Ultimate One Week Spain Itinerary (7 Days) for First-Timers

So, you’re planning a trip to Spain for one week, are you? Good choice. Spain isn’t the second-most-visited country in Europe for no reason! It boasts so much to see. But with so much to choose from, it can be difficult to decide what to include in your one week Spain itinerary. So, after having lived in Spain for over two years, I’m sharing how I would recommend spending one week in Spain as a first-timer. I start with the high-level breakdown, and then include a day-by-day detailed itinerary. 

Now, I do have to warn you, though. This one week Spain itinerary is super detailed. Like, how-the-heck-do-you-have-time-to-write-all-this detailed. And I did that on purpose. You can go to any old website to get a vague “two nights in here” and “one night here,” bare-bones travel itinerary for Spain. But those itineraries don’t tell you what to see and do in each stop, or how to get from each city to city. You’d have to go look all that up afterwards. But not with this itinerary.

Basically, what I’m trying to say is: get read for a bit of a long article (about 20 minutes)! So you probably absolutely want to go ahead and save this for later by bookmarking it or saving it on Pinterest, just in case you don’t finish it all in one go. Then, grab a cuppa, kick your feet up, and let’s get to it!

Pssst! If you can finagle just three more days into your trip, be sure to check out my Spain itinerary for ten days!

The Perfect Spain Itinerary for One Week

For a first-time visit to Spain with just one week, I recommend visiting the big two destinations of Barcelona and Madrid, and sprouting off from there to do some day trips. I recommend spending three nights in Barcelona and four nights in Madrid.

Let’s begin with an overview of this epic, seven day Spain itinerary, so that you can have an idea of what to expect for your trip. Days 5, 6, and 7 can be rearranged however you prefer.

Days	Cities	Overnight In
Days 1 – 3	Barcelona	Barcelona
Days 4 – 5	Madrid	Madrid
Day 6	Toledo	Madrid
Day 7	Segovia and/or Ávila	Madrid

If you’re the average traveler with limited vacation days, I suggest breaking it down like below. This way, you only need to use five vacation days, but you actually get seven days in Spain.

Pssst! Be sure to check out my hotel and hostel guide to match this itinerary’s stops!

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Spain?

You might view Spain as a place of eternal warmth and sunshine. While it’s true Spain’s weather is quite good year round in many places, that isn’t true for the destinations in this itinerary. They don’t get as cold in winter as central Europe or northern North America, but they do get cold. So if you decide to follow this one week Spain itinerary in winter, just be sure to look up the forecast before you depart and pack your bags with the proper jackets and coats!

What you really need to be careful of, however, are the summers! After having lived here long enough to experience a few summers, I can report that summer can get unbearably hot in half the destinations in this itinerary! Now, people claim that about a lot of destinations in Europe, but I’m talking entire weeks of over 100°F or 40°C daily. So trust me – avoid doing this Spain itinerary in July or August if you can.

Considering all that, I believe the best time to visit Spain is during the shoulder seasons of April – May and September – October. This lets you enjoy every destination in this ten day Spain itinerary in mild weather. But like I said above, this itinerary is perfectly fine for winter as well if you don’t mind it.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Spain?

For this seven day Spain itinerary, you won’t need a car. This Spain itinerary is completely car-free, relying instead on Spain’s high-speed train network. You can purchase the train journey I mention in this itinerary in advance at the official Renfe website. You can also download their app (Apple and Android) so that you have all your tickets in one, convenient place.

(Finally) The Actual One Week Itinerary for Spain

Beforehand, I just want to let you know you can do this itinerary in the order I have it or in the exact reverse. Just look up flights and see which direction is cheaper. And if you have any questions, I’m pretty good at responding to my comment section down at the very bottom of this page. Ready?!

Barcelona

Barcelona is Spain’s most-visited tourist destination, and it’s easy to understand why! It boasts colorful Gaudí architecture and is home to one of the most famous football (soccer) clubs in the world. So it is an absolute must on any first-time Spain itinerary! Located towards the eastern end of Spain’s southern coast, Barcelona provides all the benefits of big-city life, but in a setting of palm trees, sea breezes, and sandy beaches. Barcelona is also the capital of Catalonia, a region which has been trying to separate from Spain since 2017.

