, don’t miss Restaurante Mêlel , an innovative space where hedonism and becoming a bon viveur is at the centre of everything. This eclectic place serves surprising and creative food with well paired wines from all over Spain. My favourite thing? The beef heart ssam.

Experience the Valladolid’s bars and nightlife

Valladolid is a university city. In fact, Valladolid University is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 15th century. And where there is a large university, you are guaranteed a vibrant nightlife too.

Valladolid is a city of bars and pubs. Head to Calle Paraíso , which is lined up with bars, and follow the crowds. You can’t really go wrong. Just make sure you are not out too early, as Valladolid’s party scene kicks off late.

Where to stay in Valladolid

I stayed in Boutique Hotel Gareus , an elegant boutique hotel in an early 20th century building. It is located in the historic centre of Valladolid, so it was very convenient for the main attractions of the city and for the train station. > Book Boutique Hotel Gareus here

Do you have any questions about this Northern Spain itinerary by train? Let me know in the comments!

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Disclosure: This post has been created as a partnership with Spanish Tourism . As always, all views are my own. 

Teresa is an award-winning travel blogger based in London. She’s on a mission to explore the world through responsible cultural and adventure travel , and through deeper, more meaningful local experiences. She’s a lover of adventure, the outdoors and everything food related, and she’s always looking for ways to make a positive impact through sustainable travel .

Spring broke: Once there was a train in Spain — and I got booted off of it because of $7

One in a series of stories about how travel doesn’t always go as planned.

The train conductor and I were at an impasse.

He demanded to see my ticket; I did not have one. “Tengo un Europass?” I offered hopefully, holding up the battered slip of paper that I’d mistakenly assumed would offer me unconditional dominion over the rail networks of continental Europe. But in March 1997, just as today, some Eurail trips required a nominal reservation fee; on this overnight sleeper train across the Iberian Peninsula to Barcelona, it was on the order of $7 or so.

Seven dollars I didn’t have. At least, not in pesetas, the pre-euro currency in Spain. He would have also accepted French francs — but I didn’t have any of those, either.

I sheepishly showed him the extent of my worldly fortune: a cloudy Zip-Loc bag full of British coins, containing about $70 worth of pounds and pence that I had earned busking in the streets and Underground stations of London during the first two months of our spring semester abroad. I was quite proud that I had managed to earn real money performing music. The conductor was less impressed.

My friend and traveling companion, Adam, had actual, useful money. Having already exhausted my study-abroad stipend by early March — who thought it was a good idea to give 20-year-olds a semester’s worth of rent money on their first day in a new country? — I was running up a tab with Adam on this spring break trip, paying him back in pounds, pints, and promises. “Mi amigo tiene el dinero,” I desperately explained to the conductor. “Está en el baño!”

Adam really was in the bathroom. We had been drinking warm beer in a park for several hours before boarding this train, discussing the meaning of life, chatting with stray dogs, and generally killing time in a small town because we’d already flubbed our first attempt at overnight rail travel. (On a train from Nice to Barcelona the previous night, we awoke to a lurching sensation around 2 a.m., but fell back asleep. The next morning, we arrived not in the Mediterranean metropolis of Barcelona, but in a sleepy border town called Irún. The train had split in the middle of the night, sending the front half down the coast to Barcelona and the rest of us clear across Spain.)

I imagine the conductor thinking that, even if this supposed bathroom friend existed, there would be little use in waiting for anyone associated with the scuzzy, long-haired vagabond before him now frantically sputtering boozy scraps of 10th-grade Spanish. Either way, Adam wasn’t back yet, the train was already slowing down, and when it hissed to a stop at the next station, he tossed me right off. And that’s how I discovered the lovely seaside city of San Sebastián.

When the train pulled away, I found myself alone on an outdoor platform, in the center of a strange city, with midnight fast approaching. This was 1997: I had no map, no phone, certainly no TripAdvisor app. After indulging in a bit of self pity, I started walking around, and soon found a beach. It was a lovely one, and the night was mild, but I wasn’t sure if I could sleep outside without getting arrested or mugged.

The fact that I was nervous but not utterly terrified speaks to the immense privilege I enjoyed being an able and well-enough-off white guy. To wit: I had a low-limit credit card my parents had sent me abroad with for emergencies. This certainly seemed to qualify. But after a few too many, um, “emergency” trips to the off-license back in London, I knew the card was almost maxed out. So I kept wandering the quiet, empty streets for over an hour until I finally found an open hotel that was both dirt cheap and credit-card capable.

For his part, when Adam returned to our couchette, he was understandably alarmed to learn that his friend had been booted off the train. He convinced himself that I must have outsmarted the conductor — that I was simply hiding somewhere on board — and spent much of the night searching the train for me. Upon arriving in Barcelona, he waited at the station for over an hour, expecting me to sneak off the train once everyone had disembarked, and then dutifully returned later that night to check incoming arrivals. Such was life before cell phones.

The next day, on the other side of the country, I went straight to the San Sebastián train station, and found they didn’t accept las tarjetas de crédito. So I was singularly focused: I needed to make about $20 in Spanish cash — enough to pay for some food and the reservation fee on a ticket to Barcelona.

