Embark on a journey through Spain with our ultimate itinerary that spans from the buzzing streets of Barcelona to the historic walls of Granada. Experience the rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and renowned cuisine that make Spain a beloved destination for travelers worldwide. From the masterpieces of Madrid’s art museums to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol, our guide ensures you capture the essence of Spain in every step. Plan your dream vacation with insights on how to weave through the country’s top sights and local secrets.
Madrid
Cultural and Artistic Highlights
El Prado
Visit El Prado to see an impressive collection of European art, including the famous Bosch installation. This museum is a treasure trove of works by Goya, Velázquez, and other masters, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Explore Spain’s national museum of 20th-century art, featuring notable works by Picasso and Dalí, including the renowned “Guernica.” The museum offers a deep dive into Spain’s tumultuous modern history through its art.
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Located in Madrid’s museum triangle, this museum fills the historical gaps of its counterparts by offering an extensive overview from the old masters to modern paintings. It’s known for its diverse collection that spans several centuries and continents.
Dining and Leisure
Azotea del Circulo
Dine at Azotea del Circulo, an upscale rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Madrid. The restaurant is known for its contemporary Spanish cuisine and is a perfect spot for a special evening out.
Parque de El Retiro
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Parque de El Retiro. Don’t miss the Palacio de Cristal, a stunning glass pavilion that hosts temporary art exhibitions, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the grand lake.
Plaza Mayor
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza Mayor, often considered the heart of Madrid’s old city. This rectangular square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Unique Eats and Nightlife
Chocolatería San Ginés
Indulge in some of the best churros and chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés, a famous cafe open 24/7. This spot has been serving delightful treats since 1894 and is a beloved institution in Madrid.
Mercado de San Miguel
Visit Mercado de San Miguel, an iconic market housed in a beautiful iron and glass structure just outside Plaza Mayor. Here, you can sample a wide array of Spanish and international foods in a lively, bustling setting.
Las Cavas
Explore the Calle de La Cava Baja for a taste of local life. This street is famed for its ‘cavas’ – small bars and restaurants serving a variety of Spanish dishes and drinks, perfect for an authentic culinary experience.
Shopping and Local Crafts
Casa Hernanz Alpargateria
Stop by Casa Hernanz Alpargateria to pick up traditional Spanish espadrilles. This shop has been crafting these classic shoes since 1845 and offers a wide range of styles. I got my first pair here when I was 13 years old, and I still remember my first time stepping into this shop.
Nightlife and Rooftop Bars
ME Madrid Reina Victoria & The Principal Madrid Hotel
For stunning city views and chic ambiance, head to the rooftops of ME Madrid Reina Victoria and The Principal Madrid Hotel. These spots offer a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation with a backdrop of Madrid’s skyline.
360º Rooftop Bar at Riu Plaza España
Enjoy a drink at the 360º Rooftop Bar, where you can get a panoramic view of the city. This bar is part of the Riu Plaza España and is a fantastic place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
District Explorations
Malasaña District
Dive into the trendy vibes of the Malasaña district, known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic shops, and bohemian spirit. This area is a hotspot for young locals and tourists alike.
Entertainment
Flamenco at Corral de la Moreria
Experience an authentic Flamenco show at Corral de la Moreria, one of the most esteemed “tablaos” in the world. Booking in advance is recommended to catch a performance by some of Spain’s leading Flamenco artists.
Historic Dining and Local Favorites
Sobrino de Botin
Recognized as the oldest restaurant in the world by the Guinness Book of Records, Sobrino de Botin is famed for its traditional Spanish cuisine, particularly the roast suckling pig. The wood-fired oven used for roasting has been in operation since the 18th century, adding a unique flavor profile that has been enjoyed by patrons for centuries.
La Casa del Abuelo
La Casa del Abuelo is renowned for its delicious shrimp dishes, particularly ‘gambas al ajillo’ (garlic shrimp). This historic spot has been serving up some of Madrid’s best seafood since 1906, offering a cozy, traditional Spanish dining experience.