How to Get to Barcelona

Since it is the starting point of your Spain trip, you will need to fly into Barcelona. Barcelona’s international airport is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). To get from BCN airport to the city center, you have three options.

• Option 1: Take a bus. From BCN, you can catch the Aerobus and ride it ’til Plaça de Catalunya in the Barcelona city center. This leaves every 5 minutes during peak hours, costs €7.45 one way (€12.85 roundtrip), and takes around 30 minutes. From Plaça de Catalunya, you can either walk to your accommodation, or use the Metro to take the subway if your accommodation is further away. Be very careful of pickpockets in Plaça de Catalunya and on the Metro! You can find the Aerobus schedule and purchase tickets in advance at the official site. Be careful to purchase your ticket for the correct terminal (A1 for Terminal 1 and A2 for Terminal 2) if you select this option.
• Option 2: Take the train. Follow signs in the airport to the Renfe train station. (If you arrive in Terminal 1, you will have to take the airport shuttle bus to Terminal 2 first. Don’t worry – it’s free.) From BCN, take the R2 Nord line to either the Barcelona-Sants or Passeig de Gràcia stops. This train departs every 30 minutes, costs €5.50* one way, and takes around 25 minutes. From either of these, you can walk to your accommodation if it is nearby, or use the Metro to take the subway if your accommodation is further away. These stations are a little less central than Plaça de Catalunya. *If you select this option, consider buying the T-Casual 10-ride ticket for €12.55 instead.
• Option 3: Take a taxi. Taxis from BCN are not set at a fixed fare. The price ranges from €35 – €40. You can find the official yellow-and-black taxis lined up outside the arrivals terminals. The drive should take 20 to 40 minutes.

What to Do in Barcelona (Three Days)

Three days in Barcelona is the bare-minimum amount of time needed to “see everything.” Take it easy on day one, since it’s the day your flight to Spain arrives. But feel free to interchange days two and three as you prefer. If you get in way too late on day one and need to just sleep straight away, you can tack the first three bullets onto day two and the fourth bullet onto day three.

Day One

If you walk straight through this route as I have it below, it takes 45 min (3.5km or 2.25 miles), just to give you an idea of total distance on day one.

• Plaça de Catalunya: This plaza is known as the center of Barcelona. You will probably find yourself here without even trying, since it’s the meeting point for many tours and where many modes of transport meet. It marks the northern end of the famous La Rambla street. You should be very careful of pickpocketers in this area!
• La Rambla: This spacious, tree-lined pedestrian street is the most famous in Barcelona. It runs right through the heart of the city. It is often referred to in the plural, “Las Ramblas,” and it marks the western edge of the Gothic Quarter. Again – be very careful of pickpockets on this extremely busy street!
• Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boquerìa: While strolling down La Rambla, be sure to stop by Barcelona’s most well-known and beloved food market. It is usually simply called Marcet de la Boqueria. Here, you’ll find the quintessential fruit smoothies and juices, along with other food items like jamón, empanadas, sweets, and more.
• Playa de La Barceloneta: There’s already so much to see in Barcelona, ignoring the fact that it’s literally on the sea. But it is indeed on the coast! I have to say, Barcelona city is not home to the best beaches in Spain. But a stop by La Barceloneta beach is still necessary stop. Even if you don’t care to walk on the sand or get in the sea, you can stroll along the long promenade.

Day Two

• Basilica de la Sagrada Familia: This still-under-construction church is the most famous thing to see in Barcelona. It was designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who is buried in the church’s crypt and also designed many other popular attractions in Barcelona. The Sagrada Familia is without a doubt his most famous work and an absolute must to visit. Be sure to purchase tickets that include both the Sagrada Família and Towers! These come with an app audio guide and will set you back €36 per person. Definitely purchase your tickets in advance online from the official site during high season, as certain time slots do sell out.
• Parc Güell: If you’ve ever seen the Cheetah Girls 2, or had anyone on your social media study abroad in Barcelona, this is that mosaic park! This UNESCO World Heritage site is a can’t-miss thing to do in Barcelona and – surprise, surprise – was designed by Antoni Gaudí. You can buy tickets, which are €18, ahead of time from the official site to ensure you get a time slot that works for your schedule.
• Gràcia: On your way back towards the historical center from Parc Güell, get lost through one of Barcelona’s most beloved neighborhoods. Gràcia is a lot mellower than the touristy parts of town, but is home to many less-popular Gaudí works.
• Casa Milà: Casa Mila is the last private residence designed by Antoni Gaudí. You can enter this UNESCO World Heritage site for €29 if you buy tickets online from the official site, or for €2 more in person. But if you are short on time, even just admiring it from outside is worth the stop by!
• Casa Batlló: Located not very far away at all from Casa Mila, Casa Batllo is yet another Antoni Gaudí masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site. Like Casa Mila, you can also enter. There are a few different ticket types that allow you to see more or less of the building. The lowest-level ticket type are usually €29 – €35 if you get your tickets online from the official site. Again, you can choose to just admire from outside if you find you are short on time.

