Wondering what you should do, see, and eat in Spain for 6 days? You’ve come to the right place! Read my guide to help you plan that perfect trip to Barcelona and Madrid.
Spain has been on my bucket list due to it being a city full of amazing architecture, wine and food. So, when I recently planned a weekend trip to London, I decided to add Spain to my route. We traveled to Barcelona for 3 nights and then to Madrid for another 3 nights.
I absolutely loved visiting Spain and being surrounded by history, the chill beach town vibes, and consuming all the delicious tapas and wine I could handle. Needless to say, I had an amazing time during my 6 days in Spain!
Here are all the things you should do, see, and eat for a 6 day trip to Barcelona and Madrid!
When to Visit Spain
I visited Spain at the end of May, which offers cool temperatures, clear skies and the start of many festivals. May is a great month to visit and there are less tourists. The summer months are also a great time to visit Spain, however except lots of tourists and higher prices, as this is high season. Another great time to visit Spain is September and October, as summer crowds have disappeared and the weather is still sunny and cool.
How to get to Spain
Like, I previously stated, I was already spending a weekend in London, so I flew from London to Spain. As you may know, flying from the US to Europe is lengthy and costly, so I wanted to make the most of my trip to Europe and visit several countries. Taking a short flight to Spain was perfect in order to extend our trip.
If you’re coming from the US or most other countries, you will fly. Taking the train from other countries in Europe is also an option. Visit this site for more information on the type of train and schedule. However, know that it is not recommended for coming from other European destinations, as flights on budget airlines are much faster and tend to be cheaper.
For the purpose of this itinerary of 3 nights in Barcelona and 3 night in Madrid, I will only explain my particular route.
Barcelona
We flew from Heathrow Airport to Barcelona’s main airport, El Prat Airport. Our flight was approximately 2 hours and once we arrived in Barcelona we took an Uber to our hotel. You can also opt for a regular taxi.
If you’re flying directly to Spain and Barcelona is, your first stop, you would still fly into the main airport in Barcelona.
Madrid
To arrive in Madrid, we took the highspeed train from Barcelona, which was very convenient, comfortable and easy! You can book a train ticket here. Booking train tickets to any city in Spain is painless. The ride went by quickly and there are snacks, beverages and WIFI available on all trains.
If you plan to fly directly to Madrid, you will be flying into Madrid’s main airport, Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport. Once you arrive in Madrid, whether you arrive via train or plane, I recommend taking an Uber or taxi to your hotel.
Getting Around Spain
Many of the main tourist tourist attractions are clustered fairly close together, and it is easy to walk to get to them. Grab a pair of comfortable walking shoes – walking was my main method of getting around while exploring Barcelona and Madrid. Wandering through the quaint streets of the city to get around was among one of my favorite activities there.
Whether in Barcelona or Spain, there are several options when getting around the cities:
Public Transportation – For those times when you are too far or too tired to walk, Barcelona and Madrid have a fairly extensive public transportation system to help you get around. The Metro is fast, easy, safe, and clean, and gets you around to mostly where you need to go. The city is also served by bus lines. You can also get around via tram, cable car, and funicular. The metro system is easy to use and can get you nearly every place you’ll want to visit. You can buy single-ride tickets, a bundle of 10 rides, or even an unlimited day pass
Uber/Taxi – Always one of my recommended ways of getting around the city.
3 Days in Barcelona
Barcelona is full of vibrant culture, delicious food, world-class nightlife, stunning views and magnificent architecture. Did I mention there’s amazing beaches too? It’s no wonder Barcelona tops most people’s must-see lists when they head to Europe.
Where to Stay in Barcelona
There is no shortage of accommodations in Barcelona, to suit any style and budget. There are countless hostels, stylish boutique hotels, and luxury accommodations throughout the city. The best and more central areas to to stay are near Las Ramblas, El Raval, Born, and the Gothic Quarter. This will help you make it easy to get around – you can easily walk to most of the major attractions from there, or be super close to transit.
We stayed at AC Hotel Som, a Marriott property. This modern and functional hotel is located in the new trade fair area of Barcelona, at the Fira 2 and within walking distance of some of the most famous museums and cathedrals of the city. In the surrounding area has a wide range of shops and restaurants by the mall near the Gran Via 2.
