Typically, visiting the three main cities of Spain's Golden Triangle — Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville — requires at least 7 days. For families, Valencia is a child-friendly city that could be chosen as a replacement for Seville.
With 10–12 days, you could explore the three main cities along with surrounding old towns and nearby beaches.
If you have 14 days, you could spend 1 week checking off Spain's Golden Triangle cities, and then use the remaining week to delve into either southern or northern cities based on your interests, concluding your vacation with a Mediterranean island getaway.
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How Many Days to Spend in Spain's Top Places
Must-see cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona, as well as popular cities, including Seville and Valencia, usually require at least 2 days to explore. However, if you plan to venture into a small town nearby as well, allocate 3 days.
Madrid is renowned for its royal heritage and art museums. You could also spend a full day exploring medieval towns in the surrounding area, such as Segovia with its Snow-White-inspired castle or Toledo with its rich military history.
Barcelona is a city filled with artistic flair. You could spend 1 day exploring the architectural masterpieces of Gaudí and another day enjoying the beaches of Barcelona.
Other distinctive cities require at least a full day to visit each of them.
If you're into exploring historical and cultural heritage or seeking a romantic experience with an exotic atmosphere, you should focus on visiting cities in Andalusia in southern Spain, such as Granada, Cordoba, and Ronda for a day each. These places are infused with Moorish culture.
If you're looking for a culinary and wine experience, head to the Basque Country in the north, known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and wine tastings.
For people who love art, Catalonia is the place where you could pay homage to the world-renowned artist Salvador Dalí.
For island adventures, a typical stay lasts at least 3–4 days and Spain's islands cater to various preferences.
Menorca, perfect for families, is quieter than Mallorca, featuring tranquil beaches, unique sea-eroded formations, nature reserves, and hiking trails.
Mallorca, which caters to couples, is popularly known as "Spain's Honeymoon Island". You could explore the charming streets of the Old Town, discover the fascinating underground wonders of the caves, and enjoy some beach time for a variety of water activities.
For more energetic activities, consider Tenerife with its volcanic landscapes that are great for hiking and photography as well as whale and sea turtle watching tours.
One-Week Spain Itineraries
A 1-week trip is a bare minimum time to tour Spain. During this time, you could quickly visit the Golden Triangle cities of Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, which are the classic choices for first-timers.
You could appreciate art museums and royal heritage sites in Madrid and Gaudí's masterpieces in Barcelona, then experience flamenco and taste tapas in Seville. Check out our 7-Day Spain Essence Tour.
If you're planning a family trip, consider visiting the kid-friendly city of Valencia as an alternative to Seville. It offers a more playful experience for children. Parents, you would have a chance to relive the joys of childhood alongside your children. You could check out our 7-Day Spain Family Tour: Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona.
If you have young kids, you could choose to only visit Madrid and Barcelona for fewer transitions. For more childlike fun, consider exploring a castle straight out of fairy tales, engaging in craft activities, and taking a paella cooking class. Explore this idea more with our 7-Day Madrid and Barcelona Tour for Families.
10–12 Days in Spain
Typically, an itinerary of 10–12 days in Spain offers a more immersive experience, going beyond visiting the Golden Triangle. You could explore old medieval towns around Madrid and beaches near Barcelona, or even plan an island getaway.
For a family trip, a 10-day itinerary offers more than just visiting famous attractions in each city. It provides opportunities to immerse yourself in football culture, delve into technology, and discover a blend of Spanish and Moorish cultures, thus broadening your horizons. See more details in our 10-Day Spain Tour for Families with Teenagers.
With 12-days, you could extend your adventures with your kids to charming Malaga. See 12-Day Spain Adventure for Families with Teens.
If your children are younger, you could consider traveling to Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, with interesting activities for kids, such as cooking classes, snack tasting, and riding Ferris wheels. See more in our 10-Day Spain Itinerary with Kids.
For couples, if you are interested in the Spanish islands, taking in the classic Spanish destinations then the island of Mallorca is recommended. They offer a blend of cultural delights and outdoor adventures. Check out our 10-Day Spain Highlights with Mallorca.
If you are foodies, a trip to the Basque region in northern Spain promises delightful culinary experiences. See our 10-Day North Spain Tour.
Couples, we also recommend combining the Golden Triangle with Granada and Andalucia for more romantic charm. See 10-Day Spain Vacation for Couples. If you have 12 days, you would have ample time to explore the must-sees and extend your journey to visit two distinct medieval towns as well as the birthplace of the world-renowned artist Salvador Dalí with our Romantic Southern Spain and Catalonia Region Tour for Couples.
2-Week Spain Itineraries
During a 2-week stay in Spain, you could go beyond the popular cities to explore regions influenced by Moorish culture and even enjoy an island getaway.
You could focus on the classic regions of Spain and end up on an island. Here is a classic 2-week itinerary idea:
- Nights 1–2: Barcelona
- Nights 3–6: Madrid (a day trip to Segovia)
- Night 7: Granada
- Nights 8–9: Seville
- Nights 10–13: Tenerife
Alternatively, starting from Madrid, you could tour the southern cities with the most traditional Spanish characteristics and then head to the Basque region in the north, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and wine. In 2 weeks, you would immerse yourself in the breadth of Spain's unique culture and delightful culinary experiences. See more on our 14-Day Spain Classic Tour.
Now that you know what is possible in 1 to 2 weeks in Spain, you may have formed some trip ideas or still have questions... In any case, feel free to contact us and we'll create an itinerary based on your interests and requirements.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
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