Day Three

• Barri Gòtic: Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is the city’s historical center. This charming area of the city is many visitors’ favorite part of Barcelona, due to its narrow streets and lively atmosphere. It might be worth doing a free* walking tour of this area, depending on your group’s travel style. But whether you join a tour or wander solo, make sure you pass under the famous Pont del Bisbe while in this neighborhood! *Tips are expected at the end of these tours.
• Catedral de Barcelona: Completed in the 15th century, the Cathedral of Barcelona is worth a stop while in the Gothic Quarter. Entry is €14 and dress code (no shoulders, no knees) is enforced. You can purchase tickets in advance online from the official site.
• Museu Picasso de Barcelona: Consider a stop by this museum to enjoy the work of (arguably) Spain’s most famous artist. Even if you aren’t the biggest fan of modern art, it’s fun to view his many different styles and debate works which you like best – or perhaps which works you even consider “art!” Tickets for the main collection plus temporary exhibits are €15 at the door or €14 if purchased online from the official site in advance. ​​
• Parc de la Ciutadella: In this park, you’ll find even more iconic Barcelona landmarks. These include the Arc de Triomf and the Cascada del Parc de la Ciutadella. Entry into the park is free.

Madrid

Madrid is the largest city in Spain, as well as its capital. It doesn’t receive as much touristic acclaim as Barcelona, but I think that’s what makes it special. Madrid has the liveliness of a large, international city – just like Barcelona. But its tourists don’t overrun it, allowing you to feel like you are experiencing a Spanish city authentically. 

How to Get to Madrid

Take the high-speed AVE or AVLO Renfe train from Barcelona-Sants station to Madrid Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes station. This takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours. If you purchase an AVLO journey a few months in advance, it only costs €7 for the earliest AVLO train in the morning or the latest AVLO train at night! And it costs €15 for the other AVLO train times. But the ticket prices increase as each fare sells out, so if you purchase on the day of, expect to pay anywhere between €35 and over €100, depending on the day of the week, time of day (more inconvenient times usually are cheaper), and the time of year (tickets sell out faster for holidays). So lock this in as soon as you have your travel dates!

From within Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes train station, you can take the Metro or Cercanias to get to your accommodation if need be. Or, you can exit the station and take a taxi.

What to Do in Madrid (One and a Half Days)

Being the capital of Spain, you might think Madrid would deserve more days than some of the other destinations on this seven-day Spain itinerary. And while I’ve loved living in Madrid (I could never picture myself living in Barcelona!), it doesn’t offer as many big-ticket tourist draws as some other cities in Spain. Between one and two days is the perfect amount of time to “see it all” and get a small taste of the big city!

Day One

I’m certain the below will seem like a lot to squeeze into just half a day in Madrid. But central Madrid is super compact! Walking straight through this route as I have it listed below, without stops, is 50 min (3.7km or 2.3 miles), just to give you an idea of total distance covered.

