This is a perfectly planned 10 day itinerary which includes all the major cities and popular sites as well as a few off-the-beaten Spanish towns. You will also find alternate Spain itineraries in the travel guide if you want to customize your Spanish trip.
Spain is so popular, with the foodies, families and almost all types of travellers; including people that opt to go Spain for pilgrimage.
While I didn’t go to Spain for the latter, it was the very first country I visited in Europe, which makes it quite special for me and I wanted to share the itinerary to celebrate my #MomentInTen to coincide with El Camino Bracelets celebrating their tenth anniversary.
Planning an itinerary for Spain can get daunting for many, as the country is quite huge.
So I have compiled a comprehensive Spain 12 day itinerary, with all the places you can visit including places to stay and guided tours to book!
I’ve also added multiple itineraries at the end of this blog if you’d like more options.
Best resources to plan your 12 day Spain itinerary
Places to stay:
- Principe Pio in Madrid
- Hotel Cervantes in Seville
- Hotel Granada Center in Granada
Tours:
Spain 12 day itinerary
Day 1 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Madrid
Upon your arrival in Madrid, head to your accommodation to settle in. I recommend the Plaza de España Skyline.
Enjoy a typical Madrid breakfast like churros with hot chocolate or ‘tostada con tomate.’ Spend the rest of the day exploring the heart of Madrid by booking this guided walking tour and visiting the iconic Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace of Madrid, among other major attractions.
Madrid (3 Days)
This Spain 12 day itinerary starts in Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain. Renowned for its rich culinary scene,
Madrid offers a plethora of dining experiences, from traditional tapas bars ( check out this Wine and Tapas Walking Tour) to high-end gastronomic delights.
A great way to spend 3 days here is by booking this Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour). Let’s dive into what I suggest you can do in Madrid during your spain 12 days itinerary.
Plaza Mayor
The Plaza Mayor, located in the heart of Madrid, is one of the city’s most famous and historic squares, dating back to the 17th century.
Originally used for various events, including markets, bullfights, and public executions, it now serves as a vibrant social and tourist hub.
DETAILS
Plaza Mayor
Address: Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours, but individual business hours may vary
Tickets: Free
Royal Palace of Madrid
The Royal Palace of Madrid, known as Palacio Real de Madrid, is a symbol of Spain’s rich history and grandeur.
This majestic palace, with its baroque architecture, stands as one of the largest in Western Europe.
You can explore its lavishly decorated rooms, including the Throne Room, Banquet Hall, and the Royal Armory, which houses an impressive collection of medieval weapons.
DETAILS
Royal Palace of Madrid
Address: C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (4 PM on Sundays)
Tickets: You can info on tickets here.
Day 2 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Madrid
On your 2nd day of this 12 days in Spain itinerary, you can explore the various museums and parks in Madrid such as the Prado Museum, Reina Sofia Museum and Retiro Park.
I recommend having dinner in the vibrant neighbourhoods of La Latina or Malasaña, known for their eclectic mix of traditional and modern restaurants.
Prado Museum
The Prado Museum, officially known as Museo Nacional del Prado, is renowned for its extensive collection of European art.
It houses an exceptional array of masterpieces by Spanish greats like Velázquez and Goya, as well as other European artists such as Titian, Rubens, and Bosch. Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the collection.
DETAILS
Address: C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM (7 PM on Sundays)
Tickets: 15 €
Reina Sofia Museum
A short walk from the Prado is the Reina Sofia Museum, a treasure trove of 20th-century art.
Officially named Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, it’s renowned for housing Pablo Picasso’s iconic painting ‘Guernica’, along with an impressive collection of works by Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and other modern masters.
DETAILS
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia
Address: Calle de Santa Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid, Spain
Timings: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 PM ( 2:30 PM on Sundays, Tuesdays closed)
Tickets: 12 €
Retiro Park
After lunch, walk to the nearby Retiro Parkor Parque del Buen Retiro, spanning over 350 acres, offering a tranquil escape with its lush gardens, serene lake, and elegant sculptures.
Key attractions include the majestic Crystal Palace, the tranquil Rose Garden, and the picturesque Palacio de Velázquez.
DETAILS
Parque del Buen Retiro
Address: Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid, Spain
Timings: 6 AM – 12 AM ( April – September) 6 AM – 10 PM ( October – March)
Tickets: Free
Walking through the streets of Madrid had made me realize how special this experience was going to be for me. That evening after dinner, while having a chat with friends about how to commemorate this moment, one of them suggested getting a Madrid step. Looking at my confused expressions, she directed me to El Camino which instantly made me smile.
