3 day itinerary for Spain

Itinerary

Spain is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. With your desire to travel from the north to the south while soaking in the natural beauty, I’ve crafted a delightful 3-day itinerary for you. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: The Majestic North - Picos de Europa

Morning:

• Start in Oviedo: Begin your day in the charming city of Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. Grab a hearty breakfast of “tortilla española” (Spanish omelette) and a café con leche at a local café.
• Head to Picos de Europa: After breakfast, rent a car or take a bus to the Picos de Europa National Park (about 1.5 hours away). The park is known for its dramatic peaks and lush valleys.

Midday:

• Hiking Adventure: Spend your morning hiking one of the many trails. The “Ruta del Cares” is a stunning option, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab some local cheese and bread from a nearby village to enjoy amidst nature. The scenery is simply unbeatable!
• Visit Covadonga: After your hike, head to the nearby Covadonga, where you can visit the beautiful basilica and the stunning glacial lakes, Enol and Ercina.

Evening:

• Dinner in Cangas de Onís: Drive to Cangas de Onís for dinner. Try the local dish “fabada asturiana” (a rich bean stew) at a cozy restaurant.
• Overnight: Stay in a charming rural hotel or a cozy guesthouse in the area.

## Day 2: The Heart of Spain - Madrid and Surroundings

Morning:

• Travel to Madrid: After breakfast, make your way to Madrid (about a 4-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic views along the way!
• Explore Retiro Park: Once in Madrid, head straight to Retiro Park. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a rowboat on the lake, or simply relax in the gardens.

Midday:

• Lunch in Madrid: Grab lunch at a local tapas bar. Try “patatas bravas” and “jamón ibérico” for a true taste of Spain.

Afternoon:

• ## Day Trip to Sierra de Guadarrama: After lunch, take a short drive (about 1 hour) to the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Here, you can hike or simply enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. The “Peñalara” trail is a great option for a moderate hike.

Evening:

• Return to Madrid: Head back to Madrid for dinner. Explore the vibrant La Latina neighborhood and enjoy some more tapas or a traditional paella.
• Overnight: Stay in a hotel in Madrid, perhaps in the lively Malasaña area.

## Day 3: The Sunny South - Andalusia

Morning:

• Travel to Granada: After breakfast, set off for Granada (about a 3.5-hour drive). The drive through the Andalusian countryside is picturesque!
• Visit the Alhambra: Upon arrival, head straight to the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the stunning palaces and gardens. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!

Midday:

• Lunch in the Albaicín: After your visit, wander through the Albaicín neighborhood, where you can find a lovely spot for lunch with views of the Alhambra. Try “tortilla del Sacromonte,” a local specialty.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Sierra Nevada: If you’re up for it, take a short drive to the Sierra Nevada National Park. Depending on the season, you can hike, or if it’s winter, enjoy some skiing!

Evening:

• Dinner in Granada: Return to Granada for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, perhaps trying “piononos,” a sweet pastry that’s a local favorite.
• Overnight: Spend your last night in a charming hotel in Granada, soaking in the Andalusian atmosphere.

And there you have it! A whirlwind 3-day adventure from the lush north to the sunny south of Spain, filled with nature, culture, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