• Gran Via: Gran Via is Madrid’s most well-known street. Its name translates into “Great Way,” and it offers a host of eateries, international shops, and even Broadway hits like The Lion King. Some of Madrid’s most famous buildings are along Gran Via, like the Edificio Metrópolis, the Fundación Telefónica, and the Schweppes Sign on Edificio Carrión. I recommend that you start at Plaza del Callao and walk east along Gran Via until reaching the next spot on the list – Plaza de Cibeles.
• Plaza de Cibeles: Palacio Cibeles was once the headquarters for the Spanish Post Office. It is literally my favorite building in Madrid! It’s the first image of Madrid that I ever had in my head, back from when the Spanish men’s national soccer team won the Euro Cup, then the World Cup, then the Euro Cup back-to-back-to-back. During their victory parades, the team bus with the players celebrating on top always drove between this building and the majestic Fuente (fountain) de Cibeles in front of it. So I began to view the building as emblematic of Spain well before ever even arriving! It is also where Real Madrid FC passes by during their celebration parades.
• Puerta de Alcalá: This triumphal arch was once the main entrance to the city of Madrid, which puts into perspective just how much the city has grown over the centuries! It’s located right outside the most popular entrance to El Retiro Park.
• El Buen Retiro Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been called “the Central Park of Madrid,” and it’s easy to understand why. Set right in the heart of Madrid, this green “retreat” is popular with locals and tourists alike. The most famous area of El Retiro is the artificial pond, where you should definitely rent a rowboat (€6 per boat weekdays and €8 weekends). I personally also love the Jardín del Parterre and recommend either entering or exiting El Retiro park through this garden.
• Palacio de Cristal: Also in El Retiro is the Palacio de Cristal. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and such a pretty building, especially if viewed from across the pond right in front of it. But ironically, its history is nowhere near as pretty. The Palacio de Cristal was built as a greenhouse for plants and fauna from the Philippines, which was a colony of Spain at the time. Some sadly like to claim that was all, but it soon went on to become the site of one of Europe’s many human zoos. Igorot people were brought from the Philippines and made to live and fish in a replica village while visitors watched. To view some photographs and sketches of the human zoo, definitely check out this post.
• Museo Nacional del Prado: The Prado Museum is without doubt the most famous art museum in Madrid, and probably all of Spain, too. It houses the most extensive collection of Spanish painting in the world. Some of its most famous works include those by Murillo, Velázquez, and Goya. Tickets are €15 and can be purchased in advance online at the official site. Entry is free during the last 90 minutes (online it says the last two hours, but you must leave the building 30 minutes before close time). You used to be able to book the free entry online to secure your time slot, not anymore. Now, you unfortunately must wait in line outside to claim your free entry. This may affect how feasible it is to squeeze this into your itinerary, depending on your preferences.
• Fuente de Neptuno: Real Madrid has the Fountain of Cibeles, and Atletico Madrid has the fountain of Neptune, located just down the road. It’s not an attraction, per se, but it is a pretty fountain that you might as well pass by, since it’s near the Prado Museum anyway.

Note on Day One: The order listed above allows you to visit the Prado during the free hours towards the end of the day. If you love paintings more than I do and want to spend several hours at the Prado Museum, consider doing this day one itinerary in the exact reverse order of how I have it above.

Day Two

• Puerta del Sol: The Puerta del Sol is located smack dab in the center of Madrid. And if you’ve looked at a map, you’ll see that Madrid is located smack dab in the center of Spain! So this spot is literally the center of Spain. You’ll even find a plaque in the ground called Kilometre 0, from which all major radial roads in Spain leave. It’s popular to take a picture of your feet standing at the bottom edge of the plaque! But the most famous part of Puerta del Sol is the building behind Kilometre 0 – the Casa de Correos. It houses Madrid’s regional government, and its famous clock is part of a huge Spanish NYE tradition. Be ultra on-alert for pickpockets everywhere in Madrid, but especially in and around Sol!
• El Oso y el Madroño: While in Puerta del Sol, be sure to stop by the statue of el Oso y el Madroño (the bear and the strawberry tree). These two together are the official symbol of the city of Madrid, so keep an eye out for them as you explore the city! 
• Plaza Mayor: This is Madrid’s main square and has been for many centuries. Three of the four sides of the square are lined with eateries offering outdoor seating, though most will recommend that you skip a full meal here. Consider just opting for a coffee or another drink instead if you want to sit to enjoy the ambiance. The third side of the square boasts a pretty fresco of zodiac signs and gods. 
• Mercado de San Miguel: This gourmet indoor gastronomical market is located right outside the western end of Plaza Mayor. It offers fine foods from all over the country, and some food stands have even been awarded Michelin stars! If you’re not hungry, you should still just pass through to gaze into all the various food stands.
• Catedral de la Almudena: Be sure to stop by this cathedral while visiting the Royal Palace (they’re located right beside each other). There is often some sort of musical performance happening in front of the steps that face the palace. And to the side, there is also an observation deck offering sweeping views. For those who want to view the inside as well, the cathedral requests a €1 donation.
• Palacio Real de Madrid: Madrid’s Royal Palace is the largest in Western Europe by building size (i.e. gardens excluded). It was built under King Phillip V, who was born in Versailles and designed it to be his Versailles. Tickets are €14 for a self-guided visit and can be purchased in advance at the official website for an extra €0.77 fee.
• Plaza de España: This square recently just completed a redesign to make it more pedestrian friendly! It’s now the perfect intersection between Gran Via, the Royal Palace, and the Temple of Debod. Across the square also happens to be the largest Zara in the world, for any fans of the store.
• Templo de Debod: This real-deal Egyptian temple will probably seem a little random on this list of things to see in Madrid! It dates back to around 200 BC and was donated to Spain by the Egyptian government. Entry is free. Afterwards, take a lap around Parque de la Montaña (where the Temple of Debod is located) to enjoy views over the Royal Palace and Catedral de la Almudena. The view is especially nice during sunset, and someone is often performing music if the weather is nice.