Day 3 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Day Trip to Toledo
A north Spain itinerary is incomplete without this day trip to Toledo, the City of Three Cultures, offering a blend of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage.
It includes a bus ride to Toledo and a guided tour of all major spots such as the Toledo Cathedral, a prime example of Spanish Gothic architecture, the Jewish Quarter, Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca.
Don’t forget to get souvenirs! Toledo is famous for its damascene work (gold and silver inlaid in steel).
Seville (2 Days)
Next on this Spain 12 day itinerary is Seville, an enchanting city in southern Spain and a famous shooting location for Game of Thrones.
You can spend 2 days in Seville and explore the city by booking this Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus.
Day 4 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Seville
Hop on a train to Seville from Madrid’s Atocha train station and board a high-speed AVE train, which takes about 2.5 hours to reach Seville.
Once in Seville, head to your hotel or Airbnb (a cosy option is Hotel Cervantes) to drop off your luggage and enjoy lunch, trying some local Andalusian cuisine, such as ‘gazpacho’ or ‘salmorejo’
You can spend the rest of the day exploring the gothic Seville Cathedral and the stunning Alcazar of Seville by booking this guided tour.
Seville Cathedral
Seville Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built on the site of a former mosque, symbolising Seville’s rich religious history.
This cathedral, famous for its immense size and grandeur, houses Christopher Columbus’s tomb and boasts the Giralda, a bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.
DETAILS
Address: Avenida de la Constitución, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Timings: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM (Sunday)
Tickets: €9
Alcazar of Seville
The Alcazar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning example of Moorish architecture blended with Christian influences. This royal palace, still used by the Spanish monarchy, will dazzle you with its intricate tilework, lush gardens, and ornate arches.
The Alcazar’s history spans over a thousand years, showcasing a tapestry of cultural influences.
DETAILS
Alcazar of Seville
Address: Patio de Banderas, s/n, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (October to March) 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (April to September)
Tickets: €14.50
Day 5 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Seville
Start your day exploring the charming Santa Cruz quarter and the spectacular Plaza de España, and take a stroll through Maria Luisa Park. You can end your day with a traditional flamenco show. I recommend booking this Live Flamenco Dancing Show.
Santa Cruz Quarter
The Santa Cruz quarter in Seville is a charming maze of narrow streets and alleys, lined with colourful houses and blooming flowers.
This historic Jewish quarter is best explored on foot and is famous for its quaint shops, tapas bars, and hidden plazas, offering a glimpse into the heart of traditional Sevillian culture.
DETAILS
Santa Cruz Quarter
Address: Barrio Santa Cruz, Seville, Spain
Timings: Open 24/7
Tickets: Free
Plaza de España
Plaza de España is a stunning architectural marvel known for its sweeping half-circle structure, decorated with tiled alcoves representing different Spanish regions.
This iconic landmark, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, features a canal, beautiful bridges, and grand buildings, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and photo opportunities.
DETAILS
Plaza de España
Address: Av de Isabel la Católica, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Timings: Open 24/7
Tickets: Free
Maria Luisa Park
Adjacent to Plaza de España, is the Maria Luisa Park where you can relax in a green oasis, enjoying its fountains and shaded avenues.
DETAILS
Address: Paseo de las Delicias, s/n, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
Timings: Open 24/7
Tickets: Free
Day 6 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Granada
After an early breakfast in Seville, you can either take a bus or train from Seville to Granada. The journey offers picturesque views of Andalusia’s landscapes.
Once in Granada, check into your accommodation and perhaps have a quick lunch at a nearby café. An amazing budget stay in the city centre is Hotel Granada Center
You can spend the rest of the day exploring Alhambra, Granada’s most famous landmark by booking this Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Guided Tour.
Granada (2 Days)
Granada, nestled at the base of Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountains, will enchant you with its rich history and Moorish influences. You can spend 2 days in Granada in your Spain 12 day itinerary.
Alhambra
The Alhambra in Granada is perched atop a hill and is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a stunning view of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
When you visit, you’ll be amazed by the Nasrid Palaces’ intricate Islamic art, the sturdy Alcazaba fortress, and the peaceful Generalife gardens with their beautiful fountains.
You can also try exploring Alhambra by night for a unique experience.
DETAILS
Address: Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain
Timings: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (November to February), 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM (March to October)
Tickets: €14.85
Day 7 of 12 day Spain itinerary – Granada
Spend your 2nd day in Granada exploring the Albaicin, Granada’s old Moorish quarter.
This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its narrow winding streets and whitewashed houses. In the evening, you can enjoy this flamenco show in the Sacromonte neighbourhood, known for its cave venues.
