If you’re looking for the perfect way to explore the charm and beauty of Spain, a journey from London to Barcelona can be the ultimate adventure. This 10-day travel itinerary is packed with diverse activities, local delicacies, cultural landmarks, and spectacular landscapes. Learn more about this unforgettable trip and start planning your adventure!
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Day 1: Fly from London to Barcelona
After arriving in Barcelona, you’ll have the afternoon and evening to explore some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. The Gothic Quarter is the historic heart of Barcelona, with narrow, winding streets and charming old buildings. Highlights include the Cathedral of Barcelona, the Placa del Rei, and the Placa Sant Jaume, which is home to the Catalan government.
After flying from London to Barcelona and arriving in the afternoon, your first stop should be the Gothic Quarter, which is located in the heart of the city.
This historic neighborhood is full of narrow, winding streets and charming old buildings. It’s a great place to get lost and explore, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
One of the highlights of the Gothic Quarter is the Barcelona Cathedral, which is located in the Plaça de la Seu.
This stunning Gothic cathedral dates back to the 14th century and features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and a lovely cloister. Visitors can climb up to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city.
Another must-visit attraction in the Gothic Quarter is the Plaça del Rei, a beautiful medieval square that was once the seat of power for the Catalan kings.
The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palau Reial Major, which was once the residence of the kings of Aragon.
From the Plaça del Rei, it’s a short walk to La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous pedestrian street.
This bustling street is lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, making it a great place to people-watch and soak up the energy of the city.
Along La Rambla, you’ll find the famous La Boqueria market, a foodie’s paradise filled with fresh produce, meats, seafood, and other local specialties. The market is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat or pick up some souvenirs.
In the evening, there are plenty of options for dinner in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
Some popular choices include Can Culleretes, one of the oldest restaurants in the city, and La Vinateria del Call, a cozy wine bar that serves delicious tapas.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned for Day 1:
- Barcelona Cathedral: https://catedralbcn.org/en/
- Plaça del Rei: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/culture/history-and-heritage/royal-palace-archaeological-museum-of-barcelona-placa-del-rei
- La Rambla: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/culture/history-and-heritage/the-rambla
- La Boqueria market: https://www.boqueria.barcelona/home
Day 2 – Day in Barcelona
Visit Gaudi’s Park Guell in the morning, followed by a visit to the Sagrada Familia, which is one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks. Spend the evening in the trendy neighborhood of El Born, which is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants.
In the morning, head to Park Guell, a beautiful park that was designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi.
This park is one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions and features stunning gardens, sculptures, and mosaics. The park also offers panoramic views of the city, making it a great place to take photos.
After exploring Park Guell, head to the Sagrada Familia, one of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks. This stunning church is a masterpiece of modernist architecture, with its soaring towers, intricate facades, and colorful stained glass windows.
Visitors can go inside to see the stunning interior, which is filled with light and color.
In the evening, head to the trendy neighborhood of El Born, which is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants.
This neighborhood is a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing and soak up the local atmosphere.
Some popular options for dinner include El Xampanyet, a cozy tapas bar that serves delicious Catalan specialties, and Santa Maria del Mar, a beautiful Gothic church that has been converted into a restaurant.
After dinner, explore the neighborhood’s narrow streets and old buildings, which are full of boutiques, galleries, and bars.
You can also check out the Picasso Museum, which is located in the heart of El Born and features a collection of famous artists’ works.
Overall, Day 2 is a great way to explore some of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks and soak up the local culture in one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned on Day 2:
- Park Guell: https://parkguell.barcelona/en/
- Sagrada Familia: https://sagradafamilia.org/en/
- El Born: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/culture/history-and-heritage/el-born-cultural-and-museum-centre
- El Xampanyet: http://www.elxampanyet.es/
- Santa Maria del Mar: https://www.santamariadelmarbarcelona.org/
Day 3 – Take a Train from Barcelona to Valencia
Take a morning train from Barcelona to Valencia. Spend the day exploring Valencia’s historic center, including the Cathedral, the Central Market, and the City of Arts and Sciences.
In the morning, take a train from Barcelona to Valencia. The journey takes around 3 hours and there are several trains per day to choose from. Once you arrive in Valencia, head to the city center to start your day of exploration.
Begin your day at the Valencia Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
This Gothic cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is home to a stunning collection of religious art and artifacts. Be sure to climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
After the cathedral, head to the Central Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. This bustling market is filled with stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, meat, and spices, as well as local specialties like horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts.
Next, make your way to the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex of buildings designed by architect Santiago Calatrava. This stunning complex includes a planetarium, an opera house, a science museum, and an aquarium, all set against a backdrop of striking modernist architecture.