Cultural and Social Hotspots
Barrio de las Letras Neighborhood
Explore the Barrio de las Letras, where Madrid’s literary past comes to life. This area was once home to many of Spain’s greatest writers. Today, it’s a charming neighborhood with vibrant street art, quaint cafes, and antique bookshops.
Puerta del Sol
Visit Puerta del Sol, one of the busiest places in Madrid and a popular meeting spot for locals. This public square is a stone’s throw from key historical sites and buzzing retail stores, making it a central hub for both tourists and residents.
Rooftop Dining and Views
Doña Luz Restaurante
Enjoy dining at Doña Luz Restaurante, a rooftop gem that offers spectacular views of central Madrid. This spot is perfect for savoring contemporary Spanish dishes while watching the sunset over the city’s iconic rooftops.
Ático 11 at Hotel de las Letras
Ático 11, located in the culturally rich Hotel de las Letras, provides a relaxed and stylish setting with panoramic views of the Gran Via and beyond. It’s an ideal place for evening cocktails and tapas.
Terraza at The Principal Madrid Hotel
The Terraza at The Principal Madrid Hotel is another exquisite rooftop venue where you can enjoy gourmet meals or cocktails with a view. The terrace offers a breathtaking perspective of Madrid’s bustling streets and beautiful architecture.
Trendy Rooftop Bars and Restaurants
Nice To Meet You at Dear Hotel Madrid
This restaurant and lounge offers contemporary cuisine and creative cocktails with a 360-degree view of the city. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Rooftop Terrace Jardines de Sabatini
Located opposite the Royal Palace, Jardines de Sabatini offers stunning views in a lush garden setting. It’s a great place to relax with a drink in hand, especially during the warmer months when the terrace opens at 6:30 PM.
Ginkgo Restaurante & Sky Bar
Ginkgo provides a luxurious ambiance and a spectacular vantage point from which to view the city. Their menu features a fusion of international flavors, making it a trendy spot for both locals and visitors.
Market and Casual Dining
El Mercado de San Ildefonso
This modern market offers a variety of gourmet tapas and street food in a lively, urban setting. It’s a foodie haven where you can sample dishes from different culinary traditions under one roof.
Traditional Eateries and Social Scenes
Los huevos de Lucio
Known for its ‘huevos rotos’ (broken eggs), Los huevos de Lucio is a must-visit for those wanting to try this classic Madrid dish. The lively atmosphere and hearty Spanish fare make it a favorite among locals.
El Viajero
El Viajero features a popular rooftop terrace overlooking the La Latina neighborhood. It’s the perfect place for brunch or an evening drink, offering a relaxed vibe and a selection of international and local dishes.
Casa Lucas
Located on the bustling Caja Baja street, Casa Lucas is known for its creative tapas and excellent wines. It’s a small but charming spot that captures the essence of Madrid’s culinary scene
Valencia
City of Arts and Sciences – Oceanogràfic Aquarium
Explore one of Europe’s most impressive examples of modern architecture at the City of Arts and Sciences. Don’t miss the Oceanogràfic Aquarium, the largest in Europe, where you can discover marine environments from around the world, including beluga whales, sharks, and more.
L’Umbracle Terraza
Enjoy the stunning views and vibrant nightlife at L’Umbracle Terraza, an open-air disco and garden located within the City of Arts and Sciences. It’s the perfect spot to experience Valencia’s nightlife while surrounded by spectacular architecture and lush gardens.
Jardin del Turia
Stroll or bike through the Jardin del Turia, a park built on the old riverbed of the River Turia. This garden stretches across the city and offers a peaceful escape with beautiful flora, sports facilities, and play areas.
Beach and Marina Beach Club
Spend a day at Valencia’s beaches, known for their vast golden sands and Mediterranean waters. Enhance your beach day with a visit to Marina Beach Club, which combines a fantastic seaside experience with luxury, including a pool, dining, and cocktails.