What to Do
Park Guell
Gaudi’s magical wonderland was originally created to be a private community for wealthy people. When the project failed because it went way over budget, it was given to the city of Barcelona and turned into a public park, and it became designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. It is now the second most visited attraction in Barcelona, and a definitely must-visit during your 3 days in Barcelona.
Gaudi takes inspiration from nature and organic forms in his creations here, which come alive in the greenery. While most of the park itself is free to explore, you will need to buy a ticket (which is €11) to get into the Monumental Zone, which is where all of Gaudi’s main works are located.
Some of the highlights here are the entrance square, with the salamander fountain; the Hypostyle Hall, with its 6 meter tall Roman columns and mosaic ceiling; the corrugated mosaic bench; and the gingerbread-style houses out front, one of which Gaudi took up residence in his later years, and now serves as museums.
Sagrada Familia
Probably the most famous of Gaudi’s works, the Sagrada Familia is also the most popular tourist site in Barcelona. Just one look at the structure and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular – it’s unlike any church you will ever see. Trust me, you just have to see it to believe it. The church has been under construction since 1882 (that’s 140 years as of present the time I’m writing this post), and isn’t slated to be completed until 2026, to coincide with the centennial of Gaudi’s passing.
You should definitely admire the cathedral from afar (a good place for a photo op is from the Placa de Gaudi park across the street), but you absolutely must see it from the inside as well. Even if you’re on a budget, if you pay for one thing in Barcelona, make the Sagrada Familia the one. It is absolutely worth it!
If you’re interested in a guided tour with skip the line tickets, this tour is great. If you don’t want a guide, but looking for fast track entrance and want to tour on your own with an audio guide, this tour is the perfect option.
Casa Batllo
Casa Batllo is one of Gaudi’s signature works, and absolutely a must-see.. Gaudi was commissioned by the Batllo family, one of the most prominent families in Barcelona, to refurbish an existing building om Passeig de Gracia. What he transformed it to is an absolute architectural wonder. Originally, the building was set to be demolished and rebuilt, but was ruled out. Gaudi was given full creative freedom on the project, and he unleashed many of his most unique ideas and concepts on the house. Because of this, Casa Batllo is considered by many to be his signature work, and an architectural masterpiece.
Las Ramblas
Start your day 3 of this 3 days in Barcelona itinerary by walking down the bustling Las Ramblas, arguably the most famous street in the city. It is home to many hotels, shops, restaurants, attractions, and monuments. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and one that many people identify with the city.
La Boqueria
Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria (or just La Boqueria) is not only one of Barcelona’s top tourist attractions, it is also known as one of the best markets in all of Europe and in the world. The giant market is said to have been around since 1217. Walking up and down the rows of stalls is like a feast for the senses – it is a harmony of sights, sounds, smells, and flavors.
You can spend hours wandering here and snacking on the vendors’ offerings. You can also have lunch here – there are several restaurant stalls in the market.
For a fun experience, take a tour through the market – which also comes with a paella cooking class at the end!
Gothic Quarter
Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter dates back over 2000 years and was the heart of the city during its Roman and medieval times. Even though I came to find out later that much of the current buildings here were built in the 19th and 20th century, you can see some of the remnants of these times here (like the Roman and medieval walls and the remains of the Roman temple), and its labyrinth windy, narrow cobblestone streets and ornate architectural details definitely take you back in time.
El Born
El Born is one of the best areas of the city to walk, shop, and eat! You’ll also find good nightlife here. El Born and the Gothic Quarter melt into each other.
This medieval area of the city has kept its historic feel. But, the tiny streets and alleyways are lined with historic sights, boutiques, some of the city’s best restaurants, and wine bars.
Barceloneta
Barceloneta is a man-made beach that was created for the 1992 Olympics. The beach, palm trees, and the emblematic skyline makes it one of the most iconic sights in Barcelona. Passeig Martim is the main street here that goes down the beachfront, and a stroll down the path is a must. At the end of the path is the W Hotel, one of the most iconic buildings in the city. This is a great spot to sun bathe, people, or have a cocktail at one of the beach side restaurants.