In the evening, head back to the city center to explore Valencia’s historic district. Wander through the narrow streets, stopping at local cafes and bars to sample traditional Valencian dishes like paella and fideua.
You can also visit some of the city’s many museums, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes or the Museo de la Ciudad.
Overall, Day 3 is a great way to experience the vibrant culture and history of Valencia, one of Spain’s most beautiful and exciting cities.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned on Day 3:
- Valencia Cathedral: https://www.catedraldevalencia.es/
- Central Market: https://www.mercadocentralvalencia.es/
- City of Arts and Sciences: https://www.cac.es/en/home.html
- Museo de Bellas Artes: https://www.museobellasartesvalencia.gva.es/
- Museo de la Ciudad: http://mvlc.es/museos/museo-de-la-ciudad/
Day 4 – Valencia Beach and Train to Madrid
Spend the day at the beach in Valencia, soaking up the sun and enjoying the local seafood. In the evening, take a train to Madrid.
Valencia is home to some of the best beaches in Spain, so it’s the perfect place to spend a day lounging in the sun and taking a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Head to the beach early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
One of the most popular beaches in Valencia is Playa de la Malvarrosa, a long stretch of golden sand that’s just a short tram ride from the city center. This beach has plenty of facilities, including showers, toilets, and a range of restaurants and cafes.
After a morning at the beach, head to one of the seafood restaurants to enjoy a delicious lunch of fresh, local seafood. Valencia is famous for its paella, but there are plenty of other dishes to try as well, such as fideua, a noodle dish similar to paella but made with short noodles instead of rice.
In the evening, take a train from Valencia to Madrid. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and there are several trains per day to choose from. Once you arrive in Madrid, check into your hotel and take some time to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Madrid is known for its lively bars and clubs, as well as its world-class museums and cultural attractions. If you’re feeling energetic, head to the Malasaña neighborhood, which is full of trendy bars and restaurants. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more relaxed, explore the city’s many parks and plazas.
Overall, Day 4 is a great way to enjoy some rest and relaxation on the beach in Valencia before heading to the bustling metropolis of Madrid.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned on Day 4:
- Playa de la Malvarrosa: https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-do-valencia/beaches/playa-malvarrosa
- Best seafood restaurants in Valencia: https://theculturetrip.com/europe/spain/articles/the-best-seafood-restaurants-in-valencia/
- Train information and tickets: https://www.renfe.com/
Day 5 – Day in Madrid
Explore Madrid’s art museums, such as the Prado and Reina Sofia, which house works by Picasso, Dali, and Goya. In the evening, visit the lively neighborhood of Malasana, which is full of bars and cafes.
Madrid is home to some of the world’s most famous art museums, so it’s the perfect place to spend a day exploring the city’s cultural offerings.
Start the day at the Prado Museum, which houses an impressive collection of European art, including works by Spanish masters such as Velazquez and Goya.
Don’t miss the museum’s famous collection of paintings by Bosch, including his masterpiece, “The Garden of Earthly Delights.”
After the Prado, head to the Reina Sofia Museum, which is dedicated to contemporary art. Here, you’ll find works by Spanish artists such as Picasso, Dali, and Miro, as well as international artists such as Francis Bacon and Mark Rothko.
The museum’s most famous work is Picasso’s “Guernica,” a powerful anti-war painting that’s considered a masterpiece of 20th-century art.
In the evening, head to the lively neighborhood of Malasana, which is full of bars, cafes, and restaurants. This neighborhood is known for its alternative vibe, and it’s a great place to experience Madrid’s nightlife.
Start the evening with a drink at one of the neighborhood’s many bars, then explore the area’s many restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss the chance to try some of Madrid’s famous tapas, such as patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) and croquetas (croquettes).
If you’re in the mood for some live music, head to one of the many music venues in Malasana, which host everything from indie bands to jazz musicians. Or, if you’d rather dance the night away, head to one of the neighborhood’s many clubs, which are open until the early hours of the morning.
Overall, Day 5 is a great way to experience Madrid’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife. From world-class art museums to lively bars and cafes, there’s something for everyone in this exciting city.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned on Day 5:
- Prado Museum: https://www.museodelprado.es/en/
- Reina Sofia Museum: https://www.museoreinasofia.es/en
- Best bars in Malasana: https://www.timeout.com/madrid/bars-and-pubs/the-10-best-bars-in-malasana
- Best clubs in Malasana: https://theculturetrip.com/europe/spain/articles/the-10-best-nightclubs-in-madrid-s-malasana/
Day 6 – Madrid to Toledo Day Trip
Take a day trip from Madrid to Toledo, a historic city known for its medieval architecture and its connection to El Greco, the famous painter. In the evening, return to Madrid.