Toledo

I had never heard of Toledo until my first trip to Spain. During my free walking tour of Madrid, the tour guide highly recommended that we take a day trip there. She described it as a unique mix of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian cultures. I, unfortunately was still a novice traveler and couldn’t figure out how to get there for a day trip so last minute.

So when I moved to Madrid six years later, a day trip to Toledo was one of the first things I did after securing my apartment! Just like the tour guide said, it really is a unique blend of cultures, and it makes all the sense in the world that it’s Madrid’s most popular day trip.

How to Get to Toledo

You can get to Toledo by bus, but with limited time, it really makes most sense to take the train. Take the Avant from Madrid Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes station to Toledo station. For the return journey to Madrid later that afternoon or evening, do the exact reverse journey. This ride is direct with no stops, taking 36 minutes each way. It costs €11.10 each way if you purchase a round trip (ida y vuelta) ticket, but €13.90 if you purchase the tickets one-way each.

What to Do in Toledo (One Day)

There are so many things to see in Toledo! Depending on what time you arrive and what time you want to leave, it might be tricky to fit all of the below in. So prioritize which attractions matter most to you based on your travel style and the amount of time you have. That being said, I’ve listed the attractions below (minus the final one) in a logical order. So you can start from one end or the other and go in a row, simply skipping the attractions that you decide not to see.

And if you are the type to probably enter every significant building, consider buying the pulsera turística. It allows you entry into seven monuments for €12 – less than half the combined full price. I’ve marked the attractions below that are included in the deal with an asterisk.

• Puente de Alcántara: A Roman arch bridge which crosses the Tagus River and provides entry into the old town of Toledo from the train station. 
• Museo de Santa Cruz: Even if you don’t love museums, the stunning 16th-century building in which the museum is housed is worth a visit on its own. It’s currently free to enter, but check the official tourism site starting in 2025 for any changes to this!
• Alcázar de Toledo: Named after the Arabic word for strength or fortress (Al Qasar), this fortress was built atop the highest part of Toledo. The building has passed hands many times, from the Visigoths to the Arab Moors to the Christian Monarchs. Today, it is a military museum and allows you to learn not only about Toledo’s history, but also the history of Spain in general. Entry is €5, and you can find hours and more details at the Toledo tourism’s page for the museum.
• Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo: This Roman Catholic church is ginormous! I personally just admired from the outside on both of my visits to Toledo thus far, due to the €12 entry fee. You can purchase tickets in person or in advance online from the official site.
• Church of Santo Tomé*: This 14th century church is home to one of El Greco’s famous paintings, “The Burial of Count Orgaz.” It’s one of Toledo’s iconic buildings, with its mudejar tower that sticks out high over many rooftops. Entry is €4. You can find hours and more info on the official site, which you’ll need to translate using your browser.
• Museo del Greco: Art lovers might want to stop in the only museum in Spain dedicated to the famous sculptor, and architect of the Spanish Renaissance. The modern building is set in a very pretty space, and entry is €3. Check out opening hours on the official site.
• Sinagoga del Tránsito: Built in the 1300s, this synagogue is now home to the Sefardí Museum. Entry is €3.
• Synagoga de Santa María la Blanca*: Once the main synagogue of Toledo, it is one of the oldest in all of Europe. It is famous for its stunning white columns – which practically beg to be photographed as soon as you enter! – and costs €4 to enter. You can purchase tickets in advance online, but there has never been a line the two times I have gone.
• Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes*: This beautiful monastery was built in the Elizabethan gothic style and is €4 to enter. You can purchase tickets in advance online at the official site.
• Iglesia de los Jesuitas (San Ildefonso)*: You can enjoy the stunning facade of this Baroque style church from the outside or enter for €4. You can purchase the entry ticket in advance at the official website.
• Termas Romanas: Discovered in the 1960s, these ruins lead historians to believe Toledo was a place of significance in Roman times. Entry is free. Learn more if you’d like at the official page.
• Cuevas de Hércules: Another vestige of Spain’s Roman times, the Cave of Hercules has served many purposes, water supply, Christian temple, to mosque, and back to Christian temple again. Medieval legend has it that this is where Hercules, who apparently founded Toledo, hung out. Entry is free. Find out more at the official page for the cave.
• Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz*: One of the oldest buildings in Toledo (and all of Spain!), this mosque’s construction dates back to the year 999. It may not be the largest space, but its little details, along with its historical and cultural significance, make it well worth the visit. Entry is €4. You can purchase tickets online at the official site.
• Puerta del Sol: This gate was built as an entry into Toledo in the 13th century. Make sure to walk through it!
• Parroquia de Santiago del Arrabal: Built in the gothic mudejar style, this beautiful building is worth a stop, even if just to admire from outside.
• Puerta de Bisagra: Constructed in the 10th century, walk by or through this monumental entrance to the city.
• Mirador del Valle: Even after a couple trips to Toledo now, I still haven’t made it to this view point! Those who love a good photo op might consider making the trek around the river to get here for those postcard views of Toledo.