100 Montaditos and Los Gomez Taberna
Indulge in local flavors at 100 Montaditos, where you can try 100 varieties of small sandwiches, perfect for a casual bite. For a more traditional setting, visit Los Gomez Taberna, known for its authentic Valencian dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Valencia Institute of Modern Art (IVAM)
Discover contemporary art at the Valencia Institute of Modern Art (IVAM), which features cutting-edge exhibitions and a permanent collection that focuses on 20th-century art.
Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Grail
Visit the Valencia Cathedral, where you can see a mix of architectural styles from Romanesque to Baroque. Don’t miss the Chapel of the Holy Grail, reputed to house the authentic Holy Grail.
Agua de Valencia
Try the Agua de Valencia cocktail, a delightful mix of orange juice, cava, vodka, and gin. It’s a local favorite, best enjoyed at Cafe Madrid, the place where it was first concocted.
Silk Exchange Building
Explore the Silk Exchange Building (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Gothic architecture. This historic building was once the center of European silk trade.
Central Market
Shop at the Central Market (Mercado Central), one of the largest markets in Europe. This vibrant spot is housed in a beautiful modernist building and offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more.
Café de Las Horas
Relax at Café de Las Horas, known for its unique decor and special cocktails, including the famous Agua de Valencia. This bar offers a magical ambiance reminiscent of a Baroque palace.
Tyris on Tap – Craft Beer
Visit Tyris on Tap for a taste of local craft beer. This brewery offers a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of homemade beers that showcase the creativity of Valencian brewers.
Paella Cooking Class – ‘My First Paella’
Participate in a Paella cooking class to learn how to make Valencia’s most iconic dish. “My First Paella” offers classes that start at the San Valero Church and include a market visit to choose fresh ingredients.
This is the exact paella cooking class I did and I cannot recommend it enough: Valencian Paella cooking class, Tapas and Market Visit.
Mallorca
Cultural Sites and Local Flavors
Catedral de Mallorca
Start your Mallorcan adventure at the Catedral de Mallorca, a Gothic architectural marvel that overlooks the sea. Known locally as “La Seu,” this cathedral is famous for its stunning rose window, one of the largest in the world, which beautifully illuminates the interior with colorful light.
Mercat de l’Olivar
Explore Mercat de l’Olivar, Palma’s bustling central market. Here, you can sample a variety of local foods, from fresh seafood to traditional pastries. It’s a great place to interact with locals and immerse yourself in the daily Mallorcan life.
Buscando el Norte
Dine at Buscando el Norte, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Spanish cuisine. This spot is perfect for trying tapas and other traditional dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Passeig del Born
Stroll along Passeig del Born, one of Palma’s most famous streets, lined with historic buildings, luxury shops, and cafes. It’s the perfect place for an afternoon walk or to find a café and people-watch.
Dining and Nightlife
El Camino Restaurant
Visit El Camino Restaurant, where you can enjoy high-quality, artisanal dishes in a vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant’s open kitchen concept allows you to watch as chefs prepare creative and flavorful dishes.
Mércate de Santa Catalina – Arume Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Head to Mércate de Santa Catalina, located in Palma’s trendy Santa Catalina neighborhood. Stop by Arume Restaurant & Sushi Bar within the market for some of the best sushi on the island, showcasing a fusion of Asian and Mallorcan flavors.
The Boat House Restaurant at the Port
End a day with dinner at The Boat House, located at the port. This restaurant offers a relaxed setting with views of the marina and a menu featuring fresh, local seafood.
Art and Leisure
Contemporary Art Museum
Visit Mallorca’s Contemporary Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum’s exhibitions focus on Mediterranean artists, providing insights into the region’s vibrant art scene.
Exploring the Hip Santa Catalina Neighborhood
Spend some time in the Santa Catalina neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe, eclectic shops, and lively nightlife. It’s a great area to experience the youthful and creative side of Mallorca.
Nautical Adventures
Attraction Catamarans and Oasis Catamaran
For a day on the water, consider booking a trip with Attraction Catamarans or check out Oasis Catamaran. Both offer tours that allow you to see Mallorca from a different perspective, with options for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Oasis Catamarans has a Bay of Palma with BBQ excursion and a Aperitif and BBQ longer duration version. (They even have an Adults Only version. Score!)
