I’m sure time flies while traveling, but what to do with a week in Spain?
The answer to that is simple – try to come up with a comprehensive itinerary that best suits your needs and make sure to include the things that interest you most, even though one visit to the sunny destination will not be enough either way.
A great idea for your first sighting in (or a legendary comeback to) Spain is visiting two of the main hubs in the country in one go!
Here’s what to do with a week in Spain: From Madrid to Barcelona.
How to get from Madrid to Barcelona
Whether you start your adventure in Madrid and end in Barcelona or vice versa, one of the best ways of traveling between the two cities is by taking a train. You can make your way from Madrid to Barcelona by train in around three hours, all the while enjoying scenic views along the way and making use of modern onboard amenities, ensuring your comfort and safety. Check Rail.Ninja for more information on trains, timetables, and other train-travel-related information in Spain.
Alternatively, you can hop on a bus or arrange yourself a private transfer to reach the destination, which can be slightly more time- or money-consuming.
For a scenic stop on your way from Madrid to Barcelona, hop off the train in Zaragoza, another lovely Spanish destination for you to explore. Home to some spectacular examples of Moorish architecture, it is the capital of the scenic Aragón region and the fifth-largest city in the country.
While there, make sure to visit the spectacular Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the imposing Palacio de la Aljafería, and Museo de Zaragoza, or simply set off wandering its charming streets as scenic views await you on its every corner.
Must-See Sights in Madrid
Let’s start with the bustling Spanish capital, Madrid; brimming with so many things to see and do, the city is a well of endless sightseeing opportunities. There are some incredible Madrid landmarks to include on your list.
One of the main visitor attractions in Madrid is undoubtedly the renowned Prado Museum, housing an exceptional collection of artwork, including but not limited to pieces by Velázquez, Ribera, and Zurbarán.
Another crucial stop on the itinerary of any museum lover is the National Archaeological Museum telling the story of Spain’s past and its significant events. Another great way to get better acquainted with the country’s history is joining one of the comprehensive theme tours, such as the Madrid of the Bourbons Walking Tour or the Spanish Civil War Tour.
If museums are not something you enjoy, there are plenty of sightseeing opportunities and authentic activities to take part in, for instance, discovering the Golden Triangle of Art, joining a Tapas Cooking Class, taking a day trip to Toledo, enjoying a Flamenco Show, the list goes on!
Such activities allow you to familiarize yourself with the unparalleled fiery culture of Spain and to delve deeper into its flavorful world of gastronomy, popular all over the world.
With all the sightseeing tours to join, flamenco shows to watch, and tapas to taste in Madrid, three or four days pass by without you even noticing it!
You can also visit some of the flea markets in Madrid, or if you’re there on the weekend check out our guide on things to do in Madrid on a Sunday.
Barcelona Attractions Not to Miss
After that, comes the time for you to get better acquainted with the jewels of Barcelona, starting with an unforgettable tour of Gaudi’s masterpieces. Scattered all over the bustling city, his works attract a number of visitors, from those lined by the Sagrada Familia to the ones leisurely strolling around Park Guell.
Visiting these masterpieces are among the top things to do in Barcelona!
Skip the line and be the first to get into the La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s number one Gaudí attraction.
Barcelona’s skyline would be nowhere near as impressive if it weren’t for the breathtaking spires of Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, rising into the sky like cloud shredders. Step inside with a guide and discover the history of the Sagrada Familia.
Watch the sunlight stream through the giant stained glass windows and learn about the architect Gaudí himself. He was so passionate about his project that he literally rests there – buried in the crypt!
Other must-visit attractions on any Barcelona itinerary include the Cathedral de Barcelona, Las Ramblas, and the lively La Boqueria market, where you can sample local delicacies, buy fresh produce, or start souvenir hunting for the loved ones back at home. Don’t miss out on these cheap tapas bars in Barcelona!
Among the most popular sites, you can also find the Tibidabo Mountain providing picturesque views over the entire city and the Barceloneta beach, perfect for gazing at the sun slowly setting down in the evening. Don’t miss the chance also to visit the museums in the Montjuïc area and marvel at the dancing fountain nearby!
If you somehow still have a day to spare with the abundance of things to enjoy in Barcelona, don’t miss the chance to set off on a day tour! One of the most popular nearby attractions, perfect for a day-long getaway, is the postcard-like Montserrat Monastery, located just a short ride away, or a Game of Thrones tour in Girona, for those interested in the iconic TV series. Or, if you’re there in the winter check out the ski resorts near Barcelona.
No matter which tours and activities you choose, there will always be so many more day tours to take part in, sights, cities and beautiful places in Spain to visit, which will undoubtedly leave you wanting to come back.
What’s on your list for a week in Spain?
