3 day itinerary for Madrid, Valencia, Bilbao

Itinerary

Let’s craft a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that balances your interests in LGBTQ-friendly activities, soccer, and family-friendly experiences while steering clear of the typical tourist traps. Here we go!

## Day 1: Madrid

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café de Oriente: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this charming café with views of the Royal Palace. They have a great selection of pastries and coffee.
• Visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium: Dive into the world of soccer with a tour of Real Madrid’s iconic stadium. The tour is engaging for both adults and kids, showcasing trophies, the pitch, and even the locker rooms.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel: This vibrant market is a great spot for lunch. You can sample various Spanish delicacies, and it’s a fun atmosphere for your son to explore.
• Retiro Park: After lunch, head to Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat on the lake or just stroll through the beautiful gardens. It’s a perfect place for your son to run around and enjoy some outdoor time.

Evening:

• Dinner at La Vaca y La Huerta: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes made from local ingredients. It’s family-friendly and has options for everyone.
• Chueca District: After dinner, take a stroll through Chueca, Madrid’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood. It’s lively and colorful, with plenty of shops and cafes. You can grab a dessert at one of the local gelato shops!

## Day 2: Valencia

Morning:

• Travel to Valencia: Take an early train from Madrid to Valencia (about 1.5 hours). Grab breakfast on the train or at a café near the station.
• Visit the Mestalla Stadium: Once you arrive, head straight to the home of Valencia CF. The stadium tour is interactive and fun, perfect for soccer fans of all ages.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Central Market: This is a fantastic place to grab lunch. The market is filled with fresh produce, meats, and local specialties. Try some horchata, a traditional Valencian drink!
• City of Arts and Sciences: Spend the afternoon exploring this architectural marvel. The Oceanogràfic (aquarium) is particularly engaging for kids, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits.

Evening:

• Dinner at La Pepica: Located near the beach, this restaurant is famous for its paella. It’s family-friendly and has a great atmosphere.
• Beach Time: After dinner, take a stroll along the beach. Let your son play in the sand or enjoy some ice cream from a nearby vendor.

## Day 3: Bilbao

Morning:

• Travel to Bilbao: Take a morning train from Valencia to Bilbao (around 6 hours, so consider an early start). You can enjoy breakfast on the train or pack something to eat.
• Visit San Mamés Stadium: Once in Bilbao, head to the home of Athletic Bilbao. The stadium tour is fascinating, and you can learn about the club’s rich history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Mercado de la Ribera: This market is less touristy and offers a variety of local foods. It’s a great place to sample pintxos (Basque tapas) and enjoy the local vibe.
• Guggenheim Museum: While it’s a well-known site, the Guggenheim is worth a visit for its stunning architecture. The museum often has family-friendly activities and exhibits that can engage your son.

Evening:

• Dinner at Café Iruña: This historic café has a lovely atmosphere and serves traditional Basque cuisine. It’s a great spot to unwind after a busy day.
• Explore the Old Town (Casco Viejo): After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Old Town. It’s a great way to soak in the local culture, and you can find some unique shops and cafes.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider getting a rail pass for easy travel between cities. Spain’s train system is efficient and comfortable.
• LGBTQ+ Resources: Each city has LGBTQ+ centers and resources if you want to connect with the local community or find events happening during your visit.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing trip filled with soccer, culture, and family fun! Enjoy your adventure in Spain! 🌈⚽️