Segovia and Avila

Toledo may be the most popular medieval day trip from Madrid. But it is by no means the only worthy day trip in town! Two other destinations are Segovia – famous for its Roman aqueduct and its Disney-like castle – and Avila – famous for its storybook-like city walls. On my own day trips to these cities, I noticed a way higher percentage of Spanish speakers as my fellow tourists than during my trips to Toledo. So visiting these two spots will allow you to see parts of Spain that not every international visitor gets to squeeze into their itinerary! 

How to Get to Segovia and/or Avila

Segovia and Avila are both worthy of full day trips each. But with a limited amount of time in Spain, I recommend combining the two into one day trip. The only way to do this without renting your own set of wheels is to join an organized tour group.

These are advertised all over central Madrid at kiosks that also offer organized tours to Toledo. The prices of these tours aren’t very different to the price of a DIY trip to one of these places. And while the day trip to Toledo is simple to DIY, trips to Segovia and Avila are a bit more complicated. So, as much as I love to DIY things, the tour group really is a decent value.

Like I said, you can buy this tour from a kiosk during your first day in Madrid. But if you prefer to have all your ducks in a row before a trip (which I can totally relate to!), you can purchase this tour or this tour online to have everything ready to go in advance. The links are to the same tour, but on two different tour booking sites. This way, you can see if one happens to be cheaper than the other at the time you are looking! They were the only tours I could find that explicitly devote time to actually walking on top of Avila’s walls, rather than just viewing them from outside. Be sure to read all the details about what attractions are and aren’t included and to add on any extras you definitely want to have.

If you really do not love the idea of joining a large tour group (again, something I totally relate to!), then I’d recommend choosing just one of the two destinations. This will allow you enough time to visit it on your own. You can check out my guides in which I detail exactly how to DIY a day trip to Segovia from Madrid and how to DIY a day trip to Avila from Madrid.

What to Do in Segovia (Half Day)

There are three main attractions in Segovia, and they are what you should prioritize seeing during your half-day trip to Segovia.

• Roman Aqueduct of Segovia: Built during the first century, it is one of the largest and best-preserved aqueducts of the Roman world. Make sure to go up the steps to the side for photos up close!
• Segovia Cathedral: This is one of the last cathedrals to have been built in a Gothic style. Entry into the cathedral is €6. While the cathedral itself is quite large and beautiful, I recommend adding the extra €7 to see the tower. This is a one-hour guided tour at set times each day. You can view the cathedral and tour hours, as well as reserve tickets in advance, online at the official site.
• Alcázar of Segovia: Entry into this picture-perfect castle is €7 for just the palace and museum, but I absolutely insist you add an additional €3 to enter the tower. You can view opening hours, prices, and purchase tickets in advance online at the official site. (You will have to translate it from Spanish using your browser.)