Go to an FC Barcelona Soccer game
If you’re in town anytime from August-May, you’re going to want to check FC Barcelona’s schedule and see if there’s a home game to go to! FC Barcelona – Barcelona’s soccer team, has more fans than any other sports team in the world, and is one of the most profitable sports franchises in history. The stadium – Camp Nou – is the third largest football stadium in the world and is located right in the middle of the city! It’s so much fun to be part of if you have the chance to go.
TIP: Pick up a FC Barcelona jersey in town before the game to wear! They’re under 20 euros as opposed to the high-priced ones in the stadium.
Montserrat
For hundreds of years, religious pilgrims have trekked here to see the Black Madonna believed to have healing powers, Santa Cova Chapel, a cave where the image of the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared, and to pray to various Saints whose shrines sit along the Montserrat mountain peaks.
Today, visitors still go to see the Madonna. But the hiking trails into the mountains offer breathtaking views over Catalonia that are sure to make you feel world’s away from busy Barcelona.
I highly recommend visiting Monsterrat on a guided tour to truly experience the beauty of it all. I did this tour full day tour with lunch and a wine tasting and it was PHENOMENAL! Literally the best tour, I’ve ever taken to date! You can ride the funicular train up the side of the mountain to get even better viewpoints of the monastery. Imagine having lunch on a vineyard, admiring amazing views of the winery and Montserrat mountains as you feast on traditional foods of the region. After your meal, wander around the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy a wine tasting session, before traveling back to Barcelona. If you do one tour, make sure it’s this one. You won’t be disappointed.
Where to Eat
Tapas 24 – One of Barcelona’s busiest tapas bars, is helmed by Carles Abellan, one of the city’s most famous chefs. Signature tapas include chicken croquettes, runny scrambled eggs (huevos estrellados), and the truffle “bikini” (ham-and-cheese toastie). You must try the Chocolate, bread, olive oil with salt dessert! TO DIE FOR!
Irati Taverna Basca – Basque-style tapas served in a large buffet with a seemingly endless variety of little tapas that are served on toothpicks. At the end of your meal, the toothpicks are collected to charge you accordingly.
El Quim de la Boqueria – A tiny little stand located in La Boqueria, and sources fresh ingredients from the market to make their traditional Spanish dishes
L’Arros – Located in La Barceloneta, L’arros not only serves up single portions of paella, but it has a ton of variety of Spanish dishes.
Jai-Ca – Bustling tapas spot that’s always busy, and for good reason. Jai-Ca offers affordable and tasty, and super traditional. They have an extensive menu full of traditional tapas.
Botafumeiro – Upscale dining offering the freshest, best seafood in Barcelona.
Barraca – An urban beach restaurant serves up some of the best paella and seafood in Barcelona (cooking is overseen by double-Michelin-starred chef Xavier Pellicer) and is located right at Barceloneta beach.
3 Days in Madrid
The capital of Spain, one of the most attractive and fascinating cities in Europe, a city that offers a wide range of attractions, sites not to be missed in Madrid, vibrant nightlife, interesting architecture, and a fascinating mix of old and new. It’s a beautiful thriving city studded with fantastic public squares, art-filled museums, and a lavish palace. Madrid is a compact and lively collection of quaint small villages and tapas bars.
Where to Stay in Madrid
We stayed at AC Hotel Atocha, a Marriott property. AC Hotel Atocha is strategically located in the centre of Madrid; very close to the Metro station and the Puerta de Atocha train station giving out to the hotel a privileged location near the Prado, Thyssen and Reina Sofía museums, not far from Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, the Plaza Mayor and the centres for culture, leisure and business activities in the city centre.
What to Do
Prado Museum
The Prado houses art from Spain’s glory days, the 16th and 17th centuries. It’s a surprisingly worldly and cultural collection from a time that included the Spanish Inquisition. Book tickets online in advance. Housed in a grand Neo-Classical building, the Prado is Spain’s cultural jewel and one of the world’s most celebrated museums. It boasts Europe’s finest and most sensuous painting collection.
If you prefer a guided tour with skip the line access, this tour is perfect. This tour even includes a stop at one of Madrid’s most important bar for tapas.
El Mercado De San Miguel
The most popular food market in Madrid is the San Miguel Food Market.
Want to plan something fun? You can book a tapas bar crawl tour which takes you to non-touristy places, from hidden bodegas to some of the most historical local bars.