Toledo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Spain’s most beautiful historic cities. Its winding streets, ancient walls, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Spain.
To start your day trip to Toledo, take a train from Madrid to the city. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and trains run regularly throughout the day. Once you arrive in Toledo, head to the historic center, where you’ll find the city’s most famous landmarks.
Begin your exploration of Toledo with a visit to the Cathedral, which is considered one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Spain. The Cathedral’s ornate facade and soaring interior will take your breath away, and its impressive collection of artwork includes works by El Greco, Titian, and Rubens.
After the Cathedral, visit the Alcazar of Toledo, which is a fortress that dates back to the 3rd century. The Alcazar has played an important role in the history of Spain, and it has been used as a military academy, a prison, and a royal residence over the years. Today, it houses the Army Museum of Toledo, which offers a fascinating look at the city’s military history.
No visit to Toledo would be complete without a visit to the Museum of El Greco, which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous painter. El Greco lived in Toledo for much of his life, and his artwork is an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. The museum’s collection includes many of his most famous paintings, including “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz.“
After a day spent exploring Toledo’s historic landmarks, return to Madrid in the evening. Take some time to relax and enjoy a meal in the city before heading back to your accommodation.
Overall, Day 6 is a great way to experience the history and culture of Spain outside of Madrid. Toledo is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage, and it’s well worth a visit if you have the time.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned on Day 6:
- Train information from Madrid to Toledo: https://www.raileurope.com/en-us/destinations/trains-toledo
- Cathedral of Toledo: https://www.catedralprimada.es/en/
- Alcazar of Toledo: https://www.toledo-turismo.com/en/alcazar-of-toledo_85
- Museum of El Greco: https://www.spain.info/en/que-quieres/arte/museos/toledo/museo_del_greco.html
Day 7 – Train from Madrid to Seville
Take a train from Madrid to Seville. Spend the day exploring Seville’s historic center, including the Alcazar, the Cathedral, and the Barrio Santa Cruz.
Seville is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities, and it’s known for its stunning architecture, delicious food, and lively culture. It’s also home to some of the country’s most important historic landmarks, including the Alcazar, the Cathedral, and the Barrio Santa Cruz.
To start your day in Seville, take a train from Madrid to the city. The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and trains run regularly throughout the day. Once you arrive in Seville, head to the historic center, where you’ll find the city’s most famous landmarks.
Begin your exploration of Seville with a visit to the Alcazar, which is a stunning palace complex that dates back to the 14th century. The Alcazar’s beautiful gardens, intricate tilework, and ornate architecture make it one of the city’s most popular attractions. Be sure to explore the different sections of the palace, including the Patio de las Doncellas and the Hall of Ambassadors.
After the Alcazar, visit the Cathedral, which is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. The Cathedral’s impressive size and grandeur will take your breath away, and its collection of artwork includes works by famous painters such as Goya and Murillo. Be sure to visit the Cathedral’s famous bell tower, the Giralda, which offers stunning views of the city.
After the Cathedral, take a stroll through the Barrio Santa Cruz, which is Seville’s oldest neighborhood. This charming area is full of narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and lively plazas. Be sure to stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area for a delicious meal or a refreshing drink.
In the evening, head to Triana, which is a neighborhood across the river from the historic center. Triana is known for its lively atmosphere and its connection to flamenco music and dance. Spend some time exploring the area’s many bars and cafes, or attend a flamenco show for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Overall, Day 7 is a great way to experience the beauty and culture of Seville. The city’s historic landmarks and lively neighborhoods make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Spain.
Here are some useful URLs for attractions mentioned on Day 7:
- Train information from Madrid to Seville: https://www.raileurope.com/en-us/destinations/trains-seville
- Alcazar of Seville: https://www.alcazarsevilla.org/en/
- Seville Cathedral: https://www.catedraldesevilla.es/english-version/
- Barrio Santa Cruz: https://www.visitasevilla.es/en/neighbourhoods/santa-cruz
- Triana neighborhood: https://www.visitasevilla.es/en/neighbourhoods/triana
Day 8 – Day in Seville
Start your day by visiting the Plaza de España in Seville, which is considered one of the city’s most impressive landmarks.
The plaza was built for the 1929 World’s Fair and is a prime example of Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture. The stunning complex features a large central square, a canal, and a series of buildings adorned with intricate tile work and ornate carvings. You can take a stroll around the square and admire the beauty of the surroundings or even rent a rowboat and navigate through the canal. The plaza is also home to a number of small souvenir shops and cafes.