Also, if you are a fan of pork, be sure to try Segovia’s signature traditional dish – cochinillo, or roasted sucking pig – before leaving town. The three stops from above plus a meal should keep you busy before the tour bus moves onto the next stop. But if you want to see what other sights you can try to enjoy as you make your way between these main four things to see and do, check out my guide for a DIY Segovia day trip from Madrid and scroll down to the section on things to do in Segovia. There, I list the attractions in a convenient order to follow.

What to Do in Avila (Half Day)

Avili is famous for its stunningly-preserved city walls. Walking these walls will be the main “attraction” you will enjoy during your half-day trip to Avila. These walls circle almost the entirety of Ávila’s old town, and you can walk a good chunk of them!

There are two portions of the wall to walk. I recommend purchasing your €8 ticket at the Puerta del Alcázar entrance to the walls. This is the shorter of the two portions, and it only has one way in and out. Then, after completing this portion, walk a couple minutes from Puerta del Alcázar to the Casa de las Carnicerías. From inside here, you can show your same ticket to enter the second and longer portion of the walls. This stretch will take you all along the northern border of the walled city.

You can check out the hours at the official site.

You should also be sure to try some yemas de Ávila, which are a sweet treat that the city is known for. If you want to try to squeeze in more than those two main things, check out my guide for a DIY Avila day trip from Madrid, and scroll down to the section on things to do in Avila. Decide which things sound most interesting to you, whether that be entering one of Spain’s oldest Gothic cathedrals or making your way to a picture-perfect viewpoint beyond the walls.

How to Get Out of Madrid

Like all good things, your epic one week in Spain has come to an end! You’ll need to get out of Madrid. Madrid’s international airport is Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). There are quite a few ways you can get from Madrid’s city center to MAD.

• Option 1: Take the train*. Previously, you could take the C-1 (light blue) or C-10 (light green) commuter rail line all the way to the airport from Atocha train station, as well as other stops. But at the moment, it seems you can only take the C-10 part way and then transfer onto the C-1 the rest of the way. Check the lines schedule for any updates. The only airport stop is terminal 4, so you will need to use the free airport shuttle to move to the other terminals if need be. The journey costs €2.60 and takes 30 minutes if departing from Atocha train station.
• Option 2: Take a cab. Taxis between MAD and central Madrid are at a fixed fare of €33. You can pay in cash or by card. You can hail an official white taxi with the red stripe along any major street. Or you can also just have your hotel call them for you – to make things easier! The drive should take 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Option 3: Take the metro*. Make your way to the Line 8 (light pink) metro line, which will take you to the airport. There is one stop for terminals 1, 2, and 3 and another stop for terminal 4. This will cost €4.50 – €5 (plus the €2.50 to get a card, if you don’t yet have one), depending from where you depart, and takes around 40 minutes.
• Option 4: Take the bus. Take line 203 (Airport Express Shuttle) from outside the Atocha train station or outside the Oficina de Correos in Plaza de Cibeles. You can get off at Terminal 1, 2 or 4 at the airport. This takes between 30-40 minutes and costs €5.

* Madrid’s various transport lines are often under some type of construction at some point in the network! So do a quick Google Maps search of how to get to the airport by public transport the night before. You will be able to see if there are any modifications to the Cercanías or Metro lines to the airport.

Hotel Recommendations to Match this Itinerary

It’s been a growing request, and I’ve finally completed it! I’ve created a Spain accommodation guide to match this itinerary. In it, I provide housing options that are conveniently located near each train and/or bus station that I use in this itinerary. That way, you don’t have to spend extra money on cabs, but don’t have to drag your bag very far either. Check it out and let me know what you think!

Questions on This Spain Itinerary for One Week?

Are you planning your own trip to Spain soon and wanting some personalized advice? Just drop a comment in the section below with your questions on how to tweak this one week Spain itinerary. (Yes, really do I respond.) I love playing travel agent for people!

And in Case You Need One Final Summary

Spain Itinerary 7 Days:

• Day 1: Barcelona
• Day 2: Barcelona
• Day 3: Barcelona
• Day 4: Madrid
• Day 5: Madrid
• Day 6: Toledo
• Day 7: Segovia and/or Avila

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