Visit to Barcelona, ​​Seville and Madrid

Visit to Barcelona, ​​Seville and Madrid


Seville is the magnificent center of Andalusian culture. Photo: Regina W. Bryan

Do you have a little over a week to spend in Spain? Lucky you! As a resident of Barcelona, ​​I am of course tempted to say that you could easily spend all your time in my city, but most visitors try to see more of Spain than northeastern Spain when they come.

Indeed, you haven’t really seen Spain if you’ve only been to Barcelona. Many tourists come here and ask where they can find the following: bullfights, flamenco and sangria. In Barcelona, ​​bullfighting is virtually banned. It is not part of Catalan culture, and neither is flamenco.

Can you see a flamenco show in Barcelona? Oh yeah. And go for it, but keep in mind that it’s from southern Spain and you should head to Seville if you’re really interested in experiencing “real” flamenco. In fact, why not also visit Madrid, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

So with an average vacation of 10 days, where to go in Spain? There are many itinerary combinations you can put together, but here’s a suggestion that includes the highlights of things to see and do along the way:

Gaudí

Gaudi’s famous architecture is a must-see on any trip to Barcelona. Photo: Regina W. Bryan

Days 1, 2, 3: Departure to Barcelona

I recommend you start your trip in Barcelona.

Highlights:

Gaudi’s architecture is everywhere you look, but don’t miss the famous La Sagrada Família cathedral or Park Güell.

• Take a sip of Catalan Champagnereds and whites at fun wine bars.

• Taste local Catalan specialties at these affordable restaurants, cafes and tapas bars.

• Stroll along Las Ramblas and explore La Boqueria, Barcelona’s famous food market.

• Attend a concert at the Palau de la Música

• Take a nice walk (or even swim!) along Barcelona’s many beautiful beaches.

• Discover one of the best neighborhoods in the city, El Born, a trendy and historic place to explore.

• Stroll the historic streets of the Gothic Quarter.

Related: EuroCheapo’s budget advice for Barcelona and EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Barcelona.

Days 4, 5, 6: Explore Seville

To save time, hop on a cheap flight from Barcelona to Seville that takes less than two hours. The train can take more than five hours.

Highlights:

Admire the difference in climate and atmosphere. Seville is much smaller and quieter than Barcelona and less intrusive. It’s a nice change of pace.

• Eat delicious and inexpensive tapas in the plethora of bars throughout the city. Low prices in Seville restaurants will delight Cheapos.

• Board the train for a 45-minute ride to Cordoba to visit La Mezquita (now the city’s cathedral). Prepare to knock your socks off.

• Drink sherry, a delicious fortified wine produced in Andalusia.

• Admire the architecture of the Real Alcázar.

• See a flamenco show for free (or at least for the price of a drink) and visit the flamenco museum. Ask around to avoid touristy places.

Related: EuroCheapo’s budget advice for Seville and EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Seville.

Madrid is just minutes from Barcelona thanks to frequent express trains. Photo: Regina W. Bryan

Madrid is just minutes from Barcelona thanks to frequent express trains. Photo: Regina W. Bryan

Days 7, 8: Explore Madrid

Take the fast Ave train to Madrid for a quick 2 hour and 30 minute journey.

Highlights:

Madrilenians know how to have fun, so check out the nightlife, considered the best in Spain. Whether you like bars, live music and cinema, there is something for everyone. Here are some tips for having a great night out on the town.

• Madrid’s museums are among the best in the country. Check out the Prado, the Reina Sofia or the Thyssen-Bornemisza, all of which offer free and reduced entry times.

• Taste traditional Madrid food and drinks at our favorite local restaurants or on a delicious tapas tour.

• Attend a bullfight, if that is your goal. Madrid is a good place to experience it.

Related: EuroCheapo’s complete Madrid city guide and EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Madrid.

Day 9, 10: Return to Barcelona

Form: Coming back from Madrid to Barcelona is easy. You can take the fast Ave train from Atocha Station to Barcelona in less than 3 hours.

Flight: You may be able to find a cheaper flight than the train, but in the end, with transportation to the airport and security, it will take about the same time.

It’s almost time to go home, but you still have one more night on the town. Just make sure you stay central to have easy access to the El Prato airport bus, which takes about an hour. We like the Atlantis Hotel, a clean and efficient stay in the heart of the city.

Related: The 10 Best Affordable Hotels in Barcelona

A whirlwind tour? Yes, and it is absolutely not in line with the popular slow travel movement. However, with stops in Barcelona, ​​Seville, Cordoba and Madrid, you’ll get a great introduction to the country and a much better idea of ​​what Spain really is: a beautiful country with rich and diverse cultures and climates.

Your travel ideas for Spain

How would you organize a 10-day trip to Spain? Share your thoughts in the comments below.



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