8 day itinerary for Spain

Itinerary

Spain and Portugal are bursting with culture, history, and delicious food. Let’s craft an exciting 8-day itinerary that allows you to explore Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Madrid, while also squeezing in a quick trip to Lisbon and Porto. Buckle up for a whirlwind adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival in Barcelona

Morning: Arrive in Barcelona. Check into your hotel and freshen up. Grab a quick breakfast at a local café—try some churros with chocolate!

Afternoon: Head to the iconic Sagrada Familia. Spend a couple of hours marveling at Gaudí’s masterpiece. Afterward, stroll through Park Güell for some colorful mosaics and stunning views of the city.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Gothic Quarter. Try some tapas at a local bar. Don’t forget to sample patatas bravas and jamón ibérico!

## Day 2: Barcelona to Valencia

Morning: Visit La Rambla for a leisurely breakfast and some people-watching. Then, check out the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria for fresh produce and local delicacies.

Afternoon: Take a train to Valencia (about 3 hours). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and head to the City of Arts and Sciences. Explore the futuristic architecture and maybe catch an IMAX film!

Evening: Dine at a local restaurant and try the famous paella. Valencia is the birthplace of this dish, so you’re in for a treat!

## Day 3: Valencia to Seville

Morning: Visit the Valencia Cathedral and climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Holy Grail!

Afternoon: Take a train to Seville (about 2 hours). After checking in, visit the Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda Tower for breathtaking views of the city.

Evening: Stroll through the Santa Cruz neighborhood, and enjoy dinner at a local tapas bar. Try some flamenquín or salmorejo!

## Day 4: Seville

Morning: Visit the stunning Alcázar of Seville. The intricate architecture and beautiful gardens are a must-see!

Afternoon: Explore the Metropol Parasol in La Encarnación, and enjoy lunch at one of the nearby eateries. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Guadalquivir River.

Evening: Catch a flamenco show in the evening. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local culture!

## Day 5: Seville to Madrid

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then take a train to Madrid (about 2.5 hours). Check into your hotel upon arrival.

Afternoon: Visit the Prado Museum to see masterpieces by Spanish artists like Velázquez and Goya.

Evening: Head to Plaza Mayor for dinner. Try some tortilla española and enjoy the lively atmosphere!

## Day 6: Madrid to Lisbon

Morning: Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid and stroll through the beautiful Sabatini Gardens.

Afternoon: Fly or take a train to Lisbon (about 1 hour by flight). Check into your hotel and then head to Belém to see the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant. Don’t miss out on bacalhau à brás and finish with a pastel de nata!

## Day 7: Lisbon to Porto

Morning: Explore the Alfama district and visit the São Jorge Castle for stunning views of the city.

Afternoon: Take a train to Porto (about 3 hours). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and head to the Ribeira District for a scenic walk along the Douro River.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant and try some francesinha, a local sandwich. Pair it with a glass of Port wine!

## Day 8: Porto to Madrid

Morning: Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and then head to the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views.

Afternoon: Fly or take a train back to Madrid (about 1 hour by flight). Spend your last afternoon shopping or visiting any sights you may have missed.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Madrid. Celebrate your trip with some churros and hot chocolate!

Tips:

• Make sure to check train schedules in advance, as they can vary.
• Consider booking tickets for popular attractions ahead of time to avoid long lines.
• Embrace the local culture—try to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish and Portuguese!

This itinerary is packed with highlights and gives you a taste of both Spain and Portugal. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✈️🍷