So I got busy walking the streets of San Sebastián with my guitar, looking for the spots where people gathered. The architecture of Old Town was beautiful, but its narrow lanes weren’t quite teeming with tourists on this weekday in early March. Once I found the city’s majestic pedestrian promenade, though — whose iconic white railings have graced La Concha Beach since 1910 — I pulled out my guitar, opened up the case, and started singing.

Here’s the best travel tip I can offer: If you play a portable musical instrument, bring it along the next time you travel. It’s a pain to carry, yes, but it can absolutely change your trip for the better. With the exception of skeptical customs officials, people everywhere are warmer and friendlier toward musicians, eager to start a conversation. You’ll meet more and different people, locals and other tourists alike. You may even find yourself invited to parties or hidden hot spots.

And in a pinch, you can jam your way out of a jam with a bit of busking, which thrusts you into the local culture in a way no guided tour ever could. By contributing to the soundtrack of a city, you become part of the very place you’re visiting; you won’t just be in your own vacation photos and memories, you’ll exist in other people’s as well.

Early in the day, I wasn’t having much luck. But seeing as my only commitment was a 10 p.m. train — for which I didn’t even yet have a ticket — I just kept singing, making mental note of which songs resonated with people. (Nobody seemed to know Tom Petty, but Nirvana and Bob Dylan went over well.) Then, as the afternoon sun melted into the hills that cradle shell-shaped Concha Bay, the tide came in — a tide of people. They flooded onto the seaside promenade for their sunset strolls, and my guitar case started to fill up with pesetas.

In any language, street music elicits smiles from the gracious, trained disregard from the busy, glassy-eyed gazes from the old or the lovestruck, and either playful jubilance or hypnotized stares from children. In a place as magical as San Sebastián at sundown, it also seemed to bring out the best of humanity. Several groups of locals stopped to chat with me — my B+ high school Spanish buckling beneath the weight of real-world conversation — and, upon hearing my situation, one foursome even invited me to stay the night with them.

Music is such a strange, powerful thing. It stirs our emotions and dances deep within our brains, connecting us to each other and to ourselves through time and place. The ability to turn sound into song is something of an acoustic alchemy that people genuinely tend to marvel at, and one of life’s great honors and blessings.

By nightfall, I had earned enough money to buy a train reservation and a dinner near the station. As the train rolled out of San Sebastián a while later, I couldn’t stop smiling. Things had worked out. Music had saved the day. I pulled out my pocket notebook and started writing a song about the whole misadventure.

When I reached Barcelona the next morning, I looked all over the station for Adam but didn’t find him. Knowing next to nothing about the city, I walked first to the beach, and came upon a single long-stem rose someone had left stuck in the sand — a poetic welcome to the shores of the Mediterranean. I sat in the sand and pulled out my guitar, not playing for tips this time, but to set the words I’d written to music.

I only got to spend the day in Barcelona before it was time for a grueling 16-hour series of train rides back to London — no sleeper cars this time, but the magnificent and modern train station accepted credit cards — where I’d finally reunite with Adam and hear his half of this story. But the trip was hardly a bust. In fact, my accidental detour to San Sebastián remains one of my fondest travel memories, and one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written.

New European Sleeper train connects four capitals from Brussels to Prague

“Night trains are now making a comeback all over Europe and I am very glad that the Czech Republic is not left behind.”

European travellers can now fall asleep in Brussels and wake up in Prague with the launch of a new sleeper train service.

The first ‘Good Night Train’ service from the European Sleeper start-up departs Belgium’s capital this evening (25 March) bound for the Czech Republic. On the way, it will pass through Amsterdam, Berlin and other popular cities.

It’s another valuable node in Europe’s night train network, after European Sleeper began its Brussels to Berlin trips in May 2023.

And the company has no plans to stop there. “Our goal is to add a new route each year so we can continue to contribute to a more integrated and sustainable European transportation network,” says co-founder Elmer Van Buuren.

Euronews spoke to the Dutch entrepreneur about this vision back in 2021.

• The Big Question: How did two rail enthusiasts fund their own €4.5 million sleeper train company?
• Slow and sleepy travel: Why overnight trains are the best way to go

What's driving this new dawn of train travel?

Van Buuren said the new line is fuelled by 'flight shame', a term used in Sweden to refer to shaming people for increasing their carbon footprint through flying. 

"There needs to be a good alternative to flying or using your car," he said, and the European Sleeper is a way of doing this with relatively low investment.

Trains are often more hassle-free than flying, he adds, as they depart from city centres and deliver you to city centres, unlike out-of-town airports.

"There used to be a lot more night trains than nowadays and I want to bring them back.

"People can sleep and get rested while being transported, and then wake up in a new city on time for a professional meeting. It's kind of magical."

Czech Minister of Transport Martin Kupka is happy that his country is getting on board.

“Night trains are now making a comeback all over Europe and I am very glad that the Czech Republic is not left behind,” he says.

The Good Night Train also passes through Antwerp, Rotterdam and Dresden. You can read more details about the sleeper options and those destinations in our piece here .

Watch the full interview with the co-founder of European Sleeper above.

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