3 day itinerary for Madrid Barcelona

Itinerary

A three-day trip to Madrid and Barcelona sounds like a fantastic adventure! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances culture, food, and a bit of relaxation.

## Day 1: Madrid – The Heart of Spain

Morning:

• Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés: Start your day with some delicious churros and hot chocolate at this iconic spot. It’s a Madrid tradition!
• Visit the Royal Palace: After breakfast, stroll over to the Royal Palace. Take a guided tour to explore the opulent rooms and beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel: Head to this vibrant market for a tapas feast! Sample everything from jamón ibérico to fresh seafood. It’s a foodie’s paradise!
• Explore Plaza Mayor: After lunch, take a leisurely walk to Plaza Mayor. Enjoy the architecture, grab a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes, and soak in the atmosphere.

Evening:

• Visit the Prado Museum: Spend your late afternoon at the Prado, one of the world’s premier art galleries. Marvel at works by Velázquez and Goya.
• Dinner in La Latina: Head to the La Latina neighborhood for dinner. Try some traditional Spanish dishes at a local tavern. Don’t miss out on trying paella or patatas bravas!

## Day 2: Barcelona – The Catalan Gem

Morning:

• Travel to Barcelona: Take an early high-speed train (AVE) from Madrid to Barcelona. The journey is about 3 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way!
• Breakfast at a Local Café: Once you arrive, grab a quick breakfast at a local café. Try a “bocadillo” (sandwich) and a café con leche.

Afternoon:

• Visit La Sagrada Familia: Head straight to Gaudí’s masterpiece. Book your tickets in advance to skip the lines! The architecture is breathtaking, and the interior is like stepping into a dream.
• Lunch in the Eixample District: After your visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try some Catalan specialties like “escalivada” (roasted vegetables) or “fideuà” (a noodle dish similar to paella).

Evening:

• Stroll down La Rambla: Take a leisurely walk down this famous street. Check out the street performers, shops, and the vibrant atmosphere.
• Dinner in the Gothic Quarter: Explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter and find a cozy restaurant for dinner. Enjoy some tapas and a glass of local wine.

## Day 3: Barcelona – Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Visit Park Güell: Start your day at this colorful park designed by Gaudí. The mosaics and whimsical structures are a delight! Make sure to book your tickets in advance.
• Brunch at a Local Spot: After exploring the park, find a nearby café for brunch. Try a “tortilla española” (Spanish omelette) and fresh juice.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Picasso Museum: Head to the Picasso Museum to see an extensive collection of the artist’s works. It’s a great way to appreciate his evolution as an artist.
• Relax at Barceloneta Beach: Spend your afternoon unwinding at Barceloneta Beach. Take a dip in the sea or just relax on the sand with a good book.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Beachfront Restaurant: Enjoy your last dinner in Barcelona at a beachfront restaurant. Savor some seafood paella while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll along the beach promenade. The atmosphere is magical at night, and it’s a perfect way to end your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Use the metro in both cities; it’s efficient and easy to navigate.
• Tickets: Book tickets for major attractions in advance to save time.
• Local Etiquette: Don’t forget to greet locals with a friendly “Hola!” and enjoy the laid-back Spanish lifestyle.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your three days in Madrid and Barcelona! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️