In the afternoon, head over to Maria Luisa Park, located just a short walk from the Plaza de España. This stunning park was also created for the 1929 World’s Fair and features beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues. The park is an ideal place for a leisurely walk or a picnic. There are plenty of benches and grassy areas where you can sit and relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In the evening, make your way to the Triana neighborhood. You can also enjoy some local wine or beer as you soak up the lively atmosphere of this charming neighborhood.
Overall, day 8 in Seville is a great opportunity to experience some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the local culture. From the stunning Plaza de España to the tranquil beauty of Maria Luisa Park, followed by a night of tapas in the vibrant Triana neighborhood, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some URLs for the attractions mentioned:
- Plaza de España: https://www.visitasevilla.es/en/what-to-see-in-seville/plaza-de-espana
- Maria Luisa Park: https://www.andalucia.com/cities/seville/parks-gardens/maria-luisa-park
- Triana neighborhood: https://www.spain.info/en/que-quieres/ciudades-pueblos/otros-destinos/sevilla-barrio-triana/
Day 9 – Take the Train to Barcelona from Seville
On Day 9, you will return to Barcelona after your journey through Spain. With just a day left, you might want to make the most of it and explore the remaining attractions in Barcelona that you didn’t have time for earlier. Fortunately, Barcelona is a city with a wealth of activities, so there is no shortage of things to do.
One option is to visit the Parc de la Ciutadella, which is one of the largest parks in Barcelona. The park has a beautiful lake, a small waterfall, a greenhouse, and a zoo. You can rent a boat to row on the lake or enjoy a picnic on the lawns.
Another great option is to take a trip to Montserrat Monastery, which is about an hour’s drive from Barcelona. The monastery sits on a mountain that provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It is a popular destination for pilgrims, and you can visit the basilica and see the famous Black Madonna. You can also take a funicular railway to the top of the mountain and hike the trails.
For sports fans, Camp Nou is a must-visit destination. It is the home of FC Barcelona, one of the most famous football clubs in the world. You can take a tour of the stadium and see the trophy room, the press room, and the locker rooms. You can even step onto the field and take a picture in the players’ tunnel.
In the evening, you can head back to the Gothic Quarter, which you visited on Day 1. The area is full of restaurants, bars, and clubs, so you can find something to suit your taste. Alternatively, you can head to the beachfront area of Barceloneta and enjoy a seafood dinner while watching the sunset.
Overall, there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona on your last day, so you can choose the activities that appeal to you the most.
Attractions:
- Parc de la Ciutadella: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/parks-and-gardens/ciutadella-park
- Montserrat Monastery: https://www.montserratvisita.com/en/
- Camp Nou: https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/camp-nou/visit-tour
Day 10 – Fly from Barcelona to London
Day 10 marks the end of your 10-day trip to Spain. This is your last day in Barcelona, and you can either use it to catch up on any sites you may have missed or take the day to relax at one of the city’s stunning beaches.
If you are looking to cover more attractions, a visit to the Gothic Quarter or the Montserrat Monastery would be an excellent option. The Gothic Quarter, also known as Barri Gòtic, is a fascinating part of Barcelona’s history, filled with narrow streets and medieval buildings. The area is home to some of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks, including the Barcelona Cathedral and the Plaça del Rei. If you’re interested in history, the Gothic Quarter is a must-see destination.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some stunning natural landscapes, then a visit to Montserrat Monastery is a great idea. Located about an hour’s drive from Barcelona, this Benedictine monastery sits atop a mountain, providing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The monastery also houses the Virgin of Montserrat, a 12th-century statue of the Virgin Mary, and a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.
Alternatively, if you’ve had an eventful trip and want to spend your last day relaxing, Barcelona is home to several picturesque beaches. You can head to the popular Barceloneta beach, which is located near the city center or explore the quieter beaches of Bogatell or Mar Bella. You can soak up some sun, enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea, or indulge in some water sports.
In the evening, it’s time to bid farewell to Barcelona and Spain and catch a flight back to London. The trip would have given you a glimpse of Spain’s culture, history, and gastronomy. You would have had an opportunity to explore some of the most iconic attractions in Spain, from Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces in Barcelona to the historic city of Toledo, and the lively cities of Madrid and Seville. The trip would have left you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Attractions:
- Gothic Quarter: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/cultural-heritage/routes-and-tours/gotic-quarter
- Montserrat Monastery: https://www.montserratvisita.com/en/index.html
- Barceloneta Beach: https://www.barcelona.cat/en/what-to-do-in-bcn/beaches-and-pools/barceloneta-beach
Conclusion
This itinerary gives you a great mix of art, architecture, history, and culture, while also allowing you to enjoy the beaches and cuisine that Spain has to offer. Don’t forget to book your accommodation and transportation in advance, and to check COVID-19 restrictions before traveling. Enjoy your trip!