Spain-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Madrid

Morning

  • Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
  • Take a taxi or metro (Line 8) to your hotel in the city center
  • Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid (optional guided tour)
  • Explore the adjacent Sabatini Gardens

Afternoon

  • Walk to the nearby Puerta del Sol, a famous square in the heart of the city
  • Visit the Prado Museum, one of the world’s premier art museums
  • Stroll through the lively Plaza Mayor and Mercado de San Miguel

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Spanish tapas at a local bar or restaurant
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Madrid in the Malasaña neighborhood

Day 2: Toledo (day trip from Madrid)

Morning

  • Take a train from Madrid’s Atocha Station to Toledo (approximately 1 hour journey)
  • Visit the Cathedral of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the Alcázar of Toledo, a medieval palace and fortress

Afternoon

  • Wander through the narrow streets of Toledo’s historic center
  • Visit the Iglesia de San Tomé, featuring El Greco’s famous painting “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz”
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, trying traditional Toledan cuisine

Evening

  • Return to Madrid by train and enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Day 3: Barcelona

Morning

  • Take a domestic flight from Madrid to Barcelona (approximately 1.5 hour journey)
  • Check-in to your hotel in the city center
  • Visit Park Güell, a famous public park designed by Antoni Gaudí

Afternoon

  • Explore the iconic La Sagrada Família, another famous Gaudí landmark
  • Stroll along La Rambla, a bustling pedestrian street
  • Visit the Barceloneta Beach for some relaxation time

Evening

  • Enjoy seafood at a beachfront restaurant in Barceloneta
  • Experience Barcelona’s nightlife in the El Raval neighborhood

Day 4: Barcelona

Morning

  • Visit the iconic Camp Nou Stadium, home of FC Barcelona (optional guided tour)
  • Explore the historic Gothic Quarter, including the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Sant Jaume

Afternoon

  • Visit the famous La Boqueria Market, a foodie’s paradise
  • Take a stroll along the Passeig de Gracia, a famous shopping street
  • Relax at Barceloneta Beach or take a boat tour of the Mediterranean coast

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Catalan restaurant
  • Depart from Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)

Things to Know

  • Spain is part of the Schengen Area, and US citizens do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 90 days.
  • The official currency is the Euro (€).
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Tipping culture is similar to the US, around 5-10% at restaurants and bars.

Transportation

  • Madrid: Metro ( Lines 1-12), buses, and taxis are readily available. Consider purchasing a Tourist Travel Pass for unlimited public transportation.
  • Toledo: Walking is the best way to explore the historic center. Trains connect Toledo to Madrid.
  • Barcelona: Metro (Lines 1-5), buses, and taxis are readily available. Consider purchasing a Hola BCN card for unlimited public transportation.

Other Tips

  • Be mindful of siesta time (2 pm - 4 pm) when many businesses close.
  • Try local cuisine, including tapas, paella, and seafood.
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Spanish wine, such as Rioja or Cava!
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist attractions.

Note: This itinerary is just a sample and you should adjust it according to your interests, budget, and travel style. Additionally, make sure to check the current entry requirements, travel restrictions, and health measures before traveling to Spain.