Albaicín
Albaicín is a charming old Moorish quarter, where every winding street and whitewashed house tells a story.
Perched on a hill opposite the Alhambra, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site too. And don’t miss the Mirador de San Nicolás – the view of the Alhambra at sunset from here is just stunning.
DETAILS
Albaicín
Address: Albaicín, Granada, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours, daily
Tickets: Free
Day 8 of 12 day Spain itinerary- Valencia
After breakfast in Granada, pack your bags and take a bus or train to Valencia, the journey is a bit of a stretch, taking around 5-6 hours. Once you arrive in Valencia, check into your hotel ( a luxurious option is Vincci Lys) and grab a quick bite to eat. You can spend the rest of the day exploring the City of Arts and Sciences
Valencia (2 Days)
Next after Granada, you can spend 2 days in Valencia in this Spain 12 day itinerary. Known for its culinary delights, especially the world-renowned paella, the city buzzes with energetic markets and vibrant streets.
City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is a futuristic wonder, a stunning complex that feels like you’ve stepped into a sci-fi world.
This architectural marvel, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a feast for the eyes. It’s not just about looks, though; inside, you’ll find an interactive science museum, a huge oceanarium, and a planetarium.
DETAILS
City of Arts and Sciences
Address: Av. del Professor López Piñero, 7, 46013 Valencia, Spain
Timings: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tickets: You can book tickets here.
Day 9 of 12 day Spain itinerary- Valencia
Start your day by exploring Valencia’s old town by booking this guided walking tour. visit the impressive Valencia Cathedral and wander through the charming streets.
Next, if you’re up for it, pop into the Central Market for some fresh produce, then head to one of Valencia’s beaches like Playa de la Malvarrosa. To end the day, enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the Ruzafa district.
Valencia Cathedral
Valencia Cathedral, a stunning mix of architectural styles, is a highlight in the heart of the city. It’s a fascinating place where you can see Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque elements all in one building.
Inside, you’ll find a chalice claimed to be the Holy Grail, adding a touch of intrigue. The Miguelete Tower offers breath-taking views of Valencia – totally worth the climb!
DETAILS
Valencia Cathedral
Address: Plaza de la Reina, s/n, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Tickets: €8
Central Market
The Central Market in Valencia is not just a place to shop; it’s a feast for the senses!
Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, it’s one of the oldest-running food markets in Europe. Inside, you’ll find over 900 stalls overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
DETAILS
Central Market
Address: Plaça de la Ciutat de Bruges, s/n, 46001 València, Spain
Timings: Monday to Saturday, from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Tickets: Free
Playa de la Malvarrosa
Playa de la Malvarrosa in Valencia is the perfect spot if you’re looking to soak up some sun and enjoy the Mediterranean vibes. This wide, sandy beach is a favourite among both locals and tourists.
Lined with a lively promenade, it’s dotted with numerous restaurants and cafes where you can indulge in some delicious seafood or a refreshing drink.
DETAILS
Playa de la Malvarrosa
Address: Paseo Marítimo, Valencia, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours, all year round
Tickets: Free
Ruzafa district
The Ruzafa district, once a traditional neighbourhood, has transformed into a hub of creativity and modernity. It is bustling with hip cafes, unique boutiques, and some of the city’s most exciting nightlife spots.
Day 10 of 12 day Spain itinerary
Take a high-speed train from Valencia to Barcelona which will take around 3 hours. After you check in to your accommodation you can grab a quick bite before you start exploring the city. An amazing accommodation option in the city is Hotel Omnium
You can visit the Gothic Quarter, the famous streets of Las Ramblas and Barcelona Cathedral. End your day by trying some Catalan dishes for dinner.
Barcelona (3 Days)
The last stop in this Spain 12 day itinerary is the buzzing city of Barcelona. It’s right next to the Mediterranean Sea, offering lovely beaches and a lively atmosphere. You can spend 3 days exploring this city before you head home.
Gothic Quarter
The first stop would be the Gothic Quarter, nestled in the heart of Barcelona.
This historic quarter is a delightful mix of ancient Roman remnants, gothic buildings, hidden squares, lively shops, and quaint cafes. It’s particularly enchanting at night when the streets come alive with a vibrant atmosphere.
DETAILS
Gothic Quarter
Address: Gothic Quarter, Barcelona, Spain
Timings: Always open; individual business hours may vary
Tickets: Free
Las Ramblas
Next, stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous street. You’ll find everything from flower stands to living statues, and the air is filled with the aromas of local and international cuisines.