You can also find Attraction Catamarans Palma Bay Catamaran Half-Day Cruise here.
Barcelona
Beaches and Scenic Walks
Barceloneta
Start your visit at Barceloneta, Barcelona’s famous beach neighborhood. Enjoy the sandy beach, vibrant boardwalk, and seafood restaurants. It’s a fantastic spot to experience the lively local beach culture and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
Iconic Architecture and Art
Park Guell
Explore Park Guell, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most colorful and playful works. This public park is filled with whimsical designs, intricate mosaics, and offers stunning views of the city.
Sagrada Familia
Visit the Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece and one of Barcelona’s most visited landmarks. The basilica’s intricate facades and breathtaking interior are highlights not to be missed.
Picasso Museum
Delve into the early works of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso Museum, located in the historic El Born district. The museum houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist.
Relaxation and Views
Terraza Ayre at Ayre Rosellón Hotel
Enjoy the views from Terraza Ayre, a rooftop bar at Ayre Rosellón Hotel, directly overlooking the Sagrada Familia. It’s the perfect place for an evening drink with a spectacular backdrop.
Ohla Chillout Terrace at Ohla Barcelona
Relax at the Ohla Chillout Terrace, another excellent rooftop spot known for its sleek design and panoramic city views. It’s ideal for a relaxed evening with cocktails.
Yurbban Trafalgar Rooftop
Visit Yurbban Trafalgar Rooftop for one of the best 360-degree views of Barcelona. The rooftop bar offers a great atmosphere for enjoying a sunset drink.
Cultural Heart of Barcelona
Old Town Gothic Quarter
Wander through the Gothic Quarter, the center of the old city of Barcelona. This area features narrow medieval streets filled with trendy bars, clubs, and Catalan restaurants.
Catedral de Barcelona & Catedral Santa María del Mar
Explore the stunning architecture and serene ambiance of the Catedral de Barcelona and Santa María del Mar, both iconic examples of Gothic architecture in the heart of Barcelona.
Winery Tours and Relaxation
Alta Alella Winery & Bouquet d’Alella
Just a short taxi ride from Barcelona, visit Alta Alella to learn about organic wine production. Nearby, Bouquet d’Alella offers a relaxing day with beautiful vineyard views and exquisite wines.
Torres Group, Albet i Noya, Llopart, Can Bas, Cava Codorniu, Jean Leon
Spend a day touring some of Catalonia’s best wineries. Each offers unique insights into the wine-making process, with tastings and tours available.
If you are smart, you will choose a more relaxing professional tour like this 3 Wineries with Tasting Small Group Tour from Barcelona or this Wine, Tapas & Cava Private Tour. You can even add a boat tour to your excursion with this Barcelona Sailing Experience: Small group winery tour & Tasting. Thank me later.
Shopping and Markets
Mercat de Santa Caterina & Mercado de La Boqueria
Shop and taste local flavors at Mercat de Santa Caterina and the famous La Boqueria. Both markets offer a vibrant atmosphere with a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and tapas bars.
Nightlife and Dining
Terraza Colón at Colón Hotel & The Roof at The Barcelona EDITION
For upscale nightlife experiences, these hotel rooftops offer stylish settings for evening cocktails and are popular with both locals and visitors.
Bodega la Tinaja & Bodega Biarritz 1881 Tapas Bar
For a more traditional Spanish evening, these bodegas provide a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of local wines and delicious tapas.
Street Exploration and Leisure
Passeig de Sant Joan & Passeig de Gracia
Stroll down Passeig de Sant Joan and Passeig de Gracia, two of Barcelona’s most beautiful streets, known for their architectural beauty and boutique shops.
La Rambla Street & Plaza Real
Don’t miss walking down La Rambla, a bustling promenade filled with street artists and vendors, leading to the charming Plaza Real, a square surrounded by palm trees and historic buildings.
Kat Beyond Borders 