Retiro Park
Take a stroll in Retiro Park and the adjacent Salamanca neighborhood. Retiro Park, El Retiro, is Madrid’s most popular green space. It opened in the 1700s as a retreat for the royal family. This massive park is worth walking through – be sure to stop by the Palacio de Cristal, which is a conservatory in the center of the park.
Shop in Salamanca
This fancy area has many posh shops and it’s nice to take a stroll by unless you have a lot of money to splurge! Barrio de Salamanca is Madrid’s most stylish district, lined with luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. The main shopping streets include Serrano Street and Ortega y Gasset Street but there are many other side streets with a plethora of boutiques.
La Gran Via
Gran Via is a famous shopping street in Madrid, close to other sightseeing attractions like the Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Espana. (The most upscale shopping area is still in Barrio Salamanca). Recent renovations have made the Gran Via more pedestrianized.
Visit Plaza Mayor, Puerta Del Sol & City Hall
Plaza Mayor is a beautiful square dating back to the 15th century in the heart of Madrid. It’s only a few blocks away from another famous square and meeting point, Puerta del Sol. The square contains a famous clock and was originally known as a gate in the medieval walls that wrapped around the city. Also, Madrid’s City Hall (Casa del Ayuntamiento) is simply stunning.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family at the city of Madrid. It is the largest Royal Palace in all of Europe with over 3,000 rooms. The interiors are simply stunning making it worth a visit.
Where to Eat
Chocolatería San Ginés – Famous spot to try some of the best churros in town while visiting Madrid. This place is super special because it’s Madrid’s oldest Chocolatería – open since 1894.
Mercado San Anton – A food hall, that will not disappoint. It is two floors with several different vendors and the top floor is a restaurant.
Juana La Loca – Possibly the best spot for pintxos – bite-sized dishes often on bread, usually served by the skewer – Juana La Loca’s pintxo de tortilla (think Spanish omelette) with confit onions is one of our favorites in the city.
La Buha – This place serves some next level Tortilla de Patata, stuffed with goat cheese and caramelized onions.
Takos Al Pastor – Amazing Mexican food! This is a great place to go for a late night dinner, which is the norm in Spain.
Taberna Almeria – Traditional Andalusian tavern known for their wide variety of Spanish-style toasts. Great place for a mid-afternoon snack.
La Bicicleta – This is one of the coolest bars in Madrid, with bicycles hanging in the ceiling. There is a basement with even more eclectic designs. Both hipsters and non-hipsters love the place.
Ojala – Located in the hipster Malasaña neighborhood, this is a great place to have breakfast or brunch. I loved the vibe, the stylish yet cozy decor, and the fresh, vibrant food.
Casa Julio – One of the best restaurants in Madrid. The croquetas (croquettes) here are a must when in Madrid. This little restaurant in the trendy Malasaña neighborhood serves gourmet croquetas with flavors like potato leek, spinach, and goat cheese, and old fashioned jamón y queso.
Gymage – Madrid is known for its rooftop bars so you have to experience at least once before you leave. It’s a lively rooftop bar/restaurant located at the top of a gym complex right next to Gran Via. There are cozy white futons and large beach umbrellas.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW WHEN VISITING SPAIN
- Tipping is not usually required. If so, in restaurants it should be 10% . For cafes and cab rides, just round it to the next Euro.
- Spanish people also like to stay out late. Spaniards run on a completely different clock than other people. In Spain, restaurants may close down in the afternoons, but they stay open much later. It is common to stay out past midnight on a weeknight, and until the sun rises on the weekends.
- Meal times in Spain go a lot later than other countries. Most people in Spain eat a small breakfast – if anything at all, usually just a small cup of coffee – and then eat their biggest meal of the day, lunch, between 2-4. Then they eat dinner around 9 pm or later!
- Madrid and Barcelona are home to some of the best pickpocketers in the world. Unfortunately for you, they mostly target naive tourists. Do not – under any circumstance – carry your wallet in your back pocket or an open/unzipped purse, especially in the plazas and on public transportation.
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Great info, Christine! You’ve really made me want to go!!! Someday…
Thank you Darla! Definitely recommend going the next chance you have!
Thank you for the great tips and recommendations