Las Ramblas is also home to La Boqueria, the famous market where you can sample fresh local produce.
DETAILS
Las Ramblas
Address: Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain
Timings: Open 24/7, but shops and stalls have their own opening hours
Tickets: Free
Barcelona Cathedral
Barcelona Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. This impressive cathedral, with its towering spires and intricate stonework, dates back to the 13th century.
DETAILS
Barcelona Cathedral
Address: Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Timings: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Tickets: Free
Day 11 of 12 day Spain itinerary
On your 11th day of this Spain 12 day itinerary, you can explore Gaudi’s iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
Sagrada Familia
First up, take this guided tour of the iconic Sagrada Familia, an incredible church like no other.
Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, it’s been under construction for over a century, but it’s still stunning. The tall towers reach up to the sky, and inside, the stained glass windows create a rainbow of colours that light up the space.
It’s a mix of nature, religion, and art, all rolled into one amazing place. Definitely a must-see when you’re in Barcelona!
DETAILS
Sagrada Familia
Address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain
Timings: Open 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tickets: €20
Park Güell
Then, book this guided tour of Park Güell, and step into a fairy-tale world.
Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, it’s full of colourful mosaics, quirky sculptures, and curvy pathways. The park offers some of the best views of Barcelona from its terraced areas.
DETAILS
Park Güell
Address: 08024 Barcelona, Spain
Timings: 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Tickets: €10
Day 12 of 12 day Spain itinerary
If you’re up for an adventure on the last day of this Spain 12 day itinerary, take this day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona, before you head on to your flight home.
Your trip will include a bus ride and a scenic to Montserrat, where you will get a guided tour of the
Montserrat Monastery, nestled in the mountains.
Once there, you can explore the basilica, see the famous Black Madonna statue, and maybe catch a performance by the boys’ choir. The surrounding natural scenery is perfect for hiking, too.
You can find more info on various day trips from Barcelona here.
Alternative 12 day Spain itinerary
Here are some other options for a 12 day Spain itinerary :
Classic 12 day Spain itinerary
Madrid (3 days) – Toledo (Day trip) – Seville (2 days) – Granada (Day trip) – Barcelona (2 days) – Zaragoza (1 day) – Santander (2 days)
Northern Spain 12 day itinerary
Barcelona (3 days) – Zaragoza (1 day) – San Sebastian (2 days) – Bilbao (2 days) – Burgos (1 day) – Salamanca (2 days) – Madrid (1 day)
Southern Spain 12 day itinerary
Malaga (2 days) – Granada (2 days) – Cordoba (1 day) – Seville (3 days) – Ronda (1 day) – Cadiz (1 day) – Madrid (2 days)
Cultural and Historic Spain itinerary 12 days
Madrid (3 days) – Segovia (Day trip) – Salamanca (2 days) – Leon (1 day) – Santiago de Compostela (2 days) – Oviedo (1 day) – Bilbao (2 days)
Mediterranean Coastline Itinerary Spain
Barcelona (3 days) – Tarragona (1 day) – Valencia (2 days) – Alicante (1 day) – Granada (2 days) – Malaga (2 days) – Madrid (1 day)
Off Beat 12 day itinerary Spain
Bilbao (2 days) – Pamplona (1 day) – Zaragoza (2 days) – Cuenca (1 day) – Toledo (2 days) – Mérida (1 day) – Seville (2 days) – Madrid (1 day)
I hope this blog has inspired you to embark on your own Spanish adventure.
Whether you’re savouring tapas, marvelling at art, or soaking up the sun, Spain promises an adventure that stays with you long after you return home.
I wanted to make sure I never forgot this trip of a lifetime and so once back home, I brought myself a Spain Step, an Earth Step and Small Steps like Madrid to make sure I could carry them with me wherever I go and keep adding to the bracelet, which not only looks good but also helps me connect to the community.
FAQS – 12 day Spain Itinerary
Is 12 days enough for Spain?
Twelve days in Spain can provide a fantastic overview, offering a taste of its major cities and attractions.
How much money would you need for 2 weeks in Spain?
For two weeks in Spain, budget travellers might spend about €700-€980, staying in hostels, using public transport, and eating modestly.
Mid-range travellers could expect to spend around €1400-€2100, enjoying 3-star hotels, dining out, and some activities. For a luxurious trip, costs can exceed €2800, with high-end accommodations and experiences.
How many days in Spain is enough?
The ideal duration for a trip to Spain depends on your interests and itinerary. Generally, 10 to 14 days are enough to explore major highlights in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada, along with a few day trips.
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