2 Weeks in Spain: The Perfect Itinerary for First Timers

Arrive in Madrid and get checked into your hotel—I recommend staying in La Latina, Malasaña, Chueca, or Salamanca, depending on your vibe. Spend the rest of the afternoon stretching your legs with a slow walk through Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol—perfect for people-watching and soaking in that lively Madrid energy.

At sunset, head to Templo de Debod, a real Egyptian temple set in a city park, for golden hour views. For your first dinner, grab tapas at Taberna El Sur (casual and fun) or Ten Con Ten if you're in the mood for something stylish and modern. Finish with drinks at Casa Suecia, a rooftop bar with dreamy city views and great cocktails.

Start your morning at the Prado Museum (or save this for the evening as it's free most nights!)—it’s home to masterpieces by Goya and Velázquez. Then, head to El Retiro Park, rent a rowboat on the lake, and don’t skip the beautiful Crystal Palace.

For lunch, check out Casa Lucio (order the huevos rotos!) or Casa Dani for what might be the best tortilla Española in the city. In the afternoon, wander Gran Vía and pop into boutiques in Chueca and Malasaña.

Dinner tonight? Try Sala de Despiece for inventive tapas (definitely book ahead) or go all-in with StreetXO for wild fusion plates and killer cocktails. Cap your night at Salmon Guru—one of the best bars in the world for a reason.

Begin your day at the Royal Palace of Madrid (book tickets early) and stroll through the gardens or nearby Gran Vía for a quick bite. Art lovers should add the Reina Sofía Museum to the list—Guernica is a must-see—or check out the Thyssen-Bornemisza for a more eclectic mix of eras and styles.

For lunch, head to Los Montes de Galicia for fresh seafood and Galician flavors. Then take a break with a siesta or go shopping in Salamanca—it’s more upscale but perfect for some real or window shopping.

Your evening plan: sunset from Círculo de Bellas Artes’ rooftop, followed by dinner at Sacha (an under-the-radar gem with unforgettable food). Want to keep the night going? Choose between 1862 Dry Bar for classic cocktails, Macera Taller for house-infused spirits, or Medias Puri for a secret club-meets-cabaret scene.

Use your last full day in Madrid to take a day trip to either Toledo or Segovia—both are less than an hour away by train or bus and full of medieval charm. Prefer to stay local? Spend more time in El Rastro market (on Sundays), or relax with a long lunch and a nap in Retiro Park.

Both towns have their own castles or alcazars, beautiful streets to walk around, and lots of plazas to stop for lunch. It's a great way to see one of the smaller towns near Madrid before heading south to Andalusia!

Take a morning high-speed train to Seville (2.5 hours, book ahead!) and check into a hotel in Santa Cruz, the city's romantic old town. Wander its maze-like alleys, admire the flower-filled patios and orange trees, and soak in the city’s warmth—both literal and figurative.

Make your way to Plaza de España in the golden light of late afternoon. Then, head to a rooftop bar for a glass of sherry before a cozy dinner at El Pintón or Bodeguita Romero.

Start your day at the breathtaking Real Alcázar of Seville—the tilework, gardens, and Moorish architecture are unforgettable. Make sure to buy your tickets for the Alcazar in advance!

Climb the Giralda tower next door for panoramic views of the city, then treat yourself to a light Andalusian lunch nearby.

In the evening, cross the bridge to Triana, a traditional flamenco neighborhood. After tapas and a glass of manzanilla, end your night with a passionate live flamenco show in a small, authentic venue. There are lots of them across Seville!

Travel to Granada (two and a half to three hours by train) and settle in near the Albaicín for those classic whitewashed hilltop views.

Take the afternoon slow—Granada is all about atmosphere. Wander through the winding streets, sip tea at a Moroccan tetería, and make your way to Mirador de San Nicolás for a sunset view of the Alhambra glowing above the city.

Dinner is best enjoyed on a terrace with a view—check out Carmen El Agua for the best dinner and views of the Alhambra.

Today is your big Alhambra day. Book tickets in advance and go early—you’ll want time to see the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife gardens, and fortress walls at your own pace.

Afterward, treat yourself to a luxurious hammam spa experience—the perfect way to recharge. In the evening, wander back through the Realejo district and dine at Carmen Aben Humeya or Mirador de Morayma for panoramic views and candlelit vibes.

It’s time for the coast! Head south to Málaga (about 1.5 hours). Check into a hotel near the historic center (Palacio Solecio was incredible) or La Malagueta beach (like the Gran Hotel Miramar). Spend your afternoon unwinding—grab a drink at Parador de Gibralfaro for one of the best sunset views over the harbor.

For dinner, head to El Pimpi for a lively scene and Andalusian plates, or go casual with grilled sardines on the beach.

Málaga has a ton of history & culture—visit the Picasso Museum (his birthplace), the Centre Pompidou, or the Alcazaba fortress. Don’t skip a walk through the Soho street art district either.

Lunch at Mercado de Atarazanas is a must—go early for fresh seafood and snacks. Spend the afternoon by the beach, and if you’re still hungry by dinner, try tapas in Pedregalejo with the locals.

Catch a flight or high-speed train to Barcelona and settle into your hotel in the Eixample (Almanac or Yurbban Passage are great choices). Once you’re ready, dive into the historic heart of the city—walk the winding streets, discover Roman ruins, and sip cava in El Born.

For dinner, try Cal Pep or Ciuat Comtal for some authentic Spanish cuisine. End your night with a cocktail at a rooftop bar like the one at the EDITION hotel.

Today’s for Gaudí. Start with the Sagrada Família (book tickets ahead), then head to Park Güell (also need tickets in advance) to wander the colorful mosaic pathways and dreamy views.

After lunch, walk Passeig de Gràcia and explore Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. If you're interested in seeing the inside and the ornate rooftops, get tickets in advance. If you’re into shopping, this is your moment. Passig de Gracia is full of high-end stores. For dinner, go for the lively and fun vibe at Bar Cañete, but be sure to make a reservation.

Choose your own adventure today:

• Take the cable car to Montjuïc and explore the Olympic Park, MNAC and its terraces and gardens.

• Take the train to Sitges, a seaside town with boho vibes and sandy beaches.

Either way, you’ll want to be back in the city for golden hour drinks and a final tapas dinner somewhere buzzy—think Bar del Pla or El Xampanyet.

Start with La Boquería Market for breakfast (yes, it's touristy—but still worth it) or the calmer Sant Antoni Market. Then, head to Barceloneta for a walk along the boardwalk or beach. Optionally, stop into the Picasso Museum or Palau de la Música for one last dose of art.

Wrap up with a sunset cocktail, a paella dinner by the sea, and a long, happy sigh that you’ve just conquered Spain in 14 days.

It should be easier to catch you flight home from Barcelona's large international airport, although you may not want to leave!