Discover Spain in 13 days: landmarks, flavors & traditions

Barcelona

Tag 1: Welcome to Barcelona

Welcome to Spain! Your 13-day discovery begins with a touchdown in Barcelona, where upon arriving into the international airport, you'll transfer to your accommodation in the city for check-in.

Afterwards, if you have energy left to burn, you could walk along La Rambla to soak up its vibrant atmoshere, and visit the Boqueria Market in search of quality food and specialist artisan produce.

Barcelona

Tag 2: See the vibrant icons of Barcelona

The many icons of Barcelona await today! For your fill of culture, history and age-old architecture, embark on a tour of the Gothic Quarter and visit the Cathedral of Barcelona. Next up is a trip to La Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s famous basilica, which you'll explore in depth thanks to an expert guide. The pretty expanse of Park Güell awaits afterwards: another Gaudí masterpiece, it's adorned with colorful mosaics and is the perfect place for enjoying a laid-back stroll. Opt to end the day at the waterfront Port Vell, for dinner amidst the harborfront's lively atmosphere.

Barcelona - Montserrat - Barcelona

Tag 3: A day trip to historic Montserrat

Today you'll set out on a full-day excursion to Montserrat, a mountain monastery known for its natural beauty and religious significance. Once there, visit the Basilica of Montserrat and see the famous Black Madonna, then enjoy a light hike to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Afterwards, you'll head to a local winery for a tour and wine tasting session - this is a great opportunity to sample cava, Spain’s famous sparkling wine, as well as learn more about its production process.

Return to Barcelona in the late afternoon, and spend a free evening exploring more of the city's nightlife or relaxing at your hotel.

Barcelona - Valencia

Tag 4: On to Valencia!

In the morning, depart Barcelona as you board a train to your next port of call: warm and welcoming Valencia, the city of 100 bell towers.

Take time to explore its sights at your own pace, with the opportunity to choose from a selection of optional activities. You could tour the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, an architectural wonder, or stroll around the Barrio del Carmen, the historic old town filled with character and charm. You might prefer to explore the Mercado Central - one of Europe’s largest fresh food markets, or visit La Malvarrosa beach for a sunset walk and dinner as the day draws to a close. If you're looking to get out of the city, you could even opt to explore the rice route in Albufera, a natural expanse that's home to Spain's largest lake and impressive wetlands.

Valencia - Madrid

Tag 5: Journey to the capital

This morning, say goodbye to Valencia as you take the train to Madrid, Spain's bustling capital and without doubt one of the highlights of your itinerary. Check into your hotel and rest up after your journey.

If you wish, head back out for a stroll through Plaza Mayor, to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. A short walk away, the Puerta del Sol town square also awaits for many a photo opportunity. As the day turns to night, you can opt to relax with dinner at a traditional Spanish restaurant in the city center, before returning to your hotel for the rest of the evening.

Madrid

Tag 6: Art, history & delicious food in Madrid

A full day in picturesque Madrid is on the cards! You'll begin by touring the Royal Palace, one of Europe’s largest palaces, for a chance to explore an important facet of Spanish history. Then, visit the landmark Prado Museum for a deep-dive into its vast art collection, before joining a food tour in the neighborhood of Las Letras, where delicious tapas tastings await. You'll have the rest of the day to spend at leisure, before returning to your hotel for the night.

Madrid - Toledo - Madrid

Tag 7: Explore the charms of Toledo

This morning, set out of Madrid for a day trip to nearby Toledo, the medieval city known for its stunning cathedral and hilltop setting. Spend your time there visiting the Alcázar of Toledo, where breathtaking views across the city await, and exploring the Jewish Quarter and Synagogue of El Tránsito. At your own pace, soak up more of the city's cultural charms and architectural gems across its winding streets, before returning to Madrid for the evening.

Madrid - Seville

Tag 8: Experience the striking sights of Seville

Transfer from Madrid to Seville today, a journey of around three hours as you journey south into the autonomous community of Andalusia. A world of wonder awaits on this next leg of your trip, and you'll relish the chance to explore Seville on a guided tour, which will offer a unique perspective of this historic city.

Visit the Royal Alcázar, a beautiful Moorish palace of great historical significance, then explore the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Stroll through the vibrant Santa Cruz neighborhood, soaking up its colorful architecture and quaint atmosphere, before settling down for a traditional flamenco show - there's no better way to spend your first evening in this bright and culturally-rich city!

Seville - Cordoba - Seville

Tag 9: Venture to Córdoba for the day

The historic draws of Córdoba await today, and you'll get to explore them all on a fascinating day trip from Seville. A 45-minute train ride will get you to this once-important Roman city, which also shows strong traces of Islamic culture - notably, the mesmerizing Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, whose striking architecture is well worth exploring and photographing at length.

Spend a while afterwards walking through the picturesque Jewish Quarter, getting yourself wonderfully lost amidst its cobbled old-town streets, before returning to Seville in the afternoon for some time to rest at your hotel.

Seville - Ronda - Granada

Tag 10: Journey to Granada via Ronda

Pack your bags and say goodbye to Seville, as you check out of your accommodation and prepare for the next part of your trip! On your way to Granada, you'll stop in Ronda, a mountaintop city known for its dramatic cliffs and Puente Nuevo bridge. While there, opt to visit a winery to learn all about local production processes, as well as enjoy a taste of the regional wines.

Once you've reached Granada, take a moment to visit the Plaza de Toros - an important piece of history as one of Spain’s oldest bullrings - before checking into your hotel for some rest time. The city is then yours to enjoy and explore at leisure!

Granada

Tag 11: A day of exploring in Granada

You'll have a full day to make the most of Granada: lose yourself in the gorgeous greenery of the Generalife gardens, part of the Alhambra complex, then take a guided tour through the Albaicín neighborhood with its narrow, winding streets - a great opportunity to learn about the city’s history. End the day with a visit to the Mirador de San Nicolás, where you'll witness stunning views of the Alhambra at sunset.

Granada

Tag 12: Tour the Alhambra complex

In the morning, you'll get to tick off what is certainly a bucket-list experience for many who visit Spain: a tour of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and incredible landmark showcasing Moorish architecture and history.

For the afternoon, you will have multiple options to choose from, to help you explore Granada and its surroundings some more. Take a trip to local olive groves for a tasting of olive oil and wine, or make some time for a journey into the Alpujarras, where rich flavors await to be sampled - specialties here run the gamut of grilled meats, stews and casseroles, all perfect for hungry foodies in search of hearty comfort food. If you'd rather stay in Granada, take a moment to further explore the city and visit the cathedral - your last afternoon in Spain can be filled with all the sights you most want to see and enjoy.

Granada - Seville

Tag 13: Goodbye, Spain

It's time to say farewell to Spain as your 13-day adventure comes to its end! At a suitable time, check out of your accommodation in Granada, then transfer to the international airport in Seville for your onward flight home. Have a safe trip!